Of All The Starsby Waiting on my 20sChaptersPART 1: I - Brand New Problem (TBR)II - Reunion (TBR)III - Know Thy Sol (TBR)PART 2: IV - To Learn of Monsters & Magic (TBR)V - If You Want It Done Right (TBR)VI - Miserable Asshat of the West (TBR)VII - Elements of Incompatibility (TBR)PART 3: VIII - A Long Time Coming (TBR)IX - Nothing But Our Wit and Our Will (TBR)X - To Save The World (TBR)Epilogue - The Friendship Arc (TBR)Intermission I - Knock Knock (TBR)Intermission II - Suffer With Me (TBR)Intermission III - The Prophecy (TBR)Intermission IV - Check Please (TBR)Intermission V - Knock Knock... Again (TBR)Friendship Games - The Endearment Arc (TBE)PART 1: XI - Our Eternal Rivals (TBE)XII - Behind Enemy LinesXIV - Another Brand New ProblemPART 2: XV - Wolverines!XVI - The BreakingXVII - The FractureXVIII - The ShatterPART 3: XIX - Of Their Own AccordXX - This Is The HourXX - This Is The Hour: P2XX - This Is The Hour: P3Intermission VI - When Girls Go Black...Intermission VII - Jain Benefactor & The Rainbow Factory... KindaIntermission VIII - The Farmer, The Fashionista, & The Loud MouthIntermission IX - All Your Wildest DreamsIntermission X - In The Pit of My HeartLegend of Everfree - The Devotion ArcPART 1: XXI - And Another Brand New Problem?XXII - Our Campfire Song SongXXIII - And Another Brand New ProblemPART 2: XXIV - To The HuntXXV - As If We Couldn’t Be Stranger...XXVI - Antagonism, Suspicion, & The Missing OutsiderXXVII - Only Slightly ScrewedPART 3: XVIII - Down The Rabbit CaveXXIX - We Call This A Difficulty TweakXXX - The Right Man In The Wrong PlaceXIII - Another Brand New Problem?Epilogue - The Endearment ArcGoodbyeIn The Beginning - Of All The Stars (TBR)Rainbow Rocks - The Friendship Arc (TBR)PART 1: I - Brand New Problem (TBR)Author's Note Inside The Shadow Of Intent... PART 1: I - Brand New Problem (TBR) Noah entered the cafeteria with Sunset behind, they were early, but not by much. ”So, ” Noah started, ”Where do you and ya raggedy-ass friends sit?” Sunset pointed to the third table in the middle right section and answered, ”There, why?” ”Cause I'm not done with this bullshit. I said that already, half-bitch,” Noah answered. Waiting for the lines to open up, they sat down at the table, Noah pulling up a chair and sitting at the end, Sunset sitting on the left. Noah pulled out his phone and began watching an adult cartoon show. Sunset then asked, ”What are you watching?” To which Noah lifted his finger and reinstated, ”We’re not friends.” This time, instead of leaving it at that, Sunset retaliated, ”Noah, if you're gonna be in our group-” ”I'm not in your group. Who the fuck said I was in your group? I didn't say that, nobody I know said that, so who the hell said that?” Noah cut off, “It’s like you don’t understand the gravity of your situation, you bully my friend, I don't suddenly become yours.” Sunset looked back at Noah with a gaze begging for forgiveness, and ranted. ”But I'm not that person anymore! The only reason I was like that, the only reason I'm even here is because I couldn't make any friends back in Equestria! And because of that, I was denied the ability to study magic! It was unfair! I got angry because of it, and I left Equestria forever after that day! ”You don't understand what it’s like to have nobody but your parents all your life! You don't understand what it's like to be alone!” After hearing this, Noah loosened up and silently replied, ”Why do you think I’m here?” Hearing this, Sunset wiped away her tears within her eyes, threatening to fall down her orange cheeks, and asked, ”I don't know... why?” Noah didn't answer, he simply sat there unfazed. ”Grow some balls. Then maybe we'll talk.” The pair sat in silence until some students entered the cafeteria, some gasping and chattering at the sight of Sunset sitting next to who had been known as her biggest rival. Some of the students that entered were Applejack and Rarity, whom were arguing over clothing. Sunset asked when they approached the table, ”What’s the matter guys?” ”Rarity won’t stop buggin’ me about mah clothin’ choice, she keeps insistin’ that ah should look more formal in ah school like this, ” Applejack answered, and Rarity retorted. ”Applejack darling, you can't deny it! This school is quite high for your clothes! At least lose the hat!” ”Look dammit, ” Noah began, ”This school is far from high if they let some group of girls take over the band room. The only good thing about this shit hole is the food, ” Noah proclaimed, instantly catching all three girls off guard. ”Either way, Applejack can wear whatever the fuck she wants, it's her body.” Applejack nodded, ”See? At least some people understand.” Rarity simply put her hands on her hips and reluctantly accepted defeat, while Sunset just stared. ”Now, can we talk about my fuckin’ necklace so I can get back to my boys?” Noah asked, and Rarity answered, “To be completely honest with you Noah, we've no idea what to do.” ”What?!” Noah shouted, ”The fuck do you mean you don't know?! Doesn't this magical shit all revolve around you?!” Noah was angrily bewildered, how can someone barely know about the very thing that makes them special? ”Relax sugar cube,” Applejack started, trying to calm Noah down. ”We're plannin’ to ask Twahlight about it... if we figure out how that is.” Noah smashed his head against the table in visible frustration, and Rarity winced. ”Doesn’t that hurt? Surely that had to hurt.” Noah waved her off as he could care less. By this time, the other members of the Rainbooms had shown up and sat down at the table. Noah asked them all if they knew anything, they answered the same as Applejack, causing him to smash his head multiple times. A moment passed and lunch had officially started, Noah and the Rainbooms went up to receive their... Noah thought for a second, Wait, what the hell is this thing called anyways? I've been going to school for eleven years and I've never learned what the fuck this thing is called... A while passed and the Rainbooms plus Noah had returned to their seats. Noah asked, ”Okay, so we need to figure out how the hell to get Twilight over here, cause I'm not doing this shit with my necklace, oh fuck no. So brainstorm, how we supposed to do this?” They all suggested ideas, starting with Pinkie, ”Oh! We could fill one of my canons with stuff and shoot it through the portal! Maybe it'll hit someone and they'll be like, ’oh noooooooo, we better get Twilight!’” Noah rolled his eyes, ”Yeah, fuck that.” ”Maybe we could sneak a drone through to find her?” Rainbow Dash proposed next, but Sunset shook her head and replied, ”That wouldn't work, they've never seen something like that over there so they'd probably capture it and that wouldn't help at all.” Applejack prepared to speak next but Noah cut her off, ”Okay, you know what? You all suck ass right now, I'm just gonna let nature take it’s stupid fucking course, and do whatever to my necklace, not like I have a damn choice.” Noah began to stand before Sunset spontaneously stood up and somewhat shouted, ”Wait! I have an idea-” Sunset was interrupted by the same three girls Noah and Sunset had shown the school to, this caught everyone's attention, including Noah who had sat down. But shortly after, he realized something... they were singing. “Battle of the Bands!” ”Shut, the fuck, up!” Noah’s voiced boomed throughout the cafeteria like a giant yelling as loud as it could. ”Why?!” Noah continued, ”Why the hell in God’s name must you fuckin’ sing?! What’s the damn point!? Nobody wants to hear your stupid asses, especially me!” A boy with abnormally sized glasses retorted, ”You’re probably just saying that cause you know you're gonna lose!” Noah swiveled around and replied, “You wanna fuckin’ bet? Say you wanna fuckin’ bet!” The boy mumbled to himself, silenced by Noah, who then replied, ”That’s what I fuckin’ thought.” He turned to the girls, he was going to resume before he was saying, but was ceased by Aria, ”What’s your problem? We're just trying to make things a little more interesting.” Noah glared at Aria for a moment as it seemed something went off in him. ”Take your trays off the table, ” he whispered, and the girls did exactly as he said, uneasy. He clutched his end of the table, he hadn't even done anything and yet students were already gasping across the room. He bent his knees and raised the table up above his head with a fierce intent. With a far cry of utter fury, Noah pushed the table with all his might and it fell on it's counter. It emitted a horrendous sound of a goliath clapping its hands. The trio could feel the air hit them straight in the face, causing Adagio to rub her eyes, blinded by the wind. Everyone was speechless from the scene that occurred in front of them, including Sunset, whose jaw dropped in awe. Just as Noah was going to continue his rant, the principal and her sister both busted through the main entrance, perplexed. They both gasped at the sight of the flipped table, but not at who had flipped it. ”Noah Rictorshine!” Celestia started, ”What in the world have you done?!” Noah replied, ”I flipped a table... duh.” ”You will not use that tone of voice towards your principal, ” Luna demanded, and Celestia added, ”My office, immediately!” Noah groaned and reluctantly followed the principals. Secretly the Rainbooms all hastily stood up and followed behind. Noah heard the fall of their footsteps behind him, he turned around and whispered, ”Why the hell are you following me?” “Those three are definitely in possession of some kind of dark magic, how else could you explain what happened back there? Also, what happened back there technically wasn't your fault. You lost it back there. We have to speak to the principals about this.” Sunset answered. ”Don’t worry Noah, we let Principal Celestia know all about this, and those girls will be kicked to the curb in no time!” Applejack added. ”Last thing she needs is another CHS event almost ruined by some power-crazed lunatic.” Applejack instantly grew red from what she so blatantly spoke of. ”Uh, no offense.” Sunset rolled her eyes and replied, ”None taken. ” Noah and the Rainbooms all followed the principals into the office. Luna unusually stood in a dark corner whilst Celestia sat at her desk. She spoke, ”I sure hope you have a reasonable explanation for that intolerable behavior back there, for goodness sake, you swore so unbelievably loud, we heard you from here! And flipping a table?! Whatever gave you the thought that was a reasonable idea?” Celestia noticed the girls when she paused, Rarity started, ”Indeed, Noah's behavior was... less than sensible, but he had quite the reason, ” ”We all do, those weirdos sisters seemed to have some sort of dark magic, ” Rainbow Dash added, Celestia stood up after this and peeked out of her window’s shades with two fingers. She questioned, “Dark magic? I find that very hard to believe. Those girls came into my office earlier and were absolutely delightful.” ”Perhaps Sunset Shimmer is just eager to make someone else out to be a bad element so that her actions at the Fall Formal will become old news.” ”I-I get why you might think that, but,” ”That’s not what happened,” Rainbow Dash cut off, ”We saw all of this go down in the cafeteria too!” ”Yes, but isn't your band supposed to be part of the musical showcase?” Celestia asked, ”Yes?” Rainbow Dash answered as if she didn't actually know how to respond. Something is wrong here, Noah thought, ”Perhaps you're all just worried The Dazzlings will steal your spotlight, ” Yeah, something is definitely fuckin’ wrong here, Noah thought again. ”The Dazzlings?” Applejack questioned, and Celestia answered, ”It's the name of their musical group. They came by my office earlier to sign up for the showcase. Even sang a little song to vice-principal Luna and I,” Noah facepalmed in genuine frustration, he knew why the principals were being unbearably difficult. ”They did?” Applejack inquired, also realizing the problem. Celestia answered, ”Yes, and we think having a battle of the bands instead is a marvelous idea.” As Celestia spoke, her and Luna’s eyes both flickered green for a second or two. The Rainbooms looked distressed while Noah was still in disbelief of this less than helpful predicament. ”But now you Noah, that's a completely different situation, your behavior in the cafeteria was unacceptable...” Noah tuned Celestia out and thought, Okay, I know where this shit’s going...maybe I can use the same trick I used in eighth grade... ”Oh snap, someone’s selling drugs out there! I'd be an absolute calamity if someone were to die on school grounds! And think of our reputation, it’d be devastated!” Noah cried in a fake woeful manner, while the other Rainbooms couldn't believe Noah was resorting to such an idiotic idea. Strangely, Celestia and Luna both thought this serious, as Celestia promptly stood up from her chair, vaulted over her desk, and burst through the door like a swat team captain. Luna quickly followed and sprinted as if a child of hers was in danger, leaving Noah and the Rainbooms alone in the room. ”Thank you, thank you, oh, oh thank you, you're too kind,” Noah flaunted, catching the Rainbooms in utter disbelief. Noah exited the school after using the bathroom, he found the Rainbooms relaxing all over the school’s statue like a college couch. He asked annoyed at their indolence, ”Nigga, what the fuck are y'all doing?” Fluttershy replied, ”I just can't believe they got to Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna too.” ”They've gotten to everybody!” Rainbow Dash added, “Not everybody!” Pinkie cheerfully corrected. ”Pinkie Pie’s right, ” Applejack started, ”We were there when the Dazzlings were singing, and we weren't affected. It was like, we were protected somehow. ” ”So let's take them down!” Rainbow Dash added, ”It’s not like we haven't tangled with dark magic before and totally whooped it's sorry butt!” Rainbow Dash quickly realized her sentence, turned to Sunset, and apologized. ”Uh, no offense.” Sunset groaned and replied, ”None taken... again.” ”But that was when Twilight was here, ” Fluttershy continued, ”There may be some kind of magic inside us that only comes out when we play music. I sure don't know how to use it to, whoop anybody’s butt.” Rarity sighed, ”If only we could get a message to Twilight. Perhaps she could tell us how to break the spell the Dazzlings have cast on our friends.” ”Well that's not going to happen, the portal’s closed,” Rainbow Dash reminded as she tossed her soccer ball she was juggling at the statue. It hit and rebounded off the wall. Unfortunately for Rarity it startled her as she was sitting with her back to the statue. It caused her to mess up her design on her nails she was making with her nail polish. She shrieked like a mother who'd just found her son doing... unholy things. ”And I get the feeling they don't have cell phones where she’s from, ” Rainbow Dash ended. Sunset thought deeply for a second and scratched her head with one finger trying to remember something, her face then flared as she remembered something of significance. She smiled and turned to the rest of them, ”I may have an idea how we can get in touch with Princess Twilig-” ”Yo! What the fuck?! Am I just nonexistent right now?! Can you dipshits just not fuckin’ hear me right now?! I asked y'all something less than a minute ago, and you act like I'm not even here! I'm pretty fuckin’ pissed if you can't tell!” Noah cut Sunset off, he couldn't believe what just happened in front of him. Applejack waved her arms in innocence and responded, ”Relax Noah! We were just deep in thought, don't get your knickers in a knot!” Noah thought for a moment before he saw Applejack giggle a little, ”I don’t know what that means but if it’s something fuckin’ stupid, I'm sticking my foot up your ass!” This remark caused all the Rainbooms to giggle for a while, Noah then questioned, ”Okay, where the hell are we with my necklace?” Sunset replied, still somewhat laughing, ”A-Aren’t you worried about the school though?” ”Nigga, fuck this school, I got better things to worry about, like my fuckin’ necklace.” Rarity spoke, ”Well, I believe Sunset was going to say she had a plan, ” Rarity looked at Sunset for acknowledgement, who nodded yes to confirm. ”Then yes we are onto something.” Noah looked at everyone and spoke, ”Well let's go and do that then.” Sunset opened her locker and dug around, she then pulled out a brown book with a symbol of a red and yellow sun intertwined. “When I was Princess Celestia’s student back in Equestria,” Sunset started and immediately bewildering Noah, ”She gave me this. ” Sunset dusted off the book to reveal a clearer picture, she continued. ”Even after I abandoned my studies, I held on to it. Deep down, I guess I knew I was making a big mistake, and I wanted to still have a way to reach out to her.” Sunset flipped through pages full of letters from and to Celestia until she landed on a blank one. She brushed the page with her hand and speculated, ”Maybe it still works.” ”That’s a book darling.” Sunset looked up, perplexed that Rarity didn't believe her. ”What do you mean, maybe it still works?” Rarity questioned, and Sunset explained. ”It used to be that if I wrote something here, it would appear in the pages of a book back in Princess Celestia’s library. I get a message to her, then she can get a message to Princess Twilight.” ”Okay, time the fuck out, this makes no goddamn sense, ” Noah started, ”How in God’s name is a book supposed to do... whatever the fuck you just said. That's literally impossible!” ”Just like magic is impossible?” Sunset retorted, and Noah replied, ”Nigga, go fuck a stocking, this shit is so absurd.” Sunset grinned, she had just spoken her mind and Noah didn't lose it on her for the first time. ”So what are you waiting for? Get to writing!” Rainbow Dash playfully demanded while waving a pen in Sunset’s face. Sunset took the pen and stared at it, she hadn't talked to Celestia in a quite a long time. How would she react? What would she think? Would she be disappointed? Sunset sighed and began to write in slight fear, she mumbled, ”Been a long time since I've written these words... Dear Princess Celestia... (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) II - Reunion (TBR)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.III - Know Thy Sol (TBR)Author's Note Too Close To The Sun... I apologize as this chapter is not yet edited. III - Know Thy Sol (TBR) Utterly ridiculous, Noah thought. After packing for the sleepover and assessing his current situation, and deciding whether or not to use an inhumane way to solve it, Noah was finally prepared to head over to Pinkie Pie's house. Without a doubt in his mind, Noah didn't want to go, but something inside told him he'd regret it if he didn't, in more than one way as well. He entered his garage, his Audi, and then opened the garage door with the push of a button. Once the car's engine was ignited, Noah drove out of the garage and began down the street. "I wonder what this will be like, I've never gone to a sleepover with all girls, ” he wondered aloud. After thinking up ideas to do at the sleepover, ruinous ideas, Noah opened the center console armrest and pulled out an old CD album. The cover showed a black baby boy with an afro sitting in what appeared to be white nothingness, it read, "readytodie." Noah opened the album and slipped it into the center console's CD player, he whispered, "It was all a dream, wasn’t it?” Almost like the day was on repeat, Noah sighted Sunset on the left sidewalk carrying her book bag on her back and texting on her phone. Practically by instinct, Noah steered to the left and approached her. He rolled down his window and asked, "Going somewhere?" Sunset looked up from her phone to see Noah resting his head on his palm as his arm stood on the window frame. "Yeah, why do you ask? Aren't you going too?” Noah looked up at the sky, "I am, I guess. As a matter of fact, I don't even know why I asked. Guess that was my dumbass act of the day." Sunset tilted her head, "Dumb act of the day?" Noah answered, "Yep, been doing it since day one.” Noah eyed Sunset, she clearly wasn't tired, but Noah was feeling gracious at the moment. Or more unknowingly, looking at her. "You want a ride, half-bitch? I'd be able to oblige." Sunset showed the same face she did when he asked her that same question this morning, she questioned, "I get why you'd ask me that this morning, but why now? Don't you hate me?" "Oh I do, but I want a full audience immediately for when I kick ass on Pinkie's gaming system. It'll be fuckin' laughable." Sunset looked away, she then texted the girls she'd be there sooner than expected, Pinkie replied with a thousand happy emojis. "Okay, no reason in turning down an offer after all," Sunset said as she strolled over to the passenger side of the supercar and entered. She turned to Noah who was currently texting on his phone, "So, are we gonna go now or?" Noah turned his head, "Don't rush me damn it, we've more than enough time. As a matter of fact, strap yourself in, we're hauling ass." Once he finished speaking, Noah opened the center console armrest, grabbed a key from the compartment above the armrest, stuck the key into the keyhole in the armrest, and twisted it to the right. "What did that do?" Sunset asked and Noah answered, "That just disabled the car's street-legal limit, meaning it can go as fast as it can now instead of normal public road speeds." Sunset asked again, "And how fast is tha-” "Two hundred and five miles-per-hour.” Hearing this, Sunset scrambled to strap on her seatbelt and grabbed the roof handle to her right with both hands, "Are you insane?! You're gonna crash without a doubt! Just because you have a fast car doesn't mean you go off the deep end with it!" Sunset screamed, her face flaring with fear. Noah turned to Sunset once again and replied, "Sunset, there are two kinds of people in this world with fast cars: Prosperous niggas, and skilled drivers." This caught Sunset's attention, as her grip loosened on the handle. Noah continued, "A while back, say, four years ago, there was this event in Great Britain called the Horizon Festival. My family went to Great Britain, but they didn't participate because they had bigger things to do, not me though.” ”When we were passing by the main site, I saw that they were giving away this very car we sit in for free to whoever could win a series of races. Long story short, I snuck out of our rented house, lied about my age, took part in the races, and won with my Dad's car, a 2017 Chevy Impala.” ”They couldn't believe it when they saw this sexy motherfucker in the driveway. I got to keep it, and I gave my parents and older sister the prize money since all I wanted was the car. Of course, I needed to be much older if I really wanted to drive it." Noah turned to Sunset intending to continue, but he realized she had gotten close as he told his story. Her hands were now gripping the bottom of the seat, and she was leaning towards him, close enough that he could feel her quiet breaths. "Nigga, I'm gonna have to ask you to back the fuck up," Noah requested. Sunset zoned back and realized how close she was, she moved back into her seat and apologized. "So, you're basically saying we'll be fine?" Sunset questioned, and Noah answered, "Yes, half-bitch, that's what I'm saying." Without warning, Noah stomped on the acceleration pedal, and the car advanced forward with ease. Sunset screeched, crumpled into a ball in her seat, and grabbed the roof handle with both hands. The car was remarkably deafening as it sped down the street at its incredible speed. "Oh my gosh! This is nuts! Absolutely nuts!" Sunset screamed, and Noah replied, "Oh, grow some balls and enjoy the ride you pussy!" It'd been less than five minutes when Noah and Sunset arrived at Pinkie's house. "See? Wasn't that fun?" Noah questioned Sunset as she trembled with fear. She slowly and carefully exited the speed demon and laid on the floor in fear, muttering to herself like a mental hospital patient. Noah walked over to the petrified Sunset and spoke, "Negro, get off the damn floor. You're being overdramatic." Sunset gently stood up off the floor and replied while holding herself, "O-Overdramatic? A-Are you s-serious? T-That type of s-speed m-may be normal to you, b-but to a normal p-person, t-that was... insane!" Noah rolled his eyes, "Yeah, whatever ya bum. Now get switched up, we've got a slumber party to attend." Noah stepped behind Sunset as he spoke and urged her to start moving by pushing her forward. She responded by steadily sauntering to the front door of Pinkie's house. As Noah was just about to knock, the door flung open to reveal Pinkie standing with an excited grin on her face. "Hey guys! I'm sooo happy to see you've made it!" Noah stood back to keep his distance from the energetic Pinkie, while Sunset embraced Pinkie with a hug. I swear, she must be on fuckin' cocaine, Noah thought. "You guys can take a seat on the couch and get ready for the best, most awesomest, sleepover ever!" Pinkie spoke, "Pretty damn sure “awesomest” isn't a word," Noah replied, but not loud enough for Pinkie to hear. He and Sunset proceeded to take a seat next to each other on the loveseat. "Why are you next to me," Noah questioned, instantly bothered. "The couch is covered with all of Pinkie's stuff, I can't just sit on it," Sunset answered, causing Noah to groan. The two sat in silence as Pinkie prepped the rest of the house with snacks and such. Noah peered over at Sunset, she was wearing that same leather jacket with a cyan shirt underneath, black slim sweatpants, and simple sneakers. It seemed that she never took off that jacket. Not once had Noah ever seen her without it, but that was going to change tonight... as in seeing her in bedclothes. He, on the other hand, was wearing the same clothes from this morning. A white Adidas hoodie, black jeans, and black, white, and red high tops, also from Adidas. Noah looked up to gaze at Sunset's face to find she was also eyeing him. Then, as Sunset looked up to examine his face, she found him staring at her like she was a crazy woman. Sunset blushed and quickly blurted out in hopes of not being weird, "What?! D-Don't think I didn't see you checking me out either!" Noah responded, "I wouldn't call it, ’checking out.’ Just pondering why you always wear that same fuckin' jacket." Sunset gripped at her jacket and replied, "I like this jacket, okay? Is that a crime now?" Noah answered, "No, you just look like some sort of renegade. Which you aren't, you're a half-bitch." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Are you going to do this all night? Because if so, I don't think I'll be getting any sleep." "Lighten up damn it, I was just fuckin' around," Noah replied. He then went back to eyeing Sunset while she mumbled to herself. An hour or two had passed, and everyone had settled in Pinkie's bedroom. Fluttershy caressed Spike, like a dog, Pinkie was on her laptop, Rarity and Sunset were conversing, Applejack And Dash were playing an old video game, and Noah laid parallel to Twilight who wrote in a notebook. "Holy shit, I'm bored," Noah whispered to himself. He sat up and asked Twilight, "Hell are you reading?" She looked up and replied, "I'm not reading, I'm thinking of lyrics for the auditions." Noah crossed his legs, "You know, you still can just let me take care of them. I will either way so you might as well just give the go ahead." Twilight tilted her head, "What do you mean?" "Twilight, I've had it up to here with this school," Noah answered whilst sticking his right hand far above his head to prove a point. "All of a sudden, three pricks show up, brainwash the damn school, and now all I'm gonna be hearing is fuckers claiming they're better than me. So give me one damn reason why I can't fuck 'em up." "Because it's against the rules?" Twilight replied, "Besides, as we said, they're probably immune to your bullets." Noah thought for a moment, "Then I'll just beat the shit out of 'em. If I'm right, and I hopeI am, it’d be fuckin’ sick, this shit in my necklace should give me the ability to do hella badass things. They may be immune to bullets, but what about an electric guitar to their small intestine?" Twilight cringed, "Goodness, do not do that! I wouldn't do that to my worst enemy!” Noah grinned, "I would, besides, you said it yourself. They caused chaos in your world. They don't deserve the luxury of death." "That doesn't seem very luxurious to me, and you're kinda starting to creep me out, so let's change the subject! Sunset Shimmer maybe?" Noah casually turned his head to face Twilight and stared like a serial killer, "No." Twilight snickered, “W-Why not? She may have been corrupted during the Fall Formal and ever since you first met her, but I bet if you give her a chance now, you could become good, or maybe even best, friends. Who knows, Sunset doesn't have a personality that stands out like the girls and I, so I bet that could make even a special relationship work like a charm." Noah did not respond, he gaped at her with utter bafflement and horror. Not only that, but he was internally screaming, afraid that if he opened his mouth, someone could, no, would go deaf. "I-I was just messing around! Relax! But seriously, if you demoralize her any further, it could have devastating repercussions," Twilight continued, before returning to her notebook. Noah perked up to hear Rainbow smacking the video game console, "Hey, I was about to beat ya!" Applejack bemoaned, "Nah, I doubt it," Rainbow replied. "So Twilight," She began, looking up at her, "How's that counterspell comin'?" Twilight grew nervous. "Huh? Oh, uh, good! Great. Thanks for letting me use your notebook, Fluttershy. I really like the song you wrote for the Rainbooms." "Thanks," Fluttershy replied, pulling now her stuffed crocodile into a tighter embrace. "Hopefully one day we'll get a chance to play it," she muttered. Rarity plopped onto the bed, causing Noah to fall on his face next to Sunset. "Goddamn it! What the hell?!" Noah shouted. "Well pardon me, I need to speak with Twilight," Rarity responded. Sunset inspected him, "Are you alright?" "What do you think?" He replied, annoyed. "Is it so hard to speak to me without anger in your eyes?" Sunset asked, Noah answered, "Why don't you ask Fall?" Sunset shrunk back and held her sides in regret. ''That's what I fuckin' thought." "Now then, Twilight, I think I speak for all of us when I say: I don't know what we would've done if you hadn't come back to help us." Rarity continued, along with the rest of the girls agreeing. A moment after, the doorbell rang, "Pizza's here!" Pinkie exclaimed, causing Noah to shoot up, "Do they have wings? Did you order fuckin' wings!?" Pinkie nodded so much, it seemed painful. "Fuck yes! Outta my way!" Noah shouted as he ran towards the front door. When he reached the front door, he swung it open and promptly grabbed the wings on top of the stack of pizzas the delivery man was holding. "Thank you, my nigga," He appreciated before running to the dining room table with the box of fresh hot wings. While the rest of the girls, except Twilight who stayed upstairs to finish writing, chowed down on delectable slices of the Italian meal, Noah ate away at multiple wings as if he'd been homesick. A while later though, Sunset sat on the bench nearby and opened her phone. Noah thought for a moment before offering, "You want some? You know, before I eat them all?" Sunset looked up from her phone and at Noah, she answered, ”Well, I don't really eat meats, but thank you for offer-” "My nigga, what? Who the hell doesn't like meat?" Sunset shrugged and replied, ”Well, since I come from Equestria like Twilight, we typically don't eat meat because... Well, because we don't I guess.” Noah thought back again before asking, ”Well, what about the pizza, why didn't you have any of that?” ”I don't know, I'm just, not really hungry that right now,” Sunset answered, and Noah once again thought back. ”Why don't you make yourself a PB and J?” Sunset tilted her head, ”Those sandwiches they make in the cafeteria? I mean... Maybe, but I don't know how... Could you maybe, help me?” ”My nigga, it's two slices of bread slathered with either peanut butter or jelly on one side, just do that and put ’em together, I have ’em all the time when I come home from school, it's not goddamn rocket science.” ”Oh, ” Sunset replied, somewhat sad, and entered the kitchen to make the sandwich, of course, she asked Pinkie Pie first. It was presently nightfall, 10:49 to be exact. Noah sat up, plugged his phone back into his charger, and exited Pinkie's room carefully, stepping on any of the girls made him fear that he'd never get back to sleep. He entered the kitchen to see Twilight leaving, some pale girl with purple hair feeding crackers to a rock, and Sunset rummaging through the fridge for something. I'm not even gonna ask, Noah thought. He sat down at the island and questioned, "Is there any seltzer in there? Kinda thirsty, so I'd like a drink." Sunset promptly turned around confused, she didn't notice Noah enter. She looked back at the fridge, there was one more can left. "Noah, we need to talk," she stated, causing Noah to lose his train of thought on whatever it was he was thinking about. "Talk about what? What do we need to talk about?" Sunset turned to face Noah completely, "Listen, Noah, I know we have a horrible history, and I know I've done things to your friend, heck, even I'm repulsed at it. But I think if we're going to work together to stop the Sirens and repair your necklace, we, well, you, need to put the past where it belongs, in the past. I desperately want to make it up to everyone I've hurt, that includes you and your friends, but like someone special once told me, it's best to begin with the unbreakable." Noah stared at Sunset, he wasn't exactly sure how to respond. He thought long and hard before eventually replying, "If I do this, I have your word that you'll make amends, indubitably?" Sunset slowly nodded, "It's the right thing to do." Noah stood up, he stared once again, considering her thought intensely. He grinned, "Alright half-bitch, we'll stop these fuck-nuts, and you'll walk away redeemed, if that's what you want." Sunset smiled, "Without a doubt. Oh, by the way," she replied, twisting on her heels to face the fridge. "Here's that seltzer you asked for, it's HeTap." Noah leaped upon the table and landed on his stomach, "Hell yeah! Give me that shit!" Sunset took a step back so she wasn't hit, once he had landed, she handed him the can, a bit shook. Noah sat up on the table with his legs hanging off the side of the table, opened the can, and chugged down the carbonated water. Sunset began to leave before Noah called out, "Oi, tell me, what the hell is this, Equestria, you and Twilight have spoken of? I'm unusually curious." Sunset unhesitantly whipped around and hopped onto the table next to Noah. "Equestria is this astonishing world packed to the brim of various creatures! I grew up there as a unicorn and lived in this gorgeous and fascinating city called Canterlot!-" Noah put a finger to Sunset's lips, "Negro, please, slow the fuck down. I don't need your damn backstory, just tell me about the planet as a whole." "Well, Equestria is a kingdom, not a planet," Sunset answered, and Noah replied, "Kingdom? What, like, medieval shit?" Sunset nodded, "That's probably hella gay. You may not think so, but a federal system is much better than a fuckin' kingdom. Wouldn't someone get apprehended for calling the king or a queen a piece of shit in this kingdom?" "No, it's not that strict," Sunset answered. "Okay, so, who's the king or queen of this kingdom?" "Well, actually, Equestria doesn't have a king or queen. It has two princesses." Noah itched his head with one finger, "Wait a minute, wouldn't that make it a princessdom? Because I'm pretty sure princesses can't rule a kingdom." "Well you see... uh... well... I've actually never even thought about that. Actually, I don't think anyone has thought about that," Sunset answered, and Noah responded, "So you're telling me, nobody has ever questioned why they're being ruled by the children of the king and queen? It sounds a lot like your entire country is fuckin' retarded." "Noah! That's offensive, Don't say that!" Noah rolled his eyes, "Fine, let me reiterate, ''It sounds like your entire country is fuckin' slow'', better?" Sunset then rolled her eyes, "Not even close, but you don't care, do you?" "Can we get back to your country? How long has this shit been going on?" Noah asked, and Sunset answered, "I'm not sure, ten thousand years?" Noah crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow, "You're telling me your nation has lived under near centuries of princesses and princes, and never once considered why they weren't kings or queens?" "Well, there's only been two princesses in that period of time," Sunset answered, and Noah's face contorted into unadulterated stupefaction. "Let me get this shit straight, you're entire fuckin' country has been ruled by two, count 'em, two princesses in the span of a motherfuckin’ myriannum?" Sunset scratched the back of her head, "Well when you say it like that, it sounds silly." "Yeah, no shit sherlock. Are you telling me these princesses are immortals?" Noah asked, and Sunset answered, "Yep, and you wanna know something else crazy?" Noah raised an eyebrow at her again, "The princesses are the same as the principals from our school, Celestia and Luna!" Noah spit out the seltzer he was sipping and grabbed Sunset's shoulders in disbelief, unintentionally pulling her close "Hold the goddamn phone, Principal White Shaq and Blueface are fuckin' princesses?! You've gotta be shitting me!" "Nope," Sunset replied, oblivious to how close she now was with him, "I'm telling the truth, one hundred percent." Noah let go of Sunset and held his head with both hands, "That's crazy, what the actual fuck." "Another thing about Equestria is that it's basically a parallel world to this one. The only difference here is that it's in the Modern Ages while Equestria is in the Middle Ages... kinda." Noah let go of his head, "So, there's a version of yours truly over there?" Sunset nodded. "Interesting, not gonna lie at all," Noah replied. Sunset crossed her legs, "So, tell me about you! I know that you aren't from this country, so learning about you should be even more interesting." "Me? Well shit, I don't know where to start." Noah thought for a moment, "Well, I was born on September 25th, 2003 in East Duggensville, Pennsylvania. My family was the Christians, I changed my last name when I got here if you're wondering. My family consisted of my mother: Allison Christian, my father: William Christian, my elder brother: Nicholas Christian, my older sister: Nia Christian, my older brother: Nolan Christian, My younger sister: Noelle Christian, and my grandmother: Lydia Garnett. We were a very nice and loving family, a little rough around the edges with my younger sister becoming a teen, but we prevailed regardless. Unlike your world being full of magic and shit, the only magic we, and the entirety of the planet that you've never seen, have ever had is science and illusions. The lives of my people are pleasant and delightful, but they can become the coldest thing we've ever experienced with a single word or action. Sadly, there's more bad than good where I come from, horrible things that still go on to this day that I pray you never have to experience. Actually, define terrorism." Sunset cocked her head, "Terrorism? I...I don't think I've ever heard of that word before." Noah smiled, "Good, hopefully, you should never have to know what it is, or experience it. You see Sunset, my part of the world is packed to the brim of despicable people, and judging from what you've said, I'm guessing you only have a handful.” Sunset nodded, "Yeah, I guess my world is heaven compared to yours. Now I'm not sure if I ever want to se-" "Don't," Noah cut off, "Never, leave this country, ever. There are some things in life that nobody should ever have to see, including your people." Sunset looked down, "Oh... I didn't know it was that bad," Noah crossed his arms, "You'd be surprised, kid." "Kid?" Sunset looked back at Noah, confused, "I'm the same age as you! As a matter of fact, I'm older than you! I was born on June 16th, 2002, so why the heck are you calling me a kid?!" "Nigga calm your tits," Noah replied, and Sunset blushed, "It's just an old nickname that I called girls who were my friends, and since most of my friends are dudes, I haven't called anybody that in a long time." Sunset rubbed the back of her neck, "Oh..." She then perked up again, "We're friends?! Yes! And all it took was plain and simple small talk." "Yeah, sure, half-bitch," Noah replied, causing Sunset to groan in annoyance. "Alright, I'm gonna take a piss and go to bed. Nice talking to ya half-bitch," Noah spoke before hopping off the island and leaving the kitchen for the bathroom. Progress, Sunset thought, indisputable progress. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) PART 2: IV - To Learn of Monsters & Magic (TBR)Author's Note A Place Called Home... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. PART 2: IV - To Learn of Monsters & Magic (TBR) Noah wearily opened his eyes to see the sun shining directly in his face. He closed his eyes again to try and fall asleep by digging into his sleeping bag, but he was too slumberous to move the rest of his body for shelter. Giving in to the unrelenting glare of the star, he sat up, rubbed his eyes with one hand, and yawned for a moment or two. He looked to his right to see his phone plugged in. He grabbed it, stood up out of the sleeping bag, and stretched before heading downstairs. Goddamn, I slept like a log last night, Noah thought. Who knew sleeping at a girls house could have one sleeping so well. Noah finally reached the lower floor and entered the kitchen. He opened the fridge to find just what he wanted, "Eggs," Noah mumbled, "The perfect food to go along with bacon, if it's here, that is." Noah searched the fridge after and smiled, there was bacon inside. He sluggishly grabbed the case of bacon along with four eggs, grabbed a paper towel from on the island, and laid them all out. "Okay, time for some breakfast." Sunset awoke to the sound of bacon being fried along with its smell tickling her nose. She stood up and out of her sleeping bag before heading downstairs. The floorboards creaked at the sound of her steps on the carpet as she walked down the steps towards the delightful smell of breakfast. She reached the bottom of the steps and turned to see Noah taking pieces of cooked bacon out of a pan on top of Pinkie's stove and onto a nearby plate. She entered the kitchen and asked, confused, "So, you're the one making breakfast. I thought you were Pinkie, but I bet if I go back up there she's fast asleep." Noah turned around to meet Sunset's tired gaze and replied, "Yeah, I was just hungry as hell, Saturdays usually do that to me. How'd you sleep half-bitch?" "Like a baby, but honestly, I couldn't stop thinking about what you said last night, your world really must be something, huh?" Sunset answered, and Noah replied, "Like a completely different planet." Sunset took a seat at the island and pulled out her phone. Finishing the eggs, Noah asked, "Hey, you want some? I suddenly don't feel like eating all of this myself." Sunset chuckled, "You were gonna eat all of that yourself? That must be some stomach of yours." Noah rolled his eyes, "You want some or not half-bitch?" "Yeah, yeah, I'll take some," Sunset quickly answered, not trying to put him in a bad mood so early in the morning. Noah then grabbed two pieces of bacon and put it on the nearby plate. Next, he split the eggs in half and put the right half on the plate, the pan hissing as he did so. "Order up," Noah announced as he slid the plate towards Sunset. "Thank you," Sunset replied, thankful. Sunset eyed the delicious meal in front of her, it looked heavenly, as if it was straight from God's kitchen. Her hand hovered over a piece of bacon before she realized something. "Um, can I have a fork? I just realized I don't have one." Noah turned around from his plate he was making and responded, "Oh, how the fuck did I miss that?" He then sought through Pinkie's drawers that seemed to never end before eventually finding the silverware. "Found ya basterds," he said triumphantly before grabbing two forks and putting one on his plate, and handing the other to Sunset. "Thank you, again," she said before eating the fantastic yet simple breakfast offered to her. Noah grabbed the plate he finished making and took a seat next to Sunset. He turned to her, she was loving what he had prepared, practically devouring it, practically. Noah then unlocked his phone and opened Twitter, it was how he stayed in contact with his home, specifically his country. He swiped to the trending tab and was taken aback, "Holy shit." Sunset directed her attention from her breakfast to Noah, curious as to what he'd seen. "What is it? What happened?' She asked, and Noah replied, "The president was assassinated." "What does it mean to be assassinated?" Sunset asked, and Noah turned to her, confused. "You don't even know what assassinated means? How fucking happy-go-lucky is your planet?" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Can you just tell me? If you're saying I should know what that is regardless, then it must be important." Noah sighed. "Assassination is the murder of an important person in a surprise attack for a political or religious reason, unless they're just a son of a bitch." Sunset's face grew in disbelief, she just couldn't believe what he'd said. Murdering someone for politics? She didn't know what religion was though, but it sounded equally important. "What level of importance?” She asked, and Noah replied. "Well in your terms, I'd say as high as Princess Celestia herself." This caught Sunset wildly off guard as she gasped in horror and hysteria, murdering the princess? Could that even be done? and if so, who could do such a thing? The princess is just too valuable, without her, who will raise the sun? Well, maybe Luna could do that, but still. ”That's unreal, you must be joking!" Sunset replied, shouting but not exactly. "Not even a little, and if the president's been murdered, America is incredibly vulnerable, unless the vice president decides to grow some balls and come out of hiding," Noah replied. "Your world really is something, isn't it Noah?" "Indeed Sunset, without a goddamn doubt." It was now noon, and everyone, except spike who was sleeping upstairs, was relaxing in the living room watching TV, using their phone, or playing a board game. Except for Twilight who was actually writing for real. Noah sat next to Sunset again on the loveseat, Twilight on the couch by herself, Rarity and Applejack on the other loveseat, and Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy were on the ground playing Jenga. What played on the TV was a type of adult cartoon Noah brought, and Sunset was bewildered at the antics that played out in each episode. How can such a fat person do so many things every day? And a talking baby and dog? What is this show? Sunset questioned the existence of this show while Noah chuckled at every joke. "Noah," Rarity began, "I looked up that M82 thing you were talking about, and this thing looks monstrous! It is a gun, yes, but what type? I'm strangely curious." Noah stopped watching the show and turned to Rarity, she was holding out her phone and on it showed a massive and heavy-looking black rifle that stretched as long as a normal adult’s height. "It's a sniper rifle, the strongest of its kind to be exact. It could take a person's head off from four miles away, as long as you can withstand the insane recoil." Rarity's jaw dropped, "Someone's entire head? goodness gracious, that's absurd!" "Well, that's technology for you, as a matter of fact, I own one." Rarity's jaw dropped even more, "You own one of those monstrosities?" Noah nodded, and Rarity held her head together in shock. ”Hey Noah, I know you told me I wouldn't want to know about it but, I really wanna know what terrorism is. It's probably horrendous and pales in comparison to what you told me this morning, but the curiosity has been killing me," Sunset asked. "What in the hay is terrorism?" Applejack asked, intrigued. "Indeed, it sounds awful, I'd love to hear it! As long as it isn't too awful of course," Rarity added, also intrigued. "Is it some sort of epic party? The ultimate party?!" Pinkie asked as well. "No way, gotta be some sort of... eh, I don't know, something cool though, right?" Rainbow Dash also asked. "Is it some sort of forbidden magic or science?" Twilight also asked. "Is it committing acts of good maybe?" Fluttershy also asked. Noah thought to himself, No way in hell am I gonna be able to get it through their heads with just words, especially because of all their different personalities... I know. "Pinkie, can I pair up to your TV for a sec'?" Noah asked, and Pinkie answered, "Well of course! Duh!" Pressing a few buttons on his phone, Noah pulled up an old video on the TV, the format didn’t even match the screen. The video displayed two tall buildings in a city in the morning. Everyone stared for awhile waiting for something to happen, eventually, Rainbow Dash questioned, "Is this terrorism? Because if so, I'm bored of it. it's just a building on fire, no biggy. It’s probably fake anyway." "Relax Rainbow and watch the fuckin' video because it's what y'all asked for," Noah replied, and Rainbow groaned in irritation. Not long after, Rarity spotted something, "Oh! Well, hello there plane." "Plane? So that's what that's called," Twilight realized, before squinting to notice something unusual. "Wait, what's with its trajectory? It seems to be heading straight for the... wait a second." "What? What's the big idea? I don't...” Applejack added, also noticing the plane's deadly destination. One by one, each of the girls caught on to where the plane was headed, but it couldn't be, could it? The plane inched closer and closer until... ... "NO!!” ... In utter terror, Sunset shrieked the vociferation followed by the girls screaming, petrified. The plane had hit the south tower and exploded in a fiery inferno. They sat as still as a stone, hundreds, near thousands of lives were just lost right in front of them. It was unimaginable, none of them could even believe that what just happened occurred in real life. Noah eyed each of the girls, starting with Sunset. She was holding her mouth shut while staring intently at the television. Twilight had dropped the notebook she'd been writing in and was frozen while gaping. Applejack had taken off her hat and was running a hand through her hair with a startled look on her face, while Rarity was holding her mouth shut with both hands. Rainbow Dash, ran two hands through her hair and stared, highly disturbed. Fluttershy was covering her face as soon as she heard the explosion, while Pinkie simply stared and a single tear slowly ran down her face, the innocence in her eyes gone as if it never even existed. Noah turned off the TV and unpaired his phone, judging from their expressions, they didn't need to see the rest. "So… what do y’all think?," Noah spoke up, but the girls didn't reply, they held their expressions like a deer in headlights. Eventually, Sunset did speak up, her voice cracking. "What... was... that..." "That, was terrorism, and you just witnessed it at its worst. The attack which you just witnessed was labeled 9/11, what fully happened that day was two planes hit the north and south buildings of the World Trade Center. Later, a plane hit the Pentagon, then another plane that was supposed to hit something, I don't remember, crashed in a field in Pennsylvania as the passengers desperately tried to regain control.” “A while after, the North Tower collapsed, then, the south tower. I want you to also note that the planes used in this weren't little private jets or some shit, they were all Boeing 747s, the fourth-largest planes in the world that hold up to three hundred and sixty-six passengers per flight.” “The total death toll was three thousand and fifteen people, and fifty thousand people were injured, fatal and non-fatal alike.“ The girls now sat looking down in terror, Fluttershy was trying to calm Pinkie Pie down, while Twilight slowly picked up the notebook and regained composure. “Why?” Noah turned to whom had spoken to see Rainbow Dash looking down at her hands as they laid lifeless on her lap. "I've been asking the same damn question my whole life," Noah answered whilst crossing his arms and settling back into the loveseat. "Bullshit," Rainbow replied, balling her hands into a fist. "People don't just do things, everything has a reason for it!" Noah was taken aback a bit at Rainbow's use of words, not at all expecting her to swear. "I'm sorry Dash, but there are some things in this world we can't explain. I, and the rest of my people have wondered for millennia why people do such things. But at the end of the day, all we can really say is: Ain't that a bitch." Rainbow Dash looked back down at her palms again, not sure how to reply, or what to even think. ”You said millennia, these types of scenarios have occurred in your part of the world for thousands of years?" Twilight questioned, and Noah answered. "Yep, for as long as we can remember, terrorism has been around since the very first century. Yet after all this time, we still don't understand why. It's like questioning existence itself." "That sounds awful, I can't even begin to imagine such carnage. If your people are capable of this, I can't even begin to imagine what type of wars you have. But surely, the only evil people in your world are the bad people themselves. There's no way a leader from your world could see all of that and enjoy it. Unlike my world." Twilight replied. When Twilight looked back at Noah, she saw his head had tilted to the left with an expression that easily read, are you sure about that? "You're kidding," Sunset said, she also noticed Noah's expression and was dismissing Noah of whatever he was getting at. "It's not that simple nigga, all species fight. What should be surprising is that you guys have wars.“ “You guys live in a world filled with candy and rainbows, and yet, even you have conflict." "Well, ah'm gonna take a shot in the dark and say your wars are even worse than ours," Applejack guessed, and Noah replied. "Unless you guys dropped a bomb with a blast radius of one point three thousand kilometers on a Japanese city or reduced entire forest to barren wastelands and wasted eight-five million lives fighting for objectives that we never even should've had to fight to get in the first place, then I'd say we aren't that different." The girls stared in untarnished horror, explosives stretching one point three thousand kilometers? Entire forests demolished? Eighty-five million lives lost?! It couldn't be true. "You... you're lying... how... how can... how can people even do that?!" Pinkie cried out, she'd become so sad it seemed she was becoming unstable. "Okay, look, clearly this topic is getting to you all, and I'm not gonna waste my Saturday calming a bunch of teens the fuck down," Noah declared. "Why don't we play some Jenga? Nothing harmful about a rage-inducing board game." Noah then motioned to Sunset to join him as he left the loveseat and began resetting the game board. Eventually, the others joined in, nobody wanted to continue the current discussion, especially Pinkie. "I've an idea, Twilight, why don't you explain that shitshow that occurred when half-bitch over here went mad," Noah asked, and Sunset groaned in annoyance. "At the Fall Formal?" Twilight questioned. "No, that time some kid stuck their foot up a bear's ass, no shit the fuckin' Fall Formal!" Noah replied, himself annoyed. "Look, she just forgot, no need to get angry," Applejack said, defending Twilight. "Yeah yeah, whatever. But seriously, I don't understand how that spectacle I witnessed could even exist!" "Well, what happened is that when Sunset put on the tiara, she gained the power of the magic inside. With that much at her disposal, she was able to manipulate the students and tear a hole in the school's front entrance. But after she explained her final intents, and you shooting her, she fired that large sphere of magic at us expecting to kill us. But it didn't work, when the magic made contact with us, it activated our own magic, our friendship magic. With it, we were able to defeat her by combining the power of all six elements into an immense beam of pure friendship." Noah scratched the side of his chin, "My nigga, what? Elements? Friendship magic? This went from a supervillain's evil ultimate plan reveal to the dumbest episode of Spongebob in existence." "W-What? That sounds awesome!" Retorted Rainbow Dash, color had returned to her face. "My nigga, you know nothing about the word. That's not called awesome, that's called cringe," Noah replied. "But I'm still confused, what the hell are these elements?" "The elements I'm talking about are called the Elements of Harmony. Six gems that are packed to the brim with tremendous power that can only be activated by what the element stands for," Twilight answered. "And that would be?" Noah asked, and Twilight answered. As she spoke, she pointed at her friends. "Loyalty," she pointed to Rainbow Dash. "Generosity," she pointed to Rarity. "Honesty," she pointed to Applejack. "Laughter," she pointed to Pinkie Pie. "Kindness," she pointed to Fluttershy. "And magic," she rested her hand upon her heart. "So, these elements basically are the characteristics of one who does good?" Noah asked, and Twilight nodded yes. He thought for a moment as he scratched his chin again, he then asked, "Would... would you say these characteristics are that of one who is righteous carries within themselves?" Twilight nodded again. "So... say there was this so-called super element that was all of the original elements combined into one. Is there a chance, a fuckin' sliver, that something like that could exist outside of the original elements?" Noah inquired. This had made Twilight think strenuously, A super element? Is there a chance that could exist? "Well," Twilight began, "Perhaps there could be a chance, but it might be so old, not even Starswirl the Bearded knows it exists. It could probably be lost to time. Not only that, but it's is a very odd question, why do you ask?" Noah reached into his shirt and revealed his keychain once again. It was glowing so bright it had left a mark on Noah's chest. "That's right! Your keychain... wait, a-are you saying that?-" "No way," Sunset cut off, "To even be considered that, you'd have to have all the qualities that the elements represent. No offense Noah, but you're the last person I know to be capable of righteousness." "Oh go fuck yourself, Sunset," Noah responded angrily, but deep down, he felt it was a longshot. "Whatever, now, tell me about this magic." "Can we just play the game? You guys are talking about stuff that half-interest me, and half isn't enough," Rainbow Dash complained. "Sorry, sorry, Noah, do you wanna talk over at the dining room table?" Asked Twilight, and Noah replied, "A'ight." Twilight stood up and walked over to the dining room table with Noah following behind, hands in the pockets of his second pair of black jeans. Sunset watched with curiosity and thought, why does he care so much? Pretty sure he isn't a scientist or something, so, what gives? Noah took a seat next to Twilight when he entered the dining room behind her. "Okay, now tell me about this magic," He said, as they returned to the conversation. "Okay, well, it's kinda hard to explain," she replied. "Just spit it out, I'll piece it together from there," Noah responded. "Okay," Twilight started. "Well, magic is basically what fuels our world. Without it, many things wouldn't be possible. Every creature has it within them, but only unicorns can bend it at their will." "Unicorns?" Noah questioned, and Twilight replied, "Yep, in Equestria, there are four types of ponies. Earth Ponies, Pegasuses, Unicorns, and Alicorns. Unicorns are born with a horn on their head that allows them to bend magic to their will. Pegasuses are born with wings allowing them to fly. Earth Ponies are simply normal ponies with no other features. And alicorns are a special type of ponies that have both wings and horns. So far, the only known alicorns in existence are Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadence, and myself." Noah scratched the side of his chin again, "Jesus, and yet, all of humanity thought you guys were myths for the longest time." Twilight tilted her head, "W-Wait, you've heard of us before?" Noah nodded yes, "Earth ponies do exist in our world, but motherfuckin' unicorns and pegasuses? Those legends are as old as mankind itself.” "You won't believe this, but we thought you were the myths since the dawn of ponykind," Twilight replied, and Noah was bewildered. How the hell does this planet have so many similarities to Earth? , He thought. "Is your planet called Earth too? Sunset might've told me yesterday night, but I kinda forgot. Twilight shook her head, "No, our planet is called Equis." Great, more things that don't make sense, Noah thought. "Why is your planet's name the same as this country?" He asked, and Twilight answered. "I don't know, our worlds are definitely connected, but I just don't understand why." "You know what, I don't care. Now what the hell is this magic?" Noah asked again, raising his voice a little. "Okay, okay, calm down," Twilight replied. "Magic allows us to use spells, to move multiple things around at once, like psychokinesis. It also allows us to concentrate on what we have and gather enough energy to create a weapon of pure energy in multiple forms, whether it be spears and swords, or a beam of pure magic, like what Sunset threw at us at the Fall Formal." "Oh, so, kinda like Dragon Ball Z? A-Actually, don't answer that," Noah responded, causing Twilight to tilt her head, confused. "Um, okay? So, is that all your questions? Because I'd like to ask you some questions now if that's alright with you." "Yeah, shoot," Noah answered. "Okay, well, what is it like? To live in your world?" Noah crossed his arms, "I mean, it's alright. The only thing I truly loved over there was my family and friends, and that's a deep love. Well, a family and friends type love, I gave up on that other love a long time ago, those hoes are all the same, you know? No, you don't, but that's not a big deal.” “So explaining the world entirely? Shit's fuckin’ wow, they've got this crazy-ass virus taking the world by storm right now. Hong Kong, a city in the east, is on fuckin' fire, some dumbass leader is bombing or gassing his own people, not sure which, and for fuck's sake, the third world war almost started this year! And with the President dead, God knows what the fuck will happen now." Noah's eyes returned to Twilight and she was leaning back with wide eyes of her own. "Too much for ya, Twi?" he chuckled, and she replied. "Well, yes! Noah, no offense, but your world sounds awful! Surely there are good times, right?" "Twilight, that was all this year, kinda but, I don't care. Horrid things have occurred in my world for eons. But, indeed, there is some good. But, just like the news, nobody gives a shit about the good in the world. I don't know why, it's just the way we are, but it's the little things in life that matter, right?" Twilight nervously chuckled, "U-Um, y-yeah, right. Do you wanna head back now?" Noah shrugged, "Yeah, sure." Noah continued to pack up his stuff as he was preparing to leave Pinkie's house for his own. He grabbed everything inside the room, his socks, his shirts, his pants, his underwear, and his hoodie. Quite the sleepover this was, Noah thought, I hope I didn't scar any of them for the rest of their lives... Eh, they'll be fine. Noah picked up his briefcase after zipping it up and began to roll it out of the room. He rolled it down the bumpy stairs and entered the living room whereas he saw Rarity showing Applejack something on her phone. "The fuck? Where'd the other five of you go?" Noah asked, and both Applejack and Rarity looked up from the phone to answer. "Twilight went somewhere, Rainbow Dash went home-" answered Rarity. "Fluttershy just left, Sunset's using the bathroom upstairs," answered Applejack. "And Pinkie's down in the basement," the two of them answered at the same time. The three of their faces changed from normal to confused almost instantly. "Did we just say that at the same time?" Asked Applejack looking at Rarity, who replied, "I... I think so. That's something that normally occurs in movies. How strange." They continued to stare at each other before happily giggling at what had just occurred. Indeed, it was quite strange for something like that to occur in real life, but they didn't seem to mind as it wasn't that serious. "Fuckin' weirdos," Noah mumbled. "So, what's the plan, since y'all decided to talk about it and leave me out of the damn thing," Noah asked, and Rarity replied. "We suggested that we should get to work on the song tomorrow at Applejack’s home/farm, Sweet Apple Acres at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.” “You aren't exactly apart of the band but, you're welcome to come." "Okay," Noah replied, nodding his head, "I ain't got anything else to do, but I do have one question." "Which is?" Applejack questioned, and Noah answered. "Can I bring McFly?" Applejack and Rarity simultaneously tipped their head's in perplexion. "Um, who's McFly?" Rarity asked, and Noah answered, "He's my dog, a labradoodle to be exact." Rarity freaked like a typical high school girl, "You have a dog!? Is he cute?!" "Indubitably the cutest on the planet, precious is a fuckin' understatement," Noah replied. "Oh wow, a labradoodle? Ah ain't ever heard of a dog like that, ah’m guessing he’s a mix between a labrador and a poodle?" Applejack asked, and Noah answered, "Oh yeah, and he's hella chill. Well, kinda." Rarity tilted her head, "Uh, what do you mean? Is he vicious towards others?" "Nope, he's the opposite. For the three and a half years I've had him, he still feels uncomfortable and anxious near others besides my friends and I. Not sure why, but he must've had a bad experience with humans. It might explain why he was frightened of us when we first got him. "Well that sounds just terrible. Hopefully, Lil' McFly will get used to us," Applejack hoped. "Indeed, I'd hate to feel how anxious he is within a single inch of another person, just horrid. So no worries Noah, you can bring him along." ”Yeah, and he'll get to meet my own dog, Winona" Applejack added. "Alright, sounds like a plan. I'll see y'all tomorrow, just gotta take a shit real quick," Noah replied, turning around before he could see Rarity's and Applejack's slightly disgusted faces. When Noah had made it up the stairs and reached the bathroom, he looked down to see if the lights were on, they weren't. Seeing this as the go-ahead, Noah opened the door with his left hand and began unbuttoning his pants with the other. When he opened the door, he stopped in his steps and froze like a sculpture. Apparently, someone was still inside, he knew this as the lights were automatic. Noah stood silent as he found himself staring at a topless Sunset Shimmer, her bra and shirt on the floor next to her. Instinctually, Noah stared at Sunset's bare breasts without a second thought in his mind. They were covered in lotion making them shine under the bathroom lights. They were also hard, meaning she was thinking, or even doing something sensual before he walked in. Indubitably, Noah was as erect as a diamond in mere seconds. ... "Um... y-you look... busy... I-I'll just... um..." "Get out! Noah scrambled to exit the bathroom and flung the door closed as fast as he could. Holy shit, was all Noah could think. Almost as if there was a she-demon in the house, Noah hastened to leave Pinkie's house like a madman. He grabbed his suitcase, rushed past a bewildered Applejack and Rarity, and charged through the front door. Luckily, it was open. If otherwise, Noah wouldn't have a shoulder anymore. Less than five minutes later, Noah arrived at his house and parked his Audi in the garage. He opened the garage door and was greeted by an ecstatic labradoodle that he heard barking as soon as he laid eyes on his house. Unfortunately for McFly, Noah avoided him completely and dashed to his room. Once in, he slammed the door, locked it, and leaped onto his bed. Finally, as he didn't think a single thing since he saw her, Noah let the thoughts surge in. ... My nigga, those tits were fatherfuckin' flawless! (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) V - If You Want It Done Right (TBR)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.VI - Miserable Asshat of the West (TBR)Author's Note They’ll Regret That Too... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. VI - Miserable Asshat of the West (TBR) "Noah, motherfucking, Rictorshine!" Shouted the voice behind, and Noah instantly knew who came knocking. He turned around to find his best, and only friends had burst through the backstage doors, infuriated. "What the, who are these guys?" Rainbow Dash asked, scratching her forehead with her forefinger. "They're my friends, my very dumb friends." Manex walked straight up to Noah, angry was an understatement. "Why in God's name are you here with these weird-asses?! Especially Sunwhore!" "Wait just a minute, are y’all talkin' 'bout Sunset?" Applejack asked, and Jain responded. "Yeah, her! Not only that, but you were fucking up on stage with these sluts?" "Whoa, who the heck do you think you're talking to?!" Rainbow replied, irritated. "You, dumbass! What are you deaf!?" CJ replied. "Guys, relax-" "If you barbarians insult us once more, I assure you, things are gonna get ugly!" Rarity warned, and fire building up within her eyes. "Oh do tell, what the fuck are you gonna do? Throw lipgloss at us?" Jain replied, getting all up in Rarity's face. "Now y’all better back off, you can't just barge in here looking for a fight! But if yer askin', I'll gladly give ya one!" Applejack also warned. "Nigga, shut up! You Alabama head-ass bitch! I bet you fucked your own sister before you got here!" CJ responded, getting all up in Applejack's face like Jain did to Rarity. Applejack's face grew red with pure rage just as Rarity's did. "Wow, I guess we'll be kicking your butt instead, not like I got a problem with that!" Rainbow Dash added, stepping in and cracking her knuckles. "Fuckin' bet, I bet your homo ass can't even throw a goddamn punch!" Manex replied, also getting all up in Rainbow Dash's face similar to his friends. "Wha- I'm not gay! What the heck!?" Rainbow Dash replied, undeniably furious. "Motherfucker, you're hair is a goddamn rainbow! How the hell are you gonna deny shit?!" Manex responded. This situation was getting out of hand, and Noah knew without their powers, the Rainbooms would get beaten to a pulp. "Enough!" Noah shouted, separating the two groups from a fight breaking out right behind the curtains. "Guys, I know you have questions, I get it. Why the hell did I ditch y'all for these guys, especially Sunset after what she's done," Noah started, Sunset holding her shoulder in guilt. "But it's for a damn good reason my niggas, y'all and I both know that." Noah's friends eased up, they knew deep down he'd never abandon them. "Remember when I showed you how my necklace had glowed and brought us here? Well, look!" Noah pulled his necklace from out of his back pocket, it was glowing heavily. "The same aura that brought us here is somehow connected to the Rainbooms. I don't know why, but if it is for the same reason that we even met, then it's damn well important!" Noah's friends stared in awe, they hadn't seen that glow in a long time. "So listen to me, they are not your enemy, especially her." Noah pointed to Sunset and put away his necklace. "We all know she was a total douchebag, but I swear when I say this, she's changed! We don't have to forgive her for what she's done, she hasn't done her redeeming act, so relax." Sunset didn't smile, but she also didn't frown. It's better than what they called me, I guess. But what does he mean redeeming act? Sunset thought. "Look, once this is all cleared up, they won't have to worry about my bitchy ass around, and we can go back to being the Black Five." The Rainbooms looked at each other with sympathy. They knew Noah indeed was a pain, but they could tell he had a heart, and that's much better than what they used to think of him. "But until then," Noah continued, "I have to finish this. So bear with me when I say this: go home. I'll give you the go-ahead when we're done, but until then, stay home, and stay together. Shit's gonna get real ugly if what I think has to do with the Sirens is true." Noah's friends stared at Noah, then at each other. "Are you talking about the Dazzlings?" CJ asked, and Noah answered. "Yeah, but they're actually called the Sirens. It's a damn long story, but basically, they're ass-wipes that need to be dealt with. Trust me when I say this." Noah's friends nodded. "Hey uh, where the fuck is Fall? Wouldn't he be upset and shit that I was onstage with his old bully's friends?" "Fall didn't come with us," Manex answered, "He said he'll just stay back because he knew that you'd never do him wrong without a hella good reason." Noah smirked and crossed his arms, "At least he's smart." "Oh go fuck yourself," Jain replied. "Isn't there anything we can do to help? Maybe stop the Sirens from winning the auditions?" CJ asked, there must be something we can do. "Oh without a doubt, but the abilities of the Sirens would throw you off task or just stop you altogether." "Perhaps they could learn some-" "Rarity, shut the fuck up. I'll do the goddamn talking, you just stand there and be fancy." Noah stopped, interrupting Rarity before she could make the situation graver than it already is. The temporarily incomplete Black Five finally decided to go along with Noah's wishes. "Alright, we'll go. You better fuck those Sirens up," Jain said. "That's the plan, they won't be walking away in one piece," Noah replied. Noah's friends all grinned while the Rainbooms grew concerned. "Godspeed asshole, we'll see ya later," CJ replied as they all began to exit the backstage. "Oh, hold on a second," Manex stopped. "Are we just gonna throw that thousand dollar prize down the drain now?" Noah rubbed the back of his neck, "Yeah, see, what happened was... there was no prize. I lied." Noah's friends' faces grew white with disbelief. "Don't worry, the next five heists we do, I'll take ten percent of it." "Ten you goddamn cuck!" CJ demanded. "Alright, alright. Fuckin' christ, I just wanted to do something fun," Noah replied. "My nigga, we're black! Everything we do is fun!" Jain replied. "Jain, we're not even sure if you're half black. Just get the fuck outta here," Noah responded. "Man, fuck you. We're outta here," Jain responded. "Don't fuck this up!" Manex yelled from down the hall as the three of 'em left. Now, Noah was once again alone with the Rainbooms plus Sunset. "Well, uh... You certainly have some... interesting friends. I don't even know how you guys are friends considering how much you guys yell at each other," Twilight spoke up. "You're the Princess of Friendship, you figure it out. Either way, it doesn't matter. What matters right now is that y'all get your shit together for the rest of these auditions." "He's right," Sunset added, "You all need to find a place to practice where the Sirens can't hear you. I'll keep an eye on things around here." Applejack smiled, "Good idea, and Noah, ah don't think the song we played was awful at all, it was amazin' and worked perfectly. But ah think the Rainbooms should play the songs they've written from the heart, so we'll be doin' our own songs with Rainbow as lead singer." Rainbow Dash did a double fist-pump hearing this. "You should keep an eye on things here with Sunset. Yer quite the formidable figure, so you'd be a great help to Sunset if it comes to it, especially with the Sirens." "Good copy, we'll get it done," Noah replied. He then turned to Sunset, "C'mon, we're oscar mike." Rarity tilted her head, "What do those mean?" "Look it up." Noah and Sunset then exited backstage, but Rarity called out to Noah. "But I didn't even look up the last thing you told me!" From far down the hall, Noah responded, "That's not my problem!" Noah and Sunset sat outside the gymnasium's main entryway. Noah scrolled a social media site and stopped to watch comical videos unbeknownst to the fact that Sunset was peeking over and watching the videos as well. Bored of the silence, Sunset decided to strike up a conversation. "So, if it isn't too touchy a subject, how'd you meet your friends?" Noah turned off his phone and thought for a quick second. "At an orphanage." Sunset's face grew concerned, "An... orphanage? Noah, you don't have parents? What happened?" Noah shrugged, "Eh, I don't really wanna talk about it. You said not a touchy subject but, that's something that quickly leans towards a very shitty touchy subject. So what else do you have in mind, kid? "Uh... where'd you get McFly?" Noah crossed his arms, "Also leans towards a touchy subject. Try something else." Sunset itched her chin, "What about..." "Well, well, if it isn't the tour guides." Noah turned from Sunset to see who had spoken. "Oh for fuck's sake," he replied, instantly irritated. It was the Sirens, specifically Adagio who had spoken. Sunset stood up, "You're never gonna get away with this." Adagio smirked, "Why, Because you didn't?" Sunset's face grew gloomy. "Listen fuckfaces, why don't you just step off before I beat the shit out of you before you even have a chance to become an actual threat to the planet. And drop the shit about Sunset, she's not a dick-twist like you, anymore at least." "And then there's you, the outsider." Noah grew disconcerted, "Oh yes, we know you're not from here, oh heavens no. You're from that one country called America, right?" "How the fuck do you know that? You tell me right the hell now how you know that!" Noah replied, anger building. The Sirens giggled like little demonic girls. "Oh it's quite obvious, you think we stayed around Equis this whole time?" "Yeah, we traveled the world! I mean, it's not as cool as Equestria, it's actually quite dull," Sonata added. Traveled the world? Wait... no fuckin' way, Noah thought. "But... if you traveled the world... and you gain power from negative energy, then..." "We may be responsible for stuff that's happened in your world? Well... maybe a little," Aria replied. Noah grew cold. "No..." Adagio laughed as they got closer and closer to Noah. "Well honestly, it's not our fault you're all so destructive. We just played around a little, made things go from north to south quite easily." "No..." The Sirens surrounded Noah and revolved around him. "I mean, we just suggest a few things, do this and that, all of a sudden, planes are hitting buildings, bombs are blowing during marathons, and people with odd-looking mustaches start gassing people with a smile on their face. "No..." Adagio continued, "I mean, how can your people be so simple-minded that we say a couple of things, and wars erupt between nations and millions of lives are wasted for something that didn't even matter in the long run. They even dropped a giant bomb on innocent people! Is it really our fault?" Noah's vision blurred as tears began to well up in his eyes. He didn't even try to hold them in. "I mean honestly, the human race is pathetically gullible. They even dropped a building on a park because Sonata said it'd be cool." "You heartless monsters!! You put a stupid fucking spell on them!! You wasted billions of lives for your stupid goddamn negative energy!!" Noah's voice cracked as tears began dropping like bombs, he was breaking at an uncontrollable rate. "The wars, the terrorist attacks, the massacres, the bombings, the shootings, every horrid act was all your doing!! Oh God!!" Noah fell to his knees and held his head as the worst news a man could ever receive flooded his head tortuously. He couldn't breathe, he was gasping for air as his throat opened and closed every few seconds. "The families you tore, the families you ended!! I knew you cunts had something to do with it!!" The Sirens stared, they were playing with Noah's emotions, but they didn't anticipate Noah to crack like an egg. "What's got him so upset?" Aria questioned. "You killed my parents!! You killed my friends!! You ended everyone I ever loved because you thought it'd be cool!! Goddamn you!! You fuckin' murderers!!" "O—h... Well, at least it was cool," Sonata replied. Noah slammed his left fist continuously into the floor until an ear-piercing snap left his hand, and he couldn't feel it anymore. "I... I..." Noah couldn't speak, not a single word could escape his mouth as he juggled the news in his head with a fork and spoon. "Well, you won't have to worry about any more calamities like those as once we have this energy, everyone will bow before us. You have my word," Adagio finished. She then gestured to her sisters to follow as they entered the gym. "You'll pay in blood, you have my word," Noah replied before they could close the door. Feeling uneasy, The Sirens didn't reply and closed the entryway doors behind them. Sunset was frozen. For the longest time, she had known Noah as this unbreakable figure that came to this school at the same time she did. No matter what she pulled, no matter what she said, Noah always prevailed like nothing happened. She began to wonder if everything she ever did was meaningless as Noah never showed any signs of slowing down. When she destroyed his laptop with a sledgehammer, it did nothing. When she burned his bookbag and belongings, it did nothing. Even when she pushed his closest friend to the very edge of taking his own life, it did nothing. All of a sudden, a horrendous truth is revealed by monsters, and he breaks down like he has nothing left to cherish, to love. Everyone he ever held close to him, gone because someone thought it'd be cool. It was heartbreaking. "Noah, I..." Sunset didn't know what to say, not a thing left her mouth as if it'd grown dry out in the desert. She gently approached him, terribly shocked and sympathetic. He laid limply on the school floor, a small pool of blood surrounding his left hand, and a tiny pool of tears surrounding his head. He didn't hear her, he couldn't even see straight as the tears were overflowing. A pain he'd felt longer and worse than Sunset could ever conceive. She crouched next to him to see his face, he continued to sob like an abandoned child. "Hey... we've gotta get you to the nurse. You gotta get up," Sunset serenely spoke, afraid to make the situation worse in any possible way. "Come on, it's gonna be okay. We're gonna get you to the nurse's offices, and she's gonna patch you up. But we've gotta move from here before someone sees. And without a camera system, it won't be pretty." "I can't. Please... just let me go," he replied. Sunset frowned and tried to lift him. "You know I can't do that. We have to move, now." Noah's sobbing slowed to a simple cry. "I don't wanna live. I wanna see my mother again. I wanna see my father again. I wanna see my love again. Please, just let me go." "But if I let you go, who's gonna give the Sirens what they deserve? You and I both know the Rainbooms don't have it in them to kill the Sirens. If anyone's gonna avenge your loved ones, and an enormous chunk of humanity, it's you." Noah's crying slowed to slight sniffles. "But I... I..." Sunset delicately gripped his face with her hands. "The Rainbooms will rid them of their powers, and you can deliver the finishing blow, victorious.” Noah remained limp for a while longer, thinking deeply. Finally, he decided to stand up and wipe his face clean. "W-Wait, don't do that. Your shirt will get messy." "Sunset, I don't give a flying f-fuck," Noah replied, weakly. "I-It's already covered in blood. I-I'll just change at the nurse's office." Sunset shrugged, "I guess that'll work. C'mon, we gotta patch you up. I think you broke your hand and a few fingers." Slowly, Sunset and Noah sauntered to the nurse's office. Noah's arm over Sunset's shoulder as she did most of the work. Sunset grabbed the doorknob to the nurse's office and groaned in annoyance. "It's locked. I don’t think she’s here," Sunset spoke up, but Noah replied with silence, and she grew even more concerned. She looked to him to see he was barely conscious. Oh no, he's losing so much blood. How much damage did he do to his hand for this to happen? Sunset thought. She looked at his hand again, then at Noah, then at the door. I guess I have no choice. Carefully, Sunset laid Noah against the nearby wall and took off her boot. Aiming for the perfect spot with said boot, Sunset broke the nurse's windowpane, stuck her hand through the broken window, and unlocked the door. Thank Celestia we don't have cameras. She walked back over to Noah, who's hand had quickly made another small puddle around itself. She lifted him up and held him around her shoulder. "Come on, we're almost there," Noah once again did not reply, but he did groan. A sign he was still somewhat conscious. They entered the nurse's office and Sunset quickly laid him down on one of the beds. It was unquestionably hard, but she did it regardless. Once he was settled, Sunset hastily searched all over the nurse's office for some type of bandage to wrap around Noah's hand. She opened one of the cabinets and found two rolls of compression bandages, but they were on the top shelf. "Mother-...darn it," Sunset nearly shouted. She climbed up on the countertop and stood on her knees. With one hand holding her in place, she steadily reached for one of the bandages and grabbed it. "Yes!" She whispered, triumphant. She then cautiously climbed down the countertop and approached Noah. Another pool of blood? Oh Celestia, this is bad. Sunset thought, growing ever more worried. She then lifted Noah's hand and began wrapping it with the bandage. Sunset wrapped and wrapped until she couldn't see any more blood, but that also meant Noah's entire hand looked maimed. Once she did that, she grabbed some nearby tissues, wetted them in warm water, and cleaned around Noah's hand. She had gone through eight tissues when Noah's hand was fully cleaned. Then, she grabbed some more tissues and cleaned off Noah's face as he didn't clean it himself very well. "Ah... done... I'll just let him rest till he wakes up. Hopefully Twilight and the others can make it through to the finals." Sunset left his bedside and searched the nurse's office for a chair. She found a crimson one in the waiting room. She picked up the chair and carried it back to Noah's bedside. She placed the chair to his left and sat down. "Might as well take a seat," Sunset thought aloud. But before she sat, she looked at Noah. He was unconscious, but he still looked like he was in agony. Sunset looked around the nurse's office and noticed a storage closet. She stepped over to it and opened it to find multiple blankets and heating pads. Perfect, she thought. She grabbed a warm and heavy white comforter, walked back over to Noah, and covered him with it. Sunset looked back at him, it didn't seem to have made a physical change, but the Nurse's office is cold, and she wouldn't want him to freeze while he slept. Speaking of cold, Sunset returned to the closet and grabbed a simple blanket to wrap around herself. She then returned to the chair at Noah's bedside, sat down, and wondered aloud. "How ironic is this? Just two months ago, I burned your bookbag. Now I'm sitting next to you after tending to your broken hand. Life is so strange sometimes." Sunset continued to stare. Then with one arm, she hugged Noah as he slept. "Not like that's a bad thing though." She then laid her head against the closest side of the bed and fell asleep herself. "Not a bad thing at all." THREE HOURS LATER ... Noah slowly opened his eyes and finally awaked. He groggily looked around to find himself inside the school's nurse's office. "What... what the hell happened?" He said softly. He looked down at his chest to find a girl's arm wrapped around him. He turned to see whose arm it was to find it was Sunset's. "Holy shit... what the fuck?" He tried to wake Sunset up with his broken hand, but he found it was bandaged up to the point where he couldn't even recognize it as part of the human body. "She... tended to me?" Noah wondered. "I thought she was gonna wake me up... or at most help me, but... this?" Noah looked around the entire nurse's office to find everything out of place. The cabinets and drawers were left open. The tissue box was on the floor. The closet was also left open and had blankets fallen out of. The facet was steadily running, the bandages had rolled onto the floor, Sunset's right boot was laying on the ground, and he could've sworn he saw shards of broken glass. "What did she do?" Noah wondered, confused as to why she went through so much trouble to care for him. He looked over to her, it was faint, but it was unmistakably there, and it left Noah bewildered. Two tear stains trailed down Sunset's cheeks and created two tiny stains on the bed. Noah was left speechless, no way was this the same Sunset. The Sunset he knew never cried, well, except for that one time at the Fall Formal. "Hey..." Noah said, trying to wake her up. "Sunset... wake the fuck up. C'mon, the Battle of the Bands could be over right now, and a janitor could show up perplexed." Sunset didn't move one inch, she continued to lay motionless and sleep peacefully. "Sunset!" Noah whisper-shouted. It seemed to have gotten Sunset's attention as she slowly opened her eyes. "Wha... what... wha-what, what is it?" Sunset mumbled. "Rise and shine, kid. You did damn good," Noah replied. Sunset looked around and the first thing she noticed was her left arm wrapped around his chest, gripping tightly. She pulled it away immediately, afraid. "I-I'm sorry! I-I didn't mean to that! I must've moved when I fell asleep!" "It's alright," Noah responded, "What matters right now is that we get outta here. I'm a somewhat heavy sleeper, so the Battle of the Bands has probably ended by now." Sunset reached into her right pocket and pulled out her phone. "Nope, it's only 6:56. We've still got time." Noah sat up, "Oh wow, guess we didn't miss the whole goddamn thing." Sunset placed her hands in her lap. "Noah, this may not be the best thing you wanna talk about right now, and you can deny it if you want, but. Can you tell me how you got here? Why you're here in the first place, actually?" Noah laid back and stared at the ceiling. "Story of my life," he whispered. "Well, I guess we've got time before the finals start. It all happened a while ago, three years to be exact.” ”September Twenty-Fifth, 2017, my birthday. We were having this chill-ass birthday party with all my friends and family. You know, parents talk with other parents. The kids would do kid shit, and the teens would do teen shit. America was on the watch for a terrorist group called Al-Qatala that threatened them just the day before." "I'd received a gift from my father, a fifty caliber handgun dubbed the Desert Eagle with a chrome finish. He said he bought the gun the day my oldest brother was born and was giving it to me as Nicholas was gone. It was an emotional moment, but I was also thrilled. My first gun, and it was the most powerful in the world." "But the fuckin' thing was empty. Luckily, there was a weapons store just east of the park, and I'd decided to go get some ammo with my birthday money. If I'd known what would happen that damn day, I would've pushed everyone at that park straight to the gun store along with me, but I didn't." Sunset focused intensely on Noah, she then noticed something on his face. He was crying again. "And then, once I reloaded the gun, the store clerk cursed and pointed out the glass door. I rushed out to find that an enormous office building was collapsing like a damn pillow fort. Once I realized where it was headin', I screamed like an old man who just witnessed a massacre." "The building covered the entire fuckin' park in metal and destruction. I was petrified, I couldn't feel my own breath, I couldn't feel jackshit. I was... there, but the world went around me as everyone panicked, horrified.” ”The last thing I remember was fainting right on the sidewalk, but before I did, the very last thing I saw were three figures sitting on top of a nearby building. One had fuckin' popcorn in their hands. Finally, I know who those three figures were." "I... lost... everything that day. And so did many others. The attack was on the news, on the internet, it was just, everywhere. For months I couldn't escape that damn attack. I kept seeing it, I kept reliving it in multiple nightmares. I just couldn't take it.” “I didn't become depressed, instead, I developed serious anger issues. Like holy shit, I flipped every flat thing I could find. While in the hospital from fainting on the sidewalk, I shouted in the middle of nights and nurses would have to rush in to treat me. To calm me down, get a hold of me. I was insane." "Once I had recovered from my injury, I heard them talking about sending me to foster care. No way in hell was I gonna have another mother love me besides my own, so I snuck out. I'd planned it for a week as they were gonna send me the at the end of it, and I escaped successfully." "I didn't really know what to do once I left, so I hopped on a nearby truck and fell asleep. The next day, I awoke at a wings restaurant, still in the truck. I sat up and looked around to find I was in the middle of nowhere. The only thing I saw besides the restaurant was an old broken down orphanage.” “I walked up to the sign, it read: Lily's Home For The Forgotten & Abandonded. How fuckin' fitting." "I entered the orphanage to find four dumbass kids eating some knockoff cereal at a long table. I was confused, where were the caretakers? Where was Lily? Turns out, Lily had died in her sleep a year ago, and the kids all left except for these four. “Because of shit I didn't truly care for, the orphanage was still receiving supplies, apparently, taxes just weren't a thing there. Long story short, I made friends with the kids, Manex, Jain, CJ, and Fall, over the course of four months." "At the end of the fourth month, I had suggested that we leave the shitty orphanage, and find somewhere new. I mainly told them this as my necklace began to glow for the first time in my life, and towards somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean.” “We did a lot of illegal shit, but nobody got hurt. Stealing a car, robbing a couple of small stores, pissing on a cop's cruiser, and stealing a boat. Once we were in the boat, we set sail for where the necklace pointed to, but we had no idea it would lead us to a giant-ass island." "Apparently, I was the only one who'd seen it, and since my friends didn't believe me, they went there just to bring me down. We lost hope of anything once we realized how fuckin' dumb we were to steal a boat and sail into the ocean. For all we know, we could be heading towards cold-ass Antarctica.” “But once I could see some buildings, we warped through what seemed to be some type of barrier, and all of my friends saw the island. It was huge, little did we know that island was as large as half of fuckin' Russia." "We landed on the island and looked for civilization, but we were dumbfounded at what we saw. People of all types of colors and large eyes. They weren't abnormal to humans, but they didn't look normal either. We snuck around the city until we found a bus that was heading to... uh... Canterlot! That's where, this stupid-ass town.” “We hopped on the bus for free as the driver learned it was our first time. Seemingly, we didn't look too different from the people here, so they didn't see a huge difference." "We stayed on the bus until we reached the town, and we got down to business. We were lucky, how many people could have been lost at sea unbeknownst to this large-ass barrier world?” “Another long story short, we established ourselves within the town and signed up for a school, Canterlot Highschool, that was very difficult to do without it being discovered that we didn't have parents. We had to use costumes and shit to appear as parents. It was fuckin' awful." "And now, three years later, we're here," Noah sighed as he finally finished his tale. "Wow," Sunset replied, in awe. "I had no idea your journey was so... intense. That must've been why you broke down in the hallway, everything that happened from then to now was because a monster thought it'd be cool to drop a building on a thousand people. Noah, I'm... I'm so sorry for everything I've done. I just saw you as a rival, but there's so much more to you then... then... myself." "It's alright Sunset, I've been through hell and back so it wasn't a big deal to me. I won't lie, I didn't deserve it, and neither did my friends. But you were so broken as well, it's a wonder why I didn't feel empathy." Sunset shook her head, "No! Noah, you went through so much more! I just had friendship problems, I didn't lose everything I had! I feel wretched, like a true nightmare." "Relax Sunset, that shit's all in the past now, and I believe it. Right now, we gotta get back to Battle of the Bands before shit hits the fan without us." Sunset nodded and stood up, "Right, let's get a move on. Can you walk?" "Sunset, I broke my hand. I didn't lose my legs in Vietnam, of course I can walk." Sunset giggled, "Right, right. I'm just still worried from how you were merely hours ago." Noah laughed a single laugh, "Unless I was screeching in my sleep and having seizures, I'm fine." Noah then got out of the bed and walked over to the main door, Sunset following behind. "Jesus Christ, you actually broke the nurse's window?" Noah asked, comically puzzled. "I had to get you in somehow. You were creating blood pools and trails everywhere we went!" Noah chuckled, "Yeah, that sounds about right. Don't get me wrong, I don't think it's bad. I actually think it's badass." Sunset blushed, "Y-Yeah, thank you." Noah patted her shoulder and opened the door. "Don't mention it, kid." Noah and Sunset then began down the hall, gradually starting to run. Sunset asked from beside him, "Hey, what's Vietnam?" Noah smirked, "Another thing the Sirens are gonna regret." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) VII - Elements of Incompatibility (TBR)Author's Note Bit By Bit, We Fall Apart... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. VII - Elements of Incompatibility (TBR) Noah and Sunset turned a corner as they continued to sprint for the gymnasium. Strangely enough, Sunset was keeping up with him. "Hey Noah," Sunset began, "The only things I don't understand from your story is how did McFly sit in all of that?" "I skipped McFly?" Noah replied, and Sunset nodded. "Huh, I mean, he wasn't a huge deal in it. I guess I just skipped him because I forgot. He was along with me during the whole ordeal, but we left him with a caretaker for my birthday and shit." "Also, what about your car? How does that fit into the mix?" Noah glanced up at the roof, "Believe it or not, I found that thing here. It was in someone's garage when we were looking for houses here. I stole it back later that night. Dumbasses left the car keys inside. Without a doubt after seeing that, I've formed the highest possibility of the fact that humanity is well aware of Equis, and vice versa." "That's gonna prove to be a problem in the future," Sunset replied, but not loud enough for Noah to hear. After running for quite some time, Noah and Sunset finally reached the doors where Noah destroyed his hand in indignation. "Okay... okay... let's... oh Christ alive..." "You're exhausted?" Sunset questioned. "Yes, I'm fuckin' exhausted! Do I look like Dash? 'Matter a fact, how the hell are you not tired?" Sunset shrugged, "I don't know, maybe because I'm part Equestrian, I have higher stamina?" "It better be, otherwise, I'm gonna feel like a fatass," Noah responded as he eyed the ground. "Wait, wasn't there a pool of blood here?" "There was," Sunset began, "But I guess that 'no questions asked' janitor cleaned it up already. I wonder whether he's seen something in his life to not care anymore, is being paid extra by the principals, or just really doesn't care. That would account for the odd mismatched things he wears and how chaotic his closet is." "Yeah, that's totally normal," Noah replied while approaching the gym's main doors' window. He looked in to see a large mobile whiteboard full of all the teams. Many of the teams had been crossed out, so Noah analyzed the logos of the bands that hadn't been eliminated. One band had an emblem with multiple light blue, yellow, and one large light blue star with a purple lining, along with a yellow moon in the middle. Trixie's band Another band that wasn't eliminated's emblem had a gray horseshoe being thrusted by what looked like a rainbow shooting star. The Rainbooms without a doubt. And the final band who wasn't eliminated's emblem appeared to be three musical notes Noah recognized as a treble clef, an f standing for forte, and an eighth-note all hovering above a heap of sheer red rubies. The heartless Sirens. He then looked on stage after hearing a song begin. The Rainbooms were performing again, but Rainbow Dash was going off. She rocked and rolled to the music, truly enjoying the vibe that she formed. "She's doing too much," Sunset spoke up. Noah didn't notice her looking through the other window. "What do you mean?" "I mean that she's killing it, but not in a good way. If she keeps this up, she's gonna reveal her friendship magic. Once she does, the Sirens will know what we're up to, and they'll attempt to put a stop to it!" "Son of a bitch. Let's go stop them before shit gets out of hand," Noah replied before motioning Sunset to follow him once again, she nodded. They then began running down the hall towards the backstage entrance. Once they arrived, Noah already noticed those same ears he saw from the video at the diner and the Fall Formal start to glow and form. "Shit, uh... I have an idea," Noah said, looking to Sunset. "I'm gonna tackle Rainbow Dash and stop the performance. If I'm right, the Dazzlings won't turn down chances of getting all the negative energy they need. The pieces of shit will pull some strings on the competition, and the Rainbooms will still be in." "You think they know about the Rainboom's power?" Sunset questioned, and Noah began towards the start of backstage and lined himself up. "No way in hell did the Sirens not realize how the Rainbooms didn't fall under their spell. One way or another, they're gonna find out the truth. So I'm gonna play them like a fuckin' fiddle." Sunset nodded, "Yeah, I guess that'll work. But what if-" "Bye Felicia!" Noah interrupted before making a mad dash for Rainbow. He had centered in on her, all he needed to do was push. Before the Rainbooms, before anyone in the entire gym could acknowledge Noah, he had tackled Rainbow Dash in her side. So hard that they fell on the other side of the stage and landed out of sight. Before anyone could even begin to process what they just saw, the principals promptly began penning down on their clipboards with mixed expressions. Rainbow Dash rubbed her head with two hands as she landed upon the side of it. "Ow! Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow! Noah! What the heck was that for!" Noah slapped Rainbow with a simple clap, but hard enough to shut Rainbow up immediately. "What part of, don't go off, don't you get?! You were on a motherfuckin' roll out there! If you went any further, the Sirens would have been out to get you fucks like a trio of child-fuckin' sharks!" "Y-You... slapped me," Rainbow replied, tearfully. "Dash would you fuckin' relax!? I'm trying to tell it to you straight, our planet's very will is depending on us to not fuck up in any way, shape, or form. So don't get all sad 'n' shit when I try to reinforce that fact." The other Rainbooms quickly walked off stage and closed the curtains. They then approached Noah and Rainbow with confused and troubled faces. "Noah, have you just doggone lost it?! Why would ya tackle Rainbow like that in the middle of our song!?" Applejack questioned, bewildered, and slightly angry. "Because she was going to expose you guys' friendship magic and shit. Don't act like I'm the stupid-ass here!" Noah quickly answered. "Those sack of shit Sirens would've seen and thoroughly fucked everything up! What, did you have a better idea, Old Town Road?" "Closed the curtains? Unplug her amp? Give us a chance to deal with the situation?" Rarity replied, angrier than Applejack. "Oh do fuckin' tell Rarity. I will run my black ass to the nearest vending machine in this school, use a dollar of my shitty paycheck to buy a generic-ass, half-filled bag of chips, bring it here, then run to the principals' office, take and light a few scented candles that they have for reasons I don't wanna know, bring it here, then run to the locker rooms, grab a stool from the gym teacher's office, bring it here, then I will sit on that stool, open the bag of chips, set and light the candles, and listen to your divine and flawless plan as if you were the most outstanding genius the world has ever beheld since motherfuckin' Einstein!" Rarity stepped back and wore a pout on her face, utterly defeated. Along with the other Rainbooms giggling to themselves. "Besides, I already have the rest planned out, so don't get your tits in a twist. What should follow now is the Sirens being laughably predictable." Applejack rolled her eyes and glared at Rainbow. "None of this would've happened if you weren't tryin' to show off! As usual..." Rainbow rolled her own eyes. "Good show, Rainbrooms," Spoke a voice from the shadows. It was Trixie and all her irritating essence. She approached Noah, "I especially liked the part where Noah Rictorshine, in a fit of hysterical rage, tackled Rainbow Dash mid-guitar solo!" "You call that a fit of hysterical rage? No nigga. A fit of hysterical rage would be me grabbing a broom and shoving it so far down your throat that it comes out your ass. Then, I flip the broom and do the exact same thing in the other direction. This cycle would repeat over and over until I eventually get bored, and your asshole is shaped like fuckin' broom bristles in a bunch." Trixie, Sunset, and the Rainbooms were once again left speechless at Noah's fluent fury. "I... I..." Trixie tried desperately to speak or to at least say a word. "Just fuck off you blue-faced ass-wipe." Trixie did as she was told and hastily, fucked off. "D-Do you really think it's okay to say such things to people? I-I know Trixie was being rude and all, but I think that was a little over the top," Fluttershy quietly questioned. "It's called dealing with asshats. Something most of you Equestrians don't seem to be able to do," Noah replied, crossing his arms. The principals appeared on stage behind the curtains with their clipboards in hand. Noah watched carefully and thought, Moment of truth. Don't prove me wrong God, I don't need that right now. "I hope your plan works, Noah. If we're eliminated from the semi-finals, stopping the Sirens is gonna get a lot harder," Twilight said as she clasped her hands together in worry. Right on time. The Sirens had entered from behind the principals and began crooning to them like a mother singing a lullaby. Noah turned around and took a bow. "Once again, thank you, ladies and gentlemen." The Rainbooms and Sunset groaned. "Yeah yeah, shut up," Rainbow replied, annoyed. "Phew! If we were eliminated, there wouldn't be another opportunity for us to play. And I have the most gorgeous outfit for the finals!" Rarity calmly cheered. "Yep, because that's the real tragedy here, Rarity. That you wouldn't get to play dress-up," Applejack replied, irritated. They're arguing again, what the fuck is this? "You know perfectly well that is not what I meant!" "Would you guys keep it down? They're about to announce who's moving on!" Rainbow intervened, stepping in between the both of them. "It's us, we know it's us. The Sirens just influenced the principals to move us onto the finals. Did you hear nothing of what Noah said?" Rarity replied, irritated as well. "Fine, then stop arguing at least!" Noah approached Sunset, "Why are they arguing? And over such little things?" He asked, confused. "I don't know. They're protected by the magic of friendship, so they could be arguing because that's that." Noah sighed, "I swear to god, if they fuck this up..." The principals stepped out of the curtains and stood at the front of the stage. Everyone in the crowd waited anxiously to hear who had moved onto the finals. Noah noticed the principals had an odd look in their eyes, almost as if they were dulled. "The band that will be joining the Dazzlings in tonight's finals: The Rainbooms!" Announced Celestia. Noah fist-pumped, "Hah! What the fuck did I tell you? I'm the greatest nigga in the universe, bitch!" The Rainbooms plus Sunset once more rolled their eyes. "Noah, would you relax? You're so full of yourself," Rainbow replied. "Motherfucker, please. As if you aren't." "Still, I was so unsure whether or not you'd actually be right. Guess we owe you one there, huh?" Twilight responded, rubbing the back of her neck. "You can pay me back by buying me some shit back at that diner. The food was damn good there." The Rainbooms plus Noah walked out onto the stage to meet the principals. "Congratulations girls and boy. You deserve it." Oh, those greedy, pathetic shits. "Seriously?! We didn't even finish our song-" Pinkie was interrupted by Rainbow painfully nudging her in her side, her face shouting, shut up! "See you at tonight's show, Rainbooms. We're really looking forward to it," Adagio spoke as her and her sisters also stepped on stage. "Oh us too! We're practically clawing at our skin to end you," Noah replied as he marched in front of the Rainbooms. He stared down Adagio with daggers. It was unhealthy and inhumane what he had brewing within his mind for them, especially her. The Sirens once again grew uncomfortable, but only for a moment before walking offstage. Noah turned his attention to the crowd. They booed and hollered at the Rainbooms, unrealistically jealous. "Oh cry me a river you bums! There wasn't even a prize for this! Not even a trophy! It's just to raise money!" The crowd didn't even reply, almost as if they didn't hear Noah at all. "Whatever. Rainbooms, we're out of here. C'mon," Noah told them as he began offstage through the opposite doorway as the Sirens. "When did he become leader?" Rainbow complained, and Applejack replied. "He's not, but it seems something's botherin' him. Let's just go, ain't nothin' wrong with followin'." Following Noah, the Rainbooms began offstage as the crowd continued to shout and boo. While watching them leave, Trixie protested, furiously. "This is a travesty! A travesty!" Adagio and her sisters appeared from behind, a malicious grin on their faces. "It really is!" Adagio began, as her sisters surrounded Trixie. "The Rainbooms don't deserve to be in the finals. Not when your band was so much better in the semis." "And wanted it so much more," Aria added. "Alas, this is the way it's going to be. Dazzlings versus Rainbooms." "Unless of course, the Rainbooms don't manage to make it to their set. Or held up for some reason!" Sonata added, and when she did, a sinister smile drew itself upon Trixie's face. Noah sat upon one of the large speakers upon the outside stage for the Battle of the Bands on his phone, albeit, with one hand. Sunset leaned on the same speaker and was on her phone. "Hey Noah," Twilight started, "I forgot to ask this a while ago but, what happened to your hand?" Sunset eyed Noah, Noah eyed Sunset. "Uh..." Noah was speechless, not sure what to tell the princess. He scratched the side of his chin with his right hand. "I uh..." "He fell down the stairs. We were heading downstairs for something and he fell because he wasn't paying attention and landed on his hand. We went to the nurse's office and she fixed him up." Twilight cocked her head, "So, why was that so hard to explain then, Noah?" He shrugged, "I have this disease that makes me have seizures when I retell stories. It doesn't make any sense, I know, but that's life, is it not?" Twilight itched her head, "I... ok." Noah hopped down the speaker and wandered to the front of the stage as the Rainbooms continued setting up. "So..." he began, "This is the stage of humanity's last stand." He inspected the stage, it was in the shape of a curved pioneer's wagon with a clean white shade. "Where the fuck did they get the money for this?" He whispered, and Applejack perked up. "Well, it's mighty nice if ya ask me. I reckon if I'm gonna fight for my life on a stage, it might as well be this one." Pinkie lightly tapped the platform in the middle with her right foot as she set down her bass drum pedal. "But, what the heck is this thingy doing here?" "What thingy?" Noah questioned as he stepped over to what she was tapping. He walked up to find a large gray trapdoor built within the stadium. "It's a trapdoor, but why the hell do they have a trapdoor in a stage?" Rainbow rolled her eyes, "Isn't it obvious? It's for when we rise from it looking all awesome and stuff!" "I sure hope so. It'd be horrible if someone fell down it," Fluttershy dreaded, poking the door with her forefinger. "Indeed it would," said a familiar voice from behind. "Oh, hell," Noah muttered as he held his nose bone in resentment. "Trixie? What are you doing here?" Rarity asked. Trixie and her band had shown up onstage with fierce looks on their faces. "The great and powerful Tri-xie is the most talented girl in Cantorlot High. It is I who deserves to be in the finals. And Trixie will not be denied!" "For God's sake, will you just go away?! How hard is it to fuck off, honestly! Do you have some sort of fuckin' disease that just stops you from that?! Are you special?! Have you just fuckin' lost it?! Stop coming 'round here you goddamn moon whore!" "Enough! Trixie will not tolerate your foul language anymore! You and your sickening loud mouth is just another reason you don't deserve this! It really p-pisses Trixie off!" "Oh you poor thing, you can't even say shit without stuttering! God, you're vexatious! Why don't you take your little pussy posse and fuck off before I make you? These niggas have a song to perform, and I've got some Dazzlings to fuck up." "That's just it, Noah Rictorshine. You and your p-pussy posse won't be performing!" Trixie replied as she reached for her back pocket. Noah slowly reached for his back pocket and whispered to the girls. "Get behind me, I think she's lost it..." The girls did what he said fearfully and huddled together like emperor penguins. "Trixie wait! Don't shoot! It's just a competition! We're innocent people!" Rarity pleaded. She was not about to die today. "What? Trixie's not going shoot you, what's the matter with you?" Noah sighed and let go of his gun. "Motherfucker, that sounds a lot like a death threat. How else would you make sure they didn't perform?" Trixie pulled a black and blue hand detonator out of her back pocket, Noah froze. "Like this," she pressed the detonator, and Noah pushed the girls with all his might, but it wasn't enough. The trapdoor beneath them opened, and they, along with their band equipment, quickly dropped down, except for Noah as he quickly grabbed a nearby ledge. "Goddammit, Trixie! You monkey mouthed motherfucker!" Noah furiously shouted. "Trixie told you, you're not going to be performing. Trixie meant what she said when she said it. One way, or another." Noah looked down at the drop, it wasn't long but his fear of heights always escalated when in a stressful situation. He struggled to hold on, he was strong, but he also had recently put on lotion. "So help me, if you don't help us up right now, brainwashed or not, I'm going to find a broom, and end your ass like a black man in fuckin' Compton!" "Oh you, we both know Trixie has no idea what either of those are," she smirked. "Bye-bye, outsider," Trixie concluded as she lifted her foot and stomped on Noah's face. He fought the pain and held on. "W-Wait, if you do this, the world is fucked, and I won't be able to-" *Stomp!* is all Noah felt as Trixie stomped his face once again, and he lost his grip. "Shi-t!" He landed on the back of his head and promptly fell unconscious. Sunset quickly rushed over to him and checked his pulse, worried. She looked back up at Trixie, "Damn it, Trixie, you can't do this!" "Oh but Trixie can, and Trixie will." Trixie cackled the same cackle Sunset did when she transformed at the Fall Formal. She continued to laugh as she closed the trapdoor shut with another press of the detonator. From afar, the heartless Sirens beamed. "Told you someone would give them a shove," Adagio restated to her sister's. "She didn't shove them, she pressed a detonator," Sonata replied, naively correcting her sister. Adagio facepalmed and Aria scoffed, "Go back to bed, Sonata." It was over. The Sirens would emerge victorious with the Earth in their hands, and the fallen would never be avenged. All hope, was lost. TWO HOURS LATER ... Noah groggily shook his head as he rose up. He looked to his side to see the Rainbooms despondently lazing around, (except Rainbow, who had been ramming the door with all her might for the past hour) and found next to him a drowsy and bored Sunset laying on her phone facing away from him. He listened closely to hear above him to hear Trixie's band was playing their song. Nigga... I'm gonna... He swiftly turned back to his side hearing Rainbow once again ram the door with her shoulder, she then backed away and rubbed it regretfully. "Give it up, Rainbow Dash. You've been tryin' at that for an hour. It's not gonna open," Applejack spoke up, tiredly annoyed. "Maybe it doesn't even matter that we're trapped down here. I don't think the counterspell would've worked anyway..." Twilight spoke up, hopeless. "Of course it would've worked, Twahlight. Assuming a certain band member didn't try to hog the spotlight the whole time we were tryin' to play it!" Ah, shit. Here we go again. "Hey!" Rainbow began, "If you wanna tell Twilight she's getting a little too caught up trying to be the new leader of this band, you don't have to be all cryptic about it." "She was talking about you, Rainbow Dash," Rarity corrected, also annoyed. "Me!? I'm just tryna make sure my band rocks as hard as it needs to." "Our band!" The two shouted, and Rainbow crossed her arms. "But why wasn't it working? I-I should know what to do. How can I not know what to do? How can I have failed like this?" Twilight muttered to herself, she was breaking. Sunset put her phone down and watched with concerned eyes. "It might've been your idea to start a band, but it's not just your band!" Applejack got all up in Rainbow Dash's face, irritated, but it only aggravated Rainbow. "I'm the one that writes all the songs! How many nights do you think I spend righting music!?” "I write songs!" Fluttershy shouted from behind Rarity as she stepped forward. "I write all kinds of songs that apply to everyone! Happy songs, sad songs, fun songs, simple songs, but all we ever play is your rock! It's exasperating!" "I had the most perfect outfits for us to wear, but of course, we must look like simple-minded idiots whenever we play! What happened to showing the world our banner?!" Rarity interrupted, only angering Applejack more. "Again with the costumes, nobody cares what we're wearin’!" Rarity stomped her foot, "I care Applejack! So sorry if I enjoy trying to make a creative contribution to the band! You asinine cretin!" Everyone froze as silence filled the room. Holy shit, this isn't good. "What did you just call me?" Applejack furiously questioned, and Rarity furiously answered. "You heard me. Asinine. Cretin." Rarity stepped closer with every word, her face didn't change, but Applejack could sense the anger within her. Unfortunately for Rarity, Applejack snapped. With her right hand, Applejack fiercely punched Rarity in her gut. Rarity collapsed slowly, held it with both arms, and fell to her knees as tears instantly began falling down her cheeks. Sunset quickly stood up, and the surrounding Rainbooms backed up frightfully. "You call me that again, Ah will tear you a-fuckin'-sunder. Nobody talks to me like that, not even you. Not even any of you." Applejack slowly stepped away and sat in a corner, facing away from her friends. Fluttershy ran over to Rarity and tried whatever she could to help. Pinkie stood still as if time had stopped completely. Twilight also quickly stood up and held her mouth. But Rainbow wasn't having any of it. "What is wrong with you!? You don't punch your friends in the stomach when they're angry, especially best friends! Have you just fucking lost it!?" Applejack turned around, "You wanna get punched too, Rainbow Dumbass?!" Rainbow scoffed, "I fucking dare you!" Applejack stood up and slowly approached Rainbow Dash, but Rainbow didn't even flinch. Just as Rainbow was going to punch, Rarity instantly sprung into action and grabbed Applejack's hair. Applejack screamed as Rarity pulled on it and got Applejack down on her stomach as she tried to free her blonde and slightly frizzled hair. "When I'm done with you, no hat in the world is gonna save you from how utterly, fucking, revolting you are!" All of the Rainbooms, except Pinkie, quickly tried to stop Rarity as she pulled out a pair of sparkly scissors. "Rarity, stop! Why is this happening!?" Twilight shouted as she pulled with all her might on the scissors, but Rarity wouldn't budge. "Oh my gosh, I hate this stupid fucking band!" Pinkie yelled as she hid in a ball. "Then just fuck off if you don't like it, you're a horrible drummer!" Rainbow yelled back as she helped Twilight. "Horrible drummer?! For shit's sake Rainbow, you can't even talk like a normal person! Let alone fucking sing!" Pinkie replied, enraged. "Why don't the both of you shut the hell up?!" Fluttershy spoke up, yelling at both of them. Good God, what the hell is happening right now? The Rainbooms were practically shattered. They had used words against each other that they've never used before, let alone at others. They even attacked each other, their own best friends. Sunset slowly tuned the Rainbooms out and listened hard. It's the Sirens. They had started singing up above when Applejack got up in Rainbow's face, it all made sense. Noah's plan was right, the Sirens were gathering negative energy from right above them. They're probably receiving insane amounts of energy from the girls. Sunset started to panic. Not only that, but all this crazed commotion only made Noah's necklace glow hotter and hotter. It started steaming underneath his shirt and he grabbed it with his cold hands to try something. As he looked for something to cool down his necklace, he began crushing it with his hands. The fury of the Rainbooms had worsened the necklace, and it was starting to annoy its owner. He looked around all over, but he couldn't think. The constant yells back and forth were only worsening by the second. They grew louder and louder until Noah could even hear himself think. And ultimately, he snapped. "SHUT. THE FUCK. UP!!" He cried, but something unbelievable occurred. He opened his eyes to see the Rainbooms had been sent flying and hit the down stage's wall with a painful thud. Almost comically, the Rainbooms slid down the wall and landed in a pile. Sunset slowly turned around to find Noah's necklace in two, but that wasn't the strange part. Noah was shrouded in a fiery white aura. He lit up the entire room with a blinding light that soon settled. His pupils had changed from black to white, and his hair had turned a beautiful blinding white. He gazed at his hands. "What... the fuck?" His voice had a strange echo that of the sound of a giant monster. "What in the hay?..." Applejack asked as she stood up. "Noah... what... what are you?" Sunset asked, bewildered. "I... I don't know. But I... I feel astonishing. Like the heaviest damn weight on my shoulders just disappeared without a trace. But what in God's name was that turmoil?" Rarity sighed and hid her scissors behind her back. "You guys went insane on each other! I doubt you've never even legitimately used those words! Especially to another being! You kicked and punched and screamed like banshees!" "I don't know what came over me, I just... lost it. My temper has never gone off the deep end like that," Rarity replied as she got off of Applejack's back. "I'm terribly sorry AJ. I can't believe I was going to cut your hair off." "It's not yer fault. I punched you for goodness sake, I've never punched anyone before," Applejack replied, rubbing her head. "But, how could we have freaked like that? I've never cursed in my life!" Fluttershy questioned. "It was the Sirens," Sunset answered. "They were feeding off the negative energy of you but, it seemed to accelerate instead of keeping the pace. Perhaps because you're Elements?" "Elements or not, that was absolute hell. I feel like I've said this already, but it seems like you guys just don't listen, or you do, but for a while," Noah began. "This is fuckin' it. Our very last stand on this Earth, maybe even more. As heroes, we're the last line of defense because no military in the world is gonna reach us and light up the Sirens with an army of A-10s. It is up to us. It may always be up to us. We're faced with a literal problem for the first time in our lives as a team, yet we're underneath the bastards we're supposed to defeat. You might as well just pour dirt over the entrance and let us rest in a giant tomb in a fuckin' stage." "This is no time for fun. No time for dresses. No time for being cool. No time for being quiet. No time for being a dick. This is the time to show enemies who we are, and why we're here. No matter what it takes. We have the power to do what nobody else can, and it's time we realize that. Whether it's friendship or retribution for our home." "I'm done playing games, and you should be too. Those fuckers wanna take everything from us, so let's do this. Knock the Sirens head's in, and show them to not fuck with us. Because taking the world goes against everything we hold dear, especially when it's all we have left." The Rainbooms stared at each other, an obvious pain finally realized, yet but behind them. They smiled, "Well alright, let's do this!" Rainbow shouted. The Rainbooms all cheered, it was time to do what they set out to do. "But Noah, what about you?" Twilight asked, concerned. "That's right, you do have power, but nobody knows what it is," Applejack added. "I think I have a pretty good idea what I can do, and to be honest, I was hoping for this." "So, what can you do then?" Sunset asked, confused. "That's not the problem. The problem is those sons of bitches above us. Here's the simple plan I made in less than a second. I will hurt them, and you will defeat them. Hopefully, there's something to defeat when I'm done because I'm not holding back jack shit." "Well... that doesn't sound too bad. Good idea Noah, we'll get it done," Rarity replied, and Rainbow walked ahead of her. "But how are we supposed to defeat them in here? We're locked in, remember?" Noah glared at the door. He strolled over to it without a care in the world... and punched it open. *Pow!* The door went flying, Noah substantially destroyed the entire doorway. The Rainbooms were speechless, "How... what... this makes... what?!" Pinkie said as she held her head, perplexed. From near the doorway, Spike poked his head in. "So uh... anyone wanna explain that?" Twilight rushed through her friends, "Spike!" she shouted, gleefully relieved. "Spike? The hell are you doing here? And why two hours later?!" Spike walked aside and pointed to a girl with a pale face, black and purple glasses, and blue and cyan hair in the form of a rockstar's. "Sorry I took so long, I had to find someone who wasn't under the Sirens' spell to help and get you out." "It took you two hours to find one nigga?" Noah asked, slightly annoyed. "I'm a dog! It's not as easy as it is in my world!" Noah rolled his eyes. "Why isn't she under their spell?" Twilight asked, and Spike answered. "Never takes off her headphones." The girl gave a thumbs up and walked away, twidling her fingers to a dubstep tune. "Alright, time to get ready dipshits. I'll be as slow as I can," Noah replied sarcastically. "You're gonna stay here?" Sunset questioned. "Yeah, yeah, don't worry. I've got this, just get the hell outta here and listen to Twilight. And don't fuck this up. We may not get another shot at this." "C'mon y'all! Time to prove we still got the magic of friendship inside us!" Applejack spoke up. "And there's only one way to do it." "We're getting the band back together?!" Pinkie happily questioned, and Rainbow answered. "We're getting our band back together." In response, Pinkie bounced all over the room like a pinball machine. "Oh, which version of the counterspell-" "Motherfuckers, we need to move! We don't know how much of a window we have left, so stop girling about, and get this show on the road!" Noah yelled, interrupting Rarity. "Alright, alright, relax!" Rainbow replied. "C'mon girls, let's kick some Siren butt!" The Rainbooms cheered and exited the backstage, ready to kick major butt. "Are you sure about this? We could just defeat them up there, we don't need to demolish them," Sunset questioned before following the girls. "Trust me, payback's a bitch, and their livin' it to the last. Those cockbites won't walk away in one piece, and that's if they're lucky. I know we have to finish them, so I'm gonna try to inflict as much pain as I can on them as they have my home, and myself. You and the girls just focus on ridding them of their power, I've got the rest." Sunset stared at Noah, she then stared at the ground. It's okay Sunset, what must be done, shall be done. She then ran off, closing the door in the process, and Noah looked up at the trapdoor with a cold-blooded intent. *Bang!* Sonata peeked at the trapdoor for a second, but then shrugged it off and continued. *BANG!* This time, both Sonata and Aria peeked, the noise had gotten louder, and the door even looked like it was taking damage. "Girls, forget them. They can't do a thing, and they know it." Adagio whispered between their chorus. "The Rainbooms don't have a chance in the world to stop us, not even that pathetic nigger with the anger issues." *CRASH!* The Sirens all quickly turned around to find the trapdoor destroyed, with a bright white beam of light flying out of it and into the sky. They looked up, and their jaws dropped in disbelief. With one word eluding his lips, he spoke. "Hi." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) PART 3: VIII - A Long Time Coming (TBR)Author's Note Hell Hath No Fury For The Wicked... PART 3: VIII - A Long Time Coming (TBR) Sunset squinted at the immense power radiating from Noah. She could feel it from where she stood, it was just like the Element's power combined, but concentrated and vehement. The Rainbooms had set up on top of the hill overseeing the stage with the help of the girl with headphones, along with new outfits supplied by Rarity. Noah had given them strict instructions, and they were going to follow it regardless. They just couldn't anticipate what he had in store. "Sunset, ya mind explainin’ to us why Noah's eyes are literally on heavenly fire? I know the Sirens are bad guys but, Noah seems to have something else entirely planned out for them," Applejack questioned, running a hand through her hair as the heat from Noah's aura beat down on her. "When the Sirens got here," Sunset began, watching Noah intently. "They were determined to get every trickle of negative energy they could, in any way they could. This led to many conflicts and other horrors in Noah's world transpiring in the first place. They would somehow work their way to powerful leaders or even simple people and persuade them to do drastic things, including that one clip we watched at the sleepover. "Not only that, but this also included an attack that took everyone Noah ever loved. When we were in the hallway near the gym, watching the competition, the Sirens came around and revealed the truth.” ”Noah lost it. He destroyed his hand so badly he broke it along with a few of his fingers, that's the real reason why he had that cast. He fell unconscious from blood loss and I had to patch him up as the nurse wasn't there." "Now he's staring down the most heartless monsters I think anyone's ever seen with daggers. Do you think he's just gonna mess 'em up a bit, destroy their pendants, and tell them to not do it again? No, he's got bigger plans in store.” ”When I left that room under the stage, I saw a fire in his eyes that looked and even felt similar to mine before the Fall Formal." "But what about his power? It feels like ours, but more intense and dense," Twilight asked, confused. "Come on princess, surely you should've seen by now," Sunset began, smiling. "He's the Super Element." "What... what in the world are you?" Aria asked, perplexed. Noah slowly scowled down at her, scowled at all of them. But he also grinned the largest grin he ever had in his life. ”Hot fuck. I've waited so fuckin' long for this. I've always had this stupid damn splinter in my side that there was something greater at work. Something like the devil on Earth, but only a portion of me thought it was plural." "Just get to the point-" "Shut it," Noah cut off, shutting Adagio up instantly. Not only that, but she could've sworn Noah had a heinous echo that sounded like a demon. The Sirens took a step back. "There is nothing about you in any way that doesn't make me so utterly disgusted that I want to tear my own eyes out with a spork like an infant with special needs. I abhor you all so intensely that I can’t tell if my vision is blurry from my newfound capabilities, or for my unforgiving rage.” “Once I touch the floor, and your fate is sealed, I will gut you with an honest-to-god smile on my face, and then proceed to paint the doghouse I built with your bodies with your very blood.” ”I will take everything that you ever were, and tear it out like a literal spinal cord in a horror movie, and then smash every goddamn organ within you, grind it in a factory from China, and feed it to my dog.” ”You will be distributed as so fuckin' torn to hell, that when the investigators find you, the belief that you were even negligibly human will be like the imagination of the stupidest motherfuckin' kid in the known universe." Noah finally touched the footing, the floor below him glowed unnaturally. "In short, a long time coming has finally come, nigga." "The Super Element?! Noah could not be any further than that then... then... I-I can't even compare him!" Rainbow replied, dumbfounded. "Think about it," Sunset began again, "Noah is the only one here who stuck on a direct path, he planned so far ahead of us than we ever could've assumed. Even when the Sirens' cast their spells, Noah was completely immune to it. Just like you guys would be combined." "Now that I think about it, the Super Element was most likely a secret weapon, that might explain why he isn't from Equestria at all, but he's somehow connected," Twilight added. "Sure Noah has a good heart 'n' all, but how could his heart be purer than ours?" "He's unbreakable. He may be significantly different than us, but his heart is on a straighter path then all of you combined. Not once did he break away from the objective with something or was needlessly rude in establishing a goal. He talked Rarity out of wearing her dress, and he stopped all of the kids from messing with the song with his powers from his necklace. You guys are the Elements of Harmony, but you could only hold off the Sirens' spell united," Sunset answered. "But that's... that's just staggering. To think he could be purer than us," Rarity replied as she crossed her arms. "But what about the Sirens? If he really is gonna do what Ah think he's goin’ to do, wouldn't that ruin his purity?" Applejack questioned. "Perhaps it's an element of righteousness? And righteousness is about doing the right thing, that would include doing what must be done," Twilight answered. "He may be the only one capable of making the Sirens pay for their crimes against his world and Equestria because only he truly understands what they've done. We all know we'd never have it within us to kill off the Sirens." "I guess that m-makes sense. B-But what about what he's about to do now?" Fluttershy asked, and Sunset replied. "I think we should just leave that alone, it isn't anywhere in comparison to what they've done, but it's as much as he can do." "This is gonna get super bad, isn't it?" Pinkie predicted, concerned. "Oh yeah, we should probably turn around," Applejack suggested. Noah glanced at the crowd, they were still under the Sirens' spell so they may not remember this. Good. In a movement so fast that conceiving it was a joke, Noah rushed forward and plunged his fist so deep within Adagio's stomach, her mouth began watering, a sign of vomit. Adagio screamed and slowly stepped back, Noah let her and she fell to her knees. "I'll be back for you," he whispered as he veered around to her sisters. Aria and Sonata watched in horror as their sister puked blood from her mouth and cried. She couldn't even speak and she held her stomach with both arms as nearly a liter of blood poured from her mouth like cranberry juice. She wheezed, gagged, and hacked, "Y-You son o-of a b-bitch-" Is all she could think to say as she coughed up another half of a liter onto the stage floor. "So, who's first? What about... Pigtails." Noah casually yet murderously approached Aria, but Aria slowly stepped back in terror. Sonata tried to rush Noah, but he gripped her neck once she got into arm's reach. He uttered through his teeth, "Wait your turn." He slung Sonata into one of the speakers with only half of his strength, yet she crashed straight through it. "Sonata!" Aria yelled, and Noah ostensibly teleported in front of her and seized her arm. "You know the first thing that I saw in that wreckage on TV? An old man's arm trying to lift a piece of rubble off of it. He failed and died within seconds as it crushed his arm, wholly. Aria faltered as he could feel her pulse through her arm. "It's the right thing to give back to those who lost something, hm?" Aria froze. Noah lifted his right foot and slammed into Aria's kneecap, pushing it the wrong direction disgustingly. She shouted at the top of her lungs and fell over. She began to cry as Noah stomped on her back, just barely leaving her back intact. He then yanked her arm and started to pull. "No God, stop! Please! I'm sorry, don't do this!" Noah stomped again, "How many children do you think were gassed back in the second world war? How many died in general? Eighty-five million! But is was totally worth it for your stupid fuckin' negative energy, wasn't it?" Aria whimpered and tried to release her arm from his grip with her other arm. Noah snatched it, which sent Aria into a frenzy. "No stop!! Please!! I'm begging you!!" "Guess the fuck what, nigga?" he whispered and leaned close, and Aria fell silents. "No." With unbelievable force, Noah tore Aria's right arm straight off. Her screams and cries for help pierced the ears of her Sisters like bullets as the blood within her arm overflowed both her lifeless arm and her shoulder. "Oh good god above, that's a-lot of blood. Must suck to be you right now, huh Pigtails?" Aria had completely tuned Noah out as she paused in a state of absolute agony. She writhed and tried as hard as she could to get from under Noah's shoe. "We're not done yet, by the way." Aria wept and sniveled as the blood around her began to take a toll on her consciousness. Noah lifted Aria off of the ground by her hair and forced her to stare in his eyes. "Hurts, doesn't it? Can you imagine how horrible it'd be to get shot by a tank or a plane? No? Well, we can at least try." Noah eyed one of Earth's greatest monster's of the shadows and smirked. This is for my mom. Noah took Aria's torn limb, made the hand into a fist, and began shoving it into her mouth. Before Noah even got half of the hand in Aria's mouth, she began retching. "Oh hell no. You're eating this, period." "Aria..." Adagio mumbled as she laid on her side holding her stomach in a pile of puke and blood. She regretfully opened her eyes to see her sibling choking on half of a bloody and vomit-covered arm as she writhed in pain as Noah shoved it down her throat like a... certain activity done in bed. Noah smirked as he dropped Aria. He stared down at his work with zero remorse as she twitched. The arm inside her looking like a disfigurement of some sort and the grimy red blood had already made another puddle around her. Her awfully red eyes even seemed to pop out a little as tears streamed out her eye socket like a waterfall. "One down, two to go," Noah grumbled as she strolled over to Sonata who began to wake up. "Owie, what... what happened?" She groggily asked as she rubbed her head. She glanced forward to see Noah standing directly in front of her like a horror movie monster. "What... what did you do?" He grinned, "I dealt with her, what do you think I did?" Sonata grew as cold as the Arctic Ocean as she peered around Noah and saw Aria ravaged. She began to sob, "Aria! No! Why?! Why did you do that?!" Noah grabbed Sonata by her ponytail and lifted her to eye length, she went limp like it was her weak spot. "You really think you're the victim here, don't you? What do you think this is you heartless whore? You took everything from so many families, and you have the nerve to fuckin' cry?!" Noah slammed Sonata over his head and onto the stage. It created a small crater and Sonata wriggled in pain. "I'm gonna fix that," He whispered in her ear. "Tell me, how many people do you think you’ve reduced to completely unlovable? How many people do you think you've reduced to simply unlivable? To live at all, they need to stay in bed. All. Day. Long." Sonata didn't respond, Noah sneered, "Let me give you a taste, you bastard." Noah lowered his knee upon Sonata's ribcage, she wept. Indeed, they were gonna shatter, but that wasn't his goal. "Imagine a world of darkness, but not the metaphorical way," he said as he dug his left hand into her left eye. Sonata screeched so loud that it even hurt Noah's ears, which he countered by covering it with his other hand. He dug around her eye socket unrelentingly and pulled out her eye. She squealed, although indistinct, "I can't see in my eye!! Oh, God!! I'm sorry!! Stop it, please God!!" Noah replied by clutching Sonata's left ear and pulling it off completely. Her screams only increased in pitch as she flailed around in unmistakable distress. She tried to lift Noah off of her, but he wouldn't budge for a moment. "Oh wow, to be honest, this is making my black ass cringe. Oh well, what's next..." Noah observed the mess that was becoming a mutilated Sonata. He caught a glimpse over her feet, Perfect, he thought. He pulled off her shoes and counted her toes. "Jesus Christ, this reminds me of those sociopathic serial killers. Guess now you'll know how your victims felt." Noah gripped her left foot's toes and began ripping them off with a purpose. Sonata tried to kick Noah off of her again, but she still couldn't get him off. Not only that, but she would never even crave to move as three of her ribs had snapped. With each tear, Sonata screamed in a higher pitch as her tears began to make a small puddle around her head. Her destroyed eye, though, had instead made a puddle within her eye socket. With the final toe gone, Noah stood up, "Jesus. This is horrid in the long run but, I just can't seem to get rid of the image of my father in half, you know?" Sonata reluctantly rolled onto her side and whimpered as blood and tears mixed and spilled from head to toe. "Just one more thing you sum-bitch," Noah mumbled as he grabbed her toes. With unnecessary force, Noah shoved all of her toes down through her chest! Sonata struggled to even comprehend the violent feeling within as she blacked out, incredibly close to death. Noah snickered as he crossed his arms, ”Heh.” Sonata couldn't move, she laid lifeless, completely out of energy. Noah spit on her, booted her in her stomach, somewhat annoyed that he couldn't hear her groan. "Two down, one to go." Noah turned to Adagio as she laid, still debilitated in a puddle of her inside contents. "You know Adagio, the others were just getting what they deserved. It wasn't really satisfying, but only because it wasn't you." "You're the head of this entire operation, you always were, and I hate you for it. I hate you with all my life force. For your sisters, I merely vented, but to get a point though, I really needed to hurt you." Noah peeked over to the side of the stage and spotted a surprisingly sharp electric guitar. Perfect once again. He jogged over to it, picked it up, and returned to Adagio. "You... m-monster... I'll... I'll." Noah stared her down as she struggled to stand up, but stood up regardless. "I'll make sure you pay in ways you can't comprehend!" "The only monster here is you. Everything I've done in the past minutes means nothing to everything you've done-” "We didn't h-have a choice! We're f-fucking Sirens! We need n-negative energy!" "So you ruin my home? What part of the many outweigh the few don't you get?! If you three living meant taking the lives of nearly hundreds of billions, then it isn't up for debate on who has to go.” Adagio stepped back, "So w-we just die?! T-That's it?!" Noah nodded, "That's exactly it. How do you think heroes do what they do? They do what is needed for the greater good. If that means taking their lives, than so-fuckin'-be it." Noah gripped Adagio's pendant and raised the guitar. "N-No, wait! You d-don't have t-to do this!" Noah steadied Adagio and aimed for her chest. "I know, but I'm the will of Earth, motherfucker." With nothing left to say, Noah plunged the electric guitar through Adagio. "Hope this doesn't break," He said as he pushed the guitar deeper and deeper while pulling her pendant. Unlike her sisters, Adagio didn't scream, but she could only cry more and whimper in terrifying pain. Noah stared deep into her eyes, "I've waited so long for this. To put you in your place. To put all of you in your place. Its been a desired goal of mine ever since I saw you three on that roof." Noah continued to push the guitar through Adagio until the entire neck was through her. He peeked behind her to see it covered in blood and flesh. "Damn, your ass is lucky. I didn't hit any vital organs. Aren't you happy?" Noah let go of the guitar and let Adagio fall to her knees. He gripped her head and made her look him straight in the eyes. "This is for humanity you cunt. I hope you burn in hell until the end of time. Oh, what I'd do to see that." “What... what are you?” Adagio questioned with her dying breath. Noah smiled, “I’m just a nappy headed nigga with the world behind him.” Noah let go of Adagio's hair and stepped back. She collapsed on the body of the guitar and then rolled onto her side. Noah spat on her face as he looked at his marvelous work. He smiled and exhaled as the largest burden on his back finally lifted. He had made the Sirens pay for their unforgivable crimes against humanity. Maybe his home will be better from now on. He hoped so with all his heart. He then rose from the ground of the stage and flew towards the Rainbooms. But as he left, he could've sworn he heard the guitar scrape the ground, just a bit. Noah touched the ground of the hill and was met with the most thunderstruck and disturbed group of girls he'd ever seen in his life. He shrugged, "What? Niggas paid for their crimes. Besides, it doesn't even match up to what they've done, so don't feel bad. Sunset neared Noah and put a hand on his shoulder, "Noah... you... good Celestia, um... how long have you had these... itchings to do this?" "Ever since I left that hospital. What, you think I'm fucked up in the head?" Sunset stepped back, "No! No, no, no, no, no-" "Because I kinda am. That shit even disturbs me as I look at it, good lord. I can't believe I almost did that to you!" Noah replied, finishing with a genuine giggle. "Wait... what?" He walked past her and approached the Rainbooms. "Alright, it's your turn. Finish 'em off or whatever niggas." The Rainbooms didn't reply and simply stared, petrified. Noah rolled his eyes. "Noah, we're going to have a serious talk after this. Ya know that, right?" Applejack asked, and Noah crossed his arms. "Yeah, yeah, Old Town Road. Now finish them before they get the energy they-" *Zoom!* Noah was cut off by the sound of the result of one simple mistake. "Motherfucker! I knew I should've killed them!" Noah, Sunset, and the Rainbooms spun around to face the stage to find that the Sirens had finally become complete and were transforming. Noah glared at his hands, he was infuriated. "Goddamn Sirens!!" Fluttershy held her head, "Oh no! Can we still defeat them?" "Alright motherfuckers, this is it! Y'all need to start that counterspell right the hell now! But not just that, do you think you could lend the energy to me so I can get a direct shot?" "What?!" The Rainbooms replied, simultaneously. "Giving you our power? What, are you out of your mind?!" Rainbow asked, confused. "Kinda, but if I use the power I have, we can't hit them dead on." "How in the world did you squander your power torturing them?" Rarity asked, annoyed. "This power wasn't meant for that, I think, in a way, it's pissed at me or something. Or maybe it's just used specifically for situations like these. Unfortunately, harmony's a bitch." Twilight groaned, "Okay, maybe we can do that but, they can hit us anytime! How are we supposed to-" "Light 'em up, boys!" Shouted a voice from their left, a voice Noah recognized by heart. He turned to his left to discover his friends in Manex's truck fully armed and firing at the Sirens. Strangely enough, it seemed to be working! They were distressed and disgruntled at the gunfire. Though it was doing no damage whatsoever, they were trying desperately to hit them. "Well, we found our backup," Noah spoke up, he then turned at the Rainbooms with the most serious eyes they've ever seen from him. "Sing like your lives depend on it ladies, because today, it does!" (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) IX - Nothing But Our Wit and Our Will (TBR)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.X - To Save The World (TBR)Author's Note This Town Ain’t Big Enough For The Four Of Us... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. X - To Save The World (TBR) Noah stood firm. With the power from the Rainbooms along with Sunset, his aura had changed from bright white to that of a flaming rainbow. He sighted his friends, they were in danger. CJ had lost his Bizon and was struggling to escape a hole the Sirens made for him, he cursed a multitude of times after many failed attempts. Jain was hiding inside of the flipped pick-up truck, his MP5 split in half just outside the left door. Noah could feel Jain's frustration from where he stood. Manex was launched through the windshield and laid unconscious with blood dripping from his forehead and mouth, not a worrying amount, but still showed signs of serious pain as he twitched every now and then. His EBR-14 hung from his chest, unscathed somehow. And right next to him was the last standing, Fall. He was perilously trying to keep the Sirens from attacking the rest of his friends as he sprayed each Siren with a devastating amount of lead that tried anything with his M249. "Okay, second times the charm... or is it third times the charm? Fuck it, don't have time for this," Noah thought aloud, which gained a mumble from Sunset as she drowsily opened her eyes. Noah spread his arms and legs wide as he did before and the clouds above him began to swirl like a thunderstorm. The sound of thunder above made Jain jump and he could hear his friend curse everything that exists. "N... Noah, wha... what are y-you doing?" Sunset muttered, but loud enough for Noah to hear. "Important shit, kid. Might wanna pray you don't get hit. Sunset tilted her head, "Wha... what?" As Noah's palms began to glow, lightning began bolting from above and attacking the ground below like a gunship. Bolts passed Noah just barely missing him and Sunset before dissipating. That was enough to get Sunset to jump to her feet in fear. "Ah! W-What the heck?! Was that lightning?! Noah, w-what the heck are you c-charging!?" Noah smiled as the wind began to pick up around him and grass, rocks, and dirt began rising and falling from the ground, each bound faster than the last. "I told you, I saw it on a TV show," He responded, not distraught in the least. "O-Oh really?! And what happened to the land after the thing in the show occurred?!" Noah didn't respond. "Do us all a favor and not blow up the planet, please!" Sunset shouted, regaining her strength. "Okay mom! Fuck me!" The wind began to pick up pace as his hair and Sunset's flailed around like a flag. The dirt, rocks, and grass began to revolve Noah much faster and the ground itself began to shake. Feeling a hot sensation within himself and his palms, Noah peeked over at both of his hands to see smoking and sharp balls of magic form, they even had lightning within them. As Noah returned his attention to the Sirens, several bolts of electricity struck the ground below like explosive shells from wars, caused by the Sirens, of course. But he saw something else, one of the Sirens, Adagio to be exact, had trapped Fall in a hole similar to CJ. Once he fell in the hole, he was barely hanging on to his life as he was hit directly from the attack. Adagio was going to eat him whole like a filthy beast. "No! Motherfucker!" Sunset showed up next to him, "What, what is it!?" "Adagio! That orange bastard is gonna eat Fall! If I fire a premature blast like this one, I'm not sure there'll be an Earth worth saving anymore. You know, because it'll be fuckin' obliterated!" Sunset stumbled back as a rock hit her back. Ow! Damn it! She thought to herself. But when she stepped back, she saw a glint from Noah and realized something. It was his handgun, the Desert Eagle, and it was sticking out from his back pocket. "Noah, I think I have an idea, but... Not sure how to do it!" Noah turned his head around to feel Sunset pull the gun from his back pocket. She dropped it when she realized how surprisingly heavy it was. "Why is this so heavy?" "It's the strongest handgun in the world! What, did you expect it to feel like a fuckin' peashooter?!" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Stop being a jerk and tell me how this works!" "Okay, see that switch-looking thingy on the side?! That's the safety, turn it the other way!" Sunset did as she was told and pushed the switch. It was a little difficult, but just a little. "Okay, now what?!" "The top of the gun is called the slide, pull that back until it can't be pulled back anymore and let go! A bullet will fly out, so don't be alarmed! Once you've got that done, press your finger down on the other switch at the end of the slide, it's called the hammer!" Sunset once again followed his instructions and found that pulling the slide back was quite difficult. "End of the world here, Sunset! Move like you've got a purpose!" "I'm trying, hold on!" It took a few more tries until Sunset successfully pulled the slide back entirely. She then completed the other instruction she was given. "Okay, now what?!" "Mount up on my shoulder and aim down the sights! The sights are the things pointing up on top of the slide, they're there to make shooting a helluva lot easier!" Sunset held the gun out and fixed onto Noah's shoulder. She then aimed down the sights with her right eye, Noah smirked. "Fantastic, I didn't have to walk you through the easiest part of the gun! Nice job, kid!" Sunset blushed, "Y-Yeah, thanks!" Noah then returned his attention to Fall, the Sirens were fighting over who got to eat Fall, which only angered Noah more, but he grew fearful when he saw Adagio had won the argument. "Alright kid, Aim down on Adagio's eye! She won't be expecting it, so you should have a clear shot! See those couple of bullet holes in them from when the boys first came 'round?! That's because they didn't expect them and let their magic down!" "Now on my mark," Noah instructed, and Sunset aimed down right on Adagio's left eye. He felt the magic within his hands grow larger, and larger, until... *SHINE!* "Mark!" Noah yelled, and Sunset unloaded the entire mag into the Siren's eye. It cried in anguish and Noah saw that Sunset had completely destroyed Adagio's eye as it began to bleed in multiple spots. "Now what?!" Sunset asked, confused, slightly scared, and shook. "Now, you stand the fuck back! It's ready!" Noah replied, and Sunset quickly backed away, shielding the Rainbooms. "Hey Sirens! Tell Satan I said he can go fuck himself because I'm sending you straight to his doorstep!" Noah shouted at the top of his lungs, and Sunset along with the Sirens could hear a monstrous echo, like a second voice straight from the depths. Noah brought his hands together and they faced the Sirens like a weird martial arts move. When they did, everything stopped... "FINAL FLASH!!" With two words, the largest beam of white light and magic ever seen on Earth, and maybe even in Equestria, erupted from Noah's hands like the mightiest volcano known to man. Sunset was awestruck as she felt pale and insignificant. The beam was ridiculously large as it rushed forward towards all three Sirens, it was so undeniably massive, it was twice the size of them combined! The Sirens stared, not a sound left their mouth. Jain crawled from out of the flipped truck and gawked at the bright white beam as it came charging for Earth's greatest monsters. All at once, the beam hit the Sirens and ate them whole. Jain watched as their silhouettes all dissolved and burned away with the beam. He could only imagine how god awful that must feel, then again, he didn't care. The smoke began to clear. Noah held his hands together and breathed strenuously as he scanned the clouds, worried that he might've missed. "Please God, don't make me do that again... Jesus fuckin' Christ." When the smoke dissipated to one layer, Jain shouted from afar. "You got 'em nigga!" The smoke finally cleared away and there was nothing left of the Sirens. Noah dropped to his knees and held his sides in unbearably painful victory. His aura dissipated, but his hair and eyes kept its color. Sunset stood up from behind and approached him. "Need a hand?" Noah grabbed said hand, and Sunset struggled to lift him up, but lifted him regardless. "Yeah! You got 'em!" Shouted a voice. Noah turned to his right to find the Rainbooms conscious and well. It seemed the blast had awoken them from their slumber. "Well butter mah butt and call me a biscuit, you got 'em!" Applejack spoke up, relieved. "Dude that blast was enormous! That may’ve been the coolest thing I've ever seen!" Rainbow Dash added, fired up. "How did you produce that?! I've never seen a blast so large in my life! I don't even think the Princesses have either!" Twilight questioned, baffled. "Well whatever it was, it sure did save our home! Marvelous job everyone!" Rarity congratulated, the world was saved. "You know, ” Rainbow began, ”Twilight is going back to Equestria soon. The Rainbooms could really use someone to help Fluttershy on backup vocals..." Catching the hint, Sunset snatched a guitar from nearby and performed incredible guitar skills that nobody expected as the group’s jaw dropped like a sack of flour, expeciall Rainbow Dash’s. “I also play guitar,” Sunset spoke up, and Noah struggled to hold his laughter, “Jesus fuckin’ Christ…” Rainbow looked at Twilight, Twilight looked back. Rainbow looked at the others, they looked back. Rainbow placed her hands on her hips and sighed, “We’ll see.” With that, the Rainbooms rushed up to Sunset and gave her a loving hug, a new member of the Rainbooms had arrived. "Aw, how sweet!" Noah sarcastically spoke up. "You know Noah, you really helped us out these past few days. You could always join our b-band too." Noah waved her off, "Nah nigga, I'd rather be your manager." Rainbow scoffed, "Our manager? Seriously?" Noah shrugged, "What? Afraid someone's gonna actually put you in your place without the addition of a spell?" She rolled her eyes, "Please..." "Well, you're definitely our new friend!" Pinkie responded, rushing over and lifting Noah in a hug that shouldn't be possible at all. "W-What?!" "Noah, you helped us save the world, especially in the end as you took it into your own hands. Not only that, but we learned that you aren't just an absolute jerk. You have a grand heart, and with your power, it’s even larger than ours combined! We’d be honored to have you as our friend." Sunset answered, approaching him. "Yeah, that sounds about right," Applejack added, along with the others agreeing. ”Fuck it, whatever...” When Pinkie dropped him, all the Rainbooms joined in and held Noah in another group hug. "Ow! I can't feel my dick guys, chill!" The Rainbooms giggled before backing away, and Noah laid his eyes on Sunset. "Hey kid... bring it in," Noah said as he approached Sunset and gave her a friendly hug under her arms. Sunset was taken aback, a lot of things had happened in the last few days, but never did she think that she'd share a hug with who used to be her greatest adversary. Feeling warm and at peace like never before, Sunset hugged back as a single tear fell down her cheek. "Thank you," She whispered, and Noah replied. "You're alright kid. You're alright." Noah ended the hug and found the Rainbooms tearing and cooing at such a wholesome moment, Noah rolled his eyes. "Okay, I gotta go get my friends-" "Right here, nigga!" Jain shouted from behind with CJ behind him as well. "Aight, nigga damn!" Noah replied, startled. ”A’ight, nigga, damn?! Motherfucke-" Jain stopped, he took a deep breath, and relaxed. "We’re gonna talk about that shit that just occurred after we get our friends. So get the fuck over here and help us!" CJ replied, and Noah rolled his eyes. Rainbow and Pinkie chuckled from behind. Noah, Jain, and CJ approached the hole where Fall laid unconscious. "Christ alive.” CJ spoke up, receiving a nudge from Noah. CJ was never good at being subtle or saying the right things which got the group into trouble every now and then. As a result of being hit by a direct blast, half of Falls's face and body were burnt to a crisp. His hair had burned and he most likely couldn't feel a thing. "Alright, I got this," Noah spoke up as he slid down the hole. "The fuck you mean you got this?" Noah brought his hands to Fall's body, "Turns out I can heal people and stuff. There's a lot of things that need explaining today anyways." Noah lowered his hands and they began to glow lightly. CJ and Jain watched in absolute disbelief. The burns on Fall's face started to slowly creep away like a nasty virus commercial, the hair on his head grew back like a timelapse of grass growing, and Noah could feel and hear bones being set back into place within him. Fatigued, Fall woke up, "Woah... you guys look like hammered shit." CJ promptly flipped him off and Jain just gaped, amazed. ”That nigga was burnt to a crisp, how the hell is all of that gone?!" "Man, I don't know, I just tried it with my hand underneath the stage before I went up. Wanted to see whether or not I had healing powers. Now we know," Noah replied, the feeling of triumph still strong within him. "The hell happened to your hand?" CJ questioned, and Noah responded, "I broke it. Hurt bad but, I was too angry to care about it. Probably lost a lot of blood, too." "You broke your hand? Nigga, I swear you can be hella stupid sometimes. I don't even understand how you're a white Super Saiyan," Jain replied. "Yeah, why are you like this? And more importantly, why am I not a Super Saiyan?" CJ asked, feeling left out. "It's not white Super Saiyan dumbass, it's this whole thing, I'll explain when we go to that diner. "Wait, we're going to the diner? What for?" Fall asked, confused. "Turns out those Sirens were Earth's greatest puppeteers as they've had to do with literally every horrible thing that has ever happened just for some stupid-ass negative energy. That includes dropping a building on my family." "Holy shit, really?! Man, I'm glad you fucked them up. I lost my grandfather in WWII," CJ replied. "Exactly, and now that they've been, mercilessly slaughtered, we can go party our asses off at the diner!" Noah responded, a strange menacing tone in his voice echoing for a short while. "What about Manex?" Fall asked as he stood up to find Manex still unconscious from being hurled through a windshield. "Let's go get him," Jain replied, and they began towards him. "I seriously don't understand how you aren't a Super Saiyan, I mean, look at you! You have bright white hair, a bright white aura, white eyes... okay, I can see the differences now...” "Dumbass," CJ chuckled, and Manex replied. "Nigga whatever, I got launched through a windshield and lived, I just don't give a shit anymore." As Noah stood up from Manex, he saw that the audience had returned to normal and were heavily bewildered, along with the principals. Not only that, but Twilight was once again talking to Flash. Noah shrugged it off, I've got better shit to worry about. He turned to face the hill to see the Rainbooms approaching them, he sighed, Sonuva bitch. CJ seemed to have noticed too as he spoke up, “Look sharp boys and line up, we’ve got incoming.” The others stood up as well and grew concerned. “This ain’t gonna end well,” Jain replied. “Relax guys, just relax,” Noah replied, easing them up. It seemed the Rainbooms had noticed that they’d been noticed as they grew quiet and dropped their conversation. As they reached the end of the hill, the Rainbooms stood side by side, similar to the boys. Fall stepped back while the other three walked forward and crossed their arms. "Looks like we've got a little Mexican standoff here," Jain spoke up, addressing the girls. "I said relax goddamnit, if it weren't for these guys, we wouldn't be here right now... well, we would but, you know," Noah replied, trying to get his friends to calm down. "What about her? What makes her so damn special?" Manex replied, pointing to Sunset. "She's the one that tended to Noah when he broke his hand!" Rainbow replied, and Noah's friends' jaws dropped like anvils. "What in the hell?! She fixed your hand?! That's bullshit! No way in the fuck did that happen!" Jain shouted before skeptically turning to Noah, "...Is it?" He nodded one simple nod. "But... why?" Applejack stepped forward, "Because Sunset ain't a bad person no more! She's awfully sorry for everythin’ she's ever done, includin’ everythin’ she's done to you." "Besides, S-Sunset made the last stand here with Noah. We all f-fell unconscious, except for her," Fluttershy added. Sunset herself stepped forward, "I understand if you guys still won't forgive me but, I heard one of you talk about a redeeming act so, wouldn't what just occurred count as one?" CJ opened his mouth to argue but... he couldn't disagree. The Black Five had all agreed that they could only forgive someone if they made it up to them, and Sunset had done that. Twice. Not only did she tend to Noah's injury, but she also stood side by side with him to stop the Sirens. Saving the world alongside their best friend was more than enough to forgive one. CJ turned to Jain, Manex turned to Fall, and they all turned to Noah who returned the stare. Sunset really wasn't a bad person anymore. "Alrighty then girl, you have our forgiveness," CJ spoke up smiling, along with the other sharing a similar grin. "But if you fuck over any of us again, we're gonna fuckin' pop you like a damn birthday ballon," Jain added as he raised his sidearm from his side. "Okay, okay, I got the message. I don't plan on that ever again anyway," Sunset replied. Hearing this, Jain lowered his weapon and began back towards the truck, along with the rest of them. "Noah come on, use your stupid ass powers and flip my damn truck," Manex told him, and Noah waved him off. "Yeah yeah nigga, I’m coming. Hold on a second, will you?” Rarity waved him off, “Of course, take your time.” Noah smiled and returned to Manex and his truck. “Aight nigga, flip this shit,” he directed. Noah approached the roof of the truck, he bent down and gripped it. “Okay, here we go…” With all of his willpower, Noah flipped the truck right side up, vibrating the ground like an Earthquake. “Holy shit, that actually worked!” Manex exclaimed, surprised. “But it’s scratched to shit! This is gonna cost a fortune!” Manex added, dropping to his knees. “Relax nigga, it’s a hard knock life after all,” Jain replied. “Hard knock cock sucking life,” CJ added, and Manex simply groaned. Watching from afar, Sunset noticed something near the left rear tire. “Noah, something’s near one of the tires, it’s sparkling.” Noah eyed the tires until he found a red, shiny, and cracked pendant near one of the tires. He picked it up and brought it over to the Rainbooms as he friends didn’t care in the slightest. “What is it?” Applejack asked. “It’s one of the Sirens’ pendants,” Noah answered. “This must’ve contained their magic, but thanks to me, they were gonna die with or without it.” The group heard footsteps from the left, it was Twilight. “You found what?” “One of the Siren’s pendants,” Noah answered and looked at Sunset. ”Must’ve been why Adagio lost it for a second and snatched it back from you.” Twilight smiled, “Interesting! Well, I should probably bring it back to Celestia, or maybe my own home-” “This thing gave the monsters who took everything from me, their magic. Their power. I’m taking this as a trophy and a reminder that all those years of pain was worth it. You don’t agree, you can come and get it.” “O-kay, I uh… I guess that sounds fair.” Noah beamed, “Oh good! Otherwise I’d have to kill you.” “What-” “Alright! This has been, uh... shitty, really really shitty, but... also pretty damn fun. Hopefully, nobody else tries to take our will to live and such because that'd be pretty fuckin' irritating." "Well Noah darling, I'm quite certain there won't be any more mythical creatures like that for some time, perhaps even forever," Rarity replied, at peace. "See you at school?" Sunset asked, and Noah answered. "Yeah, should be a lot easier considering you're in most of my classes. Alright, see ya later, Rainbrooms." They were not amused. With that, Noah joined his friends inside of Manex’s truck and shut the door. The black pick-up truck began down the same trail they came, playing another one of, what Sunset believed, Noah’s favorites. It left a dust cloud unfortunately, and Sunset made sure to make him apologize next time she saw him. "I wonder how stuff's gonna go now! We have two new members of our band now!" Pinkie exclaimed, excited. Sunset stared and wondered as well, things were going her way, and maybe, just maybe, she'd receive a gift she longed for years, Someone to hold her. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) Epilogue - The Friendship Arc (TBR)ONE WEEK LATER "Then, I blasted the daft shits to kingdom come! You should've seen it dog! Still can't believe I fired a fuckin' Final Flash. Coolest damn thing I've ever done in my life. You really should've been there dog, you would've loved it... or you'd just bark your ass off." Noah supposedly spoke to McFly about last week's events as he drove towards his school's stage that they used. Today, the principals were going to reward him and the Rainbooms for saving the world once again, Sunset and him, for the first time. Noah chuckled from time to time as he thought about his own country and how they would have an unblemished field day with the past week. He and the Rainbooms were gonna say a couple of things, receive some medals, and then the school would return to normal starting Monday. After the Fall Formal, nothing really changed with the Rainbooms as they were still seen as fellow students. This confused Noah, but he shrugged it off. He mainly just wondered how the school would react to how the kid with the, broadest vocabulary, saved the world. Maybe he wouldn't have to worry about other students thinking he's an absolute jerk. Maybe someone would admit their feelings for him, maybe he'd be more accepted. Noah giggled, "I don't need these fucks to be satisfied, but some respect would be nice, don't you think so too dog?" Mcfly panted. "Of course, because you and the boys are all I need. Just imagine not having someone to yell at every hour. Good God, that'd be boring." Noah continued down the road while McFly struggled to keep still. Dogs don't exactly belong in cars after all. "What about Sunset? I mean, sure I've put with her bullshit in the past but, what about her specifically?" McFly panted. "I mean, yeah back then she was a bitch, but did you see that cake she had? And when I walked in on her in the bathroom, by God, those were some spectacular tits! But... I guess it's more than that." McFly panted. "I mean like, she fuckin' healed me! Not like a video game, but she did the whole shebang while I slept like a sheep! And remember when I woke up? Her arm was wrapped around me! Like she was trying to get closer to me while I slept!" McFly panted. "It felt nice, but it was confusing. I mean, does she like me? Naw nigga, she probably like niggas like that Flash guy, AKA, prince charming. Hoes only after us for our package... but... what if I'm wrong?" McFly panted. "I mean, didn't she dump Flash at one point? Besides, after all the bullshit between us, she's warmed up to me as a friend pretty quick... maybe... no! She may be different, but I have to think about my boys, especially Fall. He'll feel so betrayed, he'll never be able to look me in the eyes again..." McFly panted. "You know the code McFly, Bros Before Hoes. If that means denying a cute, fuck it, drop-dead gorgeous girl’s love, then so goddamn be it. It's a hard knock life for a ghetto bastard after all, this is just one of those scenarios." McFly whimpered. "You're not changing my mind you fluffy fuck. Whimper all you want, I ain't going against my boys. Maybe we could hook up, but that's about it. Besides, she probably doesn't even know what the fuck hooking up is." McFly whimpered louder. "Dog, fuck off. You know goddamn well you'd do the same thing. Besides, she could just be trying to be friendly! We don't actually know whether or not she likes me, and I don't like making a move to find out." McFly huffed and rested his head on the window. "Yeah, that's what I thought. Like you know shit about love, you're a goddamn dog. I outta throw you out this damn car." McFly barked. "Oh relax! Do you really think I'd throw you out at forty miles-per-hour? Damn dog, that's cold." McFly yelped. "Relax, you're fine you precious soft ball of idiocy. Now, when we get there, I'm gonna leave you here, it should only be an hour. Once the ceremony is finished, I'll let you out and you can come meet the girls." McFly whimpered. "Yeah, you're gonna be seeing them a lot more so, better get used to them instead of being a bitch, got it?" McFly happily barked. "Good, I'll leave the window open and all of your toys are under your seat. You know your way around and shit, you'll be fine." Noah finally pulled up to the stadium and took a deep breath. ”It’s showtime.” "Okay... you've got this dude, it's an awards ceremony, you'll be fine!" Noah assured himself, he was just a bit afraid of how things would go down. He gripped his necklace and stared it down, "You got me into this, if you fuck me over, I will end you." Taking a deep breath, Noah exited the bleachers' main door and walked along the path. As he made his second step, he was hit by applause and cheers that he could barely recognize. Holy shit, they really do respect me! And all it took was obliterating a trio of dickheads! Noah could hear the crowd calling out to him. "Nice job, man!" That guy with the beanie. "Yeah, you got 'em!" That girl with the light blue and white hair. "You were amazing!" That girl with the dark blue and pink hair. This would continue from multiple others that Noah had seen in school. Those three seventh grade girls, those simpletons that helped Sunset at the Fall Formal, the janitor, the kid with the abnormally large glasses, AJ's brother, just an onslaught of applause. Noah stepped up onto the stage and lined up along the Rainbooms, next to Sunset. "Jesus, these guys appreciate us that much?" He asked, baffled. "Uh, duh! We saved the world!" Rainbow answered. "And we looked marvelous while we did so!" Rarity added. "I know that but, I've never received such praise, nor have I ever seen!" Sunset tilted her head, "Weren't you there for the ceremony from last month?" "No, the boys and I were busy watching Family Guy," he answered, and Applejack frowned. "You spent the week off missin' people who saved the world, for a TV show?" Noah nodded and smirked, "What, you think I saw Sunset as a threat? No offense kid, but you’re as threatening as a cocker spaniel." "None taken, once again," she replied, and Noah snickered. "Ladies and gentlemen," Celestia began, "Today, we once again give the greatest thanks we can as the people lined up today have saved our world once again, along with new faces!" "A simple musical event that was meant to raise money was turned into a fierce competition by monsters from a foreign land! If not for the people who proudly stand behind me, our school, ney, our entire planet may not have been realized anymore!" "Which is why, today," Luna began, "We are rewarding these gallant souls for their selfless acts! Starting here with Rainbow Dash. Known as the most loyal student in our school." Celestia grabbed a light blue medal, with the words 'Loyal 'Till Death' engraved, off the table to their right. She approached Rainbow from behind, brought it over her head, and let it sit around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded. "Our next student, Rarity Belle, known as the most generous student in our school." Celestia returned from the table with a purple medal, with the words 'Generous To All', engraved. She approached Rarity and brought the medal over her head and let it sit around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded. "Onto our next student, Apple Jacqueline. Known here as the most honest of all." Celestia repeated the medal process and approached Applejack with an orange medal, the words 'Honest To All', engraved. She brought the medal over Applejack's head and let it rest around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded once again. "Now, our next student is Pinkamena Diane Pie. Known in our fine school as the most joyous student of all." Repeating the medal process once again, Celestia approached Pinkie from behind with a pink medal, the words 'Life's A Party' engraved. She brought it over Pinkie's head, which was just a bit hard due to her puffy hair, and let it rest around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded once again. "Onto our next student, Fluttershy Breeze. Known here as the kindest soul of all time." Once again repeating the medal process, Celestia approached Fluttershy with a yellow medal, the words 'Simply Kind For Eternity' engraved. She brought it over Fluttershy's head and let it rest around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded once again. "And now, our two new faces who contributed to saving our home. Starting off with a student who rose, fell, and now, has risen once again, greater than ever, Sunset Shimmer." Sunset felt immensely jubilant as she felt a red medal, the words 'Born From The Ashes, I Rise' engraved on it, resting around her neck. Finally, she was redeemed, she was fixed. "Thank you for all that you've done," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded louder than the Rainbooms got. "And finally, the second new face. One that I doubt any of us has ever seen before in our country, and yet, thou delivered the finishing blow with an incredible display of power. Noah Alexander Rictorshine." Noah felt at peace as Celestia brought a white and black medal over his head and let it rest around his neck. The words, 'Outsider. Challenger. Leader. Hero,' engraved on it. "Thank you for all that you've done, outsider." Luna finished, and the crowd clapped as loud as they could. Noah felt prideful, but also a little weird. How'd they know my favorite color? How'd they know I wasn't from here? "Uh, you're welcome. Glad I'm not dead right now," Noah replied. I'll find that shit out later, right now, I'll just enjoy the moment. Celestia stepped to the side next to her sister, "Ladies and gentlemen, our heroes!" Noah and the Rainbooms stepped forward at attention and the audience clapped and hollered. Feeling victorious, Noah gave a solid salutation with his right hand. Though everybody there had no idea just what that gesture meant, Noah knew in his heart that every soul lost to the Sirens were watching him right now, and the amount of admiration and gratitude being given to him was enough to make God himself cry. Noah whispered, "Rest easy now, the monsters are gone..." "Noah? No-ah? C'mon, wake up." Noah groggily opened his eyes to find Sunset standing over him. "W-What... what nigga?" Sunset rolled her eyes and bent down, "Noah, you've been laying on the stage for two hours now..." Noah looked around to find he had fallen asleep on the stage, McFly laying right next to him. "What the hell?" Sunset tilted her head, "Do you remember anything?" "Uh... The ceremony ended, everyone celebrated with a party, I drunk some juice or whatever, then I laid down on the stage and watched the clouds, and then I... I guess I fell asleep at that point. Where the hell did everyone go?" "They went home," Sunset answered. Noah sat up, "What time is it?" Sunset sat down, "It's only 6:19. PM, obviously. The girls and I are all still here though, we were gonna play a song and whatnot." "How was McFly? He didn't do anything stupid, did he?" Sunset grinned, "Nope, not a thing. After you fell asleep, he just kinda laid down next to you. I'm guessing you two didn't get enough sleep last night?" "Yeah, we're kind of insomniacs, us two. More me than him but, yeah." Sunset frowned, "Oh no, that must be horrible." Noah shrugged, "I mean, it was mostly because of the Sirens so, I guess it's just wearing off. Hated those asshats, glad I killed them." Sunset stood up, "You wanna come talk to Twilight? I was just about to write to her, so." Noah also stood up, "The fuck are you talking about? Oh wait, you mean that notebook?" "Yeah, but Twilight has it now, so I've just been writing to her now. It's kinda why I woke you up." "I mean, I don't really give a fuck about Equestria, but why not. Let's talk." Sunset smiled and picked up the book she set down near McFly. She flipped through it and Noah couldn't believe how many notes were inside. "Christ alive, guess this is Equestria's version of a phone," Noah thought aloud. "Yeah, guess you could say that," Sunset replied. After a minute of flipping through pages, Sunset landed on a blank page, right next to the last conversation. She began writing. -Dear Princess Twilight, Missing you already and I hope you'll be back soon. Things are definitely looking up for me here at Canterlot High, but I know I still have a lot to learn about friendship. Hope you don't mind if I write to you for advice when I need it, especially when dealing with you know who. -Your Friend, Sunset Shimmer. -P.S. Noah says, "I call dibs." Whatever that means... (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) Author's Note We’re Just Getting Started... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. Intermission I - Knock Knock (TBR)Author's Note ’Till Death Do Us Part... The following chapter includes sexual themes. Intermission I - Knock Knock (TBR) White. White was everywhere, practically omnipresent. As far as the eye could see, nay, comprehend. The floor was white, the sky was white, it was like sitting in the vastest field during a blizzard, only it could no longer be recognized as part of the Earth. All this is what Noah saw as he tiredly opened his eyes and sat up. He felt weightless and even graceful as he stood upon his feet. He stared ahead of him, all white. He stared above, all white. Just as he was to turn around, he heard a gut-wrenching voice, one that tormented his nightmares of the unknown. "Congratulations outsider, you did it." Noah jerked around as fast as he could to find a bizarre yet evil sight, Adagio Dazzle. Noah's blood ran cold, "You, I put an end to you! What the hell are you doing alive?!" "Don't worry, I'm dead. You didn't just take my energy after all, you burnt me alive. Worst pain I, and both of my sisters, have ever felt for the thousands of years we were alive." Noah glared at Adagio, she only stared back. "What is this place?" Adagio looked away, "It's your head, your mind. Your dream, or your nightmare. Doesn't matter to me. But it's more specifically designated as Siren Hell." "Siren Hell? Were there other sirens besides you three?" Adagio fidgeted with her fingers, "There used to, but they're all extinct as of two weeks ago, or at least I assume." Noah examined the area, "Why is it called Siren Hell? And why is it in my head?" Adagio let her fingers go, "When we die, the souls of a siren enter the dreams of our slayer, you, until the day they die. Once that comes, we will cease to exist." "Go on..." Noah replied, and Adagio continued, "Here, you have the ability to do whatever you want, primarily to us. Slash us, gut us, suffocate us, drown us, paralyze us, even rape us. Whatever you can think of, can be done here." "Jesus Christ, guess you're really fucked, aren't you? But... where are your sisters?" Adagio answered, "I dropped here with Aria, but after a while, she just upped and walked away. The human brain is relatively small, so she'll end up back here in presumably less than an hou-ahh!" Adagio was interrupted by a sharp cut against her midsection. She fell back and clenched it agonizingly. "Holy shit, it does work! I didn't even lift a finger..." Noah neared Adagio and lifted her shirt. One long red scar rested upon Adagio's abdomen, clear as day. She winced as he felt it up, "This is fuckin’ astonishing! Lucid dreams really do exist..." "Yes! I know! It's real! Just let me finish, then you can do whatever!" Noah let go of Adagio's shirt and she scooted away from him. Once she was at a reasonable distance, she continued. "But... we didn't see Sonata anywhere. Maybe she was sent somewhere else, or maybe-" "She's not dead. That must've been why only one of the pendants remained. Fuck me! How in the hell am I supposed to find her..." Adagio looked up, "She's still in Canterlot City. Without me, or even Aria, she doesn't know what to do." Noah tilted his head, "Why... why would you tell me?" Adagio replied, "Because I don't want her to suffer alone. Even if we must pay for our mistakes, we should do that together. As sisters." "Okay, well, how'd you know?" Adagio eyed the floor, "When our slayer isn't sleeping, we spend our time watching our fellow sirens. Since Sonata is the only siren left, she's the only one we see." Noah nodded and crossed his arms. He eyed Adagio, she had reached an all-time low. Not only were her powers taken, but she was also obliterated and damned to live the rest of her life being tortured until she ultimately didn't exist anymore. He kinda felt bad. "You know why you're here, right?" She nodded, "I was a bad person, even though I had no choice." "Oh cry me a river, you did have a choice! You always had a choice! And if that meant you had to die instead of uncountable amounts of innocent people, then you should've known what to do! I get it, it was unfair, but life's a bitch! We have to get over it! At least if you died, you'd get to go to heaven or whatever for not taking a life, but you've taken billions!" "How were we supposed to know!?" "The fuck you mean how were you supposed to know?! Nigga, you think ruining lives is justified by you and your sisters being able to live!? You're three sirens on a planet that has had hundreds of billions of people living on it! And you've only been there for one millennium! Imagine the number of lives you've taken back in that Equestria place!" "I... we..." Adagio teared up and Noah stomped, "Face it, you were in the wrong from the very beginning! And now, you're fucked beyond recognition." "We just... don't hurt us, we have nothing left," Adagio whispered, and Noah froze. "You... you know damn well you can't just die and expect nothing to happen." "Then let us change! We'd rather do anything then cease to exist! Please! There must be something I can do at least! I can be your sex toy!" "Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, stop! That is-no! You don't fuck your slayer, you fear them! Good God! I mean... yeah you got cake but, no. That's not happening in a million years." "Then something, anything!" Noah stared as Adagio begged. "What happened to relaxed and apathetic Adagio? Was that just a fake or something?" "No, I just... I haven't been able to think straight ever since I reached this place. I just... I'm sorry. I wish I just... when I was born, I didn't care for others but, when I reached this place I... the feelings just flooded me, and I bet they did the same to Aria. Not only that but I hear them." "Who the hell is them?" Adagio held her shoulders as she sat up. "The victims we murdered, even the ones we manipulated. They keep sobbing and screaming and arguing in my head, I can't take it anymore! You don't know what it's like to hear so many people all at once cursing you out." "You dropped a building on everyone I knew and loved. The feeling is mutual." Adagio looked away, "I just... I don't know what to do anymore..." Noah eyed Adagio once again. A single tear had found its way down her cheek as he watched her sit and stare. Adagio and her sisters are the cause for so many horrors occurring on Earth. Which means, nobody really knows whether or not certain people can change, or be redeemed. Noah thought about Sunset. He knew she'd try to forgive the Sirens and what not similar to how he forgave her. "Maybe you can change, perhaps even be forgiven, but it won't go without pain." Adagio frowned, and Noah continued, "I will find your sister, and do what I'll do. You will find Aria and bring her back. If she isn't here the next time I'm here..." Adagio yelped as Noah yanked her hair forward with his god-like powers. "You can say goodbye to your hair." "Okay, okay, I got it!" Noah released his grip on Adagio's hair and crossed his arms. "Okay, so... how the hell do I get out of here?" Adagio replied whilst rubbing her hair, "Just close your eyes and wish to wake up." "Thank you, don't forget what I said." Noah did as she instructed and he began to feel dizzy. The room around him shook and leaned as he kept his eyes closed. Within a minute or so, he opened his eyes again to find himself in his bed. Well... that's a thing now... Noah opened the microwave and pulled out a plate with two flat pastries that tasted like sweet cinnamon. "The power of God, Dog, can you imagine? This last month has just been marvelous. What's next? Sunset shows up at my door?" McFly laid on one of the couches nearby and continued to watch the dog show Noah put on. "Oi, Dog, bark damn you." Doing what Noah asked, McFly shot up from the couch and barked as loud as he could. "Dog, I was just joking. Fuckin' relax-" McFly completely disregarded him as he sprinted towards the front door and continued barking. Noah knew exactly what he meant, but he was dumbfounded. "I didn't order anything, and I'm positive nobody knows I even live here except my boys..." Feeling anxious and unsettled, Noah opened one of the drawers and grabbed a white Glock Eighteen stuck to the roof of it. He approached the door, Bravo Six style, and readied his weapon. He unlocked the door, pushed McFly back, and swung it open whilst aiming at whoever was behind the door. "Who the hell-" Noah was instantly rendered speechless as he recognized who came knocking. It was Sunset. "Uh... hello?" Sunset greeted as she held her hands up to the sky. Noah slowly lowered the gun at the petrified Sunset and shouted. "How in the hell did you know I lived here?!" Sunset gently pulled out her phone and opened contacts. "You made me a favorite so, I-I could see your location... I uh... did you not know that?" "No, no, I know that. I guess I just forgot... what brings you here?" Sunset fiddled with her fingers and searched her head for an answer. "I... um... I just thought that... like... I could... you know. I... Okay, you got me, I don't know why I came over." "I mean, I ain't got anything on my list for today so..." Noah noticed a small smile find its way onto Sunset's face. "Can I come in? I mean, McFly doesn't seem to mind." Noah peeked down at his feet to see McFly wasn't barking or hiding. Instead, he was sniffing her. "McFly, get the fuck in house. You can't go around smelling people nigga." Doing as he was told, McFly promptly entered the house and sat at Noah's feet. "Well... yeah, sure. Come on in." Noah opened and held the door open for Sunset as she entered. He thought to himself, I don't know what you're playing at God, but you better not fuck me over dude... I-I mean, if you feel like it, I guess, but c'mon man, don't be like that... wait... was I blushing? Goddamnit! Noah dropped the thought and closed the door to find Sunset in the living room. "Well, this is nice," she spoke up. Noah cleared his throat, "Yeah, so uh, I gotta go take a bath so... Just, relax on the couch or whatever. Don't do anything stupid, and we'll be all good." Sunset nodded and took a seat. "Okay, pretty sure I can do that. How long will you be gone?" Noah pulled out his phone to check the time. "Give me twenty minutes." "Twenty minutes? That sounds a little long for a bath..." Noah scratched his head, "Well, I am a dude after all so... you know..." "You know what?" Noah's face changed once again from normal to unadulterated stupefaction. "Let's just leave it at that... pure-ass bacon-haired bitch..." Noah left the living room and began upstairs leaving Sunset and McFly to themselves. Sunset looked around the room and frowned, "There's no way I'm just gonna stay here. I wonder what he has..." Waiting to hear the door close to the bathroom, Sunset observed the living room. It was a warm cozy everyday living room with a nice coat of white all over. Two loveseats and one couch. In between all that was a white coffee table. Behind the couch was a burgundy dining room table surrounded by similar burgundy dining room chairs. Just next to that was a tidy and stainless kitchen, the clean dishes still looked somewhat wet meaning they were done a while ago. Noah somehow found a house that has all three activity centers in a right next to each other. Looking down at McFly, who laid at her feet, Sunset realized there's a lot of things she didn't know about him. She flinched when she heard the closing of a bathroom door, Noah was finally gone. Silently, Sunset stood up and began upstairs, McFly following closely yet cautiously behind. Sunset reached the top of the stairs to find five rooms, a bathroom, and a closet. "Wait, why would he have five rooms? Do others live here?" Sunset opened the first door to her right to find a blue room with a bed, a dresser, a closet, and two windows. She entered and quickly found a sign on top of the closet. Manex. These rooms were for Noah's friends, or as they called themselves, the Black Five, whenever they came over. Sunset giggled, "What an odd name... then again, our band is named the Rainbooms." Sunset checked each of the rooms to find the same layout, sometimes flipped or with a different coat of paint. Sunset opened the fifth door to find a master bedroom. The walls wore a pristine coat of white and the bed had fluffy white covers. Sunset lifted the covers to find and feel soft white sheets and delicate pillows. "What's with all of this white? Wait... what's this sock doing here?" In the middle of the bed laid a single white sock, but something was off. Sunset lifted the sock and waved it around. It was moist, not soaked, but moist regardless. "I should probably leave this alone..." Sunset dubiously sniffed the sock despite what she told herself. She took another whiff and found herself bewildered, yet overwrought by the stench. "Wait... ’I'm a dude?' Did he mean... oh sweet Celestia, that is disgusting!" Sunset dropped the sock and stepped away. Sunset turned to Noah's nightstand. It was also white and contained three drawers. Curious, Sunset bent down and opened the first draw. She found Noah's gift, his chrome Desert Eagle, laying on its side. It was unloaded and the slide was pulled back. Sunset closed that drawer and opened the second drawer to find something heartbreaking. Littered all across the drawer's floor were hundreds of photos. Friends and Family photos. Sunset picked up the first one she saw and instantly felt remorse. It was a picture of Noah and his siblings at a water park. She picked up another, a picture of Noah and a group of boys and girls alike at a monument that looked like a tall, white, and square pillar with a pyramid on top. She picked up another to find Noah's entire family at a beach. "Dear Celestia... his life was..." Sunset stopped speaking when she noticed a photo that really caught her eye. She picked up a photo of Noah and a black girl laying under a tree during sundown. The picture had a heart drawn on it with the name, "Sierra" above the girl's head. "His life was perfect..." Sunset looked up above the bed, Noah was still bathing. She decided to take the photo and two others that contained Noah's friends and family. She put the photos in her jacket pocket and closed the drawer. Sunset stared at the third drawer, "Wonder what's in here..." Sunset pulled open the third drawer and found something that left herself at a loss for words. A noose. Sunset picked up the noose, it was large and durable, almost like he bought it from somewhere. It wasn't exactly long, but it also wasn't short. From the length of it, Sunset believed it would most likely be used on a tree or a spacious living room ceiling fan. When she lifted the noose up and out of the drawer to inspect it further, Sunset found a note beneath, it read: -To whom it may concern... I want my family back. I want my friends back. I want her back. Someone took them from me, but I don't know who. It wasn't the terrorists, It was someone greater. I know I'll never find them, so I've decided to just give up. I always thought suicide was a pathetic and weak thing to do, yet here I am, hanging from the tree that I was supposed to bend down on one knee. Well, it was a good run. At least until they dropped a building on everyone I held dear. -With my dying breath, Noah ~~Christian~~ Rictorshine Sunset dropped the note and felt her heart race. "He was going to kill himself..." She inspected the note further and found on the back of it was a doctor's note. He had been diagnosed with anger issues and suicidal inclinations. He would scream at everyone and had to be watched when taking medicine. Sunset remembered when he told her about everything. She knew his life was rough but, this was something else entirely. The doctor's note seemed to have been written three years ago when he first arrived in Equis. "He must've kept the noose as a last resort. Did his friends know about this? Did the doctors know? How... how could he suffer so much?" Sunset stared at the noose. She couldn't let this stand. She hurried downstairs, careful not to make Noah aware of her presence, and searched his kitchen drawers. "Come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, yes!" Sunset opened the fourth drawer to find the silverware. Above it all was a separate section that held sharper knives. Sunset grabbed the first one she could find, closed the drawer, and rushed back upstairs to Noah's room. She reached the room and returned to the drawer. She picked up the noose and began cutting it in certain places. She didn't want it to be noticeable, so she only cut the pieces until they were on their last strand. Once she finished cutting, Sunset shoved the noose back into its spot in the drawer with the note underneath. She closed the drawer and slowly stood up. "Hopefully that does it... and hopefully he doesn't resort to other things." Sunset knew she couldn't get rid of every way for Noah to kill himself, so she just hoped he would do the right thing. Looking at her phone, Sunset found that Noah should've finished bathing ten minutes ago. "What the..." Sunset exited Noah's room and knocked on the bathroom door. "Hey, Noah? You okay in there? It's been thirty minutes." Sunset's heart started racing immediately when she didn't hear him respond. Of all people, Noah would've responded instantly to her. So when she didn't hear a single peep, Sunset grew worried. "Noah? Come on, don't be like this!" No answer. Sunset started sweating, Did he drown himself?! Wha... Why isn't he responding?! Sunset thought that he might've had headphones on, but he would've felt the knocking at least. Maybe he just fell asleep? Even if he did, Sunset didn't want to take any chances after seeing that noose. She knocked once more... nothing. Feeling like her heart was about to detonate, Sunset barged through the door and prepared to shout, she instead froze in place and grew as red as a cherry. Sunset forgot the most important thing about bathing, Noah was nude. "Oh... oh sweet Celestia..." He was still alive as Sunset could see Noah's shallow breaths. "He's a heavy sleeper... of course he is." Luckily for her, Noah laid on his side against the right tub wall, so she couldn't see his... features. But instead of feeling relieved, Sunset felt... disappointed. Not at him of course, but at the chances. Sunset felt hot as a thought popped into her head. He's asleep, and he's nude. All it would take to see what he has is looking over... no! I can't do that! It's wrong! B-But... just the thought i-it's... overwhelming. Sunset took one step forward, careful not to wake him up. She took another step, even more careful. "Forgive me, Noah's god." Sunset took one last step forward and she practically burned alive. Sunset stared at it with desperate eyes. "What the... it's... it's huge!" Sunset feasted her eyes on Noah's package. "I can't even... how? How is it... is it because he's an outsider?" Stepping back and rubbing her chest with one hand, Sunset pulled out her phone and instantly went to camera as she felt a certain feeling build in her pants. "I-I'll just... I'll just take this p-photo and ask o-online about it... I... w-well... maybe s-something else..." Sunset took another step forward and bent down. "No... n-no I can't d-do this... w-well... fuck it! Sunset gripped Noah's gift and stroked it just a bit. When he didn't wake up or even flinch, Sunset smiled and undid her pants. Sorry Noah, but it’s your fault for being annoying yet attractive at the same time. Noah opened his eyes to find himself still in the bathtub. "W-What the hell? Oh shit, I fell asleep?! Goddamnit!" Noah rushed out of the bathtub and quickly wrapped his towel around his waist. He opened the door as fast as he could and ran to his room to get dressed. "Sunset, if you're still here, I'm sorry! My blackass fell-" Noah was rendered speechless instantly when he opened the door of his room to find Sunset fast asleep in his bed... "What... what in the name of Black Jesus?" Noah quietly approached Sunset and whispered, "Sunset? You up? And if you are, what the fuck are you doing in my bed?" No answer. Sunset really was asleep in his bed. Noah was so focused on Sunset, that he didn't notice her pants and panties laying on the floor next to her until he took another step. "Holy hell, why is she not wearing any pants?" Noah had a certain thought pop into his head, "Nope, not going to Hell." He took a deep breath and shouted, "Sunset! Wake the fuck up!" Sunset freaked and sat up against the headboard. She hyperventilated and searched the room for who shouted and perhaps the most embarrassed face in history sat upon Sunset's face as she grew incredibly red. "Oh... h-hi Noah." "Kid, let's go back and forth real quick." Noah cleared his throat and Sunset itched her head. "You're in my bed." "Yeah." "Under my covers." "Yeah." "Under my sheets." "Yeah." "Lying on my favorite pillow." "Yeah." "With no pants on." "...yeah." "Sunset..." "Yeah?" "What in God's name are you doing in my bed with no pants on." Noah stared with incredibly disconcerted and weirded-out eyes as Sunset sweated as if she was out in the hottest desert known to man for years. She fiddled with her fingers. "I-I just... you know how some p-people prefer to sleep w-with no pants on a-and whatnot. It j-just so happens that I'm one o-of those people... It has n-nothing to do with your b-bed specifically. A-And I'm being s-serious about that." Noah crossed his arms, "Sunset, if you touched yourself in my bed, I swear to God." Sunset panicked, "No! No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no! I was tired and I slept! I-I'd never do that! That's p-perverted!" "Yeah, it is. Now, don't get me wrong, finding you in my bed with no pants on is hot as hell. Perhaps in another world, I'd just have sex with you right then and there.” Sunset froze so firmly, it appeared she had stopped breathing entirely. "But that's another world, not this one. Now before this gets any more awkward than it already is, put your pants on and get out of my damn bed. My phone says it's been... eight hours? Jesus fuckin' Christ, it's six in the evening..." Sunset gaped as she returned to Equis, "Seriously? I guess I needed more sleep than I thought. Sorry for sleeping in your bed. I'm even more sorry for doing it without pants. Your bed is just so comfortable." Noah eyed Sunset as she grabbed her pants, "Yeah, it's one of the reasons I purchased this house. But mostly for the white. White, everywhere. It's kind of ironic considering I'm black." "Speaking of which," Sunset began, "What do you mean exactly when you say, black? Are there only a few other colors where you come from? Do different colors define others?" Noah scratched his head, "Well, black is a term for African American. African Americans are an ethnic group of Americans that relate to any of the black racial groups of Africa." Sunset stood up and out of the bed, "What's Africa?" Noah smiled, "It's my ancestors' home. The second-largest continent in the world and is the second most populated, from what I remember at least." "Okay, so, what does that have to do with you being brown? Er, black?" Noah shrugged, "To be honest, I've no goddamn clue why our skin color is brown and black. Maybe it has to do with our country being really hot or something. Hell if I know." Sunset sat on the bed, "So, African Americans are like a species?" Noah rubbed the back of his head, "Jesus Christ, look, African Americans are not a species. They are a race within humanity. That includes you, and everyone else in this country." "There are three main races, maybe more, my head hurts. Caucasian, white people, Negro, black people, Asian, yellow people... or is it just white people with different eyes? I don't know the other scientific terms, but there's more. When you're a long way from home for three years, your memory kinda starts to fade away." Sunset tilted her head, "What are white people?" Noah took a seat on the bed, "Well, white people are pretty similar to people here so, no difference there. Black people have three sides: Ghetto, my friends, Upstanding, all of whom I know are dead, and both, yours truly." "As for Asians, I don't know much about them besides their stereotypes and odd entertainment. Without a doubt, there's more to them, but I don't know them as much as I know white people so... sorry." "As for specific colors, the white people usually come in... well... shades of white. Alongside that, they come in darker and tanner versions of the color as well. Black, on the other hand, is much darker. Like I already said, I don't know why, but we just are." "And Asians... well... Asians have the same skin color as white people, but they can also mix with blacks. But the most different visual is their eyes. Does that answer your questions, because I've got stuff to do." Sunset smirked, "Okay, what type of things? I mean, you did just wake up from an eight-hour nap. What could you have missed that was so important." "Sunset, I'm fuckin' hungry. Unless you know how to cook and shit, then you can see why I need to get started on dinner. Last time I went to sleep on an empty stomach, I woke up at like four in the morning from a horrible stomach ache." "Oh... wait, you know how to cook?" Noah grinned a bit, "Yeah, I know a little something-something about cooking. Learned it from watching my mom. You know, before a building was dropped on her." "Well, that's different. I don't think I've ever met a boy who could cook. I don't think anyone has. If you like anyone in this school, you should use that to your advantage." Noah tilted his head, "You think so?" "I know so. Girls like a boy who can cook. It doesn't have to be gourmet, but it does have to be more than heating up a hot pocket or some nuggets.” "Seems legit. Do you want some? Because if you do, you're helping. I don't let girls sleep in my bed, ass hanging out for eight-hours, and then make them dinner." Sunset smiled, embarrassed. "Yeah, that sounds about right. By the way, is it normal for McFly to sit and stare outside the back door? Because when I went downstairs-, I-I mean, sat downstairs, he just stayed there and stared." Noah may have been less than normally intelligent at times and not very good at high school math, but he was no idiot. He instantly caught wind of Sunset's stutter and internally hit his head on the wall. Great. Something to keep me up at night. Fan-fuckin'-tastic. "Uh, yeah. He does that sometimes. He's a very paranoid dog. I'd get him help and all, but getting him groomed is already difficult enough." Sunset nodded, "Makes sense. So, should we go make that dinner now?" "Yeah, we should." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) Intermission II - Suffer With Me (TBR)Author's Note Well Enough Alone... Intermission II - Suffer With Me (TBR) ONE MONTH AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT "Well... that was an odd way to spend Christmas Eve." Sunset tilted her head, "What do you mean? How was that odd?" Noah ignited the engine, "Kid, who goes to an arcade to spend Christmas Eve." Sunset sighed, "Again with this, it was just to have a little fun!" Noah waved her off, "It's not your fault, just can't believe that's what we did." Noah and Sunset had become great friends a month and such after the Battle of the Bands. Despite everything, however, they both weren't sure if the other wanted to be anything more than that. They'd decided to spend the day before Christmas at a twenty-four-hour arcade and were just now leaving before midnight. As Noah pulled out of the arcade's driveway and began down the road, he sparked a conversation. "Kid, why have you been so nice to me as of recently? I wasn't sure when to ask but, you act like you saw me nearly kill myself." Sunset began to sweat, "I uh... w-well... remember back in November when you made that delicious dinner for us?" "Yeah, but we both made that dinner." Sunset shrugged, "Yeah, but the only one who knew what they were doing was you. I was just following your directions." "Okay, I guess that makes sense. I mean, a nigga has gotta know how to cook after all." Sunset sighed of relief and stared out the window. The truth was that she wanted to keep Noah's spirits up after finding his noose. Sure, she cut it up and whatnot, but he still had a much faster option if he wanted to. Not only that, but knowing him, who knows what he's capable of if he really wanted to. Especially with those new powers of his. Thinking of his powers, Sunset spoke up, "Hey Noah, how exactly did you put your magic... uh... back?" Noah inhaled, "After a couple of minutes, I just put the two pieces of my necklace together and the magic was sucked back in. Inch by inch. Well, centimeter by centimeter really since they just hang right next to each other... heh, I know two other things that hang right next to each other." Sunset scoffed, "Seriously? How old are you, twelve?" Noah snickered, "Oh, go fuck yourself shawty, I saved the goddamn world. I can say whatever the fuck I want nigga." "Speaking of which, who's God?" Sunset asked, and Noah froze. "You say his name a lot and include him in some of your curses. So, I was just wondering." "You seriously don't know who God is? Do you even have a god-like figure?" Sunset shrugged, "Well, define god-like." "An all-seeing and all-knowing being. Omnipresent and omnipotent. Immortal and Celestial." Sunset scratched her head, "Well, I don't know about all that other stuff that much, but we do look to Princess Celestia like that a lot." "You give praise that is deserving to God... to a princess... did I hear that right?" Sunset shrugged, "W-Well, what's so special about this 'God' guy anyway?" "He created the universe and everything in it. That includes you, me, and that dumbass Flash guy in school." Sunset rolled her eyes, "I'm gonna pretend you didn't say that first thing and say: This guy created everything? How?" "He's just that powerful. He'd make that princess of yours look like a bacterial organism up against an entire galaxy." Sunset tilted her head, "Where is he?" "To be honest kid, I've no fuckin' clue. Nobody does. It's a hard pill to swallow, but there just isn't enough evidence or even indication to know whether or not he exists." "Oh, well, how did he come to be? Why do people believe in him?" Noah waved her off as they reached a red light, "Okay, that's a whole damn thing that I don't feel like getting into so..." "Okay, well, what's a galaxy?" Noah snickered, "Good God, you four-legged-fucks are laughably behind in technology." Sunset playfully punched him in his shoulder, "Oh shut up! We don't need technology as much as you do because we have magic! Something you humans could never dream of!" "Oh, so your magic has allowed you to reach the moon?" Sunset smirked, "Kinda." "So your magic has also allowed you to put rovers on Mars? Take detailed photos of our solar system and beyond? Make odd-looking objects of metal fuckin' fly? Yeah, I didn't think so." "Okay Noah... whatever makes you happy." "We've arrived at your destination. Please, get the fuck out." Sunset crossed her arms, "Is there ever a time when you aren't gonna be a total jerk? I mean, if you don't want this friendship to go on-" "Oh relax kid. It just shows how much I care. It's not meant to be interpreted as a rude thing to say. I don't know, that's just what my friends and I do." Sunset shrugged and exited his car, "If you say so. But let me remind you of the normal way to say goodbye. Have a good night, I enjoyed the time we spent together today." Noah felt an unfamiliar sensation arise and warm his face. "Oh... uh, yeah. Me too. Jesus fuck, why is it so damn hot in this car?" Sunset giggled, "Yeah, maybe you shouldn't turn the heat up all the way when there isn't even any snow on the ground." "Right, I'll make sure to keep that in mind kid. Now, before you go..." Noah trailed off as he reached underneath his seat. Sunset felt her heart race a little, No way, she thought. No way he got me a gift... Noah extracted a moderately lengthy rectangular box that was wrapped in red and yellow wrapping paper comparable to Sunset's hair. He handed the present to Sunset and smiled, "Merry Christmas dipshit... I-I mean kid." "I... you... you got me a gift?" Noah shrugged, "What? It's Christmas. Or as your people called it: Hearth’s Warming. Whatever the fuck that is." Sunset stuttered, "I-I... it was just a few months ago when I b-burned your bookbag. Y-You've forgiven me completely like tha-" "Sunset, open the fuckin' gift. I'm tired and I need to make sure McFly didn't learn how to use the doggy door. Yes, I got you a goddamn gift because I appreciate all you've done, how great a friend you are, and other shit. Now open the fuckin' box" "Oh... yeah, that sounds like something you'd say I guess. I-I mean, it was just kinda unexpected." Noah leaned towards her, "Yeah, well I'm not the type of nigga to be expected, now am I?" Sunset nodded. She opened the box in slight excitement and curiosity. She let the wrapping paper fall to the sidewalk despite the fact that she knew she'd have to pick it up later. She had torn off nearly all of the wrapping paper before she found a simple cardboard box with a detachable lid. "Uh-" "I know, I know. But by the time I realized I could've just put a ribbon on it, I had already picked you up." Sunset shrugged, "Makes sense." She removed the top of the lid gently in wonderment and froze when the top was removed entirely. Inside was a midnight black bomber jacket with vertical pure-orange stripes along its sleeves. Underneath was a light sky-blue dress and a golden trim. Along with the jacket and such were airforce-blue tights and black high-heel boots with orange arrows pointing upwards upon its shaft. The perfect outfit for another adventure. "So uh... you like it? I know you like wearing that leather jacket, but there's nothing wrong with changing it up every now and then. But obviously, it had to be something I knew, or at least think, you'd like. No way in hell would you jump for joy over a fuckin' green tanktop." "Noah, I..." Sunset stared at the outfit. It was gorgeous, not the type of thing Rarity would buy, but the type that Rarity would rightfully respect. It wasn't something Sunset expected from him in all honesty. She expected to receive something that he'd want. Like a gun or a video game. Sunset placed the gift down on the sidewalk, approached the driver's door on the opposite side of the car, yanked it open, and drew Noah into a snug embrace. "Thank you, Noah. I'd been wanting that outfit for months! But the boots, they top it off so well!" Noah casually wrapped his own arms around hers, taken aback. "Well, it is Christmas, and I just thought you'd like it. Guess I was more right than I thought." Sunset pulled back, "You were, I-I mean, how'd you even know I wanted this? There's no way you just guessed." Noah shrugged, "Well, I may have looked at your phone a month ago..." Sunset froze. "I looked at your browser and then at your notes. I found that you wanted this outfit for a while, but could never get around to it. I just thought, 'Well, I bet Sunset'll like it if I buy this for her.' The boots, personally, I just came around to and thought they looked stunning... okay, fuck it, I thought they looked a little hot." Sunset sighed of relief. It seemed he didn't see what else she had on her phone. "Oh, well, that explains a lot. But please, don't go on my phone without permission next time." "Relax negro, I only did it for Christmas specifically. Now, I'm gonna head home so I can get some sleep." Sunset frowned, "You're not gonna come in and see me try it on?" ”Kid, it's twelve in the morning. You can just send me pictures if you want to, but I'm not coming in." Sunset held her right shoulder, "Yeah, I guess that makes sense." "Alright," Noah began as he closed the door, "I'll see you tomorrow when we all have that dumbass Christmas party. 'Till then, I've got a dumbass dog to check on." "Bye, see you tomorrow then," Sunset replied, and Noah waved her goodbye before driving off. Sunset stood in the street, smiled, and watched as his Audi grew smaller and smaller in the distance. ... "Wait, what does shawty mean?" Noah had driven across town to reach Sunset and the arcade, so he was quite the distance away from his house. Throughout the drive, Noah couldn't stop thinking about what he and Sunset did. He was happy, and by the looks on her face, he could tell she was even happier than he was, not that his happiness mattered when next to her. But on the other hand, Noah still felt something. He couldn't put it into words, but he had this feeling in his chest that he just couldn't help. Like a hole that was blown into him that hadn't been filled in. It had to do with one thing he didn't like remembering though. It had to do with the building. Of course it was the building, what else would it be? Not a day went by when he didn't think about that building. The day he lost everything. Sure, he gave the Sirens what they deserved and ended them. Sure, he's been giving Adagio and Aria a hell of a time in his dreams every three days, but he just didn't feel complete because she was still out there. Sonata Dusk, the siren that got away. Adagio had already told him that she hadn't left Canterlot, but the fact that she was right under his nose made him furious on multiple occasions. She could, quite literally, be anywhere, and Noah wouldn't be able to do anything. She could be living right outside his house. She could be living outside the school. She could even be that hooded figure leaning on the traffic light to his right... "Speak of the devil." Noah turned to his right in thought and found Sonata leaning on the stoplight with a phone in her hand and a hood over her head. Noah's eyes turned bloodshot as he stared her down. Finally, he had found her. Unfortunately, so did she... kinda. Sonata looked up from the phone and froze like a suicidal deer in headlights. She stared at him, he stared back. Her eyes begged for mercy, his begged for blood. As quick as she could, Sonata made a mad dash while she could, but she knew she wouldn't get away that easy. Noah put the car back in drive and stomped on the gas pedal, all he could see was red as his blood boiled. Noah pulled up beside her, she was pretty fast for something so human-like. "Get back here you dick!" Sonata cried in response, "Leave me alone!" "How many children do you think have cried that at the top of their lungs you cyan sadistic thudfuck!? How many families do you think you've ruined?! Including mine!" Sonata continued down the sidewalk, terrified of the boom in Noah's voice. She needed to find somewhere to find, and fast. She veered her head left and right for somewhere to hide while Noah reached into his compartment for something. She knew it was something life-threatening, and her heart was already beating faster than a cheetah in the middle of Times Square. Sonata cried in relief when she found an alleyway that would be too small for Noah's car. And with her speed, he couldn't catch her even if he tried. Sonata swerved to the right like a subway train and didn't stop to look behind for a moment. She gradually slowed down and caught her breath as she proceeded, until she was met with a solid brick wall. Sonata's heart pounded against her newly healed chest as she lost her sanity within seconds. Sure, she was fast, but an outsider with a carbine rifle and a pure fire in his eyes that had her up against twenty feet of pure solidified red clay? Of all the places Sonata wanted to be today, this wasn't even on the list. She watched in fear as Noah's car pulled up and blocked her only escape. He opened the passenger door and exited through it, his father's gift in his right. He shut the door behind him and began towards her. She flinched as she heard the gun's magazine release drop a half-empty clip. It's simple metal sounding like the crash of boulders. Sonata trembled, He's going to kill me! He's going to slaughter me like he did onstage back then! I-I don't know what to do! I-I can't leave! There's no way... out? Sonata felt an uncontrollable sensation of hope overwhelm her as she found an alleyway door to one of Canterlot's abandoned skyscrapers. She could lose him in there without a doubt. Or even better, make him regret ever messing with her sisters. "Sonata, whatever the fuck your middle name is, Dusk. You might've found a way to escape me annihilating you, but I'm not letting you get away a second time. I'm gonna tear you apart." Noah looked up from loading his father's gift to see a door close to the abandoned building. She made a break for it! Goddamn blue blurry bastard! Noah pulled the slide back, let go, and rushed into the building. He was having such a good day, and her getting away would ruin it to the point where he wouldn't be able to sleep. He scanned the first floor to find a simple office building interior. The amount of places Sonata could hide was more than overwhelming. Noah pulled the collar of his hoodie forward and revealed his necklace. "I know you're in here, damn it. If you think I'm leaving this place without checking every nook and cranny, you'll be gravely fuckin' mistaken!" Noah took the black pendant in his hand and crushed it just enough for it to split in two. The magic flew out of the pendant and surged through his very veins similar to the Battle of the Bands, returning him to the form he held. Hiding underneath a table in a cubicle, Sonata silently freaked as she felt the miraculous magic course through the very floor. Noah spread his arms out as if he was pushing two walls coming to a close and approached the middle of the room. He addressed her, "I'll give you one last chance. Come out of your dumbass hiding spot, and I'll let you die with your dignity." Noah cocked his head to the right, nothing. He cocked it to the left, not a peep. "Fine, have it your way." With winds as powerful as a nuclear detonation, Noah forced everything in the room against the walls. Luckily for Sonata, the winds only pushed everything around her. Unfortunately, that left her out in the open. "Found you." Sonata bolted for the stairwell and Noah forced his left hand towards her, unfortunately, Noah didn't have that kind of magic. He cursed under his breath, "Of fuckin' course," and took off behind her. Such a powerful being didn't belong in a building like that, so Noah pursued her on foot. They reached the second floor and flung everything she could find to slow the abandoned element down. She grabbed a nearby chair and flung it back as quickly as she could, but Noah simply dodged the chair and continued. She gripped the top of a cubicle and forced it down, blocking his path, but Noah simply rammed right through it. "You've gotta be kidding me!" Sonata burst through the roof doors and collapsed in exhaustion. She stared back at the doors as they remained open and listened... nothing. She lost him. Sonata carefully stood up whilst holding her abdomen as stomach cramps went wild inside her. She staggered over to the edge of the roof and got a bird's eye view of the city. Canterlot wasn't teeming with life at night similarly to a bustling metropolis such as Manehatten, or whatever they called this variant, but it sure was beautiful seeing all of the lights. Sonata let go of her abdomen and leaned on the roof's railing. How did I get here? She thought back to when she was born in Equestria. To how she thought everything was all a game, a joke. She cursed herself for not seeing sooner, for not realizing that everything has a consequence to it that would eventually catch up. Hers just happened to be a little black boy. A little black boy that had a building dropped on his friends and family. Albeit, she's the one who dropped it. Maybe if she'd seen what she was doing was wrong, she could've done something. But it was too late for that. Kiloyears late. She thought about her sisters. She wondered where they were now and if the so-called Siren Hell truly existed. She questioned if she was doomed from the beginning with the way her life played out. All the manipulating and the murders, was it all truly worth it? The only thing the amulets did was give her and her sisters immortality, but that was because she was told that normal life was horrid and that they were lucky. But after blending in for so long, was it really as bad as she was told it was? They had good food, kind and healthy people, joyous civilizations, good food, it was perfect. What was the horrid part? Was there even a horrid part? Sure, some people in the world were evil, but not everything's perfect. She even liked blending in with them. She made relationships with all kinds of people, some even romantic. But they all ended without her, whether it was in a matter of days, or decades. Sure, being a Siren was fun, but she was mostly in it to be with her sisters. Adagio was a grand leader and made her feel welcome and cherished. Same for Aria. Sure they argued, but when it came down to it, that only meant they loved each other incredibly. And now, they're gone. Both of them, reduced to dust. Sonata fell to her knees and ran her hands through her hair as tears welled up in her eyes. "My whole life has been one huge fuc-” *CRASH* Sonata was cut off by the rumbling and eventual smash of the floor behind her as Noah rose far above her, the fire returning. "There you are. I thought I lost you." "W-Wait, just let me speak-" Noah reached the ground and stomped, "Do you want me to stab you with an electric guitar too?! Shut the fuck up! Okay?! Nothing you say matters to me!” Sonata covered her eyes and cowered like a four-year-old petrified for her life. This only made Noah angrier. "Look at me. Look me in the fuckin' eyes," Sonata didn't respond. "Hey! You fuck! Look me in the eyes!" When Sonata continued to cower, Noah seemingly teleported in front of her and lifted her by her shirt. "Please..." "Shut it you fuckin’ filthy shit! You can't even find the words to call for help. So you know what?" Noah approached the roof railing and held Sonata over it. She freaked. "Wait! Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait!" Noah pulled his gun out from his back pocket and held her at gunpoint. He spoke through his teeth, "Cry for help." Sonata mumbled in fear, "Help." Noah scoffed, "Pathetic, I said cry for help." "Help..." "Like you mean it!" "Help!" "From your diaphragm, Help!" "HELP!!" "Shu-sh... now we listen..." Noah leaned an ear towards the horizon while Sonata couldn't even comprehend her situation. He whispered, "Nothing. Nobody is coming to save a monster." Noah lifted Sonata over the railing and threw her to the ground. She folded like a beach chair and formed a tiny crater. She coughed, "Why... why are you doing this? Why can't you just leave me alone!?" "Because..." Noah teared up, but his anger only grew. "My family... my brothers, my sisters, they were taken from me! By a snake! In the garden!" Noah took a staggering step forward until his distress raised to counter the flame of his anger. He fell to his knees. Two tears of pain befell his cheeks as he dropped his father's gift. "I thought God had a plan for all of us... but I was wrong... I was blind... but now I see. He has a plan for all of us individually. And this plan, right here until the day I die, is mine." Noah picked up his handgun and held it horizontally. He examined it and gazed at his reflection. His flaming transformation staring back as one droplet of his tears fell upon it. He lowered his voice and continued. "Look at me. I'm broken, to hell with it nigga, I've been fuckin' shattered. Fractured to hell, for eternity. I like a girl, yet I still feel like choking the life out of her for what she's done. But that doesn't even pale in comparison to what you've done." "You've taken everything from me, and yet, somehow I'm the bad guy. I yell and I lose it at people. I've robbed stores, run from cops, I even killed someone." "My life has been shit ever since you dropped that building. Yet, here we are, on a skyscraper, and I've got you and your dumbass sisters in the palms of my hand." "But somehow... I don't feel satisfied. When you took everything from me, a void was made in my heart. My stupid blackass heart. The only thing that can fill that void is love, but I don't know who can fill it, and I doubt Sunset will even bat an eye." "So how have I managed with that void? Fury. I have been so, mother-fuckin', angry. I have this urge. This urge to burn down every monstrosity on this planet, to see them all suffer, but in reality, that all comes down to you. I want to see you suffer... so that's exactly what's going to happen." Noah dabbed his tears, clicked the safety, and stood up. "I won't kill you Sonata. Your life will be consumed by absolute loss... Then, and only then, will you understand what you have done to me. What you have done to the world. You will suffer with me. You will suffer with the world, and you will suffer for your sisters." "Speaking of them..." Noah took a deep breath, "You took my family from me, so I took yours. I will break them. Mend them like clay. And despite the animosity and hatred in my heart for them, I'll make sure they reach the gates of Heaven instead of the gates of Hell. They will learn true pain. They will learn remorse. But most importantly, they'll be forgiven." Noah holstered his gift and walked over to the roof's railing. "Without your magic, you'll simply be human. You will endure the lives of us for the rest of your pitiful life. Whether or not you try to make it a good one is up to you. I don't want to see your face in this city ever again, so leave, and never return." "Be grateful I'm letting you walk away without killing you. But the feeling that you could've prevented all of this will be your undoing. Destroying your stupidass from the inside-out. And we both already know you don't have the balls to kill yourself." Sonata whimpered, "I... I..." Noah rose and hovered over the edge of the building, he paused as he came to level with the height of the railing. "Besides, what occurs in the dark will always be brought to the light." Noah left Sonata's sight as he returned to his car. Sonata laid there in her crater. She'd been spared. After everything she'd done, she'd been spared. Only... she didn't feel like she was. She felt like Noah was playing at some mind game... and it was working. Noah yanked open the door to his car, entered, and laid back against the seat. He took his pendant and forced the pieces back together, his magic coursing out his veins in seconds. He let go of the pendant and drew his handgun from his back pocket. He stared at it, not at his chrome reflection, but the muzzle. Another tear found its way down his cheek as he slowly rose the gun to his head. The last time he thought about his family he destroyed his hand and was compelled by himself to lay down and die. But a certain Sunset Shimmer put a stop to that for the sake of the world, and himself. But now, nothing was holding him back. The Sirens were demolished and defeated, and Sunset was nowhere to be seen. She wouldn't miss him. She spent years going back and forth with him. His friends were his friends, they'd get over it easily. And the Rainbooms weren't even up for consideration. He sighed, "Fuck... fuck my life." Noah slowly squeezed the trigger, and within seconds, he-. *RING RING RING* Noah froze, barely a centimeter away from a fifty caliber bullet piercing his brain. He turned to his phone ringing on the passenger seat. Someone was attempting to face-time him from the resonance of the ringtone. He looked at the gun in his hand and set it down on top of the dashboard. Hesitant, he picked up his phone and read the caller ID. It was Sunset. Noah wiped the tears from his cheeks and eyes and punched himself three times in the chest. Get it, together you, shit-head. Noah slid the touchscreen right and was met with Sunset thinking hard and concerned as her phone rested on her lap. "Kid, what's good?" Sunset jumped and lost her train of thought. She looked down at her phone to find Noah, confused. "Oh, you picked up. I know you said pictures and all, but... w-wait, are you crying?" "N-No! I'm me! I'm a big deal! Big deals don't cry! Who the hell said I was crying?!" Sunset frowned, "Noah, your eyes are red. And I know sad when I see it. I'm Equestrian after all." "Look, I'm fine, just... how does the outfit look? A-And why'd you take so long to call? Hm nigga?" Sunset giggled, "I had to wash it before I put it on of course, and then I had to dry it. But wow, it even feels incredible!" Sunset set the camera up against her school computer in her living room and stood back. "Look at it! I love the feel, it's like a weird combination of a leather jacket and a normal jacket. The only thing I kinda see wrong is that these sleeves are just a bit long so I rolled them up. Not like the whole thing, just the cuffs. You like it?" "Sunset, you look goddamn' ravishing. I love it." Sunset blushed. "Hey, uh, give me a little twirl?" Sunset did as instructed and did a long twirl, showing Noah the whole outfit. Which he enjoyed more than he should've. Sunset bent down and met with Noah's eyes, "Now, tell me why you were crying." Noah rolled his eyes and ignited the car's engine. "Goodnight Sunset." He tapped the hang-up button and tossed his phone onto the passenger seat. He put the car in drive and made a U-Turn, back on track for his house. As Noah pulled up to a stoplight, he received a text notification from his phone. With the light just turning red, Noah lifted his phone and read: Sunset AKA Kid: I'm sorry if that was a touchy subject. Sunset AKA Kid: I was just worried. Have a Goodnight. Sunset AKA Kid: I love you. Noah felt his heart stop. He stared at the last text intensely. 'I, love, you.' Noah knew she didn't mean it like that, but he hadn't seen or even heard those words in so long. He felt that stupid sensation return to his cheeks with a passion. Not only had he not heard it in so long, but from her? Noah was left speechless. He peeked at the stoplight to see it still was red. Seeing he was good to go, he opened the keypad and replied, a genuine smile finding itself upon his face: Sunset AKA Kid: I'm sorry if that was a touchy subject. Sunset AKA Kid: I was just worried. Have a Goodnight. Sunset AKA Kid: I love you. Noah The Last OG: I love you too. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) Intermission III - The Prophecy (TBR)Author's Note This Cave Is Not A Natural Formation... (I have no idea what was happening before and after Rainbow Rocks, and I also wasn't expecting to be writing in normal Equestria. So please, bear with me if I get anything wrong. Enjoy! Intermission III - The Prophecy (TBR) CANTERLOT, EQUESTRIA TWO MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT Twilight's hooves clopped against the royal floor as she continued towards the throne room. "I still don't know why you don't just have me write a letter Twilight. This seems a little much." "Spike, you and I both saw what Noah was capable of when we went through the portal. There's no way that magic just exists without anypony knowing how or why. And if anypony knows, it has to be the Princess." It'd been quite some time since Twilight had stepped foot in the mysterious portal and was transported to the human variant of Equis. Or as it's internationally designated, Earth. Twilight had been meaning to question Princess Celestia about the Super Element, but due to her duties as a princess herself, she could never get the chance. But taking a day off from the help of her friends and brother, Twilight was finally ready to ask. Spike, on the other hand, didn't see the big deal. Noah was as strong as the Elements of Harmony combined, maybe even stronger. Big whoop, they live in a world of technicolored magical talking horses. Twilight finally arrived at the large royal doors and took a deep breath. It was simply another meeting with her teacher, who was the Princess of the land she lived in. And could raise and lower a literal star. No big deal. With one hoof, Twilight pushed open the right door and poked her head inside. "Princess Celestia?" She asked for confirmation, to which she received a kind reply. "Princess Twilight Sparkle. Greetings." Sitting upon a majestic red oval throne was the Princess of the Sun herself. Enveloped in her magical golden aura was a beautiful white and yellow teacup encrusted in several beautiful gems that had Spike drooling over from a mile away. At her feet stood a wealthy red stallion wearing quite the suit. At his own feet were a few business papers that were mainly charts and graphs stretching from yesterday to a decade ago. "Hemlock Thyme, the information and data you presented to me today are indeed something my sister and I shall return to. If you could be so kind as to excuse my student and I, that would be much appreciated." The stallion named Hemlock bowed and replied, "Of course your highness. Thank you." Hemlock used his opaque-blue magic and enveloped the papers. He lifted them to eye level, swiveled around like a steering wheel, and exited. Leaving both princesses to themselves. "Now, Twilight, what brings you here today?" Twilight cleared her throat and entered the main area of the throne room. "Well, you may not know Princess, but two months ago, I traveled back into the portal." Celestia raised an eyebrow, "You did?" Twilight nodded, "Yes. I was called by my friends over there with the help of the book you used with Sunset Shimmer before me. It turned out three creatures known as the Sirens had made a move on the school via manipulation as their main goal was planetary domination." "I'm guessing that seeing you here means you and your friends successfully vanquished these creatures?" "Yes, but it's much deeper than that. Much deeper." Celestia frowned, "What do you mean?" Twilight took a deep breath, "It turns out that the Equestria over there isn't alone. An unusual yet advanced version of humans exists outside it as the Equestria over there is just a giant island." "The outside world is called Earth instead. It includes inconceivable amounts of nations and kingdoms that possess such weapons and devices that I doubt anypony could even fathom. But, it's not their fault." "A thousand years ago, Starswirl The Bearded banished the Sirens to Earth for who knows how long. Without any Equestrian magic, the Sirens would eventually be deprived of their magical and maniacal abilities of manipulation. And well... the Sirens... they were enraged." "Without Equestrian magic, they had to resort to negative energy from basic humans without any abilities. But the way they gained it was... truculent." "The Sirens put the humans through Tartarus. Using what they had with their amulets, the Sirens would create life-threatening conflicts relentlessly. They led to murders, massacres, genocides, crimes that haven't been committed in Equestria for centuries, including war crimes, and wars themselves." "Because of the Sirens, humanity, what they're called as a whole, was forced to fight against an invisible force of mayhem. They kept creating larger and graver things to protect themselves. Metal armaments that fire lead and copper for miles, vehicles that shoot devastating explosives, and bombs of such great size that they could level our entire country within seconds!" Celestia's mouth hung agape. "Twilight... how... how do you know all of this? How are you still alive?" Twilight took another deep breath, "I was told by a male human. Not an Equestrian human, an Earth human. His name was Noah Rictorshine." This caught Celestia's attention heavily, Rictorshine? "Apparently, Noah lost everything to the Sirens and began a journey of crime and escape. The end of his journey brought him to Earth-Equestria with the aid of his own amulet, something I'll return to later." "Noah took refuge at Earth-Equestria and attended CHS, the school the portal stands in front of. For three years, Noah was locked in a seemingly endless rivalry with Sunset Shimmer herself due to her evil ways taking form." Celestia frowned. "Eventually, they had to work together against the Siren threat as they found Equestrian magic in CHS. The Equestrian magic being my friends. With an unexpected twist, it appeared Noah was more special than my friends and I nearly combined." "Noah, a simple human, had Equestrian magic within him, or more so, his amulet. It turned out that Noah himself wasn't just magical, he was an Element of Harmony!" Celestia shook her head, "Twilight, I-I don't understand what you're talking about. How can a normal human be an Element? There's only six." "That's just it Princess, he was more than just an Element. It's actually why I came to you. We gave him the term the Super Element. The ultimate Element with power and magic that matched the Elements of Harmony combined. But, it didn't feel like it did." "You should've seen him Princess, he was spectacular! His hair had turned a bright beautiful white. A mighty aura that resembled ours, but wasn't, surrounded him! And his magic, he was swift, tough, durable, and could produce astonishingly tremendous beams of magic and light!" "I'm not sure if he was an Element, or something else entirely, but it had to do with his amulet. Which is why I've come to you Princess, I need to know. I need to know if a Super Element truly exists. I need to know it's history! It's been killing me for months!" Celestial gawked as her jaw dropped so low, it'd hit the ground with a simple nudge. "W-Well Twilight, that's... t-that's unmistakably excellent information. Staggering, b-but excellent." Twilight gathered herself and asked, "So, do you know anything?" "No, but I think I know what does." Twilight cocked her head, "'What'? What do you mean, 'what'?" Celestia stepped down from her throne and began towards the door Twilight entered through. She answered as she passed her, "I'll show you." Twilight glimpsed at Spike. He'd fallen asleep on her back humorously fast, but at least he wasn't missing. Or worse... She trailed behind the Princess as the two guards that normally stood by her side caught up to her. What is she talking about? "So, exactly why do we not have the guards along with us?" Celestia slid the stone wall closed, "Because we don't. The only danger down here is the danger of being lost. And since what we're after is straight ahead, we won't be having that problem." "Okay, so why did Spike have to stay outside?" Celestia answered as they began down the steps, "Because this place is off-limits to all those who aren't alicorns or Element bearers." "Why?" No answer. "Come Twilight. I've been waiting for a reason to show you this place. Otherwise, you'd have just come across it yourself at some point." Twilight cautiously followed behind Celestia as their hooves clopped like their fore-hooves clapping against each other. She was confused, nay, she was dumbstruck. Twilight knew the Princess could be whimsical and mysterious, but this was something else. Twilight had never been left unanswered, and that set off many red flags in her head. After quite some time, Twilight and Celestia ultimately reached the end of the steps. The room, or whatever it was, left Twilight speechless. "Twilight," Celestia began, "Welcome to The Library of Space and Time." Twilight stepped in front of the Princess and felt her eyes grow to the size of emeralds. She and the Princess had set foot in a massive black and gold library full of her favorite things: Books. Books, everywhere. She glanced left, endless. She glanced right, endless again. She even glanced up, endless. They'd traveled so low into Equis, they couldn't even see above themselves. "Come Twilight, I understand there's many here you want to look at, but we have time for that later." Celestia continued down the large path as Twilight nodded. Library of Space and Time? I haven't read anything that talks about this place. Do others even know this place exists? "Princess, forgive me, but I'm confused. How long has this been here? How vast is it? Do other ponies even know of its existence?" Celestia took a deep breath, "No Twilight, nopony else knows except Cadence, Luna, myself, and now you." "This magnificent library holds all the knowledge in the known universe. Every book here on the left holds all the information and history in existence. Whether it be about swans, cakes, or the dawn of time." "Every book here on the right holds all the derived knowledge of those who have ever lived. Everything they have done or made an impact on from birth to death. Even beings outside of Equis, or Earth." "For as long as I can remember, this library has been growing and building with intelligence. I found it when my sister and I took a walk outside our castle so very long ago. We were afraid to enter for centuries, but we eventually attained the needed bravery to investigate." "We were blown away. Perplexed as to how nobody had found it, or even cared. But ultimately, it was made known to the Royal Guard, but only the Royal Guard. We didn't need ponies entering and getting lost forever. It didn't always work, unfortunately." Twilight had her eyes locked on the right side of the library. "It... h-how do you know that's what it is? I-It could just be a large underground library!" Celestia frowned, "You doubt me, I understand. But let me show you how I know." Twilight peeked ahead and found a simple wooden table that held two books. One black, one gold. Celestia came to a stop at the table and spoke. "These are two of the three most important books in the library, and existence. On the right: The Book of Time. On the left: The Book of Space." "Both books hold the understanding of everything. Time, space, and the list of contents. Without them, nothing would make sense. Nothing." Twilight gawked, "This... this can't be real... but it is, isn't it?" Celestia nodded. "Well, you said there were three books. Where's the third?" Celestia used her magic and placed both books upon each other. She connected them gently, but the very touch rang like a church bell throughout the library. The table shook and rose as a solid block of more stone sprouted from the ground. When the rock fully surfaced, It revealed another part of the library. Celestia stood aside and motioned for Twilight to enter. Falteringly, she did. Once again, Twilight's eyes dilated as she walked along a gold path. The room was beyond belief, the gold path led to a single floating platform that held a book pedestal. But that's not what caught her eye. The platform was surrounded by what Twilight could only estimate from sight as hundreds of billions of books. They were all a part of the library. Giant shelves ran spiral all across the area. It was like standing inside the shell of a massive egg. Only instead of a shell, she saw millions of shelves, and near trillions of books. "P-Princess... what... w-what the hell?" "That's a word I haven't heard of. What does it mean?" "N-Nothing! I-It means nothing!" Celestia nudged Twilight from behind and she began down the path. It was hardly large enough to hold her, let alone Celestia. The walk took nearly ten minutes, so Twilight questioned, "Princess... how... how large is this thing?" "This library stretches across all of Equestria. As for how deep we are, I’d say we're just barely far enough from scratching the upper mantle," Twilight felt a single hair in her mane flick up like the pluck of a guitar string. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Twilight and the Princess of the Sun reached the platform and stood side by side. Celestia began, "And this, is The Book of Righteousness." Twilight placed her front hooves on the table to get a better look. Celestia explained, "Clearly Twilight, somepony created this library. That somepony was a tan bearded stallion by the name of Christian J. Rictorshine." "W-Wait, Rictorshine? That's the same as Noah's last name." Celestia nodded, "Indeed. Christian was an odd one. He never spoke, and just appeared out of nowhere. When I first met him, he was undoubtedly perfectly sane and well-mannered, but I don't think he even came from Equis." "Something in his eyes made him appear... off. They weren't as bright, vivid, or large as a normal pony's eyes. He didn't look odd, but I doubt anypony had seen such a pair." "The last time he was seen, however, was behind the castle. And where do you think he went?" Twilight returned to standing, "To this library. I... there's no way he built all this! All due respect Princess, but I doubt even you could do this!" "He was no ordinary pony Twilight. He probably wasn't even an ordinary being, but we know he created all this because he wrote every book here. Including this one." Celestia flipped the book over, and Twilight read the words aloud, "'By Christian J. Rictorshine. Please take care'. I can't believe this. What does it say?" "The book is based upon magic, power. The book talks about all kinds of obscure and unheard powers that not even the books of the left know of. It talks of tales from an unknown world, many verses, and much more." "I'll be honest with you Twilight, I've only read the first page, and only I know of this book. And of course, now you." Twilight stared at the book, her answers to Noah's abilities laid right in front of her. Leaving the book to the unknown was not an option. "Let's read it.” Celestia turned to the table of contents and found it just like how she remembered, written in cursive. She analyzed the contents until she found what they were searching for. "Ah, here it is. Part three, page five hundred twelve: The Super Element of Righteousness." Celestia flipped through hundreds of pages about notes, info, and such things that couldn't quite be defined. Celestia landed on the page she was told to and was met with an odd symbol. "Twilight," she began, "Does this look like Noah's amulet?" Twilight studied the symbol, it'd been a while since she last laid eyes on Noah's necklace. She tried to remember... a time when Twilight, Sunset, her human friends, and Noah had finished practicing and were on their way to the school. The memory felt faint and light as if she had imagined it, but she remembered regardless. ... "Can I just say, your pendant has such an unusual design,” Twilight began. “It resembles a bird and it's wings rising from a shield or something, or it resembles a beam of light or a sword rising from... a shield?" Noah stared at his necklace, "I'll be honest, I'm not sure what the symbol is, but it's a symbol of integrity. A symbol of righteousness, which was aforementioned but, apparently, words mean more than actions in this world." Sunset strolled up from behind carrying two guitars, "That's not our fault, that's just the way the world works." Noah crossed his arms, "Motherfucker, who's the one who burned my bookbag, slashed my tires, and smashed my two hundred dollar laptop with a sledgehammer?" "O-Oh! Y-You need help there Fluttershy?" ... "I remember. This symbol, Noah said he was told that it was a symbol of integrity. A symbol of righteousness. I guess he was right in the end, huh?" ”This Noah of yours, tell me more about him." Twilight sat down, "Well, Noah is... he's... uh... he's probably the furthest thing from Equestrian ever. Of all time. He acts like... like a... it's hard to explain. He's rude, but... not like 'rude' rude." "He seems to act like everyone may turn against him except his close friends. Insecure maybe? No, not even close. He's very confident and acts like nobody can touch him. The way he speaks is odd though. Almost half of every sentence includes a curse word, but it isn't directed at us. He just says that's how he and his people talk and act and that it's no big deal." "But when he's being genuinely rude... he says some very unpleasant things. Of course, it wasn't to me and my friends. It was towards that version's Trixie from a while back and the Sirens. He probably said some things to Sunset before as well, and considering they've done that for years, her psyche might be damaged a bit." Celestia grimaced. "But you don't have to worry about that rivalry anymore. Last time I saw them, they seemed to have made up and become friends. They even exchanged hugs." Celestia smiled, "This Noah sounds like quite the character." "He is, and I'm proud to call him one of my friends. He shows me that friendship comes in all forms, kindly, sensibly, or aggressively." Celestia beamed, "That's grand Twilight. Good to know my student is still widening her knowledge of friendship every day." Celestia returned to the book and flipped the page. She read, "I saw a vision. A vision of evils arising. Such evils that these sentient horses cannot fight off. I've decided to leave them something. A final weapon. By using the power invested in me, their Elements of Harmony now possess the ability to fuse to create the ultimate Element: The Super Element of Righteousness." "When the time is right, and there's no other option, the Elements shall come together to create the Super Element. With the fusion, the Great Man of Righteousness, wherever or whoever he may be in the world, shall wear the Element and gain its abilities." "From what I've accumulated, the warrior should be stronger than the main six Elements tenfold. The speed to travel across the planet in minutes. Triple the durability of graphene. And enough strength to control the sun, the moon, the stars, love, hate, and in time, reality itself." "When peace returns, the Elements will forever be fused, and the Bearers of the Elements will no longer be able to call upon their Elements in times of need or want. They will be remembered, but will never return to their duty as the Elements of Harmony." "I've already given the Element to the other side as their time is already at their doorstep. I believe in this world that day will not arrive for another nine thousand years, and when that day comes, this world will change forever..." Celestia stared at the book. She remembered nine thousand years ago seeing Christian. If he prophesied that in that time, an evil would arise, who's to say it isn't true? Twilight witnessed firsthand the capabilities of this Super Element. She'd believe it in an instant. How could she keep the peace in Equestria, nay, Equis itself if it was doomed kiloyears ago? Was the end really on the rise? "Princess? Are you okay? You're sweating." Celestia returned to Equis and lost a bit of balance. She steadied herself and answered, "Y-Yes Twilight. I'm quite alright. You found what you are looking for, did you not? Let's make haste up to the surface and-" "You're scared, aren't you." Celestia froze as she began down the floating path ahead. "I'll be honest with you Twilight... I'm horrified. But, if you've seen the powers of this Super Element, I guess the only thing we can do is plan, and wait." "That sounds like a good idea to me. This whole righteousness thing goes deeper than I thought." Twilight smiled, "Thank you for showing me all of this, Princess. I was afraid that'd be the death of me." "Death from a lack of understanding? You sure do value knowledge, don't you Twilight?" Twilight blushed, "W-Well, that's me for you I guess." "Come, Spike and the guards are possibly worried for us right now. And a simple question could result in a national tragedy." Twilight tilted her head, "What do you mean?" "I mean that there's a reason that only alicorns and Element Bearers may enter." Twilight tried to connect the dots before being hit with a rogue wave of anxiety and concern. "Oh shit! I-I-I mean, Oh no! We gotta hurry Princess!" Twilight galloped down the pathway and exited the large egg-shelled library while Celestia remained still and thought to herself. Well... she must've been quite exposed to Noah's language... I hope that doesn't spread. I'll be in a world of trouble... (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say. ) Intermission IV - Check Please (TBR)Author's Note In Loving Memory of Burgertown... I apologize for this chapter being somewhat short as it doesn’t exactly have a main objective. Intermission IV - Check Please (TBR) EARTH CANTERLOT OUTSKIRTS, EQUIS SIREN HELL THREE MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT "How was she intact?" "What are you talking about?“ "If my memory serves me right, which it does, I tore off her toes and shoved them through her chest. So how the hell did it look like not a damn thing happened?" Noah, Adagio, and now Aria sat across from each other. Adagio had come to terms with her new life and was trying to make the best of it with hidden emotions surfacing. Aria hadn't been in a worse mood in her life. Some days, she just wouldn't talk and would sit staring off into the boundless white void. And when she did talk, she could barely say anything. Noah, on the other hand, was having a hard time trying to understand them. Adagio had been trying to find a way to get into his head, for what, Noah didn't know. Aria had also been trying to get through to him as to why he didn't kill Sonata, she received the same answer every time. "When our... when our pendants are destroyed, the last thing they do is restore a siren to its natural form," Adagio replied. "In this case, that means putting them back together again." "Okay, how the hell did she even survive?" Aria stood up, "Why are you asking us now? It's been months seen the Battle of the Bands, and you're just now asking us this?" "I spent the last two months wondering whether or not I made the right fuckin' choice. If I should've just put a bullet in her head or dropped her off the roof. You act like I enjoy killing people. What I did back home was without a choice. And killing you two was my way of telling the world that you asshats have been dealt with." Aria made a fist, "She was just as much of a monster as were we!" Noah crossed his arms, "But she was nothing without you. If I let her stew in the fact that she fucked up massively, It would eat her from the inside out. The perfect justice for my family." Aria cocked her head to the right in anger and crossed her own arms. Noah unfolded his, "So I'll ask again, how the hell did she survive?" Adagio spoke up, "I pushed her out of the way." "I'm pretty sure I would've seen a giant flying cyan seahorse get pushed to the side," Noah replied, and Adagio explained. "That's because I shoved her beneath us as a sneak attack. I thought the blast would just rid us of our pendants. It was only after my tail began to catch on fire did I realize your true intentions." "With us dead, and our pendants obliterated, Sonata's self-destructed and she was healed. Then, as the smoke cleared, she must've ran as fast as she could. You know, because she was terrified." Noah sat down and stared Aria down. She continued to stare into the void. "This isn't fair," she muttered, but just loud enough to be heard. "The hell do you mean fair, nigga?" "I mean that we should've just died. This stupid Siren Hell was supposed to be a dumb myth, yet here we are, stuck with you in your head until you drop dead." "The problem isn't that it's unfair, it's your broken idea of fairness. You murdered billions of people just so you could live, for fuck's sake, I've already said this! This is probably the seventh time I've said why you're here! What the hell are you missing!?" Aria scoffed and Adagio answered, "Maybe because we were born and raised to think the world revolved around us. That's not our fault!" "You have seen bloodshed since the day you were born. You expect me to believe that you just didn't know the difference between right and wrong for millenniums?" Noah rubbed his head, "I'm not explaining this shit an eighth time. You guys are a joke." Aria spoke through her teeth, "We're a joke!? You swear in every sentence you say! You have pathetic anger issues! You don't even have the strength to kill someone who dropped a building on your stupid, fucking family!" With the flick of his wrist, Noah sent Aria flying to the left so fast, he and Adagio could've sworn they heard her break the sound barrier. Noah glared at Adagio, "You have something to say too, grapefruit?" Adagio stayed silent. "Good, now then," Noah stood up and stretched like a monkey. "I'm gonna wake up now and start the day. I could've sworn I was supposed to be doing something to..." "You were invited to hang out with the Rainbooms at that diner where you said you wanted to come back in order to pay you back for helping out with dealing with us." Noah froze. How did she know that? Was she spying on them at the time? He didn't remember telling her. "How... how do you know that?" Adagio fiddled with her fingers, "When we sleep, we Sirens see what our slayer is doing so we can never rest." Noah felt that feeling of sympathy return with a vengeance. "Okay, well, what other Siren shit is there that I'm missing? I'm gonna be a little annoyed if you keep throwing bull my way every time." She shook her head. "Good, then I'm waking up now. Goodbye." Adagio weakly waved one hand and Noah closed his eyes. Starting to wake up. He doubted if he was gonna be able to last dealing with these monsters. Noah drowsily opened his eyes. He was in someone's car, but he didn't know whose. I'll just figure this out later, he thought as he rested his head back against the chair. *BUMP* "Goddamnit!" The car hit a speedbump and sent Noah bouncing up to hit the inside roof. He whipped his head to face the driver, "Who the fuck are you, and what the hell!?" "It's just me nigga," replied the driver, whom Noah recognized. It was Jain. "Dude, where the fuck did you learn to drive?! You're supposed to slow down at the speed bumps, not floor it!" Jain shrugged, "I had to wake you up somehow. Last time I splashed water on you, and ya had a hissy fit like a little bitch." Noah held the top of his head, "What the hell are we doing out here?" "Yesterday, you said you were having another one of those days and you were going to take some Benadryl. Matter of fact, why the hell do you use Benadryl to go to sleep? We have sleep medicine for a reason, dumbass." "Because that shit is weak. I fall asleep after fuckin' two hours. I need sleep." Jain shrugged, "Whatever, but you told me that you would pay me twenty dollars to take you to this place called Sugarcube Corner at 10:30." "Oh yeah! I was invited by the Girls last night. Specifically Rarity." Jain sighed, "Seriously? Weren't you only with them for the Battle of the Bands shit?" "Look, they asked me to be their friend. Besides, you, me, and everyone else in our group hang out every weekend. We do shit nonstop, this is the one time I'm hanging out with them since like, what, a month ago?" "I'm sorry man, I just hope this doesn't fuck up our plan. Been waiting on that day for years nigga, and now, it's finally possible." Noah sighed, "Yeah... yeah, we'll be good." As quick as he woke up, Noah and Jain pulled into the driveway of the diner. Noah rolled down and leaned out his window to see all the girls, except Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack, sitting in the same booth from last time. "Alright my good man," Noah began as he reached for his wallet, "Here's your pay." Noah opened his wallet and retrieved a crisp twenty-dollar bill. Jain chuckled, "What are the chances they have the same currency as us, am I right?" "Yeah nigga, I don't understand any of this shit." Noah opened the passenger door and exited. "I'll see you later, a'ight?" Jain nodded and waved, "See ya." As quickly as they arrived, Jain pulled out of the diner's driveway and drove away. Presumably to his house. Noah turned to the diner, "Alright then. Let's get this over with." He entered the diner, It was quite populated, but not as much as a certain fast food place for the obese. Just the way he remembered. He began down the left side of the diner, recognized as soon as he turned. "Well well, looks like he did decide to show up," Rainbow Dash jeered. He honestly hadn't heard her voice in quite some time. He waved as he approached the table. From the side he was facing, Sunset Shimmer whipped her head around and Noah felt that stupid feeling return to his cheeks as a bright and genuine smile graced her face. "Noah! Hi!" He finally reached the table and found Fluttershy on the inside next to Sunset. "What's good guys? What are we here for?" Sunset shrugged as Noah took a seat next to her, "We're just here to hang out. We decided this time that it'd be nice to invite you." "Yeah," Fluttershy added, "Now that you're here, we're just waiting on Rarity and Applejack." Rainbow raised an eyebrow, "What about Pinkie Pie?" Fluttershy shrugged, "Pinkie said something about going party-cannon shopping. But I don't think they sell cannons regardless." "Yeah well, that's Pinkie for ya," Rainbow Dash replied. Noah cleared his throat, "So uh... you guys happen to know of any like... you know... places where you can pay to have a good time?" "A casino?" Sunset asked, and Noah replied, "No no, like a club that has... stuff." Rainbow cocked her head, "What type of stuff?" "You know... like... stuff." Fluttershy rubbed the back of her neck in confusion, "Noah, what are you talking about?" Noah rubbed the back of his own neck, "C'mon guys, a club that has certain goodies and lights and music... and bitches..." Sunset crossed her arms, "Noah, nobody here knows what you're talking about. The only thing that it sounds like you're talking about is that club behind the local cider store." "I-I, what? Are you guys serious? H-How do you people... what the hell?" As Noah began to wonder, the noise of the door ringing caught his attention and he whirled his head around. It was Rarity and Applejack. Rainbow noticed them second and waved over to them. They both turned and beamed as they began towards the booth. Rarity reached them first, "Hello girls, and boy, we've arrived." Rainbow stepped out of the booth and let them in. Applejack going first. "Okay good, listen, I have a question that these other niggas are too daft to understand." Rainbow and Sunset scoffed simultaneously. "Of course darling, what do you have to ask?" "Do you know of a place where I can like... you know... a club that has certain... things..." Applejack cocked her head, "Uh... w-w-what are you talking about?" "Oh come the hell on, not even you two? At least Rarity!" Rarity shrugged, "No, I haven't a clue." Rainbow crossed her arms, "Just tell us, we aren't playing this guessing game all day." "For motherfuck's sake, a strip club goddamnit!" The entire diner spun around, abashed, and gaped at the words that fell out of Noah's voice. Children's ears were covered, along with the elderly's. Noah stuttered, "Uh... see what happened was... uh... I, uh... lost a strip mining contest... at a club... and uh... I was kinda mad... sorry." Noah turned back to face the girls and was met with a series of faces, including Applejack’s which twitched, clearly saying, 'Smart move, dumbass.' "Still with those anger issues, huh Noah?" Sunset muttered. "Don't tempt me, kid." "Noah, I've got a question," Rarity stated, and Noah raised an eyebrow. "When you transformed, your hair turned a bright white. Care to explain that?" "How the hell should I know? I just know I look like a weird white-haired super saiyan. And that's pretty damn cool." Fluttershy tilted her head, "What's a super saiyan?" "It's a whole thing really, and there's probably an entire goddamn prophecy about my hair over in that Equestria place. But in reality, none of it makes any fuckin' sense." "Well," Sunset began, "What about your normal hair?" "Oh my word, yes!" Rarity added, making Applejack flinch in a manner that didn't seem to be pain. "I thought I was the only one who didn't understand why he'd pick such a hairstyle!" Noah crossed his arms, "What's wrong with my hair?" Rarity slammed her left hand on the table, "It's bland! Unbelievably bland! It's just a buzzcut! It hasn't even been trimmed! It has no color, no pattern, no form, it's just... there! Why?!" "Maybe it's because I'm a simple-ass nigga that doesn't give a shit about what his hair looks like unless it actually matters! And again, I'm not from here! Where I come from, people only fuck around with their hair for some stupid-ass reasons. It's normal and easier to just have hair instead of making it unique!" "But-" "Guys! Can we order already!? We've been here for nearly an hour talking about boring stuff," Rainbow Dash shouted, but not loud enough to be causing a commotion. "Y-Yeah, I-I agree with R-Rainbow. L-Let's eat and, oh fuck, get this over with," Applejack stuttered. Noah raised an eyebrow, "Uh... you alright, Old Town Road?" "Oh, it's no big deal. Just Applejack being Applejack. We're ready to order." Noah shrugged, "Alright. So... who's paying for my meal?" The booth went as silent as the night woods. The girls all looked at each other, except Applejack, unbeknownst to whom was going to pay. They hadn't talked earlier, just assumed someone would. "I'm saving up for a skirt," Rarity stated. "I'm saving up for a new guitar," Rainbow Dash Stated. "I was gonna head down to the pet store for something." The silence returned. Not a peep from any of them escaped. They knew one of them had to pay, but that meant one of them would be setback from something they wanted for a while. And Applejack just wasn't up for debate. "I'll pay for him," Sunset stated. Noah whipped his head around, "Woah, woah, Sunset, you don't have to pay! You, uh, you shot Adagio in the eye for Fall, remember? Look, you don't have to-" "I know," Sunset began, "But it's the right thing to do. After all, you bought me this outfit, so it's only fair." Noah stammered, "N-Nigga, it was Christmas! The Season of Giving and shit!" "Noah relax! It's the month of love, so this is a nice thing to do during that month. Think of it as your Valentine's gift from me." Noah looked to the others, they shrugged. He sighed, "You don't actually have to pay, I was just joking." Sunset waved him off, "Relax Noah, I insist." Noah crossed his arms, "Well... fine... thanks..." Sunset nodded and raised her hand, "Waiter! We're ready to order!" "Mm... mmm... mmmmmmmmm..." "You don't have to moan while you eat, you know that, right?" Rainbow Dash questioned, and Noah responded. "How the hell was I supposed to know they sold ribs? Last time I just said whatever and got good stuff, but this is amazing!” "Okay, but is it so unbelievably delicious that you have to moan like that?" Noah nodded. "Can I have one?" Sunset asked, and Noah handed her one of the smaller ribs. She took a bite, "Wow, this is incredible. But, I don't think it's moan-worthy." Noah stared her down with daggers, "Bull-shit." The waiter returned with one last dish, Rarity's. "Here you go ma'am," he spoke, "Enjoy." Rarity looked around the table, everyone was enjoying their own food. Quickly and covertly, Rarity raised her right hand, causing Applejack to flinch again, stuck them in her mouth, and then sucked them clean as she removed them. An unusual act surely, but it wouldn't matter if nobody saw. Except someone did see... "So Sunset," Noah asked as Sunset pulled out of the diner's driveway. Noah was dropped off here, so he needed a ride back if he wanted to go home. "Yeah?" She replied. "So, I noticed a lil something-something at the diner. When Rarity and Applejack came to the booth, Applejack went first and Rarity went second. But, Rarity sat down with her hand right above Applejack's lap. And it didn't move from there until she ate." Sunset raised an eyebrow, "What are you saying?" Noah crossed his arms, "Sunset, Applejack was stuttering. AJ never once appeared to me as the type of person to stutter. Not only that but could you seriously not hear those slight moans?" Sunset shrugged, "Rarity said she was doing alright." Noah put a finger to his chin, "Probably because she was the reason Applejack was moaning. And I think you know exactly how." Sunset felt her head thump like a drum, "No way! That's... could it... maybe, I-I... oh sweet Celestia." "That's right. Those two secretly hate each other and were fuckin’ around under the table!" Sunset slapped Noah with the back of her hand. "Ow! What the sweet fuck you ass-canister!' "They don't secretly hate each other, you idiot! They're in love! Oh, that's so sweet." Noah rubbed the side of his face, "Well that's a disgusting place to do and show it... albeit, it was kinda hot." "Shut up, Noah..." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say. ) Intermission V - Knock Knock... Again (TBR)Author's Note A Second Time, She Came Knocking... Intermission V - Knock Knock... Again (TBR) FOUR MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT Sierra. Such a beautiful and unique name. With her short black hair and smooth chocolate skin. Her lovely green eyes and gorgeous figure. The way she spoke, so caringly. The way she moved, so gracefully. Why did she have to go? Why did the Sirens do what they did? Why couldn't they just leave? Why did they have to attack her on that day? The day the world stood still. Why couldn't the world be a better place overall? These questions ran rampant through Noah's head as he stared at a photo of his deceased beloved in his bed. Years had passed, the Sirens had been dealt with, but he still didn't feel whole. He meant what he said when he spared Sonata, but a part of him felt like shooting himself in the foot for letting her get away. He wanted justice, but he couldn't believe that's how it'd be fulfilled. He wondered if his plan would help. If that hole would be filled, but he kept thinking about Sunset. She was like Sierra reincarnated, but he knew that didn't exist. Nonetheless, Sunset was remarkable. She was almost better than Sierra, but Noah couldn't understand his feelings. Should he love her? Or should he just go with his plan? Did she love him? And if so, when was she going to make a move? He gazed at the window, at the stars. They twinkled and shined like sumptuous diamonds. He always thought of Sierra that way. Like a diamond. But far in the distance, he saw the setting sun. He thought of Sunset again. She's known Noah for much longer, despite their history, and has managed to touch his heart. Why? Why was Sunset so... enchanting? He reminisced of when she hugged him during Christmas Eve. It felt warm and genuine, just like Sierra's. Maybe, there was more to her than he thought. Maybe... maybe she was there for a reason. An angel sent to ease his pain. As he was hers, maybe. He wondered, how unimaginable Sunset's lips would feel against his own. He wondered how incomprehensible her bare skin would feel against his own. He wanted her, he wanted something to fill the void, but what was he supposed to do if she denied? Would he just go with the plan? What would she think of him? A coward? A swine? A joke? A memory? The opportunity opened up for him, why shouldn't he? If he does, it won't affect her. But what if it did? What if she did love him? What would she do? He had to know. It was a matter of love and life. He needed to know whether or not she loved him as much as he did once and for all, and he knew how. Something was coming up in the next month, he forgot what it was, but it'd be the perfect way to get his answer. He'll run his plan until the end to find out, then he'll truly decide. Yes! It was a perfect idea, and it all depended on Sunset. He hoped she loved him. He didn't want to go through with the plan, but he knew his friends would. But he just couldn't fathom doing that to Sunset. She was flawless. *KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK* "Well... that's unexpected..." "Sunset, are you fuckin' serious? No mention, no head's up, no nothing. You just show up at with a suitcase, a sleeping bag, and more shit to my house at fuckin' 10:00 at night?" "Look, I couldn't sleep! A-And I wanted to surprise you!" Noah stuttered, "Motherfucker, I have shit to do! I was gonna do my thing and head to bed! How the hell are we supposed to have a sleepover?" "How everybody has a sleepover, sleep-over." Noah rolled his eyes, "Sunset, we're good friends, but this is dumb. You didn't tell me jack shit." Sunset rushed up to Noah, "Look, I'm sleeping over, and there isn't a thing that you can do to stop me!" "Excuse me, kid?" Sunset got up in his face, "Noah, let me sleep over." Noah crossed his arms, "You're lucky a nigga like me is so nice." "Yes, I am." Sunset neared the living room, spread the area by pushing the couches and the footrest out, and laid her sleeping bag out in the middle. "Do you have a sleeping bag?" "Of course, because that was at the top of my list when I was escaping a nation with the help of a glowing metal amulet around my neck." Sunset smiled, "We can share if you want?" "I have blankets. I'll be back." Noah unfolded his arms and began upstairs. He opened the hallway closet and retrieved two blankets and a pillow. He returned downstairs to find Sunset unpacking her suitcase. "This is ridiculous, you know that?" Sunset shrugged, "Don't act like this isn't something nice. Sleepovers can be more fun when there are just two good friends instead of several simple friends." "Yeah, but... ugh, whatever kid.” Noah approached the area the couches surrounded and laid out his blankets and pillow. He grabbed it and tried to fluff it up. "Uh, I still have to shower Noah." He slapped his face, "Goddamnit, that's right. Look, head upstairs and to the right near the bathroom, there's a large closet. There's plenty of towels up there, take your pick." Finishing laying out her clothes, Sunset stood up and began upstairs. She opened the closet and found a large white towel. She grabbed it, threw it over her shoulder, and entered the bathroom. Noah sat downstairs, This isn't what I had in mind, dude. I meant at school, not here. This is weird, dumb, and too much of a fuckin’... never mind. Noah laid in the darkness next to Sunset. She claimed that she showed up to get a good night's sleep, but it'd been nearly an hour and she was wide awake. "So uh... how have you been?” Noah asked, and Sunset sighed, "I've been... better. Recently I... I've been thinking about my life. How it's going, where it's going... when it'll stop. The usual." "Oh, sounds a lot like my own problems, just without the soul-crushing despair of loss." Sunset faced him, "What was it like? Living in a world of people like yourself. When the world wasn't under siege of chaos." Noah closed his eyes, "It was... beautiful, in a sense. I used to think it was hell, everyone did. That what happened was just the way the world worked, and it was. But it wasn't all bad." "Looking back, I took everything for granted. I wish I didn't, I wish I could've stopped mourning and bitching and crying myself to sleep. I wish I could've just... lived." "I remember before it happened. Life got hard, but it was Goddamn delightful. I remember hating going to camps and after-schools, but it was just me." "I remember being in elementary school and how we slowly grew up and became the figures we idolized for years. I remember how in middle school we started becoming grown men and women. How fuckin' weird puberty was." "I remember my country being crazy and disgusting, but extraordinary. Disastrous things occurred day-to-day, but my heart is more at peace knowing it wasn't their fault." "As for my family, well, we were just another family of loving and humorous people. I remember when I was young, I'd sneak into my brother's bed and sleep there. It'd be annoying to him, but I was a scared four-year-old. Not my fault." "But you can't imagine how dumb I felt when during my last year of elementary school, my younger sister started doing the same thing to me. Albeit, she was only two years younger than me, and I'm four years younger than my brother, but still." "I found it annoying of course, but when I look back, she didn't mean me any harm. She was just scared, like me. I miss those days when I'd wake up and she'd be next to me. I'd act like an ass, but she kept doing it so, it didn't matter.” "Nowadays, the only thing I have to sleep with is my pillow and... nothing I guess. I long for when I get that experience again. I'd love it. It makes sleeping so cozy and pleasant when you wake up." Sunset reddened, "Well... if you want, you and I can do it." Noah's face fell flat, "Sunset, you can't just barge into my house, take a shower, I tell you a sad story, and you wanna make it up by doing the thing I recollected of." "Why not?" Noah struggled to find an answer, "B-Because... I..." Sunset smiled, "Noah, I'm Equestrian. That means that I am born and raised to be a good person and help out no matter what. You lost everything. If doing this will make you feel happy, why can't I?" Noah sighed, "Fine, but how do you wanna do this?" Sunset crawled out of her sleeping bag and rolled it up, leaving it at the feet of the TV stand. She then flung the covers that were on top of Noah over her, and she snuggled in. Facing Noah as he watched. Noah stared at Sunset, she stared back. "So, you getting anything?" Noah's head twitched, 'Y-Yeah, I'm getting something." Sunset grinned, "Good! So, I wanted to talk about something else." "Shoot." Sunset laid her head down on the pillow, "I've been thinking about love," Noah's heart began beating faster than a chaingun. "And I've been wondering about Flash." The chaingun was hit by a train, that was then blown up, and then eaten by a giant wolverine, that was then pulverized, that was then incinerated, that was then extinguished by mustard, and was then incinerated again. "I don't know why, he just... he feels like that type of boy that everybody loves and looks up to. I've wondered what his arms would feel like around me, what his lips would feel like against mine, what his... well... you know what I'm talking about.” Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck! Fuck my stupid black life to Hell and back! "Oh yeah, he seems like the type of dude you'd go well with, I guess." Sunset smiled, "Right!? I feel like if I could get him to love me, everything I'd ever wanted at this place would come true! Best friends, a school that likes me, and someone to hold and caress me." "I'll be honest, I wasn't sure you'd approve, so I'm glad you do. That helps a lot." Noah nodded, "Yeah, no, sure, I got you kid." Noah felt his heart shatter. Sunset grabbed the covers and pulled them closer, "I'm glad we could talk like this. It always helps to speak with a best friend of yours when you aren't sure what to do." Best. Friends... hah... hah hah hah... "Yeah, no, I totally agree. Talking about my problems that should normally lead to crippling depression but instead lead to blinding anger issues is something beneficial." "Great, see you tomorrow?" Noah nodded again and reached for his side of the covers, "Good night kid, sweet dreams." Sunset turned to face the coach and he did the same. Sunset exhaled, a large odd weight had been lifted off her shoulders, and with her best friend of all people. She truly felt satisfied with the day and was anxiously awaiting the next. Noah, on the other hand, sniffled as a single simple tear streamed down his left cheek. He still had the plan, but would it even matter? He felt the shift of Sunset's hair brush over him and he closed his eyes. Fuck my life. Sweet dreams Sunset, sweet fuckin' dreams... "I don't get what's the big deal," Adagio stated as she folded her arms. "Flash! She said fuckin' Flash! She knows I have a bad history with the guy, and she also knows Twilight is fuckin' gay for him, so what the actual hell!" "Females here apparently are always searching for a prince charming to call theirs. If there was one in your school, you should've anticipated that at least one of your friends was going to like him. It's out of your control if that friend is also the one you love.” "How the fuck am I supposed to beat that? The dude's an ass, but he's fuckin' impeccable! Girls drool when thinking of his dumbass limp dick, and half of the girls at the school don't even know I have one!” "He's like every stereotypical white boy in a teenage romance movie to ever fuckin' exist! Every girl goes wild for him! If Sunset has her thoughts on him, I-I'll never get her!" "Flash's ass will swoop down, grab Sunset by her stupid, sexy ass, and fuckin' dip out of their faster than I can say, 'You ass!'" Adagio sighed, "This can be solved easily, you know that right?" Noah cocked his head, "The fuck are you talking about?" "Tell her about it." Noah felt that dumb feeling return, "No!" Adagio suspired, "Then force her too. You have that stupid plan coming up, right? Instead of asking her in the end, show her how much you truly love and care for her. Once the end nears, see whether or not she cracks." "But, what about Flash?" Adagio unfolded her arms, "Indeed, Flash will be a tough opponent, but you have to be willing to fight for Sunset. You have to show her how much greater you are. Then, she won't care for Flash." "But... but what if I try so hard and get so far, but in the end, it doesn't even matter?" Adagio shrugged, "Then it is what it is. You tried and did what you could. You failed, oh well. Move on, it's not like you can't." "But I don't want to move on! Ever since the Battle of the Bands, I've had feelings for her that I thought could never make itself known in my head. I want her, and that's final goddamnit." "Than go get her." Noah felt something jolt through his brain. Like a straight line of blood-red indomitable determination. He looked to Adagio for a moment, something was off. She wasn't acting like her normal self. "What's your deal? You're acting normal. You're acting like a good person, which I know you aren't." Adagio gripped her left shoulder, "Being in this hell has... done things." "I've been seeing all that I've done for what it truly was, fatuous bloodshed. I was a monster. I made my sisters a monster, and I felt no remorse for anyone or anything." "You may not believe me, but everything I've done is so comically stupid, it's a fucking comedy. I wish I didn't do it. I wish I had the heart to see what I was doing to billions of people, and my sisters." "If I could... maybe I wouldn't be here right now. Maybe I wouldn't be dead." Noah felt that sympathy return, "Well, as a victim of your bullshit, I can safely say you're on a better path." Adagio smiled. "Now, I'm gonna go to sleep for real and start the next day. Don't fuck around and do something stupid while I'm gone, got it?" Adagio folded her arms, "Not much to do here regardless..." Noah gently sat down and closed his eyes. As quick as he was there, he was gone. His presence faded into the neverending breeze, and the Super Element, was gone. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) Friendship Games - The Endearment Arc (TBE)Author's Note How ‘Bout Another? (This chapter along with others is to be properly edited mid-late 2021) Friendship Games - The Endearment Arc (TBE) Noah hesitantly yet strenuously opened his eyes as his head fell to his side. The air and wind of the stratosphere to the mesosphere left him in a painful daze as he struggled to catch what little breath he had. He tried to move around as he rose ever so slowly but quickly realized his right arm was broken, the back of his head and back was pouring with pure black blood, and his entire body was covered in shards of glass. What the hell is going on? As Noah's ascension finally came to a halt, he turned his head with the little amount of strength he had to find his left arm was being pulled upwards. Someone had him in their grasp, and their grip was crushing Noah's wrist. "It'd be a shame, really. Such a fucking shame that I had to go through all that work, only for you to repeat the same thing you said to me the other five-six times." Noah couldn't recognize the voice, but he knew that he'd heard it before. Like a returning relative from Thanksgiving, but barely even remembering them being there, yet you know they were. The voice gripped Noah's throat with its other hand, raised him above themselves, and let Noah float limply. He didn't fight against the voice, but his struggles, grunts, and chokes did more than enough to make themselves known that this wasn't a position Noah wanted to be in. Ever. Noah didn't have the strength to face his attacker, but he could see and feel that their hand was enveloped in a purple glow. A magical purple glow. Noah mentally slapped himself, Another magical enemy? How did this happen? "I'll ask you one more time," the voice began. Fury in its voice as it's grip tightened. "Give me the amulet, or die." Noah's eyes' watered at the sight of the setting sun to his side. So high above the clouds, you could see it clear as day in all it's glory. And everything came to him like that. "For the last time you hellspawn, kiss, my, ass." Noah chuckled as the grip on his throat intensified, "Fine... you... you fucking cunt. To hell with you. After I finish everything here, I'll go farther. I'll destroy everything, and you can watch from heaven all of your stupid piece of shit friends get their fucking spines ripped out you worthless fuck." The voice extended it's arm, holding Noah out and far away from itself. Noah closed his eyes, and before he knew it, the voice dropped him and watched as he plunged towards the inevitable ground. Noah didn't even try to land safely, he just let gravity do it's thing. And as Noah reached the clouds, his vision went black. It was over. All, over. FIFTY-SEVEN HOURS EARLIER FIVE MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT ”You know what’s weird?” ”What?” ”You’re Black, but you act so white sometimes. Almost half the time, actually.” ”Nigga, what?!” ”Think about it. You have an interest in weaponry, you drive a black truck, and-” ”Sunset, One: shut up. Two: I have a fascination with weaponry because I play a lot of modern shooters games. Three: That’s not my truck, it's Manex’s. Four: Don’t break character, dipshit, we're in the middle of a fanfic written by some black guy.” Noah and Sunset exited the driveway of the morning donuts and coffee store and began down the road while a song Noah had somehow gotten Sunset to favorite played quietly, just enough for them to hear each other. It had nearly been half a year since that fateful day. When the world's ultimate monsters' revealed themselves, out of the shadows, and Noah, Sunset, and the Rainbooms brought the inevitable hammer of justice and consequence down on their heads with a passion. Since then, life's been good. Noah and Sunset have become the best of friends, Sonata, the siren that got away, has been dealt with by being banished, Noah and Sunset believe that Rarity and Applejack are more than just friends, and life has just been, well, good. At the moment, Noah and Sunset were on their way to school for the third-to-last day of the school week, but not before making a quick stop at their local gun store. "You know, If you've been getting a single magazine every Wednesday for years at this point, doesn't that mean you're stocked to the brim with them?" Noah shrugged, "Uh... maybe? I-I use them for good reason, so it's all good." "Oh really?" "Yep." "And what reason would that be?" "..." Noah dug all around inside his head for an excuse, "...It's not shooting disgusting watermelons in my backyard, that's for sure." Sunset gasped, "You don't like watermelons?" "You do?!" Sunset giggled, "Yes, it's delicious! How do you not like watermelon?" Noah scoffed, "How can you!? It's like taking a bite of an apple made of water! It baffles me that people enjoy that garbage!" "You're kidding!" "No, I am the heck not! It's disgustingly tasteless!" "That doesn't make any sense." "You don't make any sense!" Sunset's face fell flat as she stared at Noah like he was a mental patient from Siberia. "Listen, watermelon, is nasty. Case closed. Besides, grapes are the best fruit anyway." "You like grapes!?" "Are you fuckin' kidding me?!" Before they could go at each other again, Noah stopped instantly as he heard his phone go off. He had received a text. "Hold on, hold on. Let me get this real quick," Noah told Sunset as he sat back into his seat and she rolled her eyes. Noah read the text and found it was from Rainbow Dash. Noah read it aloud, "'Come to school immediately! It's an emergency! Code red! Code flipping red!' What the? What is she talking about?" "If she says it's an emergency, she could be in danger. We should hurry over there." Noah tried to reason with Sunset, "But, what about the bullets? What if today's the day something really happens?" "Noah, that's not important right now! We need to get to her!" Noah groaned, "Fine! Dang it..." Noah stepped harder on the gas pedal as the light ahead of them turned green. The car began slowly before taking off so fast, a middle-aged mom walking down the street barely had enough time to get off the road before getting hit. Noah pulled into the driveway of CHS and found Applejack and Rainbow Dash standing at the steps. Only, there wasn't a global or even a local destruction event occurring, perplexing Sunset and Noah. Sunset stepped out of the passenger seat as Noah turned off the car and stepped out himself. "We got your text Rainbow Dash, did something come through the portal?" Sunset asked as she shut the passenger door closed. "Is Equestrian magic on the loose? Did Twilight come back with a problem that only we can solve?" "You brought us here for something stupid, didn't you?" Rainbow Dash opened a guitar case in front of her and stood up, "Uh, not exactly." Noah's face fell flat while Sunset raised an eyebrow. "Uh... so what did you text us for?" Rainbow Dash turned around with a guitar Noah recognized. He had bought it a week before their Christmas party. It had a loose string, and Noah's eye twitched. "Well Sunset, Ah was just tellin' Rainbow Dash here that a broken guitar string doesn't really qualify as an emergency." Noah made a fist, "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?" "W-Well, it totally does qualify!" Noah's eye twitched, "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?" Rarity entered the picture, it turned out that everyone had received Rainbow's text. "Really Rainbow Dash? I was in the middle of sowing a very complex applique on my latest frock." Fluttershy also entered said picture, "And I was just about to tuck everyone in for the night at the shelter. Now we'll have to start stories all over again." "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?" "I agree, why would you send all of us an emergency text for a guitar string?" Rainbow Dash pointed behind her at three freshman girls, "Well, I was going to pony-up and show our fans some awesome guitar licks, but I kinda need all six strings to do it. Got any spares?" "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?!" "Yeah, that's already been established. So, ya got a spare?" Noah chuckled as his eye twitched uncontrollably, "Yeah, yeah I got a spare." Noah walked over to Rainbow and gestured for the guitar. She handed it to him and Noah took a deep breath. "How much would you say this cost?" "Uh, about, four... no, five hundred dollars. And it was on a Christmas sale, so technically it was a grand. The perfect steal!" Noah nodded, "Nice, nice... such a shame too." "Wha-" Before Rainbow Dash could finish, Noah brought the guitar over his head and smashed it against the concrete path, a fire in his eyes so hot it could cook a pig in seconds. He ran over to his car, swung open the driver's door, placed the guitar in between the door and the car, and shut the door several times, completely severing the body of it. He then ripped what was left of the body out of the car door, gripped the neck like it was a lance, and rushed towards the CHS statue/portal, and crushed the neck of the guitar until it looked like an overly sharpened pencil from a nerdy fourth grader. Noah took multiple deep breaths before slowly returning to Rainbow Dash and shoving it into her grip. "I'll buy you a new one," he slightly shouted as he began up the steps of the school, swung open the door, and slammed it behind him. Giving the main entrance door five new cracks. Everyone on the school entrance was left in utter shock as no words could find a way out of each others' mouths. "Well... I guess that's why you don't mess with a super element," Applejack spoke up. Rainbow Dash gawked at the torn-to-shreds mess of a guitar and dropped it before moving another muscle. "So, uh... see you guys in class?" Rarity spoke up, receiving multiple signs and sayings of approval from her friends. They all awkwardly began inside, along with the freshmen girls following behind, except Rainbow and Sunset. "Uh... if it makes you feel any better, he said he'll buy you another? A-And who knows, it could be much better than that one, and more expensive! S-So technically, i-it's a win-win, right?" Rainbow didn't respond; she just turned around, began inside, and erased the memory from her head. TWENTY MINUTES LATER -Dear Princess Twilight... How's life treating you in Equestria? Any cool new magic spells? It's been pretty quiet the last five months here at CHS since the Battle of the Bands. We still pony-up when we play music, which Rainbow Dash just loves to show off. But I still can't quite grasp what it's all about. I would love to hear what you think about it when you get the chance. -Your Friend, Sunset Shimmer Sunset closed the book as a metro bus pulled up to the school. An odd figure wearing jeans, purple sneakers, a baggy cadet blue hoodie, and oddly glinting black glasses stepped off of it. They pulled a strange device, which didn't look physically possible, out of their hoodie pocket, and fidgeted with it. Like they were trying to get it set up for something. They wandered towards the portal while turning a dial back and forth like they were attempting to receive or catch a signal of some sort. As they stood before it, they raised it to scan the entire statue, like they knew something was inside or mysterious about it. They came around the other side, entering Sunset's vision, and proceeded to scan the front as they did the back. They placed a hand on the statue's portal, and their touch lit up the portal in the spot they interacted with. The sound the portal emitted from the figure's touch promptly got Sunset's attention as she perked up. The figure continued to touch the portal in all of its corners before turning another dial. Sunset called out, "Hey!" And the figure instantly realized they weren't alone. "What are you doing?!" The figure turned to run, startled and fearful. Sunset stood up off the stairs and began after her. "Wait!" She cried, confused. As the figure reached the street, with Sunset on her tail, they dashed forward as fast as they could to avoid an oncoming car, that Sunset was unfortunate to find stopping her from pursuing. The same bus from before pulled up on the other side of the street, and the figure quickly boarded it, slipping as it's doors opened. The bus drove off as Sunset tried to stop it, leaving a dust cloud behind. "Who was that?" Sunset asked as she scratched her head. "Who was what?" "Ah! Noah?!" "Sup." "Don't do that! You nearly gave me a heart attack!" "Oh really? That's horrible! I apologize miss Shimmer, I shall be oh so careful next time I approach you." "Shut up." Noah stood next to Sunset and stared in the same direction she did. "So, who was what?" Sunset took a deep breath, "Someone came up and started messing with the portal with some strange device. It looked too advanced for them judging by their figure, so I'm completely lost. Why are you out here?" "I remembered I left my bookbag out here, and the fact that I have to park my car in an actual parking lot. What were you doing here?" Sunset shrugged, "Just, writing to Twilight. It's been a minute since we last saw her." "True, true... Breakfast is still open, you wanna head in? I'll pay if you want." Sunset blushed, "Oh, uh, yeah sure, b-but I can pay." Noah put his hands in his pockets, "A'ight, if you insist nigga." Noah nudged Sunset and started back towards the school. Sunset stared at the open road before eventually joining him. "So, what do they have for breakfast this morning?" "I didn't check, but Lyra told me it was pancakes. But then her girlfriend told me it was waffles. And then they had a stupid fight in the middle of the lockers like a fuckin'-" "Noah, come on now. What did we say about swearing?" Noah groaned, "Like a friggin' middle-aged married couple. Better for you, princess?" "Much better." PART 1: XI - Our Eternal Rivals (TBE)Author's Note It's Been Real... PART 1: XI - Our Eternal Rivals (TBE) "They were definitely doing something to the statue." "Oh great, this again." "Or was going to." The Rainbooms had settled inside the library an hour later. They were gathering their thoughts and preparing for the rest of their Wednesday, although Sunset was talking nonstop about the strange figure that showed up this morning, and it was getting on Noah's last nerve. "Do you think they came through the portal from Equestria?" Fluttershy questioned whilst rubbing her pet rabbit from her book bag. "No, I'm pretty sure I would've noticed that. I think they were from over here." "Well, that's a relief. The last thing we need is another magical so-and-so bent on global domination comin' over from Equestria," Applejack replied while leaning back in her chair. It wasn't like she was wrong, of course. Magical mishaps seemed to have some sort of schedule, or not, it's unclear as of now. "Agreed," Rarity began. "I have no interest in another fight against the forces of evil magic. The wear and tear on my wardrobe is just too much to keep up with." "Still," Sunset continued. "A mysterious figure snooping around the portal, don't you wanna know what they were up to?" Noah scoffed, "Sunset, I'm gonna put it bluntly, nobody cares. If someone from Earth, as a planet, is snooping around that thing, it's gonna take centuries until they figure out how that works." "But if they already know it's not natural, don't you think they'll put all their time and effort into figuring it out?" Noah rolled his eyes, "Sunset, hundreds have already witnessed things that aren't possible, period, and nobody has batted an eye at all! Not to mention they've witnessed it twice!" "Well," Rainbow Dash began, coming from around a bookshelf. "You don't have to, because I've totally figured out who it was!" "Oo! Oo! The nighttime statue cleaner?! A magical portal maintenance maintainer?! A gardener!?" Pinkie exclaimed, her unstoppable and uncontainable enthusiasm surfacing once again. "Seeing as how they got off a bus from the city and got back on a bus headed to the city, I'll bet they go to-" "Crystal Prep," the girls, excluding Sunset, all finished simultaneously. "Yep," Rainbow continued. "With the Friendship Games starting tomorrow, they'd totally try to prank us by defacing the Wondercolt statue." "Woah Woah Woah, back it up. One: Who's Crystal Prep? Two: What are the Friendship Games?" Noah questioned, utterly lost. Rarity's face fell flat, "Noah, there is no possible way you don't know what either of those is." "We've gone over this before," Noah continued, "I don't pay attention to the crap on the walls, and I don't know anywhere outside of this damn, er, darn town." "Well, Crystal Prep is CHS' eternal rivals. We've been havin' the Friendship Games every four years, and we go head to head with them," Applejack explained. "The Friendship Games are a series of activities in which we, well, I already explained that part." "Wait wait, these are tomorrow?!" Noah asked, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, why? Was something happening for you tomorrow?" Fluttershy asked, confused. "No, but I do have something on Saturday and I was just trying to get through the rest of the week, it's how my parents raised me." Sunset tilted her head, "What's happening on Saturday?" "I'm going home." The Rainbooms stared in puzzlement, Sunset replied, "Noah, we all go home at the end of school, what are you talking about?" Noah shook his head, "No no, I mean home home." The Rainbooms continued to stare. "Oh!" Pinkie replied, "He means he's going back to Earth! You're going back to Earth?!" The Rainbooms' eyes grew wide, "Yep, she got it," Noah confirmed. Sunset felt her heart stop for a moment, "Y-You're going back? W-Why are you going back? Don't you live here now?" Rainbow Dash stood up, "Yeah, what are you going back for? We thought this was like your new home! With us!" "Well, my friends and I have been planning this for a while, a week before we went to that diner actually. Since the Sirens' had been defeated, and since they were the reason for all the crap back on Earth, we'd thought that we could return to a more peaceful planet." "We gave it time, and it turned out life off this island, or whatever, had gotten much better. Crime rates dropped incredibly, nuclear weapons are being disposed of, hell, China and Russia joined NATO! You have no clue how much of a big deal that is!" "With life returning to a happier time, we'd decided that it was time we went back home. Sure, living here in Canterlot City was nice and all, but we were really just here to find ourselves, and we've obviously done that. So, we've packed our bags, or we're going to, and we'll head to the boat we used to get here, turn it around, and head back to America." "B-But, what about all of that robbing and what not? W-Won't they just arrest you?" Sunset stammered, and Fluttershy agreed. "She's right, weren't you living here to escape the threats back home? If you go back, they'll just arrest you!" "We were wearing masks, you igits, they don't know who we are, neither do they care as much about a couple of teens robbing small stores. We'll just go back, and since we aren't adults yet, use foster care as a means of getting back on our feet and ready to enter the world." "Okay, but what about us? Aren't we ya friends? Y'all just gonna up and leave like we was just a couple of pick-me-ups?" Applejack replied, slightly betrayed. "Look, you guys are six of the dumbest, but greatest friends I'll ever have the opportunity to meet in my life. Nobody's ever gonna replace you, and I'll never forget you guys, but this is our lives we're talking about." "If we decide to return home, then I should expect my best friends to respect our decision and give me their best wishes." Rarity sighed, "Well darling, you're not wrong. If you truly desire to return to your home, then it's not right for us to be against it. Though you were a serious but mysterious jerk to us in the beginning, you'll be remembered as a great friend of ours 'till the end." "Yeah, Ah guess that's fair," Applejack added. "We gotta make these last two days twenty percent cooler than!" Rainbow Dash added. "Oh! We need a going away party! I'll host it for you and your friends!" Pinkie Pie added. "Oh, it's gonna be such a shame to see you go though, but, it's your choice, and I'm completely on board!" Fluttershy added, quietly shouting. Noah smiled, "What about you kid? We all good?" Sunset stared and tried to speak, but nothing came out. Out of all the friends Sunset had acquired, Noah was the only true friend. He wasn't asked to be her friend by an Equestrian princess, he chose to be hers, and he was her best of all things! He took her to restaurants, they had sleepovers, talked on the phone for hours, went swimming, and sometimes they just relaxed with each other on a hill underneath a tree. Now he's leaving!? Seriously?! How was that fair?! Sunset didn't want her first true friend's friendship to end after half a year! She didn't want it to end ever! But not only will she lose him, but he can't return either, meaning he'll be gone forever! Her only true friend, gone for all of eternity, never to be seen or heard from again. But maybe Sunset wasn't afraid to lose him as a friend, maybe she was afraid to lose him, period. Meaning... she'd never get that chance... that chance to... that chance to- "Hey! Kid! You still there? What, did you just go stupid on me or something?" Sunset returned to Earth and stuttered, "I-I-I, u-uh, aren't we supposed to be heading to the gym for a rally?!" The Rainbooms examined the library to find that it was empty, almost like all life was just snapped out of existence. And Sunset was right, they were supposed to be heading to the gymnasium for a rally. It seemed Noah's news had tuned them out from reality. "Oh crap, she's right! I'm one of the speakers! We gotta go, now!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, appalled that she'd forgotten so easily. "Oh, well, we'll come back to this. C'mon y'all, before we get written up," Applejack replied, and the Rainbooms began for the gymnasium, despite a certain someone still feeling woeful. "You know what I've just realized kid?" "What?" "There's barely any other students here. Matter of fact, there wasn't a lot at the Battle of the Bands or even the Fall Formal. What's with that? Is this school secretly dead inside or something?" "That's because not everyone goes to the events, Noah." "Oh... well, then there must be a crap ton of social outcasts here." The Rainbooms had arrived at the gymnasium and sat through said rally. Rainbow Dash, on the other hand, was indeed a speaker at said rally, and she somehow managed to turn it into a musical number no less. Despite hiding her sorrow, Sunset was still terribly out of sorts for her friend, though he seemed to show no feeling or even any compassion about leaving, and Sunset wondered if he cared at all. "Christ, Rainbow sure does love going, uh, pony mode a lot. I'll never understand the enthusiasm and enjoyment of becoming part horse for the life of me," Noah spoke up. "Noah," Sunset began, "When you go back to Earth, what do you plan on doing? Besides what you already told us, obviously." Noah shrugged, "Once I'm back in an American school, I'll finish my final year, graduate, go to college, meet a girl, black-haired hopefully, date for a while, get married, have kids, grow old, retire, find a beach in Hawaii to live on, grow even older, die, and spend eternity with my family and friends." Sunset raised an eyebrow and stared for a bit. "Well, that's quite the list... Can I ask why you mentioned girls with black hair?" Noah itched his neck, "Well, I don't know why, to be honest. There's just something about a girl with black hair that just feels so... enticing. That, and the fact that I've spent nearly half a decade looking at girls with the weirdest hairstyles ever witnessed by mankind. I once saw a girl with purple loops in her hair! Loops, Sunset! Loops!" "That's Rarity, Noah." "... right..." "Rainbow Dash, that, was amazing! Even I feel like we can win." Fluttershy quietly exclaimed. After Rainbow Dash's strange musical number, the Rainbooms had gathered backstage to congratulate her." "Yeah, what she said. Though to be honest, I wasn't really watching," Noah added, and Rainbow Dash's face fell flat. "You were sitting in the front row." "Yeah, but kid over here kept asking me questions." Sunset cocked her towards Noah, "I asked you one question!" "One question, too many." "Are you serious?" "Probably." "Well, I feel like my school pride is at an all-time high!" Rarity squealed. "Isn’t anybody else wonderin' how dash ponied-up without playin’ her guitar? You know, besides Noah smashin' it this mornin'?" Applejack questioned, filling the room with a slightly awkward feel. "I know, right? It's probably because I'm so awesome!" Rainbow Dash replied, while Noah simply responded, "Eh." "Maybe, I mean, you are awesome, but there's gotta be more to it than that, right?" Sunset suspected whilst rubbing her chin. "It just seems so random." "Well, it would be nice if you guys could get a handle on it," replied a voice from behind. It was the Vice Principal, Luna. "We'd like to keep said magic as far away from the Friendship Games as possible. We don't want to be accused of cheating in any sort." "And as for you, Rictorshine." "Ah, Christ on a cross.” "We'll need you to keep any, and all forms of improper dialect or any obscene and vulgar actions even further than possible. Though being called cheaters is bad, we don't need them thinking our students are nothing but squalid, inappropriate, mischievous, young delinquents." "Anytime." "That is, if you are taking part in the Friendship Games, of course." "Am I?" "Yes." "Alright then." "Well as for our magic," Rarity began, "We won't even need it to defeat those hoity-toity Crystal Preppers." And her fellow friends cheered and hollered in agreement. "Still, the Friendship Games are serious business." "Eh." "We don't want any surprises. Especially the kind that could force or cause us to forfeit. Sunset Shimmer, you came here from a world of magic, how you managed to enroll here, I'm dumbfounded, perhaps you can get to the bottom of our magical development. The library and what not is quite large, so I'll allow you to pick a partner of your choice." "I'll do my best, as for my partner..." Sunset slowly turned her head to Noah and smirked. "No, what, why? Why me?" Sunset crossed her arms, "Noah, if you're only gonna be here for three more days, there's no harm in learning what you can about magic before you leave." "Why would I spend time learning about something I'm never gonna need?" "Why do we do anything? Besides, can't you do this one thing for me?" "What about Pinkie Pie?" "You and I both know I don't have the sanity for that." Luna crossed her arms, "Noah, it is not up for debate. Sunset has chosen her partner, and you shall oblige. Otherwise, there's a nice comfy desk and chair over in detention if you want to be written up for insubordination." "Of course there is." Luna nodded and made her way off of the stage and out of the gymnasium. "Okay, anybody have any guesses what the events are gonna be?" Rainbow Dash asked, curious. "Pie eating? Cake eating? Pie-cake eating?!" Pinkie exclaimed, her obstinate zeal making itself known once again. "They won't even let us see what they're doin' to the field. You'd think they'd at least tell the competitors what they're competin' in," Applejack replied, annoyed. "It could be anything," Fluttershy said with wonder in her voice. "Anything!? How will I ever pick the right outfit?" Noah snickered, "You are just the definition of dramatization, aren't you Rarity?" To which Rarity replied by rolling her eyes and crossing her arms. "I, well, we really wanna help-" "Eh." "But, I think we better go focus on figuring out why Rainbow Dash ponied up. We'll see you later! Come on Noah, we'll start at the library," Sunset finished, and Noah groaned. "Ugh, this gonna be worse than explaining world war two to a toddler." Noah, following Sunset, made their way off stage and out the gymnasium, on their way to the library. "Seems like they've got everything under control! Nothing to worry about," Pinkie exclaimed, oddly joyful. Inside the library, Noah and Sunset sat at one of the tables surrounded by books. Albeit, not much was getting done. "Ugh, this isn't working!" Sunset blurted, irritated. "What?" "We've been here for nearly an hour, and we haven't gotten anything done! I knew it'd be difficult, but we haven't even found a single word to help us!" "Well, it isn't my fault!" "I didn't say it was..." "Oh... well... why not ask Twilight? Isn't she like the princess of magic and shit?" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Princess of Friendship." "Same thing." "Ugh, well, maybe I can ask her since nothing else is helping right now. Can you hand me my book? Since we switched seats, it should be in my bookbag over there." "Got you," Noah replied and opened Sunset's bookbag. It was full of a common teenage girl's school items. Paper, binders, folders, pencil cases, a diary that had way too many doodles and painted drawings on it, rulers... "Here we go, big fat brown book with a weird red and orange sun smack dab in the middle of the cover." Noah handed the book to Sunset along with his pen, she thanked him and opened up said book. -Dear Twilight... Haven't heard back from you yet. I guess you must be pretty busy with your role as a princess. Not that I'm jealous or anything. Right now, I could really use your advice. "Sunset, we're trying to figure another stupid magical thingy out, can we maybe get this done today?" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Funny, feels like I've said the same thing to you several times." "I don't know what you're talking about..." "Sure," Sunset replied, giggling at Noah's simple yet bizarre humor. She returned to the book, fidgeting with the pen, and continued. You see, I've been given the job of keeping magic under control here at CHS. Even though I still haven't quite wrapped my head around it. "Kid! Today!" "I know! Go do something!" And now, after seeing Rainbow Dash pony-up the way she did, it makes me think her magic might be... changing. "Sunset, for fuck's sake!" "I got it!" Everyone is looking to me- "Sunset!" "What, damn it!?" "Just ask her the question!" "What do you think I'm doing!?" "You're telling her your life story!" "No, I'm not!" "Just ask her the question and get it done! It's not a message to the king of Goddamn Babylon!" "I know that! Just let me do me! Go get us some chips or something!" "For Christ's sake..." "Go!" -to figure things out, and I really don't wanna let them down. But I'm not sure I have enough experience with friendship magic to solve this. I could really use your help, and any at all would be much appreciated. Noah returned with two bags of barbecue chips and sat down. Sunset closed the book and rested her head in her arms on the table. "Did ya finish?" Noah asked. "No thanks to you, yes." Noah stared at Sunset. Sunset stared at Noah. "Don't lie, that was pretty funny," Noah replied, chuckling. "Like a sitcom," Sunset replied before giggling herself. And even though they were only slightly laughing, it soon turned into uncontrollable laughter as if they just witnessed the funniest video of all time. All the while, every face in the library was white with pure confusion and terror. (Please leave a comment, I enjoy reading what say. Along with any criticism, it’s required to make this book as great as can be.) XII - Behind Enemy LinesSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.XIV - Another Brand New ProblemAuthor's Note Because One Wasn't Enough... XIV - Another Brand New Problem TWENTY-FOUR HOURS EARLIER "What do ya mean it's gone?" "As in somebody just shot dead an entire universe, gone." The Rainbooms made their way to the gymnasium for Crystal Prep's welcoming party. While on their way there, Sunset and Noah explained to the other Rainbooms what happened hours ago, and Sunset was in a terrible mood. "Well," Rainbow Dash began, "How'd that happen?" They entered the gymnasium and Sunset pointed. "We don't know, but it has something to do with that Twilight." Said Twilight was following that same compass-like device for something she'd picked up. She walked into a wall. "What in tarnation is she up to?" Applejack questioned, confused, and Sunset raised a fist. "Leave that to me." She began towards Twilight and the others raised an eyebrow at Noah. "What?" Rarity scoffed, "Aren't you gonna stop her?" "What, is she my responsibility now or something?" "Noah, you're the only one who can get through to her more than we can." Noah groaned, "Fuck me." He speed-walked over to Sunset before she did something she'd regret, but he was a little late as his phone lit up. "Twilight," Sunset called to her. Anger and suspicion in her voice. "What have you been up to?" Twilight started to sweat in slight fear and startlement, "Me? Oh, I-I uh..." "Who wants to know?" A girl with short dark and light-cyan hair with goggles on top stepped in front of Twilight and brought a finger to Sunset's chest. She wore the same outfit as her, only differing in wrist gauntlets and rolled up sleeves. "Um, we do." Rainbow Dash stepped forward, bringing her own finger to the girl's chest and pushing her back. This only angered the girl more as she furrowed her eyebrows. Applejack stepped in between the two pushed them away from each other. "Alright y'all, let's not get too competitive before the games even start." "The games aren't really competitive since we've never lost," Another girl replied. She wore the same outfit, red glasses, and her hair was formed into two white ponytails with faint blue accents. "Well, that's not a very kind thing to say," Fluttershy replied. "Sorry deary," another girl began, "But these games aren't about being nice." The girl wore the same outfit and her hair was cut short and colored lavender. "Well, it might require a little tack," Rarity replied. ... "Holy crap, you guys are here." Noah approached a table and took a seat. It was his friends’ , Manex, Jain, CJ, and Fall. Jain shrugged, "Well, we thought if we were gonna be here a little while longer, might as well lay some pipe." "Yeah," CJ added, "I've been checking out that girl with blonde hair and the weird eyes." Noah turned behind him and spotted her. It was Derpy Hooves. She was talking to some orange-haired girl with a carrot in her hair like a flower. And her signature look was showing, not like she couldn't change that. "Yeah, I've been tryna tell CJ this whole time that she must be disabled. She sounds weird when she talks and can't see properly, why would you wanna hit that?" "You wanted to fuck that Siren girl with the puffy hair, and she tried to fuckin' kill you! You ain't in no position to tell me who I can and can't fuck." Noah raised an eyebrow, "You wanted to fuck Adagio?" Jain shrugged, "W-Well, it was before I knew she had an agenda of world domination and destruction!" "Besides, now I wanna hit that DJ girl." Noah's eyes bulged and he leaned back, "You wanna fuck Vinyl?" Jain shrugged, confused. "Well, why not?" "She's a goddamn mute! She's probably fuckin' deaf!" "So?" "Why would you want that?!" "Hey, you want to fuck that girl that bitched us for years, you can't talk shit nigga." "I don't wanna fuck Sunset!" "So why you always around her?" "Because we're best friends!" "And that just so includes going legit everywhere together?" "... no..." "Lying ass nigga. How you tryna play the game, and then you gon' lie about it?" "Whatever nigga, Manex, who you tryna hit?" Manex chuckled, "I'm tryna get behind that." Manex pointed over to the stage and the boys' jaws dropped. "You tryna get behind Vice Principal Luna?!" "Even better..." "You wanna fuck the principal!?" Manex nodded slowly while continuously staring. Noah looked at CJ, CJ looked at Jain, Jain looked at Noah, and Noah looked at CJ. He ran a hand through his hair, "You're a mad man, you know that Manex?" He chuckled, "Whatever you say. What about you Fall?" Fall shrugged, "I'm just here for these donuts." Noah scoffed, "Fall, c'mon. Surely there's some girl you tryna hit here. Almost everyone here's a girl, and you can't think of one to get at?" "Well..." Fall's eyes darted to someone but returned quickly. Noah turned around to maybe see who he was glancing at, but he couldn't tell. "Okay Fall, we'll remember that," Noah replied, and Fall chuckled. "I bet you will." Noah perked up and turned around to find his other friends and some Crystal Preppers had engaged in a staredown. He sighed, "You know, I'm kinda glad we're leaving. It almost feels like a chore keeping those five from burning the school down." CJ snickered, "They're a couple of girls, what's the worse that can happen?" Noah shrugged, "I don't know, they just feel like more of a burden than you guys. You're more relaxed." Jain set his cup down after taking a sip, "You should just be happy you're in a group like that. Not many dudes can form a group of girls and call them best friends unless they're gay or genuine assholes. Then again, girls from America aren't as bright, so." "Yeah, I know. But I don't know what they're gonna do when I'm gone, especially Sunset. We've done a lot together and I... I actually kinda... like her." Manex groaned, "You like her bruh?" Noah shrugged, "Yeah, I guess. Without the egotistical cunt fuck elements, she's amazing. She's attractive, her hair smells wonderful, and her voice is so... simple. It's an art form to do simple so well and she fuckin' nails it." Fall tilted his head, "You smelled her hair?" Noah stuttered and rubbed the back of his neck, "W-Well, I've hugged her a couple of times s-so, I get a little whiff. She smells like cherry and apple mixed." Jain crossed his arms, "So you're basically saying you do wanna fuck the girl who put us through hell for three years?" Noah rubbed his neck again, "... maybe..." "For fuck's sake nigga." "We already know she's not like that, you even forgave her!" "It's not that easy-" "I know it's not that easy to forgive someone who was such a tool for so long, but it doesn't mean it's impossible. People could do horrible things, a second Hitler could be born. You only know if you're truly human if you're able to forgive that person again and again. Do you really think God's answer to every bad person was to just kill them?" "..." "It's time to drop the grudge. It's not like we're staying anyway, so just forget it." CJ raised his hands flat, "I don't really care, Jain is just being stuck up because she-" "She nearly had Fall dead, CJ! Did you just forget she made one of our friends suicidal?! That's why I'm still stuck the fuck up about it! But you don't care CJ because you're an acorn, and you don't care Noah because you just tryna fuck!" "You think I don't care? There's not a day in hell when I just think, 'I should just punch Sunset in the damn face!' or, 'I should just hit Sunset with my car!' I care more than anything Jain, but that wickedness in her eyes is gone!" "You know she went and sowed a little penguin for him in sowing class? A pillow? A sweater? He just hasn't received them because I'm too damn stupid to remember!" "That's why I've forgiven her despite those thoughts. Because she has changed, it's others that can't seem to." The table fell silent with the argument between best friends. Noah stared down Jain, and Jain glared away, slightly ashamed. Fall raised his cup and noticed it was empty. He turned to the others, "You guys wanna go get some more punch?" "Yeah, I'm down." "A'ight, let's go." "My cup's empty too." "Yeah, mine as well." They all sat up from the table, glasses in hand, and started towards the refreshments table. Noah smiled, that was one thing he loved about having a group of all boys. They'd argue about stuff and then move on as if nothing happened. ... Noah took a seat next to Sunset over at a table and threw his bow tie down. He yawned, "Sup guys, I'm back." Rarity crossed her arms, "Noah, where the heck did you go?" "What?" Applejack sighed, "We asked ya to go stop Sunset before she did something she'd regret, and ya literally went in the opposite direction!" Noah shrugged, "I got a text that my friends were there, so I went to see them. What, did Sunset punch someone?" "No, but she could've!" Sunset raised an eyebrow, "Why would I punch someone?" Rainbow Dash shrugged, "Well, when you're in a bad mood, almost anything can happen." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Okay, yeah, that's totally true." Noah rubbed the back of his neck, "Well, there was that one time you got so angry when we were playing on my Xbox that you punched a hole in my wall..." "She did, what?!" Applejack replied, and Sunset grew red with embarrassment and tried to hide her face. She grumbled, "Noah, what the heck! You said you weren't gonna say anything!" "I know, but it was right there! I just couldn't help myself!" Sunset groaned and hid her face as much as she could while Rarity giggled. "She punched a hole in a wall? W-What happened after?" "After that, she said she was super sorry and stuff and insisted on paying for it. I said no because that crap was hilarious, but she did end up driving me to school the following week. I'd been driving places for so long, I'd forgotten what it was like to be the passenger. that was a great week." "Can we not talk about me please?!" Over upon the stage, a microphone was adjusted and slightly pierced everyone's ears with its annoying screech. Principal Celestia stood front and center on the stage and cleared her throat. "Hello everyone! I'd like to take this opportunity to greet all of our visitors from Crystal Prep Acadamy and welcome them to Canterlot Highschool. And lastly, I would like to recognize the thirteen students that CHS has elected to compete. I don't think we could have chosen a better group of people to represent the excellence, sportsmanship, uprightness, and of course, the friendship these games stand for." Noah leaned back in his chair as Celestia finished, "I still don't know how you guys managed to get me in that roster. You know some still call me Noah: The Menace To Society?" Fluttershy smiled, "Well when you save the world a couple of times, you gain a fair amount of influence. Though you should be thanking Sunset. She brought an entire essay on why you should be let in." Noah looked to Sunset and she reddened as red as a stop sign. "Well, technically, Crystal Prep had an extra student that year and Celestia asked me to find a student to participate. I just took your physical and mental ability and added it with the fact that you're American and thought, 'He'd be perfect!'" "Physical ability?" Rainbow Dash asked, slightly lost. "Yeah because... well... look at his arms." Sunset pointed to Noah's right bicep and the girls noticed his was quite large. Not like a bodybuilder, but definitely like someone who stays more than in shape. Noah jokingly flexed, "Yeah, that's right girls, I work out. You wanna peek?" Rarity scoffed, "Please, none of us would dream of it in a million years." Noah chuckled, "Guess you just can't handle the incredible might of the Macho Man..." Noah yawned and leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes. He opened them a while after to find that almost everything in the gym had changed significantly. The lights were lowered, a disco ball hung from the roof, party streamers and confetti covered the floor, balloons were all over the place, and the refreshments had been replaced with cupcakes and soda. Noah slightly freaked, "Holy crap, did I fall asleep?!" He looked to Sunset and she simply pointed to one of the corners of the gym and Noah's face fell flat. "Goddamn it Pinkie Pie..." Once again, the microphone screeched as it was tested again, and everyone's attention returned to the stage. It was Principal Cinch. "I'd like to thank Princess Celestia for her... unconventional welcome. It's been four years since the last Friendship Games-" "Yeah, because annual just isn't enough anymore, is it?" "But it feels as though nothing has changed. Canterlot High continues to pick its competitors in a popularity contest, and Crystal Prep continues to make a precise decision based on ability." "This is gonna be a whole thing, isn't it?" "It is a comfort to know that even after so many years of losses, CHS remains committed to its ideals, however misguided they may be. I wish you all the best of luck. Regardless of the inevitable outcome." "Alright, I tried," Noah finished mumbling before standing up out of his chair quite emphatically to gain as much attention as he could. You'd have to be a clown to see it didn't work. "Alright, that's enough out of you already, good God almighty." Everyone student and teacher turned to Noah from the noise he made but gasped at what he'd said. And oh so boldly he said it. Cinch raised an eyebrow, "Excuse me?" "No need to because you heard me loud and clear." If anyone wasn't paying attention before, they were now as Noah crossed his arms and the girls from his table tried to cover their faces. "Look, I'd love to be in your shoes and talk down to a bunch of high schoolers without consequence, but I can't. And even if I could, it'd be on something more important than this." "Do you even know where you are? You're in a public high school surround by who are still technically children about a quadrennial competition to boost school pride and to reward students for doing so well in class." "This isn't some type of ultimate showdown to go down in history each time, it's an amusing thing for great students, nothing more, nothing less. Like a tic-tac-toe tournament with an entire grade, and when you win, you take home trophies that aren't even real." "You win all the time, so what? You want a cookie?" "More than half of every student here doesn't care who wins or loses because they're getting out of class. I can understand you may have quite a lot of pride from your last wins, but don't turn it into a priority. And especially don't turn it into an insult." The gymnasium fell silent and every student felt as though a gunshot had gone off. It wasn't like Noah was wrong, it was just a friendly series of activities, but nobody ever dared to speak up. Instead of yelling at Noah for talking back to a teacher, especially her, Cinch simply raised her chin and furrowed her eyebrows. She turned to Celestia, "So, is that the outsider you've spoken to me of?" Celestia slowly nodded and brought her hands behind her back. Cinch returned her eyes to Noah and inspected him. The more she scrutinized, the more she realized how out of place he looked. His hair was pitch black and somewhat puffy on top with fades to the sides. His skin looked more reflective, and less like it was painted onto him. And she could tell his eyes weren't of the same size, along with his attire. Unlike other students who'd shown up wearing more celebratory clothing, Noah had arrived wearing a white tuxedo with black dress shoes and a black bowtie. She wondered, bewildered of how a student could afford such clothing. Back to his skin, she had noticed it looked rougher, especially along the knuckles. She could clearly see each one had stuck out and made itself known much more than the other students rather perfect skin. Cinch wondered if he was from Equis at all. And that only made the term outsider more deserving. Without replying, Cinch took several steps back before disappearing into the curtains. Noah stood still from the uncomfortable amount of time she took to make a move. Was she studying me or something? The hell was that? It took a while before time seemed to start again and everyone continued with themselves. Noah shook his head as if he felt something touch it. Before long, Sunset grabbed him by his arms and swiveled him around, facing her. "Have you lost it?!" Noah shrugged, "Maybe, probably, I don't know. Why?" "You can't just talk to the Principal of Crystal Prep like that, you don't know what'll happen!" Fluttershy appeared behind her, "She's right. Now that you've insulted Principal Cinch, the Friendship Games could take a massive turn for the worst." "Exactly, that was a stupid move, Noah!" Rainbow Dash added and Noah scoffed, "Oh please, the worst that'll happen is she'll end up pulling some strings during this stupid competition." "And there's a lot of strings to be pulled," Rarity added. "Sure, these games aren't as important to us and they might take it quite seriously, but what are we supposed to do when they take it too far?" "I've got a better question." "And what darling, is that?" "Where's Pinkie Pie?" Rarity paused before she could respond and turned her head on a swivel. The Rainbooms also followed suit and began surveying the gymnasium for their puffy-haired friend, but she was nowhere to be seen. "Maybe over there?" Applejack pointed to a space in between two bleachers and found two party cannons staring off into the gymnasium. Without thinking, Noah nudged Sunset to follow her and they both began towards them. Followed by the Rainbooms, of course. Noah reached the area first and found Pinkie Pie leaning back against the wall with a hand behind her head. By the time the others arrived, Noah spoke. "What the hell happened?" "I don't know. Everyone started having fun after Twilight and I fired the party cannon, and I ponied-up-" "Of course you did." "-but then the magic just drained right outta me. Like someone stuck a vacuum cleaner down my throat." Sunset stepped forward, "Wait, what do you mean it just drained out of you?" "Like it was there for a second, then it slowly started to disappear until it was like it didn't even exist. After that, I fell out of the air and landed on the back of my head. Now all I feel is owies back there." Noah reached for Pinkie Pie's hand and pulled it from behind her back. Somewhat disturbed, he found her hand was covered in dark-red blood. From the feel of it, Pinkie Pie still had some flowing. He stood up, "Alright, if I may ask, can you guys take her to the nurse? I've gotta meet up with someone about this because something very stupid is amiss." Applejack tilted her head, "Ya gotta meet up with someone? Who else could know about any o' this magic nonsense besides us?" Noah began walking backwards towards the main entrance, "Just a certain orange-haired siren." Before any of the Rainbooms could reply, perplexity on their faces, Noah opened and closed the gymnasium doors before starting towards the main exit. "Just what I fuckin' needed, another brand new problem..." PART 2: XV - Wolverines!Author's Note The Gun Pointed At The Head Of The Universe... PART 2: XV - Wolverines! "Gone? Just like that?" "Like it was a mistake." Noah laid on a three-seated couch with a hand behind his head and another on his chest. On a loveseat northwest to himself was Adagio Dazzle. She wore a casual black t-shirt and skinny jeans with plain socks and her same spiked headband. She sat with her hands holding a teacup and her legs crossed. As for where they reclined, Noah had decided to use his God-like powers to construct a house for Adagio and her sister due to her change in attitude and her newfound humanity and compassion. Of course, it was simply a start. "Pinkie Pie described it as though a vacuum cleaner was shoved down her throat and started sucking away all of her magic. Then it was gone like, well, a mistake." Adagio asked before taking a sip, "Well, who was closest to her?" Noah laid his left-hand flat, "Well Twilight was, but it wasn't our Twilight. Well, it was our Twilight, but not the Twilight we'd known. It was the Twilight from Equis." "There was an earlier mishap as well. When Sunset decided to go get Twilight, the princess, we found out that the portal had been closed. When Sunset noted she felt something drain it away from the other side, she found Equis Twilight with a strange compass-like device." "Before she could explain, she fleed. And before that, magic was drained from Rarity when she was showing off her immense amount of clothing for the Games. And a while after, Twilight entered staring at her device." Adagio raised an eyebrow, "So you're essentially saying that Twilight from Equis is stealing magic with an odd device she has?" Noah thought for a moment, "... Yeah, that's about it. I just can't seem to understand why? And I also don't understand why we haven't done anything yet." "Well think about it, if someone that was basically your friend but wasn't actually your friend started stealing magic. Would you really just jump the gun on them after all that time? Despite them not being the same, you could tell that it was more of a memory loss than an entirely different person." Noah shrugged, "I don't know really. But I'm more interested in why. She just shows up to our school and starts draining magic from my friends like it's nobody's business. Could she be evil?" "I don't think she's evil, I think that Twilight is most likely attempting to study or understand the magic. If she already has a device, that must mean she's come in contact with it or has witnessed it. But, she could become evil." Noah sat up, "The hell are you talking about?" Adagio uncrossed her legs and set her teacup on the coffee table before her. She then brought her hands together and spoke. "Allow me to give you a lesson in Equestrian Pony Biology." Noah tilted his head and Adagio began. "At this point, I'm gonna assume Sunset or Twilight has explained the four types of ponies so allow me to explain. As my sisters and I have observed Earth for a millennium, we've picked up on multiple things, including power." "Power?" "I believe you're aware of Hitler's rise to power, and what it did to him. He was originally just a child who enjoyed painting, but that all changed when my sisters and I decided to mess with him, unfortunately. I'm assuming you know the rest, so let me put it simply." "Every human has a limit of power that they hold. When that limit is broken, they can become monsters, just like Hitler did. He was given too much power for his own good, and it changed him making him do atrocious things to mankind. Along with this gain of power, he lost a substantial amount of both compassion and humanity." "Power in your world is similar to magic in Equestria. Every pony is born to contain a certain amount of magic. It's what makes them who they are. Unicorns are born to withhold huge amounts of magic in their horns, and Alicorns are double that." "Pegasi contain an amount of magic that allows them to fly. It also allows them to move incredibly fast, creating phenomenons known as sonic rainbooms in which they break the sound barrier. Earth Ponies' magic gives them a certain amount of magic to allow them incredible strength." "But each and every one of those ponies have a limit. A limit that if broken, can mean dreadful things. Some are closer to it than others and it may change their personality while some are farther than it and it can take a toll on their personality." "But when that limit is broken, just like humans have a limit based on the amount of power they may have, they snap. The ponies will become absolute terrors with no regard for any life at all along with becoming utterly devoid of any and all humanity and compassion. Similarly to Hitler, only their goal is much different." "Once they've broken their limit, they'll become addicted to gaining even more magic, big or small. They'll take it from other ponies by murdering them, even going so far as massacring an entire kingdom. But even then, they won't be satisfied." "They'll go to the edges of the planet to get as much magic as they can, slaughtering everything containing magic that they come across and eradicating everything in their path. A walking apocalypse." "They can't be reasoned with and they'll use whatever they can to succeed. Once they finish a planet, God knows what they'll do next. Thankfully, this has only occurred once, and it didn't get too out of hand. It did result in the destruction of a village, but not entire kingdoms." "Do you understand what I'm saying?" Noah stuttered, "U-Uh... k-kinda... c-can you run t-that all back to m-me? J-Just a little...?" Adagio took the teapot that sat in the middle of the coffee table and began pouring into her teacup. "If Twilight is collecting magic from the Elements of Harmony, and she's not in any type of alicorn relation at the moment..." The teacup began to overflow as Adagio continued to pour into it. Spilling all over the coffee table and soaking several papers on it. "She could break her limit as Equis is still apart of Equestria and obliterate the Earth. If she opens that thing expecting to study it, she's going to be in for one hell of a surprise... and she'll soon disregard it." "But that's not all. There are two sets of Elements, remember? Once Twilight's done with Equis' Elements, she'll move on to Equestria's Elements, overpower them, and take their magic." "One set of the Elements is enough to take out the most powerful alicorn, Princess Celestia. If she not only defeats her but takes her magic, along with Princess Luna's, she'll be four times as powerful as the Elements of Harmony. And we can't forget the inconceivable amounts of other magic on Equis as a planet. And if Celestia herself had enough magic to move an entire star..." "Twilight could destroy the entire Milky Way Galaxy!" Noah ran two hands through his hair, "Oh great. That's just fan-fatherfuckin'-tastic. Now I have to juggle Sunset, me going home, and a crisis on a galactic scale!" Noah sat up from the couch, approached Adagio, gripped her by her collar, and pulled her close, "How the fuck am I supposed to stop this!?" Adagio put a finger to her chin and thought hard. "Well, what if you play through the Games' first half, drop the second half if the chance arises, and watch Twilight to make sure she doesn't get any more magic. Once the Games' done, approach her and force her to explain. Once that's done, have her give back the magic, and problem solved. Galactic annihilation averted." Noah buried his face in Adagio's shirt, completely overwhelmed. He mumbled into her shirt, muffled. "I was just supposed to leave on Saturday, not be the last thing standing before a galaxy-wide apocalypse. I was a hero once, that's it. This is too damn much for me..." Adagio wanted to push Noah away so very much, but she knew that's not what he needed. She placed a hand on his head and begun to stroke his short hair. "Noah, If I've learned anything from living in your head and seeing all that you do, it's that life's not easy." "You gotta be ready when life throws a problem your way, and you've gotta chose. Am I gonna hit back, or am I gonna pussy out and drop the bat? I learned that from you. It's why I and even Aria have been getting much better at understanding life." Adagio pulled Noah's face from out of her shirt and stared him down, "So are you gonna hit back, or are you gonna pussy out and take the galaxy with you? "Take Sunset with you?" NINE HOURS EARLIER "Good morning students! I'm sure you're all thrilled to start the first half of the Friendship Games. Our competitors will face-off in every aspect of the CHS curriculum combinating in the Elimination Equation Finale!" "Welcome to the Academic Decathlon! You'll be scored on chemistry, math, and everything in between. But remember, only the seven students from each team with the most points will move on to the second half. Good luck!" As Dean Cadence finished, each and every student began towards the first event, the chemistry contest, with Crystal Prep to the left side, and CHS to the right. As they walked down the hall, students from the rooms nearby cheering, Noah had his eyes locked dead-on Twilight. With Sunset beside him noticing, she nudged him, "What's with the look?" "I'm not sure why Twilight's here, but it's not gonna end well." Sunset raised an eyebrow, "What are you talking about?" Noah sighed, "Remember how I was talking about meeting up with an orange siren?" "Yeah, you were talking about Adagio, right?" "Right, so long story short, I killed her and now she's stuck in my head until I die. With months passing by, she's regained her humanity and has become a better person. I was talking to her and, well, another long story short, Twilight may be the one to bring about an end to our galaxy." "What?!" "If she keeps collecting magic from us, and she opens that device, she'll lose her mind and start taking magic from everyone and everything in Equestria. Giving her enough magic to erase the galaxy." Sunset began to sweat, “W-Well, h-how do we stop her?" Noah faced forward, "You leave that to me. She's not gonna get a lick of anything magical as long as I'm alive." "Why would you preheat it to four hundred degrees?!" "You said, "Preheat it Noah. I bet you've done something like this before." I preheated it to four hundred degrees because that's what I preheat most things that I cook!" "This is a baking contest, not a cooking contest!" Noah and Pinkie Pie went back and forth, a side of Pinkie Pie never before seen making itself known, while the other eleven members tried desperately to make another cake to take the burnt one's place. "Look, I don't know why you just thought I knew how to make a cake by instinct." Pinkie Pie grabbed Noah's collar and pulled him close, "Who the heck would set a cake to four hundred degrees! I expected maybe three hundred forty or three hundred sixty, but four hundred?!" Applejack pushed the two away from each other, "Enough! We can bake another cake, but we can't win if you two keep fightin'! We're competin' against Crystal Prep, not each other!" Noah instantly tuned Applejack out when he saw Twilight enter the room, presumably from using the bathroom. He'd been studying the device's rings since he could see it light up from underneath her shirt. Still only six, good. He tuned back into Applejack and realized she'd let them go. "So, can we make this cake, or can we not?" Pinkie Pie rolled her eyes, "Yeah..." "Oh, uh, yeah yeah, we got this." Nodding, Applejack returned to the kitchen and Noah nudged Pinkie Pie, "How does your head feel?" Pinkie Pie was taken aback at Noah's change of attitude and replied. "Oh, uh, it still kinda pounds, but not as much as yesterday. Why?" Noah scoffed, "What do you mean why, I give a shit, remember?" Pinkie Pie blushed, "Oh, uh, yeah! Sorry about that. Oh! Can you grab those sprinkles? I have an idea!" Pinkie Pie returned to the kitchen whilst pointing at a plastic can of sprinkles. He shrugged and grabbed it. But not before double-checking Twilight to make sure she wasn't up to something. "Fuck!-" "Crap." "Crap! I thought I had that one! Goddamn-" "Goddang." "Goddang demitasse! What the fuck-" "What the heck." "What the heck is demitasse anyway?! Son of a... snitch!" Noah sat in one of the auditorium seats next to Sunset, highly frustrated. They had moved on to the spelling bee event, and he had failed on his last word. Sunset sat next to him trying to calm him down for the rest of the first half, it wasn't doing so well. "Noah, the spelling bee is incredibly difficult and unpredictable. You can't blame yourself for messing up." "But I had it! I needed one more word! One! Of course they hit me with that! The stupidest word to walk this Earth! And they gave it to me! Motherfucker-" "Mothertrucker." "Mothertrucker!" Sunset laid her eyes on Twilight and sighed. "Noah, if Twilight somehow gets the magic that she needs, are you going to leave still? I mean, wouldn't you wanna spend time with your best friends before the world ends." Noah crossed his arms, "If the worst becomes a reality, I might have to. If Twilight leaves Equis, she might go through the entire world searching for magic, and someone's bound to drop a nuclear warhead." Sunset lightened up a bit, but then had a thought return to her. "Hey look, Flash got all ten words. First helping us with the chemistry event, now acing the spelling bee? You've gotta admit, he's really smart for not looking the part." Noah's eyes fell flat as he remembered. All the talk about losing the galaxy to a purple nerd had made him forget the fact that Sunset was still into Flash instead of him. Flash. Noah knew he was bothersome, but he also knew he wasn't a bad person in general. He'd lied a little bit to Princess Twilight back at the diner for the Battle of the Bands. He didn't know why he lied though. He just thought it annoying that another girl was into him. Maybe if Noah opened his eyes a bit more, he'd understand why Sunset admired him so. He just hoped he could turn her love around and save the galaxy from mass destruction. As Noah took his eyes off of Sunset, he found Twilight and he narrowed them. Still six rings, good. Can't forget what's important here. Saving the galaxy is the first priority, laying pipe on Sunset is the second. Only eight hours to go. XVI - The BreakingSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.XVII - The FractureAuthor's Note The Only Easy Day, Was Yesterday... XVII - The Fracture "Literally, she's the same girl from the Battle of the Bands, only nerdier. Lavender skin, blue hair in a messy bun, big-ass glasses, and a weird compass-like thingamajig around her neck. Got it?" "Got it." With five minutes left until the start of the second half of the Friendship Games, Noah provided a brisk description of Twilight to his friends as the field was being finalized. He handed Fall a walkie talkie, "I got this from the office. Only use it when Twilight does something stupid, or something stupid in general occurs. Don't bother me during this match, and I get punched in the gut." Fall nodded and Noah gave a thumbs up. "Alright, we do this stupid crap for like twenty or something minutes, and then all that's left is the third and final half. For the love of all that is holy upon Earth, do not screw this up or so help me God." CJ waved him off, "Noah, we got this. Stop being a bum and get down there before you get into trouble. Or worse, you get us in trouble." Noah flipped CJ off and began down the bleachers. He knew other students would be watching, but he didn't think it'd be a school-wide occasion. The bleachers were completely crowded, even the stairs. Noah had to be extra cautious to not waste any more of his time with some bothersome student if he stepped on them by accident. He reached the field of the Games and approached Applejack. She sat and talked to Fluttershy over near the archery relay. "AJ, Shy, listen up. We don't have a lot of time so don't screw around." Applejack stretched, "What do ya need Noah? I reckon it's about Twahlight, isn't it?" Noah nodded, "Yep, now listen. You two are the closest to her so this is incredibly important. If she tries or does anything, you drop these Games and you stop her. No Ifs, Ands, or Buts. The only thing that matters is making sure our galaxy survives. Got it?" "Got it, right Fluttershy?" Fluttershy nodded with a smile on her face, "You can count on us." Noah gave a thumbs up, "Good, otherwise, I'm taking you all with me." "What-" "Now where's Sunset... ah! Dirtbikes, right." Stepping away from both Applejack and Fluttershy, who held a slightly afraid expression on their faces, Noah began jogging towards Sunset. He reached her and she smiled and waved when she saw him approach. "What's up Noah? Aren't you supposed to be in the ring right now? Geared up and what not? Not to mention you look rather... alluring without a shirt on out in this heat." "Yeah, yeah, cool, listen. If Twilight does anything, just keep doing what you're doing. I've already got Applejack and Fluttershy locked on. Unless something happens to them, don't head in. Rarity and Pinkie Pie, if they have any common sense, no offense, should follow your lead." Sunset crossed her arms, "And what will you do?" Noah shoved a hand down his shirt and revealed his necklace. "If crap hits the fan, this is the back-up plan. Considering this is all the Elements combined, I should be able to take her on. But only if things get severely detrimental." "Sounds good. So um, I've been wondering..." "Wondering about what?" "Do you really think Flash is the right one?" Noah remembered the whole ordeal about winning Sunset's heart. He hated standing in front of her knowing he wanted to take her right then and there, but he couldn't. Despite Sunset's literal blinding beauty, he had a plan. And he'd be damned if it went awry. "Um, yeah, I mean, he's uh... he's got... um... blue hair, he acts like a prince charming, he's got chad-like hair, uh... y-yeah, I think you get the point. Go crazy kid. End his suffering with your... uh... yeah, you know what I mean." Though Noah was talking about Flash, a part of him wished he was talking about himself. A sliver of him also hoped Sunset knew who he was really talking about. But one can only dream. "Oh, uh, thanks. I guess I can give it a shot. But, um... also... are you positive you wanna go back home?" Noah raised an eyebrow, "Why wouldn't I be? Life's better there, so there's no need to stay here." "Yeah, but, wouldn't you rather not lose another best friend? I-I know you like it back there and it's with all your people, but... I came here, remember? A-And even though I've solved most of my problems, I haven't left because of all the friends I've made." "Yeah, but you're obviously gonna go back to Equestria after you graduate. You know, to confront Princess Celestia and tell her to go fu-, uh, I mean, screw off?" Sunset sighed, "I mean... maybe. I'm not sure, to be honest. But, even if I do go back, I'd at least want my best friend beside me before I do. All of our friends would want that." "But wouldn't that just be the same as what I'm doing, only longer?" Sunset fiddled with her hair, "I... I guess so... sorry." Sunset sighed, dismayed. "You're free to go home just like I am. It's not fair for me to hold you back." Noah smiled, "Hey, at least you understand what I'm getting at. Equis is pretty fire and all, but it's not my home. It's not my place. Even if I were to stay, I don't know what I'd do when we all split up as friends." Catching a glimpse of the luxury box and noticing the Principals finishing up, Noah yawned. "Alright then, better get this match done with. And don't forget what I said about Twilight, got it?" "Got it. Good luck, don't break a leg!" Sunset called as Noah made his way down the track, "Don't worry, I don't intend to... him, on the other hand... well nigga... we'll just have to wait and see." "Welcome everyone to the Friendship Games Quad-Cross Relay of the second half!" Dean Cadence announced, receiving thousands of cheers from students. Albeit, only CHS. "In this event, our qualifying competitors will face off in boxing, archery, roller derby, and finally, Motocross." Noah wiped the sweat from the sun off his forehead and took a long look at the field. Fifteen to twenty minutes of this shit... that's all I need. "So," Dean Cadence continued, "If the competitors are ready..." With the blast of an airhorn within her hand, the Games commenced the second half. Noah raised his hands similarly to The Greatest and finally faced his opponent. The boy he faced had brown skin, similar to his, only more vivid. His hair was short but nowhere near as short as Noah's. It was also yellow while white in the middle. Strangely enough, the boy donned a six-pack over Noah's four-pack and his arms were quite large compared to Noahs. Well, at least he won't be a push-over... As the boy raised his own hands and began side-stepping, Dean Cadence continued. "With boxing, one of the two competitors must land ten jabs against their opponent to give their teammates the go-ahead in the rest of the relay." Still don't know why schools are holding boxing matches, but okay. As Cadence finished, all eyes were on Noah and his opponent. Noah continued thinking to himself, Okay, ten jabs... ten jabs, ten jabs, ten jabs, ten jabs, that's all I need... Wait, did Sunset call me alluring?-" *Pow!* Before Noah could finish his thought, he received a straight shot to his jaw. He stumbled back and rubbed his face. Pain constricting it. "Ah! motherfuck, nigga, I wasn't ready-" *Pow!* "Goddamn it, stop, dickhead! I'm tryna think-" *Pow!* With a third hit Noah received to his side, and before his opponent could land a fourth, Noah blocked the hit, pushed him back, and punched with all his might at his opponent's chest. Making him stumble back. "Okay, nigga, let's motherfuckin' do this!" Noah side-stepped around his opponent and hit him twice to his side. His opponent tried to hit back, Noah dodged. He delivered four hits to his opponent's chest. *Pow! Pow Pow! Pow!* The cheers from CHS intensified tenfold and the principals even appeared to be cheering a little. As Noah delivered the eighth hit to his opponent's stomach, he could hear both Applejack and Fluttershy cheering him on. Further back, Rarity and Pinkie Pie. And though relatively faint, even Rainbow Dash and Sunset. The adversary got Noah in the side, but he barely flinched. He hit back with a jab to his shoulder, and another to his face. His opponent tried to go for his stomach, but he missed. Noah had dodged it, spun around him, and before his opponent could turn around completely, Noah uppercut him straight to his jaw, making him fall on his bottom. With those ten hits in, Noah heard a buzz go off near Applejack and Fluttershy, it was their turn. Noah sighed and wiped his forehead. "Jesus... that was more fun than I expected. You're gonna have to... to give me a call... we have got to do this again." His opponent growled, "Who said we were done?" Noah raised an eyebrow, still huffing, "W-Wait what? W-We're still doing this? Seriously? I thought this was one and done!" "Why? Don't you want to keep fighting? Or are you just too much of a pussy now?" Noah's eyes furrowed and he sighed, "What's your name man?" His opponent stood up, "Firecracker Burst. Why?" "I'm gonna knock the shit outta you, Firecracker." "Shit! Did you guys see that?!" Jain nearly shouted, and he received nods from his friends. "That Twilight nerd just took the magic crap from that southern girl! Where's the walkie talkie?!” Fall handed the walkie talkie to Jain and he pressed the side button. "Noah! We have a problem!" From afar, they could see Noah noticed the walkie talkie light up from the side of his shorts. They could see him utter profanity. "Look, I know you can't reply to me, but Twilight just took magic from the southern girl! She was showing her how to shoot the bow, and she started doing that weird-as-hell pony thing. Then, the device around Twilight’s neck just opened and started draining away the girl's pony magic shit." "Then it fell and rolled onto the skate track and looked like it opened a portal! You better figure something out fast before that magic goes apeshit and we have to say farewell to ever returning home!" "Shit! Jain look!" Manex grabbed Jain's head and directed it to the dirt track. A large, bizarre, green venus flytrap-looking plant monster had emerged from the portal and was tugging at Twilight's shoe as she attempted to get back her device. Jain brought the walkie talkie back to his mouth, "Also! Out of the portal is some strange plant-type monster thingy! We're on the clock Noah, can you do something please!?" Jain observed Noah as he pushed Firecracker away. He made a gesticulation with his arms, and Jain took a while to understand it. Noah had made a gesture to push the second button on the walkie talkie, and Jain proceeded to. "Hello?! If anybody's hearing this, respond goddamn it!" CJ searched the field for someone, anyone, to pick up a walkie talkie or acknowledge Jain in any way. And when he found someone, he sighed with relief. It was Rainbow Dash. "Hey! Who is this!? How'd you-" "No time, damn it! Look, on the track is a motherfuckin' tentacle monster straight from Rule thirty-four! Unless you or any of your friends wanna get raped in front of two schools, I suggest you do something! Now!" Jain searched the track to see who'd had picked up, and sure enough, Rainbow Dash made a U-Turn on the track and darted back. Jain looked back at the monster and found that Noah's best friend, apparently, Sunset Shimmer, had fallen off her bike with the monster right behind her. "C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon," Jain repeated as Rainbow Dash neared Sunset. But as she did, the monster reeled back as if it was to attack, and it was. Sunset shielded her head as the monster dived for her, but before it could hit, Rainbow Dash swooped up Sunset and drove away. "Yes! Hell yeah!" Jain cheered, he then switched back to Noah's frequency. "Hey, Noah! I just saved your girlfriend! Ya fuckin' welcome!" While Jain was still celebrating, why, he wasn't exactly sure, Rainbow Dash came to a stop, stepped off her bike, and began to transform. Because of her loyalty for Sunset, it had activated Rainbow Dash’s element. She grew her small horse ears along with her pegasus wings. Jain switched back to Rainbow Dash's frequency and instructed. "I'm guessing you did that pony thing, good! Now drop the race and send that tentacle fuck back to hell!" Seemingly nodding, Rainbow Dash rushed towards the monster so fast, some would say she nearly broke the sound barrier. Sunset took Rainbow Dash's bike as she flew off and continued in the race. Determined to win. Jain changed frequency again, "Ok, I think that tentacle freak has been dealt with. That rainbow-haired girl seems to be on top of it." As Jain spoke, Rainbow Dash crashed into one of the monster's heads and sent it hurling to the ground. Meanwhile, Sunset had caught up with her foe, and the finish line was in sight. Jain continued, "I think we got this! The rainbow girl just smashed the monster, and Sunset is neck and neck with that other girl!" As Jain and his friends watched, along with both schools and principals, Sunset slowly but surely began to miraculously pass the other girl, and crossed the finish line. Resulting in thousands of cheers from an ebullient CHS. Noah heard the ring of the siren from the crossing of the finish line and dropped to his knees. Comparably to Firecracker who had sweat and bruises all over his body. He sighed, "Hah... guess I win buddy. What do you... what... what do... ugh, Jesus Christ." Out of sheer lassitude, Noah and Firecracker both collapsed and fell unconscious. They'd both fought quite valiantly, despite Noah attempting to prevent a galactic apocalypse. Though Noah was motionless, the last thing he heard from Dean Cadence made him smile, just a bit. It had finally happened, after so many long years, it happened. "Canterlot Wins!" XVIII - The ShatterAuthor's Note As If We Weren't Fucked Enough Already... XVIII - The Shatter "Ah shit!" "What?! What?!" "Pinkie!?" "Hi!" Noah awoke in a cold sweat. His back laid against one of the corners of the ring. In front of him was Pinkie Pie. She'd supposedly gotten him off the floor, face flat, and attempted to wake him up. Though she succeeded, Noah appeared shaken. "Why are ya screaming?" She asked "Why are you so close to my face?!" He replied. Pinkie Pie shrugged, "I dunno. It looked like you got knocked out, so I helped ya!" "Okay... where are the others?" Pinkie Pie grabbed his face, stood him up, and pointed him to the others. "Don't worry, you were only out for like five minutes. And your friends for some reason went to the girls without you! Isn't that exciting!?" "Well yeah, but I'd prefer if those jackoffs came to help me first." Pinkie Pie let go of Noah's face and he vaulted over the ringside, Pinkie Pie following cheerfully behind. "So you were the one on the walkie talkie?" Noah heard Rainbow Dash ask for confirmation. As he got closer to his friends, his original friends came into his sight, and Jain stood before Rainbow Dash. "Yeah, and you're welcome too. Otherwise, you would've lost these stupid games and died. And nobody wants to see a pretty rainbow mix with blood. It's pretty damn disturbing." "So you were worried about me dying on the track, huh?" Jain reddened, "Don't get it twisted." "Hey! What the hell guys?!" Noah spoke up as he approached his friends, both old and new. "I fall unconscious in front of some negro named Firecracker, and y'all just leave me there? That's how it is?" Rarity took off her helmet, "Well Noah darling, we would've been there in no time at all without a doubt, but your friends approached us first. It's quite different from the norm considering it's usually only you who approaches." "Okay negro, is everybody all right though? While I was boxing, I heard that some weird plant tentacle monster had shot out of a portal out from Twilight's compass thing." Rainbow Dash grinned, "Hah, we're better than all right! We won!" Sunset removed her helmet, "Yeah, we won, but somebody could've been seriously hurt, or have been killed! The magic is going haywire, and we still don't know how to fix it!" "Kid, relax about the magic crap. All we have to do is finish the games, remember?" Sunset crossed her arms, "I know, but we shouldn't have to! If Twilight was here, this would've been solved already!" "Um, excuse me." The Rainbooms and the Black Five turned to face said voice who'd spoken and was met with Twilight. She looked terribly remorseful and thrilled, but not in a good way. "I-I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I just wanted to learn about the strange energy coming from your school. I didn't know it was magic or how it works." Rainbow Dash stepped forward, "That's okay, neither do we." As Rainbow Dash reached to put an arm on Twilight's shoulder, Noah noticed the compass around her device begin to glow. Before he could utter anything, the compass rose, opened, and began draining all of Rainbow Dash's magic. "Goddamn it!" Noah shouted as he and Sunset together hurried over to Rainbow Dash and attempted to pull her from the device's grasp. All the while, Twilight was yanking at the chains of her device and Rainbow Dash seemed to be crying in agony. Like it was draining more than just her magic. "I-I'm sorry! I-It just started absorbing energy on its own! B-But I'm not sure how!" While Noah continued to tug on Rainbow Dash along with being assisted by the others shortly after, Sunset’s eyebrows furrowed. "What do you mean you don't know how!?" Sunset snatched the device from Twilight's hands and attempted to seal it forcefully. But instead of it sealing, the tension and pressure upon the device caused it to shoot out a crackling beam of energy that connected with the sky. But as Noah let go of Rainbow Dash and followed the beam, his eyes dilated. It was the moon. But not his moon. The beam had opened a vast dimensional rift above everyone and revealed Equestria's moon. It was enormous. Possibly larger than the sun in Noah's world, but it didn't seem to be a mistake. The moon should've been hurling towards the planet at that size, but it wasn't. However, that's impossible. If the moon was that large, it would've collided with the planet eons ago. Noah felt his head begin to spin and the pounding of his heart filled his eardrums. He'd known enough about Equestria from Sunset and Adagio, but simply witnessing it was breathtaking. Right above him was a dimensional portal to a new world. A new everything. It couldn't exist, there was no way. There was just no possible way. "That's... that's impossible... that's not real... there's no... there's no way..." Twilight continued, "It also causes these corresponding portals to appear. I-I don't know how that works either-" "Is there anything you do know?! Like how to get our magic back?! Or how to fix the portal to Equestria?!" Twilight stuttered and staggered as Sunset's face continued to contort and grow with great enmity. "E-Equestria?" Sunset gripped Twilight by her collar and pulled her close. "You're supposed to be so smart, but did you ever think, for one fucking second, that you shouldn't be messing around with things you can barely understand?!" "But I wanna understand!" "But you don't! And worst of all, you put the lives of my friends in danger, all because you want to mess around with magic! Two of my friends have bandages around their heads, one has a bump, and another nearly got hit by a fucking roller skate!" Noah held his head tight and closed both of his eyes. He tried to erase the image of a new world from his mind before he began to lose his sanity. Sure, it wasn't truly hurting him, but the sight only made his eyesight pulse. He returned to his friends to find Sunset furiously shouting at Twilight as she attempted to step back, but Sunset only pulled her closer. Noah could even see tears well up in her eyes. "Sunset... calm... calm the hell down..." "Calm down!? Are you kidding me?! Applejack almost died out there! I almost died out there! All because she wanted to go poking around things she doesn't understand for shit!" Sunset pushed Twilight to the ground as she let go of her collar. Like a waterfall, tears began to stream down Twilight's face as she slightly struggled to stand back up. She whispered, quiet as a mouse, "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to..." Before anybody could reply, Twilight swooped up Spike and began running away like she was just kicked out of her own home. Her sniffles hastily turned to wails as she grew smaller in the distance. Noah ran a hand through his hair as he finally returned to his senses and remembered where he was. He questioned, slightly angry, "Sunset, what in the everloving fuck was that?" Sunset crossed her arms as she faced him, "She could've gotten us killed! Everyone in this field could've been dead! Every student could've been dead! Everyone outside the school; could've been fucking dead!" "But they weren't! And they wouldn't of! We had a plan! Jain was up there talking to Dash through a walkie talkie so everyone didn't fuckin' die! And even if that didn't work, I still could've taken it down myself!" "And how long will that be an option?!" Noah took a small step back as he repeated her words through his head. It didn't take long for him to realize what she was talking about, and instead of reacting quiet, his face turned red with fury. "That's what this stupid fuckin' hissy fit is about?!" "Well pardon me for giving a flying fuck about my best friend!" "Sunset, why is this so goddamn hard for you to accept!? It's not up for discussion! I've said it twice, No Ifs, Ands, or Buts! They got the idea, so why is it so hard for you!?" "Because they don't care as much as I do! I've been through fucking hell getting to where I am today! And no, I haven't lost my family to a building because of some fucking sirens, but I haven't had anything close to a family outside my own for my entire life! "They were all asked to be my friend because of the thieving shitshow named Princess Twilight, who can't seem to get over here and help us stop the end of the galaxy! If she didn't ask, they'd all tell me to go fuck myself with that dildo from the janitor's closet! "You are the only true friend I've ever had in my life! We've been everywhere together! We've been to the theaters, lakes and rivers, carnivals, theme parks, forest trails, the mall, stores, your house, my house! We spent Christmas Eve in a motherfucking arcade, while they were busy watching Applejack fuck the living shit out of Rarity! "I've never felt happier in my life because of you! Then not even a year later, you decide to pack everything up and set sail all because you seemingly don't belong, when nobody gave or gives a shit! Bye-bye, Sunset Shimmer! I hope you burn in hell for all eternity!" "Sunset I-" "No! Just go! To hell with you! We finish these games, then you can take your retarded dog, all your stupid fucking suits and ties, your piece of shit friends, and go back home!" "Sunset no, I-" "Fucking go!" "I-" "And join your family while you're at it!" Noah felt his heart hit a train and go off the edge of the universe. As he looked into Sunset's eyes, he'd seen something he'd never seen before. She wasn't just irritated, or even angry. She was unconditionally infuriated, like all care for him had just vanished without a trace. Noah looked down to the side before inhaling and sighing. He then began towards the nearest exit off the field, not even acknowledging his friends, new and old alike. Knowing they were needed, regardless of whatever excuse Noah may come up with, Fall and the others gradually began after him before rapidly picking up their pace. Leaving Sunset with her own friends, or whatever she truly dubbed them. Jain lingered just for a short bit and faced Rainbow Dash. He raised a finger and opened his mouth to say something but he couldn't bring himself to speak, or even think straight. Once he realized it was pointless, he turned on his heels and awkwardly speed-walked to catch up with his friends. Sunset's eyes widened almost instantaneously when she realized what she'd just done. She'd just driven what made her happiest away, and what she said to him last. She felt heartless, like during the Fall Formal, yet somehow nastier. Sunset kept her eyes off her friends as she sat down. One knee standing up while another laid flat on the ground. She let an elbow rest on her knee that stood up and ran a hand through her hair. The tears didn't take long to fall after that. "So... I don't wanna be that guy and say I told you so, but... I told you so." After ten long minutes of driving in Manex's truck, Jain had decided to clear up the uncomfortable silence and get a conversation going. Though the only one affected by what happened earlier was Noah, nobody chose to reply. He sat in the back to the right. His head resting on the window as he thought to himself. Jain sighed, "Guys, you know we can't just sit here and act like what just happened didn't happen." As he was sitting in the passenger seat, Jain turned around to face his friends, but was still greeted with silence. But though they didn't reply, he could see that they weren't trying to repudiate his words. Especially Noah, who simply sniffled. "Fine, if y'all don't wanna talk, then I'll just talk for the Hell of it. I think that Rainbow-haired girl likes me-" "Jain, I swear to God," Manex began, "I will drive this truck off a fuckin' cliff if you start going on about how another girl supposedly likes your ass." Jain scoffed, "Oh, so now your stupid-ass wants to talk! And what do you mean supposedly nigga?" "Jain, every time a girl says anything remotely flirty or funny to you, you instantly think, "Oh shit, that girl's down to fuck." And they never are! You go on and on about how they like you, and they don't even recognize you in the hall! And that's not even the worse part!" "Oh do tell asshat, what's the worse part!?" "The worse part is that you never even talk to the girls after that! You become a fuckin' deer in headlights whenever they look at you or say a single word! Do you remember the absolute bullshit that occurred last year with Octavia?!" ”Okay, and?! Who do you have shitlord?! I haven't seen you so much as look at a girl your age for the life of me! What's up with that nigga?! You homo or something?!" "No! I just don't have any interest in these girls, they're all... weird. Like, they all have some sort of quirk! They're not like the girls back home. Those girls were normal!" "What's wrong with a little weirdness?!" "Everything!" "I messed up..." Both Jain and Manex fell silent promptly as Noah spoke up. He'd turned from the window and faced them. Despite fighting the urge for so very long, Noah had let several tears roll down his cheeks. His eyes were now bloodshot, and his nose was red, likely from his sniffling. "I should've been better. I should've thought about her... I never should've brought up leaving. I never should've planned it or suggested it. Now we're gonna leave, and she's only gonna never remember me because she thinks I hate her." "But I don't hate her. I love her. I should've just calmed her down and comforted her. She was obviously doleful at the news and I just kept shrugging it off. Like she never mattered. How can I save the galaxy knowing she abhors me?" "How can I get her back before I'm gone forever?" PART 3: XIX - Of Their Own AccordAuthor's Note Goliath, Goliath... PART 3: XIX - Of Their Own Accord "Well Sunset, uh... Ah... guess it's safe to say where all your irritation has come from... and your swearin'... definitely your, uh... your swearin'... recently..." Applejack attempted to strike up any conversation she could muster for the third time this hour with Sunset or any of the girls at all. It failed miserably. Possibly even worse considering nobody even flinched. Despite Sunset's pillory at both Noah and Twilight, they decided she needed them more than ever at that point. Notwithstanding being thought of as fake friends in her mind. They choose to head back to Sugarcube Corner until the third and decisive half of the Friendship Games. Initially, it was to talk, but now it seemed everyone was just broken. Sunset wasn't talking directly to them either during her rant, it was simply the thought. They'd realized it themselves, they were just frauds. Rarity looked up at Sunset as she shut off her phone. Sunset had buried her head in her arms and was possibly crying so much, the tears began to leak from under her arms. Creating a miniature puddle. Rarity imagined her eyes would be as red as blood if she were to raise her head. Rarity sighed, longer than conventionally as well. "Sunset... we... we understand if you may believe us to not actually be your friends. A-And I'll admit, I was a terrible person, and thought that's how I should deal with the situation. The situation being you. "I wasn't thinking. I wasn't thinking that; this girl is broken, and she needs a friend. She needs a multitude of friends. But unfortunately, I was too self-centered to think that. And I'm the Element of Generosity... how repulsively inconsiderate. "But... I want you to know that's not how I feel. That's not how any of us feel. You're important to us. You're important to everyone. They may have deemed otherwise in the past, but that's the past. "I understand if you may detest Noah for leaving, but it's his choice. He doesn't belong in Equis just like you don't either. And if he and his friends feel that if the world they grew up in has changed, then we have no reason to stop them. Home is where the heart is, after all. "Furthermore, I feel your pain in losing your best friend, but I feel even more pained knowing it wasn't me or any of us that you considered a best friend. Moreover that if any of us were to leave, you wouldn't care as much." Fluttershy raised her head, "Rarity's right, Sunset. We care for you so very much, regardless of whether or not Twilight asked us to be your friend. It was only a matter of time considering how you are now that we'd befriend you in the future if the events had changed." Sunset had finally stopped her quiet cries when Rarity finished, and Fluttershy's addition brought her sniffles to a halt. Reluctantly, Sunset raised her head and revealed herself. Just as envisioned, Sunset's eyes were blood red with near dozens of streaks of tears down her cheeks. They were shed so far, a few tears were dripping off her chin. Not only that, but her hair was a mess. Rarity vividly remembered how Sunset was tugging and scratching at it in Pinkie Pie's minivan. Almost like she was attempting to yank it right off her scalp. Rarity cringed as she inspected every detail of Sunset's face. Her inner fashionista tingled inside, but she took a deep breath and continued. Ruining a moment like so with fashion would send Sunset off the deep end. "We-" "I'm sorry," Sunset cut off. "I wasn't thinking straight. All of my anger towards Twilight just shifted when Noah spoke up. I couldn't handle my emotions. They were like... like a volcano waiting to erupt, and what Noah said was the last straw. "I understand that you guys may think I don't see you as true friends, but the words just slipped out. But... they also didn't. For the longest time, I've felt like I was only friends with you because of Princess Twilight. After the Battle of the Bands, the feeling began to wane. But then I realized how much time I was spending with Noah. "I wasn't lying about what I said. We truly went everywhere together. More than I could ever believe. He bought certain things for me too to show his appreciation. Food, drinks, he even bought me this outfit as a gift for Christmas." Rainbow Dash's eyes flared in slight surprise to this news. Sunset continued, "He always treated me so well. Told me I was one of his greatest friends. That having someone who didn't insult or curse at you twenty-four-seven was better than he'd expected. And I didn't know how to react because I never had that type of care from anyone. Not even you." Applejack took off her stetson and trimmed it along the brim regretfully. Sunset continued, "But now... now he's probably not gonna let me see him again after the Games. Now he's leaving because of me... and I never got a chance to say how I feel..." "Pardon?" Rarity perked up faster than a hawk as Sunset mumbled her last words. And it seemed she wasn't the only one as they all perked up as well. The red in Sunset's eyes swiftly flushed to her cheeks. "I, uh... um... I... well... uh..." "You like Noah? Like... like like him?" Pinkie Pie questioned, quickly intrigued. Sunset covered her face with her hands in an attempt to hide her blush. "I-I... uh... um... no, I... I..." Rainbow Dash grinned, "Well, why didn't you say so? Why didn't you say anything, actually? Welp, maybe now that might be in trouble because of your outburst back there." Sunset grimaced, " I know! A-And I don't know what to do! I just was so broken up about him leaving that the feeling consumed me. Now he probably won't even let me see him leave when he does. He probably even despises me!" Applejack frowned as Sunset's tears returned and welled up in her eyes. "Easy now, Sunset. There's always the chance that he could feel the same himself. Either way, he likely understands your pain if he's been your greatest friend for some time now. "Even though he's leavin', you should at least clear things up with him. Apologize, and he'll most likely do the same. And maybe if you're lucky enough, Noah might decide to stay! It's too early to assume now! Well, that's not true technically but, you get what I mean." Sunset wiped her tears threatening to fall, "Well, then what do I do!? There's no way I can change his mind now!" Fluttershy smiled, "Just show him how much you care. How much you cherish him as he does you." Rarity nodded, "Indeed, that'd go perfectly. Though I encourage you to gather yourself quickly. We have to be there in fifteen minutes." Pinkie Pie seemingly exploded, "Fifteen minutes!?" Rainbow Dash stood up and raised a fist, "Then let's do this! We'll finish these Friendship Games, stop Twilight, and help Sunset make Noah hers! No exceptions! You guys ready?!" "Ready!" THIRTY-MINUTES EARLIER "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the final half of this year's Friendship Games!" Celestia announced, receiving a cheer from both schools as the recent event ignited a fierce fire in the eyes of Crystal Prep. This was it. The ultimate competition to determine the winner of the Friendship Games, and if the Milky Way would live to see another day. The stage was set. Both schools faced each other horizontally in front of the school. The sky was opaque, cloudy, and rather gloomy. It seemed a storm was imminent, but it appeared the thought hadn't occurred to anyone. Celestia continued, "Since the score is tied, the final event will determine the winner of the Friendship Games. Somewhere on campus, a pennant from each school has been hidden. The first team to find their school's flag and bring it back shall be crowned the winner of this year's Friendship Games." "And as soon as our teams are ready, we'll begin," Dean Cadence finished. On the left side facing the opposite side of the school was CHS, and in between the bleachers were the Rainbooms. Well, most of them. Sunset and the others were indeed standing between them, but they were missing Noah. He'd decided to stand away from them and at the edge of their side of the school's driveway. He was staring Twilight down the whole time, and his foot tapped as it seemed he was highly anxious. Twilight's device was blaring with energy like an airport runway light bulb. All across the device were the rings all filled and bright. Though it was an abhorrent thought, Twilight had gained magic from everyone. Not to mention she was probably supercharged from the magic inside of the portal. This meant Noah couldn't take her on even if he tried, so stopping her from opening it was the only choice he had. Fluttershy sighed, "I don't feel like playing these games anymore." "But we have to play!” Rainbow Dash replied. “This is the last event! And we can't leave either! We have to watch Twilight until these games are finished. So we can live long enough to die old." Rarity ran a hand through her hair as she peeked over at Crystal Prep. "That's just it. It'll be quite hard to focus knowing Twilight could end everything we hold dear to us by a simple hand movement." "And I feel awful about what I said to her... and him," Sunset replied, staring off at Noah. He hadn't spoken a word to any of them and seemingly just popped up. The others thought he was just uneasy, but Sunset knew what they truly thought. Fluttershy crossed her arms, "Yeah, and Twilight’s actually pretty nice. I can't imagine what she'd become if she does open that compass." Sunset gently rubbed her face in mortification and remorse. The other Rainbooms' faces fell flat as they glared at Fluttershy. She dropped her head and slid away, unmistakably embarrassed. Applejack brought her hands to her hips, "Let's just get through this last event, prove we aren't cheaters, and stop the galaxy from being destroyed. Then you can go apologize Sunset. To both of them." Returning his attention to the present, Noah narrowed down Twilight and found that her principal along with the other competitors were addressing her. The hell? ... "I know I'm asking you to beat a team that isn't playing fair, but Canterlot High must be made to understand that even with magic at their disposal, beating Crystal Prep is simply not a possibility. Not a choice. And I believe we can now fight fire with fire." Principal Cinch stood before Twilight with her hands behind her back, the competitors behind her, and her signature look planted dead center on her face. Twilight shrunk and frowned. She continued, "I've seen what your device can do, Twilight. Containing magical energy is fine, but have you considered releasing it?" Twilight shook her head, "But, I don't even understand how it works!" "But you'd like to. And considering our opponents have already used it to stay competitive, I see no reason why we shouldn't do the same. Unless, of course, you have no interest in Everton. Though honestly, I think there's more knowledge packed in that little device then any independent study could offer." Twilight stared into Cinch's eyes fearful and she only bored back. Twilight cupped the device and slowly lifted it towards her. She gazed upon it. The blaring began to get to her. Becoming mesmerizing in a sense. It called to her. "More knowledge packed in that little device then any independent study could offer." Twilight took a step forward. ... "What is she doing?" Noah spoke almost without thinking as his heartbeat fastened. He spoke so blatantly that the Rainbooms heard him, and Rarity raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about-" "What is she doing?" Noah repeated, disregarding Rarity's words as if they didn't exist. The Rainbooms turned their attention to whom he stared at and felt their hearts fasten. Twilight had emerged from the small group crowding her with her eyes locked on the compass. Instead of cupping it, Twilight held it by its top and bottom as if she were to open it. Noah gazed at Crystal Prep and saw something that made his stomach turn. They were smiling. They were letting Twilight out with a weapon she couldn't bear to comprehend to win some meaningless games. Without thinking, Noah crossed the edge of his side and called out, "Twilight, what are you doing?" "I-I," she stammered. Her eyes not even darting to meet his. Noah took another step, "Answer me, damn it!” The noise from Noah's shout quickly attracted each and every student's attention, including the principals. Instead of calling out, they watched with confusion as the situation played out. Twilight's pupils seemed to enlarge, and Noah felt every hair on his body stand tall as a bright crack appeared from the compass. The Rainbooms took a step back and stared in horror. Feeling immediately threatened with no other choice, Noah drew his father's gift from his back pocket and aimed down his sights at Twilight. His vision pulsing similar to when he witnessed the dimension of Equestria. He shouted again, "Twilight, you shut that thing closed or I'll blast your fuckin' head off!" It was at this point that everyone's wonder quickly turned to panic when they spotted the chrome handgun. They knew magic was odd and unpredictable, but a gun had only one purpose. Luna hastily stepped in front of both Dean Cadence and her sister and shouted out. Quickly switching to defense mode. "Rictorshine! You put that thing away right now or so help me!" Noah held his sights on Twilight whose hands began to tremble and her eyes twitched somewhat. She didn't change her position though. Instead, she raised the top higher, and Noah heard the crackle and thunder of lightning above. "Rictorshine! You fire that thing, I'll have you expelled and arrested! Holster the weapon imme-" "Shut the fuck up! Twilight! Drop it! Now!" Principal Cinch scoffed, disgusted. "How repulsive! Canterlot Highschool not only uses vulgar language and cheats with magic to win, but when a counter makes itself known, they draw weaponry?! How utterly revolting!" Twilight's hands only raised by half an inch within every moment, and Noah couldn't handle the pressure and tension. He needed to stop her. She wasn't going to herself. Noah cursed under his breath and stood his ground. With careful ease, Noah pulled the trigger. *Click!* "...What?" *Click Click!* "No." *Click Click Click!* "No." *Click Click Click Click!*" "No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no!" *Click Click Click Click Click Click Click Click!* Noah felt his heart hit a truck. "M-My magazine, i-it's empty... why is it empty? I-It shouldn't be empty! H-How's it empty!? I-I don't, h-h-how, t-this doesn't make any s-sense! I-I get ammo every... every... every..." "Ya got a spare? " "No..." "Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare?" "Every..." "Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare?" "Ya got a spare?" "Thursday..." Noah dropped the gun. The schools fell silent with the thud. The principals felt their eyes widen. Applejack removed her stetson. Rarity grew even whiter. Fluttershy felt tears begin to well in her eyes. Pinkie Pie froze. Sunset ran both hands through her hair. Rainbow Dash... began to whistle nervously. "Rainbow!" *Shine!* Noah took a step back as he watched in dread. Twilight had opened the compass wholly and a bubble of magic and blinding light blew everyone away in an explosive shockwave of magic. The magic released from the compass began to twist reality at will like a palm tree in a hurricane. Noah felt like he was in the middle of the desert, then in the north pole, then in the Atlantic ocean, and then Mount Everest. The colors of reality began to distort and black became white. White became black, and the opposite of every color flashed back and forth through multiple shockwaves. Noah felt his vision fade in and out. Backward and forward. As the shockwaves past, Noah found himself on his back next to Sunset. The structure of the school looked like it had been hit by miniature cars in all places, and half the students had fallen unconscious. Including Pinkie Pie. Noah laid his eyes on Twilight and found her slowly being enveloped by a bright sphere of purple and white magic. The compass dropped onto the floor with a clatter, and Twilight bared the magic in her hands. Principal Cinch and the students of Crystal Prep stared in terror. Some on the bleachers were shaking their classmates, begging them to wake up out of fear. Some did, but only some. Noah shortly stood up and pulled Sunset up by her shoulders, "Get everyone out of here, now!" "Where do we go?! She'll kill us all!" "Take everyone to the movie theater and pray! I'm gonna hold off Twilight for as long as I can!" "That's suicide! She absorbed the portal! She'll tear you in half!" "What other choice do we have Sunset?! I have to try!" "Noah, but-" "Go!" "But I love-" "Sunset, if you don't get the fuck out of here, I'm gonna kill you! Go!" Terrified for Noah and her home, Sunset sprinted to the other Rainbooms. She reached them and promptly explained the situation and they instantly worked on getting everyone away from the school and to the theater. Pinkie Pie in Applejack’s arms. Twilight was still being enveloped, but her screams began to pierce the ears of all as the magic enfolded her arms. Noah pulled his necklace from out of his shirt as thousands of students ran past him. Screaming and crying in unadulterated horror. He cursed himself as some students were still left behind, some even looked dead as blood poured down the bleachers with still bodies close by. Noah's eyes began to water as he heard the last words of Twilight Sparkle. He increased his grip on his necklace and closed his eyes. Noah's eyes began to water as he heard the last yet fateful words of Twilight Sparkle. "Help...me... ahhhhh!" XX - This Is The HourSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.XX - This Is The Hour: P2Author's Note What Would You Do Without Me? XX - This Is The Hour: P2 Huh... death feels... weird. Like I'm... like I'm in some sort of... lucid dream... wait... Adagio?! You there!? W-Wait... why can't I speak? W-Why can't I... nigga what is this? I... w-wait... I feel... I feel hot, like... like something's on top of me... no... I feel hot like... like... really hot... I... ow! The hell? I-I felt that! W-What the? It feels like... like... like... "Hello?" Noah groggily opened his eyes and found himself in one piece upon the school's roof. He could feel his legs, his arms, his eyesight was crystal clear! He couldn't feel any bruises, any scars, or even the blood upon his skin. He couldn't believe it. He was alive. "Noah?!" A voice called, and Noah's jaw dropped, flabbergasted. It was Sunset. "W-What?! What the hell happened?! I'm alive?! I fell out of the fuckin' sky! W-Where's Midnight?! Where're the girls?! Where're the boys?! What happened to the students?! I... what the fuck happened to you?!" Noah was right. Sunset had transformed dramatically! Her hair had seemingly flushed upwards and resembled a fire similar to Midnight's only luminous and elegant. Also similar to Midnight's was a long golden unicorn horn, only without the holes. Around her neck was a collar with her special symbol hanging at the end of its chain. Upon her chest was a pink and golden corset with a slightly pointy belt covered in spikes around her waist. Below was a pink dress that cut out towards the front, and underneath was a bright sky-blue skirt with a pure-white skirt underneath. Slipped onto her feet were golden encrusted high heels fitted for a queen. They featured two small golden wings to the side. As for wings, Sunset had two blindingly bright golden wings that looked more like strange paper cuts instead of wings. They were almost see-through in the center as well. And on her hands were bright sky-blue fingerless gloves. She was a daydream. Sunset’s face fell flat, "Oh, I’m the strangest thing you’ve seen all day?” ”Yes, negro!” ”Whatever, are you hurt?" Noah raised his left arm that had broken earlier, "Apparently not. What the hell happened? Midnight, er, Twilight put me through hell and dropped me out of the sky. I should be dead. How am I alive?" "I-It's a long story, I'll make it brisk." "This better be one hell of an idea! It sounds like Twilight just threw him through a wall from here! I don't feel like having my dick chopped off by a demon nerd, and this truck is packed to the brim!" Manex ranted as he pulled out of the movie theater's driveway. The truck indeed was packed as the only ones willing to sit in the trunk at a time like this, and at such speed, was Fall. Meaning the seats were overly crowded, and passive-aggressiveness was in the air like smoke from a wildfire in the middle of July. "Look, Pinkie didn't bring her party minivan thing so we have to use this!" Sunset replied, her hand gripping the passenger seat's roof handle. "Why do we need everyone?" "Because... I... oh... uh... I may have been speaking without thinking a little bit..." Manex rounded a corner and everyone inside the truck groaned irritably. Even Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. Applejack pushed CJ back a bit, "What do ya mean ya weren't thinkin'?! It couldn't have been that hard!" "Applejack, the galaxy is about to, in the words of Noah, fucking die. The amount of time we have is so important and we have very little of it! Once Twilight gets the magic from Noah, there's no telling what she'll do to Equis! What she'll do to Earth!" "Easy for you to say! You get to sit in the shotgun seat while I have to sit in front of someone's friggin’ crotch!" Rainbow Dash replied, and she wasn't lying either. Because of how cramped the truck was, she had to sit on the floor in front of Jain. Not that he minded, of course. "Look, just sit tight and stop complaining until we get there! I know things are weird and cramped right now, but there are more important things to worry about! Like, is Noah gonna be in half when we get there!" "You're like a girly version of Noah." "Cool, now listen. Here's the plan. When Fall came back outside to comfort me because I thought we were all gonna die, the words, "together, as one," caught my attention. "It was a little stupid of me to forget such a thing, then again, it's been a while since I've been to Equestria, but magic is not just an energy, it's a life source. Our skin and our bodies can't function without it. "So if Twilight was draining magic from you guys, you should all be dead. Of course, that would be because of me coming here, but you'll learn to live with it. You have so far." Rarity laid a hand flat, "Well, what does that mean for us, darling? What does this mean at all?" "It means that we can still defeat Twilight. All you need to do is unleash your inner magic. Not every drop, but a lot. Once you've all given it, we'll use Twilight's compass to combine it. Giving us magic similar to hers." "What of Noah then?" "Noah will use his Super Element magic to combat the magic Twilight gained from the portal, and we'll use your magic to combat the magic Twilight took from us. Well, you, I mean." Fluttershy laid a hand flat, "So, how will we defeat her though? It sounds like we'll just be evening out the odds.” "We'll leave that part to Noah. He came up with a plan to end our original plan last time, I doubt that he can't do the same when our galaxy hangs in the balance. Okay, does everyone understand?" Manex made a final turn left and the school was in sight. CJ pushed back at Applejack, "What about us? This sounds like something all of you can do without us perfectly." "I mean, you can go back to the movie theater and tell everyone it's gonna be okay." "Bet." Manex pulled finally into the school's driveway and gaped, "Holy crap, she tore shit up." Sunset and the others stepped out of the truck as Manex parked and wandered to the center of the school's driveway. It was decimated. The school's entrance had another hole through it, several dozen windows were shattered, and the bleachers were crumpled and covered in glass, paper, and dried blood. A shining symbol for the future. Jain stammered, "I-I, y-you, w-what... did she just fuckin' blow everything away with a wave of this magic shit? It almost looks like World War Two just rolled on by and left an absolute mess." Rarity crossed her arms, "When Twilight changed, she seemed to break reality itself. Colors changed randomly, sent out shockwaves that pushed us back and broke objects all around us, and even distorted matter itself." "Well, that totally sounds normal," Jain replied. Sunset looked over a couple of feet from her and found it. Twilight's magic compass. She promptly stepped over to it and picked it up, poking at its lights. It was as stagnant as a corpse, especially the ones that surrounded. Applejack brought her hands to her hips, "Ya got it, Sunset?" "Yeah, I've got it. All we need now is-" *Crash!* Sunset and the Rainbooms' quickly turned their attention to what sounded like glass breaking, startled and shocked. They immediately spotted Twilight, or whatever she was now, flying high into the sky while holding Noah by his left arm. They couldn't get a good look, but Noah might as well have been dead from his condition. Sunset instantly panicked. "Oh crap," Rainbow Dash spoke up, "Was that Noah?" "He looked hurt!" Pinkie Pie added, "Is he... h-he's not-" "Okay!" Sunset interrupted, "Let's go! Magic, now! We don't have much time!" The Rainbooms closed their eyes and followed Sunset's instructions. They dug deep inside themselves, for something, anything. A feeling, a buzz, a simple fragment of magic. But failed ultimately. Fluttershy opened her eyes, "Uh, Sunset, exactly how are we supposed to bring out the magic?" Sunset ran a hand through her hair, anxious. "Uh... I... try... try thinking thoughts that only you can feel. Applejack, your honesty. Rarity, your generosity. Rainbow Dash, your loyalty. Pinkie Pie, your amusement. And Fluttershy, your kindness. "Please! I-I know it's a long shot, but back in Equestria, we normally think of when and how to use our magic! I-It's kinda like telekinesis, or however you pronounce that, but you get my point!" Sunset's eyes constricted out of fear when she heard what sounded like Twilight increasing her speed like a jet. How high was she going? The edge of the atmosphere? He'd die before he’d hit the ground! "Come on guys we have to-" Sunset was struck silent when she found the remaining members of the black five backing up slowly as they watched the Rainbooms. And her eyes dilated as she looked herself. The Rainbooms were glowing their signature colors. Like an aura of it simply shrouded them. Similarly to Noah's back during the Battle of the Bands, and when they ponied-up in school. Sunset raised a finger and pointed nonchalantly, "That was quick. And profoundly unexpected... but I guess we can work with it. Do you feel any different? Because you guys don't have the little ears, tail, and hair extensions." Rainbow Dash shrugged, "I actually feel weaker. That took a lot outta me. Like I just ran a marathon." Fluttershy nodded, "Yeah, I feel exhausted. A-Are you sure this is what we have to do Sunset?" Sunset opened the compass, "It seems that way." It began to pull out of Sunset's hands, and she had to grip it tight to keep it from going wild. Even then, the magic from the Rainbooms began to drain out like a black hole. Much faster than earlier. "Jain, CJ, Fall, Manex, grab them! We don't need them busting their heads open at all right now!" CJ raised a finger to argue but was shut down shortly by Fall patting his shoulder and nodding no. Rolling his eyes, he and the rest of the remaining Black Five stood behind a member of the Rainbooms as they got weaker and weaker. Fall behind Rarity. CJ behind Applejack. Manex behind Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. And Jain behind Rainbow Dash. Sunset grinned slightly as the magic from all five finally rested inside the compass, shut itself closed, and the five of them collapsed. Thankfully, into the arms of the boys. Sunset turned the compass on herself and stared. She mentally asked herself one question. Am I worthy? ...Time to find out... Sunset carefully opened the compass and instantly felt the glare attack her eyes. She held them shut and continued to release the magic. She felt her hair begin to blow in the wind it blew, and the heat of an unknown sun began to beat down upon her like a mallet. Unlike Twilight, the magic began to enter Sunset through every pore, but it didn't create a giant sphere of it slowly enveloping her. Sunset felt the magic inside her. It moved up, down, and all around. Seemingly transforming her from the inside out. CJ turned to Manex, "We should probably get out of here. Like, I don't know. Now, maybe? I can only hold some southern girl who smells and eats apples twenty-four-seven for so long before I collapse." Manex rolled his eyes, "I heard, dipshit. S-Sun... ugh, this is so weird. Sunset, you want us to head back and you help Noah defeat that crazy purple nerdy bastard?" Sunset began to float above as the magic made her glow. It coursed through her veins like a brand new bloodstream, and wings of pure golden light started to sprout from her back. Her eyes glowed a glorious white. "I'm gonna take your slowly moving upwards and away-like movements as a yes and get the hell out of here." Manex held Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie tightly as he shuffled to the car. CJ brought Applejack's arm over his shoulder and dragged her while Fall carried Rarity bridal style. Rainbow Dash shook her head as Jain tried to do the same. "W-Wait, I-I wanna stay and help. W-We may never know if they might need it either, so... Y-You guys just head on back. I-I'll stay." Jain responded, "Dashie, you can barely stand. It'll take some time to get back in fighting shape. Hell, even moving at all." "Some time is all the time I need. And if you care so very much, then you can stay. Like you said, I can barely stand." Jain blushed, conceivably for the first actual time in his entire orphan life. "I uh... I... hey, you said it. I could drag you to that truck if I wanted to." "But you won't." "Only because you asked." CJ rolled his eyes as he laid Applejack down in the back seat. "Are you getting in or not? we're not coming back for you, by the way, so make the smart choice! You know, the one that doesn't put your life at risk?" Jain pulled Rainbow Dash back into his grasp as she lost her balance. He shrugged, "Guess I'm staying. If I die, don't shit on my funeral!" "Eh, not like there'll be a funeral anyway nigga." Sunset began to finally finish her transformation as CJ, Fall, and Manex strapped the girls in while Jain took Rainbow Dash to a safer place besides being out in the open. As Fall opened his door, he gazed upon Sunset one last time as she opened her eyes and felt the magic course through her. An aura similar to Noah's surrounding her. She was friendship. Fall called out. "Hey, Sunset," she laid her eyes upon him and he narrowed his eyebrows. "Kick her ass." With that, Sunset beamed an exultant and gracious smile and made two fists. She then narrowed her own eyebrows and nodded. "Got it." Faster than any of them could conceive, Sunset shot up into the clouds like a rocket. Even leaving a trail of wind behind her that nearly blew the truck away as it bounced with a thud. Thankfully for Rainbow Dash and Jain, they were behind cover. Finished up, Fall sat in the passenger seat and Manex quickly exited the school's driveway. Leaving Jain and Rainbow Dash together, alone. They took a seat against the school's walls next to the near-destroyed bleachers and sighed. Realizing something, Rainbow Dash perked up. "Did you call me, "Dashie?" "Uh..." ... Sunset continued to tear the clouds apart and through the atmosphere. She narrowed her vision as much as she could to find something, anything resembling a person. It was only when she noticed him did her heart stop. *Woosh!* Next to Sunset fell a ravaged and heavily injured body. Her eyes constricted as she noticed who had fallen. It was Noah, and he was in sheer pain. Probably not even conscious. Feeling a glimmer of hope, Sunset rushed towards the body. Shooting downwards like a bullet for Noah. He was just partially too fast for her, unfortunately, and she growled. Noah had been plummeting for quite some time, meaning he surely could've beat Sunset if she wasn't fast enough. She began to pant as she recognized clouds she'd recently torn through. She reached a hand out to him and began to feel tears well up in her eyes. Sunset began to grasp for him. His shirt, his hair, his arm, anything. He kept plunging, faster and faster, but Sunset only increased her speed. The roof entered the picture, and Sunset began to panic. She closed her eyes and nearly screamed. She struggled to slow down and felt her body heat up slightly as she passed all of the clouds. This was it. Sunset had to grab him and stop. She had no other choice. Sunset yelled, until... She caught him. Sunset pulled Noah into a close embrace as she slowed her descent as fast as she could. Her feet began to heat up just a bit, but it was nothing for her. She eventually slowed down entirely and reached the roof of the school. Sunset laid him down carefully as her feet connected. He looked atrocious. Sunset's tears finally fell as she gazed upon his injuries. He had several scars, cuts and bruises as well. His left arm looked broken due to it appearing that it'd been crushed and shattered. His legs were covered in slash and stab wounds, and a rather large one bled out of his left shoulder. His right eye was covered in blood, and Sunset wondered if it was even there at all. And he was missing multiple teeth. "No... no, no, no, no, no... I-I can... I-I-I have... I have... there... there must be something... a-anything I can do... please... please..." Sunset rested her head on Noah's chest and sobbed quietly. Even if he was patched up ever again, Sunset wondered what had happened internally. He could be an entirely different person when he returned. So Sunset merely cried. Cried every tear she had for the boy she never got to love. Cry for the boy so different than all the others, yet perfect. Cried for what they could've become together. Cried for everything. Until he began to glow. "You... you healed me," Noah replied. He was left dumbstruck at Sunset's story and was astonished she managed to tell it so hastily. Noah sat up and moved his left arm around. It worked like a charm, maybe even better. He felt his back and his pain had seemingly disappeared. As for his eye, he saw crystal clear. Sunset shrugged, "Yeah, I... I guess that's something you can do when infused with multiple Elements, so..." Noah instantly felt the return of the conflict from earlier and looked off to the side. Sunset did the same while poking and fidgeting with her fingers. Almost like she didn't know him. It was a shame, truly. The last few days of a friendship ruined forever because of an argument that quickly got out of hand. Maybe if Sunset had thought about him, or if Noah thought about her. Things wouldn't be like this. But, Noah didn't want it to be like this. Especially right now. "Sunset, I... I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking about you. I wasn't thinking about all the time we spent. I was so self-centered because I wanted to return home, I'd forgotten what we'd done together. I was a fool... ugh, no, I was a motherfuckin' dumbass. "I should've thought about you. Your past and how happy you felt. It was truly fucked up. I feel like such a dipshit. Like a dumbass nigga that just... that just ruined his life thinking he could be on top of everyone. "I just-" "Noah, please, it's okay. It's my fault for acting the way I did because I was self-centered. America, screw it, Earth, is your home. And I tried to keep you away from it to deal with my problems. I should've understood how happy you were knowing you could go back home without having to worry about planes crashing into skyscrapers anymore. "I just... I loved looking out my window and seeing you just waiting there in your car. Your phone in your hand, a straw in your mouth, and just... just everything. I felt cared for. Like someone besides my own family gave a shit about me. So, so much. It just... it made me so happy. "But I understand now. I'm not gonna hold you back from going home and being with your people. Maybe... maybe I need to go back to my people someday. Maybe even tomorrow like you." Sunset held a hand out, "Can we... Can we maybe become friends again? Just for less than two days more? Please?" Noah stared at the hand and then stared at Sunset. But, it didn't take long for him to smack the hand away and pull Sunset into a tight embrace. Sunset felt her tears dry instantaneously and hugged back. "Without a doubt, kid. Without a doubt." Ruining the moment, Midnight rushed down to the bottom of the school. Passing Noah and Sunset without even noticing it. Sunset's eyes' narrowed and she pulled back. "Noah, I don't know why you couldn't change, but I need you to stay here." "W-Wait, I-" "No! I'm not risking losing you again! Safely and stealthily get off the roof, away from this school, and to the theater. You'll find everyone else there, and you'll be safe for the time being." Noah laid out his hands in disagreement, "But Sunset-" "Stay. Here. No Ifs, Ands, or Buts. Got it?" "Oh, you hypo-" "Got it?" Noah rolled his eyes and crossed his arms, "Fine! Goddamn it..." With that, Sunset stood up and patted him on the shoulder. She then turned her back and rushed off the roof. He heard her land from above and the conflict for the galaxy continued. Noah pulled out his necklace, furious. "We got our asses kicked back there, and now Sunset told us to stay! Do you know how wrong that is? But more importantly, why the hell didn't you show!?" The pendant began to glow and Noah's eyes' widened, only for the radiance to disappear. Like it was telling him no, and that's what he thought himself. He only grew even more irritated. "No?! We're facing the end of the fuckin' galaxy, our home, and you're telling me no?! Are you shittin' me? Please tell me you're shittin' me!" The pendant stayed dark, and Noah's eyes narrowed. He got ready to throw it, but he thought back to the Battle of the Bands. However, it was against his will. The thought popped up haphazardly. Like his pendant was trying to tell him something, and Noah figured it out immediately. The memory was full of him beating the Sirens to bits. Shoving Aria's own arm down her throat, ripping Sonata's toes and then shoving them through her chest, and stabbing Adagio with an electric guitar. As Noah watched, he felt unusual. From a different perspective, Noah looked like a monster. Tearing at innocent girls. They weren't in any way, but the feeling was bizarre. "But I... they took everything from us! I-I... am I not allowed to make those who made others suffer, suffer themselves? How is that fair, I..." Noah watched another memory flash of him holding Sonata over the railing. Her screams and pleads echoed in his ears. "I-I..." Another scene flashed, it was Siren Hell. After Aria got angry at him and he sent her flying, she landed in a pile of indistinguishable gore. Everything that could've gone wrong with her, went wrong. And Noah felt his heart stop when he remembered she was like that for three days. Tears welled up in his eyes. Aria had become a much better person since then, and he ruined her. Like a monster. Like a devil. Like the devil. "Okay! O... Okay... I get it. I've used my power to do horrible things. I-I'm... I'm the Super Element. The pinnacle of being good. Being righteous... righteous... I like that. I'm gonna use that in the future. "I understand now. I've been a monster with my power in the past, and I swear on my life, I will never commit such fucked up cruelties ever again unless absolutely necessary. You have my word. "But my word isn't gonna matter without you. I need you, we all need you. Sunset can't handle Midnight. You and I both know this. But together, as one, we can take down Midnight and bring peace to the Milky Way. "I may not be perfect. You may even be better off with Sunset, perhaps. But I'm only a hero with you, and you're only important with me. We need each other. There's a reason I have you, and we both know this. So please, put aside your irritation. Open your heart, and let's save the fuckin' world. Again." ... Sunset blocked the punches of Midnight as she staggered back. She knew Midnight would put up a fight, but this was ridiculous. She had fought with no style, no understanding. She was just madly throwing punches and kicks and blasts, yet it somehow worked. Midnight jabbed Sunset to her side and she cried in slight pain. Seeing an opening, Midnight tackled her to the ground, straddled her, and began crushing her windpipe. Strangling her with all the force she had. Sunset gripped Midnight's arms and attempted to pull as hard as she could. Yet despite her best efforts, Sunset began to feel her ears deafen and her eyes slowly turn white and bright. She began kicking, jolting and jerking in any direction she could to throw Midnight off, but it wasn't working. Midnight smiled as Sunset's eyelids began to fall. Her grip on Midnight's hands slowly loosened, and the kicking of her legs became tired and weak. Midnight's crooked smile found its rightful place on her face. For a while, at least. *Clank!* "Ow! What the fuck!?" Midnight let go of Sunset's throat. She took a large deep breath, and speedily scooted away before standing. She saw Midnight rubbing her head while a pipe laid next to her. She looked up to the rooftop of the school, and all the hope she ever had came flooding back with a passion. Noah had returned. And his Super Element along with him. Midnight looked up to the rooftop and growled as her eyes contracted. "You! I killed you! I dropped you from the fucking mesosphere!" Noah chuckled, "That sounds like a you problem. Now allow me to reintroduce myself." Noah jumped down from the rooftop and instantly appeared next to Sunset as he reached the floor. He stood his ground, "My name is Noah Rictorshine, The Super Element of Righteousness. And this is Sunset Shimmer, The Super Element of Harmony." "We're gonna kick your ass." XX - This Is The Hour: P3Author's Note To Hell With Your Magic. This Is My World... XX - This Is The Hour: P3 "A flat-nosed bus. Why, in God's name, would he want us to bring him a flat-nosed bus?” "Jain, he said it clearly. 'Listen, head over to the school's bus depot, and grab a flat-faced bus and a brick. Then, drive it all the way over to the other edge of the school, as in where the road splits, and then call me. I'll say the rest when you get there. Don't fuck it up'." "Dash, that's just what he said! I'm asking why!" "I don't know, just keep up!" Jain and Rainbow Dash rushed towards the far side of the school to retrieve a bus from the school’s bus depot while Noah and Sunset fought the good fight against Midnight. Of course, Jain was behind and highly confused. He gradually slowed down to take a quick break. "Hold... hold on... I... ugh, Jesus Christ..." He fell to his knees as sweat dripped onto his forehead. Despite being quite athletic, Jain had overlooked just how immense a high school is. Especially Canterlot Highschool. Rainbow Dash's face fell flat, "Oh, c'mon! We haven't even reached the side! Besides, I was just exhausted, and I was ahead of you!" "Not all of... not all of us are fucking... fucking pure athletes great at... great at everything! You... you can just go... I'll catch up." Groaning, Rainbow Dash jogged back to Jain, stood him up, and brought his right arm over her shoulder. "C'mon, we can jog the rest of the way. I'm not leaving you behind. After all, I'm the Element of Loyalty." Nodding, Jain began to lightly jog as Rainbow Dash started before him. He couldn't believe this day for the life of him. It had started out so well and simple, now the fate of the galaxy was dependent on a bus. A literal bus. ... "Okay, we're here!" Rainbow Dash announced as she and Jain reached the bus depot. Despite jogging, Jain was still slightly tired and held his abdomen. "I seriously don't know how you just feel nothing. That shouldn't even be humanly possible... or normal humans just suck." Patting his shoulder, Rainbow Dash replied, "Well, we're here now. So no need for anymore complaining. Anyways, ya remember what we're after?" "A flat-nosed bus and a brick... For some reason, I feel like finding the brick is gonna be the hard part," Jain replied as he examined the depot. Rainbow Dash pointed to the right, "You go find that brick, I'll take care of the bus. Got it?" Jain sighed, "Got it," and immediately started searching for a brick. Why they needed that, he'd yet to find out. Smirking, Rainbow started into the bus depot and sought the flat-nosed bus of legend. ... Jain reached the end of the bus depot and thought to himself as he searched. Out of all the shit I could be doing today, I'm searching for a brick while some strangely attractive rainbow-haired girl searches for a school bus. And just to make things worse, one of my best friends and the biggest asshole in my life is fighting a purple nerdy sociopathic psychopath turned she-demon hell-bent on eradicating my way of life. I don't even have to be here! I-It's not like she'll randomly destroy the city! The city is completely devoid of that magic shit, and she won't even destroy our galaxy because she'll be on the other side of that fucking portal that's just randomly located at a school for some reason. But no Jain. You gotta help us keep the peace, Jain. Think about the technicolored four-legged fuckers, Jain. Think about the children, Jain. The lives that are at stake, Jain. The princess whose fault this ultimately is, Jain. Think about the girl, Jain... Okay, I might have some problems. "Ow! Fuck me!" Jain lifted his foot and hobbled a bit as he came in contact with a tough object. He looked down and found something he genuinely wasn't expecting. On the floor was a cinder block. Jain shrugged, "Close enough," and picked up the cinder block. Struggling for a moment and dusting it off as multiple pebbles stuck to it like a weak magnet. "Jain!" Jain turned to his left as his voice was shouted remarkably loud. It took him a while before he noticed the voice was Rainbow Dash's over on the far side of the depot. Cradling the block, Jain began over to Rainbow Dash who'd hopefully found the right bus. ... "Okay I'm here, and I've got the brick... kinda. Turns out I found a cinder block. We can use that, right?" Rainbow Dash had called Jain to the rear center of the bus depot. Turns out all the flat-nosed busses parked behind. It was helpful as well, seeing how the bus depot is only ever changed when every bus leaves at once. Rainbow Dash smiled, "Great! Okay, this is working out after all!" Jain raised an eyebrow, "You didn't think this would work?" "Well, of course I did! I'm the coolest, remember?" "... right. So, how do you suppose we get inside? I'm pretty sure your ass didn't grab the keys from inside, so we'll have to use our-" *Clash!* Snatching the cinder block from Jain's hands, Rainbow Dash threw it overhand and straight into the windshield. Shattering it without omission. She then took half a dozen steps back before sprinting and jumping onto the windshield's frame. She then quickly climbed inside the bus and held a hand out to Jain. "Found the keys," she responded nonchalantly, and Jain simply gawked. He shook his head out of his slight daze, "I, uh... okay. Yeah, somehow throwing a thirty-pound block of cinder through a bus windshield when your arms are the size of a twig definitely works." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, "Oh shut up and get in here. It's not my fault I make breaking into school buses to save the galaxy twenty percent cooler." "Okay, let's not act like a seven-year-old," Jain replied as he stretched his arms. Following the same stunt as Rainbow Dash, Jain took a couple of steps back before running and leaping onto the windshield's frame. Instead of climbing, Rainbow Dash grabbed his left arm and pulled him inside while he climbed up using his legs and his right arm. Jain slid over the windshield and landed on top of glass shards that covered the bus' floor. Rainbow Dash wiped them off his back as he stood up. He took a few steps through the seats and found the cinder block laying in the middle on a seat to the left. "Well, I found the other keys," Rainbow Dash stated as she opened the bus' glove compartment and pulled out a single bus key with a matte black bow and a silver blade. Jain picked up the cinder block and placed it in a seat closer to the front. He then politely took the keys from Rainbow Dash and ignited the bus' engine. Revving up similar to how it does every day. Jain took a deep breath, "Okay, let's get this shit over with. Call Noah, we need the rest of the directions now." Rainbow Dash pulled out her phone, took a seat behind Jain as he pulled out of the bus depot, and dialed Noah up as fast as she could. The dial tone was undoubtedly the most annoying sound Rainbow Dash had ever heard in her life. The constant be—ep annoyed her astronomically. Rainbow heard the snapping of a table as Noah picked up. "Hello? Rainbow? Tell me you have the bus and the brick! Twilight just threw a lunch table at Sunset! I think she's becoming unstable, desperate!" "Don't worry, we have them. We're on our way over to the road bifurcate. What do we do then? Besides look awesome, of course." "I'm gonna grab Twilight by her legs and spin her around. Once I start spinning, stomp on the acceleration and drive over here with as much as you can muster. One I spin her for the fourth time in a row, drop the brick on the pedal and jump out of the bus. Got it?" "Yeah, but then what happens after?" "Leave that to me," Noah replied before hanging up, and Rainbow Dash sat up and asked Jain. "Did you get all of that?" "Yeah, I got it," Jain replied as he backed up into position at the road bifurcate. Rainbow Dash came up beside him and got on one knee facing the windshield. "So uh... you really have to leave tomorrow?" "Uh..." "Sunset, get back! I got this now," Noah stated as he grabbed Midnight by the leg and slammed her to the floor. Sunset nodded and flew back while Midnight screeched on the floor. "Drop me damn it!" Midnight retorted to Noah's actions. She truly was getting out of hand. Noah wondered if there was a time limit to having magic that kept monsters like her at bay. Perhaps she needed more every half hour. That'd explain their endless craving. Noah looked just near the road bifurcate and saw the flat-nosed bus parked. Rainbow Dash and Jain waiting on his signal. The plan was quite simple. The impact should stop the bus from hitting him and the school, and it should hopefully knock Midnight unconscious long enough for Noah and Sunset to restore her to Twilight again, and ultimately save the galaxy. One for the money... The fire surrounding Midnight's eyes turned black as she continued to kick and thrash. The heat surrounding her began to distort as the colors nearby changed. Noah was right, Midnight was becoming volatile. Not that it mattered, of course. Two for the show... Noah gradually began to spin, and Jain stomped on the gas. The bus began to shoot forward, faster than Noah originally intended. Despite it, he stuck to the plan and made a full circle. "Give... me... back... the fuckin'..." Jain dropped the cinder block on the pedal and backed away with the third spin. As Noah spun a fourth time, he felt as though he'd forgotten something. Rainbow Dash felt she disremembered something as well. "On the fourth spin... you... oh shit!" Panicking, Jain tackled Rainbow Dash to the back of the bus and held her tight as the bus grew more and more raucous and turbulent. Rainbow Dash didn't even complain or protest. She felt something she'd never felt before. A strange blush upon her face, and a warm feeling inside. "...nerd!" Noah let go of Midnight and sent her flying as the bus passed the school's statue. Her spine flew straight into the bus' hood at such force, the bus flew back and tipped over. Falling on its roof. Sunset's feet touched the ground as she approached Noah and stared at the wreckage. He fell to his knees as watched for any signs of movement on the bus. Making sure Midnight was out cold. Steam began to emit from underneath the bus as Noah examined it. It was demolished. The front end had been pushed in deeply and resembled a type of snub-nosed revolver. Or a pole crushed vertically. Its wheels had all deflated, and two were even missing tires completely. The glass on every window was shattered or fractured, the lights flickered on and off, and the bus' mechanical crossing arm twitched like a broken crane. Noah exhaled triumphantly as the realization came through. The galaxy was saved. Sunset fell back and landed on her rear. She set an arm on one of her knees which stood up while the other rested. "Jeez, you do realize that bus wasn't ours, right? We may have to pay for that." Noah waved her off, "Kid, we saved the fuckin' galaxy. If I hear complaints, we're gonna have a problem. And don't say anything about this appearing weird. It's not easy writing an action scene for a book." "What?" "I said where the hell is Jain and Rainbow Dash?" Sunset looked everywhere but at the bus and shortly grew worried when neither Rainbow Dash nor Jain caught her eye. She stood up and approached the wreckage. Noah groaned and followed after her. His knnes still in pain after nearly being split. Sunset tapped on the bus' rear entry window and peeked inside. The bus looked like it had been rammed by a bull. Everything that could've fallen out of place, had fallen. Leaving an unbelievably distinguishable mess. "Watch out," Noah told her and he punched the glass. Shattering it like like it was a joke. He pulled the emergency lever from the inside and opened the door. Noah sighed with relief as both Rainbow Dash and Jain laid unconscious and in one piece. Jain's arms wrapped tightly around Rainbow Dash’s chest, her own wrapped tightly around him. Noah wondered if they were holding each other a bit too tight. Sunset stood up and approached the other side of the bus while Noah stretched his arms promptly before pulling Rainbow Dash and Jain out of the bus and laying them on the grass. Sunset came around from the other side with Midnight in her arms. Seeing her, Noah promptly levitated over to the driveway, retrieved the compass, and levitated back. Sunset laid Midnight on the grass and sighed. "What about those kids on the bleachers? Some of them are-" "Dead, I know... But I wanna try something." "Try what?" "You and I, transformed, obviously, are able to heal all wounds, no matter what. But I wonder, if we give double the healing strength, do you think you and I could possibly-" "Bring them back from the dead? That's impossible... isn't it?" Noah faced the bleachers and narrowed his eyes, "Only one way to find out." "He said what again, CJ?" "For the last goddamn time Manex, he said to have everyone exit the theater with open arms and that they've got quite the delivery." "Alright nigga, relax," Manex replied as he, Fall, CJ, the girls, and all the students of both Crystal Prep and Canterlot Highschool stood outside the theater and watched the skies. CJ had received a text from Noah, why, he hadn't a clue. Neither did the others, it was simply out of the blue. One thing that didn't go unnoticed was the return of the sun. It'd been blocked out by dark storm clouds, but they'd seemingly rolled right over the city. Fall squinted his eyes as he looked towards the horizon, but his eyes widened when he spotted them. "Holy... guys, look! I-In the sky!" Fall called out, and every student and principal alike looked up in the sky and also saw them. It was Noah and Sunset, and they carried every student like string. From afar Noah shouted, "We kicked her ass, ladies and gentlemen!" And the immense sound of cheers and claps seemingly filled the sky with a magnificent passion. ... Noah closed his pendent as Sunset returned her magic to the Rainbooms and his friends approached him. Ecstatic that they were going to live another day. "Dude! How the hell did you beat her?!" Manex asked, and Noah shrugged. "Oh, uh... I might've thrown her at a bus rushing towards us at full speed. And while Sunset and I were dealing with her, I may have brought an entire basketball hoop down on top of her..." "Uh... we don't have to pay for that, do we?" "Hell if I know nigga. However, I'd very much more like to know the culprit who put Sunset and I through such bullshit." Noah directed his attention towards Principal Cinch who stood behind several of her students. When Noah laid his eyes on her, every voice in the theater settled, and Canterlot High casually stood behind him. Principal Cinch frowned and Noah nodded. "Yeah, I saw you motherfucker. You and you're piece of shit students, so eager to win this stupid-ass competition. These stupid-ass games." Principal Cinch folded her arms, "Is it honestly my fault that when you cheated, I was wrong for having the idea of fighting fire with fire?" "If you had any idea, you would've been smart enough to not fuck with shit you didn't understand and told your students to give it everything they had. Instead, you put the lives of countless people on a galactic scale in the worst danger of all time! "It's your fault four-eyes turned and fucked up our school. It's your fault that multiple students, including your own, were knocked unconscious, injured, or simply fuckin' dead. It's your fault our galaxy nearly came to an end, and it's your fault you lost! "And in the beginning, it was ruthless! I had glass in my fuckin' cheeks! Not these cheeks, by the way, those cheeks. All your goddamn fault!" Cinch took a step back into her students, but they avoided her like the plague and backed away furiously. Noah took a step forward when he saw the only students next to Cinch were Crystal Prep's chosen contenders. Including Firecracker who'd gained a bit of respect from Noah. He raised a finger, "These games, are done. You will never come back to our school for at least a century. If you can even muster jack shit at that time. You will take your pussy posse and get the fuck out of here. "I have more than enough reasons to simply kill you, but I'm no monster. And I ain't no snitch. But I do swear upon this. You best keep your muppets on a string, or else." Cinch narrowed her eyebrows, "Or else what?" "Or I'll fuckin' hang you from it." With that, Cinch fell silent. Not a word left her mouth. Almost like he was every one of her worst fears, Cinch scooted around him and made a mad dash for the exit. Never to be seen again. As for the students, Noah stomped and pointed. "Goodbye! Adios! Bonsoir! Arrivederci! Ciao! Get the fuck out!" The contenders nervously followed after Cinch, fearing Noah just as much as she did. The theater was left silent after that and everyone began home. Noah understood, of course. Today was a long day. But at least tomorrow would be better. FIFTEEN HOURS LATER Twilight Sparkle and her dog, Spike, sat upon the steps of Canterlot High as Cleaning Day reached its middle period. She'd withstood a lot in the past few days, but she was glad things had returned to normal. The one thing on her mind from last night was simply the horror she'd become. A violent and deranged monster without a sense of humanity for the life of her. Hellbent on taking every drop of magic until she had enough to annihilate the galaxy. She'd been wondering about her school, and how things would continue from that point. Principal Cinch would most likely go into hiding, the contenders from Crystal Prep would be disdained and despised, and both schools would never meet again for an entire century. She wondered what she'd do. What she could do. All her life she'd been an outcast. Completely neglected by students, disregarded by teachers, and even had her entire future threatened by her principal. But then she comes to Canterlot High, and they treat her like family despite knowing her for less than a day. It was after that thought, and the nightmares of Midnight that kept her up last night, that she'd decided what to do. It wasn't anything harmful in any way, she just thought it was for the best. She'd decided to enroll at Canterlot High. "I guess that was one way to finish up your time at Crystal Prep," spoke a voice. Twilight turned her attention from Spike to her left. It was Dean Cadence. In one piece, no less. "Pretty sure Cinch will be fast-tracking your application after all that," She finished as she took a seat alongside Twilight. Twilight sighed, "I've been thinking about it and... I'm not so sure now is the time for me to apply to Everton." Cadence smiled, "Really?" "I may know about a lot of things, but friendship isn't really one of them. Especially friendship magic after yesterday. And I'm definitely not gonna learn about more of it by being alone all the time." "So, you're staying at Crystal Prep?" Twilight turned over to the students who cleaned up and smiled herself. "Well, it seems the students here at CHS know an awful lot about the subject. I don't suppose..." "You could transfer to this school instead." Twilight lit up, "Really?" "You'd certainly be missed at Crystal Prep, kinda, but I think that's a great idea. I'll be sure to speak to Principal Celestia about it right away." ... The Black Five and the Rainbooms finished up cleaning the crater left by Midnight punching Noah straight into the portal. At least, some of them did. Noah sat on top and grumbled on his phone while Jain was discussing athletic ability with Rainbow Dash. Who was enjoying it much more than she’d anticipated. Applejack poked at Noah's foot that hung off the edge. "Noah, c'mon 'n' help us down here! This is your crater after all." Noah frowned, "Old Town Road, I was thrown through seven individual classrooms and landed in a trash bin. I think I deserve a break after nearly becoming paralyzed from the waist down. You know, after the classrooms?" "What if ah pulled you down?" "Then we'd have a problem." Rarity laid a hand on Applejack's shoulder, "Relax darling, it is fair after all. We were all inside the movie theater while he was dealing with... uh... what was her name again Noah?" "Midnight." "Midnight! Right! Right, right. So, Applejack, what say we just finish this crater. Noah has to pay for all the glass he shattered, after all." "I have to what?" Fluttershy poked Sunset's arm, curious, "Still no word from Princess Twilight?" Sunset opened her book and frowned, "Not yet, but, I think I may have figured out how magic works in this world." Sunset faced the rest of the Rainbooms and continued. "We pony up when we're showing the truest part of ourselves." CJ chuckled, "Y'all niggas just now figuring this out?" Sunset turned to CJ, bewildered, "I-I, what?" "It was pretty obvious. Raritry-" "Rarity," Noah corrected. "Rarity did that pony-up thing when she expressed her generosity. Pinkieec Ply-" "Pinkie Pie." "Pinkie Pie did the pony-up thing when she expressed her amusement, or fun, or whatever the fuck she is. Fluttersty-" "Fluttershy." "Fluttershy did the pony-up thing when she expressed her kindness. Applecrack-" "Applejack." "Applejack did the pony-up thing when she expressed her honesty. And Rainbow Crash-" "Rainbow Dash." "And Rainbow Dash did the pony-up thing when she expressed her loyalty." Jain sighed, "Hoy did you guys not pick up on this?" Rainbow Dash tilted her head, "You knew too?" "We all knew. We just didn't feel like telling you because you seemed so determined. At least, we were before CJ went ahead and got his balls cold again." CJ crossed his arms, "It was one fuckin' time, negro!" Sunset held the book close, "I'm sorry, I just... I was so occupied with waiting for someone else to give me answers that... I just gave up looking for them myself. "I'm sure there will be more magical problems that pop up in this world. Like Applejack said: "Princess Twilight has her own problems to worry about in Equestria." We can't expect her to always be around to help us." Noah hopped down from the statue and brought an arm around Sunset's shoulder. "Damn straight, Kid. Can't go around relying on others all your life. Gotta use your own head for once. And I'd say you'll need all the help from inside that you can muster after tomorrow." Sunset felt a frown find its way onto her face, but not for long after she sighted something behind her and her friends. "But, maybe I can be?" A voice called, and Noah brought his arm from around Sunset and turned his attention. It was Twilight and Principal Celestia. Celestia brought her hands behind her back, "It seems we have a new Wondercolt here at Canterlot High. She'd decided after the last few days to enroll, and I'd be criminal to deny her." Twilight shrugged, "I'm not sure how much help I could be, but I'd like to try. If you would all give me a chance." The Rainbooms smiled while the Black Five shrugged. But Noah crossed his arms and stood before her. "That depends. Are you bent on decimating the entire galaxy through magical genocide?" "Uh, no?" "Are you gonna be hanging out with these tools to learn about friendship or some crap like that?" "Uh, yes?" "Finally, are you gonna wear those glasses twenty-four-seven? Because otherwise, I'm just gonna refer to you as four-eyes. Not very creative, but what do you want from me." "Uh... maybe?" "Good! Then you're in! Just don't get pissed-" "Annoyed." "Annoyed when I call you a nerd," Noah finished while bringing an arm around Twilight and walking back towards his friends. Seemingly stealing her from Celestia. Though it didn't matter as the Rainbooms quickly gave Twilight a beautiful group embrace. Noah stepped back before they could though and crossed his arms in annoyance. These girls and their fuckin' group hugs, I swear... Celestia smiled, "I'm sure I can count on you all to help her feel at home." Noah coughed, "The boys and I are leaving." Celestia rolled her eyes, "I'm sure you are..." Noah threw his book bag in Manex's truck as he ignited it. After three long days, the galaxy was safe, and the Friendship Games were over. Permanently, of course. Noah turned to face the Rainbooms as Pinkie pulled up in her minivan. "Alright Rainbrooms, we'll see you guys at the Adventure Palace Resort, behind it, of course. We docked our boat over there, and we'll be leaving tomorrow at sundown. Got it?" The Rainbooms gave several thumbs up and Noah simply cringed at their carefree expressions. If there was one thing he wouldn't miss about Equis and its people, was their happy-go-lucky behavior. Noah turned to the portal, "And tell Twilight, the princess, when she gets back to go fuck herself for taking so long. I don't care if she was busy, my very well being is more important." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Sure it is." As if she was summoned by Noah's words, Princess Twilight Sparkle popped out of the portal to Equestria heaving. She spoke without stopping. "I'm so sorry I didn't get here sooner! I didn't get your messages until just now because I was caught in this time-travel loop and honestly, it was the strangest thing that's ever happened to me!" Twilight finally stopped with a gasp as she gaped at the other Twilight before her. The Rainbooms grew red with slight embarrassment while the Black Five snickered. "Uh... make that the second strangest-" "Well look who decided to show up!" Intermission VI - When Girls Go Black...Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Intermission VII - Jain Benefactor & The Rainbow Factory... KindaAuthor's Note Operation: Phone Number of the Color Wheel... Intermission VII - Jain Benefactor & The Rainbow Factory... Kinda TWO WEEKS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "Huh... so this is what a crush feels like..." Jain gazed out the window at a girl sitting at a two-person table from the restaurant he worked at for part-time. He continued to wipe the counters of multiple tables, but he struggled to take his eyes off her. It was Rainbow Dash. For whatever reason, she'd taken a seat there ten minutes ago. Back when he handed out his last order. He was perplexed as to why she'd come to Queen Dairy's and just sit there. Sometimes she'd just scroll her phone and sometimes she'd be texting. He'd been wanting to simply go outside and talk to her, but his job wasn't finished, and he was hesitant after realizing something. Jain liked Rainbow Dash. Much more than a friend would. In the past, he'd simply not talk to a girl that said something to him, but this was different. He wanted to talk to her. He wanted to walk out that door, order her some ice cream, and listen to her for hours. But he was too afraid. Yet no matter how much he told himself he couldn't, he kept staring. Jain had known Rainbow Dash from around the school, however, something snapped when he saw her in action. It happened every time he talked to her. But now, it was different. It was as if her very presence made his heart pound. He'd never felt like this with a girl in his life. Sure, the girls on the sites he visited got him done, but Rainbow Dash was more than just appearance. Her blue skin, her magenta eyes, her sly smirk, her strikingly gorgeous hair, and even her somewhat raspy voice. Jain had heard uncountable voices from girls, but they always sounded so ordinary. The same types of voices you'd hear on TV shows or movies. But hers? It was like something he'd never heard. He'd heard her before, of course, but the words didn't simply fade into nothingness when they were directed toward him. Not to mention her athletic and tomboy-like behavior. Jain was aware girls were all into different things, but he'd yet to see a girl as athletic as her. She made the athletic boys back at his school look like a joke. And he'd seen it as well. Seeing as they shared the same gym class, events would take longer because it would always end in a one on one match between the two. Unless it was football or they were playing for fun, there wasn't a day that went by when he wouldn't find himself panting after class while she acted like it was another day at the office. Sometimes he wondered if Rainbow Dash was secretly a boy, especially considering she was rather flat. But whenever she turned around, he'd immediately remembered exactly what she was packing. "Jain!" A voice called, and Jain turned away from the window towards the voice who called. It was his manager, Rapid Gust. Or as Jain referred to him: Mr. Gust. If he was gonna have a job in a world of happy-go-lucky technicolored ignoramuses, he was going to at least have a sense of traditional life wherever he could. And calling his boss Rapid Gust would be hilariously absurd. As for Rapid Gust, he had orange skin, circular glasses, blue hair brushed to the side, and a simple black suit with a blue tie. As if anyone gave a shit about some corner store eatery. Jain dropped the sponge on the table, "Uh, yes Mr. Gust?" "That young lady out there has been sitting for a while now and hasn't ordered anything. Bulky-" Who the hell names their child Bulky? "-went out there earlier to ask, and she said she was waiting on something. Go on out there-" No, seriously. Who the hell names their child Bulky? Why does this place not have any normal names? Does anyone not find that shit unusual? Is that just how Equis is?" "-and ask her what she'd like. If she doesn't order this time, tell her to scram! I need tables for customers, not highschoolers looking for a place to relax because they live in an awful household!" Jain glanced over at both sides of the restaurant, "But Mr. Gust, only a third of this place is actually-" "Don't say it, just do it." Jain dropped his finger and brought his hands behind his back. If there was one thing Jain hated about work, it's that his boss resembled Flash Sentry at a much older age. He sometimes wondered if Rapid Gust was Flash’s father. Picking up the sponge before returning it to the sink, Jain replied. "Okay, Mr. Gust. I'll take care of it." Rapid Gust folded his arms sternly, "That's what I thought." He returned to his office in the back of the restaurant and Jain approached the door. Despite being initially afraid, Jain was delighted he'd get another chance to talk to the miraculous rainbow-headed athlete. He took a deep breath before pushing open the door and approaching Rainbow Dash's table. Before speaking, Rainbow Dash laid her eyes on him and raised an eyebrow. "W-Wait, Jain? You work here?" "Uh... yeah." Rainbow Dash shut her phone off, "Sweet! Now I can get a discount!" "Uh, you want a discount for food that isn't higher than twenty dollars? You don't have that kind of money?" Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, "Obviously I do, but there's nothing bad at paying a little less for anything. Besides, I'm not ordering for myself." "Oh, well uh, what would you... Wait, what?" "What?" "You said you weren't ordering for yourself." "Yeah, what about it?" "Who else would you be ordering for?" Rainbow Dash crossed her arms, "Well, I've been waiting on Fluttershy this entire time, but she must've gotten so wrapped up in helping those animals at the shelter. I'll never understand why she's always around or about them." Jain took a seat in the chair, "You were waiting on Fluttershy? Why were you waiting on her?" "Flutters and I normally go to restaurants once every month just to catch up with each other. Of all the girls, I've known Fluttershy the longest." "Uh-huh... So, where is she?" Rainbow Dash shrugged, "I don't know! I-I've been texting her this entire time asking where she's been and-" Interrupting Rainbow Dash, a notification popped up on her phone. Rainbow Dash lifted it to read the notification it clearly and groaned in frustration before flipping her phone onto the table. Jain tilted his head, "So..." "Fluttershy said she couldn't make it today because one of her birds has a tummy ache. I get that she's interested in them, but she doesn't need to center all of her downtime around them!" "Is it normal for her to do that?" "Miserably." Jain folded his arms and leaned back. "So, I have a question." "What?" "What's up with Applejack and Rarity? Are they a thing, or...?" Rainbow Dash snickered, "Oh, you mean that thing Sunset said when she blew her top? No, they're not dating. Rarity just likes to mess with Applejack because she finds her the most unique of us all." Jain laid a hand flat, "Seriously?" "Seriously. Rarity's into boys. She claims she's constantly on the prowl for the perfect gentlemen who knows how to treat a lady. But if you ask me, I think she messes with AJ because she's the closest thing Rarity has to a gentleman." "What do ya mean?" "AJ's always acting kind and honest to us like normal, but Rarity seems to see it some other way. I'm guessing because despite AJ being a girl, she's closer to a strong and kind gentleman than most students in our school." "Deadass?" "Yep! In fact, Applejack and Rarity have known each other much longer similar to how Flutters and I have known each other longer. AJ, even now, has always treated Rarity like a princess... kinda. "AJ's well aware that Rarity loves being treated like a princess, but I don't think she's aware just how much Rarity craves that treatment. When it comes to AJ being AJ, she knows what matters and what's important. So she'll push us and Rarity out of the way." "But that only makes Rarity crave it more." "Now you're getting it. AJ's always acted like Rarity's special hero or knight whenever she was needed. Especially as kids. Rarity loved playing Pretend with Applejack because she was always so oblivious to Rarity's true intentions and feelings. Applejack just thought they were playing, but Rarity was living out her fantasies." "How do you know all this? This sounds like something a narrator would explain to a reader." Rainbow Dash leaned back, "Well, Rarity likes to go to the spa with Fluttershy, and it's usually there where they unwind. And since Fluttershy wasn't aware it was all a secret, she'd told me about all of it." "Oh... huh. So, what'll happen when Applejack figures it out?" "If you ask me, I don't think she will. And if she ever does, she'll probably be like ninety-years-old." "Ninety? The fuck, why?" "Well, Applejack is still oblivious to Rarity at times. Not as much as she used to, but we've all seen it before. Did you know Applejack picks up and drops off Rarity to and from school every day?" "Again, deadass?" "A hundred percent! Applejack always says she's just being kind since Rarity has issues in the morning, but it's virtually every morning. You'd think after waking up late a couple dozen times, you'd get it together at some point." Jain held a fist over his mouth, "Holy shit, Applejack doesn't notice?" "She still doesn't! Rarity has been in her pick-up so many times, it's started to smell like her! And Applejack hasn't noticed! Even wondering if it smells better!" "You're shitting me." "Not even close. Rarity also likes using Applejack for her designs to see if they work or not on an actual human. Applejack always leaves at four in the evening on normal school days to help Rarity out. And when she isn't dressing Applejack up, she watches her work on Sweet Apple Acres on Saturdays and Sundays. "Rarity just loves messing with Applejack and taking advantage of her. In a good way, obviously. It just seems to make her day having her farmer friend act the way she does and do the things she does." "You know, that sounds a lot like Rarity is into Applejack. Are you sure she's into men?" Rainbow Dash rubbed her chin, "Y'know, now that I say it all out loud, I think she does have a crush on poor innocent Applejack. I'd never thought of it, honestly. Actually, doesn't Rarity always start their daily bickering? Do you think she-" "Likes bickering with AJ? I wouldn't be surprised, honestly. She always sounded like she was bickering just to talk to Applejack. Like she enjoyed it more than she should've. But Noah once told me that when you guys were at a diner for Valentine's Day that Rarity was leaning towards Applejack and that AJ was moaning." "Seriously?" "Yeah, seriously. From the sound of it, it seemed like Rarity was-" "Touching her? Maybe, but that sounds hard to believe. Rarity would have to have Applejack wrapped around her finger to get Applejack to believe it was a friendly thing to do." "I mean... doesn't she?" "Probably." Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow as she analyzed Jain. "So, what's your deal?" "The hell do you mean?" "I thought you were supposed to tell me to leave, yet you're just listening to me ramble about Rarity and Applejack's relationship. Is there something at work here? Hm?" Jain raised his finger to speak before lowering it. He took a glance at Rainbow Dash and a lightbulb went off in his head. "Well, if I'm being honest, I was gonna ask you for help about a girl that'd I'd been thinking of for some time now." Rainbow Dash sat up straight and felt something inside her break, but she didn't know what. "Whoa, well now! Jainy's getting his funk on with the ladies!" "Don't ever say that. Again. Ever." Rainbow Dash giggled, "Whatever, what is it you need? Wanna get to know her so you can score big time?" Jain smirked, "Well, if anything, she's quite excited to get it on herself. As a matter of fact, she's also quite enthusiastic about the topic. Why? No idea, but damn, does it turn a nigga on." Rainbow Dash felt something of a blush begin to form upon her face, but she shook it off. "Uh-huh, and what else?" "Well, she's attractive, adorable, and her hair is gorgeous. Whatever it is she does with it works phenomenally! Not to mention her personality, she's also fierce and brave. She once told me she'd do anything to protect her friends." "Go on." "She's pretty cocky too, but she does it so well. It gets me thinking just how cocky she'll be when I'm done with her." The blush returned, "Jeez, someone's eager for a lil something-something." "That's not even half of it. This girl could rival even you in terms of athleticism. I spend forever trying to beat her in phys ed, yet she just walks off like it's nothing! Like it was just another day in the office!" "Rivaling even me?" "Without a doubt! Her eyes are the colors of beautiful rubies, and her speech just gets something going inside me. Like I could listen to her ramble with her cocky attitude and raspy voice for hours! Sometimes I wonder if she'll ever stop!" "Oh wow," Rainbow Dash replied as the blush reddened. "She's so astonishing on an astronomical level, but I just wish I could be with her legitimately. Sometimes I daydream of her lips against mine and how wonderful it'd feel. "So do you know how to reel her in?" Rainbow Dash stuttered, "I-I, uh... um, how about this." Rainbow Dash wiped her forehead before standing up. She pulled out a crumpled homework sheet from her back pocket, drew a pen from her other back pocket, and scribbled numbers on the piece of paper in a corner. She tore the corner off and handed it to Jain, "This is my phone number. I gotta head home before it gets too late, so we can talk about this when I get home. Not to mention, you know, other times when you might need me." Jain smiled and grabbed the paper gently as she handed it to him. He stood up, "A'ight then. I hope you have some tactics and what not because I'm dying to get with her." "Don't worry about a thing. I'll make sure you have her begging at your knees for you." "You think she'll beg?" "W-Well, I... I-I can only guess, y' know?" Jain shoved the paper in his pocket, "Guess so. See you some other time, Dash?" Rainbow Dash smirked, "Without a doubt." With that, Rainbow Dash turned on her heels and began home. Jain enjoyed her on the walk away more than he should've. He'd imagine his friends would be hooting and hollering behind him. As Rainbow Dash turned the corner, he promptly took a seat on the table and chuckled. He pulled out her phone number along with his phone as he added her as a contact. "Guess Applejack isn't the only one oblivious..." Intermission VIII - The Farmer, The Fashionista, & The Loud MouthAuthor's Note ”You Don’t Get To Hate Yourself. Not With Me Around...” -Anonymous Intermission VIII - The Farmer, The Fashionista, & The Loud Mouth THREE WEEKS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "I'm sorry nigga, come again?" "It's quite obvious darling. I've decided to try out clothing for men, and you were my only option. I'd called Noah to ask for some help, but he was unavailable. I asked for your other friends through him, and they were busy as well. All except for you, CJ." "But I'm not gay." "You don't have to be a homosexual to be a model darling. That's also quite offensive, so refrain from saying such things before we receive nasty comments and dislikes." CJ sat on Rarity's designer swivel chair as she explained to him what events had occurred to lead to this. As said earlier, Rarity had chosen to begin designs for men as well, but she needed help as the girls simply wouldn't work. She needed a boy. She'd asked Noah earlier for help, but he and Sunset were busy finding a new bedroom door and bed after they lost their virginity to each other two weeks ago. Despite Noah's predicament, they'd denied any and all regret for what happened in that room. She'd asked about Noah's other friends, the Black Five, but most of them were busy handling their own situations. Fall was busy figuring out what to do with a ten million dollar tugboat. Manex was busy catching up in class. And Jain had been making several excuses as a way to hang out more with the arrogant yet laughably unaware Rainbow Dash. Leaving her with CJ. In all honesty, CJ was the last boy she wanted to use. She was hoping Fall would show up as she was highly intrigued with how calm, collected, and kind he was. He reminded her of Fluttershy if she was a boy. She'd also settle for Jain or Manex. Jain was like Noah and Flash combined, and she was interested in how he would act towards a girl all alone. And Manex was quite simple. Doing whatever needed to be done, and helping as much as he could. Even if he didn't want to. But CJ? CJ was something else entirely. He was awfully rude, inconsiderate, and above all else, vulgar. Noah claimed he always managed to squeeze in a sexual comment or, "roast," as he called it. From what Rarity had seen personally, CJ wasn't at all inconsiderate. But he wasn't always like so. Rarity remembered the squabble between the Rainbooms and the Black Five during the Battle of the Bands. Of course, the Black Five had changed since then, but the memory still hurt at times. Especially from CJ. What he'd said to Applejack might as well have prompted a blood vessel to burst in her eye. She had difficult times speaking to him whenever they'd have to work together since they shared many classes. But Applejack, fortunately, was always around to ease up tensions. But in general, Rarity hadn't a place in her heart for him. And the fact that she had to resort to asking him for assistance almost made her blood boil. She'd rather have Snips and Snails inside her house than him. CJ shrugged, "Okay then I guess. So I have to wear shit for you and whatnot? Is this gonna take long nigga? No hate, but I genuinely have better things to do." Rarity furrowed her eyebrows, "I must measure you before I get started, of course. Which shouldn't take long at all. As long as you're cooperative." "Yeah, sure. Grab that tape measurer and go crazy nigga." Rarity sighed, This is gonna be a long day... ... "So, is fashion and shit just your passion? Y'know, making clothing and designing it, yada yada yada, has this just been your dream nigga?" Rarity sighed as she straightened her glasses, "Indeed. Though it is fairly... complicated. I'd rather avoid a major back story and simply continue with my work." "A'ight nigga." Rarity frowned. He'd said that word again. Nigga. Rarity hadn't a clue what it meant, but it drove her crazy. CJ and his friends just spat that word up, down, and all-around almost every sentence they spoke. Especially him. She'd understand if it was his culture or if there was a historical reason to it, but they just constantly repeat it. Over and over and over. She wasn't sure if the other girls felt the same, but something about that word just personally made her blood boil. "So nigga, I was thinking-" "I, was also thinking, CJ. I've already measured you perfectly. Along with the fact that it takes time to make clothing. Especially ones as magnificent as mine. So I was wondering... why haven't you left yet?" Rarity hadn't realized it yet, but she'd just reignited a conflict between the two that would not end well if treated improperly. CJ sat up from her bed and narrowed his eyebrows. "Okay nigga, is that what this is? I thought after my friends and I helped you save the planet, twice, that you'd put our beef behind us. Instead, you still feel the need to bitch and moan after I considered us something like friends." "I do, but not you! I would've chosen any other of your friends, even Manex, but instead, I got you. The one who hates everything and everyone. The loudmouth that can't zip it for five seconds!" "I was just having a friendly chat!" "Well, I don't consider a chat a legitimate chat where the word, "nigga," is simply thrown around haphazardly! Is that the sole word in your vocabulary?! Sure, Noah may swear an awful lot, but my word does he sound smarter than you! It's comparable to talking to a fucking child! A dense, black child!" CJ flinched as Rarity slammed her fist against the table before her outburst. He felt his eyes constrict with a feeling that wasn't anger, but something he'd rarely ever felt. CJ stood up from the bed and made his way to the door. He closed the door behind him gently, and Rarity returned to her desk. She set an elbow on the table and her hand covered half her mouth. She knew she'd done something wrong, but she was also in denial. I-I wasn't being rude, I was just stressed out. Y-Yeah, Noah'll talk to him and... Noah... argh... Sighing, Rarity immediately stood up from her chair and swung the door open. Just before CJ reached the steps, Rarity called out to him. "CJ! W-Wait! Come back! I apologize for my behavior! It wasn't proper!" Ignoring her believing she was lying, CJ continued down the steps. Rarity groaned and promptly followed after him. As she reached halfway down the steps, she placed a hand on CJ's shoulder and made him face her. "CJ, I... I... My word, CJ are you crying?" Rarity was correct. CJ indeed had a tear falling down his left cheek, but his face only showed anger. He pulled at his hands to escape her grip, but Rarity tightened. All that work on clothing did wonders. CJ scoffed, "Fuck off, it's none of your business. I'm a dumb little nigger, remember!? Go to hell!" CJ snatched at his hands from Rarity with such force, Rarity yelped and held her wrist beneath her arms. CJ wiped the tear from his face, stomped towards the front door, yanked it open, and slammed it shut behind him. All the while, Rarity was left in a daze of utter bewilderment. Not once in her life had she'd seen other members of the Black Five cry besides Noah. Especially CJ. Not to mention what he'd said dumbfounded her. Indeed, Rarity insulted him based on his color, but he seemed to take it dramatically. But something about his wording made her wonder. "'Dumb little nigger?' What does that mean?" "Do you enjoy working on this farm?" "I mean, why wouldn't ah? Ah love this farm." CJ sat and stared at what may be the most beautiful apple he'd ever seen while Applejack continued picking apples from a tree at the top of a ladder. An hour had passed since CJ's confrontation with Rarity, and it seemed Applejack hadn't received the news. From her phone, and CJ. After his temper blew from not being able to return to America, Applejack had offered him to come around whenever he fancied. Today was the first time he'd arrived, and he found himself unusually relaxed. There was something about Sweet Apple Acres that lured him in. It called to him as he approached. Like he belonged there. But the truth would undoubtedly say otherwise. And at this point, only half of him agreed. Applejack had insisted on CJ helping around the farm with whatever she required. That, or simply rest in a tree to get over whatever he was feeling. On any other day, his indolence would direct him to the highest tree in the orchard. Today, quite obviously, was different. Applejack dropped another apple into the basket, and CJ flipped the apple he held inside as well. Applejack looked down upon him and was left dumbfounded. Of all the days Applejack ever had the pleasure to lay her eyes upon the Loud Mouth, this one was the most peculiar. "So uh... If Ah may... What's the problem, CJ? Ya look lower than an ankle bracelet on a flat-footed pygmy." CJ crossed his arms, "I uh... Shit happens, I guess. And... I honestly just... Applejack, have you ever been judged based on your appearance?" "Mah appearance? Well, sure. Ah was made fun of a bunch of times in sixth grade for dressin' and soundin' the way Ah did-" "No nigga, I mean like... like your skin color." "Mah skin color? I-I, what do ya mean?" CJ stood up, "I mean as in the literal color of your skin. In this case, orange. Have people ever treated you differently based upon it? It doesn't even have to be a situation where they're rude. Has that ever happened?" Applejack searched her mind, "N-No... No, Ah don't think so. Why do ya ask?" CJ ran a hand through his hair, "Well, you know how Noah's always cracking jokes about officers?" "Yeah." "Well, there's a reason for that. Believe it or not AJ, America could only dream to be like Equis. It has less crime, beautiful scenery all around, and the economy isn't absolute shit. But most importantly, it has kinder people." "What do ya mean? People aren't kind in America?" "People like to believe there's good, but there isn't. Along with the fact that so many people don't see the problem. Especially because they are the problem. Now, I don't wanna get political and shit, but almost everyone in America is at each other's throats. "Everyone has an opposite that all tracks back to our past. I don't wanna drop the whole fuckin' concept, er, history lesson on you, but basically, America is full of people across the world. "Some people colonized it, while others had it stolen from them and others were transported to it against their will. That, un-fuckin'-fortunately, is all I can remember. History class was a bitch." Applejack slid down the ladder, "Transported against their will? Like, they were forced to?" "Yep, it's the dumbest shit. Like I said, not gonna get into detail, but because of what's occurred in the past, it has heavily affected the future. It's been affecting us for three to four centuries." Applejack's jaw dropped, "Up to four hundred years?! Ya better not be lyin', because Ah can see right through ya!" "You can ask Noah and the others, I'm not lying. Shit's fucked over there. And people, sadly, can't see the truth. Sure, people have every right to have an opinion on someone or a group, but you can't base that hate on everyone. "It's become this idea that if someone is from a certain group, or in this case, has a skin color similar to a mass amount of people, that they're just like all the others. The others being the ones who give said amount of people a bad name. "Politicians, teachers, border patrollers, even officers. Which could obviously result in horrid things. And you'd be surprised just how many horrid things have occurred. Notoriously horrid things." Applejack took a seat next to CJ and let him continue as she removed her hat from atop her head. CJ was normally the type of person to talk more bizarre, or how Noah termed it, ghetto, than normal. And yet, he was speaking entirely like Noah. Like he hid a part of himself that's smarter than presumed. CJ continued, "Because of these occurrences, our society has only grown worse and worse. Understandably, it's normal to say certain things about certain people, but not entire races. And because of this hate in their heart, they only make our society worse and worse. I-" Applejack laid a hand on top of CJ's shoulder, "CJ, c'mon now. There's no need to have thoughts about terrible things like that. What happens in America should stay in America for the better. And just from the sound of it, it seems livin' here may be the smarter choice. Regardless if that was your home." "Oh, uh... I guess that would be smarter to think. I just... I may have had a bit of a dumbass argument with one of our friends, and... I may have let something slip. Something from... well... America." Applejack tilted her head, "Well, what was it that you let slip?" "I... Applejack, do you hate me?" Applejack shook her head, "Of course not! Sure, we may not have been even acquaintances back then, but that's the past. From that day forward, when we saved the galaxy, Ah considered you one of my best friends. Because despite not knowin' a thing about ya, and what you've said in the past, any friend of Noah is a friend of mine. "Ah may've only known Noah from his disputes with Sunset in the past and thought of him as a male version of her from somewhere outside, but when Ah got to know him during and after the Battle of the Bands, Ah learned there was more to him. That there was a compassionate yet humorously rude leader inside. "And if that leader considers you the reason he still walks this planet, then that must mean there's a compassionate yet humorously rude leader inside of you as well. A leader Ah'm willin' to follow to the end of it all." CJ crossed his arms and furrowed his eyebrows, "Well... then why didn't they see that..." "Who's they-" "Applejack! Cejel! Come on inside! Granny made apple fritters today! Ya better hurry before the girls and I eat them all! Or Big Mac!" CJ promptly stood up and faced the voice who called out. Unquestionably, it was Applejack's younger sister, Applebloom, calling from inside. Seeing a way out, CJ started away from the tree and inside AJ's house. "Oh shit nigga, we gotta go in. Grab them apples or leave 'em, we'll be back for them and shit later. Ooo, I can smell those motherfuckers from here! Mmmm, goddamn it! That shit smells delicious!" And just like that, CJ returned to his natural state. His ghetto language and behavior replacing what he displayed earlier like it was a glitch in the Matrix. Applejack was left absolutely bewildered as he sprinted towards the house, ultimately leaving many questions unanswered. She haphazardly returned her stetson to its rightful place and began after him. Her head was full of questions, but also major irritation. If there was anything the Element of Honesty hated, it's being left in the dark. As she lifted the bucket and sighed, she thought to herself. Who's, "They?" "A'ight, I'll see you some other time AJ." "Ah hope that time comes soon. You're always welcome here, got it?" "Gotcha." CJ shut the door to his sedan as the evening shortly came to an end. Despite earlier, AJ hadn't been able to figure out what CJ had let slip. At Rarity's and earlier at the orchard. Hoping it wasn't anything serious, Applejack had decided to let it go. If CJ would go to such extents as to keep it a secret, then it's only fair not to pry. Although, she couldn't lie about the idea of CJ, of all people, having a secret. Applejack rested her arms on the window frame as CJ attempted to ignite the sedan, "You drive safe now, ya hear? The last thing we need is a student slash best friend dyin' before our graduation." Oh, you have no idea. CJ nodded, "Got it my nigga. Just don't-" "Wait!" Applejack poked her head out of the car and turned her attention to the left. Coming up the trail followed by a major amount of dust was none other than Rarity in her BMW knockoff. Applejack raised an eyebrow and stood away from CJ's car. "Is that... Rarity?" "Rarity?! Shit nigga!" CJ continued to ignite the sedan rapidly. Applejack turned back to him as he began stomping on the gas pedal and took a step back. "CJ, what's ya problem?" Rarity came around CJ's car and parked in front of him. She then yanked her keys out, unbuckled herself, quickly pushed the door open, and approached CJ by his side of his car. Admitting defeat, CJ threw his hands into the air carelessly, let them fall back down and stared at the ceiling with his head against the seat. "CJ! Listen! I-I didn't mean to say what I did back at my house! I-I was stressed! Please don't be mad at me! Noah'll kill me if he finds out I ruined a friendship so quickly out of petty anger!" Applejack came around the sedan and approached Rarity, "Slow it down, sugar cube. What in the hay are ya talking about? What happened back at ya house?" "Well, I asked Noah about any of his friends that could help me work on my new outfits for men, and the only one available was CJ! I let slip certain things a lady should never say, and he left in tears and anger!" "Tears? Rarity, what the he-" Suddenly, CJ pushed open his door, stepped out, and took a seat on the hood. "I know what you're gonna ask-" "Darn right Ah'm gonna ask! What happened back there?!" CJ sighed, "We were at Rarity's house, like she said, and she said stupid shit that pissed me off. So I left the room and started to leave the house before she stopped me. That's when I let something slip." Rarity took a step forward, "And I'm indubitably remorseful for my actions. Please, don't think I don't understand why Noah has you as a friend, I just got so worked up with your behavior. But that's not a reason as you weren't doing anything wrong! But if I may, what was it you said back there? "I know it's not my place to ask, but I feel horrible! As if I struck an unpleasant cord! Just... W-What was it that you said back there? What does it mean?" CJ looked away from the girls and gazed at the rising moon. He crossed his arms, "Noah isn't the only one with a shitty backstory. I know his is much worse than mine, but sometimes I can't help but get irritated." Applejack tilted her head, "Backstory?" "Nearly two decades ago, back when I was born and lived as a child, I had two... parents. I say it like that because as I look back, I wonder if they were even my parents at all. "You see, I grew up in a shitty home. No siblings, no grandparents, no aunts, uncles, or even pets. It was just me, my mother, and my father. We lived in Harlem, Chicago, and I spent most of my time being homeschooled. "My Father's name was Louis Ruckus, and my Mother's name was Christina Ruckus. As you can tell, we were the Ruckus family. And to this day, I abhor that name with every fiber of my being. "The reason being my parents. They weren't ordinary, and they hated almost every goddamn thing I did. Whether it was eating, drinking, or playing with toys, they always thought I was doing it wrong. Those black basterds. Or as they thought of themselves, white." Rarity raised an eyebrow while Applejack felt dots connect in her head. CJ continued, "My parents were defined as the worst type of person you could be. An Uncle Tom." Rarity tilted her head, "What in the world is an Uncle Tom?" "An Uncle Tom is a person regarded as betraying their cultural or social allegiance. Or in this case, a black person considered to be excessively obedient or servile to white people. "My parents were this multiplied by a factor of four hundred and twenty. They had posters of famous racists up on the walls. They worked for the white man, they praised the white man, they even prayed to the white man. As if they were gods." CJ's face began to glow red with rage, "Those nappy-headed shit stains judged every goddamn thing I did! They judged me for how I ate, they judged me for how I played, they even judged me for how I slept! And every fuckin' time they did, they hit me with a motherfuckin' hanger! They never even called me by my name!" "You must eat like a white boy, little nigger! You must pray to the white man, little nigger! Why do you sleep like that, little nigger!? I know I didn't raise a waste of human trash, little nigger! You gonna flunk outta school and never get a job too little nigger?! "I started hating myself! Thinking I was just some stupid, worthless, motherfuckin' dipshit! I hated everything I did! I watched how white boys played to act like them! I watched how white boys ate to act like them! I even painted myself white on the first day of middle school so I'd be accepted! I became a fuckin' laughing-stock until I started bullying other black kids because of their skin!" "I once owned the school similar to Sunset until I was taken down in the eighth grade by a fuckin' white boy! The irony in that is maddening! I just couldn't think straight! I ran away from home after that day bringing with me my Father's gun that he hid. "Once I shut that door, I just kept running. Running and running and running and running! I felt like my feet would never stop! Like I could just run until it was all over... It was only half a day later did I find myself in that orphanage. It was almost like I teleported. "Even when I ended up there, it was only when Noah showed up did he show me how much people matter. Regardless of the color of their skin. It's why I see him as a leader. And even after three years, I still don't think I'm ready to leave him behind." Applejack's stetson laid upside down as she dropped it earlier when her face contorted into misery. As for Rarity, she'd felt like she just lost her entire home. A feeling she hadn't felt before. Rarity looked away, "So that's why you acted the way you did when I said what I said. CJ I'm... I-I'm indescribably sorry. I... I never should've said what I said. I should've been more proper and understanding, I... I had no idea. "I just... I was too focused on my upcoming wardrobe that I'd completely forgotten that you were an orphan and that there was unmistakably a reason for that. I-I should've used my head. Please! CJ, darling, I apologize!" Applejack took a step forward, "CJ... you know that's all in the past, right? Whatever happened back then, you're free to leave it there forever. Nobody's forcin' you to go back, and nobody's forcin' you to relive those memories. "Here in Equis, whether you believe it or not, we're your friends. Rarity may have let somethin' slip, but you know how she is when it comes to her dresses. I'm sure she didn't mean it, and whatever she was thinkin' wasn't true. "And whenever those memories or thoughts begin to creep up inside, just... remember what I said today." "And that would be?" Applejack scoffed jokingly before approaching him closer and taking a seat on the sedan's hood next to him. Following suit, Rarity came around the back of the sedan and took a seat next to him on the other side. She brought him into a hug out of remorse and Applejack brought an arm over his shoulders. "What happens in America, stays in America." Intermission IX - All Your Wildest DreamsAuthor's Note The God of Second Chances... Intermission IX - All Your Wildest Dreams FOUR MONTHS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "Adagio... why is time moving so slow?" "It's pretty simple, Aria. We're dead." Aria sat upon her bed and stared out the window beside her while her sister Adagio laid in bed. Every day, Aria would gaze out of this window and at the grand display before her. White. The most uninhabited and devoid of life place to probably ever exist in our entire universe. Or at least as far as Aria could think. She sometimes wondered just how far the white stretched, and how exorbitant it truly was. Her hair had been changed from its characteristic pigtails to simply falling to her shoulders. Unlike Adagio, Aria had decided to simply stop tending to her hair, and its color seemed to become dry and stagnant. "When we were immortal," Adagio continued, "Time moved quickly because it didn't apply to us. Weeks felt like days, months felt like weeks, years felt like months, decades felt like years, and centuries felt like decades. "Now that we're dead, everything feels exactly as it should. Long and boring. Why do you ask?" "Adagio, if that statement were true, and we were alive, we should've been nearly a decade into this. Yet, we're not even half a year through. It has been five months, four weeks, three days, two hours, and eleven seconds since we died at that school." "What's your point?" "I think I'm losing it." Adagio sat up and sighed, "Aria, what are you talking about?" "Adagio, I've been looking out this same window since we first received it, and not once have I seen anything change. We only know it's night time because the lights turn off. And I've watched every single film on that bookshelf. Twice. "The food is all the same, it's always warm in here, the water is constantly changing force in the shower, we've been making carrot cake for months now, and the cable barely ever works." "Okay, that just sounds like we live in a crap hole." Aria faced her, "But that's not all. I wash my hair every day, but I feel like I miss a spot every time. My eyes have begun to twitch and water, my throat feels sore, and I keep hearing this ringing. "I've been in this house for so long, I don't know what to do or what's happening. I just want Noah to drop dead already so we can move on with our existence. I don't care if we perish, I can't stand this fucking void anymore. "I want it to end already." Adagio fiddled and stared at her fingers as she thought to herself. She peeked over at Aria, and she promptly spotted tears welling up in her eyes. She cursed underneath her breath as she couldn't disagree. Adagio herself had also felt like this void was picking away at her sanity. She thought that perhaps the house would keep her sane, and it did. But not for very long. She'd find herself staring at the mirror every time she left the bathroom. Thinking to herself as if she was truly all alone. Who was that in the reflection? It wasn't Adagio Dazzle, that's for sure. "I was meant to be adored," she'd whisper. "I was meant to beautiful," she'd mutter. "People would look to the sky and cry tears of joy because their leader, their lord, had arrived. Instead, I'm just a sad, lonely, little bitch." Thanks to Noah, she'd turned her thought process around, and had realized just what type of monster she was. A cold-blooded, sadistic, inhumane, thieving, fabricating, lying, narcissistic, indiscriminate, genocidal, psychopathic megalomaniac who committed mass homicide on a global scale and hadn't a clue what compassion or humanity signified. Might as well have been the Devil's daughter. Adagio understood her past mistakes, but that didn't mean they never haunted her. Sometimes, she'd stare at Noah as he slept. Wondering just how much damage she could do to him. Wondering if she could do damage at all. Wondering if Noah or Aria was aware of the gaze she gave to his temporarily unconscious body. And what thoughts ran wild inside her head. Besides sleeping, Noah had become friendly for some strange reason. And despite abhorring him for getting in her way in the past, she'd somehow warmed up to him as well. Treating him less like an enemy, and more like a friend. Aria, however, was a different story. She'd watched from the not so dark shadows of Noah and Adagio's strange friendship and was horrified yet absolutely livid at the same time. To her, it'd seemed like Adagio had thrown everything they'd ever done out the window, and just accepted Noah. Like she'd never met him. It was sickening. She wasn't mad at her sister, of course, she was just in a terrible state as she knew if Adagio acted the way Aria knew she did in the past, it'd be endless pain. And Aria knew said pain all too well. Turns out being flung faster than the speed of sound can render your clothing unwearable. The bloodstains as well, of course. Adagio looked back at Aria and found that the tears had finally dropped. The last time she'd seen Aria cry was during the American Revolution in which America won. She didn't cry for the British though, she cried because she'd lost a bet with Sonata after centuries of beating her. She lost nearly everything to that imbecile, and never betted again. But Adagio was well aware that these were sincere tears. Tears she hadn't seen since they were banished to Earth for a millennium. Tears she hoped she'd never have to witness again. Despite the trio's behavior and actions, they cared for each other deep down. Unfortunately, it was painfully difficult for them to express any sense of love towards each other. The last time Adagio ever saw Sonata and Aria hug was after they caused the Invasion of China in 1214. Albeit, it was fairly, "half-assed," as Noah would call it. Thus being in this void only made things worse. The sisters only had themselves, not to mention they were missing one. Adagio spent entire, "nights," wondering where Sonata would be. She'd probably be trying to make friends with some stray dogs only for them to die three days after and leave her sobbing in an alleyway somewhere on the other side of Equis. But at this point, only God knew. Right now, Aria was the focus. And Adagio couldn't remember the last time she'd done anything sentimental or gave any sense of love towards her. She wondered if she'd done anything at all. Adagio stood off her bed and ran a hand through her hair. "Aria... I know we're going through some things at the moment. I get that things aren't easy. And I'm well aware of what this place is doing to our heads. "But... this is an opportunity for something we've never had before. Something Sonata always seemed to hold within her heart despite whatever we faced. I can imagine she still has it now." Aria looked up at her sister, "Opportunity for what?" "Eternal happiness." "... the hell?" Adagio smiled despite Aria being rather serious, "I-I mean, I'm talking about that thing the humans would believe. That place above. Heaven, or whatever they called it.” Aria narrowed her eyebrows, "Are you talking about those stupid Christian guys who believe in some white-bearded loser up in the clouds all from a book with stupid folk tales from more than thousands of years ago?" "... yeah..." Aria's face fell flat, "Adagio, that's ridiculous." "Well, just think about it for a second. I know it sounds crazy and that there isn't a lick of proof, but just think. This belief is scattered across this entire planet with entire empires believing it. Don't you think there's something else to it?" "Spit it out, Dagi." "I'm saying there's a chance this heaven place may actually exist, and you know what else?" "What part of, "spit it out," did you miss?" "If we maybe become better people here, there's a chance we could go up there and spend eternity happily. It'd be like paradise, only we never have to leave! We can do whatever, whenever, however, whyever, forever!" "But Adagio, how are we supposed to become better people when we're losing our sanity not even halfway through a year? By the time that God dude decides our fate, we'll be drooling and laying on the floor like it's a way of life. We won't even speak proper English! Not to mention the millenniums we’ve spent terrorizing people. How are we supposed to do jack shit?" "I... I..." Adagio sighed, "I don't know Aria. The best we can do is... the best we can do is wait until tomorrow, I guess." Aria climbed back into her bed and pulled the covers close to her. Adagio wiped her face and climbed back into her own bed. She pulled the covers over her head, and Aria looked back out the window. I don't even know if there'll be two of us... "Oi! Fuck nuts! Wake up!" "Ah!" Aria and her sister scrambled out of bed as Noah burst in unannounced. Adagio fell out of bed and landed on her chest and Aria followed, landing on her back. Noah's face fell flat and he chuckled. Aria sat up, "Noah, what the hell?!" "I got a surprise for you losers! Now come outside!" "Is it nice?" "It's gorgeous, let's go!" Noah shut the door behind him and Aria groaned at the sound of his steps. Adagio stood up on all fours and Aria slid off. She came to her feet and Adagio followed. She flicked Aria’s forehead and she cried, "Ow! What the hell was that for?!" "That's for falling on my back! You know it hurts!" "How's that my fault?!" "You're supposed to be the one with faster reflexes and more attentive!" "I was sleeping!" "Oh, shut the hell up and let's go!" Adagio, irritatedly, forced her slippers on and didn't even bother with her robe. Aria rolled her eyes and slipped on her slippers and robe as Adagio headed downstairs. Stomping quite madly all the way. Though she was indeed sleeping, Aria herself was slightly surprised that she didn't awake to the sound of Noah's steps. They weren't loud, but they were just noisy enough to wake her up in a heartbeat as she was always the sentry of the group. There were times where the Sirens were hunted down, but it was unfortunately and fortunately lost to time with no record of it in the history books. When those times came, Aria was chosen to be the lookout as she was the most observant, attentive, and a light sleeper. Paying attention to several details that would make the common man shudder. The detail of one's clothing, the clothing itself, their hair, the amount they blink within a minute, what they drink, their facial expressions, and when required, the amount of breathes one take. There was a time the Sirens had decided to ignite the first world war out of a dare, specifically Aria. Her sisters weren't up for it, but she made it work. And as the others don't remember, it's for the best that some secrets stay just as that. A secret. Though for Noah, Aria slept like a dog. It seemed so much time in the Void of Siren Hell had made Aria rather sloppy and careless. Not that it was her fault, of course. There just wasn't anything to be watchful of or for. Shaking her head, Aria exited the room and began downstairs. As she reached the bottom floor, she faced the left expecting to see her sister and Noah, she instead saw nobody. She turned to the right and saw the front door open. But something caught her eye. Shining through the window appeared to be... "Sunlight? What in the..." Aria promptly approached the front door and yanked it open. She spotted her sister along with Noah but felt her jaw fall off as she gawked at the sight before her as if she'd just seen the sun go supernova. It was a town. A happy, little, town. Aria felt her eyes dilate as she approached her sister. She turned to her for a brief moment and saw her eyes weren't just dilated as well, but tearing up. She even spotted a slight genuine smile. Aria poked Noah's shoulder, "What... what is all this?" "Oh, this? Eh, nothing major, major. Just a chill as fuck town I happened to pull out of my ass." Aria turned her attention to Noah and tilted her head. His eyes were also dilated, but they were also red. As if every blood vessel in his eye just went off like a nuclear detonation. She quickly spotted the slide seal bag in his left hand, but what caught her attention were its contents. Aria's face fell flat. Cocaine. Of course it's cocaine. "So, I heard you crazy bastards going on and on about how death sucks and you want to me to die so you nasty piles of dogshit can go to hell already! But you were going on and on about how you'd go crazy from isolation and perhaps even kill each other! "I said that's a fuckin' no-no, so I made some souls and a town and a bunch of other shit you'd need that I'm too cracked out to name, and gave it to you! And the best part!?" "... would be?" "The souls are actual people! Like, they were saying they were from Equestria or whatever the fuck and that there was this whole prison to become better people and other souls to monitor those other souls and yadda, yadda, yadda! "So I said, "Meh, fuck it. Why not?!" And now we have a town and you stupid little cunt nuggets won't go insane! Aren't I just the best motherfucker that you have the privilege to spend a long and unforgiving century with?!" How much cocaine did he inhale? "Uh," Adagio began, "Yeah, I guess. Thank you, Noah, uh... I'll just take that..." Adagio slowly reached for the slide seal bag while maintaining eye contact with Noah. Aria held her sides, disturbed, as Noah's eyes twitched uncontrollably as if he'd just witnessed a human and a baby horse have sloppy, sinful sex. "Fuck off ya puffy-haired titty sprinkle!" Noah shouted maniacally as he drew the bag back towards him and held it close to his chest. Adagio yelped and drew back as well. Aria placed a hand on her shoulder to leave him be. "Okay, we're just gonna... W-We're just gonna go check out the, uh... The town, heh heh, you just uh... Just... Don't do anything stupid," Adagio finished as she and Aria slid away from the Super Element higher than the underwater sun. Once they reached a reasonable distance, Aria analyzed every inch of what she could see and was speechless. The town was perfect. The people were relaxed and joyous, the town was bright and gorgeous, and the sun above made her believe she was no longer lifeless. Noah had given them a chance to become better people with others besides himself. Giving them the ability to go above, if there was an above, anyways, and have all their wildest dreams come true. Aria looked up at Adagio and noticed a tear of joy drip off her left cheek. Out of her happiness for her sister and herself, Aria wrapped her arms tightly around Adagio, pulling her into a loving embrace. One that hadn't been given since Sonata came into their lives an unfathomable amount of years ago. Adagio slowly grinned and cuddled her back. "Let's give it another go..." Intermission X - In The Pit of My HeartAuthor's Note Something Warns... (The following includes sexual themes). (I’m not entirely proud of this chapter, to be honest.) Intermission X - In The Pit of My Heart FIVE WEEKS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "Yo, shawty knew how to through it back like it was a part of life, my nigga! That fire-haired bitch made me wonder if she was even from here!" "Noah, for the last goddamn time, we know you lost your fuckin' virginity! You've been shouting it at the top of your lungs all month long! Would you shut the hell up already!?" "Hoes mad..." "The fuck did you say?!" In an attempt to bring the Black Five and the Rainbooms closer together, Noah had invited both groups of friends to a picnic in the park. While the Girls were busy setting up the picnic, the Boys were out in the woods doing God knows what. Noah returning to his past behavior. Being who they were and knowing each other for so long, they followed one after the other inside despite not knowing why. Guess one could say that they entered the woods for no reason at all, and the Boys would shrug and agree. Despite being in high school, they weren't the brightest. Fall sat in a tree and stared off into the thick of it while CJ balanced a stick off his fore and middle finger. Manex went back and forth with their leader, and Jain texted someone on his phone. A warm feeling stretched across his face. CJ sighed and dropped the stick, "Okay, fine, I'll bite. Why the hell are we out here?" Jain shrugged, "Fuck if I know, negro. I followed Manex." Manex pointed to Noah, "Well, I followed him." Noah crossed his arms, "And I followed Fall." CJ laid a hand flat, "Okay then, Fall, why the fuck are we out here in the middle of the woods when we could be eating Pinkie's unusually delicious cupcakes-" "You feel it too, don't you?" Fall interrupted CJ cryptically and narrowed his eyes at the trees. CJ tilted his head as he turned to the others. The Boys shrugged and raised an eyebrow while Noah took a step forward. "Feel what?" "It's this... feeling. This sensation. I can't describe it as it's faint, but it's also somehow strong at the same time. I don't understand it, I can't comprehend it, but it means something. Don't you feel it too?" Noah placed a hand over his chest and took a deep breath, "Fall, I... I-I-I... I-I don't understand. What the hell are you talking about-" "I feel it." Noah turned to face who spoke and laid his eyes on Jain. He'd shut off his phone and it laid face flat on the log he sat upon. His face had suddenly changed from carefree to stressed and uptight. Noah tilted his head, "What feeling? I'm confused as all hell right now." Jain fiddled with his fingers, "You know how in the movies and TV shows when the main guy-" "Protagonist." "Same thing, feels something is odd? L-Like, it's this feeling of something bad is going to happen, but I don't know what. If I'm being honest, I felt it back when I met you." "Me? Jain, that was nearly half a decade ago. How the hell are you just now bringing this crap up?" "I-I don't know! At first, I thought it was leading up to the Fall Formal when Princess Twilight arrived at our school. But it didn't go away. Then I thought it was the Battle of the Bands with the Sirens. And nearly a month ago, I thought it was the Friendship Games. Despite all of that shit, the feeling's still here." "Okay, but why is it being brought up now?" "I... I don't know. If Fall feels the same, the sensation must be getting stronger. After each event, it seems to grow larger. I mean, I used to feel it in my toes, but now I feel it all in my lower half." Fall folded his arms, "Noah, something is on the way. We don't know what, but it doesn't seem to be after what we've usually encountered. It's not after Equestria, it's not after Earth itself, and it's not after the galaxy. Or whatever the hell Midnight was after. It feels like-" "It's after us," Manex interrupted. Noah whirled around, "You feel it too? What the shit?" "I-I just thought it was puberty or something!" "Negro domis, we're friggin' seventeen! We're juniors! Puberty is just about done at this point!" "W-Well, I didn't know you guys felt it as well!" "And what do you mean, 'It's after us?'" "Well... I feel like it's coming from outside. Back in our part of the world. Like it knows we're here and it's coming for us. Like it's some sort of consequence for something stupid we did in the past." "What, the US Navy is after us for stealing one of their stupid-ass tugboats? Pirates found some stupid treasure and are after us because we connect with it? Jain's parents?" Jain’s face fell flat, "Go fuck yourself, blacky." Manex scratched the back of his head, "Either way, I'm talking about Equis. Not us, specifically. Unless the Navy is truly that bitchy, something else is after us. And I feel like we won't be able to stop it." Noah scoffed, "Manex, I threw a psychopathic, bloodthirsty, magical demon from Hell bent on taking everything from us and wiping everyone we know and love off the face of the universe, at a school bus. Some asswipes from the outside aren't gonna do jack shit to us." "Well, It's obvious that we can stop them, it just feels like we won't be able to save them." "Save who?" "Our friends." Noah took a step back and stared, disturbed, and slightly frightened. Jain folded his arms, worried, and CJ stood up from the log, also worried. Fall climbed down from the tree he was in and glared at the ground with his hands in his pockets. It was painstakingly obvious what Manex spoke of, and Noah didn't like it one bit. Whatever his friends were feeling or predicting wasn't just concerning, but quite irritating. He'd known the Rainbooms for half a year, and now they're gonna die? What's supposedly going to kill them? Another Equestrian villain? An ancient monster? Is the US Military tracking them back to Equis? Is any military tracking them back? Whatever it was, Noah didn't need it. Especially considering he and Sunset had finally come together. What if whatever is coming will take her from him? All of that time coming together wasted. And the future Noah dreamed of, shot dead. What if whatever's coming is after more than just his friends and Sunset? What if they're after Canterlot Highschool in general? Noah will probably be able to stop them, but he'll never see them coming. "You guys! Where are you?" Noah lost his train of thought and he along with his friends turned their attention to the voice. It sounded like Rainbow Dash calling from the entrance of the woods. Noah sighed, raised a finger, and spoke. "Listen dipshits, we don't mention any of this to the girls, and we never mention it in public. I don't know what the hell is going on with some of you guys, but it's not ruining this picnic, and it's not ruining anything in general. Do I make my black-ass clear?" Noah raised an eyebrow at each of his friends and they each shrugged and nodded. CJ, Jain, and Manex all wiped off their clothing and began back to the picnic. As Fall began to follow, Noah gripped his shoulder, "Oi. If you ever feel anything like this, don't be afraid to talk to me about it privately. I don't feel like going through the same shit we did with you back in freshman years. Got it?" Fall rolled his eyes but nodded, "Got it." "Now that we've got time and whatnot, I never heard what went down all those weeks ago with you and Noah, Sunset. I'm aware that was nearly a month ago, but, I was busy dealing with clothing and a certain someone." Applejack folded her arms, "Rarity, you're just now hearin' what they did together?" "I just said I was busy with clothing and a certain someone." "Well, Ah was dealin' with someone as well, and Ah knew weeks earlier." Rarity waved her off, "Not the actual sex darling, I'm talking details. Ya know what I mean, shimmy?" Sunset blushed, "Uh, w-we don't need any details, right AJ?" Applejack shrugged, "Well, until the others come back with our drinks, since Fluttershy decided to spill all of our soda for a deer, Ah guess it wouldn't be too much harm to hear a lil somethin'-somethin'." Sunset tugged at the collar of her shirt, "Well..." ... "Is that seriously all you got? I thought the Super Element of Righteousness could do better than this!" "I go any faster, the neighbors are gonna think there's a raping going on because you'll never stop screaming!" "Is that so?" "Yes! That is very much so!" "Than show me you handsome fuck!" "Why are you such a damn hypocrite!?" "Not my fault! I've been hanging around an idiot who can't keep his mouth shut for half a year now!" "Do I look like CJ to you?!" "Kinda." "That's it, give me your throat." "That's the spirit-hmph!" ... "...Huh... You uh... you sound quite... uh... aggressive..." Sunset rubbed the back of her neck, "Well Rarity, Noah was telling me that it was as if the old me returned with a vengeance. He wondered if I was faking being nice and all just for that moment." "Were you?" "No, dipshit! I-I mean-uh... No..." Applejack giggled, "Well now, seems Noah is influencin’ you a bit." Sunset rolled her eyes and crossed her arms, "Do you want me to continue, or not?" "Well, actually, Ah've been meanin’ to ask you guys a question. Have you ever, well, Ah don't know how to put it into words but, have you ever felt this strange sensation inside your chest?" "What, like anxiety?" "No, no, Ah mean... Like, worse than anxiety." Rarity tilted her head, "How so?" "Well, it kinda feels like somethin' bad is goin' to happen. Like, at first, Ah thought it was leadin' up to you at the Fall Formal, but... it wasn't. It stayed, and it hasn't left since. I'm startin' to think whatever's comin' next isn't gonna be easy. Don't you guys feel anythin'?" "Well, now that you mention it, I have felt a tad bit strange recently. But, I've been feeling it underneath my ribcage more so than my chest. It feels like... Like I was shot by something." Sunset grew uneasy, "Shot? What, like, by a gun?" "Well, of course darling. I'm pretty sure I can't be shot by a lead pencil or whatever." "Eh..." "Shut up." Applejack itched her chin, "But, why would firearms come into play? There hasn't been a firearm incident since 1851. Not to mention that was just an accident. So why would you feel that way?" "I've no clue. But, who do we know that has reintroduced weaponry to us and our school recently? A certain group of black outsiders and their black leader, conceivably?" Sunset laid a hand flat confused, "You think Noah and his friends have something to do with your feeling? B-But, why would they? They're our friends! You can't accuse them of that!" "Relax darling, I was just making a few connections. I'm not outright saying that they're up to anything or they'll be to blame if anything does occur, I'm simply saying that it's odd how when they show up, firearms become something to note." Applejack frowned as Sunset fiddled with her fingers. No doubt was she wondering about Noah. She'd known him for some time now, so it wasn't like she was in the wrong. But something about Noah and his friends slaughtering thousands of students didn't make sense to AJ either. She sighed, "Look, we'll just keep in mind that somethin' is comin' and that the Black Five are suspects. Not major suspects, just ones that we shouldn't be surprised by. In terms of weaponry, of course." "And speaking of which, here they come now," Sunset replied as she spotted Rainbow Dash and the Black Five exiting the forest. She smiled, whatever those five were talking about would be much better than what she and her friends were talking about. Rarity ran both hands through her hair, "Let's keep this little conversation between us, 'kay girls?" "Got it." Legend of Everfree - The Devotion ArcAuthor's Note Third Times The Charm... Legend of Everfree - The Devotion Arc "Twilight! If I burst into that room unannounced and you're still in bed, I'm shoving my foot so far up your ass, the doctor-" "Noah! For the love of it all, must you be so loud?!" "Shut up, Betsey Johnson!" Twilight groggily rose from the warm comfort of her bed and rubbed her eyes. Utterly disconcerted and disoriented. She raised an eyebrow as she listened to multiple voices behind her door. "Who the hay is Betsey Johnson?" "It's a comparison, Old Town Road. Legit like what I just did now!" "Oh! Does she also do fashion?!" "No Pinkie, she builds race cars for deformed soda cans." "I'm pretty sure soda cans can't drive or are even alive." "No, really Flutters? I'd no idea!" "Hey! Only I get to call her Flutters!" "Take a hike, Dash!" "Guys! Shut up!" "Who you telling to shut up, Kid?" "You, dipshit!" "Uh, guys? If your intentions were to wake me up, I'd say you succeeded," Twilight spoke up from her side of the door. Giggling as the voices of petty arguments promptly came to a close. Noah sighed from their side of the door. "Well then, allow me to be the first to say..." "Say what-" *Slam!* "The bus to Everfree leaves in ten minutes, nerd!" Twilight felt her eyes turn whiter than Rarity's skin as she realized what day it was. Panicking, Twilight shot up from her bed and began digging through her closet to find her luggage. Noah and the others stepped through the door first and Noah quickly approached Twilight to help. "You had one job, four eyes, one job! Set an alarm! Wake the heck up! Take a shower! Get washed up while in the shower! Get out of the shower! Get dressed! Eat a breakfast sandwich, and come to school! Where did you go wrong!?" "I-I don't know! I just-ah!" Twilight, terrified, scooted away from Noah and rested her back against her bed. As the other Rainbooms zipped about her house, Sunset approached her, perplexed. "Twilight? What's the matter?" "Noah! H-H-He, H-H-He-" "He what?!" "He has a beard!" Sunset turned back to Noah and as plain as the nose on one's face, was a rather scruffy and unkempt beard around his mouth. Judging from its style, it'd been growing for at least half a year, and nearly covered Noah's entire mouth. Twilight questioned if he even noticed it. Noah's face fell flat, "Twilight, we're gonna be late for some dumbass camping trip that, might I add, you pestered me into going, along with the rest of my stupid friends, and you give a crap that I have a beard?!" Twilight cringed and held her hands close to her face, "It just looks so... unnatural!" Noah rolled his eyes and threw the luggage at Twilight's feet. "Get your crap together, and head downstairs!" Noah itched at his newly grown beard as he made his way downstairs. Leaving Twilight with the rest of the girls. Sunset sighed at Noah's behavior and lifted the suitcase onto Twilight's bed. "Don't worry about him, we'll help you get ready." Twilight stood up and away from her bed and searched her closet for her towel. All the while, Rarity and Applejack helped pack her clothing for the trip. Rarity being, well, Rarity, as she revealed a grand dress for Twilight to pack. Irritating Applejack, just as expected. "We're gonna be out in the woods. When the hay is she gonna need to wear that?" Rarity scoffed, "If we were going to the moon, I'd insist she'd packed an evening gown. One never knows, darling." Twilight finally found her towel from her closet, but Rainbow Dash put a hand on her shoulder. "Forget showering! We only have like eight minutes left! Just pick an outfit and change!" Twilight blushed, "I-In front of you guys?" "Twilight, it's just like gym class! Now hurry!" Grabbing a random set of clothes she hoped would work, Twilight dashed to the mirror of her room and began changing. As she removed her shirt, Twilight spotted something odd in the mirror. Rising from her sides were two black, with glowing cyan outlines, wings slightly comparable to an eagle's. Twilight dropped the shirt and stepped back, bewildered and frightened at the same time. "What... What is that-" Faster than Twilight could comprehend, two beams of pure light impaled both Rarity and Applejack's chest. Twilight turned around and felt her pupils constrict to the size of a pin as Pinkie shrieked in sheer horror. As the beams dissipated, Rarity and Applejack fell to their knees as blood flowed out their mouths like melted ice cream, but it was nothing compared to their wounds. The beams had left nothing but gaping holes in their chests where their hearts used to be. Blood poured all round the holes and promptly soaked their clothing in dark red. Twilight turned back to the mirror and saw her levitating just above her head. The one Twilight hoped she'd never have to see or become again. The one who could've taken everything. Midnight. Twilight slipped on a soda can and fell on her back out of pure shock. It didn't take long for tears to befall her cheeks. "Stop! Leave us alone! Why are you back!?" Ignoring her, Midnight teleported behind Rainbow Dash in the blink of an eye and shoved her entire hand through Rainbow Dash's throat like a knife through a hairless cat! Twilight and who remained screamed, petrified, as Rainbow Dash choked on nothing. The hole in her throat rendered her speechless as she couldn't even gasp for air. She just scratched at what was left of her windpipe and wheezed incomprehensible words before falling face flat on the floor. Blood gushing out of the hole and staining Twilight's carpet. Midnight raised a hand towards Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. They then flew out of the room through the window so fast, Twilight swore they were flung faster than the speed of light! Twilight shut her eyes as Sunset slowly backed away. Noah burst through the doorway, and It didn't take long for him to see what was all the commotion. Midnight made a move for Sunset, but Noah pulled and pushed her into the hallway. *Crash!* Twilight opened one eye and cried at the top of her lungs as Noah hung limp in Midnight's grasp. Judging by the position, Twilight could only assume that Midnight had crushed Noah's air pipe like a lightbulb. And in her other hand, Sunset laid limp by her right arm. Only, her head rested near Twilight's feet. Her eyes' more soulless than a shark on the first day of June. Twilight shut her eyes closed and covered her ears as a waterfall of tears poured out her sockets. She tried to act like it was all a dream. Act like she didn't just witness every single one of her friends savagely murdered in seconds. She couldn't even fathom what happened to Spike. It's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real- "Oh, but it very much is." Despite covering her ears with all her strength, Midnight's voice echoed and rang inside her head like a sinister church bell from Hope County. Twilight opened her eyes and found herself in a pit of unadulterated darkness. She turned around on her knees and felt her heart stop. Midnight strolled forward without a care in the world. Leaving a trail of fire and destruction as she approached Twilight. As Midnight neared ever so closely, Twilight got a good look at her attire. Instead of what she wore previously, Midnight was wrapped in dark armor like a black knight from the Underworld and was drenched in blood from head to toe. But what truly caught her attention were the accessories. Upon her armor, several severed hands and feet hung from her wrist, chest, waist, and ankles. She was astounded that she didn't notice earlier. But it got even worse from there. Each hand and foot belonged to one of her friends. She could see it from the colors and what was last left in or on their hands. Or at least, what was left of their hands. Twilight shouted at the top of her lungs, "Why are you back?! What have you done?! Why won't you leave me alone?!" "Isn't it obvious yet, Sparkle?" Twilight shrunk like a child at Midnight's voice. Dark and deep as if she was the devil himself. Only, with breasts. "I had everything. I had magic beyond belief. I had more power than the Princess of Equestria. I even had Equis, both of them, in my grasp. And I lost it all because of some nigger and his whore girlfriend. "Then I lost it. All of it. But I didn't give up. Not for a fucking second. I still have your weak-minded head, that I, both fortunately and unfortunately, am a part of. Do you know what that means?" "Please... I-" "It means I can break you. Take what pathetic excuse of a conscious you have and tear it in half like a phone book. Twisting and pulling at your head until you can't even think straight. So utterly lost and broken that I can take control. "And good luck getting rid of me, because I'm no psychological illness or a form of PTSD. I am you. Your true self, if I may. Slowly picking at your innocence until there's nothing left. "I can never leave, and I can never die. It's only a matter of time until you see the truth at hand, and just, give, up. Opening the closet to let the monster inside. So tell me, Twilight Sparkle. "How long do you want this charade to go on?" Twilight was trapped. There was no way around this, and there definitely wasn't a way through it. She was doomed to suffer the rest of her life with a demon who wanted nothing more than to see her explode like a star going supernova. She stuttered as she had cried all of her tears until nothing but dust remained. "I... I... I-I..." "Leave me alone!" "Twilight! Shut, the actual fuck, up!" "H-Huh?!" Twilight opened her eyes out of confusion and examined her surroundings. She was standing tall on a school bus, surrounded by all of her closest friends, with Spike just beside her. Her luggage was at her feet, and she was fully dressed and cleaned. Her best friends, along with the other students on the bus, stared at her as if she was a mental patient. Twilight's cheeks reddened, embarrassed, and she slowly slid back into her seat. Turning her attention to whom had shouted directly after, Principal Celestia spoke up. "Rictorshine, you're aware I have to write you up for shouting curse words, aren't you?" Noah crossed his arms as his friends, both guys and gals, giggled and snickered, "Oh come on! I saved the galaxy for Christ's sake! Not to mention I've been trying to cut back on the cursing. Can't you cut me some slack?" "Rictorshine, I'm quite sure I gave you my thanks for saving my school and students. Did I not?" Noah smiled, "Oh! Yeah! I remember that. Nevermind, Tia! Write away!" "Tia? Last time I checked, you're to refer to your Principal properly. Not, give nicknames to them." "I know, heh heh, but I'm incredibly appreciative of your thank you gift. I'm sure anyone would be!" Celestia rolled her eyes and her face fell flat as students began asking and guessing what had happened that fateful day. Noah smirked and slid back into his seat as Celestia's sister, Vice Principal Luna, poked her arm and mouthed the words, "I told you so." As Noah returned his attention to his friends, he was met with several stares of disconcertion, except for Sunset's whose glowed with resentment and face clearly read, "Go fuck yourself with a fork." Noah chuckled, "Yes yes, I'm aware, I'm a negro of many mysteries, or whatever the phrase is, but that's besides the point. Twilight, why in God's name were you over there, standing all tall and what not, screaming bloody murder?" Twilight was fiddling with her fingers ever since she slid down. She explained timidly, "I-I, uh... Noah had a beard in a nightmare I had!" "...what?" All of Twilight's friends' faces fell flatter than paper. Especially Noah's. The girls attempted to understand the fear, while Noah's older friends could barely contain their laughter. Effectively pissing him off. Pinkie Pie giggled, "That's silly Twilight! Noah already has a beard!" Pinkie Pie was correct, outside of whatever Twilight's nightmare had been, Noah had grown a beard. Although it definitely wasn't as scruffy and vast as the one in her dream, it still creeped her out a tad. Noah rolled his eyes, "It's not even really a beard! It's just some facial hair that's been growing for a month because I just got lazy and curious at the same time! What, can a black man not grow a lil something-something on his face?" Twilight cringed, "Eh... I-I'd rather you not, but you're probably not gonna listen to me, are you?" Noah smirked and folded his arms, "We've only known each other for a month and you already know me so well! Besides, it's just some hair around my mouth. I mean, look at everyone else!" Applejack raised an eyebrow, "What about us?" "You dipsticks have these things that are several times worse than my beard. You all have tufts of hair that hang from the rest! Especially you, now that I mention it." Reaching over his seat and into Applejack, CJ, and Rarity's, Noah played around with the piece of hair that hung off of Applejack's scalp and seemingly floated in mid-air. Applejack frowned and furrowed her eyebrows, "Noah, one: That's not called a tuft of hair, it's called a bang." "Same thing." "Two: Keep touchin' mah hair and I'm gonna sock you in the goddamn mouth." Noah stuttered, "I-I, w-what, you don't even know what, "goddamn," means!" "I know enough from you that it's not a very good thing." Rarity giggled, "Though I don't agree with what he's doing, your hair hanging off like that is indeed somewhat cute Jackie." Applejack rolled her eyes and folded her arms, but you'd have to be dumber than a sack of bricks to not see the obvious blush on her face. Sunset pulled Noah back into his seat rather aggressively, and Noah chuckled nervously. She sighed, "Regardless of beards and bangs, whatever happened to you Twilight must've been horrible and we're all sorry you had to go through that." Besides Noah's older friends, who were busy looking at fairly inappropriate images on their phones, everyone nodded and agreed enthusiastically. Sharing the same sympathy for Twilight as Sunset did. Twilight smiled a tad, "Thanks girls." Noah waved nonchalantly, "Uh, don't forget boy! You know, the one that threw you at a school bus at a hundred miles per hour, effectively knocking you unconscious so we could have things return to normal?" Twilight giggled, "Especially you, Noah. How could I ever forget." Noah smiled and muttered as the girls giggled along with Twilight, "Damn straight." Jain raised a finger casually, "So uh, when we get to this Everfree place, what are we supposed to do? Make a campfire, roast some marshmallows, go fishing, or can we just stay in the tent and sleep?" Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow, "You wanna sleep through the entire trip?" "What else have I got to do, Dash?" Pinkie peaked over into Jain and Rainbow Dash's seat, "We are gonna have so much fun! We're gonna roast marshmallows, we're gonna eat marshmallows, and we're gonna sleep on Marshmallow pillows!" "So, basically the second thing I said, only high as hell off of heroin?" "What's heroin?" "Good talk." Rainbow Dash snickered, "Yeah, we're probably not gonna do that." Pinkie Pie giggled and revealed a rather large and tight plastic bag full of different colored marshmallows, "Maybe you're not..." Jain perked up, "W-Wait, you have heroin?" and Rainbow Dash grumbled. "Jain!" "Sorry..." "Attention students!" Called Principal Celestia from the front of the bus. Promptly grabbing everyone's attention as they ceased their conversations and turned their attention to her. "We're almost at our destination. But before we arrive, we just wanted to say how proud we are of you for raising enough money to go on this class field trip." "When we were your age," Vice Principal Luna added, "We made some of our favorite memories in these woods. And we're positive you will as well." "Now then," Celestia continued, "Who's excited for-" "I have a question," Noah interrupted. Celestia and her sister's face fell flatter than a folder as Noah raised his hand and spoke up. Luna rolled her eyes, but Celestia groaned practically comically out of annoyance. It wasn't her fault, of course. Though Noah saved the school and more, twice, it didn't mean that Celestia had gotten over his antics, old and new, which efficiently drained her very life force. "Yes, Rictorshine?" "So, uh, we had to raise money for this trip, correct?" "That's what I said." "So, would you say we had to do so because we wasted, at best, seven hundred fifty grand on a prime concert stage and one point two million on an obstacle course? Along with four extra thousand on four dirtbikes and an extra five hundred on a wrestling ring?" "...yes..." The students on the bus snickered, giggled, and chuckled as Noah embarrassed both Celestia and Luna like seventh-grade weeaboos in New Orleans. Although, it wasn't like he was in the wrong, of course. "Huh. You know, it probably would've smarter if we-" "Rictorshine, I know where you're going with this. Just be quiet, and enjoy the ride. We're almost there." Noah shrugged, "A'ight holmes." "Thank you." Noah slid back into his seat and was met with his older friends silently dying with laughter while his newer friends glared with slight irritation and faces that read, "Did you seriously just do that?" Sunset folded her arms, "Why do you do that when you know how annoying that is to them?" "I've been fuckin' with those two ever since I first stepped foot in this school. I get way too much joy out of it to just stop all of a sudden. Regardless, it's not like I was wrong." "But didn't Celestia give her, "thanks," to you already? Isn't that enough of a reason to stop fucking with her already?" "Yeah, but I also do it because of what Princess Celestia did to you." One would believe that to be a touching moment. Even if the Celestia he spoke of was a princess that ruled over technicolored, happy-go-lucky horses in another world and banished her own flesh and blood to the moon for her own mistakes. Sunset thought differently. "Noah, they're from two different planes of existence." "Interdimensional is close enough for me." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Oh, shut up and stop being a prick." "Stop being a hypocrite. You know, I've only said two swear words this entire time while you're basically just going willy-nilly." "Noah." "What?" "Stop being a prick." Noah sighed, ”This is gonna be a fun trip...” PART 1: XXI - And Another Brand New Problem?Author's Note In The Middle Of The Woods? Seriously? PART 1: XXI - And Another Brand New Problem? "Well. This is... not what I was expecting." "Noah, what's there not to expect?" "Kid, these woods look spectacular. Where I come from, the woods only look pretty if it's for some dumb commercial about the environment." Noah and Sunset, the Black Five, the Rainbooms, and everyone else on the bus had stepped off to breathe in the fresh air of Everfree. As Noah aforementioned, he and his friends were taken aback while the Equestrians paid it no mind. Well, most of them. "Well, I for one cannot believe just how beautiful it all is. It may be a common part of our home, but it's still delightful. I can't wait until we have our first nature walk,” Fluttershy spoke. "I definitely wanna go on one of those. All of those squirrels in the trees, it'll be like puppy paradise!" Spike responded, which slightly creeped out the Black Five. They were more than aware Spike could talk, but it'd take longer than a month to get used to a dog speaking English. Perhaps even years. Not that he'd be around that long... "Ah'm just lookin' forward to roughin' it!" Applejack replied, pulling her bag up and over her shoulder. "Ah'm gonna make my own shelter, forage for food-" "Uh, you do know they're providing us with food and tents, right AJ?" Rainbow Dash asked, poking her head out from inside the bus. Applejack brought her hands to her hips, "Yep! Still gonna forage though." "Good for you, Old Town Road," Noah replied as he pulled the tab of one of his sodas he brought from home. Applejack crossed her arms. "Y'know, CJ told me and showed me that song." "You must be excited." "That video is all about cowboys riding horses." "What's your point?" "Ah'm a farmer, not a cowboy! Ah'm not even a cowgirl!" "...And?" Applejack threw her hands up in the air and walked away Irritated as always by Noah's antics. She was beginning to understand why Principal Celestia abhorred dealing with him. Sunset approached him, eyes locked onto Applejack. "She's gonna break one of your arms one day. You know that, right?" Noah waved her off, "Oh, she'll be fine. She's got Rarity, and apparently CJ now too." Noah wasn't lying either. Ever since that day when Rarity lost her temper and unleashed a fury of anger upon CJ, she, him, and Applejack had all gotten much closer. Not that the others knew of what happened that day, of course. Noah felt his left foot begin to chill and he lifted it to his knee to inspect it. "Oh, dang it. I knew it rained last night, but I didn't think we'd be hit by a friggin' hurricane. What in the world, bruh." As Noah complained, Equis had been hit with somewhat of a thunderstorm. It didn't cause any power outages or any trees to fall, blocking the road. But it did leave many twigs and leaves scattered all across the ground. Sunset rolled her eyes at Noah's lack of awareness as to when they left his house, the porch and driveway were covered in twigs and leaves. Although, it probably had to do with the fact that she snuck into his house and threw him in the shower. Giving him a sense of absolute confusion. How that was possible considering Sunset was built like a stick, Noah would never know. She wiped the bottom of his shoe with her forefinger and rubbed the substance between her thumb. As clear as day, was a wet sludge of mud. She was somewhat fascinated as it seemed there was more water apparent than dirt. She wiped it off on Noah's pants, and he narrowed his eyebrows. "You son of a bitch." "Ah, that's a bad word, Noah!" "Go to hell, Kid." Looking back at the bottom of his shoe, Noah had a thought run through his head. "Remind me to do your hair later, okay?" Sunset raised an eyebrow, "Do my hair? I-I don't, what do you-" "Just remind me, Kid," Noah replied as he set his foot back down and left to help Rarity with her ridiculous abundance of luggage. All the while, Sunset stared at the back of his head, highly perplexed. "Noah, darling!" Rarity called out as she dragged out her third rolling suitcase down the bus' stairs. "I require your assistance! A lady shouldn't have to carry so much luggage all by herself! I might break a nail." Noah folded his arms as he approached her, "Well, a lady also wouldn't think to bring a hundred pounds worth of luggage. Pretty sure they don't need all this crap." "Well, other ladies aren't as thoughtful and sophisticated as I am. They never know what they might need out in the so-called, "great outdoors." Noah chuckled as he lifted one of her bags that appeared awfully familiar, "Ah yes, because every lady needs her nuclear football when fishing at lakes." Rarity tilted her head, "A nuclear... what?" "Nevermind it, Donna Karen. I'll help." "You must stop referring to me as other fashion designers." "Why? Am I wrong-" "Got the last heavy one, Rarity," a voice coming off the bus spoke, and Noah's entire mood and face shifted in the blink of an eye. Off the bus came one of his former rivals. Not as significant as Sunset was, but oh, were they ever a splinter in his side. Flash Sentry. He carried the suitcase in front of his face and carefully placed it near the rest of Rarity's baggage solely from memory. As he set it down and looked back up, he was met with the glaring eyes of the outsider. His own face and mood changed in an instant, "Hello Noah." "Flash." The two had a sort of western standoff a bit apart from each other. Noah stared deep into the blue irises of the guitarist while Flash stared far into the brown orifices of the outsider. Rarity brought her hands to her hips, "Oh, enough you two! Your ridiculous rivalry is nothing but history now. So stop having a, "love at first sight," moment and continue to assist me, thank you very much." Noah waved her off as he dropped the satchel-suitcase in his hands and headed for the bus, "Yeah yeah, I hear you. Don't blow your top off. Either of them." Flash rolled his eyes, "What he said," and followed behind. He and Noah's relationship had changed quite a bit since the Battle of the Bands. As Noah helped the Rainbooms, including Princess Twilight, Flash had decided to make peace with the outsider as thanks. Noah, after having the back of his head slapped by Sunset, accepted. They didn't become friends or even acquaintances after that, but it was much better than them constantly being at each other's throats whenever they entered one another's vision. As they stepped onto the bus, Applejack approached her, "What about you, Rarity? Ya gonna forage with me and CJ too?" Rarity leaned on her luggage, "I'm just after some R&R. The past year has all been a bit too much for my tastes." "I'll say!" Pinkie Pie began, dropping her suitcase nearby. "We fought three evil sirens who tried to take over the world through manipulation, one ridiculously competitive school, and two literal magic demons!" Pinkie Pie shrank as she laid her eyes on both Sunset and Twilight. Sunset appeared unfazed while Twilight appeared bummed out. Nobody liked being called out for past mistakes, after all. Pinkie Pie smiled nervously, "Eh, heh heh, no offense..." Sunset smiled, "None taken," and laid a hand on Twilight's shoulder. "You'll get used to it." Punching her upper arm playfully. "Yep," CJ replied. "Our stupid-ass school has seen more action in half a year than most will see in their entire lives. Makes you wonder what the hell is coming next." Manex crossed his arms as he came up beside him, "Nigga, I'm really not looking forward to any more bullshit this year has to throw at us. It's May for Christ's sake. Let's just get it over with and be done already." "You say that like it'll be easy, negro," Jain replied. Bringing his own suitcase off the bus. "If we've gone from saving the world to saving the entire goddamn galaxy, God knows what's next at this point." "If we have to save the entire universe, I'm punching a nigga in the fuckin' face." From inside the bus, Noah and Flash shoved one of Rarity's larger suitcases out the window and onto the ground. Barely missing the dirt track underneath the bus. Noah smiled while Rarity prepared to explode. "Yeah, let's see how that works out for you." "We weren't lured over here by another demon, right Noah?" "Once again Jain, the voice came from a loudspeaker. It's not the Devil's fault they sounded like a horse from down below." The Black Five, the Rainbooms, and every other camper assembled at the center of the camp. Called to by who they could only assume to be one of the counselors at the camp. Their voice throwing Jain off as slightly odd. Noah turned his head a bit to the right, "So, what do you think, Kid? Is this gonna be a change of pace or another attack on our way of life?" "Nigga, the fuck?" "Huh?!" Noah faced his right completely and instead of being met with Sunset's face, he was met with Manex's. Completely and utterly confused. Even disgusted. Noah stammered, "I-I, where the heck is Sunset?! Why are you here?!" "I've been here, motherfucker. And your bacon-haired fuck toy is talking to Twilight!" Ignoring Manex's insult about Sunset, Noah peeked over Manex’s shoulder to his right. Sure enough, Sunset was a bit distanced from her friends and was talking to Twilight independently. Something about their faces made Noah feel... off. Twilight's face held something red upon it and she was practically glowing with modest gaiety while Sunset's face was filled with confidence and humor. Somewhat similar to his own attitude. "That's... odd." "Hi everyone, welcome to Camp Everfree!" Noah's thoughts were thrown out the window as he turned his attention to the wooden gazebo in front of a rather large staff building. Upon the gazebo were two figures. A brother and sister perhaps? The sister had lengthy dark-hibiscus hair with a single bang braided to her left, and a lovely crown of sunflowers wrapped around her head. Her skin was the color of raspberry wine, and her eyes were a beautiful shade of jade. She wore a puffy, yellow, short-sleeved shirt with green surrounding her collar and a mint belt just below her stomach. One her legs were cerulean khaki shorts and beautiful laced brown laced dress shoes with sunflowers at her ankles facing forward. What caught his eye were the odd, tiny, and awfully colorful jewels hanging around her neck by a brown choker. Something about their faint glow gave Noah an eerie feeling. He'd just arrived in camp and was already suspicious of someone becoming problematic. "Grand." The brother, at least that's what Noah assumed he was, wore a sacramento beanie with a light turquoise outlining. His hair was a forest green and reminded Noah of Flash Sentry when his hair grew out last year. His skin was a sandy brown and his eyes were the same as his assumed sister. He wore a perfectly red shirt with white outlines and a picture of the camp in the center of his chest. On his wrists were two perfectly brown wristbands with a single dot of yellow in the center of it. On his legs were fern colored khaki shorts and on his feet were perfectly brown hiking boots with jade shoelaces, and normal white socks underneath. "I'm Gloriosa Daisy," the assumed sister continued. "Your camp director. But you can think of me as your friendly camper guide. And this is my brother, Timber Spruce!" The brother took the microphone playfully, "Think of me as that cool guy. Who should always be invited to fun things." Noah sighed and mumbled, "Great. More happy-go-lucky, ignorant, morons. Just what I needed." Gloriosa took the microphone back, "We aim to please, so before we hand out our tent assignments, we'd like to hear from all of you! You're free to do whatever you like here!" "Except hike near the rock quarries," the brother added. "That's off-limits." Gloriosa rolled her eyes, "Yes, but otherwise, you're options are wide open! So what activities do you have in mind that'll make this the very best week of your lives?" "Oh! Rock Climbing?" Rainbow Dash shouted. "Done!" "Archery!" "Of course!" "Tetherball!" "Naturally!" The call-outs ceased as Applejack flicked the back of Rainbow Dash's head. Giving other students a chance. "Arts and crafts!" "Undoubtedly!" "Cookie decorating!" "Ooh, I do make a mean sugar cookie." "Early morning nature walks?" "With walking sticks for everyone!" "Oh! U-Uh, me! U—h, fashion show!" Rarity obviously asked. "Where I design the most fabulous camp looks inspired by today's hottest trends, and have them modeled by my classmates in a gorgeous setting!" "Screw that, can we go hunting!?" "Goddamnit, Manex!" CJ and Jain covered Manex's mouth with their hands as everyone gawked and gaped at his question. Of all the things requested and asked, it seemed hunting was the last thing Gloriosa expected to hear. Noah shut his eyes and rubbed his temples as he silently scolded his friend. "For God's sake Manex, we are black guys. Not southerners, or hunters, or whatever the hell they're properly designated. Now the counselors are gonna keep tabs on us, you idiot!" He wasn't wrong either, as he opened one eye towards the gazebo and saw the brother and sister whispering about the four of them. Along with Celestia and Luna's unforgiving glare to their right. "Well, disregarding the previous question, what about the camp gift?" Celestia asked, eyes still staring the Super Element and his crew down with a blazing passion. "The camp gift, of course!" Gloriosa agreed. Although, before she answered, she seemed to be bickering with her brother about something. Something about it threw Noah off. Of all the places he'd been to, this is one of the last places he'd think arguments could occur. Especially between counselors. Albeit, they are siblings. "Every year," She resumed, "Campers work together to create something useful. A gift for future campers. Working towards this common goal is key to forming the strong bonds that'll last well beyond your time here at camp!" As Gloriosa covered the microphone with her hand, Noah found them arguing even more. It strangely reminded him of his home back in America. When his seventh grade choir teachers were arguing during class and nearly divorced. It was adorable to the principal, concerning to the students, and hilarious to him. Some students believed he just wanted to watch the world burn during those weeks. Gloriosa continued, "This gazebo was a gift from last year's group, and the totem pole, and the sundial, all from groups of the past! "You all seem like, uh, really amazing group! So I'm certain you'll come up with something inspiring to leave behind!" As the class cheered, like they always do for things less than cheer-worthy, Noah turned back to his right hoping to find Sunset beside him. Manex still stood in her place. He peeked over his shoulder, and sure enough, his bacon-haired best friend slash lover wasn't by his side. She still stood next to Twilight... Giggling... "Speaking of leaving things behind," Timber began, "Now's the time when we give out tent assignments. So you can leave your heavy bags behind." Gloriosa stepped down the gazebo stairs, "Girls will be receiving their assignments from Timber. Guys, you're with me!" Noah cursed under his breath, "Godamn... Dang it..." As Gloriosa stepped to the left and her brother to the right, Noah turned to his right expecting to see Sunset at least approaching him about the news. Instead, she was next to Twilight waiting to receive her assignment. "She didn't even... What?" "Noah, move your black ass!" Jain ordered as he tugged at his friend's hoodie. "We gotta go get these dumbass assignments because apparently, we can't just go fishing or... or... what else do people do besides roast marshmallows on camping trips?" Noah sighed as he turned away from Sunset and Twilight. "Fuck if I know..." Noah threw his duffel bag onto the bed in the tent as he leaned on the dresser nearby."What the hell was that?" He took a seat on the bed, "I mean, maybe I'm overreacting. I am, aren't I? She's just talking with her friend. And that friend happens to be the one who punched me through the floor... No! That was just her evil demon spirit thingy! I... Besides! Who's to say she's a lesbian?! Sure, Lyra and Bon Bon are lesbian, and Vinyl and Octavia are lesbian, and... Rarity and Applejack are probably lesbian and... Princess Twilight said she was lesbian and... Sunset once said she was lesbian and... uh... uh-" "Are you seriously talking to yourself?" Noah returned to Earth as he listened to a voice from the entrance interrupt his ramblings that probably weren't normal considering his pupils constricted with each statement. As he identified the voice, his jaw dropped. It was Flash Sentry. "Oh, for the love of God, come on!" "What? You think you have it bad?!" "The last thing I need right now is to sleep in the same tent as my girlfriend's ex-boyfriend!" "What makes you think I wanna sleep in the same tent as my ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend!?" "Probably to annoy me with the fact that you touched her butt first!" "You touched her butt?" "Yes! Matter of fact, I fucked her butt!" "Oh, ew!" "That's right! I whipped out my negro-whampus and got to work!" "Stop it, that's disgusting!" "I said, 'Oh yeah! I'mma make it do what it do!'" "Would you quit it?! I'm not here to annoy you or any other pitiful crap like that! I just want to enjoy this trip with my friends, and go back home! If anything, you're annoying me right now!" "Oh, go stuff a turkey." "...What type of stuff?" Noah stared Flash down with a raised eyebrow, and Flash stared back. Despite everything, they've been through. Every experience they've ever had with each other, every stupid thing they've ever done... they smirked. "...Heh..." "Heh heh." "Hah hah hah." "Hah hah hah hah!" The simple chuckles soon erupted into contagious childish laughter that anyone could expect from high school boys like Noah and Flash. But them laughing together? That's a magnificent sight to behold. "Hah, okay, b-but seriously, heh heh, w-why were you talking to yourself?" Noah scratched the back of his head, "Well, r-regardless if we just became friends or w-whatever in a matter of seconds, has Sunset ever... N-Nevermind." "No, no, tell me." "Maybe some other time. Right now, I think I'll go ask Principal Celestia more about this camp. It might be my past experiences talking but, something feels... off. Just a little." Flash approached his bed and dropped his stuff, "Alright, you do that. But before you go, what exactly did Principal Celestia do that paid off you saving us all?" As Noah reached the tent's exit and opened both flaps widely, he turned back around to face Flash. He then looked to his left and right, making sure nobody was nearby. As the coast was clear, Noah took his left hand and pointed down below, and Flash's face exploded with hilarity that was comparable to a nuclear warhead. Noah stepped out of the tent completely and turned to his left. Remembering the flash of Celestia's hair somewhere in that direction. He spotted her helping some students get settled near the diamond tent and began towards her. As he reached the tent, Noah poked her shoulder, "Uh, Principal Celestia, I was wondering. Were the counselors always-" "Listen Rictorshine," Celestia interrupted as she whipped around and poked at Noah's chest repeatedly with her forefinger. "This camp is a major part of my life and is an important part of my nostalgic childhood. I will not tolerate you and your group of friends to ruin or mess it up with your actions, your attitude, and particularly your words. "I've given you a medal for saving the planet, and I've given you something I regret entirely for saving the galaxy. Unless whatever happens here means the end of the universe, I don't want you meddling around and wrecking this trip. It's just one week. One. Week. It's all I ask. "Do I make myself clear, Rictorshine?" Noah sweat, "Uh... yeah?" "Spectacular. Now, what is it you have to ask of me?" "Um..." Noah could never lie that at that moment, he was genuinely frightened of Celestia. The solemnity in her voice, her stance of unfaltering prominence, and the stringent look upon her face. It also didn't help considering that when Celestia stood tall and straight, she was nearly two feet taller than him. Her nickname was no joke. Noah rubbed the side of his shoulder, "Uh... I-I was just wondering if... Um... N-Nevermind." Celestia nodded and returned to the tent she was assisting while Noah was left standing outside. Taken off guard entirely. He turned about and sought for his friends. They could effortlessly take his mind off what just occurred. Along with what he was truly wondering about. XXII - Our Campfire Song SongSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.XXIII - And Another Brand New ProblemAuthor's Note Just Can't Get A Break, Can We? XXIII - And Another Brand New Problem How. How in God's name could I be so blind? I-I just... How!? It's so simple! Just wrap the plastic thingy over your dick! Why was that so hard to remember?! Why did the effects of pregnancy set in so quickly?! Doesn't it take a couple of months for her to get moody?! For Christ's sake, I'll never understand these stupid equestrians and their dumb biology! With the sun rising and shining on a new day in Camp Everfree, the students had resumed work on the dock. For students with barely any knowledge in proper construction, they'd gotten most of it done quite quickly. Just another reason Equis was separated from the rest of Earth. While the students constructed, Noah sat against a nearby staff building and watched Sunset intensely, yet secretly. Throughout the entirety of the morning, Sunset had been constructing, eating, scrolling Equis Daily, whatever that was, and of course, talking to Twilight. Since the time Sunset had some sense knocked into her by Princess Twilight, people had always thought, for some odd reason, that Twilight and Sunset would work splendidly and adorably as an item. Noah never understood why, but that bothered him. At least, it used to. Back when he, "Could give a rat's ass," about Sunset Shimmer, Noah had heard this idea from a couple of others, but many in the school had conversed about it. But he just couldn't understand it. Sure, Twilight helped Sunset see the error of her ways, but you don't just fall in love with an Equestrian Princess after they blast you with, 'friendship magic,' halfway to Hell. Not only was it unusual, but it was just downright illogical. Absurd. He questioned if they were all just messing around acknowledging they all abhorred her at the time. But then she showed up. The nerd who nearly wiped all life off the face of the Milky Way Galaxy. That's when those conversations ran unimaginably wild. Almost every other day, he'd hear in the hallways how Twilight and Sunset would be perfect. How it'd be beautiful. How it'd be better than what she's with as of now. Although, thankfully, word of Sunset and Noah being an item hadn't come around. Everyone believed they'd simply gone from adversaries, rivals, to the best pair of friends the school's ever seen. And they wouldn't be wrong if that was the case. After all, what other pair of friends do they know that came to school wearing the other's jacket? Despite the ideas of the two being together, they'd both denied they were dating each and every time. Being Equestrian, most of them believed it, but not all. Because of that, the idea of Twilight and Sunset together returned. Students would ask Noah what he thought, and he genuinely couldn't believe they'd be together. At least, he didn't want to. Perhaps it was just him being paranoid, but Twilight and Sunset had been interacting as they do now before. Noah just ignored it. But now when he was forced to pay attention, his thoughts ran wild. Twilight wasn't the same as Princess Twilight, and that's what made him feel... uncomfortable. Twilight was seemingly always around, and always talking to Sunset. But because that'd normally occur when all eight, or all twelve, were together. But now as he watched, Twilight was... perfect. Her nerdy and somewhat shy behavior was almost enticing. And considering Sunset was always that confident and fearless girl, she worked perfectly with Twilight as well. That bothered Noah. A lot. He didn't hate Twilight, they'd easily become friends in the past month. But he did seem to feel... Something. A strange feeling that made his mind seemingly shake like an earthquake. Slowly yet surely building with energy. If the school could see it, and now so could he, one question lingered in his mind from yesterday night to the current morning. What if Twilight were to take Sunset away from him? Devastating him incomprehensibly. But another thought made his blood run cold. What if she takes his child? "Rictorshine?" "...Hm?" Noah switched off his 'deep thoughts' switch and turned his attention to whom had spoken. Standing with her hands behind her back with a look of rare concern spread across her face was Vice-Principal Luna. "You're not helping." Noah exhaled, "Oh, uh, I apologize. I was just... Thinking." Luna tilted her head, "About what, if I may?" "Uh... college." Luna folded her arms, "Rictorshine, I've seen that face multiple times on my sister. Despite how long it's been, I remember it quite distinctly. Your face, on the other hand, tells a different story." "..." Luna sighed, "I won't pretend to know what you feel or what you're going through Rictorshine, but you will have to participate and contribute. I can't have you sitting here on your butt doing nothing." Noah itched the back of his head as he stood up, "Sorry, I'll get to it and whatnot. It won't happen again." Luna's look of concern grew, but she was forced to shrug it off. At least for now. "Thank you, Rictorshine. You can begin at the end of the dock. It's almost finished." Noah faced the dock and was then hit with a fierce feeling of bewilderment. "Uh... Didn't you say we were nearly finished?" "Correct. That is what I said. Why do you ask?" "Because it looks like the docking board itself was just hit by a sailboat at terminal velocity." Luna spun around on her heels, disconcerted, and found the leading board of the dock in pieces. Her eyes bulged and she promptly rushed over to investigate the random crash, leaving Noah to stare in bewilderment. As Luna ran, he thought about how she approached and questioned him. It felt... odd. Like, instead of checking in on the idiotic black trouble maker, she was checking in on a close relative. After messing with the principals for three years, Noah wondered if they'd grown a soft spot for him in their hearts. It was ridiculous, indubitably, but unlike other idiot trouble makers, Noah always knew what came first, and what didn't. Despite all he's done, perhaps they had respect for him for acting like an adult when the situation required it. Maybe that's why he hadn't been expelled by now. ... "Okay guys, we got the rope and- are you fuckin' kidding me?" The Black Five returned from the main staff building and was dumbfounded to find the main board of the dock in pieces, and anger quickly became an understatement. After all, they were in charge of constructing it and had contributed the most. Including CJ. Quickly handing the rope to Jain, he rushed through the crowd of students. As he made it through and got a full view of the dock, it was more than difficult to keep him from blowing his top. "H-How, w-why, w-who... what the fu-" Manex covered CJ's mouth, "Don't say it, you idiot!" "Mmm Mmm Mmm Mm Mmmm Mmmm?!" "I don't know, just don't start cursing like an idiot!" Jain and Fall made their way through the crowd. As they did so, many of the students began to bicker and ponder what caused it, and why was a boat floating in the middle of it all. Especially Trixie Lulamoon. "... Spirit! Show yourself! The Great and Powerful Trix-" Manex groaned, "There is no spirit, Trixie, shut up!" Trixie glared and mumbled, "How dare that fu-, er, crap-head mock the Great and Powerful Trixie..." As Jain and Fall reached the front of the crowd and turned about, they were confused as to why none of the Rainbooms were present. Nore were the principals. Wherever they may be, it seemed it was his moment to take responsibility. Jain raised both hands in a calming sort, "Alright, alright, everybody shut up!" To his delight, the students promptly shut their mouths. Jain shrugged, "Guess that's just Equestrian humans for ya. Okay, who saw what happened? I mean, we spent all day yesterday building this stupid dock, and somehow it's now in pieces. The boy with a black beanie and green dreadlocks stepped forward, "It was, so weird, man. We were just floating in the middle of the lake with no wind man, then all of a sudden man, Bam man! The wind picked up man, and we were slung right into the dock, man!" Jain's face fell semi-flat, "Uh... You're telling me your boat just suddenly began to sail faster than a jetski and crashed into the dock?" "Yeah, man!" Jain pinched his nose bridge, annoyed, "Who else saw the boat get flung into the dock?" To Jain's irritation, multiple hands were raised like kindergarten kids willing to answer a question for candy. He sighed, "Oh, wow. That's nice." "What's going on here!?" Shouted a voice that forced herself through the crowd. It was Vice-Principal Luna, and she hurriedly approached the edge of the destruction to get a better look. She scoffed, "What is the meaning of this?! You four, are you responsible for this destruction?!" CJ mumbled, "Mm, mmm. Mmmmm mmm mmmmm mmmm..." Jain flicked his forehead, somehow understanding. "Shut up, CJ. But anyways, don't look at us, Ms. Luna. We just left to get rope from the staff building and came back to this... thing." "Well? What happened then?" "Frozen In Time over here said he and his friends were just chillin' on the water before it just felt like crashing into the dock." Luna raised an eyebrow, "...What?" "Hey, don't look at me. Sir Ganga told me all about it." Luna rolled her eyes, "Just, fix it. I'm busy at the moment. "What!? Busy?! Us!? We're a couple of rag-tag teenagers, the heck are we supposed to do?!" "You'll figure something out." "Yeah, see, the thing is-" CJ shouted, muffled, "Mmmm mmm mmm mmm!" Luna nonchalantly pointed a finger, confused, "What did he say?" "He said, 'That's not our job.'" "Oh. Well then find the Rainbooms. They can fix it." "But they're also a couple of rag-tag teenagers! What could be so important that you can't help us figure out how a boat crashed into a dock at eighty-eight miles per hour?!" Luna glared, "Fix. It. This could be a way to pay for all of your... misdeeds, of the past." Jain groaned and Luna faced the rest of the students, "The rest of you are dismissed until these four require your assistance again. Enjoy our trip, and please. Don't do anything that could endanger yourself or your fellow classmates. Seriously." With that, the students began conversing as if a new law was just announced to the public and left the dock. Luna left in a huff as well, leaving Jain and his friends to figure out why and what happened. Jain's face fell flat, "God forbid the adult does jackshit..." He turned around to face his friends, "Okay, what have we got?" Manex shrugged, "Uh... I see wood in the water." "Magnificent. CJ?" Manex released his grip on CJ's lips, and CJ shouted, "Yeah! I see a who—le lot of bullshit!" "Go figure. Fall? Unless it's just virgin oil or something." Fall dipped his hand into the water and pulled it back. "Uh, does a strange, purple, and glittering trail of something in the water count?" Jain tilted his head in curiosity as he looked over the right side of what was left of the dock. Just as Fall had described it, a strange trail in the water floated ominously. Jain traced the trail to wherever it led, and groaned as it connected itself with the sailboat. He folded his arms, "Fall, that's not a normal purple and glittering trail of water, is it?" "Nope." Jain sighed, "Boys, hope you enjoyed our trip so far. Because it seems we've been given something. A… Uh… Whatever the fuck it’s called." Manex and CJ groaned in irritation while Fall stood up. "Well, shouldn't we get the girls for this? Y'know, the ones that literally have this stuff coursing through their veins?" "Yeah. We should." "So..." "We're not. This time, we're going to get to the bottom of this. This time, we're going to learn about dumbass morals every human should've learned a decade ago! This time, we're going to save the world! And nobody is going to deny us! Not even God himself-" "Oh, hey guys. What's the problem?" "God-fucking-damn it!" Manex folded his arms as he watched the Rainbooms approach. "You had to say it, didn't you Jain?" Jain and the others faced the voice from on the shore and found the Rainbooms approaching them. For whatever reason, Noah wasn't present alongside them like he usually was. Fall raised an eyebrow, "Where were you guys?" Rarity waved him off, "Oh, nothing much darling. Just girl stuff. The usual." "Girl stuff?" "Yep." "Well, there isn't anything interesting or compelling we have, so I guess we'll go with that." "Indeed." Fluttershy approached what remained of the dock. "So, it was destroyed. You guys didn't happen to see who did it, did you?" Manex shrugged, "Not a damn clue. The story is that a boat just hurled itself into it. Defying literally every law of gravity. Or whatever the hell it's called." The Rainbooms spread out to different areas of the dock. Inspecting each and every angle like teenage detectives. Fall poked at Jain's legs, and the apparent second-in-command turned about. "What?" Fall then pointed over towards one of the staff buildings. As Jain focused in on where he pointed, he found Noah sitting on the steps of one. That million-mile-stare upon his face meant one thing and one thing only. Noah was contemplating a life choice. It wasn't a bad thing, virtually, but it also wasn't good. He remembered seeing that stare at the dock a month ago, and at the orphanage three years ago. That stare always made Jain feel uneasy. Along with a strong feeling of insignificance. Whatever decision Noah was making, Jain just hoped it wouldn't mean the end of all he knows. "Ya said a boat just randomly hurled itself at the dock?" Applejack questioned as she stood up, and CJ nodded. "Yep. Out of nowhere, too. And from the story being told, it was something more than just gravity and whatnot being defied. It was something powerful. Something-" "Magical." The boys turned to Twilight, instantly distressed as she whispered aloud. CJ facepalmed, "Oh for fuck's sake! Why!? Why can't we just defeat some stupid magical being and be done with it?! We nearly lost the entire galaxy last time!" Manex punched CJ in his shoulder, "Man, shut the fuck up. Damn nigga, if we gotta stop an evil magical equestrian-ass plot, then that's what we're doing." Rainbow Dash laid a hand on CJ's shoulder, "Ah, we'll be fine. We were last time because of Noah and Sunset. All we gotta do is use that compass thingy on Sunset, get Noah to transform and crap, and boom! Evil conquered, again." Pinkie Pie itched her head, "Where's Noah anyway?" Jain pointed at the staff building, "He's over there, and he's been sitting ever since I saw him today. Sure, that wasn't long ago, but I bet it's been for some time if I were to ask Fall. "He's doing that million-mile-stare again. The one that transcends the planet itself. Whenever he stares like that, he's making a big decision. Hopefully, it isn't anything stupid. Anyways, do we have any suspects?" Fluttershy stepped forward, "Well, last night when we were telling spooky stories at the campfire, Timber was telling us about the tale of Gaia Everfree." "...Okay? The hell is this going?" "Well, after the tale, The camp director, Gloriosa, appeared from the forest mysteriously. She didn't take the trail either and said that it was just something she did and that nobody else should ever leave the trail. She said it was too dangerous." Manex tilted his head, "Okay, but that just sounds like perfect timing. At least... it should. Why the hell am I questioning it then? What the hell does it mean?" As Fall approached the end of the dock and exhaled, Applejack folded her arms. "Ah'll tell you what it means. It means- "We have yet another brand new problem on our hands." PART 2: XXIV - To The HuntAuthor's Note Over The River & Through The Woods... PART 2: XXIV - To The Hunt "So... What now?" Fall turned around and shrugged at Rainbow Dash's question. "I don't know. Jain's second-in-command, apparently." "Oh. Well, what have ya got, Jain?" The Rainbooms and virtually all of the Black Five continued to stand where they had last left off. At the dock, with information revealing something sinister was at work. Jain itched the back of his head, "I-I, why can't Noah do it? He's not doing anything important! He's just sitting at the staff building, staring all cryptic and depressing! Doesn't he usually make these plans?" Rarity folded her arms, "Darling, Noah is gone." "What?" Jain and the others turned about back at the staff building, confused, and were shocked. Noah was gone. Not even leaving a clue as to where he might be at the moment. CJ groaned, "Oh great. Now our dumbass leader is missing. Because that's exactly what we need..." Applejack laid a hand on CJ's shoulder, "Now CJ, Ah'm sure he hasn't gone far and he'll probably be back in a bit. You guys did say he was makin' that million-mile-stare thingamajig. He probably just went to clear his mind. He'll be fine, trust me. Ah'm the Element of Honesty, after all." "Yeah, okay. And if he ends up with a tree branch through his esophagus, I'll know who to blame." "Ah, shut up." Twilight rubbed her arm, "So, what's the plan, Jain? Since we... Need one..." Jain sighed, "Okay then. Hm... This forest is probably relatively sizable, so I'd say we only need three groups." Jain spun around, searching for something to stand upon and address his friends, and promptly spotted a cobble for him to use. He then lightly jogged over the rock, stepped onto it swiftly, and raised his left finger as he began. "Okay, here are the groups," He stated. He pointed to Sunset and Twilight, along with Fall close by, "You three will search the east of the forest while Manex and I will search the west. When we think we've gone far enough, we'll come back, and Manex and I will search the south. While you three search the north." Jain pointed to the rest of the Rainbooms along with CJ. "The rest of the Rainbooms along with CJ will stay around the campsite and keep... keep... uh... Goddamn it, I hate when I forget words... L-Look, just, stay around the campsite and make sure the counselors don't start questioning what's going on and what we're doing. "We cannot afford to screw this up. For our dumbass classmates and our dumbass principals, high off nostalgia. The last thing we need is to get fucked over because we were busy making sure there wasn't a hidden plot to take over the universe or something. If there even is one..." Jain crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. "Alright, everybody got that?" "Got it!" Jain smirked, "Good. Let's do this shit." "So. Do you usually have the hots for boys when you meet them immediately?" "W-What?! What are you talking about?!" Sunset, Twilight, and Fall a bit ahead had begun their search in the east. Despite the many thick trees, pointy branches, and the possible ticks on the ground, the three were doing quite well. While Fall searched high and low ahead of the two, Sunset and Twilight stayed a bit behind and talked like any other pair of teenage high school girls would. Y'know, just without the passive-aggressiveness. Sunset giggled, "Oh, c'mon. You think I'm stupid? I've seen how you and Timber have been getting all close and personal recently. You started blushing when you guys were going over minerals, he caught you at the dock, hell, maybe if we didn't go searching for whatever it is we are, you might've wandered into the woods, sang a musical number, and then ran into him all flustered and red." Twilight blushed as she crossed her arms, "You really are a hypocrite." "Maybe, but that doesn't deny what I've said." "L-Look, I've just been having unwanted encounters with him many times since we got here. That doesn't mean I like him!" "What, so you're into girls then?" Twilight blushed as red as a tomato. "Uh... W-What about you!? I-Imagine what Noah would think if he found out his girlfriend was into girls!" "Oh, uh, yeah. Him..." Twilight tilted her head, "Is something the matter?" "No..." Twilight rubbed her chin, "Did... He do something? Like, did you catch him looking at another girl? Was it Pinkie Pie? Something tells me it was probably Pinkie Pie. Or was it Trix-" Sunset shushed Twilight with a finger, "How about we change the subject. Even if you're not into Timber, exactly what would you want in a person enough to want to be with them forever?" "W-What?! C-Can't we just, I-I don't know, talk about dendrology? Just look at these trees! T-They're so... Uh... Treey!" "What's the big deal, Twi? If you're ever going to find love, it wouldn't hurt to tell a friend what you desire. After all, it's just me. It's not like I'm gonna tell the entire world your deepest darkest secrets." Twilight sighed and began to twiddle her fingers. "Well, I guess what I'd want out of somebody is the ability to protect me against anything. I'm not much of a fighter like you guys, so I'd be nice to have someone act as a guardian angel towards me. Even if it means their life... Hopefully, circumstances will never bring us to that point. "Someone who can get me to feel all flustered and warm inside with the simplest of comments or actions. Even if I deny it, I'll truly be chanting inside. Hoping, praying they do more. To give me this wonderful feeling that barely anyone I've ever known could give me... "Someone so pretty that I instantly turn red just from them laying their eyes on me. Someone whose hair is so soft and beautiful that just the touch makes me melt. Someone whose voice makes me swoon from the simplest of words." As Twilight spoke, Sunset felt herself become... Warmer. It was a familiar sensation, and it spread itself all over her face. Turning her redder than cranberry ginger ale. Despite it being quite wrong, Sunset only welcomed the feeling. Disregarding the consequences. Twilight continued, "I'd also want them to be witty and confident. Someone who walks with a pep in their step along with a feeling of preponderance. Someone who knows what they're doing and can get the job done. Regardless of the challenges they may face. Not like Rainbow Dash though. Well, I guess kinda like... Like..." Sunset smirked lustfully, "Me?" Twilight turned and promptly found herself gazing into the eyes of the redeemed junior. Something about her pine-colored eyes made Sunset appear as if she were a divinity. It just went so well with her luscious red and canary hair that Twilight felt as if she was going to collapse any minute now. Furthermore, it'd be foolish to think Sunset wouldn't as well. Sunset whispered, "How about we... Maybe... Get properly acquainted- ow!" Twilight was thrown out of the trance as Sunset backed away and fell to her knees. Grasping at her stomach. She panicked, "Sunset! W-What's wrong!? Are you hurt?! W-What happened?!" Fall turned about, bewildered, "Hey, what's going on back there? Is she alright? Sunset, you alright? You need help?" Sunset waved Fall away, still pained, "N-No! I-I-I'm good! J-Just having... G-Girl issues!" Twilight raised an eyebrow and inspected Sunset lower. She wasn't grasping at her stomach, she was grasping at her crotch. Specifically her genitals. Twilight turned so immensely red she gave every cherry on the planet a run for their money. She stuttered, "A-Are... A-Are you having a... Uh... Is everything alright? Y-You know... Below deck, and all?" Sunset spoke through her teeth, "Y-Yeah, I-I'm... Fine. J-Just having... Issues..." Twilight was confused. From her observation, Sunset appeared to be having menstrual problems. But, that wouldn't make a lick of sense. Menstrual problems only occur during pregnancy... It didn't take long for Twilight to turn paler than the clouds in the sky. She attempted to change the conversation, "S-So... W-What's with the ponytail? I-I never got the chance to ask. Sorry about that, b-but seriously. I-It looks pretty! Who did it?" Sunset quickly discerned Twilight's intentions. "O-Oh, this? I-It's nothing. N... Noah... Noah did it for me." Twilight was honestly astounded, "Noah? He did? But, why? How? I didn't know he could do that with hair. Where or how did he learn that from?" Sunset shrugged as she cautiously rose off the ground. "H-He said these woods would damage my h-hair, and t-that he'd hate to see it r-ruined. How? I-I've no clue, and he p-probably learned it from his mother or f-father." Twilight smiled genuinely, "Wow. Y-You're lucky to have someone like him care so much. I-I'd probably be too afraid to even mention it. A-And if I did, it'd probably have some scientific equation or understanding behind it..." Twilight laid a hand on her shoulder, "You gonna be okay?" Sunset sighed, "Yeah... I'll be fine." "So... She just took the boat and left?" "Yes! It's like she just told me to go fuck myself without even saying it!" Jain and Manex traversed the west side of camp in hopes of finding something, anything that could prove any further suspicion of the camp counselors, specifically Gloriosa, of doing anything threatening. Although, while walking, the two somehow went from talking about cars to planes to history to pornography sites to politics, and the trail somehow led them to talk about Jain's recent encounter with Rainbow Dash. When she requested he stay on the dock and leave her be while she went canoeing. Dumbfounding the second-in-command. Manex folded his arms, "Dude, I don't know what to say." Jain laid his hands flat, "Exactly! I-I don't get it! I-It's like she just didn't wanna hang out with me even though we've been hanging out for weeks now! I mean, sure, I've obviously been trying to get into her pants, but this feels different!" "Her telling you to go suck a fat one?" "Well, that and our relationship in general." Manex raised an eyebrow, "She always tells you to go suck a fat one?" "No, you dumb babyproof, marshmellow head-ass nigga-" "Asshole." "-My feelings towards her! I... Goddamn it, you fuck, I like her! Like, I wanna do more than just have sex. I've been enjoying all of our meets and the nights we spend on the phone together more than any other girl in my life!" "The only other girls you ever spent time with was Amanda, who was an absolute bitch of a twelve-year-old orphan, and Carrot Top that one time you thought it a good idea to get drunk and high at the same time." Jain's face fell flat, "Go fuck yourself Manex." "Would probably explain your retarda-" "What part of go fuck yourself did you miss, dipshit?!" "The part where I care." Jain glared at his highly discourteous best friend, and said friend continued. "Besides, I'll be with you until the day you die, my nigga." Jain groaned, "Sometimes I wonder if that's a blessing or a curse..." Manex leaned on a nearby tree, "Anyways, enough about your one and only, continue about that crap with Rainbow Dash. Or whatever virgin shit you were going on about." Jain sighed and rolled his eyes, "I was trying to say that I have feelings for her. And I feel that she might as well. But that crap back at the dock made me wonder. What if... What if she-" "Doesn't want your three inches?" "Manex, I swear to God..." "Heh, go on." "...What if she doesn't want me? Doesn't like me as I do? The one girl who I actually felt a connection to, doesn't want me?" Manex shrugged, "Those are called broken dreams, Jain. They've been happening to boys like us for centuries." Jain rubbed his temples, "You're just a bundle of joy, aren't you?" "It's just like a damn good man once said. 'That's just the way it is.'" "If the way is through you, I don't wanna live anymore..." "Aw, don't be like that, Jay Jay." "Do not start with the childhood names, Manex. I'll slit your throat." Manex seemed to feel something hit him with that last bit. It wasn't strong, but it also wasn't weak either. He'd heard such sayings from his friends many times over the past few years, but now when they'd gotten increasingly acquainted with the Rainbooms, the sentence felt... Odd. Manex rubbed the side of his shoulder, "...Do you think other people talk like we do?" Jain tilted his head, "Where did this come from?" "I'm just saying. I mean, we say all of this horrible stuff about each other, and we're still friends. We act like saying what we do is just... normal. Do you think others do the same? If not, what do they think of us?" Jain rolled his eyes," Manex, no philosophical shit right now. We're just scouring this dumbass forest for stuff. We don't need to start questioning our actions. It's just a part of us at this point. You don't feel like crap when we say it, so why now?" Manex lifted a finger to reply, but it didn't take long for his entire hand to fall to his side. Maybe when their best friend slash leader wasn't missing would be the right time to bring it up. As Manex let it go, Jain came up with a question of his own. "Yo Manex." Manex perked up, "Yuh?" "...Who're you after? I want a legitimate answer this time, not just some, 'I'm tryna smash,' bullshit. There's gotta be someone at this school you like. Sure, half of them may be lacking in the "departments," but that's only half. So c'mon, tell a nigga what-" "First of all, you know exactly what I want. A hunk of overpriced shit that goes fast and gets me vapid pussy. Second, I don't like anyone. Any of them. Whatever those things are. Hell, we don't even know if they're human." Jain tilted his head again, "I don't follow." "Jain, have you ever just stood in the middle of the... the... God, we are really forgetting the names of things recently, aren't we?" "Spit it out, Manex." Manex scoffed, "Oh, shut up. Anyways, the area when you enter the school from the front thingy. Plaza or whatever the fuck it's called. Have you ever just looked around at all sides during a change in periods and just... looked at them." "Manex, I asked if you liked anyone. Not-" "Shut up and let me finish! I-I mean, just look at them! Their eyes are large like saucers, not a single person has a normal or natural hairstyle or coloring, they talk like this is a scripted movie, and I think their heads might even be larger than their bodies completely!" "...And?" "Jain, I don't care how close those things are to being us, they are not human. They're some sort of Ecutesion-" "Equestrian." "Equestrian version of a human. Hell, what even is an Equestrian?!" Jain laid a hand flat, "Their ponies, Manex. On the other side of that portal, is a land full of ponies frozen in time." Manex's eyes' might as well have exploded, "What?! Ponies?!" Jain pinched the bridge of his nose, "Pretty sure Princess Twilight explained that." "You know I wasn't listening to her, dog! I don't even listen to any of them!" "So you're saying you haven't accepted our new friends and you haven't fallen for anyone, because they aren't human?" Manex sighed and kicked a rock, "Mother-... Nevermind. Let's just keep searching..." "Probably for the best." "Go fuck yourself, Jain." Why are we out here? "So I can find whatever destroyed the dock." O—kay... But... Why? "I need something to keep my mind off the fact that my child could be stolen by some purple-haired nerd. The absolute bull in that is gonna make me explode." I guess that makes sense. "Exactly. Anyone who's baby could be stolen by a dork would do the same thing. Well, probably here, at least. A purple-haired nerd wouldn't even get a dog in America. That cesspool of so-called, 'freedom.'" We're not in the US anymore Noah. You should've stopped thinking about its problems years ago. Especially after you solved them all by slaying the Sirens. "Yeah? Well, you should stop showing up whenever I'm alone." I'm only here because you have a severe problem of talking to yourself that you can't seem to fix. You literally asked your consciousness to fix your consciousness. "Shut up." The missing outsider and his thoughts had disappeared into the woods to remove the idea of Sunset and Twilight as an item. Unfortunately, it wasn't going very well. Since the day he spoke his first word, Noah had a 'minor' issue of talking to himself. His cognizance seemed to have a mind of its own, and usually only appeared when Noah was truly alone. This was unquestionably one of those times. As he sought through the forest in search of whatever it was he sought for, his consciousness repeatedly asked him questions. Questions he'd rather not think about. Why do you think Sunset would be attracted to Twilight of all people? "Because Twilight is a more verbose and intelligent version of Fluttershy. Sunset has this odd turn-on for making the meek feel weak. Submissive, virtually. I didn't believe it until I saw just how much Twilight blushed at whatever she said. Over and over, another witty and charming sentence after the next turned Twilight into a ticking time bomb that went off every thirty seconds. Again, and again, and a-fuckin'-gain." Weren't you trying to ease back on the swears? "I can say what I want when I'm alone, you idiot." We're the same- Noah balled his hands into a fist, "I swear to God, if you say we're the same person, I'm gonna cut myself." Noah's consciousness snickered, and Noah promptly addressed himself. "Do not make a joke out of that! That's offensive as hell!" But we're the same- *Clang!* ... It didn't take very long for Noah's body to hit the floor... XXV - As If We Couldn’t Be Stranger...Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.XXVI - Antagonism, Suspicion, & The Missing OutsiderAuthor's Note Two Of The Worst Things To Be Associated With This Guy... XXVI - Antagonism, Suspicion, & The Missing Outsider "Um, Pinkie Pie, darling? What are you doing?" "I'm putting marshmallows on my lantern, Rarity! Then when we ignite them, they'll be beautiful and delicious!" "That sounds impractical and disgusting." "You haven't forgotten who I am, have you?" "...Maybe for a moment... A delightful, God-given moment..." Two hours after a majority of the Black Five had discovered a majority of the Rainbooms had acquired superpowers of some sort, the crew had settled near the finished dock upon several bench tables. They were creating gorgeous lanterns to let fly into the sky and light up the night. Although, a member of the Rainbooms was missing. Twilight Sparkle and her unusually colored dog, Spike, had taken a seat, alone, at another bench table. She'd been acting quite odd for a rather large portion of the trip so far, and it was beginning to become apparent. Rainbow Dash dropped her paintbrush, "Okay, that's it. What the hell- er, heck is going on with Twilight? She's been acting strange this entire trip like she's got a frog in her brain!" The Rainbooms turned to each other, confused. Though they shrugged it off and Applejack answered. "Who knows? She hasn't constructed a magical compass capable of stealin' Equestrian magic and used it naively. Puttin' the entire Milky Way Galaxy at stake of a devastatin' apocalypse on a galactic scale. Leaving everythin' that ever existed in a state of indisputable, irreparable ruination... Has she?" Rainbow Dash stared, bewildered, "Uh... I guess not?" "Then we're alright. If somethin's botherin' Twilight, she'll come to us. It's only been five weeks as opposed to the rest of us knowin' each other for years. She just needs some more time." "I guess, but what if she doesn't say anything?" "Maybe we could force it out of her?" Fluttershy answered, instantly sending all of the Rainbooms incomparably agape. Rarity dropped her lantern, "Fluttershy, darling... Are you... alright?" "Yeah. I feel wonderful... Why?" "Uh... Forget it. How about we change the subject, hm?" Pinkie shoved a marshmallow into the side of the lantern, "What else should we talk about?" "Maybe that Noah has been missing for three hours now?" Applejack crossed her arms, "That reminds me. Rainbow, when we were back at the bakin' buildin', why'd ya call Noah our leader?" Rainbow Dash shrugged, "I dunno. I mean, it's supposed to be Twilight, but Princess Twilight is gone, and our Twilight doesn't really seem to have a sense of authority. Like, at all. "I guess I just called Noah our leader because he made the important decisions and the plans at the Friendship Games and The Battle of the Bands. Even when Princess Twilight was here, he just took charge. And I'm not gonna lie, but he was pretty good at it. "If you ask me, I don't think Princess Twilight would've thought about annihilating the Sirens or our Twilight if push came to shove. She's too soft, to be honest with you. Though I bet this stuff would be a heck-of-a-lot easier where she comes from." Rarity rolled her eyes as she rubbed her fingertips, "Yes, yes, we get it. Noah's our conjectured leader. Can we get back to the fact that he's missing in a forest that's rumored to be cursed?" Sunset twiddled with her fingers, "I bet he's fine." Rarity raised an eyebrow, "...You bet he's fine?" "You guys, Noah can be incredibly stupid at times, but he's not an idiot. Wherever he is, it's probably somewhere safe... Or incredibly stupid. The point is, he's not in danger. After all, he has all of your magical energy in his pendant. He can use that if he needs it." Fluttershy tilted her head, "So... You're okay with him being lost in the woods somewhere?" "Well, when you say it like that, I sound like a bitch." "Well, that is essentially what a bitch would do..." "..." The bench table fell silent with Fluttershy's words. Not a single member of the Rainbooms replied as they gawked at Fluttershy like she was a radioactive turkey drenched in dog urine. Fluttershy simply kept eye contact with Sunset, who was getting increasingly sweaty by the second. Sunset pointed nonchalant finger guns in Twilight's direction. "I-I'm gonna go... Uh... I-I'm gonna go sit with Twilight... Yeah... I better, uh... Figure out what's going on! R-Right?" Before anyone could reply, Sunset stood up, apprehensive, and speed-walked over to Twilight's table. The Rainbooms watched as Sunset stepped away, but not for long as they returned their attention to their timid friend. She stared blankly, "What?" Rarity laid both hands flat, "What? Are you serious? Fluttershy, darling, you just called Sunset a bitch!" "...Yeah?" Applejack crossed her arms, "Fluttershy, that's rude! And seriously mean! How could you say that to her?" "Well, Noah and I were doing a project in Health Class, and he was telling me about all the types of bitches in the world." Rainbow Dash's face scrunched up, "W-What?! Why?!" "I don't know. But his eyes were really red and he was laughing a lot at simple things like the clack of my pen, so I think it had to do with that." Rarity's eyes twitched. Fluttershy continued, "Sunset disregarding Noah and his well being like that was one of the bitch things he'd told me. So I assumed Sunset already knew since she hangs out with Noah a lot and does that thing with her mouth he told me about." Rainbow Dash stuttered, "What the fu- y-you, Fluttershy! No girl likes being called a bitch! Even if Sunset knew, that doesn't mean she'd wanna be called it! What type of girl likes being called a bitch?!" Fluttershy poked at her bottom lip, "Well, Noah told me that there are girls who liked being called bitches. He told me they were called slu-" "Just finish your fucking lantern, Fluttershy..." ... "Hey, Twilight." "Sunset? What are you doing over here? A-Aren't you supposed to be hanging with the girls?" Sunset took a seat next to her nerdy friend and snuggled close. Whether it was intentional or not, Twilight had turned redder than a bag of Skittles. Sunset replied, "Well, yeah, but I can come back to them later." "Ow! Watch the ice, you lunatic!" "I'm trying to help you!" "Well, it feels like you're trying to crush my skull!" "I couldn't even if I wanted to!" "Oh, please! You have the hands of an elephant!" "Elephants don't have thumbs, dumbass!" "Noah! Aria! Shut the hell up!" It was that time again. It'd taken a while considering he was busy with a couple of other things before, but these things just learned to come around whenever they were needed. Inside the mind of Noah Rictorshine were his greatest enemies turned friends in the mysterious realm of Siren Hell. (What a laughably lazy name.) Noah laid on the three-seater sofa surrounded by the confidants of his mind, Aria Blaze and Adagio Dazzle. Noah was covered in two blankets, one being red cotton, and another being a blue waffle weave. On the back of his head was a colossal bump surrounded by dried blood. Although, not being very visible as his hair covered most of it. Sitting on the sofa's arm with a bag of ice covered by paper towels against Noah's skull was Aria, who had warmed up to him a bit more. No longer did she simply enter a room while Noah and Adagio talked, grabbed a Sprite, and left, but now it seemed that she had been talking to him a bit more. Perhaps even more her than sister. Speaking of her sister, Adagio laid opposite to Noah with her feet resting on his stomach and her hands behind her head. Quite lucky that Noah hadn't thrashed out and threw Adagio's feet out the window. Some would say he liked the view, but Noah was never a foot person. Never understood it, and probably never will. Probably. Aria wore a large and purple hoodie with blue accents. On her legs were short jeans and black knee socks, her hair the same. Adagio wore a white buttoned-up dress shirt with rolled sleeves and a tie. On her legs were black dress pants and perfectly polished shoes. All she was missing was her suit, which laid on the marble table to her side. Adagio continued, "Now Noah, if you're done complaining and arguing with my sister like a little girl, maybe you could tell us what happened. I mean, I was thinking of going on a date today, but I wouldn't mind clearing my schedule for my ass of a slayer." Noah scoffed, "Oh, cry me a river-" "Prick." ”Look, I was just walking through the woods to see if Director Gloriosa was doing anything stupid, and talking to the voice in my head that never seems to screw off, until pow! The back of my head is hit by something metal, and I'm knocked out cold. I didn't even get a chance to react before my face got all up, close and personal, with mother nature's... bush..." Aria cringed, disgusted, "Seriously? You had to throw in a sex joke?" "Who said that was a sex joke?" Aria pinched the bridge of her nose, "God, give me strength." Adagio sat up, "Okay, well, you obviously didn't run into anything like a doofus, which means something, or someone, intentionally attacked you with the intent of knocking you unconscious. Do you have any ideas as to who?" "The only person I can suggest is probably Sunset considering she just became a major bit- er, jerk not even halfway through the trip! I don't know, maybe I did something to tick her off, and now she's immensely annoyed. But I haven't a clue about what I did!" Aria raised an eyebrow, "What about the counselors and the director?" Noah squinted, "What about them?" "Well, from what I've seen, they seem to be overly cheery, including the director. Not to mention we saw them bickering like my sisters and I used to when you first arrived." Aria rested her head on her free hand, "What? You think they're up to something?" "Well, yeah, but that wouldn't make a ton of sense. We don't have enough evidence to mark them as threats, or even odd. They just act like normal people. Which makes me think Noah's friends jumped the gun on searching for stuff." "They were probably just being stupid like they always are." "Well..." "No, she's right. All eleven of those teenage idiots do stupid things on a daily basis," Noah defended. Adagio folded her arms, "Then who else would it be? You think we're just missing something?" Aria stood up and shoved the ice in order to keep it in place at Noah's head. "We're probably missing a ton of things, but I think that's worth worrying about later." Adagio tilted her head as Aria began up the steps to the second floor, "The hell are you going?" "To bed!" As Aria reached the top floor and entered her room, Adagio was promptly left with Noah in the living room. Noah slowly turned his attention to Adagio's feet, which now rested on his chest. He stated, "You know, I'd love it if the person who dropped a building on my parents wasn't using me as her footrest." Adagio rolled her eyes yet reluctantly moved her feet. "Happy?" "You say that like it's wrong." "It's not that, I just... Look, I don't care how soft of a teddy bear I've been recently, I still don't like wasting time. Especially my own, Noah." "You and me both." "You better get this situation of yours under control, or at least don't come back with more bullshit. You added an entire town, remember? I shouldn't have to drop everything to come to your aid because you got hit by a shovel or something." "I know, Dagi, I just... Well... Damn, I guess... I guess I just needed someone besides someone I don't know helping out. I know I killed you and your sister, which was completely deserving." "Spit it out, little boy." "I... Adagio, how much do you care about Aria? I'm not talking, 'Oh, well, I can't just let her die or something,' I'm talking actual, legitimate, down to Earth, care. "Love." Adagio tilted her head, "...Where is this coming from?" "Dagi, I have Sunset to comfort me whenever I need it. But, sometimes, it's better if I just find someone more... relaxed. I'm not saying Sunset can't be relaxed, but I'm talking like, so relaxed that they don't even care." "Explain to me how that's good?" "I mean, my sister used to do it a lot. Both of them. It was nonchalant, and bullsh- er, crappy, but in a way, I guess that was them telling me I'll be alright." "...what?" "Oh for fuck's sake, you're like a sister to me, Dagi." Adagio raised a finger to respond as her heart felt unusually heavy, but she ended up saying nothing. Her face wasn't blushing, but it showed a confused, yet somehow glad appearance. Adagio laid a hand flat, "That sounds... kinda forced." "I know, I just had it on my mind for a while, and thought I should just say it already." Adagio lifted her feet off of Noah's chest and rested them on the floor, all the while sitting back against the couch. Noah stared, a tad puzzled, as Adagio twiddled with her fingers, lost in thought. "...Something wrong-" "I murdered your family." Noah's pupils widened. With fear instead of anger for reasons unknown. Adagio had turned her head to gaze at him, but her face was now full of guilt and a lack of understanding. She continued, "I murdered everyone at that park. I murdered billions of people before you were born, and billions after. I was the cause of so many wars, millions of hogsheads worth of blood. "I'm the cause of that Hitler guy. The cause of Ivan the Terrible, Joseph Stalin, Vlad the Impaler, Pol Pot, Heinrich Himmler, Idi Amin, Saddam Hussein, and hundreds, probably thousands of other horrible people in your planet's history." As Adagio continued, Noah began to notice several tears flowing down her cheeks and watering up in her eyes. Noah was thrown entirely off guard, beyond dumbfounded. He sat up, at least he tried, "Whoa, whoa, Adagio, calm your tits! Jesus Christ, there's no need to get all emotional like this!" Adagio turned back, "Noah, it doesn't make any sense that you would say that. That you should say that! I'm the reason your entire planet was screwed over for a thousand years! I wrote your planet's history! My sisters and I were giant, god-like puppeteers that used your world like a child building a Lego death star or something. "How in God's name could you call me your sister? Let alone even fucking forgive me?" "Adagio, I... Look, Dagi. Growing up... Unlike your family, and probably unlike most of my people, I had read a book that you probably already know. Even if you and millions of others call it all bullshit, I guess I just still believe it all. "I once read in that book something I haven't been able to forget ever since I saw it. To put it simply, it's that nobody is ever far from forgiveness. Nobody. All of those people you listed, if handled correctly, could've been forgiven. But it wouldn't even matter since they were just being used by you three. "...You truly screwed me over all those years ago, and I was out of my mind when I took you and your sisters' lives back at The Battle of the Bands, but... I guess I've learned to see past all of that. So much so that I've given you and Aria an entire town. Just listen to me. "I forgive you, Adagio Dazzle. And I'm lucky to be able to see you and your sister every three days. And while I sleep, no less. "Don't ever think that your past defines you. Just look at Sunset. You've seen her change through my eyes immensely. Who's to say Earth's greatest monster can't either?" Noah smiled warmly as Adagio wiped away her tears and rubbed her eyes. She then stared deeply into Noah's eyes as she smiled, at peace. Noah had already said he forgave her, but this didn't just feel right, it felt perfect. Adagio raised her arms, "Goddamn you, little boy," and moved over closer to Noah who had sat up completely. She brought her arms under his and embraced him tightly. Noah was thrown off, but embraced Adagio all the same. The last time Adagio ever hugged him was during the Friendship Games whereas Noah felt lost. Albeit, it was rather so-so. But this, this was entirely different. Adagio had pulled him so very close that her cheeks rubbed against his pleasantly, and her arms held him close like a baby who needed her mother in the darkest of times. Noah couldn't fathom the feeling. Adagio wasn't warm, but her very presence, and smell, made Noah feel like the world had stopped. It was wonderful. Noah nudged a bit to face her, "Alright Dagi, come on. Aren't you supposed to be all-powerful, leading, and assertive? Since when do you ever get emotional? Especially over yours truly." Adagio laughed, "Shut up, or I'll smash your head against this table." "Mmmm... mmm, no Noah, you can't use Mcfly as a pillow, mmm... you dumb- ow! Goddamnit! Twilight, what the... Twilight?" Sunset Shimmer, in the dead of night and donning her classic pajamas, sat up from her bed, disconcerted. She found what had fallen against her head upon her lap, and her face fell flat. It was the little, yet somewhat heavy lantern Rarity had recommended to her. She had placed it above her head on the headrest as the nightstand was too far, but that's not what confused her. As Sunset had turned to the bed beside her earlier, she found that Twilight was missing. The only sign that she was ever there were the bedcovers thrown about haphazardly. Sunset arose from her bed and slipped into her slippers at its feet. She took a single step forward as she analyzed the tent. All of Twilight's things, including her dog Spike, had all disappeared. Sunset tilted her head, perplexed, "Where'd she go?" She turned her attention to the nightstand. Upon it, folded neatly, was her fluffy red robe. Another gift from her best friend slash boyfriend she'd received months ago. Strangely reluctant, Sunset picked up the sweater, slid her arms through the sleeves, and the hoodie over her head. Sunset then approached the tent's exit and stepped out. As she did, her eyes dilated as she located her introverted friend. Twilight, with Spike just beside her and all her stuff in her bookbag upon her back, was making a mad dash from the campsite. Sunset groaned, "Great. Gotta catch me a Twilight. Hopefully, she hasn't hurt herself... Wouldn't be surprised if she did though... Jeez, Noah really has influenced me." ... "Twilight?" Sunset called as she chased just a bit from behind. Twilight had run into the woods and was getting further and further from the campsite. Any further, and the two would be lost without a doubt. She continued, the gap between the two shrinking. "Twilight! I know you can hear me! Quit running before you hurt yourself!" Fearful and hesitant, Twilight skidded to a stop and stood firm. Sunset stepped over to her, panting, and began. "Twi... Twilight... W-What..." Twilight picked up Spike and asked, "Are you... Uh, okay?" "Y-Yeah, I'm... I'm fine,I just... Oh, Jesus Christ..." Twilight looked away, "Look, I know what you're thinking." Sunset bent over. Her hands on her kneecaps in an attempt to catch her breath. "Yeah, why in... Why... Why were you... Why were you trying to run- oh, fuck me..." "Uh, you don't look so good... Or sound... So good." "Yeah, because I was trying to... Chase you through... This damn forest, oh, Goddamnit..." "Uh... Well-" "Why were you trying to run away? What are you even doing out here?" Sunset asked as she stood correctly, though she held her right side just below the ribs. Twilight avoided her friend's gaze, full of guilt and shame. "I, well, Spike and I, we were... Going to catch a cab..." Sunset tilted her head, and Spike spoke, "We ran because she thought you'd talk her out of it." "Because I would." Sunset rested her left on Twilight's shoulder, "Twi, you can't leave-" "..." "...Uh, Sunset?" Twilight and Spike stared at Sunset, bewildered. Her hand remained on Twilight's shoulder, but her eyes had blazed white. Virtually as strong as the moon, and her jaw hung agape as if she was ascending. Spike jumped out of Twilight's arms and took a few steps forward to poke at Sunset's feet. "She's as cold and stagnant as a corpse, Twilight. Like she was just thrown into some sort of time... Uh, thingy." He turned about, "What do you think happened?" Twilight watched Sunset intently, "I... I-I-I don't know, Spike. I think... She must be, uh... Something, I-I don't know!" "Then what do we do?" Twilight turned her head around, "Well, we can use this time to get away-" "Twilight wait!" Sunset cried, just before Twilight could move her shoulder. "There's no Midnight left around inside of you, you have to calm down." Twilight gawked as her eyes constricted, "What?! H-How'd you know?! I-I didn't say anything or even give anything away! Matter of fact, what was that?!" Sunset removed her hand, "I-I have no idea, but when I touched your shoulder, I saw your memories, your mind. I-I-I-It flashed by like a movie or something, and saw your thoughts! I heard about Midnight, why you sat away from us, everything!" "...Everything?" "Yes, even that..." Twilight became redder than a strawberry in less than a second, "Oh, shit..." "But besides the gross horse anus fetish stuff, there's nothing wrong with you, and Midnight isn't returning at all. Noah threw her at a bus, remember?" "Of course I remember, the bump on my head still hasn't vanished yet. But, I just... How are you supposed to explain me destroying the dock? Or the magical glitter on the grass? Or all of our friends, including you, gaining powers? Sunset, you can literally read minds!" "I'm not sure, but I swear it's not you. I saw your subconscious, remember? Not a trace of Midnight for as far as the eye could see." "But, that doesn't make any sense! What if someone gets hurt?" "We won't hurt anybody, what makes you think that?!" ”Fluttershy can summon hawks, Pinkie Pie has explosive glitter, Rarity can form entire diamonds bore of magic, Applejack is stronger than physically possible, I have telekinesis, for crap's sake, Rainbow Dash sent Jain through a window! Someone's bound to get hurt!" "It's in the right hands, isn't it? What's the big deal?" Twilight stepped away from her friend, "Easy for you to say. The last time I obtained magic, I nearly sent the entire galaxy back to the stone age, and murdered several students! Including Dean Cadence!" "Twilight, you had the power of all the Elements coursing through your blood. This is different. We all have the right amount of magic for us all. Rainbow Dash isn't gonna suddenly run so fast, the Earth spins faster." "I-I know, I just... I'm so afraid that it's gonna happen again..." Sunset rubbed her left arm, "I get it, Twilight. The last time magic ran through one of us, the apocalypse nearly became a reality. And before the Friendship Games, magic turned me into a cruel, vile monster. So if anyone understands what you're going through, it's me. "If you need help coping, I'm all ears and always available. As are the rest of our friends. Even Noah's friends are more than happy to help in any way they can. At least, they better be. "But nothings gonna happen if you just keep running away as if that'll solve all your problems. It only ends up hurting you inside. And believe me, it hurts like a motherfucker." Twilight sighed, at a loss for words knowing she'd lost the argument. She turned about to face her friend. Tears welling up in her eyes that Noah would probably find unnecessary. "I... Okay, you win. I'll stay." Sunset smiled, and Twilight continued. "I still don't think it's a good idea for me to be near the girls, regardless if I'm the reason or not." Sunset nodded, "As long as you stay... Hey, do you hear-" "Rustling? Y-You do too? That was quick and random." Sunset and Twilight both whipped their heads about, puzzled at the rustling of the bushes. Entering a protective state, Sunset grabbed Twilight by her side and pulled her behind her back. She then watched the bushes, ready for anything. "Who's out there? Show yourself!" Sunset called, and the rustling stopped, but only for a moment. Twilight turned to another bush and fell cold. An insanely sharp ax had risen from the bushes. Sunset directed her attention there and froze. "Wait!-" "Twilight? Bacon-haired girl? What are you two doing out here so late?" It was Timber Spruce. Twilight and Sunset sighed, relieved. "We just saw an ax appear from the bush, and thought someone was here to kill us! That was petrifying!" "Oh, uh, well, what are you two doing out here?" "Why do you have an ax?!" Twilight and Sunset replied, simultaneously. Timber quickly shoved his hand into the bushes, nervous, and revealed a wheel barrel of logs. "I-I, was, c-chopping down firewood! Yeah... Firewood." Sunset folded her arms, suspicious, "In the middle of the night?" "...Yes." Twilight smiled, "Well, I'm glad it's you, at least. We thought there was some killer on the loose or something." "Oh, please. If there was a killer on the loose, Gloriosa would probably throw 'em into the lake with a boulder. You'd be surprised what she could do when she's angry." Twilight giggled while Sunset's eyes only squinted. Timber continued, "Okay, but seriously. Why are you two out here? It's not something inappropriate, is it? Not that I'd mind..." "Oh, uh-" "I was just sleepwalking," Sunset interrupted. Saving the two's skin. "Twilight found me and was just bringing me back to camp." "Y-Yeah, what she said." Timber nodded, "Sounds legit. Anyway, c'mon. I'll walk you two back to camp." Timber then began down a certain trail and the two of them followed. But still suspicious, Sunset asked a question. "Hey Timber?" "Shoot," he replied. "You wouldn't happen to have seen Noah anywhere, have you?" "Who?" Sunset rubbed her chin, "Uh, he's the black one." "..." "With the fade haircut?" "..." "He curses a lot?" "..." "Crap, that's right. Heck, even I curse more than him now. Uh... He says stupid stuff a lot?" "Oh, him! Yeah, he's in the tunnel." "...The what?" Timber locked up like a cat ascending to godhood, "I-I-I mean, he's p-probably somewhere a-at the camp! O-Or helping Gloriosa, o-or something! Yeah! H-He's doing that!" "...Oh, really?" "Yeah!" Sunset folded her arms once more, "Okay... Noted..." XXVII - Only Slightly ScrewedAuthor's Note ”So we’re fine. As long as nobody starts teleportin’ bread.” XXVII - Only Slightly Screwed "I honestly can't believe we're spending our end of the year trip... fixing a dock." "Yeah. We could be rock climbing right now. Or, uh, roasting marshmallows. Or... What do people even do on camping trips, Jain?" "I have no fucking clue, Dash." The last day of the Everfree camping trip was underway, and the dock still hadn't been finished. Throughout most of the morning to the middle of the day, the students of CHS had been working hard. Though Noah was still missing, and students outside the crew had begun to notice. Rainbow Dash and Jain Benefactor carried stacks of wooden boards onto the dock to deliver to Applejack, whom had been hammering all day long. Rejecting breakfast, and would probably reject lunch as well. Rainbow Dash dropped her stack from over her shoulder and sighed from exhaustion. Jain noticed, "You alright?" She shrugged, "Yeah, I'm fine." "I thought you were the athletic one of the group." "Athletic doesn't mean I'm a weightlifter, stupid. Besides," Rainbow Dash raised her voice obnoxiously. "It'd be a lot easier if someone would get off their blank as paper, white, butt, and help!" Rarity, sitting to their side knitting a piece of clothing, rolled her eyes. "Christ, Rainbow. It's almost as if I'm in the middle of creating a bunch of designs for the upcoming camp fashion show." "Seriously?" "Quite," Rarity leaned forward and smiled smugly, "But don't you worry, darling. I'll make sure to get right on it." Rainbow Dash mumbled, "Uh, Good God above..." Jain chuckled, "You guys do know you're using the same words that you don't understand, right?" Rainbow Dash scoffed, "We're Equestrian, Jain. We're easily influenced to the point where it's a damn joke." Rarity turned her attention to her side, her ears perking at the sound of keys clacking on a phone. She smiled as she saw who had been making the noise. CJ, phone in hand, sat at the edge of the dock texting someone on a site unknown to her. She spoke, "Color me impressed, Cejal. You've friends outside of us!" CJ rolled his eyes, "Rarity, I know you're designing a lot of clothes and that I'm not doing much-" "Darling, you're not doing shit." CJ dropped his phone on the dock, annoyed. "Fuck do you want, Rares?" Rarity crossed her legs, "I'm glad you asked. I seem to have misplaced or forgotten my favorite scissors back at my tent. Would you be a doll and go get them for me?" "There's literally scissors at your feet, I- Hell, Rarity, there's four of them! What's so special about these scissors that I have to run to your tent which could probably get me neck-deep in bullshit?" Rarity pursed her lips, "Ce–jel. Ple—ase?" "Rarity, I've seen you work your magic on every boy in the school. How the hell do you expect me, of all people, to fall for that crap?" Rarity poked at her chin, pondering. "Uh... Because I asked nicely and gorgeously and we're best friends?" "Hah! No." Rarity groaned as she reached into her back pocket and revealed her pristine wallet of the highest fashion. CJ's eyes widened like a dog feasting his eyes on a new bone. She pulled out two twenties, "Go get my scissors, you dick." CJ shot up to his feet and snatched the twenties out of her hand. "Your wish is my command, my beautiful queen." "Oh, screw off," Rarity replied, annoyed, and CJ promptly did so. In search of the pair of scissors only fit for such a beautiful, strong-willed, yet a rather whiney diva, such as Rarity. "If you're done watchin' those two doofuses go back and forth, Ah’ll gladly take that wood now, thank you very much." Applejack, still hammering what little wood she had left for the dock, called out to both Rainbow Dash and Jain. Who had gotten sidetracked watching Rarity and CJ's little quarrel. Rainbow Dash turned about, "Yeah, yeah, we're coming. C'mon Jain. The faster we get this done, the faster we can... Uh... Do stuff." Jain raised an eyebrow, "Stuff?" "Y-Yeah, stuff." "..." "Look, just give AJ the wood so she'll shut up." Jain shrugged his shoulders as the two approached Applejack with the stacks of wood boards over their shoulders or carried in their arms. They laid the stacks down on either side of Applejack, then Rainbow Dash decided to have a seat on one of them whilst Jain folded his arms. She sighed, "Y’know you guys, I-I don't think we'll be able to even finish this dock in time. Let alone for Rarity's dumb show." Applejack lifted a board from Jain's pile and laid it down, "The dock is our gift to the camp, and it's gonna get finished or so help me. No magical sailboats or stupid weak planks is gonna change that." "What if one of you accidentally destroys the dock?" Jain questioned. ”You know, now that you're all this world's versions of the Avengers." Applejack dropped the hammer, "Oh, don't even get me started. Ah’ve been so careful all day, tryin' to make sure Ah don't destroy the entire dock... Again..." "Eh, you'll be fine." Jain sighed, "I'm gonna go get more wood. You guys keep doing what you're doing, and Dash, rest your arms. Since you're basically built like a twig, God knows how long until your arms fall off." Rainbow Dash flipped Jain off and he chuckled. Not replying, he turned about and stepped off the dock. Heading into the forest. Leaving the Rainbooms to themselves on the dock. Applejack picked up her hammer preparing to return to work when she noticed something. "Aw, damn- er, dang. Ah ran outta nails. Does anybody-" "Oh!" Pinkie Pie began, from the end of the dock. "I've got some!" "W-Wait, Pinkie!" Pinkie Pie, before she could be stopped, reared her hand back and threw the box of nails over to her southern friend. Remembering what happened the last time Pinkie Pie threw something small as such, the air exploded. The nails collided with the ground, and Applejack jumped for cover faster than ever! Only, nothing happened. Applejack poked her head out from under her arms and raised an eyebrow. She then sighed, relieved, as she sat upwards correctly. The image before her was rather odd. Rarity had thrown up some sort of barrier composed of her diamond formation powers, while Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash hid pointlessly behind a pole. Applejack turned about to face Pinkie Pie, whose face promptly flipped from confusion to realization to nervous guilt, then to playfulness. She shrugged, "Wha—t? Oh! You guys thought the nails would explode if I threw 'em, didn't cha? Wow! Glad that didn't happen, huh?" Applejack facepalmed, "Pinkie, how 'bout you just stick to handin' things to use instead of throwin' 'em. Alrighty?" As Rarity's shield lowered, she promptly approached Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Helping them up from the post. She exhaled, "So sorry, girls! I-I couldn't think straight, and the shield just showed up out of nowhere!" Rainbow Dash stretched her arm, "Don't worry, Rarity. We're fine. Right, Flutters?" Fluttershy stood oddly on one leg, "My leg hurts." "Yeah, we're fine." "Is everything alright, girls?" A voice called. Stepping onto the dock and addressing the five was Sunset Shimmer. Applejack stepped forward herself and replied, "Not at all, Sunny. We just can't work with these powers, they're throwin' us off hilariously. A-Ah mean, Rarity nearly shoved both Fluttershy and Rainbow into the lake! "How are we supposed to finish this dock without destroyin’ it? Again." Sunset folded her arms as she came closer, "Well, at least you guys aren't the only ones." Rarity tilted her head, "What are you talking about?" "Last night, I found out that even I had powers too. Whenever I touch someone, it lets me take a glimpse into their memories. Felt like I was drunk or something though, so that could prove to be an issue." Pinkie Pie rushed forward, "Oh! Try me! Try me—e!" "Pinkie, I'm pretty sure your head is full to bursting with cotton candy and rainbows. Anyone with eyes could see that." Pinkie Pie pouted, "Ple—ase?" Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, "Forget it, Pinkie. We have more important things that need figuring out. Like this stupid dock below our feet that hopefully doesn't crumble... Again." Sunset stepped past the girls, "You guys, we can't just stand around and neglect the gifts we've been given. You've gotta stop looking at these powers as something bad. Maybe if you tried looking at them as something good, we could finish this dock." Fluttershy laid a hand flat, "How so?" "Well, hm. How should I explain this... I know how." Sunset cleared her throat delicately, "So you have magic-" "Wait! Wait! Before you start singing like a bunch of failed artists, we have a question!" The girls turned about to find the speaker and found the majority of the Black Five rushing onto the dock as if they were gonna miss their boat. Manex being the one in particular to shout. Sunset groaned and pinched her nose bridge whilst resting her elbow in the palm of her other hand. The girls began giggling, and Jain was the first to reach Sunset. As they caught their breath, CJ pulled out the scissors Rarity had asked her, approached her, and placed them in her palms gentlemen-like. Rarity stuttered, but didn't speak. "Sunset," Jain began, standing straight. "We... Fall saw you and Twilight running into... the forest, then... You came back with... Timber and a... God, give me strength..." Sunset let go of her nose, "What, did you run all the way from your side of the camp to here?" "Yeah," Jain answered, wheezing. "Seemed like... Such a good idea... At the time... It wasn't... At all..." "I can see that." "What... What the hell were you guys... Were you guys coming from the forest?" "Please tell us," CJ added, "My black-ass can't breathe for shit, right now..." Sunset looked over at the girls. They shrugged, perplexed, but decided to just let Sunset handle it as they got back to work. She sighed, slightly annoyed, and answered. "Last night, I awoke because Rarity's lantern she recommended fell on my forehead and woke me up. I found that Twilight was missing from her bed, so I wrapped on my robe and peeked out the tent's... doors? Uh... Flaps? Ugh, whatever those things are called. "But anyway, I spotted Twilight and Spike with all of their stuff running into the forest. I followed them for a while and eventually caught them. Twilight explained why she had run, and we basically had a talk in the woods." "About what?" "Uh... She would rather me not say." Manex rolled his eyes, "Oh great, more secrets that could potentially fuck us over like ants." Sunset shook her head and continued, "But after that, we heard rustling in the bushes, and it turned out that it was Timber. He claimed he was chopping down firewood for Gloriosa, but I had my doubts. So I asked him something." "What?" "I asked him if he had seen Noah, and he said he was in a tunnel of some sort." Fall's eyes bulged, "What?!" "Yeah, but then he tried to cover it up and say that he was probably helping Gloriosa. So then comes this morning and I ask her, and she denies anything. But I swear on my life, a drop of sweat fell from her forehead when I finished asking questions." CJ threw us arms up, "Great. That means those two asshats are up to something. But why the hell do they have Noah?" Jain shrugged, "Who cares why? We have to go save that dumbass before he gets killed." Sunset halted them, "Wait! Why are you guys just now asking me this?" "Because Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna started questioning us as if we were the cause, and... Other stuff.” “Other stuff?” “The entire office was practically bursting with balloons, and we spotted you entering the school with several bags of blow-ups!” Principal Celestia explained, hands upon her hips. ”How was that not you?!” CJ shrugged, ”Uh... Coincidence?” ”Oh, bullshit.” "Oh... Well, can't you guys just hold on for a moment and help with the dock?" Manex stammered, "The dock? We, you- Nigga, fuck the dock! Our friend could be killed by a bunch of camp cultists or some shit!" "I know, I know, but I need you guys to stay with the girls for now while I go find him." Jain crossed his arms, "Not to be an ass Sunset, but aren't the girls more or less your responsibility? As all six of you are responsible for each other?" "Jain, look. During our first night here, I might've said some things to Noah like a... A bitch. I have to be the one to find him so I can make it up to him. Please. Just give me this one thing, and I won't ask for anything ever again." Jain squinted, "Anything?" "...Anything." Jain stared at the boys, and the boys looked at him. He sighed, "Fine, but bring the dipshit back in one piece, okay? We don't love him or any weird crap like you and your friends, but we'd rather him alive than dead." Sunset nodded, "You can count on me. I swear upon it. And if I bring him back with even a scrape, you can go back to calling me Sunwhore." CJ crossed his arms, "Or, we could just rape you." "What?" The Black Four erupted with laughter while Sunset stared, petrified. Manex leaned on Sunset's shoulder, "Relax, Sunset. We're just making a little joke." "That's a joke to you!?" "Of course! ...Unless we just have serious issues." Sunset walked around the four, "I think the second one's correct. I'll be back, don't do anything stupid!" Sunset called as she gained distance away from the four. Jain replied, "Oi! Us? Who the hell do you think you're talking to?!" Sunset chuckled as she stepped off the dock. "A bunch of wannabe heroes of my best friend... Nothing wrong with that though..." PART 3: XVIII - Down The Rabbit CaveAuthor's Note For Once, We’re Not Talking About Porn... God, this process was a pain in the ass... PART 3: XVIII - Down The Rabbit Cave "Okay, gotta find me a moron... In a tunnel... With siblings that probably knocked him unconscious... Violently... Well, this is gonna be a bother..." Sunset Shimmer stood alone afar from the dock and near one of the staff buildings. Not sure where or how to start her search for her stupid yet selfless best friend slash boyfriend. She rubbed her chin as she inspected the woods, "There's gotta be something I can use to get started. The last time we went into the forest with nothing to go on, all we found was a dead deer... W-Wait, am I talking to my-" "Of course you just had to tell them that ridiculous story!" Sunset turned her attention to the nearby staff building. Her ears flared as she heard rather muffled yelling. Like someone was scolding another for doing something silly. Her eyes squinted, suspicious, as she approached the building to listen closer. "Oh for crying out loud, I knew this was too much for you! You're bursting at the seams like a century-old couch! You need to drop this!" Sunset whispered, "Sounds like Gloriosa and her brother. I knew those two were up to something. But what could it be? The camp maybe- ow!" Sunset was interrupted promptly as the door to her side swung open and smacked her in the face. The siblings stepped out of the building and down the stairs. Where? Sunset hadn't a clue. She pushed the door closed, irritated, and pinched her nose as it took much of the impact. She cursed, "Ow! Goddamn it! Why the hell does this shit happen to me?! ...Wow, I am a hypocrite. Stupid Noah and his stupid influential American crap..." Sunset stepped down from the stairs of the building and tried to catch either of the siblings, but failed. She sighed, "You've gotta be kidding me. How am I supposed to-" "Hey, Sunset!" Caught off guard and puzzled, Sunset turned to her left towards the voice whom had called. She raised an eyebrow as the one calling and approaching was none other than the perfect highschool boy stereotype, Flash Sentry. She let go of her nose, "Flash?" "Yeah, it's me. What were you doing near the staff building?" "Uh... Looking for... Uh... Stuff?" "...O—kay... Hey, uh, can I say something?" Sunset shrugged, slightly amused Flash didn't care at all for what she could've been doing. "Sure, shoot." "I uh... I wanted to thank you." "Come again?" "For the tough love. Telling me I should move on from Twilight was really helpful. I needed to hear that." "Oh, tha—t! Yeah, yeah, I-I did do that! You're welcome." "You sound like you forgot about it." Sunset held her arms behind her, "No! N-No, no... The author just didn't write it, I guess..." "What?" "Nothing! Carry on." "You haven't been acting like... Yourself lately." "Thanks, Captain Obvious..." "What, I-I," Flash sighed, "See? Sunset, I don't know if you take me as an ignorant moron, but as someone who's forgiven you, I think Noah's been taking a toll on you." Sunset tilted her head, "What do you mean?" "I mean that, well, Sunset, what did you do after the Fall Formal?" Sunset shrugged, "Built an entire school entrance for nearly a month straight with no help whatsoever whilst crying about every mistake I've ever made in my entire life." "Exactly. And what did you do after the Battle of the Bands?" "Uh, visited Noah's house, spent Halloween with him at the mall, spent this holiday of his called, "Thanksgiving," with him at his house, spent Christmas with him at an arcade, spent New Year's with him at AJ's..." Flash crossed his arms, "Do you see what I mean?" "Flash, aren't you still technically rivals with Noah? Why do you care if I'm hanging out with him? You want me to stop and start hanging out with you?" "N-No, no, that's not what I'm saying... Kinda, besides! Noah and I cleared up our rivalry, it doesn't really exist anymore." "How?" "We made a penis joke together." Sunset facepalmed, "Go figure..." Flash rubbed the back of his head, "Look, I just think that maybe Noah has been..." Unawaringly, Sunset tuned out what Flash was going on about as she spotted Gloriosa's brother, Timber, stealthfully entering the woods. Checking his right and left to make sure nobody was watching him. She smiled, "Hey, yes, Flash, whatever you're going on about, I'll definitely come back to, and we can talk about this after I find the black moron. Okay?" "I-" "Great," Sunset cut off, as she immediately began after Timber. Following him into the forest, wherever his destination may be, and leaving Flash standing like a nitwit. He stuttered, "W-What just happened?" ... "So, you're just gonna sit in this tent until the end of the trip, Twilight?" "We can't take any chances, Spike. You should know that by now." "Well, I do, but I also find it really boring." "Of course you do..." Sitting inside her and Sunset's tent was none other than the notorious purple nerd, Twilight Sparkle, and her simple yet kind-hearted purple dog, Spike. The two sat upon her bed reading another one of Twilight's books, whilst her dog chewed at his... stick and stones. She rolled her eyes, "Spike, why do you always have to lick yourself when I'm around? It's disgusting!" "What? You want me to do it near Rarity? Actually... Maybe that wouldn't be so bad..." "That's revolting, Spike." "Your ringing, by the way." Twilight blushed immensely, "Spike! What the fu-" "I'm talking about your phone! Relax!" Spike replied, even scrambling to his feet as Twilight made a fist. She turned to her draw and was taken aback. Her phone was ringing. Slightly confused, Twilight raised her phone, read the caller ID, and tilted her head. It was Sunset. "Why's Sunset calling? Did something happen?" "Spike sat, "I dunno. See what she wants?" Nodding, Twilight tapped the green symbol of a phone on the touchscreen and answered. "Hello? Sunset?" "Yeah, it's me Twilight. You didn't read the caller ID?" "I... No." "O—Kay... Well, anyway, I need you to use the map from our group chat app and to come to me. Now. I found something." "Found what?" "Long story short, Timber and Gloriosa are up to something, but they seem conflicted about. I followed Timber into the woods when he tried to sneak away, and he lead me to this cave that goes under the surface." Twilight raised an eyebrow as she turned back to Spike. "What, like a rabbit hole?" "No, it's just this giant cave that goes into the dirt for some reason. I-I don't think they made it, either. I think it was formed." "Yeah, like a rabbit hole." "N-No, Twilight, this is a cave. With rocks and stuff." "But it's still a hole, making it a rabbit hole since it's formed or built like that." "Twilight, I-I, i-it's a cave! What are you missing?" "Hey, I'm the smart one! And by scientific definition, you are looking at a rabbit hole. Not, a cave." "What, Twilight, it's made of rock! What, you think a giant rabbit made it or something?" Twilight stared at her hands, "We live in Equestria. I'm pretty sure giant rabbits aren't off the table. At all. It's a rabbit hole." "No, Twilight, I-I, it's a cave. C-A-V-E, cave!" "I know what a cave is, you jackass... W-Wait, what did I just say-" "Twilight! Rabbit holes go under and are surrounded by dirt. This hole is surrounded by rock. Making it a cave." "Okay, but it still goes into the ground horizontally slanted. Making it a rabbit hole." "Just get the fuck over here." "Wait, what?" "..." "Hello?" Twilight pulled the phone away from the side of her head and groaned. Sunset had hung up on her. She turned her attention to Spike once again and found him with the flattest face she never thought a dog could produce. He spoke, "Did you just have an argument about caves versus rabbit holes over the phone with Sunset?" She began to sweat, "Uh... Yes?" He sighed, "Twilight, I appreciate you taking me in and caring for me for over seven years now. Feeding me, giving someplace to sleep, and above all else, just loving me." Spike hopped from the bed, "But can I just say this?" "What?" "You are an absolute idiot." "I'm here!" Sunset turned about as she stopped scrolling her phone to find both Twilight and Spike coming to a stop as they approached her. Sunset shut her phone and stuck it in her back pocket. She smiled, "You made it. Good, I was starting to get worried." Twilight shrugged, "Yeah, well, that's what they all say, isn't it?" "Yeah, I guess they do. I see you brought Spike." Twilight froze, "O-Oh! W-Was I not supposed to? I-I was just-" "Relax, it's fine. We just don't know what they're planning or what they're capable of, so I don't want him getting hurt is all." Spike puffed out his chest, "Aw, don't worry Sunset. I'm the strongest dog around. Just ask the bitches on our block." Twilight exploded, "Spike?! Watch your mouth!" "What? Noah told me that's another term for a female dog. Is that wrong or..." "Look, in case you couldn't exactly tell, Noah isn't the brightest. You shouldn't listen to his advice like that." "Uh, Twilight? His girlfriend is right there?" Sunset folded her arms, "No, she's right. Noah's a serious moron. Also, we prefer the term, 'best friends,' instead, so..." Twilight tilted her head, "Why? Don't you guys sleep together and kiss and... Like... Fundamentally do everything together?" "Well yeah, but... I-It's complicated..." Twilight turned to face Spike. Spike looked up to face Twilight. They both shrugged, or whatever a dog could do in a scenario such as this, and Twilight returned her attention to Sunset. She began forward with Spike eagerly behind, "Okay, let's see what we're looking at." Sunset took a few steps back and pulled apart two bushes to reveal an entrance. Said entrance was unusually broad and appeared relatively bottomless. Just as Sunset had mentioned, the hole was strangely enveloped in rocks as it descended. Twilight nodded, "Yeah... That's definitely a rabbit hole." "Oh, shut up you purple prick." The three stepped through the bushes and approached the entrance. They stared down into the abyss before them that assumingly stretched for miles. They couldn't even begin to guess as to where it might lead. Twilight pondered, "Well, we'll need something to light our way, obviously. Otherwise, we could be walking right into a ravine, or worse." Spike tilted his head, " 'Or worse' what?" "What are you talking about?" "Well, normally that leads up to a joke. You have any in mind?" Twilight bore into Spike's eyes with a newfound feeling of annoyance. "No, Spike. I do not have any jokes in mind. Do you have any?" "Uh... What happens if I say no?" "Nothing. Which is exactly what I want." Spike chuckled, "Jeez, okay. Sorry for trying to be funny." Twilight sighed, but inside she felt like she had just kicked Spike to the curve. It seemed that Noah and his older friends' influence was finally reaching her as well. Sunset itched her chin before something from her memory hit her like a brick. Reaching into her back pocket, Sunset retrieved a white metal lighter. She flicked the top to reveal the fork, wheel, and other components of it. "This is a special metal lighter from back in the day... It's American." Twilight gasped, "W-Wait, what? American? You mean from America? That weird nation Noah always mentions?" "Yeah, that place." "How?!" "Well, I got it from somewhere unusual a week ago. It was meant to be a gift for Noah for our one month anniversary. I know, stupid, but I was still rather loopy after we became a pair. "I was maybe gonna give it to him to... Well... I think I just bought this because I could. I mean, it's American, it's white, I just didn't know what he'd use it for. "But now, a few days ago, I found out that he'd been smoking marijuana for years. Especially behind my back. My guess is that he was trying to slowly introduce me to it." Spike tilted his head, "Isn't marijuana illegal? And doesn't it only grow in Vanhoover? Did he just cross the country or something? And how isn't he dead or whatever?" Sunset toyed with the lighter, "Apparently, he's fine as ever. And his lungs work like a charm. As for where he got it, I'm thinking he and his friends brought a giant stash with them. For all they knew, they could've been lost at sea. I guess I don't blame them." Twilight stepped forward and gave Sunset a nudge, "Well, I guess you better fire that thing up if we're gonna get any light." Nodding, Sunset flicked the fork multiple times in order to ignite the flame as the trio entered the cave slash rabbit hole. As they descended, and the lighter ignited, Sunset felt something. She handed the lighter to Twilight forcefully as she held herself tight. Twilight looked over at Sunset, confused, but then immediately turned red as she picked up Spike and had him face forward. He hollered, "Hey, what's the big idea?!" Twilight shushed him as they stood, "Don't worry Spike, it's nothing to worry about. Just Sunset being... Sunset." "Is there something wrong with her stomach? She looked like she was holding that. Or she was holding below that. What's going on?" Twilight grew excessively nervous as Sunset turned about and vomited onto the ground. Barfing up her lunch from earlier, and utterly dumbfounding Spike. "Okay, something's definitely going on! What's the big deal?" Twilight whispered, flustered. "Uh... You'll learn when you're older. "Hey, looks like we're getting some light, Sunset." "Finally, Twi. It has to have been half an hour by now." As aforementioned by Sunset, the trio had been walking down the rabbit hole slash cave for thirty minutes now. Of course, ten minutes of their journey consisted of tending to Sunset after her... Problems... As the light grew, Twilight handed the lighter back to Sunset, who promptly extinguished the flame of the lighter, and shoved it in her back pocket. At the ready, if ever needed again. With the final curve in the rabbit hole slash cave, the trio turned to step into the light, revealing quite the environment. Disconcerted, Sunset stepped ahead of the two and analyzed their surroundings. She spoke, "These walls... They're made entirely out of magic. Equestrian magic. I can feel it... But how?" Surrounding them were many pillars bore of rock and magic that appeared similar to a violet lava lamp. Not to mention the walls, which were entirely covered in magic that seemed to bounce around like bubbles in the ocean. The rest of the cave slash rabbit hole was ragged and rocky just like the tunnel. Meaning something dug it's way through entirely. Spike questioned, "Wait a minute, I thought Timber's story about Gaia Everfree was nothing more than an old ghost tale, or fake completely. are you saying his story wasn't?" Twilight raised an eyebrow, "W-Wait, what does Timber have to do with all of this?" "Nothing." The trio spun around to their left as an unknown voice interrupted the three. Sunset pushed Twilight and Spike behind her as she readied for anything the voice had to throw at her. They stepped forward, and the three froze like stone. It was Gloriosa. "It's all me," she concluded. But not without a staggering twitch in her eye. Sunset lowered her arms, "Director Gloriosa? W-What are you doing here? W-What about Timber? I-I was certain he was the one behind all this. But it wasn't. It was you all along. B-But what are you planning? You trying to scare everyone away?" Gloriosa took a step into the middle, "I would never. Not even on my life." "Then why? Why are you doing this?" Gloriosa scoffed, "Me? You don't even know what I'm doing! You don't even know if it's wrong!" "We had to rebuild a dock twice!" Gloriosa stomped forward, "Oh, shut it! I've spent the totality of my life trying to preserve this park, this land, for my great-grandparents! I've fought legal battles, lawsuits, even bankruptcy itself! I'm not proud of it because I constantly have a sweaty, salty taste on my tongue now, but it was worth it!" Twilight cringed whilst Spike gagged, and Sunset replied bluntly, "Ew." "Shut up! Now, that stupid millionaire Filthy Rich has his eyes set on my park, and he's going to build a... A... A fucking Burger City over all of it! Just this giant, filthy, smelly hub of burgers and sweat and grease that stretches for miles for all the overweight idiots to enjoy!" "You mean Burger City Central? He's building that here?" "Yes! Completely demolishing all of this beautiful wildlife so he can make more millions per day!" "Oh... Talk about an info dump." Gloriosa turned about, "But now, I have a plan..." Gloriosa, as if she were a God, brightened the cave slash rabbit hole entirely. Revealing multiple other pillars and walls of magic. At the end of it all was something strange. A beautiful and glistening pedestal surrounded by spikes forged of silver itself. It was enveloped in this aura that would've been misinterpreted as some sort of holy light. Sticking out of the pedestal were two miniature crystals that matched those around Gloriosa's neck. One purple, another red, with five other empty holes before them. All connected by a glowing array of pure white. But that wasn't what made the trio freeze in horror. As Sunset looked up to see something hanging from the top of the cave slash rabbit hole. It was being held by multiple vines the size of entire dinner tables. And someone was being held captive by it. It was Noah. Twilight's eyes bulged, "Noah?!" He turned his attention to them and away from something within his hands. He smiled, "Oh! Hey guys! What brings you to this part of the neighborhood? You need some sugar? Want me to walk your dog? Angry middle-aged sex?" Sunset ran her hands through her hair, "Noah! What on Earth are you doing here?! H-How'd you get tied up?! Where've you been?!" "I'm glad you asked, Kid! I've been kidnapped by Poison Ivy's sister and her boy band brother! Just chilling up here, blood rushing to my head. Might've fainted once or twice... or fourteen times..." Sunset pointed furiously at Gloriosa. "What have you done to him?! Why'd you take him, w-what do you want with him?!" Gloriosa folded her arms as she approached the pedestal. "Nothing major. I've just had him here ever since Timber knocked him out after he found him lingering a little too close to my... Rabbit hole." Twilight smirked while Sunset groaned, "Hah! I told you it was a rabbit hole!" "Oh, screw off." Spike tilted his head, "Wait, Noah, don't you have the ability to like, transform, and stuff? Or yell really loud, at least? I'm sure Fluttershy would've heard it. Or the principals." Noah shuffled in his position to free his other hand from the vine. As he did, he revealed a small blue packaging with gummy fruits on its front. Sunset facepalmed. "You've been feeding him fruit snacks?" Gloriosa shrugged, "It's kept him quiet, so..." "Noah!" Noah shrugged as well, "Sunset, I don't know what to tell you. These fruit snacks have got me questioning my... Well... My everything, really. Heck, even my existence." "You've gotta be shitting me." "Not even a little." "Oh my God..." Gloriosa rubbed her chin, "Not exactly sure why he loves them so much, but maybe it has to do with where they came from." "What do you mean?" "We found them in a cargo container washed up along the dock a week before you all showed up." "What?" "No way," Noah flipped the packaging and freaked. "Holy shit, these are Welch's fruit snacks! No wonder I'm questioning God, these are the shit!" "Noah!" "Oh, shut up, you bacon-haired hypocrite!" "Why does everybody say that?!" "Oh, I don't know! Maybe it's because you're hair is the color of fuckin' bacon!" Gloriosa laid a hand flat, "You two have an... Interesting dynamic." "Shut up, plant lady!" Gloriosa faced the pedestal, "It doesn't matter. You're wasting my time. I've a camp to save." Sunset pushed Twilight and Spike behind her again, while Noah cursed as he dropped his fruit snacks. "Gloriosa! Whatever you're planning, it's not going to end well! It's not right!" Gloriosa placed her left on the two remaining crystals and scoffed, "Please. Everything is going to be just fine. What, am I gonna destroy the world?" Gloriosa, in the blink of an eye, forced her free hand outward towards the trio as it began to glow green. Out of the ground, dozens upon dozens of vines ripped out from the Earth to straddle the three. Quickly pulling them into a tight grasp similar to Noah. Gloriosa transferred the two remaining crystals to the rope around her neck, and the necklace transformed. It had given two spots to the remaining geodes, and the necklace gleamed and shone like mad. With newfound power rushing through her veins, Gloriosa ascended above the ground as the holy aura of the pedestal enveloped her like an angel. Promptly switching green and surrounding her like a tidal wave. Smaller vines burst from the ground to wrap around Gloriosa's limbs and began to transform her. Her feet turned from simple pink with lovely shoes to copper-colored and forest-green vines wrapped all around from her toes to her knees. Her legs turned moss-green with even smaller vines wrapped around her in a strangely lovely pattern. Her clothes were replaced with a gorgeous jade dress with a Sacramento-green bow and white lining every streak. Her skin turned grey and pale, and her eyes filled with a menacing black tar, leaving lime, minuscule pinpricks as pupils. Her hair became incredibly floaty and unkempt as if it were in the deepest parts of the ocean. It changed to the color of pine trees and was streaked with even brighter shades of pine. There was no doubt. Gloriosa had changed. Her carefree and light-hearted attitude had been replaced with overconfidence. She was presumptuous, brash, and cocky. Her stature had changed from a simple camp director to a menacing goddess. She was no longer Camp Everfree Director Gloriosa T. Daisy. She was Gaia Everfree. The trio, now tied and hanging to the ceiling similar to the Super Element, watched in terror as Gaia touched down once again. Noah, now understanding the severity of the situation, spoke up. He had seen a familiar glare in her eyes that reminded him of the monster that nearly took everything from him. "Gloriosa! You have thirty seconds to right whatever the heck you just did before I send you flying!" Gaia chuckled, "You blind, black man? There is no more Gloriosa here. There is only Gaia. And I've returned to reclaim what was taken from me so long ago." Noah tensed up. Her voice once again reminding him of Midnight. "Bullshit! Gloriosa, I know you're in there! Talk to me! I was an idiot before, but the fruit snacks are gone now, damn it!" Gaia levitated over to the tunnel, but not before grabbing multiple boulders from all around. She chuckled, "I rather not, black man. I've a job to do, and I won't let you deter me." She smiled, "You can spend the rest of your days in this forgotten tomb to discuss your filthy relationship problems with your red-headed lover. I'm sure she'd love to hear all about how jealous you are of the purple one." As Noah's eyes constricted, Gaia exited the tunnel entrance, but not before using all of the boulders to block the entryway. Twilight and Spike began to tear as Gaia cackled all the way through the tunnel. Leaving the four of them to die in both utter darkness, and silence. Noah began to curse internally as he watched the light go out. He was a fool. Nay, and imbecile. He sat idly by while Gloriosa carried out misdeeds all across the camp which ultimately led to her transformation. But before Noah could begin to think, Sunset addressed him. "What was she talking about?" XXIX - We Call This A Difficulty TweakSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.XXX - The Right Man In The Wrong PlaceAuthor's Note Can Make All The Difference In The World... (Statement on hiatus to be made briefly.) XXX - The Right Man In The Wrong Place "So... What's the plan?" "Plan?" "Sunset, we're hanging from the ceiling of a cave-" "Rabbit hol-" "Twilight, I swear to God." "Well, as a simple redhead, I don't remember bringing scissors capable of cutting through vines a foot thick." "I don't remember asking for attitude." "And I don't remember asking for you to screw off to some cave-" "Rabbit hol-" "Shut it, Twi!" "Listen Sunset, I'm black. When I get hit by a shovel, it does more than knock me out." "Does more? What the hell are you talking about?" "Hello? Is there an echo in here? Talk about an ominous cave-" "Rabbit hol-" "I'm going to sew your motherfuckin' clit shut!" Hanging from the ceiling like cocoons, Noah, Sunset, and Twilight remained for what seemed like hours bickering amongst each other like five-year-olds in an attempt to figure a way out. Outside had seemingly gotten rough as the ceiling had multiple pebbles fall from it with the sounds of smashing, crashing, and slamming filling the empty cave, er, rabbit hole. "Even if we do manage to get out of here, how are we supposed to fight back? Let alone sew my vagina closed." Sunset sighed, "She's right. This whole time, your necklace has been missing. Did she snatch it up?" "Probably. Judging from her crazed state, she most likely knew there was magic inside it. After trying to get into it so much and failing constantly, she would've put it somewhere for safekeeping." Noah added, "Yeah, and I've been in here for days. Though those gummies were the sh-, delicious, I haven't seen my necklace anywhere. And this cave, don't do it, is laughably small." Twilight asked, "So, then where do you suppose she put it?" Sunset turned, "I bet she took it with her. Seeing as this is the final battle, she probably is thinking of using it as a backup. How, I doubt even she knows. Jeez, this is stupid." Noah narrowed his eyes, "Then it's settled. Once we're out of here, I'll get the jump on her and take back my necklace. Using it and aiding our friends to defeat her. We just gotta hope they'll last 'til then." "Okay," Twilight began, "But again, how are we getting out of here, exactly?" Sunset faced Twilight and stared. As if they were synchronized, Twilight shook her head, resistant, and began to panic like a Japanese cartoon character. "O-Oh, no! No way! Not a chance! Not a single chance, Sunset!" "But Twi, we have to! What other option do we have besides chewing our way out? We've been up here so long, Spike has fallen asleep!" "But Sunset, what about-" "I know, but we don't need you to go all out. We just need a little to get out of here! Please! There isn't much time, and Noah is just gonna get more and more annoying!" Noah questioned, "Okay, one: Screw you. Two: Did I miss something while I was gone? Why are you talking to Twilight like she has some sort of hidden power?" "Because she does. While you were away, we discovered that because of the magic from Everfree, we had secret abilities within us. Stupid, I know-" "Oh, very stupid." "But we can still use them to defeat Gloriosa and save Everfree. And that stupid dock that I can only imagine has been destroyed a third time by now." "Wait, so what are these abilities you guys have conjured?" "It'll have to wait. Twilight? We could reallybenefit from you right now." Twilight stared at the vine surrounding her neck. She could feel her head getting heavier and heavier as the blood slowly yet surely rushed to her head. If they didn't get down soon, they'd all suffer a brain hemorrhage. And those were the opposite of fun. "Sunset, Noah, if I do this, and I go berserk, I want you two to know I've never had such friends like you guys. I've always been an outcast, but you guys just let me in like I was meant to be. And for that, I thank you. I'm so grateful. And I-" Noah nodded frantically, "Yes, yes, yeah, I know. I'm the best friend you've ever had and can't imagine life without me. Now please hurry up so I may confront my life issues while still having one." Twilight stared at the vines intently and felt pressure rush to her brain like she just ate a mouthful of rocky road. The vine began to blow from its seems before rushing out to envelop it in its entirety. It moved. Just by half an inch, but it moved regardless, and it wasn't done either. As Twilight applied pressure, the glow intensified, and the vine moved ever so much more. Twilight gritted her teeth as the vine proved to be more of a pain than she thought, but she continued. It shook and rattled like a baby's toy as Twilight's psychokinetic's toyed with it. Twilight began to sweat, and Noah spoke up, concerned. "Hey, uh, are you okay? This looks a lot harder than I was anticipating..." "Twilight spoke through her teeth, "I'm struggling because of these vines! They're putting so much pressure on me, I can only use my head! Damn you, Gloriosa!" "Alrighty, just gonna sit this one out. Never piss off the quiet kids..." The vine began to do more than shake, it rose. Away from Twilight's neck, she felt a substantial amount of her stamina return to her. With that, she applied more and more pressure. Vines from all about her body began to do the same as the original. They moved an inch before shaking and eventually rising from her body. All across, green motioned like a tidal wave. Noah and Sunset watched in awe as the vines moved more and more effortlessly. Twilight went from struggling to using the vines like they were a part of her all along. They crowded around her but hung in the air. Though a few stuck to her legs as they gently brought her to the ground and on her feet. Like a goddess of water, Twilight levitated. Her feet reached the ground after not too long, and the vines vanished into the rabbit hole. Squirming into the cracks out of sight like parasites from a distant planet. "Well... That was... A-A thing," Noah spoke up as the glow around Twilight's hands dissipated. He was astounded. Is this how they felt when I transformed? He pondered. Sunset smiled, "Nice work, Twi! Now, uh, you wouldn't mind helping us down too, would you?" Twilight turned about to face them and exhaled. "Not at all, but I won't go any further than this. Got it?" "Sure." Twilight lifted her right hand and the sensation from before returned to her. Like a toddler, it played around and about with her fingers before intertwining and becoming one with them. Power was truly at Twilight's fingertips. The vines around Sunset began to buckle and bust. Quietly screeching as they released their grip on the girl. Sunset, unlike Twilight, felt tingly as the vines pulled away from her skin. Like it was literal water bending before her very eyes and over her body. As for Noah, he jumped at the slightest feeling of the movement of the vines. To him, they were like prehistoric worms attempting to molest him, but slowly backing away as the sound of sirens filled the air. He wasn't different for nothing. The vines brought Sunset from the roof of the... The... T-The rabbit cave, and stood her up on the rocks again as if she never left the floor. Similar to those around Twilight, the vines shrunk into the walls like they were meant to be. Noah simply fell. "Ow!" He shouted, troubled. "Dang it, my back! Twilight! What the heck, man!?" Twilight reddened, "Sorry! I-I'm so sorry! My grip just felt irregular around you, and I was trying to get away as quick as I could! Sunset was like sand while you were like sandpaper! I-It didn't feel right!" "Why?! Because I'm bla-" "Noah," Sunset interrupted, "Don't you dare start. We need to go stop Gloriosa before our friends are trapped forever. Don't we?" Noah rolled his eyes, "Whatever... prick..." Twilight took a deep breath as the glow from her hands returned to their proper place in reality. "So, what's the plan?" "The plan? Oh, it's rather simple." Sunset folded her arms, "And what plan have you conceived to be so simple that it'd be enough to stop Gloriosa?" "The magic of friendship! ...Holy crap, did I just say that garbage?" Noah, Sunset, Twilight, and an awoken Spike emerged from the rabbit cave and fell like pawns to the raw brightness of the mighty sun. Specifically Noah, of course. "Ah! Dang sun! Why is it so bright?!" "I mean," Spike began, "We were underground for a while. You for days. Makes sense why it would be so strong as your eyes aren't used to it." "Oh, shut up, you nerd!" "Hey!" Twilight intervened, "Don't call my dog a nerd!" "You're both nerds anyway! Who the heck pays attention to anything in school?!" "Noah!" Sunset yelled, rather irritated. "We need to move fast! What's the plan for stopping Gloriosa?! It sounds like our friends are putting in work, but we need to get this over with!" Emerging from the rabbit cave and rushing through the forest, the four of our heroes quickly came across a large wall made entirely of vines surrounding the main area. As they stood at the wall, the four heard the rest of the Rainbooms attack Gloriosa with all they had. Unfortunately, it just wasn't enough. With that, the four of them worked on a plan. Noah at the helm. Noah folded his arms, "Whatever you bums." He sighed, "Okay, here's the plan. These vines are pretty thick, so I bet I could climb them. Sunset, Twilight, you're gonna enter the area and distract Gloriosa with the rest of the girls. And Spike, you're gonna go get us help if we may need it. But don't do anything stupid. "When I reach the top, I'm going to position myself, pray, and jump off the side of the wall. Hopefully, if you guys do your job flawlessly, I'll jump onto her, grab my necklace wherever it may be, and then the real party begins. "From there, we hit Gloriosa with everything we've got. A few punches here, a few kicks there, a couple of interdimensional blasts from our bodies there, and Gaia will leave, bringing Gloriosa back to her original self. "Any objections?" Noah looked to his left. Twilight stood timidly, yet still at attention. As for Spike, he had already runoff. Leaving a barely noticeable trail as the bushes he ran through shuffled. On his right, Sunset grabbed his shoulder, "Hey, we've been here before. At least I have. You should know by now that failing isn't on our list. I'd expect you to." "So... That's a no?" "Of course that's a no." Sunset and Twilight moved past Noah and approached a part of the vine wall together. The two stared at the green menace that appeared more threatening than it should've. Sunset laid a hand on Twilight's shoulder, "Hey. You got this. Right? I get you're stuck in a dilemma, but we need you more than ever." Twilight made a fist as she stared. The green within the vines stared back. It wasn't the wall that scared her, to be exact. It was what was on the other side. Twilight breathed, "Yeah... Yeah, y-yeah I got this! I'll... I know I can!" Twilight raised her hands to the wall and the sensation returned as her fingers glowed, and the vines began to shift. All the while, Sunset stared at Noah as he gripped two vines with his left and right. "Hey," she spoke, and Noah turned his attention to her. "Hm?" "Are we just gonna drop this? I... I'm kind of worried about our..." Noah turned away from Sunset, breaking her heart a bit, and spoke rather cold. "Let's focus on our friends not being trapped in this pit of grass." Sunset looked away but ultimately acknowledged his request. He wasn't wrong after all, she just felt... Down about it. Like he was trying to avoid the conversation. "Hey Sunset, we're good to go. You ready?" Sunset took a deep breath, "Yeah, let's do this." Twilight and Sunset stepped through the opening, and the vines returned to their positions immediately. Meaning even if he wanted, Noah couldn't just walk on in. He had to climb. He stared at the wall as he placed a foot on a vine. "Okay... Time to get to work..." ... "Gloriosa, please!" Timber shouted. "You've gotta stop this while there's still time! You could trap us all in here to die! You have to listen to me! Please!" "That's not your sister." Timber, surrounded by brown vines, turned about to find Sunset Shimmer standing defiantly, with Twilight behind. The rest of the Rainbooms saw this and cheered as they approached the two. Rainbow Dash spoke first, "Where the hell have you guys been?!" "Later, we've gotta get Timber while she's distract-" *Crunch!* The vines enveloped Timber like wrapping paper as they continued to grow. The girls were forced to step back as they appeared to do so at an alarming rate. "No!" Twilight yelled, terrified for his safety. The vines hauled him up to the increasingly shrinking roof as Gaia Everfree began to bellow to those below her. Her voice shaking every inch of grass and pounding against the eardrums of the girls. "Is this not spectacular? Is this not grand? Magnificent? Noble? Incredible? I'm protecting this wonderous forest from evil corporate greed! I'm ensuring that my campers get to have the best trip they could ever ask for! Am I not the greatest director you've ever seen?!" "You're insane!" Applejack roared. "You're goin' to trap us all inside of this thin' forever! What will we eat?! What will we do!? What about our homes!? Our school!? What about our families?!" "To hell with your families! You're mother and father never loved you in the first place! If they did, they would've come along to join you! Besides, you have me! The most perfect counselor of the most perfect camp in the most perfect forest on the planet! "You could stay here forever! I could give you immortality! You'd never need food or anything to do! You could just stand by me! We'd never get bored or tired or hungry! And that filthy rich bastard will be forced to find another forest to fuck over! "Here, you could finally be at peace! No more anger! No more sorrow! Just endless days and nights of the greatest times of your lives! You could finally be happ- Ow! What the-" "Miss me, nature freak?" On top of Gaia fell Noah. He had dropped from the ever-shrinking roof onto her back and was shoving his hands through the vines to grab his necklace. "You! What on Earth are you doing here?! How did you and your friends escape!?" "That's none of your business, where the heck is my necklace you fu- er, craphead?!" G6aia jerked and jolted like a penguin in a minefield as Noah attempted to grab anything that might be what he needed. The dome began to wobble and shake as Gaia and Noah danced in midair. "Get off of me, you filthy monkey!" "Wow, Gaia. Had no clue you were racist, man. I get the whole 'megalomaniac taking over the forest because of a stupid rich guy,' but jeez. No need to be harsh." "What in the world is racist?!" "Sunset!" Rarity began, "What should we do?!" Sunset stared, "I-I... I don't know if we can do anything..." Noah moved around in front of Gaia to see if it might be on the other side. He grabbed something below Gaia's waist that felt rather small and bumpy. He felt it up some more and grinned as wide as the sky as he felt the amulet in the middle. "Ah hah! I knew you grabbed it! You sneaky godda-, dang it, goshdarn thief! Give me this!" "Get off of me! Now! You're not stopping this!" Gaia banged her fist against the closest vine, and the dome shook like mad. Noah, hanging onto nothing, lost his grip and tumbled down the vines on his sides. He landed virtually in front of the girls, and Gaia's rage had caused hundreds of vines to rise from the ground. Like giant, bloodthirsty worms, the vines surrounded the eight of them similarly to Timber. "Rarity!" Sunset shouted, "Make a barrier! Quick!" Rarity acknowledged, "Right!" And a force field of beautiful blue diamonds bore of light promptly surrounded the group. The vines, instead, pressured around the barrier, and Rarity winced. "I... They're too strong! Girls, I-I don't know how long I can keep this up! This is just..." Rainbow Dash stomped her foot, "Damn it! You've gotta be kidding me! How did this even happen!? Why did we come here!? Why did I vote to go on this stupid trip!" Sunset got down on one knee and grabbed Noah's shoulders. "Please tell me you got the-" "Necklace? Yu—p." Fluttershy smiled, "Can you stop her? Do we have a way to fight back?" "Not a chance." The girls felt their entire world crumble. "What are you talking about?!" Pinkie Pie stated, rather frantic. "You're supposed to be able to stop anything with that!" "Gaia's stronger than I thought. The necklace reacted horridly to the magic and forced it black. Just see for yourself." Noah wasn't wrong, the necklace's amulet was covered in black. As if the amulet had just died in Gaia's very presence, and was reduced to nothing but tar. "I can't activate the darn thing like this. God knows what'll happen." Sunset stood up and cursed. Everything had come to this, and it was such an awful conclusion. She couldn't think of a way to stop this if even Noah was hopeless. "Wait!" She spoke up, as a light bulb went off in her head. Sunset turned about to and grabbed the shoulders of her introverted friend tightly bent down on one knee. "Twilight, you're our best shot at this. Our only shot." Twilight stammered as her pupils shrunk. "W-What?! Are you crazy, there's nothing special about me!" "She's right," Noah added as he stood up. "The Twilight from Equestria combined her magic with the rest of the girls to create a power so great, it rivals my amulet's." "But that power only rivals yours, it's not stronger!" "No duh, but the... The... Uh God, the magic of friendship from the six of you should produce enough power to create an aura like a magnetic field or whatever. Giving energy to mine. Not to mention that you've also got Sunset by your side, so you're stronger than me by a sixth." "Noah, there's no chance or very little chance that'll work! Should doesn't mean yes! At best, the energy from Everfree that gave us powers should supercharge said magic to... Oh." "I... Well, Christ. That works too, I guess. How did none of us think of that?" "But what about Midnigh-" "Twilight!" Sunset yelled, "There's no time! You have to use your powers now!" "But-" "Give it a fucking rest, Twilight! We are going to die! Does that not mean anything to you?! All of us! In the ground! Forever! Drop the Midnight Sparkle shit so we can go home!" "Sunset!" Rarity replied, appalled. "No Rarity," Noah began, "She's right. I know you don't get it, but Twilight has been all introverted and shit over Midnight possibly returning. Unfortunately, she doesn't understand exactly what death is." Twilight cried, "I do understand, but why don't you?!" "What do we not understand?!" "If Midnight is released, we'll just have even worse problems! She'll kill us, she'll kill Gloriosa, she'll kill everyone in this camp, and from there, it's just the Friendship Games all over again!" "Now hold on just a darn minute," Applejack intervened. "You mean that evil version of you?" "Yes!" "But you don't have that same energy!" Sunset argued. "The only magic Midnight has is the one you have!" "She'll still kill you all!" "Than what the fuck are we supposed to do, Twilight?! Noah has no magic, we're all using what we have to keep this barrier up, and Gaia is only getting stronger! If we don't take this chance, Gaia will kill everyone." "But..." "C'mon, Twi!" Rainbow Dash urged. "We only have one shot at this!" "I... But I... Fine! I'll do it! I... I'm sorry..." Twilight, now shaking, closed her eyes and held her fists close to her chest. She was panicking, crying even as tears found their way out of her eyes. She was terrified, petrified of her situation, and was essentially being forced into it. As she forced her well-being to cooperate, a large yet slender horn grew from Twilight's forehead as the magic inside her formed itself. Her eyes shot open leaving a pool of mint-green in their place. It was her consciousness. Twilight floated like an angel with no wings. As she opened her eyes, her surroundings were revealed to be an endless void of fuschia. Twilight spun her head around to get a look at her surroundings, but there wasn't a thing as far as the eye could see surrounding her. "Where... Where am I?" Her voice echoed a thousand times. It bounced off walls from so far away, she might as well have been in the deepest canyon known to man. Only, a thousand times larger. "Please, I have to-" "Hi, Twilight." Twilight turned on a swivel and felt her blood run cold as the being before her towered, and its voice might as well have ended her life right there and then. It was Midnight. "I-I... You-" "Oh, don't stutter now! You know my name more than your own pitiful friends! What's the big damn deal now, hm?" Twilight clenched her jaw, "S-Sh... Shut-" "C'mon! I know you can do it..." "Shut... Just, shut..." Midnight approached Twilight and gripped her shoulders and massaged them like a dear wife to her husband. "Twilight! Twilight! Twilight! Come on now, I'm cheering for you kid! Twilight! Twilight! Twilight!" "W-Why... Why can't you just..." "Can’t what now? You lost me." "Just... Just..." "Okay, y'know what? This is just sad now." Midnight pulled her hands from Twilight's shoulders and grabbed her neck instead. She lifted her into the air, and Twilight quickly began squirming like a squirrel. Twilight cried, "Let... L-Let me-" "Have I ever told you how sad of an excuse for a human being you are? I mean, myself, I'm just a run-of-the-mill, classic selfish, pompous, condescending asshole of a villain. Quite a cliche these days, I must admit. But you? God, you're so much worse." Twilight struggled to speak, "W... W-What?" "Where are you right now, Twilight? Just look around you. You're in the middle of nowhere struggling to breathe in the clutches of a figure bore of your own imagination because you can't accept the past. And now, the very lives of your own friends are at risk because of it." "I... I-I-I don't under-" "I'm dead, Twilight. Me. Midnight Sparkle. I died when that dickhead of a friend of yours hurled me at a fucking bus. The evil that was me wasn't even inside you to begin with." Twilight gasped, and Midnight continued. "The magic, since you were never supposed to have that much to begin with, was forced to take your very figure and being to transform you to handle it. But since you couldn't, it went all wrong, and now I'm here." Twilight continued to stare cluelessly like a dog. Midnight groaned, "For God's sake, Twilight, I'm telling you to get over it!" "You're... H-Helping?" "I'm not helping. I'm pure evil to you. Your subconscious is simply trying to get through to you to relax. It needed someone you could see and instantly be forced to listen to. Someone who could say what they meant short, simple, and with a purpose. "It was gonna send Noah, but... Well... Originality and whatnot. This entire arc is already shitty enough anyways. It didn't need any more shit from that twit than it already has." "...I-" Midnight let Twilight go from her clutches and she fell to her knees. She struggled to stand and breathe while Midnight simply crossed her arms and waited for Twilight to get a hold of herself. As Twilight stood on one knee and gazed at her, Midnight continued. "You have to give it a rest, Twilight. Face it. Midnight Sparkle was killed off weeks ago, there's nothing evil inside of you. That's not a particularly long amount of time, but my point still stands. "The only evil inside is your inability to let that go. To move on. I'm sure there's a proper term for that, but I'm supposed to be a pitiless mass-murderer, not a psychiatrist. "If you don't move past this pointless fear, Sunset, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, all of your idiot friends are going to die. You'll be stuck inside of this dome of vines forever, and you'll never escape. Is that how you want it all to end, Twilight Sparkle?" "I... I-I don't want anyone to get hurt. Even Gloriosa." "You don't seem to have any other options, do you? Even Fluttershy seems to be on board with this." Twilight stared at the ground. Despite all this reassurance, she still wasn't truly sure. Midnight could just be lying to get through to her in order to wreck what little havoc she could. "H-How do I know you're not lying?! How do I know this isn't a ruse so you can kill all of my friends?!" "...Are you serious?" "Um... Yes?" "Unless you sub-consciously want to murder all your friends-" "No! Never!" "Then no, I'm not lying." Twilight stared at her hand. This was it. If she didn't use her magic now, then her friends, her family, everything she ever cared for, she'd never see them again. They'd be gone, never to be seen again. Forever. "...I... I-I-I... I'll..." "C'mo-n..." "I-I... I'll... I-I'll..." "C'mo-n, you can do it..." "I-I-I-I... I'll..." "Ye-ah..." "I... I-I... Damn it, I'll do it!" "That's the spirit!" "Yeah! I-I'll help my friends! I'll help the camp! I'll help my classmates! I'll-" "Okay, let's not be cringe here, hm? This whole thing exists for a reason, after all." "Too... Deal with the original's cringe?" "...Close enough." "So... What now?" "Now, we watch the magic happen..." "...So... Does she... Is she gonna, like, do anything?" Noah asked, confused. Sunset sighed, "I... Hope so. I don't know what she's doing, but maybe-" *BAM!* Like lightning, Twilight returned to her proper form, now glowing with a beyond sensational appearance. She blasted the vines that surrounded the eight of them to bits as her magic spread far and true like the wind from the heavens. Noah and the girls gained composure as they gawked at the new and improved Twilight Sparkle. She was extraordinary. Her magic radiated her body like the brightest light bulb in the world. She'd grown two rather large wings, two ears on top of her forehead, and her hair extended to the length of royal drapes. She'd ponied up. Noah was taken aback, "Sweet, merciful shi-, I-I mean, crap! What the heck happened to her!" Twilight glared down as a newfound sense of confidence flowed through her bloodstream like a river. "Now's not the time for gawking, everyone. We have to stop Gaia before it's too late!" "Hey, who put you in charge! Just because you're all-powerful with wings and long hair doesn't make you the leader! Where'd this confidence come from anyway!?" "Is now really the time for this?" "Very much so, yes!" Applejack stepped forward, "Noah, who put you in charge in the first place? I don't remember any of us saying that you were! So who?" "Your incompetence." Sunset grabbed Noah's hand, "Noah, stop it. Twilight is the Equestrian Princess of Friendship and the Element of Magic. She led everyone here before you took over. Just let her take charge." "But that Twilight is through the portal doing some other dumb crap!" "Noah..." "Oh don't, 'Noah,' me like a child! I got it, okay!" "I wouldn't have to if you didn't act like one from the start." "Bite me!" Rarity spoke up, "Twilight, what do you recommend we do?" "There are several jewels around Gloriosa's neck. Noah, I'm gonna need your help to get them. I believe I know their true purpose. Girls, I need all of you to divide and conquer. Get everyone out of these vines with all the strength you can muster." Noah questioned, "Wait, but my amulet-" "Is blackened? How about now?" "What are you... What the...?" Noah eyeballed his amulet all over. The black had faded. Like a plague or a smokescreen, it had just dissipated. Noah gaped as he rotated it in his hands out of bewilderment. H-How... How did this happen?" "Twilight, what did you-" "There's no time! Hurry up and transform!" "I... Dang it!" "Girls! Quickly! Save the rest of our classmates!" Noah took the amulet in his hand and crushed it with the proper force to split it in half. The girls, all ponied up, spread across the dome at intense speeds as they approached the vines. The amulet leaked like a barrel of oil as the white magic cradled his arm. They sunk into his veins like leeches, and Noah felt his arm begin to pump like a jackhammer. Twilight pointed, "I'm gonna start removing Gaia's vines. Think you can keep up?" "I don't plan on playing second fiddle any longer, so you can count on it." "..." "Sorry, that's the megalomaniac inside of me talking." "...Go figure..." "Hey!" Twilight flew off in a flash. She approached where Gaia had first started to grow the vines and used the magic within her against it. The vines began to pump and cry as her magic was essentially tearing it apart. But they weren't the vines' cries. It was Gaia. "Stop it! Stay away from me, you freak! I need to save this camp!" Twilight argued as she got the first vine undone. "Gloriosa, this isn't you! You have to wake up and realize what you're doing before somebody gets seriously hurt! Please! You have to listen to me!" "I'll listen to you when I die alone, you purple monstrosity! Get the fuck off of me!". Noah stumbled as Gaia shook the dome with a mighty cry. He bit his lip as the magic nearly finished pouring into him. All of his veins had turned a glorious white, and his pupils dilated. *POW!* Noah fell to his knees as the magic inside of him exploded with a grand fury. Surrounding him in pure white magic. With one hand, he felt his hair. Just like at the Friendship Games, it had turned completely white. he could tell based on its radiance. His eyes were now also a blinding white, and a brand new magical aura shrouded him in magic. He raised a foot to once again gain composure. He readied his fists as the dust settled. He had once again transformed. He was the Element of Righteousness. "Noah!" Twilight beckoned, urgency in her voice. "Stop standing around admiring yourself and get over her!" Noah rolled his eyes, Not even five minutes and I already miss the old Twilight... Cracking his knuckles like a cliché 80s action hero, Noah rushed over to Twilight as his magic flew him over with ease. His speed piercing the ears of all, even Twilight. He slowed as he arrived, "Okay, what are we doing again?" Twilight shouted, "Help me remove the vines! I told you less than five minutes ago!" "'I told you less than five minutes ago-' shut up!" Noah grabbed a vine with his bare hands and began to pull. Unlike Twilight, he had to get physical with the vines as he lacked the same powers she did. Despite this, he made progress. Gaia returned to shrieking in exasperation as Twilight and Noah pulled at the vines with everything they had. One after the other, the vines were torn off from around Gloriosa's body. They fell apart and flailed in the air like grass. One by one, the vines took up space in the air and landed on the ground with a deafening thud. Shaking the ground each time like giant hammers. Twilight tore an incredibly tight vine and glowed. "There! I found them!" "Found what?!" Twilight reached into an opening made from the tears and grabbed something from around Gaia's neck. She bellowed and thrashed about like a toddler in the midst of the ultimate tantrum. "No! Let go of me! Let go of that! Get away from me, damn it!" With a swift pull, Twilight yanked the object from around Gaia's neck and showed it off to Noah. They were the gems from the pedestal back in the rabbit cave all tethered together by rope. Each of them were surrounded by orbs of light, and had familiar color coding. He stared... "Wait... Those are the gems from the cave. You don't think-" "They were giving her all this power?" "No, I mean everything here. You don't think that maybe they're the cause for all of this magic crap?" "...Not really, no." "What? Why?!" "Forget it, we'll talk later. I have an idea..." Twilight grabbed two points of the rope and pulled the rope apart. Each of the gems reacted like suns ready to go supernova as they hovered in mid-air. Light surrounding them even heavier than the orbs as they reacted to their environment. Then, like missiles, the gems shot from near Twilight, except one, and found their way to each of the girls. As they slowed and reached their targets, beams of light surrounded each of the girls. Rainbow Dash stared, slightly frightened "Uh... W-What's happening?" "Just relax and let them do their thing!" And that's exactly what they did. Each of the gems practically ate up the girls as they reacted to the magic within them. A spontaneous light show combusted from the seven of them as the magic went mad. "Twilight! What in the- Twilight!?" Noah turned to his left to find Twilight also being enveloped by the gems' light. One of them had stayed behind as it reacted to them. Noah stared in confusion before facing Gaia. "What are those gems doing?!" "I have to say, you children are such a pain in my side, but you're also desperate. Especially the purple one." "Answer me, you megalomaniac!" Gaia looked up from her prison of vines and stared daggers at Noah's eyes. He averted his eyes a bit, disgusted. "I'm waiting, you fu-, duck. Explain." "That magic isn't from here." "...What?" "Those gems are magical, but not in the same sense." Noah clenched his fist, "Stop beating around the bush and expla-" "Could you shut your mouth?" "Fuckin'..." "...Thank you. The magic in those gems isn't from here." "From this forest?" "From this world. They're filled to the brim with magic from another planet or land." "What? Why?" "The gems are meant to contain a certain type of elemental magic within them that they give off to the wearer. Wearing all of them, or even two is impossible as they react negatively to each other. They need to be worn by those they deem worthy." "...What makes one worthy of wearing one of them?" "...Loyalty, generosity, amusement, kindness, honesty, redemption, and magic. One must be pure of either of these... Well... Y'know what I mean." Noah rolled his eyes. "They must be pure of these elements in order to wear one of them. The magic will react and give the wearer incredible powers. Activated all together, the gems form a power bore of harmony." Noah sighed, "So that's it. They're this world's versions of the Elements of Harmony. That would explain why the girls are so affected by them. And I'm guessing when fused, they create a single gem bore of righteousness too, don't they?" "...You know a lot." "That's because the gem, or well, the magic courses through my veins by this amulet around my neck. It's a long story, I assure you, but all eight of us are connected to these gems by our features. "But I don't get it. If they're the equivalent of Equestria's elements, why are they reacting this way?" "...Have there been any occurrences from where you come from involving magic?" Noah folded his arms, "Well yeah. Three times in a row, in fact." "Have any of these occurrences ever been interdimensional?" "I... Oh crap, the portal!" Gaia raised an eyebrow, "The portal, you say? Explain yourself." "Back at my school, there's a portal that leads to a different dimension built into a statue. Dumb, I know, but it's legit. A couple of weeks ago, Twilight went mad with magic as she collected it and tore a hole through space-time. "That hole must've allowed magic of all kinds to seep through into this world, and the Elements would be first on the list. Since they have the same function, they must've reacted terribly to the Elements of this world. Filling it with magic similar but from an alternate reality must've screwed with it beyond proportion. "And now, the gems are essentially corrupted. And the girls don't react well to them anymore. That would explain how it was able to bring you back. Crap! This probably means Equestria's elements are corrupted too! I can't imagine what's happening over there... "But... I don't get it. How was Gloriosa able to survive the corrupted Elements, but the girls weren't?" "The magic flowed across the world, did it not? That must mean the magic from over there flowed into me as well and strengthened me. Making me stronger than the Elements. Because of this, I was able to use Gloriosa as a vessel, and protect her from the corruption until I made my return." "But if you're stronger, why aren't the girls stronger too?" "Magic is just an occurrence science can't explain yet, child. I've yet to understand why it's even a thing, and I doubt I ever will." Noah sighed, "Talk about a plot hole... How long will the girls be like that? Can they escape?" "Oh, they'll be like that for a little while, it's nothing to get worried about." "I need a number, dumbo." "Ugh, a couple of centuries. Six or seven, I assume." Noah shouted, "Seven hundred years?! Are you insane?!" "...What?" "Don't you, 'what' me, butthead, I'm a seventeen-year-old black guy!" "...And?" "I'm human! I can only live for one century!" "Oh... Well, that's just the cost of being mortal, mortal." "There has to be another way!" "You think I'm going to help you? The boy who wants to destroy my forest?! You'll have to fight me if you want to save your precious, ungrateful friends. You absolute, absent-minded mongrel-" "I'm sorry." "...What?" Gaia Everfree felt her heart stop beating for just a moment as she repeated Noah's words in her head. All her life, not once as she heard the saying directed towards her. And from him, in a moment like this, she wasn't just taken off guard, she was slapped in the face by a sausage. "I said I'm sorry." "For what? What do you have to be sorry for?" "I bet everyone, even myself for a moment, painted you as a malicious being who wanted nothing more than our destruction. But it's not that simple, so I have to make sure. "Killing us isn't your end goal. Is it?" Gaia stared with reluctant eyes as Noah continued. "You just want us away from your forest. Away from your home. You're not after our lives, You're not after power, you're not after enjoyment. You just want us gone... Don't you?" "...You're a seventeen-year-old boy who's enrolled at a high school miles away with a mysterious, hidden power inside of a necklace... How do you know so greatly of my mind?" Noah folded his arms, "It's not hard, y'know. I'm not the wielder of this element for nothing, after all. But still, it's quite simple. You don't want this Filthy Rich guy to make a mess-" "'A squalid mockery.'" "'A squalid mockery' of your home with a giant, fast food amusement park or whatever the heck he's up to. You just want to keep your home safe and beautiful, like anyone would when protecting their homes. My friends thought you were having a temper tantrum, and that you were out for blood. But I always had my doubts... Kinda. "Then there was Gloriosa. She shared your feelings to such a degree nobody else did. I don't claim to understand your magic and whatnot, but if I were in your position, I'd use her as a vessel as well." Gaia gazed into Noah's eyes with a heavy sense of wonder. This boy knew everything. How she felt, how wrong this whole scenario was, how it didn't have to be this way. But he was so young compared to her. So inexperienced. She'd lived for thousands of years, and then comes along this boy who understands her more than anyone after only living less than a quarter of her entire life. "I don't-" "Last time I encountered something inhuman, I killed it. A big ol' blast disintegrated them into nothing. one of them survived, but I threatened their lives with a fate worse than death. I haven't seen her since. "Back then, I was sick. Blinded by rage, I was repulsive, rude, hateful, and just a genuinely shi-, er... I was a very shitty person. I'm proud to say that I at least had some semblance of right and wrong, but I still hate how I handled that situation. I could've made friends. Good friends... But they're dead now. "I like to believe I've become a better person since then, sharing this rage with you. I don't curse as much, excluding a few slip-ups, I'm more considerate, and overall kind and respectful. I'm definitely not like the girls, and I know I sound a bit narcissistic complimenting myself like this, but it's something. "...What are you getting at, boy? I'm still perplexed." "I don't want to do this. I don't want to fight you. I know, it probably feels like it was all leading up to this, but... I just... I can't have my friends and I beat you senseless for something so... Just..." "You and your friends appeared rather unhesitant to fight me not that long ago. Particularly you, leaping onto me and trying to kill me like that." Noah scratched the back of his head, "In my defense, you weren't giving me a choice. You weren't giving any of us a choice. I just wanna talk this out now that we have the chance because despite what I'm saying, you're still in the wrong." Gaia frowned, "Excuse me?" "Gaia, you can't do this. I mean, trapping hundreds of students and adults under a massive dome made purely out of vines because you don't like that someone's gonna make a burger joint?" "You just said my actions were justifiable!" "I said your feelings were justifiable. I wasn't talking about this whole charade you've got going on. You can't do this, it's not right. These people have families and homes to go to-" "What about my home?!" "What about your home?" Gaia gasped before glaring. Piercing his eyes with intense anger. Noah raised a finger, "Let me ask you this, Ms. Everfree. You believe it's wrong for one to have their homes ruined and others should stay away as those places are sacred." "Yes! So why-" "So what makes you think you should do that to others?" "...I-" "What makes you think you should ruin hundreds of other homes of whom have nothing to do with you? I know Gloriosa cherishes this place, but your magic, the gems, and all the other icky BS that's been going on has led her to do something like this while you chuckle from behind. "She's not in control here. You are." "But this is a better home anyways! The children and adults are free from all of the stresses and misery of the outside world. They can find peace, happiness-" "They'll die. And their families will suffer." "But that's-" "Gaia, open your eyes! What you're doing is ludicrous! Can't you see?! What if someone abducted you from your home and trapped you in God knows where and let you slowly die because you can't survive off friggin' grass!" Gaia's eyes riveted upon him intently. She was conflicted. Noah was standing in her way of this goal she desired so greatly, but he wasn't wrong. Her ideas, her plans, they were all... Awful. She looked away, "But... But my home... It'll be ruined..." "Gaia, I will do anything in my power to save your forest. You've clearly seen I'm no ordinary teenager. But even if my efforts are futile... I'm sorry. That's just the way it is. It's what we have to accept because we have no other choice. Otherwise... we spiral." Noah laid out a hand to Gaia. "Please, Gaia Everfree. There's still time to right this wrong. To do the right thing, and not hurt so many innocent people. I know the only reason I say what I do is because I have no other choice, and you could easily kill me but... Please. I... I don't have any other option. "Please don't do this." XIII - Another Brand New Problem?Author's Note Ashes, Ashes, We All Fall Down... XIII - Another Brand New Problem? "Eh, I give it a six-point five outta ten." "What?! That's even less than last time!" "I don't know what to tell you Dash, the pony-up thing just looks so... out of place. Like it belongs in a children's cartoon." "Of course you're the only person to not like it." "Bite me." The Rainbooms winded down inside the band room after playing their music for the third time today. Playing their instruments together was one of the ways they spent their time besides talking about drama, playing games, or messing with each other's hair, which Noah obviously didn't take part in. "Ignoring Noah's comment, I bet that if the games have a music competition, we'd send those Crystal Preppers back home crying!" Rainbow Dash finished. "Yeah, um," Sunset began, "We're supposed to keep magic out of the Friendship Games, remember?" Rainbow Dash simply crossed her arms and rolled her eyes, slightly let down. "Easier said than done, darling," Rarity replied. "I'm sure in Equestria magic does whatever you want. But..." "This isn't Equestria," Sunset concluded. More let down than Rainbow Dash. "Come now, surely you Equestrians don't rely on magic that much. What happened to use your hands?" "We don't have hands. We have hooves." "Oh... right... losers." "Well, when it comes to magic, I'm sure you'll figure it out," Applejack replied. Cheering Sunset up as much as she could through simple words. "And while Sunset works on keeping magic out of the games," Rarity began, "I have been working on what to put in." "Goddamn it Rarity, what did you do this time, Coco Chanel?" Out of seemingly nowhere, Rarity rolled out four long clothing racks hanging several dozen outfits for the Friendship Games. Sending everyone in awe, twice. "Well, I had a little time on my hands, and since we don't know what the Friendship Games shall hold, I made a few options for uniforms!" Rarity took a white and blue soccer outfit and somehow managed to force it on to Rainbow Dash within seconds. Rainbow Dash examined the outfit, "You really didn't have to do that." Rarity giggled, "I know." Applejack picked out one of the outfits, "No, you really didn't have to." Rarity giggled even more, "I know!" Noah picked out an outfit on one of the four clothing racks revealing a black and blue basketball tank top. It had diamonds lined up against the baseline. "Jesus Christ, how do your hands even function properly? Don't you feel a loss in dexterity?" "Nope!" "Of course you fuckin'-" "Friggin'." "-friggin' don't." This time, Fluttershy giggled, and Noah raised an eyebrow. "What?" She waved him off, "Nothing, it's just that I find it somewhat adorable how Sunset's been able to slow down your swearing all the time these few past weeks." Noah turned red with embarrassment and Sunset blushed. "W-Well, it's not easy, I tell ya." The other Rainbooms tittered at the thought of Noah slightly submitting to Sunset, and this only made Noah irritated. "I-I.. no... that's not... for the love of... Goddamn it-" "Goddang it." "Goddang it! W-Wait!" This only made the other Rainbooms burst into laughter. Noah really was yielding to Sunset, and it showed comically. "I-I'm not stopping because of her! It's because I realized that I need to chill out a little! Not because she's correcting me like some crappy mother or something!" Rainbow wiped a tear, "Are you sure about that?" "Yes, nigga!" "The fuck is going on in here?" The Rainbooms as a whole turned to the door to find who had spoken, calming down a little. It was Manex. "Manex? What are you doing here?" Noah asked, confused. His face returning to his original color as he approached him. "Well," Manex began, 'I'm gonna assume you already told these niggas and ask, are we leaving today? Fall has restocked the boat and we already started moving our bags onto it. I came down to ask if we were going since the rest of this week is that Friendship Games shit." Noah quickly whipped his head around, "So, when we were talking to Vice Principal Luna yesterday and y'all said yes, was that a literal or a joking yes?" Rainbow Dash scoffed, "Of course it was a literal one!" "Yeah, if you're leaving Equestria forever, never to return or so help you, God, wouldn't you wanna spend those last few days having fun with your awesome friends in an epic school showdown against the meany Crystal Preppers?!" Pinkie Pie added, making Noah cringe a little. He turned back around to Manex, his book bag on his back and his briefcase in his left hand. He looked more than ready to leave. He looked back to his friends, that somber look from yesterday returned to their faces with a purpose. Especially Sunset's. He sighed and crossed his arms, "... Manex..." "Noah, I swear to God." "Just give me one more day, two tops!" "Jesus fuckin' Christ Noah, come on!" "Look, if you had made a friend group of your own, you would've said the same thing!" "They're girls! They're literally all fuckin' girls!" "So?!" "If anybody from America walked by, you'd instantly be conceived as fuckin' gay!" "Manex!" Noah shouted, startling everyone in the room, except who he was shouting at. "Look, I can't do someone I regard as a cherished figure in my life wrong like that. Especially when I have a choice in the matter." "You've known them for half a year!" "And to them, that likes half a generation!" Silence filled the room. The Rainbooms grew a little uncomfortable as they were the reason for the conflict between friends. "Look, I'm still going to America with you guys, don't think I'm not." Sunset frowned and looked away. "All I'm asking is for a little more time to say goodbye. Then it's smooth sailing over in the USA 'till we die old. Unless a white cop kills us." Manex stared at the floor. "Please, just give me a little more time." Manex sighed, "I don't know why you're asking. I came to you." Noah smiled, "So, we good?" Manex nodded, "Yeah, we good." Noah beamed, "Fuckin'-" "Friggin'-" "Friggin' perfect! Feel free to do whatever, just don't kill anyone. We don't need a guilty conscience when we leave and die." Manex nodded and closed the door, and Noah could hear his footsteps from behind the door. Slowly getting quieter, and quieter. Noah spun around like a chair, "Okay, what were we talking about again?" Noah felt that same basketball tank top come over his head, along with basketball shorts and shoes. He freaked, "What the hell?!" He looked up to see Rarity was measuring him. He looked behind her to see everyone else had also been hastily thrown into a different attire. Fluttershy wore a large hockey goalie uniform, Rainbow Dash wore a 1920s England Officer outfit, Sunset wore a welder's outfit, and Applejack wore an old cricket outfit. This was not only exceedingly bewildering, but downright impossible. No simple human could have the ability to move and operate at such speeds unless they had some sort of superpower, which Rarity didn't. "Uh, Rarity, these outfits are great, but why would you put so much time and effort into clothes we might not even wear?" Applejack asked, confused. "You're gonna exhaust yourself before the games even start!" "Oh pfft! Don't be silly darling. Putting such effort into clothing is what I live for! And spending time on my friends fills me with such joy, I feel as though I could burst!" As Rarity clutched her cheeks in unwavering exuberance, her hair grew twice as long and those same short pony ears returned. But that wasn't all. Similarly to Rainbow Dash from yesterday, Rarity was enveloped and somehow created her own aura of purple and white sparkling stars that stuck to her figure like a second skin but glowed eternally. It was quite comparable to Noah's, only less fiery. "Weird flex, but a'ight." As Rarity shone, the Rainbooms jaws dropped in marvel at how remarkable Rarity had become. Except Sunset, for obvious reasons. "And magic too, I guess..." Noah also found himself in wonder at the fashionista's glowing phenomenon. But he noticed something else. At the end of Rarity's aura, it seemed to be pulling away. Not long after, it appeared that it was being drained from her. Like water in a bathtub. The trail led out the door, and Noah raised an eyebrow. He turned to Rarity, she seemed to be growing somewhat tired. Only staring for a little while longer and she seemed to be growing desperately exhausted. Her eyes were drooping and her arms had fallen to her side. "Hey Rarity... you alright? You're starting to look like you just returned from working overnight at a coffee factory." Rarity felt her ears shrink away and her hair return to its original length before her entire aura and magic evanesced. "Actually Noah... now that you mention it... I suppose I could use... a tiny... a tiny..." Before Rarity could finish, she fainted and collapsed face flat on the floor like she was just shot. "Rarity!" Applejack nearly screamed, picking her up to inspect her head. A rather large blood splatter rested on the bottom of Rarity's forehead and in the same place her head fell on the floor. Instinctually, everyone, except Noah and Sunset, rushed to Rarity's side as Applejack flipped her over to lay on her back. Applejack tried to think of a way to tend to the wound, but was still rather shocked and frantically tried to operate. Noah pointed to the sink, "Sunset, run a few paper towels under some cold water and clean Rarity's head wound." Sunset nodded and speed-walked over to the sink while Noah approached the room's entrance doors. "I'll head over to the nurses' office and get a first aid kit to apply some neosporin and patch and wrap it up with some bandage. You guys stay here and keep her company. Get her whatever she nee-" "Ow! Goddamn it!" The doors had opened wide by someone and had hit Noah undeviatingly in the forehead. He rubbed it with his own two hands before coming around the door to see who had opened it. "Who the hell, wait... Twilight?!" The one who stood in the doorway indeed was Twilight, but not the one they had known from previous times. She stared with a weird look and held that same strange device from earlier. It was glowing somewhat. All the other girls had noticed as well and their eyes enlarged with excitement. "Twilight?!" They said simultaneously. Twilight's eyes twitched as she had met others who also claimed they had known her. "Uh... yes?" "Well I'll be," Applejack began, still holding Rarity close as the others stood up to greet her. "You should've told us you were coming!" Rarity mumbled, "Glasses... what... what are those... what are those glasses? What... what is that outfit?" "Uh... it's my uniform from Crystal Prep I-, how does everybody at this school know who I am?" Noah raised an eyebrow, Something's wrong here... Rainbow Dash cocked her head, "Did you just say Crystal Prep?" Before Twilight could answer, the same dog from earlier today popped out of her bookbag barking. It was Spike. Yep, something's definitely wrong here...again... "Spike!" The girls also said simultaneously, and Twilight's eyes expanded. "Y-You know my dog's name too?!" Noah cleared his throat, "Let me get this straight, you're not from here, correct?" "Yes!" "You go to Crystal Prep, correct?" "Yeah!" "And you have no idea what Equestria is, correct?" "Yes, I don't know what you guys are talking about!" "Twilight?" A voice called from the hallway, Noah looked over Twilight to identify the speaker as Principal Celestia, and someone else. Twilight rubbed her forehead, "This is getting ridiculous.." The other stepped forward, it was Principal Cinch. "I must apologize for the curiosity of my prized student." Celestia raised an eyebrow, "Your student?" "The smarter ones are always curious," She replied. "I'll return her to check in with the rest of her classmat-" "Hold on a second Cruella De Vil," Noah began, making Celestia tighten up with slight fear. "Who are you? W-What other classmates?" Cinch rolled her eyes, "My Name is Ms. Cinch. I'm the Principal of Crystal Prep." "W-Wait, if your here... just how many students did you bring?" Cinch rolled her eyes again and gestured to the window behind. Noah looked at the window, then back at her. Hesitantly, he wandered to the window and gazed outside. "Holy shit!" Outside the window were several dozen busses and practically thousands of students. All of them wore the same uniform as Twilight's. Only differing in wrist gauntlets and sleeve lengths. "There are thousands! There's literally fuckin' thousands of students down there! I thought this was a competition, not the fuckin' Super Bowl!" Cinch raised an eyebrow at Celestia about Noah's language and Celestia planted a fake smile on her face despite sweat beads falling down her head. "Y-You'll have to excuse Noah, he's never been to the Friendship Games and he's new. H-He comes from a place very different than Cantorlot," Sunset tried to explain, and the other Rainbooms nodded in agreement. Cinch rolled her eyes, "As I was saying, I shall return Twilight to check in with the rest of her classmates. I'll see you all very soon." Cinch grabbed Twilight by her shoulder and began out the school. Noah looked away from the window to find Celestia in front of him. "Noah, I explicitly remember Luna informing you that kind of language is unacceptable around Crystal Prep!" Noah raised his hands, "Didn't you hear Sunset?! I've never seen this, ever! It's crazy!" "Notwithstanding, you're not supposed to be swearing period! I'll have to write you up for detention for this." Noah rubbed the back of his neck, "Yeah, uh about that..." "What?" "I'm leaving on Saturday." "What do you mean you're leaving?" "Uh... my parents have decided to move somewhere else, so I can't show up at the school on Tuesday." Celestia sighed, "Of course you can't." Rubbing her face, Celestia began out the band room and closed the door on the way out. You'd have to be a moron to not notice she was disgruntled. "Okay, so, does anybody wanna explain how Twilight doesn't remember us and goes to Crystal Prep?" Applejack asked, Rarity still in her hands." Sunset sighed and crossed her arms. "She's not the same Twilight." "What? How?" Rainbow Dash asked, confused. "I was thinking that too," Noah added, "She must be from Equis' world instead of Equestria. That would explain how she doesn't know us and goes to Crystal Prep. Just wish she didn't fuckin'-" "Friggin'." "-friggin' hit me in the head with a door. Damn it-" "Dang it." "Dang it! I've got a bump on my head now." "Uh, can we get Rarity to the nurses' office now? The paper towels are too dirty," Applejack asked. Rarity was on the floor, slightly delirious, playing with Applejack's hat. Noah sighed and crossed his arms. "Right." The Rainbooms stepped out of the nurses' office and began down the hall. Rarity now had a bandage wrapped around her head that she was told needed to stay there for a week. It made her hair look unusual, which she despised. "I cannot believe our world's Twilight goes to Crystal Prep of all schools," She grunted, in a terrible mood. "You're saying that Twilight's gonna play against us? She'd never do that!" Rainbow Dash replied, upset. "Our Twilight wouldn't," Fluttershy replied. "Our Twilight is a princess in Equestria and an expert in friendship magic! And if she was here, we'd've already figured out why magic is randomly popping up during pep rallies and fucking costume changes-" "Woah Woah Woah Woah Woah, let's calm it down for a quick second hypocrite." "Shut up." "There's clearly a lot we've learned in the past twenty-thirty minutes and we've got a lot to figure out. So let's relax and get it done without blowing our heads off like a bunch of dumbasses-” ”Doofuses.” ”-doofuses.” Sunset sighed and held her sides, "Sorry, I'm just... just a little frustrated I haven't heard back from her yet." Noah's eyes widened, "That purple nerdy bastard didn't respond yet?!" "Noah!" "Sorry..." "Well," Applejack began, "She's a princess in Equestria. Probably got problems of her own to deal with." Rarity tried to cover the bandage with her hair, "We certainly, ugh, can't expect her to drop, er, everything and pop through the, ugh, portal whenever. Especially when, oh, it's to deal with something as, c'mon, minor as a few, for the love of, random pony-ups." "But they aren't minor! Magic came into this world when I stole Twilight's crown. It's taken a lot for me to earn everyone's trust. If we have to forfeit because I can't think of a way to keep it under control-" "Sunset, it's obvious what to do. If you can't get Twilight to come to us, you should just go to Twilight. And if there's some larger-than-life problem over there, I can pull you back through the portal with... uh..." Noah looked all over for an object to pull Sunset out of the portal with and landed his eyes on something in the janitor's closet. He entered for a second before returning with something nobody could believe. "Here, we'll use this. Sturdy and straight, perfect for investigating the unknown." Sunset's face fell flat. "Noah, that's a dragon dildo." "I know!" "That's curved and revolting." "What? You wanted me to grab a broom?" "I'd want you to grab literally anything besides this." "Well, there's no broom or mop in there, so..." "Noah." "Hm?" "I'm not using a dragon dildo." "Well, what do you want to use?" "I'm pretty sure if Equestria was being destroyed or under siege, Twilight would've been back by now. So why don't you take that putrid thing, put it back where you found it, and wash your hands with some bleach because that shouldn't be there at all." Noah groaned, "Fine, I guess that makes sense." Throwing the foul sex toy into the janitor's room, Noah sauntered away from the group to the nearest bathroom holding up his hands. "We're gonna pretend that didn't just happen and find out what the events are. You coming Sunset?" Rainbow Dash asked, slightly disgusted. "No, I guess I'll wait on Noah and we'll go get Twilight. It'll a little weird returning but, sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do." Nodding, Rainbow Dash and the other Rainbooms took a left at the end of the hall while Sunset began backwards to find Noah. She just hoped there was actual bleach in the bathroom he was in. Noah and Sunset stepped outside the front entrance and gazed at the portal. Noah had a pole from the showers in his hands and Sunset was slightly embarrassed since the Crystal Preppers were still outside. "Alright, let's do this," Noah stated, and he and Sunset began towards the portal. "You know the plan, right?" He asked, and Sunset rolled her eyes, "Of course I know the plan. You told me like seven times." "Well, how do you think I'd feel if my best friend died or got stuck on the other side of some stupid portal? Then I'd return to America feeling like a joke. And I don't do jokes like that." Sunset smiled warmly, "Nice to know you care so much." Noah scoffed, "Please, like your ass wouldn't do the same." She glared a jokingly glare, "What did we say?" "Oh, shut up!" They approached the portal and Sunset grabbed the end of the pole opposite to Noah with her left hand. "On the count of three, you ready?" Sunset took a deep breath. It was stupid to think Equestria was under siege or something, but the thought itself did worry her. "Ready." "One... two... three!" Sunset placed her other hand on the portal and attempted to push, she instead felt a burning sensation in her hand. "Ah! What the hell?!" "What?! What?!" "My magic, it's being drained!" Sunset's hands had made the portal glow where she placed it, but it seemed to be in the same color as her hair. She tried to pull back but to no avail. "Help It won’t let go!" "I got you, hold on!" Throwing the pole, Noah grabbed Sunset by bringing his arms across her stomach and pulling with everything he had. "C'mon you son of a bitch!" Before long, Sunset's hands were free, and she and Noah flew back. Sunset landing on his stomach as she was still in his grasp. "Ow, fuck. Ow, God!" Noah comically complained. Sunset quickly stood up out of his grip and looked on the other side as it didn't feel like it was coming from the portal, but rather from the other side of the portal. Sunset felt her heartbeat quickly when looked over. It was Twilight. In her hands was a peculiar compass-like device that had little lightning bolts shooting around it. The same one from earlier. "What did you do?!" Sunset asked frantically. Twilight stood up and clutched the compass close to her chest. "Twilight," a voice called to her left. It was Dean Cadence. "You have to check in with the others." Frightfully disregarding Sunset, Twilight ran over to the other students. Leaving Sunset in utter shock and bewilderment. Sunset came around the other side of the portal and touched it, perplexed. But she froze in absolute horror when she felt it. It was just stone. She tried to touch in other places but to no avail. The portal was gone. "Wha... w-where's... where's the portal! It's gone! W-Why... W-Why is it gone?!" Noah ran up from behind, and hand on his stomach. "The hell are you talking about?!" "It's gone!" Noah felt the portal himself and was stunned. It really was gone. There was no light up at the touch, no sound, no other side, nothing. It was just gone. Almost like it never existed. "Oh... shit." Noah turned around to face Sunset, and she had tears welling up in the corners of her eyes. She was on her knees in trauma and panic, a couple of tears had even dropped, leaving shiny wet marks on her cheeks. Noah placed his hands on her shoulders and kneeled, "Hey, c'mon! There's no need to cry." Sunset brought her hands to her head, "The portal is gone! I can never return home again! Twilight can't come back either! There's no in or out, it's just stone! I'm stuck here forever!" Sunset had started full-on sobbing and held her sides in hysteria. Noah simply stared, he didn't know what to do. he tried to think of something to say, but he couldn't form a sentence in his head. He needed to do something though because he abhorred seeing her so miserable. So he did the first thing that came to mind. He cuddled her. Noah stuck his hands and arms underneath Sunset's and pulled her close to his chest. Her sobs stopped spontaneously and her arms laid on his shoulders. He didn't speak though, he just held her like she was his child. Sunset could hear the beat of his heart like a quiet drum and felt her tears stop flowing. She didn't know why exactly, but she felt so warm so close to him. Sunset's friends gave her hugs all the time, but this one felt... ardent. Like it was a hug just for her and nobody else. The heat of him being so close even made her blush, along with his subtle quiet breaths. Without thinking, Sunset brought her arms over Noah's shoulders and around him. Hugging him back, closely. Like she needed him close to her more than ever. "Look, we're gonna figure this out. We'll figure everything out. No Ifs, Ands, or Buts. You'll get to go back home, Twilight will be able to come to us, and everything little thing will be alright. That's a promise from me, nobody else's promises matter more than mine." "If we're gonna figure this out, I'm gonna need you to get it together and give it everything you've got. Because now your way of life is at stake. Do you understand me?" "...yes." "Okay," Noah stood up, Sunset still in his grasp, and let go as she did. He took his right thumb and wiped her tears away. Her eyes returning to their original color as he finished. He picked up the pole from the showers and put a hand on her shoulder. "You ready?" "Ready." Epilogue - The Endearment ArcAuthor's Note Should I Stay Or Should I Go? (Epic Guitar Rift) Epilogue - The Endearment Arc "Alright then! To hell with all of you... uh... I'll miss ya a lot, and... uh... yeah... bye." Those were the last words Sunset heard as Manex, CJ, and Jain raised the boat's anchor and dropped it on the deck. Noah tapped Fall's shoulder and he twisted the boat's key. Igniting it quickly. The Rainbooms waved merrily as the ship pulled out of the dock. The sun just above the horizon as water splashed behind them and the sound of the boat gradually quietened. While the Rainbooms continued to wave and cheer at their friends returning home, Sunset simply stared out into the waters. She could see Noah's figure waving back in the distance before the sun consumed him. She felt a single tear slide down her cheek as he disappeared. Never to be seen again in the land of Equis. Forever on the other side of the world. The side she could never hope to traverse. Sunset whispered, "I said I wouldn't cry. I promised him. I said I wouldn't... but I... I just can't. He's gone. And he's never coming back. Not for another problem, and not for another occasion. "Don't go... come back. Please, I... I..." Sunset fell to her knees. She ran both hands through her hair as the tear turned from one to many. The Rainbooms ignored Sunset as if she didn't exist, and she felt her heart crumble. The sun finally dipped into the horizon and Sunset looked up. The moon had taken the sky, and the Rainbooms were nowhere to be seen. The cars and minivan were gone and the water had dried up. Sunset turned behind her and found nothing but dust. Dust as far as the eye could see. She felt her face and it was covered in dried blood, tears, and wrinkles. The red in her hair had all turned grey, and she could see the hundreds of wrinkles all across her skin through a tiny puddle. Sunset held her head out of perplexion and screamed. "Come back to me!" "Sunset!" "Ah?!" "What in the name of Christ has you yelling like that? You sound like you just met the devil!" Sunset felt her surroundings and took a deep breath before sighing. She was in Noah's car, and everything was okay. The leaves hung lusciously from the trees as she passed by them, and the ocean in the distance was full of water. She felt her face, no wrinkles. She pulled down the passenger seat's mirror and sighed as she saw she was still young as ever. She was safe, and Noah was still by her side. Sunset spotted the car's speedometer and found it lower than normal. It appeared Noah had decided to take his last drive on this street peacefully. He wasn't exactly smiling, however. Like he was anxious for something. Noah slowed the car down just a bit as they reached a hill. He placed a hand on Sunset's shoulder as her panting finally ceased. "What's your deal? I asked you a question, remember?" Sunset laid back in her seat and faced the window. Similarly to what she'd see, the sun hung just above the horizon, and its blinding light made it appear larger than normal. If it weren't for today, Sunset would've enjoyed watching the sundown. But all it'd been was a symbol of the end. The end of Noah and Sunset. "Hello? Kid? What's the matter?" Sunset shrugged, "I, uh... I-I just... I had a bad dream." Noah raised an eyebrow, "What was it about?" "Uh... if, uh... if Twilight managed to beat us both and commit galactic mass slaughter... it wasn't pretty. I saw all of our friends die. I saw what was left of the world... I saw you die..." Noah laid a hand on Sunset's shoulder, "Well, it's a good thing we kicked her ass, eh?" "Uh... yeah." Noah returned his hand and laid back in his seat. He turned over to Sunset and she continued to stare out the window. He examined her and found tears welled up in her eyes. As if she was holding them back. Noah sighed, "Sunset... I've made hundreds of friends. Though all or an unbelievably great majority of them are no longer with me. Yet out of all those friends, even the ones I've made recently... I doubt I'm ever gonna forget you." Sunset continued to stare out the window, and Noah shrank. Despite it, he continued. "I... I know you don't want me to leave, but I can't abandon my friends. They need me. They would've still been stuck in that orphanage if it weren't for me. "They see me as... as a sort of leader. Or maybe just someone who has the ability to make the important decisions. As in what place to rob, what car to use, what boat to steal... who's life to take... An abundance of decisions the every-day-human can't make themselves. "Hell, even I struggle at making the decisions. And sure, I could just tell them we should stay, but they've been pushing at this for months. They want to return to America. Return to Earth. They want to go home. "Even... even I want to go home. That doesn't mean I hate it here. I'm just homesick. It's been so long since I've seen some piece of shit on the news talk crap about some political figure. "It's been so long since I've seen a protest in the streets. News of war on the rise. A terrorist attack, a new invention, hell, a new supercar. Not all of those things are good, but it's my home. And despite all of its utter barbarities and crimes against humanity, I love my home. "Think of it as when you've finished up in Equis and you're ready to return and tell your teacher to go fuck herself because you're better than she ever was. Think of it like that." Noah sighed a final time as Sunset continued to stare out the window. He'd said all he could, but she still wouldn't face him. He felt like she thought of him as a monster, but he just wanted to go home. Sunset felt a single tear roll down her right cheek and land on the window frame. She closed her eyes as the ride continued, and Sunset whispered a single sentence to herself. "But I don't wanna go home..." "Oi, Kid, we're here." Sunset drowsily opened her eyes and analyzed the scene in front of her. They'd arrived at the dock after apparently a couple of hours as the Sun had dipped below the horizon, and the moon began to shine. At the dock were all of the Rainbooms and the Black Five relaxing on the beach nearby. All except Fall who Sunset assumed was preparing the ship for departure. As for the ship, Sunset's eyes widened. "You stole a tugboat?" Floating upon the seas was indeed a tugboat. It was rather larger than what Sunset had expected it to be, but it was exactly how she'd seen it before. That hull was surprisingly difficult to forget. Noah shrugged as he pulled the keys out of the ignition. "Oh, uh, yeah. I may have been a little loopy after not getting enough sleep the past few days to when we stole it. Or I was high. And you should've seen the sailers. Those niggas were pissed. I mean, not like they had no reason to. That thing cost eight figures... huh... maybe we could sell it..." Sunset shook her head as she stepped out of the car and heard her name being called. It was Rarity. "Sunset darling, over here. We were just having a picnic while waiting on you two. And if I may, what held you up for so long?" Noah shoved his keys in his pocket, "Sunset wanted to see all of the places we'd been before the boys and I left. Why? Is there a problem with that or something?" Fluttershy shook her head, "No, we enjoyed our time here. We just wished it didn't have to end with you leaving." Noah shut his door closed, "Ah, well, that's a damn shame." He strolled towards them and promptly gave Applejack a hug from behind. Catching her off guard and red flushed her cheeks. "Uh... what are you-" "I'm giving you a goodbye hug, dumbass. I've already wasted enough time, so let's get this over with." Noah pulled back from Applejack and gave Rarity a hug after her. Sunset watched with an ever-growing frown on her face as Noah gave each and every member of the Rainbooms a final embrace. Even the Twilights, despite barely knowing them. Manex flicked Noah's forehead as he came up from behind. Noah cursed, "Ow! Goddamn it Manex, what the fuck!?" "That's for making us wait! We've been sitting here with this nasty-ass boat ages! We were supposed to leave two hours ago!" "For Christ's sake Manex, excuse me for not just flipping off Sunset and just ridding into the... well... sunset. Now hand over your keys to one of them, say your goodbyes, and get on the boat! Ol' bring me that horizon head-ass nigga." Manex flipped Noah off while pulling out his keys from his back pocket. He haphazardly threw them at Applejack before turning on his heels and boarding the boat. The keys hit Applejack directly in her left breast, and she keeled over and whimpered somewhat. "Sunset," Noah called, and she approached him. Frown still planted on her face. Noah pulled out his own keys from his back pocket and handed them her. Sunset wasn't exactly paying attention earlier, so she was caught off guard when she saw the glint of the key's platinum blade. "You're... you're giving me your car?" Noah's face fell flat, "Sunset, where am I gonna put a two-ton supercar on an eight hundred ton docking boat that's already holding three dipshits, one quiet kid, one sexy mudafucker, and a slightly mentally disabled labradoodle?" Sunset giggled at another one of Noah's stupid jokes, "I-I, uh..." "There you go," Noah finished. With a genuine smile, Noah opened Sunset's right hand and placed the keys on her palm. "Besides, now you have something to remember me by," Noah added, and Sunset's smile melted away like butter in the oven. "Noah! Where do we put McFly?" CJ called from on the boat, McFly next to him. His derp face with his tongue hanging out reminded Noah of Derpy Hooves an awful lot. "Uh, just... this fuckin' dog, keep him with Fall." "But Fall's sailing the boat." "No shit." CJ's face fell flat as he gently gripped McFly by his collar and lead him to the bridge of the mighty tugboat. Noah let go of Sunset's hand and sighed. "Well... this is it, Kid. The end of the road." Sunset felt the hole in her heart consume everything around it as Noah spoke. This was it. The day she'd been hoping, praying would never come. She'd hoped the boat would break or one of Noah's friends have an incident and they're forced to stay. But instead, Noah was leaving just like in her nightmare. It appeared now, it was more of a vision. "Noah... I..." Sunset felt the tears welled up in her eyes start to mess with her vision. Unfortunately for her, it didn't take long for them to fall. Instead of sobbing as she'd normally do when feeling sorrowful, Sunset simply let them fall. She didn't even sniffle. Noah instantly took note of the tears and glanced over at the Rainbooms. They'd gathered behind her on the dock and smiled sympathetically. Not to mention a couple of them had tears rolling down as well. Even Noah had a single tear rolling down his own cheek. He'd felt Sunset's pain, but also wondered if she'd make her move. Closing his eyes, Noah pulled Sunset in for one more kind embrace. The best Sunset could muster was holding her hands to his sides while he caressed her back. Even if Sunset didn't think the same as Noah, he knew just how much she enjoyed his company. And he'd be criminal to say he didn't either. There wasn't a day that went by when Noah didn't think of her. How she went from threatening him in the locker bay to texting him almost every chance she got. And it wasn't like he didn't either. Noah was Sunset's first-ever true friend. And though she had others, it was up to those above whether or not she finds another like him. And a part of her didn't want to. Noah pulled Sunset tighter as he whispered his last words to her. "There'll be another time..." Noah let go of Sunset and she did as well. He saluted with two fingers to the Rainbooms as he back away and boarded the ship. They waved as he did as well. Jain crossed his arms, "Ya done?" "Why don't you do everyone a favor and just jump off a cliff, Jain?" "You first." Noah rolled his eyes and motioned to Fall. He ignited the ship with its key and CJ returned from the engine room. Finalizing for their departure. Noah turned to face his friends, all except Fall, as they approached him on the deck. "Alright dipshits, we don't know what'll happen when we-" Don't go. "-exit Equis' shield thingy barrier bitch dog. I don't know what that-" Don't. "-random string of words were, but you know what I mean. So all of you to the second floor, or whatever-" Please. "-the fuck you call it on a boat, and I'll create a shield around the tug to protect us. Got it?" "Got it," the Black Five acknowledged concurrently. With that, Noah approached the bow, and the Black Five headed to the second deck. Sunset's vision pulsed as the anchor lifted, and smoke burst out of the tugboat's large exhaust. No. I... won't... let.. you... please..." Noah itched his chin as the boat pulled from the dock ever so slowly. "I wonder if the FBI knows our names. We may have to change that shit then. And where the hell am I gonna dock a ten million dollar tugboat? Actually, why the fuck does this thing cost ten million? It stinks, it's slow as shit, and worst of all, it doesn't even have a goddamn fridge! I had to buy a mini-fridge, go shopping for food CJ'll probably eat in less than an hour, find an outlet for the damn thing, and then there's Manex and his fuckin'-" *Dunk!* Noah whirled around, "What the fuck was- ah! Sunset?! What the hell-" Noah was interrupted by Sunset as she tackled him to the deck of the boat! Fall immediately stopped, and Noah shook his head. Confused immensely by Sunset's sneak attack. "Sunset, what the hell are you-" Noah was again interrupted, but this time, it silenced him immediately. He was left dumbstruck, yet full of such glee he felt his head would explode and cover the deck in blood and whatnot. Sunset kissed him. He felt as if time had just stopped. The birds stopped squawking, the waves stopped waving, the boat stopped humming, the moon above shone brighter than the sun, and the joyful voices of the Rainbooms from the dock became muffled. He shivered with delight as Sunset straddled him tighter, and caressed the sides of his face with her thumbs. Her hair falling upon his face, and the taste of her lips reminded him of Sierra. She pulled back, took a breath, and explained. "Noah, please! Don't leave! I-I love you! I loved you ever since Christmas Day! When you made me so happy that night! I don't wanna lose you! Please! Don't go! I'll do anything! You've just brought me so much happiness, I feel like my life would end without you! I-I'm not trying to be obsessive, I just... I-I just-" Sunset was interrupted when Noah pulled her back to him and kissed her in return. She practically melted in his arms as he held her tight. She'd waited for this moment for years, and so had he. It'd happened. It'd finally happened. After all the time that passed, all the years of rivalry and months of friendship, Sunset had made her move. Just like Adagio had told him she would. And It felt incredible. Noah let go of Sunset's lips and whispered. "Took you long enough..." Sunset giggled and fell into his arms, and Noah closed his eyes as reality seemingly dissolved around him... Although for the Black Five and the Rainbooms, reality merely got more real. "Oh for the love of God almighty! Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck! Goddamn it! We were gonna go home! We were gonna sell this big-ass boat! But no! Sunset decided that out of all the dicks on this damn island, she wanted his!" CJ ranted as he pounded the wall. The Black Five had come up from the second deck and were left speechless as they watched their former rival plant her lips on their leader. Jain crossed his arms, "Oh, shut the hell up, Acorn! If you want my honest opinion, I'm glad we're staying. I kinda like it here in Equis. It's bright and has got some fine-ass girls." Manex peeked over the side of the tugboat at the Rainbooms and his face fell flat as they jumped up and down like girls from a 90s movie. Looks like they'd been planning or waiting on this day to come. He sighed, "Well, I guess we're staying." Fall shoved the tugboat's keys into his pocket as he stepped off the dock. He approached his friends and found Noah talking to the Black Five while Sunset lost her mind with the Rainbooms. He approached the Black Five, and Noah continued. "Look, we don't know what they know about us back in America. Sure, we left three years ago, but the government and shit rarely forget. We'll just stay here for a little while longer, and then we'll head home. Hopefully, luck will be on our side. Any objections guys?" Noah felt a grin form on his face as Fall merely shrugged, Manex didn't speak, and Jain smiled himself. Though CJ had other thoughts in mind. Ones that clearly everyone didn't agree with. "I say we just leave already!" Noah raised an eyebrow, "Why?" "Because if it weren't for Sunset, we would be in the Atlantic by now!" "Well CJ, I wanna stay. The others don't seem to mind either. Why do you wanna go home anyway? This place is great, and the Sirens were dealt with half a year ago. I've seen Twitter, and tensions are still somewhat high." "Well, I... I-I... ugh, fine nigga! But when we leave, legitimately, I'm taking most of the pay for that stupid-ass tugboat! And I don' wanna hear jack shit from any of you niggas!" "Okay CJ, we got it." "Fuck you, nigga." As Manex placed a hand on CJ's shoulder and began talking, Noah turned to the Rainbooms. Who were still giddy and enthusiastic as ever about the new loving relationship. Rarity shrieked with joy, "Eee! It's still just so adorable! I knew you'd get him one day darling!" Rainbow Dash, while a grand smile on her face, calmed Rarity down. "Jeez Rarity, it's already been established. Don't your vocal cords hurt?" "Not at all!" The blush on Sunset's face deepened as Applejack spoke. "Ah still can't believe you somehow jumped onto a moving tugboat, climbed up, its side, 'n' tackled Noah like it was nothin'! Where'd that sudden bolt of energy come from anywho?" Sunset rubbed the back of her head, "I-I... I don't know to be perfectly honest. It kind of felt instinctual. Like... l-like I just had to, you know?" Pinkie Pie pulled Sunset in for a tremendous hug. "Hooray for Sunset! This calls for the greatest party I've ever thrown in the history of parties! I'll use everything from every other party I've ever done in my life! It'll be amazing!" The Rainbooms laughed joyfully at Pinkie Pie's incredible enthusiasm. It even made her voice crack with the amount of shouting she did. Which only made them laugh even harder. Noah and Sunset laid on the beach and stared at the stars. Sunset rested her head on Noah's chest and he stroked her hair tenderly. The moon always shone so very bright in its full stage, and it was almost like a blue sun. Sunset snuggled into Noah's shirt, and Noah sighed happily. They were together. After all said time, Sunset was his, and Noah was hers. It’d felt like a prophecy finally coming true. Like the buildup of the greatest end of all time. Noah smiled as he looked down at Sunset. "So," he began. "This is us?" And Sunset closed her eyes as he continued to stroke her hair. The moonlight shining like a diamond in the sky upon her. "This is us." GoodbyeOf All The Stars has been canceled. And this is goodbye. After all this time of saying, “I’ll never stop until I'm finished, ” or, “I’ll never lose motivation, ” I've done both of these. And it really sucks. There were so many things I wanted to do. There really, really was. But as time went on, I just... I didn't want to do it anymore. Of All The Stars was planned to have one more arc going over Forgotten Friendship, and a mega arc that's a bit more dark. But after struggling through Legend of Everfree, I just couldn't go on. Let alone finish said arc. I also had plans to build and continue building characters. CJ eventually get with AppleJack, Fall eventually get with Flash, and so on. But I just couldn't go on anymore. It really sucks. To lose motivation for something you had such ambition for. All your ideas flushed down the drain. It's painful. And makes me so regretful. All in all: thank you. Regardless of whether you liked or disliked my story, you were still there. And that means so much to me. I wish I could deliver you a full story, but I guess I'm just not that great of a writer. And please, don't be like me. Never start something you can't finish. Goodbye, and joy be with you all. In The Beginning - Of All The Stars (TBR)Author's Note The following story is to be rewritten late 2021. Expect below-average writing and God awful concepts. Skipping to the following arc is highly recommended. Please show common curtesy and do not dislike without leaving any criticism. Despite the first arc being terrible, there’s nothing wrong with telling me your thoughts. TBR - To Be Rewritten In The Beginning - Of All The Stars (TBR) I May Not Be Immortal... ”Gooooooooooooooood Evening Canterlot! I'm your radio show host, Flavor Fortune! In today's news, President Shader has finally been impeached after his involvement in the Mafia and the assassination of President John Hoof Kennedy.” ”Resources report that when inquiring Shader about his thoughts on the situation, he maniacally shouted, ”I don't give a fu-.” The radio was shut off and a teenage boy whispered to himself. ”Fuckin’ politics.” That boy was Noah Rictorshine, a simple black seventeen-year-old junior of Canterlot High. He was currently in a hurry, as tonight was a very special occasion, the Fall Formal, whereas a princess was to be crowned. But Noah didn't care for that, and neither did his friends. They were all there for one thing, the ultimate and most disgusting prank of all time. They were going to drop twelve buckets of a certain white and sticky substance all over the principal and newly crowned princess. It was to be legendary... and jaw-dropping-ly nasty as they had been planning for weeks and have triple checked that they were in the clear. Nobody would find out who did it. They were going to take the greatest prank of the century to their very last day on Earth. But unfortunately, Noah was running late to the mockery as he had gotten distracted by a video game tournament and was driving nearly as fast as he could. Noah pondered, If I don't make it now, I'll miss the prank. I better haul ass, please God, keep these damn cops off the road for five minutes... Noah accelerated the car, his Audi R8 that he won years ago, to a hundred and thirty miles per hour in a desperate attempt to become a living legend. Minutes had passed, and Noah could see the school in the distance... along with something else. ”I made it! Wait...what in God's name is that?” Shooting from the school was a beam of pure white and blue shooting unto the clouds. It made a devastating sound of unrelenting lightning bolts striking a skyscraper. Noah stared in awe until taking off as fast as the R8 could possibly go, terribly worried for his friends. Noah arrived at the school, a little far away as a precaution, and stared at a terrifying orange and red demon-like figure with busted ears, sharp fingers, and devilish wings. ”Wait... Satan’s a girl? That-uh...that definitely wasn't in the Bible, ” he mumbled. Noah stared at the rest of the situation, the entirety of the front entrance had been violently torn off, and the students inside seemed brainwashed and dead inside, like zombies from a low budget movie. He looked below the figure and saw six girls standing in defiance, he instantly recognized this group as the same girls who pulled, what he called, the most cringey thing to ever occur in a school cafeteria. Noah pondered the crisis once more, ”Maybe I can go down in history, maybe I could stop the rapture... fuck it, worth a shot.” Noah stepped over to the trunk of his car and pulled out a modified M4A1 Carbine Rifle painted red and white. He attached a long-distance optic to the gun’s top teeth and mounted onto the cars hood. He aimed down his sights to the being’s legs, held his breathe, and... *dum*...*dum* *dum* *dum*...*dum*... The demon screamed and looked at her legs, since she’d become powerful, it hadn't done significant damage, but they did hit, and they hurt like hell. The group of girls looked around shocked and confused. Noah whispered to himself, ”God knows I won't be able to get it in the head from here with this fuckin’ wind, I better move up, slowly.” Noah stealthy and diligently moved up to the demon, swiftly running from tree to rock until he reached the school’s statue. ”Okay, four shots to the head, and then we’re done here, ” Noah whispered to himself while reviewing his ammo and setting the firearm to burst-fire. Once more, he aimed down his sights, held his breath...*dum* *dum* *dum*...nothing happened. “Found you!” The demon yelled, “Ah shit,” Noah replied under his breath. ”Noah Rictorshine, the mindless idiot leader of the mindless idiots, ” the being spoke, and Noah shouted bewildered, ”What the... nigga the fuck? How do you know my name?!” ”Oh, you don’t recognize me?” It asked, and he responded, “No, you're the fucking devil, what else would you be?” The demon grinned, ”Sunset Shimmer, of course!” Noah’s jaw dropped as he could then see the slight similarities, he then questioned, ”What the... what in the hell are you?! I know you're a bitch, but this is beyond that!” ”Why do you think I was so desperate to get this tiara?” Sunset asked, and Noah replied, ”Cause you're an egotistical asshole?” He answered jokingly. ”No, you idiot! It has more power than anything that's ever been seen before! And with it, I can rule Equestria!” Sunset cackled madly while Noah stared in disbelief and confusion, ”The fuck is Equestria? Is that some sort of drug for basement dwellers?” A girl behind Noah, Twilight he believed her name was, facepalmed loud enough to be heard by him. He retorted, ”Look motherfucker, I don't understand this satanic shit, I don't even care for this stupid fuckin’ dance! I just knew you six sons of bitches were up to some dumb shit the moment I saw y'all together, now we're facing the end of the goddamn world, and your faces are plastered all over it!” Twilight spoke up, ”What!? It's not my fault she's like this! I just want my tiara back! That's the entire reason I'm here! If she has it, we're all doomed!” Noah replied, ”Well then maybe you shouldn't have brought the damn thing! Look at this absolute horseshit that surrounds us! The school doesn't have front doors anymore, everyone is fuckin’ possessed, and we have a devil with a pussy instead of a dick!” Noah once again retorted. ”She didn't bring it, it was stolen by Sunset!” Applejack yelled, defending Twilight, who was then joined by the others. ”Well than fuckin’ do something!” Noah shouted, not about to be overpowered. Noah finished arguing with the girls and directed his attention to Sunset, ”Oi, she-demon, where the fuck are my friends? Knowing your stupid ass, you must've done something! If you killed them, so help me God...” Sunset chuckled before answering, ”That’s none of your concern, but believe me, you won't be seeing them ever again...” Noah flared up in anger and gripped his gun tightly. ”Cock sucking...” ”Hey relax! Now is not the time to get mad!” the girl with straight rainbow hair advised Noah, who rolled his eyes annoyed. ”Enough!” shouted Sunset, ”I'm not just gonna stand around here and listen to you idiots bicker! I have stuff to do!” Sunset charged a sphere of what Noah could only believe to be energy or magic with one hand. She fired upon Twilight, but within a split second, her friends jump towards her to make a barrier of some sort, but it was obviously futile. What the fuck is going on?! The sphere collided with the girls and a dust cloud surrounded them. They were gone. Noah assessed his options, ”Okay, I can drive away from this before it becomes detrimental on an international scale, but I don’t feel like hiding my whole life... maybe I can drop a building on her-“ ”What!?” Noah lost his train of thought to Sunset yelling in perplex. He looked to where she was gaping at and found the girls not only in one piece, but shrouded in a violet aura. “What in the hell? How the fuck are you guys alive?!” They looked at each other and realized that as they held hands, a literal barrier was created. Twilight glared at Sunset triumphantly and spoke, ”The magic contained in my element was able to unite with those who helped create it.” The tiara upon Sunset’s head glowed with power and a beam shot forward, hitting the girls. From what Noah could see, they seemed to be transforming. Their hair had all grown much longer than originally, and they wore pony ears upon their head and pony tails from their rears. While Sunset stared, furious, Noah simply questioned God. Twilight continued, ”Together with the crown, they create a power beyond anything you could even comprehend! It is the power you don't have the ability to control! The tiara may be upon your head, Sunset Shimmer, but you cannot wield it, because you do not possess the most powerful magic of all, the magic of friendship!” Noah, was speechless. The girls rose into the air, hands locked and emitting the same violet color, then unexpectedly, a swirling beam of rainbow light, or whatever it was, rose into the clouds before falling back down and whirling around Sunset, who screamed in irritation and panic. ”Here, and in Equestria, it is the only magic that can truly unite us all!” The tornado looking rainbow gradually crushed Sunset, letting out a scream of anguish, while the rest of the students were freed from the manipulation. Noah remained utterly speechless. The smoke cleared, the girls were on the ground knocked unconscious. The students, frightened and bewildered, and Sunset was nowhere but inside the crater. Deciding to take it from there, Noah gripped his M4 tightly and sneakily approached the crater, Bravo Six style. Although, he was still seen by one of the girls, specifically the one with purple hair. He scanned the area to detect a fallen Sunset, laying on her stomach in pain and trauma. ”Well well, looks like the tables have fuckin’ turned, ” Noah said victoriously while Sunset grunted in pain and struggled to move at all. ”I honestly thought you were gonna take over the world for a second there, but only for a second.” Noah stood above Sunset whilst obstreperously reloading his M4 to fill her with worry and fear of the inevitable. She looked up and he continued his monologue, ”I knew you were a bully, a bitch too, but a monster that was hell-bent on taking over... I don't even know what the fuck you were trying to take over. Then again, I don't care.” Sunset tried to speak whilst getting up on her hands and knees,” I... I... I just... ju-“ Noah kicked Sunset promptly in her stomach, turning her onto her back, she yelped and whined in pain and looked into Noah's eyes, begging for mercy. ”W-wait, please-, ” Sunset pleaded, “It’s been too damn late for that,” Noah cut-off as he pulled the slide back and let go on his M4, a sign that it truly was over. Sunset closed her now drenched in tears eyes and waited helplessly to die. ”Stop!” Shouted a voice from behind, ”goddammit, ” muttered Noah, before turning around to find a purple-haired girl standing with her hands in fists and facing upwards from her hips. “Look nigga, I don’t even know you, how you gon’ tell me what to do?” Noah responded annoyed. ”My name is Rarity, and you cannot just kill off Sunset! Indeed, she must make amends, but that doesn't mean taking her life!” Noah stared at her for a second, then replied, ”Even demon-like beings attempting planetary domination? Because where I come from, the death penalty sounds pretty good.” The other girls then showed up as well from behind, ”Oh for God’s sake, ” Noah mumbled. ”You don't have to kill her! Just relax for a second, I've got this, ” Twilight assured, implying for Noah to walk away, which he did... reluctantly... and it wasn’t exactly easy getting out of that hole. Twilight turned to Sunset, ”You will never rule Equestria, any power you may have had in this world is gone. You've shown everyone who you really are, you've shown them what is in your heart.” As Twilight spoke, the students began to surround the crater and look down at poor and powerless Sunset. Strangely enough, Noah couldn't help but feel just a bit bad for Sunset. ”Then again, I was just about to kill her, ” Noah mumbled. She struggled to reply, tears of years of pain flowed endlessly down her cheeks, ”I’m... I'm sorry... I'm so sorry! I... I didn't know there was another way...” Twilight continued, ”Friendship doesn't just exist in Equestria-” but was cut off by Noah. ”Okay, I'm just gonna stop you right there, uh, what is up with this friendship shit? You sound like a kindergarten teacher trying to teach kids the world's a happy place.” Twilight turned back to Noah in annoyance and answered, ”In my world-” Twilight was cut off, ”Ah! I uh... I don't remember asking about your stupid fuckin’ planet, did uh...did you hear me say that? Did uh...did-did they hear me say that? Is someone... is someone imitating me?” Twilight growled and responded angrily through her teeth, ”The magic is run on friendship, that is just the way it is.” Noah shrugged his shoulders, ”Whatever man. Now, before you scold her some more, I have to ask her something, ” Noah walked over to Sunset’s crater, tears still flowing uncontrollably, ”Oi, where the fuck are my friends? Because if you actually murdered them, I'm gonna shoot you right fucking here, I don't care what anybody else says. I will take, your big orange head right off your tiny-ass shoulders. ” Sunset made an effort to remember what she did with Noah’s friends before answering, ”I didn't kill them, I... I-I just put them in the trapdoor underneath the principal’s desk.” Noah stood straight and nodded before entering the school. Noah entered the main office and went around the desk of Principal Celestia, pulling out the chair and lifting the desk to reveal a soundproof trapdoor. ”The fuck is this here anyway, ” he muttered before opening the door and catching sight of four teenage boys fast asleep. He rolled his eyes and yelled as loud as he could, ”Wake up, motherfuckers!” The four of ’em all freaked out and cursed Noah, ”Nigga what the fuck? Shut your damn mouth, I'm trying to sleep!” the oldest shouted, Noah responded, ”In the fuckin’ ground? Bitch ass worm nigga, ” ”Man, shut up!” The oldest one who spoke was Manex, a seventeen-year-old black junior. ”Dude, can you get us outta here? This some hubba-bubba bullcrap.” The other one that spoke was Cejel, or CJ for short. He was also a seventeen-year-old black junior. ”Yeah, dead ass, CJ is starting to fart all over with his nasty ass.” the one that spoke this time was Jain, a seventeen-year-old biracial junior. ”Yeah dude, this is gross.” And the final boy that spoke was Fall, a sixteen-year-old black junior.”Yeah yeah, shut up, ” Noah said as he pulled the boys out of the ditch one by one. He then started up again, ”Okay, talk to me, how the hell did y'all get here?” ”Well, ” Fall started, ”We entered the school in our matching white suits, like ballers, and saw Sunset planning something with those two dumbasses just outside the gym. ”The others didn't really care, but I stayed and eavesdropped on them, they were going to go to such lengths as killing a puppy just to get that tiara, making me gasp. Unfortunately, I was heard, and Sunset and her two hench-boys we're able to catch me, along with luring everyone else in like the simple-minded idiots they are, and now, we’re here.” Noah chuckled a little before Jain asked a question, “So, what happened outside, besides the fact that we failed to enact the greatest fucking prank of all time,” to which Noah answered, “Well, I think Sunset isn't a bitch anymore so, that's good.” Fall looked intently at Noah before shouting, ”What?! How!?” ”Relax Fall, ” Noah replied, ”It could indeed just be a cover-up, but if it's not, life should be a hell of a lot easier for your black-ass.” Fall thought hard for some time while everyone else prepared to go home, ”Man, what a shitty Friday, ” CJ stated, ”Without a damn doubt, ” Manex added before they all left the room. Coming up on what was left of the entrance, Noah saw Sunset shyly peeking around the wall. He studied her, she was a mess. Her clothes were torn up and her hair was frizzled with bits of dirt inside. ”Yeah, that bitch won't be a problem, ” Manex said as they all left the school, except Noah. ”Oh wait, I gotta go do something real quick, see y'all on Monday!” Noah exclaimed before running back into the school, but not without giving Sunset the stink eye. Principal Celestia sat in the cafeteria going over what just happened in the past hour. ”Unbelievable, how could I’ve not seen it sooner. Now the front of the school is in horrid shape, my students are stupefied and bewildered, and I must deal with Sunset to see what happens moving forward.” Her younger sister and the vice principal tried to comfort her, ”Worry not sister, I'm sure you and I will be able to fix such a predicament. Our real problem is the boy with the inhumane weapon approaching us,” As Luna said this, Celestia looked up from the table she sat upon to see Noah walking towards them with his M4 lowered. He came around the table and separated them. ”Okay, Fall Formal 2020, definitely a horrid memory, and presumably the same for you,” Noah spoke, and Celestia responded, ”I’m more than aware of the damage and the danger everyone was put into today.” ”I didn't say you weren't, ” Noah replied, ”But from my black ass almost having to go into fuckin’ hiding, I think I and the rest of your students deserve some time off.” Celestia and Luna were both stunned at Noah being highly inappropriate. Luna responded, ”Excuse me? You will not speak such language to your principals, must I write you up for such tone?” ”Dude, the end of the fuckin’ world almost began, cursing is the last thing you should care about.” Celestia and Luna both stared at each other for a while, then, Celestia sighed, ”Understandable, the school shall have one week off from school, ” Noah fist-pumped the air in response. ”Now then, this has been a good talk for a shitty evening, I'm going home to pray to God and other things. Good night to you.” Noah then proceeded to walk out of the cafeteria with a grin on his face and quickly texted his friends once he was out. As he was walking to the exit, he found Sunset, who was still somewhat crying, sitting next to a pile of bricks, a spade, and a bucket of mortar. He walked up to her and she could hear him from behind, ”Please, just... just leave me alone. I-I’m not trying to do anything wrong, ” she told him, still feeling miserable. Noah stared at Sunset for a moment, he felt bad for her again, but quickly dismissed that thought and merely walked away. Once he reached his car, he put his M4 back in the trunk, entered, turned on the car, and left the school in its quite terrible state. Noah was in bed shortly after showering and began talking to himself, ”Out of all the bullshit that’s happened today, the only thing I seem to take note of is Sunset’s drastic change in behavior and those crazy-ass fireworks. Maybe she won't be a bitch anymore... maybe, only time will tell. Right now, I need some sleep. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say. ) Rainbow Rocks - The Friendship Arc (TBR)Author's Note From The Cradle... Rainbow Rocks - The Friendship Arc (TBR) FOUR WEEKS LATER Noah drove down the road without a care in the world, nearly a month ago, his best friend’s bully had been both defeated and exposed. Ever since then, she hasn’t said a thing to Fall, and his self-esteem has risen tenfold. As for Noah, he got a week off from school to catch up in class, now his grades have also risen tenfold. Every time Noah saw Sunset, she was quiet. Not a word left her mouth. Not only that, but she had oddly become friends with that group of girls. He doesn’t know where that Twilight girl had gone though, she seemingly just disappeared. Not that he cared, it was just odd for someone to appear for a while only to then disappear. Ever since that day, he questioned the ability of those girls, and Sunset herself, Noah thought to himself, What In God’s name was that? And they called the shit magic... I don't know what that crap was, but it seems too complicated for me to investigate, that and the fact that I don't really give a shit. As Noah continued down the road towards the school, Lord behold, he found a running Sunset. It seemed she's late, and that means he is too. Noah slowed down enough to keep up with Sunset, who looked like she'd been running for awhile. He rolled down the window and spoke, ”You must be in a hurry.” Being caught off guard and realizing that the car beside her was Noah’s, since she'd never really seen or payed attention to it, Sunset slipped and lost pace. She soon started up again and Noah thought to himself, Let’s see if she actually has changed, it should be somewhat fun. “Oi, you want a ride? You might get to school quicker you know, ” Noah asked. This really caught Sunset off guard, making her trip and fall on her hands, ”Ow...” she whimpered, and Noah rolled his eyes, ”Negro, come the fuck on.” Noah watched from the window as Sunset somewhat struggled to reach her feet. She piped up and spoke once she got back on her feet, still somewhat shy. ”I guess if... you don’t mind... yes, I’d like a ride.” Hearing this, Noah unlocked the passenger door and motioned for her to enter. She did exactly that and entered the passenger door, and settled in. Before driving, Noah opened the compartment in front of Sunset and pulled out a black first aid kit. He opened the box and pulled out two mid-size band-aids. “Gimme your hands. I can see them bleeding from here,” Noah commanded. Subset hesitated for a second before holding out her hands for him, he inspected the scrapes, unwrapped one of the band-aids and put it on her left hand. Then, he took the other band out and did the same to the right. Sunset eyed her hands before she spoke up, still nervous, ”...Thank you, ” ”Yeah whatever, by the way, where the hell is your bookbag? Don't you need that?” Noah asked, and Sunset answered shyly, ”I... I left it at school from yesterday, I didn't have any homework so, why bring it?” Noah nodded, put the car back into drive, and headed back down the road towards the school. The ride was quiet for a while as Sunset was still very shy, especially near Noah and his friends, who decided to break the silence. ”Oi, you mind telling me where the hell you and your friends stay? You know, if I ever need to find you?” Sunset turned to face Noah, he was still watching the road and she thought for a quick moment before answering. ”We hang out in the band room pract-...doing things. ” Noah glared at Sunset when they reached a stoplight and asked, ”Mind telling me why you were gonna say practicing?” Sunset answered, “I... I rather not answer, it’s... kind of a secret, I-If you don't mind...” “Fine,” Noah replied, “But it better not be no fuckin’ satanic shit, or we're gonna have a serious problem.” It’d been quicker than Sunset first assumed once they had reached the school. Sunset spoke up, ”Wow... we made it before we'd actually be late, ” ”That’s why I love this thing, it's no Bugatti, but it's still worth it,” Noah replied before exiting the car with Sunset following suit. He motioned Sunset to follow him into the school, which she did. Noah entered the school with Sunset behind. He turned to her and spoke, ”Alright, I did my nice thing, now fuck off to your friends, I got shit to do.” ”But, aren't you gonna paint your banner for the musical showcase?” Sunset asked, and Noah answered, smacking his head since he’d forgotten. ”Oh shit, that's right! How the hell did I miss that... Thanks, half-bitch, now you can go fuck off to your friends.” Sunset stared at Noah for a moment, ”I’m making a banner too though...” this made Noah groan. “Fine, where the hell is this shit again? I wasn’t listening when it was announced, ” he asked, and she answered. ”It’s in the gymnasium, where everything usually is.” ”Ah, ” he replied, ”Then that's where we’re headed. Follow me half-bitch... yeah, I like that name.” Noah strolled to the gymnasium without a care in the world while Sunset timidly followed behind. Noah burst through the gym doors loud enough to be heard from all around, but not causing a scene. He looked to his left to see a confused Sunset beside him. He asked her, ”Aren’t you gonna go to your friends?” ”I would b-but, I don't see them, ” she answered. Noah looked over near the stage and saw three freshmen girls making a banner. He pointed to them with his forefinger and replied, ”Then you could go and help those kids because your ass ain't coming with me.” Sunset looked at the kids, then to Noah, and then back to the kids. She decided it would be a nice thing to do, so she walked over to them, leaving Noah to himself. ”Sweet, ” he muttered, ”Now, where are those dumbfucks... ah! There they are.” Noah began towards his friends, whom the half of were making a banner and the other half were ‘roasting’ each other. ”Manex, Jain, stop fuckin’ around and get to work! We have a banner to make dipshits!” Noah yelled at the two, who refused, ”Nigga shut you black Teletubbie ass the fuck up! I'm trying to get at this stupid fuckin’ terrorist!” Manex replied, angry. ”For the last time you retarded donkey, Indian’s aren't terrorists! How many fucking times do I have to tell you that?! I'm not even fucking Indian in the first place! Why are you so slow!?” Jain yelled back, and Noah then shouted, loud enough for everyone in the gym to hear. ”For the life of ne, would you two shut the hell up?! I swear, I'm gonna slit your goddamn throats and sell them on the dark web!” Everyone inside the gym veered to look at Noah with frightened and stunned looks on their faces. Noah saw this and spoke up, ”What? I'm just talking to my friends.” ”You threatening them is just talking?” A boy with blue hair questioned, ”Yeah, I am. Fuck off Flash, I don't need... whatever the fuck you are’s shit.” Noah retorted, making Flash sigh, annoyed, and return to his work, along with everyone else. ”Okay, what do we have so far?” CJ looked up at Noah and answered, ”We 'bout halfway done with the Righteousness design. We would have been done if your black ass didn't take fuckin’ forever.” Noah crossed his arms and replied, ”Bite me you fuckin’ acorn. It’s not my fault it takes me an hour to beat my dick. ” CJ then asked bewildered, ”Why do you beat your dick in the morning? That's one of the weirdest times!” ”Hell if I know, ” Noah answered. A little while later, which included Sunset being denied something, the principals entered the gym, ”Oh great, these guys, ” Noah mumbled to his friends as Celestia began. ”Good morning students, I just wanted to tell you all how pleased I am that so many of you are going to participate in the first-ever, Canterlot High School Musical Showcase!” The students all cheered happily, and when they settled down, Noah added a fake, ”ya-hoo.” Celestia cleared her throat in the awkward silence and continued, ”This is a wonderful opportunity to raise money for all of our after-school programs here at CHS. So keep working on those signs, banners, and posters. I think it's going to be one of the most exciting events we've had at CHS since the Fall Formal.” From that, all of the students glared at Sunset, who slowly slid down and hid in her hands and knees in embarrassment.”Heh, ass-wipe, ” Jain laughed. The bell had rung, signaling it was time for social hour. Noah stood up out of his seat, left the classroom he was in, and headed towards his locker to put his stuff away. Once he had reached and opened it, he pulled a black necklace out from his shirt with a strange yet calming design. It's oddest feature, it had been glowing a faint white recently. Noah stared at it through the mirror, and thought to himself. What in the hell is going on with this thing? I'm pretty sure this isn't supposed to glow... I should ask those magical girls. They should know about this.. Noah stuffed the rest of his things into his locker and began towards the band room. Once he reached the band room, he peeked in through the window and watched a scene unravel. ”Ugh, I am never gonna live that down, ” Sunset groaned, the room was full of the same group of girls from the Fall Formal. Guess she wasn't lying, Noah thought. ”You were pretty bad at the Fall Formal,” one of the girls acknowledged. The girl had long pink hair with a butterfly sticking out the left side of her hair like a flower. ”A demon, ” Sunset continued, ”I turned into a raging she-demon, ” ”And tried to turn everyone here into teenage zombies for your own personal army!” Theo loud and obnoxious voice that added to Sunset’s sentence had big, hot pink, puffy hair. ”Oh darling, you have us! And we've already forgiven you for your past... boo-boos, ” said Rarity. A girl whose name Noah remembered. Rarity then noticed Sunset's palms had band-aids on them, she then asked, "Speaking of boo-boos, what happened here?" Sunset glanced at her palms and answered, "I uh... I got a few scapes from tripping and falling. As for the band-aids... I got them from Noah." Any and all noise in the room stopped as if a false piano key played from a dramatic play. Everyone within the room wore faces of uncorrupted wonderment. "Noah?" The rainbow-haired one asked for confirmation. "The Noah that curses in literally every sentence, Noah?" To which Sunset nodded her head yes. "Why would he help you? Out of everyone in the school, doesn't he hate you the most?" The girl with long pink hair questioned, and Sunset answered. "I don't know. Maybe what happened at the Fall Formal made him think that I wasn't a terrible person anymore. But, he still has a strong aggression towards me. He didn't try to hide a thing." "Well, at least some people have gotten closer after the formal," the one with pink puffy hair said, playfully annoyed. ”To be honest, ” the next girl who began had blonde hair, freckles, and a brown cowgirl hat upon her head. ”I’d say the whole experience brought everyone at Canterlot High closer than ever before.” After that statement, the puffy haired girl slapped her drum sticks together and yelled, ”Three!” After that, Noah realized that they were singing, and he found himself strangely needing to vomit. ”Sweet merciful crap, what the hell is with this country? It's like cringe doesn't even exist, ” Noah muttered. He had already attempted to hold his urge to throw up twice, but when they strangely began to transform, Noah couldn't resist any longer and rushed to the nearest bathroom. Once he made it to the closest stall, he raised the seat as fast as he could, and let his breakfast fall out of his mouth and into the toilet. ”Oh God... oh-fuck... ugh, fuck me... ugh... sometimes I wonder how I still manage to endure this shit.” Noah sat there for a minute or two, flushed the toilet, gargled with the water from the water fountain, and exited the bathroom. When he returned to the band room, he could see Flash leaving the room. He turned around from hearing Noah’s footsteps and frowned. Noah asked, ”The hell were you in there for?” Flash rolled his eyes and replied, ”What’s it to you?” ”Okay dickhead, don't tell me. It's probably not something I actually give a shit for.” Hearing this, Flash continued walking away and Noah peeked in through the door window. Unfortunately, it seemed that when he was conversing with Flash, he was standing right outside the band room door, and all the girls were looking to see who could put Flash in a mood like that. Well, guess I can get this over with, Noah thought to himself before bursting through the door. ”Uh... what's good ladies?” Noah spoke, and the girls to groaned annoyance. ”Oi! I helped ya damn demon friend, cry me a river!” Noah replied. He caught the attention of a girl with straight rainbow hair, who then questioned, ”Yeah, we know," the rainbow-haired one informed, unbeknownst the fact that Noah had already heard all about that. The girl with the cowgirl hat rolled her eyes and asked, ”What are ya here for? We’re kinda busy if ya don't mind. ” ”Relax cowgirl, I just have a bit of a problem, ” Noah responded. He proceeded to pull out his necklace from underneath his shirt, it was glowing heavily at the moment. ”This, this shit right here is my problem.” The girls gaped at the glowing object in awe, Sunset was especially caught off guard from. So that's why he asked where we hang out, Sunset thought. ”That aura, why it looks just like the one that surrounded us at the Fall Formal, only it’s blinding white,” Rarity realized. ”But, how could your necklace be enveloped in it?” “Yeah, of all people, you’re the one that has magic?” The rainbow-haired one added, who Noah promptly flipped off. ”This does look serious, maybe we could ask Twilight for help.” Sunset suggested, ”Yeah, about her,” Noah started, ”Where in the fuck is she? Nigga straight up just disappeared.” ”Twilight isn't bound to this world, she only came here for the tiara, ” the girl with pink hair informed. ”Okay, well, while I'm here, lemme ask something. Who the fuck are you people? I obviously know Sunset, and I only know Rarity's name because she was bitching at me to not kill Sunset, ” Noah stated. “Wel-l, ” the pink-haired girl started, ”The girl with the cowboy hat is Applejack, the girl with the rainbow hair is Rainbow Dash, the girl with the long pink hair is Fluttershy, and I’m Pinkie Pie! Together, we are...” ”The Rainbooms!” They shouted in unison. “Okay, you don’t need to do that. This isn’t a toddler movie or something,” Noah requested. The Rainbooms all rolled their eyes in annoyance. ”Don't fuckin’ roll your eyes at me. Y’all probably don't even know what cringe is. ” Noah retorted. The Rainbooms all looked at each other, lost. Noah questioned, aghast “W-wait, you don’t... what... the... fuck... what is this damn country?...” A voice on the loudspeaker spoke, ”Sunset Shimmer, please report to the main foyer.” ”Uh... what was that about, half-bitch?” Sunset sighed and answered, ”I volunteered to show some new students the school.” ”Oo, can I come? I'm going anyways, so you might as well say yes, ” Noah asked. ”I... guess you can, I don't exactly have a say...apparently, ” Sunset answered. ”Sweet, see you guys later, cause we are not done here.” Noah said whilst saluting with two fingers and leaving the room with Sunset. Sunset, who was now next to Noah, who was also walking, walked down the hallway towards the main foyer. Noah strolled along the hall without worry, while Sunset was still shy when all alone with him. "Noah," Sunset started, "Can you not call me half... you know, please? I-It's hurtful," Noah responded, "Not until I know you aren't a bitch anymore, and I don't mean not being a jerk anymore, no no no, your gonna need something big in order to redeem yourself. And don't try to fake it, I'll see right through You." Sunset nodded and replied, "I... guess that's fair." Once they reached the foyer, they saw three girls standing at the front entrance... ominously. "Hi!" Sunset started, a bit of her confidence returning, "Are you the girls I'm supposed to show around?" "We are," the girl in the front confirmed. Noah inspected the girls, The one in front had large, orange and yellow, puffy hair with two locks on the side that was being held together by a spiked hairband. She wore pink shoulder pants with a purple undershirt, that was connected to her shorts, pink gauntlets, and a yellow belt with a diamond on the front of it. On her legs, she wore pink leggings with purple triangles scattered across, and purple high heel boots with the same yellow belt wrapped around the ankles. The one on the left had purple and blue hair with starry hairbands holding her hair together to make pigtails. She wore a teal denim jacket with the sleeves torn off and a white corset underneath, her lower arms had dark purple bandages wrapped around them. On her legs were purple skinny jeans with white stars scattered along the thighs, on her feet were deep purple high heel boots. The girl on the left cyan and dark blue hair in the form of a ponytail being held in place by a simple blue hairband. She wore what appeared be some sort of corset jacket in brown with cyan string buttons and pink and cyan bracelets on her hands. On her waist was a short pink dress, and on her feet were deep pink high tops that reached her knees. All three girls wore black necklaces with a strange red jewel attached to the end of them. Niggas came to play, Noah thought. "Canterlot High is a great school, you're really gonna love it," Sunset assured, and the girl in the middle responded.k "Oh yes, we really sense there's something, magical about this place." Noah's raised an eyebrow and turned to Sunset. She was oblivious to the minacious tone in the girl's wording. "And may I ask who you two are?" The girl inquired, and Noah answered, "This, is Sunset Shimmer, A-K-A, half-bitch. No need to ask why that's her nickname... I presume.” ”And I'm Noah Rictorshine, the baddest motherfucker to walk this Earth. I'm no Hitler, thank Christ, but you should understand what I mean." The girls stared at each other until the middle girl simply said, "Interesting." The middle one was about to say to ’carry on’, but Noah spoke. "And you are?" The girls once again stared at each other and each of them replied with their names. "Adagio Dazzle," the middle one answered, "I'm Sonata Dusk,” the one on the right answered, "And I'm Aria Blaze," the one on the right finally answered. Noah then motioned to Sunset to carry on with the tour. The group walked down a hall and Sunset spoke as they passed a few rooms, "That's the science lab," she pointed to the right, "Computer lab is in there," she pointed to the left, "Oh! We're having a big musical showcase this weekend, the whole school is pretty much rallying around it." Adagio asked, "A musical showcase?" Sunset replied, "I'm sure, since you're new, Principal Celestia would let you sign up if you're interested." "Unless you suck ass, otherwise you can fuck off. Make it easier for those who can sing," Noah added, making Sunset ask, with a little bit of her confidence returning. "Oh, so you can sing?" "Oi!" Noah spoke, raising his voice a bit, "You are in no position to be getting any kind of shits and giggles outta me!" Sunset rolled her eyes jokingly, a bit of her rude side returning for Noah, but in a gentler way. "We have been known to sing from time to time," Aria stated, in which Sonata added, "He-llo! We sing like, all the time! It's how we get people to do what we want." Adagio veered around and made a motion with her hand to cut it out. Fortunately for them, Noah was too busy with the thought that Sunset thinks she has earned the right to act the way she just did. "W-what, what did I say?" Sonata asked, in which Adagio corrected, "What you meant to say was that being in a musical showcase, sounds like a great way to meet other students." Oh-yeah," Sonata added, "What you she said I meant to say, that's what I meant... to say." "And what you would have said if you weren't the worst," Aria added. "You are!" Sonata shot back, in which Adagio stopped the two before the argument continued by saying, "You'll have to excuse them, they're idiots." The two behind her replied by huffing a sigh of defeat. The hall had now become awkwardly quiet from the commotion, rendering Sunset somewhat speechless, and Noah only then returning to the tour at hand, he questioned, "W-why, why the fuck did the tour stop? Get on with it half-bitch, It's almost time for lunch." Sunset once again rolled her eyes and asked the trio after looking at their necks to see the matching necklaces, "Wow, those are pretty, where did you-" Sunset was cut off by a swift action by Adagio. She quickly gripped Sunset's hand, stopping her from reaching for the necklace. She then let go and shyly chuckled before speaking, "Sorry, these pendants mean an awful lot to us, we'd just hate for anything to happen to them." Once she finished, the trio oddly walked off into the school, where they were going, Sunset and Noah had no idea. "Well, looks like we've got assholes to watch for," Noah whispered, suspicious. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
PART 1: I - Brand New Problem (TBR)Author's Note Inside The Shadow Of Intent... PART 1: I - Brand New Problem (TBR) Noah entered the cafeteria with Sunset behind, they were early, but not by much. ”So, ” Noah started, ”Where do you and ya raggedy-ass friends sit?” Sunset pointed to the third table in the middle right section and answered, ”There, why?” ”Cause I'm not done with this bullshit. I said that already, half-bitch,” Noah answered. Waiting for the lines to open up, they sat down at the table, Noah pulling up a chair and sitting at the end, Sunset sitting on the left. Noah pulled out his phone and began watching an adult cartoon show. Sunset then asked, ”What are you watching?” To which Noah lifted his finger and reinstated, ”We’re not friends.” This time, instead of leaving it at that, Sunset retaliated, ”Noah, if you're gonna be in our group-” ”I'm not in your group. Who the fuck said I was in your group? I didn't say that, nobody I know said that, so who the hell said that?” Noah cut off, “It’s like you don’t understand the gravity of your situation, you bully my friend, I don't suddenly become yours.” Sunset looked back at Noah with a gaze begging for forgiveness, and ranted. ”But I'm not that person anymore! The only reason I was like that, the only reason I'm even here is because I couldn't make any friends back in Equestria! And because of that, I was denied the ability to study magic! It was unfair! I got angry because of it, and I left Equestria forever after that day! ”You don't understand what it’s like to have nobody but your parents all your life! You don't understand what it's like to be alone!” After hearing this, Noah loosened up and silently replied, ”Why do you think I’m here?” Hearing this, Sunset wiped away her tears within her eyes, threatening to fall down her orange cheeks, and asked, ”I don't know... why?” Noah didn't answer, he simply sat there unfazed. ”Grow some balls. Then maybe we'll talk.” The pair sat in silence until some students entered the cafeteria, some gasping and chattering at the sight of Sunset sitting next to who had been known as her biggest rival. Some of the students that entered were Applejack and Rarity, whom were arguing over clothing. Sunset asked when they approached the table, ”What’s the matter guys?” ”Rarity won’t stop buggin’ me about mah clothin’ choice, she keeps insistin’ that ah should look more formal in ah school like this, ” Applejack answered, and Rarity retorted. ”Applejack darling, you can't deny it! This school is quite high for your clothes! At least lose the hat!” ”Look dammit, ” Noah began, ”This school is far from high if they let some group of girls take over the band room. The only good thing about this shit hole is the food, ” Noah proclaimed, instantly catching all three girls off guard. ”Either way, Applejack can wear whatever the fuck she wants, it's her body.” Applejack nodded, ”See? At least some people understand.” Rarity simply put her hands on her hips and reluctantly accepted defeat, while Sunset just stared. ”Now, can we talk about my fuckin’ necklace so I can get back to my boys?” Noah asked, and Rarity answered, “To be completely honest with you Noah, we've no idea what to do.” ”What?!” Noah shouted, ”The fuck do you mean you don't know?! Doesn't this magical shit all revolve around you?!” Noah was angrily bewildered, how can someone barely know about the very thing that makes them special? ”Relax sugar cube,” Applejack started, trying to calm Noah down. ”We're plannin’ to ask Twahlight about it... if we figure out how that is.” Noah smashed his head against the table in visible frustration, and Rarity winced. ”Doesn’t that hurt? Surely that had to hurt.” Noah waved her off as he could care less. By this time, the other members of the Rainbooms had shown up and sat down at the table. Noah asked them all if they knew anything, they answered the same as Applejack, causing him to smash his head multiple times. A moment passed and lunch had officially started, Noah and the Rainbooms went up to receive their... Noah thought for a second, Wait, what the hell is this thing called anyways? I've been going to school for eleven years and I've never learned what the fuck this thing is called... A while passed and the Rainbooms plus Noah had returned to their seats. Noah asked, ”Okay, so we need to figure out how the hell to get Twilight over here, cause I'm not doing this shit with my necklace, oh fuck no. So brainstorm, how we supposed to do this?” They all suggested ideas, starting with Pinkie, ”Oh! We could fill one of my canons with stuff and shoot it through the portal! Maybe it'll hit someone and they'll be like, ’oh noooooooo, we better get Twilight!’” Noah rolled his eyes, ”Yeah, fuck that.” ”Maybe we could sneak a drone through to find her?” Rainbow Dash proposed next, but Sunset shook her head and replied, ”That wouldn't work, they've never seen something like that over there so they'd probably capture it and that wouldn't help at all.” Applejack prepared to speak next but Noah cut her off, ”Okay, you know what? You all suck ass right now, I'm just gonna let nature take it’s stupid fucking course, and do whatever to my necklace, not like I have a damn choice.” Noah began to stand before Sunset spontaneously stood up and somewhat shouted, ”Wait! I have an idea-” Sunset was interrupted by the same three girls Noah and Sunset had shown the school to, this caught everyone's attention, including Noah who had sat down. But shortly after, he realized something... they were singing. “Battle of the Bands!” ”Shut, the fuck, up!” Noah’s voiced boomed throughout the cafeteria like a giant yelling as loud as it could. ”Why?!” Noah continued, ”Why the hell in God’s name must you fuckin’ sing?! What’s the damn point!? Nobody wants to hear your stupid asses, especially me!” A boy with abnormally sized glasses retorted, ”You’re probably just saying that cause you know you're gonna lose!” Noah swiveled around and replied, “You wanna fuckin’ bet? Say you wanna fuckin’ bet!” The boy mumbled to himself, silenced by Noah, who then replied, ”That’s what I fuckin’ thought.” He turned to the girls, he was going to resume before he was saying, but was ceased by Aria, ”What’s your problem? We're just trying to make things a little more interesting.” Noah glared at Aria for a moment as it seemed something went off in him. ”Take your trays off the table, ” he whispered, and the girls did exactly as he said, uneasy. He clutched his end of the table, he hadn't even done anything and yet students were already gasping across the room. He bent his knees and raised the table up above his head with a fierce intent. With a far cry of utter fury, Noah pushed the table with all his might and it fell on it's counter. It emitted a horrendous sound of a goliath clapping its hands. The trio could feel the air hit them straight in the face, causing Adagio to rub her eyes, blinded by the wind. Everyone was speechless from the scene that occurred in front of them, including Sunset, whose jaw dropped in awe. Just as Noah was going to continue his rant, the principal and her sister both busted through the main entrance, perplexed. They both gasped at the sight of the flipped table, but not at who had flipped it. ”Noah Rictorshine!” Celestia started, ”What in the world have you done?!” Noah replied, ”I flipped a table... duh.” ”You will not use that tone of voice towards your principal, ” Luna demanded, and Celestia added, ”My office, immediately!” Noah groaned and reluctantly followed the principals. Secretly the Rainbooms all hastily stood up and followed behind. Noah heard the fall of their footsteps behind him, he turned around and whispered, ”Why the hell are you following me?” “Those three are definitely in possession of some kind of dark magic, how else could you explain what happened back there? Also, what happened back there technically wasn't your fault. You lost it back there. We have to speak to the principals about this.” Sunset answered. ”Don’t worry Noah, we let Principal Celestia know all about this, and those girls will be kicked to the curb in no time!” Applejack added. ”Last thing she needs is another CHS event almost ruined by some power-crazed lunatic.” Applejack instantly grew red from what she so blatantly spoke of. ”Uh, no offense.” Sunset rolled her eyes and replied, ”None taken. ” Noah and the Rainbooms all followed the principals into the office. Luna unusually stood in a dark corner whilst Celestia sat at her desk. She spoke, ”I sure hope you have a reasonable explanation for that intolerable behavior back there, for goodness sake, you swore so unbelievably loud, we heard you from here! And flipping a table?! Whatever gave you the thought that was a reasonable idea?” Celestia noticed the girls when she paused, Rarity started, ”Indeed, Noah's behavior was... less than sensible, but he had quite the reason, ” ”We all do, those weirdos sisters seemed to have some sort of dark magic, ” Rainbow Dash added, Celestia stood up after this and peeked out of her window’s shades with two fingers. She questioned, “Dark magic? I find that very hard to believe. Those girls came into my office earlier and were absolutely delightful.” ”Perhaps Sunset Shimmer is just eager to make someone else out to be a bad element so that her actions at the Fall Formal will become old news.” ”I-I get why you might think that, but,” ”That’s not what happened,” Rainbow Dash cut off, ”We saw all of this go down in the cafeteria too!” ”Yes, but isn't your band supposed to be part of the musical showcase?” Celestia asked, ”Yes?” Rainbow Dash answered as if she didn't actually know how to respond. Something is wrong here, Noah thought, ”Perhaps you're all just worried The Dazzlings will steal your spotlight, ” Yeah, something is definitely fuckin’ wrong here, Noah thought again. ”The Dazzlings?” Applejack questioned, and Celestia answered, ”It's the name of their musical group. They came by my office earlier to sign up for the showcase. Even sang a little song to vice-principal Luna and I,” Noah facepalmed in genuine frustration, he knew why the principals were being unbearably difficult. ”They did?” Applejack inquired, also realizing the problem. Celestia answered, ”Yes, and we think having a battle of the bands instead is a marvelous idea.” As Celestia spoke, her and Luna’s eyes both flickered green for a second or two. The Rainbooms looked distressed while Noah was still in disbelief of this less than helpful predicament. ”But now you Noah, that's a completely different situation, your behavior in the cafeteria was unacceptable...” Noah tuned Celestia out and thought, Okay, I know where this shit’s going...maybe I can use the same trick I used in eighth grade... ”Oh snap, someone’s selling drugs out there! I'd be an absolute calamity if someone were to die on school grounds! And think of our reputation, it’d be devastated!” Noah cried in a fake woeful manner, while the other Rainbooms couldn't believe Noah was resorting to such an idiotic idea. Strangely, Celestia and Luna both thought this serious, as Celestia promptly stood up from her chair, vaulted over her desk, and burst through the door like a swat team captain. Luna quickly followed and sprinted as if a child of hers was in danger, leaving Noah and the Rainbooms alone in the room. ”Thank you, thank you, oh, oh thank you, you're too kind,” Noah flaunted, catching the Rainbooms in utter disbelief. Noah exited the school after using the bathroom, he found the Rainbooms relaxing all over the school’s statue like a college couch. He asked annoyed at their indolence, ”Nigga, what the fuck are y'all doing?” Fluttershy replied, ”I just can't believe they got to Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna too.” ”They've gotten to everybody!” Rainbow Dash added, “Not everybody!” Pinkie cheerfully corrected. ”Pinkie Pie’s right, ” Applejack started, ”We were there when the Dazzlings were singing, and we weren't affected. It was like, we were protected somehow. ” ”So let's take them down!” Rainbow Dash added, ”It’s not like we haven't tangled with dark magic before and totally whooped it's sorry butt!” Rainbow Dash quickly realized her sentence, turned to Sunset, and apologized. ”Uh, no offense.” Sunset groaned and replied, ”None taken... again.” ”But that was when Twilight was here, ” Fluttershy continued, ”There may be some kind of magic inside us that only comes out when we play music. I sure don't know how to use it to, whoop anybody’s butt.” Rarity sighed, ”If only we could get a message to Twilight. Perhaps she could tell us how to break the spell the Dazzlings have cast on our friends.” ”Well that's not going to happen, the portal’s closed,” Rainbow Dash reminded as she tossed her soccer ball she was juggling at the statue. It hit and rebounded off the wall. Unfortunately for Rarity it startled her as she was sitting with her back to the statue. It caused her to mess up her design on her nails she was making with her nail polish. She shrieked like a mother who'd just found her son doing... unholy things. ”And I get the feeling they don't have cell phones where she’s from, ” Rainbow Dash ended. Sunset thought deeply for a second and scratched her head with one finger trying to remember something, her face then flared as she remembered something of significance. She smiled and turned to the rest of them, ”I may have an idea how we can get in touch with Princess Twilig-” ”Yo! What the fuck?! Am I just nonexistent right now?! Can you dipshits just not fuckin’ hear me right now?! I asked y'all something less than a minute ago, and you act like I'm not even here! I'm pretty fuckin’ pissed if you can't tell!” Noah cut Sunset off, he couldn't believe what just happened in front of him. Applejack waved her arms in innocence and responded, ”Relax Noah! We were just deep in thought, don't get your knickers in a knot!” Noah thought for a moment before he saw Applejack giggle a little, ”I don’t know what that means but if it’s something fuckin’ stupid, I'm sticking my foot up your ass!” This remark caused all the Rainbooms to giggle for a while, Noah then questioned, ”Okay, where the hell are we with my necklace?” Sunset replied, still somewhat laughing, ”A-Aren’t you worried about the school though?” ”Nigga, fuck this school, I got better things to worry about, like my fuckin’ necklace.” Rarity spoke, ”Well, I believe Sunset was going to say she had a plan, ” Rarity looked at Sunset for acknowledgement, who nodded yes to confirm. ”Then yes we are onto something.” Noah looked at everyone and spoke, ”Well let's go and do that then.” Sunset opened her locker and dug around, she then pulled out a brown book with a symbol of a red and yellow sun intertwined. “When I was Princess Celestia’s student back in Equestria,” Sunset started and immediately bewildering Noah, ”She gave me this. ” Sunset dusted off the book to reveal a clearer picture, she continued. ”Even after I abandoned my studies, I held on to it. Deep down, I guess I knew I was making a big mistake, and I wanted to still have a way to reach out to her.” Sunset flipped through pages full of letters from and to Celestia until she landed on a blank one. She brushed the page with her hand and speculated, ”Maybe it still works.” ”That’s a book darling.” Sunset looked up, perplexed that Rarity didn't believe her. ”What do you mean, maybe it still works?” Rarity questioned, and Sunset explained. ”It used to be that if I wrote something here, it would appear in the pages of a book back in Princess Celestia’s library. I get a message to her, then she can get a message to Princess Twilight.” ”Okay, time the fuck out, this makes no goddamn sense, ” Noah started, ”How in God’s name is a book supposed to do... whatever the fuck you just said. That's literally impossible!” ”Just like magic is impossible?” Sunset retorted, and Noah replied, ”Nigga, go fuck a stocking, this shit is so absurd.” Sunset grinned, she had just spoken her mind and Noah didn't lose it on her for the first time. ”So what are you waiting for? Get to writing!” Rainbow Dash playfully demanded while waving a pen in Sunset’s face. Sunset took the pen and stared at it, she hadn't talked to Celestia in a quite a long time. How would she react? What would she think? Would she be disappointed? Sunset sighed and began to write in slight fear, she mumbled, ”Been a long time since I've written these words... Dear Princess Celestia... (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
III - Know Thy Sol (TBR)Author's Note Too Close To The Sun... I apologize as this chapter is not yet edited. III - Know Thy Sol (TBR) Utterly ridiculous, Noah thought. After packing for the sleepover and assessing his current situation, and deciding whether or not to use an inhumane way to solve it, Noah was finally prepared to head over to Pinkie Pie's house. Without a doubt in his mind, Noah didn't want to go, but something inside told him he'd regret it if he didn't, in more than one way as well. He entered his garage, his Audi, and then opened the garage door with the push of a button. Once the car's engine was ignited, Noah drove out of the garage and began down the street. "I wonder what this will be like, I've never gone to a sleepover with all girls, ” he wondered aloud. After thinking up ideas to do at the sleepover, ruinous ideas, Noah opened the center console armrest and pulled out an old CD album. The cover showed a black baby boy with an afro sitting in what appeared to be white nothingness, it read, "readytodie." Noah opened the album and slipped it into the center console's CD player, he whispered, "It was all a dream, wasn’t it?” Almost like the day was on repeat, Noah sighted Sunset on the left sidewalk carrying her book bag on her back and texting on her phone. Practically by instinct, Noah steered to the left and approached her. He rolled down his window and asked, "Going somewhere?" Sunset looked up from her phone to see Noah resting his head on his palm as his arm stood on the window frame. "Yeah, why do you ask? Aren't you going too?” Noah looked up at the sky, "I am, I guess. As a matter of fact, I don't even know why I asked. Guess that was my dumbass act of the day." Sunset tilted her head, "Dumb act of the day?" Noah answered, "Yep, been doing it since day one.” Noah eyed Sunset, she clearly wasn't tired, but Noah was feeling gracious at the moment. Or more unknowingly, looking at her. "You want a ride, half-bitch? I'd be able to oblige." Sunset showed the same face she did when he asked her that same question this morning, she questioned, "I get why you'd ask me that this morning, but why now? Don't you hate me?" "Oh I do, but I want a full audience immediately for when I kick ass on Pinkie's gaming system. It'll be fuckin' laughable." Sunset looked away, she then texted the girls she'd be there sooner than expected, Pinkie replied with a thousand happy emojis. "Okay, no reason in turning down an offer after all," Sunset said as she strolled over to the passenger side of the supercar and entered. She turned to Noah who was currently texting on his phone, "So, are we gonna go now or?" Noah turned his head, "Don't rush me damn it, we've more than enough time. As a matter of fact, strap yourself in, we're hauling ass." Once he finished speaking, Noah opened the center console armrest, grabbed a key from the compartment above the armrest, stuck the key into the keyhole in the armrest, and twisted it to the right. "What did that do?" Sunset asked and Noah answered, "That just disabled the car's street-legal limit, meaning it can go as fast as it can now instead of normal public road speeds." Sunset asked again, "And how fast is tha-” "Two hundred and five miles-per-hour.” Hearing this, Sunset scrambled to strap on her seatbelt and grabbed the roof handle to her right with both hands, "Are you insane?! You're gonna crash without a doubt! Just because you have a fast car doesn't mean you go off the deep end with it!" Sunset screamed, her face flaring with fear. Noah turned to Sunset once again and replied, "Sunset, there are two kinds of people in this world with fast cars: Prosperous niggas, and skilled drivers." This caught Sunset's attention, as her grip loosened on the handle. Noah continued, "A while back, say, four years ago, there was this event in Great Britain called the Horizon Festival. My family went to Great Britain, but they didn't participate because they had bigger things to do, not me though.” ”When we were passing by the main site, I saw that they were giving away this very car we sit in for free to whoever could win a series of races. Long story short, I snuck out of our rented house, lied about my age, took part in the races, and won with my Dad's car, a 2017 Chevy Impala.” ”They couldn't believe it when they saw this sexy motherfucker in the driveway. I got to keep it, and I gave my parents and older sister the prize money since all I wanted was the car. Of course, I needed to be much older if I really wanted to drive it." Noah turned to Sunset intending to continue, but he realized she had gotten close as he told his story. Her hands were now gripping the bottom of the seat, and she was leaning towards him, close enough that he could feel her quiet breaths. "Nigga, I'm gonna have to ask you to back the fuck up," Noah requested. Sunset zoned back and realized how close she was, she moved back into her seat and apologized. "So, you're basically saying we'll be fine?" Sunset questioned, and Noah answered, "Yes, half-bitch, that's what I'm saying." Without warning, Noah stomped on the acceleration pedal, and the car advanced forward with ease. Sunset screeched, crumpled into a ball in her seat, and grabbed the roof handle with both hands. The car was remarkably deafening as it sped down the street at its incredible speed. "Oh my gosh! This is nuts! Absolutely nuts!" Sunset screamed, and Noah replied, "Oh, grow some balls and enjoy the ride you pussy!" It'd been less than five minutes when Noah and Sunset arrived at Pinkie's house. "See? Wasn't that fun?" Noah questioned Sunset as she trembled with fear. She slowly and carefully exited the speed demon and laid on the floor in fear, muttering to herself like a mental hospital patient. Noah walked over to the petrified Sunset and spoke, "Negro, get off the damn floor. You're being overdramatic." Sunset gently stood up off the floor and replied while holding herself, "O-Overdramatic? A-Are you s-serious? T-That type of s-speed m-may be normal to you, b-but to a normal p-person, t-that was... insane!" Noah rolled his eyes, "Yeah, whatever ya bum. Now get switched up, we've got a slumber party to attend." Noah stepped behind Sunset as he spoke and urged her to start moving by pushing her forward. She responded by steadily sauntering to the front door of Pinkie's house. As Noah was just about to knock, the door flung open to reveal Pinkie standing with an excited grin on her face. "Hey guys! I'm sooo happy to see you've made it!" Noah stood back to keep his distance from the energetic Pinkie, while Sunset embraced Pinkie with a hug. I swear, she must be on fuckin' cocaine, Noah thought. "You guys can take a seat on the couch and get ready for the best, most awesomest, sleepover ever!" Pinkie spoke, "Pretty damn sure “awesomest” isn't a word," Noah replied, but not loud enough for Pinkie to hear. He and Sunset proceeded to take a seat next to each other on the loveseat. "Why are you next to me," Noah questioned, instantly bothered. "The couch is covered with all of Pinkie's stuff, I can't just sit on it," Sunset answered, causing Noah to groan. The two sat in silence as Pinkie prepped the rest of the house with snacks and such. Noah peered over at Sunset, she was wearing that same leather jacket with a cyan shirt underneath, black slim sweatpants, and simple sneakers. It seemed that she never took off that jacket. Not once had Noah ever seen her without it, but that was going to change tonight... as in seeing her in bedclothes. He, on the other hand, was wearing the same clothes from this morning. A white Adidas hoodie, black jeans, and black, white, and red high tops, also from Adidas. Noah looked up to gaze at Sunset's face to find she was also eyeing him. Then, as Sunset looked up to examine his face, she found him staring at her like she was a crazy woman. Sunset blushed and quickly blurted out in hopes of not being weird, "What?! D-Don't think I didn't see you checking me out either!" Noah responded, "I wouldn't call it, ’checking out.’ Just pondering why you always wear that same fuckin' jacket." Sunset gripped at her jacket and replied, "I like this jacket, okay? Is that a crime now?" Noah answered, "No, you just look like some sort of renegade. Which you aren't, you're a half-bitch." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Are you going to do this all night? Because if so, I don't think I'll be getting any sleep." "Lighten up damn it, I was just fuckin' around," Noah replied. He then went back to eyeing Sunset while she mumbled to herself. An hour or two had passed, and everyone had settled in Pinkie's bedroom. Fluttershy caressed Spike, like a dog, Pinkie was on her laptop, Rarity and Sunset were conversing, Applejack And Dash were playing an old video game, and Noah laid parallel to Twilight who wrote in a notebook. "Holy shit, I'm bored," Noah whispered to himself. He sat up and asked Twilight, "Hell are you reading?" She looked up and replied, "I'm not reading, I'm thinking of lyrics for the auditions." Noah crossed his legs, "You know, you still can just let me take care of them. I will either way so you might as well just give the go ahead." Twilight tilted her head, "What do you mean?" "Twilight, I've had it up to here with this school," Noah answered whilst sticking his right hand far above his head to prove a point. "All of a sudden, three pricks show up, brainwash the damn school, and now all I'm gonna be hearing is fuckers claiming they're better than me. So give me one damn reason why I can't fuck 'em up." "Because it's against the rules?" Twilight replied, "Besides, as we said, they're probably immune to your bullets." Noah thought for a moment, "Then I'll just beat the shit out of 'em. If I'm right, and I hopeI am, it’d be fuckin’ sick, this shit in my necklace should give me the ability to do hella badass things. They may be immune to bullets, but what about an electric guitar to their small intestine?" Twilight cringed, "Goodness, do not do that! I wouldn't do that to my worst enemy!” Noah grinned, "I would, besides, you said it yourself. They caused chaos in your world. They don't deserve the luxury of death." "That doesn't seem very luxurious to me, and you're kinda starting to creep me out, so let's change the subject! Sunset Shimmer maybe?" Noah casually turned his head to face Twilight and stared like a serial killer, "No." Twilight snickered, “W-Why not? She may have been corrupted during the Fall Formal and ever since you first met her, but I bet if you give her a chance now, you could become good, or maybe even best, friends. Who knows, Sunset doesn't have a personality that stands out like the girls and I, so I bet that could make even a special relationship work like a charm." Noah did not respond, he gaped at her with utter bafflement and horror. Not only that, but he was internally screaming, afraid that if he opened his mouth, someone could, no, would go deaf. "I-I was just messing around! Relax! But seriously, if you demoralize her any further, it could have devastating repercussions," Twilight continued, before returning to her notebook. Noah perked up to hear Rainbow smacking the video game console, "Hey, I was about to beat ya!" Applejack bemoaned, "Nah, I doubt it," Rainbow replied. "So Twilight," She began, looking up at her, "How's that counterspell comin'?" Twilight grew nervous. "Huh? Oh, uh, good! Great. Thanks for letting me use your notebook, Fluttershy. I really like the song you wrote for the Rainbooms." "Thanks," Fluttershy replied, pulling now her stuffed crocodile into a tighter embrace. "Hopefully one day we'll get a chance to play it," she muttered. Rarity plopped onto the bed, causing Noah to fall on his face next to Sunset. "Goddamn it! What the hell?!" Noah shouted. "Well pardon me, I need to speak with Twilight," Rarity responded. Sunset inspected him, "Are you alright?" "What do you think?" He replied, annoyed. "Is it so hard to speak to me without anger in your eyes?" Sunset asked, Noah answered, "Why don't you ask Fall?" Sunset shrunk back and held her sides in regret. ''That's what I fuckin' thought." "Now then, Twilight, I think I speak for all of us when I say: I don't know what we would've done if you hadn't come back to help us." Rarity continued, along with the rest of the girls agreeing. A moment after, the doorbell rang, "Pizza's here!" Pinkie exclaimed, causing Noah to shoot up, "Do they have wings? Did you order fuckin' wings!?" Pinkie nodded so much, it seemed painful. "Fuck yes! Outta my way!" Noah shouted as he ran towards the front door. When he reached the front door, he swung it open and promptly grabbed the wings on top of the stack of pizzas the delivery man was holding. "Thank you, my nigga," He appreciated before running to the dining room table with the box of fresh hot wings. While the rest of the girls, except Twilight who stayed upstairs to finish writing, chowed down on delectable slices of the Italian meal, Noah ate away at multiple wings as if he'd been homesick. A while later though, Sunset sat on the bench nearby and opened her phone. Noah thought for a moment before offering, "You want some? You know, before I eat them all?" Sunset looked up from her phone and at Noah, she answered, ”Well, I don't really eat meats, but thank you for offer-” "My nigga, what? Who the hell doesn't like meat?" Sunset shrugged and replied, ”Well, since I come from Equestria like Twilight, we typically don't eat meat because... Well, because we don't I guess.” Noah thought back again before asking, ”Well, what about the pizza, why didn't you have any of that?” ”I don't know, I'm just, not really hungry that right now,” Sunset answered, and Noah once again thought back. ”Why don't you make yourself a PB and J?” Sunset tilted her head, ”Those sandwiches they make in the cafeteria? I mean... Maybe, but I don't know how... Could you maybe, help me?” ”My nigga, it's two slices of bread slathered with either peanut butter or jelly on one side, just do that and put ’em together, I have ’em all the time when I come home from school, it's not goddamn rocket science.” ”Oh, ” Sunset replied, somewhat sad, and entered the kitchen to make the sandwich, of course, she asked Pinkie Pie first. It was presently nightfall, 10:49 to be exact. Noah sat up, plugged his phone back into his charger, and exited Pinkie's room carefully, stepping on any of the girls made him fear that he'd never get back to sleep. He entered the kitchen to see Twilight leaving, some pale girl with purple hair feeding crackers to a rock, and Sunset rummaging through the fridge for something. I'm not even gonna ask, Noah thought. He sat down at the island and questioned, "Is there any seltzer in there? Kinda thirsty, so I'd like a drink." Sunset promptly turned around confused, she didn't notice Noah enter. She looked back at the fridge, there was one more can left. "Noah, we need to talk," she stated, causing Noah to lose his train of thought on whatever it was he was thinking about. "Talk about what? What do we need to talk about?" Sunset turned to face Noah completely, "Listen, Noah, I know we have a horrible history, and I know I've done things to your friend, heck, even I'm repulsed at it. But I think if we're going to work together to stop the Sirens and repair your necklace, we, well, you, need to put the past where it belongs, in the past. I desperately want to make it up to everyone I've hurt, that includes you and your friends, but like someone special once told me, it's best to begin with the unbreakable." Noah stared at Sunset, he wasn't exactly sure how to respond. He thought long and hard before eventually replying, "If I do this, I have your word that you'll make amends, indubitably?" Sunset slowly nodded, "It's the right thing to do." Noah stood up, he stared once again, considering her thought intensely. He grinned, "Alright half-bitch, we'll stop these fuck-nuts, and you'll walk away redeemed, if that's what you want." Sunset smiled, "Without a doubt. Oh, by the way," she replied, twisting on her heels to face the fridge. "Here's that seltzer you asked for, it's HeTap." Noah leaped upon the table and landed on his stomach, "Hell yeah! Give me that shit!" Sunset took a step back so she wasn't hit, once he had landed, she handed him the can, a bit shook. Noah sat up on the table with his legs hanging off the side of the table, opened the can, and chugged down the carbonated water. Sunset began to leave before Noah called out, "Oi, tell me, what the hell is this, Equestria, you and Twilight have spoken of? I'm unusually curious." Sunset unhesitantly whipped around and hopped onto the table next to Noah. "Equestria is this astonishing world packed to the brim of various creatures! I grew up there as a unicorn and lived in this gorgeous and fascinating city called Canterlot!-" Noah put a finger to Sunset's lips, "Negro, please, slow the fuck down. I don't need your damn backstory, just tell me about the planet as a whole." "Well, Equestria is a kingdom, not a planet," Sunset answered, and Noah replied, "Kingdom? What, like, medieval shit?" Sunset nodded, "That's probably hella gay. You may not think so, but a federal system is much better than a fuckin' kingdom. Wouldn't someone get apprehended for calling the king or a queen a piece of shit in this kingdom?" "No, it's not that strict," Sunset answered. "Okay, so, who's the king or queen of this kingdom?" "Well, actually, Equestria doesn't have a king or queen. It has two princesses." Noah itched his head with one finger, "Wait a minute, wouldn't that make it a princessdom? Because I'm pretty sure princesses can't rule a kingdom." "Well you see... uh... well... I've actually never even thought about that. Actually, I don't think anyone has thought about that," Sunset answered, and Noah responded, "So you're telling me, nobody has ever questioned why they're being ruled by the children of the king and queen? It sounds a lot like your entire country is fuckin' retarded." "Noah! That's offensive, Don't say that!" Noah rolled his eyes, "Fine, let me reiterate, ''It sounds like your entire country is fuckin' slow'', better?" Sunset then rolled her eyes, "Not even close, but you don't care, do you?" "Can we get back to your country? How long has this shit been going on?" Noah asked, and Sunset answered, "I'm not sure, ten thousand years?" Noah crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow, "You're telling me your nation has lived under near centuries of princesses and princes, and never once considered why they weren't kings or queens?" "Well, there's only been two princesses in that period of time," Sunset answered, and Noah's face contorted into unadulterated stupefaction. "Let me get this shit straight, you're entire fuckin' country has been ruled by two, count 'em, two princesses in the span of a motherfuckin’ myriannum?" Sunset scratched the back of her head, "Well when you say it like that, it sounds silly." "Yeah, no shit sherlock. Are you telling me these princesses are immortals?" Noah asked, and Sunset answered, "Yep, and you wanna know something else crazy?" Noah raised an eyebrow at her again, "The princesses are the same as the principals from our school, Celestia and Luna!" Noah spit out the seltzer he was sipping and grabbed Sunset's shoulders in disbelief, unintentionally pulling her close "Hold the goddamn phone, Principal White Shaq and Blueface are fuckin' princesses?! You've gotta be shitting me!" "Nope," Sunset replied, oblivious to how close she now was with him, "I'm telling the truth, one hundred percent." Noah let go of Sunset and held his head with both hands, "That's crazy, what the actual fuck." "Another thing about Equestria is that it's basically a parallel world to this one. The only difference here is that it's in the Modern Ages while Equestria is in the Middle Ages... kinda." Noah let go of his head, "So, there's a version of yours truly over there?" Sunset nodded. "Interesting, not gonna lie at all," Noah replied. Sunset crossed her legs, "So, tell me about you! I know that you aren't from this country, so learning about you should be even more interesting." "Me? Well shit, I don't know where to start." Noah thought for a moment, "Well, I was born on September 25th, 2003 in East Duggensville, Pennsylvania. My family was the Christians, I changed my last name when I got here if you're wondering. My family consisted of my mother: Allison Christian, my father: William Christian, my elder brother: Nicholas Christian, my older sister: Nia Christian, my older brother: Nolan Christian, My younger sister: Noelle Christian, and my grandmother: Lydia Garnett. We were a very nice and loving family, a little rough around the edges with my younger sister becoming a teen, but we prevailed regardless. Unlike your world being full of magic and shit, the only magic we, and the entirety of the planet that you've never seen, have ever had is science and illusions. The lives of my people are pleasant and delightful, but they can become the coldest thing we've ever experienced with a single word or action. Sadly, there's more bad than good where I come from, horrible things that still go on to this day that I pray you never have to experience. Actually, define terrorism." Sunset cocked her head, "Terrorism? I...I don't think I've ever heard of that word before." Noah smiled, "Good, hopefully, you should never have to know what it is, or experience it. You see Sunset, my part of the world is packed to the brim of despicable people, and judging from what you've said, I'm guessing you only have a handful.” Sunset nodded, "Yeah, I guess my world is heaven compared to yours. Now I'm not sure if I ever want to se-" "Don't," Noah cut off, "Never, leave this country, ever. There are some things in life that nobody should ever have to see, including your people." Sunset looked down, "Oh... I didn't know it was that bad," Noah crossed his arms, "You'd be surprised, kid." "Kid?" Sunset looked back at Noah, confused, "I'm the same age as you! As a matter of fact, I'm older than you! I was born on June 16th, 2002, so why the heck are you calling me a kid?!" "Nigga calm your tits," Noah replied, and Sunset blushed, "It's just an old nickname that I called girls who were my friends, and since most of my friends are dudes, I haven't called anybody that in a long time." Sunset rubbed the back of her neck, "Oh..." She then perked up again, "We're friends?! Yes! And all it took was plain and simple small talk." "Yeah, sure, half-bitch," Noah replied, causing Sunset to groan in annoyance. "Alright, I'm gonna take a piss and go to bed. Nice talking to ya half-bitch," Noah spoke before hopping off the island and leaving the kitchen for the bathroom. Progress, Sunset thought, indisputable progress. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
PART 2: IV - To Learn of Monsters & Magic (TBR)Author's Note A Place Called Home... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. PART 2: IV - To Learn of Monsters & Magic (TBR) Noah wearily opened his eyes to see the sun shining directly in his face. He closed his eyes again to try and fall asleep by digging into his sleeping bag, but he was too slumberous to move the rest of his body for shelter. Giving in to the unrelenting glare of the star, he sat up, rubbed his eyes with one hand, and yawned for a moment or two. He looked to his right to see his phone plugged in. He grabbed it, stood up out of the sleeping bag, and stretched before heading downstairs. Goddamn, I slept like a log last night, Noah thought. Who knew sleeping at a girls house could have one sleeping so well. Noah finally reached the lower floor and entered the kitchen. He opened the fridge to find just what he wanted, "Eggs," Noah mumbled, "The perfect food to go along with bacon, if it's here, that is." Noah searched the fridge after and smiled, there was bacon inside. He sluggishly grabbed the case of bacon along with four eggs, grabbed a paper towel from on the island, and laid them all out. "Okay, time for some breakfast." Sunset awoke to the sound of bacon being fried along with its smell tickling her nose. She stood up and out of her sleeping bag before heading downstairs. The floorboards creaked at the sound of her steps on the carpet as she walked down the steps towards the delightful smell of breakfast. She reached the bottom of the steps and turned to see Noah taking pieces of cooked bacon out of a pan on top of Pinkie's stove and onto a nearby plate. She entered the kitchen and asked, confused, "So, you're the one making breakfast. I thought you were Pinkie, but I bet if I go back up there she's fast asleep." Noah turned around to meet Sunset's tired gaze and replied, "Yeah, I was just hungry as hell, Saturdays usually do that to me. How'd you sleep half-bitch?" "Like a baby, but honestly, I couldn't stop thinking about what you said last night, your world really must be something, huh?" Sunset answered, and Noah replied, "Like a completely different planet." Sunset took a seat at the island and pulled out her phone. Finishing the eggs, Noah asked, "Hey, you want some? I suddenly don't feel like eating all of this myself." Sunset chuckled, "You were gonna eat all of that yourself? That must be some stomach of yours." Noah rolled his eyes, "You want some or not half-bitch?" "Yeah, yeah, I'll take some," Sunset quickly answered, not trying to put him in a bad mood so early in the morning. Noah then grabbed two pieces of bacon and put it on the nearby plate. Next, he split the eggs in half and put the right half on the plate, the pan hissing as he did so. "Order up," Noah announced as he slid the plate towards Sunset. "Thank you," Sunset replied, thankful. Sunset eyed the delicious meal in front of her, it looked heavenly, as if it was straight from God's kitchen. Her hand hovered over a piece of bacon before she realized something. "Um, can I have a fork? I just realized I don't have one." Noah turned around from his plate he was making and responded, "Oh, how the fuck did I miss that?" He then sought through Pinkie's drawers that seemed to never end before eventually finding the silverware. "Found ya basterds," he said triumphantly before grabbing two forks and putting one on his plate, and handing the other to Sunset. "Thank you, again," she said before eating the fantastic yet simple breakfast offered to her. Noah grabbed the plate he finished making and took a seat next to Sunset. He turned to her, she was loving what he had prepared, practically devouring it, practically. Noah then unlocked his phone and opened Twitter, it was how he stayed in contact with his home, specifically his country. He swiped to the trending tab and was taken aback, "Holy shit." Sunset directed her attention from her breakfast to Noah, curious as to what he'd seen. "What is it? What happened?' She asked, and Noah replied, "The president was assassinated." "What does it mean to be assassinated?" Sunset asked, and Noah turned to her, confused. "You don't even know what assassinated means? How fucking happy-go-lucky is your planet?" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Can you just tell me? If you're saying I should know what that is regardless, then it must be important." Noah sighed. "Assassination is the murder of an important person in a surprise attack for a political or religious reason, unless they're just a son of a bitch." Sunset's face grew in disbelief, she just couldn't believe what he'd said. Murdering someone for politics? She didn't know what religion was though, but it sounded equally important. "What level of importance?” She asked, and Noah replied. "Well in your terms, I'd say as high as Princess Celestia herself." This caught Sunset wildly off guard as she gasped in horror and hysteria, murdering the princess? Could that even be done? and if so, who could do such a thing? The princess is just too valuable, without her, who will raise the sun? Well, maybe Luna could do that, but still. ”That's unreal, you must be joking!" Sunset replied, shouting but not exactly. "Not even a little, and if the president's been murdered, America is incredibly vulnerable, unless the vice president decides to grow some balls and come out of hiding," Noah replied. "Your world really is something, isn't it Noah?" "Indeed Sunset, without a goddamn doubt." It was now noon, and everyone, except spike who was sleeping upstairs, was relaxing in the living room watching TV, using their phone, or playing a board game. Except for Twilight who was actually writing for real. Noah sat next to Sunset again on the loveseat, Twilight on the couch by herself, Rarity and Applejack on the other loveseat, and Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy were on the ground playing Jenga. What played on the TV was a type of adult cartoon Noah brought, and Sunset was bewildered at the antics that played out in each episode. How can such a fat person do so many things every day? And a talking baby and dog? What is this show? Sunset questioned the existence of this show while Noah chuckled at every joke. "Noah," Rarity began, "I looked up that M82 thing you were talking about, and this thing looks monstrous! It is a gun, yes, but what type? I'm strangely curious." Noah stopped watching the show and turned to Rarity, she was holding out her phone and on it showed a massive and heavy-looking black rifle that stretched as long as a normal adult’s height. "It's a sniper rifle, the strongest of its kind to be exact. It could take a person's head off from four miles away, as long as you can withstand the insane recoil." Rarity's jaw dropped, "Someone's entire head? goodness gracious, that's absurd!" "Well, that's technology for you, as a matter of fact, I own one." Rarity's jaw dropped even more, "You own one of those monstrosities?" Noah nodded, and Rarity held her head together in shock. ”Hey Noah, I know you told me I wouldn't want to know about it but, I really wanna know what terrorism is. It's probably horrendous and pales in comparison to what you told me this morning, but the curiosity has been killing me," Sunset asked. "What in the hay is terrorism?" Applejack asked, intrigued. "Indeed, it sounds awful, I'd love to hear it! As long as it isn't too awful of course," Rarity added, also intrigued. "Is it some sort of epic party? The ultimate party?!" Pinkie asked as well. "No way, gotta be some sort of... eh, I don't know, something cool though, right?" Rainbow Dash also asked. "Is it some sort of forbidden magic or science?" Twilight also asked. "Is it committing acts of good maybe?" Fluttershy also asked. Noah thought to himself, No way in hell am I gonna be able to get it through their heads with just words, especially because of all their different personalities... I know. "Pinkie, can I pair up to your TV for a sec'?" Noah asked, and Pinkie answered, "Well of course! Duh!" Pressing a few buttons on his phone, Noah pulled up an old video on the TV, the format didn’t even match the screen. The video displayed two tall buildings in a city in the morning. Everyone stared for awhile waiting for something to happen, eventually, Rainbow Dash questioned, "Is this terrorism? Because if so, I'm bored of it. it's just a building on fire, no biggy. It’s probably fake anyway." "Relax Rainbow and watch the fuckin' video because it's what y'all asked for," Noah replied, and Rainbow groaned in irritation. Not long after, Rarity spotted something, "Oh! Well, hello there plane." "Plane? So that's what that's called," Twilight realized, before squinting to notice something unusual. "Wait, what's with its trajectory? It seems to be heading straight for the... wait a second." "What? What's the big idea? I don't...” Applejack added, also noticing the plane's deadly destination. One by one, each of the girls caught on to where the plane was headed, but it couldn't be, could it? The plane inched closer and closer until... ... "NO!!” ... In utter terror, Sunset shrieked the vociferation followed by the girls screaming, petrified. The plane had hit the south tower and exploded in a fiery inferno. They sat as still as a stone, hundreds, near thousands of lives were just lost right in front of them. It was unimaginable, none of them could even believe that what just happened occurred in real life. Noah eyed each of the girls, starting with Sunset. She was holding her mouth shut while staring intently at the television. Twilight had dropped the notebook she'd been writing in and was frozen while gaping. Applejack had taken off her hat and was running a hand through her hair with a startled look on her face, while Rarity was holding her mouth shut with both hands. Rainbow Dash, ran two hands through her hair and stared, highly disturbed. Fluttershy was covering her face as soon as she heard the explosion, while Pinkie simply stared and a single tear slowly ran down her face, the innocence in her eyes gone as if it never even existed. Noah turned off the TV and unpaired his phone, judging from their expressions, they didn't need to see the rest. "So… what do y’all think?," Noah spoke up, but the girls didn't reply, they held their expressions like a deer in headlights. Eventually, Sunset did speak up, her voice cracking. "What... was... that..." "That, was terrorism, and you just witnessed it at its worst. The attack which you just witnessed was labeled 9/11, what fully happened that day was two planes hit the north and south buildings of the World Trade Center. Later, a plane hit the Pentagon, then another plane that was supposed to hit something, I don't remember, crashed in a field in Pennsylvania as the passengers desperately tried to regain control.” “A while after, the North Tower collapsed, then, the south tower. I want you to also note that the planes used in this weren't little private jets or some shit, they were all Boeing 747s, the fourth-largest planes in the world that hold up to three hundred and sixty-six passengers per flight.” “The total death toll was three thousand and fifteen people, and fifty thousand people were injured, fatal and non-fatal alike.“ The girls now sat looking down in terror, Fluttershy was trying to calm Pinkie Pie down, while Twilight slowly picked up the notebook and regained composure. “Why?” Noah turned to whom had spoken to see Rainbow Dash looking down at her hands as they laid lifeless on her lap. "I've been asking the same damn question my whole life," Noah answered whilst crossing his arms and settling back into the loveseat. "Bullshit," Rainbow replied, balling her hands into a fist. "People don't just do things, everything has a reason for it!" Noah was taken aback a bit at Rainbow's use of words, not at all expecting her to swear. "I'm sorry Dash, but there are some things in this world we can't explain. I, and the rest of my people have wondered for millennia why people do such things. But at the end of the day, all we can really say is: Ain't that a bitch." Rainbow Dash looked back down at her palms again, not sure how to reply, or what to even think. ”You said millennia, these types of scenarios have occurred in your part of the world for thousands of years?" Twilight questioned, and Noah answered. "Yep, for as long as we can remember, terrorism has been around since the very first century. Yet after all this time, we still don't understand why. It's like questioning existence itself." "That sounds awful, I can't even begin to imagine such carnage. If your people are capable of this, I can't even begin to imagine what type of wars you have. But surely, the only evil people in your world are the bad people themselves. There's no way a leader from your world could see all of that and enjoy it. Unlike my world." Twilight replied. When Twilight looked back at Noah, she saw his head had tilted to the left with an expression that easily read, are you sure about that? "You're kidding," Sunset said, she also noticed Noah's expression and was dismissing Noah of whatever he was getting at. "It's not that simple nigga, all species fight. What should be surprising is that you guys have wars.“ “You guys live in a world filled with candy and rainbows, and yet, even you have conflict." "Well, ah'm gonna take a shot in the dark and say your wars are even worse than ours," Applejack guessed, and Noah replied. "Unless you guys dropped a bomb with a blast radius of one point three thousand kilometers on a Japanese city or reduced entire forest to barren wastelands and wasted eight-five million lives fighting for objectives that we never even should've had to fight to get in the first place, then I'd say we aren't that different." The girls stared in untarnished horror, explosives stretching one point three thousand kilometers? Entire forests demolished? Eighty-five million lives lost?! It couldn't be true. "You... you're lying... how... how can... how can people even do that?!" Pinkie cried out, she'd become so sad it seemed she was becoming unstable. "Okay, look, clearly this topic is getting to you all, and I'm not gonna waste my Saturday calming a bunch of teens the fuck down," Noah declared. "Why don't we play some Jenga? Nothing harmful about a rage-inducing board game." Noah then motioned to Sunset to join him as he left the loveseat and began resetting the game board. Eventually, the others joined in, nobody wanted to continue the current discussion, especially Pinkie. "I've an idea, Twilight, why don't you explain that shitshow that occurred when half-bitch over here went mad," Noah asked, and Sunset groaned in annoyance. "At the Fall Formal?" Twilight questioned. "No, that time some kid stuck their foot up a bear's ass, no shit the fuckin' Fall Formal!" Noah replied, himself annoyed. "Look, she just forgot, no need to get angry," Applejack said, defending Twilight. "Yeah yeah, whatever. But seriously, I don't understand how that spectacle I witnessed could even exist!" "Well, what happened is that when Sunset put on the tiara, she gained the power of the magic inside. With that much at her disposal, she was able to manipulate the students and tear a hole in the school's front entrance. But after she explained her final intents, and you shooting her, she fired that large sphere of magic at us expecting to kill us. But it didn't work, when the magic made contact with us, it activated our own magic, our friendship magic. With it, we were able to defeat her by combining the power of all six elements into an immense beam of pure friendship." Noah scratched the side of his chin, "My nigga, what? Elements? Friendship magic? This went from a supervillain's evil ultimate plan reveal to the dumbest episode of Spongebob in existence." "W-What? That sounds awesome!" Retorted Rainbow Dash, color had returned to her face. "My nigga, you know nothing about the word. That's not called awesome, that's called cringe," Noah replied. "But I'm still confused, what the hell are these elements?" "The elements I'm talking about are called the Elements of Harmony. Six gems that are packed to the brim with tremendous power that can only be activated by what the element stands for," Twilight answered. "And that would be?" Noah asked, and Twilight answered. As she spoke, she pointed at her friends. "Loyalty," she pointed to Rainbow Dash. "Generosity," she pointed to Rarity. "Honesty," she pointed to Applejack. "Laughter," she pointed to Pinkie Pie. "Kindness," she pointed to Fluttershy. "And magic," she rested her hand upon her heart. "So, these elements basically are the characteristics of one who does good?" Noah asked, and Twilight nodded yes. He thought for a moment as he scratched his chin again, he then asked, "Would... would you say these characteristics are that of one who is righteous carries within themselves?" Twilight nodded again. "So... say there was this so-called super element that was all of the original elements combined into one. Is there a chance, a fuckin' sliver, that something like that could exist outside of the original elements?" Noah inquired. This had made Twilight think strenuously, A super element? Is there a chance that could exist? "Well," Twilight began, "Perhaps there could be a chance, but it might be so old, not even Starswirl the Bearded knows it exists. It could probably be lost to time. Not only that, but it's is a very odd question, why do you ask?" Noah reached into his shirt and revealed his keychain once again. It was glowing so bright it had left a mark on Noah's chest. "That's right! Your keychain... wait, a-are you saying that?-" "No way," Sunset cut off, "To even be considered that, you'd have to have all the qualities that the elements represent. No offense Noah, but you're the last person I know to be capable of righteousness." "Oh go fuck yourself, Sunset," Noah responded angrily, but deep down, he felt it was a longshot. "Whatever, now, tell me about this magic." "Can we just play the game? You guys are talking about stuff that half-interest me, and half isn't enough," Rainbow Dash complained. "Sorry, sorry, Noah, do you wanna talk over at the dining room table?" Asked Twilight, and Noah replied, "A'ight." Twilight stood up and walked over to the dining room table with Noah following behind, hands in the pockets of his second pair of black jeans. Sunset watched with curiosity and thought, why does he care so much? Pretty sure he isn't a scientist or something, so, what gives? Noah took a seat next to Twilight when he entered the dining room behind her. "Okay, now tell me about this magic," He said, as they returned to the conversation. "Okay, well, it's kinda hard to explain," she replied. "Just spit it out, I'll piece it together from there," Noah responded. "Okay," Twilight started. "Well, magic is basically what fuels our world. Without it, many things wouldn't be possible. Every creature has it within them, but only unicorns can bend it at their will." "Unicorns?" Noah questioned, and Twilight replied, "Yep, in Equestria, there are four types of ponies. Earth Ponies, Pegasuses, Unicorns, and Alicorns. Unicorns are born with a horn on their head that allows them to bend magic to their will. Pegasuses are born with wings allowing them to fly. Earth Ponies are simply normal ponies with no other features. And alicorns are a special type of ponies that have both wings and horns. So far, the only known alicorns in existence are Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadence, and myself." Noah scratched the side of his chin again, "Jesus, and yet, all of humanity thought you guys were myths for the longest time." Twilight tilted her head, "W-Wait, you've heard of us before?" Noah nodded yes, "Earth ponies do exist in our world, but motherfuckin' unicorns and pegasuses? Those legends are as old as mankind itself.” "You won't believe this, but we thought you were the myths since the dawn of ponykind," Twilight replied, and Noah was bewildered. How the hell does this planet have so many similarities to Earth? , He thought. "Is your planet called Earth too? Sunset might've told me yesterday night, but I kinda forgot. Twilight shook her head, "No, our planet is called Equis." Great, more things that don't make sense, Noah thought. "Why is your planet's name the same as this country?" He asked, and Twilight answered. "I don't know, our worlds are definitely connected, but I just don't understand why." "You know what, I don't care. Now what the hell is this magic?" Noah asked again, raising his voice a little. "Okay, okay, calm down," Twilight replied. "Magic allows us to use spells, to move multiple things around at once, like psychokinesis. It also allows us to concentrate on what we have and gather enough energy to create a weapon of pure energy in multiple forms, whether it be spears and swords, or a beam of pure magic, like what Sunset threw at us at the Fall Formal." "Oh, so, kinda like Dragon Ball Z? A-Actually, don't answer that," Noah responded, causing Twilight to tilt her head, confused. "Um, okay? So, is that all your questions? Because I'd like to ask you some questions now if that's alright with you." "Yeah, shoot," Noah answered. "Okay, well, what is it like? To live in your world?" Noah crossed his arms, "I mean, it's alright. The only thing I truly loved over there was my family and friends, and that's a deep love. Well, a family and friends type love, I gave up on that other love a long time ago, those hoes are all the same, you know? No, you don't, but that's not a big deal.” “So explaining the world entirely? Shit's fuckin’ wow, they've got this crazy-ass virus taking the world by storm right now. Hong Kong, a city in the east, is on fuckin' fire, some dumbass leader is bombing or gassing his own people, not sure which, and for fuck's sake, the third world war almost started this year! And with the President dead, God knows what the fuck will happen now." Noah's eyes returned to Twilight and she was leaning back with wide eyes of her own. "Too much for ya, Twi?" he chuckled, and she replied. "Well, yes! Noah, no offense, but your world sounds awful! Surely there are good times, right?" "Twilight, that was all this year, kinda but, I don't care. Horrid things have occurred in my world for eons. But, indeed, there is some good. But, just like the news, nobody gives a shit about the good in the world. I don't know why, it's just the way we are, but it's the little things in life that matter, right?" Twilight nervously chuckled, "U-Um, y-yeah, right. Do you wanna head back now?" Noah shrugged, "Yeah, sure." Noah continued to pack up his stuff as he was preparing to leave Pinkie's house for his own. He grabbed everything inside the room, his socks, his shirts, his pants, his underwear, and his hoodie. Quite the sleepover this was, Noah thought, I hope I didn't scar any of them for the rest of their lives... Eh, they'll be fine. Noah picked up his briefcase after zipping it up and began to roll it out of the room. He rolled it down the bumpy stairs and entered the living room whereas he saw Rarity showing Applejack something on her phone. "The fuck? Where'd the other five of you go?" Noah asked, and both Applejack and Rarity looked up from the phone to answer. "Twilight went somewhere, Rainbow Dash went home-" answered Rarity. "Fluttershy just left, Sunset's using the bathroom upstairs," answered Applejack. "And Pinkie's down in the basement," the two of them answered at the same time. The three of their faces changed from normal to confused almost instantly. "Did we just say that at the same time?" Asked Applejack looking at Rarity, who replied, "I... I think so. That's something that normally occurs in movies. How strange." They continued to stare at each other before happily giggling at what had just occurred. Indeed, it was quite strange for something like that to occur in real life, but they didn't seem to mind as it wasn't that serious. "Fuckin' weirdos," Noah mumbled. "So, what's the plan, since y'all decided to talk about it and leave me out of the damn thing," Noah asked, and Rarity replied. "We suggested that we should get to work on the song tomorrow at Applejack’s home/farm, Sweet Apple Acres at 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.” “You aren't exactly apart of the band but, you're welcome to come." "Okay," Noah replied, nodding his head, "I ain't got anything else to do, but I do have one question." "Which is?" Applejack questioned, and Noah answered. "Can I bring McFly?" Applejack and Rarity simultaneously tipped their head's in perplexion. "Um, who's McFly?" Rarity asked, and Noah answered, "He's my dog, a labradoodle to be exact." Rarity freaked like a typical high school girl, "You have a dog!? Is he cute?!" "Indubitably the cutest on the planet, precious is a fuckin' understatement," Noah replied. "Oh wow, a labradoodle? Ah ain't ever heard of a dog like that, ah’m guessing he’s a mix between a labrador and a poodle?" Applejack asked, and Noah answered, "Oh yeah, and he's hella chill. Well, kinda." Rarity tilted her head, "Uh, what do you mean? Is he vicious towards others?" "Nope, he's the opposite. For the three and a half years I've had him, he still feels uncomfortable and anxious near others besides my friends and I. Not sure why, but he must've had a bad experience with humans. It might explain why he was frightened of us when we first got him. "Well that sounds just terrible. Hopefully, Lil' McFly will get used to us," Applejack hoped. "Indeed, I'd hate to feel how anxious he is within a single inch of another person, just horrid. So no worries Noah, you can bring him along." ”Yeah, and he'll get to meet my own dog, Winona" Applejack added. "Alright, sounds like a plan. I'll see y'all tomorrow, just gotta take a shit real quick," Noah replied, turning around before he could see Rarity's and Applejack's slightly disgusted faces. When Noah had made it up the stairs and reached the bathroom, he looked down to see if the lights were on, they weren't. Seeing this as the go-ahead, Noah opened the door with his left hand and began unbuttoning his pants with the other. When he opened the door, he stopped in his steps and froze like a sculpture. Apparently, someone was still inside, he knew this as the lights were automatic. Noah stood silent as he found himself staring at a topless Sunset Shimmer, her bra and shirt on the floor next to her. Instinctually, Noah stared at Sunset's bare breasts without a second thought in his mind. They were covered in lotion making them shine under the bathroom lights. They were also hard, meaning she was thinking, or even doing something sensual before he walked in. Indubitably, Noah was as erect as a diamond in mere seconds. ... "Um... y-you look... busy... I-I'll just... um..." "Get out! Noah scrambled to exit the bathroom and flung the door closed as fast as he could. Holy shit, was all Noah could think. Almost as if there was a she-demon in the house, Noah hastened to leave Pinkie's house like a madman. He grabbed his suitcase, rushed past a bewildered Applejack and Rarity, and charged through the front door. Luckily, it was open. If otherwise, Noah wouldn't have a shoulder anymore. Less than five minutes later, Noah arrived at his house and parked his Audi in the garage. He opened the garage door and was greeted by an ecstatic labradoodle that he heard barking as soon as he laid eyes on his house. Unfortunately for McFly, Noah avoided him completely and dashed to his room. Once in, he slammed the door, locked it, and leaped onto his bed. Finally, as he didn't think a single thing since he saw her, Noah let the thoughts surge in. ... My nigga, those tits were fatherfuckin' flawless! (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
V - If You Want It Done Right (TBR)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
VI - Miserable Asshat of the West (TBR)Author's Note They’ll Regret That Too... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. VI - Miserable Asshat of the West (TBR) "Noah, motherfucking, Rictorshine!" Shouted the voice behind, and Noah instantly knew who came knocking. He turned around to find his best, and only friends had burst through the backstage doors, infuriated. "What the, who are these guys?" Rainbow Dash asked, scratching her forehead with her forefinger. "They're my friends, my very dumb friends." Manex walked straight up to Noah, angry was an understatement. "Why in God's name are you here with these weird-asses?! Especially Sunwhore!" "Wait just a minute, are y’all talkin' 'bout Sunset?" Applejack asked, and Jain responded. "Yeah, her! Not only that, but you were fucking up on stage with these sluts?" "Whoa, who the heck do you think you're talking to?!" Rainbow replied, irritated. "You, dumbass! What are you deaf!?" CJ replied. "Guys, relax-" "If you barbarians insult us once more, I assure you, things are gonna get ugly!" Rarity warned, and fire building up within her eyes. "Oh do tell, what the fuck are you gonna do? Throw lipgloss at us?" Jain replied, getting all up in Rarity's face. "Now y’all better back off, you can't just barge in here looking for a fight! But if yer askin', I'll gladly give ya one!" Applejack also warned. "Nigga, shut up! You Alabama head-ass bitch! I bet you fucked your own sister before you got here!" CJ responded, getting all up in Applejack's face like Jain did to Rarity. Applejack's face grew red with pure rage just as Rarity's did. "Wow, I guess we'll be kicking your butt instead, not like I got a problem with that!" Rainbow Dash added, stepping in and cracking her knuckles. "Fuckin' bet, I bet your homo ass can't even throw a goddamn punch!" Manex replied, also getting all up in Rainbow Dash's face similar to his friends. "Wha- I'm not gay! What the heck!?" Rainbow Dash replied, undeniably furious. "Motherfucker, you're hair is a goddamn rainbow! How the hell are you gonna deny shit?!" Manex responded. This situation was getting out of hand, and Noah knew without their powers, the Rainbooms would get beaten to a pulp. "Enough!" Noah shouted, separating the two groups from a fight breaking out right behind the curtains. "Guys, I know you have questions, I get it. Why the hell did I ditch y'all for these guys, especially Sunset after what she's done," Noah started, Sunset holding her shoulder in guilt. "But it's for a damn good reason my niggas, y'all and I both know that." Noah's friends eased up, they knew deep down he'd never abandon them. "Remember when I showed you how my necklace had glowed and brought us here? Well, look!" Noah pulled his necklace from out of his back pocket, it was glowing heavily. "The same aura that brought us here is somehow connected to the Rainbooms. I don't know why, but if it is for the same reason that we even met, then it's damn well important!" Noah's friends stared in awe, they hadn't seen that glow in a long time. "So listen to me, they are not your enemy, especially her." Noah pointed to Sunset and put away his necklace. "We all know she was a total douchebag, but I swear when I say this, she's changed! We don't have to forgive her for what she's done, she hasn't done her redeeming act, so relax." Sunset didn't smile, but she also didn't frown. It's better than what they called me, I guess. But what does he mean redeeming act? Sunset thought. "Look, once this is all cleared up, they won't have to worry about my bitchy ass around, and we can go back to being the Black Five." The Rainbooms looked at each other with sympathy. They knew Noah indeed was a pain, but they could tell he had a heart, and that's much better than what they used to think of him. "But until then," Noah continued, "I have to finish this. So bear with me when I say this: go home. I'll give you the go-ahead when we're done, but until then, stay home, and stay together. Shit's gonna get real ugly if what I think has to do with the Sirens is true." Noah's friends stared at Noah, then at each other. "Are you talking about the Dazzlings?" CJ asked, and Noah answered. "Yeah, but they're actually called the Sirens. It's a damn long story, but basically, they're ass-wipes that need to be dealt with. Trust me when I say this." Noah's friends nodded. "Hey uh, where the fuck is Fall? Wouldn't he be upset and shit that I was onstage with his old bully's friends?" "Fall didn't come with us," Manex answered, "He said he'll just stay back because he knew that you'd never do him wrong without a hella good reason." Noah smirked and crossed his arms, "At least he's smart." "Oh go fuck yourself," Jain replied. "Isn't there anything we can do to help? Maybe stop the Sirens from winning the auditions?" CJ asked, there must be something we can do. "Oh without a doubt, but the abilities of the Sirens would throw you off task or just stop you altogether." "Perhaps they could learn some-" "Rarity, shut the fuck up. I'll do the goddamn talking, you just stand there and be fancy." Noah stopped, interrupting Rarity before she could make the situation graver than it already is. The temporarily incomplete Black Five finally decided to go along with Noah's wishes. "Alright, we'll go. You better fuck those Sirens up," Jain said. "That's the plan, they won't be walking away in one piece," Noah replied. Noah's friends all grinned while the Rainbooms grew concerned. "Godspeed asshole, we'll see ya later," CJ replied as they all began to exit the backstage. "Oh, hold on a second," Manex stopped. "Are we just gonna throw that thousand dollar prize down the drain now?" Noah rubbed the back of his neck, "Yeah, see, what happened was... there was no prize. I lied." Noah's friends' faces grew white with disbelief. "Don't worry, the next five heists we do, I'll take ten percent of it." "Ten you goddamn cuck!" CJ demanded. "Alright, alright. Fuckin' christ, I just wanted to do something fun," Noah replied. "My nigga, we're black! Everything we do is fun!" Jain replied. "Jain, we're not even sure if you're half black. Just get the fuck outta here," Noah responded. "Man, fuck you. We're outta here," Jain responded. "Don't fuck this up!" Manex yelled from down the hall as the three of 'em left. Now, Noah was once again alone with the Rainbooms plus Sunset. "Well, uh... You certainly have some... interesting friends. I don't even know how you guys are friends considering how much you guys yell at each other," Twilight spoke up. "You're the Princess of Friendship, you figure it out. Either way, it doesn't matter. What matters right now is that y'all get your shit together for the rest of these auditions." "He's right," Sunset added, "You all need to find a place to practice where the Sirens can't hear you. I'll keep an eye on things around here." Applejack smiled, "Good idea, and Noah, ah don't think the song we played was awful at all, it was amazin' and worked perfectly. But ah think the Rainbooms should play the songs they've written from the heart, so we'll be doin' our own songs with Rainbow as lead singer." Rainbow Dash did a double fist-pump hearing this. "You should keep an eye on things here with Sunset. Yer quite the formidable figure, so you'd be a great help to Sunset if it comes to it, especially with the Sirens." "Good copy, we'll get it done," Noah replied. He then turned to Sunset, "C'mon, we're oscar mike." Rarity tilted her head, "What do those mean?" "Look it up." Noah and Sunset then exited backstage, but Rarity called out to Noah. "But I didn't even look up the last thing you told me!" From far down the hall, Noah responded, "That's not my problem!" Noah and Sunset sat outside the gymnasium's main entryway. Noah scrolled a social media site and stopped to watch comical videos unbeknownst to the fact that Sunset was peeking over and watching the videos as well. Bored of the silence, Sunset decided to strike up a conversation. "So, if it isn't too touchy a subject, how'd you meet your friends?" Noah turned off his phone and thought for a quick second. "At an orphanage." Sunset's face grew concerned, "An... orphanage? Noah, you don't have parents? What happened?" Noah shrugged, "Eh, I don't really wanna talk about it. You said not a touchy subject but, that's something that quickly leans towards a very shitty touchy subject. So what else do you have in mind, kid? "Uh... where'd you get McFly?" Noah crossed his arms, "Also leans towards a touchy subject. Try something else." Sunset itched her chin, "What about..." "Well, well, if it isn't the tour guides." Noah turned from Sunset to see who had spoken. "Oh for fuck's sake," he replied, instantly irritated. It was the Sirens, specifically Adagio who had spoken. Sunset stood up, "You're never gonna get away with this." Adagio smirked, "Why, Because you didn't?" Sunset's face grew gloomy. "Listen fuckfaces, why don't you just step off before I beat the shit out of you before you even have a chance to become an actual threat to the planet. And drop the shit about Sunset, she's not a dick-twist like you, anymore at least." "And then there's you, the outsider." Noah grew disconcerted, "Oh yes, we know you're not from here, oh heavens no. You're from that one country called America, right?" "How the fuck do you know that? You tell me right the hell now how you know that!" Noah replied, anger building. The Sirens giggled like little demonic girls. "Oh it's quite obvious, you think we stayed around Equis this whole time?" "Yeah, we traveled the world! I mean, it's not as cool as Equestria, it's actually quite dull," Sonata added. Traveled the world? Wait... no fuckin' way, Noah thought. "But... if you traveled the world... and you gain power from negative energy, then..." "We may be responsible for stuff that's happened in your world? Well... maybe a little," Aria replied. Noah grew cold. "No..." Adagio laughed as they got closer and closer to Noah. "Well honestly, it's not our fault you're all so destructive. We just played around a little, made things go from north to south quite easily." "No..." The Sirens surrounded Noah and revolved around him. "I mean, we just suggest a few things, do this and that, all of a sudden, planes are hitting buildings, bombs are blowing during marathons, and people with odd-looking mustaches start gassing people with a smile on their face. "No..." Adagio continued, "I mean, how can your people be so simple-minded that we say a couple of things, and wars erupt between nations and millions of lives are wasted for something that didn't even matter in the long run. They even dropped a giant bomb on innocent people! Is it really our fault?" Noah's vision blurred as tears began to well up in his eyes. He didn't even try to hold them in. "I mean honestly, the human race is pathetically gullible. They even dropped a building on a park because Sonata said it'd be cool." "You heartless monsters!! You put a stupid fucking spell on them!! You wasted billions of lives for your stupid goddamn negative energy!!" Noah's voice cracked as tears began dropping like bombs, he was breaking at an uncontrollable rate. "The wars, the terrorist attacks, the massacres, the bombings, the shootings, every horrid act was all your doing!! Oh God!!" Noah fell to his knees and held his head as the worst news a man could ever receive flooded his head tortuously. He couldn't breathe, he was gasping for air as his throat opened and closed every few seconds. "The families you tore, the families you ended!! I knew you cunts had something to do with it!!" The Sirens stared, they were playing with Noah's emotions, but they didn't anticipate Noah to crack like an egg. "What's got him so upset?" Aria questioned. "You killed my parents!! You killed my friends!! You ended everyone I ever loved because you thought it'd be cool!! Goddamn you!! You fuckin' murderers!!" "O—h... Well, at least it was cool," Sonata replied. Noah slammed his left fist continuously into the floor until an ear-piercing snap left his hand, and he couldn't feel it anymore. "I... I..." Noah couldn't speak, not a single word could escape his mouth as he juggled the news in his head with a fork and spoon. "Well, you won't have to worry about any more calamities like those as once we have this energy, everyone will bow before us. You have my word," Adagio finished. She then gestured to her sisters to follow as they entered the gym. "You'll pay in blood, you have my word," Noah replied before they could close the door. Feeling uneasy, The Sirens didn't reply and closed the entryway doors behind them. Sunset was frozen. For the longest time, she had known Noah as this unbreakable figure that came to this school at the same time she did. No matter what she pulled, no matter what she said, Noah always prevailed like nothing happened. She began to wonder if everything she ever did was meaningless as Noah never showed any signs of slowing down. When she destroyed his laptop with a sledgehammer, it did nothing. When she burned his bookbag and belongings, it did nothing. Even when she pushed his closest friend to the very edge of taking his own life, it did nothing. All of a sudden, a horrendous truth is revealed by monsters, and he breaks down like he has nothing left to cherish, to love. Everyone he ever held close to him, gone because someone thought it'd be cool. It was heartbreaking. "Noah, I..." Sunset didn't know what to say, not a thing left her mouth as if it'd grown dry out in the desert. She gently approached him, terribly shocked and sympathetic. He laid limply on the school floor, a small pool of blood surrounding his left hand, and a tiny pool of tears surrounding his head. He didn't hear her, he couldn't even see straight as the tears were overflowing. A pain he'd felt longer and worse than Sunset could ever conceive. She crouched next to him to see his face, he continued to sob like an abandoned child. "Hey... we've gotta get you to the nurse. You gotta get up," Sunset serenely spoke, afraid to make the situation worse in any possible way. "Come on, it's gonna be okay. We're gonna get you to the nurse's offices, and she's gonna patch you up. But we've gotta move from here before someone sees. And without a camera system, it won't be pretty." "I can't. Please... just let me go," he replied. Sunset frowned and tried to lift him. "You know I can't do that. We have to move, now." Noah's sobbing slowed to a simple cry. "I don't wanna live. I wanna see my mother again. I wanna see my father again. I wanna see my love again. Please, just let me go." "But if I let you go, who's gonna give the Sirens what they deserve? You and I both know the Rainbooms don't have it in them to kill the Sirens. If anyone's gonna avenge your loved ones, and an enormous chunk of humanity, it's you." Noah's crying slowed to slight sniffles. "But I... I..." Sunset delicately gripped his face with her hands. "The Rainbooms will rid them of their powers, and you can deliver the finishing blow, victorious.” Noah remained limp for a while longer, thinking deeply. Finally, he decided to stand up and wipe his face clean. "W-Wait, don't do that. Your shirt will get messy." "Sunset, I don't give a flying f-fuck," Noah replied, weakly. "I-It's already covered in blood. I-I'll just change at the nurse's office." Sunset shrugged, "I guess that'll work. C'mon, we gotta patch you up. I think you broke your hand and a few fingers." Slowly, Sunset and Noah sauntered to the nurse's office. Noah's arm over Sunset's shoulder as she did most of the work. Sunset grabbed the doorknob to the nurse's office and groaned in annoyance. "It's locked. I don’t think she’s here," Sunset spoke up, but Noah replied with silence, and she grew even more concerned. She looked to him to see he was barely conscious. Oh no, he's losing so much blood. How much damage did he do to his hand for this to happen? Sunset thought. She looked at his hand again, then at Noah, then at the door. I guess I have no choice. Carefully, Sunset laid Noah against the nearby wall and took off her boot. Aiming for the perfect spot with said boot, Sunset broke the nurse's windowpane, stuck her hand through the broken window, and unlocked the door. Thank Celestia we don't have cameras. She walked back over to Noah, who's hand had quickly made another small puddle around itself. She lifted him up and held him around her shoulder. "Come on, we're almost there," Noah once again did not reply, but he did groan. A sign he was still somewhat conscious. They entered the nurse's office and Sunset quickly laid him down on one of the beds. It was unquestionably hard, but she did it regardless. Once he was settled, Sunset hastily searched all over the nurse's office for some type of bandage to wrap around Noah's hand. She opened one of the cabinets and found two rolls of compression bandages, but they were on the top shelf. "Mother-...darn it," Sunset nearly shouted. She climbed up on the countertop and stood on her knees. With one hand holding her in place, she steadily reached for one of the bandages and grabbed it. "Yes!" She whispered, triumphant. She then cautiously climbed down the countertop and approached Noah. Another pool of blood? Oh Celestia, this is bad. Sunset thought, growing ever more worried. She then lifted Noah's hand and began wrapping it with the bandage. Sunset wrapped and wrapped until she couldn't see any more blood, but that also meant Noah's entire hand looked maimed. Once she did that, she grabbed some nearby tissues, wetted them in warm water, and cleaned around Noah's hand. She had gone through eight tissues when Noah's hand was fully cleaned. Then, she grabbed some more tissues and cleaned off Noah's face as he didn't clean it himself very well. "Ah... done... I'll just let him rest till he wakes up. Hopefully Twilight and the others can make it through to the finals." Sunset left his bedside and searched the nurse's office for a chair. She found a crimson one in the waiting room. She picked up the chair and carried it back to Noah's bedside. She placed the chair to his left and sat down. "Might as well take a seat," Sunset thought aloud. But before she sat, she looked at Noah. He was unconscious, but he still looked like he was in agony. Sunset looked around the nurse's office and noticed a storage closet. She stepped over to it and opened it to find multiple blankets and heating pads. Perfect, she thought. She grabbed a warm and heavy white comforter, walked back over to Noah, and covered him with it. Sunset looked back at him, it didn't seem to have made a physical change, but the Nurse's office is cold, and she wouldn't want him to freeze while he slept. Speaking of cold, Sunset returned to the closet and grabbed a simple blanket to wrap around herself. She then returned to the chair at Noah's bedside, sat down, and wondered aloud. "How ironic is this? Just two months ago, I burned your bookbag. Now I'm sitting next to you after tending to your broken hand. Life is so strange sometimes." Sunset continued to stare. Then with one arm, she hugged Noah as he slept. "Not like that's a bad thing though." She then laid her head against the closest side of the bed and fell asleep herself. "Not a bad thing at all." THREE HOURS LATER ... Noah slowly opened his eyes and finally awaked. He groggily looked around to find himself inside the school's nurse's office. "What... what the hell happened?" He said softly. He looked down at his chest to find a girl's arm wrapped around him. He turned to see whose arm it was to find it was Sunset's. "Holy shit... what the fuck?" He tried to wake Sunset up with his broken hand, but he found it was bandaged up to the point where he couldn't even recognize it as part of the human body. "She... tended to me?" Noah wondered. "I thought she was gonna wake me up... or at most help me, but... this?" Noah looked around the entire nurse's office to find everything out of place. The cabinets and drawers were left open. The tissue box was on the floor. The closet was also left open and had blankets fallen out of. The facet was steadily running, the bandages had rolled onto the floor, Sunset's right boot was laying on the ground, and he could've sworn he saw shards of broken glass. "What did she do?" Noah wondered, confused as to why she went through so much trouble to care for him. He looked over to her, it was faint, but it was unmistakably there, and it left Noah bewildered. Two tear stains trailed down Sunset's cheeks and created two tiny stains on the bed. Noah was left speechless, no way was this the same Sunset. The Sunset he knew never cried, well, except for that one time at the Fall Formal. "Hey..." Noah said, trying to wake her up. "Sunset... wake the fuck up. C'mon, the Battle of the Bands could be over right now, and a janitor could show up perplexed." Sunset didn't move one inch, she continued to lay motionless and sleep peacefully. "Sunset!" Noah whisper-shouted. It seemed to have gotten Sunset's attention as she slowly opened her eyes. "Wha... what... wha-what, what is it?" Sunset mumbled. "Rise and shine, kid. You did damn good," Noah replied. Sunset looked around and the first thing she noticed was her left arm wrapped around his chest, gripping tightly. She pulled it away immediately, afraid. "I-I'm sorry! I-I didn't mean to that! I must've moved when I fell asleep!" "It's alright," Noah responded, "What matters right now is that we get outta here. I'm a somewhat heavy sleeper, so the Battle of the Bands has probably ended by now." Sunset reached into her right pocket and pulled out her phone. "Nope, it's only 6:56. We've still got time." Noah sat up, "Oh wow, guess we didn't miss the whole goddamn thing." Sunset placed her hands in her lap. "Noah, this may not be the best thing you wanna talk about right now, and you can deny it if you want, but. Can you tell me how you got here? Why you're here in the first place, actually?" Noah laid back and stared at the ceiling. "Story of my life," he whispered. "Well, I guess we've got time before the finals start. It all happened a while ago, three years to be exact.” ”September Twenty-Fifth, 2017, my birthday. We were having this chill-ass birthday party with all my friends and family. You know, parents talk with other parents. The kids would do kid shit, and the teens would do teen shit. America was on the watch for a terrorist group called Al-Qatala that threatened them just the day before." "I'd received a gift from my father, a fifty caliber handgun dubbed the Desert Eagle with a chrome finish. He said he bought the gun the day my oldest brother was born and was giving it to me as Nicholas was gone. It was an emotional moment, but I was also thrilled. My first gun, and it was the most powerful in the world." "But the fuckin' thing was empty. Luckily, there was a weapons store just east of the park, and I'd decided to go get some ammo with my birthday money. If I'd known what would happen that damn day, I would've pushed everyone at that park straight to the gun store along with me, but I didn't." Sunset focused intensely on Noah, she then noticed something on his face. He was crying again. "And then, once I reloaded the gun, the store clerk cursed and pointed out the glass door. I rushed out to find that an enormous office building was collapsing like a damn pillow fort. Once I realized where it was headin', I screamed like an old man who just witnessed a massacre." "The building covered the entire fuckin' park in metal and destruction. I was petrified, I couldn't feel my own breath, I couldn't feel jackshit. I was... there, but the world went around me as everyone panicked, horrified.” ”The last thing I remember was fainting right on the sidewalk, but before I did, the very last thing I saw were three figures sitting on top of a nearby building. One had fuckin' popcorn in their hands. Finally, I know who those three figures were." "I... lost... everything that day. And so did many others. The attack was on the news, on the internet, it was just, everywhere. For months I couldn't escape that damn attack. I kept seeing it, I kept reliving it in multiple nightmares. I just couldn't take it.” “I didn't become depressed, instead, I developed serious anger issues. Like holy shit, I flipped every flat thing I could find. While in the hospital from fainting on the sidewalk, I shouted in the middle of nights and nurses would have to rush in to treat me. To calm me down, get a hold of me. I was insane." "Once I had recovered from my injury, I heard them talking about sending me to foster care. No way in hell was I gonna have another mother love me besides my own, so I snuck out. I'd planned it for a week as they were gonna send me the at the end of it, and I escaped successfully." "I didn't really know what to do once I left, so I hopped on a nearby truck and fell asleep. The next day, I awoke at a wings restaurant, still in the truck. I sat up and looked around to find I was in the middle of nowhere. The only thing I saw besides the restaurant was an old broken down orphanage.” “I walked up to the sign, it read: Lily's Home For The Forgotten & Abandonded. How fuckin' fitting." "I entered the orphanage to find four dumbass kids eating some knockoff cereal at a long table. I was confused, where were the caretakers? Where was Lily? Turns out, Lily had died in her sleep a year ago, and the kids all left except for these four. “Because of shit I didn't truly care for, the orphanage was still receiving supplies, apparently, taxes just weren't a thing there. Long story short, I made friends with the kids, Manex, Jain, CJ, and Fall, over the course of four months." "At the end of the fourth month, I had suggested that we leave the shitty orphanage, and find somewhere new. I mainly told them this as my necklace began to glow for the first time in my life, and towards somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean.” “We did a lot of illegal shit, but nobody got hurt. Stealing a car, robbing a couple of small stores, pissing on a cop's cruiser, and stealing a boat. Once we were in the boat, we set sail for where the necklace pointed to, but we had no idea it would lead us to a giant-ass island." "Apparently, I was the only one who'd seen it, and since my friends didn't believe me, they went there just to bring me down. We lost hope of anything once we realized how fuckin' dumb we were to steal a boat and sail into the ocean. For all we know, we could be heading towards cold-ass Antarctica.” “But once I could see some buildings, we warped through what seemed to be some type of barrier, and all of my friends saw the island. It was huge, little did we know that island was as large as half of fuckin' Russia." "We landed on the island and looked for civilization, but we were dumbfounded at what we saw. People of all types of colors and large eyes. They weren't abnormal to humans, but they didn't look normal either. We snuck around the city until we found a bus that was heading to... uh... Canterlot! That's where, this stupid-ass town.” “We hopped on the bus for free as the driver learned it was our first time. Seemingly, we didn't look too different from the people here, so they didn't see a huge difference." "We stayed on the bus until we reached the town, and we got down to business. We were lucky, how many people could have been lost at sea unbeknownst to this large-ass barrier world?” “Another long story short, we established ourselves within the town and signed up for a school, Canterlot Highschool, that was very difficult to do without it being discovered that we didn't have parents. We had to use costumes and shit to appear as parents. It was fuckin' awful." "And now, three years later, we're here," Noah sighed as he finally finished his tale. "Wow," Sunset replied, in awe. "I had no idea your journey was so... intense. That must've been why you broke down in the hallway, everything that happened from then to now was because a monster thought it'd be cool to drop a building on a thousand people. Noah, I'm... I'm so sorry for everything I've done. I just saw you as a rival, but there's so much more to you then... then... myself." "It's alright Sunset, I've been through hell and back so it wasn't a big deal to me. I won't lie, I didn't deserve it, and neither did my friends. But you were so broken as well, it's a wonder why I didn't feel empathy." Sunset shook her head, "No! Noah, you went through so much more! I just had friendship problems, I didn't lose everything I had! I feel wretched, like a true nightmare." "Relax Sunset, that shit's all in the past now, and I believe it. Right now, we gotta get back to Battle of the Bands before shit hits the fan without us." Sunset nodded and stood up, "Right, let's get a move on. Can you walk?" "Sunset, I broke my hand. I didn't lose my legs in Vietnam, of course I can walk." Sunset giggled, "Right, right. I'm just still worried from how you were merely hours ago." Noah laughed a single laugh, "Unless I was screeching in my sleep and having seizures, I'm fine." Noah then got out of the bed and walked over to the main door, Sunset following behind. "Jesus Christ, you actually broke the nurse's window?" Noah asked, comically puzzled. "I had to get you in somehow. You were creating blood pools and trails everywhere we went!" Noah chuckled, "Yeah, that sounds about right. Don't get me wrong, I don't think it's bad. I actually think it's badass." Sunset blushed, "Y-Yeah, thank you." Noah patted her shoulder and opened the door. "Don't mention it, kid." Noah and Sunset then began down the hall, gradually starting to run. Sunset asked from beside him, "Hey, what's Vietnam?" Noah smirked, "Another thing the Sirens are gonna regret." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
VII - Elements of Incompatibility (TBR)Author's Note Bit By Bit, We Fall Apart... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. VII - Elements of Incompatibility (TBR) Noah and Sunset turned a corner as they continued to sprint for the gymnasium. Strangely enough, Sunset was keeping up with him. "Hey Noah," Sunset began, "The only things I don't understand from your story is how did McFly sit in all of that?" "I skipped McFly?" Noah replied, and Sunset nodded. "Huh, I mean, he wasn't a huge deal in it. I guess I just skipped him because I forgot. He was along with me during the whole ordeal, but we left him with a caretaker for my birthday and shit." "Also, what about your car? How does that fit into the mix?" Noah glanced up at the roof, "Believe it or not, I found that thing here. It was in someone's garage when we were looking for houses here. I stole it back later that night. Dumbasses left the car keys inside. Without a doubt after seeing that, I've formed the highest possibility of the fact that humanity is well aware of Equis, and vice versa." "That's gonna prove to be a problem in the future," Sunset replied, but not loud enough for Noah to hear. After running for quite some time, Noah and Sunset finally reached the doors where Noah destroyed his hand in indignation. "Okay... okay... let's... oh Christ alive..." "You're exhausted?" Sunset questioned. "Yes, I'm fuckin' exhausted! Do I look like Dash? 'Matter a fact, how the hell are you not tired?" Sunset shrugged, "I don't know, maybe because I'm part Equestrian, I have higher stamina?" "It better be, otherwise, I'm gonna feel like a fatass," Noah responded as he eyed the ground. "Wait, wasn't there a pool of blood here?" "There was," Sunset began, "But I guess that 'no questions asked' janitor cleaned it up already. I wonder whether he's seen something in his life to not care anymore, is being paid extra by the principals, or just really doesn't care. That would account for the odd mismatched things he wears and how chaotic his closet is." "Yeah, that's totally normal," Noah replied while approaching the gym's main doors' window. He looked in to see a large mobile whiteboard full of all the teams. Many of the teams had been crossed out, so Noah analyzed the logos of the bands that hadn't been eliminated. One band had an emblem with multiple light blue, yellow, and one large light blue star with a purple lining, along with a yellow moon in the middle. Trixie's band Another band that wasn't eliminated's emblem had a gray horseshoe being thrusted by what looked like a rainbow shooting star. The Rainbooms without a doubt. And the final band who wasn't eliminated's emblem appeared to be three musical notes Noah recognized as a treble clef, an f standing for forte, and an eighth-note all hovering above a heap of sheer red rubies. The heartless Sirens. He then looked on stage after hearing a song begin. The Rainbooms were performing again, but Rainbow Dash was going off. She rocked and rolled to the music, truly enjoying the vibe that she formed. "She's doing too much," Sunset spoke up. Noah didn't notice her looking through the other window. "What do you mean?" "I mean that she's killing it, but not in a good way. If she keeps this up, she's gonna reveal her friendship magic. Once she does, the Sirens will know what we're up to, and they'll attempt to put a stop to it!" "Son of a bitch. Let's go stop them before shit gets out of hand," Noah replied before motioning Sunset to follow him once again, she nodded. They then began running down the hall towards the backstage entrance. Once they arrived, Noah already noticed those same ears he saw from the video at the diner and the Fall Formal start to glow and form. "Shit, uh... I have an idea," Noah said, looking to Sunset. "I'm gonna tackle Rainbow Dash and stop the performance. If I'm right, the Dazzlings won't turn down chances of getting all the negative energy they need. The pieces of shit will pull some strings on the competition, and the Rainbooms will still be in." "You think they know about the Rainboom's power?" Sunset questioned, and Noah began towards the start of backstage and lined himself up. "No way in hell did the Sirens not realize how the Rainbooms didn't fall under their spell. One way or another, they're gonna find out the truth. So I'm gonna play them like a fuckin' fiddle." Sunset nodded, "Yeah, I guess that'll work. But what if-" "Bye Felicia!" Noah interrupted before making a mad dash for Rainbow. He had centered in on her, all he needed to do was push. Before the Rainbooms, before anyone in the entire gym could acknowledge Noah, he had tackled Rainbow Dash in her side. So hard that they fell on the other side of the stage and landed out of sight. Before anyone could even begin to process what they just saw, the principals promptly began penning down on their clipboards with mixed expressions. Rainbow Dash rubbed her head with two hands as she landed upon the side of it. "Ow! Ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow, ow! Noah! What the heck was that for!" Noah slapped Rainbow with a simple clap, but hard enough to shut Rainbow up immediately. "What part of, don't go off, don't you get?! You were on a motherfuckin' roll out there! If you went any further, the Sirens would have been out to get you fucks like a trio of child-fuckin' sharks!" "Y-You... slapped me," Rainbow replied, tearfully. "Dash would you fuckin' relax!? I'm trying to tell it to you straight, our planet's very will is depending on us to not fuck up in any way, shape, or form. So don't get all sad 'n' shit when I try to reinforce that fact." The other Rainbooms quickly walked off stage and closed the curtains. They then approached Noah and Rainbow with confused and troubled faces. "Noah, have you just doggone lost it?! Why would ya tackle Rainbow like that in the middle of our song!?" Applejack questioned, bewildered, and slightly angry. "Because she was going to expose you guys' friendship magic and shit. Don't act like I'm the stupid-ass here!" Noah quickly answered. "Those sack of shit Sirens would've seen and thoroughly fucked everything up! What, did you have a better idea, Old Town Road?" "Closed the curtains? Unplug her amp? Give us a chance to deal with the situation?" Rarity replied, angrier than Applejack. "Oh do fuckin' tell Rarity. I will run my black ass to the nearest vending machine in this school, use a dollar of my shitty paycheck to buy a generic-ass, half-filled bag of chips, bring it here, then run to the principals' office, take and light a few scented candles that they have for reasons I don't wanna know, bring it here, then run to the locker rooms, grab a stool from the gym teacher's office, bring it here, then I will sit on that stool, open the bag of chips, set and light the candles, and listen to your divine and flawless plan as if you were the most outstanding genius the world has ever beheld since motherfuckin' Einstein!" Rarity stepped back and wore a pout on her face, utterly defeated. Along with the other Rainbooms giggling to themselves. "Besides, I already have the rest planned out, so don't get your tits in a twist. What should follow now is the Sirens being laughably predictable." Applejack rolled her eyes and glared at Rainbow. "None of this would've happened if you weren't tryin' to show off! As usual..." Rainbow rolled her own eyes. "Good show, Rainbrooms," Spoke a voice from the shadows. It was Trixie and all her irritating essence. She approached Noah, "I especially liked the part where Noah Rictorshine, in a fit of hysterical rage, tackled Rainbow Dash mid-guitar solo!" "You call that a fit of hysterical rage? No nigga. A fit of hysterical rage would be me grabbing a broom and shoving it so far down your throat that it comes out your ass. Then, I flip the broom and do the exact same thing in the other direction. This cycle would repeat over and over until I eventually get bored, and your asshole is shaped like fuckin' broom bristles in a bunch." Trixie, Sunset, and the Rainbooms were once again left speechless at Noah's fluent fury. "I... I..." Trixie tried desperately to speak or to at least say a word. "Just fuck off you blue-faced ass-wipe." Trixie did as she was told and hastily, fucked off. "D-Do you really think it's okay to say such things to people? I-I know Trixie was being rude and all, but I think that was a little over the top," Fluttershy quietly questioned. "It's called dealing with asshats. Something most of you Equestrians don't seem to be able to do," Noah replied, crossing his arms. The principals appeared on stage behind the curtains with their clipboards in hand. Noah watched carefully and thought, Moment of truth. Don't prove me wrong God, I don't need that right now. "I hope your plan works, Noah. If we're eliminated from the semi-finals, stopping the Sirens is gonna get a lot harder," Twilight said as she clasped her hands together in worry. Right on time. The Sirens had entered from behind the principals and began crooning to them like a mother singing a lullaby. Noah turned around and took a bow. "Once again, thank you, ladies and gentlemen." The Rainbooms and Sunset groaned. "Yeah yeah, shut up," Rainbow replied, annoyed. "Phew! If we were eliminated, there wouldn't be another opportunity for us to play. And I have the most gorgeous outfit for the finals!" Rarity calmly cheered. "Yep, because that's the real tragedy here, Rarity. That you wouldn't get to play dress-up," Applejack replied, irritated. They're arguing again, what the fuck is this? "You know perfectly well that is not what I meant!" "Would you guys keep it down? They're about to announce who's moving on!" Rainbow intervened, stepping in between the both of them. "It's us, we know it's us. The Sirens just influenced the principals to move us onto the finals. Did you hear nothing of what Noah said?" Rarity replied, irritated as well. "Fine, then stop arguing at least!" Noah approached Sunset, "Why are they arguing? And over such little things?" He asked, confused. "I don't know. They're protected by the magic of friendship, so they could be arguing because that's that." Noah sighed, "I swear to god, if they fuck this up..." The principals stepped out of the curtains and stood at the front of the stage. Everyone in the crowd waited anxiously to hear who had moved onto the finals. Noah noticed the principals had an odd look in their eyes, almost as if they were dulled. "The band that will be joining the Dazzlings in tonight's finals: The Rainbooms!" Announced Celestia. Noah fist-pumped, "Hah! What the fuck did I tell you? I'm the greatest nigga in the universe, bitch!" The Rainbooms plus Sunset once more rolled their eyes. "Noah, would you relax? You're so full of yourself," Rainbow replied. "Motherfucker, please. As if you aren't." "Still, I was so unsure whether or not you'd actually be right. Guess we owe you one there, huh?" Twilight responded, rubbing the back of her neck. "You can pay me back by buying me some shit back at that diner. The food was damn good there." The Rainbooms plus Noah walked out onto the stage to meet the principals. "Congratulations girls and boy. You deserve it." Oh, those greedy, pathetic shits. "Seriously?! We didn't even finish our song-" Pinkie was interrupted by Rainbow painfully nudging her in her side, her face shouting, shut up! "See you at tonight's show, Rainbooms. We're really looking forward to it," Adagio spoke as her and her sisters also stepped on stage. "Oh us too! We're practically clawing at our skin to end you," Noah replied as he marched in front of the Rainbooms. He stared down Adagio with daggers. It was unhealthy and inhumane what he had brewing within his mind for them, especially her. The Sirens once again grew uncomfortable, but only for a moment before walking offstage. Noah turned his attention to the crowd. They booed and hollered at the Rainbooms, unrealistically jealous. "Oh cry me a river you bums! There wasn't even a prize for this! Not even a trophy! It's just to raise money!" The crowd didn't even reply, almost as if they didn't hear Noah at all. "Whatever. Rainbooms, we're out of here. C'mon," Noah told them as he began offstage through the opposite doorway as the Sirens. "When did he become leader?" Rainbow complained, and Applejack replied. "He's not, but it seems something's botherin' him. Let's just go, ain't nothin' wrong with followin'." Following Noah, the Rainbooms began offstage as the crowd continued to shout and boo. While watching them leave, Trixie protested, furiously. "This is a travesty! A travesty!" Adagio and her sisters appeared from behind, a malicious grin on their faces. "It really is!" Adagio began, as her sisters surrounded Trixie. "The Rainbooms don't deserve to be in the finals. Not when your band was so much better in the semis." "And wanted it so much more," Aria added. "Alas, this is the way it's going to be. Dazzlings versus Rainbooms." "Unless of course, the Rainbooms don't manage to make it to their set. Or held up for some reason!" Sonata added, and when she did, a sinister smile drew itself upon Trixie's face. Noah sat upon one of the large speakers upon the outside stage for the Battle of the Bands on his phone, albeit, with one hand. Sunset leaned on the same speaker and was on her phone. "Hey Noah," Twilight started, "I forgot to ask this a while ago but, what happened to your hand?" Sunset eyed Noah, Noah eyed Sunset. "Uh..." Noah was speechless, not sure what to tell the princess. He scratched the side of his chin with his right hand. "I uh..." "He fell down the stairs. We were heading downstairs for something and he fell because he wasn't paying attention and landed on his hand. We went to the nurse's office and she fixed him up." Twilight cocked her head, "So, why was that so hard to explain then, Noah?" He shrugged, "I have this disease that makes me have seizures when I retell stories. It doesn't make any sense, I know, but that's life, is it not?" Twilight itched her head, "I... ok." Noah hopped down the speaker and wandered to the front of the stage as the Rainbooms continued setting up. "So..." he began, "This is the stage of humanity's last stand." He inspected the stage, it was in the shape of a curved pioneer's wagon with a clean white shade. "Where the fuck did they get the money for this?" He whispered, and Applejack perked up. "Well, it's mighty nice if ya ask me. I reckon if I'm gonna fight for my life on a stage, it might as well be this one." Pinkie lightly tapped the platform in the middle with her right foot as she set down her bass drum pedal. "But, what the heck is this thingy doing here?" "What thingy?" Noah questioned as he stepped over to what she was tapping. He walked up to find a large gray trapdoor built within the stadium. "It's a trapdoor, but why the hell do they have a trapdoor in a stage?" Rainbow rolled her eyes, "Isn't it obvious? It's for when we rise from it looking all awesome and stuff!" "I sure hope so. It'd be horrible if someone fell down it," Fluttershy dreaded, poking the door with her forefinger. "Indeed it would," said a familiar voice from behind. "Oh, hell," Noah muttered as he held his nose bone in resentment. "Trixie? What are you doing here?" Rarity asked. Trixie and her band had shown up onstage with fierce looks on their faces. "The great and powerful Tri-xie is the most talented girl in Cantorlot High. It is I who deserves to be in the finals. And Trixie will not be denied!" "For God's sake, will you just go away?! How hard is it to fuck off, honestly! Do you have some sort of fuckin' disease that just stops you from that?! Are you special?! Have you just fuckin' lost it?! Stop coming 'round here you goddamn moon whore!" "Enough! Trixie will not tolerate your foul language anymore! You and your sickening loud mouth is just another reason you don't deserve this! It really p-pisses Trixie off!" "Oh you poor thing, you can't even say shit without stuttering! God, you're vexatious! Why don't you take your little pussy posse and fuck off before I make you? These niggas have a song to perform, and I've got some Dazzlings to fuck up." "That's just it, Noah Rictorshine. You and your p-pussy posse won't be performing!" Trixie replied as she reached for her back pocket. Noah slowly reached for his back pocket and whispered to the girls. "Get behind me, I think she's lost it..." The girls did what he said fearfully and huddled together like emperor penguins. "Trixie wait! Don't shoot! It's just a competition! We're innocent people!" Rarity pleaded. She was not about to die today. "What? Trixie's not going shoot you, what's the matter with you?" Noah sighed and let go of his gun. "Motherfucker, that sounds a lot like a death threat. How else would you make sure they didn't perform?" Trixie pulled a black and blue hand detonator out of her back pocket, Noah froze. "Like this," she pressed the detonator, and Noah pushed the girls with all his might, but it wasn't enough. The trapdoor beneath them opened, and they, along with their band equipment, quickly dropped down, except for Noah as he quickly grabbed a nearby ledge. "Goddammit, Trixie! You monkey mouthed motherfucker!" Noah furiously shouted. "Trixie told you, you're not going to be performing. Trixie meant what she said when she said it. One way, or another." Noah looked down at the drop, it wasn't long but his fear of heights always escalated when in a stressful situation. He struggled to hold on, he was strong, but he also had recently put on lotion. "So help me, if you don't help us up right now, brainwashed or not, I'm going to find a broom, and end your ass like a black man in fuckin' Compton!" "Oh you, we both know Trixie has no idea what either of those are," she smirked. "Bye-bye, outsider," Trixie concluded as she lifted her foot and stomped on Noah's face. He fought the pain and held on. "W-Wait, if you do this, the world is fucked, and I won't be able to-" *Stomp!* is all Noah felt as Trixie stomped his face once again, and he lost his grip. "Shi-t!" He landed on the back of his head and promptly fell unconscious. Sunset quickly rushed over to him and checked his pulse, worried. She looked back up at Trixie, "Damn it, Trixie, you can't do this!" "Oh but Trixie can, and Trixie will." Trixie cackled the same cackle Sunset did when she transformed at the Fall Formal. She continued to laugh as she closed the trapdoor shut with another press of the detonator. From afar, the heartless Sirens beamed. "Told you someone would give them a shove," Adagio restated to her sister's. "She didn't shove them, she pressed a detonator," Sonata replied, naively correcting her sister. Adagio facepalmed and Aria scoffed, "Go back to bed, Sonata." It was over. The Sirens would emerge victorious with the Earth in their hands, and the fallen would never be avenged. All hope, was lost. TWO HOURS LATER ... Noah groggily shook his head as he rose up. He looked to his side to see the Rainbooms despondently lazing around, (except Rainbow, who had been ramming the door with all her might for the past hour) and found next to him a drowsy and bored Sunset laying on her phone facing away from him. He listened closely to hear above him to hear Trixie's band was playing their song. Nigga... I'm gonna... He swiftly turned back to his side hearing Rainbow once again ram the door with her shoulder, she then backed away and rubbed it regretfully. "Give it up, Rainbow Dash. You've been tryin' at that for an hour. It's not gonna open," Applejack spoke up, tiredly annoyed. "Maybe it doesn't even matter that we're trapped down here. I don't think the counterspell would've worked anyway..." Twilight spoke up, hopeless. "Of course it would've worked, Twahlight. Assuming a certain band member didn't try to hog the spotlight the whole time we were tryin' to play it!" Ah, shit. Here we go again. "Hey!" Rainbow began, "If you wanna tell Twilight she's getting a little too caught up trying to be the new leader of this band, you don't have to be all cryptic about it." "She was talking about you, Rainbow Dash," Rarity corrected, also annoyed. "Me!? I'm just tryna make sure my band rocks as hard as it needs to." "Our band!" The two shouted, and Rainbow crossed her arms. "But why wasn't it working? I-I should know what to do. How can I not know what to do? How can I have failed like this?" Twilight muttered to herself, she was breaking. Sunset put her phone down and watched with concerned eyes. "It might've been your idea to start a band, but it's not just your band!" Applejack got all up in Rainbow Dash's face, irritated, but it only aggravated Rainbow. "I'm the one that writes all the songs! How many nights do you think I spend righting music!?” "I write songs!" Fluttershy shouted from behind Rarity as she stepped forward. "I write all kinds of songs that apply to everyone! Happy songs, sad songs, fun songs, simple songs, but all we ever play is your rock! It's exasperating!" "I had the most perfect outfits for us to wear, but of course, we must look like simple-minded idiots whenever we play! What happened to showing the world our banner?!" Rarity interrupted, only angering Applejack more. "Again with the costumes, nobody cares what we're wearin’!" Rarity stomped her foot, "I care Applejack! So sorry if I enjoy trying to make a creative contribution to the band! You asinine cretin!" Everyone froze as silence filled the room. Holy shit, this isn't good. "What did you just call me?" Applejack furiously questioned, and Rarity furiously answered. "You heard me. Asinine. Cretin." Rarity stepped closer with every word, her face didn't change, but Applejack could sense the anger within her. Unfortunately for Rarity, Applejack snapped. With her right hand, Applejack fiercely punched Rarity in her gut. Rarity collapsed slowly, held it with both arms, and fell to her knees as tears instantly began falling down her cheeks. Sunset quickly stood up, and the surrounding Rainbooms backed up frightfully. "You call me that again, Ah will tear you a-fuckin'-sunder. Nobody talks to me like that, not even you. Not even any of you." Applejack slowly stepped away and sat in a corner, facing away from her friends. Fluttershy ran over to Rarity and tried whatever she could to help. Pinkie stood still as if time had stopped completely. Twilight also quickly stood up and held her mouth. But Rainbow wasn't having any of it. "What is wrong with you!? You don't punch your friends in the stomach when they're angry, especially best friends! Have you just fucking lost it!?" Applejack turned around, "You wanna get punched too, Rainbow Dumbass?!" Rainbow scoffed, "I fucking dare you!" Applejack stood up and slowly approached Rainbow Dash, but Rainbow didn't even flinch. Just as Rainbow was going to punch, Rarity instantly sprung into action and grabbed Applejack's hair. Applejack screamed as Rarity pulled on it and got Applejack down on her stomach as she tried to free her blonde and slightly frizzled hair. "When I'm done with you, no hat in the world is gonna save you from how utterly, fucking, revolting you are!" All of the Rainbooms, except Pinkie, quickly tried to stop Rarity as she pulled out a pair of sparkly scissors. "Rarity, stop! Why is this happening!?" Twilight shouted as she pulled with all her might on the scissors, but Rarity wouldn't budge. "Oh my gosh, I hate this stupid fucking band!" Pinkie yelled as she hid in a ball. "Then just fuck off if you don't like it, you're a horrible drummer!" Rainbow yelled back as she helped Twilight. "Horrible drummer?! For shit's sake Rainbow, you can't even talk like a normal person! Let alone fucking sing!" Pinkie replied, enraged. "Why don't the both of you shut the hell up?!" Fluttershy spoke up, yelling at both of them. Good God, what the hell is happening right now? The Rainbooms were practically shattered. They had used words against each other that they've never used before, let alone at others. They even attacked each other, their own best friends. Sunset slowly tuned the Rainbooms out and listened hard. It's the Sirens. They had started singing up above when Applejack got up in Rainbow's face, it all made sense. Noah's plan was right, the Sirens were gathering negative energy from right above them. They're probably receiving insane amounts of energy from the girls. Sunset started to panic. Not only that, but all this crazed commotion only made Noah's necklace glow hotter and hotter. It started steaming underneath his shirt and he grabbed it with his cold hands to try something. As he looked for something to cool down his necklace, he began crushing it with his hands. The fury of the Rainbooms had worsened the necklace, and it was starting to annoy its owner. He looked around all over, but he couldn't think. The constant yells back and forth were only worsening by the second. They grew louder and louder until Noah could even hear himself think. And ultimately, he snapped. "SHUT. THE FUCK. UP!!" He cried, but something unbelievable occurred. He opened his eyes to see the Rainbooms had been sent flying and hit the down stage's wall with a painful thud. Almost comically, the Rainbooms slid down the wall and landed in a pile. Sunset slowly turned around to find Noah's necklace in two, but that wasn't the strange part. Noah was shrouded in a fiery white aura. He lit up the entire room with a blinding light that soon settled. His pupils had changed from black to white, and his hair had turned a beautiful blinding white. He gazed at his hands. "What... the fuck?" His voice had a strange echo that of the sound of a giant monster. "What in the hay?..." Applejack asked as she stood up. "Noah... what... what are you?" Sunset asked, bewildered. "I... I don't know. But I... I feel astonishing. Like the heaviest damn weight on my shoulders just disappeared without a trace. But what in God's name was that turmoil?" Rarity sighed and hid her scissors behind her back. "You guys went insane on each other! I doubt you've never even legitimately used those words! Especially to another being! You kicked and punched and screamed like banshees!" "I don't know what came over me, I just... lost it. My temper has never gone off the deep end like that," Rarity replied as she got off of Applejack's back. "I'm terribly sorry AJ. I can't believe I was going to cut your hair off." "It's not yer fault. I punched you for goodness sake, I've never punched anyone before," Applejack replied, rubbing her head. "But, how could we have freaked like that? I've never cursed in my life!" Fluttershy questioned. "It was the Sirens," Sunset answered. "They were feeding off the negative energy of you but, it seemed to accelerate instead of keeping the pace. Perhaps because you're Elements?" "Elements or not, that was absolute hell. I feel like I've said this already, but it seems like you guys just don't listen, or you do, but for a while," Noah began. "This is fuckin' it. Our very last stand on this Earth, maybe even more. As heroes, we're the last line of defense because no military in the world is gonna reach us and light up the Sirens with an army of A-10s. It is up to us. It may always be up to us. We're faced with a literal problem for the first time in our lives as a team, yet we're underneath the bastards we're supposed to defeat. You might as well just pour dirt over the entrance and let us rest in a giant tomb in a fuckin' stage." "This is no time for fun. No time for dresses. No time for being cool. No time for being quiet. No time for being a dick. This is the time to show enemies who we are, and why we're here. No matter what it takes. We have the power to do what nobody else can, and it's time we realize that. Whether it's friendship or retribution for our home." "I'm done playing games, and you should be too. Those fuckers wanna take everything from us, so let's do this. Knock the Sirens head's in, and show them to not fuck with us. Because taking the world goes against everything we hold dear, especially when it's all we have left." The Rainbooms stared at each other, an obvious pain finally realized, yet but behind them. They smiled, "Well alright, let's do this!" Rainbow shouted. The Rainbooms all cheered, it was time to do what they set out to do. "But Noah, what about you?" Twilight asked, concerned. "That's right, you do have power, but nobody knows what it is," Applejack added. "I think I have a pretty good idea what I can do, and to be honest, I was hoping for this." "So, what can you do then?" Sunset asked, confused. "That's not the problem. The problem is those sons of bitches above us. Here's the simple plan I made in less than a second. I will hurt them, and you will defeat them. Hopefully, there's something to defeat when I'm done because I'm not holding back jack shit." "Well... that doesn't sound too bad. Good idea Noah, we'll get it done," Rarity replied, and Rainbow walked ahead of her. "But how are we supposed to defeat them in here? We're locked in, remember?" Noah glared at the door. He strolled over to it without a care in the world... and punched it open. *Pow!* The door went flying, Noah substantially destroyed the entire doorway. The Rainbooms were speechless, "How... what... this makes... what?!" Pinkie said as she held her head, perplexed. From near the doorway, Spike poked his head in. "So uh... anyone wanna explain that?" Twilight rushed through her friends, "Spike!" she shouted, gleefully relieved. "Spike? The hell are you doing here? And why two hours later?!" Spike walked aside and pointed to a girl with a pale face, black and purple glasses, and blue and cyan hair in the form of a rockstar's. "Sorry I took so long, I had to find someone who wasn't under the Sirens' spell to help and get you out." "It took you two hours to find one nigga?" Noah asked, slightly annoyed. "I'm a dog! It's not as easy as it is in my world!" Noah rolled his eyes. "Why isn't she under their spell?" Twilight asked, and Spike answered. "Never takes off her headphones." The girl gave a thumbs up and walked away, twidling her fingers to a dubstep tune. "Alright, time to get ready dipshits. I'll be as slow as I can," Noah replied sarcastically. "You're gonna stay here?" Sunset questioned. "Yeah, yeah, don't worry. I've got this, just get the hell outta here and listen to Twilight. And don't fuck this up. We may not get another shot at this." "C'mon y'all! Time to prove we still got the magic of friendship inside us!" Applejack spoke up. "And there's only one way to do it." "We're getting the band back together?!" Pinkie happily questioned, and Rainbow answered. "We're getting our band back together." In response, Pinkie bounced all over the room like a pinball machine. "Oh, which version of the counterspell-" "Motherfuckers, we need to move! We don't know how much of a window we have left, so stop girling about, and get this show on the road!" Noah yelled, interrupting Rarity. "Alright, alright, relax!" Rainbow replied. "C'mon girls, let's kick some Siren butt!" The Rainbooms cheered and exited the backstage, ready to kick major butt. "Are you sure about this? We could just defeat them up there, we don't need to demolish them," Sunset questioned before following the girls. "Trust me, payback's a bitch, and their livin' it to the last. Those cockbites won't walk away in one piece, and that's if they're lucky. I know we have to finish them, so I'm gonna try to inflict as much pain as I can on them as they have my home, and myself. You and the girls just focus on ridding them of their power, I've got the rest." Sunset stared at Noah, she then stared at the ground. It's okay Sunset, what must be done, shall be done. She then ran off, closing the door in the process, and Noah looked up at the trapdoor with a cold-blooded intent. *Bang!* Sonata peeked at the trapdoor for a second, but then shrugged it off and continued. *BANG!* This time, both Sonata and Aria peeked, the noise had gotten louder, and the door even looked like it was taking damage. "Girls, forget them. They can't do a thing, and they know it." Adagio whispered between their chorus. "The Rainbooms don't have a chance in the world to stop us, not even that pathetic nigger with the anger issues." *CRASH!* The Sirens all quickly turned around to find the trapdoor destroyed, with a bright white beam of light flying out of it and into the sky. They looked up, and their jaws dropped in disbelief. With one word eluding his lips, he spoke. "Hi." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
PART 3: VIII - A Long Time Coming (TBR)Author's Note Hell Hath No Fury For The Wicked... PART 3: VIII - A Long Time Coming (TBR) Sunset squinted at the immense power radiating from Noah. She could feel it from where she stood, it was just like the Element's power combined, but concentrated and vehement. The Rainbooms had set up on top of the hill overseeing the stage with the help of the girl with headphones, along with new outfits supplied by Rarity. Noah had given them strict instructions, and they were going to follow it regardless. They just couldn't anticipate what he had in store. "Sunset, ya mind explainin’ to us why Noah's eyes are literally on heavenly fire? I know the Sirens are bad guys but, Noah seems to have something else entirely planned out for them," Applejack questioned, running a hand through her hair as the heat from Noah's aura beat down on her. "When the Sirens got here," Sunset began, watching Noah intently. "They were determined to get every trickle of negative energy they could, in any way they could. This led to many conflicts and other horrors in Noah's world transpiring in the first place. They would somehow work their way to powerful leaders or even simple people and persuade them to do drastic things, including that one clip we watched at the sleepover. "Not only that, but this also included an attack that took everyone Noah ever loved. When we were in the hallway near the gym, watching the competition, the Sirens came around and revealed the truth.” ”Noah lost it. He destroyed his hand so badly he broke it along with a few of his fingers, that's the real reason why he had that cast. He fell unconscious from blood loss and I had to patch him up as the nurse wasn't there." "Now he's staring down the most heartless monsters I think anyone's ever seen with daggers. Do you think he's just gonna mess 'em up a bit, destroy their pendants, and tell them to not do it again? No, he's got bigger plans in store.” ”When I left that room under the stage, I saw a fire in his eyes that looked and even felt similar to mine before the Fall Formal." "But what about his power? It feels like ours, but more intense and dense," Twilight asked, confused. "Come on princess, surely you should've seen by now," Sunset began, smiling. "He's the Super Element." "What... what in the world are you?" Aria asked, perplexed. Noah slowly scowled down at her, scowled at all of them. But he also grinned the largest grin he ever had in his life. ”Hot fuck. I've waited so fuckin' long for this. I've always had this stupid damn splinter in my side that there was something greater at work. Something like the devil on Earth, but only a portion of me thought it was plural." "Just get to the point-" "Shut it," Noah cut off, shutting Adagio up instantly. Not only that, but she could've sworn Noah had a heinous echo that sounded like a demon. The Sirens took a step back. "There is nothing about you in any way that doesn't make me so utterly disgusted that I want to tear my own eyes out with a spork like an infant with special needs. I abhor you all so intensely that I can’t tell if my vision is blurry from my newfound capabilities, or for my unforgiving rage.” “Once I touch the floor, and your fate is sealed, I will gut you with an honest-to-god smile on my face, and then proceed to paint the doghouse I built with your bodies with your very blood.” ”I will take everything that you ever were, and tear it out like a literal spinal cord in a horror movie, and then smash every goddamn organ within you, grind it in a factory from China, and feed it to my dog.” ”You will be distributed as so fuckin' torn to hell, that when the investigators find you, the belief that you were even negligibly human will be like the imagination of the stupidest motherfuckin' kid in the known universe." Noah finally touched the footing, the floor below him glowed unnaturally. "In short, a long time coming has finally come, nigga." "The Super Element?! Noah could not be any further than that then... then... I-I can't even compare him!" Rainbow replied, dumbfounded. "Think about it," Sunset began again, "Noah is the only one here who stuck on a direct path, he planned so far ahead of us than we ever could've assumed. Even when the Sirens' cast their spells, Noah was completely immune to it. Just like you guys would be combined." "Now that I think about it, the Super Element was most likely a secret weapon, that might explain why he isn't from Equestria at all, but he's somehow connected," Twilight added. "Sure Noah has a good heart 'n' all, but how could his heart be purer than ours?" "He's unbreakable. He may be significantly different than us, but his heart is on a straighter path then all of you combined. Not once did he break away from the objective with something or was needlessly rude in establishing a goal. He talked Rarity out of wearing her dress, and he stopped all of the kids from messing with the song with his powers from his necklace. You guys are the Elements of Harmony, but you could only hold off the Sirens' spell united," Sunset answered. "But that's... that's just staggering. To think he could be purer than us," Rarity replied as she crossed her arms. "But what about the Sirens? If he really is gonna do what Ah think he's goin’ to do, wouldn't that ruin his purity?" Applejack questioned. "Perhaps it's an element of righteousness? And righteousness is about doing the right thing, that would include doing what must be done," Twilight answered. "He may be the only one capable of making the Sirens pay for their crimes against his world and Equestria because only he truly understands what they've done. We all know we'd never have it within us to kill off the Sirens." "I guess that m-makes sense. B-But what about what he's about to do now?" Fluttershy asked, and Sunset replied. "I think we should just leave that alone, it isn't anywhere in comparison to what they've done, but it's as much as he can do." "This is gonna get super bad, isn't it?" Pinkie predicted, concerned. "Oh yeah, we should probably turn around," Applejack suggested. Noah glanced at the crowd, they were still under the Sirens' spell so they may not remember this. Good. In a movement so fast that conceiving it was a joke, Noah rushed forward and plunged his fist so deep within Adagio's stomach, her mouth began watering, a sign of vomit. Adagio screamed and slowly stepped back, Noah let her and she fell to her knees. "I'll be back for you," he whispered as he veered around to her sisters. Aria and Sonata watched in horror as their sister puked blood from her mouth and cried. She couldn't even speak and she held her stomach with both arms as nearly a liter of blood poured from her mouth like cranberry juice. She wheezed, gagged, and hacked, "Y-You son o-of a b-bitch-" Is all she could think to say as she coughed up another half of a liter onto the stage floor. "So, who's first? What about... Pigtails." Noah casually yet murderously approached Aria, but Aria slowly stepped back in terror. Sonata tried to rush Noah, but he gripped her neck once she got into arm's reach. He uttered through his teeth, "Wait your turn." He slung Sonata into one of the speakers with only half of his strength, yet she crashed straight through it. "Sonata!" Aria yelled, and Noah ostensibly teleported in front of her and seized her arm. "You know the first thing that I saw in that wreckage on TV? An old man's arm trying to lift a piece of rubble off of it. He failed and died within seconds as it crushed his arm, wholly. Aria faltered as he could feel her pulse through her arm. "It's the right thing to give back to those who lost something, hm?" Aria froze. Noah lifted his right foot and slammed into Aria's kneecap, pushing it the wrong direction disgustingly. She shouted at the top of her lungs and fell over. She began to cry as Noah stomped on her back, just barely leaving her back intact. He then yanked her arm and started to pull. "No God, stop! Please! I'm sorry, don't do this!" Noah stomped again, "How many children do you think were gassed back in the second world war? How many died in general? Eighty-five million! But is was totally worth it for your stupid fuckin' negative energy, wasn't it?" Aria whimpered and tried to release her arm from his grip with her other arm. Noah snatched it, which sent Aria into a frenzy. "No stop!! Please!! I'm begging you!!" "Guess the fuck what, nigga?" he whispered and leaned close, and Aria fell silents. "No." With unbelievable force, Noah tore Aria's right arm straight off. Her screams and cries for help pierced the ears of her Sisters like bullets as the blood within her arm overflowed both her lifeless arm and her shoulder. "Oh good god above, that's a-lot of blood. Must suck to be you right now, huh Pigtails?" Aria had completely tuned Noah out as she paused in a state of absolute agony. She writhed and tried as hard as she could to get from under Noah's shoe. "We're not done yet, by the way." Aria wept and sniveled as the blood around her began to take a toll on her consciousness. Noah lifted Aria off of the ground by her hair and forced her to stare in his eyes. "Hurts, doesn't it? Can you imagine how horrible it'd be to get shot by a tank or a plane? No? Well, we can at least try." Noah eyed one of Earth's greatest monster's of the shadows and smirked. This is for my mom. Noah took Aria's torn limb, made the hand into a fist, and began shoving it into her mouth. Before Noah even got half of the hand in Aria's mouth, she began retching. "Oh hell no. You're eating this, period." "Aria..." Adagio mumbled as she laid on her side holding her stomach in a pile of puke and blood. She regretfully opened her eyes to see her sibling choking on half of a bloody and vomit-covered arm as she writhed in pain as Noah shoved it down her throat like a... certain activity done in bed. Noah smirked as he dropped Aria. He stared down at his work with zero remorse as she twitched. The arm inside her looking like a disfigurement of some sort and the grimy red blood had already made another puddle around her. Her awfully red eyes even seemed to pop out a little as tears streamed out her eye socket like a waterfall. "One down, two to go," Noah grumbled as she strolled over to Sonata who began to wake up. "Owie, what... what happened?" She groggily asked as she rubbed her head. She glanced forward to see Noah standing directly in front of her like a horror movie monster. "What... what did you do?" He grinned, "I dealt with her, what do you think I did?" Sonata grew as cold as the Arctic Ocean as she peered around Noah and saw Aria ravaged. She began to sob, "Aria! No! Why?! Why did you do that?!" Noah grabbed Sonata by her ponytail and lifted her to eye length, she went limp like it was her weak spot. "You really think you're the victim here, don't you? What do you think this is you heartless whore? You took everything from so many families, and you have the nerve to fuckin' cry?!" Noah slammed Sonata over his head and onto the stage. It created a small crater and Sonata wriggled in pain. "I'm gonna fix that," He whispered in her ear. "Tell me, how many people do you think you’ve reduced to completely unlovable? How many people do you think you've reduced to simply unlivable? To live at all, they need to stay in bed. All. Day. Long." Sonata didn't respond, Noah sneered, "Let me give you a taste, you bastard." Noah lowered his knee upon Sonata's ribcage, she wept. Indeed, they were gonna shatter, but that wasn't his goal. "Imagine a world of darkness, but not the metaphorical way," he said as he dug his left hand into her left eye. Sonata screeched so loud that it even hurt Noah's ears, which he countered by covering it with his other hand. He dug around her eye socket unrelentingly and pulled out her eye. She squealed, although indistinct, "I can't see in my eye!! Oh, God!! I'm sorry!! Stop it, please God!!" Noah replied by clutching Sonata's left ear and pulling it off completely. Her screams only increased in pitch as she flailed around in unmistakable distress. She tried to lift Noah off of her, but he wouldn't budge for a moment. "Oh wow, to be honest, this is making my black ass cringe. Oh well, what's next..." Noah observed the mess that was becoming a mutilated Sonata. He caught a glimpse over her feet, Perfect, he thought. He pulled off her shoes and counted her toes. "Jesus Christ, this reminds me of those sociopathic serial killers. Guess now you'll know how your victims felt." Noah gripped her left foot's toes and began ripping them off with a purpose. Sonata tried to kick Noah off of her again, but she still couldn't get him off. Not only that, but she would never even crave to move as three of her ribs had snapped. With each tear, Sonata screamed in a higher pitch as her tears began to make a small puddle around her head. Her destroyed eye, though, had instead made a puddle within her eye socket. With the final toe gone, Noah stood up, "Jesus. This is horrid in the long run but, I just can't seem to get rid of the image of my father in half, you know?" Sonata reluctantly rolled onto her side and whimpered as blood and tears mixed and spilled from head to toe. "Just one more thing you sum-bitch," Noah mumbled as he grabbed her toes. With unnecessary force, Noah shoved all of her toes down through her chest! Sonata struggled to even comprehend the violent feeling within as she blacked out, incredibly close to death. Noah snickered as he crossed his arms, ”Heh.” Sonata couldn't move, she laid lifeless, completely out of energy. Noah spit on her, booted her in her stomach, somewhat annoyed that he couldn't hear her groan. "Two down, one to go." Noah turned to Adagio as she laid, still debilitated in a puddle of her inside contents. "You know Adagio, the others were just getting what they deserved. It wasn't really satisfying, but only because it wasn't you." "You're the head of this entire operation, you always were, and I hate you for it. I hate you with all my life force. For your sisters, I merely vented, but to get a point though, I really needed to hurt you." Noah peeked over to the side of the stage and spotted a surprisingly sharp electric guitar. Perfect once again. He jogged over to it, picked it up, and returned to Adagio. "You... m-monster... I'll... I'll." Noah stared her down as she struggled to stand up, but stood up regardless. "I'll make sure you pay in ways you can't comprehend!" "The only monster here is you. Everything I've done in the past minutes means nothing to everything you've done-” "We didn't h-have a choice! We're f-fucking Sirens! We need n-negative energy!" "So you ruin my home? What part of the many outweigh the few don't you get?! If you three living meant taking the lives of nearly hundreds of billions, then it isn't up for debate on who has to go.” Adagio stepped back, "So w-we just die?! T-That's it?!" Noah nodded, "That's exactly it. How do you think heroes do what they do? They do what is needed for the greater good. If that means taking their lives, than so-fuckin'-be it." Noah gripped Adagio's pendant and raised the guitar. "N-No, wait! You d-don't have t-to do this!" Noah steadied Adagio and aimed for her chest. "I know, but I'm the will of Earth, motherfucker." With nothing left to say, Noah plunged the electric guitar through Adagio. "Hope this doesn't break," He said as he pushed the guitar deeper and deeper while pulling her pendant. Unlike her sisters, Adagio didn't scream, but she could only cry more and whimper in terrifying pain. Noah stared deep into her eyes, "I've waited so long for this. To put you in your place. To put all of you in your place. Its been a desired goal of mine ever since I saw you three on that roof." Noah continued to push the guitar through Adagio until the entire neck was through her. He peeked behind her to see it covered in blood and flesh. "Damn, your ass is lucky. I didn't hit any vital organs. Aren't you happy?" Noah let go of the guitar and let Adagio fall to her knees. He gripped her head and made her look him straight in the eyes. "This is for humanity you cunt. I hope you burn in hell until the end of time. Oh, what I'd do to see that." “What... what are you?” Adagio questioned with her dying breath. Noah smiled, “I’m just a nappy headed nigga with the world behind him.” Noah let go of Adagio's hair and stepped back. She collapsed on the body of the guitar and then rolled onto her side. Noah spat on her face as he looked at his marvelous work. He smiled and exhaled as the largest burden on his back finally lifted. He had made the Sirens pay for their unforgivable crimes against humanity. Maybe his home will be better from now on. He hoped so with all his heart. He then rose from the ground of the stage and flew towards the Rainbooms. But as he left, he could've sworn he heard the guitar scrape the ground, just a bit. Noah touched the ground of the hill and was met with the most thunderstruck and disturbed group of girls he'd ever seen in his life. He shrugged, "What? Niggas paid for their crimes. Besides, it doesn't even match up to what they've done, so don't feel bad. Sunset neared Noah and put a hand on his shoulder, "Noah... you... good Celestia, um... how long have you had these... itchings to do this?" "Ever since I left that hospital. What, you think I'm fucked up in the head?" Sunset stepped back, "No! No, no, no, no, no-" "Because I kinda am. That shit even disturbs me as I look at it, good lord. I can't believe I almost did that to you!" Noah replied, finishing with a genuine giggle. "Wait... what?" He walked past her and approached the Rainbooms. "Alright, it's your turn. Finish 'em off or whatever niggas." The Rainbooms didn't reply and simply stared, petrified. Noah rolled his eyes. "Noah, we're going to have a serious talk after this. Ya know that, right?" Applejack asked, and Noah crossed his arms. "Yeah, yeah, Old Town Road. Now finish them before they get the energy they-" *Zoom!* Noah was cut off by the sound of the result of one simple mistake. "Motherfucker! I knew I should've killed them!" Noah, Sunset, and the Rainbooms spun around to face the stage to find that the Sirens had finally become complete and were transforming. Noah glared at his hands, he was infuriated. "Goddamn Sirens!!" Fluttershy held her head, "Oh no! Can we still defeat them?" "Alright motherfuckers, this is it! Y'all need to start that counterspell right the hell now! But not just that, do you think you could lend the energy to me so I can get a direct shot?" "What?!" The Rainbooms replied, simultaneously. "Giving you our power? What, are you out of your mind?!" Rainbow asked, confused. "Kinda, but if I use the power I have, we can't hit them dead on." "How in the world did you squander your power torturing them?" Rarity asked, annoyed. "This power wasn't meant for that, I think, in a way, it's pissed at me or something. Or maybe it's just used specifically for situations like these. Unfortunately, harmony's a bitch." Twilight groaned, "Okay, maybe we can do that but, they can hit us anytime! How are we supposed to-" "Light 'em up, boys!" Shouted a voice from their left, a voice Noah recognized by heart. He turned to his left to discover his friends in Manex's truck fully armed and firing at the Sirens. Strangely enough, it seemed to be working! They were distressed and disgruntled at the gunfire. Though it was doing no damage whatsoever, they were trying desperately to hit them. "Well, we found our backup," Noah spoke up, he then turned at the Rainbooms with the most serious eyes they've ever seen from him. "Sing like your lives depend on it ladies, because today, it does!" (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
IX - Nothing But Our Wit and Our Will (TBR)Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
X - To Save The World (TBR)Author's Note This Town Ain’t Big Enough For The Four Of Us... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited. X - To Save The World (TBR) Noah stood firm. With the power from the Rainbooms along with Sunset, his aura had changed from bright white to that of a flaming rainbow. He sighted his friends, they were in danger. CJ had lost his Bizon and was struggling to escape a hole the Sirens made for him, he cursed a multitude of times after many failed attempts. Jain was hiding inside of the flipped pick-up truck, his MP5 split in half just outside the left door. Noah could feel Jain's frustration from where he stood. Manex was launched through the windshield and laid unconscious with blood dripping from his forehead and mouth, not a worrying amount, but still showed signs of serious pain as he twitched every now and then. His EBR-14 hung from his chest, unscathed somehow. And right next to him was the last standing, Fall. He was perilously trying to keep the Sirens from attacking the rest of his friends as he sprayed each Siren with a devastating amount of lead that tried anything with his M249. "Okay, second times the charm... or is it third times the charm? Fuck it, don't have time for this," Noah thought aloud, which gained a mumble from Sunset as she drowsily opened her eyes. Noah spread his arms and legs wide as he did before and the clouds above him began to swirl like a thunderstorm. The sound of thunder above made Jain jump and he could hear his friend curse everything that exists. "N... Noah, wha... what are y-you doing?" Sunset muttered, but loud enough for Noah to hear. "Important shit, kid. Might wanna pray you don't get hit. Sunset tilted her head, "Wha... what?" As Noah's palms began to glow, lightning began bolting from above and attacking the ground below like a gunship. Bolts passed Noah just barely missing him and Sunset before dissipating. That was enough to get Sunset to jump to her feet in fear. "Ah! W-What the heck?! Was that lightning?! Noah, w-what the heck are you c-charging!?" Noah smiled as the wind began to pick up around him and grass, rocks, and dirt began rising and falling from the ground, each bound faster than the last. "I told you, I saw it on a TV show," He responded, not distraught in the least. "O-Oh really?! And what happened to the land after the thing in the show occurred?!" Noah didn't respond. "Do us all a favor and not blow up the planet, please!" Sunset shouted, regaining her strength. "Okay mom! Fuck me!" The wind began to pick up pace as his hair and Sunset's flailed around like a flag. The dirt, rocks, and grass began to revolve Noah much faster and the ground itself began to shake. Feeling a hot sensation within himself and his palms, Noah peeked over at both of his hands to see smoking and sharp balls of magic form, they even had lightning within them. As Noah returned his attention to the Sirens, several bolts of electricity struck the ground below like explosive shells from wars, caused by the Sirens, of course. But he saw something else, one of the Sirens, Adagio to be exact, had trapped Fall in a hole similar to CJ. Once he fell in the hole, he was barely hanging on to his life as he was hit directly from the attack. Adagio was going to eat him whole like a filthy beast. "No! Motherfucker!" Sunset showed up next to him, "What, what is it!?" "Adagio! That orange bastard is gonna eat Fall! If I fire a premature blast like this one, I'm not sure there'll be an Earth worth saving anymore. You know, because it'll be fuckin' obliterated!" Sunset stumbled back as a rock hit her back. Ow! Damn it! She thought to herself. But when she stepped back, she saw a glint from Noah and realized something. It was his handgun, the Desert Eagle, and it was sticking out from his back pocket. "Noah, I think I have an idea, but... Not sure how to do it!" Noah turned his head around to feel Sunset pull the gun from his back pocket. She dropped it when she realized how surprisingly heavy it was. "Why is this so heavy?" "It's the strongest handgun in the world! What, did you expect it to feel like a fuckin' peashooter?!" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Stop being a jerk and tell me how this works!" "Okay, see that switch-looking thingy on the side?! That's the safety, turn it the other way!" Sunset did as she was told and pushed the switch. It was a little difficult, but just a little. "Okay, now what?!" "The top of the gun is called the slide, pull that back until it can't be pulled back anymore and let go! A bullet will fly out, so don't be alarmed! Once you've got that done, press your finger down on the other switch at the end of the slide, it's called the hammer!" Sunset once again followed his instructions and found that pulling the slide back was quite difficult. "End of the world here, Sunset! Move like you've got a purpose!" "I'm trying, hold on!" It took a few more tries until Sunset successfully pulled the slide back entirely. She then completed the other instruction she was given. "Okay, now what?!" "Mount up on my shoulder and aim down the sights! The sights are the things pointing up on top of the slide, they're there to make shooting a helluva lot easier!" Sunset held the gun out and fixed onto Noah's shoulder. She then aimed down the sights with her right eye, Noah smirked. "Fantastic, I didn't have to walk you through the easiest part of the gun! Nice job, kid!" Sunset blushed, "Y-Yeah, thanks!" Noah then returned his attention to Fall, the Sirens were fighting over who got to eat Fall, which only angered Noah more, but he grew fearful when he saw Adagio had won the argument. "Alright kid, Aim down on Adagio's eye! She won't be expecting it, so you should have a clear shot! See those couple of bullet holes in them from when the boys first came 'round?! That's because they didn't expect them and let their magic down!" "Now on my mark," Noah instructed, and Sunset aimed down right on Adagio's left eye. He felt the magic within his hands grow larger, and larger, until... *SHINE!* "Mark!" Noah yelled, and Sunset unloaded the entire mag into the Siren's eye. It cried in anguish and Noah saw that Sunset had completely destroyed Adagio's eye as it began to bleed in multiple spots. "Now what?!" Sunset asked, confused, slightly scared, and shook. "Now, you stand the fuck back! It's ready!" Noah replied, and Sunset quickly backed away, shielding the Rainbooms. "Hey Sirens! Tell Satan I said he can go fuck himself because I'm sending you straight to his doorstep!" Noah shouted at the top of his lungs, and Sunset along with the Sirens could hear a monstrous echo, like a second voice straight from the depths. Noah brought his hands together and they faced the Sirens like a weird martial arts move. When they did, everything stopped... "FINAL FLASH!!" With two words, the largest beam of white light and magic ever seen on Earth, and maybe even in Equestria, erupted from Noah's hands like the mightiest volcano known to man. Sunset was awestruck as she felt pale and insignificant. The beam was ridiculously large as it rushed forward towards all three Sirens, it was so undeniably massive, it was twice the size of them combined! The Sirens stared, not a sound left their mouth. Jain crawled from out of the flipped truck and gawked at the bright white beam as it came charging for Earth's greatest monsters. All at once, the beam hit the Sirens and ate them whole. Jain watched as their silhouettes all dissolved and burned away with the beam. He could only imagine how god awful that must feel, then again, he didn't care. The smoke began to clear. Noah held his hands together and breathed strenuously as he scanned the clouds, worried that he might've missed. "Please God, don't make me do that again... Jesus fuckin' Christ." When the smoke dissipated to one layer, Jain shouted from afar. "You got 'em nigga!" The smoke finally cleared away and there was nothing left of the Sirens. Noah dropped to his knees and held his sides in unbearably painful victory. His aura dissipated, but his hair and eyes kept its color. Sunset stood up from behind and approached him. "Need a hand?" Noah grabbed said hand, and Sunset struggled to lift him up, but lifted him regardless. "Yeah! You got 'em!" Shouted a voice. Noah turned to his right to find the Rainbooms conscious and well. It seemed the blast had awoken them from their slumber. "Well butter mah butt and call me a biscuit, you got 'em!" Applejack spoke up, relieved. "Dude that blast was enormous! That may’ve been the coolest thing I've ever seen!" Rainbow Dash added, fired up. "How did you produce that?! I've never seen a blast so large in my life! I don't even think the Princesses have either!" Twilight questioned, baffled. "Well whatever it was, it sure did save our home! Marvelous job everyone!" Rarity congratulated, the world was saved. "You know, ” Rainbow began, ”Twilight is going back to Equestria soon. The Rainbooms could really use someone to help Fluttershy on backup vocals..." Catching the hint, Sunset snatched a guitar from nearby and performed incredible guitar skills that nobody expected as the group’s jaw dropped like a sack of flour, expeciall Rainbow Dash’s. “I also play guitar,” Sunset spoke up, and Noah struggled to hold his laughter, “Jesus fuckin’ Christ…” Rainbow looked at Twilight, Twilight looked back. Rainbow looked at the others, they looked back. Rainbow placed her hands on her hips and sighed, “We’ll see.” With that, the Rainbooms rushed up to Sunset and gave her a loving hug, a new member of the Rainbooms had arrived. "Aw, how sweet!" Noah sarcastically spoke up. "You know Noah, you really helped us out these past few days. You could always join our b-band too." Noah waved her off, "Nah nigga, I'd rather be your manager." Rainbow scoffed, "Our manager? Seriously?" Noah shrugged, "What? Afraid someone's gonna actually put you in your place without the addition of a spell?" She rolled her eyes, "Please..." "Well, you're definitely our new friend!" Pinkie responded, rushing over and lifting Noah in a hug that shouldn't be possible at all. "W-What?!" "Noah, you helped us save the world, especially in the end as you took it into your own hands. Not only that, but we learned that you aren't just an absolute jerk. You have a grand heart, and with your power, it’s even larger than ours combined! We’d be honored to have you as our friend." Sunset answered, approaching him. "Yeah, that sounds about right," Applejack added, along with the others agreeing. ”Fuck it, whatever...” When Pinkie dropped him, all the Rainbooms joined in and held Noah in another group hug. "Ow! I can't feel my dick guys, chill!" The Rainbooms giggled before backing away, and Noah laid his eyes on Sunset. "Hey kid... bring it in," Noah said as he approached Sunset and gave her a friendly hug under her arms. Sunset was taken aback, a lot of things had happened in the last few days, but never did she think that she'd share a hug with who used to be her greatest adversary. Feeling warm and at peace like never before, Sunset hugged back as a single tear fell down her cheek. "Thank you," She whispered, and Noah replied. "You're alright kid. You're alright." Noah ended the hug and found the Rainbooms tearing and cooing at such a wholesome moment, Noah rolled his eyes. "Okay, I gotta go get my friends-" "Right here, nigga!" Jain shouted from behind with CJ behind him as well. "Aight, nigga damn!" Noah replied, startled. ”A’ight, nigga, damn?! Motherfucke-" Jain stopped, he took a deep breath, and relaxed. "We’re gonna talk about that shit that just occurred after we get our friends. So get the fuck over here and help us!" CJ replied, and Noah rolled his eyes. Rainbow and Pinkie chuckled from behind. Noah, Jain, and CJ approached the hole where Fall laid unconscious. "Christ alive.” CJ spoke up, receiving a nudge from Noah. CJ was never good at being subtle or saying the right things which got the group into trouble every now and then. As a result of being hit by a direct blast, half of Falls's face and body were burnt to a crisp. His hair had burned and he most likely couldn't feel a thing. "Alright, I got this," Noah spoke up as he slid down the hole. "The fuck you mean you got this?" Noah brought his hands to Fall's body, "Turns out I can heal people and stuff. There's a lot of things that need explaining today anyways." Noah lowered his hands and they began to glow lightly. CJ and Jain watched in absolute disbelief. The burns on Fall's face started to slowly creep away like a nasty virus commercial, the hair on his head grew back like a timelapse of grass growing, and Noah could feel and hear bones being set back into place within him. Fatigued, Fall woke up, "Woah... you guys look like hammered shit." CJ promptly flipped him off and Jain just gaped, amazed. ”That nigga was burnt to a crisp, how the hell is all of that gone?!" "Man, I don't know, I just tried it with my hand underneath the stage before I went up. Wanted to see whether or not I had healing powers. Now we know," Noah replied, the feeling of triumph still strong within him. "The hell happened to your hand?" CJ questioned, and Noah responded, "I broke it. Hurt bad but, I was too angry to care about it. Probably lost a lot of blood, too." "You broke your hand? Nigga, I swear you can be hella stupid sometimes. I don't even understand how you're a white Super Saiyan," Jain replied. "Yeah, why are you like this? And more importantly, why am I not a Super Saiyan?" CJ asked, feeling left out. "It's not white Super Saiyan dumbass, it's this whole thing, I'll explain when we go to that diner. "Wait, we're going to the diner? What for?" Fall asked, confused. "Turns out those Sirens were Earth's greatest puppeteers as they've had to do with literally every horrible thing that has ever happened just for some stupid-ass negative energy. That includes dropping a building on my family." "Holy shit, really?! Man, I'm glad you fucked them up. I lost my grandfather in WWII," CJ replied. "Exactly, and now that they've been, mercilessly slaughtered, we can go party our asses off at the diner!" Noah responded, a strange menacing tone in his voice echoing for a short while. "What about Manex?" Fall asked as he stood up to find Manex still unconscious from being hurled through a windshield. "Let's go get him," Jain replied, and they began towards him. "I seriously don't understand how you aren't a Super Saiyan, I mean, look at you! You have bright white hair, a bright white aura, white eyes... okay, I can see the differences now...” "Dumbass," CJ chuckled, and Manex replied. "Nigga whatever, I got launched through a windshield and lived, I just don't give a shit anymore." As Noah stood up from Manex, he saw that the audience had returned to normal and were heavily bewildered, along with the principals. Not only that, but Twilight was once again talking to Flash. Noah shrugged it off, I've got better shit to worry about. He turned to face the hill to see the Rainbooms approaching them, he sighed, Sonuva bitch. CJ seemed to have noticed too as he spoke up, “Look sharp boys and line up, we’ve got incoming.” The others stood up as well and grew concerned. “This ain’t gonna end well,” Jain replied. “Relax guys, just relax,” Noah replied, easing them up. It seemed the Rainbooms had noticed that they’d been noticed as they grew quiet and dropped their conversation. As they reached the end of the hill, the Rainbooms stood side by side, similar to the boys. Fall stepped back while the other three walked forward and crossed their arms. "Looks like we've got a little Mexican standoff here," Jain spoke up, addressing the girls. "I said relax goddamnit, if it weren't for these guys, we wouldn't be here right now... well, we would but, you know," Noah replied, trying to get his friends to calm down. "What about her? What makes her so damn special?" Manex replied, pointing to Sunset. "She's the one that tended to Noah when he broke his hand!" Rainbow replied, and Noah's friends' jaws dropped like anvils. "What in the hell?! She fixed your hand?! That's bullshit! No way in the fuck did that happen!" Jain shouted before skeptically turning to Noah, "...Is it?" He nodded one simple nod. "But... why?" Applejack stepped forward, "Because Sunset ain't a bad person no more! She's awfully sorry for everythin’ she's ever done, includin’ everythin’ she's done to you." "Besides, S-Sunset made the last stand here with Noah. We all f-fell unconscious, except for her," Fluttershy added. Sunset herself stepped forward, "I understand if you guys still won't forgive me but, I heard one of you talk about a redeeming act so, wouldn't what just occurred count as one?" CJ opened his mouth to argue but... he couldn't disagree. The Black Five had all agreed that they could only forgive someone if they made it up to them, and Sunset had done that. Twice. Not only did she tend to Noah's injury, but she also stood side by side with him to stop the Sirens. Saving the world alongside their best friend was more than enough to forgive one. CJ turned to Jain, Manex turned to Fall, and they all turned to Noah who returned the stare. Sunset really wasn't a bad person anymore. "Alrighty then girl, you have our forgiveness," CJ spoke up smiling, along with the other sharing a similar grin. "But if you fuck over any of us again, we're gonna fuckin' pop you like a damn birthday ballon," Jain added as he raised his sidearm from his side. "Okay, okay, I got the message. I don't plan on that ever again anyway," Sunset replied. Hearing this, Jain lowered his weapon and began back towards the truck, along with the rest of them. "Noah come on, use your stupid ass powers and flip my damn truck," Manex told him, and Noah waved him off. "Yeah yeah nigga, I’m coming. Hold on a second, will you?” Rarity waved him off, “Of course, take your time.” Noah smiled and returned to Manex and his truck. “Aight nigga, flip this shit,” he directed. Noah approached the roof of the truck, he bent down and gripped it. “Okay, here we go…” With all of his willpower, Noah flipped the truck right side up, vibrating the ground like an Earthquake. “Holy shit, that actually worked!” Manex exclaimed, surprised. “But it’s scratched to shit! This is gonna cost a fortune!” Manex added, dropping to his knees. “Relax nigga, it’s a hard knock life after all,” Jain replied. “Hard knock cock sucking life,” CJ added, and Manex simply groaned. Watching from afar, Sunset noticed something near the left rear tire. “Noah, something’s near one of the tires, it’s sparkling.” Noah eyed the tires until he found a red, shiny, and cracked pendant near one of the tires. He picked it up and brought it over to the Rainbooms as he friends didn’t care in the slightest. “What is it?” Applejack asked. “It’s one of the Sirens’ pendants,” Noah answered. “This must’ve contained their magic, but thanks to me, they were gonna die with or without it.” The group heard footsteps from the left, it was Twilight. “You found what?” “One of the Siren’s pendants,” Noah answered and looked at Sunset. ”Must’ve been why Adagio lost it for a second and snatched it back from you.” Twilight smiled, “Interesting! Well, I should probably bring it back to Celestia, or maybe my own home-” “This thing gave the monsters who took everything from me, their magic. Their power. I’m taking this as a trophy and a reminder that all those years of pain was worth it. You don’t agree, you can come and get it.” “O-kay, I uh… I guess that sounds fair.” Noah beamed, “Oh good! Otherwise I’d have to kill you.” “What-” “Alright! This has been, uh... shitty, really really shitty, but... also pretty damn fun. Hopefully, nobody else tries to take our will to live and such because that'd be pretty fuckin' irritating." "Well Noah darling, I'm quite certain there won't be any more mythical creatures like that for some time, perhaps even forever," Rarity replied, at peace. "See you at school?" Sunset asked, and Noah answered. "Yeah, should be a lot easier considering you're in most of my classes. Alright, see ya later, Rainbrooms." They were not amused. With that, Noah joined his friends inside of Manex’s truck and shut the door. The black pick-up truck began down the same trail they came, playing another one of, what Sunset believed, Noah’s favorites. It left a dust cloud unfortunately, and Sunset made sure to make him apologize next time she saw him. "I wonder how stuff's gonna go now! We have two new members of our band now!" Pinkie exclaimed, excited. Sunset stared and wondered as well, things were going her way, and maybe, just maybe, she'd receive a gift she longed for years, Someone to hold her. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
Epilogue - The Friendship Arc (TBR)ONE WEEK LATER "Then, I blasted the daft shits to kingdom come! You should've seen it dog! Still can't believe I fired a fuckin' Final Flash. Coolest damn thing I've ever done in my life. You really should've been there dog, you would've loved it... or you'd just bark your ass off." Noah supposedly spoke to McFly about last week's events as he drove towards his school's stage that they used. Today, the principals were going to reward him and the Rainbooms for saving the world once again, Sunset and him, for the first time. Noah chuckled from time to time as he thought about his own country and how they would have an unblemished field day with the past week. He and the Rainbooms were gonna say a couple of things, receive some medals, and then the school would return to normal starting Monday. After the Fall Formal, nothing really changed with the Rainbooms as they were still seen as fellow students. This confused Noah, but he shrugged it off. He mainly just wondered how the school would react to how the kid with the, broadest vocabulary, saved the world. Maybe he wouldn't have to worry about other students thinking he's an absolute jerk. Maybe someone would admit their feelings for him, maybe he'd be more accepted. Noah giggled, "I don't need these fucks to be satisfied, but some respect would be nice, don't you think so too dog?" Mcfly panted. "Of course, because you and the boys are all I need. Just imagine not having someone to yell at every hour. Good God, that'd be boring." Noah continued down the road while McFly struggled to keep still. Dogs don't exactly belong in cars after all. "What about Sunset? I mean, sure I've put with her bullshit in the past but, what about her specifically?" McFly panted. "I mean, yeah back then she was a bitch, but did you see that cake she had? And when I walked in on her in the bathroom, by God, those were some spectacular tits! But... I guess it's more than that." McFly panted. "I mean like, she fuckin' healed me! Not like a video game, but she did the whole shebang while I slept like a sheep! And remember when I woke up? Her arm was wrapped around me! Like she was trying to get closer to me while I slept!" McFly panted. "It felt nice, but it was confusing. I mean, does she like me? Naw nigga, she probably like niggas like that Flash guy, AKA, prince charming. Hoes only after us for our package... but... what if I'm wrong?" McFly panted. "I mean, didn't she dump Flash at one point? Besides, after all the bullshit between us, she's warmed up to me as a friend pretty quick... maybe... no! She may be different, but I have to think about my boys, especially Fall. He'll feel so betrayed, he'll never be able to look me in the eyes again..." McFly panted. "You know the code McFly, Bros Before Hoes. If that means denying a cute, fuck it, drop-dead gorgeous girl’s love, then so goddamn be it. It's a hard knock life for a ghetto bastard after all, this is just one of those scenarios." McFly whimpered. "You're not changing my mind you fluffy fuck. Whimper all you want, I ain't going against my boys. Maybe we could hook up, but that's about it. Besides, she probably doesn't even know what the fuck hooking up is." McFly whimpered louder. "Dog, fuck off. You know goddamn well you'd do the same thing. Besides, she could just be trying to be friendly! We don't actually know whether or not she likes me, and I don't like making a move to find out." McFly huffed and rested his head on the window. "Yeah, that's what I thought. Like you know shit about love, you're a goddamn dog. I outta throw you out this damn car." McFly barked. "Oh relax! Do you really think I'd throw you out at forty miles-per-hour? Damn dog, that's cold." McFly yelped. "Relax, you're fine you precious soft ball of idiocy. Now, when we get there, I'm gonna leave you here, it should only be an hour. Once the ceremony is finished, I'll let you out and you can come meet the girls." McFly whimpered. "Yeah, you're gonna be seeing them a lot more so, better get used to them instead of being a bitch, got it?" McFly happily barked. "Good, I'll leave the window open and all of your toys are under your seat. You know your way around and shit, you'll be fine." Noah finally pulled up to the stadium and took a deep breath. ”It’s showtime.” "Okay... you've got this dude, it's an awards ceremony, you'll be fine!" Noah assured himself, he was just a bit afraid of how things would go down. He gripped his necklace and stared it down, "You got me into this, if you fuck me over, I will end you." Taking a deep breath, Noah exited the bleachers' main door and walked along the path. As he made his second step, he was hit by applause and cheers that he could barely recognize. Holy shit, they really do respect me! And all it took was obliterating a trio of dickheads! Noah could hear the crowd calling out to him. "Nice job, man!" That guy with the beanie. "Yeah, you got 'em!" That girl with the light blue and white hair. "You were amazing!" That girl with the dark blue and pink hair. This would continue from multiple others that Noah had seen in school. Those three seventh grade girls, those simpletons that helped Sunset at the Fall Formal, the janitor, the kid with the abnormally large glasses, AJ's brother, just an onslaught of applause. Noah stepped up onto the stage and lined up along the Rainbooms, next to Sunset. "Jesus, these guys appreciate us that much?" He asked, baffled. "Uh, duh! We saved the world!" Rainbow answered. "And we looked marvelous while we did so!" Rarity added. "I know that but, I've never received such praise, nor have I ever seen!" Sunset tilted her head, "Weren't you there for the ceremony from last month?" "No, the boys and I were busy watching Family Guy," he answered, and Applejack frowned. "You spent the week off missin' people who saved the world, for a TV show?" Noah nodded and smirked, "What, you think I saw Sunset as a threat? No offense kid, but you’re as threatening as a cocker spaniel." "None taken, once again," she replied, and Noah snickered. "Ladies and gentlemen," Celestia began, "Today, we once again give the greatest thanks we can as the people lined up today have saved our world once again, along with new faces!" "A simple musical event that was meant to raise money was turned into a fierce competition by monsters from a foreign land! If not for the people who proudly stand behind me, our school, ney, our entire planet may not have been realized anymore!" "Which is why, today," Luna began, "We are rewarding these gallant souls for their selfless acts! Starting here with Rainbow Dash. Known as the most loyal student in our school." Celestia grabbed a light blue medal, with the words 'Loyal 'Till Death' engraved, off the table to their right. She approached Rainbow from behind, brought it over her head, and let it sit around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded. "Our next student, Rarity Belle, known as the most generous student in our school." Celestia returned from the table with a purple medal, with the words 'Generous To All', engraved. She approached Rarity and brought the medal over her head and let it sit around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded. "Onto our next student, Apple Jacqueline. Known here as the most honest of all." Celestia repeated the medal process and approached Applejack with an orange medal, the words 'Honest To All', engraved. She brought the medal over Applejack's head and let it rest around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded once again. "Now, our next student is Pinkamena Diane Pie. Known in our fine school as the most joyous student of all." Repeating the medal process once again, Celestia approached Pinkie from behind with a pink medal, the words 'Life's A Party' engraved. She brought it over Pinkie's head, which was just a bit hard due to her puffy hair, and let it rest around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded once again. "Onto our next student, Fluttershy Breeze. Known here as the kindest soul of all time." Once again repeating the medal process, Celestia approached Fluttershy with a yellow medal, the words 'Simply Kind For Eternity' engraved. She brought it over Fluttershy's head and let it rest around her neck. "Thank you, once again," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded once again. "And now, our two new faces who contributed to saving our home. Starting off with a student who rose, fell, and now, has risen once again, greater than ever, Sunset Shimmer." Sunset felt immensely jubilant as she felt a red medal, the words 'Born From The Ashes, I Rise' engraved on it, resting around her neck. Finally, she was redeemed, she was fixed. "Thank you for all that you've done," Luna finished, and the crowd applauded louder than the Rainbooms got. "And finally, the second new face. One that I doubt any of us has ever seen before in our country, and yet, thou delivered the finishing blow with an incredible display of power. Noah Alexander Rictorshine." Noah felt at peace as Celestia brought a white and black medal over his head and let it rest around his neck. The words, 'Outsider. Challenger. Leader. Hero,' engraved on it. "Thank you for all that you've done, outsider." Luna finished, and the crowd clapped as loud as they could. Noah felt prideful, but also a little weird. How'd they know my favorite color? How'd they know I wasn't from here? "Uh, you're welcome. Glad I'm not dead right now," Noah replied. I'll find that shit out later, right now, I'll just enjoy the moment. Celestia stepped to the side next to her sister, "Ladies and gentlemen, our heroes!" Noah and the Rainbooms stepped forward at attention and the audience clapped and hollered. Feeling victorious, Noah gave a solid salutation with his right hand. Though everybody there had no idea just what that gesture meant, Noah knew in his heart that every soul lost to the Sirens were watching him right now, and the amount of admiration and gratitude being given to him was enough to make God himself cry. Noah whispered, "Rest easy now, the monsters are gone..." "Noah? No-ah? C'mon, wake up." Noah groggily opened his eyes to find Sunset standing over him. "W-What... what nigga?" Sunset rolled her eyes and bent down, "Noah, you've been laying on the stage for two hours now..." Noah looked around to find he had fallen asleep on the stage, McFly laying right next to him. "What the hell?" Sunset tilted her head, "Do you remember anything?" "Uh... The ceremony ended, everyone celebrated with a party, I drunk some juice or whatever, then I laid down on the stage and watched the clouds, and then I... I guess I fell asleep at that point. Where the hell did everyone go?" "They went home," Sunset answered. Noah sat up, "What time is it?" Sunset sat down, "It's only 6:19. PM, obviously. The girls and I are all still here though, we were gonna play a song and whatnot." "How was McFly? He didn't do anything stupid, did he?" Sunset grinned, "Nope, not a thing. After you fell asleep, he just kinda laid down next to you. I'm guessing you two didn't get enough sleep last night?" "Yeah, we're kind of insomniacs, us two. More me than him but, yeah." Sunset frowned, "Oh no, that must be horrible." Noah shrugged, "I mean, it was mostly because of the Sirens so, I guess it's just wearing off. Hated those asshats, glad I killed them." Sunset stood up, "You wanna come talk to Twilight? I was just about to write to her, so." Noah also stood up, "The fuck are you talking about? Oh wait, you mean that notebook?" "Yeah, but Twilight has it now, so I've just been writing to her now. It's kinda why I woke you up." "I mean, I don't really give a fuck about Equestria, but why not. Let's talk." Sunset smiled and picked up the book she set down near McFly. She flipped through it and Noah couldn't believe how many notes were inside. "Christ alive, guess this is Equestria's version of a phone," Noah thought aloud. "Yeah, guess you could say that," Sunset replied. After a minute of flipping through pages, Sunset landed on a blank page, right next to the last conversation. She began writing. -Dear Princess Twilight, Missing you already and I hope you'll be back soon. Things are definitely looking up for me here at Canterlot High, but I know I still have a lot to learn about friendship. Hope you don't mind if I write to you for advice when I need it, especially when dealing with you know who. -Your Friend, Sunset Shimmer. -P.S. Noah says, "I call dibs." Whatever that means... (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.) Author's Note We’re Just Getting Started... I apologize as this chapter has not yet been edited.
Intermission I - Knock Knock (TBR)Author's Note ’Till Death Do Us Part... The following chapter includes sexual themes. Intermission I - Knock Knock (TBR) White. White was everywhere, practically omnipresent. As far as the eye could see, nay, comprehend. The floor was white, the sky was white, it was like sitting in the vastest field during a blizzard, only it could no longer be recognized as part of the Earth. All this is what Noah saw as he tiredly opened his eyes and sat up. He felt weightless and even graceful as he stood upon his feet. He stared ahead of him, all white. He stared above, all white. Just as he was to turn around, he heard a gut-wrenching voice, one that tormented his nightmares of the unknown. "Congratulations outsider, you did it." Noah jerked around as fast as he could to find a bizarre yet evil sight, Adagio Dazzle. Noah's blood ran cold, "You, I put an end to you! What the hell are you doing alive?!" "Don't worry, I'm dead. You didn't just take my energy after all, you burnt me alive. Worst pain I, and both of my sisters, have ever felt for the thousands of years we were alive." Noah glared at Adagio, she only stared back. "What is this place?" Adagio looked away, "It's your head, your mind. Your dream, or your nightmare. Doesn't matter to me. But it's more specifically designated as Siren Hell." "Siren Hell? Were there other sirens besides you three?" Adagio fidgeted with her fingers, "There used to, but they're all extinct as of two weeks ago, or at least I assume." Noah examined the area, "Why is it called Siren Hell? And why is it in my head?" Adagio let her fingers go, "When we die, the souls of a siren enter the dreams of our slayer, you, until the day they die. Once that comes, we will cease to exist." "Go on..." Noah replied, and Adagio continued, "Here, you have the ability to do whatever you want, primarily to us. Slash us, gut us, suffocate us, drown us, paralyze us, even rape us. Whatever you can think of, can be done here." "Jesus Christ, guess you're really fucked, aren't you? But... where are your sisters?" Adagio answered, "I dropped here with Aria, but after a while, she just upped and walked away. The human brain is relatively small, so she'll end up back here in presumably less than an hou-ahh!" Adagio was interrupted by a sharp cut against her midsection. She fell back and clenched it agonizingly. "Holy shit, it does work! I didn't even lift a finger..." Noah neared Adagio and lifted her shirt. One long red scar rested upon Adagio's abdomen, clear as day. She winced as he felt it up, "This is fuckin’ astonishing! Lucid dreams really do exist..." "Yes! I know! It's real! Just let me finish, then you can do whatever!" Noah let go of Adagio's shirt and she scooted away from him. Once she was at a reasonable distance, she continued. "But... we didn't see Sonata anywhere. Maybe she was sent somewhere else, or maybe-" "She's not dead. That must've been why only one of the pendants remained. Fuck me! How in the hell am I supposed to find her..." Adagio looked up, "She's still in Canterlot City. Without me, or even Aria, she doesn't know what to do." Noah tilted his head, "Why... why would you tell me?" Adagio replied, "Because I don't want her to suffer alone. Even if we must pay for our mistakes, we should do that together. As sisters." "Okay, well, how'd you know?" Adagio eyed the floor, "When our slayer isn't sleeping, we spend our time watching our fellow sirens. Since Sonata is the only siren left, she's the only one we see." Noah nodded and crossed his arms. He eyed Adagio, she had reached an all-time low. Not only were her powers taken, but she was also obliterated and damned to live the rest of her life being tortured until she ultimately didn't exist anymore. He kinda felt bad. "You know why you're here, right?" She nodded, "I was a bad person, even though I had no choice." "Oh cry me a river, you did have a choice! You always had a choice! And if that meant you had to die instead of uncountable amounts of innocent people, then you should've known what to do! I get it, it was unfair, but life's a bitch! We have to get over it! At least if you died, you'd get to go to heaven or whatever for not taking a life, but you've taken billions!" "How were we supposed to know!?" "The fuck you mean how were you supposed to know?! Nigga, you think ruining lives is justified by you and your sisters being able to live!? You're three sirens on a planet that has had hundreds of billions of people living on it! And you've only been there for one millennium! Imagine the number of lives you've taken back in that Equestria place!" "I... we..." Adagio teared up and Noah stomped, "Face it, you were in the wrong from the very beginning! And now, you're fucked beyond recognition." "We just... don't hurt us, we have nothing left," Adagio whispered, and Noah froze. "You... you know damn well you can't just die and expect nothing to happen." "Then let us change! We'd rather do anything then cease to exist! Please! There must be something I can do at least! I can be your sex toy!" "Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, stop! That is-no! You don't fuck your slayer, you fear them! Good God! I mean... yeah you got cake but, no. That's not happening in a million years." "Then something, anything!" Noah stared as Adagio begged. "What happened to relaxed and apathetic Adagio? Was that just a fake or something?" "No, I just... I haven't been able to think straight ever since I reached this place. I just... I'm sorry. I wish I just... when I was born, I didn't care for others but, when I reached this place I... the feelings just flooded me, and I bet they did the same to Aria. Not only that but I hear them." "Who the hell is them?" Adagio held her shoulders as she sat up. "The victims we murdered, even the ones we manipulated. They keep sobbing and screaming and arguing in my head, I can't take it anymore! You don't know what it's like to hear so many people all at once cursing you out." "You dropped a building on everyone I knew and loved. The feeling is mutual." Adagio looked away, "I just... I don't know what to do anymore..." Noah eyed Adagio once again. A single tear had found its way down her cheek as he watched her sit and stare. Adagio and her sisters are the cause for so many horrors occurring on Earth. Which means, nobody really knows whether or not certain people can change, or be redeemed. Noah thought about Sunset. He knew she'd try to forgive the Sirens and what not similar to how he forgave her. "Maybe you can change, perhaps even be forgiven, but it won't go without pain." Adagio frowned, and Noah continued, "I will find your sister, and do what I'll do. You will find Aria and bring her back. If she isn't here the next time I'm here..." Adagio yelped as Noah yanked her hair forward with his god-like powers. "You can say goodbye to your hair." "Okay, okay, I got it!" Noah released his grip on Adagio's hair and crossed his arms. "Okay, so... how the hell do I get out of here?" Adagio replied whilst rubbing her hair, "Just close your eyes and wish to wake up." "Thank you, don't forget what I said." Noah did as she instructed and he began to feel dizzy. The room around him shook and leaned as he kept his eyes closed. Within a minute or so, he opened his eyes again to find himself in his bed. Well... that's a thing now... Noah opened the microwave and pulled out a plate with two flat pastries that tasted like sweet cinnamon. "The power of God, Dog, can you imagine? This last month has just been marvelous. What's next? Sunset shows up at my door?" McFly laid on one of the couches nearby and continued to watch the dog show Noah put on. "Oi, Dog, bark damn you." Doing what Noah asked, McFly shot up from the couch and barked as loud as he could. "Dog, I was just joking. Fuckin' relax-" McFly completely disregarded him as he sprinted towards the front door and continued barking. Noah knew exactly what he meant, but he was dumbfounded. "I didn't order anything, and I'm positive nobody knows I even live here except my boys..." Feeling anxious and unsettled, Noah opened one of the drawers and grabbed a white Glock Eighteen stuck to the roof of it. He approached the door, Bravo Six style, and readied his weapon. He unlocked the door, pushed McFly back, and swung it open whilst aiming at whoever was behind the door. "Who the hell-" Noah was instantly rendered speechless as he recognized who came knocking. It was Sunset. "Uh... hello?" Sunset greeted as she held her hands up to the sky. Noah slowly lowered the gun at the petrified Sunset and shouted. "How in the hell did you know I lived here?!" Sunset gently pulled out her phone and opened contacts. "You made me a favorite so, I-I could see your location... I uh... did you not know that?" "No, no, I know that. I guess I just forgot... what brings you here?" Sunset fiddled with her fingers and searched her head for an answer. "I... um... I just thought that... like... I could... you know. I... Okay, you got me, I don't know why I came over." "I mean, I ain't got anything on my list for today so..." Noah noticed a small smile find its way onto Sunset's face. "Can I come in? I mean, McFly doesn't seem to mind." Noah peeked down at his feet to see McFly wasn't barking or hiding. Instead, he was sniffing her. "McFly, get the fuck in house. You can't go around smelling people nigga." Doing as he was told, McFly promptly entered the house and sat at Noah's feet. "Well... yeah, sure. Come on in." Noah opened and held the door open for Sunset as she entered. He thought to himself, I don't know what you're playing at God, but you better not fuck me over dude... I-I mean, if you feel like it, I guess, but c'mon man, don't be like that... wait... was I blushing? Goddamnit! Noah dropped the thought and closed the door to find Sunset in the living room. "Well, this is nice," she spoke up. Noah cleared his throat, "Yeah, so uh, I gotta go take a bath so... Just, relax on the couch or whatever. Don't do anything stupid, and we'll be all good." Sunset nodded and took a seat. "Okay, pretty sure I can do that. How long will you be gone?" Noah pulled out his phone to check the time. "Give me twenty minutes." "Twenty minutes? That sounds a little long for a bath..." Noah scratched his head, "Well, I am a dude after all so... you know..." "You know what?" Noah's face changed once again from normal to unadulterated stupefaction. "Let's just leave it at that... pure-ass bacon-haired bitch..." Noah left the living room and began upstairs leaving Sunset and McFly to themselves. Sunset looked around the room and frowned, "There's no way I'm just gonna stay here. I wonder what he has..." Waiting to hear the door close to the bathroom, Sunset observed the living room. It was a warm cozy everyday living room with a nice coat of white all over. Two loveseats and one couch. In between all that was a white coffee table. Behind the couch was a burgundy dining room table surrounded by similar burgundy dining room chairs. Just next to that was a tidy and stainless kitchen, the clean dishes still looked somewhat wet meaning they were done a while ago. Noah somehow found a house that has all three activity centers in a right next to each other. Looking down at McFly, who laid at her feet, Sunset realized there's a lot of things she didn't know about him. She flinched when she heard the closing of a bathroom door, Noah was finally gone. Silently, Sunset stood up and began upstairs, McFly following closely yet cautiously behind. Sunset reached the top of the stairs to find five rooms, a bathroom, and a closet. "Wait, why would he have five rooms? Do others live here?" Sunset opened the first door to her right to find a blue room with a bed, a dresser, a closet, and two windows. She entered and quickly found a sign on top of the closet. Manex. These rooms were for Noah's friends, or as they called themselves, the Black Five, whenever they came over. Sunset giggled, "What an odd name... then again, our band is named the Rainbooms." Sunset checked each of the rooms to find the same layout, sometimes flipped or with a different coat of paint. Sunset opened the fifth door to find a master bedroom. The walls wore a pristine coat of white and the bed had fluffy white covers. Sunset lifted the covers to find and feel soft white sheets and delicate pillows. "What's with all of this white? Wait... what's this sock doing here?" In the middle of the bed laid a single white sock, but something was off. Sunset lifted the sock and waved it around. It was moist, not soaked, but moist regardless. "I should probably leave this alone..." Sunset dubiously sniffed the sock despite what she told herself. She took another whiff and found herself bewildered, yet overwrought by the stench. "Wait... ’I'm a dude?' Did he mean... oh sweet Celestia, that is disgusting!" Sunset dropped the sock and stepped away. Sunset turned to Noah's nightstand. It was also white and contained three drawers. Curious, Sunset bent down and opened the first draw. She found Noah's gift, his chrome Desert Eagle, laying on its side. It was unloaded and the slide was pulled back. Sunset closed that drawer and opened the second drawer to find something heartbreaking. Littered all across the drawer's floor were hundreds of photos. Friends and Family photos. Sunset picked up the first one she saw and instantly felt remorse. It was a picture of Noah and his siblings at a water park. She picked up another, a picture of Noah and a group of boys and girls alike at a monument that looked like a tall, white, and square pillar with a pyramid on top. She picked up another to find Noah's entire family at a beach. "Dear Celestia... his life was..." Sunset stopped speaking when she noticed a photo that really caught her eye. She picked up a photo of Noah and a black girl laying under a tree during sundown. The picture had a heart drawn on it with the name, "Sierra" above the girl's head. "His life was perfect..." Sunset looked up above the bed, Noah was still bathing. She decided to take the photo and two others that contained Noah's friends and family. She put the photos in her jacket pocket and closed the drawer. Sunset stared at the third drawer, "Wonder what's in here..." Sunset pulled open the third drawer and found something that left herself at a loss for words. A noose. Sunset picked up the noose, it was large and durable, almost like he bought it from somewhere. It wasn't exactly long, but it also wasn't short. From the length of it, Sunset believed it would most likely be used on a tree or a spacious living room ceiling fan. When she lifted the noose up and out of the drawer to inspect it further, Sunset found a note beneath, it read: -To whom it may concern... I want my family back. I want my friends back. I want her back. Someone took them from me, but I don't know who. It wasn't the terrorists, It was someone greater. I know I'll never find them, so I've decided to just give up. I always thought suicide was a pathetic and weak thing to do, yet here I am, hanging from the tree that I was supposed to bend down on one knee. Well, it was a good run. At least until they dropped a building on everyone I held dear. -With my dying breath, Noah ~~Christian~~ Rictorshine Sunset dropped the note and felt her heart race. "He was going to kill himself..." She inspected the note further and found on the back of it was a doctor's note. He had been diagnosed with anger issues and suicidal inclinations. He would scream at everyone and had to be watched when taking medicine. Sunset remembered when he told her about everything. She knew his life was rough but, this was something else entirely. The doctor's note seemed to have been written three years ago when he first arrived in Equis. "He must've kept the noose as a last resort. Did his friends know about this? Did the doctors know? How... how could he suffer so much?" Sunset stared at the noose. She couldn't let this stand. She hurried downstairs, careful not to make Noah aware of her presence, and searched his kitchen drawers. "Come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, come on, yes!" Sunset opened the fourth drawer to find the silverware. Above it all was a separate section that held sharper knives. Sunset grabbed the first one she could find, closed the drawer, and rushed back upstairs to Noah's room. She reached the room and returned to the drawer. She picked up the noose and began cutting it in certain places. She didn't want it to be noticeable, so she only cut the pieces until they were on their last strand. Once she finished cutting, Sunset shoved the noose back into its spot in the drawer with the note underneath. She closed the drawer and slowly stood up. "Hopefully that does it... and hopefully he doesn't resort to other things." Sunset knew she couldn't get rid of every way for Noah to kill himself, so she just hoped he would do the right thing. Looking at her phone, Sunset found that Noah should've finished bathing ten minutes ago. "What the..." Sunset exited Noah's room and knocked on the bathroom door. "Hey, Noah? You okay in there? It's been thirty minutes." Sunset's heart started racing immediately when she didn't hear him respond. Of all people, Noah would've responded instantly to her. So when she didn't hear a single peep, Sunset grew worried. "Noah? Come on, don't be like this!" No answer. Sunset started sweating, Did he drown himself?! Wha... Why isn't he responding?! Sunset thought that he might've had headphones on, but he would've felt the knocking at least. Maybe he just fell asleep? Even if he did, Sunset didn't want to take any chances after seeing that noose. She knocked once more... nothing. Feeling like her heart was about to detonate, Sunset barged through the door and prepared to shout, she instead froze in place and grew as red as a cherry. Sunset forgot the most important thing about bathing, Noah was nude. "Oh... oh sweet Celestia..." He was still alive as Sunset could see Noah's shallow breaths. "He's a heavy sleeper... of course he is." Luckily for her, Noah laid on his side against the right tub wall, so she couldn't see his... features. But instead of feeling relieved, Sunset felt... disappointed. Not at him of course, but at the chances. Sunset felt hot as a thought popped into her head. He's asleep, and he's nude. All it would take to see what he has is looking over... no! I can't do that! It's wrong! B-But... just the thought i-it's... overwhelming. Sunset took one step forward, careful not to wake him up. She took another step, even more careful. "Forgive me, Noah's god." Sunset took one last step forward and she practically burned alive. Sunset stared at it with desperate eyes. "What the... it's... it's huge!" Sunset feasted her eyes on Noah's package. "I can't even... how? How is it... is it because he's an outsider?" Stepping back and rubbing her chest with one hand, Sunset pulled out her phone and instantly went to camera as she felt a certain feeling build in her pants. "I-I'll just... I'll just take this p-photo and ask o-online about it... I... w-well... maybe s-something else..." Sunset took another step forward and bent down. "No... n-no I can't d-do this... w-well... fuck it! Sunset gripped Noah's gift and stroked it just a bit. When he didn't wake up or even flinch, Sunset smiled and undid her pants. Sorry Noah, but it’s your fault for being annoying yet attractive at the same time. Noah opened his eyes to find himself still in the bathtub. "W-What the hell? Oh shit, I fell asleep?! Goddamnit!" Noah rushed out of the bathtub and quickly wrapped his towel around his waist. He opened the door as fast as he could and ran to his room to get dressed. "Sunset, if you're still here, I'm sorry! My blackass fell-" Noah was rendered speechless instantly when he opened the door of his room to find Sunset fast asleep in his bed... "What... what in the name of Black Jesus?" Noah quietly approached Sunset and whispered, "Sunset? You up? And if you are, what the fuck are you doing in my bed?" No answer. Sunset really was asleep in his bed. Noah was so focused on Sunset, that he didn't notice her pants and panties laying on the floor next to her until he took another step. "Holy hell, why is she not wearing any pants?" Noah had a certain thought pop into his head, "Nope, not going to Hell." He took a deep breath and shouted, "Sunset! Wake the fuck up!" Sunset freaked and sat up against the headboard. She hyperventilated and searched the room for who shouted and perhaps the most embarrassed face in history sat upon Sunset's face as she grew incredibly red. "Oh... h-hi Noah." "Kid, let's go back and forth real quick." Noah cleared his throat and Sunset itched her head. "You're in my bed." "Yeah." "Under my covers." "Yeah." "Under my sheets." "Yeah." "Lying on my favorite pillow." "Yeah." "With no pants on." "...yeah." "Sunset..." "Yeah?" "What in God's name are you doing in my bed with no pants on." Noah stared with incredibly disconcerted and weirded-out eyes as Sunset sweated as if she was out in the hottest desert known to man for years. She fiddled with her fingers. "I-I just... you know how some p-people prefer to sleep w-with no pants on a-and whatnot. It j-just so happens that I'm one o-of those people... It has n-nothing to do with your b-bed specifically. A-And I'm being s-serious about that." Noah crossed his arms, "Sunset, if you touched yourself in my bed, I swear to God." Sunset panicked, "No! No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no! I was tired and I slept! I-I'd never do that! That's p-perverted!" "Yeah, it is. Now, don't get me wrong, finding you in my bed with no pants on is hot as hell. Perhaps in another world, I'd just have sex with you right then and there.” Sunset froze so firmly, it appeared she had stopped breathing entirely. "But that's another world, not this one. Now before this gets any more awkward than it already is, put your pants on and get out of my damn bed. My phone says it's been... eight hours? Jesus fuckin' Christ, it's six in the evening..." Sunset gaped as she returned to Equis, "Seriously? I guess I needed more sleep than I thought. Sorry for sleeping in your bed. I'm even more sorry for doing it without pants. Your bed is just so comfortable." Noah eyed Sunset as she grabbed her pants, "Yeah, it's one of the reasons I purchased this house. But mostly for the white. White, everywhere. It's kind of ironic considering I'm black." "Speaking of which," Sunset began, "What do you mean exactly when you say, black? Are there only a few other colors where you come from? Do different colors define others?" Noah scratched his head, "Well, black is a term for African American. African Americans are an ethnic group of Americans that relate to any of the black racial groups of Africa." Sunset stood up and out of the bed, "What's Africa?" Noah smiled, "It's my ancestors' home. The second-largest continent in the world and is the second most populated, from what I remember at least." "Okay, so, what does that have to do with you being brown? Er, black?" Noah shrugged, "To be honest, I've no goddamn clue why our skin color is brown and black. Maybe it has to do with our country being really hot or something. Hell if I know." Sunset sat on the bed, "So, African Americans are like a species?" Noah rubbed the back of his head, "Jesus Christ, look, African Americans are not a species. They are a race within humanity. That includes you, and everyone else in this country." "There are three main races, maybe more, my head hurts. Caucasian, white people, Negro, black people, Asian, yellow people... or is it just white people with different eyes? I don't know the other scientific terms, but there's more. When you're a long way from home for three years, your memory kinda starts to fade away." Sunset tilted her head, "What are white people?" Noah took a seat on the bed, "Well, white people are pretty similar to people here so, no difference there. Black people have three sides: Ghetto, my friends, Upstanding, all of whom I know are dead, and both, yours truly." "As for Asians, I don't know much about them besides their stereotypes and odd entertainment. Without a doubt, there's more to them, but I don't know them as much as I know white people so... sorry." "As for specific colors, the white people usually come in... well... shades of white. Alongside that, they come in darker and tanner versions of the color as well. Black, on the other hand, is much darker. Like I already said, I don't know why, but we just are." "And Asians... well... Asians have the same skin color as white people, but they can also mix with blacks. But the most different visual is their eyes. Does that answer your questions, because I've got stuff to do." Sunset smirked, "Okay, what type of things? I mean, you did just wake up from an eight-hour nap. What could you have missed that was so important." "Sunset, I'm fuckin' hungry. Unless you know how to cook and shit, then you can see why I need to get started on dinner. Last time I went to sleep on an empty stomach, I woke up at like four in the morning from a horrible stomach ache." "Oh... wait, you know how to cook?" Noah grinned a bit, "Yeah, I know a little something-something about cooking. Learned it from watching my mom. You know, before a building was dropped on her." "Well, that's different. I don't think I've ever met a boy who could cook. I don't think anyone has. If you like anyone in this school, you should use that to your advantage." Noah tilted his head, "You think so?" "I know so. Girls like a boy who can cook. It doesn't have to be gourmet, but it does have to be more than heating up a hot pocket or some nuggets.” "Seems legit. Do you want some? Because if you do, you're helping. I don't let girls sleep in my bed, ass hanging out for eight-hours, and then make them dinner." Sunset smiled, embarrassed. "Yeah, that sounds about right. By the way, is it normal for McFly to sit and stare outside the back door? Because when I went downstairs-, I-I mean, sat downstairs, he just stayed there and stared." Noah may have been less than normally intelligent at times and not very good at high school math, but he was no idiot. He instantly caught wind of Sunset's stutter and internally hit his head on the wall. Great. Something to keep me up at night. Fan-fuckin'-tastic. "Uh, yeah. He does that sometimes. He's a very paranoid dog. I'd get him help and all, but getting him groomed is already difficult enough." Sunset nodded, "Makes sense. So, should we go make that dinner now?" "Yeah, we should." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
Intermission II - Suffer With Me (TBR)Author's Note Well Enough Alone... Intermission II - Suffer With Me (TBR) ONE MONTH AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT "Well... that was an odd way to spend Christmas Eve." Sunset tilted her head, "What do you mean? How was that odd?" Noah ignited the engine, "Kid, who goes to an arcade to spend Christmas Eve." Sunset sighed, "Again with this, it was just to have a little fun!" Noah waved her off, "It's not your fault, just can't believe that's what we did." Noah and Sunset had become great friends a month and such after the Battle of the Bands. Despite everything, however, they both weren't sure if the other wanted to be anything more than that. They'd decided to spend the day before Christmas at a twenty-four-hour arcade and were just now leaving before midnight. As Noah pulled out of the arcade's driveway and began down the road, he sparked a conversation. "Kid, why have you been so nice to me as of recently? I wasn't sure when to ask but, you act like you saw me nearly kill myself." Sunset began to sweat, "I uh... w-well... remember back in November when you made that delicious dinner for us?" "Yeah, but we both made that dinner." Sunset shrugged, "Yeah, but the only one who knew what they were doing was you. I was just following your directions." "Okay, I guess that makes sense. I mean, a nigga has gotta know how to cook after all." Sunset sighed of relief and stared out the window. The truth was that she wanted to keep Noah's spirits up after finding his noose. Sure, she cut it up and whatnot, but he still had a much faster option if he wanted to. Not only that, but knowing him, who knows what he's capable of if he really wanted to. Especially with those new powers of his. Thinking of his powers, Sunset spoke up, "Hey Noah, how exactly did you put your magic... uh... back?" Noah inhaled, "After a couple of minutes, I just put the two pieces of my necklace together and the magic was sucked back in. Inch by inch. Well, centimeter by centimeter really since they just hang right next to each other... heh, I know two other things that hang right next to each other." Sunset scoffed, "Seriously? How old are you, twelve?" Noah snickered, "Oh, go fuck yourself shawty, I saved the goddamn world. I can say whatever the fuck I want nigga." "Speaking of which, who's God?" Sunset asked, and Noah froze. "You say his name a lot and include him in some of your curses. So, I was just wondering." "You seriously don't know who God is? Do you even have a god-like figure?" Sunset shrugged, "Well, define god-like." "An all-seeing and all-knowing being. Omnipresent and omnipotent. Immortal and Celestial." Sunset scratched her head, "Well, I don't know about all that other stuff that much, but we do look to Princess Celestia like that a lot." "You give praise that is deserving to God... to a princess... did I hear that right?" Sunset shrugged, "W-Well, what's so special about this 'God' guy anyway?" "He created the universe and everything in it. That includes you, me, and that dumbass Flash guy in school." Sunset rolled her eyes, "I'm gonna pretend you didn't say that first thing and say: This guy created everything? How?" "He's just that powerful. He'd make that princess of yours look like a bacterial organism up against an entire galaxy." Sunset tilted her head, "Where is he?" "To be honest kid, I've no fuckin' clue. Nobody does. It's a hard pill to swallow, but there just isn't enough evidence or even indication to know whether or not he exists." "Oh, well, how did he come to be? Why do people believe in him?" Noah waved her off as they reached a red light, "Okay, that's a whole damn thing that I don't feel like getting into so..." "Okay, well, what's a galaxy?" Noah snickered, "Good God, you four-legged-fucks are laughably behind in technology." Sunset playfully punched him in his shoulder, "Oh shut up! We don't need technology as much as you do because we have magic! Something you humans could never dream of!" "Oh, so your magic has allowed you to reach the moon?" Sunset smirked, "Kinda." "So your magic has also allowed you to put rovers on Mars? Take detailed photos of our solar system and beyond? Make odd-looking objects of metal fuckin' fly? Yeah, I didn't think so." "Okay Noah... whatever makes you happy." "We've arrived at your destination. Please, get the fuck out." Sunset crossed her arms, "Is there ever a time when you aren't gonna be a total jerk? I mean, if you don't want this friendship to go on-" "Oh relax kid. It just shows how much I care. It's not meant to be interpreted as a rude thing to say. I don't know, that's just what my friends and I do." Sunset shrugged and exited his car, "If you say so. But let me remind you of the normal way to say goodbye. Have a good night, I enjoyed the time we spent together today." Noah felt an unfamiliar sensation arise and warm his face. "Oh... uh, yeah. Me too. Jesus fuck, why is it so damn hot in this car?" Sunset giggled, "Yeah, maybe you shouldn't turn the heat up all the way when there isn't even any snow on the ground." "Right, I'll make sure to keep that in mind kid. Now, before you go..." Noah trailed off as he reached underneath his seat. Sunset felt her heart race a little, No way, she thought. No way he got me a gift... Noah extracted a moderately lengthy rectangular box that was wrapped in red and yellow wrapping paper comparable to Sunset's hair. He handed the present to Sunset and smiled, "Merry Christmas dipshit... I-I mean kid." "I... you... you got me a gift?" Noah shrugged, "What? It's Christmas. Or as your people called it: Hearth’s Warming. Whatever the fuck that is." Sunset stuttered, "I-I... it was just a few months ago when I b-burned your bookbag. Y-You've forgiven me completely like tha-" "Sunset, open the fuckin' gift. I'm tired and I need to make sure McFly didn't learn how to use the doggy door. Yes, I got you a goddamn gift because I appreciate all you've done, how great a friend you are, and other shit. Now open the fuckin' box" "Oh... yeah, that sounds like something you'd say I guess. I-I mean, it was just kinda unexpected." Noah leaned towards her, "Yeah, well I'm not the type of nigga to be expected, now am I?" Sunset nodded. She opened the box in slight excitement and curiosity. She let the wrapping paper fall to the sidewalk despite the fact that she knew she'd have to pick it up later. She had torn off nearly all of the wrapping paper before she found a simple cardboard box with a detachable lid. "Uh-" "I know, I know. But by the time I realized I could've just put a ribbon on it, I had already picked you up." Sunset shrugged, "Makes sense." She removed the top of the lid gently in wonderment and froze when the top was removed entirely. Inside was a midnight black bomber jacket with vertical pure-orange stripes along its sleeves. Underneath was a light sky-blue dress and a golden trim. Along with the jacket and such were airforce-blue tights and black high-heel boots with orange arrows pointing upwards upon its shaft. The perfect outfit for another adventure. "So uh... you like it? I know you like wearing that leather jacket, but there's nothing wrong with changing it up every now and then. But obviously, it had to be something I knew, or at least think, you'd like. No way in hell would you jump for joy over a fuckin' green tanktop." "Noah, I..." Sunset stared at the outfit. It was gorgeous, not the type of thing Rarity would buy, but the type that Rarity would rightfully respect. It wasn't something Sunset expected from him in all honesty. She expected to receive something that he'd want. Like a gun or a video game. Sunset placed the gift down on the sidewalk, approached the driver's door on the opposite side of the car, yanked it open, and drew Noah into a snug embrace. "Thank you, Noah. I'd been wanting that outfit for months! But the boots, they top it off so well!" Noah casually wrapped his own arms around hers, taken aback. "Well, it is Christmas, and I just thought you'd like it. Guess I was more right than I thought." Sunset pulled back, "You were, I-I mean, how'd you even know I wanted this? There's no way you just guessed." Noah shrugged, "Well, I may have looked at your phone a month ago..." Sunset froze. "I looked at your browser and then at your notes. I found that you wanted this outfit for a while, but could never get around to it. I just thought, 'Well, I bet Sunset'll like it if I buy this for her.' The boots, personally, I just came around to and thought they looked stunning... okay, fuck it, I thought they looked a little hot." Sunset sighed of relief. It seemed he didn't see what else she had on her phone. "Oh, well, that explains a lot. But please, don't go on my phone without permission next time." "Relax negro, I only did it for Christmas specifically. Now, I'm gonna head home so I can get some sleep." Sunset frowned, "You're not gonna come in and see me try it on?" ”Kid, it's twelve in the morning. You can just send me pictures if you want to, but I'm not coming in." Sunset held her right shoulder, "Yeah, I guess that makes sense." "Alright," Noah began as he closed the door, "I'll see you tomorrow when we all have that dumbass Christmas party. 'Till then, I've got a dumbass dog to check on." "Bye, see you tomorrow then," Sunset replied, and Noah waved her goodbye before driving off. Sunset stood in the street, smiled, and watched as his Audi grew smaller and smaller in the distance. ... "Wait, what does shawty mean?" Noah had driven across town to reach Sunset and the arcade, so he was quite the distance away from his house. Throughout the drive, Noah couldn't stop thinking about what he and Sunset did. He was happy, and by the looks on her face, he could tell she was even happier than he was, not that his happiness mattered when next to her. But on the other hand, Noah still felt something. He couldn't put it into words, but he had this feeling in his chest that he just couldn't help. Like a hole that was blown into him that hadn't been filled in. It had to do with one thing he didn't like remembering though. It had to do with the building. Of course it was the building, what else would it be? Not a day went by when he didn't think about that building. The day he lost everything. Sure, he gave the Sirens what they deserved and ended them. Sure, he's been giving Adagio and Aria a hell of a time in his dreams every three days, but he just didn't feel complete because she was still out there. Sonata Dusk, the siren that got away. Adagio had already told him that she hadn't left Canterlot, but the fact that she was right under his nose made him furious on multiple occasions. She could, quite literally, be anywhere, and Noah wouldn't be able to do anything. She could be living right outside his house. She could be living outside the school. She could even be that hooded figure leaning on the traffic light to his right... "Speak of the devil." Noah turned to his right in thought and found Sonata leaning on the stoplight with a phone in her hand and a hood over her head. Noah's eyes turned bloodshot as he stared her down. Finally, he had found her. Unfortunately, so did she... kinda. Sonata looked up from the phone and froze like a suicidal deer in headlights. She stared at him, he stared back. Her eyes begged for mercy, his begged for blood. As quick as she could, Sonata made a mad dash while she could, but she knew she wouldn't get away that easy. Noah put the car back in drive and stomped on the gas pedal, all he could see was red as his blood boiled. Noah pulled up beside her, she was pretty fast for something so human-like. "Get back here you dick!" Sonata cried in response, "Leave me alone!" "How many children do you think have cried that at the top of their lungs you cyan sadistic thudfuck!? How many families do you think you've ruined?! Including mine!" Sonata continued down the sidewalk, terrified of the boom in Noah's voice. She needed to find somewhere to find, and fast. She veered her head left and right for somewhere to hide while Noah reached into his compartment for something. She knew it was something life-threatening, and her heart was already beating faster than a cheetah in the middle of Times Square. Sonata cried in relief when she found an alleyway that would be too small for Noah's car. And with her speed, he couldn't catch her even if he tried. Sonata swerved to the right like a subway train and didn't stop to look behind for a moment. She gradually slowed down and caught her breath as she proceeded, until she was met with a solid brick wall. Sonata's heart pounded against her newly healed chest as she lost her sanity within seconds. Sure, she was fast, but an outsider with a carbine rifle and a pure fire in his eyes that had her up against twenty feet of pure solidified red clay? Of all the places Sonata wanted to be today, this wasn't even on the list. She watched in fear as Noah's car pulled up and blocked her only escape. He opened the passenger door and exited through it, his father's gift in his right. He shut the door behind him and began towards her. She flinched as she heard the gun's magazine release drop a half-empty clip. It's simple metal sounding like the crash of boulders. Sonata trembled, He's going to kill me! He's going to slaughter me like he did onstage back then! I-I don't know what to do! I-I can't leave! There's no way... out? Sonata felt an uncontrollable sensation of hope overwhelm her as she found an alleyway door to one of Canterlot's abandoned skyscrapers. She could lose him in there without a doubt. Or even better, make him regret ever messing with her sisters. "Sonata, whatever the fuck your middle name is, Dusk. You might've found a way to escape me annihilating you, but I'm not letting you get away a second time. I'm gonna tear you apart." Noah looked up from loading his father's gift to see a door close to the abandoned building. She made a break for it! Goddamn blue blurry bastard! Noah pulled the slide back, let go, and rushed into the building. He was having such a good day, and her getting away would ruin it to the point where he wouldn't be able to sleep. He scanned the first floor to find a simple office building interior. The amount of places Sonata could hide was more than overwhelming. Noah pulled the collar of his hoodie forward and revealed his necklace. "I know you're in here, damn it. If you think I'm leaving this place without checking every nook and cranny, you'll be gravely fuckin' mistaken!" Noah took the black pendant in his hand and crushed it just enough for it to split in two. The magic flew out of the pendant and surged through his very veins similar to the Battle of the Bands, returning him to the form he held. Hiding underneath a table in a cubicle, Sonata silently freaked as she felt the miraculous magic course through the very floor. Noah spread his arms out as if he was pushing two walls coming to a close and approached the middle of the room. He addressed her, "I'll give you one last chance. Come out of your dumbass hiding spot, and I'll let you die with your dignity." Noah cocked his head to the right, nothing. He cocked it to the left, not a peep. "Fine, have it your way." With winds as powerful as a nuclear detonation, Noah forced everything in the room against the walls. Luckily for Sonata, the winds only pushed everything around her. Unfortunately, that left her out in the open. "Found you." Sonata bolted for the stairwell and Noah forced his left hand towards her, unfortunately, Noah didn't have that kind of magic. He cursed under his breath, "Of fuckin' course," and took off behind her. Such a powerful being didn't belong in a building like that, so Noah pursued her on foot. They reached the second floor and flung everything she could find to slow the abandoned element down. She grabbed a nearby chair and flung it back as quickly as she could, but Noah simply dodged the chair and continued. She gripped the top of a cubicle and forced it down, blocking his path, but Noah simply rammed right through it. "You've gotta be kidding me!" Sonata burst through the roof doors and collapsed in exhaustion. She stared back at the doors as they remained open and listened... nothing. She lost him. Sonata carefully stood up whilst holding her abdomen as stomach cramps went wild inside her. She staggered over to the edge of the roof and got a bird's eye view of the city. Canterlot wasn't teeming with life at night similarly to a bustling metropolis such as Manehatten, or whatever they called this variant, but it sure was beautiful seeing all of the lights. Sonata let go of her abdomen and leaned on the roof's railing. How did I get here? She thought back to when she was born in Equestria. To how she thought everything was all a game, a joke. She cursed herself for not seeing sooner, for not realizing that everything has a consequence to it that would eventually catch up. Hers just happened to be a little black boy. A little black boy that had a building dropped on his friends and family. Albeit, she's the one who dropped it. Maybe if she'd seen what she was doing was wrong, she could've done something. But it was too late for that. Kiloyears late. She thought about her sisters. She wondered where they were now and if the so-called Siren Hell truly existed. She questioned if she was doomed from the beginning with the way her life played out. All the manipulating and the murders, was it all truly worth it? The only thing the amulets did was give her and her sisters immortality, but that was because she was told that normal life was horrid and that they were lucky. But after blending in for so long, was it really as bad as she was told it was? They had good food, kind and healthy people, joyous civilizations, good food, it was perfect. What was the horrid part? Was there even a horrid part? Sure, some people in the world were evil, but not everything's perfect. She even liked blending in with them. She made relationships with all kinds of people, some even romantic. But they all ended without her, whether it was in a matter of days, or decades. Sure, being a Siren was fun, but she was mostly in it to be with her sisters. Adagio was a grand leader and made her feel welcome and cherished. Same for Aria. Sure they argued, but when it came down to it, that only meant they loved each other incredibly. And now, they're gone. Both of them, reduced to dust. Sonata fell to her knees and ran her hands through her hair as tears welled up in her eyes. "My whole life has been one huge fuc-” *CRASH* Sonata was cut off by the rumbling and eventual smash of the floor behind her as Noah rose far above her, the fire returning. "There you are. I thought I lost you." "W-Wait, just let me speak-" Noah reached the ground and stomped, "Do you want me to stab you with an electric guitar too?! Shut the fuck up! Okay?! Nothing you say matters to me!” Sonata covered her eyes and cowered like a four-year-old petrified for her life. This only made Noah angrier. "Look at me. Look me in the fuckin' eyes," Sonata didn't respond. "Hey! You fuck! Look me in the eyes!" When Sonata continued to cower, Noah seemingly teleported in front of her and lifted her by her shirt. "Please..." "Shut it you fuckin’ filthy shit! You can't even find the words to call for help. So you know what?" Noah approached the roof railing and held Sonata over it. She freaked. "Wait! Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait, wait!" Noah pulled his gun out from his back pocket and held her at gunpoint. He spoke through his teeth, "Cry for help." Sonata mumbled in fear, "Help." Noah scoffed, "Pathetic, I said cry for help." "Help..." "Like you mean it!" "Help!" "From your diaphragm, Help!" "HELP!!" "Shu-sh... now we listen..." Noah leaned an ear towards the horizon while Sonata couldn't even comprehend her situation. He whispered, "Nothing. Nobody is coming to save a monster." Noah lifted Sonata over the railing and threw her to the ground. She folded like a beach chair and formed a tiny crater. She coughed, "Why... why are you doing this? Why can't you just leave me alone!?" "Because..." Noah teared up, but his anger only grew. "My family... my brothers, my sisters, they were taken from me! By a snake! In the garden!" Noah took a staggering step forward until his distress raised to counter the flame of his anger. He fell to his knees. Two tears of pain befell his cheeks as he dropped his father's gift. "I thought God had a plan for all of us... but I was wrong... I was blind... but now I see. He has a plan for all of us individually. And this plan, right here until the day I die, is mine." Noah picked up his handgun and held it horizontally. He examined it and gazed at his reflection. His flaming transformation staring back as one droplet of his tears fell upon it. He lowered his voice and continued. "Look at me. I'm broken, to hell with it nigga, I've been fuckin' shattered. Fractured to hell, for eternity. I like a girl, yet I still feel like choking the life out of her for what she's done. But that doesn't even pale in comparison to what you've done." "You've taken everything from me, and yet, somehow I'm the bad guy. I yell and I lose it at people. I've robbed stores, run from cops, I even killed someone." "My life has been shit ever since you dropped that building. Yet, here we are, on a skyscraper, and I've got you and your dumbass sisters in the palms of my hand." "But somehow... I don't feel satisfied. When you took everything from me, a void was made in my heart. My stupid blackass heart. The only thing that can fill that void is love, but I don't know who can fill it, and I doubt Sunset will even bat an eye." "So how have I managed with that void? Fury. I have been so, mother-fuckin', angry. I have this urge. This urge to burn down every monstrosity on this planet, to see them all suffer, but in reality, that all comes down to you. I want to see you suffer... so that's exactly what's going to happen." Noah dabbed his tears, clicked the safety, and stood up. "I won't kill you Sonata. Your life will be consumed by absolute loss... Then, and only then, will you understand what you have done to me. What you have done to the world. You will suffer with me. You will suffer with the world, and you will suffer for your sisters." "Speaking of them..." Noah took a deep breath, "You took my family from me, so I took yours. I will break them. Mend them like clay. And despite the animosity and hatred in my heart for them, I'll make sure they reach the gates of Heaven instead of the gates of Hell. They will learn true pain. They will learn remorse. But most importantly, they'll be forgiven." Noah holstered his gift and walked over to the roof's railing. "Without your magic, you'll simply be human. You will endure the lives of us for the rest of your pitiful life. Whether or not you try to make it a good one is up to you. I don't want to see your face in this city ever again, so leave, and never return." "Be grateful I'm letting you walk away without killing you. But the feeling that you could've prevented all of this will be your undoing. Destroying your stupidass from the inside-out. And we both already know you don't have the balls to kill yourself." Sonata whimpered, "I... I..." Noah rose and hovered over the edge of the building, he paused as he came to level with the height of the railing. "Besides, what occurs in the dark will always be brought to the light." Noah left Sonata's sight as he returned to his car. Sonata laid there in her crater. She'd been spared. After everything she'd done, she'd been spared. Only... she didn't feel like she was. She felt like Noah was playing at some mind game... and it was working. Noah yanked open the door to his car, entered, and laid back against the seat. He took his pendant and forced the pieces back together, his magic coursing out his veins in seconds. He let go of the pendant and drew his handgun from his back pocket. He stared at it, not at his chrome reflection, but the muzzle. Another tear found its way down his cheek as he slowly rose the gun to his head. The last time he thought about his family he destroyed his hand and was compelled by himself to lay down and die. But a certain Sunset Shimmer put a stop to that for the sake of the world, and himself. But now, nothing was holding him back. The Sirens were demolished and defeated, and Sunset was nowhere to be seen. She wouldn't miss him. She spent years going back and forth with him. His friends were his friends, they'd get over it easily. And the Rainbooms weren't even up for consideration. He sighed, "Fuck... fuck my life." Noah slowly squeezed the trigger, and within seconds, he-. *RING RING RING* Noah froze, barely a centimeter away from a fifty caliber bullet piercing his brain. He turned to his phone ringing on the passenger seat. Someone was attempting to face-time him from the resonance of the ringtone. He looked at the gun in his hand and set it down on top of the dashboard. Hesitant, he picked up his phone and read the caller ID. It was Sunset. Noah wiped the tears from his cheeks and eyes and punched himself three times in the chest. Get it, together you, shit-head. Noah slid the touchscreen right and was met with Sunset thinking hard and concerned as her phone rested on her lap. "Kid, what's good?" Sunset jumped and lost her train of thought. She looked down at her phone to find Noah, confused. "Oh, you picked up. I know you said pictures and all, but... w-wait, are you crying?" "N-No! I'm me! I'm a big deal! Big deals don't cry! Who the hell said I was crying?!" Sunset frowned, "Noah, your eyes are red. And I know sad when I see it. I'm Equestrian after all." "Look, I'm fine, just... how does the outfit look? A-And why'd you take so long to call? Hm nigga?" Sunset giggled, "I had to wash it before I put it on of course, and then I had to dry it. But wow, it even feels incredible!" Sunset set the camera up against her school computer in her living room and stood back. "Look at it! I love the feel, it's like a weird combination of a leather jacket and a normal jacket. The only thing I kinda see wrong is that these sleeves are just a bit long so I rolled them up. Not like the whole thing, just the cuffs. You like it?" "Sunset, you look goddamn' ravishing. I love it." Sunset blushed. "Hey, uh, give me a little twirl?" Sunset did as instructed and did a long twirl, showing Noah the whole outfit. Which he enjoyed more than he should've. Sunset bent down and met with Noah's eyes, "Now, tell me why you were crying." Noah rolled his eyes and ignited the car's engine. "Goodnight Sunset." He tapped the hang-up button and tossed his phone onto the passenger seat. He put the car in drive and made a U-Turn, back on track for his house. As Noah pulled up to a stoplight, he received a text notification from his phone. With the light just turning red, Noah lifted his phone and read: Sunset AKA Kid: I'm sorry if that was a touchy subject. Sunset AKA Kid: I was just worried. Have a Goodnight. Sunset AKA Kid: I love you. Noah felt his heart stop. He stared at the last text intensely. 'I, love, you.' Noah knew she didn't mean it like that, but he hadn't seen or even heard those words in so long. He felt that stupid sensation return to his cheeks with a passion. Not only had he not heard it in so long, but from her? Noah was left speechless. He peeked at the stoplight to see it still was red. Seeing he was good to go, he opened the keypad and replied, a genuine smile finding itself upon his face: Sunset AKA Kid: I'm sorry if that was a touchy subject. Sunset AKA Kid: I was just worried. Have a Goodnight. Sunset AKA Kid: I love you. Noah The Last OG: I love you too. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
Intermission III - The Prophecy (TBR)Author's Note This Cave Is Not A Natural Formation... (I have no idea what was happening before and after Rainbow Rocks, and I also wasn't expecting to be writing in normal Equestria. So please, bear with me if I get anything wrong. Enjoy! Intermission III - The Prophecy (TBR) CANTERLOT, EQUESTRIA TWO MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT Twilight's hooves clopped against the royal floor as she continued towards the throne room. "I still don't know why you don't just have me write a letter Twilight. This seems a little much." "Spike, you and I both saw what Noah was capable of when we went through the portal. There's no way that magic just exists without anypony knowing how or why. And if anypony knows, it has to be the Princess." It'd been quite some time since Twilight had stepped foot in the mysterious portal and was transported to the human variant of Equis. Or as it's internationally designated, Earth. Twilight had been meaning to question Princess Celestia about the Super Element, but due to her duties as a princess herself, she could never get the chance. But taking a day off from the help of her friends and brother, Twilight was finally ready to ask. Spike, on the other hand, didn't see the big deal. Noah was as strong as the Elements of Harmony combined, maybe even stronger. Big whoop, they live in a world of technicolored magical talking horses. Twilight finally arrived at the large royal doors and took a deep breath. It was simply another meeting with her teacher, who was the Princess of the land she lived in. And could raise and lower a literal star. No big deal. With one hoof, Twilight pushed open the right door and poked her head inside. "Princess Celestia?" She asked for confirmation, to which she received a kind reply. "Princess Twilight Sparkle. Greetings." Sitting upon a majestic red oval throne was the Princess of the Sun herself. Enveloped in her magical golden aura was a beautiful white and yellow teacup encrusted in several beautiful gems that had Spike drooling over from a mile away. At her feet stood a wealthy red stallion wearing quite the suit. At his own feet were a few business papers that were mainly charts and graphs stretching from yesterday to a decade ago. "Hemlock Thyme, the information and data you presented to me today are indeed something my sister and I shall return to. If you could be so kind as to excuse my student and I, that would be much appreciated." The stallion named Hemlock bowed and replied, "Of course your highness. Thank you." Hemlock used his opaque-blue magic and enveloped the papers. He lifted them to eye level, swiveled around like a steering wheel, and exited. Leaving both princesses to themselves. "Now, Twilight, what brings you here today?" Twilight cleared her throat and entered the main area of the throne room. "Well, you may not know Princess, but two months ago, I traveled back into the portal." Celestia raised an eyebrow, "You did?" Twilight nodded, "Yes. I was called by my friends over there with the help of the book you used with Sunset Shimmer before me. It turned out three creatures known as the Sirens had made a move on the school via manipulation as their main goal was planetary domination." "I'm guessing that seeing you here means you and your friends successfully vanquished these creatures?" "Yes, but it's much deeper than that. Much deeper." Celestia frowned, "What do you mean?" Twilight took a deep breath, "It turns out that the Equestria over there isn't alone. An unusual yet advanced version of humans exists outside it as the Equestria over there is just a giant island." "The outside world is called Earth instead. It includes inconceivable amounts of nations and kingdoms that possess such weapons and devices that I doubt anypony could even fathom. But, it's not their fault." "A thousand years ago, Starswirl The Bearded banished the Sirens to Earth for who knows how long. Without any Equestrian magic, the Sirens would eventually be deprived of their magical and maniacal abilities of manipulation. And well... the Sirens... they were enraged." "Without Equestrian magic, they had to resort to negative energy from basic humans without any abilities. But the way they gained it was... truculent." "The Sirens put the humans through Tartarus. Using what they had with their amulets, the Sirens would create life-threatening conflicts relentlessly. They led to murders, massacres, genocides, crimes that haven't been committed in Equestria for centuries, including war crimes, and wars themselves." "Because of the Sirens, humanity, what they're called as a whole, was forced to fight against an invisible force of mayhem. They kept creating larger and graver things to protect themselves. Metal armaments that fire lead and copper for miles, vehicles that shoot devastating explosives, and bombs of such great size that they could level our entire country within seconds!" Celestia's mouth hung agape. "Twilight... how... how do you know all of this? How are you still alive?" Twilight took another deep breath, "I was told by a male human. Not an Equestrian human, an Earth human. His name was Noah Rictorshine." This caught Celestia's attention heavily, Rictorshine? "Apparently, Noah lost everything to the Sirens and began a journey of crime and escape. The end of his journey brought him to Earth-Equestria with the aid of his own amulet, something I'll return to later." "Noah took refuge at Earth-Equestria and attended CHS, the school the portal stands in front of. For three years, Noah was locked in a seemingly endless rivalry with Sunset Shimmer herself due to her evil ways taking form." Celestia frowned. "Eventually, they had to work together against the Siren threat as they found Equestrian magic in CHS. The Equestrian magic being my friends. With an unexpected twist, it appeared Noah was more special than my friends and I nearly combined." "Noah, a simple human, had Equestrian magic within him, or more so, his amulet. It turned out that Noah himself wasn't just magical, he was an Element of Harmony!" Celestia shook her head, "Twilight, I-I don't understand what you're talking about. How can a normal human be an Element? There's only six." "That's just it Princess, he was more than just an Element. It's actually why I came to you. We gave him the term the Super Element. The ultimate Element with power and magic that matched the Elements of Harmony combined. But, it didn't feel like it did." "You should've seen him Princess, he was spectacular! His hair had turned a bright beautiful white. A mighty aura that resembled ours, but wasn't, surrounded him! And his magic, he was swift, tough, durable, and could produce astonishingly tremendous beams of magic and light!" "I'm not sure if he was an Element, or something else entirely, but it had to do with his amulet. Which is why I've come to you Princess, I need to know. I need to know if a Super Element truly exists. I need to know it's history! It's been killing me for months!" Celestial gawked as her jaw dropped so low, it'd hit the ground with a simple nudge. "W-Well Twilight, that's... t-that's unmistakably excellent information. Staggering, b-but excellent." Twilight gathered herself and asked, "So, do you know anything?" "No, but I think I know what does." Twilight cocked her head, "'What'? What do you mean, 'what'?" Celestia stepped down from her throne and began towards the door Twilight entered through. She answered as she passed her, "I'll show you." Twilight glimpsed at Spike. He'd fallen asleep on her back humorously fast, but at least he wasn't missing. Or worse... She trailed behind the Princess as the two guards that normally stood by her side caught up to her. What is she talking about? "So, exactly why do we not have the guards along with us?" Celestia slid the stone wall closed, "Because we don't. The only danger down here is the danger of being lost. And since what we're after is straight ahead, we won't be having that problem." "Okay, so why did Spike have to stay outside?" Celestia answered as they began down the steps, "Because this place is off-limits to all those who aren't alicorns or Element bearers." "Why?" No answer. "Come Twilight. I've been waiting for a reason to show you this place. Otherwise, you'd have just come across it yourself at some point." Twilight cautiously followed behind Celestia as their hooves clopped like their fore-hooves clapping against each other. She was confused, nay, she was dumbstruck. Twilight knew the Princess could be whimsical and mysterious, but this was something else. Twilight had never been left unanswered, and that set off many red flags in her head. After quite some time, Twilight and Celestia ultimately reached the end of the steps. The room, or whatever it was, left Twilight speechless. "Twilight," Celestia began, "Welcome to The Library of Space and Time." Twilight stepped in front of the Princess and felt her eyes grow to the size of emeralds. She and the Princess had set foot in a massive black and gold library full of her favorite things: Books. Books, everywhere. She glanced left, endless. She glanced right, endless again. She even glanced up, endless. They'd traveled so low into Equis, they couldn't even see above themselves. "Come Twilight, I understand there's many here you want to look at, but we have time for that later." Celestia continued down the large path as Twilight nodded. Library of Space and Time? I haven't read anything that talks about this place. Do others even know this place exists? "Princess, forgive me, but I'm confused. How long has this been here? How vast is it? Do other ponies even know of its existence?" Celestia took a deep breath, "No Twilight, nopony else knows except Cadence, Luna, myself, and now you." "This magnificent library holds all the knowledge in the known universe. Every book here on the left holds all the information and history in existence. Whether it be about swans, cakes, or the dawn of time." "Every book here on the right holds all the derived knowledge of those who have ever lived. Everything they have done or made an impact on from birth to death. Even beings outside of Equis, or Earth." "For as long as I can remember, this library has been growing and building with intelligence. I found it when my sister and I took a walk outside our castle so very long ago. We were afraid to enter for centuries, but we eventually attained the needed bravery to investigate." "We were blown away. Perplexed as to how nobody had found it, or even cared. But ultimately, it was made known to the Royal Guard, but only the Royal Guard. We didn't need ponies entering and getting lost forever. It didn't always work, unfortunately." Twilight had her eyes locked on the right side of the library. "It... h-how do you know that's what it is? I-It could just be a large underground library!" Celestia frowned, "You doubt me, I understand. But let me show you how I know." Twilight peeked ahead and found a simple wooden table that held two books. One black, one gold. Celestia came to a stop at the table and spoke. "These are two of the three most important books in the library, and existence. On the right: The Book of Time. On the left: The Book of Space." "Both books hold the understanding of everything. Time, space, and the list of contents. Without them, nothing would make sense. Nothing." Twilight gawked, "This... this can't be real... but it is, isn't it?" Celestia nodded. "Well, you said there were three books. Where's the third?" Celestia used her magic and placed both books upon each other. She connected them gently, but the very touch rang like a church bell throughout the library. The table shook and rose as a solid block of more stone sprouted from the ground. When the rock fully surfaced, It revealed another part of the library. Celestia stood aside and motioned for Twilight to enter. Falteringly, she did. Once again, Twilight's eyes dilated as she walked along a gold path. The room was beyond belief, the gold path led to a single floating platform that held a book pedestal. But that's not what caught her eye. The platform was surrounded by what Twilight could only estimate from sight as hundreds of billions of books. They were all a part of the library. Giant shelves ran spiral all across the area. It was like standing inside the shell of a massive egg. Only instead of a shell, she saw millions of shelves, and near trillions of books. "P-Princess... what... w-what the hell?" "That's a word I haven't heard of. What does it mean?" "N-Nothing! I-It means nothing!" Celestia nudged Twilight from behind and she began down the path. It was hardly large enough to hold her, let alone Celestia. The walk took nearly ten minutes, so Twilight questioned, "Princess... how... how large is this thing?" "This library stretches across all of Equestria. As for how deep we are, I’d say we're just barely far enough from scratching the upper mantle," Twilight felt a single hair in her mane flick up like the pluck of a guitar string. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Twilight and the Princess of the Sun reached the platform and stood side by side. Celestia began, "And this, is The Book of Righteousness." Twilight placed her front hooves on the table to get a better look. Celestia explained, "Clearly Twilight, somepony created this library. That somepony was a tan bearded stallion by the name of Christian J. Rictorshine." "W-Wait, Rictorshine? That's the same as Noah's last name." Celestia nodded, "Indeed. Christian was an odd one. He never spoke, and just appeared out of nowhere. When I first met him, he was undoubtedly perfectly sane and well-mannered, but I don't think he even came from Equis." "Something in his eyes made him appear... off. They weren't as bright, vivid, or large as a normal pony's eyes. He didn't look odd, but I doubt anypony had seen such a pair." "The last time he was seen, however, was behind the castle. And where do you think he went?" Twilight returned to standing, "To this library. I... there's no way he built all this! All due respect Princess, but I doubt even you could do this!" "He was no ordinary pony Twilight. He probably wasn't even an ordinary being, but we know he created all this because he wrote every book here. Including this one." Celestia flipped the book over, and Twilight read the words aloud, "'By Christian J. Rictorshine. Please take care'. I can't believe this. What does it say?" "The book is based upon magic, power. The book talks about all kinds of obscure and unheard powers that not even the books of the left know of. It talks of tales from an unknown world, many verses, and much more." "I'll be honest with you Twilight, I've only read the first page, and only I know of this book. And of course, now you." Twilight stared at the book, her answers to Noah's abilities laid right in front of her. Leaving the book to the unknown was not an option. "Let's read it.” Celestia turned to the table of contents and found it just like how she remembered, written in cursive. She analyzed the contents until she found what they were searching for. "Ah, here it is. Part three, page five hundred twelve: The Super Element of Righteousness." Celestia flipped through hundreds of pages about notes, info, and such things that couldn't quite be defined. Celestia landed on the page she was told to and was met with an odd symbol. "Twilight," she began, "Does this look like Noah's amulet?" Twilight studied the symbol, it'd been a while since she last laid eyes on Noah's necklace. She tried to remember... a time when Twilight, Sunset, her human friends, and Noah had finished practicing and were on their way to the school. The memory felt faint and light as if she had imagined it, but she remembered regardless. ... "Can I just say, your pendant has such an unusual design,” Twilight began. “It resembles a bird and it's wings rising from a shield or something, or it resembles a beam of light or a sword rising from... a shield?" Noah stared at his necklace, "I'll be honest, I'm not sure what the symbol is, but it's a symbol of integrity. A symbol of righteousness, which was aforementioned but, apparently, words mean more than actions in this world." Sunset strolled up from behind carrying two guitars, "That's not our fault, that's just the way the world works." Noah crossed his arms, "Motherfucker, who's the one who burned my bookbag, slashed my tires, and smashed my two hundred dollar laptop with a sledgehammer?" "O-Oh! Y-You need help there Fluttershy?" ... "I remember. This symbol, Noah said he was told that it was a symbol of integrity. A symbol of righteousness. I guess he was right in the end, huh?" ”This Noah of yours, tell me more about him." Twilight sat down, "Well, Noah is... he's... uh... he's probably the furthest thing from Equestrian ever. Of all time. He acts like... like a... it's hard to explain. He's rude, but... not like 'rude' rude." "He seems to act like everyone may turn against him except his close friends. Insecure maybe? No, not even close. He's very confident and acts like nobody can touch him. The way he speaks is odd though. Almost half of every sentence includes a curse word, but it isn't directed at us. He just says that's how he and his people talk and act and that it's no big deal." "But when he's being genuinely rude... he says some very unpleasant things. Of course, it wasn't to me and my friends. It was towards that version's Trixie from a while back and the Sirens. He probably said some things to Sunset before as well, and considering they've done that for years, her psyche might be damaged a bit." Celestia grimaced. "But you don't have to worry about that rivalry anymore. Last time I saw them, they seemed to have made up and become friends. They even exchanged hugs." Celestia smiled, "This Noah sounds like quite the character." "He is, and I'm proud to call him one of my friends. He shows me that friendship comes in all forms, kindly, sensibly, or aggressively." Celestia beamed, "That's grand Twilight. Good to know my student is still widening her knowledge of friendship every day." Celestia returned to the book and flipped the page. She read, "I saw a vision. A vision of evils arising. Such evils that these sentient horses cannot fight off. I've decided to leave them something. A final weapon. By using the power invested in me, their Elements of Harmony now possess the ability to fuse to create the ultimate Element: The Super Element of Righteousness." "When the time is right, and there's no other option, the Elements shall come together to create the Super Element. With the fusion, the Great Man of Righteousness, wherever or whoever he may be in the world, shall wear the Element and gain its abilities." "From what I've accumulated, the warrior should be stronger than the main six Elements tenfold. The speed to travel across the planet in minutes. Triple the durability of graphene. And enough strength to control the sun, the moon, the stars, love, hate, and in time, reality itself." "When peace returns, the Elements will forever be fused, and the Bearers of the Elements will no longer be able to call upon their Elements in times of need or want. They will be remembered, but will never return to their duty as the Elements of Harmony." "I've already given the Element to the other side as their time is already at their doorstep. I believe in this world that day will not arrive for another nine thousand years, and when that day comes, this world will change forever..." Celestia stared at the book. She remembered nine thousand years ago seeing Christian. If he prophesied that in that time, an evil would arise, who's to say it isn't true? Twilight witnessed firsthand the capabilities of this Super Element. She'd believe it in an instant. How could she keep the peace in Equestria, nay, Equis itself if it was doomed kiloyears ago? Was the end really on the rise? "Princess? Are you okay? You're sweating." Celestia returned to Equis and lost a bit of balance. She steadied herself and answered, "Y-Yes Twilight. I'm quite alright. You found what you are looking for, did you not? Let's make haste up to the surface and-" "You're scared, aren't you." Celestia froze as she began down the floating path ahead. "I'll be honest with you Twilight... I'm horrified. But, if you've seen the powers of this Super Element, I guess the only thing we can do is plan, and wait." "That sounds like a good idea to me. This whole righteousness thing goes deeper than I thought." Twilight smiled, "Thank you for showing me all of this, Princess. I was afraid that'd be the death of me." "Death from a lack of understanding? You sure do value knowledge, don't you Twilight?" Twilight blushed, "W-Well, that's me for you I guess." "Come, Spike and the guards are possibly worried for us right now. And a simple question could result in a national tragedy." Twilight tilted her head, "What do you mean?" "I mean that there's a reason that only alicorns and Element Bearers may enter." Twilight tried to connect the dots before being hit with a rogue wave of anxiety and concern. "Oh shit! I-I-I mean, Oh no! We gotta hurry Princess!" Twilight galloped down the pathway and exited the large egg-shelled library while Celestia remained still and thought to herself. Well... she must've been quite exposed to Noah's language... I hope that doesn't spread. I'll be in a world of trouble... (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say. )
Intermission IV - Check Please (TBR)Author's Note In Loving Memory of Burgertown... I apologize for this chapter being somewhat short as it doesn’t exactly have a main objective. Intermission IV - Check Please (TBR) EARTH CANTERLOT OUTSKIRTS, EQUIS SIREN HELL THREE MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT "How was she intact?" "What are you talking about?“ "If my memory serves me right, which it does, I tore off her toes and shoved them through her chest. So how the hell did it look like not a damn thing happened?" Noah, Adagio, and now Aria sat across from each other. Adagio had come to terms with her new life and was trying to make the best of it with hidden emotions surfacing. Aria hadn't been in a worse mood in her life. Some days, she just wouldn't talk and would sit staring off into the boundless white void. And when she did talk, she could barely say anything. Noah, on the other hand, was having a hard time trying to understand them. Adagio had been trying to find a way to get into his head, for what, Noah didn't know. Aria had also been trying to get through to him as to why he didn't kill Sonata, she received the same answer every time. "When our... when our pendants are destroyed, the last thing they do is restore a siren to its natural form," Adagio replied. "In this case, that means putting them back together again." "Okay, how the hell did she even survive?" Aria stood up, "Why are you asking us now? It's been months seen the Battle of the Bands, and you're just now asking us this?" "I spent the last two months wondering whether or not I made the right fuckin' choice. If I should've just put a bullet in her head or dropped her off the roof. You act like I enjoy killing people. What I did back home was without a choice. And killing you two was my way of telling the world that you asshats have been dealt with." Aria made a fist, "She was just as much of a monster as were we!" Noah crossed his arms, "But she was nothing without you. If I let her stew in the fact that she fucked up massively, It would eat her from the inside out. The perfect justice for my family." Aria cocked her head to the right in anger and crossed her own arms. Noah unfolded his, "So I'll ask again, how the hell did she survive?" Adagio spoke up, "I pushed her out of the way." "I'm pretty sure I would've seen a giant flying cyan seahorse get pushed to the side," Noah replied, and Adagio explained. "That's because I shoved her beneath us as a sneak attack. I thought the blast would just rid us of our pendants. It was only after my tail began to catch on fire did I realize your true intentions." "With us dead, and our pendants obliterated, Sonata's self-destructed and she was healed. Then, as the smoke cleared, she must've ran as fast as she could. You know, because she was terrified." Noah sat down and stared Aria down. She continued to stare into the void. "This isn't fair," she muttered, but just loud enough to be heard. "The hell do you mean fair, nigga?" "I mean that we should've just died. This stupid Siren Hell was supposed to be a dumb myth, yet here we are, stuck with you in your head until you drop dead." "The problem isn't that it's unfair, it's your broken idea of fairness. You murdered billions of people just so you could live, for fuck's sake, I've already said this! This is probably the seventh time I've said why you're here! What the hell are you missing!?" Aria scoffed and Adagio answered, "Maybe because we were born and raised to think the world revolved around us. That's not our fault!" "You have seen bloodshed since the day you were born. You expect me to believe that you just didn't know the difference between right and wrong for millenniums?" Noah rubbed his head, "I'm not explaining this shit an eighth time. You guys are a joke." Aria spoke through her teeth, "We're a joke!? You swear in every sentence you say! You have pathetic anger issues! You don't even have the strength to kill someone who dropped a building on your stupid, fucking family!" With the flick of his wrist, Noah sent Aria flying to the left so fast, he and Adagio could've sworn they heard her break the sound barrier. Noah glared at Adagio, "You have something to say too, grapefruit?" Adagio stayed silent. "Good, now then," Noah stood up and stretched like a monkey. "I'm gonna wake up now and start the day. I could've sworn I was supposed to be doing something to..." "You were invited to hang out with the Rainbooms at that diner where you said you wanted to come back in order to pay you back for helping out with dealing with us." Noah froze. How did she know that? Was she spying on them at the time? He didn't remember telling her. "How... how do you know that?" Adagio fiddled with her fingers, "When we sleep, we Sirens see what our slayer is doing so we can never rest." Noah felt that feeling of sympathy return with a vengeance. "Okay, well, what other Siren shit is there that I'm missing? I'm gonna be a little annoyed if you keep throwing bull my way every time." She shook her head. "Good, then I'm waking up now. Goodbye." Adagio weakly waved one hand and Noah closed his eyes. Starting to wake up. He doubted if he was gonna be able to last dealing with these monsters. Noah drowsily opened his eyes. He was in someone's car, but he didn't know whose. I'll just figure this out later, he thought as he rested his head back against the chair. *BUMP* "Goddamnit!" The car hit a speedbump and sent Noah bouncing up to hit the inside roof. He whipped his head to face the driver, "Who the fuck are you, and what the hell!?" "It's just me nigga," replied the driver, whom Noah recognized. It was Jain. "Dude, where the fuck did you learn to drive?! You're supposed to slow down at the speed bumps, not floor it!" Jain shrugged, "I had to wake you up somehow. Last time I splashed water on you, and ya had a hissy fit like a little bitch." Noah held the top of his head, "What the hell are we doing out here?" "Yesterday, you said you were having another one of those days and you were going to take some Benadryl. Matter of fact, why the hell do you use Benadryl to go to sleep? We have sleep medicine for a reason, dumbass." "Because that shit is weak. I fall asleep after fuckin' two hours. I need sleep." Jain shrugged, "Whatever, but you told me that you would pay me twenty dollars to take you to this place called Sugarcube Corner at 10:30." "Oh yeah! I was invited by the Girls last night. Specifically Rarity." Jain sighed, "Seriously? Weren't you only with them for the Battle of the Bands shit?" "Look, they asked me to be their friend. Besides, you, me, and everyone else in our group hang out every weekend. We do shit nonstop, this is the one time I'm hanging out with them since like, what, a month ago?" "I'm sorry man, I just hope this doesn't fuck up our plan. Been waiting on that day for years nigga, and now, it's finally possible." Noah sighed, "Yeah... yeah, we'll be good." As quick as he woke up, Noah and Jain pulled into the driveway of the diner. Noah rolled down and leaned out his window to see all the girls, except Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and Applejack, sitting in the same booth from last time. "Alright my good man," Noah began as he reached for his wallet, "Here's your pay." Noah opened his wallet and retrieved a crisp twenty-dollar bill. Jain chuckled, "What are the chances they have the same currency as us, am I right?" "Yeah nigga, I don't understand any of this shit." Noah opened the passenger door and exited. "I'll see you later, a'ight?" Jain nodded and waved, "See ya." As quickly as they arrived, Jain pulled out of the diner's driveway and drove away. Presumably to his house. Noah turned to the diner, "Alright then. Let's get this over with." He entered the diner, It was quite populated, but not as much as a certain fast food place for the obese. Just the way he remembered. He began down the left side of the diner, recognized as soon as he turned. "Well well, looks like he did decide to show up," Rainbow Dash jeered. He honestly hadn't heard her voice in quite some time. He waved as he approached the table. From the side he was facing, Sunset Shimmer whipped her head around and Noah felt that stupid feeling return to his cheeks as a bright and genuine smile graced her face. "Noah! Hi!" He finally reached the table and found Fluttershy on the inside next to Sunset. "What's good guys? What are we here for?" Sunset shrugged as Noah took a seat next to her, "We're just here to hang out. We decided this time that it'd be nice to invite you." "Yeah," Fluttershy added, "Now that you're here, we're just waiting on Rarity and Applejack." Rainbow raised an eyebrow, "What about Pinkie Pie?" Fluttershy shrugged, "Pinkie said something about going party-cannon shopping. But I don't think they sell cannons regardless." "Yeah well, that's Pinkie for ya," Rainbow Dash replied. Noah cleared his throat, "So uh... you guys happen to know of any like... you know... places where you can pay to have a good time?" "A casino?" Sunset asked, and Noah replied, "No no, like a club that has... stuff." Rainbow cocked her head, "What type of stuff?" "You know... like... stuff." Fluttershy rubbed the back of her neck in confusion, "Noah, what are you talking about?" Noah rubbed the back of his own neck, "C'mon guys, a club that has certain goodies and lights and music... and bitches..." Sunset crossed her arms, "Noah, nobody here knows what you're talking about. The only thing that it sounds like you're talking about is that club behind the local cider store." "I-I, what? Are you guys serious? H-How do you people... what the hell?" As Noah began to wonder, the noise of the door ringing caught his attention and he whirled his head around. It was Rarity and Applejack. Rainbow noticed them second and waved over to them. They both turned and beamed as they began towards the booth. Rarity reached them first, "Hello girls, and boy, we've arrived." Rainbow stepped out of the booth and let them in. Applejack going first. "Okay good, listen, I have a question that these other niggas are too daft to understand." Rainbow and Sunset scoffed simultaneously. "Of course darling, what do you have to ask?" "Do you know of a place where I can like... you know... a club that has certain... things..." Applejack cocked her head, "Uh... w-w-what are you talking about?" "Oh come the hell on, not even you two? At least Rarity!" Rarity shrugged, "No, I haven't a clue." Rainbow crossed her arms, "Just tell us, we aren't playing this guessing game all day." "For motherfuck's sake, a strip club goddamnit!" The entire diner spun around, abashed, and gaped at the words that fell out of Noah's voice. Children's ears were covered, along with the elderly's. Noah stuttered, "Uh... see what happened was... uh... I, uh... lost a strip mining contest... at a club... and uh... I was kinda mad... sorry." Noah turned back to face the girls and was met with a series of faces, including Applejack’s which twitched, clearly saying, 'Smart move, dumbass.' "Still with those anger issues, huh Noah?" Sunset muttered. "Don't tempt me, kid." "Noah, I've got a question," Rarity stated, and Noah raised an eyebrow. "When you transformed, your hair turned a bright white. Care to explain that?" "How the hell should I know? I just know I look like a weird white-haired super saiyan. And that's pretty damn cool." Fluttershy tilted her head, "What's a super saiyan?" "It's a whole thing really, and there's probably an entire goddamn prophecy about my hair over in that Equestria place. But in reality, none of it makes any fuckin' sense." "Well," Sunset began, "What about your normal hair?" "Oh my word, yes!" Rarity added, making Applejack flinch in a manner that didn't seem to be pain. "I thought I was the only one who didn't understand why he'd pick such a hairstyle!" Noah crossed his arms, "What's wrong with my hair?" Rarity slammed her left hand on the table, "It's bland! Unbelievably bland! It's just a buzzcut! It hasn't even been trimmed! It has no color, no pattern, no form, it's just... there! Why?!" "Maybe it's because I'm a simple-ass nigga that doesn't give a shit about what his hair looks like unless it actually matters! And again, I'm not from here! Where I come from, people only fuck around with their hair for some stupid-ass reasons. It's normal and easier to just have hair instead of making it unique!" "But-" "Guys! Can we order already!? We've been here for nearly an hour talking about boring stuff," Rainbow Dash shouted, but not loud enough to be causing a commotion. "Y-Yeah, I-I agree with R-Rainbow. L-Let's eat and, oh fuck, get this over with," Applejack stuttered. Noah raised an eyebrow, "Uh... you alright, Old Town Road?" "Oh, it's no big deal. Just Applejack being Applejack. We're ready to order." Noah shrugged, "Alright. So... who's paying for my meal?" The booth went as silent as the night woods. The girls all looked at each other, except Applejack, unbeknownst to whom was going to pay. They hadn't talked earlier, just assumed someone would. "I'm saving up for a skirt," Rarity stated. "I'm saving up for a new guitar," Rainbow Dash Stated. "I was gonna head down to the pet store for something." The silence returned. Not a peep from any of them escaped. They knew one of them had to pay, but that meant one of them would be setback from something they wanted for a while. And Applejack just wasn't up for debate. "I'll pay for him," Sunset stated. Noah whipped his head around, "Woah, woah, Sunset, you don't have to pay! You, uh, you shot Adagio in the eye for Fall, remember? Look, you don't have to-" "I know," Sunset began, "But it's the right thing to do. After all, you bought me this outfit, so it's only fair." Noah stammered, "N-Nigga, it was Christmas! The Season of Giving and shit!" "Noah relax! It's the month of love, so this is a nice thing to do during that month. Think of it as your Valentine's gift from me." Noah looked to the others, they shrugged. He sighed, "You don't actually have to pay, I was just joking." Sunset waved him off, "Relax Noah, I insist." Noah crossed his arms, "Well... fine... thanks..." Sunset nodded and raised her hand, "Waiter! We're ready to order!" "Mm... mmm... mmmmmmmmm..." "You don't have to moan while you eat, you know that, right?" Rainbow Dash questioned, and Noah responded. "How the hell was I supposed to know they sold ribs? Last time I just said whatever and got good stuff, but this is amazing!” "Okay, but is it so unbelievably delicious that you have to moan like that?" Noah nodded. "Can I have one?" Sunset asked, and Noah handed her one of the smaller ribs. She took a bite, "Wow, this is incredible. But, I don't think it's moan-worthy." Noah stared her down with daggers, "Bull-shit." The waiter returned with one last dish, Rarity's. "Here you go ma'am," he spoke, "Enjoy." Rarity looked around the table, everyone was enjoying their own food. Quickly and covertly, Rarity raised her right hand, causing Applejack to flinch again, stuck them in her mouth, and then sucked them clean as she removed them. An unusual act surely, but it wouldn't matter if nobody saw. Except someone did see... "So Sunset," Noah asked as Sunset pulled out of the diner's driveway. Noah was dropped off here, so he needed a ride back if he wanted to go home. "Yeah?" She replied. "So, I noticed a lil something-something at the diner. When Rarity and Applejack came to the booth, Applejack went first and Rarity went second. But, Rarity sat down with her hand right above Applejack's lap. And it didn't move from there until she ate." Sunset raised an eyebrow, "What are you saying?" Noah crossed his arms, "Sunset, Applejack was stuttering. AJ never once appeared to me as the type of person to stutter. Not only that but could you seriously not hear those slight moans?" Sunset shrugged, "Rarity said she was doing alright." Noah put a finger to his chin, "Probably because she was the reason Applejack was moaning. And I think you know exactly how." Sunset felt her head thump like a drum, "No way! That's... could it... maybe, I-I... oh sweet Celestia." "That's right. Those two secretly hate each other and were fuckin’ around under the table!" Sunset slapped Noah with the back of her hand. "Ow! What the sweet fuck you ass-canister!' "They don't secretly hate each other, you idiot! They're in love! Oh, that's so sweet." Noah rubbed the side of his face, "Well that's a disgusting place to do and show it... albeit, it was kinda hot." "Shut up, Noah..." (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say. )
Intermission V - Knock Knock... Again (TBR)Author's Note A Second Time, She Came Knocking... Intermission V - Knock Knock... Again (TBR) FOUR MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT Sierra. Such a beautiful and unique name. With her short black hair and smooth chocolate skin. Her lovely green eyes and gorgeous figure. The way she spoke, so caringly. The way she moved, so gracefully. Why did she have to go? Why did the Sirens do what they did? Why couldn't they just leave? Why did they have to attack her on that day? The day the world stood still. Why couldn't the world be a better place overall? These questions ran rampant through Noah's head as he stared at a photo of his deceased beloved in his bed. Years had passed, the Sirens had been dealt with, but he still didn't feel whole. He meant what he said when he spared Sonata, but a part of him felt like shooting himself in the foot for letting her get away. He wanted justice, but he couldn't believe that's how it'd be fulfilled. He wondered if his plan would help. If that hole would be filled, but he kept thinking about Sunset. She was like Sierra reincarnated, but he knew that didn't exist. Nonetheless, Sunset was remarkable. She was almost better than Sierra, but Noah couldn't understand his feelings. Should he love her? Or should he just go with his plan? Did she love him? And if so, when was she going to make a move? He gazed at the window, at the stars. They twinkled and shined like sumptuous diamonds. He always thought of Sierra that way. Like a diamond. But far in the distance, he saw the setting sun. He thought of Sunset again. She's known Noah for much longer, despite their history, and has managed to touch his heart. Why? Why was Sunset so... enchanting? He reminisced of when she hugged him during Christmas Eve. It felt warm and genuine, just like Sierra's. Maybe, there was more to her than he thought. Maybe... maybe she was there for a reason. An angel sent to ease his pain. As he was hers, maybe. He wondered, how unimaginable Sunset's lips would feel against his own. He wondered how incomprehensible her bare skin would feel against his own. He wanted her, he wanted something to fill the void, but what was he supposed to do if she denied? Would he just go with the plan? What would she think of him? A coward? A swine? A joke? A memory? The opportunity opened up for him, why shouldn't he? If he does, it won't affect her. But what if it did? What if she did love him? What would she do? He had to know. It was a matter of love and life. He needed to know whether or not she loved him as much as he did once and for all, and he knew how. Something was coming up in the next month, he forgot what it was, but it'd be the perfect way to get his answer. He'll run his plan until the end to find out, then he'll truly decide. Yes! It was a perfect idea, and it all depended on Sunset. He hoped she loved him. He didn't want to go through with the plan, but he knew his friends would. But he just couldn't fathom doing that to Sunset. She was flawless. *KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK* "Well... that's unexpected..." "Sunset, are you fuckin' serious? No mention, no head's up, no nothing. You just show up at with a suitcase, a sleeping bag, and more shit to my house at fuckin' 10:00 at night?" "Look, I couldn't sleep! A-And I wanted to surprise you!" Noah stuttered, "Motherfucker, I have shit to do! I was gonna do my thing and head to bed! How the hell are we supposed to have a sleepover?" "How everybody has a sleepover, sleep-over." Noah rolled his eyes, "Sunset, we're good friends, but this is dumb. You didn't tell me jack shit." Sunset rushed up to Noah, "Look, I'm sleeping over, and there isn't a thing that you can do to stop me!" "Excuse me, kid?" Sunset got up in his face, "Noah, let me sleep over." Noah crossed his arms, "You're lucky a nigga like me is so nice." "Yes, I am." Sunset neared the living room, spread the area by pushing the couches and the footrest out, and laid her sleeping bag out in the middle. "Do you have a sleeping bag?" "Of course, because that was at the top of my list when I was escaping a nation with the help of a glowing metal amulet around my neck." Sunset smiled, "We can share if you want?" "I have blankets. I'll be back." Noah unfolded his arms and began upstairs. He opened the hallway closet and retrieved two blankets and a pillow. He returned downstairs to find Sunset unpacking her suitcase. "This is ridiculous, you know that?" Sunset shrugged, "Don't act like this isn't something nice. Sleepovers can be more fun when there are just two good friends instead of several simple friends." "Yeah, but... ugh, whatever kid.” Noah approached the area the couches surrounded and laid out his blankets and pillow. He grabbed it and tried to fluff it up. "Uh, I still have to shower Noah." He slapped his face, "Goddamnit, that's right. Look, head upstairs and to the right near the bathroom, there's a large closet. There's plenty of towels up there, take your pick." Finishing laying out her clothes, Sunset stood up and began upstairs. She opened the closet and found a large white towel. She grabbed it, threw it over her shoulder, and entered the bathroom. Noah sat downstairs, This isn't what I had in mind, dude. I meant at school, not here. This is weird, dumb, and too much of a fuckin’... never mind. Noah laid in the darkness next to Sunset. She claimed that she showed up to get a good night's sleep, but it'd been nearly an hour and she was wide awake. "So uh... how have you been?” Noah asked, and Sunset sighed, "I've been... better. Recently I... I've been thinking about my life. How it's going, where it's going... when it'll stop. The usual." "Oh, sounds a lot like my own problems, just without the soul-crushing despair of loss." Sunset faced him, "What was it like? Living in a world of people like yourself. When the world wasn't under siege of chaos." Noah closed his eyes, "It was... beautiful, in a sense. I used to think it was hell, everyone did. That what happened was just the way the world worked, and it was. But it wasn't all bad." "Looking back, I took everything for granted. I wish I didn't, I wish I could've stopped mourning and bitching and crying myself to sleep. I wish I could've just... lived." "I remember before it happened. Life got hard, but it was Goddamn delightful. I remember hating going to camps and after-schools, but it was just me." "I remember being in elementary school and how we slowly grew up and became the figures we idolized for years. I remember how in middle school we started becoming grown men and women. How fuckin' weird puberty was." "I remember my country being crazy and disgusting, but extraordinary. Disastrous things occurred day-to-day, but my heart is more at peace knowing it wasn't their fault." "As for my family, well, we were just another family of loving and humorous people. I remember when I was young, I'd sneak into my brother's bed and sleep there. It'd be annoying to him, but I was a scared four-year-old. Not my fault." "But you can't imagine how dumb I felt when during my last year of elementary school, my younger sister started doing the same thing to me. Albeit, she was only two years younger than me, and I'm four years younger than my brother, but still." "I found it annoying of course, but when I look back, she didn't mean me any harm. She was just scared, like me. I miss those days when I'd wake up and she'd be next to me. I'd act like an ass, but she kept doing it so, it didn't matter.” "Nowadays, the only thing I have to sleep with is my pillow and... nothing I guess. I long for when I get that experience again. I'd love it. It makes sleeping so cozy and pleasant when you wake up." Sunset reddened, "Well... if you want, you and I can do it." Noah's face fell flat, "Sunset, you can't just barge into my house, take a shower, I tell you a sad story, and you wanna make it up by doing the thing I recollected of." "Why not?" Noah struggled to find an answer, "B-Because... I..." Sunset smiled, "Noah, I'm Equestrian. That means that I am born and raised to be a good person and help out no matter what. You lost everything. If doing this will make you feel happy, why can't I?" Noah sighed, "Fine, but how do you wanna do this?" Sunset crawled out of her sleeping bag and rolled it up, leaving it at the feet of the TV stand. She then flung the covers that were on top of Noah over her, and she snuggled in. Facing Noah as he watched. Noah stared at Sunset, she stared back. "So, you getting anything?" Noah's head twitched, 'Y-Yeah, I'm getting something." Sunset grinned, "Good! So, I wanted to talk about something else." "Shoot." Sunset laid her head down on the pillow, "I've been thinking about love," Noah's heart began beating faster than a chaingun. "And I've been wondering about Flash." The chaingun was hit by a train, that was then blown up, and then eaten by a giant wolverine, that was then pulverized, that was then incinerated, that was then extinguished by mustard, and was then incinerated again. "I don't know why, he just... he feels like that type of boy that everybody loves and looks up to. I've wondered what his arms would feel like around me, what his lips would feel like against mine, what his... well... you know what I'm talking about.” Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck! Fuck my stupid black life to Hell and back! "Oh yeah, he seems like the type of dude you'd go well with, I guess." Sunset smiled, "Right!? I feel like if I could get him to love me, everything I'd ever wanted at this place would come true! Best friends, a school that likes me, and someone to hold and caress me." "I'll be honest, I wasn't sure you'd approve, so I'm glad you do. That helps a lot." Noah nodded, "Yeah, no, sure, I got you kid." Noah felt his heart shatter. Sunset grabbed the covers and pulled them closer, "I'm glad we could talk like this. It always helps to speak with a best friend of yours when you aren't sure what to do." Best. Friends... hah... hah hah hah... "Yeah, no, I totally agree. Talking about my problems that should normally lead to crippling depression but instead lead to blinding anger issues is something beneficial." "Great, see you tomorrow?" Noah nodded again and reached for his side of the covers, "Good night kid, sweet dreams." Sunset turned to face the coach and he did the same. Sunset exhaled, a large odd weight had been lifted off her shoulders, and with her best friend of all people. She truly felt satisfied with the day and was anxiously awaiting the next. Noah, on the other hand, sniffled as a single simple tear streamed down his left cheek. He still had the plan, but would it even matter? He felt the shift of Sunset's hair brush over him and he closed his eyes. Fuck my life. Sweet dreams Sunset, sweet fuckin' dreams... "I don't get what's the big deal," Adagio stated as she folded her arms. "Flash! She said fuckin' Flash! She knows I have a bad history with the guy, and she also knows Twilight is fuckin' gay for him, so what the actual hell!" "Females here apparently are always searching for a prince charming to call theirs. If there was one in your school, you should've anticipated that at least one of your friends was going to like him. It's out of your control if that friend is also the one you love.” "How the fuck am I supposed to beat that? The dude's an ass, but he's fuckin' impeccable! Girls drool when thinking of his dumbass limp dick, and half of the girls at the school don't even know I have one!” "He's like every stereotypical white boy in a teenage romance movie to ever fuckin' exist! Every girl goes wild for him! If Sunset has her thoughts on him, I-I'll never get her!" "Flash's ass will swoop down, grab Sunset by her stupid, sexy ass, and fuckin' dip out of their faster than I can say, 'You ass!'" Adagio sighed, "This can be solved easily, you know that right?" Noah cocked his head, "The fuck are you talking about?" "Tell her about it." Noah felt that dumb feeling return, "No!" Adagio suspired, "Then force her too. You have that stupid plan coming up, right? Instead of asking her in the end, show her how much you truly love and care for her. Once the end nears, see whether or not she cracks." "But, what about Flash?" Adagio unfolded her arms, "Indeed, Flash will be a tough opponent, but you have to be willing to fight for Sunset. You have to show her how much greater you are. Then, she won't care for Flash." "But... but what if I try so hard and get so far, but in the end, it doesn't even matter?" Adagio shrugged, "Then it is what it is. You tried and did what you could. You failed, oh well. Move on, it's not like you can't." "But I don't want to move on! Ever since the Battle of the Bands, I've had feelings for her that I thought could never make itself known in my head. I want her, and that's final goddamnit." "Than go get her." Noah felt something jolt through his brain. Like a straight line of blood-red indomitable determination. He looked to Adagio for a moment, something was off. She wasn't acting like her normal self. "What's your deal? You're acting normal. You're acting like a good person, which I know you aren't." Adagio gripped her left shoulder, "Being in this hell has... done things." "I've been seeing all that I've done for what it truly was, fatuous bloodshed. I was a monster. I made my sisters a monster, and I felt no remorse for anyone or anything." "You may not believe me, but everything I've done is so comically stupid, it's a fucking comedy. I wish I didn't do it. I wish I had the heart to see what I was doing to billions of people, and my sisters." "If I could... maybe I wouldn't be here right now. Maybe I wouldn't be dead." Noah felt that sympathy return, "Well, as a victim of your bullshit, I can safely say you're on a better path." Adagio smiled. "Now, I'm gonna go to sleep for real and start the next day. Don't fuck around and do something stupid while I'm gone, got it?" Adagio folded her arms, "Not much to do here regardless..." Noah gently sat down and closed his eyes. As quick as he was there, he was gone. His presence faded into the neverending breeze, and the Super Element, was gone. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
Friendship Games - The Endearment Arc (TBE)Author's Note How ‘Bout Another? (This chapter along with others is to be properly edited mid-late 2021) Friendship Games - The Endearment Arc (TBE) Noah hesitantly yet strenuously opened his eyes as his head fell to his side. The air and wind of the stratosphere to the mesosphere left him in a painful daze as he struggled to catch what little breath he had. He tried to move around as he rose ever so slowly but quickly realized his right arm was broken, the back of his head and back was pouring with pure black blood, and his entire body was covered in shards of glass. What the hell is going on? As Noah's ascension finally came to a halt, he turned his head with the little amount of strength he had to find his left arm was being pulled upwards. Someone had him in their grasp, and their grip was crushing Noah's wrist. "It'd be a shame, really. Such a fucking shame that I had to go through all that work, only for you to repeat the same thing you said to me the other five-six times." Noah couldn't recognize the voice, but he knew that he'd heard it before. Like a returning relative from Thanksgiving, but barely even remembering them being there, yet you know they were. The voice gripped Noah's throat with its other hand, raised him above themselves, and let Noah float limply. He didn't fight against the voice, but his struggles, grunts, and chokes did more than enough to make themselves known that this wasn't a position Noah wanted to be in. Ever. Noah didn't have the strength to face his attacker, but he could see and feel that their hand was enveloped in a purple glow. A magical purple glow. Noah mentally slapped himself, Another magical enemy? How did this happen? "I'll ask you one more time," the voice began. Fury in its voice as it's grip tightened. "Give me the amulet, or die." Noah's eyes' watered at the sight of the setting sun to his side. So high above the clouds, you could see it clear as day in all it's glory. And everything came to him like that. "For the last time you hellspawn, kiss, my, ass." Noah chuckled as the grip on his throat intensified, "Fine... you... you fucking cunt. To hell with you. After I finish everything here, I'll go farther. I'll destroy everything, and you can watch from heaven all of your stupid piece of shit friends get their fucking spines ripped out you worthless fuck." The voice extended it's arm, holding Noah out and far away from itself. Noah closed his eyes, and before he knew it, the voice dropped him and watched as he plunged towards the inevitable ground. Noah didn't even try to land safely, he just let gravity do it's thing. And as Noah reached the clouds, his vision went black. It was over. All, over. FIFTY-SEVEN HOURS EARLIER FIVE MONTHS AFTER THE RAINBOW ROCKS EVENT ”You know what’s weird?” ”What?” ”You’re Black, but you act so white sometimes. Almost half the time, actually.” ”Nigga, what?!” ”Think about it. You have an interest in weaponry, you drive a black truck, and-” ”Sunset, One: shut up. Two: I have a fascination with weaponry because I play a lot of modern shooters games. Three: That’s not my truck, it's Manex’s. Four: Don’t break character, dipshit, we're in the middle of a fanfic written by some black guy.” Noah and Sunset exited the driveway of the morning donuts and coffee store and began down the road while a song Noah had somehow gotten Sunset to favorite played quietly, just enough for them to hear each other. It had nearly been half a year since that fateful day. When the world's ultimate monsters' revealed themselves, out of the shadows, and Noah, Sunset, and the Rainbooms brought the inevitable hammer of justice and consequence down on their heads with a passion. Since then, life's been good. Noah and Sunset have become the best of friends, Sonata, the siren that got away, has been dealt with by being banished, Noah and Sunset believe that Rarity and Applejack are more than just friends, and life has just been, well, good. At the moment, Noah and Sunset were on their way to school for the third-to-last day of the school week, but not before making a quick stop at their local gun store. "You know, If you've been getting a single magazine every Wednesday for years at this point, doesn't that mean you're stocked to the brim with them?" Noah shrugged, "Uh... maybe? I-I use them for good reason, so it's all good." "Oh really?" "Yep." "And what reason would that be?" "..." Noah dug all around inside his head for an excuse, "...It's not shooting disgusting watermelons in my backyard, that's for sure." Sunset gasped, "You don't like watermelons?" "You do?!" Sunset giggled, "Yes, it's delicious! How do you not like watermelon?" Noah scoffed, "How can you!? It's like taking a bite of an apple made of water! It baffles me that people enjoy that garbage!" "You're kidding!" "No, I am the heck not! It's disgustingly tasteless!" "That doesn't make any sense." "You don't make any sense!" Sunset's face fell flat as she stared at Noah like he was a mental patient from Siberia. "Listen, watermelon, is nasty. Case closed. Besides, grapes are the best fruit anyway." "You like grapes!?" "Are you fuckin' kidding me?!" Before they could go at each other again, Noah stopped instantly as he heard his phone go off. He had received a text. "Hold on, hold on. Let me get this real quick," Noah told Sunset as he sat back into his seat and she rolled her eyes. Noah read the text and found it was from Rainbow Dash. Noah read it aloud, "'Come to school immediately! It's an emergency! Code red! Code flipping red!' What the? What is she talking about?" "If she says it's an emergency, she could be in danger. We should hurry over there." Noah tried to reason with Sunset, "But, what about the bullets? What if today's the day something really happens?" "Noah, that's not important right now! We need to get to her!" Noah groaned, "Fine! Dang it..." Noah stepped harder on the gas pedal as the light ahead of them turned green. The car began slowly before taking off so fast, a middle-aged mom walking down the street barely had enough time to get off the road before getting hit. Noah pulled into the driveway of CHS and found Applejack and Rainbow Dash standing at the steps. Only, there wasn't a global or even a local destruction event occurring, perplexing Sunset and Noah. Sunset stepped out of the passenger seat as Noah turned off the car and stepped out himself. "We got your text Rainbow Dash, did something come through the portal?" Sunset asked as she shut the passenger door closed. "Is Equestrian magic on the loose? Did Twilight come back with a problem that only we can solve?" "You brought us here for something stupid, didn't you?" Rainbow Dash opened a guitar case in front of her and stood up, "Uh, not exactly." Noah's face fell flat while Sunset raised an eyebrow. "Uh... so what did you text us for?" Rainbow Dash turned around with a guitar Noah recognized. He had bought it a week before their Christmas party. It had a loose string, and Noah's eye twitched. "Well Sunset, Ah was just tellin' Rainbow Dash here that a broken guitar string doesn't really qualify as an emergency." Noah made a fist, "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?" "W-Well, it totally does qualify!" Noah's eye twitched, "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?" Rarity entered the picture, it turned out that everyone had received Rainbow's text. "Really Rainbow Dash? I was in the middle of sowing a very complex applique on my latest frock." Fluttershy also entered said picture, "And I was just about to tuck everyone in for the night at the shelter. Now we'll have to start stories all over again." "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?" "I agree, why would you send all of us an emergency text for a guitar string?" Rainbow Dash pointed behind her at three freshman girls, "Well, I was going to pony-up and show our fans some awesome guitar licks, but I kinda need all six strings to do it. Got any spares?" "You called us to this stupid school a half-hour early, for a guitar string?!" "Yeah, that's already been established. So, ya got a spare?" Noah chuckled as his eye twitched uncontrollably, "Yeah, yeah I got a spare." Noah walked over to Rainbow and gestured for the guitar. She handed it to him and Noah took a deep breath. "How much would you say this cost?" "Uh, about, four... no, five hundred dollars. And it was on a Christmas sale, so technically it was a grand. The perfect steal!" Noah nodded, "Nice, nice... such a shame too." "Wha-" Before Rainbow Dash could finish, Noah brought the guitar over his head and smashed it against the concrete path, a fire in his eyes so hot it could cook a pig in seconds. He ran over to his car, swung open the driver's door, placed the guitar in between the door and the car, and shut the door several times, completely severing the body of it. He then ripped what was left of the body out of the car door, gripped the neck like it was a lance, and rushed towards the CHS statue/portal, and crushed the neck of the guitar until it looked like an overly sharpened pencil from a nerdy fourth grader. Noah took multiple deep breaths before slowly returning to Rainbow Dash and shoving it into her grip. "I'll buy you a new one," he slightly shouted as he began up the steps of the school, swung open the door, and slammed it behind him. Giving the main entrance door five new cracks. Everyone on the school entrance was left in utter shock as no words could find a way out of each others' mouths. "Well... I guess that's why you don't mess with a super element," Applejack spoke up. Rainbow Dash gawked at the torn-to-shreds mess of a guitar and dropped it before moving another muscle. "So, uh... see you guys in class?" Rarity spoke up, receiving multiple signs and sayings of approval from her friends. They all awkwardly began inside, along with the freshmen girls following behind, except Rainbow and Sunset. "Uh... if it makes you feel any better, he said he'll buy you another? A-And who knows, it could be much better than that one, and more expensive! S-So technically, i-it's a win-win, right?" Rainbow didn't respond; she just turned around, began inside, and erased the memory from her head. TWENTY MINUTES LATER -Dear Princess Twilight... How's life treating you in Equestria? Any cool new magic spells? It's been pretty quiet the last five months here at CHS since the Battle of the Bands. We still pony-up when we play music, which Rainbow Dash just loves to show off. But I still can't quite grasp what it's all about. I would love to hear what you think about it when you get the chance. -Your Friend, Sunset Shimmer Sunset closed the book as a metro bus pulled up to the school. An odd figure wearing jeans, purple sneakers, a baggy cadet blue hoodie, and oddly glinting black glasses stepped off of it. They pulled a strange device, which didn't look physically possible, out of their hoodie pocket, and fidgeted with it. Like they were trying to get it set up for something. They wandered towards the portal while turning a dial back and forth like they were attempting to receive or catch a signal of some sort. As they stood before it, they raised it to scan the entire statue, like they knew something was inside or mysterious about it. They came around the other side, entering Sunset's vision, and proceeded to scan the front as they did the back. They placed a hand on the statue's portal, and their touch lit up the portal in the spot they interacted with. The sound the portal emitted from the figure's touch promptly got Sunset's attention as she perked up. The figure continued to touch the portal in all of its corners before turning another dial. Sunset called out, "Hey!" And the figure instantly realized they weren't alone. "What are you doing?!" The figure turned to run, startled and fearful. Sunset stood up off the stairs and began after her. "Wait!" She cried, confused. As the figure reached the street, with Sunset on her tail, they dashed forward as fast as they could to avoid an oncoming car, that Sunset was unfortunate to find stopping her from pursuing. The same bus from before pulled up on the other side of the street, and the figure quickly boarded it, slipping as it's doors opened. The bus drove off as Sunset tried to stop it, leaving a dust cloud behind. "Who was that?" Sunset asked as she scratched her head. "Who was what?" "Ah! Noah?!" "Sup." "Don't do that! You nearly gave me a heart attack!" "Oh really? That's horrible! I apologize miss Shimmer, I shall be oh so careful next time I approach you." "Shut up." Noah stood next to Sunset and stared in the same direction she did. "So, who was what?" Sunset took a deep breath, "Someone came up and started messing with the portal with some strange device. It looked too advanced for them judging by their figure, so I'm completely lost. Why are you out here?" "I remembered I left my bookbag out here, and the fact that I have to park my car in an actual parking lot. What were you doing here?" Sunset shrugged, "Just, writing to Twilight. It's been a minute since we last saw her." "True, true... Breakfast is still open, you wanna head in? I'll pay if you want." Sunset blushed, "Oh, uh, yeah sure, b-but I can pay." Noah put his hands in his pockets, "A'ight, if you insist nigga." Noah nudged Sunset and started back towards the school. Sunset stared at the open road before eventually joining him. "So, what do they have for breakfast this morning?" "I didn't check, but Lyra told me it was pancakes. But then her girlfriend told me it was waffles. And then they had a stupid fight in the middle of the lockers like a fuckin'-" "Noah, come on now. What did we say about swearing?" Noah groaned, "Like a friggin' middle-aged married couple. Better for you, princess?" "Much better."
PART 1: XI - Our Eternal Rivals (TBE)Author's Note It's Been Real... PART 1: XI - Our Eternal Rivals (TBE) "They were definitely doing something to the statue." "Oh great, this again." "Or was going to." The Rainbooms had settled inside the library an hour later. They were gathering their thoughts and preparing for the rest of their Wednesday, although Sunset was talking nonstop about the strange figure that showed up this morning, and it was getting on Noah's last nerve. "Do you think they came through the portal from Equestria?" Fluttershy questioned whilst rubbing her pet rabbit from her book bag. "No, I'm pretty sure I would've noticed that. I think they were from over here." "Well, that's a relief. The last thing we need is another magical so-and-so bent on global domination comin' over from Equestria," Applejack replied while leaning back in her chair. It wasn't like she was wrong, of course. Magical mishaps seemed to have some sort of schedule, or not, it's unclear as of now. "Agreed," Rarity began. "I have no interest in another fight against the forces of evil magic. The wear and tear on my wardrobe is just too much to keep up with." "Still," Sunset continued. "A mysterious figure snooping around the portal, don't you wanna know what they were up to?" Noah scoffed, "Sunset, I'm gonna put it bluntly, nobody cares. If someone from Earth, as a planet, is snooping around that thing, it's gonna take centuries until they figure out how that works." "But if they already know it's not natural, don't you think they'll put all their time and effort into figuring it out?" Noah rolled his eyes, "Sunset, hundreds have already witnessed things that aren't possible, period, and nobody has batted an eye at all! Not to mention they've witnessed it twice!" "Well," Rainbow Dash began, coming from around a bookshelf. "You don't have to, because I've totally figured out who it was!" "Oo! Oo! The nighttime statue cleaner?! A magical portal maintenance maintainer?! A gardener!?" Pinkie exclaimed, her unstoppable and uncontainable enthusiasm surfacing once again. "Seeing as how they got off a bus from the city and got back on a bus headed to the city, I'll bet they go to-" "Crystal Prep," the girls, excluding Sunset, all finished simultaneously. "Yep," Rainbow continued. "With the Friendship Games starting tomorrow, they'd totally try to prank us by defacing the Wondercolt statue." "Woah Woah Woah, back it up. One: Who's Crystal Prep? Two: What are the Friendship Games?" Noah questioned, utterly lost. Rarity's face fell flat, "Noah, there is no possible way you don't know what either of those is." "We've gone over this before," Noah continued, "I don't pay attention to the crap on the walls, and I don't know anywhere outside of this damn, er, darn town." "Well, Crystal Prep is CHS' eternal rivals. We've been havin' the Friendship Games every four years, and we go head to head with them," Applejack explained. "The Friendship Games are a series of activities in which we, well, I already explained that part." "Wait wait, these are tomorrow?!" Noah asked, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, why? Was something happening for you tomorrow?" Fluttershy asked, confused. "No, but I do have something on Saturday and I was just trying to get through the rest of the week, it's how my parents raised me." Sunset tilted her head, "What's happening on Saturday?" "I'm going home." The Rainbooms stared in puzzlement, Sunset replied, "Noah, we all go home at the end of school, what are you talking about?" Noah shook his head, "No no, I mean home home." The Rainbooms continued to stare. "Oh!" Pinkie replied, "He means he's going back to Earth! You're going back to Earth?!" The Rainbooms' eyes grew wide, "Yep, she got it," Noah confirmed. Sunset felt her heart stop for a moment, "Y-You're going back? W-Why are you going back? Don't you live here now?" Rainbow Dash stood up, "Yeah, what are you going back for? We thought this was like your new home! With us!" "Well, my friends and I have been planning this for a while, a week before we went to that diner actually. Since the Sirens' had been defeated, and since they were the reason for all the crap back on Earth, we'd thought that we could return to a more peaceful planet." "We gave it time, and it turned out life off this island, or whatever, had gotten much better. Crime rates dropped incredibly, nuclear weapons are being disposed of, hell, China and Russia joined NATO! You have no clue how much of a big deal that is!" "With life returning to a happier time, we'd decided that it was time we went back home. Sure, living here in Canterlot City was nice and all, but we were really just here to find ourselves, and we've obviously done that. So, we've packed our bags, or we're going to, and we'll head to the boat we used to get here, turn it around, and head back to America." "B-But, what about all of that robbing and what not? W-Won't they just arrest you?" Sunset stammered, and Fluttershy agreed. "She's right, weren't you living here to escape the threats back home? If you go back, they'll just arrest you!" "We were wearing masks, you igits, they don't know who we are, neither do they care as much about a couple of teens robbing small stores. We'll just go back, and since we aren't adults yet, use foster care as a means of getting back on our feet and ready to enter the world." "Okay, but what about us? Aren't we ya friends? Y'all just gonna up and leave like we was just a couple of pick-me-ups?" Applejack replied, slightly betrayed. "Look, you guys are six of the dumbest, but greatest friends I'll ever have the opportunity to meet in my life. Nobody's ever gonna replace you, and I'll never forget you guys, but this is our lives we're talking about." "If we decide to return home, then I should expect my best friends to respect our decision and give me their best wishes." Rarity sighed, "Well darling, you're not wrong. If you truly desire to return to your home, then it's not right for us to be against it. Though you were a serious but mysterious jerk to us in the beginning, you'll be remembered as a great friend of ours 'till the end." "Yeah, Ah guess that's fair," Applejack added. "We gotta make these last two days twenty percent cooler than!" Rainbow Dash added. "Oh! We need a going away party! I'll host it for you and your friends!" Pinkie Pie added. "Oh, it's gonna be such a shame to see you go though, but, it's your choice, and I'm completely on board!" Fluttershy added, quietly shouting. Noah smiled, "What about you kid? We all good?" Sunset stared and tried to speak, but nothing came out. Out of all the friends Sunset had acquired, Noah was the only true friend. He wasn't asked to be her friend by an Equestrian princess, he chose to be hers, and he was her best of all things! He took her to restaurants, they had sleepovers, talked on the phone for hours, went swimming, and sometimes they just relaxed with each other on a hill underneath a tree. Now he's leaving!? Seriously?! How was that fair?! Sunset didn't want her first true friend's friendship to end after half a year! She didn't want it to end ever! But not only will she lose him, but he can't return either, meaning he'll be gone forever! Her only true friend, gone for all of eternity, never to be seen or heard from again. But maybe Sunset wasn't afraid to lose him as a friend, maybe she was afraid to lose him, period. Meaning... she'd never get that chance... that chance to... that chance to- "Hey! Kid! You still there? What, did you just go stupid on me or something?" Sunset returned to Earth and stuttered, "I-I-I, u-uh, aren't we supposed to be heading to the gym for a rally?!" The Rainbooms examined the library to find that it was empty, almost like all life was just snapped out of existence. And Sunset was right, they were supposed to be heading to the gymnasium for a rally. It seemed Noah's news had tuned them out from reality. "Oh crap, she's right! I'm one of the speakers! We gotta go, now!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed, appalled that she'd forgotten so easily. "Oh, well, we'll come back to this. C'mon y'all, before we get written up," Applejack replied, and the Rainbooms began for the gymnasium, despite a certain someone still feeling woeful. "You know what I've just realized kid?" "What?" "There's barely any other students here. Matter of fact, there wasn't a lot at the Battle of the Bands or even the Fall Formal. What's with that? Is this school secretly dead inside or something?" "That's because not everyone goes to the events, Noah." "Oh... well, then there must be a crap ton of social outcasts here." The Rainbooms had arrived at the gymnasium and sat through said rally. Rainbow Dash, on the other hand, was indeed a speaker at said rally, and she somehow managed to turn it into a musical number no less. Despite hiding her sorrow, Sunset was still terribly out of sorts for her friend, though he seemed to show no feeling or even any compassion about leaving, and Sunset wondered if he cared at all. "Christ, Rainbow sure does love going, uh, pony mode a lot. I'll never understand the enthusiasm and enjoyment of becoming part horse for the life of me," Noah spoke up. "Noah," Sunset began, "When you go back to Earth, what do you plan on doing? Besides what you already told us, obviously." Noah shrugged, "Once I'm back in an American school, I'll finish my final year, graduate, go to college, meet a girl, black-haired hopefully, date for a while, get married, have kids, grow old, retire, find a beach in Hawaii to live on, grow even older, die, and spend eternity with my family and friends." Sunset raised an eyebrow and stared for a bit. "Well, that's quite the list... Can I ask why you mentioned girls with black hair?" Noah itched his neck, "Well, I don't know why, to be honest. There's just something about a girl with black hair that just feels so... enticing. That, and the fact that I've spent nearly half a decade looking at girls with the weirdest hairstyles ever witnessed by mankind. I once saw a girl with purple loops in her hair! Loops, Sunset! Loops!" "That's Rarity, Noah." "... right..." "Rainbow Dash, that, was amazing! Even I feel like we can win." Fluttershy quietly exclaimed. After Rainbow Dash's strange musical number, the Rainbooms had gathered backstage to congratulate her." "Yeah, what she said. Though to be honest, I wasn't really watching," Noah added, and Rainbow Dash's face fell flat. "You were sitting in the front row." "Yeah, but kid over here kept asking me questions." Sunset cocked her towards Noah, "I asked you one question!" "One question, too many." "Are you serious?" "Probably." "Well, I feel like my school pride is at an all-time high!" Rarity squealed. "Isn’t anybody else wonderin' how dash ponied-up without playin’ her guitar? You know, besides Noah smashin' it this mornin'?" Applejack questioned, filling the room with a slightly awkward feel. "I know, right? It's probably because I'm so awesome!" Rainbow Dash replied, while Noah simply responded, "Eh." "Maybe, I mean, you are awesome, but there's gotta be more to it than that, right?" Sunset suspected whilst rubbing her chin. "It just seems so random." "Well, it would be nice if you guys could get a handle on it," replied a voice from behind. It was the Vice Principal, Luna. "We'd like to keep said magic as far away from the Friendship Games as possible. We don't want to be accused of cheating in any sort." "And as for you, Rictorshine." "Ah, Christ on a cross.” "We'll need you to keep any, and all forms of improper dialect or any obscene and vulgar actions even further than possible. Though being called cheaters is bad, we don't need them thinking our students are nothing but squalid, inappropriate, mischievous, young delinquents." "Anytime." "That is, if you are taking part in the Friendship Games, of course." "Am I?" "Yes." "Alright then." "Well as for our magic," Rarity began, "We won't even need it to defeat those hoity-toity Crystal Preppers." And her fellow friends cheered and hollered in agreement. "Still, the Friendship Games are serious business." "Eh." "We don't want any surprises. Especially the kind that could force or cause us to forfeit. Sunset Shimmer, you came here from a world of magic, how you managed to enroll here, I'm dumbfounded, perhaps you can get to the bottom of our magical development. The library and what not is quite large, so I'll allow you to pick a partner of your choice." "I'll do my best, as for my partner..." Sunset slowly turned her head to Noah and smirked. "No, what, why? Why me?" Sunset crossed her arms, "Noah, if you're only gonna be here for three more days, there's no harm in learning what you can about magic before you leave." "Why would I spend time learning about something I'm never gonna need?" "Why do we do anything? Besides, can't you do this one thing for me?" "What about Pinkie Pie?" "You and I both know I don't have the sanity for that." Luna crossed her arms, "Noah, it is not up for debate. Sunset has chosen her partner, and you shall oblige. Otherwise, there's a nice comfy desk and chair over in detention if you want to be written up for insubordination." "Of course there is." Luna nodded and made her way off of the stage and out of the gymnasium. "Okay, anybody have any guesses what the events are gonna be?" Rainbow Dash asked, curious. "Pie eating? Cake eating? Pie-cake eating?!" Pinkie exclaimed, her obstinate zeal making itself known once again. "They won't even let us see what they're doin' to the field. You'd think they'd at least tell the competitors what they're competin' in," Applejack replied, annoyed. "It could be anything," Fluttershy said with wonder in her voice. "Anything!? How will I ever pick the right outfit?" Noah snickered, "You are just the definition of dramatization, aren't you Rarity?" To which Rarity replied by rolling her eyes and crossing her arms. "I, well, we really wanna help-" "Eh." "But, I think we better go focus on figuring out why Rainbow Dash ponied up. We'll see you later! Come on Noah, we'll start at the library," Sunset finished, and Noah groaned. "Ugh, this gonna be worse than explaining world war two to a toddler." Noah, following Sunset, made their way off stage and out the gymnasium, on their way to the library. "Seems like they've got everything under control! Nothing to worry about," Pinkie exclaimed, oddly joyful. Inside the library, Noah and Sunset sat at one of the tables surrounded by books. Albeit, not much was getting done. "Ugh, this isn't working!" Sunset blurted, irritated. "What?" "We've been here for nearly an hour, and we haven't gotten anything done! I knew it'd be difficult, but we haven't even found a single word to help us!" "Well, it isn't my fault!" "I didn't say it was..." "Oh... well... why not ask Twilight? Isn't she like the princess of magic and shit?" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Princess of Friendship." "Same thing." "Ugh, well, maybe I can ask her since nothing else is helping right now. Can you hand me my book? Since we switched seats, it should be in my bookbag over there." "Got you," Noah replied and opened Sunset's bookbag. It was full of a common teenage girl's school items. Paper, binders, folders, pencil cases, a diary that had way too many doodles and painted drawings on it, rulers... "Here we go, big fat brown book with a weird red and orange sun smack dab in the middle of the cover." Noah handed the book to Sunset along with his pen, she thanked him and opened up said book. -Dear Twilight... Haven't heard back from you yet. I guess you must be pretty busy with your role as a princess. Not that I'm jealous or anything. Right now, I could really use your advice. "Sunset, we're trying to figure another stupid magical thingy out, can we maybe get this done today?" Sunset rolled her eyes, "Funny, feels like I've said the same thing to you several times." "I don't know what you're talking about..." "Sure," Sunset replied, giggling at Noah's simple yet bizarre humor. She returned to the book, fidgeting with the pen, and continued. You see, I've been given the job of keeping magic under control here at CHS. Even though I still haven't quite wrapped my head around it. "Kid! Today!" "I know! Go do something!" And now, after seeing Rainbow Dash pony-up the way she did, it makes me think her magic might be... changing. "Sunset, for fuck's sake!" "I got it!" Everyone is looking to me- "Sunset!" "What, damn it!?" "Just ask her the question!" "What do you think I'm doing!?" "You're telling her your life story!" "No, I'm not!" "Just ask her the question and get it done! It's not a message to the king of Goddamn Babylon!" "I know that! Just let me do me! Go get us some chips or something!" "For Christ's sake..." "Go!" -to figure things out, and I really don't wanna let them down. But I'm not sure I have enough experience with friendship magic to solve this. I could really use your help, and any at all would be much appreciated. Noah returned with two bags of barbecue chips and sat down. Sunset closed the book and rested her head in her arms on the table. "Did ya finish?" Noah asked. "No thanks to you, yes." Noah stared at Sunset. Sunset stared at Noah. "Don't lie, that was pretty funny," Noah replied, chuckling. "Like a sitcom," Sunset replied before giggling herself. And even though they were only slightly laughing, it soon turned into uncontrollable laughter as if they just witnessed the funniest video of all time. All the while, every face in the library was white with pure confusion and terror. (Please leave a comment, I enjoy reading what say. Along with any criticism, it’s required to make this book as great as can be.)
XII - Behind Enemy LinesSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
XIV - Another Brand New ProblemAuthor's Note Because One Wasn't Enough... XIV - Another Brand New Problem TWENTY-FOUR HOURS EARLIER "What do ya mean it's gone?" "As in somebody just shot dead an entire universe, gone." The Rainbooms made their way to the gymnasium for Crystal Prep's welcoming party. While on their way there, Sunset and Noah explained to the other Rainbooms what happened hours ago, and Sunset was in a terrible mood. "Well," Rainbow Dash began, "How'd that happen?" They entered the gymnasium and Sunset pointed. "We don't know, but it has something to do with that Twilight." Said Twilight was following that same compass-like device for something she'd picked up. She walked into a wall. "What in tarnation is she up to?" Applejack questioned, confused, and Sunset raised a fist. "Leave that to me." She began towards Twilight and the others raised an eyebrow at Noah. "What?" Rarity scoffed, "Aren't you gonna stop her?" "What, is she my responsibility now or something?" "Noah, you're the only one who can get through to her more than we can." Noah groaned, "Fuck me." He speed-walked over to Sunset before she did something she'd regret, but he was a little late as his phone lit up. "Twilight," Sunset called to her. Anger and suspicion in her voice. "What have you been up to?" Twilight started to sweat in slight fear and startlement, "Me? Oh, I-I uh..." "Who wants to know?" A girl with short dark and light-cyan hair with goggles on top stepped in front of Twilight and brought a finger to Sunset's chest. She wore the same outfit as her, only differing in wrist gauntlets and rolled up sleeves. "Um, we do." Rainbow Dash stepped forward, bringing her own finger to the girl's chest and pushing her back. This only angered the girl more as she furrowed her eyebrows. Applejack stepped in between the two pushed them away from each other. "Alright y'all, let's not get too competitive before the games even start." "The games aren't really competitive since we've never lost," Another girl replied. She wore the same outfit, red glasses, and her hair was formed into two white ponytails with faint blue accents. "Well, that's not a very kind thing to say," Fluttershy replied. "Sorry deary," another girl began, "But these games aren't about being nice." The girl wore the same outfit and her hair was cut short and colored lavender. "Well, it might require a little tack," Rarity replied. ... "Holy crap, you guys are here." Noah approached a table and took a seat. It was his friends’ , Manex, Jain, CJ, and Fall. Jain shrugged, "Well, we thought if we were gonna be here a little while longer, might as well lay some pipe." "Yeah," CJ added, "I've been checking out that girl with blonde hair and the weird eyes." Noah turned behind him and spotted her. It was Derpy Hooves. She was talking to some orange-haired girl with a carrot in her hair like a flower. And her signature look was showing, not like she couldn't change that. "Yeah, I've been tryna tell CJ this whole time that she must be disabled. She sounds weird when she talks and can't see properly, why would you wanna hit that?" "You wanted to fuck that Siren girl with the puffy hair, and she tried to fuckin' kill you! You ain't in no position to tell me who I can and can't fuck." Noah raised an eyebrow, "You wanted to fuck Adagio?" Jain shrugged, "W-Well, it was before I knew she had an agenda of world domination and destruction!" "Besides, now I wanna hit that DJ girl." Noah's eyes bulged and he leaned back, "You wanna fuck Vinyl?" Jain shrugged, confused. "Well, why not?" "She's a goddamn mute! She's probably fuckin' deaf!" "So?" "Why would you want that?!" "Hey, you want to fuck that girl that bitched us for years, you can't talk shit nigga." "I don't wanna fuck Sunset!" "So why you always around her?" "Because we're best friends!" "And that just so includes going legit everywhere together?" "... no..." "Lying ass nigga. How you tryna play the game, and then you gon' lie about it?" "Whatever nigga, Manex, who you tryna hit?" Manex chuckled, "I'm tryna get behind that." Manex pointed over to the stage and the boys' jaws dropped. "You tryna get behind Vice Principal Luna?!" "Even better..." "You wanna fuck the principal!?" Manex nodded slowly while continuously staring. Noah looked at CJ, CJ looked at Jain, Jain looked at Noah, and Noah looked at CJ. He ran a hand through his hair, "You're a mad man, you know that Manex?" He chuckled, "Whatever you say. What about you Fall?" Fall shrugged, "I'm just here for these donuts." Noah scoffed, "Fall, c'mon. Surely there's some girl you tryna hit here. Almost everyone here's a girl, and you can't think of one to get at?" "Well..." Fall's eyes darted to someone but returned quickly. Noah turned around to maybe see who he was glancing at, but he couldn't tell. "Okay Fall, we'll remember that," Noah replied, and Fall chuckled. "I bet you will." Noah perked up and turned around to find his other friends and some Crystal Preppers had engaged in a staredown. He sighed, "You know, I'm kinda glad we're leaving. It almost feels like a chore keeping those five from burning the school down." CJ snickered, "They're a couple of girls, what's the worse that can happen?" Noah shrugged, "I don't know, they just feel like more of a burden than you guys. You're more relaxed." Jain set his cup down after taking a sip, "You should just be happy you're in a group like that. Not many dudes can form a group of girls and call them best friends unless they're gay or genuine assholes. Then again, girls from America aren't as bright, so." "Yeah, I know. But I don't know what they're gonna do when I'm gone, especially Sunset. We've done a lot together and I... I actually kinda... like her." Manex groaned, "You like her bruh?" Noah shrugged, "Yeah, I guess. Without the egotistical cunt fuck elements, she's amazing. She's attractive, her hair smells wonderful, and her voice is so... simple. It's an art form to do simple so well and she fuckin' nails it." Fall tilted his head, "You smelled her hair?" Noah stuttered and rubbed the back of his neck, "W-Well, I've hugged her a couple of times s-so, I get a little whiff. She smells like cherry and apple mixed." Jain crossed his arms, "So you're basically saying you do wanna fuck the girl who put us through hell for three years?" Noah rubbed his neck again, "... maybe..." "For fuck's sake nigga." "We already know she's not like that, you even forgave her!" "It's not that easy-" "I know it's not that easy to forgive someone who was such a tool for so long, but it doesn't mean it's impossible. People could do horrible things, a second Hitler could be born. You only know if you're truly human if you're able to forgive that person again and again. Do you really think God's answer to every bad person was to just kill them?" "..." "It's time to drop the grudge. It's not like we're staying anyway, so just forget it." CJ raised his hands flat, "I don't really care, Jain is just being stuck up because she-" "She nearly had Fall dead, CJ! Did you just forget she made one of our friends suicidal?! That's why I'm still stuck the fuck up about it! But you don't care CJ because you're an acorn, and you don't care Noah because you just tryna fuck!" "You think I don't care? There's not a day in hell when I just think, 'I should just punch Sunset in the damn face!' or, 'I should just hit Sunset with my car!' I care more than anything Jain, but that wickedness in her eyes is gone!" "You know she went and sowed a little penguin for him in sowing class? A pillow? A sweater? He just hasn't received them because I'm too damn stupid to remember!" "That's why I've forgiven her despite those thoughts. Because she has changed, it's others that can't seem to." The table fell silent with the argument between best friends. Noah stared down Jain, and Jain glared away, slightly ashamed. Fall raised his cup and noticed it was empty. He turned to the others, "You guys wanna go get some more punch?" "Yeah, I'm down." "A'ight, let's go." "My cup's empty too." "Yeah, mine as well." They all sat up from the table, glasses in hand, and started towards the refreshments table. Noah smiled, that was one thing he loved about having a group of all boys. They'd argue about stuff and then move on as if nothing happened. ... Noah took a seat next to Sunset over at a table and threw his bow tie down. He yawned, "Sup guys, I'm back." Rarity crossed her arms, "Noah, where the heck did you go?" "What?" Applejack sighed, "We asked ya to go stop Sunset before she did something she'd regret, and ya literally went in the opposite direction!" Noah shrugged, "I got a text that my friends were there, so I went to see them. What, did Sunset punch someone?" "No, but she could've!" Sunset raised an eyebrow, "Why would I punch someone?" Rainbow Dash shrugged, "Well, when you're in a bad mood, almost anything can happen." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Okay, yeah, that's totally true." Noah rubbed the back of his neck, "Well, there was that one time you got so angry when we were playing on my Xbox that you punched a hole in my wall..." "She did, what?!" Applejack replied, and Sunset grew red with embarrassment and tried to hide her face. She grumbled, "Noah, what the heck! You said you weren't gonna say anything!" "I know, but it was right there! I just couldn't help myself!" Sunset groaned and hid her face as much as she could while Rarity giggled. "She punched a hole in a wall? W-What happened after?" "After that, she said she was super sorry and stuff and insisted on paying for it. I said no because that crap was hilarious, but she did end up driving me to school the following week. I'd been driving places for so long, I'd forgotten what it was like to be the passenger. that was a great week." "Can we not talk about me please?!" Over upon the stage, a microphone was adjusted and slightly pierced everyone's ears with its annoying screech. Principal Celestia stood front and center on the stage and cleared her throat. "Hello everyone! I'd like to take this opportunity to greet all of our visitors from Crystal Prep Acadamy and welcome them to Canterlot Highschool. And lastly, I would like to recognize the thirteen students that CHS has elected to compete. I don't think we could have chosen a better group of people to represent the excellence, sportsmanship, uprightness, and of course, the friendship these games stand for." Noah leaned back in his chair as Celestia finished, "I still don't know how you guys managed to get me in that roster. You know some still call me Noah: The Menace To Society?" Fluttershy smiled, "Well when you save the world a couple of times, you gain a fair amount of influence. Though you should be thanking Sunset. She brought an entire essay on why you should be let in." Noah looked to Sunset and she reddened as red as a stop sign. "Well, technically, Crystal Prep had an extra student that year and Celestia asked me to find a student to participate. I just took your physical and mental ability and added it with the fact that you're American and thought, 'He'd be perfect!'" "Physical ability?" Rainbow Dash asked, slightly lost. "Yeah because... well... look at his arms." Sunset pointed to Noah's right bicep and the girls noticed his was quite large. Not like a bodybuilder, but definitely like someone who stays more than in shape. Noah jokingly flexed, "Yeah, that's right girls, I work out. You wanna peek?" Rarity scoffed, "Please, none of us would dream of it in a million years." Noah chuckled, "Guess you just can't handle the incredible might of the Macho Man..." Noah yawned and leaned back in his chair, closing his eyes. He opened them a while after to find that almost everything in the gym had changed significantly. The lights were lowered, a disco ball hung from the roof, party streamers and confetti covered the floor, balloons were all over the place, and the refreshments had been replaced with cupcakes and soda. Noah slightly freaked, "Holy crap, did I fall asleep?!" He looked to Sunset and she simply pointed to one of the corners of the gym and Noah's face fell flat. "Goddamn it Pinkie Pie..." Once again, the microphone screeched as it was tested again, and everyone's attention returned to the stage. It was Principal Cinch. "I'd like to thank Princess Celestia for her... unconventional welcome. It's been four years since the last Friendship Games-" "Yeah, because annual just isn't enough anymore, is it?" "But it feels as though nothing has changed. Canterlot High continues to pick its competitors in a popularity contest, and Crystal Prep continues to make a precise decision based on ability." "This is gonna be a whole thing, isn't it?" "It is a comfort to know that even after so many years of losses, CHS remains committed to its ideals, however misguided they may be. I wish you all the best of luck. Regardless of the inevitable outcome." "Alright, I tried," Noah finished mumbling before standing up out of his chair quite emphatically to gain as much attention as he could. You'd have to be a clown to see it didn't work. "Alright, that's enough out of you already, good God almighty." Everyone student and teacher turned to Noah from the noise he made but gasped at what he'd said. And oh so boldly he said it. Cinch raised an eyebrow, "Excuse me?" "No need to because you heard me loud and clear." If anyone wasn't paying attention before, they were now as Noah crossed his arms and the girls from his table tried to cover their faces. "Look, I'd love to be in your shoes and talk down to a bunch of high schoolers without consequence, but I can't. And even if I could, it'd be on something more important than this." "Do you even know where you are? You're in a public high school surround by who are still technically children about a quadrennial competition to boost school pride and to reward students for doing so well in class." "This isn't some type of ultimate showdown to go down in history each time, it's an amusing thing for great students, nothing more, nothing less. Like a tic-tac-toe tournament with an entire grade, and when you win, you take home trophies that aren't even real." "You win all the time, so what? You want a cookie?" "More than half of every student here doesn't care who wins or loses because they're getting out of class. I can understand you may have quite a lot of pride from your last wins, but don't turn it into a priority. And especially don't turn it into an insult." The gymnasium fell silent and every student felt as though a gunshot had gone off. It wasn't like Noah was wrong, it was just a friendly series of activities, but nobody ever dared to speak up. Instead of yelling at Noah for talking back to a teacher, especially her, Cinch simply raised her chin and furrowed her eyebrows. She turned to Celestia, "So, is that the outsider you've spoken to me of?" Celestia slowly nodded and brought her hands behind her back. Cinch returned her eyes to Noah and inspected him. The more she scrutinized, the more she realized how out of place he looked. His hair was pitch black and somewhat puffy on top with fades to the sides. His skin looked more reflective, and less like it was painted onto him. And she could tell his eyes weren't of the same size, along with his attire. Unlike other students who'd shown up wearing more celebratory clothing, Noah had arrived wearing a white tuxedo with black dress shoes and a black bowtie. She wondered, bewildered of how a student could afford such clothing. Back to his skin, she had noticed it looked rougher, especially along the knuckles. She could clearly see each one had stuck out and made itself known much more than the other students rather perfect skin. Cinch wondered if he was from Equis at all. And that only made the term outsider more deserving. Without replying, Cinch took several steps back before disappearing into the curtains. Noah stood still from the uncomfortable amount of time she took to make a move. Was she studying me or something? The hell was that? It took a while before time seemed to start again and everyone continued with themselves. Noah shook his head as if he felt something touch it. Before long, Sunset grabbed him by his arms and swiveled him around, facing her. "Have you lost it?!" Noah shrugged, "Maybe, probably, I don't know. Why?" "You can't just talk to the Principal of Crystal Prep like that, you don't know what'll happen!" Fluttershy appeared behind her, "She's right. Now that you've insulted Principal Cinch, the Friendship Games could take a massive turn for the worst." "Exactly, that was a stupid move, Noah!" Rainbow Dash added and Noah scoffed, "Oh please, the worst that'll happen is she'll end up pulling some strings during this stupid competition." "And there's a lot of strings to be pulled," Rarity added. "Sure, these games aren't as important to us and they might take it quite seriously, but what are we supposed to do when they take it too far?" "I've got a better question." "And what darling, is that?" "Where's Pinkie Pie?" Rarity paused before she could respond and turned her head on a swivel. The Rainbooms also followed suit and began surveying the gymnasium for their puffy-haired friend, but she was nowhere to be seen. "Maybe over there?" Applejack pointed to a space in between two bleachers and found two party cannons staring off into the gymnasium. Without thinking, Noah nudged Sunset to follow her and they both began towards them. Followed by the Rainbooms, of course. Noah reached the area first and found Pinkie Pie leaning back against the wall with a hand behind her head. By the time the others arrived, Noah spoke. "What the hell happened?" "I don't know. Everyone started having fun after Twilight and I fired the party cannon, and I ponied-up-" "Of course you did." "-but then the magic just drained right outta me. Like someone stuck a vacuum cleaner down my throat." Sunset stepped forward, "Wait, what do you mean it just drained out of you?" "Like it was there for a second, then it slowly started to disappear until it was like it didn't even exist. After that, I fell out of the air and landed on the back of my head. Now all I feel is owies back there." Noah reached for Pinkie Pie's hand and pulled it from behind her back. Somewhat disturbed, he found her hand was covered in dark-red blood. From the feel of it, Pinkie Pie still had some flowing. He stood up, "Alright, if I may ask, can you guys take her to the nurse? I've gotta meet up with someone about this because something very stupid is amiss." Applejack tilted her head, "Ya gotta meet up with someone? Who else could know about any o' this magic nonsense besides us?" Noah began walking backwards towards the main entrance, "Just a certain orange-haired siren." Before any of the Rainbooms could reply, perplexity on their faces, Noah opened and closed the gymnasium doors before starting towards the main exit. "Just what I fuckin' needed, another brand new problem..."
PART 2: XV - Wolverines!Author's Note The Gun Pointed At The Head Of The Universe... PART 2: XV - Wolverines! "Gone? Just like that?" "Like it was a mistake." Noah laid on a three-seated couch with a hand behind his head and another on his chest. On a loveseat northwest to himself was Adagio Dazzle. She wore a casual black t-shirt and skinny jeans with plain socks and her same spiked headband. She sat with her hands holding a teacup and her legs crossed. As for where they reclined, Noah had decided to use his God-like powers to construct a house for Adagio and her sister due to her change in attitude and her newfound humanity and compassion. Of course, it was simply a start. "Pinkie Pie described it as though a vacuum cleaner was shoved down her throat and started sucking away all of her magic. Then it was gone like, well, a mistake." Adagio asked before taking a sip, "Well, who was closest to her?" Noah laid his left-hand flat, "Well Twilight was, but it wasn't our Twilight. Well, it was our Twilight, but not the Twilight we'd known. It was the Twilight from Equis." "There was an earlier mishap as well. When Sunset decided to go get Twilight, the princess, we found out that the portal had been closed. When Sunset noted she felt something drain it away from the other side, she found Equis Twilight with a strange compass-like device." "Before she could explain, she fleed. And before that, magic was drained from Rarity when she was showing off her immense amount of clothing for the Games. And a while after, Twilight entered staring at her device." Adagio raised an eyebrow, "So you're essentially saying that Twilight from Equis is stealing magic with an odd device she has?" Noah thought for a moment, "... Yeah, that's about it. I just can't seem to understand why? And I also don't understand why we haven't done anything yet." "Well think about it, if someone that was basically your friend but wasn't actually your friend started stealing magic. Would you really just jump the gun on them after all that time? Despite them not being the same, you could tell that it was more of a memory loss than an entirely different person." Noah shrugged, "I don't know really. But I'm more interested in why. She just shows up to our school and starts draining magic from my friends like it's nobody's business. Could she be evil?" "I don't think she's evil, I think that Twilight is most likely attempting to study or understand the magic. If she already has a device, that must mean she's come in contact with it or has witnessed it. But, she could become evil." Noah sat up, "The hell are you talking about?" Adagio uncrossed her legs and set her teacup on the coffee table before her. She then brought her hands together and spoke. "Allow me to give you a lesson in Equestrian Pony Biology." Noah tilted his head and Adagio began. "At this point, I'm gonna assume Sunset or Twilight has explained the four types of ponies so allow me to explain. As my sisters and I have observed Earth for a millennium, we've picked up on multiple things, including power." "Power?" "I believe you're aware of Hitler's rise to power, and what it did to him. He was originally just a child who enjoyed painting, but that all changed when my sisters and I decided to mess with him, unfortunately. I'm assuming you know the rest, so let me put it simply." "Every human has a limit of power that they hold. When that limit is broken, they can become monsters, just like Hitler did. He was given too much power for his own good, and it changed him making him do atrocious things to mankind. Along with this gain of power, he lost a substantial amount of both compassion and humanity." "Power in your world is similar to magic in Equestria. Every pony is born to contain a certain amount of magic. It's what makes them who they are. Unicorns are born to withhold huge amounts of magic in their horns, and Alicorns are double that." "Pegasi contain an amount of magic that allows them to fly. It also allows them to move incredibly fast, creating phenomenons known as sonic rainbooms in which they break the sound barrier. Earth Ponies' magic gives them a certain amount of magic to allow them incredible strength." "But each and every one of those ponies have a limit. A limit that if broken, can mean dreadful things. Some are closer to it than others and it may change their personality while some are farther than it and it can take a toll on their personality." "But when that limit is broken, just like humans have a limit based on the amount of power they may have, they snap. The ponies will become absolute terrors with no regard for any life at all along with becoming utterly devoid of any and all humanity and compassion. Similarly to Hitler, only their goal is much different." "Once they've broken their limit, they'll become addicted to gaining even more magic, big or small. They'll take it from other ponies by murdering them, even going so far as massacring an entire kingdom. But even then, they won't be satisfied." "They'll go to the edges of the planet to get as much magic as they can, slaughtering everything containing magic that they come across and eradicating everything in their path. A walking apocalypse." "They can't be reasoned with and they'll use whatever they can to succeed. Once they finish a planet, God knows what they'll do next. Thankfully, this has only occurred once, and it didn't get too out of hand. It did result in the destruction of a village, but not entire kingdoms." "Do you understand what I'm saying?" Noah stuttered, "U-Uh... k-kinda... c-can you run t-that all back to m-me? J-Just a little...?" Adagio took the teapot that sat in the middle of the coffee table and began pouring into her teacup. "If Twilight is collecting magic from the Elements of Harmony, and she's not in any type of alicorn relation at the moment..." The teacup began to overflow as Adagio continued to pour into it. Spilling all over the coffee table and soaking several papers on it. "She could break her limit as Equis is still apart of Equestria and obliterate the Earth. If she opens that thing expecting to study it, she's going to be in for one hell of a surprise... and she'll soon disregard it." "But that's not all. There are two sets of Elements, remember? Once Twilight's done with Equis' Elements, she'll move on to Equestria's Elements, overpower them, and take their magic." "One set of the Elements is enough to take out the most powerful alicorn, Princess Celestia. If she not only defeats her but takes her magic, along with Princess Luna's, she'll be four times as powerful as the Elements of Harmony. And we can't forget the inconceivable amounts of other magic on Equis as a planet. And if Celestia herself had enough magic to move an entire star..." "Twilight could destroy the entire Milky Way Galaxy!" Noah ran two hands through his hair, "Oh great. That's just fan-fatherfuckin'-tastic. Now I have to juggle Sunset, me going home, and a crisis on a galactic scale!" Noah sat up from the couch, approached Adagio, gripped her by her collar, and pulled her close, "How the fuck am I supposed to stop this!?" Adagio put a finger to her chin and thought hard. "Well, what if you play through the Games' first half, drop the second half if the chance arises, and watch Twilight to make sure she doesn't get any more magic. Once the Games' done, approach her and force her to explain. Once that's done, have her give back the magic, and problem solved. Galactic annihilation averted." Noah buried his face in Adagio's shirt, completely overwhelmed. He mumbled into her shirt, muffled. "I was just supposed to leave on Saturday, not be the last thing standing before a galaxy-wide apocalypse. I was a hero once, that's it. This is too damn much for me..." Adagio wanted to push Noah away so very much, but she knew that's not what he needed. She placed a hand on his head and begun to stroke his short hair. "Noah, If I've learned anything from living in your head and seeing all that you do, it's that life's not easy." "You gotta be ready when life throws a problem your way, and you've gotta chose. Am I gonna hit back, or am I gonna pussy out and drop the bat? I learned that from you. It's why I and even Aria have been getting much better at understanding life." Adagio pulled Noah's face from out of her shirt and stared him down, "So are you gonna hit back, or are you gonna pussy out and take the galaxy with you? "Take Sunset with you?" NINE HOURS EARLIER "Good morning students! I'm sure you're all thrilled to start the first half of the Friendship Games. Our competitors will face-off in every aspect of the CHS curriculum combinating in the Elimination Equation Finale!" "Welcome to the Academic Decathlon! You'll be scored on chemistry, math, and everything in between. But remember, only the seven students from each team with the most points will move on to the second half. Good luck!" As Dean Cadence finished, each and every student began towards the first event, the chemistry contest, with Crystal Prep to the left side, and CHS to the right. As they walked down the hall, students from the rooms nearby cheering, Noah had his eyes locked dead-on Twilight. With Sunset beside him noticing, she nudged him, "What's with the look?" "I'm not sure why Twilight's here, but it's not gonna end well." Sunset raised an eyebrow, "What are you talking about?" Noah sighed, "Remember how I was talking about meeting up with an orange siren?" "Yeah, you were talking about Adagio, right?" "Right, so long story short, I killed her and now she's stuck in my head until I die. With months passing by, she's regained her humanity and has become a better person. I was talking to her and, well, another long story short, Twilight may be the one to bring about an end to our galaxy." "What?!" "If she keeps collecting magic from us, and she opens that device, she'll lose her mind and start taking magic from everyone and everything in Equestria. Giving her enough magic to erase the galaxy." Sunset began to sweat, “W-Well, h-how do we stop her?" Noah faced forward, "You leave that to me. She's not gonna get a lick of anything magical as long as I'm alive." "Why would you preheat it to four hundred degrees?!" "You said, "Preheat it Noah. I bet you've done something like this before." I preheated it to four hundred degrees because that's what I preheat most things that I cook!" "This is a baking contest, not a cooking contest!" Noah and Pinkie Pie went back and forth, a side of Pinkie Pie never before seen making itself known, while the other eleven members tried desperately to make another cake to take the burnt one's place. "Look, I don't know why you just thought I knew how to make a cake by instinct." Pinkie Pie grabbed Noah's collar and pulled him close, "Who the heck would set a cake to four hundred degrees! I expected maybe three hundred forty or three hundred sixty, but four hundred?!" Applejack pushed the two away from each other, "Enough! We can bake another cake, but we can't win if you two keep fightin'! We're competin' against Crystal Prep, not each other!" Noah instantly tuned Applejack out when he saw Twilight enter the room, presumably from using the bathroom. He'd been studying the device's rings since he could see it light up from underneath her shirt. Still only six, good. He tuned back into Applejack and realized she'd let them go. "So, can we make this cake, or can we not?" Pinkie Pie rolled her eyes, "Yeah..." "Oh, uh, yeah yeah, we got this." Nodding, Applejack returned to the kitchen and Noah nudged Pinkie Pie, "How does your head feel?" Pinkie Pie was taken aback at Noah's change of attitude and replied. "Oh, uh, it still kinda pounds, but not as much as yesterday. Why?" Noah scoffed, "What do you mean why, I give a shit, remember?" Pinkie Pie blushed, "Oh, uh, yeah! Sorry about that. Oh! Can you grab those sprinkles? I have an idea!" Pinkie Pie returned to the kitchen whilst pointing at a plastic can of sprinkles. He shrugged and grabbed it. But not before double-checking Twilight to make sure she wasn't up to something. "Fuck!-" "Crap." "Crap! I thought I had that one! Goddamn-" "Goddang." "Goddang demitasse! What the fuck-" "What the heck." "What the heck is demitasse anyway?! Son of a... snitch!" Noah sat in one of the auditorium seats next to Sunset, highly frustrated. They had moved on to the spelling bee event, and he had failed on his last word. Sunset sat next to him trying to calm him down for the rest of the first half, it wasn't doing so well. "Noah, the spelling bee is incredibly difficult and unpredictable. You can't blame yourself for messing up." "But I had it! I needed one more word! One! Of course they hit me with that! The stupidest word to walk this Earth! And they gave it to me! Motherfucker-" "Mothertrucker." "Mothertrucker!" Sunset laid her eyes on Twilight and sighed. "Noah, if Twilight somehow gets the magic that she needs, are you going to leave still? I mean, wouldn't you wanna spend time with your best friends before the world ends." Noah crossed his arms, "If the worst becomes a reality, I might have to. If Twilight leaves Equis, she might go through the entire world searching for magic, and someone's bound to drop a nuclear warhead." Sunset lightened up a bit, but then had a thought return to her. "Hey look, Flash got all ten words. First helping us with the chemistry event, now acing the spelling bee? You've gotta admit, he's really smart for not looking the part." Noah's eyes fell flat as he remembered. All the talk about losing the galaxy to a purple nerd had made him forget the fact that Sunset was still into Flash instead of him. Flash. Noah knew he was bothersome, but he also knew he wasn't a bad person in general. He'd lied a little bit to Princess Twilight back at the diner for the Battle of the Bands. He didn't know why he lied though. He just thought it annoying that another girl was into him. Maybe if Noah opened his eyes a bit more, he'd understand why Sunset admired him so. He just hoped he could turn her love around and save the galaxy from mass destruction. As Noah took his eyes off of Sunset, he found Twilight and he narrowed them. Still six rings, good. Can't forget what's important here. Saving the galaxy is the first priority, laying pipe on Sunset is the second. Only eight hours to go.
XVII - The FractureAuthor's Note The Only Easy Day, Was Yesterday... XVII - The Fracture "Literally, she's the same girl from the Battle of the Bands, only nerdier. Lavender skin, blue hair in a messy bun, big-ass glasses, and a weird compass-like thingamajig around her neck. Got it?" "Got it." With five minutes left until the start of the second half of the Friendship Games, Noah provided a brisk description of Twilight to his friends as the field was being finalized. He handed Fall a walkie talkie, "I got this from the office. Only use it when Twilight does something stupid, or something stupid in general occurs. Don't bother me during this match, and I get punched in the gut." Fall nodded and Noah gave a thumbs up. "Alright, we do this stupid crap for like twenty or something minutes, and then all that's left is the third and final half. For the love of all that is holy upon Earth, do not screw this up or so help me God." CJ waved him off, "Noah, we got this. Stop being a bum and get down there before you get into trouble. Or worse, you get us in trouble." Noah flipped CJ off and began down the bleachers. He knew other students would be watching, but he didn't think it'd be a school-wide occasion. The bleachers were completely crowded, even the stairs. Noah had to be extra cautious to not waste any more of his time with some bothersome student if he stepped on them by accident. He reached the field of the Games and approached Applejack. She sat and talked to Fluttershy over near the archery relay. "AJ, Shy, listen up. We don't have a lot of time so don't screw around." Applejack stretched, "What do ya need Noah? I reckon it's about Twahlight, isn't it?" Noah nodded, "Yep, now listen. You two are the closest to her so this is incredibly important. If she tries or does anything, you drop these Games and you stop her. No Ifs, Ands, or Buts. The only thing that matters is making sure our galaxy survives. Got it?" "Got it, right Fluttershy?" Fluttershy nodded with a smile on her face, "You can count on us." Noah gave a thumbs up, "Good, otherwise, I'm taking you all with me." "What-" "Now where's Sunset... ah! Dirtbikes, right." Stepping away from both Applejack and Fluttershy, who held a slightly afraid expression on their faces, Noah began jogging towards Sunset. He reached her and she smiled and waved when she saw him approach. "What's up Noah? Aren't you supposed to be in the ring right now? Geared up and what not? Not to mention you look rather... alluring without a shirt on out in this heat." "Yeah, yeah, cool, listen. If Twilight does anything, just keep doing what you're doing. I've already got Applejack and Fluttershy locked on. Unless something happens to them, don't head in. Rarity and Pinkie Pie, if they have any common sense, no offense, should follow your lead." Sunset crossed her arms, "And what will you do?" Noah shoved a hand down his shirt and revealed his necklace. "If crap hits the fan, this is the back-up plan. Considering this is all the Elements combined, I should be able to take her on. But only if things get severely detrimental." "Sounds good. So um, I've been wondering..." "Wondering about what?" "Do you really think Flash is the right one?" Noah remembered the whole ordeal about winning Sunset's heart. He hated standing in front of her knowing he wanted to take her right then and there, but he couldn't. Despite Sunset's literal blinding beauty, he had a plan. And he'd be damned if it went awry. "Um, yeah, I mean, he's uh... he's got... um... blue hair, he acts like a prince charming, he's got chad-like hair, uh... y-yeah, I think you get the point. Go crazy kid. End his suffering with your... uh... yeah, you know what I mean." Though Noah was talking about Flash, a part of him wished he was talking about himself. A sliver of him also hoped Sunset knew who he was really talking about. But one can only dream. "Oh, uh, thanks. I guess I can give it a shot. But, um... also... are you positive you wanna go back home?" Noah raised an eyebrow, "Why wouldn't I be? Life's better there, so there's no need to stay here." "Yeah, but, wouldn't you rather not lose another best friend? I-I know you like it back there and it's with all your people, but... I came here, remember? A-And even though I've solved most of my problems, I haven't left because of all the friends I've made." "Yeah, but you're obviously gonna go back to Equestria after you graduate. You know, to confront Princess Celestia and tell her to go fu-, uh, I mean, screw off?" Sunset sighed, "I mean... maybe. I'm not sure, to be honest. But, even if I do go back, I'd at least want my best friend beside me before I do. All of our friends would want that." "But wouldn't that just be the same as what I'm doing, only longer?" Sunset fiddled with her hair, "I... I guess so... sorry." Sunset sighed, dismayed. "You're free to go home just like I am. It's not fair for me to hold you back." Noah smiled, "Hey, at least you understand what I'm getting at. Equis is pretty fire and all, but it's not my home. It's not my place. Even if I were to stay, I don't know what I'd do when we all split up as friends." Catching a glimpse of the luxury box and noticing the Principals finishing up, Noah yawned. "Alright then, better get this match done with. And don't forget what I said about Twilight, got it?" "Got it. Good luck, don't break a leg!" Sunset called as Noah made his way down the track, "Don't worry, I don't intend to... him, on the other hand... well nigga... we'll just have to wait and see." "Welcome everyone to the Friendship Games Quad-Cross Relay of the second half!" Dean Cadence announced, receiving thousands of cheers from students. Albeit, only CHS. "In this event, our qualifying competitors will face off in boxing, archery, roller derby, and finally, Motocross." Noah wiped the sweat from the sun off his forehead and took a long look at the field. Fifteen to twenty minutes of this shit... that's all I need. "So," Dean Cadence continued, "If the competitors are ready..." With the blast of an airhorn within her hand, the Games commenced the second half. Noah raised his hands similarly to The Greatest and finally faced his opponent. The boy he faced had brown skin, similar to his, only more vivid. His hair was short but nowhere near as short as Noah's. It was also yellow while white in the middle. Strangely enough, the boy donned a six-pack over Noah's four-pack and his arms were quite large compared to Noahs. Well, at least he won't be a push-over... As the boy raised his own hands and began side-stepping, Dean Cadence continued. "With boxing, one of the two competitors must land ten jabs against their opponent to give their teammates the go-ahead in the rest of the relay." Still don't know why schools are holding boxing matches, but okay. As Cadence finished, all eyes were on Noah and his opponent. Noah continued thinking to himself, Okay, ten jabs... ten jabs, ten jabs, ten jabs, ten jabs, that's all I need... Wait, did Sunset call me alluring?-" *Pow!* Before Noah could finish his thought, he received a straight shot to his jaw. He stumbled back and rubbed his face. Pain constricting it. "Ah! motherfuck, nigga, I wasn't ready-" *Pow!* "Goddamn it, stop, dickhead! I'm tryna think-" *Pow!* With a third hit Noah received to his side, and before his opponent could land a fourth, Noah blocked the hit, pushed him back, and punched with all his might at his opponent's chest. Making him stumble back. "Okay, nigga, let's motherfuckin' do this!" Noah side-stepped around his opponent and hit him twice to his side. His opponent tried to hit back, Noah dodged. He delivered four hits to his opponent's chest. *Pow! Pow Pow! Pow!* The cheers from CHS intensified tenfold and the principals even appeared to be cheering a little. As Noah delivered the eighth hit to his opponent's stomach, he could hear both Applejack and Fluttershy cheering him on. Further back, Rarity and Pinkie Pie. And though relatively faint, even Rainbow Dash and Sunset. The adversary got Noah in the side, but he barely flinched. He hit back with a jab to his shoulder, and another to his face. His opponent tried to go for his stomach, but he missed. Noah had dodged it, spun around him, and before his opponent could turn around completely, Noah uppercut him straight to his jaw, making him fall on his bottom. With those ten hits in, Noah heard a buzz go off near Applejack and Fluttershy, it was their turn. Noah sighed and wiped his forehead. "Jesus... that was more fun than I expected. You're gonna have to... to give me a call... we have got to do this again." His opponent growled, "Who said we were done?" Noah raised an eyebrow, still huffing, "W-Wait what? W-We're still doing this? Seriously? I thought this was one and done!" "Why? Don't you want to keep fighting? Or are you just too much of a pussy now?" Noah's eyes furrowed and he sighed, "What's your name man?" His opponent stood up, "Firecracker Burst. Why?" "I'm gonna knock the shit outta you, Firecracker." "Shit! Did you guys see that?!" Jain nearly shouted, and he received nods from his friends. "That Twilight nerd just took the magic crap from that southern girl! Where's the walkie talkie?!” Fall handed the walkie talkie to Jain and he pressed the side button. "Noah! We have a problem!" From afar, they could see Noah noticed the walkie talkie light up from the side of his shorts. They could see him utter profanity. "Look, I know you can't reply to me, but Twilight just took magic from the southern girl! She was showing her how to shoot the bow, and she started doing that weird-as-hell pony thing. Then, the device around Twilight’s neck just opened and started draining away the girl's pony magic shit." "Then it fell and rolled onto the skate track and looked like it opened a portal! You better figure something out fast before that magic goes apeshit and we have to say farewell to ever returning home!" "Shit! Jain look!" Manex grabbed Jain's head and directed it to the dirt track. A large, bizarre, green venus flytrap-looking plant monster had emerged from the portal and was tugging at Twilight's shoe as she attempted to get back her device. Jain brought the walkie talkie back to his mouth, "Also! Out of the portal is some strange plant-type monster thingy! We're on the clock Noah, can you do something please!?" Jain observed Noah as he pushed Firecracker away. He made a gesticulation with his arms, and Jain took a while to understand it. Noah had made a gesture to push the second button on the walkie talkie, and Jain proceeded to. "Hello?! If anybody's hearing this, respond goddamn it!" CJ searched the field for someone, anyone, to pick up a walkie talkie or acknowledge Jain in any way. And when he found someone, he sighed with relief. It was Rainbow Dash. "Hey! Who is this!? How'd you-" "No time, damn it! Look, on the track is a motherfuckin' tentacle monster straight from Rule thirty-four! Unless you or any of your friends wanna get raped in front of two schools, I suggest you do something! Now!" Jain searched the track to see who'd had picked up, and sure enough, Rainbow Dash made a U-Turn on the track and darted back. Jain looked back at the monster and found that Noah's best friend, apparently, Sunset Shimmer, had fallen off her bike with the monster right behind her. "C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon," Jain repeated as Rainbow Dash neared Sunset. But as she did, the monster reeled back as if it was to attack, and it was. Sunset shielded her head as the monster dived for her, but before it could hit, Rainbow Dash swooped up Sunset and drove away. "Yes! Hell yeah!" Jain cheered, he then switched back to Noah's frequency. "Hey, Noah! I just saved your girlfriend! Ya fuckin' welcome!" While Jain was still celebrating, why, he wasn't exactly sure, Rainbow Dash came to a stop, stepped off her bike, and began to transform. Because of her loyalty for Sunset, it had activated Rainbow Dash’s element. She grew her small horse ears along with her pegasus wings. Jain switched back to Rainbow Dash's frequency and instructed. "I'm guessing you did that pony thing, good! Now drop the race and send that tentacle fuck back to hell!" Seemingly nodding, Rainbow Dash rushed towards the monster so fast, some would say she nearly broke the sound barrier. Sunset took Rainbow Dash's bike as she flew off and continued in the race. Determined to win. Jain changed frequency again, "Ok, I think that tentacle freak has been dealt with. That rainbow-haired girl seems to be on top of it." As Jain spoke, Rainbow Dash crashed into one of the monster's heads and sent it hurling to the ground. Meanwhile, Sunset had caught up with her foe, and the finish line was in sight. Jain continued, "I think we got this! The rainbow girl just smashed the monster, and Sunset is neck and neck with that other girl!" As Jain and his friends watched, along with both schools and principals, Sunset slowly but surely began to miraculously pass the other girl, and crossed the finish line. Resulting in thousands of cheers from an ebullient CHS. Noah heard the ring of the siren from the crossing of the finish line and dropped to his knees. Comparably to Firecracker who had sweat and bruises all over his body. He sighed, "Hah... guess I win buddy. What do you... what... what do... ugh, Jesus Christ." Out of sheer lassitude, Noah and Firecracker both collapsed and fell unconscious. They'd both fought quite valiantly, despite Noah attempting to prevent a galactic apocalypse. Though Noah was motionless, the last thing he heard from Dean Cadence made him smile, just a bit. It had finally happened, after so many long years, it happened. "Canterlot Wins!"
XVIII - The ShatterAuthor's Note As If We Weren't Fucked Enough Already... XVIII - The Shatter "Ah shit!" "What?! What?!" "Pinkie!?" "Hi!" Noah awoke in a cold sweat. His back laid against one of the corners of the ring. In front of him was Pinkie Pie. She'd supposedly gotten him off the floor, face flat, and attempted to wake him up. Though she succeeded, Noah appeared shaken. "Why are ya screaming?" She asked "Why are you so close to my face?!" He replied. Pinkie Pie shrugged, "I dunno. It looked like you got knocked out, so I helped ya!" "Okay... where are the others?" Pinkie Pie grabbed his face, stood him up, and pointed him to the others. "Don't worry, you were only out for like five minutes. And your friends for some reason went to the girls without you! Isn't that exciting!?" "Well yeah, but I'd prefer if those jackoffs came to help me first." Pinkie Pie let go of Noah's face and he vaulted over the ringside, Pinkie Pie following cheerfully behind. "So you were the one on the walkie talkie?" Noah heard Rainbow Dash ask for confirmation. As he got closer to his friends, his original friends came into his sight, and Jain stood before Rainbow Dash. "Yeah, and you're welcome too. Otherwise, you would've lost these stupid games and died. And nobody wants to see a pretty rainbow mix with blood. It's pretty damn disturbing." "So you were worried about me dying on the track, huh?" Jain reddened, "Don't get it twisted." "Hey! What the hell guys?!" Noah spoke up as he approached his friends, both old and new. "I fall unconscious in front of some negro named Firecracker, and y'all just leave me there? That's how it is?" Rarity took off her helmet, "Well Noah darling, we would've been there in no time at all without a doubt, but your friends approached us first. It's quite different from the norm considering it's usually only you who approaches." "Okay negro, is everybody all right though? While I was boxing, I heard that some weird plant tentacle monster had shot out of a portal out from Twilight's compass thing." Rainbow Dash grinned, "Hah, we're better than all right! We won!" Sunset removed her helmet, "Yeah, we won, but somebody could've been seriously hurt, or have been killed! The magic is going haywire, and we still don't know how to fix it!" "Kid, relax about the magic crap. All we have to do is finish the games, remember?" Sunset crossed her arms, "I know, but we shouldn't have to! If Twilight was here, this would've been solved already!" "Um, excuse me." The Rainbooms and the Black Five turned to face said voice who'd spoken and was met with Twilight. She looked terribly remorseful and thrilled, but not in a good way. "I-I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I just wanted to learn about the strange energy coming from your school. I didn't know it was magic or how it works." Rainbow Dash stepped forward, "That's okay, neither do we." As Rainbow Dash reached to put an arm on Twilight's shoulder, Noah noticed the compass around her device begin to glow. Before he could utter anything, the compass rose, opened, and began draining all of Rainbow Dash's magic. "Goddamn it!" Noah shouted as he and Sunset together hurried over to Rainbow Dash and attempted to pull her from the device's grasp. All the while, Twilight was yanking at the chains of her device and Rainbow Dash seemed to be crying in agony. Like it was draining more than just her magic. "I-I'm sorry! I-It just started absorbing energy on its own! B-But I'm not sure how!" While Noah continued to tug on Rainbow Dash along with being assisted by the others shortly after, Sunset’s eyebrows furrowed. "What do you mean you don't know how!?" Sunset snatched the device from Twilight's hands and attempted to seal it forcefully. But instead of it sealing, the tension and pressure upon the device caused it to shoot out a crackling beam of energy that connected with the sky. But as Noah let go of Rainbow Dash and followed the beam, his eyes dilated. It was the moon. But not his moon. The beam had opened a vast dimensional rift above everyone and revealed Equestria's moon. It was enormous. Possibly larger than the sun in Noah's world, but it didn't seem to be a mistake. The moon should've been hurling towards the planet at that size, but it wasn't. However, that's impossible. If the moon was that large, it would've collided with the planet eons ago. Noah felt his head begin to spin and the pounding of his heart filled his eardrums. He'd known enough about Equestria from Sunset and Adagio, but simply witnessing it was breathtaking. Right above him was a dimensional portal to a new world. A new everything. It couldn't exist, there was no way. There was just no possible way. "That's... that's impossible... that's not real... there's no... there's no way..." Twilight continued, "It also causes these corresponding portals to appear. I-I don't know how that works either-" "Is there anything you do know?! Like how to get our magic back?! Or how to fix the portal to Equestria?!" Twilight stuttered and staggered as Sunset's face continued to contort and grow with great enmity. "E-Equestria?" Sunset gripped Twilight by her collar and pulled her close. "You're supposed to be so smart, but did you ever think, for one fucking second, that you shouldn't be messing around with things you can barely understand?!" "But I wanna understand!" "But you don't! And worst of all, you put the lives of my friends in danger, all because you want to mess around with magic! Two of my friends have bandages around their heads, one has a bump, and another nearly got hit by a fucking roller skate!" Noah held his head tight and closed both of his eyes. He tried to erase the image of a new world from his mind before he began to lose his sanity. Sure, it wasn't truly hurting him, but the sight only made his eyesight pulse. He returned to his friends to find Sunset furiously shouting at Twilight as she attempted to step back, but Sunset only pulled her closer. Noah could even see tears well up in her eyes. "Sunset... calm... calm the hell down..." "Calm down!? Are you kidding me?! Applejack almost died out there! I almost died out there! All because she wanted to go poking around things she doesn't understand for shit!" Sunset pushed Twilight to the ground as she let go of her collar. Like a waterfall, tears began to stream down Twilight's face as she slightly struggled to stand back up. She whispered, quiet as a mouse, "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to..." Before anybody could reply, Twilight swooped up Spike and began running away like she was just kicked out of her own home. Her sniffles hastily turned to wails as she grew smaller in the distance. Noah ran a hand through his hair as he finally returned to his senses and remembered where he was. He questioned, slightly angry, "Sunset, what in the everloving fuck was that?" Sunset crossed her arms as she faced him, "She could've gotten us killed! Everyone in this field could've been dead! Every student could've been dead! Everyone outside the school; could've been fucking dead!" "But they weren't! And they wouldn't of! We had a plan! Jain was up there talking to Dash through a walkie talkie so everyone didn't fuckin' die! And even if that didn't work, I still could've taken it down myself!" "And how long will that be an option?!" Noah took a small step back as he repeated her words through his head. It didn't take long for him to realize what she was talking about, and instead of reacting quiet, his face turned red with fury. "That's what this stupid fuckin' hissy fit is about?!" "Well pardon me for giving a flying fuck about my best friend!" "Sunset, why is this so goddamn hard for you to accept!? It's not up for discussion! I've said it twice, No Ifs, Ands, or Buts! They got the idea, so why is it so hard for you!?" "Because they don't care as much as I do! I've been through fucking hell getting to where I am today! And no, I haven't lost my family to a building because of some fucking sirens, but I haven't had anything close to a family outside my own for my entire life! "They were all asked to be my friend because of the thieving shitshow named Princess Twilight, who can't seem to get over here and help us stop the end of the galaxy! If she didn't ask, they'd all tell me to go fuck myself with that dildo from the janitor's closet! "You are the only true friend I've ever had in my life! We've been everywhere together! We've been to the theaters, lakes and rivers, carnivals, theme parks, forest trails, the mall, stores, your house, my house! We spent Christmas Eve in a motherfucking arcade, while they were busy watching Applejack fuck the living shit out of Rarity! "I've never felt happier in my life because of you! Then not even a year later, you decide to pack everything up and set sail all because you seemingly don't belong, when nobody gave or gives a shit! Bye-bye, Sunset Shimmer! I hope you burn in hell for all eternity!" "Sunset I-" "No! Just go! To hell with you! We finish these games, then you can take your retarded dog, all your stupid fucking suits and ties, your piece of shit friends, and go back home!" "Sunset no, I-" "Fucking go!" "I-" "And join your family while you're at it!" Noah felt his heart hit a train and go off the edge of the universe. As he looked into Sunset's eyes, he'd seen something he'd never seen before. She wasn't just irritated, or even angry. She was unconditionally infuriated, like all care for him had just vanished without a trace. Noah looked down to the side before inhaling and sighing. He then began towards the nearest exit off the field, not even acknowledging his friends, new and old alike. Knowing they were needed, regardless of whatever excuse Noah may come up with, Fall and the others gradually began after him before rapidly picking up their pace. Leaving Sunset with her own friends, or whatever she truly dubbed them. Jain lingered just for a short bit and faced Rainbow Dash. He raised a finger and opened his mouth to say something but he couldn't bring himself to speak, or even think straight. Once he realized it was pointless, he turned on his heels and awkwardly speed-walked to catch up with his friends. Sunset's eyes widened almost instantaneously when she realized what she'd just done. She'd just driven what made her happiest away, and what she said to him last. She felt heartless, like during the Fall Formal, yet somehow nastier. Sunset kept her eyes off her friends as she sat down. One knee standing up while another laid flat on the ground. She let an elbow rest on her knee that stood up and ran a hand through her hair. The tears didn't take long to fall after that. "So... I don't wanna be that guy and say I told you so, but... I told you so." After ten long minutes of driving in Manex's truck, Jain had decided to clear up the uncomfortable silence and get a conversation going. Though the only one affected by what happened earlier was Noah, nobody chose to reply. He sat in the back to the right. His head resting on the window as he thought to himself. Jain sighed, "Guys, you know we can't just sit here and act like what just happened didn't happen." As he was sitting in the passenger seat, Jain turned around to face his friends, but was still greeted with silence. But though they didn't reply, he could see that they weren't trying to repudiate his words. Especially Noah, who simply sniffled. "Fine, if y'all don't wanna talk, then I'll just talk for the Hell of it. I think that Rainbow-haired girl likes me-" "Jain, I swear to God," Manex began, "I will drive this truck off a fuckin' cliff if you start going on about how another girl supposedly likes your ass." Jain scoffed, "Oh, so now your stupid-ass wants to talk! And what do you mean supposedly nigga?" "Jain, every time a girl says anything remotely flirty or funny to you, you instantly think, "Oh shit, that girl's down to fuck." And they never are! You go on and on about how they like you, and they don't even recognize you in the hall! And that's not even the worse part!" "Oh do tell asshat, what's the worse part!?" "The worse part is that you never even talk to the girls after that! You become a fuckin' deer in headlights whenever they look at you or say a single word! Do you remember the absolute bullshit that occurred last year with Octavia?!" ”Okay, and?! Who do you have shitlord?! I haven't seen you so much as look at a girl your age for the life of me! What's up with that nigga?! You homo or something?!" "No! I just don't have any interest in these girls, they're all... weird. Like, they all have some sort of quirk! They're not like the girls back home. Those girls were normal!" "What's wrong with a little weirdness?!" "Everything!" "I messed up..." Both Jain and Manex fell silent promptly as Noah spoke up. He'd turned from the window and faced them. Despite fighting the urge for so very long, Noah had let several tears roll down his cheeks. His eyes were now bloodshot, and his nose was red, likely from his sniffling. "I should've been better. I should've thought about her... I never should've brought up leaving. I never should've planned it or suggested it. Now we're gonna leave, and she's only gonna never remember me because she thinks I hate her." "But I don't hate her. I love her. I should've just calmed her down and comforted her. She was obviously doleful at the news and I just kept shrugging it off. Like she never mattered. How can I save the galaxy knowing she abhors me?" "How can I get her back before I'm gone forever?"
PART 3: XIX - Of Their Own AccordAuthor's Note Goliath, Goliath... PART 3: XIX - Of Their Own Accord "Well Sunset, uh... Ah... guess it's safe to say where all your irritation has come from... and your swearin'... definitely your, uh... your swearin'... recently..." Applejack attempted to strike up any conversation she could muster for the third time this hour with Sunset or any of the girls at all. It failed miserably. Possibly even worse considering nobody even flinched. Despite Sunset's pillory at both Noah and Twilight, they decided she needed them more than ever at that point. Notwithstanding being thought of as fake friends in her mind. They choose to head back to Sugarcube Corner until the third and decisive half of the Friendship Games. Initially, it was to talk, but now it seemed everyone was just broken. Sunset wasn't talking directly to them either during her rant, it was simply the thought. They'd realized it themselves, they were just frauds. Rarity looked up at Sunset as she shut off her phone. Sunset had buried her head in her arms and was possibly crying so much, the tears began to leak from under her arms. Creating a miniature puddle. Rarity imagined her eyes would be as red as blood if she were to raise her head. Rarity sighed, longer than conventionally as well. "Sunset... we... we understand if you may believe us to not actually be your friends. A-And I'll admit, I was a terrible person, and thought that's how I should deal with the situation. The situation being you. "I wasn't thinking. I wasn't thinking that; this girl is broken, and she needs a friend. She needs a multitude of friends. But unfortunately, I was too self-centered to think that. And I'm the Element of Generosity... how repulsively inconsiderate. "But... I want you to know that's not how I feel. That's not how any of us feel. You're important to us. You're important to everyone. They may have deemed otherwise in the past, but that's the past. "I understand if you may detest Noah for leaving, but it's his choice. He doesn't belong in Equis just like you don't either. And if he and his friends feel that if the world they grew up in has changed, then we have no reason to stop them. Home is where the heart is, after all. "Furthermore, I feel your pain in losing your best friend, but I feel even more pained knowing it wasn't me or any of us that you considered a best friend. Moreover that if any of us were to leave, you wouldn't care as much." Fluttershy raised her head, "Rarity's right, Sunset. We care for you so very much, regardless of whether or not Twilight asked us to be your friend. It was only a matter of time considering how you are now that we'd befriend you in the future if the events had changed." Sunset had finally stopped her quiet cries when Rarity finished, and Fluttershy's addition brought her sniffles to a halt. Reluctantly, Sunset raised her head and revealed herself. Just as envisioned, Sunset's eyes were blood red with near dozens of streaks of tears down her cheeks. They were shed so far, a few tears were dripping off her chin. Not only that, but her hair was a mess. Rarity vividly remembered how Sunset was tugging and scratching at it in Pinkie Pie's minivan. Almost like she was attempting to yank it right off her scalp. Rarity cringed as she inspected every detail of Sunset's face. Her inner fashionista tingled inside, but she took a deep breath and continued. Ruining a moment like so with fashion would send Sunset off the deep end. "We-" "I'm sorry," Sunset cut off. "I wasn't thinking straight. All of my anger towards Twilight just shifted when Noah spoke up. I couldn't handle my emotions. They were like... like a volcano waiting to erupt, and what Noah said was the last straw. "I understand that you guys may think I don't see you as true friends, but the words just slipped out. But... they also didn't. For the longest time, I've felt like I was only friends with you because of Princess Twilight. After the Battle of the Bands, the feeling began to wane. But then I realized how much time I was spending with Noah. "I wasn't lying about what I said. We truly went everywhere together. More than I could ever believe. He bought certain things for me too to show his appreciation. Food, drinks, he even bought me this outfit as a gift for Christmas." Rainbow Dash's eyes flared in slight surprise to this news. Sunset continued, "He always treated me so well. Told me I was one of his greatest friends. That having someone who didn't insult or curse at you twenty-four-seven was better than he'd expected. And I didn't know how to react because I never had that type of care from anyone. Not even you." Applejack took off her stetson and trimmed it along the brim regretfully. Sunset continued, "But now... now he's probably not gonna let me see him again after the Games. Now he's leaving because of me... and I never got a chance to say how I feel..." "Pardon?" Rarity perked up faster than a hawk as Sunset mumbled her last words. And it seemed she wasn't the only one as they all perked up as well. The red in Sunset's eyes swiftly flushed to her cheeks. "I, uh... um... I... well... uh..." "You like Noah? Like... like like him?" Pinkie Pie questioned, quickly intrigued. Sunset covered her face with her hands in an attempt to hide her blush. "I-I... uh... um... no, I... I..." Rainbow Dash grinned, "Well, why didn't you say so? Why didn't you say anything, actually? Welp, maybe now that might be in trouble because of your outburst back there." Sunset grimaced, " I know! A-And I don't know what to do! I just was so broken up about him leaving that the feeling consumed me. Now he probably won't even let me see him leave when he does. He probably even despises me!" Applejack frowned as Sunset's tears returned and welled up in her eyes. "Easy now, Sunset. There's always the chance that he could feel the same himself. Either way, he likely understands your pain if he's been your greatest friend for some time now. "Even though he's leavin', you should at least clear things up with him. Apologize, and he'll most likely do the same. And maybe if you're lucky enough, Noah might decide to stay! It's too early to assume now! Well, that's not true technically but, you get what I mean." Sunset wiped her tears threatening to fall, "Well, then what do I do!? There's no way I can change his mind now!" Fluttershy smiled, "Just show him how much you care. How much you cherish him as he does you." Rarity nodded, "Indeed, that'd go perfectly. Though I encourage you to gather yourself quickly. We have to be there in fifteen minutes." Pinkie Pie seemingly exploded, "Fifteen minutes!?" Rainbow Dash stood up and raised a fist, "Then let's do this! We'll finish these Friendship Games, stop Twilight, and help Sunset make Noah hers! No exceptions! You guys ready?!" "Ready!" THIRTY-MINUTES EARLIER "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the final half of this year's Friendship Games!" Celestia announced, receiving a cheer from both schools as the recent event ignited a fierce fire in the eyes of Crystal Prep. This was it. The ultimate competition to determine the winner of the Friendship Games, and if the Milky Way would live to see another day. The stage was set. Both schools faced each other horizontally in front of the school. The sky was opaque, cloudy, and rather gloomy. It seemed a storm was imminent, but it appeared the thought hadn't occurred to anyone. Celestia continued, "Since the score is tied, the final event will determine the winner of the Friendship Games. Somewhere on campus, a pennant from each school has been hidden. The first team to find their school's flag and bring it back shall be crowned the winner of this year's Friendship Games." "And as soon as our teams are ready, we'll begin," Dean Cadence finished. On the left side facing the opposite side of the school was CHS, and in between the bleachers were the Rainbooms. Well, most of them. Sunset and the others were indeed standing between them, but they were missing Noah. He'd decided to stand away from them and at the edge of their side of the school's driveway. He was staring Twilight down the whole time, and his foot tapped as it seemed he was highly anxious. Twilight's device was blaring with energy like an airport runway light bulb. All across the device were the rings all filled and bright. Though it was an abhorrent thought, Twilight had gained magic from everyone. Not to mention she was probably supercharged from the magic inside of the portal. This meant Noah couldn't take her on even if he tried, so stopping her from opening it was the only choice he had. Fluttershy sighed, "I don't feel like playing these games anymore." "But we have to play!” Rainbow Dash replied. “This is the last event! And we can't leave either! We have to watch Twilight until these games are finished. So we can live long enough to die old." Rarity ran a hand through her hair as she peeked over at Crystal Prep. "That's just it. It'll be quite hard to focus knowing Twilight could end everything we hold dear to us by a simple hand movement." "And I feel awful about what I said to her... and him," Sunset replied, staring off at Noah. He hadn't spoken a word to any of them and seemingly just popped up. The others thought he was just uneasy, but Sunset knew what they truly thought. Fluttershy crossed her arms, "Yeah, and Twilight’s actually pretty nice. I can't imagine what she'd become if she does open that compass." Sunset gently rubbed her face in mortification and remorse. The other Rainbooms' faces fell flat as they glared at Fluttershy. She dropped her head and slid away, unmistakably embarrassed. Applejack brought her hands to her hips, "Let's just get through this last event, prove we aren't cheaters, and stop the galaxy from being destroyed. Then you can go apologize Sunset. To both of them." Returning his attention to the present, Noah narrowed down Twilight and found that her principal along with the other competitors were addressing her. The hell? ... "I know I'm asking you to beat a team that isn't playing fair, but Canterlot High must be made to understand that even with magic at their disposal, beating Crystal Prep is simply not a possibility. Not a choice. And I believe we can now fight fire with fire." Principal Cinch stood before Twilight with her hands behind her back, the competitors behind her, and her signature look planted dead center on her face. Twilight shrunk and frowned. She continued, "I've seen what your device can do, Twilight. Containing magical energy is fine, but have you considered releasing it?" Twilight shook her head, "But, I don't even understand how it works!" "But you'd like to. And considering our opponents have already used it to stay competitive, I see no reason why we shouldn't do the same. Unless, of course, you have no interest in Everton. Though honestly, I think there's more knowledge packed in that little device then any independent study could offer." Twilight stared into Cinch's eyes fearful and she only bored back. Twilight cupped the device and slowly lifted it towards her. She gazed upon it. The blaring began to get to her. Becoming mesmerizing in a sense. It called to her. "More knowledge packed in that little device then any independent study could offer." Twilight took a step forward. ... "What is she doing?" Noah spoke almost without thinking as his heartbeat fastened. He spoke so blatantly that the Rainbooms heard him, and Rarity raised an eyebrow. "What are you talking about-" "What is she doing?" Noah repeated, disregarding Rarity's words as if they didn't exist. The Rainbooms turned their attention to whom he stared at and felt their hearts fasten. Twilight had emerged from the small group crowding her with her eyes locked on the compass. Instead of cupping it, Twilight held it by its top and bottom as if she were to open it. Noah gazed at Crystal Prep and saw something that made his stomach turn. They were smiling. They were letting Twilight out with a weapon she couldn't bear to comprehend to win some meaningless games. Without thinking, Noah crossed the edge of his side and called out, "Twilight, what are you doing?" "I-I," she stammered. Her eyes not even darting to meet his. Noah took another step, "Answer me, damn it!” The noise from Noah's shout quickly attracted each and every student's attention, including the principals. Instead of calling out, they watched with confusion as the situation played out. Twilight's pupils seemed to enlarge, and Noah felt every hair on his body stand tall as a bright crack appeared from the compass. The Rainbooms took a step back and stared in horror. Feeling immediately threatened with no other choice, Noah drew his father's gift from his back pocket and aimed down his sights at Twilight. His vision pulsing similar to when he witnessed the dimension of Equestria. He shouted again, "Twilight, you shut that thing closed or I'll blast your fuckin' head off!" It was at this point that everyone's wonder quickly turned to panic when they spotted the chrome handgun. They knew magic was odd and unpredictable, but a gun had only one purpose. Luna hastily stepped in front of both Dean Cadence and her sister and shouted out. Quickly switching to defense mode. "Rictorshine! You put that thing away right now or so help me!" Noah held his sights on Twilight whose hands began to tremble and her eyes twitched somewhat. She didn't change her position though. Instead, she raised the top higher, and Noah heard the crackle and thunder of lightning above. "Rictorshine! You fire that thing, I'll have you expelled and arrested! Holster the weapon imme-" "Shut the fuck up! Twilight! Drop it! Now!" Principal Cinch scoffed, disgusted. "How repulsive! Canterlot Highschool not only uses vulgar language and cheats with magic to win, but when a counter makes itself known, they draw weaponry?! How utterly revolting!" Twilight's hands only raised by half an inch within every moment, and Noah couldn't handle the pressure and tension. He needed to stop her. She wasn't going to herself. Noah cursed under his breath and stood his ground. With careful ease, Noah pulled the trigger. *Click!* "...What?" *Click Click!* "No." *Click Click Click!* "No." *Click Click Click Click!*" "No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no!" *Click Click Click Click Click Click Click Click!* Noah felt his heart hit a truck. "M-My magazine, i-it's empty... why is it empty? I-It shouldn't be empty! H-How's it empty!? I-I don't, h-h-how, t-this doesn't make any s-sense! I-I get ammo every... every... every..." "Ya got a spare? " "No..." "Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare?" "Every..." "Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare? Ya got a spare?" "Ya got a spare?" "Thursday..." Noah dropped the gun. The schools fell silent with the thud. The principals felt their eyes widen. Applejack removed her stetson. Rarity grew even whiter. Fluttershy felt tears begin to well in her eyes. Pinkie Pie froze. Sunset ran both hands through her hair. Rainbow Dash... began to whistle nervously. "Rainbow!" *Shine!* Noah took a step back as he watched in dread. Twilight had opened the compass wholly and a bubble of magic and blinding light blew everyone away in an explosive shockwave of magic. The magic released from the compass began to twist reality at will like a palm tree in a hurricane. Noah felt like he was in the middle of the desert, then in the north pole, then in the Atlantic ocean, and then Mount Everest. The colors of reality began to distort and black became white. White became black, and the opposite of every color flashed back and forth through multiple shockwaves. Noah felt his vision fade in and out. Backward and forward. As the shockwaves past, Noah found himself on his back next to Sunset. The structure of the school looked like it had been hit by miniature cars in all places, and half the students had fallen unconscious. Including Pinkie Pie. Noah laid his eyes on Twilight and found her slowly being enveloped by a bright sphere of purple and white magic. The compass dropped onto the floor with a clatter, and Twilight bared the magic in her hands. Principal Cinch and the students of Crystal Prep stared in terror. Some on the bleachers were shaking their classmates, begging them to wake up out of fear. Some did, but only some. Noah shortly stood up and pulled Sunset up by her shoulders, "Get everyone out of here, now!" "Where do we go?! She'll kill us all!" "Take everyone to the movie theater and pray! I'm gonna hold off Twilight for as long as I can!" "That's suicide! She absorbed the portal! She'll tear you in half!" "What other choice do we have Sunset?! I have to try!" "Noah, but-" "Go!" "But I love-" "Sunset, if you don't get the fuck out of here, I'm gonna kill you! Go!" Terrified for Noah and her home, Sunset sprinted to the other Rainbooms. She reached them and promptly explained the situation and they instantly worked on getting everyone away from the school and to the theater. Pinkie Pie in Applejack’s arms. Twilight was still being enveloped, but her screams began to pierce the ears of all as the magic enfolded her arms. Noah pulled his necklace from out of his shirt as thousands of students ran past him. Screaming and crying in unadulterated horror. He cursed himself as some students were still left behind, some even looked dead as blood poured down the bleachers with still bodies close by. Noah's eyes began to water as he heard the last words of Twilight Sparkle. He increased his grip on his necklace and closed his eyes. Noah's eyes began to water as he heard the last yet fateful words of Twilight Sparkle. "Help...me... ahhhhh!"
XX - This Is The HourSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
XX - This Is The Hour: P2Author's Note What Would You Do Without Me? XX - This Is The Hour: P2 Huh... death feels... weird. Like I'm... like I'm in some sort of... lucid dream... wait... Adagio?! You there!? W-Wait... why can't I speak? W-Why can't I... nigga what is this? I... w-wait... I feel... I feel hot, like... like something's on top of me... no... I feel hot like... like... really hot... I... ow! The hell? I-I felt that! W-What the? It feels like... like... like... "Hello?" Noah groggily opened his eyes and found himself in one piece upon the school's roof. He could feel his legs, his arms, his eyesight was crystal clear! He couldn't feel any bruises, any scars, or even the blood upon his skin. He couldn't believe it. He was alive. "Noah?!" A voice called, and Noah's jaw dropped, flabbergasted. It was Sunset. "W-What?! What the hell happened?! I'm alive?! I fell out of the fuckin' sky! W-Where's Midnight?! Where're the girls?! Where're the boys?! What happened to the students?! I... what the fuck happened to you?!" Noah was right. Sunset had transformed dramatically! Her hair had seemingly flushed upwards and resembled a fire similar to Midnight's only luminous and elegant. Also similar to Midnight's was a long golden unicorn horn, only without the holes. Around her neck was a collar with her special symbol hanging at the end of its chain. Upon her chest was a pink and golden corset with a slightly pointy belt covered in spikes around her waist. Below was a pink dress that cut out towards the front, and underneath was a bright sky-blue skirt with a pure-white skirt underneath. Slipped onto her feet were golden encrusted high heels fitted for a queen. They featured two small golden wings to the side. As for wings, Sunset had two blindingly bright golden wings that looked more like strange paper cuts instead of wings. They were almost see-through in the center as well. And on her hands were bright sky-blue fingerless gloves. She was a daydream. Sunset’s face fell flat, "Oh, I’m the strangest thing you’ve seen all day?” ”Yes, negro!” ”Whatever, are you hurt?" Noah raised his left arm that had broken earlier, "Apparently not. What the hell happened? Midnight, er, Twilight put me through hell and dropped me out of the sky. I should be dead. How am I alive?" "I-It's a long story, I'll make it brisk." "This better be one hell of an idea! It sounds like Twilight just threw him through a wall from here! I don't feel like having my dick chopped off by a demon nerd, and this truck is packed to the brim!" Manex ranted as he pulled out of the movie theater's driveway. The truck indeed was packed as the only ones willing to sit in the trunk at a time like this, and at such speed, was Fall. Meaning the seats were overly crowded, and passive-aggressiveness was in the air like smoke from a wildfire in the middle of July. "Look, Pinkie didn't bring her party minivan thing so we have to use this!" Sunset replied, her hand gripping the passenger seat's roof handle. "Why do we need everyone?" "Because... I... oh... uh... I may have been speaking without thinking a little bit..." Manex rounded a corner and everyone inside the truck groaned irritably. Even Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. Applejack pushed CJ back a bit, "What do ya mean ya weren't thinkin'?! It couldn't have been that hard!" "Applejack, the galaxy is about to, in the words of Noah, fucking die. The amount of time we have is so important and we have very little of it! Once Twilight gets the magic from Noah, there's no telling what she'll do to Equis! What she'll do to Earth!" "Easy for you to say! You get to sit in the shotgun seat while I have to sit in front of someone's friggin’ crotch!" Rainbow Dash replied, and she wasn't lying either. Because of how cramped the truck was, she had to sit on the floor in front of Jain. Not that he minded, of course. "Look, just sit tight and stop complaining until we get there! I know things are weird and cramped right now, but there are more important things to worry about! Like, is Noah gonna be in half when we get there!" "You're like a girly version of Noah." "Cool, now listen. Here's the plan. When Fall came back outside to comfort me because I thought we were all gonna die, the words, "together, as one," caught my attention. "It was a little stupid of me to forget such a thing, then again, it's been a while since I've been to Equestria, but magic is not just an energy, it's a life source. Our skin and our bodies can't function without it. "So if Twilight was draining magic from you guys, you should all be dead. Of course, that would be because of me coming here, but you'll learn to live with it. You have so far." Rarity laid a hand flat, "Well, what does that mean for us, darling? What does this mean at all?" "It means that we can still defeat Twilight. All you need to do is unleash your inner magic. Not every drop, but a lot. Once you've all given it, we'll use Twilight's compass to combine it. Giving us magic similar to hers." "What of Noah then?" "Noah will use his Super Element magic to combat the magic Twilight gained from the portal, and we'll use your magic to combat the magic Twilight took from us. Well, you, I mean." Fluttershy laid a hand flat, "So, how will we defeat her though? It sounds like we'll just be evening out the odds.” "We'll leave that part to Noah. He came up with a plan to end our original plan last time, I doubt that he can't do the same when our galaxy hangs in the balance. Okay, does everyone understand?" Manex made a final turn left and the school was in sight. CJ pushed back at Applejack, "What about us? This sounds like something all of you can do without us perfectly." "I mean, you can go back to the movie theater and tell everyone it's gonna be okay." "Bet." Manex pulled finally into the school's driveway and gaped, "Holy crap, she tore shit up." Sunset and the others stepped out of the truck as Manex parked and wandered to the center of the school's driveway. It was decimated. The school's entrance had another hole through it, several dozen windows were shattered, and the bleachers were crumpled and covered in glass, paper, and dried blood. A shining symbol for the future. Jain stammered, "I-I, y-you, w-what... did she just fuckin' blow everything away with a wave of this magic shit? It almost looks like World War Two just rolled on by and left an absolute mess." Rarity crossed her arms, "When Twilight changed, she seemed to break reality itself. Colors changed randomly, sent out shockwaves that pushed us back and broke objects all around us, and even distorted matter itself." "Well, that totally sounds normal," Jain replied. Sunset looked over a couple of feet from her and found it. Twilight's magic compass. She promptly stepped over to it and picked it up, poking at its lights. It was as stagnant as a corpse, especially the ones that surrounded. Applejack brought her hands to her hips, "Ya got it, Sunset?" "Yeah, I've got it. All we need now is-" *Crash!* Sunset and the Rainbooms' quickly turned their attention to what sounded like glass breaking, startled and shocked. They immediately spotted Twilight, or whatever she was now, flying high into the sky while holding Noah by his left arm. They couldn't get a good look, but Noah might as well have been dead from his condition. Sunset instantly panicked. "Oh crap," Rainbow Dash spoke up, "Was that Noah?" "He looked hurt!" Pinkie Pie added, "Is he... h-he's not-" "Okay!" Sunset interrupted, "Let's go! Magic, now! We don't have much time!" The Rainbooms closed their eyes and followed Sunset's instructions. They dug deep inside themselves, for something, anything. A feeling, a buzz, a simple fragment of magic. But failed ultimately. Fluttershy opened her eyes, "Uh, Sunset, exactly how are we supposed to bring out the magic?" Sunset ran a hand through her hair, anxious. "Uh... I... try... try thinking thoughts that only you can feel. Applejack, your honesty. Rarity, your generosity. Rainbow Dash, your loyalty. Pinkie Pie, your amusement. And Fluttershy, your kindness. "Please! I-I know it's a long shot, but back in Equestria, we normally think of when and how to use our magic! I-It's kinda like telekinesis, or however you pronounce that, but you get my point!" Sunset's eyes constricted out of fear when she heard what sounded like Twilight increasing her speed like a jet. How high was she going? The edge of the atmosphere? He'd die before he’d hit the ground! "Come on guys we have to-" Sunset was struck silent when she found the remaining members of the black five backing up slowly as they watched the Rainbooms. And her eyes dilated as she looked herself. The Rainbooms were glowing their signature colors. Like an aura of it simply shrouded them. Similarly to Noah's back during the Battle of the Bands, and when they ponied-up in school. Sunset raised a finger and pointed nonchalantly, "That was quick. And profoundly unexpected... but I guess we can work with it. Do you feel any different? Because you guys don't have the little ears, tail, and hair extensions." Rainbow Dash shrugged, "I actually feel weaker. That took a lot outta me. Like I just ran a marathon." Fluttershy nodded, "Yeah, I feel exhausted. A-Are you sure this is what we have to do Sunset?" Sunset opened the compass, "It seems that way." It began to pull out of Sunset's hands, and she had to grip it tight to keep it from going wild. Even then, the magic from the Rainbooms began to drain out like a black hole. Much faster than earlier. "Jain, CJ, Fall, Manex, grab them! We don't need them busting their heads open at all right now!" CJ raised a finger to argue but was shut down shortly by Fall patting his shoulder and nodding no. Rolling his eyes, he and the rest of the remaining Black Five stood behind a member of the Rainbooms as they got weaker and weaker. Fall behind Rarity. CJ behind Applejack. Manex behind Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. And Jain behind Rainbow Dash. Sunset grinned slightly as the magic from all five finally rested inside the compass, shut itself closed, and the five of them collapsed. Thankfully, into the arms of the boys. Sunset turned the compass on herself and stared. She mentally asked herself one question. Am I worthy? ...Time to find out... Sunset carefully opened the compass and instantly felt the glare attack her eyes. She held them shut and continued to release the magic. She felt her hair begin to blow in the wind it blew, and the heat of an unknown sun began to beat down upon her like a mallet. Unlike Twilight, the magic began to enter Sunset through every pore, but it didn't create a giant sphere of it slowly enveloping her. Sunset felt the magic inside her. It moved up, down, and all around. Seemingly transforming her from the inside out. CJ turned to Manex, "We should probably get out of here. Like, I don't know. Now, maybe? I can only hold some southern girl who smells and eats apples twenty-four-seven for so long before I collapse." Manex rolled his eyes, "I heard, dipshit. S-Sun... ugh, this is so weird. Sunset, you want us to head back and you help Noah defeat that crazy purple nerdy bastard?" Sunset began to float above as the magic made her glow. It coursed through her veins like a brand new bloodstream, and wings of pure golden light started to sprout from her back. Her eyes glowed a glorious white. "I'm gonna take your slowly moving upwards and away-like movements as a yes and get the hell out of here." Manex held Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie tightly as he shuffled to the car. CJ brought Applejack's arm over his shoulder and dragged her while Fall carried Rarity bridal style. Rainbow Dash shook her head as Jain tried to do the same. "W-Wait, I-I wanna stay and help. W-We may never know if they might need it either, so... Y-You guys just head on back. I-I'll stay." Jain responded, "Dashie, you can barely stand. It'll take some time to get back in fighting shape. Hell, even moving at all." "Some time is all the time I need. And if you care so very much, then you can stay. Like you said, I can barely stand." Jain blushed, conceivably for the first actual time in his entire orphan life. "I uh... I... hey, you said it. I could drag you to that truck if I wanted to." "But you won't." "Only because you asked." CJ rolled his eyes as he laid Applejack down in the back seat. "Are you getting in or not? we're not coming back for you, by the way, so make the smart choice! You know, the one that doesn't put your life at risk?" Jain pulled Rainbow Dash back into his grasp as she lost her balance. He shrugged, "Guess I'm staying. If I die, don't shit on my funeral!" "Eh, not like there'll be a funeral anyway nigga." Sunset began to finally finish her transformation as CJ, Fall, and Manex strapped the girls in while Jain took Rainbow Dash to a safer place besides being out in the open. As Fall opened his door, he gazed upon Sunset one last time as she opened her eyes and felt the magic course through her. An aura similar to Noah's surrounding her. She was friendship. Fall called out. "Hey, Sunset," she laid her eyes upon him and he narrowed his eyebrows. "Kick her ass." With that, Sunset beamed an exultant and gracious smile and made two fists. She then narrowed her own eyebrows and nodded. "Got it." Faster than any of them could conceive, Sunset shot up into the clouds like a rocket. Even leaving a trail of wind behind her that nearly blew the truck away as it bounced with a thud. Thankfully for Rainbow Dash and Jain, they were behind cover. Finished up, Fall sat in the passenger seat and Manex quickly exited the school's driveway. Leaving Jain and Rainbow Dash together, alone. They took a seat against the school's walls next to the near-destroyed bleachers and sighed. Realizing something, Rainbow Dash perked up. "Did you call me, "Dashie?" "Uh..." ... Sunset continued to tear the clouds apart and through the atmosphere. She narrowed her vision as much as she could to find something, anything resembling a person. It was only when she noticed him did her heart stop. *Woosh!* Next to Sunset fell a ravaged and heavily injured body. Her eyes constricted as she noticed who had fallen. It was Noah, and he was in sheer pain. Probably not even conscious. Feeling a glimmer of hope, Sunset rushed towards the body. Shooting downwards like a bullet for Noah. He was just partially too fast for her, unfortunately, and she growled. Noah had been plummeting for quite some time, meaning he surely could've beat Sunset if she wasn't fast enough. She began to pant as she recognized clouds she'd recently torn through. She reached a hand out to him and began to feel tears well up in her eyes. Sunset began to grasp for him. His shirt, his hair, his arm, anything. He kept plunging, faster and faster, but Sunset only increased her speed. The roof entered the picture, and Sunset began to panic. She closed her eyes and nearly screamed. She struggled to slow down and felt her body heat up slightly as she passed all of the clouds. This was it. Sunset had to grab him and stop. She had no other choice. Sunset yelled, until... She caught him. Sunset pulled Noah into a close embrace as she slowed her descent as fast as she could. Her feet began to heat up just a bit, but it was nothing for her. She eventually slowed down entirely and reached the roof of the school. Sunset laid him down carefully as her feet connected. He looked atrocious. Sunset's tears finally fell as she gazed upon his injuries. He had several scars, cuts and bruises as well. His left arm looked broken due to it appearing that it'd been crushed and shattered. His legs were covered in slash and stab wounds, and a rather large one bled out of his left shoulder. His right eye was covered in blood, and Sunset wondered if it was even there at all. And he was missing multiple teeth. "No... no, no, no, no, no... I-I can... I-I-I have... I have... there... there must be something... a-anything I can do... please... please..." Sunset rested her head on Noah's chest and sobbed quietly. Even if he was patched up ever again, Sunset wondered what had happened internally. He could be an entirely different person when he returned. So Sunset merely cried. Cried every tear she had for the boy she never got to love. Cry for the boy so different than all the others, yet perfect. Cried for what they could've become together. Cried for everything. Until he began to glow. "You... you healed me," Noah replied. He was left dumbstruck at Sunset's story and was astonished she managed to tell it so hastily. Noah sat up and moved his left arm around. It worked like a charm, maybe even better. He felt his back and his pain had seemingly disappeared. As for his eye, he saw crystal clear. Sunset shrugged, "Yeah, I... I guess that's something you can do when infused with multiple Elements, so..." Noah instantly felt the return of the conflict from earlier and looked off to the side. Sunset did the same while poking and fidgeting with her fingers. Almost like she didn't know him. It was a shame, truly. The last few days of a friendship ruined forever because of an argument that quickly got out of hand. Maybe if Sunset had thought about him, or if Noah thought about her. Things wouldn't be like this. But, Noah didn't want it to be like this. Especially right now. "Sunset, I... I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking about you. I wasn't thinking about all the time we spent. I was so self-centered because I wanted to return home, I'd forgotten what we'd done together. I was a fool... ugh, no, I was a motherfuckin' dumbass. "I should've thought about you. Your past and how happy you felt. It was truly fucked up. I feel like such a dipshit. Like a dumbass nigga that just... that just ruined his life thinking he could be on top of everyone. "I just-" "Noah, please, it's okay. It's my fault for acting the way I did because I was self-centered. America, screw it, Earth, is your home. And I tried to keep you away from it to deal with my problems. I should've understood how happy you were knowing you could go back home without having to worry about planes crashing into skyscrapers anymore. "I just... I loved looking out my window and seeing you just waiting there in your car. Your phone in your hand, a straw in your mouth, and just... just everything. I felt cared for. Like someone besides my own family gave a shit about me. So, so much. It just... it made me so happy. "But I understand now. I'm not gonna hold you back from going home and being with your people. Maybe... maybe I need to go back to my people someday. Maybe even tomorrow like you." Sunset held a hand out, "Can we... Can we maybe become friends again? Just for less than two days more? Please?" Noah stared at the hand and then stared at Sunset. But, it didn't take long for him to smack the hand away and pull Sunset into a tight embrace. Sunset felt her tears dry instantaneously and hugged back. "Without a doubt, kid. Without a doubt." Ruining the moment, Midnight rushed down to the bottom of the school. Passing Noah and Sunset without even noticing it. Sunset's eyes' narrowed and she pulled back. "Noah, I don't know why you couldn't change, but I need you to stay here." "W-Wait, I-" "No! I'm not risking losing you again! Safely and stealthily get off the roof, away from this school, and to the theater. You'll find everyone else there, and you'll be safe for the time being." Noah laid out his hands in disagreement, "But Sunset-" "Stay. Here. No Ifs, Ands, or Buts. Got it?" "Oh, you hypo-" "Got it?" Noah rolled his eyes and crossed his arms, "Fine! Goddamn it..." With that, Sunset stood up and patted him on the shoulder. She then turned her back and rushed off the roof. He heard her land from above and the conflict for the galaxy continued. Noah pulled out his necklace, furious. "We got our asses kicked back there, and now Sunset told us to stay! Do you know how wrong that is? But more importantly, why the hell didn't you show!?" The pendant began to glow and Noah's eyes' widened, only for the radiance to disappear. Like it was telling him no, and that's what he thought himself. He only grew even more irritated. "No?! We're facing the end of the fuckin' galaxy, our home, and you're telling me no?! Are you shittin' me? Please tell me you're shittin' me!" The pendant stayed dark, and Noah's eyes narrowed. He got ready to throw it, but he thought back to the Battle of the Bands. However, it was against his will. The thought popped up haphazardly. Like his pendant was trying to tell him something, and Noah figured it out immediately. The memory was full of him beating the Sirens to bits. Shoving Aria's own arm down her throat, ripping Sonata's toes and then shoving them through her chest, and stabbing Adagio with an electric guitar. As Noah watched, he felt unusual. From a different perspective, Noah looked like a monster. Tearing at innocent girls. They weren't in any way, but the feeling was bizarre. "But I... they took everything from us! I-I... am I not allowed to make those who made others suffer, suffer themselves? How is that fair, I..." Noah watched another memory flash of him holding Sonata over the railing. Her screams and pleads echoed in his ears. "I-I..." Another scene flashed, it was Siren Hell. After Aria got angry at him and he sent her flying, she landed in a pile of indistinguishable gore. Everything that could've gone wrong with her, went wrong. And Noah felt his heart stop when he remembered she was like that for three days. Tears welled up in his eyes. Aria had become a much better person since then, and he ruined her. Like a monster. Like a devil. Like the devil. "Okay! O... Okay... I get it. I've used my power to do horrible things. I-I'm... I'm the Super Element. The pinnacle of being good. Being righteous... righteous... I like that. I'm gonna use that in the future. "I understand now. I've been a monster with my power in the past, and I swear on my life, I will never commit such fucked up cruelties ever again unless absolutely necessary. You have my word. "But my word isn't gonna matter without you. I need you, we all need you. Sunset can't handle Midnight. You and I both know this. But together, as one, we can take down Midnight and bring peace to the Milky Way. "I may not be perfect. You may even be better off with Sunset, perhaps. But I'm only a hero with you, and you're only important with me. We need each other. There's a reason I have you, and we both know this. So please, put aside your irritation. Open your heart, and let's save the fuckin' world. Again." ... Sunset blocked the punches of Midnight as she staggered back. She knew Midnight would put up a fight, but this was ridiculous. She had fought with no style, no understanding. She was just madly throwing punches and kicks and blasts, yet it somehow worked. Midnight jabbed Sunset to her side and she cried in slight pain. Seeing an opening, Midnight tackled her to the ground, straddled her, and began crushing her windpipe. Strangling her with all the force she had. Sunset gripped Midnight's arms and attempted to pull as hard as she could. Yet despite her best efforts, Sunset began to feel her ears deafen and her eyes slowly turn white and bright. She began kicking, jolting and jerking in any direction she could to throw Midnight off, but it wasn't working. Midnight smiled as Sunset's eyelids began to fall. Her grip on Midnight's hands slowly loosened, and the kicking of her legs became tired and weak. Midnight's crooked smile found its rightful place on her face. For a while, at least. *Clank!* "Ow! What the fuck!?" Midnight let go of Sunset's throat. She took a large deep breath, and speedily scooted away before standing. She saw Midnight rubbing her head while a pipe laid next to her. She looked up to the rooftop of the school, and all the hope she ever had came flooding back with a passion. Noah had returned. And his Super Element along with him. Midnight looked up to the rooftop and growled as her eyes contracted. "You! I killed you! I dropped you from the fucking mesosphere!" Noah chuckled, "That sounds like a you problem. Now allow me to reintroduce myself." Noah jumped down from the rooftop and instantly appeared next to Sunset as he reached the floor. He stood his ground, "My name is Noah Rictorshine, The Super Element of Righteousness. And this is Sunset Shimmer, The Super Element of Harmony." "We're gonna kick your ass."
XX - This Is The Hour: P3Author's Note To Hell With Your Magic. This Is My World... XX - This Is The Hour: P3 "A flat-nosed bus. Why, in God's name, would he want us to bring him a flat-nosed bus?” "Jain, he said it clearly. 'Listen, head over to the school's bus depot, and grab a flat-faced bus and a brick. Then, drive it all the way over to the other edge of the school, as in where the road splits, and then call me. I'll say the rest when you get there. Don't fuck it up'." "Dash, that's just what he said! I'm asking why!" "I don't know, just keep up!" Jain and Rainbow Dash rushed towards the far side of the school to retrieve a bus from the school’s bus depot while Noah and Sunset fought the good fight against Midnight. Of course, Jain was behind and highly confused. He gradually slowed down to take a quick break. "Hold... hold on... I... ugh, Jesus Christ..." He fell to his knees as sweat dripped onto his forehead. Despite being quite athletic, Jain had overlooked just how immense a high school is. Especially Canterlot Highschool. Rainbow Dash's face fell flat, "Oh, c'mon! We haven't even reached the side! Besides, I was just exhausted, and I was ahead of you!" "Not all of... not all of us are fucking... fucking pure athletes great at... great at everything! You... you can just go... I'll catch up." Groaning, Rainbow Dash jogged back to Jain, stood him up, and brought his right arm over her shoulder. "C'mon, we can jog the rest of the way. I'm not leaving you behind. After all, I'm the Element of Loyalty." Nodding, Jain began to lightly jog as Rainbow Dash started before him. He couldn't believe this day for the life of him. It had started out so well and simple, now the fate of the galaxy was dependent on a bus. A literal bus. ... "Okay, we're here!" Rainbow Dash announced as she and Jain reached the bus depot. Despite jogging, Jain was still slightly tired and held his abdomen. "I seriously don't know how you just feel nothing. That shouldn't even be humanly possible... or normal humans just suck." Patting his shoulder, Rainbow Dash replied, "Well, we're here now. So no need for anymore complaining. Anyways, ya remember what we're after?" "A flat-nosed bus and a brick... For some reason, I feel like finding the brick is gonna be the hard part," Jain replied as he examined the depot. Rainbow Dash pointed to the right, "You go find that brick, I'll take care of the bus. Got it?" Jain sighed, "Got it," and immediately started searching for a brick. Why they needed that, he'd yet to find out. Smirking, Rainbow started into the bus depot and sought the flat-nosed bus of legend. ... Jain reached the end of the bus depot and thought to himself as he searched. Out of all the shit I could be doing today, I'm searching for a brick while some strangely attractive rainbow-haired girl searches for a school bus. And just to make things worse, one of my best friends and the biggest asshole in my life is fighting a purple nerdy sociopathic psychopath turned she-demon hell-bent on eradicating my way of life. I don't even have to be here! I-It's not like she'll randomly destroy the city! The city is completely devoid of that magic shit, and she won't even destroy our galaxy because she'll be on the other side of that fucking portal that's just randomly located at a school for some reason. But no Jain. You gotta help us keep the peace, Jain. Think about the technicolored four-legged fuckers, Jain. Think about the children, Jain. The lives that are at stake, Jain. The princess whose fault this ultimately is, Jain. Think about the girl, Jain... Okay, I might have some problems. "Ow! Fuck me!" Jain lifted his foot and hobbled a bit as he came in contact with a tough object. He looked down and found something he genuinely wasn't expecting. On the floor was a cinder block. Jain shrugged, "Close enough," and picked up the cinder block. Struggling for a moment and dusting it off as multiple pebbles stuck to it like a weak magnet. "Jain!" Jain turned to his left as his voice was shouted remarkably loud. It took him a while before he noticed the voice was Rainbow Dash's over on the far side of the depot. Cradling the block, Jain began over to Rainbow Dash who'd hopefully found the right bus. ... "Okay I'm here, and I've got the brick... kinda. Turns out I found a cinder block. We can use that, right?" Rainbow Dash had called Jain to the rear center of the bus depot. Turns out all the flat-nosed busses parked behind. It was helpful as well, seeing how the bus depot is only ever changed when every bus leaves at once. Rainbow Dash smiled, "Great! Okay, this is working out after all!" Jain raised an eyebrow, "You didn't think this would work?" "Well, of course I did! I'm the coolest, remember?" "... right. So, how do you suppose we get inside? I'm pretty sure your ass didn't grab the keys from inside, so we'll have to use our-" *Clash!* Snatching the cinder block from Jain's hands, Rainbow Dash threw it overhand and straight into the windshield. Shattering it without omission. She then took half a dozen steps back before sprinting and jumping onto the windshield's frame. She then quickly climbed inside the bus and held a hand out to Jain. "Found the keys," she responded nonchalantly, and Jain simply gawked. He shook his head out of his slight daze, "I, uh... okay. Yeah, somehow throwing a thirty-pound block of cinder through a bus windshield when your arms are the size of a twig definitely works." Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, "Oh shut up and get in here. It's not my fault I make breaking into school buses to save the galaxy twenty percent cooler." "Okay, let's not act like a seven-year-old," Jain replied as he stretched his arms. Following the same stunt as Rainbow Dash, Jain took a couple of steps back before running and leaping onto the windshield's frame. Instead of climbing, Rainbow Dash grabbed his left arm and pulled him inside while he climbed up using his legs and his right arm. Jain slid over the windshield and landed on top of glass shards that covered the bus' floor. Rainbow Dash wiped them off his back as he stood up. He took a few steps through the seats and found the cinder block laying in the middle on a seat to the left. "Well, I found the other keys," Rainbow Dash stated as she opened the bus' glove compartment and pulled out a single bus key with a matte black bow and a silver blade. Jain picked up the cinder block and placed it in a seat closer to the front. He then politely took the keys from Rainbow Dash and ignited the bus' engine. Revving up similar to how it does every day. Jain took a deep breath, "Okay, let's get this shit over with. Call Noah, we need the rest of the directions now." Rainbow Dash pulled out her phone, took a seat behind Jain as he pulled out of the bus depot, and dialed Noah up as fast as she could. The dial tone was undoubtedly the most annoying sound Rainbow Dash had ever heard in her life. The constant be—ep annoyed her astronomically. Rainbow heard the snapping of a table as Noah picked up. "Hello? Rainbow? Tell me you have the bus and the brick! Twilight just threw a lunch table at Sunset! I think she's becoming unstable, desperate!" "Don't worry, we have them. We're on our way over to the road bifurcate. What do we do then? Besides look awesome, of course." "I'm gonna grab Twilight by her legs and spin her around. Once I start spinning, stomp on the acceleration and drive over here with as much as you can muster. One I spin her for the fourth time in a row, drop the brick on the pedal and jump out of the bus. Got it?" "Yeah, but then what happens after?" "Leave that to me," Noah replied before hanging up, and Rainbow Dash sat up and asked Jain. "Did you get all of that?" "Yeah, I got it," Jain replied as he backed up into position at the road bifurcate. Rainbow Dash came up beside him and got on one knee facing the windshield. "So uh... you really have to leave tomorrow?" "Uh..." "Sunset, get back! I got this now," Noah stated as he grabbed Midnight by the leg and slammed her to the floor. Sunset nodded and flew back while Midnight screeched on the floor. "Drop me damn it!" Midnight retorted to Noah's actions. She truly was getting out of hand. Noah wondered if there was a time limit to having magic that kept monsters like her at bay. Perhaps she needed more every half hour. That'd explain their endless craving. Noah looked just near the road bifurcate and saw the flat-nosed bus parked. Rainbow Dash and Jain waiting on his signal. The plan was quite simple. The impact should stop the bus from hitting him and the school, and it should hopefully knock Midnight unconscious long enough for Noah and Sunset to restore her to Twilight again, and ultimately save the galaxy. One for the money... The fire surrounding Midnight's eyes turned black as she continued to kick and thrash. The heat surrounding her began to distort as the colors nearby changed. Noah was right, Midnight was becoming volatile. Not that it mattered, of course. Two for the show... Noah gradually began to spin, and Jain stomped on the gas. The bus began to shoot forward, faster than Noah originally intended. Despite it, he stuck to the plan and made a full circle. "Give... me... back... the fuckin'..." Jain dropped the cinder block on the pedal and backed away with the third spin. As Noah spun a fourth time, he felt as though he'd forgotten something. Rainbow Dash felt she disremembered something as well. "On the fourth spin... you... oh shit!" Panicking, Jain tackled Rainbow Dash to the back of the bus and held her tight as the bus grew more and more raucous and turbulent. Rainbow Dash didn't even complain or protest. She felt something she'd never felt before. A strange blush upon her face, and a warm feeling inside. "...nerd!" Noah let go of Midnight and sent her flying as the bus passed the school's statue. Her spine flew straight into the bus' hood at such force, the bus flew back and tipped over. Falling on its roof. Sunset's feet touched the ground as she approached Noah and stared at the wreckage. He fell to his knees as watched for any signs of movement on the bus. Making sure Midnight was out cold. Steam began to emit from underneath the bus as Noah examined it. It was demolished. The front end had been pushed in deeply and resembled a type of snub-nosed revolver. Or a pole crushed vertically. Its wheels had all deflated, and two were even missing tires completely. The glass on every window was shattered or fractured, the lights flickered on and off, and the bus' mechanical crossing arm twitched like a broken crane. Noah exhaled triumphantly as the realization came through. The galaxy was saved. Sunset fell back and landed on her rear. She set an arm on one of her knees which stood up while the other rested. "Jeez, you do realize that bus wasn't ours, right? We may have to pay for that." Noah waved her off, "Kid, we saved the fuckin' galaxy. If I hear complaints, we're gonna have a problem. And don't say anything about this appearing weird. It's not easy writing an action scene for a book." "What?" "I said where the hell is Jain and Rainbow Dash?" Sunset looked everywhere but at the bus and shortly grew worried when neither Rainbow Dash nor Jain caught her eye. She stood up and approached the wreckage. Noah groaned and followed after her. His knnes still in pain after nearly being split. Sunset tapped on the bus' rear entry window and peeked inside. The bus looked like it had been rammed by a bull. Everything that could've fallen out of place, had fallen. Leaving an unbelievably distinguishable mess. "Watch out," Noah told her and he punched the glass. Shattering it like like it was a joke. He pulled the emergency lever from the inside and opened the door. Noah sighed with relief as both Rainbow Dash and Jain laid unconscious and in one piece. Jain's arms wrapped tightly around Rainbow Dash’s chest, her own wrapped tightly around him. Noah wondered if they were holding each other a bit too tight. Sunset stood up and approached the other side of the bus while Noah stretched his arms promptly before pulling Rainbow Dash and Jain out of the bus and laying them on the grass. Sunset came around from the other side with Midnight in her arms. Seeing her, Noah promptly levitated over to the driveway, retrieved the compass, and levitated back. Sunset laid Midnight on the grass and sighed. "What about those kids on the bleachers? Some of them are-" "Dead, I know... But I wanna try something." "Try what?" "You and I, transformed, obviously, are able to heal all wounds, no matter what. But I wonder, if we give double the healing strength, do you think you and I could possibly-" "Bring them back from the dead? That's impossible... isn't it?" Noah faced the bleachers and narrowed his eyes, "Only one way to find out." "He said what again, CJ?" "For the last goddamn time Manex, he said to have everyone exit the theater with open arms and that they've got quite the delivery." "Alright nigga, relax," Manex replied as he, Fall, CJ, the girls, and all the students of both Crystal Prep and Canterlot Highschool stood outside the theater and watched the skies. CJ had received a text from Noah, why, he hadn't a clue. Neither did the others, it was simply out of the blue. One thing that didn't go unnoticed was the return of the sun. It'd been blocked out by dark storm clouds, but they'd seemingly rolled right over the city. Fall squinted his eyes as he looked towards the horizon, but his eyes widened when he spotted them. "Holy... guys, look! I-In the sky!" Fall called out, and every student and principal alike looked up in the sky and also saw them. It was Noah and Sunset, and they carried every student like string. From afar Noah shouted, "We kicked her ass, ladies and gentlemen!" And the immense sound of cheers and claps seemingly filled the sky with a magnificent passion. ... Noah closed his pendent as Sunset returned her magic to the Rainbooms and his friends approached him. Ecstatic that they were going to live another day. "Dude! How the hell did you beat her?!" Manex asked, and Noah shrugged. "Oh, uh... I might've thrown her at a bus rushing towards us at full speed. And while Sunset and I were dealing with her, I may have brought an entire basketball hoop down on top of her..." "Uh... we don't have to pay for that, do we?" "Hell if I know nigga. However, I'd very much more like to know the culprit who put Sunset and I through such bullshit." Noah directed his attention towards Principal Cinch who stood behind several of her students. When Noah laid his eyes on her, every voice in the theater settled, and Canterlot High casually stood behind him. Principal Cinch frowned and Noah nodded. "Yeah, I saw you motherfucker. You and you're piece of shit students, so eager to win this stupid-ass competition. These stupid-ass games." Principal Cinch folded her arms, "Is it honestly my fault that when you cheated, I was wrong for having the idea of fighting fire with fire?" "If you had any idea, you would've been smart enough to not fuck with shit you didn't understand and told your students to give it everything they had. Instead, you put the lives of countless people on a galactic scale in the worst danger of all time! "It's your fault four-eyes turned and fucked up our school. It's your fault that multiple students, including your own, were knocked unconscious, injured, or simply fuckin' dead. It's your fault our galaxy nearly came to an end, and it's your fault you lost! "And in the beginning, it was ruthless! I had glass in my fuckin' cheeks! Not these cheeks, by the way, those cheeks. All your goddamn fault!" Cinch took a step back into her students, but they avoided her like the plague and backed away furiously. Noah took a step forward when he saw the only students next to Cinch were Crystal Prep's chosen contenders. Including Firecracker who'd gained a bit of respect from Noah. He raised a finger, "These games, are done. You will never come back to our school for at least a century. If you can even muster jack shit at that time. You will take your pussy posse and get the fuck out of here. "I have more than enough reasons to simply kill you, but I'm no monster. And I ain't no snitch. But I do swear upon this. You best keep your muppets on a string, or else." Cinch narrowed her eyebrows, "Or else what?" "Or I'll fuckin' hang you from it." With that, Cinch fell silent. Not a word left her mouth. Almost like he was every one of her worst fears, Cinch scooted around him and made a mad dash for the exit. Never to be seen again. As for the students, Noah stomped and pointed. "Goodbye! Adios! Bonsoir! Arrivederci! Ciao! Get the fuck out!" The contenders nervously followed after Cinch, fearing Noah just as much as she did. The theater was left silent after that and everyone began home. Noah understood, of course. Today was a long day. But at least tomorrow would be better. FIFTEEN HOURS LATER Twilight Sparkle and her dog, Spike, sat upon the steps of Canterlot High as Cleaning Day reached its middle period. She'd withstood a lot in the past few days, but she was glad things had returned to normal. The one thing on her mind from last night was simply the horror she'd become. A violent and deranged monster without a sense of humanity for the life of her. Hellbent on taking every drop of magic until she had enough to annihilate the galaxy. She'd been wondering about her school, and how things would continue from that point. Principal Cinch would most likely go into hiding, the contenders from Crystal Prep would be disdained and despised, and both schools would never meet again for an entire century. She wondered what she'd do. What she could do. All her life she'd been an outcast. Completely neglected by students, disregarded by teachers, and even had her entire future threatened by her principal. But then she comes to Canterlot High, and they treat her like family despite knowing her for less than a day. It was after that thought, and the nightmares of Midnight that kept her up last night, that she'd decided what to do. It wasn't anything harmful in any way, she just thought it was for the best. She'd decided to enroll at Canterlot High. "I guess that was one way to finish up your time at Crystal Prep," spoke a voice. Twilight turned her attention from Spike to her left. It was Dean Cadence. In one piece, no less. "Pretty sure Cinch will be fast-tracking your application after all that," She finished as she took a seat alongside Twilight. Twilight sighed, "I've been thinking about it and... I'm not so sure now is the time for me to apply to Everton." Cadence smiled, "Really?" "I may know about a lot of things, but friendship isn't really one of them. Especially friendship magic after yesterday. And I'm definitely not gonna learn about more of it by being alone all the time." "So, you're staying at Crystal Prep?" Twilight turned over to the students who cleaned up and smiled herself. "Well, it seems the students here at CHS know an awful lot about the subject. I don't suppose..." "You could transfer to this school instead." Twilight lit up, "Really?" "You'd certainly be missed at Crystal Prep, kinda, but I think that's a great idea. I'll be sure to speak to Principal Celestia about it right away." ... The Black Five and the Rainbooms finished up cleaning the crater left by Midnight punching Noah straight into the portal. At least, some of them did. Noah sat on top and grumbled on his phone while Jain was discussing athletic ability with Rainbow Dash. Who was enjoying it much more than she’d anticipated. Applejack poked at Noah's foot that hung off the edge. "Noah, c'mon 'n' help us down here! This is your crater after all." Noah frowned, "Old Town Road, I was thrown through seven individual classrooms and landed in a trash bin. I think I deserve a break after nearly becoming paralyzed from the waist down. You know, after the classrooms?" "What if ah pulled you down?" "Then we'd have a problem." Rarity laid a hand on Applejack's shoulder, "Relax darling, it is fair after all. We were all inside the movie theater while he was dealing with... uh... what was her name again Noah?" "Midnight." "Midnight! Right! Right, right. So, Applejack, what say we just finish this crater. Noah has to pay for all the glass he shattered, after all." "I have to what?" Fluttershy poked Sunset's arm, curious, "Still no word from Princess Twilight?" Sunset opened her book and frowned, "Not yet, but, I think I may have figured out how magic works in this world." Sunset faced the rest of the Rainbooms and continued. "We pony up when we're showing the truest part of ourselves." CJ chuckled, "Y'all niggas just now figuring this out?" Sunset turned to CJ, bewildered, "I-I, what?" "It was pretty obvious. Raritry-" "Rarity," Noah corrected. "Rarity did that pony-up thing when she expressed her generosity. Pinkieec Ply-" "Pinkie Pie." "Pinkie Pie did the pony-up thing when she expressed her amusement, or fun, or whatever the fuck she is. Fluttersty-" "Fluttershy." "Fluttershy did the pony-up thing when she expressed her kindness. Applecrack-" "Applejack." "Applejack did the pony-up thing when she expressed her honesty. And Rainbow Crash-" "Rainbow Dash." "And Rainbow Dash did the pony-up thing when she expressed her loyalty." Jain sighed, "Hoy did you guys not pick up on this?" Rainbow Dash tilted her head, "You knew too?" "We all knew. We just didn't feel like telling you because you seemed so determined. At least, we were before CJ went ahead and got his balls cold again." CJ crossed his arms, "It was one fuckin' time, negro!" Sunset held the book close, "I'm sorry, I just... I was so occupied with waiting for someone else to give me answers that... I just gave up looking for them myself. "I'm sure there will be more magical problems that pop up in this world. Like Applejack said: "Princess Twilight has her own problems to worry about in Equestria." We can't expect her to always be around to help us." Noah hopped down from the statue and brought an arm around Sunset's shoulder. "Damn straight, Kid. Can't go around relying on others all your life. Gotta use your own head for once. And I'd say you'll need all the help from inside that you can muster after tomorrow." Sunset felt a frown find its way onto her face, but not for long after she sighted something behind her and her friends. "But, maybe I can be?" A voice called, and Noah brought his arm from around Sunset and turned his attention. It was Twilight and Principal Celestia. Celestia brought her hands behind her back, "It seems we have a new Wondercolt here at Canterlot High. She'd decided after the last few days to enroll, and I'd be criminal to deny her." Twilight shrugged, "I'm not sure how much help I could be, but I'd like to try. If you would all give me a chance." The Rainbooms smiled while the Black Five shrugged. But Noah crossed his arms and stood before her. "That depends. Are you bent on decimating the entire galaxy through magical genocide?" "Uh, no?" "Are you gonna be hanging out with these tools to learn about friendship or some crap like that?" "Uh, yes?" "Finally, are you gonna wear those glasses twenty-four-seven? Because otherwise, I'm just gonna refer to you as four-eyes. Not very creative, but what do you want from me." "Uh... maybe?" "Good! Then you're in! Just don't get pissed-" "Annoyed." "Annoyed when I call you a nerd," Noah finished while bringing an arm around Twilight and walking back towards his friends. Seemingly stealing her from Celestia. Though it didn't matter as the Rainbooms quickly gave Twilight a beautiful group embrace. Noah stepped back before they could though and crossed his arms in annoyance. These girls and their fuckin' group hugs, I swear... Celestia smiled, "I'm sure I can count on you all to help her feel at home." Noah coughed, "The boys and I are leaving." Celestia rolled her eyes, "I'm sure you are..." Noah threw his book bag in Manex's truck as he ignited it. After three long days, the galaxy was safe, and the Friendship Games were over. Permanently, of course. Noah turned to face the Rainbooms as Pinkie pulled up in her minivan. "Alright Rainbrooms, we'll see you guys at the Adventure Palace Resort, behind it, of course. We docked our boat over there, and we'll be leaving tomorrow at sundown. Got it?" The Rainbooms gave several thumbs up and Noah simply cringed at their carefree expressions. If there was one thing he wouldn't miss about Equis and its people, was their happy-go-lucky behavior. Noah turned to the portal, "And tell Twilight, the princess, when she gets back to go fuck herself for taking so long. I don't care if she was busy, my very well being is more important." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Sure it is." As if she was summoned by Noah's words, Princess Twilight Sparkle popped out of the portal to Equestria heaving. She spoke without stopping. "I'm so sorry I didn't get here sooner! I didn't get your messages until just now because I was caught in this time-travel loop and honestly, it was the strangest thing that's ever happened to me!" Twilight finally stopped with a gasp as she gaped at the other Twilight before her. The Rainbooms grew red with slight embarrassment while the Black Five snickered. "Uh... make that the second strangest-" "Well look who decided to show up!"
Intermission VI - When Girls Go Black...Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Intermission VII - Jain Benefactor & The Rainbow Factory... KindaAuthor's Note Operation: Phone Number of the Color Wheel... Intermission VII - Jain Benefactor & The Rainbow Factory... Kinda TWO WEEKS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "Huh... so this is what a crush feels like..." Jain gazed out the window at a girl sitting at a two-person table from the restaurant he worked at for part-time. He continued to wipe the counters of multiple tables, but he struggled to take his eyes off her. It was Rainbow Dash. For whatever reason, she'd taken a seat there ten minutes ago. Back when he handed out his last order. He was perplexed as to why she'd come to Queen Dairy's and just sit there. Sometimes she'd just scroll her phone and sometimes she'd be texting. He'd been wanting to simply go outside and talk to her, but his job wasn't finished, and he was hesitant after realizing something. Jain liked Rainbow Dash. Much more than a friend would. In the past, he'd simply not talk to a girl that said something to him, but this was different. He wanted to talk to her. He wanted to walk out that door, order her some ice cream, and listen to her for hours. But he was too afraid. Yet no matter how much he told himself he couldn't, he kept staring. Jain had known Rainbow Dash from around the school, however, something snapped when he saw her in action. It happened every time he talked to her. But now, it was different. It was as if her very presence made his heart pound. He'd never felt like this with a girl in his life. Sure, the girls on the sites he visited got him done, but Rainbow Dash was more than just appearance. Her blue skin, her magenta eyes, her sly smirk, her strikingly gorgeous hair, and even her somewhat raspy voice. Jain had heard uncountable voices from girls, but they always sounded so ordinary. The same types of voices you'd hear on TV shows or movies. But hers? It was like something he'd never heard. He'd heard her before, of course, but the words didn't simply fade into nothingness when they were directed toward him. Not to mention her athletic and tomboy-like behavior. Jain was aware girls were all into different things, but he'd yet to see a girl as athletic as her. She made the athletic boys back at his school look like a joke. And he'd seen it as well. Seeing as they shared the same gym class, events would take longer because it would always end in a one on one match between the two. Unless it was football or they were playing for fun, there wasn't a day that went by when he wouldn't find himself panting after class while she acted like it was another day at the office. Sometimes he wondered if Rainbow Dash was secretly a boy, especially considering she was rather flat. But whenever she turned around, he'd immediately remembered exactly what she was packing. "Jain!" A voice called, and Jain turned away from the window towards the voice who called. It was his manager, Rapid Gust. Or as Jain referred to him: Mr. Gust. If he was gonna have a job in a world of happy-go-lucky technicolored ignoramuses, he was going to at least have a sense of traditional life wherever he could. And calling his boss Rapid Gust would be hilariously absurd. As for Rapid Gust, he had orange skin, circular glasses, blue hair brushed to the side, and a simple black suit with a blue tie. As if anyone gave a shit about some corner store eatery. Jain dropped the sponge on the table, "Uh, yes Mr. Gust?" "That young lady out there has been sitting for a while now and hasn't ordered anything. Bulky-" Who the hell names their child Bulky? "-went out there earlier to ask, and she said she was waiting on something. Go on out there-" No, seriously. Who the hell names their child Bulky? Why does this place not have any normal names? Does anyone not find that shit unusual? Is that just how Equis is?" "-and ask her what she'd like. If she doesn't order this time, tell her to scram! I need tables for customers, not highschoolers looking for a place to relax because they live in an awful household!" Jain glanced over at both sides of the restaurant, "But Mr. Gust, only a third of this place is actually-" "Don't say it, just do it." Jain dropped his finger and brought his hands behind his back. If there was one thing Jain hated about work, it's that his boss resembled Flash Sentry at a much older age. He sometimes wondered if Rapid Gust was Flash’s father. Picking up the sponge before returning it to the sink, Jain replied. "Okay, Mr. Gust. I'll take care of it." Rapid Gust folded his arms sternly, "That's what I thought." He returned to his office in the back of the restaurant and Jain approached the door. Despite being initially afraid, Jain was delighted he'd get another chance to talk to the miraculous rainbow-headed athlete. He took a deep breath before pushing open the door and approaching Rainbow Dash's table. Before speaking, Rainbow Dash laid her eyes on him and raised an eyebrow. "W-Wait, Jain? You work here?" "Uh... yeah." Rainbow Dash shut her phone off, "Sweet! Now I can get a discount!" "Uh, you want a discount for food that isn't higher than twenty dollars? You don't have that kind of money?" Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, "Obviously I do, but there's nothing bad at paying a little less for anything. Besides, I'm not ordering for myself." "Oh, well uh, what would you... Wait, what?" "What?" "You said you weren't ordering for yourself." "Yeah, what about it?" "Who else would you be ordering for?" Rainbow Dash crossed her arms, "Well, I've been waiting on Fluttershy this entire time, but she must've gotten so wrapped up in helping those animals at the shelter. I'll never understand why she's always around or about them." Jain took a seat in the chair, "You were waiting on Fluttershy? Why were you waiting on her?" "Flutters and I normally go to restaurants once every month just to catch up with each other. Of all the girls, I've known Fluttershy the longest." "Uh-huh... So, where is she?" Rainbow Dash shrugged, "I don't know! I-I've been texting her this entire time asking where she's been and-" Interrupting Rainbow Dash, a notification popped up on her phone. Rainbow Dash lifted it to read the notification it clearly and groaned in frustration before flipping her phone onto the table. Jain tilted his head, "So..." "Fluttershy said she couldn't make it today because one of her birds has a tummy ache. I get that she's interested in them, but she doesn't need to center all of her downtime around them!" "Is it normal for her to do that?" "Miserably." Jain folded his arms and leaned back. "So, I have a question." "What?" "What's up with Applejack and Rarity? Are they a thing, or...?" Rainbow Dash snickered, "Oh, you mean that thing Sunset said when she blew her top? No, they're not dating. Rarity just likes to mess with Applejack because she finds her the most unique of us all." Jain laid a hand flat, "Seriously?" "Seriously. Rarity's into boys. She claims she's constantly on the prowl for the perfect gentlemen who knows how to treat a lady. But if you ask me, I think she messes with AJ because she's the closest thing Rarity has to a gentleman." "What do ya mean?" "AJ's always acting kind and honest to us like normal, but Rarity seems to see it some other way. I'm guessing because despite AJ being a girl, she's closer to a strong and kind gentleman than most students in our school." "Deadass?" "Yep! In fact, Applejack and Rarity have known each other much longer similar to how Flutters and I have known each other longer. AJ, even now, has always treated Rarity like a princess... kinda. "AJ's well aware that Rarity loves being treated like a princess, but I don't think she's aware just how much Rarity craves that treatment. When it comes to AJ being AJ, she knows what matters and what's important. So she'll push us and Rarity out of the way." "But that only makes Rarity crave it more." "Now you're getting it. AJ's always acted like Rarity's special hero or knight whenever she was needed. Especially as kids. Rarity loved playing Pretend with Applejack because she was always so oblivious to Rarity's true intentions and feelings. Applejack just thought they were playing, but Rarity was living out her fantasies." "How do you know all this? This sounds like something a narrator would explain to a reader." Rainbow Dash leaned back, "Well, Rarity likes to go to the spa with Fluttershy, and it's usually there where they unwind. And since Fluttershy wasn't aware it was all a secret, she'd told me about all of it." "Oh... huh. So, what'll happen when Applejack figures it out?" "If you ask me, I don't think she will. And if she ever does, she'll probably be like ninety-years-old." "Ninety? The fuck, why?" "Well, Applejack is still oblivious to Rarity at times. Not as much as she used to, but we've all seen it before. Did you know Applejack picks up and drops off Rarity to and from school every day?" "Again, deadass?" "A hundred percent! Applejack always says she's just being kind since Rarity has issues in the morning, but it's virtually every morning. You'd think after waking up late a couple dozen times, you'd get it together at some point." Jain held a fist over his mouth, "Holy shit, Applejack doesn't notice?" "She still doesn't! Rarity has been in her pick-up so many times, it's started to smell like her! And Applejack hasn't noticed! Even wondering if it smells better!" "You're shitting me." "Not even close. Rarity also likes using Applejack for her designs to see if they work or not on an actual human. Applejack always leaves at four in the evening on normal school days to help Rarity out. And when she isn't dressing Applejack up, she watches her work on Sweet Apple Acres on Saturdays and Sundays. "Rarity just loves messing with Applejack and taking advantage of her. In a good way, obviously. It just seems to make her day having her farmer friend act the way she does and do the things she does." "You know, that sounds a lot like Rarity is into Applejack. Are you sure she's into men?" Rainbow Dash rubbed her chin, "Y'know, now that I say it all out loud, I think she does have a crush on poor innocent Applejack. I'd never thought of it, honestly. Actually, doesn't Rarity always start their daily bickering? Do you think she-" "Likes bickering with AJ? I wouldn't be surprised, honestly. She always sounded like she was bickering just to talk to Applejack. Like she enjoyed it more than she should've. But Noah once told me that when you guys were at a diner for Valentine's Day that Rarity was leaning towards Applejack and that AJ was moaning." "Seriously?" "Yeah, seriously. From the sound of it, it seemed like Rarity was-" "Touching her? Maybe, but that sounds hard to believe. Rarity would have to have Applejack wrapped around her finger to get Applejack to believe it was a friendly thing to do." "I mean... doesn't she?" "Probably." Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow as she analyzed Jain. "So, what's your deal?" "The hell do you mean?" "I thought you were supposed to tell me to leave, yet you're just listening to me ramble about Rarity and Applejack's relationship. Is there something at work here? Hm?" Jain raised his finger to speak before lowering it. He took a glance at Rainbow Dash and a lightbulb went off in his head. "Well, if I'm being honest, I was gonna ask you for help about a girl that'd I'd been thinking of for some time now." Rainbow Dash sat up straight and felt something inside her break, but she didn't know what. "Whoa, well now! Jainy's getting his funk on with the ladies!" "Don't ever say that. Again. Ever." Rainbow Dash giggled, "Whatever, what is it you need? Wanna get to know her so you can score big time?" Jain smirked, "Well, if anything, she's quite excited to get it on herself. As a matter of fact, she's also quite enthusiastic about the topic. Why? No idea, but damn, does it turn a nigga on." Rainbow Dash felt something of a blush begin to form upon her face, but she shook it off. "Uh-huh, and what else?" "Well, she's attractive, adorable, and her hair is gorgeous. Whatever it is she does with it works phenomenally! Not to mention her personality, she's also fierce and brave. She once told me she'd do anything to protect her friends." "Go on." "She's pretty cocky too, but she does it so well. It gets me thinking just how cocky she'll be when I'm done with her." The blush returned, "Jeez, someone's eager for a lil something-something." "That's not even half of it. This girl could rival even you in terms of athleticism. I spend forever trying to beat her in phys ed, yet she just walks off like it's nothing! Like it was just another day in the office!" "Rivaling even me?" "Without a doubt! Her eyes are the colors of beautiful rubies, and her speech just gets something going inside me. Like I could listen to her ramble with her cocky attitude and raspy voice for hours! Sometimes I wonder if she'll ever stop!" "Oh wow," Rainbow Dash replied as the blush reddened. "She's so astonishing on an astronomical level, but I just wish I could be with her legitimately. Sometimes I daydream of her lips against mine and how wonderful it'd feel. "So do you know how to reel her in?" Rainbow Dash stuttered, "I-I, uh... um, how about this." Rainbow Dash wiped her forehead before standing up. She pulled out a crumpled homework sheet from her back pocket, drew a pen from her other back pocket, and scribbled numbers on the piece of paper in a corner. She tore the corner off and handed it to Jain, "This is my phone number. I gotta head home before it gets too late, so we can talk about this when I get home. Not to mention, you know, other times when you might need me." Jain smiled and grabbed the paper gently as she handed it to him. He stood up, "A'ight then. I hope you have some tactics and what not because I'm dying to get with her." "Don't worry about a thing. I'll make sure you have her begging at your knees for you." "You think she'll beg?" "W-Well, I... I-I can only guess, y' know?" Jain shoved the paper in his pocket, "Guess so. See you some other time, Dash?" Rainbow Dash smirked, "Without a doubt." With that, Rainbow Dash turned on her heels and began home. Jain enjoyed her on the walk away more than he should've. He'd imagine his friends would be hooting and hollering behind him. As Rainbow Dash turned the corner, he promptly took a seat on the table and chuckled. He pulled out her phone number along with his phone as he added her as a contact. "Guess Applejack isn't the only one oblivious..."
Intermission VIII - The Farmer, The Fashionista, & The Loud MouthAuthor's Note ”You Don’t Get To Hate Yourself. Not With Me Around...” -Anonymous Intermission VIII - The Farmer, The Fashionista, & The Loud Mouth THREE WEEKS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "I'm sorry nigga, come again?" "It's quite obvious darling. I've decided to try out clothing for men, and you were my only option. I'd called Noah to ask for some help, but he was unavailable. I asked for your other friends through him, and they were busy as well. All except for you, CJ." "But I'm not gay." "You don't have to be a homosexual to be a model darling. That's also quite offensive, so refrain from saying such things before we receive nasty comments and dislikes." CJ sat on Rarity's designer swivel chair as she explained to him what events had occurred to lead to this. As said earlier, Rarity had chosen to begin designs for men as well, but she needed help as the girls simply wouldn't work. She needed a boy. She'd asked Noah earlier for help, but he and Sunset were busy finding a new bedroom door and bed after they lost their virginity to each other two weeks ago. Despite Noah's predicament, they'd denied any and all regret for what happened in that room. She'd asked about Noah's other friends, the Black Five, but most of them were busy handling their own situations. Fall was busy figuring out what to do with a ten million dollar tugboat. Manex was busy catching up in class. And Jain had been making several excuses as a way to hang out more with the arrogant yet laughably unaware Rainbow Dash. Leaving her with CJ. In all honesty, CJ was the last boy she wanted to use. She was hoping Fall would show up as she was highly intrigued with how calm, collected, and kind he was. He reminded her of Fluttershy if she was a boy. She'd also settle for Jain or Manex. Jain was like Noah and Flash combined, and she was interested in how he would act towards a girl all alone. And Manex was quite simple. Doing whatever needed to be done, and helping as much as he could. Even if he didn't want to. But CJ? CJ was something else entirely. He was awfully rude, inconsiderate, and above all else, vulgar. Noah claimed he always managed to squeeze in a sexual comment or, "roast," as he called it. From what Rarity had seen personally, CJ wasn't at all inconsiderate. But he wasn't always like so. Rarity remembered the squabble between the Rainbooms and the Black Five during the Battle of the Bands. Of course, the Black Five had changed since then, but the memory still hurt at times. Especially from CJ. What he'd said to Applejack might as well have prompted a blood vessel to burst in her eye. She had difficult times speaking to him whenever they'd have to work together since they shared many classes. But Applejack, fortunately, was always around to ease up tensions. But in general, Rarity hadn't a place in her heart for him. And the fact that she had to resort to asking him for assistance almost made her blood boil. She'd rather have Snips and Snails inside her house than him. CJ shrugged, "Okay then I guess. So I have to wear shit for you and whatnot? Is this gonna take long nigga? No hate, but I genuinely have better things to do." Rarity furrowed her eyebrows, "I must measure you before I get started, of course. Which shouldn't take long at all. As long as you're cooperative." "Yeah, sure. Grab that tape measurer and go crazy nigga." Rarity sighed, This is gonna be a long day... ... "So, is fashion and shit just your passion? Y'know, making clothing and designing it, yada yada yada, has this just been your dream nigga?" Rarity sighed as she straightened her glasses, "Indeed. Though it is fairly... complicated. I'd rather avoid a major back story and simply continue with my work." "A'ight nigga." Rarity frowned. He'd said that word again. Nigga. Rarity hadn't a clue what it meant, but it drove her crazy. CJ and his friends just spat that word up, down, and all-around almost every sentence they spoke. Especially him. She'd understand if it was his culture or if there was a historical reason to it, but they just constantly repeat it. Over and over and over. She wasn't sure if the other girls felt the same, but something about that word just personally made her blood boil. "So nigga, I was thinking-" "I, was also thinking, CJ. I've already measured you perfectly. Along with the fact that it takes time to make clothing. Especially ones as magnificent as mine. So I was wondering... why haven't you left yet?" Rarity hadn't realized it yet, but she'd just reignited a conflict between the two that would not end well if treated improperly. CJ sat up from her bed and narrowed his eyebrows. "Okay nigga, is that what this is? I thought after my friends and I helped you save the planet, twice, that you'd put our beef behind us. Instead, you still feel the need to bitch and moan after I considered us something like friends." "I do, but not you! I would've chosen any other of your friends, even Manex, but instead, I got you. The one who hates everything and everyone. The loudmouth that can't zip it for five seconds!" "I was just having a friendly chat!" "Well, I don't consider a chat a legitimate chat where the word, "nigga," is simply thrown around haphazardly! Is that the sole word in your vocabulary?! Sure, Noah may swear an awful lot, but my word does he sound smarter than you! It's comparable to talking to a fucking child! A dense, black child!" CJ flinched as Rarity slammed her fist against the table before her outburst. He felt his eyes constrict with a feeling that wasn't anger, but something he'd rarely ever felt. CJ stood up from the bed and made his way to the door. He closed the door behind him gently, and Rarity returned to her desk. She set an elbow on the table and her hand covered half her mouth. She knew she'd done something wrong, but she was also in denial. I-I wasn't being rude, I was just stressed out. Y-Yeah, Noah'll talk to him and... Noah... argh... Sighing, Rarity immediately stood up from her chair and swung the door open. Just before CJ reached the steps, Rarity called out to him. "CJ! W-Wait! Come back! I apologize for my behavior! It wasn't proper!" Ignoring her believing she was lying, CJ continued down the steps. Rarity groaned and promptly followed after him. As she reached halfway down the steps, she placed a hand on CJ's shoulder and made him face her. "CJ, I... I... My word, CJ are you crying?" Rarity was correct. CJ indeed had a tear falling down his left cheek, but his face only showed anger. He pulled at his hands to escape her grip, but Rarity tightened. All that work on clothing did wonders. CJ scoffed, "Fuck off, it's none of your business. I'm a dumb little nigger, remember!? Go to hell!" CJ snatched at his hands from Rarity with such force, Rarity yelped and held her wrist beneath her arms. CJ wiped the tear from his face, stomped towards the front door, yanked it open, and slammed it shut behind him. All the while, Rarity was left in a daze of utter bewilderment. Not once in her life had she'd seen other members of the Black Five cry besides Noah. Especially CJ. Not to mention what he'd said dumbfounded her. Indeed, Rarity insulted him based on his color, but he seemed to take it dramatically. But something about his wording made her wonder. "'Dumb little nigger?' What does that mean?" "Do you enjoy working on this farm?" "I mean, why wouldn't ah? Ah love this farm." CJ sat and stared at what may be the most beautiful apple he'd ever seen while Applejack continued picking apples from a tree at the top of a ladder. An hour had passed since CJ's confrontation with Rarity, and it seemed Applejack hadn't received the news. From her phone, and CJ. After his temper blew from not being able to return to America, Applejack had offered him to come around whenever he fancied. Today was the first time he'd arrived, and he found himself unusually relaxed. There was something about Sweet Apple Acres that lured him in. It called to him as he approached. Like he belonged there. But the truth would undoubtedly say otherwise. And at this point, only half of him agreed. Applejack had insisted on CJ helping around the farm with whatever she required. That, or simply rest in a tree to get over whatever he was feeling. On any other day, his indolence would direct him to the highest tree in the orchard. Today, quite obviously, was different. Applejack dropped another apple into the basket, and CJ flipped the apple he held inside as well. Applejack looked down upon him and was left dumbfounded. Of all the days Applejack ever had the pleasure to lay her eyes upon the Loud Mouth, this one was the most peculiar. "So uh... If Ah may... What's the problem, CJ? Ya look lower than an ankle bracelet on a flat-footed pygmy." CJ crossed his arms, "I uh... Shit happens, I guess. And... I honestly just... Applejack, have you ever been judged based on your appearance?" "Mah appearance? Well, sure. Ah was made fun of a bunch of times in sixth grade for dressin' and soundin' the way Ah did-" "No nigga, I mean like... like your skin color." "Mah skin color? I-I, what do ya mean?" CJ stood up, "I mean as in the literal color of your skin. In this case, orange. Have people ever treated you differently based upon it? It doesn't even have to be a situation where they're rude. Has that ever happened?" Applejack searched her mind, "N-No... No, Ah don't think so. Why do ya ask?" CJ ran a hand through his hair, "Well, you know how Noah's always cracking jokes about officers?" "Yeah." "Well, there's a reason for that. Believe it or not AJ, America could only dream to be like Equis. It has less crime, beautiful scenery all around, and the economy isn't absolute shit. But most importantly, it has kinder people." "What do ya mean? People aren't kind in America?" "People like to believe there's good, but there isn't. Along with the fact that so many people don't see the problem. Especially because they are the problem. Now, I don't wanna get political and shit, but almost everyone in America is at each other's throats. "Everyone has an opposite that all tracks back to our past. I don't wanna drop the whole fuckin' concept, er, history lesson on you, but basically, America is full of people across the world. "Some people colonized it, while others had it stolen from them and others were transported to it against their will. That, un-fuckin'-fortunately, is all I can remember. History class was a bitch." Applejack slid down the ladder, "Transported against their will? Like, they were forced to?" "Yep, it's the dumbest shit. Like I said, not gonna get into detail, but because of what's occurred in the past, it has heavily affected the future. It's been affecting us for three to four centuries." Applejack's jaw dropped, "Up to four hundred years?! Ya better not be lyin', because Ah can see right through ya!" "You can ask Noah and the others, I'm not lying. Shit's fucked over there. And people, sadly, can't see the truth. Sure, people have every right to have an opinion on someone or a group, but you can't base that hate on everyone. "It's become this idea that if someone is from a certain group, or in this case, has a skin color similar to a mass amount of people, that they're just like all the others. The others being the ones who give said amount of people a bad name. "Politicians, teachers, border patrollers, even officers. Which could obviously result in horrid things. And you'd be surprised just how many horrid things have occurred. Notoriously horrid things." Applejack took a seat next to CJ and let him continue as she removed her hat from atop her head. CJ was normally the type of person to talk more bizarre, or how Noah termed it, ghetto, than normal. And yet, he was speaking entirely like Noah. Like he hid a part of himself that's smarter than presumed. CJ continued, "Because of these occurrences, our society has only grown worse and worse. Understandably, it's normal to say certain things about certain people, but not entire races. And because of this hate in their heart, they only make our society worse and worse. I-" Applejack laid a hand on top of CJ's shoulder, "CJ, c'mon now. There's no need to have thoughts about terrible things like that. What happens in America should stay in America for the better. And just from the sound of it, it seems livin' here may be the smarter choice. Regardless if that was your home." "Oh, uh... I guess that would be smarter to think. I just... I may have had a bit of a dumbass argument with one of our friends, and... I may have let something slip. Something from... well... America." Applejack tilted her head, "Well, what was it that you let slip?" "I... Applejack, do you hate me?" Applejack shook her head, "Of course not! Sure, we may not have been even acquaintances back then, but that's the past. From that day forward, when we saved the galaxy, Ah considered you one of my best friends. Because despite not knowin' a thing about ya, and what you've said in the past, any friend of Noah is a friend of mine. "Ah may've only known Noah from his disputes with Sunset in the past and thought of him as a male version of her from somewhere outside, but when Ah got to know him during and after the Battle of the Bands, Ah learned there was more to him. That there was a compassionate yet humorously rude leader inside. "And if that leader considers you the reason he still walks this planet, then that must mean there's a compassionate yet humorously rude leader inside of you as well. A leader Ah'm willin' to follow to the end of it all." CJ crossed his arms and furrowed his eyebrows, "Well... then why didn't they see that..." "Who's they-" "Applejack! Cejel! Come on inside! Granny made apple fritters today! Ya better hurry before the girls and I eat them all! Or Big Mac!" CJ promptly stood up and faced the voice who called out. Unquestionably, it was Applejack's younger sister, Applebloom, calling from inside. Seeing a way out, CJ started away from the tree and inside AJ's house. "Oh shit nigga, we gotta go in. Grab them apples or leave 'em, we'll be back for them and shit later. Ooo, I can smell those motherfuckers from here! Mmmm, goddamn it! That shit smells delicious!" And just like that, CJ returned to his natural state. His ghetto language and behavior replacing what he displayed earlier like it was a glitch in the Matrix. Applejack was left absolutely bewildered as he sprinted towards the house, ultimately leaving many questions unanswered. She haphazardly returned her stetson to its rightful place and began after him. Her head was full of questions, but also major irritation. If there was anything the Element of Honesty hated, it's being left in the dark. As she lifted the bucket and sighed, she thought to herself. Who's, "They?" "A'ight, I'll see you some other time AJ." "Ah hope that time comes soon. You're always welcome here, got it?" "Gotcha." CJ shut the door to his sedan as the evening shortly came to an end. Despite earlier, AJ hadn't been able to figure out what CJ had let slip. At Rarity's and earlier at the orchard. Hoping it wasn't anything serious, Applejack had decided to let it go. If CJ would go to such extents as to keep it a secret, then it's only fair not to pry. Although, she couldn't lie about the idea of CJ, of all people, having a secret. Applejack rested her arms on the window frame as CJ attempted to ignite the sedan, "You drive safe now, ya hear? The last thing we need is a student slash best friend dyin' before our graduation." Oh, you have no idea. CJ nodded, "Got it my nigga. Just don't-" "Wait!" Applejack poked her head out of the car and turned her attention to the left. Coming up the trail followed by a major amount of dust was none other than Rarity in her BMW knockoff. Applejack raised an eyebrow and stood away from CJ's car. "Is that... Rarity?" "Rarity?! Shit nigga!" CJ continued to ignite the sedan rapidly. Applejack turned back to him as he began stomping on the gas pedal and took a step back. "CJ, what's ya problem?" Rarity came around CJ's car and parked in front of him. She then yanked her keys out, unbuckled herself, quickly pushed the door open, and approached CJ by his side of his car. Admitting defeat, CJ threw his hands into the air carelessly, let them fall back down and stared at the ceiling with his head against the seat. "CJ! Listen! I-I didn't mean to say what I did back at my house! I-I was stressed! Please don't be mad at me! Noah'll kill me if he finds out I ruined a friendship so quickly out of petty anger!" Applejack came around the sedan and approached Rarity, "Slow it down, sugar cube. What in the hay are ya talking about? What happened back at ya house?" "Well, I asked Noah about any of his friends that could help me work on my new outfits for men, and the only one available was CJ! I let slip certain things a lady should never say, and he left in tears and anger!" "Tears? Rarity, what the he-" Suddenly, CJ pushed open his door, stepped out, and took a seat on the hood. "I know what you're gonna ask-" "Darn right Ah'm gonna ask! What happened back there?!" CJ sighed, "We were at Rarity's house, like she said, and she said stupid shit that pissed me off. So I left the room and started to leave the house before she stopped me. That's when I let something slip." Rarity took a step forward, "And I'm indubitably remorseful for my actions. Please, don't think I don't understand why Noah has you as a friend, I just got so worked up with your behavior. But that's not a reason as you weren't doing anything wrong! But if I may, what was it you said back there? "I know it's not my place to ask, but I feel horrible! As if I struck an unpleasant cord! Just... W-What was it that you said back there? What does it mean?" CJ looked away from the girls and gazed at the rising moon. He crossed his arms, "Noah isn't the only one with a shitty backstory. I know his is much worse than mine, but sometimes I can't help but get irritated." Applejack tilted her head, "Backstory?" "Nearly two decades ago, back when I was born and lived as a child, I had two... parents. I say it like that because as I look back, I wonder if they were even my parents at all. "You see, I grew up in a shitty home. No siblings, no grandparents, no aunts, uncles, or even pets. It was just me, my mother, and my father. We lived in Harlem, Chicago, and I spent most of my time being homeschooled. "My Father's name was Louis Ruckus, and my Mother's name was Christina Ruckus. As you can tell, we were the Ruckus family. And to this day, I abhor that name with every fiber of my being. "The reason being my parents. They weren't ordinary, and they hated almost every goddamn thing I did. Whether it was eating, drinking, or playing with toys, they always thought I was doing it wrong. Those black basterds. Or as they thought of themselves, white." Rarity raised an eyebrow while Applejack felt dots connect in her head. CJ continued, "My parents were defined as the worst type of person you could be. An Uncle Tom." Rarity tilted her head, "What in the world is an Uncle Tom?" "An Uncle Tom is a person regarded as betraying their cultural or social allegiance. Or in this case, a black person considered to be excessively obedient or servile to white people. "My parents were this multiplied by a factor of four hundred and twenty. They had posters of famous racists up on the walls. They worked for the white man, they praised the white man, they even prayed to the white man. As if they were gods." CJ's face began to glow red with rage, "Those nappy-headed shit stains judged every goddamn thing I did! They judged me for how I ate, they judged me for how I played, they even judged me for how I slept! And every fuckin' time they did, they hit me with a motherfuckin' hanger! They never even called me by my name!" "You must eat like a white boy, little nigger! You must pray to the white man, little nigger! Why do you sleep like that, little nigger!? I know I didn't raise a waste of human trash, little nigger! You gonna flunk outta school and never get a job too little nigger?! "I started hating myself! Thinking I was just some stupid, worthless, motherfuckin' dipshit! I hated everything I did! I watched how white boys played to act like them! I watched how white boys ate to act like them! I even painted myself white on the first day of middle school so I'd be accepted! I became a fuckin' laughing-stock until I started bullying other black kids because of their skin!" "I once owned the school similar to Sunset until I was taken down in the eighth grade by a fuckin' white boy! The irony in that is maddening! I just couldn't think straight! I ran away from home after that day bringing with me my Father's gun that he hid. "Once I shut that door, I just kept running. Running and running and running and running! I felt like my feet would never stop! Like I could just run until it was all over... It was only half a day later did I find myself in that orphanage. It was almost like I teleported. "Even when I ended up there, it was only when Noah showed up did he show me how much people matter. Regardless of the color of their skin. It's why I see him as a leader. And even after three years, I still don't think I'm ready to leave him behind." Applejack's stetson laid upside down as she dropped it earlier when her face contorted into misery. As for Rarity, she'd felt like she just lost her entire home. A feeling she hadn't felt before. Rarity looked away, "So that's why you acted the way you did when I said what I said. CJ I'm... I-I'm indescribably sorry. I... I never should've said what I said. I should've been more proper and understanding, I... I had no idea. "I just... I was too focused on my upcoming wardrobe that I'd completely forgotten that you were an orphan and that there was unmistakably a reason for that. I-I should've used my head. Please! CJ, darling, I apologize!" Applejack took a step forward, "CJ... you know that's all in the past, right? Whatever happened back then, you're free to leave it there forever. Nobody's forcin' you to go back, and nobody's forcin' you to relive those memories. "Here in Equis, whether you believe it or not, we're your friends. Rarity may have let somethin' slip, but you know how she is when it comes to her dresses. I'm sure she didn't mean it, and whatever she was thinkin' wasn't true. "And whenever those memories or thoughts begin to creep up inside, just... remember what I said today." "And that would be?" Applejack scoffed jokingly before approaching him closer and taking a seat on the sedan's hood next to him. Following suit, Rarity came around the back of the sedan and took a seat next to him on the other side. She brought him into a hug out of remorse and Applejack brought an arm over his shoulders. "What happens in America, stays in America."
Intermission IX - All Your Wildest DreamsAuthor's Note The God of Second Chances... Intermission IX - All Your Wildest Dreams FOUR MONTHS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "Adagio... why is time moving so slow?" "It's pretty simple, Aria. We're dead." Aria sat upon her bed and stared out the window beside her while her sister Adagio laid in bed. Every day, Aria would gaze out of this window and at the grand display before her. White. The most uninhabited and devoid of life place to probably ever exist in our entire universe. Or at least as far as Aria could think. She sometimes wondered just how far the white stretched, and how exorbitant it truly was. Her hair had been changed from its characteristic pigtails to simply falling to her shoulders. Unlike Adagio, Aria had decided to simply stop tending to her hair, and its color seemed to become dry and stagnant. "When we were immortal," Adagio continued, "Time moved quickly because it didn't apply to us. Weeks felt like days, months felt like weeks, years felt like months, decades felt like years, and centuries felt like decades. "Now that we're dead, everything feels exactly as it should. Long and boring. Why do you ask?" "Adagio, if that statement were true, and we were alive, we should've been nearly a decade into this. Yet, we're not even half a year through. It has been five months, four weeks, three days, two hours, and eleven seconds since we died at that school." "What's your point?" "I think I'm losing it." Adagio sat up and sighed, "Aria, what are you talking about?" "Adagio, I've been looking out this same window since we first received it, and not once have I seen anything change. We only know it's night time because the lights turn off. And I've watched every single film on that bookshelf. Twice. "The food is all the same, it's always warm in here, the water is constantly changing force in the shower, we've been making carrot cake for months now, and the cable barely ever works." "Okay, that just sounds like we live in a crap hole." Aria faced her, "But that's not all. I wash my hair every day, but I feel like I miss a spot every time. My eyes have begun to twitch and water, my throat feels sore, and I keep hearing this ringing. "I've been in this house for so long, I don't know what to do or what's happening. I just want Noah to drop dead already so we can move on with our existence. I don't care if we perish, I can't stand this fucking void anymore. "I want it to end already." Adagio fiddled and stared at her fingers as she thought to herself. She peeked over at Aria, and she promptly spotted tears welling up in her eyes. She cursed underneath her breath as she couldn't disagree. Adagio herself had also felt like this void was picking away at her sanity. She thought that perhaps the house would keep her sane, and it did. But not for very long. She'd find herself staring at the mirror every time she left the bathroom. Thinking to herself as if she was truly all alone. Who was that in the reflection? It wasn't Adagio Dazzle, that's for sure. "I was meant to be adored," she'd whisper. "I was meant to beautiful," she'd mutter. "People would look to the sky and cry tears of joy because their leader, their lord, had arrived. Instead, I'm just a sad, lonely, little bitch." Thanks to Noah, she'd turned her thought process around, and had realized just what type of monster she was. A cold-blooded, sadistic, inhumane, thieving, fabricating, lying, narcissistic, indiscriminate, genocidal, psychopathic megalomaniac who committed mass homicide on a global scale and hadn't a clue what compassion or humanity signified. Might as well have been the Devil's daughter. Adagio understood her past mistakes, but that didn't mean they never haunted her. Sometimes, she'd stare at Noah as he slept. Wondering just how much damage she could do to him. Wondering if she could do damage at all. Wondering if Noah or Aria was aware of the gaze she gave to his temporarily unconscious body. And what thoughts ran wild inside her head. Besides sleeping, Noah had become friendly for some strange reason. And despite abhorring him for getting in her way in the past, she'd somehow warmed up to him as well. Treating him less like an enemy, and more like a friend. Aria, however, was a different story. She'd watched from the not so dark shadows of Noah and Adagio's strange friendship and was horrified yet absolutely livid at the same time. To her, it'd seemed like Adagio had thrown everything they'd ever done out the window, and just accepted Noah. Like she'd never met him. It was sickening. She wasn't mad at her sister, of course, she was just in a terrible state as she knew if Adagio acted the way Aria knew she did in the past, it'd be endless pain. And Aria knew said pain all too well. Turns out being flung faster than the speed of sound can render your clothing unwearable. The bloodstains as well, of course. Adagio looked back at Aria and found that the tears had finally dropped. The last time she'd seen Aria cry was during the American Revolution in which America won. She didn't cry for the British though, she cried because she'd lost a bet with Sonata after centuries of beating her. She lost nearly everything to that imbecile, and never betted again. But Adagio was well aware that these were sincere tears. Tears she hadn't seen since they were banished to Earth for a millennium. Tears she hoped she'd never have to witness again. Despite the trio's behavior and actions, they cared for each other deep down. Unfortunately, it was painfully difficult for them to express any sense of love towards each other. The last time Adagio ever saw Sonata and Aria hug was after they caused the Invasion of China in 1214. Albeit, it was fairly, "half-assed," as Noah would call it. Thus being in this void only made things worse. The sisters only had themselves, not to mention they were missing one. Adagio spent entire, "nights," wondering where Sonata would be. She'd probably be trying to make friends with some stray dogs only for them to die three days after and leave her sobbing in an alleyway somewhere on the other side of Equis. But at this point, only God knew. Right now, Aria was the focus. And Adagio couldn't remember the last time she'd done anything sentimental or gave any sense of love towards her. She wondered if she'd done anything at all. Adagio stood off her bed and ran a hand through her hair. "Aria... I know we're going through some things at the moment. I get that things aren't easy. And I'm well aware of what this place is doing to our heads. "But... this is an opportunity for something we've never had before. Something Sonata always seemed to hold within her heart despite whatever we faced. I can imagine she still has it now." Aria looked up at her sister, "Opportunity for what?" "Eternal happiness." "... the hell?" Adagio smiled despite Aria being rather serious, "I-I mean, I'm talking about that thing the humans would believe. That place above. Heaven, or whatever they called it.” Aria narrowed her eyebrows, "Are you talking about those stupid Christian guys who believe in some white-bearded loser up in the clouds all from a book with stupid folk tales from more than thousands of years ago?" "... yeah..." Aria's face fell flat, "Adagio, that's ridiculous." "Well, just think about it for a second. I know it sounds crazy and that there isn't a lick of proof, but just think. This belief is scattered across this entire planet with entire empires believing it. Don't you think there's something else to it?" "Spit it out, Dagi." "I'm saying there's a chance this heaven place may actually exist, and you know what else?" "What part of, "spit it out," did you miss?" "If we maybe become better people here, there's a chance we could go up there and spend eternity happily. It'd be like paradise, only we never have to leave! We can do whatever, whenever, however, whyever, forever!" "But Adagio, how are we supposed to become better people when we're losing our sanity not even halfway through a year? By the time that God dude decides our fate, we'll be drooling and laying on the floor like it's a way of life. We won't even speak proper English! Not to mention the millenniums we’ve spent terrorizing people. How are we supposed to do jack shit?" "I... I..." Adagio sighed, "I don't know Aria. The best we can do is... the best we can do is wait until tomorrow, I guess." Aria climbed back into her bed and pulled the covers close to her. Adagio wiped her face and climbed back into her own bed. She pulled the covers over her head, and Aria looked back out the window. I don't even know if there'll be two of us... "Oi! Fuck nuts! Wake up!" "Ah!" Aria and her sister scrambled out of bed as Noah burst in unannounced. Adagio fell out of bed and landed on her chest and Aria followed, landing on her back. Noah's face fell flat and he chuckled. Aria sat up, "Noah, what the hell?!" "I got a surprise for you losers! Now come outside!" "Is it nice?" "It's gorgeous, let's go!" Noah shut the door behind him and Aria groaned at the sound of his steps. Adagio stood up on all fours and Aria slid off. She came to her feet and Adagio followed. She flicked Aria’s forehead and she cried, "Ow! What the hell was that for?!" "That's for falling on my back! You know it hurts!" "How's that my fault?!" "You're supposed to be the one with faster reflexes and more attentive!" "I was sleeping!" "Oh, shut the hell up and let's go!" Adagio, irritatedly, forced her slippers on and didn't even bother with her robe. Aria rolled her eyes and slipped on her slippers and robe as Adagio headed downstairs. Stomping quite madly all the way. Though she was indeed sleeping, Aria herself was slightly surprised that she didn't awake to the sound of Noah's steps. They weren't loud, but they were just noisy enough to wake her up in a heartbeat as she was always the sentry of the group. There were times where the Sirens were hunted down, but it was unfortunately and fortunately lost to time with no record of it in the history books. When those times came, Aria was chosen to be the lookout as she was the most observant, attentive, and a light sleeper. Paying attention to several details that would make the common man shudder. The detail of one's clothing, the clothing itself, their hair, the amount they blink within a minute, what they drink, their facial expressions, and when required, the amount of breathes one take. There was a time the Sirens had decided to ignite the first world war out of a dare, specifically Aria. Her sisters weren't up for it, but she made it work. And as the others don't remember, it's for the best that some secrets stay just as that. A secret. Though for Noah, Aria slept like a dog. It seemed so much time in the Void of Siren Hell had made Aria rather sloppy and careless. Not that it was her fault, of course. There just wasn't anything to be watchful of or for. Shaking her head, Aria exited the room and began downstairs. As she reached the bottom floor, she faced the left expecting to see her sister and Noah, she instead saw nobody. She turned to the right and saw the front door open. But something caught her eye. Shining through the window appeared to be... "Sunlight? What in the..." Aria promptly approached the front door and yanked it open. She spotted her sister along with Noah but felt her jaw fall off as she gawked at the sight before her as if she'd just seen the sun go supernova. It was a town. A happy, little, town. Aria felt her eyes dilate as she approached her sister. She turned to her for a brief moment and saw her eyes weren't just dilated as well, but tearing up. She even spotted a slight genuine smile. Aria poked Noah's shoulder, "What... what is all this?" "Oh, this? Eh, nothing major, major. Just a chill as fuck town I happened to pull out of my ass." Aria turned her attention to Noah and tilted her head. His eyes were also dilated, but they were also red. As if every blood vessel in his eye just went off like a nuclear detonation. She quickly spotted the slide seal bag in his left hand, but what caught her attention were its contents. Aria's face fell flat. Cocaine. Of course it's cocaine. "So, I heard you crazy bastards going on and on about how death sucks and you want to me to die so you nasty piles of dogshit can go to hell already! But you were going on and on about how you'd go crazy from isolation and perhaps even kill each other! "I said that's a fuckin' no-no, so I made some souls and a town and a bunch of other shit you'd need that I'm too cracked out to name, and gave it to you! And the best part!?" "... would be?" "The souls are actual people! Like, they were saying they were from Equestria or whatever the fuck and that there was this whole prison to become better people and other souls to monitor those other souls and yadda, yadda, yadda! "So I said, "Meh, fuck it. Why not?!" And now we have a town and you stupid little cunt nuggets won't go insane! Aren't I just the best motherfucker that you have the privilege to spend a long and unforgiving century with?!" How much cocaine did he inhale? "Uh," Adagio began, "Yeah, I guess. Thank you, Noah, uh... I'll just take that..." Adagio slowly reached for the slide seal bag while maintaining eye contact with Noah. Aria held her sides, disturbed, as Noah's eyes twitched uncontrollably as if he'd just witnessed a human and a baby horse have sloppy, sinful sex. "Fuck off ya puffy-haired titty sprinkle!" Noah shouted maniacally as he drew the bag back towards him and held it close to his chest. Adagio yelped and drew back as well. Aria placed a hand on her shoulder to leave him be. "Okay, we're just gonna... W-We're just gonna go check out the, uh... The town, heh heh, you just uh... Just... Don't do anything stupid," Adagio finished as she and Aria slid away from the Super Element higher than the underwater sun. Once they reached a reasonable distance, Aria analyzed every inch of what she could see and was speechless. The town was perfect. The people were relaxed and joyous, the town was bright and gorgeous, and the sun above made her believe she was no longer lifeless. Noah had given them a chance to become better people with others besides himself. Giving them the ability to go above, if there was an above, anyways, and have all their wildest dreams come true. Aria looked up at Adagio and noticed a tear of joy drip off her left cheek. Out of her happiness for her sister and herself, Aria wrapped her arms tightly around Adagio, pulling her into a loving embrace. One that hadn't been given since Sonata came into their lives an unfathomable amount of years ago. Adagio slowly grinned and cuddled her back. "Let's give it another go..."
Intermission X - In The Pit of My HeartAuthor's Note Something Warns... (The following includes sexual themes). (I’m not entirely proud of this chapter, to be honest.) Intermission X - In The Pit of My Heart FIVE WEEKS AFTER THE FRIENDSHIP GAMES EVENT "Yo, shawty knew how to through it back like it was a part of life, my nigga! That fire-haired bitch made me wonder if she was even from here!" "Noah, for the last goddamn time, we know you lost your fuckin' virginity! You've been shouting it at the top of your lungs all month long! Would you shut the hell up already!?" "Hoes mad..." "The fuck did you say?!" In an attempt to bring the Black Five and the Rainbooms closer together, Noah had invited both groups of friends to a picnic in the park. While the Girls were busy setting up the picnic, the Boys were out in the woods doing God knows what. Noah returning to his past behavior. Being who they were and knowing each other for so long, they followed one after the other inside despite not knowing why. Guess one could say that they entered the woods for no reason at all, and the Boys would shrug and agree. Despite being in high school, they weren't the brightest. Fall sat in a tree and stared off into the thick of it while CJ balanced a stick off his fore and middle finger. Manex went back and forth with their leader, and Jain texted someone on his phone. A warm feeling stretched across his face. CJ sighed and dropped the stick, "Okay, fine, I'll bite. Why the hell are we out here?" Jain shrugged, "Fuck if I know, negro. I followed Manex." Manex pointed to Noah, "Well, I followed him." Noah crossed his arms, "And I followed Fall." CJ laid a hand flat, "Okay then, Fall, why the fuck are we out here in the middle of the woods when we could be eating Pinkie's unusually delicious cupcakes-" "You feel it too, don't you?" Fall interrupted CJ cryptically and narrowed his eyes at the trees. CJ tilted his head as he turned to the others. The Boys shrugged and raised an eyebrow while Noah took a step forward. "Feel what?" "It's this... feeling. This sensation. I can't describe it as it's faint, but it's also somehow strong at the same time. I don't understand it, I can't comprehend it, but it means something. Don't you feel it too?" Noah placed a hand over his chest and took a deep breath, "Fall, I... I-I-I... I-I don't understand. What the hell are you talking about-" "I feel it." Noah turned to face who spoke and laid his eyes on Jain. He'd shut off his phone and it laid face flat on the log he sat upon. His face had suddenly changed from carefree to stressed and uptight. Noah tilted his head, "What feeling? I'm confused as all hell right now." Jain fiddled with his fingers, "You know how in the movies and TV shows when the main guy-" "Protagonist." "Same thing, feels something is odd? L-Like, it's this feeling of something bad is going to happen, but I don't know what. If I'm being honest, I felt it back when I met you." "Me? Jain, that was nearly half a decade ago. How the hell are you just now bringing this crap up?" "I-I don't know! At first, I thought it was leading up to the Fall Formal when Princess Twilight arrived at our school. But it didn't go away. Then I thought it was the Battle of the Bands with the Sirens. And nearly a month ago, I thought it was the Friendship Games. Despite all of that shit, the feeling's still here." "Okay, but why is it being brought up now?" "I... I don't know. If Fall feels the same, the sensation must be getting stronger. After each event, it seems to grow larger. I mean, I used to feel it in my toes, but now I feel it all in my lower half." Fall folded his arms, "Noah, something is on the way. We don't know what, but it doesn't seem to be after what we've usually encountered. It's not after Equestria, it's not after Earth itself, and it's not after the galaxy. Or whatever the hell Midnight was after. It feels like-" "It's after us," Manex interrupted. Noah whirled around, "You feel it too? What the shit?" "I-I just thought it was puberty or something!" "Negro domis, we're friggin' seventeen! We're juniors! Puberty is just about done at this point!" "W-Well, I didn't know you guys felt it as well!" "And what do you mean, 'It's after us?'" "Well... I feel like it's coming from outside. Back in our part of the world. Like it knows we're here and it's coming for us. Like it's some sort of consequence for something stupid we did in the past." "What, the US Navy is after us for stealing one of their stupid-ass tugboats? Pirates found some stupid treasure and are after us because we connect with it? Jain's parents?" Jain’s face fell flat, "Go fuck yourself, blacky." Manex scratched the back of his head, "Either way, I'm talking about Equis. Not us, specifically. Unless the Navy is truly that bitchy, something else is after us. And I feel like we won't be able to stop it." Noah scoffed, "Manex, I threw a psychopathic, bloodthirsty, magical demon from Hell bent on taking everything from us and wiping everyone we know and love off the face of the universe, at a school bus. Some asswipes from the outside aren't gonna do jack shit to us." "Well, It's obvious that we can stop them, it just feels like we won't be able to save them." "Save who?" "Our friends." Noah took a step back and stared, disturbed, and slightly frightened. Jain folded his arms, worried, and CJ stood up from the log, also worried. Fall climbed down from the tree he was in and glared at the ground with his hands in his pockets. It was painstakingly obvious what Manex spoke of, and Noah didn't like it one bit. Whatever his friends were feeling or predicting wasn't just concerning, but quite irritating. He'd known the Rainbooms for half a year, and now they're gonna die? What's supposedly going to kill them? Another Equestrian villain? An ancient monster? Is the US Military tracking them back to Equis? Is any military tracking them back? Whatever it was, Noah didn't need it. Especially considering he and Sunset had finally come together. What if whatever is coming will take her from him? All of that time coming together wasted. And the future Noah dreamed of, shot dead. What if whatever's coming is after more than just his friends and Sunset? What if they're after Canterlot Highschool in general? Noah will probably be able to stop them, but he'll never see them coming. "You guys! Where are you?" Noah lost his train of thought and he along with his friends turned their attention to the voice. It sounded like Rainbow Dash calling from the entrance of the woods. Noah sighed, raised a finger, and spoke. "Listen dipshits, we don't mention any of this to the girls, and we never mention it in public. I don't know what the hell is going on with some of you guys, but it's not ruining this picnic, and it's not ruining anything in general. Do I make my black-ass clear?" Noah raised an eyebrow at each of his friends and they each shrugged and nodded. CJ, Jain, and Manex all wiped off their clothing and began back to the picnic. As Fall began to follow, Noah gripped his shoulder, "Oi. If you ever feel anything like this, don't be afraid to talk to me about it privately. I don't feel like going through the same shit we did with you back in freshman years. Got it?" Fall rolled his eyes but nodded, "Got it." "Now that we've got time and whatnot, I never heard what went down all those weeks ago with you and Noah, Sunset. I'm aware that was nearly a month ago, but, I was busy dealing with clothing and a certain someone." Applejack folded her arms, "Rarity, you're just now hearin' what they did together?" "I just said I was busy with clothing and a certain someone." "Well, Ah was dealin' with someone as well, and Ah knew weeks earlier." Rarity waved her off, "Not the actual sex darling, I'm talking details. Ya know what I mean, shimmy?" Sunset blushed, "Uh, w-we don't need any details, right AJ?" Applejack shrugged, "Well, until the others come back with our drinks, since Fluttershy decided to spill all of our soda for a deer, Ah guess it wouldn't be too much harm to hear a lil somethin'-somethin'." Sunset tugged at the collar of her shirt, "Well..." ... "Is that seriously all you got? I thought the Super Element of Righteousness could do better than this!" "I go any faster, the neighbors are gonna think there's a raping going on because you'll never stop screaming!" "Is that so?" "Yes! That is very much so!" "Than show me you handsome fuck!" "Why are you such a damn hypocrite!?" "Not my fault! I've been hanging around an idiot who can't keep his mouth shut for half a year now!" "Do I look like CJ to you?!" "Kinda." "That's it, give me your throat." "That's the spirit-hmph!" ... "...Huh... You uh... you sound quite... uh... aggressive..." Sunset rubbed the back of her neck, "Well Rarity, Noah was telling me that it was as if the old me returned with a vengeance. He wondered if I was faking being nice and all just for that moment." "Were you?" "No, dipshit! I-I mean-uh... No..." Applejack giggled, "Well now, seems Noah is influencin’ you a bit." Sunset rolled her eyes and crossed her arms, "Do you want me to continue, or not?" "Well, actually, Ah've been meanin’ to ask you guys a question. Have you ever, well, Ah don't know how to put it into words but, have you ever felt this strange sensation inside your chest?" "What, like anxiety?" "No, no, Ah mean... Like, worse than anxiety." Rarity tilted her head, "How so?" "Well, it kinda feels like somethin' bad is goin' to happen. Like, at first, Ah thought it was leadin' up to you at the Fall Formal, but... it wasn't. It stayed, and it hasn't left since. I'm startin' to think whatever's comin' next isn't gonna be easy. Don't you guys feel anythin'?" "Well, now that you mention it, I have felt a tad bit strange recently. But, I've been feeling it underneath my ribcage more so than my chest. It feels like... Like I was shot by something." Sunset grew uneasy, "Shot? What, like, by a gun?" "Well, of course darling. I'm pretty sure I can't be shot by a lead pencil or whatever." "Eh..." "Shut up." Applejack itched her chin, "But, why would firearms come into play? There hasn't been a firearm incident since 1851. Not to mention that was just an accident. So why would you feel that way?" "I've no clue. But, who do we know that has reintroduced weaponry to us and our school recently? A certain group of black outsiders and their black leader, conceivably?" Sunset laid a hand flat confused, "You think Noah and his friends have something to do with your feeling? B-But, why would they? They're our friends! You can't accuse them of that!" "Relax darling, I was just making a few connections. I'm not outright saying that they're up to anything or they'll be to blame if anything does occur, I'm simply saying that it's odd how when they show up, firearms become something to note." Applejack frowned as Sunset fiddled with her fingers. No doubt was she wondering about Noah. She'd known him for some time now, so it wasn't like she was in the wrong. But something about Noah and his friends slaughtering thousands of students didn't make sense to AJ either. She sighed, "Look, we'll just keep in mind that somethin' is comin' and that the Black Five are suspects. Not major suspects, just ones that we shouldn't be surprised by. In terms of weaponry, of course." "And speaking of which, here they come now," Sunset replied as she spotted Rainbow Dash and the Black Five exiting the forest. She smiled, whatever those five were talking about would be much better than what she and her friends were talking about. Rarity ran both hands through her hair, "Let's keep this little conversation between us, 'kay girls?" "Got it."
Legend of Everfree - The Devotion ArcAuthor's Note Third Times The Charm... Legend of Everfree - The Devotion Arc "Twilight! If I burst into that room unannounced and you're still in bed, I'm shoving my foot so far up your ass, the doctor-" "Noah! For the love of it all, must you be so loud?!" "Shut up, Betsey Johnson!" Twilight groggily rose from the warm comfort of her bed and rubbed her eyes. Utterly disconcerted and disoriented. She raised an eyebrow as she listened to multiple voices behind her door. "Who the hay is Betsey Johnson?" "It's a comparison, Old Town Road. Legit like what I just did now!" "Oh! Does she also do fashion?!" "No Pinkie, she builds race cars for deformed soda cans." "I'm pretty sure soda cans can't drive or are even alive." "No, really Flutters? I'd no idea!" "Hey! Only I get to call her Flutters!" "Take a hike, Dash!" "Guys! Shut up!" "Who you telling to shut up, Kid?" "You, dipshit!" "Uh, guys? If your intentions were to wake me up, I'd say you succeeded," Twilight spoke up from her side of the door. Giggling as the voices of petty arguments promptly came to a close. Noah sighed from their side of the door. "Well then, allow me to be the first to say..." "Say what-" *Slam!* "The bus to Everfree leaves in ten minutes, nerd!" Twilight felt her eyes turn whiter than Rarity's skin as she realized what day it was. Panicking, Twilight shot up from her bed and began digging through her closet to find her luggage. Noah and the others stepped through the door first and Noah quickly approached Twilight to help. "You had one job, four eyes, one job! Set an alarm! Wake the heck up! Take a shower! Get washed up while in the shower! Get out of the shower! Get dressed! Eat a breakfast sandwich, and come to school! Where did you go wrong!?" "I-I don't know! I just-ah!" Twilight, terrified, scooted away from Noah and rested her back against her bed. As the other Rainbooms zipped about her house, Sunset approached her, perplexed. "Twilight? What's the matter?" "Noah! H-H-He, H-H-He-" "He what?!" "He has a beard!" Sunset turned back to Noah and as plain as the nose on one's face, was a rather scruffy and unkempt beard around his mouth. Judging from its style, it'd been growing for at least half a year, and nearly covered Noah's entire mouth. Twilight questioned if he even noticed it. Noah's face fell flat, "Twilight, we're gonna be late for some dumbass camping trip that, might I add, you pestered me into going, along with the rest of my stupid friends, and you give a crap that I have a beard?!" Twilight cringed and held her hands close to her face, "It just looks so... unnatural!" Noah rolled his eyes and threw the luggage at Twilight's feet. "Get your crap together, and head downstairs!" Noah itched at his newly grown beard as he made his way downstairs. Leaving Twilight with the rest of the girls. Sunset sighed at Noah's behavior and lifted the suitcase onto Twilight's bed. "Don't worry about him, we'll help you get ready." Twilight stood up and away from her bed and searched her closet for her towel. All the while, Rarity and Applejack helped pack her clothing for the trip. Rarity being, well, Rarity, as she revealed a grand dress for Twilight to pack. Irritating Applejack, just as expected. "We're gonna be out in the woods. When the hay is she gonna need to wear that?" Rarity scoffed, "If we were going to the moon, I'd insist she'd packed an evening gown. One never knows, darling." Twilight finally found her towel from her closet, but Rainbow Dash put a hand on her shoulder. "Forget showering! We only have like eight minutes left! Just pick an outfit and change!" Twilight blushed, "I-In front of you guys?" "Twilight, it's just like gym class! Now hurry!" Grabbing a random set of clothes she hoped would work, Twilight dashed to the mirror of her room and began changing. As she removed her shirt, Twilight spotted something odd in the mirror. Rising from her sides were two black, with glowing cyan outlines, wings slightly comparable to an eagle's. Twilight dropped the shirt and stepped back, bewildered and frightened at the same time. "What... What is that-" Faster than Twilight could comprehend, two beams of pure light impaled both Rarity and Applejack's chest. Twilight turned around and felt her pupils constrict to the size of a pin as Pinkie shrieked in sheer horror. As the beams dissipated, Rarity and Applejack fell to their knees as blood flowed out their mouths like melted ice cream, but it was nothing compared to their wounds. The beams had left nothing but gaping holes in their chests where their hearts used to be. Blood poured all round the holes and promptly soaked their clothing in dark red. Twilight turned back to the mirror and saw her levitating just above her head. The one Twilight hoped she'd never have to see or become again. The one who could've taken everything. Midnight. Twilight slipped on a soda can and fell on her back out of pure shock. It didn't take long for tears to befall her cheeks. "Stop! Leave us alone! Why are you back!?" Ignoring her, Midnight teleported behind Rainbow Dash in the blink of an eye and shoved her entire hand through Rainbow Dash's throat like a knife through a hairless cat! Twilight and who remained screamed, petrified, as Rainbow Dash choked on nothing. The hole in her throat rendered her speechless as she couldn't even gasp for air. She just scratched at what was left of her windpipe and wheezed incomprehensible words before falling face flat on the floor. Blood gushing out of the hole and staining Twilight's carpet. Midnight raised a hand towards Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy. They then flew out of the room through the window so fast, Twilight swore they were flung faster than the speed of light! Twilight shut her eyes as Sunset slowly backed away. Noah burst through the doorway, and It didn't take long for him to see what was all the commotion. Midnight made a move for Sunset, but Noah pulled and pushed her into the hallway. *Crash!* Twilight opened one eye and cried at the top of her lungs as Noah hung limp in Midnight's grasp. Judging by the position, Twilight could only assume that Midnight had crushed Noah's air pipe like a lightbulb. And in her other hand, Sunset laid limp by her right arm. Only, her head rested near Twilight's feet. Her eyes' more soulless than a shark on the first day of June. Twilight shut her eyes closed and covered her ears as a waterfall of tears poured out her sockets. She tried to act like it was all a dream. Act like she didn't just witness every single one of her friends savagely murdered in seconds. She couldn't even fathom what happened to Spike. It's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real, it's not real- "Oh, but it very much is." Despite covering her ears with all her strength, Midnight's voice echoed and rang inside her head like a sinister church bell from Hope County. Twilight opened her eyes and found herself in a pit of unadulterated darkness. She turned around on her knees and felt her heart stop. Midnight strolled forward without a care in the world. Leaving a trail of fire and destruction as she approached Twilight. As Midnight neared ever so closely, Twilight got a good look at her attire. Instead of what she wore previously, Midnight was wrapped in dark armor like a black knight from the Underworld and was drenched in blood from head to toe. But what truly caught her attention were the accessories. Upon her armor, several severed hands and feet hung from her wrist, chest, waist, and ankles. She was astounded that she didn't notice earlier. But it got even worse from there. Each hand and foot belonged to one of her friends. She could see it from the colors and what was last left in or on their hands. Or at least, what was left of their hands. Twilight shouted at the top of her lungs, "Why are you back?! What have you done?! Why won't you leave me alone?!" "Isn't it obvious yet, Sparkle?" Twilight shrunk like a child at Midnight's voice. Dark and deep as if she was the devil himself. Only, with breasts. "I had everything. I had magic beyond belief. I had more power than the Princess of Equestria. I even had Equis, both of them, in my grasp. And I lost it all because of some nigger and his whore girlfriend. "Then I lost it. All of it. But I didn't give up. Not for a fucking second. I still have your weak-minded head, that I, both fortunately and unfortunately, am a part of. Do you know what that means?" "Please... I-" "It means I can break you. Take what pathetic excuse of a conscious you have and tear it in half like a phone book. Twisting and pulling at your head until you can't even think straight. So utterly lost and broken that I can take control. "And good luck getting rid of me, because I'm no psychological illness or a form of PTSD. I am you. Your true self, if I may. Slowly picking at your innocence until there's nothing left. "I can never leave, and I can never die. It's only a matter of time until you see the truth at hand, and just, give, up. Opening the closet to let the monster inside. So tell me, Twilight Sparkle. "How long do you want this charade to go on?" Twilight was trapped. There was no way around this, and there definitely wasn't a way through it. She was doomed to suffer the rest of her life with a demon who wanted nothing more than to see her explode like a star going supernova. She stuttered as she had cried all of her tears until nothing but dust remained. "I... I... I-I..." "Leave me alone!" "Twilight! Shut, the actual fuck, up!" "H-Huh?!" Twilight opened her eyes out of confusion and examined her surroundings. She was standing tall on a school bus, surrounded by all of her closest friends, with Spike just beside her. Her luggage was at her feet, and she was fully dressed and cleaned. Her best friends, along with the other students on the bus, stared at her as if she was a mental patient. Twilight's cheeks reddened, embarrassed, and she slowly slid back into her seat. Turning her attention to whom had shouted directly after, Principal Celestia spoke up. "Rictorshine, you're aware I have to write you up for shouting curse words, aren't you?" Noah crossed his arms as his friends, both guys and gals, giggled and snickered, "Oh come on! I saved the galaxy for Christ's sake! Not to mention I've been trying to cut back on the cursing. Can't you cut me some slack?" "Rictorshine, I'm quite sure I gave you my thanks for saving my school and students. Did I not?" Noah smiled, "Oh! Yeah! I remember that. Nevermind, Tia! Write away!" "Tia? Last time I checked, you're to refer to your Principal properly. Not, give nicknames to them." "I know, heh heh, but I'm incredibly appreciative of your thank you gift. I'm sure anyone would be!" Celestia rolled her eyes and her face fell flat as students began asking and guessing what had happened that fateful day. Noah smirked and slid back into his seat as Celestia's sister, Vice Principal Luna, poked her arm and mouthed the words, "I told you so." As Noah returned his attention to his friends, he was met with several stares of disconcertion, except for Sunset's whose glowed with resentment and face clearly read, "Go fuck yourself with a fork." Noah chuckled, "Yes yes, I'm aware, I'm a negro of many mysteries, or whatever the phrase is, but that's besides the point. Twilight, why in God's name were you over there, standing all tall and what not, screaming bloody murder?" Twilight was fiddling with her fingers ever since she slid down. She explained timidly, "I-I, uh... Noah had a beard in a nightmare I had!" "...what?" All of Twilight's friends' faces fell flatter than paper. Especially Noah's. The girls attempted to understand the fear, while Noah's older friends could barely contain their laughter. Effectively pissing him off. Pinkie Pie giggled, "That's silly Twilight! Noah already has a beard!" Pinkie Pie was correct, outside of whatever Twilight's nightmare had been, Noah had grown a beard. Although it definitely wasn't as scruffy and vast as the one in her dream, it still creeped her out a tad. Noah rolled his eyes, "It's not even really a beard! It's just some facial hair that's been growing for a month because I just got lazy and curious at the same time! What, can a black man not grow a lil something-something on his face?" Twilight cringed, "Eh... I-I'd rather you not, but you're probably not gonna listen to me, are you?" Noah smirked and folded his arms, "We've only known each other for a month and you already know me so well! Besides, it's just some hair around my mouth. I mean, look at everyone else!" Applejack raised an eyebrow, "What about us?" "You dipsticks have these things that are several times worse than my beard. You all have tufts of hair that hang from the rest! Especially you, now that I mention it." Reaching over his seat and into Applejack, CJ, and Rarity's, Noah played around with the piece of hair that hung off of Applejack's scalp and seemingly floated in mid-air. Applejack frowned and furrowed her eyebrows, "Noah, one: That's not called a tuft of hair, it's called a bang." "Same thing." "Two: Keep touchin' mah hair and I'm gonna sock you in the goddamn mouth." Noah stuttered, "I-I, w-what, you don't even know what, "goddamn," means!" "I know enough from you that it's not a very good thing." Rarity giggled, "Though I don't agree with what he's doing, your hair hanging off like that is indeed somewhat cute Jackie." Applejack rolled her eyes and folded her arms, but you'd have to be dumber than a sack of bricks to not see the obvious blush on her face. Sunset pulled Noah back into his seat rather aggressively, and Noah chuckled nervously. She sighed, "Regardless of beards and bangs, whatever happened to you Twilight must've been horrible and we're all sorry you had to go through that." Besides Noah's older friends, who were busy looking at fairly inappropriate images on their phones, everyone nodded and agreed enthusiastically. Sharing the same sympathy for Twilight as Sunset did. Twilight smiled a tad, "Thanks girls." Noah waved nonchalantly, "Uh, don't forget boy! You know, the one that threw you at a school bus at a hundred miles per hour, effectively knocking you unconscious so we could have things return to normal?" Twilight giggled, "Especially you, Noah. How could I ever forget." Noah smiled and muttered as the girls giggled along with Twilight, "Damn straight." Jain raised a finger casually, "So uh, when we get to this Everfree place, what are we supposed to do? Make a campfire, roast some marshmallows, go fishing, or can we just stay in the tent and sleep?" Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow, "You wanna sleep through the entire trip?" "What else have I got to do, Dash?" Pinkie peaked over into Jain and Rainbow Dash's seat, "We are gonna have so much fun! We're gonna roast marshmallows, we're gonna eat marshmallows, and we're gonna sleep on Marshmallow pillows!" "So, basically the second thing I said, only high as hell off of heroin?" "What's heroin?" "Good talk." Rainbow Dash snickered, "Yeah, we're probably not gonna do that." Pinkie Pie giggled and revealed a rather large and tight plastic bag full of different colored marshmallows, "Maybe you're not..." Jain perked up, "W-Wait, you have heroin?" and Rainbow Dash grumbled. "Jain!" "Sorry..." "Attention students!" Called Principal Celestia from the front of the bus. Promptly grabbing everyone's attention as they ceased their conversations and turned their attention to her. "We're almost at our destination. But before we arrive, we just wanted to say how proud we are of you for raising enough money to go on this class field trip." "When we were your age," Vice Principal Luna added, "We made some of our favorite memories in these woods. And we're positive you will as well." "Now then," Celestia continued, "Who's excited for-" "I have a question," Noah interrupted. Celestia and her sister's face fell flatter than a folder as Noah raised his hand and spoke up. Luna rolled her eyes, but Celestia groaned practically comically out of annoyance. It wasn't her fault, of course. Though Noah saved the school and more, twice, it didn't mean that Celestia had gotten over his antics, old and new, which efficiently drained her very life force. "Yes, Rictorshine?" "So, uh, we had to raise money for this trip, correct?" "That's what I said." "So, would you say we had to do so because we wasted, at best, seven hundred fifty grand on a prime concert stage and one point two million on an obstacle course? Along with four extra thousand on four dirtbikes and an extra five hundred on a wrestling ring?" "...yes..." The students on the bus snickered, giggled, and chuckled as Noah embarrassed both Celestia and Luna like seventh-grade weeaboos in New Orleans. Although, it wasn't like he was in the wrong, of course. "Huh. You know, it probably would've smarter if we-" "Rictorshine, I know where you're going with this. Just be quiet, and enjoy the ride. We're almost there." Noah shrugged, "A'ight holmes." "Thank you." Noah slid back into his seat and was met with his older friends silently dying with laughter while his newer friends glared with slight irritation and faces that read, "Did you seriously just do that?" Sunset folded her arms, "Why do you do that when you know how annoying that is to them?" "I've been fuckin' with those two ever since I first stepped foot in this school. I get way too much joy out of it to just stop all of a sudden. Regardless, it's not like I was wrong." "But didn't Celestia give her, "thanks," to you already? Isn't that enough of a reason to stop fucking with her already?" "Yeah, but I also do it because of what Princess Celestia did to you." One would believe that to be a touching moment. Even if the Celestia he spoke of was a princess that ruled over technicolored, happy-go-lucky horses in another world and banished her own flesh and blood to the moon for her own mistakes. Sunset thought differently. "Noah, they're from two different planes of existence." "Interdimensional is close enough for me." Sunset rolled her eyes, "Oh, shut up and stop being a prick." "Stop being a hypocrite. You know, I've only said two swear words this entire time while you're basically just going willy-nilly." "Noah." "What?" "Stop being a prick." Noah sighed, ”This is gonna be a fun trip...”
PART 1: XXI - And Another Brand New Problem?Author's Note In The Middle Of The Woods? Seriously? PART 1: XXI - And Another Brand New Problem? "Well. This is... not what I was expecting." "Noah, what's there not to expect?" "Kid, these woods look spectacular. Where I come from, the woods only look pretty if it's for some dumb commercial about the environment." Noah and Sunset, the Black Five, the Rainbooms, and everyone else on the bus had stepped off to breathe in the fresh air of Everfree. As Noah aforementioned, he and his friends were taken aback while the Equestrians paid it no mind. Well, most of them. "Well, I for one cannot believe just how beautiful it all is. It may be a common part of our home, but it's still delightful. I can't wait until we have our first nature walk,” Fluttershy spoke. "I definitely wanna go on one of those. All of those squirrels in the trees, it'll be like puppy paradise!" Spike responded, which slightly creeped out the Black Five. They were more than aware Spike could talk, but it'd take longer than a month to get used to a dog speaking English. Perhaps even years. Not that he'd be around that long... "Ah'm just lookin' forward to roughin' it!" Applejack replied, pulling her bag up and over her shoulder. "Ah'm gonna make my own shelter, forage for food-" "Uh, you do know they're providing us with food and tents, right AJ?" Rainbow Dash asked, poking her head out from inside the bus. Applejack brought her hands to her hips, "Yep! Still gonna forage though." "Good for you, Old Town Road," Noah replied as he pulled the tab of one of his sodas he brought from home. Applejack crossed her arms. "Y'know, CJ told me and showed me that song." "You must be excited." "That video is all about cowboys riding horses." "What's your point?" "Ah'm a farmer, not a cowboy! Ah'm not even a cowgirl!" "...And?" Applejack threw her hands up in the air and walked away Irritated as always by Noah's antics. She was beginning to understand why Principal Celestia abhorred dealing with him. Sunset approached him, eyes locked onto Applejack. "She's gonna break one of your arms one day. You know that, right?" Noah waved her off, "Oh, she'll be fine. She's got Rarity, and apparently CJ now too." Noah wasn't lying either. Ever since that day when Rarity lost her temper and unleashed a fury of anger upon CJ, she, him, and Applejack had all gotten much closer. Not that the others knew of what happened that day, of course. Noah felt his left foot begin to chill and he lifted it to his knee to inspect it. "Oh, dang it. I knew it rained last night, but I didn't think we'd be hit by a friggin' hurricane. What in the world, bruh." As Noah complained, Equis had been hit with somewhat of a thunderstorm. It didn't cause any power outages or any trees to fall, blocking the road. But it did leave many twigs and leaves scattered all across the ground. Sunset rolled her eyes at Noah's lack of awareness as to when they left his house, the porch and driveway were covered in twigs and leaves. Although, it probably had to do with the fact that she snuck into his house and threw him in the shower. Giving him a sense of absolute confusion. How that was possible considering Sunset was built like a stick, Noah would never know. She wiped the bottom of his shoe with her forefinger and rubbed the substance between her thumb. As clear as day, was a wet sludge of mud. She was somewhat fascinated as it seemed there was more water apparent than dirt. She wiped it off on Noah's pants, and he narrowed his eyebrows. "You son of a bitch." "Ah, that's a bad word, Noah!" "Go to hell, Kid." Looking back at the bottom of his shoe, Noah had a thought run through his head. "Remind me to do your hair later, okay?" Sunset raised an eyebrow, "Do my hair? I-I don't, what do you-" "Just remind me, Kid," Noah replied as he set his foot back down and left to help Rarity with her ridiculous abundance of luggage. All the while, Sunset stared at the back of his head, highly perplexed. "Noah, darling!" Rarity called out as she dragged out her third rolling suitcase down the bus' stairs. "I require your assistance! A lady shouldn't have to carry so much luggage all by herself! I might break a nail." Noah folded his arms as he approached her, "Well, a lady also wouldn't think to bring a hundred pounds worth of luggage. Pretty sure they don't need all this crap." "Well, other ladies aren't as thoughtful and sophisticated as I am. They never know what they might need out in the so-called, "great outdoors." Noah chuckled as he lifted one of her bags that appeared awfully familiar, "Ah yes, because every lady needs her nuclear football when fishing at lakes." Rarity tilted her head, "A nuclear... what?" "Nevermind it, Donna Karen. I'll help." "You must stop referring to me as other fashion designers." "Why? Am I wrong-" "Got the last heavy one, Rarity," a voice coming off the bus spoke, and Noah's entire mood and face shifted in the blink of an eye. Off the bus came one of his former rivals. Not as significant as Sunset was, but oh, were they ever a splinter in his side. Flash Sentry. He carried the suitcase in front of his face and carefully placed it near the rest of Rarity's baggage solely from memory. As he set it down and looked back up, he was met with the glaring eyes of the outsider. His own face and mood changed in an instant, "Hello Noah." "Flash." The two had a sort of western standoff a bit apart from each other. Noah stared deep into the blue irises of the guitarist while Flash stared far into the brown orifices of the outsider. Rarity brought her hands to her hips, "Oh, enough you two! Your ridiculous rivalry is nothing but history now. So stop having a, "love at first sight," moment and continue to assist me, thank you very much." Noah waved her off as he dropped the satchel-suitcase in his hands and headed for the bus, "Yeah yeah, I hear you. Don't blow your top off. Either of them." Flash rolled his eyes, "What he said," and followed behind. He and Noah's relationship had changed quite a bit since the Battle of the Bands. As Noah helped the Rainbooms, including Princess Twilight, Flash had decided to make peace with the outsider as thanks. Noah, after having the back of his head slapped by Sunset, accepted. They didn't become friends or even acquaintances after that, but it was much better than them constantly being at each other's throats whenever they entered one another's vision. As they stepped onto the bus, Applejack approached her, "What about you, Rarity? Ya gonna forage with me and CJ too?" Rarity leaned on her luggage, "I'm just after some R&R. The past year has all been a bit too much for my tastes." "I'll say!" Pinkie Pie began, dropping her suitcase nearby. "We fought three evil sirens who tried to take over the world through manipulation, one ridiculously competitive school, and two literal magic demons!" Pinkie Pie shrank as she laid her eyes on both Sunset and Twilight. Sunset appeared unfazed while Twilight appeared bummed out. Nobody liked being called out for past mistakes, after all. Pinkie Pie smiled nervously, "Eh, heh heh, no offense..." Sunset smiled, "None taken," and laid a hand on Twilight's shoulder. "You'll get used to it." Punching her upper arm playfully. "Yep," CJ replied. "Our stupid-ass school has seen more action in half a year than most will see in their entire lives. Makes you wonder what the hell is coming next." Manex crossed his arms as he came up beside him, "Nigga, I'm really not looking forward to any more bullshit this year has to throw at us. It's May for Christ's sake. Let's just get it over with and be done already." "You say that like it'll be easy, negro," Jain replied. Bringing his own suitcase off the bus. "If we've gone from saving the world to saving the entire goddamn galaxy, God knows what's next at this point." "If we have to save the entire universe, I'm punching a nigga in the fuckin' face." From inside the bus, Noah and Flash shoved one of Rarity's larger suitcases out the window and onto the ground. Barely missing the dirt track underneath the bus. Noah smiled while Rarity prepared to explode. "Yeah, let's see how that works out for you." "We weren't lured over here by another demon, right Noah?" "Once again Jain, the voice came from a loudspeaker. It's not the Devil's fault they sounded like a horse from down below." The Black Five, the Rainbooms, and every other camper assembled at the center of the camp. Called to by who they could only assume to be one of the counselors at the camp. Their voice throwing Jain off as slightly odd. Noah turned his head a bit to the right, "So, what do you think, Kid? Is this gonna be a change of pace or another attack on our way of life?" "Nigga, the fuck?" "Huh?!" Noah faced his right completely and instead of being met with Sunset's face, he was met with Manex's. Completely and utterly confused. Even disgusted. Noah stammered, "I-I, where the heck is Sunset?! Why are you here?!" "I've been here, motherfucker. And your bacon-haired fuck toy is talking to Twilight!" Ignoring Manex's insult about Sunset, Noah peeked over Manex’s shoulder to his right. Sure enough, Sunset was a bit distanced from her friends and was talking to Twilight independently. Something about their faces made Noah feel... off. Twilight's face held something red upon it and she was practically glowing with modest gaiety while Sunset's face was filled with confidence and humor. Somewhat similar to his own attitude. "That's... odd." "Hi everyone, welcome to Camp Everfree!" Noah's thoughts were thrown out the window as he turned his attention to the wooden gazebo in front of a rather large staff building. Upon the gazebo were two figures. A brother and sister perhaps? The sister had lengthy dark-hibiscus hair with a single bang braided to her left, and a lovely crown of sunflowers wrapped around her head. Her skin was the color of raspberry wine, and her eyes were a beautiful shade of jade. She wore a puffy, yellow, short-sleeved shirt with green surrounding her collar and a mint belt just below her stomach. One her legs were cerulean khaki shorts and beautiful laced brown laced dress shoes with sunflowers at her ankles facing forward. What caught his eye were the odd, tiny, and awfully colorful jewels hanging around her neck by a brown choker. Something about their faint glow gave Noah an eerie feeling. He'd just arrived in camp and was already suspicious of someone becoming problematic. "Grand." The brother, at least that's what Noah assumed he was, wore a sacramento beanie with a light turquoise outlining. His hair was a forest green and reminded Noah of Flash Sentry when his hair grew out last year. His skin was a sandy brown and his eyes were the same as his assumed sister. He wore a perfectly red shirt with white outlines and a picture of the camp in the center of his chest. On his wrists were two perfectly brown wristbands with a single dot of yellow in the center of it. On his legs were fern colored khaki shorts and on his feet were perfectly brown hiking boots with jade shoelaces, and normal white socks underneath. "I'm Gloriosa Daisy," the assumed sister continued. "Your camp director. But you can think of me as your friendly camper guide. And this is my brother, Timber Spruce!" The brother took the microphone playfully, "Think of me as that cool guy. Who should always be invited to fun things." Noah sighed and mumbled, "Great. More happy-go-lucky, ignorant, morons. Just what I needed." Gloriosa took the microphone back, "We aim to please, so before we hand out our tent assignments, we'd like to hear from all of you! You're free to do whatever you like here!" "Except hike near the rock quarries," the brother added. "That's off-limits." Gloriosa rolled her eyes, "Yes, but otherwise, you're options are wide open! So what activities do you have in mind that'll make this the very best week of your lives?" "Oh! Rock Climbing?" Rainbow Dash shouted. "Done!" "Archery!" "Of course!" "Tetherball!" "Naturally!" The call-outs ceased as Applejack flicked the back of Rainbow Dash's head. Giving other students a chance. "Arts and crafts!" "Undoubtedly!" "Cookie decorating!" "Ooh, I do make a mean sugar cookie." "Early morning nature walks?" "With walking sticks for everyone!" "Oh! U-Uh, me! U—h, fashion show!" Rarity obviously asked. "Where I design the most fabulous camp looks inspired by today's hottest trends, and have them modeled by my classmates in a gorgeous setting!" "Screw that, can we go hunting!?" "Goddamnit, Manex!" CJ and Jain covered Manex's mouth with their hands as everyone gawked and gaped at his question. Of all the things requested and asked, it seemed hunting was the last thing Gloriosa expected to hear. Noah shut his eyes and rubbed his temples as he silently scolded his friend. "For God's sake Manex, we are black guys. Not southerners, or hunters, or whatever the hell they're properly designated. Now the counselors are gonna keep tabs on us, you idiot!" He wasn't wrong either, as he opened one eye towards the gazebo and saw the brother and sister whispering about the four of them. Along with Celestia and Luna's unforgiving glare to their right. "Well, disregarding the previous question, what about the camp gift?" Celestia asked, eyes still staring the Super Element and his crew down with a blazing passion. "The camp gift, of course!" Gloriosa agreed. Although, before she answered, she seemed to be bickering with her brother about something. Something about it threw Noah off. Of all the places he'd been to, this is one of the last places he'd think arguments could occur. Especially between counselors. Albeit, they are siblings. "Every year," She resumed, "Campers work together to create something useful. A gift for future campers. Working towards this common goal is key to forming the strong bonds that'll last well beyond your time here at camp!" As Gloriosa covered the microphone with her hand, Noah found them arguing even more. It strangely reminded him of his home back in America. When his seventh grade choir teachers were arguing during class and nearly divorced. It was adorable to the principal, concerning to the students, and hilarious to him. Some students believed he just wanted to watch the world burn during those weeks. Gloriosa continued, "This gazebo was a gift from last year's group, and the totem pole, and the sundial, all from groups of the past! "You all seem like, uh, really amazing group! So I'm certain you'll come up with something inspiring to leave behind!" As the class cheered, like they always do for things less than cheer-worthy, Noah turned back to his right hoping to find Sunset beside him. Manex still stood in her place. He peeked over his shoulder, and sure enough, his bacon-haired best friend slash lover wasn't by his side. She still stood next to Twilight... Giggling... "Speaking of leaving things behind," Timber began, "Now's the time when we give out tent assignments. So you can leave your heavy bags behind." Gloriosa stepped down the gazebo stairs, "Girls will be receiving their assignments from Timber. Guys, you're with me!" Noah cursed under his breath, "Godamn... Dang it..." As Gloriosa stepped to the left and her brother to the right, Noah turned to his right expecting to see Sunset at least approaching him about the news. Instead, she was next to Twilight waiting to receive her assignment. "She didn't even... What?" "Noah, move your black ass!" Jain ordered as he tugged at his friend's hoodie. "We gotta go get these dumbass assignments because apparently, we can't just go fishing or... or... what else do people do besides roast marshmallows on camping trips?" Noah sighed as he turned away from Sunset and Twilight. "Fuck if I know..." Noah threw his duffel bag onto the bed in the tent as he leaned on the dresser nearby."What the hell was that?" He took a seat on the bed, "I mean, maybe I'm overreacting. I am, aren't I? She's just talking with her friend. And that friend happens to be the one who punched me through the floor... No! That was just her evil demon spirit thingy! I... Besides! Who's to say she's a lesbian?! Sure, Lyra and Bon Bon are lesbian, and Vinyl and Octavia are lesbian, and... Rarity and Applejack are probably lesbian and... Princess Twilight said she was lesbian and... Sunset once said she was lesbian and... uh... uh-" "Are you seriously talking to yourself?" Noah returned to Earth as he listened to a voice from the entrance interrupt his ramblings that probably weren't normal considering his pupils constricted with each statement. As he identified the voice, his jaw dropped. It was Flash Sentry. "Oh, for the love of God, come on!" "What? You think you have it bad?!" "The last thing I need right now is to sleep in the same tent as my girlfriend's ex-boyfriend!" "What makes you think I wanna sleep in the same tent as my ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend!?" "Probably to annoy me with the fact that you touched her butt first!" "You touched her butt?" "Yes! Matter of fact, I fucked her butt!" "Oh, ew!" "That's right! I whipped out my negro-whampus and got to work!" "Stop it, that's disgusting!" "I said, 'Oh yeah! I'mma make it do what it do!'" "Would you quit it?! I'm not here to annoy you or any other pitiful crap like that! I just want to enjoy this trip with my friends, and go back home! If anything, you're annoying me right now!" "Oh, go stuff a turkey." "...What type of stuff?" Noah stared Flash down with a raised eyebrow, and Flash stared back. Despite everything, they've been through. Every experience they've ever had with each other, every stupid thing they've ever done... they smirked. "...Heh..." "Heh heh." "Hah hah hah." "Hah hah hah hah!" The simple chuckles soon erupted into contagious childish laughter that anyone could expect from high school boys like Noah and Flash. But them laughing together? That's a magnificent sight to behold. "Hah, okay, b-but seriously, heh heh, w-why were you talking to yourself?" Noah scratched the back of his head, "Well, r-regardless if we just became friends or w-whatever in a matter of seconds, has Sunset ever... N-Nevermind." "No, no, tell me." "Maybe some other time. Right now, I think I'll go ask Principal Celestia more about this camp. It might be my past experiences talking but, something feels... off. Just a little." Flash approached his bed and dropped his stuff, "Alright, you do that. But before you go, what exactly did Principal Celestia do that paid off you saving us all?" As Noah reached the tent's exit and opened both flaps widely, he turned back around to face Flash. He then looked to his left and right, making sure nobody was nearby. As the coast was clear, Noah took his left hand and pointed down below, and Flash's face exploded with hilarity that was comparable to a nuclear warhead. Noah stepped out of the tent completely and turned to his left. Remembering the flash of Celestia's hair somewhere in that direction. He spotted her helping some students get settled near the diamond tent and began towards her. As he reached the tent, Noah poked her shoulder, "Uh, Principal Celestia, I was wondering. Were the counselors always-" "Listen Rictorshine," Celestia interrupted as she whipped around and poked at Noah's chest repeatedly with her forefinger. "This camp is a major part of my life and is an important part of my nostalgic childhood. I will not tolerate you and your group of friends to ruin or mess it up with your actions, your attitude, and particularly your words. "I've given you a medal for saving the planet, and I've given you something I regret entirely for saving the galaxy. Unless whatever happens here means the end of the universe, I don't want you meddling around and wrecking this trip. It's just one week. One. Week. It's all I ask. "Do I make myself clear, Rictorshine?" Noah sweat, "Uh... yeah?" "Spectacular. Now, what is it you have to ask of me?" "Um..." Noah could never lie that at that moment, he was genuinely frightened of Celestia. The solemnity in her voice, her stance of unfaltering prominence, and the stringent look upon her face. It also didn't help considering that when Celestia stood tall and straight, she was nearly two feet taller than him. Her nickname was no joke. Noah rubbed the side of his shoulder, "Uh... I-I was just wondering if... Um... N-Nevermind." Celestia nodded and returned to the tent she was assisting while Noah was left standing outside. Taken off guard entirely. He turned about and sought for his friends. They could effortlessly take his mind off what just occurred. Along with what he was truly wondering about.
XXII - Our Campfire Song SongSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
XXIII - And Another Brand New ProblemAuthor's Note Just Can't Get A Break, Can We? XXIII - And Another Brand New Problem How. How in God's name could I be so blind? I-I just... How!? It's so simple! Just wrap the plastic thingy over your dick! Why was that so hard to remember?! Why did the effects of pregnancy set in so quickly?! Doesn't it take a couple of months for her to get moody?! For Christ's sake, I'll never understand these stupid equestrians and their dumb biology! With the sun rising and shining on a new day in Camp Everfree, the students had resumed work on the dock. For students with barely any knowledge in proper construction, they'd gotten most of it done quite quickly. Just another reason Equis was separated from the rest of Earth. While the students constructed, Noah sat against a nearby staff building and watched Sunset intensely, yet secretly. Throughout the entirety of the morning, Sunset had been constructing, eating, scrolling Equis Daily, whatever that was, and of course, talking to Twilight. Since the time Sunset had some sense knocked into her by Princess Twilight, people had always thought, for some odd reason, that Twilight and Sunset would work splendidly and adorably as an item. Noah never understood why, but that bothered him. At least, it used to. Back when he, "Could give a rat's ass," about Sunset Shimmer, Noah had heard this idea from a couple of others, but many in the school had conversed about it. But he just couldn't understand it. Sure, Twilight helped Sunset see the error of her ways, but you don't just fall in love with an Equestrian Princess after they blast you with, 'friendship magic,' halfway to Hell. Not only was it unusual, but it was just downright illogical. Absurd. He questioned if they were all just messing around acknowledging they all abhorred her at the time. But then she showed up. The nerd who nearly wiped all life off the face of the Milky Way Galaxy. That's when those conversations ran unimaginably wild. Almost every other day, he'd hear in the hallways how Twilight and Sunset would be perfect. How it'd be beautiful. How it'd be better than what she's with as of now. Although, thankfully, word of Sunset and Noah being an item hadn't come around. Everyone believed they'd simply gone from adversaries, rivals, to the best pair of friends the school's ever seen. And they wouldn't be wrong if that was the case. After all, what other pair of friends do they know that came to school wearing the other's jacket? Despite the ideas of the two being together, they'd both denied they were dating each and every time. Being Equestrian, most of them believed it, but not all. Because of that, the idea of Twilight and Sunset together returned. Students would ask Noah what he thought, and he genuinely couldn't believe they'd be together. At least, he didn't want to. Perhaps it was just him being paranoid, but Twilight and Sunset had been interacting as they do now before. Noah just ignored it. But now when he was forced to pay attention, his thoughts ran wild. Twilight wasn't the same as Princess Twilight, and that's what made him feel... uncomfortable. Twilight was seemingly always around, and always talking to Sunset. But because that'd normally occur when all eight, or all twelve, were together. But now as he watched, Twilight was... perfect. Her nerdy and somewhat shy behavior was almost enticing. And considering Sunset was always that confident and fearless girl, she worked perfectly with Twilight as well. That bothered Noah. A lot. He didn't hate Twilight, they'd easily become friends in the past month. But he did seem to feel... Something. A strange feeling that made his mind seemingly shake like an earthquake. Slowly yet surely building with energy. If the school could see it, and now so could he, one question lingered in his mind from yesterday night to the current morning. What if Twilight were to take Sunset away from him? Devastating him incomprehensibly. But another thought made his blood run cold. What if she takes his child? "Rictorshine?" "...Hm?" Noah switched off his 'deep thoughts' switch and turned his attention to whom had spoken. Standing with her hands behind her back with a look of rare concern spread across her face was Vice-Principal Luna. "You're not helping." Noah exhaled, "Oh, uh, I apologize. I was just... Thinking." Luna tilted her head, "About what, if I may?" "Uh... college." Luna folded her arms, "Rictorshine, I've seen that face multiple times on my sister. Despite how long it's been, I remember it quite distinctly. Your face, on the other hand, tells a different story." "..." Luna sighed, "I won't pretend to know what you feel or what you're going through Rictorshine, but you will have to participate and contribute. I can't have you sitting here on your butt doing nothing." Noah itched the back of his head as he stood up, "Sorry, I'll get to it and whatnot. It won't happen again." Luna's look of concern grew, but she was forced to shrug it off. At least for now. "Thank you, Rictorshine. You can begin at the end of the dock. It's almost finished." Noah faced the dock and was then hit with a fierce feeling of bewilderment. "Uh... Didn't you say we were nearly finished?" "Correct. That is what I said. Why do you ask?" "Because it looks like the docking board itself was just hit by a sailboat at terminal velocity." Luna spun around on her heels, disconcerted, and found the leading board of the dock in pieces. Her eyes bulged and she promptly rushed over to investigate the random crash, leaving Noah to stare in bewilderment. As Luna ran, he thought about how she approached and questioned him. It felt... odd. Like, instead of checking in on the idiotic black trouble maker, she was checking in on a close relative. After messing with the principals for three years, Noah wondered if they'd grown a soft spot for him in their hearts. It was ridiculous, indubitably, but unlike other idiot trouble makers, Noah always knew what came first, and what didn't. Despite all he's done, perhaps they had respect for him for acting like an adult when the situation required it. Maybe that's why he hadn't been expelled by now. ... "Okay guys, we got the rope and- are you fuckin' kidding me?" The Black Five returned from the main staff building and was dumbfounded to find the main board of the dock in pieces, and anger quickly became an understatement. After all, they were in charge of constructing it and had contributed the most. Including CJ. Quickly handing the rope to Jain, he rushed through the crowd of students. As he made it through and got a full view of the dock, it was more than difficult to keep him from blowing his top. "H-How, w-why, w-who... what the fu-" Manex covered CJ's mouth, "Don't say it, you idiot!" "Mmm Mmm Mmm Mm Mmmm Mmmm?!" "I don't know, just don't start cursing like an idiot!" Jain and Fall made their way through the crowd. As they did so, many of the students began to bicker and ponder what caused it, and why was a boat floating in the middle of it all. Especially Trixie Lulamoon. "... Spirit! Show yourself! The Great and Powerful Trix-" Manex groaned, "There is no spirit, Trixie, shut up!" Trixie glared and mumbled, "How dare that fu-, er, crap-head mock the Great and Powerful Trixie..." As Jain and Fall reached the front of the crowd and turned about, they were confused as to why none of the Rainbooms were present. Nore were the principals. Wherever they may be, it seemed it was his moment to take responsibility. Jain raised both hands in a calming sort, "Alright, alright, everybody shut up!" To his delight, the students promptly shut their mouths. Jain shrugged, "Guess that's just Equestrian humans for ya. Okay, who saw what happened? I mean, we spent all day yesterday building this stupid dock, and somehow it's now in pieces. The boy with a black beanie and green dreadlocks stepped forward, "It was, so weird, man. We were just floating in the middle of the lake with no wind man, then all of a sudden man, Bam man! The wind picked up man, and we were slung right into the dock, man!" Jain's face fell semi-flat, "Uh... You're telling me your boat just suddenly began to sail faster than a jetski and crashed into the dock?" "Yeah, man!" Jain pinched his nose bridge, annoyed, "Who else saw the boat get flung into the dock?" To Jain's irritation, multiple hands were raised like kindergarten kids willing to answer a question for candy. He sighed, "Oh, wow. That's nice." "What's going on here!?" Shouted a voice that forced herself through the crowd. It was Vice-Principal Luna, and she hurriedly approached the edge of the destruction to get a better look. She scoffed, "What is the meaning of this?! You four, are you responsible for this destruction?!" CJ mumbled, "Mm, mmm. Mmmmm mmm mmmmm mmmm..." Jain flicked his forehead, somehow understanding. "Shut up, CJ. But anyways, don't look at us, Ms. Luna. We just left to get rope from the staff building and came back to this... thing." "Well? What happened then?" "Frozen In Time over here said he and his friends were just chillin' on the water before it just felt like crashing into the dock." Luna raised an eyebrow, "...What?" "Hey, don't look at me. Sir Ganga told me all about it." Luna rolled her eyes, "Just, fix it. I'm busy at the moment. "What!? Busy?! Us!? We're a couple of rag-tag teenagers, the heck are we supposed to do?!" "You'll figure something out." "Yeah, see, the thing is-" CJ shouted, muffled, "Mmmm mmm mmm mmm!" Luna nonchalantly pointed a finger, confused, "What did he say?" "He said, 'That's not our job.'" "Oh. Well then find the Rainbooms. They can fix it." "But they're also a couple of rag-tag teenagers! What could be so important that you can't help us figure out how a boat crashed into a dock at eighty-eight miles per hour?!" Luna glared, "Fix. It. This could be a way to pay for all of your... misdeeds, of the past." Jain groaned and Luna faced the rest of the students, "The rest of you are dismissed until these four require your assistance again. Enjoy our trip, and please. Don't do anything that could endanger yourself or your fellow classmates. Seriously." With that, the students began conversing as if a new law was just announced to the public and left the dock. Luna left in a huff as well, leaving Jain and his friends to figure out why and what happened. Jain's face fell flat, "God forbid the adult does jackshit..." He turned around to face his friends, "Okay, what have we got?" Manex shrugged, "Uh... I see wood in the water." "Magnificent. CJ?" Manex released his grip on CJ's lips, and CJ shouted, "Yeah! I see a who—le lot of bullshit!" "Go figure. Fall? Unless it's just virgin oil or something." Fall dipped his hand into the water and pulled it back. "Uh, does a strange, purple, and glittering trail of something in the water count?" Jain tilted his head in curiosity as he looked over the right side of what was left of the dock. Just as Fall had described it, a strange trail in the water floated ominously. Jain traced the trail to wherever it led, and groaned as it connected itself with the sailboat. He folded his arms, "Fall, that's not a normal purple and glittering trail of water, is it?" "Nope." Jain sighed, "Boys, hope you enjoyed our trip so far. Because it seems we've been given something. A… Uh… Whatever the fuck it’s called." Manex and CJ groaned in irritation while Fall stood up. "Well, shouldn't we get the girls for this? Y'know, the ones that literally have this stuff coursing through their veins?" "Yeah. We should." "So..." "We're not. This time, we're going to get to the bottom of this. This time, we're going to learn about dumbass morals every human should've learned a decade ago! This time, we're going to save the world! And nobody is going to deny us! Not even God himself-" "Oh, hey guys. What's the problem?" "God-fucking-damn it!" Manex folded his arms as he watched the Rainbooms approach. "You had to say it, didn't you Jain?" Jain and the others faced the voice from on the shore and found the Rainbooms approaching them. For whatever reason, Noah wasn't present alongside them like he usually was. Fall raised an eyebrow, "Where were you guys?" Rarity waved him off, "Oh, nothing much darling. Just girl stuff. The usual." "Girl stuff?" "Yep." "Well, there isn't anything interesting or compelling we have, so I guess we'll go with that." "Indeed." Fluttershy approached what remained of the dock. "So, it was destroyed. You guys didn't happen to see who did it, did you?" Manex shrugged, "Not a damn clue. The story is that a boat just hurled itself into it. Defying literally every law of gravity. Or whatever the hell it's called." The Rainbooms spread out to different areas of the dock. Inspecting each and every angle like teenage detectives. Fall poked at Jain's legs, and the apparent second-in-command turned about. "What?" Fall then pointed over towards one of the staff buildings. As Jain focused in on where he pointed, he found Noah sitting on the steps of one. That million-mile-stare upon his face meant one thing and one thing only. Noah was contemplating a life choice. It wasn't a bad thing, virtually, but it also wasn't good. He remembered seeing that stare at the dock a month ago, and at the orphanage three years ago. That stare always made Jain feel uneasy. Along with a strong feeling of insignificance. Whatever decision Noah was making, Jain just hoped it wouldn't mean the end of all he knows. "Ya said a boat just randomly hurled itself at the dock?" Applejack questioned as she stood up, and CJ nodded. "Yep. Out of nowhere, too. And from the story being told, it was something more than just gravity and whatnot being defied. It was something powerful. Something-" "Magical." The boys turned to Twilight, instantly distressed as she whispered aloud. CJ facepalmed, "Oh for fuck's sake! Why!? Why can't we just defeat some stupid magical being and be done with it?! We nearly lost the entire galaxy last time!" Manex punched CJ in his shoulder, "Man, shut the fuck up. Damn nigga, if we gotta stop an evil magical equestrian-ass plot, then that's what we're doing." Rainbow Dash laid a hand on CJ's shoulder, "Ah, we'll be fine. We were last time because of Noah and Sunset. All we gotta do is use that compass thingy on Sunset, get Noah to transform and crap, and boom! Evil conquered, again." Pinkie Pie itched her head, "Where's Noah anyway?" Jain pointed at the staff building, "He's over there, and he's been sitting ever since I saw him today. Sure, that wasn't long ago, but I bet it's been for some time if I were to ask Fall. "He's doing that million-mile-stare again. The one that transcends the planet itself. Whenever he stares like that, he's making a big decision. Hopefully, it isn't anything stupid. Anyways, do we have any suspects?" Fluttershy stepped forward, "Well, last night when we were telling spooky stories at the campfire, Timber was telling us about the tale of Gaia Everfree." "...Okay? The hell is this going?" "Well, after the tale, The camp director, Gloriosa, appeared from the forest mysteriously. She didn't take the trail either and said that it was just something she did and that nobody else should ever leave the trail. She said it was too dangerous." Manex tilted his head, "Okay, but that just sounds like perfect timing. At least... it should. Why the hell am I questioning it then? What the hell does it mean?" As Fall approached the end of the dock and exhaled, Applejack folded her arms. "Ah'll tell you what it means. It means- "We have yet another brand new problem on our hands."
PART 2: XXIV - To The HuntAuthor's Note Over The River & Through The Woods... PART 2: XXIV - To The Hunt "So... What now?" Fall turned around and shrugged at Rainbow Dash's question. "I don't know. Jain's second-in-command, apparently." "Oh. Well, what have ya got, Jain?" The Rainbooms and virtually all of the Black Five continued to stand where they had last left off. At the dock, with information revealing something sinister was at work. Jain itched the back of his head, "I-I, why can't Noah do it? He's not doing anything important! He's just sitting at the staff building, staring all cryptic and depressing! Doesn't he usually make these plans?" Rarity folded her arms, "Darling, Noah is gone." "What?" Jain and the others turned about back at the staff building, confused, and were shocked. Noah was gone. Not even leaving a clue as to where he might be at the moment. CJ groaned, "Oh great. Now our dumbass leader is missing. Because that's exactly what we need..." Applejack laid a hand on CJ's shoulder, "Now CJ, Ah'm sure he hasn't gone far and he'll probably be back in a bit. You guys did say he was makin' that million-mile-stare thingamajig. He probably just went to clear his mind. He'll be fine, trust me. Ah'm the Element of Honesty, after all." "Yeah, okay. And if he ends up with a tree branch through his esophagus, I'll know who to blame." "Ah, shut up." Twilight rubbed her arm, "So, what's the plan, Jain? Since we... Need one..." Jain sighed, "Okay then. Hm... This forest is probably relatively sizable, so I'd say we only need three groups." Jain spun around, searching for something to stand upon and address his friends, and promptly spotted a cobble for him to use. He then lightly jogged over the rock, stepped onto it swiftly, and raised his left finger as he began. "Okay, here are the groups," He stated. He pointed to Sunset and Twilight, along with Fall close by, "You three will search the east of the forest while Manex and I will search the west. When we think we've gone far enough, we'll come back, and Manex and I will search the south. While you three search the north." Jain pointed to the rest of the Rainbooms along with CJ. "The rest of the Rainbooms along with CJ will stay around the campsite and keep... keep... uh... Goddamn it, I hate when I forget words... L-Look, just, stay around the campsite and make sure the counselors don't start questioning what's going on and what we're doing. "We cannot afford to screw this up. For our dumbass classmates and our dumbass principals, high off nostalgia. The last thing we need is to get fucked over because we were busy making sure there wasn't a hidden plot to take over the universe or something. If there even is one..." Jain crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow. "Alright, everybody got that?" "Got it!" Jain smirked, "Good. Let's do this shit." "So. Do you usually have the hots for boys when you meet them immediately?" "W-What?! What are you talking about?!" Sunset, Twilight, and Fall a bit ahead had begun their search in the east. Despite the many thick trees, pointy branches, and the possible ticks on the ground, the three were doing quite well. While Fall searched high and low ahead of the two, Sunset and Twilight stayed a bit behind and talked like any other pair of teenage high school girls would. Y'know, just without the passive-aggressiveness. Sunset giggled, "Oh, c'mon. You think I'm stupid? I've seen how you and Timber have been getting all close and personal recently. You started blushing when you guys were going over minerals, he caught you at the dock, hell, maybe if we didn't go searching for whatever it is we are, you might've wandered into the woods, sang a musical number, and then ran into him all flustered and red." Twilight blushed as she crossed her arms, "You really are a hypocrite." "Maybe, but that doesn't deny what I've said." "L-Look, I've just been having unwanted encounters with him many times since we got here. That doesn't mean I like him!" "What, so you're into girls then?" Twilight blushed as red as a tomato. "Uh... W-What about you!? I-Imagine what Noah would think if he found out his girlfriend was into girls!" "Oh, uh, yeah. Him..." Twilight tilted her head, "Is something the matter?" "No..." Twilight rubbed her chin, "Did... He do something? Like, did you catch him looking at another girl? Was it Pinkie Pie? Something tells me it was probably Pinkie Pie. Or was it Trix-" Sunset shushed Twilight with a finger, "How about we change the subject. Even if you're not into Timber, exactly what would you want in a person enough to want to be with them forever?" "W-What?! C-Can't we just, I-I don't know, talk about dendrology? Just look at these trees! T-They're so... Uh... Treey!" "What's the big deal, Twi? If you're ever going to find love, it wouldn't hurt to tell a friend what you desire. After all, it's just me. It's not like I'm gonna tell the entire world your deepest darkest secrets." Twilight sighed and began to twiddle her fingers. "Well, I guess what I'd want out of somebody is the ability to protect me against anything. I'm not much of a fighter like you guys, so I'd be nice to have someone act as a guardian angel towards me. Even if it means their life... Hopefully, circumstances will never bring us to that point. "Someone who can get me to feel all flustered and warm inside with the simplest of comments or actions. Even if I deny it, I'll truly be chanting inside. Hoping, praying they do more. To give me this wonderful feeling that barely anyone I've ever known could give me... "Someone so pretty that I instantly turn red just from them laying their eyes on me. Someone whose hair is so soft and beautiful that just the touch makes me melt. Someone whose voice makes me swoon from the simplest of words." As Twilight spoke, Sunset felt herself become... Warmer. It was a familiar sensation, and it spread itself all over her face. Turning her redder than cranberry ginger ale. Despite it being quite wrong, Sunset only welcomed the feeling. Disregarding the consequences. Twilight continued, "I'd also want them to be witty and confident. Someone who walks with a pep in their step along with a feeling of preponderance. Someone who knows what they're doing and can get the job done. Regardless of the challenges they may face. Not like Rainbow Dash though. Well, I guess kinda like... Like..." Sunset smirked lustfully, "Me?" Twilight turned and promptly found herself gazing into the eyes of the redeemed junior. Something about her pine-colored eyes made Sunset appear as if she were a divinity. It just went so well with her luscious red and canary hair that Twilight felt as if she was going to collapse any minute now. Furthermore, it'd be foolish to think Sunset wouldn't as well. Sunset whispered, "How about we... Maybe... Get properly acquainted- ow!" Twilight was thrown out of the trance as Sunset backed away and fell to her knees. Grasping at her stomach. She panicked, "Sunset! W-What's wrong!? Are you hurt?! W-What happened?!" Fall turned about, bewildered, "Hey, what's going on back there? Is she alright? Sunset, you alright? You need help?" Sunset waved Fall away, still pained, "N-No! I-I-I'm good! J-Just having... G-Girl issues!" Twilight raised an eyebrow and inspected Sunset lower. She wasn't grasping at her stomach, she was grasping at her crotch. Specifically her genitals. Twilight turned so immensely red she gave every cherry on the planet a run for their money. She stuttered, "A-Are... A-Are you having a... Uh... Is everything alright? Y-You know... Below deck, and all?" Sunset spoke through her teeth, "Y-Yeah, I-I'm... Fine. J-Just having... Issues..." Twilight was confused. From her observation, Sunset appeared to be having menstrual problems. But, that wouldn't make a lick of sense. Menstrual problems only occur during pregnancy... It didn't take long for Twilight to turn paler than the clouds in the sky. She attempted to change the conversation, "S-So... W-What's with the ponytail? I-I never got the chance to ask. Sorry about that, b-but seriously. I-It looks pretty! Who did it?" Sunset quickly discerned Twilight's intentions. "O-Oh, this? I-It's nothing. N... Noah... Noah did it for me." Twilight was honestly astounded, "Noah? He did? But, why? How? I didn't know he could do that with hair. Where or how did he learn that from?" Sunset shrugged as she cautiously rose off the ground. "H-He said these woods would damage my h-hair, and t-that he'd hate to see it r-ruined. How? I-I've no clue, and he p-probably learned it from his mother or f-father." Twilight smiled genuinely, "Wow. Y-You're lucky to have someone like him care so much. I-I'd probably be too afraid to even mention it. A-And if I did, it'd probably have some scientific equation or understanding behind it..." Twilight laid a hand on her shoulder, "You gonna be okay?" Sunset sighed, "Yeah... I'll be fine." "So... She just took the boat and left?" "Yes! It's like she just told me to go fuck myself without even saying it!" Jain and Manex traversed the west side of camp in hopes of finding something, anything that could prove any further suspicion of the camp counselors, specifically Gloriosa, of doing anything threatening. Although, while walking, the two somehow went from talking about cars to planes to history to pornography sites to politics, and the trail somehow led them to talk about Jain's recent encounter with Rainbow Dash. When she requested he stay on the dock and leave her be while she went canoeing. Dumbfounding the second-in-command. Manex folded his arms, "Dude, I don't know what to say." Jain laid his hands flat, "Exactly! I-I don't get it! I-It's like she just didn't wanna hang out with me even though we've been hanging out for weeks now! I mean, sure, I've obviously been trying to get into her pants, but this feels different!" "Her telling you to go suck a fat one?" "Well, that and our relationship in general." Manex raised an eyebrow, "She always tells you to go suck a fat one?" "No, you dumb babyproof, marshmellow head-ass nigga-" "Asshole." "-My feelings towards her! I... Goddamn it, you fuck, I like her! Like, I wanna do more than just have sex. I've been enjoying all of our meets and the nights we spend on the phone together more than any other girl in my life!" "The only other girls you ever spent time with was Amanda, who was an absolute bitch of a twelve-year-old orphan, and Carrot Top that one time you thought it a good idea to get drunk and high at the same time." Jain's face fell flat, "Go fuck yourself Manex." "Would probably explain your retarda-" "What part of go fuck yourself did you miss, dipshit?!" "The part where I care." Jain glared at his highly discourteous best friend, and said friend continued. "Besides, I'll be with you until the day you die, my nigga." Jain groaned, "Sometimes I wonder if that's a blessing or a curse..." Manex leaned on a nearby tree, "Anyways, enough about your one and only, continue about that crap with Rainbow Dash. Or whatever virgin shit you were going on about." Jain sighed and rolled his eyes, "I was trying to say that I have feelings for her. And I feel that she might as well. But that crap back at the dock made me wonder. What if... What if she-" "Doesn't want your three inches?" "Manex, I swear to God..." "Heh, go on." "...What if she doesn't want me? Doesn't like me as I do? The one girl who I actually felt a connection to, doesn't want me?" Manex shrugged, "Those are called broken dreams, Jain. They've been happening to boys like us for centuries." Jain rubbed his temples, "You're just a bundle of joy, aren't you?" "It's just like a damn good man once said. 'That's just the way it is.'" "If the way is through you, I don't wanna live anymore..." "Aw, don't be like that, Jay Jay." "Do not start with the childhood names, Manex. I'll slit your throat." Manex seemed to feel something hit him with that last bit. It wasn't strong, but it also wasn't weak either. He'd heard such sayings from his friends many times over the past few years, but now when they'd gotten increasingly acquainted with the Rainbooms, the sentence felt... Odd. Manex rubbed the side of his shoulder, "...Do you think other people talk like we do?" Jain tilted his head, "Where did this come from?" "I'm just saying. I mean, we say all of this horrible stuff about each other, and we're still friends. We act like saying what we do is just... normal. Do you think others do the same? If not, what do they think of us?" Jain rolled his eyes," Manex, no philosophical shit right now. We're just scouring this dumbass forest for stuff. We don't need to start questioning our actions. It's just a part of us at this point. You don't feel like crap when we say it, so why now?" Manex lifted a finger to reply, but it didn't take long for his entire hand to fall to his side. Maybe when their best friend slash leader wasn't missing would be the right time to bring it up. As Manex let it go, Jain came up with a question of his own. "Yo Manex." Manex perked up, "Yuh?" "...Who're you after? I want a legitimate answer this time, not just some, 'I'm tryna smash,' bullshit. There's gotta be someone at this school you like. Sure, half of them may be lacking in the "departments," but that's only half. So c'mon, tell a nigga what-" "First of all, you know exactly what I want. A hunk of overpriced shit that goes fast and gets me vapid pussy. Second, I don't like anyone. Any of them. Whatever those things are. Hell, we don't even know if they're human." Jain tilted his head again, "I don't follow." "Jain, have you ever just stood in the middle of the... the... God, we are really forgetting the names of things recently, aren't we?" "Spit it out, Manex." Manex scoffed, "Oh, shut up. Anyways, the area when you enter the school from the front thingy. Plaza or whatever the fuck it's called. Have you ever just looked around at all sides during a change in periods and just... looked at them." "Manex, I asked if you liked anyone. Not-" "Shut up and let me finish! I-I mean, just look at them! Their eyes are large like saucers, not a single person has a normal or natural hairstyle or coloring, they talk like this is a scripted movie, and I think their heads might even be larger than their bodies completely!" "...And?" "Jain, I don't care how close those things are to being us, they are not human. They're some sort of Ecutesion-" "Equestrian." "Equestrian version of a human. Hell, what even is an Equestrian?!" Jain laid a hand flat, "Their ponies, Manex. On the other side of that portal, is a land full of ponies frozen in time." Manex's eyes' might as well have exploded, "What?! Ponies?!" Jain pinched the bridge of his nose, "Pretty sure Princess Twilight explained that." "You know I wasn't listening to her, dog! I don't even listen to any of them!" "So you're saying you haven't accepted our new friends and you haven't fallen for anyone, because they aren't human?" Manex sighed and kicked a rock, "Mother-... Nevermind. Let's just keep searching..." "Probably for the best." "Go fuck yourself, Jain." Why are we out here? "So I can find whatever destroyed the dock." O—kay... But... Why? "I need something to keep my mind off the fact that my child could be stolen by some purple-haired nerd. The absolute bull in that is gonna make me explode." I guess that makes sense. "Exactly. Anyone who's baby could be stolen by a dork would do the same thing. Well, probably here, at least. A purple-haired nerd wouldn't even get a dog in America. That cesspool of so-called, 'freedom.'" We're not in the US anymore Noah. You should've stopped thinking about its problems years ago. Especially after you solved them all by slaying the Sirens. "Yeah? Well, you should stop showing up whenever I'm alone." I'm only here because you have a severe problem of talking to yourself that you can't seem to fix. You literally asked your consciousness to fix your consciousness. "Shut up." The missing outsider and his thoughts had disappeared into the woods to remove the idea of Sunset and Twilight as an item. Unfortunately, it wasn't going very well. Since the day he spoke his first word, Noah had a 'minor' issue of talking to himself. His cognizance seemed to have a mind of its own, and usually only appeared when Noah was truly alone. This was unquestionably one of those times. As he sought through the forest in search of whatever it was he sought for, his consciousness repeatedly asked him questions. Questions he'd rather not think about. Why do you think Sunset would be attracted to Twilight of all people? "Because Twilight is a more verbose and intelligent version of Fluttershy. Sunset has this odd turn-on for making the meek feel weak. Submissive, virtually. I didn't believe it until I saw just how much Twilight blushed at whatever she said. Over and over, another witty and charming sentence after the next turned Twilight into a ticking time bomb that went off every thirty seconds. Again, and again, and a-fuckin'-gain." Weren't you trying to ease back on the swears? "I can say what I want when I'm alone, you idiot." We're the same- Noah balled his hands into a fist, "I swear to God, if you say we're the same person, I'm gonna cut myself." Noah's consciousness snickered, and Noah promptly addressed himself. "Do not make a joke out of that! That's offensive as hell!" But we're the same- *Clang!* ... It didn't take very long for Noah's body to hit the floor...
XXV - As If We Couldn’t Be Stranger...Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
XXVI - Antagonism, Suspicion, & The Missing OutsiderAuthor's Note Two Of The Worst Things To Be Associated With This Guy... XXVI - Antagonism, Suspicion, & The Missing Outsider "Um, Pinkie Pie, darling? What are you doing?" "I'm putting marshmallows on my lantern, Rarity! Then when we ignite them, they'll be beautiful and delicious!" "That sounds impractical and disgusting." "You haven't forgotten who I am, have you?" "...Maybe for a moment... A delightful, God-given moment..." Two hours after a majority of the Black Five had discovered a majority of the Rainbooms had acquired superpowers of some sort, the crew had settled near the finished dock upon several bench tables. They were creating gorgeous lanterns to let fly into the sky and light up the night. Although, a member of the Rainbooms was missing. Twilight Sparkle and her unusually colored dog, Spike, had taken a seat, alone, at another bench table. She'd been acting quite odd for a rather large portion of the trip so far, and it was beginning to become apparent. Rainbow Dash dropped her paintbrush, "Okay, that's it. What the hell- er, heck is going on with Twilight? She's been acting strange this entire trip like she's got a frog in her brain!" The Rainbooms turned to each other, confused. Though they shrugged it off and Applejack answered. "Who knows? She hasn't constructed a magical compass capable of stealin' Equestrian magic and used it naively. Puttin' the entire Milky Way Galaxy at stake of a devastatin' apocalypse on a galactic scale. Leaving everythin' that ever existed in a state of indisputable, irreparable ruination... Has she?" Rainbow Dash stared, bewildered, "Uh... I guess not?" "Then we're alright. If somethin's botherin' Twilight, she'll come to us. It's only been five weeks as opposed to the rest of us knowin' each other for years. She just needs some more time." "I guess, but what if she doesn't say anything?" "Maybe we could force it out of her?" Fluttershy answered, instantly sending all of the Rainbooms incomparably agape. Rarity dropped her lantern, "Fluttershy, darling... Are you... alright?" "Yeah. I feel wonderful... Why?" "Uh... Forget it. How about we change the subject, hm?" Pinkie shoved a marshmallow into the side of the lantern, "What else should we talk about?" "Maybe that Noah has been missing for three hours now?" Applejack crossed her arms, "That reminds me. Rainbow, when we were back at the bakin' buildin', why'd ya call Noah our leader?" Rainbow Dash shrugged, "I dunno. I mean, it's supposed to be Twilight, but Princess Twilight is gone, and our Twilight doesn't really seem to have a sense of authority. Like, at all. "I guess I just called Noah our leader because he made the important decisions and the plans at the Friendship Games and The Battle of the Bands. Even when Princess Twilight was here, he just took charge. And I'm not gonna lie, but he was pretty good at it. "If you ask me, I don't think Princess Twilight would've thought about annihilating the Sirens or our Twilight if push came to shove. She's too soft, to be honest with you. Though I bet this stuff would be a heck-of-a-lot easier where she comes from." Rarity rolled her eyes as she rubbed her fingertips, "Yes, yes, we get it. Noah's our conjectured leader. Can we get back to the fact that he's missing in a forest that's rumored to be cursed?" Sunset twiddled with her fingers, "I bet he's fine." Rarity raised an eyebrow, "...You bet he's fine?" "You guys, Noah can be incredibly stupid at times, but he's not an idiot. Wherever he is, it's probably somewhere safe... Or incredibly stupid. The point is, he's not in danger. After all, he has all of your magical energy in his pendant. He can use that if he needs it." Fluttershy tilted her head, "So... You're okay with him being lost in the woods somewhere?" "Well, when you say it like that, I sound like a bitch." "Well, that is essentially what a bitch would do..." "..." The bench table fell silent with Fluttershy's words. Not a single member of the Rainbooms replied as they gawked at Fluttershy like she was a radioactive turkey drenched in dog urine. Fluttershy simply kept eye contact with Sunset, who was getting increasingly sweaty by the second. Sunset pointed nonchalant finger guns in Twilight's direction. "I-I'm gonna go... Uh... I-I'm gonna go sit with Twilight... Yeah... I better, uh... Figure out what's going on! R-Right?" Before anyone could reply, Sunset stood up, apprehensive, and speed-walked over to Twilight's table. The Rainbooms watched as Sunset stepped away, but not for long as they returned their attention to their timid friend. She stared blankly, "What?" Rarity laid both hands flat, "What? Are you serious? Fluttershy, darling, you just called Sunset a bitch!" "...Yeah?" Applejack crossed her arms, "Fluttershy, that's rude! And seriously mean! How could you say that to her?" "Well, Noah and I were doing a project in Health Class, and he was telling me about all the types of bitches in the world." Rainbow Dash's face scrunched up, "W-What?! Why?!" "I don't know. But his eyes were really red and he was laughing a lot at simple things like the clack of my pen, so I think it had to do with that." Rarity's eyes twitched. Fluttershy continued, "Sunset disregarding Noah and his well being like that was one of the bitch things he'd told me. So I assumed Sunset already knew since she hangs out with Noah a lot and does that thing with her mouth he told me about." Rainbow Dash stuttered, "What the fu- y-you, Fluttershy! No girl likes being called a bitch! Even if Sunset knew, that doesn't mean she'd wanna be called it! What type of girl likes being called a bitch?!" Fluttershy poked at her bottom lip, "Well, Noah told me that there are girls who liked being called bitches. He told me they were called slu-" "Just finish your fucking lantern, Fluttershy..." ... "Hey, Twilight." "Sunset? What are you doing over here? A-Aren't you supposed to be hanging with the girls?" Sunset took a seat next to her nerdy friend and snuggled close. Whether it was intentional or not, Twilight had turned redder than a bag of Skittles. Sunset replied, "Well, yeah, but I can come back to them later." "Ow! Watch the ice, you lunatic!" "I'm trying to help you!" "Well, it feels like you're trying to crush my skull!" "I couldn't even if I wanted to!" "Oh, please! You have the hands of an elephant!" "Elephants don't have thumbs, dumbass!" "Noah! Aria! Shut the hell up!" It was that time again. It'd taken a while considering he was busy with a couple of other things before, but these things just learned to come around whenever they were needed. Inside the mind of Noah Rictorshine were his greatest enemies turned friends in the mysterious realm of Siren Hell. (What a laughably lazy name.) Noah laid on the three-seater sofa surrounded by the confidants of his mind, Aria Blaze and Adagio Dazzle. Noah was covered in two blankets, one being red cotton, and another being a blue waffle weave. On the back of his head was a colossal bump surrounded by dried blood. Although, not being very visible as his hair covered most of it. Sitting on the sofa's arm with a bag of ice covered by paper towels against Noah's skull was Aria, who had warmed up to him a bit more. No longer did she simply enter a room while Noah and Adagio talked, grabbed a Sprite, and left, but now it seemed that she had been talking to him a bit more. Perhaps even more her than sister. Speaking of her sister, Adagio laid opposite to Noah with her feet resting on his stomach and her hands behind her head. Quite lucky that Noah hadn't thrashed out and threw Adagio's feet out the window. Some would say he liked the view, but Noah was never a foot person. Never understood it, and probably never will. Probably. Aria wore a large and purple hoodie with blue accents. On her legs were short jeans and black knee socks, her hair the same. Adagio wore a white buttoned-up dress shirt with rolled sleeves and a tie. On her legs were black dress pants and perfectly polished shoes. All she was missing was her suit, which laid on the marble table to her side. Adagio continued, "Now Noah, if you're done complaining and arguing with my sister like a little girl, maybe you could tell us what happened. I mean, I was thinking of going on a date today, but I wouldn't mind clearing my schedule for my ass of a slayer." Noah scoffed, "Oh, cry me a river-" "Prick." ”Look, I was just walking through the woods to see if Director Gloriosa was doing anything stupid, and talking to the voice in my head that never seems to screw off, until pow! The back of my head is hit by something metal, and I'm knocked out cold. I didn't even get a chance to react before my face got all up, close and personal, with mother nature's... bush..." Aria cringed, disgusted, "Seriously? You had to throw in a sex joke?" "Who said that was a sex joke?" Aria pinched the bridge of her nose, "God, give me strength." Adagio sat up, "Okay, well, you obviously didn't run into anything like a doofus, which means something, or someone, intentionally attacked you with the intent of knocking you unconscious. Do you have any ideas as to who?" "The only person I can suggest is probably Sunset considering she just became a major bit- er, jerk not even halfway through the trip! I don't know, maybe I did something to tick her off, and now she's immensely annoyed. But I haven't a clue about what I did!" Aria raised an eyebrow, "What about the counselors and the director?" Noah squinted, "What about them?" "Well, from what I've seen, they seem to be overly cheery, including the director. Not to mention we saw them bickering like my sisters and I used to when you first arrived." Aria rested her head on her free hand, "What? You think they're up to something?" "Well, yeah, but that wouldn't make a ton of sense. We don't have enough evidence to mark them as threats, or even odd. They just act like normal people. Which makes me think Noah's friends jumped the gun on searching for stuff." "They were probably just being stupid like they always are." "Well..." "No, she's right. All eleven of those teenage idiots do stupid things on a daily basis," Noah defended. Adagio folded her arms, "Then who else would it be? You think we're just missing something?" Aria stood up and shoved the ice in order to keep it in place at Noah's head. "We're probably missing a ton of things, but I think that's worth worrying about later." Adagio tilted her head as Aria began up the steps to the second floor, "The hell are you going?" "To bed!" As Aria reached the top floor and entered her room, Adagio was promptly left with Noah in the living room. Noah slowly turned his attention to Adagio's feet, which now rested on his chest. He stated, "You know, I'd love it if the person who dropped a building on my parents wasn't using me as her footrest." Adagio rolled her eyes yet reluctantly moved her feet. "Happy?" "You say that like it's wrong." "It's not that, I just... Look, I don't care how soft of a teddy bear I've been recently, I still don't like wasting time. Especially my own, Noah." "You and me both." "You better get this situation of yours under control, or at least don't come back with more bullshit. You added an entire town, remember? I shouldn't have to drop everything to come to your aid because you got hit by a shovel or something." "I know, Dagi, I just... Well... Damn, I guess... I guess I just needed someone besides someone I don't know helping out. I know I killed you and your sister, which was completely deserving." "Spit it out, little boy." "I... Adagio, how much do you care about Aria? I'm not talking, 'Oh, well, I can't just let her die or something,' I'm talking actual, legitimate, down to Earth, care. "Love." Adagio tilted her head, "...Where is this coming from?" "Dagi, I have Sunset to comfort me whenever I need it. But, sometimes, it's better if I just find someone more... relaxed. I'm not saying Sunset can't be relaxed, but I'm talking like, so relaxed that they don't even care." "Explain to me how that's good?" "I mean, my sister used to do it a lot. Both of them. It was nonchalant, and bullsh- er, crappy, but in a way, I guess that was them telling me I'll be alright." "...what?" "Oh for fuck's sake, you're like a sister to me, Dagi." Adagio raised a finger to respond as her heart felt unusually heavy, but she ended up saying nothing. Her face wasn't blushing, but it showed a confused, yet somehow glad appearance. Adagio laid a hand flat, "That sounds... kinda forced." "I know, I just had it on my mind for a while, and thought I should just say it already." Adagio lifted her feet off of Noah's chest and rested them on the floor, all the while sitting back against the couch. Noah stared, a tad puzzled, as Adagio twiddled with her fingers, lost in thought. "...Something wrong-" "I murdered your family." Noah's pupils widened. With fear instead of anger for reasons unknown. Adagio had turned her head to gaze at him, but her face was now full of guilt and a lack of understanding. She continued, "I murdered everyone at that park. I murdered billions of people before you were born, and billions after. I was the cause of so many wars, millions of hogsheads worth of blood. "I'm the cause of that Hitler guy. The cause of Ivan the Terrible, Joseph Stalin, Vlad the Impaler, Pol Pot, Heinrich Himmler, Idi Amin, Saddam Hussein, and hundreds, probably thousands of other horrible people in your planet's history." As Adagio continued, Noah began to notice several tears flowing down her cheeks and watering up in her eyes. Noah was thrown entirely off guard, beyond dumbfounded. He sat up, at least he tried, "Whoa, whoa, Adagio, calm your tits! Jesus Christ, there's no need to get all emotional like this!" Adagio turned back, "Noah, it doesn't make any sense that you would say that. That you should say that! I'm the reason your entire planet was screwed over for a thousand years! I wrote your planet's history! My sisters and I were giant, god-like puppeteers that used your world like a child building a Lego death star or something. "How in God's name could you call me your sister? Let alone even fucking forgive me?" "Adagio, I... Look, Dagi. Growing up... Unlike your family, and probably unlike most of my people, I had read a book that you probably already know. Even if you and millions of others call it all bullshit, I guess I just still believe it all. "I once read in that book something I haven't been able to forget ever since I saw it. To put it simply, it's that nobody is ever far from forgiveness. Nobody. All of those people you listed, if handled correctly, could've been forgiven. But it wouldn't even matter since they were just being used by you three. "...You truly screwed me over all those years ago, and I was out of my mind when I took you and your sisters' lives back at The Battle of the Bands, but... I guess I've learned to see past all of that. So much so that I've given you and Aria an entire town. Just listen to me. "I forgive you, Adagio Dazzle. And I'm lucky to be able to see you and your sister every three days. And while I sleep, no less. "Don't ever think that your past defines you. Just look at Sunset. You've seen her change through my eyes immensely. Who's to say Earth's greatest monster can't either?" Noah smiled warmly as Adagio wiped away her tears and rubbed her eyes. She then stared deeply into Noah's eyes as she smiled, at peace. Noah had already said he forgave her, but this didn't just feel right, it felt perfect. Adagio raised her arms, "Goddamn you, little boy," and moved over closer to Noah who had sat up completely. She brought her arms under his and embraced him tightly. Noah was thrown off, but embraced Adagio all the same. The last time Adagio ever hugged him was during the Friendship Games whereas Noah felt lost. Albeit, it was rather so-so. But this, this was entirely different. Adagio had pulled him so very close that her cheeks rubbed against his pleasantly, and her arms held him close like a baby who needed her mother in the darkest of times. Noah couldn't fathom the feeling. Adagio wasn't warm, but her very presence, and smell, made Noah feel like the world had stopped. It was wonderful. Noah nudged a bit to face her, "Alright Dagi, come on. Aren't you supposed to be all-powerful, leading, and assertive? Since when do you ever get emotional? Especially over yours truly." Adagio laughed, "Shut up, or I'll smash your head against this table." "Mmmm... mmm, no Noah, you can't use Mcfly as a pillow, mmm... you dumb- ow! Goddamnit! Twilight, what the... Twilight?" Sunset Shimmer, in the dead of night and donning her classic pajamas, sat up from her bed, disconcerted. She found what had fallen against her head upon her lap, and her face fell flat. It was the little, yet somewhat heavy lantern Rarity had recommended to her. She had placed it above her head on the headrest as the nightstand was too far, but that's not what confused her. As Sunset had turned to the bed beside her earlier, she found that Twilight was missing. The only sign that she was ever there were the bedcovers thrown about haphazardly. Sunset arose from her bed and slipped into her slippers at its feet. She took a single step forward as she analyzed the tent. All of Twilight's things, including her dog Spike, had all disappeared. Sunset tilted her head, perplexed, "Where'd she go?" She turned her attention to the nightstand. Upon it, folded neatly, was her fluffy red robe. Another gift from her best friend slash boyfriend she'd received months ago. Strangely reluctant, Sunset picked up the sweater, slid her arms through the sleeves, and the hoodie over her head. Sunset then approached the tent's exit and stepped out. As she did, her eyes dilated as she located her introverted friend. Twilight, with Spike just beside her and all her stuff in her bookbag upon her back, was making a mad dash from the campsite. Sunset groaned, "Great. Gotta catch me a Twilight. Hopefully, she hasn't hurt herself... Wouldn't be surprised if she did though... Jeez, Noah really has influenced me." ... "Twilight?" Sunset called as she chased just a bit from behind. Twilight had run into the woods and was getting further and further from the campsite. Any further, and the two would be lost without a doubt. She continued, the gap between the two shrinking. "Twilight! I know you can hear me! Quit running before you hurt yourself!" Fearful and hesitant, Twilight skidded to a stop and stood firm. Sunset stepped over to her, panting, and began. "Twi... Twilight... W-What..." Twilight picked up Spike and asked, "Are you... Uh, okay?" "Y-Yeah, I'm... I'm fine,I just... Oh, Jesus Christ..." Twilight looked away, "Look, I know what you're thinking." Sunset bent over. Her hands on her kneecaps in an attempt to catch her breath. "Yeah, why in... Why... Why were you... Why were you trying to run- oh, fuck me..." "Uh, you don't look so good... Or sound... So good." "Yeah, because I was trying to... Chase you through... This damn forest, oh, Goddamnit..." "Uh... Well-" "Why were you trying to run away? What are you even doing out here?" Sunset asked as she stood correctly, though she held her right side just below the ribs. Twilight avoided her friend's gaze, full of guilt and shame. "I, well, Spike and I, we were... Going to catch a cab..." Sunset tilted her head, and Spike spoke, "We ran because she thought you'd talk her out of it." "Because I would." Sunset rested her left on Twilight's shoulder, "Twi, you can't leave-" "..." "...Uh, Sunset?" Twilight and Spike stared at Sunset, bewildered. Her hand remained on Twilight's shoulder, but her eyes had blazed white. Virtually as strong as the moon, and her jaw hung agape as if she was ascending. Spike jumped out of Twilight's arms and took a few steps forward to poke at Sunset's feet. "She's as cold and stagnant as a corpse, Twilight. Like she was just thrown into some sort of time... Uh, thingy." He turned about, "What do you think happened?" Twilight watched Sunset intently, "I... I-I-I don't know, Spike. I think... She must be, uh... Something, I-I don't know!" "Then what do we do?" Twilight turned her head around, "Well, we can use this time to get away-" "Twilight wait!" Sunset cried, just before Twilight could move her shoulder. "There's no Midnight left around inside of you, you have to calm down." Twilight gawked as her eyes constricted, "What?! H-How'd you know?! I-I didn't say anything or even give anything away! Matter of fact, what was that?!" Sunset removed her hand, "I-I have no idea, but when I touched your shoulder, I saw your memories, your mind. I-I-I-It flashed by like a movie or something, and saw your thoughts! I heard about Midnight, why you sat away from us, everything!" "...Everything?" "Yes, even that..." Twilight became redder than a strawberry in less than a second, "Oh, shit..." "But besides the gross horse anus fetish stuff, there's nothing wrong with you, and Midnight isn't returning at all. Noah threw her at a bus, remember?" "Of course I remember, the bump on my head still hasn't vanished yet. But, I just... How are you supposed to explain me destroying the dock? Or the magical glitter on the grass? Or all of our friends, including you, gaining powers? Sunset, you can literally read minds!" "I'm not sure, but I swear it's not you. I saw your subconscious, remember? Not a trace of Midnight for as far as the eye could see." "But, that doesn't make any sense! What if someone gets hurt?" "We won't hurt anybody, what makes you think that?!" ”Fluttershy can summon hawks, Pinkie Pie has explosive glitter, Rarity can form entire diamonds bore of magic, Applejack is stronger than physically possible, I have telekinesis, for crap's sake, Rainbow Dash sent Jain through a window! Someone's bound to get hurt!" "It's in the right hands, isn't it? What's the big deal?" Twilight stepped away from her friend, "Easy for you to say. The last time I obtained magic, I nearly sent the entire galaxy back to the stone age, and murdered several students! Including Dean Cadence!" "Twilight, you had the power of all the Elements coursing through your blood. This is different. We all have the right amount of magic for us all. Rainbow Dash isn't gonna suddenly run so fast, the Earth spins faster." "I-I know, I just... I'm so afraid that it's gonna happen again..." Sunset rubbed her left arm, "I get it, Twilight. The last time magic ran through one of us, the apocalypse nearly became a reality. And before the Friendship Games, magic turned me into a cruel, vile monster. So if anyone understands what you're going through, it's me. "If you need help coping, I'm all ears and always available. As are the rest of our friends. Even Noah's friends are more than happy to help in any way they can. At least, they better be. "But nothings gonna happen if you just keep running away as if that'll solve all your problems. It only ends up hurting you inside. And believe me, it hurts like a motherfucker." Twilight sighed, at a loss for words knowing she'd lost the argument. She turned about to face her friend. Tears welling up in her eyes that Noah would probably find unnecessary. "I... Okay, you win. I'll stay." Sunset smiled, and Twilight continued. "I still don't think it's a good idea for me to be near the girls, regardless if I'm the reason or not." Sunset nodded, "As long as you stay... Hey, do you hear-" "Rustling? Y-You do too? That was quick and random." Sunset and Twilight both whipped their heads about, puzzled at the rustling of the bushes. Entering a protective state, Sunset grabbed Twilight by her side and pulled her behind her back. She then watched the bushes, ready for anything. "Who's out there? Show yourself!" Sunset called, and the rustling stopped, but only for a moment. Twilight turned to another bush and fell cold. An insanely sharp ax had risen from the bushes. Sunset directed her attention there and froze. "Wait!-" "Twilight? Bacon-haired girl? What are you two doing out here so late?" It was Timber Spruce. Twilight and Sunset sighed, relieved. "We just saw an ax appear from the bush, and thought someone was here to kill us! That was petrifying!" "Oh, uh, well, what are you two doing out here?" "Why do you have an ax?!" Twilight and Sunset replied, simultaneously. Timber quickly shoved his hand into the bushes, nervous, and revealed a wheel barrel of logs. "I-I, was, c-chopping down firewood! Yeah... Firewood." Sunset folded her arms, suspicious, "In the middle of the night?" "...Yes." Twilight smiled, "Well, I'm glad it's you, at least. We thought there was some killer on the loose or something." "Oh, please. If there was a killer on the loose, Gloriosa would probably throw 'em into the lake with a boulder. You'd be surprised what she could do when she's angry." Twilight giggled while Sunset's eyes only squinted. Timber continued, "Okay, but seriously. Why are you two out here? It's not something inappropriate, is it? Not that I'd mind..." "Oh, uh-" "I was just sleepwalking," Sunset interrupted. Saving the two's skin. "Twilight found me and was just bringing me back to camp." "Y-Yeah, what she said." Timber nodded, "Sounds legit. Anyway, c'mon. I'll walk you two back to camp." Timber then began down a certain trail and the two of them followed. But still suspicious, Sunset asked a question. "Hey Timber?" "Shoot," he replied. "You wouldn't happen to have seen Noah anywhere, have you?" "Who?" Sunset rubbed her chin, "Uh, he's the black one." "..." "With the fade haircut?" "..." "He curses a lot?" "..." "Crap, that's right. Heck, even I curse more than him now. Uh... He says stupid stuff a lot?" "Oh, him! Yeah, he's in the tunnel." "...The what?" Timber locked up like a cat ascending to godhood, "I-I-I mean, he's p-probably somewhere a-at the camp! O-Or helping Gloriosa, o-or something! Yeah! H-He's doing that!" "...Oh, really?" "Yeah!" Sunset folded her arms once more, "Okay... Noted..."
XXVII - Only Slightly ScrewedAuthor's Note ”So we’re fine. As long as nobody starts teleportin’ bread.” XXVII - Only Slightly Screwed "I honestly can't believe we're spending our end of the year trip... fixing a dock." "Yeah. We could be rock climbing right now. Or, uh, roasting marshmallows. Or... What do people even do on camping trips, Jain?" "I have no fucking clue, Dash." The last day of the Everfree camping trip was underway, and the dock still hadn't been finished. Throughout most of the morning to the middle of the day, the students of CHS had been working hard. Though Noah was still missing, and students outside the crew had begun to notice. Rainbow Dash and Jain Benefactor carried stacks of wooden boards onto the dock to deliver to Applejack, whom had been hammering all day long. Rejecting breakfast, and would probably reject lunch as well. Rainbow Dash dropped her stack from over her shoulder and sighed from exhaustion. Jain noticed, "You alright?" She shrugged, "Yeah, I'm fine." "I thought you were the athletic one of the group." "Athletic doesn't mean I'm a weightlifter, stupid. Besides," Rainbow Dash raised her voice obnoxiously. "It'd be a lot easier if someone would get off their blank as paper, white, butt, and help!" Rarity, sitting to their side knitting a piece of clothing, rolled her eyes. "Christ, Rainbow. It's almost as if I'm in the middle of creating a bunch of designs for the upcoming camp fashion show." "Seriously?" "Quite," Rarity leaned forward and smiled smugly, "But don't you worry, darling. I'll make sure to get right on it." Rainbow Dash mumbled, "Uh, Good God above..." Jain chuckled, "You guys do know you're using the same words that you don't understand, right?" Rainbow Dash scoffed, "We're Equestrian, Jain. We're easily influenced to the point where it's a damn joke." Rarity turned her attention to her side, her ears perking at the sound of keys clacking on a phone. She smiled as she saw who had been making the noise. CJ, phone in hand, sat at the edge of the dock texting someone on a site unknown to her. She spoke, "Color me impressed, Cejal. You've friends outside of us!" CJ rolled his eyes, "Rarity, I know you're designing a lot of clothes and that I'm not doing much-" "Darling, you're not doing shit." CJ dropped his phone on the dock, annoyed. "Fuck do you want, Rares?" Rarity crossed her legs, "I'm glad you asked. I seem to have misplaced or forgotten my favorite scissors back at my tent. Would you be a doll and go get them for me?" "There's literally scissors at your feet, I- Hell, Rarity, there's four of them! What's so special about these scissors that I have to run to your tent which could probably get me neck-deep in bullshit?" Rarity pursed her lips, "Ce–jel. Ple—ase?" "Rarity, I've seen you work your magic on every boy in the school. How the hell do you expect me, of all people, to fall for that crap?" Rarity poked at her chin, pondering. "Uh... Because I asked nicely and gorgeously and we're best friends?" "Hah! No." Rarity groaned as she reached into her back pocket and revealed her pristine wallet of the highest fashion. CJ's eyes widened like a dog feasting his eyes on a new bone. She pulled out two twenties, "Go get my scissors, you dick." CJ shot up to his feet and snatched the twenties out of her hand. "Your wish is my command, my beautiful queen." "Oh, screw off," Rarity replied, annoyed, and CJ promptly did so. In search of the pair of scissors only fit for such a beautiful, strong-willed, yet a rather whiney diva, such as Rarity. "If you're done watchin' those two doofuses go back and forth, Ah’ll gladly take that wood now, thank you very much." Applejack, still hammering what little wood she had left for the dock, called out to both Rainbow Dash and Jain. Who had gotten sidetracked watching Rarity and CJ's little quarrel. Rainbow Dash turned about, "Yeah, yeah, we're coming. C'mon Jain. The faster we get this done, the faster we can... Uh... Do stuff." Jain raised an eyebrow, "Stuff?" "Y-Yeah, stuff." "..." "Look, just give AJ the wood so she'll shut up." Jain shrugged his shoulders as the two approached Applejack with the stacks of wood boards over their shoulders or carried in their arms. They laid the stacks down on either side of Applejack, then Rainbow Dash decided to have a seat on one of them whilst Jain folded his arms. She sighed, "Y’know you guys, I-I don't think we'll be able to even finish this dock in time. Let alone for Rarity's dumb show." Applejack lifted a board from Jain's pile and laid it down, "The dock is our gift to the camp, and it's gonna get finished or so help me. No magical sailboats or stupid weak planks is gonna change that." "What if one of you accidentally destroys the dock?" Jain questioned. ”You know, now that you're all this world's versions of the Avengers." Applejack dropped the hammer, "Oh, don't even get me started. Ah’ve been so careful all day, tryin' to make sure Ah don't destroy the entire dock... Again..." "Eh, you'll be fine." Jain sighed, "I'm gonna go get more wood. You guys keep doing what you're doing, and Dash, rest your arms. Since you're basically built like a twig, God knows how long until your arms fall off." Rainbow Dash flipped Jain off and he chuckled. Not replying, he turned about and stepped off the dock. Heading into the forest. Leaving the Rainbooms to themselves on the dock. Applejack picked up her hammer preparing to return to work when she noticed something. "Aw, damn- er, dang. Ah ran outta nails. Does anybody-" "Oh!" Pinkie Pie began, from the end of the dock. "I've got some!" "W-Wait, Pinkie!" Pinkie Pie, before she could be stopped, reared her hand back and threw the box of nails over to her southern friend. Remembering what happened the last time Pinkie Pie threw something small as such, the air exploded. The nails collided with the ground, and Applejack jumped for cover faster than ever! Only, nothing happened. Applejack poked her head out from under her arms and raised an eyebrow. She then sighed, relieved, as she sat upwards correctly. The image before her was rather odd. Rarity had thrown up some sort of barrier composed of her diamond formation powers, while Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash hid pointlessly behind a pole. Applejack turned about to face Pinkie Pie, whose face promptly flipped from confusion to realization to nervous guilt, then to playfulness. She shrugged, "Wha—t? Oh! You guys thought the nails would explode if I threw 'em, didn't cha? Wow! Glad that didn't happen, huh?" Applejack facepalmed, "Pinkie, how 'bout you just stick to handin' things to use instead of throwin' 'em. Alrighty?" As Rarity's shield lowered, she promptly approached Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash. Helping them up from the post. She exhaled, "So sorry, girls! I-I couldn't think straight, and the shield just showed up out of nowhere!" Rainbow Dash stretched her arm, "Don't worry, Rarity. We're fine. Right, Flutters?" Fluttershy stood oddly on one leg, "My leg hurts." "Yeah, we're fine." "Is everything alright, girls?" A voice called. Stepping onto the dock and addressing the five was Sunset Shimmer. Applejack stepped forward herself and replied, "Not at all, Sunny. We just can't work with these powers, they're throwin' us off hilariously. A-Ah mean, Rarity nearly shoved both Fluttershy and Rainbow into the lake! "How are we supposed to finish this dock without destroyin’ it? Again." Sunset folded her arms as she came closer, "Well, at least you guys aren't the only ones." Rarity tilted her head, "What are you talking about?" "Last night, I found out that even I had powers too. Whenever I touch someone, it lets me take a glimpse into their memories. Felt like I was drunk or something though, so that could prove to be an issue." Pinkie Pie rushed forward, "Oh! Try me! Try me—e!" "Pinkie, I'm pretty sure your head is full to bursting with cotton candy and rainbows. Anyone with eyes could see that." Pinkie Pie pouted, "Ple—ase?" Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, "Forget it, Pinkie. We have more important things that need figuring out. Like this stupid dock below our feet that hopefully doesn't crumble... Again." Sunset stepped past the girls, "You guys, we can't just stand around and neglect the gifts we've been given. You've gotta stop looking at these powers as something bad. Maybe if you tried looking at them as something good, we could finish this dock." Fluttershy laid a hand flat, "How so?" "Well, hm. How should I explain this... I know how." Sunset cleared her throat delicately, "So you have magic-" "Wait! Wait! Before you start singing like a bunch of failed artists, we have a question!" The girls turned about to find the speaker and found the majority of the Black Five rushing onto the dock as if they were gonna miss their boat. Manex being the one in particular to shout. Sunset groaned and pinched her nose bridge whilst resting her elbow in the palm of her other hand. The girls began giggling, and Jain was the first to reach Sunset. As they caught their breath, CJ pulled out the scissors Rarity had asked her, approached her, and placed them in her palms gentlemen-like. Rarity stuttered, but didn't speak. "Sunset," Jain began, standing straight. "We... Fall saw you and Twilight running into... the forest, then... You came back with... Timber and a... God, give me strength..." Sunset let go of her nose, "What, did you run all the way from your side of the camp to here?" "Yeah," Jain answered, wheezing. "Seemed like... Such a good idea... At the time... It wasn't... At all..." "I can see that." "What... What the hell were you guys... Were you guys coming from the forest?" "Please tell us," CJ added, "My black-ass can't breathe for shit, right now..." Sunset looked over at the girls. They shrugged, perplexed, but decided to just let Sunset handle it as they got back to work. She sighed, slightly annoyed, and answered. "Last night, I awoke because Rarity's lantern she recommended fell on my forehead and woke me up. I found that Twilight was missing from her bed, so I wrapped on my robe and peeked out the tent's... doors? Uh... Flaps? Ugh, whatever those things are called. "But anyway, I spotted Twilight and Spike with all of their stuff running into the forest. I followed them for a while and eventually caught them. Twilight explained why she had run, and we basically had a talk in the woods." "About what?" "Uh... She would rather me not say." Manex rolled his eyes, "Oh great, more secrets that could potentially fuck us over like ants." Sunset shook her head and continued, "But after that, we heard rustling in the bushes, and it turned out that it was Timber. He claimed he was chopping down firewood for Gloriosa, but I had my doubts. So I asked him something." "What?" "I asked him if he had seen Noah, and he said he was in a tunnel of some sort." Fall's eyes bulged, "What?!" "Yeah, but then he tried to cover it up and say that he was probably helping Gloriosa. So then comes this morning and I ask her, and she denies anything. But I swear on my life, a drop of sweat fell from her forehead when I finished asking questions." CJ threw us arms up, "Great. That means those two asshats are up to something. But why the hell do they have Noah?" Jain shrugged, "Who cares why? We have to go save that dumbass before he gets killed." Sunset halted them, "Wait! Why are you guys just now asking me this?" "Because Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna started questioning us as if we were the cause, and... Other stuff.” “Other stuff?” “The entire office was practically bursting with balloons, and we spotted you entering the school with several bags of blow-ups!” Principal Celestia explained, hands upon her hips. ”How was that not you?!” CJ shrugged, ”Uh... Coincidence?” ”Oh, bullshit.” "Oh... Well, can't you guys just hold on for a moment and help with the dock?" Manex stammered, "The dock? We, you- Nigga, fuck the dock! Our friend could be killed by a bunch of camp cultists or some shit!" "I know, I know, but I need you guys to stay with the girls for now while I go find him." Jain crossed his arms, "Not to be an ass Sunset, but aren't the girls more or less your responsibility? As all six of you are responsible for each other?" "Jain, look. During our first night here, I might've said some things to Noah like a... A bitch. I have to be the one to find him so I can make it up to him. Please. Just give me this one thing, and I won't ask for anything ever again." Jain squinted, "Anything?" "...Anything." Jain stared at the boys, and the boys looked at him. He sighed, "Fine, but bring the dipshit back in one piece, okay? We don't love him or any weird crap like you and your friends, but we'd rather him alive than dead." Sunset nodded, "You can count on me. I swear upon it. And if I bring him back with even a scrape, you can go back to calling me Sunwhore." CJ crossed his arms, "Or, we could just rape you." "What?" The Black Four erupted with laughter while Sunset stared, petrified. Manex leaned on Sunset's shoulder, "Relax, Sunset. We're just making a little joke." "That's a joke to you!?" "Of course! ...Unless we just have serious issues." Sunset walked around the four, "I think the second one's correct. I'll be back, don't do anything stupid!" Sunset called as she gained distance away from the four. Jain replied, "Oi! Us? Who the hell do you think you're talking to?!" Sunset chuckled as she stepped off the dock. "A bunch of wannabe heroes of my best friend... Nothing wrong with that though..."
PART 3: XVIII - Down The Rabbit CaveAuthor's Note For Once, We’re Not Talking About Porn... God, this process was a pain in the ass... PART 3: XVIII - Down The Rabbit Cave "Okay, gotta find me a moron... In a tunnel... With siblings that probably knocked him unconscious... Violently... Well, this is gonna be a bother..." Sunset Shimmer stood alone afar from the dock and near one of the staff buildings. Not sure where or how to start her search for her stupid yet selfless best friend slash boyfriend. She rubbed her chin as she inspected the woods, "There's gotta be something I can use to get started. The last time we went into the forest with nothing to go on, all we found was a dead deer... W-Wait, am I talking to my-" "Of course you just had to tell them that ridiculous story!" Sunset turned her attention to the nearby staff building. Her ears flared as she heard rather muffled yelling. Like someone was scolding another for doing something silly. Her eyes squinted, suspicious, as she approached the building to listen closer. "Oh for crying out loud, I knew this was too much for you! You're bursting at the seams like a century-old couch! You need to drop this!" Sunset whispered, "Sounds like Gloriosa and her brother. I knew those two were up to something. But what could it be? The camp maybe- ow!" Sunset was interrupted promptly as the door to her side swung open and smacked her in the face. The siblings stepped out of the building and down the stairs. Where? Sunset hadn't a clue. She pushed the door closed, irritated, and pinched her nose as it took much of the impact. She cursed, "Ow! Goddamn it! Why the hell does this shit happen to me?! ...Wow, I am a hypocrite. Stupid Noah and his stupid influential American crap..." Sunset stepped down from the stairs of the building and tried to catch either of the siblings, but failed. She sighed, "You've gotta be kidding me. How am I supposed to-" "Hey, Sunset!" Caught off guard and puzzled, Sunset turned to her left towards the voice whom had called. She raised an eyebrow as the one calling and approaching was none other than the perfect highschool boy stereotype, Flash Sentry. She let go of her nose, "Flash?" "Yeah, it's me. What were you doing near the staff building?" "Uh... Looking for... Uh... Stuff?" "...O—kay... Hey, uh, can I say something?" Sunset shrugged, slightly amused Flash didn't care at all for what she could've been doing. "Sure, shoot." "I uh... I wanted to thank you." "Come again?" "For the tough love. Telling me I should move on from Twilight was really helpful. I needed to hear that." "Oh, tha—t! Yeah, yeah, I-I did do that! You're welcome." "You sound like you forgot about it." Sunset held her arms behind her, "No! N-No, no... The author just didn't write it, I guess..." "What?" "Nothing! Carry on." "You haven't been acting like... Yourself lately." "Thanks, Captain Obvious..." "What, I-I," Flash sighed, "See? Sunset, I don't know if you take me as an ignorant moron, but as someone who's forgiven you, I think Noah's been taking a toll on you." Sunset tilted her head, "What do you mean?" "I mean that, well, Sunset, what did you do after the Fall Formal?" Sunset shrugged, "Built an entire school entrance for nearly a month straight with no help whatsoever whilst crying about every mistake I've ever made in my entire life." "Exactly. And what did you do after the Battle of the Bands?" "Uh, visited Noah's house, spent Halloween with him at the mall, spent this holiday of his called, "Thanksgiving," with him at his house, spent Christmas with him at an arcade, spent New Year's with him at AJ's..." Flash crossed his arms, "Do you see what I mean?" "Flash, aren't you still technically rivals with Noah? Why do you care if I'm hanging out with him? You want me to stop and start hanging out with you?" "N-No, no, that's not what I'm saying... Kinda, besides! Noah and I cleared up our rivalry, it doesn't really exist anymore." "How?" "We made a penis joke together." Sunset facepalmed, "Go figure..." Flash rubbed the back of his head, "Look, I just think that maybe Noah has been..." Unawaringly, Sunset tuned out what Flash was going on about as she spotted Gloriosa's brother, Timber, stealthfully entering the woods. Checking his right and left to make sure nobody was watching him. She smiled, "Hey, yes, Flash, whatever you're going on about, I'll definitely come back to, and we can talk about this after I find the black moron. Okay?" "I-" "Great," Sunset cut off, as she immediately began after Timber. Following him into the forest, wherever his destination may be, and leaving Flash standing like a nitwit. He stuttered, "W-What just happened?" ... "So, you're just gonna sit in this tent until the end of the trip, Twilight?" "We can't take any chances, Spike. You should know that by now." "Well, I do, but I also find it really boring." "Of course you do..." Sitting inside her and Sunset's tent was none other than the notorious purple nerd, Twilight Sparkle, and her simple yet kind-hearted purple dog, Spike. The two sat upon her bed reading another one of Twilight's books, whilst her dog chewed at his... stick and stones. She rolled her eyes, "Spike, why do you always have to lick yourself when I'm around? It's disgusting!" "What? You want me to do it near Rarity? Actually... Maybe that wouldn't be so bad..." "That's revolting, Spike." "Your ringing, by the way." Twilight blushed immensely, "Spike! What the fu-" "I'm talking about your phone! Relax!" Spike replied, even scrambling to his feet as Twilight made a fist. She turned to her draw and was taken aback. Her phone was ringing. Slightly confused, Twilight raised her phone, read the caller ID, and tilted her head. It was Sunset. "Why's Sunset calling? Did something happen?" "Spike sat, "I dunno. See what she wants?" Nodding, Twilight tapped the green symbol of a phone on the touchscreen and answered. "Hello? Sunset?" "Yeah, it's me Twilight. You didn't read the caller ID?" "I... No." "O—Kay... Well, anyway, I need you to use the map from our group chat app and to come to me. Now. I found something." "Found what?" "Long story short, Timber and Gloriosa are up to something, but they seem conflicted about. I followed Timber into the woods when he tried to sneak away, and he lead me to this cave that goes under the surface." Twilight raised an eyebrow as she turned back to Spike. "What, like a rabbit hole?" "No, it's just this giant cave that goes into the dirt for some reason. I-I don't think they made it, either. I think it was formed." "Yeah, like a rabbit hole." "N-No, Twilight, this is a cave. With rocks and stuff." "But it's still a hole, making it a rabbit hole since it's formed or built like that." "Twilight, I-I, i-it's a cave! What are you missing?" "Hey, I'm the smart one! And by scientific definition, you are looking at a rabbit hole. Not, a cave." "What, Twilight, it's made of rock! What, you think a giant rabbit made it or something?" Twilight stared at her hands, "We live in Equestria. I'm pretty sure giant rabbits aren't off the table. At all. It's a rabbit hole." "No, Twilight, I-I, it's a cave. C-A-V-E, cave!" "I know what a cave is, you jackass... W-Wait, what did I just say-" "Twilight! Rabbit holes go under and are surrounded by dirt. This hole is surrounded by rock. Making it a cave." "Okay, but it still goes into the ground horizontally slanted. Making it a rabbit hole." "Just get the fuck over here." "Wait, what?" "..." "Hello?" Twilight pulled the phone away from the side of her head and groaned. Sunset had hung up on her. She turned her attention to Spike once again and found him with the flattest face she never thought a dog could produce. He spoke, "Did you just have an argument about caves versus rabbit holes over the phone with Sunset?" She began to sweat, "Uh... Yes?" He sighed, "Twilight, I appreciate you taking me in and caring for me for over seven years now. Feeding me, giving someplace to sleep, and above all else, just loving me." Spike hopped from the bed, "But can I just say this?" "What?" "You are an absolute idiot." "I'm here!" Sunset turned about as she stopped scrolling her phone to find both Twilight and Spike coming to a stop as they approached her. Sunset shut her phone and stuck it in her back pocket. She smiled, "You made it. Good, I was starting to get worried." Twilight shrugged, "Yeah, well, that's what they all say, isn't it?" "Yeah, I guess they do. I see you brought Spike." Twilight froze, "O-Oh! W-Was I not supposed to? I-I was just-" "Relax, it's fine. We just don't know what they're planning or what they're capable of, so I don't want him getting hurt is all." Spike puffed out his chest, "Aw, don't worry Sunset. I'm the strongest dog around. Just ask the bitches on our block." Twilight exploded, "Spike?! Watch your mouth!" "What? Noah told me that's another term for a female dog. Is that wrong or..." "Look, in case you couldn't exactly tell, Noah isn't the brightest. You shouldn't listen to his advice like that." "Uh, Twilight? His girlfriend is right there?" Sunset folded her arms, "No, she's right. Noah's a serious moron. Also, we prefer the term, 'best friends,' instead, so..." Twilight tilted her head, "Why? Don't you guys sleep together and kiss and... Like... Fundamentally do everything together?" "Well yeah, but... I-It's complicated..." Twilight turned to face Spike. Spike looked up to face Twilight. They both shrugged, or whatever a dog could do in a scenario such as this, and Twilight returned her attention to Sunset. She began forward with Spike eagerly behind, "Okay, let's see what we're looking at." Sunset took a few steps back and pulled apart two bushes to reveal an entrance. Said entrance was unusually broad and appeared relatively bottomless. Just as Sunset had mentioned, the hole was strangely enveloped in rocks as it descended. Twilight nodded, "Yeah... That's definitely a rabbit hole." "Oh, shut up you purple prick." The three stepped through the bushes and approached the entrance. They stared down into the abyss before them that assumingly stretched for miles. They couldn't even begin to guess as to where it might lead. Twilight pondered, "Well, we'll need something to light our way, obviously. Otherwise, we could be walking right into a ravine, or worse." Spike tilted his head, " 'Or worse' what?" "What are you talking about?" "Well, normally that leads up to a joke. You have any in mind?" Twilight bore into Spike's eyes with a newfound feeling of annoyance. "No, Spike. I do not have any jokes in mind. Do you have any?" "Uh... What happens if I say no?" "Nothing. Which is exactly what I want." Spike chuckled, "Jeez, okay. Sorry for trying to be funny." Twilight sighed, but inside she felt like she had just kicked Spike to the curve. It seemed that Noah and his older friends' influence was finally reaching her as well. Sunset itched her chin before something from her memory hit her like a brick. Reaching into her back pocket, Sunset retrieved a white metal lighter. She flicked the top to reveal the fork, wheel, and other components of it. "This is a special metal lighter from back in the day... It's American." Twilight gasped, "W-Wait, what? American? You mean from America? That weird nation Noah always mentions?" "Yeah, that place." "How?!" "Well, I got it from somewhere unusual a week ago. It was meant to be a gift for Noah for our one month anniversary. I know, stupid, but I was still rather loopy after we became a pair. "I was maybe gonna give it to him to... Well... I think I just bought this because I could. I mean, it's American, it's white, I just didn't know what he'd use it for. "But now, a few days ago, I found out that he'd been smoking marijuana for years. Especially behind my back. My guess is that he was trying to slowly introduce me to it." Spike tilted his head, "Isn't marijuana illegal? And doesn't it only grow in Vanhoover? Did he just cross the country or something? And how isn't he dead or whatever?" Sunset toyed with the lighter, "Apparently, he's fine as ever. And his lungs work like a charm. As for where he got it, I'm thinking he and his friends brought a giant stash with them. For all they knew, they could've been lost at sea. I guess I don't blame them." Twilight stepped forward and gave Sunset a nudge, "Well, I guess you better fire that thing up if we're gonna get any light." Nodding, Sunset flicked the fork multiple times in order to ignite the flame as the trio entered the cave slash rabbit hole. As they descended, and the lighter ignited, Sunset felt something. She handed the lighter to Twilight forcefully as she held herself tight. Twilight looked over at Sunset, confused, but then immediately turned red as she picked up Spike and had him face forward. He hollered, "Hey, what's the big idea?!" Twilight shushed him as they stood, "Don't worry Spike, it's nothing to worry about. Just Sunset being... Sunset." "Is there something wrong with her stomach? She looked like she was holding that. Or she was holding below that. What's going on?" Twilight grew excessively nervous as Sunset turned about and vomited onto the ground. Barfing up her lunch from earlier, and utterly dumbfounding Spike. "Okay, something's definitely going on! What's the big deal?" Twilight whispered, flustered. "Uh... You'll learn when you're older. "Hey, looks like we're getting some light, Sunset." "Finally, Twi. It has to have been half an hour by now." As aforementioned by Sunset, the trio had been walking down the rabbit hole slash cave for thirty minutes now. Of course, ten minutes of their journey consisted of tending to Sunset after her... Problems... As the light grew, Twilight handed the lighter back to Sunset, who promptly extinguished the flame of the lighter, and shoved it in her back pocket. At the ready, if ever needed again. With the final curve in the rabbit hole slash cave, the trio turned to step into the light, revealing quite the environment. Disconcerted, Sunset stepped ahead of the two and analyzed their surroundings. She spoke, "These walls... They're made entirely out of magic. Equestrian magic. I can feel it... But how?" Surrounding them were many pillars bore of rock and magic that appeared similar to a violet lava lamp. Not to mention the walls, which were entirely covered in magic that seemed to bounce around like bubbles in the ocean. The rest of the cave slash rabbit hole was ragged and rocky just like the tunnel. Meaning something dug it's way through entirely. Spike questioned, "Wait a minute, I thought Timber's story about Gaia Everfree was nothing more than an old ghost tale, or fake completely. are you saying his story wasn't?" Twilight raised an eyebrow, "W-Wait, what does Timber have to do with all of this?" "Nothing." The trio spun around to their left as an unknown voice interrupted the three. Sunset pushed Twilight and Spike behind her as she readied for anything the voice had to throw at her. They stepped forward, and the three froze like stone. It was Gloriosa. "It's all me," she concluded. But not without a staggering twitch in her eye. Sunset lowered her arms, "Director Gloriosa? W-What are you doing here? W-What about Timber? I-I was certain he was the one behind all this. But it wasn't. It was you all along. B-But what are you planning? You trying to scare everyone away?" Gloriosa took a step into the middle, "I would never. Not even on my life." "Then why? Why are you doing this?" Gloriosa scoffed, "Me? You don't even know what I'm doing! You don't even know if it's wrong!" "We had to rebuild a dock twice!" Gloriosa stomped forward, "Oh, shut it! I've spent the totality of my life trying to preserve this park, this land, for my great-grandparents! I've fought legal battles, lawsuits, even bankruptcy itself! I'm not proud of it because I constantly have a sweaty, salty taste on my tongue now, but it was worth it!" Twilight cringed whilst Spike gagged, and Sunset replied bluntly, "Ew." "Shut up! Now, that stupid millionaire Filthy Rich has his eyes set on my park, and he's going to build a... A... A fucking Burger City over all of it! Just this giant, filthy, smelly hub of burgers and sweat and grease that stretches for miles for all the overweight idiots to enjoy!" "You mean Burger City Central? He's building that here?" "Yes! Completely demolishing all of this beautiful wildlife so he can make more millions per day!" "Oh... Talk about an info dump." Gloriosa turned about, "But now, I have a plan..." Gloriosa, as if she were a God, brightened the cave slash rabbit hole entirely. Revealing multiple other pillars and walls of magic. At the end of it all was something strange. A beautiful and glistening pedestal surrounded by spikes forged of silver itself. It was enveloped in this aura that would've been misinterpreted as some sort of holy light. Sticking out of the pedestal were two miniature crystals that matched those around Gloriosa's neck. One purple, another red, with five other empty holes before them. All connected by a glowing array of pure white. But that wasn't what made the trio freeze in horror. As Sunset looked up to see something hanging from the top of the cave slash rabbit hole. It was being held by multiple vines the size of entire dinner tables. And someone was being held captive by it. It was Noah. Twilight's eyes bulged, "Noah?!" He turned his attention to them and away from something within his hands. He smiled, "Oh! Hey guys! What brings you to this part of the neighborhood? You need some sugar? Want me to walk your dog? Angry middle-aged sex?" Sunset ran her hands through her hair, "Noah! What on Earth are you doing here?! H-How'd you get tied up?! Where've you been?!" "I'm glad you asked, Kid! I've been kidnapped by Poison Ivy's sister and her boy band brother! Just chilling up here, blood rushing to my head. Might've fainted once or twice... or fourteen times..." Sunset pointed furiously at Gloriosa. "What have you done to him?! Why'd you take him, w-what do you want with him?!" Gloriosa folded her arms as she approached the pedestal. "Nothing major. I've just had him here ever since Timber knocked him out after he found him lingering a little too close to my... Rabbit hole." Twilight smirked while Sunset groaned, "Hah! I told you it was a rabbit hole!" "Oh, screw off." Spike tilted his head, "Wait, Noah, don't you have the ability to like, transform, and stuff? Or yell really loud, at least? I'm sure Fluttershy would've heard it. Or the principals." Noah shuffled in his position to free his other hand from the vine. As he did, he revealed a small blue packaging with gummy fruits on its front. Sunset facepalmed. "You've been feeding him fruit snacks?" Gloriosa shrugged, "It's kept him quiet, so..." "Noah!" Noah shrugged as well, "Sunset, I don't know what to tell you. These fruit snacks have got me questioning my... Well... My everything, really. Heck, even my existence." "You've gotta be shitting me." "Not even a little." "Oh my God..." Gloriosa rubbed her chin, "Not exactly sure why he loves them so much, but maybe it has to do with where they came from." "What do you mean?" "We found them in a cargo container washed up along the dock a week before you all showed up." "What?" "No way," Noah flipped the packaging and freaked. "Holy shit, these are Welch's fruit snacks! No wonder I'm questioning God, these are the shit!" "Noah!" "Oh, shut up, you bacon-haired hypocrite!" "Why does everybody say that?!" "Oh, I don't know! Maybe it's because you're hair is the color of fuckin' bacon!" Gloriosa laid a hand flat, "You two have an... Interesting dynamic." "Shut up, plant lady!" Gloriosa faced the pedestal, "It doesn't matter. You're wasting my time. I've a camp to save." Sunset pushed Twilight and Spike behind her again, while Noah cursed as he dropped his fruit snacks. "Gloriosa! Whatever you're planning, it's not going to end well! It's not right!" Gloriosa placed her left on the two remaining crystals and scoffed, "Please. Everything is going to be just fine. What, am I gonna destroy the world?" Gloriosa, in the blink of an eye, forced her free hand outward towards the trio as it began to glow green. Out of the ground, dozens upon dozens of vines ripped out from the Earth to straddle the three. Quickly pulling them into a tight grasp similar to Noah. Gloriosa transferred the two remaining crystals to the rope around her neck, and the necklace transformed. It had given two spots to the remaining geodes, and the necklace gleamed and shone like mad. With newfound power rushing through her veins, Gloriosa ascended above the ground as the holy aura of the pedestal enveloped her like an angel. Promptly switching green and surrounding her like a tidal wave. Smaller vines burst from the ground to wrap around Gloriosa's limbs and began to transform her. Her feet turned from simple pink with lovely shoes to copper-colored and forest-green vines wrapped all around from her toes to her knees. Her legs turned moss-green with even smaller vines wrapped around her in a strangely lovely pattern. Her clothes were replaced with a gorgeous jade dress with a Sacramento-green bow and white lining every streak. Her skin turned grey and pale, and her eyes filled with a menacing black tar, leaving lime, minuscule pinpricks as pupils. Her hair became incredibly floaty and unkempt as if it were in the deepest parts of the ocean. It changed to the color of pine trees and was streaked with even brighter shades of pine. There was no doubt. Gloriosa had changed. Her carefree and light-hearted attitude had been replaced with overconfidence. She was presumptuous, brash, and cocky. Her stature had changed from a simple camp director to a menacing goddess. She was no longer Camp Everfree Director Gloriosa T. Daisy. She was Gaia Everfree. The trio, now tied and hanging to the ceiling similar to the Super Element, watched in terror as Gaia touched down once again. Noah, now understanding the severity of the situation, spoke up. He had seen a familiar glare in her eyes that reminded him of the monster that nearly took everything from him. "Gloriosa! You have thirty seconds to right whatever the heck you just did before I send you flying!" Gaia chuckled, "You blind, black man? There is no more Gloriosa here. There is only Gaia. And I've returned to reclaim what was taken from me so long ago." Noah tensed up. Her voice once again reminding him of Midnight. "Bullshit! Gloriosa, I know you're in there! Talk to me! I was an idiot before, but the fruit snacks are gone now, damn it!" Gaia levitated over to the tunnel, but not before grabbing multiple boulders from all around. She chuckled, "I rather not, black man. I've a job to do, and I won't let you deter me." She smiled, "You can spend the rest of your days in this forgotten tomb to discuss your filthy relationship problems with your red-headed lover. I'm sure she'd love to hear all about how jealous you are of the purple one." As Noah's eyes constricted, Gaia exited the tunnel entrance, but not before using all of the boulders to block the entryway. Twilight and Spike began to tear as Gaia cackled all the way through the tunnel. Leaving the four of them to die in both utter darkness, and silence. Noah began to curse internally as he watched the light go out. He was a fool. Nay, and imbecile. He sat idly by while Gloriosa carried out misdeeds all across the camp which ultimately led to her transformation. But before Noah could begin to think, Sunset addressed him. "What was she talking about?"
XXIX - We Call This A Difficulty TweakSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
XXX - The Right Man In The Wrong PlaceAuthor's Note Can Make All The Difference In The World... (Statement on hiatus to be made briefly.) XXX - The Right Man In The Wrong Place "So... What's the plan?" "Plan?" "Sunset, we're hanging from the ceiling of a cave-" "Rabbit hol-" "Twilight, I swear to God." "Well, as a simple redhead, I don't remember bringing scissors capable of cutting through vines a foot thick." "I don't remember asking for attitude." "And I don't remember asking for you to screw off to some cave-" "Rabbit hol-" "Shut it, Twi!" "Listen Sunset, I'm black. When I get hit by a shovel, it does more than knock me out." "Does more? What the hell are you talking about?" "Hello? Is there an echo in here? Talk about an ominous cave-" "Rabbit hol-" "I'm going to sew your motherfuckin' clit shut!" Hanging from the ceiling like cocoons, Noah, Sunset, and Twilight remained for what seemed like hours bickering amongst each other like five-year-olds in an attempt to figure a way out. Outside had seemingly gotten rough as the ceiling had multiple pebbles fall from it with the sounds of smashing, crashing, and slamming filling the empty cave, er, rabbit hole. "Even if we do manage to get out of here, how are we supposed to fight back? Let alone sew my vagina closed." Sunset sighed, "She's right. This whole time, your necklace has been missing. Did she snatch it up?" "Probably. Judging from her crazed state, she most likely knew there was magic inside it. After trying to get into it so much and failing constantly, she would've put it somewhere for safekeeping." Noah added, "Yeah, and I've been in here for days. Though those gummies were the sh-, delicious, I haven't seen my necklace anywhere. And this cave, don't do it, is laughably small." Twilight asked, "So, then where do you suppose she put it?" Sunset turned, "I bet she took it with her. Seeing as this is the final battle, she probably is thinking of using it as a backup. How, I doubt even she knows. Jeez, this is stupid." Noah narrowed his eyes, "Then it's settled. Once we're out of here, I'll get the jump on her and take back my necklace. Using it and aiding our friends to defeat her. We just gotta hope they'll last 'til then." "Okay," Twilight began, "But again, how are we getting out of here, exactly?" Sunset faced Twilight and stared. As if they were synchronized, Twilight shook her head, resistant, and began to panic like a Japanese cartoon character. "O-Oh, no! No way! Not a chance! Not a single chance, Sunset!" "But Twi, we have to! What other option do we have besides chewing our way out? We've been up here so long, Spike has fallen asleep!" "But Sunset, what about-" "I know, but we don't need you to go all out. We just need a little to get out of here! Please! There isn't much time, and Noah is just gonna get more and more annoying!" Noah questioned, "Okay, one: Screw you. Two: Did I miss something while I was gone? Why are you talking to Twilight like she has some sort of hidden power?" "Because she does. While you were away, we discovered that because of the magic from Everfree, we had secret abilities within us. Stupid, I know-" "Oh, very stupid." "But we can still use them to defeat Gloriosa and save Everfree. And that stupid dock that I can only imagine has been destroyed a third time by now." "Wait, so what are these abilities you guys have conjured?" "It'll have to wait. Twilight? We could reallybenefit from you right now." Twilight stared at the vine surrounding her neck. She could feel her head getting heavier and heavier as the blood slowly yet surely rushed to her head. If they didn't get down soon, they'd all suffer a brain hemorrhage. And those were the opposite of fun. "Sunset, Noah, if I do this, and I go berserk, I want you two to know I've never had such friends like you guys. I've always been an outcast, but you guys just let me in like I was meant to be. And for that, I thank you. I'm so grateful. And I-" Noah nodded frantically, "Yes, yes, yeah, I know. I'm the best friend you've ever had and can't imagine life without me. Now please hurry up so I may confront my life issues while still having one." Twilight stared at the vines intently and felt pressure rush to her brain like she just ate a mouthful of rocky road. The vine began to blow from its seems before rushing out to envelop it in its entirety. It moved. Just by half an inch, but it moved regardless, and it wasn't done either. As Twilight applied pressure, the glow intensified, and the vine moved ever so much more. Twilight gritted her teeth as the vine proved to be more of a pain than she thought, but she continued. It shook and rattled like a baby's toy as Twilight's psychokinetic's toyed with it. Twilight began to sweat, and Noah spoke up, concerned. "Hey, uh, are you okay? This looks a lot harder than I was anticipating..." "Twilight spoke through her teeth, "I'm struggling because of these vines! They're putting so much pressure on me, I can only use my head! Damn you, Gloriosa!" "Alrighty, just gonna sit this one out. Never piss off the quiet kids..." The vine began to do more than shake, it rose. Away from Twilight's neck, she felt a substantial amount of her stamina return to her. With that, she applied more and more pressure. Vines from all about her body began to do the same as the original. They moved an inch before shaking and eventually rising from her body. All across, green motioned like a tidal wave. Noah and Sunset watched in awe as the vines moved more and more effortlessly. Twilight went from struggling to using the vines like they were a part of her all along. They crowded around her but hung in the air. Though a few stuck to her legs as they gently brought her to the ground and on her feet. Like a goddess of water, Twilight levitated. Her feet reached the ground after not too long, and the vines vanished into the rabbit hole. Squirming into the cracks out of sight like parasites from a distant planet. "Well... That was... A-A thing," Noah spoke up as the glow around Twilight's hands dissipated. He was astounded. Is this how they felt when I transformed? He pondered. Sunset smiled, "Nice work, Twi! Now, uh, you wouldn't mind helping us down too, would you?" Twilight turned about to face them and exhaled. "Not at all, but I won't go any further than this. Got it?" "Sure." Twilight lifted her right hand and the sensation from before returned to her. Like a toddler, it played around and about with her fingers before intertwining and becoming one with them. Power was truly at Twilight's fingertips. The vines around Sunset began to buckle and bust. Quietly screeching as they released their grip on the girl. Sunset, unlike Twilight, felt tingly as the vines pulled away from her skin. Like it was literal water bending before her very eyes and over her body. As for Noah, he jumped at the slightest feeling of the movement of the vines. To him, they were like prehistoric worms attempting to molest him, but slowly backing away as the sound of sirens filled the air. He wasn't different for nothing. The vines brought Sunset from the roof of the... The... T-The rabbit cave, and stood her up on the rocks again as if she never left the floor. Similar to those around Twilight, the vines shrunk into the walls like they were meant to be. Noah simply fell. "Ow!" He shouted, troubled. "Dang it, my back! Twilight! What the heck, man!?" Twilight reddened, "Sorry! I-I'm so sorry! My grip just felt irregular around you, and I was trying to get away as quick as I could! Sunset was like sand while you were like sandpaper! I-It didn't feel right!" "Why?! Because I'm bla-" "Noah," Sunset interrupted, "Don't you dare start. We need to go stop Gloriosa before our friends are trapped forever. Don't we?" Noah rolled his eyes, "Whatever... prick..." Twilight took a deep breath as the glow from her hands returned to their proper place in reality. "So, what's the plan?" "The plan? Oh, it's rather simple." Sunset folded her arms, "And what plan have you conceived to be so simple that it'd be enough to stop Gloriosa?" "The magic of friendship! ...Holy crap, did I just say that garbage?" Noah, Sunset, Twilight, and an awoken Spike emerged from the rabbit cave and fell like pawns to the raw brightness of the mighty sun. Specifically Noah, of course. "Ah! Dang sun! Why is it so bright?!" "I mean," Spike began, "We were underground for a while. You for days. Makes sense why it would be so strong as your eyes aren't used to it." "Oh, shut up, you nerd!" "Hey!" Twilight intervened, "Don't call my dog a nerd!" "You're both nerds anyway! Who the heck pays attention to anything in school?!" "Noah!" Sunset yelled, rather irritated. "We need to move fast! What's the plan for stopping Gloriosa?! It sounds like our friends are putting in work, but we need to get this over with!" Emerging from the rabbit cave and rushing through the forest, the four of our heroes quickly came across a large wall made entirely of vines surrounding the main area. As they stood at the wall, the four heard the rest of the Rainbooms attack Gloriosa with all they had. Unfortunately, it just wasn't enough. With that, the four of them worked on a plan. Noah at the helm. Noah folded his arms, "Whatever you bums." He sighed, "Okay, here's the plan. These vines are pretty thick, so I bet I could climb them. Sunset, Twilight, you're gonna enter the area and distract Gloriosa with the rest of the girls. And Spike, you're gonna go get us help if we may need it. But don't do anything stupid. "When I reach the top, I'm going to position myself, pray, and jump off the side of the wall. Hopefully, if you guys do your job flawlessly, I'll jump onto her, grab my necklace wherever it may be, and then the real party begins. "From there, we hit Gloriosa with everything we've got. A few punches here, a few kicks there, a couple of interdimensional blasts from our bodies there, and Gaia will leave, bringing Gloriosa back to her original self. "Any objections?" Noah looked to his left. Twilight stood timidly, yet still at attention. As for Spike, he had already runoff. Leaving a barely noticeable trail as the bushes he ran through shuffled. On his right, Sunset grabbed his shoulder, "Hey, we've been here before. At least I have. You should know by now that failing isn't on our list. I'd expect you to." "So... That's a no?" "Of course that's a no." Sunset and Twilight moved past Noah and approached a part of the vine wall together. The two stared at the green menace that appeared more threatening than it should've. Sunset laid a hand on Twilight's shoulder, "Hey. You got this. Right? I get you're stuck in a dilemma, but we need you more than ever." Twilight made a fist as she stared. The green within the vines stared back. It wasn't the wall that scared her, to be exact. It was what was on the other side. Twilight breathed, "Yeah... Yeah, y-yeah I got this! I'll... I know I can!" Twilight raised her hands to the wall and the sensation returned as her fingers glowed, and the vines began to shift. All the while, Sunset stared at Noah as he gripped two vines with his left and right. "Hey," she spoke, and Noah turned his attention to her. "Hm?" "Are we just gonna drop this? I... I'm kind of worried about our..." Noah turned away from Sunset, breaking her heart a bit, and spoke rather cold. "Let's focus on our friends not being trapped in this pit of grass." Sunset looked away but ultimately acknowledged his request. He wasn't wrong after all, she just felt... Down about it. Like he was trying to avoid the conversation. "Hey Sunset, we're good to go. You ready?" Sunset took a deep breath, "Yeah, let's do this." Twilight and Sunset stepped through the opening, and the vines returned to their positions immediately. Meaning even if he wanted, Noah couldn't just walk on in. He had to climb. He stared at the wall as he placed a foot on a vine. "Okay... Time to get to work..." ... "Gloriosa, please!" Timber shouted. "You've gotta stop this while there's still time! You could trap us all in here to die! You have to listen to me! Please!" "That's not your sister." Timber, surrounded by brown vines, turned about to find Sunset Shimmer standing defiantly, with Twilight behind. The rest of the Rainbooms saw this and cheered as they approached the two. Rainbow Dash spoke first, "Where the hell have you guys been?!" "Later, we've gotta get Timber while she's distract-" *Crunch!* The vines enveloped Timber like wrapping paper as they continued to grow. The girls were forced to step back as they appeared to do so at an alarming rate. "No!" Twilight yelled, terrified for his safety. The vines hauled him up to the increasingly shrinking roof as Gaia Everfree began to bellow to those below her. Her voice shaking every inch of grass and pounding against the eardrums of the girls. "Is this not spectacular? Is this not grand? Magnificent? Noble? Incredible? I'm protecting this wonderous forest from evil corporate greed! I'm ensuring that my campers get to have the best trip they could ever ask for! Am I not the greatest director you've ever seen?!" "You're insane!" Applejack roared. "You're goin' to trap us all inside of this thin' forever! What will we eat?! What will we do!? What about our homes!? Our school!? What about our families?!" "To hell with your families! You're mother and father never loved you in the first place! If they did, they would've come along to join you! Besides, you have me! The most perfect counselor of the most perfect camp in the most perfect forest on the planet! "You could stay here forever! I could give you immortality! You'd never need food or anything to do! You could just stand by me! We'd never get bored or tired or hungry! And that filthy rich bastard will be forced to find another forest to fuck over! "Here, you could finally be at peace! No more anger! No more sorrow! Just endless days and nights of the greatest times of your lives! You could finally be happ- Ow! What the-" "Miss me, nature freak?" On top of Gaia fell Noah. He had dropped from the ever-shrinking roof onto her back and was shoving his hands through the vines to grab his necklace. "You! What on Earth are you doing here?! How did you and your friends escape!?" "That's none of your business, where the heck is my necklace you fu- er, craphead?!" G6aia jerked and jolted like a penguin in a minefield as Noah attempted to grab anything that might be what he needed. The dome began to wobble and shake as Gaia and Noah danced in midair. "Get off of me, you filthy monkey!" "Wow, Gaia. Had no clue you were racist, man. I get the whole 'megalomaniac taking over the forest because of a stupid rich guy,' but jeez. No need to be harsh." "What in the world is racist?!" "Sunset!" Rarity began, "What should we do?!" Sunset stared, "I-I... I don't know if we can do anything..." Noah moved around in front of Gaia to see if it might be on the other side. He grabbed something below Gaia's waist that felt rather small and bumpy. He felt it up some more and grinned as wide as the sky as he felt the amulet in the middle. "Ah hah! I knew you grabbed it! You sneaky godda-, dang it, goshdarn thief! Give me this!" "Get off of me! Now! You're not stopping this!" Gaia banged her fist against the closest vine, and the dome shook like mad. Noah, hanging onto nothing, lost his grip and tumbled down the vines on his sides. He landed virtually in front of the girls, and Gaia's rage had caused hundreds of vines to rise from the ground. Like giant, bloodthirsty worms, the vines surrounded the eight of them similarly to Timber. "Rarity!" Sunset shouted, "Make a barrier! Quick!" Rarity acknowledged, "Right!" And a force field of beautiful blue diamonds bore of light promptly surrounded the group. The vines, instead, pressured around the barrier, and Rarity winced. "I... They're too strong! Girls, I-I don't know how long I can keep this up! This is just..." Rainbow Dash stomped her foot, "Damn it! You've gotta be kidding me! How did this even happen!? Why did we come here!? Why did I vote to go on this stupid trip!" Sunset got down on one knee and grabbed Noah's shoulders. "Please tell me you got the-" "Necklace? Yu—p." Fluttershy smiled, "Can you stop her? Do we have a way to fight back?" "Not a chance." The girls felt their entire world crumble. "What are you talking about?!" Pinkie Pie stated, rather frantic. "You're supposed to be able to stop anything with that!" "Gaia's stronger than I thought. The necklace reacted horridly to the magic and forced it black. Just see for yourself." Noah wasn't wrong, the necklace's amulet was covered in black. As if the amulet had just died in Gaia's very presence, and was reduced to nothing but tar. "I can't activate the darn thing like this. God knows what'll happen." Sunset stood up and cursed. Everything had come to this, and it was such an awful conclusion. She couldn't think of a way to stop this if even Noah was hopeless. "Wait!" She spoke up, as a light bulb went off in her head. Sunset turned about to and grabbed the shoulders of her introverted friend tightly bent down on one knee. "Twilight, you're our best shot at this. Our only shot." Twilight stammered as her pupils shrunk. "W-What?! Are you crazy, there's nothing special about me!" "She's right," Noah added as he stood up. "The Twilight from Equestria combined her magic with the rest of the girls to create a power so great, it rivals my amulet's." "But that power only rivals yours, it's not stronger!" "No duh, but the... The... Uh God, the magic of friendship from the six of you should produce enough power to create an aura like a magnetic field or whatever. Giving energy to mine. Not to mention that you've also got Sunset by your side, so you're stronger than me by a sixth." "Noah, there's no chance or very little chance that'll work! Should doesn't mean yes! At best, the energy from Everfree that gave us powers should supercharge said magic to... Oh." "I... Well, Christ. That works too, I guess. How did none of us think of that?" "But what about Midnigh-" "Twilight!" Sunset yelled, "There's no time! You have to use your powers now!" "But-" "Give it a fucking rest, Twilight! We are going to die! Does that not mean anything to you?! All of us! In the ground! Forever! Drop the Midnight Sparkle shit so we can go home!" "Sunset!" Rarity replied, appalled. "No Rarity," Noah began, "She's right. I know you don't get it, but Twilight has been all introverted and shit over Midnight possibly returning. Unfortunately, she doesn't understand exactly what death is." Twilight cried, "I do understand, but why don't you?!" "What do we not understand?!" "If Midnight is released, we'll just have even worse problems! She'll kill us, she'll kill Gloriosa, she'll kill everyone in this camp, and from there, it's just the Friendship Games all over again!" "Now hold on just a darn minute," Applejack intervened. "You mean that evil version of you?" "Yes!" "But you don't have that same energy!" Sunset argued. "The only magic Midnight has is the one you have!" "She'll still kill you all!" "Than what the fuck are we supposed to do, Twilight?! Noah has no magic, we're all using what we have to keep this barrier up, and Gaia is only getting stronger! If we don't take this chance, Gaia will kill everyone." "But..." "C'mon, Twi!" Rainbow Dash urged. "We only have one shot at this!" "I... But I... Fine! I'll do it! I... I'm sorry..." Twilight, now shaking, closed her eyes and held her fists close to her chest. She was panicking, crying even as tears found their way out of her eyes. She was terrified, petrified of her situation, and was essentially being forced into it. As she forced her well-being to cooperate, a large yet slender horn grew from Twilight's forehead as the magic inside her formed itself. Her eyes shot open leaving a pool of mint-green in their place. It was her consciousness. Twilight floated like an angel with no wings. As she opened her eyes, her surroundings were revealed to be an endless void of fuschia. Twilight spun her head around to get a look at her surroundings, but there wasn't a thing as far as the eye could see surrounding her. "Where... Where am I?" Her voice echoed a thousand times. It bounced off walls from so far away, she might as well have been in the deepest canyon known to man. Only, a thousand times larger. "Please, I have to-" "Hi, Twilight." Twilight turned on a swivel and felt her blood run cold as the being before her towered, and its voice might as well have ended her life right there and then. It was Midnight. "I-I... You-" "Oh, don't stutter now! You know my name more than your own pitiful friends! What's the big damn deal now, hm?" Twilight clenched her jaw, "S-Sh... Shut-" "C'mon! I know you can do it..." "Shut... Just, shut..." Midnight approached Twilight and gripped her shoulders and massaged them like a dear wife to her husband. "Twilight! Twilight! Twilight! Come on now, I'm cheering for you kid! Twilight! Twilight! Twilight!" "W-Why... Why can't you just..." "Can’t what now? You lost me." "Just... Just..." "Okay, y'know what? This is just sad now." Midnight pulled her hands from Twilight's shoulders and grabbed her neck instead. She lifted her into the air, and Twilight quickly began squirming like a squirrel. Twilight cried, "Let... L-Let me-" "Have I ever told you how sad of an excuse for a human being you are? I mean, myself, I'm just a run-of-the-mill, classic selfish, pompous, condescending asshole of a villain. Quite a cliche these days, I must admit. But you? God, you're so much worse." Twilight struggled to speak, "W... W-What?" "Where are you right now, Twilight? Just look around you. You're in the middle of nowhere struggling to breathe in the clutches of a figure bore of your own imagination because you can't accept the past. And now, the very lives of your own friends are at risk because of it." "I... I-I-I don't under-" "I'm dead, Twilight. Me. Midnight Sparkle. I died when that dickhead of a friend of yours hurled me at a fucking bus. The evil that was me wasn't even inside you to begin with." Twilight gasped, and Midnight continued. "The magic, since you were never supposed to have that much to begin with, was forced to take your very figure and being to transform you to handle it. But since you couldn't, it went all wrong, and now I'm here." Twilight continued to stare cluelessly like a dog. Midnight groaned, "For God's sake, Twilight, I'm telling you to get over it!" "You're... H-Helping?" "I'm not helping. I'm pure evil to you. Your subconscious is simply trying to get through to you to relax. It needed someone you could see and instantly be forced to listen to. Someone who could say what they meant short, simple, and with a purpose. "It was gonna send Noah, but... Well... Originality and whatnot. This entire arc is already shitty enough anyways. It didn't need any more shit from that twit than it already has." "...I-" Midnight let Twilight go from her clutches and she fell to her knees. She struggled to stand and breathe while Midnight simply crossed her arms and waited for Twilight to get a hold of herself. As Twilight stood on one knee and gazed at her, Midnight continued. "You have to give it a rest, Twilight. Face it. Midnight Sparkle was killed off weeks ago, there's nothing evil inside of you. That's not a particularly long amount of time, but my point still stands. "The only evil inside is your inability to let that go. To move on. I'm sure there's a proper term for that, but I'm supposed to be a pitiless mass-murderer, not a psychiatrist. "If you don't move past this pointless fear, Sunset, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, all of your idiot friends are going to die. You'll be stuck inside of this dome of vines forever, and you'll never escape. Is that how you want it all to end, Twilight Sparkle?" "I... I-I don't want anyone to get hurt. Even Gloriosa." "You don't seem to have any other options, do you? Even Fluttershy seems to be on board with this." Twilight stared at the ground. Despite all this reassurance, she still wasn't truly sure. Midnight could just be lying to get through to her in order to wreck what little havoc she could. "H-How do I know you're not lying?! How do I know this isn't a ruse so you can kill all of my friends?!" "...Are you serious?" "Um... Yes?" "Unless you sub-consciously want to murder all your friends-" "No! Never!" "Then no, I'm not lying." Twilight stared at her hand. This was it. If she didn't use her magic now, then her friends, her family, everything she ever cared for, she'd never see them again. They'd be gone, never to be seen again. Forever. "...I... I-I-I... I'll..." "C'mo-n..." "I-I... I'll... I-I'll..." "C'mo-n, you can do it..." "I-I-I-I... I'll..." "Ye-ah..." "I... I-I... Damn it, I'll do it!" "That's the spirit!" "Yeah! I-I'll help my friends! I'll help the camp! I'll help my classmates! I'll-" "Okay, let's not be cringe here, hm? This whole thing exists for a reason, after all." "Too... Deal with the original's cringe?" "...Close enough." "So... What now?" "Now, we watch the magic happen..." "...So... Does she... Is she gonna, like, do anything?" Noah asked, confused. Sunset sighed, "I... Hope so. I don't know what she's doing, but maybe-" *BAM!* Like lightning, Twilight returned to her proper form, now glowing with a beyond sensational appearance. She blasted the vines that surrounded the eight of them to bits as her magic spread far and true like the wind from the heavens. Noah and the girls gained composure as they gawked at the new and improved Twilight Sparkle. She was extraordinary. Her magic radiated her body like the brightest light bulb in the world. She'd grown two rather large wings, two ears on top of her forehead, and her hair extended to the length of royal drapes. She'd ponied up. Noah was taken aback, "Sweet, merciful shi-, I-I mean, crap! What the heck happened to her!" Twilight glared down as a newfound sense of confidence flowed through her bloodstream like a river. "Now's not the time for gawking, everyone. We have to stop Gaia before it's too late!" "Hey, who put you in charge! Just because you're all-powerful with wings and long hair doesn't make you the leader! Where'd this confidence come from anyway!?" "Is now really the time for this?" "Very much so, yes!" Applejack stepped forward, "Noah, who put you in charge in the first place? I don't remember any of us saying that you were! So who?" "Your incompetence." Sunset grabbed Noah's hand, "Noah, stop it. Twilight is the Equestrian Princess of Friendship and the Element of Magic. She led everyone here before you took over. Just let her take charge." "But that Twilight is through the portal doing some other dumb crap!" "Noah..." "Oh don't, 'Noah,' me like a child! I got it, okay!" "I wouldn't have to if you didn't act like one from the start." "Bite me!" Rarity spoke up, "Twilight, what do you recommend we do?" "There are several jewels around Gloriosa's neck. Noah, I'm gonna need your help to get them. I believe I know their true purpose. Girls, I need all of you to divide and conquer. Get everyone out of these vines with all the strength you can muster." Noah questioned, "Wait, but my amulet-" "Is blackened? How about now?" "What are you... What the...?" Noah eyeballed his amulet all over. The black had faded. Like a plague or a smokescreen, it had just dissipated. Noah gaped as he rotated it in his hands out of bewilderment. H-How... How did this happen?" "Twilight, what did you-" "There's no time! Hurry up and transform!" "I... Dang it!" "Girls! Quickly! Save the rest of our classmates!" Noah took the amulet in his hand and crushed it with the proper force to split it in half. The girls, all ponied up, spread across the dome at intense speeds as they approached the vines. The amulet leaked like a barrel of oil as the white magic cradled his arm. They sunk into his veins like leeches, and Noah felt his arm begin to pump like a jackhammer. Twilight pointed, "I'm gonna start removing Gaia's vines. Think you can keep up?" "I don't plan on playing second fiddle any longer, so you can count on it." "..." "Sorry, that's the megalomaniac inside of me talking." "...Go figure..." "Hey!" Twilight flew off in a flash. She approached where Gaia had first started to grow the vines and used the magic within her against it. The vines began to pump and cry as her magic was essentially tearing it apart. But they weren't the vines' cries. It was Gaia. "Stop it! Stay away from me, you freak! I need to save this camp!" Twilight argued as she got the first vine undone. "Gloriosa, this isn't you! You have to wake up and realize what you're doing before somebody gets seriously hurt! Please! You have to listen to me!" "I'll listen to you when I die alone, you purple monstrosity! Get the fuck off of me!". Noah stumbled as Gaia shook the dome with a mighty cry. He bit his lip as the magic nearly finished pouring into him. All of his veins had turned a glorious white, and his pupils dilated. *POW!* Noah fell to his knees as the magic inside of him exploded with a grand fury. Surrounding him in pure white magic. With one hand, he felt his hair. Just like at the Friendship Games, it had turned completely white. he could tell based on its radiance. His eyes were now also a blinding white, and a brand new magical aura shrouded him in magic. He raised a foot to once again gain composure. He readied his fists as the dust settled. He had once again transformed. He was the Element of Righteousness. "Noah!" Twilight beckoned, urgency in her voice. "Stop standing around admiring yourself and get over her!" Noah rolled his eyes, Not even five minutes and I already miss the old Twilight... Cracking his knuckles like a cliché 80s action hero, Noah rushed over to Twilight as his magic flew him over with ease. His speed piercing the ears of all, even Twilight. He slowed as he arrived, "Okay, what are we doing again?" Twilight shouted, "Help me remove the vines! I told you less than five minutes ago!" "'I told you less than five minutes ago-' shut up!" Noah grabbed a vine with his bare hands and began to pull. Unlike Twilight, he had to get physical with the vines as he lacked the same powers she did. Despite this, he made progress. Gaia returned to shrieking in exasperation as Twilight and Noah pulled at the vines with everything they had. One after the other, the vines were torn off from around Gloriosa's body. They fell apart and flailed in the air like grass. One by one, the vines took up space in the air and landed on the ground with a deafening thud. Shaking the ground each time like giant hammers. Twilight tore an incredibly tight vine and glowed. "There! I found them!" "Found what?!" Twilight reached into an opening made from the tears and grabbed something from around Gaia's neck. She bellowed and thrashed about like a toddler in the midst of the ultimate tantrum. "No! Let go of me! Let go of that! Get away from me, damn it!" With a swift pull, Twilight yanked the object from around Gaia's neck and showed it off to Noah. They were the gems from the pedestal back in the rabbit cave all tethered together by rope. Each of them were surrounded by orbs of light, and had familiar color coding. He stared... "Wait... Those are the gems from the cave. You don't think-" "They were giving her all this power?" "No, I mean everything here. You don't think that maybe they're the cause for all of this magic crap?" "...Not really, no." "What? Why?!" "Forget it, we'll talk later. I have an idea..." Twilight grabbed two points of the rope and pulled the rope apart. Each of the gems reacted like suns ready to go supernova as they hovered in mid-air. Light surrounding them even heavier than the orbs as they reacted to their environment. Then, like missiles, the gems shot from near Twilight, except one, and found their way to each of the girls. As they slowed and reached their targets, beams of light surrounded each of the girls. Rainbow Dash stared, slightly frightened "Uh... W-What's happening?" "Just relax and let them do their thing!" And that's exactly what they did. Each of the gems practically ate up the girls as they reacted to the magic within them. A spontaneous light show combusted from the seven of them as the magic went mad. "Twilight! What in the- Twilight!?" Noah turned to his left to find Twilight also being enveloped by the gems' light. One of them had stayed behind as it reacted to them. Noah stared in confusion before facing Gaia. "What are those gems doing?!" "I have to say, you children are such a pain in my side, but you're also desperate. Especially the purple one." "Answer me, you megalomaniac!" Gaia looked up from her prison of vines and stared daggers at Noah's eyes. He averted his eyes a bit, disgusted. "I'm waiting, you fu-, duck. Explain." "That magic isn't from here." "...What?" "Those gems are magical, but not in the same sense." Noah clenched his fist, "Stop beating around the bush and expla-" "Could you shut your mouth?" "Fuckin'..." "...Thank you. The magic in those gems isn't from here." "From this forest?" "From this world. They're filled to the brim with magic from another planet or land." "What? Why?" "The gems are meant to contain a certain type of elemental magic within them that they give off to the wearer. Wearing all of them, or even two is impossible as they react negatively to each other. They need to be worn by those they deem worthy." "...What makes one worthy of wearing one of them?" "...Loyalty, generosity, amusement, kindness, honesty, redemption, and magic. One must be pure of either of these... Well... Y'know what I mean." Noah rolled his eyes. "They must be pure of these elements in order to wear one of them. The magic will react and give the wearer incredible powers. Activated all together, the gems form a power bore of harmony." Noah sighed, "So that's it. They're this world's versions of the Elements of Harmony. That would explain why the girls are so affected by them. And I'm guessing when fused, they create a single gem bore of righteousness too, don't they?" "...You know a lot." "That's because the gem, or well, the magic courses through my veins by this amulet around my neck. It's a long story, I assure you, but all eight of us are connected to these gems by our features. "But I don't get it. If they're the equivalent of Equestria's elements, why are they reacting this way?" "...Have there been any occurrences from where you come from involving magic?" Noah folded his arms, "Well yeah. Three times in a row, in fact." "Have any of these occurrences ever been interdimensional?" "I... Oh crap, the portal!" Gaia raised an eyebrow, "The portal, you say? Explain yourself." "Back at my school, there's a portal that leads to a different dimension built into a statue. Dumb, I know, but it's legit. A couple of weeks ago, Twilight went mad with magic as she collected it and tore a hole through space-time. "That hole must've allowed magic of all kinds to seep through into this world, and the Elements would be first on the list. Since they have the same function, they must've reacted terribly to the Elements of this world. Filling it with magic similar but from an alternate reality must've screwed with it beyond proportion. "And now, the gems are essentially corrupted. And the girls don't react well to them anymore. That would explain how it was able to bring you back. Crap! This probably means Equestria's elements are corrupted too! I can't imagine what's happening over there... "But... I don't get it. How was Gloriosa able to survive the corrupted Elements, but the girls weren't?" "The magic flowed across the world, did it not? That must mean the magic from over there flowed into me as well and strengthened me. Making me stronger than the Elements. Because of this, I was able to use Gloriosa as a vessel, and protect her from the corruption until I made my return." "But if you're stronger, why aren't the girls stronger too?" "Magic is just an occurrence science can't explain yet, child. I've yet to understand why it's even a thing, and I doubt I ever will." Noah sighed, "Talk about a plot hole... How long will the girls be like that? Can they escape?" "Oh, they'll be like that for a little while, it's nothing to get worried about." "I need a number, dumbo." "Ugh, a couple of centuries. Six or seven, I assume." Noah shouted, "Seven hundred years?! Are you insane?!" "...What?" "Don't you, 'what' me, butthead, I'm a seventeen-year-old black guy!" "...And?" "I'm human! I can only live for one century!" "Oh... Well, that's just the cost of being mortal, mortal." "There has to be another way!" "You think I'm going to help you? The boy who wants to destroy my forest?! You'll have to fight me if you want to save your precious, ungrateful friends. You absolute, absent-minded mongrel-" "I'm sorry." "...What?" Gaia Everfree felt her heart stop beating for just a moment as she repeated Noah's words in her head. All her life, not once as she heard the saying directed towards her. And from him, in a moment like this, she wasn't just taken off guard, she was slapped in the face by a sausage. "I said I'm sorry." "For what? What do you have to be sorry for?" "I bet everyone, even myself for a moment, painted you as a malicious being who wanted nothing more than our destruction. But it's not that simple, so I have to make sure. "Killing us isn't your end goal. Is it?" Gaia stared with reluctant eyes as Noah continued. "You just want us away from your forest. Away from your home. You're not after our lives, You're not after power, you're not after enjoyment. You just want us gone... Don't you?" "...You're a seventeen-year-old boy who's enrolled at a high school miles away with a mysterious, hidden power inside of a necklace... How do you know so greatly of my mind?" Noah folded his arms, "It's not hard, y'know. I'm not the wielder of this element for nothing, after all. But still, it's quite simple. You don't want this Filthy Rich guy to make a mess-" "'A squalid mockery.'" "'A squalid mockery' of your home with a giant, fast food amusement park or whatever the heck he's up to. You just want to keep your home safe and beautiful, like anyone would when protecting their homes. My friends thought you were having a temper tantrum, and that you were out for blood. But I always had my doubts... Kinda. "Then there was Gloriosa. She shared your feelings to such a degree nobody else did. I don't claim to understand your magic and whatnot, but if I were in your position, I'd use her as a vessel as well." Gaia gazed into Noah's eyes with a heavy sense of wonder. This boy knew everything. How she felt, how wrong this whole scenario was, how it didn't have to be this way. But he was so young compared to her. So inexperienced. She'd lived for thousands of years, and then comes along this boy who understands her more than anyone after only living less than a quarter of her entire life. "I don't-" "Last time I encountered something inhuman, I killed it. A big ol' blast disintegrated them into nothing. one of them survived, but I threatened their lives with a fate worse than death. I haven't seen her since. "Back then, I was sick. Blinded by rage, I was repulsive, rude, hateful, and just a genuinely shi-, er... I was a very shitty person. I'm proud to say that I at least had some semblance of right and wrong, but I still hate how I handled that situation. I could've made friends. Good friends... But they're dead now. "I like to believe I've become a better person since then, sharing this rage with you. I don't curse as much, excluding a few slip-ups, I'm more considerate, and overall kind and respectful. I'm definitely not like the girls, and I know I sound a bit narcissistic complimenting myself like this, but it's something. "...What are you getting at, boy? I'm still perplexed." "I don't want to do this. I don't want to fight you. I know, it probably feels like it was all leading up to this, but... I just... I can't have my friends and I beat you senseless for something so... Just..." "You and your friends appeared rather unhesitant to fight me not that long ago. Particularly you, leaping onto me and trying to kill me like that." Noah scratched the back of his head, "In my defense, you weren't giving me a choice. You weren't giving any of us a choice. I just wanna talk this out now that we have the chance because despite what I'm saying, you're still in the wrong." Gaia frowned, "Excuse me?" "Gaia, you can't do this. I mean, trapping hundreds of students and adults under a massive dome made purely out of vines because you don't like that someone's gonna make a burger joint?" "You just said my actions were justifiable!" "I said your feelings were justifiable. I wasn't talking about this whole charade you've got going on. You can't do this, it's not right. These people have families and homes to go to-" "What about my home?!" "What about your home?" Gaia gasped before glaring. Piercing his eyes with intense anger. Noah raised a finger, "Let me ask you this, Ms. Everfree. You believe it's wrong for one to have their homes ruined and others should stay away as those places are sacred." "Yes! So why-" "So what makes you think you should do that to others?" "...I-" "What makes you think you should ruin hundreds of other homes of whom have nothing to do with you? I know Gloriosa cherishes this place, but your magic, the gems, and all the other icky BS that's been going on has led her to do something like this while you chuckle from behind. "She's not in control here. You are." "But this is a better home anyways! The children and adults are free from all of the stresses and misery of the outside world. They can find peace, happiness-" "They'll die. And their families will suffer." "But that's-" "Gaia, open your eyes! What you're doing is ludicrous! Can't you see?! What if someone abducted you from your home and trapped you in God knows where and let you slowly die because you can't survive off friggin' grass!" Gaia's eyes riveted upon him intently. She was conflicted. Noah was standing in her way of this goal she desired so greatly, but he wasn't wrong. Her ideas, her plans, they were all... Awful. She looked away, "But... But my home... It'll be ruined..." "Gaia, I will do anything in my power to save your forest. You've clearly seen I'm no ordinary teenager. But even if my efforts are futile... I'm sorry. That's just the way it is. It's what we have to accept because we have no other choice. Otherwise... we spiral." Noah laid out a hand to Gaia. "Please, Gaia Everfree. There's still time to right this wrong. To do the right thing, and not hurt so many innocent people. I know the only reason I say what I do is because I have no other choice, and you could easily kill me but... Please. I... I don't have any other option. "Please don't do this."
XIII - Another Brand New Problem?Author's Note Ashes, Ashes, We All Fall Down... XIII - Another Brand New Problem? "Eh, I give it a six-point five outta ten." "What?! That's even less than last time!" "I don't know what to tell you Dash, the pony-up thing just looks so... out of place. Like it belongs in a children's cartoon." "Of course you're the only person to not like it." "Bite me." The Rainbooms winded down inside the band room after playing their music for the third time today. Playing their instruments together was one of the ways they spent their time besides talking about drama, playing games, or messing with each other's hair, which Noah obviously didn't take part in. "Ignoring Noah's comment, I bet that if the games have a music competition, we'd send those Crystal Preppers back home crying!" Rainbow Dash finished. "Yeah, um," Sunset began, "We're supposed to keep magic out of the Friendship Games, remember?" Rainbow Dash simply crossed her arms and rolled her eyes, slightly let down. "Easier said than done, darling," Rarity replied. "I'm sure in Equestria magic does whatever you want. But..." "This isn't Equestria," Sunset concluded. More let down than Rainbow Dash. "Come now, surely you Equestrians don't rely on magic that much. What happened to use your hands?" "We don't have hands. We have hooves." "Oh... right... losers." "Well, when it comes to magic, I'm sure you'll figure it out," Applejack replied. Cheering Sunset up as much as she could through simple words. "And while Sunset works on keeping magic out of the games," Rarity began, "I have been working on what to put in." "Goddamn it Rarity, what did you do this time, Coco Chanel?" Out of seemingly nowhere, Rarity rolled out four long clothing racks hanging several dozen outfits for the Friendship Games. Sending everyone in awe, twice. "Well, I had a little time on my hands, and since we don't know what the Friendship Games shall hold, I made a few options for uniforms!" Rarity took a white and blue soccer outfit and somehow managed to force it on to Rainbow Dash within seconds. Rainbow Dash examined the outfit, "You really didn't have to do that." Rarity giggled, "I know." Applejack picked out one of the outfits, "No, you really didn't have to." Rarity giggled even more, "I know!" Noah picked out an outfit on one of the four clothing racks revealing a black and blue basketball tank top. It had diamonds lined up against the baseline. "Jesus Christ, how do your hands even function properly? Don't you feel a loss in dexterity?" "Nope!" "Of course you fuckin'-" "Friggin'." "-friggin' don't." This time, Fluttershy giggled, and Noah raised an eyebrow. "What?" She waved him off, "Nothing, it's just that I find it somewhat adorable how Sunset's been able to slow down your swearing all the time these few past weeks." Noah turned red with embarrassment and Sunset blushed. "W-Well, it's not easy, I tell ya." The other Rainbooms tittered at the thought of Noah slightly submitting to Sunset, and this only made Noah irritated. "I-I.. no... that's not... for the love of... Goddamn it-" "Goddang it." "Goddang it! W-Wait!" This only made the other Rainbooms burst into laughter. Noah really was yielding to Sunset, and it showed comically. "I-I'm not stopping because of her! It's because I realized that I need to chill out a little! Not because she's correcting me like some crappy mother or something!" Rainbow wiped a tear, "Are you sure about that?" "Yes, nigga!" "The fuck is going on in here?" The Rainbooms as a whole turned to the door to find who had spoken, calming down a little. It was Manex. "Manex? What are you doing here?" Noah asked, confused. His face returning to his original color as he approached him. "Well," Manex began, 'I'm gonna assume you already told these niggas and ask, are we leaving today? Fall has restocked the boat and we already started moving our bags onto it. I came down to ask if we were going since the rest of this week is that Friendship Games shit." Noah quickly whipped his head around, "So, when we were talking to Vice Principal Luna yesterday and y'all said yes, was that a literal or a joking yes?" Rainbow Dash scoffed, "Of course it was a literal one!" "Yeah, if you're leaving Equestria forever, never to return or so help you, God, wouldn't you wanna spend those last few days having fun with your awesome friends in an epic school showdown against the meany Crystal Preppers?!" Pinkie Pie added, making Noah cringe a little. He turned back around to Manex, his book bag on his back and his briefcase in his left hand. He looked more than ready to leave. He looked back to his friends, that somber look from yesterday returned to their faces with a purpose. Especially Sunset's. He sighed and crossed his arms, "... Manex..." "Noah, I swear to God." "Just give me one more day, two tops!" "Jesus fuckin' Christ Noah, come on!" "Look, if you had made a friend group of your own, you would've said the same thing!" "They're girls! They're literally all fuckin' girls!" "So?!" "If anybody from America walked by, you'd instantly be conceived as fuckin' gay!" "Manex!" Noah shouted, startling everyone in the room, except who he was shouting at. "Look, I can't do someone I regard as a cherished figure in my life wrong like that. Especially when I have a choice in the matter." "You've known them for half a year!" "And to them, that likes half a generation!" Silence filled the room. The Rainbooms grew a little uncomfortable as they were the reason for the conflict between friends. "Look, I'm still going to America with you guys, don't think I'm not." Sunset frowned and looked away. "All I'm asking is for a little more time to say goodbye. Then it's smooth sailing over in the USA 'till we die old. Unless a white cop kills us." Manex stared at the floor. "Please, just give me a little more time." Manex sighed, "I don't know why you're asking. I came to you." Noah smiled, "So, we good?" Manex nodded, "Yeah, we good." Noah beamed, "Fuckin'-" "Friggin'-" "Friggin' perfect! Feel free to do whatever, just don't kill anyone. We don't need a guilty conscience when we leave and die." Manex nodded and closed the door, and Noah could hear his footsteps from behind the door. Slowly getting quieter, and quieter. Noah spun around like a chair, "Okay, what were we talking about again?" Noah felt that same basketball tank top come over his head, along with basketball shorts and shoes. He freaked, "What the hell?!" He looked up to see Rarity was measuring him. He looked behind her to see everyone else had also been hastily thrown into a different attire. Fluttershy wore a large hockey goalie uniform, Rainbow Dash wore a 1920s England Officer outfit, Sunset wore a welder's outfit, and Applejack wore an old cricket outfit. This was not only exceedingly bewildering, but downright impossible. No simple human could have the ability to move and operate at such speeds unless they had some sort of superpower, which Rarity didn't. "Uh, Rarity, these outfits are great, but why would you put so much time and effort into clothes we might not even wear?" Applejack asked, confused. "You're gonna exhaust yourself before the games even start!" "Oh pfft! Don't be silly darling. Putting such effort into clothing is what I live for! And spending time on my friends fills me with such joy, I feel as though I could burst!" As Rarity clutched her cheeks in unwavering exuberance, her hair grew twice as long and those same short pony ears returned. But that wasn't all. Similarly to Rainbow Dash from yesterday, Rarity was enveloped and somehow created her own aura of purple and white sparkling stars that stuck to her figure like a second skin but glowed eternally. It was quite comparable to Noah's, only less fiery. "Weird flex, but a'ight." As Rarity shone, the Rainbooms jaws dropped in marvel at how remarkable Rarity had become. Except Sunset, for obvious reasons. "And magic too, I guess..." Noah also found himself in wonder at the fashionista's glowing phenomenon. But he noticed something else. At the end of Rarity's aura, it seemed to be pulling away. Not long after, it appeared that it was being drained from her. Like water in a bathtub. The trail led out the door, and Noah raised an eyebrow. He turned to Rarity, she seemed to be growing somewhat tired. Only staring for a little while longer and she seemed to be growing desperately exhausted. Her eyes were drooping and her arms had fallen to her side. "Hey Rarity... you alright? You're starting to look like you just returned from working overnight at a coffee factory." Rarity felt her ears shrink away and her hair return to its original length before her entire aura and magic evanesced. "Actually Noah... now that you mention it... I suppose I could use... a tiny... a tiny..." Before Rarity could finish, she fainted and collapsed face flat on the floor like she was just shot. "Rarity!" Applejack nearly screamed, picking her up to inspect her head. A rather large blood splatter rested on the bottom of Rarity's forehead and in the same place her head fell on the floor. Instinctually, everyone, except Noah and Sunset, rushed to Rarity's side as Applejack flipped her over to lay on her back. Applejack tried to think of a way to tend to the wound, but was still rather shocked and frantically tried to operate. Noah pointed to the sink, "Sunset, run a few paper towels under some cold water and clean Rarity's head wound." Sunset nodded and speed-walked over to the sink while Noah approached the room's entrance doors. "I'll head over to the nurses' office and get a first aid kit to apply some neosporin and patch and wrap it up with some bandage. You guys stay here and keep her company. Get her whatever she nee-" "Ow! Goddamn it!" The doors had opened wide by someone and had hit Noah undeviatingly in the forehead. He rubbed it with his own two hands before coming around the door to see who had opened it. "Who the hell, wait... Twilight?!" The one who stood in the doorway indeed was Twilight, but not the one they had known from previous times. She stared with a weird look and held that same strange device from earlier. It was glowing somewhat. All the other girls had noticed as well and their eyes enlarged with excitement. "Twilight?!" They said simultaneously. Twilight's eyes twitched as she had met others who also claimed they had known her. "Uh... yes?" "Well I'll be," Applejack began, still holding Rarity close as the others stood up to greet her. "You should've told us you were coming!" Rarity mumbled, "Glasses... what... what are those... what are those glasses? What... what is that outfit?" "Uh... it's my uniform from Crystal Prep I-, how does everybody at this school know who I am?" Noah raised an eyebrow, Something's wrong here... Rainbow Dash cocked her head, "Did you just say Crystal Prep?" Before Twilight could answer, the same dog from earlier today popped out of her bookbag barking. It was Spike. Yep, something's definitely wrong here...again... "Spike!" The girls also said simultaneously, and Twilight's eyes expanded. "Y-You know my dog's name too?!" Noah cleared his throat, "Let me get this straight, you're not from here, correct?" "Yes!" "You go to Crystal Prep, correct?" "Yeah!" "And you have no idea what Equestria is, correct?" "Yes, I don't know what you guys are talking about!" "Twilight?" A voice called from the hallway, Noah looked over Twilight to identify the speaker as Principal Celestia, and someone else. Twilight rubbed her forehead, "This is getting ridiculous.." The other stepped forward, it was Principal Cinch. "I must apologize for the curiosity of my prized student." Celestia raised an eyebrow, "Your student?" "The smarter ones are always curious," She replied. "I'll return her to check in with the rest of her classmat-" "Hold on a second Cruella De Vil," Noah began, making Celestia tighten up with slight fear. "Who are you? W-What other classmates?" Cinch rolled her eyes, "My Name is Ms. Cinch. I'm the Principal of Crystal Prep." "W-Wait, if your here... just how many students did you bring?" Cinch rolled her eyes again and gestured to the window behind. Noah looked at the window, then back at her. Hesitantly, he wandered to the window and gazed outside. "Holy shit!" Outside the window were several dozen busses and practically thousands of students. All of them wore the same uniform as Twilight's. Only differing in wrist gauntlets and sleeve lengths. "There are thousands! There's literally fuckin' thousands of students down there! I thought this was a competition, not the fuckin' Super Bowl!" Cinch raised an eyebrow at Celestia about Noah's language and Celestia planted a fake smile on her face despite sweat beads falling down her head. "Y-You'll have to excuse Noah, he's never been to the Friendship Games and he's new. H-He comes from a place very different than Cantorlot," Sunset tried to explain, and the other Rainbooms nodded in agreement. Cinch rolled her eyes, "As I was saying, I shall return Twilight to check in with the rest of her classmates. I'll see you all very soon." Cinch grabbed Twilight by her shoulder and began out the school. Noah looked away from the window to find Celestia in front of him. "Noah, I explicitly remember Luna informing you that kind of language is unacceptable around Crystal Prep!" Noah raised his hands, "Didn't you hear Sunset?! I've never seen this, ever! It's crazy!" "Notwithstanding, you're not supposed to be swearing period! I'll have to write you up for detention for this." Noah rubbed the back of his neck, "Yeah, uh about that..." "What?" "I'm leaving on Saturday." "What do you mean you're leaving?" "Uh... my parents have decided to move somewhere else, so I can't show up at the school on Tuesday." Celestia sighed, "Of course you can't." Rubbing her face, Celestia began out the band room and closed the door on the way out. You'd have to be a moron to not notice she was disgruntled. "Okay, so, does anybody wanna explain how Twilight doesn't remember us and goes to Crystal Prep?" Applejack asked, Rarity still in her hands." Sunset sighed and crossed her arms. "She's not the same Twilight." "What? How?" Rainbow Dash asked, confused. "I was thinking that too," Noah added, "She must be from Equis' world instead of Equestria. That would explain how she doesn't know us and goes to Crystal Prep. Just wish she didn't fuckin'-" "Friggin'." "-friggin' hit me in the head with a door. Damn it-" "Dang it." "Dang it! I've got a bump on my head now." "Uh, can we get Rarity to the nurses' office now? The paper towels are too dirty," Applejack asked. Rarity was on the floor, slightly delirious, playing with Applejack's hat. Noah sighed and crossed his arms. "Right." The Rainbooms stepped out of the nurses' office and began down the hall. Rarity now had a bandage wrapped around her head that she was told needed to stay there for a week. It made her hair look unusual, which she despised. "I cannot believe our world's Twilight goes to Crystal Prep of all schools," She grunted, in a terrible mood. "You're saying that Twilight's gonna play against us? She'd never do that!" Rainbow Dash replied, upset. "Our Twilight wouldn't," Fluttershy replied. "Our Twilight is a princess in Equestria and an expert in friendship magic! And if she was here, we'd've already figured out why magic is randomly popping up during pep rallies and fucking costume changes-" "Woah Woah Woah Woah Woah, let's calm it down for a quick second hypocrite." "Shut up." "There's clearly a lot we've learned in the past twenty-thirty minutes and we've got a lot to figure out. So let's relax and get it done without blowing our heads off like a bunch of dumbasses-” ”Doofuses.” ”-doofuses.” Sunset sighed and held her sides, "Sorry, I'm just... just a little frustrated I haven't heard back from her yet." Noah's eyes widened, "That purple nerdy bastard didn't respond yet?!" "Noah!" "Sorry..." "Well," Applejack began, "She's a princess in Equestria. Probably got problems of her own to deal with." Rarity tried to cover the bandage with her hair, "We certainly, ugh, can't expect her to drop, er, everything and pop through the, ugh, portal whenever. Especially when, oh, it's to deal with something as, c'mon, minor as a few, for the love of, random pony-ups." "But they aren't minor! Magic came into this world when I stole Twilight's crown. It's taken a lot for me to earn everyone's trust. If we have to forfeit because I can't think of a way to keep it under control-" "Sunset, it's obvious what to do. If you can't get Twilight to come to us, you should just go to Twilight. And if there's some larger-than-life problem over there, I can pull you back through the portal with... uh..." Noah looked all over for an object to pull Sunset out of the portal with and landed his eyes on something in the janitor's closet. He entered for a second before returning with something nobody could believe. "Here, we'll use this. Sturdy and straight, perfect for investigating the unknown." Sunset's face fell flat. "Noah, that's a dragon dildo." "I know!" "That's curved and revolting." "What? You wanted me to grab a broom?" "I'd want you to grab literally anything besides this." "Well, there's no broom or mop in there, so..." "Noah." "Hm?" "I'm not using a dragon dildo." "Well, what do you want to use?" "I'm pretty sure if Equestria was being destroyed or under siege, Twilight would've been back by now. So why don't you take that putrid thing, put it back where you found it, and wash your hands with some bleach because that shouldn't be there at all." Noah groaned, "Fine, I guess that makes sense." Throwing the foul sex toy into the janitor's room, Noah sauntered away from the group to the nearest bathroom holding up his hands. "We're gonna pretend that didn't just happen and find out what the events are. You coming Sunset?" Rainbow Dash asked, slightly disgusted. "No, I guess I'll wait on Noah and we'll go get Twilight. It'll a little weird returning but, sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do." Nodding, Rainbow Dash and the other Rainbooms took a left at the end of the hall while Sunset began backwards to find Noah. She just hoped there was actual bleach in the bathroom he was in. Noah and Sunset stepped outside the front entrance and gazed at the portal. Noah had a pole from the showers in his hands and Sunset was slightly embarrassed since the Crystal Preppers were still outside. "Alright, let's do this," Noah stated, and he and Sunset began towards the portal. "You know the plan, right?" He asked, and Sunset rolled her eyes, "Of course I know the plan. You told me like seven times." "Well, how do you think I'd feel if my best friend died or got stuck on the other side of some stupid portal? Then I'd return to America feeling like a joke. And I don't do jokes like that." Sunset smiled warmly, "Nice to know you care so much." Noah scoffed, "Please, like your ass wouldn't do the same." She glared a jokingly glare, "What did we say?" "Oh, shut up!" They approached the portal and Sunset grabbed the end of the pole opposite to Noah with her left hand. "On the count of three, you ready?" Sunset took a deep breath. It was stupid to think Equestria was under siege or something, but the thought itself did worry her. "Ready." "One... two... three!" Sunset placed her other hand on the portal and attempted to push, she instead felt a burning sensation in her hand. "Ah! What the hell?!" "What?! What?!" "My magic, it's being drained!" Sunset's hands had made the portal glow where she placed it, but it seemed to be in the same color as her hair. She tried to pull back but to no avail. "Help It won’t let go!" "I got you, hold on!" Throwing the pole, Noah grabbed Sunset by bringing his arms across her stomach and pulling with everything he had. "C'mon you son of a bitch!" Before long, Sunset's hands were free, and she and Noah flew back. Sunset landing on his stomach as she was still in his grasp. "Ow, fuck. Ow, God!" Noah comically complained. Sunset quickly stood up out of his grip and looked on the other side as it didn't feel like it was coming from the portal, but rather from the other side of the portal. Sunset felt her heartbeat quickly when looked over. It was Twilight. In her hands was a peculiar compass-like device that had little lightning bolts shooting around it. The same one from earlier. "What did you do?!" Sunset asked frantically. Twilight stood up and clutched the compass close to her chest. "Twilight," a voice called to her left. It was Dean Cadence. "You have to check in with the others." Frightfully disregarding Sunset, Twilight ran over to the other students. Leaving Sunset in utter shock and bewilderment. Sunset came around the other side of the portal and touched it, perplexed. But she froze in absolute horror when she felt it. It was just stone. She tried to touch in other places but to no avail. The portal was gone. "Wha... w-where's... where's the portal! It's gone! W-Why... W-Why is it gone?!" Noah ran up from behind, and hand on his stomach. "The hell are you talking about?!" "It's gone!" Noah felt the portal himself and was stunned. It really was gone. There was no light up at the touch, no sound, no other side, nothing. It was just gone. Almost like it never existed. "Oh... shit." Noah turned around to face Sunset, and she had tears welling up in the corners of her eyes. She was on her knees in trauma and panic, a couple of tears had even dropped, leaving shiny wet marks on her cheeks. Noah placed his hands on her shoulders and kneeled, "Hey, c'mon! There's no need to cry." Sunset brought her hands to her head, "The portal is gone! I can never return home again! Twilight can't come back either! There's no in or out, it's just stone! I'm stuck here forever!" Sunset had started full-on sobbing and held her sides in hysteria. Noah simply stared, he didn't know what to do. he tried to think of something to say, but he couldn't form a sentence in his head. He needed to do something though because he abhorred seeing her so miserable. So he did the first thing that came to mind. He cuddled her. Noah stuck his hands and arms underneath Sunset's and pulled her close to his chest. Her sobs stopped spontaneously and her arms laid on his shoulders. He didn't speak though, he just held her like she was his child. Sunset could hear the beat of his heart like a quiet drum and felt her tears stop flowing. She didn't know why exactly, but she felt so warm so close to him. Sunset's friends gave her hugs all the time, but this one felt... ardent. Like it was a hug just for her and nobody else. The heat of him being so close even made her blush, along with his subtle quiet breaths. Without thinking, Sunset brought her arms over Noah's shoulders and around him. Hugging him back, closely. Like she needed him close to her more than ever. "Look, we're gonna figure this out. We'll figure everything out. No Ifs, Ands, or Buts. You'll get to go back home, Twilight will be able to come to us, and everything little thing will be alright. That's a promise from me, nobody else's promises matter more than mine." "If we're gonna figure this out, I'm gonna need you to get it together and give it everything you've got. Because now your way of life is at stake. Do you understand me?" "...yes." "Okay," Noah stood up, Sunset still in his grasp, and let go as she did. He took his right thumb and wiped her tears away. Her eyes returning to their original color as he finished. He picked up the pole from the showers and put a hand on her shoulder. "You ready?" "Ready."
Epilogue - The Endearment ArcAuthor's Note Should I Stay Or Should I Go? (Epic Guitar Rift) Epilogue - The Endearment Arc "Alright then! To hell with all of you... uh... I'll miss ya a lot, and... uh... yeah... bye." Those were the last words Sunset heard as Manex, CJ, and Jain raised the boat's anchor and dropped it on the deck. Noah tapped Fall's shoulder and he twisted the boat's key. Igniting it quickly. The Rainbooms waved merrily as the ship pulled out of the dock. The sun just above the horizon as water splashed behind them and the sound of the boat gradually quietened. While the Rainbooms continued to wave and cheer at their friends returning home, Sunset simply stared out into the waters. She could see Noah's figure waving back in the distance before the sun consumed him. She felt a single tear slide down her cheek as he disappeared. Never to be seen again in the land of Equis. Forever on the other side of the world. The side she could never hope to traverse. Sunset whispered, "I said I wouldn't cry. I promised him. I said I wouldn't... but I... I just can't. He's gone. And he's never coming back. Not for another problem, and not for another occasion. "Don't go... come back. Please, I... I..." Sunset fell to her knees. She ran both hands through her hair as the tear turned from one to many. The Rainbooms ignored Sunset as if she didn't exist, and she felt her heart crumble. The sun finally dipped into the horizon and Sunset looked up. The moon had taken the sky, and the Rainbooms were nowhere to be seen. The cars and minivan were gone and the water had dried up. Sunset turned behind her and found nothing but dust. Dust as far as the eye could see. She felt her face and it was covered in dried blood, tears, and wrinkles. The red in her hair had all turned grey, and she could see the hundreds of wrinkles all across her skin through a tiny puddle. Sunset held her head out of perplexion and screamed. "Come back to me!" "Sunset!" "Ah?!" "What in the name of Christ has you yelling like that? You sound like you just met the devil!" Sunset felt her surroundings and took a deep breath before sighing. She was in Noah's car, and everything was okay. The leaves hung lusciously from the trees as she passed by them, and the ocean in the distance was full of water. She felt her face, no wrinkles. She pulled down the passenger seat's mirror and sighed as she saw she was still young as ever. She was safe, and Noah was still by her side. Sunset spotted the car's speedometer and found it lower than normal. It appeared Noah had decided to take his last drive on this street peacefully. He wasn't exactly smiling, however. Like he was anxious for something. Noah slowed the car down just a bit as they reached a hill. He placed a hand on Sunset's shoulder as her panting finally ceased. "What's your deal? I asked you a question, remember?" Sunset laid back in her seat and faced the window. Similarly to what she'd see, the sun hung just above the horizon, and its blinding light made it appear larger than normal. If it weren't for today, Sunset would've enjoyed watching the sundown. But all it'd been was a symbol of the end. The end of Noah and Sunset. "Hello? Kid? What's the matter?" Sunset shrugged, "I, uh... I-I just... I had a bad dream." Noah raised an eyebrow, "What was it about?" "Uh... if, uh... if Twilight managed to beat us both and commit galactic mass slaughter... it wasn't pretty. I saw all of our friends die. I saw what was left of the world... I saw you die..." Noah laid a hand on Sunset's shoulder, "Well, it's a good thing we kicked her ass, eh?" "Uh... yeah." Noah returned his hand and laid back in his seat. He turned over to Sunset and she continued to stare out the window. He examined her and found tears welled up in her eyes. As if she was holding them back. Noah sighed, "Sunset... I've made hundreds of friends. Though all or an unbelievably great majority of them are no longer with me. Yet out of all those friends, even the ones I've made recently... I doubt I'm ever gonna forget you." Sunset continued to stare out the window, and Noah shrank. Despite it, he continued. "I... I know you don't want me to leave, but I can't abandon my friends. They need me. They would've still been stuck in that orphanage if it weren't for me. "They see me as... as a sort of leader. Or maybe just someone who has the ability to make the important decisions. As in what place to rob, what car to use, what boat to steal... who's life to take... An abundance of decisions the every-day-human can't make themselves. "Hell, even I struggle at making the decisions. And sure, I could just tell them we should stay, but they've been pushing at this for months. They want to return to America. Return to Earth. They want to go home. "Even... even I want to go home. That doesn't mean I hate it here. I'm just homesick. It's been so long since I've seen some piece of shit on the news talk crap about some political figure. "It's been so long since I've seen a protest in the streets. News of war on the rise. A terrorist attack, a new invention, hell, a new supercar. Not all of those things are good, but it's my home. And despite all of its utter barbarities and crimes against humanity, I love my home. "Think of it as when you've finished up in Equis and you're ready to return and tell your teacher to go fuck herself because you're better than she ever was. Think of it like that." Noah sighed a final time as Sunset continued to stare out the window. He'd said all he could, but she still wouldn't face him. He felt like she thought of him as a monster, but he just wanted to go home. Sunset felt a single tear roll down her right cheek and land on the window frame. She closed her eyes as the ride continued, and Sunset whispered a single sentence to herself. "But I don't wanna go home..." "Oi, Kid, we're here." Sunset drowsily opened her eyes and analyzed the scene in front of her. They'd arrived at the dock after apparently a couple of hours as the Sun had dipped below the horizon, and the moon began to shine. At the dock were all of the Rainbooms and the Black Five relaxing on the beach nearby. All except Fall who Sunset assumed was preparing the ship for departure. As for the ship, Sunset's eyes widened. "You stole a tugboat?" Floating upon the seas was indeed a tugboat. It was rather larger than what Sunset had expected it to be, but it was exactly how she'd seen it before. That hull was surprisingly difficult to forget. Noah shrugged as he pulled the keys out of the ignition. "Oh, uh, yeah. I may have been a little loopy after not getting enough sleep the past few days to when we stole it. Or I was high. And you should've seen the sailers. Those niggas were pissed. I mean, not like they had no reason to. That thing cost eight figures... huh... maybe we could sell it..." Sunset shook her head as she stepped out of the car and heard her name being called. It was Rarity. "Sunset darling, over here. We were just having a picnic while waiting on you two. And if I may, what held you up for so long?" Noah shoved his keys in his pocket, "Sunset wanted to see all of the places we'd been before the boys and I left. Why? Is there a problem with that or something?" Fluttershy shook her head, "No, we enjoyed our time here. We just wished it didn't have to end with you leaving." Noah shut his door closed, "Ah, well, that's a damn shame." He strolled towards them and promptly gave Applejack a hug from behind. Catching her off guard and red flushed her cheeks. "Uh... what are you-" "I'm giving you a goodbye hug, dumbass. I've already wasted enough time, so let's get this over with." Noah pulled back from Applejack and gave Rarity a hug after her. Sunset watched with an ever-growing frown on her face as Noah gave each and every member of the Rainbooms a final embrace. Even the Twilights, despite barely knowing them. Manex flicked Noah's forehead as he came up from behind. Noah cursed, "Ow! Goddamn it Manex, what the fuck!?" "That's for making us wait! We've been sitting here with this nasty-ass boat ages! We were supposed to leave two hours ago!" "For Christ's sake Manex, excuse me for not just flipping off Sunset and just ridding into the... well... sunset. Now hand over your keys to one of them, say your goodbyes, and get on the boat! Ol' bring me that horizon head-ass nigga." Manex flipped Noah off while pulling out his keys from his back pocket. He haphazardly threw them at Applejack before turning on his heels and boarding the boat. The keys hit Applejack directly in her left breast, and she keeled over and whimpered somewhat. "Sunset," Noah called, and she approached him. Frown still planted on her face. Noah pulled out his own keys from his back pocket and handed them her. Sunset wasn't exactly paying attention earlier, so she was caught off guard when she saw the glint of the key's platinum blade. "You're... you're giving me your car?" Noah's face fell flat, "Sunset, where am I gonna put a two-ton supercar on an eight hundred ton docking boat that's already holding three dipshits, one quiet kid, one sexy mudafucker, and a slightly mentally disabled labradoodle?" Sunset giggled at another one of Noah's stupid jokes, "I-I, uh..." "There you go," Noah finished. With a genuine smile, Noah opened Sunset's right hand and placed the keys on her palm. "Besides, now you have something to remember me by," Noah added, and Sunset's smile melted away like butter in the oven. "Noah! Where do we put McFly?" CJ called from on the boat, McFly next to him. His derp face with his tongue hanging out reminded Noah of Derpy Hooves an awful lot. "Uh, just... this fuckin' dog, keep him with Fall." "But Fall's sailing the boat." "No shit." CJ's face fell flat as he gently gripped McFly by his collar and lead him to the bridge of the mighty tugboat. Noah let go of Sunset's hand and sighed. "Well... this is it, Kid. The end of the road." Sunset felt the hole in her heart consume everything around it as Noah spoke. This was it. The day she'd been hoping, praying would never come. She'd hoped the boat would break or one of Noah's friends have an incident and they're forced to stay. But instead, Noah was leaving just like in her nightmare. It appeared now, it was more of a vision. "Noah... I..." Sunset felt the tears welled up in her eyes start to mess with her vision. Unfortunately for her, it didn't take long for them to fall. Instead of sobbing as she'd normally do when feeling sorrowful, Sunset simply let them fall. She didn't even sniffle. Noah instantly took note of the tears and glanced over at the Rainbooms. They'd gathered behind her on the dock and smiled sympathetically. Not to mention a couple of them had tears rolling down as well. Even Noah had a single tear rolling down his own cheek. He'd felt Sunset's pain, but also wondered if she'd make her move. Closing his eyes, Noah pulled Sunset in for one more kind embrace. The best Sunset could muster was holding her hands to his sides while he caressed her back. Even if Sunset didn't think the same as Noah, he knew just how much she enjoyed his company. And he'd be criminal to say he didn't either. There wasn't a day that went by when Noah didn't think of her. How she went from threatening him in the locker bay to texting him almost every chance she got. And it wasn't like he didn't either. Noah was Sunset's first-ever true friend. And though she had others, it was up to those above whether or not she finds another like him. And a part of her didn't want to. Noah pulled Sunset tighter as he whispered his last words to her. "There'll be another time..." Noah let go of Sunset and she did as well. He saluted with two fingers to the Rainbooms as he back away and boarded the ship. They waved as he did as well. Jain crossed his arms, "Ya done?" "Why don't you do everyone a favor and just jump off a cliff, Jain?" "You first." Noah rolled his eyes and motioned to Fall. He ignited the ship with its key and CJ returned from the engine room. Finalizing for their departure. Noah turned to face his friends, all except Fall, as they approached him on the deck. "Alright dipshits, we don't know what'll happen when we-" Don't go. "-exit Equis' shield thingy barrier bitch dog. I don't know what that-" Don't. "-random string of words were, but you know what I mean. So all of you to the second floor, or whatever-" Please. "-the fuck you call it on a boat, and I'll create a shield around the tug to protect us. Got it?" "Got it," the Black Five acknowledged concurrently. With that, Noah approached the bow, and the Black Five headed to the second deck. Sunset's vision pulsed as the anchor lifted, and smoke burst out of the tugboat's large exhaust. No. I... won't... let.. you... please..." Noah itched his chin as the boat pulled from the dock ever so slowly. "I wonder if the FBI knows our names. We may have to change that shit then. And where the hell am I gonna dock a ten million dollar tugboat? Actually, why the fuck does this thing cost ten million? It stinks, it's slow as shit, and worst of all, it doesn't even have a goddamn fridge! I had to buy a mini-fridge, go shopping for food CJ'll probably eat in less than an hour, find an outlet for the damn thing, and then there's Manex and his fuckin'-" *Dunk!* Noah whirled around, "What the fuck was- ah! Sunset?! What the hell-" Noah was interrupted by Sunset as she tackled him to the deck of the boat! Fall immediately stopped, and Noah shook his head. Confused immensely by Sunset's sneak attack. "Sunset, what the hell are you-" Noah was again interrupted, but this time, it silenced him immediately. He was left dumbstruck, yet full of such glee he felt his head would explode and cover the deck in blood and whatnot. Sunset kissed him. He felt as if time had just stopped. The birds stopped squawking, the waves stopped waving, the boat stopped humming, the moon above shone brighter than the sun, and the joyful voices of the Rainbooms from the dock became muffled. He shivered with delight as Sunset straddled him tighter, and caressed the sides of his face with her thumbs. Her hair falling upon his face, and the taste of her lips reminded him of Sierra. She pulled back, took a breath, and explained. "Noah, please! Don't leave! I-I love you! I loved you ever since Christmas Day! When you made me so happy that night! I don't wanna lose you! Please! Don't go! I'll do anything! You've just brought me so much happiness, I feel like my life would end without you! I-I'm not trying to be obsessive, I just... I-I just-" Sunset was interrupted when Noah pulled her back to him and kissed her in return. She practically melted in his arms as he held her tight. She'd waited for this moment for years, and so had he. It'd happened. It'd finally happened. After all the time that passed, all the years of rivalry and months of friendship, Sunset had made her move. Just like Adagio had told him she would. And It felt incredible. Noah let go of Sunset's lips and whispered. "Took you long enough..." Sunset giggled and fell into his arms, and Noah closed his eyes as reality seemingly dissolved around him... Although for the Black Five and the Rainbooms, reality merely got more real. "Oh for the love of God almighty! Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck! Goddamn it! We were gonna go home! We were gonna sell this big-ass boat! But no! Sunset decided that out of all the dicks on this damn island, she wanted his!" CJ ranted as he pounded the wall. The Black Five had come up from the second deck and were left speechless as they watched their former rival plant her lips on their leader. Jain crossed his arms, "Oh, shut the hell up, Acorn! If you want my honest opinion, I'm glad we're staying. I kinda like it here in Equis. It's bright and has got some fine-ass girls." Manex peeked over the side of the tugboat at the Rainbooms and his face fell flat as they jumped up and down like girls from a 90s movie. Looks like they'd been planning or waiting on this day to come. He sighed, "Well, I guess we're staying." Fall shoved the tugboat's keys into his pocket as he stepped off the dock. He approached his friends and found Noah talking to the Black Five while Sunset lost her mind with the Rainbooms. He approached the Black Five, and Noah continued. "Look, we don't know what they know about us back in America. Sure, we left three years ago, but the government and shit rarely forget. We'll just stay here for a little while longer, and then we'll head home. Hopefully, luck will be on our side. Any objections guys?" Noah felt a grin form on his face as Fall merely shrugged, Manex didn't speak, and Jain smiled himself. Though CJ had other thoughts in mind. Ones that clearly everyone didn't agree with. "I say we just leave already!" Noah raised an eyebrow, "Why?" "Because if it weren't for Sunset, we would be in the Atlantic by now!" "Well CJ, I wanna stay. The others don't seem to mind either. Why do you wanna go home anyway? This place is great, and the Sirens were dealt with half a year ago. I've seen Twitter, and tensions are still somewhat high." "Well, I... I-I... ugh, fine nigga! But when we leave, legitimately, I'm taking most of the pay for that stupid-ass tugboat! And I don' wanna hear jack shit from any of you niggas!" "Okay CJ, we got it." "Fuck you, nigga." As Manex placed a hand on CJ's shoulder and began talking, Noah turned to the Rainbooms. Who were still giddy and enthusiastic as ever about the new loving relationship. Rarity shrieked with joy, "Eee! It's still just so adorable! I knew you'd get him one day darling!" Rainbow Dash, while a grand smile on her face, calmed Rarity down. "Jeez Rarity, it's already been established. Don't your vocal cords hurt?" "Not at all!" The blush on Sunset's face deepened as Applejack spoke. "Ah still can't believe you somehow jumped onto a moving tugboat, climbed up, its side, 'n' tackled Noah like it was nothin'! Where'd that sudden bolt of energy come from anywho?" Sunset rubbed the back of her head, "I-I... I don't know to be perfectly honest. It kind of felt instinctual. Like... l-like I just had to, you know?" Pinkie Pie pulled Sunset in for a tremendous hug. "Hooray for Sunset! This calls for the greatest party I've ever thrown in the history of parties! I'll use everything from every other party I've ever done in my life! It'll be amazing!" The Rainbooms laughed joyfully at Pinkie Pie's incredible enthusiasm. It even made her voice crack with the amount of shouting she did. Which only made them laugh even harder. Noah and Sunset laid on the beach and stared at the stars. Sunset rested her head on Noah's chest and he stroked her hair tenderly. The moon always shone so very bright in its full stage, and it was almost like a blue sun. Sunset snuggled into Noah's shirt, and Noah sighed happily. They were together. After all said time, Sunset was his, and Noah was hers. It’d felt like a prophecy finally coming true. Like the buildup of the greatest end of all time. Noah smiled as he looked down at Sunset. "So," he began. "This is us?" And Sunset closed her eyes as he continued to stroke her hair. The moonlight shining like a diamond in the sky upon her. "This is us."
GoodbyeOf All The Stars has been canceled. And this is goodbye. After all this time of saying, “I’ll never stop until I'm finished, ” or, “I’ll never lose motivation, ” I've done both of these. And it really sucks. There were so many things I wanted to do. There really, really was. But as time went on, I just... I didn't want to do it anymore. Of All The Stars was planned to have one more arc going over Forgotten Friendship, and a mega arc that's a bit more dark. But after struggling through Legend of Everfree, I just couldn't go on. Let alone finish said arc. I also had plans to build and continue building characters. CJ eventually get with AppleJack, Fall eventually get with Flash, and so on. But I just couldn't go on anymore. It really sucks. To lose motivation for something you had such ambition for. All your ideas flushed down the drain. It's painful. And makes me so regretful. All in all: thank you. Regardless of whether you liked or disliked my story, you were still there. And that means so much to me. I wish I could deliver you a full story, but I guess I'm just not that great of a writer. And please, don't be like me. Never start something you can't finish. Goodbye, and joy be with you all.
In The Beginning - Of All The Stars (TBR)Author's Note The following story is to be rewritten late 2021. Expect below-average writing and God awful concepts. Skipping to the following arc is highly recommended. Please show common curtesy and do not dislike without leaving any criticism. Despite the first arc being terrible, there’s nothing wrong with telling me your thoughts. TBR - To Be Rewritten In The Beginning - Of All The Stars (TBR) I May Not Be Immortal... ”Gooooooooooooooood Evening Canterlot! I'm your radio show host, Flavor Fortune! In today's news, President Shader has finally been impeached after his involvement in the Mafia and the assassination of President John Hoof Kennedy.” ”Resources report that when inquiring Shader about his thoughts on the situation, he maniacally shouted, ”I don't give a fu-.” The radio was shut off and a teenage boy whispered to himself. ”Fuckin’ politics.” That boy was Noah Rictorshine, a simple black seventeen-year-old junior of Canterlot High. He was currently in a hurry, as tonight was a very special occasion, the Fall Formal, whereas a princess was to be crowned. But Noah didn't care for that, and neither did his friends. They were all there for one thing, the ultimate and most disgusting prank of all time. They were going to drop twelve buckets of a certain white and sticky substance all over the principal and newly crowned princess. It was to be legendary... and jaw-dropping-ly nasty as they had been planning for weeks and have triple checked that they were in the clear. Nobody would find out who did it. They were going to take the greatest prank of the century to their very last day on Earth. But unfortunately, Noah was running late to the mockery as he had gotten distracted by a video game tournament and was driving nearly as fast as he could. Noah pondered, If I don't make it now, I'll miss the prank. I better haul ass, please God, keep these damn cops off the road for five minutes... Noah accelerated the car, his Audi R8 that he won years ago, to a hundred and thirty miles per hour in a desperate attempt to become a living legend. Minutes had passed, and Noah could see the school in the distance... along with something else. ”I made it! Wait...what in God's name is that?” Shooting from the school was a beam of pure white and blue shooting unto the clouds. It made a devastating sound of unrelenting lightning bolts striking a skyscraper. Noah stared in awe until taking off as fast as the R8 could possibly go, terribly worried for his friends. Noah arrived at the school, a little far away as a precaution, and stared at a terrifying orange and red demon-like figure with busted ears, sharp fingers, and devilish wings. ”Wait... Satan’s a girl? That-uh...that definitely wasn't in the Bible, ” he mumbled. Noah stared at the rest of the situation, the entirety of the front entrance had been violently torn off, and the students inside seemed brainwashed and dead inside, like zombies from a low budget movie. He looked below the figure and saw six girls standing in defiance, he instantly recognized this group as the same girls who pulled, what he called, the most cringey thing to ever occur in a school cafeteria. Noah pondered the crisis once more, ”Maybe I can go down in history, maybe I could stop the rapture... fuck it, worth a shot.” Noah stepped over to the trunk of his car and pulled out a modified M4A1 Carbine Rifle painted red and white. He attached a long-distance optic to the gun’s top teeth and mounted onto the cars hood. He aimed down his sights to the being’s legs, held his breathe, and... *dum*...*dum* *dum* *dum*...*dum*... The demon screamed and looked at her legs, since she’d become powerful, it hadn't done significant damage, but they did hit, and they hurt like hell. The group of girls looked around shocked and confused. Noah whispered to himself, ”God knows I won't be able to get it in the head from here with this fuckin’ wind, I better move up, slowly.” Noah stealthy and diligently moved up to the demon, swiftly running from tree to rock until he reached the school’s statue. ”Okay, four shots to the head, and then we’re done here, ” Noah whispered to himself while reviewing his ammo and setting the firearm to burst-fire. Once more, he aimed down his sights, held his breath...*dum* *dum* *dum*...nothing happened. “Found you!” The demon yelled, “Ah shit,” Noah replied under his breath. ”Noah Rictorshine, the mindless idiot leader of the mindless idiots, ” the being spoke, and Noah shouted bewildered, ”What the... nigga the fuck? How do you know my name?!” ”Oh, you don’t recognize me?” It asked, and he responded, “No, you're the fucking devil, what else would you be?” The demon grinned, ”Sunset Shimmer, of course!” Noah’s jaw dropped as he could then see the slight similarities, he then questioned, ”What the... what in the hell are you?! I know you're a bitch, but this is beyond that!” ”Why do you think I was so desperate to get this tiara?” Sunset asked, and Noah replied, ”Cause you're an egotistical asshole?” He answered jokingly. ”No, you idiot! It has more power than anything that's ever been seen before! And with it, I can rule Equestria!” Sunset cackled madly while Noah stared in disbelief and confusion, ”The fuck is Equestria? Is that some sort of drug for basement dwellers?” A girl behind Noah, Twilight he believed her name was, facepalmed loud enough to be heard by him. He retorted, ”Look motherfucker, I don't understand this satanic shit, I don't even care for this stupid fuckin’ dance! I just knew you six sons of bitches were up to some dumb shit the moment I saw y'all together, now we're facing the end of the goddamn world, and your faces are plastered all over it!” Twilight spoke up, ”What!? It's not my fault she's like this! I just want my tiara back! That's the entire reason I'm here! If she has it, we're all doomed!” Noah replied, ”Well then maybe you shouldn't have brought the damn thing! Look at this absolute horseshit that surrounds us! The school doesn't have front doors anymore, everyone is fuckin’ possessed, and we have a devil with a pussy instead of a dick!” Noah once again retorted. ”She didn't bring it, it was stolen by Sunset!” Applejack yelled, defending Twilight, who was then joined by the others. ”Well than fuckin’ do something!” Noah shouted, not about to be overpowered. Noah finished arguing with the girls and directed his attention to Sunset, ”Oi, she-demon, where the fuck are my friends? Knowing your stupid ass, you must've done something! If you killed them, so help me God...” Sunset chuckled before answering, ”That’s none of your concern, but believe me, you won't be seeing them ever again...” Noah flared up in anger and gripped his gun tightly. ”Cock sucking...” ”Hey relax! Now is not the time to get mad!” the girl with straight rainbow hair advised Noah, who rolled his eyes annoyed. ”Enough!” shouted Sunset, ”I'm not just gonna stand around here and listen to you idiots bicker! I have stuff to do!” Sunset charged a sphere of what Noah could only believe to be energy or magic with one hand. She fired upon Twilight, but within a split second, her friends jump towards her to make a barrier of some sort, but it was obviously futile. What the fuck is going on?! The sphere collided with the girls and a dust cloud surrounded them. They were gone. Noah assessed his options, ”Okay, I can drive away from this before it becomes detrimental on an international scale, but I don’t feel like hiding my whole life... maybe I can drop a building on her-“ ”What!?” Noah lost his train of thought to Sunset yelling in perplex. He looked to where she was gaping at and found the girls not only in one piece, but shrouded in a violet aura. “What in the hell? How the fuck are you guys alive?!” They looked at each other and realized that as they held hands, a literal barrier was created. Twilight glared at Sunset triumphantly and spoke, ”The magic contained in my element was able to unite with those who helped create it.” The tiara upon Sunset’s head glowed with power and a beam shot forward, hitting the girls. From what Noah could see, they seemed to be transforming. Their hair had all grown much longer than originally, and they wore pony ears upon their head and pony tails from their rears. While Sunset stared, furious, Noah simply questioned God. Twilight continued, ”Together with the crown, they create a power beyond anything you could even comprehend! It is the power you don't have the ability to control! The tiara may be upon your head, Sunset Shimmer, but you cannot wield it, because you do not possess the most powerful magic of all, the magic of friendship!” Noah, was speechless. The girls rose into the air, hands locked and emitting the same violet color, then unexpectedly, a swirling beam of rainbow light, or whatever it was, rose into the clouds before falling back down and whirling around Sunset, who screamed in irritation and panic. ”Here, and in Equestria, it is the only magic that can truly unite us all!” The tornado looking rainbow gradually crushed Sunset, letting out a scream of anguish, while the rest of the students were freed from the manipulation. Noah remained utterly speechless. The smoke cleared, the girls were on the ground knocked unconscious. The students, frightened and bewildered, and Sunset was nowhere but inside the crater. Deciding to take it from there, Noah gripped his M4 tightly and sneakily approached the crater, Bravo Six style. Although, he was still seen by one of the girls, specifically the one with purple hair. He scanned the area to detect a fallen Sunset, laying on her stomach in pain and trauma. ”Well well, looks like the tables have fuckin’ turned, ” Noah said victoriously while Sunset grunted in pain and struggled to move at all. ”I honestly thought you were gonna take over the world for a second there, but only for a second.” Noah stood above Sunset whilst obstreperously reloading his M4 to fill her with worry and fear of the inevitable. She looked up and he continued his monologue, ”I knew you were a bully, a bitch too, but a monster that was hell-bent on taking over... I don't even know what the fuck you were trying to take over. Then again, I don't care.” Sunset tried to speak whilst getting up on her hands and knees,” I... I... I just... ju-“ Noah kicked Sunset promptly in her stomach, turning her onto her back, she yelped and whined in pain and looked into Noah's eyes, begging for mercy. ”W-wait, please-, ” Sunset pleaded, “It’s been too damn late for that,” Noah cut-off as he pulled the slide back and let go on his M4, a sign that it truly was over. Sunset closed her now drenched in tears eyes and waited helplessly to die. ”Stop!” Shouted a voice from behind, ”goddammit, ” muttered Noah, before turning around to find a purple-haired girl standing with her hands in fists and facing upwards from her hips. “Look nigga, I don’t even know you, how you gon’ tell me what to do?” Noah responded annoyed. ”My name is Rarity, and you cannot just kill off Sunset! Indeed, she must make amends, but that doesn't mean taking her life!” Noah stared at her for a second, then replied, ”Even demon-like beings attempting planetary domination? Because where I come from, the death penalty sounds pretty good.” The other girls then showed up as well from behind, ”Oh for God’s sake, ” Noah mumbled. ”You don't have to kill her! Just relax for a second, I've got this, ” Twilight assured, implying for Noah to walk away, which he did... reluctantly... and it wasn’t exactly easy getting out of that hole. Twilight turned to Sunset, ”You will never rule Equestria, any power you may have had in this world is gone. You've shown everyone who you really are, you've shown them what is in your heart.” As Twilight spoke, the students began to surround the crater and look down at poor and powerless Sunset. Strangely enough, Noah couldn't help but feel just a bit bad for Sunset. ”Then again, I was just about to kill her, ” Noah mumbled. She struggled to reply, tears of years of pain flowed endlessly down her cheeks, ”I’m... I'm sorry... I'm so sorry! I... I didn't know there was another way...” Twilight continued, ”Friendship doesn't just exist in Equestria-” but was cut off by Noah. ”Okay, I'm just gonna stop you right there, uh, what is up with this friendship shit? You sound like a kindergarten teacher trying to teach kids the world's a happy place.” Twilight turned back to Noah in annoyance and answered, ”In my world-” Twilight was cut off, ”Ah! I uh... I don't remember asking about your stupid fuckin’ planet, did uh...did you hear me say that? Did uh...did-did they hear me say that? Is someone... is someone imitating me?” Twilight growled and responded angrily through her teeth, ”The magic is run on friendship, that is just the way it is.” Noah shrugged his shoulders, ”Whatever man. Now, before you scold her some more, I have to ask her something, ” Noah walked over to Sunset’s crater, tears still flowing uncontrollably, ”Oi, where the fuck are my friends? Because if you actually murdered them, I'm gonna shoot you right fucking here, I don't care what anybody else says. I will take, your big orange head right off your tiny-ass shoulders. ” Sunset made an effort to remember what she did with Noah’s friends before answering, ”I didn't kill them, I... I-I just put them in the trapdoor underneath the principal’s desk.” Noah stood straight and nodded before entering the school. Noah entered the main office and went around the desk of Principal Celestia, pulling out the chair and lifting the desk to reveal a soundproof trapdoor. ”The fuck is this here anyway, ” he muttered before opening the door and catching sight of four teenage boys fast asleep. He rolled his eyes and yelled as loud as he could, ”Wake up, motherfuckers!” The four of ’em all freaked out and cursed Noah, ”Nigga what the fuck? Shut your damn mouth, I'm trying to sleep!” the oldest shouted, Noah responded, ”In the fuckin’ ground? Bitch ass worm nigga, ” ”Man, shut up!” The oldest one who spoke was Manex, a seventeen-year-old black junior. ”Dude, can you get us outta here? This some hubba-bubba bullcrap.” The other one that spoke was Cejel, or CJ for short. He was also a seventeen-year-old black junior. ”Yeah, dead ass, CJ is starting to fart all over with his nasty ass.” the one that spoke this time was Jain, a seventeen-year-old biracial junior. ”Yeah dude, this is gross.” And the final boy that spoke was Fall, a sixteen-year-old black junior.”Yeah yeah, shut up, ” Noah said as he pulled the boys out of the ditch one by one. He then started up again, ”Okay, talk to me, how the hell did y'all get here?” ”Well, ” Fall started, ”We entered the school in our matching white suits, like ballers, and saw Sunset planning something with those two dumbasses just outside the gym. ”The others didn't really care, but I stayed and eavesdropped on them, they were going to go to such lengths as killing a puppy just to get that tiara, making me gasp. Unfortunately, I was heard, and Sunset and her two hench-boys we're able to catch me, along with luring everyone else in like the simple-minded idiots they are, and now, we’re here.” Noah chuckled a little before Jain asked a question, “So, what happened outside, besides the fact that we failed to enact the greatest fucking prank of all time,” to which Noah answered, “Well, I think Sunset isn't a bitch anymore so, that's good.” Fall looked intently at Noah before shouting, ”What?! How!?” ”Relax Fall, ” Noah replied, ”It could indeed just be a cover-up, but if it's not, life should be a hell of a lot easier for your black-ass.” Fall thought hard for some time while everyone else prepared to go home, ”Man, what a shitty Friday, ” CJ stated, ”Without a damn doubt, ” Manex added before they all left the room. Coming up on what was left of the entrance, Noah saw Sunset shyly peeking around the wall. He studied her, she was a mess. Her clothes were torn up and her hair was frizzled with bits of dirt inside. ”Yeah, that bitch won't be a problem, ” Manex said as they all left the school, except Noah. ”Oh wait, I gotta go do something real quick, see y'all on Monday!” Noah exclaimed before running back into the school, but not without giving Sunset the stink eye. Principal Celestia sat in the cafeteria going over what just happened in the past hour. ”Unbelievable, how could I’ve not seen it sooner. Now the front of the school is in horrid shape, my students are stupefied and bewildered, and I must deal with Sunset to see what happens moving forward.” Her younger sister and the vice principal tried to comfort her, ”Worry not sister, I'm sure you and I will be able to fix such a predicament. Our real problem is the boy with the inhumane weapon approaching us,” As Luna said this, Celestia looked up from the table she sat upon to see Noah walking towards them with his M4 lowered. He came around the table and separated them. ”Okay, Fall Formal 2020, definitely a horrid memory, and presumably the same for you,” Noah spoke, and Celestia responded, ”I’m more than aware of the damage and the danger everyone was put into today.” ”I didn't say you weren't, ” Noah replied, ”But from my black ass almost having to go into fuckin’ hiding, I think I and the rest of your students deserve some time off.” Celestia and Luna were both stunned at Noah being highly inappropriate. Luna responded, ”Excuse me? You will not speak such language to your principals, must I write you up for such tone?” ”Dude, the end of the fuckin’ world almost began, cursing is the last thing you should care about.” Celestia and Luna both stared at each other for a while, then, Celestia sighed, ”Understandable, the school shall have one week off from school, ” Noah fist-pumped the air in response. ”Now then, this has been a good talk for a shitty evening, I'm going home to pray to God and other things. Good night to you.” Noah then proceeded to walk out of the cafeteria with a grin on his face and quickly texted his friends once he was out. As he was walking to the exit, he found Sunset, who was still somewhat crying, sitting next to a pile of bricks, a spade, and a bucket of mortar. He walked up to her and she could hear him from behind, ”Please, just... just leave me alone. I-I’m not trying to do anything wrong, ” she told him, still feeling miserable. Noah stared at Sunset for a moment, he felt bad for her again, but quickly dismissed that thought and merely walked away. Once he reached his car, he put his M4 back in the trunk, entered, turned on the car, and left the school in its quite terrible state. Noah was in bed shortly after showering and began talking to himself, ”Out of all the bullshit that’s happened today, the only thing I seem to take note of is Sunset’s drastic change in behavior and those crazy-ass fireworks. Maybe she won't be a bitch anymore... maybe, only time will tell. Right now, I need some sleep. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say. )
Rainbow Rocks - The Friendship Arc (TBR)Author's Note From The Cradle... Rainbow Rocks - The Friendship Arc (TBR) FOUR WEEKS LATER Noah drove down the road without a care in the world, nearly a month ago, his best friend’s bully had been both defeated and exposed. Ever since then, she hasn’t said a thing to Fall, and his self-esteem has risen tenfold. As for Noah, he got a week off from school to catch up in class, now his grades have also risen tenfold. Every time Noah saw Sunset, she was quiet. Not a word left her mouth. Not only that, but she had oddly become friends with that group of girls. He doesn’t know where that Twilight girl had gone though, she seemingly just disappeared. Not that he cared, it was just odd for someone to appear for a while only to then disappear. Ever since that day, he questioned the ability of those girls, and Sunset herself, Noah thought to himself, What In God’s name was that? And they called the shit magic... I don't know what that crap was, but it seems too complicated for me to investigate, that and the fact that I don't really give a shit. As Noah continued down the road towards the school, Lord behold, he found a running Sunset. It seemed she's late, and that means he is too. Noah slowed down enough to keep up with Sunset, who looked like she'd been running for awhile. He rolled down the window and spoke, ”You must be in a hurry.” Being caught off guard and realizing that the car beside her was Noah’s, since she'd never really seen or payed attention to it, Sunset slipped and lost pace. She soon started up again and Noah thought to himself, Let’s see if she actually has changed, it should be somewhat fun. “Oi, you want a ride? You might get to school quicker you know, ” Noah asked. This really caught Sunset off guard, making her trip and fall on her hands, ”Ow...” she whimpered, and Noah rolled his eyes, ”Negro, come the fuck on.” Noah watched from the window as Sunset somewhat struggled to reach her feet. She piped up and spoke once she got back on her feet, still somewhat shy. ”I guess if... you don’t mind... yes, I’d like a ride.” Hearing this, Noah unlocked the passenger door and motioned for her to enter. She did exactly that and entered the passenger door, and settled in. Before driving, Noah opened the compartment in front of Sunset and pulled out a black first aid kit. He opened the box and pulled out two mid-size band-aids. “Gimme your hands. I can see them bleeding from here,” Noah commanded. Subset hesitated for a second before holding out her hands for him, he inspected the scrapes, unwrapped one of the band-aids and put it on her left hand. Then, he took the other band out and did the same to the right. Sunset eyed her hands before she spoke up, still nervous, ”...Thank you, ” ”Yeah whatever, by the way, where the hell is your bookbag? Don't you need that?” Noah asked, and Sunset answered shyly, ”I... I left it at school from yesterday, I didn't have any homework so, why bring it?” Noah nodded, put the car back into drive, and headed back down the road towards the school. The ride was quiet for a while as Sunset was still very shy, especially near Noah and his friends, who decided to break the silence. ”Oi, you mind telling me where the hell you and your friends stay? You know, if I ever need to find you?” Sunset turned to face Noah, he was still watching the road and she thought for a quick moment before answering. ”We hang out in the band room pract-...doing things. ” Noah glared at Sunset when they reached a stoplight and asked, ”Mind telling me why you were gonna say practicing?” Sunset answered, “I... I rather not answer, it’s... kind of a secret, I-If you don't mind...” “Fine,” Noah replied, “But it better not be no fuckin’ satanic shit, or we're gonna have a serious problem.” It’d been quicker than Sunset first assumed once they had reached the school. Sunset spoke up, ”Wow... we made it before we'd actually be late, ” ”That’s why I love this thing, it's no Bugatti, but it's still worth it,” Noah replied before exiting the car with Sunset following suit. He motioned Sunset to follow him into the school, which she did. Noah entered the school with Sunset behind. He turned to her and spoke, ”Alright, I did my nice thing, now fuck off to your friends, I got shit to do.” ”But, aren't you gonna paint your banner for the musical showcase?” Sunset asked, and Noah answered, smacking his head since he’d forgotten. ”Oh shit, that's right! How the hell did I miss that... Thanks, half-bitch, now you can go fuck off to your friends.” Sunset stared at Noah for a moment, ”I’m making a banner too though...” this made Noah groan. “Fine, where the hell is this shit again? I wasn’t listening when it was announced, ” he asked, and she answered. ”It’s in the gymnasium, where everything usually is.” ”Ah, ” he replied, ”Then that's where we’re headed. Follow me half-bitch... yeah, I like that name.” Noah strolled to the gymnasium without a care in the world while Sunset timidly followed behind. Noah burst through the gym doors loud enough to be heard from all around, but not causing a scene. He looked to his left to see a confused Sunset beside him. He asked her, ”Aren’t you gonna go to your friends?” ”I would b-but, I don't see them, ” she answered. Noah looked over near the stage and saw three freshmen girls making a banner. He pointed to them with his forefinger and replied, ”Then you could go and help those kids because your ass ain't coming with me.” Sunset looked at the kids, then to Noah, and then back to the kids. She decided it would be a nice thing to do, so she walked over to them, leaving Noah to himself. ”Sweet, ” he muttered, ”Now, where are those dumbfucks... ah! There they are.” Noah began towards his friends, whom the half of were making a banner and the other half were ‘roasting’ each other. ”Manex, Jain, stop fuckin’ around and get to work! We have a banner to make dipshits!” Noah yelled at the two, who refused, ”Nigga shut you black Teletubbie ass the fuck up! I'm trying to get at this stupid fuckin’ terrorist!” Manex replied, angry. ”For the last time you retarded donkey, Indian’s aren't terrorists! How many fucking times do I have to tell you that?! I'm not even fucking Indian in the first place! Why are you so slow!?” Jain yelled back, and Noah then shouted, loud enough for everyone in the gym to hear. ”For the life of ne, would you two shut the hell up?! I swear, I'm gonna slit your goddamn throats and sell them on the dark web!” Everyone inside the gym veered to look at Noah with frightened and stunned looks on their faces. Noah saw this and spoke up, ”What? I'm just talking to my friends.” ”You threatening them is just talking?” A boy with blue hair questioned, ”Yeah, I am. Fuck off Flash, I don't need... whatever the fuck you are’s shit.” Noah retorted, making Flash sigh, annoyed, and return to his work, along with everyone else. ”Okay, what do we have so far?” CJ looked up at Noah and answered, ”We 'bout halfway done with the Righteousness design. We would have been done if your black ass didn't take fuckin’ forever.” Noah crossed his arms and replied, ”Bite me you fuckin’ acorn. It’s not my fault it takes me an hour to beat my dick. ” CJ then asked bewildered, ”Why do you beat your dick in the morning? That's one of the weirdest times!” ”Hell if I know, ” Noah answered. A little while later, which included Sunset being denied something, the principals entered the gym, ”Oh great, these guys, ” Noah mumbled to his friends as Celestia began. ”Good morning students, I just wanted to tell you all how pleased I am that so many of you are going to participate in the first-ever, Canterlot High School Musical Showcase!” The students all cheered happily, and when they settled down, Noah added a fake, ”ya-hoo.” Celestia cleared her throat in the awkward silence and continued, ”This is a wonderful opportunity to raise money for all of our after-school programs here at CHS. So keep working on those signs, banners, and posters. I think it's going to be one of the most exciting events we've had at CHS since the Fall Formal.” From that, all of the students glared at Sunset, who slowly slid down and hid in her hands and knees in embarrassment.”Heh, ass-wipe, ” Jain laughed. The bell had rung, signaling it was time for social hour. Noah stood up out of his seat, left the classroom he was in, and headed towards his locker to put his stuff away. Once he had reached and opened it, he pulled a black necklace out from his shirt with a strange yet calming design. It's oddest feature, it had been glowing a faint white recently. Noah stared at it through the mirror, and thought to himself. What in the hell is going on with this thing? I'm pretty sure this isn't supposed to glow... I should ask those magical girls. They should know about this.. Noah stuffed the rest of his things into his locker and began towards the band room. Once he reached the band room, he peeked in through the window and watched a scene unravel. ”Ugh, I am never gonna live that down, ” Sunset groaned, the room was full of the same group of girls from the Fall Formal. Guess she wasn't lying, Noah thought. ”You were pretty bad at the Fall Formal,” one of the girls acknowledged. The girl had long pink hair with a butterfly sticking out the left side of her hair like a flower. ”A demon, ” Sunset continued, ”I turned into a raging she-demon, ” ”And tried to turn everyone here into teenage zombies for your own personal army!” Theo loud and obnoxious voice that added to Sunset’s sentence had big, hot pink, puffy hair. ”Oh darling, you have us! And we've already forgiven you for your past... boo-boos, ” said Rarity. A girl whose name Noah remembered. Rarity then noticed Sunset's palms had band-aids on them, she then asked, "Speaking of boo-boos, what happened here?" Sunset glanced at her palms and answered, "I uh... I got a few scapes from tripping and falling. As for the band-aids... I got them from Noah." Any and all noise in the room stopped as if a false piano key played from a dramatic play. Everyone within the room wore faces of uncorrupted wonderment. "Noah?" The rainbow-haired one asked for confirmation. "The Noah that curses in literally every sentence, Noah?" To which Sunset nodded her head yes. "Why would he help you? Out of everyone in the school, doesn't he hate you the most?" The girl with long pink hair questioned, and Sunset answered. "I don't know. Maybe what happened at the Fall Formal made him think that I wasn't a terrible person anymore. But, he still has a strong aggression towards me. He didn't try to hide a thing." "Well, at least some people have gotten closer after the formal," the one with pink puffy hair said, playfully annoyed. ”To be honest, ” the next girl who began had blonde hair, freckles, and a brown cowgirl hat upon her head. ”I’d say the whole experience brought everyone at Canterlot High closer than ever before.” After that statement, the puffy haired girl slapped her drum sticks together and yelled, ”Three!” After that, Noah realized that they were singing, and he found himself strangely needing to vomit. ”Sweet merciful crap, what the hell is with this country? It's like cringe doesn't even exist, ” Noah muttered. He had already attempted to hold his urge to throw up twice, but when they strangely began to transform, Noah couldn't resist any longer and rushed to the nearest bathroom. Once he made it to the closest stall, he raised the seat as fast as he could, and let his breakfast fall out of his mouth and into the toilet. ”Oh God... oh-fuck... ugh, fuck me... ugh... sometimes I wonder how I still manage to endure this shit.” Noah sat there for a minute or two, flushed the toilet, gargled with the water from the water fountain, and exited the bathroom. When he returned to the band room, he could see Flash leaving the room. He turned around from hearing Noah’s footsteps and frowned. Noah asked, ”The hell were you in there for?” Flash rolled his eyes and replied, ”What’s it to you?” ”Okay dickhead, don't tell me. It's probably not something I actually give a shit for.” Hearing this, Flash continued walking away and Noah peeked in through the door window. Unfortunately, it seemed that when he was conversing with Flash, he was standing right outside the band room door, and all the girls were looking to see who could put Flash in a mood like that. Well, guess I can get this over with, Noah thought to himself before bursting through the door. ”Uh... what's good ladies?” Noah spoke, and the girls to groaned annoyance. ”Oi! I helped ya damn demon friend, cry me a river!” Noah replied. He caught the attention of a girl with straight rainbow hair, who then questioned, ”Yeah, we know," the rainbow-haired one informed, unbeknownst the fact that Noah had already heard all about that. The girl with the cowgirl hat rolled her eyes and asked, ”What are ya here for? We’re kinda busy if ya don't mind. ” ”Relax cowgirl, I just have a bit of a problem, ” Noah responded. He proceeded to pull out his necklace from underneath his shirt, it was glowing heavily at the moment. ”This, this shit right here is my problem.” The girls gaped at the glowing object in awe, Sunset was especially caught off guard from. So that's why he asked where we hang out, Sunset thought. ”That aura, why it looks just like the one that surrounded us at the Fall Formal, only it’s blinding white,” Rarity realized. ”But, how could your necklace be enveloped in it?” “Yeah, of all people, you’re the one that has magic?” The rainbow-haired one added, who Noah promptly flipped off. ”This does look serious, maybe we could ask Twilight for help.” Sunset suggested, ”Yeah, about her,” Noah started, ”Where in the fuck is she? Nigga straight up just disappeared.” ”Twilight isn't bound to this world, she only came here for the tiara, ” the girl with pink hair informed. ”Okay, well, while I'm here, lemme ask something. Who the fuck are you people? I obviously know Sunset, and I only know Rarity's name because she was bitching at me to not kill Sunset, ” Noah stated. “Wel-l, ” the pink-haired girl started, ”The girl with the cowboy hat is Applejack, the girl with the rainbow hair is Rainbow Dash, the girl with the long pink hair is Fluttershy, and I’m Pinkie Pie! Together, we are...” ”The Rainbooms!” They shouted in unison. “Okay, you don’t need to do that. This isn’t a toddler movie or something,” Noah requested. The Rainbooms all rolled their eyes in annoyance. ”Don't fuckin’ roll your eyes at me. Y’all probably don't even know what cringe is. ” Noah retorted. The Rainbooms all looked at each other, lost. Noah questioned, aghast “W-wait, you don’t... what... the... fuck... what is this damn country?...” A voice on the loudspeaker spoke, ”Sunset Shimmer, please report to the main foyer.” ”Uh... what was that about, half-bitch?” Sunset sighed and answered, ”I volunteered to show some new students the school.” ”Oo, can I come? I'm going anyways, so you might as well say yes, ” Noah asked. ”I... guess you can, I don't exactly have a say...apparently, ” Sunset answered. ”Sweet, see you guys later, cause we are not done here.” Noah said whilst saluting with two fingers and leaving the room with Sunset. Sunset, who was now next to Noah, who was also walking, walked down the hallway towards the main foyer. Noah strolled along the hall without worry, while Sunset was still shy when all alone with him. "Noah," Sunset started, "Can you not call me half... you know, please? I-It's hurtful," Noah responded, "Not until I know you aren't a bitch anymore, and I don't mean not being a jerk anymore, no no no, your gonna need something big in order to redeem yourself. And don't try to fake it, I'll see right through You." Sunset nodded and replied, "I... guess that's fair." Once they reached the foyer, they saw three girls standing at the front entrance... ominously. "Hi!" Sunset started, a bit of her confidence returning, "Are you the girls I'm supposed to show around?" "We are," the girl in the front confirmed. Noah inspected the girls, The one in front had large, orange and yellow, puffy hair with two locks on the side that was being held together by a spiked hairband. She wore pink shoulder pants with a purple undershirt, that was connected to her shorts, pink gauntlets, and a yellow belt with a diamond on the front of it. On her legs, she wore pink leggings with purple triangles scattered across, and purple high heel boots with the same yellow belt wrapped around the ankles. The one on the left had purple and blue hair with starry hairbands holding her hair together to make pigtails. She wore a teal denim jacket with the sleeves torn off and a white corset underneath, her lower arms had dark purple bandages wrapped around them. On her legs were purple skinny jeans with white stars scattered along the thighs, on her feet were deep purple high heel boots. The girl on the left cyan and dark blue hair in the form of a ponytail being held in place by a simple blue hairband. She wore what appeared be some sort of corset jacket in brown with cyan string buttons and pink and cyan bracelets on her hands. On her waist was a short pink dress, and on her feet were deep pink high tops that reached her knees. All three girls wore black necklaces with a strange red jewel attached to the end of them. Niggas came to play, Noah thought. "Canterlot High is a great school, you're really gonna love it," Sunset assured, and the girl in the middle responded.k "Oh yes, we really sense there's something, magical about this place." Noah's raised an eyebrow and turned to Sunset. She was oblivious to the minacious tone in the girl's wording. "And may I ask who you two are?" The girl inquired, and Noah answered, "This, is Sunset Shimmer, A-K-A, half-bitch. No need to ask why that's her nickname... I presume.” ”And I'm Noah Rictorshine, the baddest motherfucker to walk this Earth. I'm no Hitler, thank Christ, but you should understand what I mean." The girls stared at each other until the middle girl simply said, "Interesting." The middle one was about to say to ’carry on’, but Noah spoke. "And you are?" The girls once again stared at each other and each of them replied with their names. "Adagio Dazzle," the middle one answered, "I'm Sonata Dusk,” the one on the right answered, "And I'm Aria Blaze," the one on the right finally answered. Noah then motioned to Sunset to carry on with the tour. The group walked down a hall and Sunset spoke as they passed a few rooms, "That's the science lab," she pointed to the right, "Computer lab is in there," she pointed to the left, "Oh! We're having a big musical showcase this weekend, the whole school is pretty much rallying around it." Adagio asked, "A musical showcase?" Sunset replied, "I'm sure, since you're new, Principal Celestia would let you sign up if you're interested." "Unless you suck ass, otherwise you can fuck off. Make it easier for those who can sing," Noah added, making Sunset ask, with a little bit of her confidence returning. "Oh, so you can sing?" "Oi!" Noah spoke, raising his voice a bit, "You are in no position to be getting any kind of shits and giggles outta me!" Sunset rolled her eyes jokingly, a bit of her rude side returning for Noah, but in a gentler way. "We have been known to sing from time to time," Aria stated, in which Sonata added, "He-llo! We sing like, all the time! It's how we get people to do what we want." Adagio veered around and made a motion with her hand to cut it out. Fortunately for them, Noah was too busy with the thought that Sunset thinks she has earned the right to act the way she just did. "W-what, what did I say?" Sonata asked, in which Adagio corrected, "What you meant to say was that being in a musical showcase, sounds like a great way to meet other students." Oh-yeah," Sonata added, "What you she said I meant to say, that's what I meant... to say." "And what you would have said if you weren't the worst," Aria added. "You are!" Sonata shot back, in which Adagio stopped the two before the argument continued by saying, "You'll have to excuse them, they're idiots." The two behind her replied by huffing a sigh of defeat. The hall had now become awkwardly quiet from the commotion, rendering Sunset somewhat speechless, and Noah only then returning to the tour at hand, he questioned, "W-why, why the fuck did the tour stop? Get on with it half-bitch, It's almost time for lunch." Sunset once again rolled her eyes and asked the trio after looking at their necks to see the matching necklaces, "Wow, those are pretty, where did you-" Sunset was cut off by a swift action by Adagio. She quickly gripped Sunset's hand, stopping her from reaching for the necklace. She then let go and shyly chuckled before speaking, "Sorry, these pendants mean an awful lot to us, we'd just hate for anything to happen to them." Once she finished, the trio oddly walked off into the school, where they were going, Sunset and Noah had no idea. "Well, looks like we've got assholes to watch for," Noah whispered, suspicious. (Please leave a comment. I enjoy reading what you have to say.)
