The Bug Crusaderby Partycannon_ChaptersChapter 1: A Change Of PaceChapter 2: Changing MindsetsChapter 3: Changing FamilyChapter 4: Slice of ChangeChapter 5: A Changeling FriendChapter 1: A Change Of PaceA calming orange filled the sky as the sun began to rise, most ponies began their morning routines, that also applied for fillies, Apple Bloom got up from her bed in a yawn, same with Sweetie Belle. One filly had a very different morning routine then the rest, it was a dark cave, a dripping of water came from the ceiling and landed in a puddle, there were pictures of Rainbow Dash on the walls of the jagged cave with nothing else. The cave began filling with light as the sun rose, Scootaloo had one hoof on the ceiling, the others dangled while she slept but as the sun landed on her resting eye's she recoiled in annoyance causing her to fall and landing in her own pool of drool. "Not again.." Scootaloo said in a annoyed voice. Scootaloo was a changeling, however instead of her black shell she had one that matched her pony form she usually took, she also kept her main the same as her pony form, the only difference was the holes, her eye's, her wings, and the fact she had a horn. Scootaloo got up from her drool and tried to shake off most of the water, she then shapeshifted into her pony form and took a peek outside, there was nopony. Scootaloo trotted over to the nearby lake and started her morning routine. Scootaloo entered the classroom and saw as a few ponies had already taken their seats, two of them were Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. They were both chatting to one another. "Hey guys, what's up?" Scootaloo trotted over to her friends. "Scootaloo, Ah'm glad you're here. Ah want to see if yawl would like to do a sleep over this weekend?" Apple Bloom asked with a smile. "I think I can go, I'll have to ask Rarity," Sweetie Belle put her hoof up to her chin. "Also good morning Scootaloo!" she gave a small smile. "Sure, sounds awesome!" Scootaloo threw a hoof up in the air. "Alright class, take you're seats," Miss Cheerilee said as she entered. All the fillies trotted to their desks and took a seat, the class became silent. "Thank you! Before I start class today I have a announcement!" Cheerilee smiled. "At the start of next week we will be taking a field trip to Canterlot!" Cheerilee softly clapped her hooves in excitement. The crowd of students were quick to begin talking within their groups. "Well, it would be like my fifth time going, so I guess it will be alright, right Silver Spoon?" Diamond Tiara said with a smile. "Right," Silver Spoon quickly responded with a smile. "Have any of yawl been to Canterlot?" Apple Bloom turned to her two friends. "No, but Rarity talks about it a lot, I wonder if she will be jealous," Sweetie smirked. "I haven't, is there anything cool there?" Scootaloo asked. "Class, quite please!" said Cheerilee and the class quieted down. "Thank you. Now I will need you're parents to sign a permission slip before we leave to Canterlot, Ill give them out after class." The class nodded, all except for one filly, Scootaloo. Her mind was racing, 'WHAT THE HAY! Not another permission slip!' she thought. "Scootaloo are yawl going to be sick again?" Apple Bloom whispered in a giggle. "Yeah, you always miss cool stuff like this," Sweetie Belle whispered disappointingly. "Oh, uh, I'll try and make it this time.." Scootaloo gave an awkward smile. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked to each other with unimpressed faces. "Today we are going to learn about bugs! Did you know that-" Fillies began leaving the school, the CMCs were no different, they started heading to their club house together while the sun was at its peak. Scootaloo yawned, "Miss Cheerilee couldn't even make bugs fun," she frowned. "What? Bugs are fun!" Apple Bloom turned to Scootaloo almost offended. "Also you need to stop sleeping in class!" "Scootaloo, how are you in school?" Sweetie raised an eyebrow. "Wha- What are you talking about? All fillies need to go to school!" Scootaloo smiled awkwardly. "Ah think she means to ask; how haven't yawl failed yet?" Apple Bloom tilted her head. "Oh.." Scootaloo rubbed the back of her head. Apple Bloom got close to Sweetie as they trotted and began whispering to her. "Do yawl notice something strange about Scootaloo today?" "Yeah.. Should we ask what's wrong?" Sweetie whispered back. "Hmm, yeah, but lets ask her at the club house," Apple Bloom took a hoofstep back from Sweetie. They both looked to Scootaloo as she pointed to a beetle on a nearby tree and looked to both of them. "How is 'that' fun?" The CMCs eventually made their way back to the club house, Scootaloo threw herself on one of the bean bags in a smile, Sweetie Belle sat down on one of the others and Apple Bloom closed the door and made her way in front of Scootaloo. "Hey Apple Bloom, what's up?" Scootaloo looked up to the filly above her. "Ah have decided.. We ain't leaving this room until you tell us what's wrong," Apple Bloom looked down upon Scootaloo. "What? Apple Bloom, what are you saying?" Scootaloo sat up but couldn't look Apple Bloom in her eye's. Apple Bloom continued to tower above Scootaloo as she stared into her soul. "Come on Apple Bloom.. Lets just try and get our cutie marks, you know, like what we usually do?" Scootaloo tried to look Apple Bloom in her eye's but quickly felt a sense of dread, she felt as though a hole was being burned into her through Apple Bloom's eyes, she put up her hooves in defense. "You are only making things more difficult!" the voice of Apple Bloom echoed through Scootaloo's brain. "Sweetie Belle, a little help here!" Scootaloo rolled over in the bean bag still shielding herself with her hooves. "What do you want me to do? Also I agree with Apple Bloom, you have been acting strange all day," Sweetie looked up. "C-Can we drop it?" Scootaloo looked to Apple Bloom with pleading eyes. "Fine, only if you agree to come on the field trip!" Apple Bloom stopped her intimidating presence. "But.. I.." Scootaloo looked to Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom sighed, "Fine, that's not fair. If you don't want to talk then Ah won't make you." Scootaloo felt guilty, "I-I'll tell you guys by the end of the week..." she spouted but immediately regretted it. "Sounds like a deal, see you then..." Apple Bloom's smile only grew. 'What did I just agree to?' Scootaloo thought. Author's Note Yet another CMC story, one where Scootaloo is a changeling, well at least I'm kind of consistent. I know this story isn't sad like all of my other stories, but I'm trying my hand at different genres. I have to say, its a LOT more relaxing making a comedy, less stress making sure that characters act how they would in the show and allowing me to be pretty loose. Although I do enjoy making comedy I think I'm just going to stick with sad stuff and slice of life, sometimes horror. Hopefully you guys enjoyed this chapter, hopefully I'll see you guys in the next one! Side note: This Fandom has been awesome to me, I'm still trying to find my little corner of it though, I feel as though I'm floating around the fandom bouncing off wall to wall and not sticking anywhere. Everyone who I have talked to on Discord within the MLP community seems like genuinely great people but I don't really share their sense of humor or thought process, and my personal friends don't really share MLP with me, the deepest they will go is watching Friendship is Witchcraft with me sadly, and one of my friends isn't to interested in the show but does know a decent amount about it and helps me sometimes, which is cool! I was thinking if my FimFiction account keeps growing then I might make a little discord server and hang out with people there, for anyone who wants to join. Chapter 2: Changing MindsetsAfter the second day of school Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle met up at the club house, Apple Bloom said she wanted to discuss something, so not long after Sweetie showed up. "Glad you're here Sweetie Belle, Ah have been thinking about what has been bothering Scootaloo," Apple Bloom starts as she trotted over to one of the papers pinned to the wall. "Alright, but is it wrong to do this without Scootaloo? I don't want to talk behind her back like this," Sweetie showed hesitation. "Ah understand but we ain't talking bad, Ah just wanted to discuss theories with you," Apple Bloom looked to Sweetie. "Alright, I guess that's okay," Sweetie nodded as she sat down. "Good, first lets start with facts! Fact one; Scootaloo never turns in permission slips, fact two; we have never seen her home or anyone she is related too, fact three; she is orange." Apple Bloom read off the paper. "True, so the two easiest theories is that she hides her family and home from us for some reason or she doesn't have parents and possibly a home," Sweetie Belle rested her chin on her hoof. "There ain't no way she doesn't have parents and a home, if she didn't then she wouldn't be in school and Ah would be upset that she didn't ask us for help. Anyways, Ah also have a few other theories, one of them is that she is so oblivious that she doesn't even know where her home is," Apple Bloom said with confidence. "I thought you said we weren't talking bad?" Sweetie looked skeptical. "Sorry, um the other theory Ah have is that she is some unique creature that we just haven't seen in this setting yet and when they show up we will think, 'Nothing so far that we have seen disproves that she is this creature.'" Apple Bloom thought out loud. "Right but that probably isn't right and would be disproven by future events," Sweetie added. "That's why Ah put this theory under 'Noncanon'," Apple Bloom pointed to one of the papers pinned to the wall. "Alright what the hay are yawl talking about?" Applejack intervened. "Also Apple Bloom you said that Ah am needed up here," she said annoyed. "You are needed, without Scootaloo here there ain't a orange pony in the club house!" Apple Bloom shot back. "Quick Applejack do something a tomboy would do!" Sweetie shouted. Applejack raised her eyebrow at Sweetie Belle. Sweetie looked unimpressed, "Scootaloo would have done it better." "Darn it, why is Scootaloo the fan favorite CMC?" Apple Bloom complained. "I don't mind it, the writer likes me the most!" Sweetie smirked. "Yeah, but only as a robot," Apple Bloom smirked. "Oh, you're dead!" Sweetie narrowed her eye's. "YOU TWO! Stop breaking the fourth wall! Its overused and not that interesting! Also it doesn't matter who the writer likes more, Ah'd say the reader has more say over the story!" Applejack smirks. "Does that mean that one of us has to kiss Scootaloo?" Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo went home for the day, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle said they were busy so they couldn't go crusading today. Scootaloo did what she does when she is home, she was laying in the grass outside her cave in the form of a changeling. "Do you guys think I'm weird? Like, I don't really know if I fit in at all with the rest of the fillies... I don't know if its because I am a changeling or something else," Scootaloo asked as she turned her gaze up to a cardboard box with poorly drawn faces of Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. Scootaloo sighed as she threw her head into the grass below her, "Apple Bloom's right, Ah have been actin strange," Scootaloo's voice was muffled as she spoke into the ground. "I think I have just been stressed because of the field trip, and now I have to come up with something to tell you two, I don't think I can tell you guys I'm a changeling," Scootaloo looked up to her drawn friends. There was no response. "I think I need to talk to somepony else," Scootaloo got up. "Where is Rainbow Dash at this time?" After taking the back way to get to Sweet Apple Acres Scootaloo finally found Rainbow Dash sleeping in one of the trees. "Hey! Rainbow Dash! Can we talk, somethings been bugging me," Scootaloo barked up the tree. "Hmm, oh, sure hold on," Rainbow woke up and flew down as she wiped her eyes of tiredness. "What's this about bugs?" "Well, a lot of things have been on my mind recently and I was hoping I could talk to you about it," Scootaloo rubbed the back of her head. After Rainbow opened her eyes her face was filled with utter bewilderment, "... Right..." Scootaloo didn't notice Rainbow's expression, "Well my friends notice that somethings been upsetting me and I have to tell them something before next week but I don't know what to say. I can't tell them what's actually going on because they will never look at me the same," Scootaloo started to feel a lot better as though a weight began lifting off her shoulders. "... Right... Like, um, that you have, like a shell, and a horn..." Rainbow said slowly as she continued to stare at the changeling in front of her. "Well that's just it, its not like I don't want to tell them but they would have a similar expression to your face......" Scootaloo's eyes grew small. Scootaloo sat down as she realized her mistake while Rainbow was still wrapping her head around what the hay is going on when suddenly they both heard a door open. Rainbow as fast as she could picked up Scootaloo and threw her in a nearby bush while she started to whistle. "NONE OF YAWL ARE KISSING SCOOTALOO AND THAT IS FINAL!" Applejack threw the door closed and a loud Aww filled the air that sounded like it came from ten separate ponies. Rainbow was now extremely confused as she looked at Applejack as she trotted down from the club house. Applejack noticed the pony staring at her in shock and came over. "You saw and heard nothing..." Applejack said and Rainbow nodded. "Anyways.. Sounds like the Cutie Mark Crusaders are having a sleepover at the barn this weekend Ah was hoping that us six could hang out too, its been awhile." "Umm, I don't... I don't swing that way Applejack..." Rainbow rubbed the back of her head. "Wha- Rainbow Ah told yawl that you heard nothing, and that was about something else anyways... So are yawl coming?" Applejack's voice became tired. "Yeah, I guess," Rainbow responded quietly. "Alright, Ah'll see yawl later then," Applejack rubbed her eye's as she trotted away. Rainbow watched Applejack until she was out of sight and then whispered to Scootaloo, "Alright you can come out now." Rainbow saw as a green light flickered from within the bush and a pony Scootaloo came out. "That was close, thanks Rainbow!" Scootaloo smiled. Rainbow Dash picked up Scootaloo and flew into the sky, when they got high enough that Rainbow was sure no one could hear them she let Scootaloo onto a cloud. "CAN YOU PLEASE TELL ME WHAT IN THE HAY IS GOING ON!" Rainbow shouted. "Well I have no clue why a whole bunch of ponies want to kiss me but I can tell you about myself," Scootaloo felt bad that she caused so much stress for Rainbow. "Anything works, I just need some answers right now... No more questions!" Rainbow pointed to Scootaloo. Scootaloo explained everything to Rainbow Dash who was on the edge of short circuiting. Author's Note I don't think I'll ever do another 4th wall break again, it was fun to write don't get me wrong but it really does take away steaks from a story, there isn't much steaks to begin with so I'm going to leave it in and see the readers reaction to it, hopefully I managed to rope the readers back in to continue the chapter, but don't worry about it showing up in future chapters. I think I was on rapid fire with some of those jokes, I feel proud of some of them. Comedy is very subjective so hopefully you guys at least found some enjoyment out of it. Honestly I'm not sure what to put in the Author's Notes for this story, I usually write about my experience while making it or write about how this chapter makes me feel, possibly even give some insight into why or how I came to the conclusion of each chapter but I really don't have much to say here, everything from jokes to story beats were either a suggestion from a friend or it just came to me out of no where. Anyways, hope you guys enjoyed the chapter, hope to see you guys next time! Chapter 3: Changing FamilyTwilight was hard at work as she had a few books spread out on the table before her, it was in the middle of the night. Twilight knew that she had to finish her assignment by next week and if she did the math right was going to take ten hours, so instead of doing it throughout the week she decided that not sleeping would be a better option. Spike was in a heavy sleep as Twilight used her horn to cast a soft purple light. Suddenly a knocking was heard at the door and Twilight poked her head out from her book fort then looked curiously at the it. She waited a few seconds and went back to studying, then again a knocking was heard at the door. Twilight got up and trotted over the door, "Is anyone there?" she asked as she opened the it. She stepped outside and saw the dark empty streets In front of her as the houses slept. "Oh, Twilight! I'm glad your awake!" Scootaloo hung from Twilights window, she lost her grip and fell into the bushes below her. "Ouch!" "Scootaloo what the hay are you doing here in the middle of the night," Twilight loudly whispered as she turned to Scootaloo. "Sorry, my parents aren't here, they are, um, on vacation. Anyways something has been bothering me and I thought you might be able to help." Scootaloo looked at Twilight with pleading eyes. "Alright come in," Twilight motioned inward as she stepped aside. Scootaloo made way inside and looked about the dark room as Twilight closed the door behind her with magic then flipped on the light. "Woah, what have you been studying?" Scootaloo came over to Twilight's work area and scanned the books. "Celestia wanted me to research on a new species of bug, its pretty interesting," Twilight gave Scootaloo a small smile. "Not you too," Scootaloo looked at Twilight with a disappointed gaze. "Scootaloo, why are you here?" Twilight asked with a deadpanned face. Scootaloo trotted out of Twilights research area and looked to her with pleading eyes. "Well my parents are out of town and I need you to cast a spell to copy their signature... Or even better, you could just sign it!" Twilight threw her hoof into her face. "So you want me to forge your parents signature?" Scootaloo pulled out a piece of paper. "Yes please!" "Yeah, I'm not going to do that..." Twilight frowned. "Fine... But can I use your restroom before I go?" Scootaloo asked. "Yeah.. Also why don't you stay here until they get back, it sounds like nopony is watching over you," Twilight said. "Awesome, and after that you would be like my legal guardian for like... The week and then you can sign my paper!" Scootaloo smiled. "Just go to the restroom already," Twilight sighed. Scootaloo trotted to the restroom as Twilight started putting away her research. Once again a knocking came from Twilight's door, she looked at the door with confusion and made her way over to it. Twilight opened the door to see a yellow pegasus. "Hi Twilight, I'm sorry to be bothering you in the middle of the night. I saw your light was on, am I interrupting something?" Fluttershy said in a soft tone. "No not at all, please come in," Twilight stepped aside. Fluttershy trotted inside and looked to Twilight as she shut the door, "I heard some troubling news earlier today, a flock of birds came by my house and told me about a scary sight. They were all pretty scared so they didn't get a great look at it but they told of a pony with crazy eye's, the pony had wings and a horn, not only that but the pony had holes in her," "That is pretty scary..." Twilight rubbed her hoof on her chin in thought. "What color was the pony?" "They told me that the pony was orange, it just scared them so bad. I also hope that pony is okay, is there anything we can do it help them?" Fluttershy messed with her hair as she spoke. "Hmm, I'm not sure. I don't think I have ever heard of a pony like that, we will have to keep an eye out, I'll send Princess Celestia a note in the morning about it," Twilight picked up a parchment and a quill then began writing something. "Alright.. Also Applejack wanted me to ask you if you wanted to have a sleep over at her barn during the weekend?" Fluttershy questioned. "Sure, it sounds like fun! Is everypony going to be there?" Twilight looked up from her notes. "Yeah I think so. I'm pretty sure you were the last one," Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, also Applejack said that Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo are going to be in the next room over having their own sleepover... Apparently there is a 'No kissing Scootaloo' rule in place?" Twilight looked up from her notes again in confusion, "No kissing Scootaloo?" "I'm not sure myself but it sounded like it really bothered her, should I have asked her?" Fluttershy looked unsure. "I'll ask her about it later. Anyways, what are you doing up this late Fluttershy?" Twilight asked as she sat down her notes. "Angle woke me up, there were some bugs that were-" "Hi Fluttershy!" Scootaloo joined the group. "Oh hi Scootaloo!" Fluttershy said in a soft smile. "What are you doing at Twilight's so late?" "I came over to ask if she could forge my parents signature-" "Which I said no to!" Twilight chipped in. "You just don't want me to go on a field trip!" Scootaloo pointed her hoof to Twilight. "No, forging someone else's signature is not only immoral but also illegal!" Twilight shot back. "But it wont hurt my parents in any way!" Scootaloo frowned. "I'm just going to go.." Fluttershy opened the door. "Just because it doesn't hurt them doesn't mean that its not illegal," Twilight frowned. "Then the rules should be changed!" Scootaloo pointed again. "Bye," Fluttershy closed the door but still heard arguing from the other side. Scootaloo sat down in her cave as she looked at the paper in front of her, she tapped her hoof while she thought about what to do. Eventually she had an idea, Scootaloo was filled with green flames and then in her place was a more grown up version of herself. Scootaloo looked at herself with pride, she took a pen and wrote under the signature 'Scootaloo's Mom' she smiled for she knew that she had bested the system. Author's Note I'm glad I'm writing this because I feel my comedy is improving. I just wish it could have been good from the start. Also we are over half way now! This chapter helped me understand that just because a joke can be made doesn't mean that you take it, I think that's what is hurting this story the most, although referencing a joke from earlier can be funny it still requires actual effort instead of just effortlessly pointing at a joke I made earlier and say "Look, now laugh!" Sorry for the more negative Author's Note! Hope you guys enjoyed this one! Chapter 4: Slice of ChangeIt was around mid day, the sun was at its peak in the sky without a cloud to ruin it. The clubhouse held two fillies, one sat on a bean bag as she read a book while the other laid her head down on the podium in front of her. "What's taking that Scootaloo so long?" Apple Bloom said annoyed as she lifted her head up with a bored expression. "I hope she didn't forget we were going crusading today," Sweetie Belle said as she flipped a page. Apple Bloom let her head fall into the podium below her. "Ah swear if Scootaloo forgot we were crusading today..." "Well she is forgetful but Miss Cheerilee did look annoyed after Scootaloo turned in that paper, what was that all about?" Sweetie Belle flipped another page. "Ah don't know..." Apple Bloom picked her face up and there was a long pause. "So, what are yawl reading?" "Miss Cheerilee's lesson the other day inspired me to learn about bugs so I went over to Twilight's to find a book on the subject but turns out that they were all being borrowed," Sweetie said in a unamused tone. "Like.. Every single one?" Apple Bloom questioned. "Not even a dictionary page on one.. So I just picked up this one, its about robots." Sweetie said in a dull voice. The door opened and a orange pegasus trotted inside and threw herself on a bean bag. "I'm sorry" Scootaloo dropped her head into the depths of the bean bag. Sweetie put a bookmark in her book and sat it aside. "What happened?" "Yeah, you did kind of make us wait for like two hours..." Apple Bloom responded wanting an explanation. Scootaloo turned over belly up on the bean bag. "I tried forging my parents signature on the field trip paper." "Really?" Sweetie looked down to Scootaloo. "Yeah..." Scootaloo looked ashamed. "Does that mean you won't be coming on the field trip?" Apple Bloom asked. "No..." Scootaloo said in a defeated voice while throwing her hooves into her eye's. Sweetie and Apple Bloom looked to each other with frowns. "Hey Scootaloo, is there anything that we can help with?" Apple Bloom asked. "Anything at all!" Sweetie smiled. "Well... No, you wouldn't want to help me with that," Scootaloo said in a sad voice. "What?" they both asked. "Well, I need help with this," Scootaloo sat up with a sad face and dug through her bag while Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle both looked to each other in confusion. "What are you looking for?" Sweetie asked. "You said you guys would help with anything," Scootaloo pulled out a blank piece of paper with a smile. "I need you two to write a essay on how forging is bad and that 'I', Scootaloo, will never do it again." "Ah am never going to feel sorry for you again..." Scootaloo trotted to Twilight's place from the clubhouse, she took a longer way in order to get some energy out sense they didn't do any actual crusading today. That's when Rainbow landed softly next to her. "Rainbow Dash! How's it going," Scootaloo was excited to see her friend. "Nothing much, a lot of relaxing, two days ago was crazy so I needed a break," Rainbow looked to Scootaloo with a smile. "Something crazy... Two days ago? What happened?" Scootaloo shrugged. Rainbow gave Scootaloo a deadpanned expression. "Gee, I don't know..." Scootaloo continued to think but drew a blank. "Anyways, did you tell your friends that you're a," Rainbow looked around and spotted no one. "a Changeling?" she whispered. "No, but I probably will at the sleep over," Scootaloo felt uneasy. "You haven't made up your mind?" Rainbow questioned. "No..." Scootaloo frowned. "I think you should, if I know the Cutie Mark Crusaders then I know that nothing is going to stop them from being friends," Rainbow gave a large smile to Scootaloo. "But it is your decision," Rainbow shrugged. "I know your right Rainbow... Its just a little scary," Scootaloo looked away. "Hey Scoot, you know what it means to have courage?" Rainbow tilted her head at Scootaloo. "Um, is it.. To never be scared and always do the right thing?" Scootaloo looked back to Rainbow. "Nope! Its the ability to look danger in the eyes and charge forward, be that pain, or even something scary," Rainbow smiled. "If only I could be as courageous as you," Scootaloo kicked the ground as she trotted. "And why can't you?" Rainbow asked. "Well, because you're awesome and its really difficult." Scootaloo said in a defeated tone. "I am pretty awesome but so are you!" Rainbow pointed her hoof at Scootaloo, "Who said having courage was easy? If it was then the two of us would not be nearly as awesome," Rainbow smirked. "You're right Rainbow! I feel like I can tell the whole world I'm a changeling!" Scootaloo smiled. "That's not the best idea-" "I'M A CHANGELI-" Scootaloo yelled before Rainbow threw her hoof in front of Scootaloo's mouth. "Maybe I'm too good at giving prep speeches," Rainbow smiled as Scootaloo blushed. Scootaloo frowned as she sat on the wood floor of Twilight's house, she brought out a large collection of books and pages. "I have them all," Scootaloo closed her eyes. "I can finally rid the world of such unholy things..." Scootaloo took out a match and stared into the pile of books about bugs. She lit the match and held it above the pile. "You may no longer curse my friends with your wicked knowledge!" Twilight entered the room as she read a book, "Hey Scootaloo, what are you-" Twilight looked up from her book and raced over, "SCOOTALOO!" "I'm sorry Twilight! This has to be done!" Scootaloo dropped the match above the pile but was quickly snuffed out by magic as Twilight now stood in front of her. "Scootaloo, let me start by saying, DO NOT BURN BOOKS! Then let me also say, DON'T BURN THINGS INSIDE A BUILDING, ESPECIALLY IF ITS A TREE!" Twilight yelled. "Um, I was framed," Scootaloo smiled. Author's Note I am proud of this chapter, I think the conversation between Rainbow and Scootaloo is a great one and I think I did a proper setup to the bug joke of this chapter. Other then Scootaloo changing a lot depending on what scene she is in I think its overall good. Its definitely somewhat different from the other chapters that were focused more on comedy I think this one is focused more on Slice of Life which is kind of what the title of this chapter is. I think I'm a lot better at Slice of Life then I am at comedy or even sad stories. Also regardless of how I write each character its always fun writing the CMCs as a group. Honestly I have the wiki up for the CMCs, I know how to think like each of the characters but if you ask me to describe their personalities I legit couldn't tell you. For this story I have been very relaxed when it came to their personalities and I think it helped with the laid back nature of this story. Hope you guys found this one to be entertaining! Also prepare for the FINAL CHAPTER! Chapter 5: A Changeling FriendScootaloo stood by the door inside of Twilight's library, she looked nervous and was fidgety. Twilight trotted down the stairs and looked up to the top "Alright Spike you have the Library all to yourself tonight, don't stay up too late reading comics and a small list is on your bed for chores," Twilight smiled. "Yeah, yeah, Twilight. Now get going, this place will be spotless in no time, go and enjoy your sleepover," Spike smiled. "Alright but if you need anything you know where I'm at." Twilight trotted over to the door, "Come on Scootaloo," Twilight opened the door and left. Scootaloo slowly followed and Twilight closed the door behind them with magic. Twilight looked down to Scootaloo as she had a lack of energy. "Hey Scootaloo, is everything alright?" Scootaloo nodded in a frown. "Are you sure?" Twilight pushed. Scootaloo shook her head, "I just thought I was going to be prepared for tonight but my heart wont stop racing." "For a sleepover?" Twilight looked confused. "It's not that, I have something I need to tell Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle..." Scootaloo frowned. "Whatever it is I'm sure they will understand, what exactly are you scared about?" Twilight sat down. "Well.. When I tell them its going to change our friendship forever," Scootaloo looked unsure. "That is a tricky situation," Twilight rubbed her hoof under her chin. "Rainbow Dash helped me out but I still feel uneasy," Scootaloo said with mixed emotions. "Hmm, Rainbow helped you... Well Scootaloo I feel uneasy all of the time!" Twilight smiled. "Yeah.. I noticed.." Scootaloo looked at Twilight with a deadpanned expression. "I always feel better after its over, so I think the first thing you should do is go right up to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle to tell them what's on your mind. After you tell them you'll feel satisfied to get it off your chest," Twilight smirked. "Your right Twilight, I'm ready now," Scootaloo began trotting. Twilight followed behind as she checked her notes, she went through multiple theories in her head about what Scootaloo was going to tell her friends and thought it was strange that the weird creature was also orange but Twilight thought more about the most likely theory. Twilight read over and over again in her mind; 'No kissing Scootaloo rule'. 'What did Rainbow Dash help this filly with' Twilight thought. There were six ponies outside Apple Bloom's room, Twilight cast a spell so that a bubble surrounded them were no sound can escape but sounds can still enter. Twilight and Applejack stood by the door and listened to the three voices inside while the rest watched them. "Are we just going to stand around and watch you two listen to that door all night long?" Rarity asked in a annoyed tone. "Ah'm sorry but I want to make sure that they are not kissing in there," Applejack whispered. "Look, they aren't going to kiss. I have one hundred percent confidence! Now lets go back down stairs, Pinkie setup some really cool games," Rainbow said in a fake smirk. "Rainbow, I have reason to believe that you... I don't know yet but I want to make sure that you didn't convince her of anything," Twilight said as she looked over her notes. "Wha-What does that mean?" Rainbow looked hurt. "Guys isn't this morally wrong?" Pinkie asked as she looked at the group. "I mean, come on. We got games downstairs but instead you two want to hear something that you shouldn't!" "Yeah, lets just go downstairs..." Fluttershy quietly agreed. "Girls, I have something important to tell you," said a loud muffled voice came from the door. Applejack and Twilight listened closely as Rarity joined them. Rainbow started sweating then she took a pen and popped the bubble while they weren't looking and proceeded to fake a trip and yelled "OUCH!" The group all came over to Rainbow as she got up and the door behind them opened revealing three faces poking out. "Are you okay Rainbow?" asked Pinkie. "Yeah, I'm alright," Rainbow said turning to the group. "Wait, how did the bubble pop?" Twilight asked. "What bubble?" Apple Bloom approached the large group of ponies in the hallway. "Oh, hi Apple Bloom," Twilight faked a smile. "Don't 'hi Apple Bloom' me. What the hay is going on here?" Apple Bloom was mad. The group of six ponies looked to each other with frowns. "Listen sugar cube, Ah-" "This better not be an excuse to spy on us," Apple Bloom narrowed her eyes. Applejack took a hoofstep back as she looked down. "Its okay Apple Bloom..." Scootaloo trotted to the group of six. "I have something I want to tell all of you too," Scootaloo smiled to Rainbow. Rainbow nodded back in a grin. "First lets go downstairs, its a little crowded up here," Pinkie smiled The large group of ponies made there way downstairs except for Rainbow and Scootaloo. "Hey squirt, how are you holding up?" Rainbow smirked. "I'm okay, my heart is just racing," Scootaloo smiled. "Scootaloo, you have more courage then I ever had. You got this!" Rainbow gave Scootaloo a huge smile. "T-That's not true, I mean, you saved Equestria from Nightmare Moon!" Scootaloo blushed. "That may be true but I had five other ponies helping me out," Rainbow said. "Well, it may not be five ponies helping me out but I do have one," Scootaloo smiled wholeheartedly back to Rainbow. Rainbow pulled Scootaloo in for a warm hug. "Do you-" Rainbow said as she held back tears, she cleared her throat before talking again. "Do you want to come live with me?" "A-Are you sure?" Scootaloo retuned the hug as small tears fell. "Yeah... Also trash goes out once a week so make sure you take care of that," Rainbow smiled. "Hey are you two coming down," Pinkie came up the stairs and saw Rainbow quickly got out of the hug. "Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to-" "Mean to what?" Rainbow cleared her voice. "Yeah I'm heading down, come down when you're ready," said Rainbow as she trotted downstairs with Pinkie. Scootaloo wiped the tears from her face. 'Alright Scootaloo! YOU GOT THIS!' she thought to herself. Eight ponies sat in a half circle as they talked to the ponies next to them while they waited. Eventually Scootaloo came down and trotted in the middle of the half circle as everyponie's eyes shifted to the orange filly. Scootaloo took in a deep breath as the room silenced and she slowly let the air out as she calmed herself. Scootaloo looked at all the ponies in the room as they watched back. "I don't have any parents, I lived by myself in a cave for a long time," she started. "I am lucky to have each and everyone of you as my friends," she smiled. "But I have been lying to all of you.. I am not a pony, I'm a changeling..." Scootaloo erupted in a green flame and after she appeared as a changeling. Most ponies were stunned but Apple Bloom got down from her chair and trotted in front of Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle followed behind. "Why..." Apple Bloom said as she looked to the floor. "Why didn't you tell us you didn't have parents!" Apple Bloom looked Scootaloo in the eyes as tears created a waterfall. Apple Bloom threw her hooves around Scootaloo as she cried. "I-I-" Scootaloo didn't know what to say. "That must have been so lonely," Sweetie joined the hug as tears also began to form for her. "Also why didn't you tell us you had awesome powers?" Apple Bloom whispered as she chuckled through her crying. "Or tell us that you are a weird bug?" Sweetie Belle did the same. "Can we not talk about bugs right now.." Scootaloo returned the hug as tears formed in her eyes. The End! Author's Note Omega thanks for reaching The End! Hope everyone enjoyed it! A Blog will be going up after I release this chapter talking about this story and the last one I made, also the next story I'm planning on. If you guys want I can continue this story, I would probably start out part 2 with going to Canterlot with the fieldtrip and changeling stuffs. Despite this story being about a changeling it was challenging to actually include the shapeshifting for the type of story I wanted to write, but if I were to continue it then shapeshifting would be used a lot more. I enjoyed how the ending was clear from the start of the story and it was actually more relaxing to have it that way, plus I think it made it feel each interaction more important then it otherwise would be. I wish this story was more consistent in tone as I tried and lean more comedy but felt as though it wasn't worth it by the end of the third chapter It was fun writing this story but I'm not sure if anyone will actually enjoy reading this one. If anyone reading this knows what I am lacking the most, please do tell! I want to continue improving but I don't know what I need to improve, I feel like I am good at writing characters and shorter stories but lack in most other departments. I'm probably going to release the entire story all at once instead of releasing it every other day or so, I'm not entirely sure why I want to do this. Well, have a good rest of your day and expect a blog soon if you want to read a little more about this story.
Chapter 1: A Change Of PaceA calming orange filled the sky as the sun began to rise, most ponies began their morning routines, that also applied for fillies, Apple Bloom got up from her bed in a yawn, same with Sweetie Belle. One filly had a very different morning routine then the rest, it was a dark cave, a dripping of water came from the ceiling and landed in a puddle, there were pictures of Rainbow Dash on the walls of the jagged cave with nothing else. The cave began filling with light as the sun rose, Scootaloo had one hoof on the ceiling, the others dangled while she slept but as the sun landed on her resting eye's she recoiled in annoyance causing her to fall and landing in her own pool of drool. "Not again.." Scootaloo said in a annoyed voice. Scootaloo was a changeling, however instead of her black shell she had one that matched her pony form she usually took, she also kept her main the same as her pony form, the only difference was the holes, her eye's, her wings, and the fact she had a horn. Scootaloo got up from her drool and tried to shake off most of the water, she then shapeshifted into her pony form and took a peek outside, there was nopony. Scootaloo trotted over to the nearby lake and started her morning routine. Scootaloo entered the classroom and saw as a few ponies had already taken their seats, two of them were Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. They were both chatting to one another. "Hey guys, what's up?" Scootaloo trotted over to her friends. "Scootaloo, Ah'm glad you're here. Ah want to see if yawl would like to do a sleep over this weekend?" Apple Bloom asked with a smile. "I think I can go, I'll have to ask Rarity," Sweetie Belle put her hoof up to her chin. "Also good morning Scootaloo!" she gave a small smile. "Sure, sounds awesome!" Scootaloo threw a hoof up in the air. "Alright class, take you're seats," Miss Cheerilee said as she entered. All the fillies trotted to their desks and took a seat, the class became silent. "Thank you! Before I start class today I have a announcement!" Cheerilee smiled. "At the start of next week we will be taking a field trip to Canterlot!" Cheerilee softly clapped her hooves in excitement. The crowd of students were quick to begin talking within their groups. "Well, it would be like my fifth time going, so I guess it will be alright, right Silver Spoon?" Diamond Tiara said with a smile. "Right," Silver Spoon quickly responded with a smile. "Have any of yawl been to Canterlot?" Apple Bloom turned to her two friends. "No, but Rarity talks about it a lot, I wonder if she will be jealous," Sweetie smirked. "I haven't, is there anything cool there?" Scootaloo asked. "Class, quite please!" said Cheerilee and the class quieted down. "Thank you. Now I will need you're parents to sign a permission slip before we leave to Canterlot, Ill give them out after class." The class nodded, all except for one filly, Scootaloo. Her mind was racing, 'WHAT THE HAY! Not another permission slip!' she thought. "Scootaloo are yawl going to be sick again?" Apple Bloom whispered in a giggle. "Yeah, you always miss cool stuff like this," Sweetie Belle whispered disappointingly. "Oh, uh, I'll try and make it this time.." Scootaloo gave an awkward smile. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle looked to each other with unimpressed faces. "Today we are going to learn about bugs! Did you know that-" Fillies began leaving the school, the CMCs were no different, they started heading to their club house together while the sun was at its peak. Scootaloo yawned, "Miss Cheerilee couldn't even make bugs fun," she frowned. "What? Bugs are fun!" Apple Bloom turned to Scootaloo almost offended. "Also you need to stop sleeping in class!" "Scootaloo, how are you in school?" Sweetie raised an eyebrow. "Wha- What are you talking about? All fillies need to go to school!" Scootaloo smiled awkwardly. "Ah think she means to ask; how haven't yawl failed yet?" Apple Bloom tilted her head. "Oh.." Scootaloo rubbed the back of her head. Apple Bloom got close to Sweetie as they trotted and began whispering to her. "Do yawl notice something strange about Scootaloo today?" "Yeah.. Should we ask what's wrong?" Sweetie whispered back. "Hmm, yeah, but lets ask her at the club house," Apple Bloom took a hoofstep back from Sweetie. They both looked to Scootaloo as she pointed to a beetle on a nearby tree and looked to both of them. "How is 'that' fun?" The CMCs eventually made their way back to the club house, Scootaloo threw herself on one of the bean bags in a smile, Sweetie Belle sat down on one of the others and Apple Bloom closed the door and made her way in front of Scootaloo. "Hey Apple Bloom, what's up?" Scootaloo looked up to the filly above her. "Ah have decided.. We ain't leaving this room until you tell us what's wrong," Apple Bloom looked down upon Scootaloo. "What? Apple Bloom, what are you saying?" Scootaloo sat up but couldn't look Apple Bloom in her eye's. Apple Bloom continued to tower above Scootaloo as she stared into her soul. "Come on Apple Bloom.. Lets just try and get our cutie marks, you know, like what we usually do?" Scootaloo tried to look Apple Bloom in her eye's but quickly felt a sense of dread, she felt as though a hole was being burned into her through Apple Bloom's eyes, she put up her hooves in defense. "You are only making things more difficult!" the voice of Apple Bloom echoed through Scootaloo's brain. "Sweetie Belle, a little help here!" Scootaloo rolled over in the bean bag still shielding herself with her hooves. "What do you want me to do? Also I agree with Apple Bloom, you have been acting strange all day," Sweetie looked up. "C-Can we drop it?" Scootaloo looked to Apple Bloom with pleading eyes. "Fine, only if you agree to come on the field trip!" Apple Bloom stopped her intimidating presence. "But.. I.." Scootaloo looked to Apple Bloom. Apple Bloom sighed, "Fine, that's not fair. If you don't want to talk then Ah won't make you." Scootaloo felt guilty, "I-I'll tell you guys by the end of the week..." she spouted but immediately regretted it. "Sounds like a deal, see you then..." Apple Bloom's smile only grew. 'What did I just agree to?' Scootaloo thought. Author's Note Yet another CMC story, one where Scootaloo is a changeling, well at least I'm kind of consistent. I know this story isn't sad like all of my other stories, but I'm trying my hand at different genres. I have to say, its a LOT more relaxing making a comedy, less stress making sure that characters act how they would in the show and allowing me to be pretty loose. Although I do enjoy making comedy I think I'm just going to stick with sad stuff and slice of life, sometimes horror. Hopefully you guys enjoyed this chapter, hopefully I'll see you guys in the next one! Side note: This Fandom has been awesome to me, I'm still trying to find my little corner of it though, I feel as though I'm floating around the fandom bouncing off wall to wall and not sticking anywhere. Everyone who I have talked to on Discord within the MLP community seems like genuinely great people but I don't really share their sense of humor or thought process, and my personal friends don't really share MLP with me, the deepest they will go is watching Friendship is Witchcraft with me sadly, and one of my friends isn't to interested in the show but does know a decent amount about it and helps me sometimes, which is cool! I was thinking if my FimFiction account keeps growing then I might make a little discord server and hang out with people there, for anyone who wants to join.
Chapter 2: Changing MindsetsAfter the second day of school Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle met up at the club house, Apple Bloom said she wanted to discuss something, so not long after Sweetie showed up. "Glad you're here Sweetie Belle, Ah have been thinking about what has been bothering Scootaloo," Apple Bloom starts as she trotted over to one of the papers pinned to the wall. "Alright, but is it wrong to do this without Scootaloo? I don't want to talk behind her back like this," Sweetie showed hesitation. "Ah understand but we ain't talking bad, Ah just wanted to discuss theories with you," Apple Bloom looked to Sweetie. "Alright, I guess that's okay," Sweetie nodded as she sat down. "Good, first lets start with facts! Fact one; Scootaloo never turns in permission slips, fact two; we have never seen her home or anyone she is related too, fact three; she is orange." Apple Bloom read off the paper. "True, so the two easiest theories is that she hides her family and home from us for some reason or she doesn't have parents and possibly a home," Sweetie Belle rested her chin on her hoof. "There ain't no way she doesn't have parents and a home, if she didn't then she wouldn't be in school and Ah would be upset that she didn't ask us for help. Anyways, Ah also have a few other theories, one of them is that she is so oblivious that she doesn't even know where her home is," Apple Bloom said with confidence. "I thought you said we weren't talking bad?" Sweetie looked skeptical. "Sorry, um the other theory Ah have is that she is some unique creature that we just haven't seen in this setting yet and when they show up we will think, 'Nothing so far that we have seen disproves that she is this creature.'" Apple Bloom thought out loud. "Right but that probably isn't right and would be disproven by future events," Sweetie added. "That's why Ah put this theory under 'Noncanon'," Apple Bloom pointed to one of the papers pinned to the wall. "Alright what the hay are yawl talking about?" Applejack intervened. "Also Apple Bloom you said that Ah am needed up here," she said annoyed. "You are needed, without Scootaloo here there ain't a orange pony in the club house!" Apple Bloom shot back. "Quick Applejack do something a tomboy would do!" Sweetie shouted. Applejack raised her eyebrow at Sweetie Belle. Sweetie looked unimpressed, "Scootaloo would have done it better." "Darn it, why is Scootaloo the fan favorite CMC?" Apple Bloom complained. "I don't mind it, the writer likes me the most!" Sweetie smirked. "Yeah, but only as a robot," Apple Bloom smirked. "Oh, you're dead!" Sweetie narrowed her eye's. "YOU TWO! Stop breaking the fourth wall! Its overused and not that interesting! Also it doesn't matter who the writer likes more, Ah'd say the reader has more say over the story!" Applejack smirks. "Does that mean that one of us has to kiss Scootaloo?" Sweetie Belle asked. Scootaloo went home for the day, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle said they were busy so they couldn't go crusading today. Scootaloo did what she does when she is home, she was laying in the grass outside her cave in the form of a changeling. "Do you guys think I'm weird? Like, I don't really know if I fit in at all with the rest of the fillies... I don't know if its because I am a changeling or something else," Scootaloo asked as she turned her gaze up to a cardboard box with poorly drawn faces of Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom. Scootaloo sighed as she threw her head into the grass below her, "Apple Bloom's right, Ah have been actin strange," Scootaloo's voice was muffled as she spoke into the ground. "I think I have just been stressed because of the field trip, and now I have to come up with something to tell you two, I don't think I can tell you guys I'm a changeling," Scootaloo looked up to her drawn friends. There was no response. "I think I need to talk to somepony else," Scootaloo got up. "Where is Rainbow Dash at this time?" After taking the back way to get to Sweet Apple Acres Scootaloo finally found Rainbow Dash sleeping in one of the trees. "Hey! Rainbow Dash! Can we talk, somethings been bugging me," Scootaloo barked up the tree. "Hmm, oh, sure hold on," Rainbow woke up and flew down as she wiped her eyes of tiredness. "What's this about bugs?" "Well, a lot of things have been on my mind recently and I was hoping I could talk to you about it," Scootaloo rubbed the back of her head. After Rainbow opened her eyes her face was filled with utter bewilderment, "... Right..." Scootaloo didn't notice Rainbow's expression, "Well my friends notice that somethings been upsetting me and I have to tell them something before next week but I don't know what to say. I can't tell them what's actually going on because they will never look at me the same," Scootaloo started to feel a lot better as though a weight began lifting off her shoulders. "... Right... Like, um, that you have, like a shell, and a horn..." Rainbow said slowly as she continued to stare at the changeling in front of her. "Well that's just it, its not like I don't want to tell them but they would have a similar expression to your face......" Scootaloo's eyes grew small. Scootaloo sat down as she realized her mistake while Rainbow was still wrapping her head around what the hay is going on when suddenly they both heard a door open. Rainbow as fast as she could picked up Scootaloo and threw her in a nearby bush while she started to whistle. "NONE OF YAWL ARE KISSING SCOOTALOO AND THAT IS FINAL!" Applejack threw the door closed and a loud Aww filled the air that sounded like it came from ten separate ponies. Rainbow was now extremely confused as she looked at Applejack as she trotted down from the club house. Applejack noticed the pony staring at her in shock and came over. "You saw and heard nothing..." Applejack said and Rainbow nodded. "Anyways.. Sounds like the Cutie Mark Crusaders are having a sleepover at the barn this weekend Ah was hoping that us six could hang out too, its been awhile." "Umm, I don't... I don't swing that way Applejack..." Rainbow rubbed the back of her head. "Wha- Rainbow Ah told yawl that you heard nothing, and that was about something else anyways... So are yawl coming?" Applejack's voice became tired. "Yeah, I guess," Rainbow responded quietly. "Alright, Ah'll see yawl later then," Applejack rubbed her eye's as she trotted away. Rainbow watched Applejack until she was out of sight and then whispered to Scootaloo, "Alright you can come out now." Rainbow saw as a green light flickered from within the bush and a pony Scootaloo came out. "That was close, thanks Rainbow!" Scootaloo smiled. Rainbow Dash picked up Scootaloo and flew into the sky, when they got high enough that Rainbow was sure no one could hear them she let Scootaloo onto a cloud. "CAN YOU PLEASE TELL ME WHAT IN THE HAY IS GOING ON!" Rainbow shouted. "Well I have no clue why a whole bunch of ponies want to kiss me but I can tell you about myself," Scootaloo felt bad that she caused so much stress for Rainbow. "Anything works, I just need some answers right now... No more questions!" Rainbow pointed to Scootaloo. Scootaloo explained everything to Rainbow Dash who was on the edge of short circuiting. Author's Note I don't think I'll ever do another 4th wall break again, it was fun to write don't get me wrong but it really does take away steaks from a story, there isn't much steaks to begin with so I'm going to leave it in and see the readers reaction to it, hopefully I managed to rope the readers back in to continue the chapter, but don't worry about it showing up in future chapters. I think I was on rapid fire with some of those jokes, I feel proud of some of them. Comedy is very subjective so hopefully you guys at least found some enjoyment out of it. Honestly I'm not sure what to put in the Author's Notes for this story, I usually write about my experience while making it or write about how this chapter makes me feel, possibly even give some insight into why or how I came to the conclusion of each chapter but I really don't have much to say here, everything from jokes to story beats were either a suggestion from a friend or it just came to me out of no where. Anyways, hope you guys enjoyed the chapter, hope to see you guys next time!
Chapter 3: Changing FamilyTwilight was hard at work as she had a few books spread out on the table before her, it was in the middle of the night. Twilight knew that she had to finish her assignment by next week and if she did the math right was going to take ten hours, so instead of doing it throughout the week she decided that not sleeping would be a better option. Spike was in a heavy sleep as Twilight used her horn to cast a soft purple light. Suddenly a knocking was heard at the door and Twilight poked her head out from her book fort then looked curiously at the it. She waited a few seconds and went back to studying, then again a knocking was heard at the door. Twilight got up and trotted over the door, "Is anyone there?" she asked as she opened the it. She stepped outside and saw the dark empty streets In front of her as the houses slept. "Oh, Twilight! I'm glad your awake!" Scootaloo hung from Twilights window, she lost her grip and fell into the bushes below her. "Ouch!" "Scootaloo what the hay are you doing here in the middle of the night," Twilight loudly whispered as she turned to Scootaloo. "Sorry, my parents aren't here, they are, um, on vacation. Anyways something has been bothering me and I thought you might be able to help." Scootaloo looked at Twilight with pleading eyes. "Alright come in," Twilight motioned inward as she stepped aside. Scootaloo made way inside and looked about the dark room as Twilight closed the door behind her with magic then flipped on the light. "Woah, what have you been studying?" Scootaloo came over to Twilight's work area and scanned the books. "Celestia wanted me to research on a new species of bug, its pretty interesting," Twilight gave Scootaloo a small smile. "Not you too," Scootaloo looked at Twilight with a disappointed gaze. "Scootaloo, why are you here?" Twilight asked with a deadpanned face. Scootaloo trotted out of Twilights research area and looked to her with pleading eyes. "Well my parents are out of town and I need you to cast a spell to copy their signature... Or even better, you could just sign it!" Twilight threw her hoof into her face. "So you want me to forge your parents signature?" Scootaloo pulled out a piece of paper. "Yes please!" "Yeah, I'm not going to do that..." Twilight frowned. "Fine... But can I use your restroom before I go?" Scootaloo asked. "Yeah.. Also why don't you stay here until they get back, it sounds like nopony is watching over you," Twilight said. "Awesome, and after that you would be like my legal guardian for like... The week and then you can sign my paper!" Scootaloo smiled. "Just go to the restroom already," Twilight sighed. Scootaloo trotted to the restroom as Twilight started putting away her research. Once again a knocking came from Twilight's door, she looked at the door with confusion and made her way over to it. Twilight opened the door to see a yellow pegasus. "Hi Twilight, I'm sorry to be bothering you in the middle of the night. I saw your light was on, am I interrupting something?" Fluttershy said in a soft tone. "No not at all, please come in," Twilight stepped aside. Fluttershy trotted inside and looked to Twilight as she shut the door, "I heard some troubling news earlier today, a flock of birds came by my house and told me about a scary sight. They were all pretty scared so they didn't get a great look at it but they told of a pony with crazy eye's, the pony had wings and a horn, not only that but the pony had holes in her," "That is pretty scary..." Twilight rubbed her hoof on her chin in thought. "What color was the pony?" "They told me that the pony was orange, it just scared them so bad. I also hope that pony is okay, is there anything we can do it help them?" Fluttershy messed with her hair as she spoke. "Hmm, I'm not sure. I don't think I have ever heard of a pony like that, we will have to keep an eye out, I'll send Princess Celestia a note in the morning about it," Twilight picked up a parchment and a quill then began writing something. "Alright.. Also Applejack wanted me to ask you if you wanted to have a sleep over at her barn during the weekend?" Fluttershy questioned. "Sure, it sounds like fun! Is everypony going to be there?" Twilight looked up from her notes. "Yeah I think so. I'm pretty sure you were the last one," Fluttershy smiled. "Oh, also Applejack said that Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo are going to be in the next room over having their own sleepover... Apparently there is a 'No kissing Scootaloo' rule in place?" Twilight looked up from her notes again in confusion, "No kissing Scootaloo?" "I'm not sure myself but it sounded like it really bothered her, should I have asked her?" Fluttershy looked unsure. "I'll ask her about it later. Anyways, what are you doing up this late Fluttershy?" Twilight asked as she sat down her notes. "Angle woke me up, there were some bugs that were-" "Hi Fluttershy!" Scootaloo joined the group. "Oh hi Scootaloo!" Fluttershy said in a soft smile. "What are you doing at Twilight's so late?" "I came over to ask if she could forge my parents signature-" "Which I said no to!" Twilight chipped in. "You just don't want me to go on a field trip!" Scootaloo pointed her hoof to Twilight. "No, forging someone else's signature is not only immoral but also illegal!" Twilight shot back. "But it wont hurt my parents in any way!" Scootaloo frowned. "I'm just going to go.." Fluttershy opened the door. "Just because it doesn't hurt them doesn't mean that its not illegal," Twilight frowned. "Then the rules should be changed!" Scootaloo pointed again. "Bye," Fluttershy closed the door but still heard arguing from the other side. Scootaloo sat down in her cave as she looked at the paper in front of her, she tapped her hoof while she thought about what to do. Eventually she had an idea, Scootaloo was filled with green flames and then in her place was a more grown up version of herself. Scootaloo looked at herself with pride, she took a pen and wrote under the signature 'Scootaloo's Mom' she smiled for she knew that she had bested the system. Author's Note I'm glad I'm writing this because I feel my comedy is improving. I just wish it could have been good from the start. Also we are over half way now! This chapter helped me understand that just because a joke can be made doesn't mean that you take it, I think that's what is hurting this story the most, although referencing a joke from earlier can be funny it still requires actual effort instead of just effortlessly pointing at a joke I made earlier and say "Look, now laugh!" Sorry for the more negative Author's Note! Hope you guys enjoyed this one!
Chapter 4: Slice of ChangeIt was around mid day, the sun was at its peak in the sky without a cloud to ruin it. The clubhouse held two fillies, one sat on a bean bag as she read a book while the other laid her head down on the podium in front of her. "What's taking that Scootaloo so long?" Apple Bloom said annoyed as she lifted her head up with a bored expression. "I hope she didn't forget we were going crusading today," Sweetie Belle said as she flipped a page. Apple Bloom let her head fall into the podium below her. "Ah swear if Scootaloo forgot we were crusading today..." "Well she is forgetful but Miss Cheerilee did look annoyed after Scootaloo turned in that paper, what was that all about?" Sweetie Belle flipped another page. "Ah don't know..." Apple Bloom picked her face up and there was a long pause. "So, what are yawl reading?" "Miss Cheerilee's lesson the other day inspired me to learn about bugs so I went over to Twilight's to find a book on the subject but turns out that they were all being borrowed," Sweetie said in a unamused tone. "Like.. Every single one?" Apple Bloom questioned. "Not even a dictionary page on one.. So I just picked up this one, its about robots." Sweetie said in a dull voice. The door opened and a orange pegasus trotted inside and threw herself on a bean bag. "I'm sorry" Scootaloo dropped her head into the depths of the bean bag. Sweetie put a bookmark in her book and sat it aside. "What happened?" "Yeah, you did kind of make us wait for like two hours..." Apple Bloom responded wanting an explanation. Scootaloo turned over belly up on the bean bag. "I tried forging my parents signature on the field trip paper." "Really?" Sweetie looked down to Scootaloo. "Yeah..." Scootaloo looked ashamed. "Does that mean you won't be coming on the field trip?" Apple Bloom asked. "No..." Scootaloo said in a defeated voice while throwing her hooves into her eye's. Sweetie and Apple Bloom looked to each other with frowns. "Hey Scootaloo, is there anything that we can help with?" Apple Bloom asked. "Anything at all!" Sweetie smiled. "Well... No, you wouldn't want to help me with that," Scootaloo said in a sad voice. "What?" they both asked. "Well, I need help with this," Scootaloo sat up with a sad face and dug through her bag while Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle both looked to each other in confusion. "What are you looking for?" Sweetie asked. "You said you guys would help with anything," Scootaloo pulled out a blank piece of paper with a smile. "I need you two to write a essay on how forging is bad and that 'I', Scootaloo, will never do it again." "Ah am never going to feel sorry for you again..." Scootaloo trotted to Twilight's place from the clubhouse, she took a longer way in order to get some energy out sense they didn't do any actual crusading today. That's when Rainbow landed softly next to her. "Rainbow Dash! How's it going," Scootaloo was excited to see her friend. "Nothing much, a lot of relaxing, two days ago was crazy so I needed a break," Rainbow looked to Scootaloo with a smile. "Something crazy... Two days ago? What happened?" Scootaloo shrugged. Rainbow gave Scootaloo a deadpanned expression. "Gee, I don't know..." Scootaloo continued to think but drew a blank. "Anyways, did you tell your friends that you're a," Rainbow looked around and spotted no one. "a Changeling?" she whispered. "No, but I probably will at the sleep over," Scootaloo felt uneasy. "You haven't made up your mind?" Rainbow questioned. "No..." Scootaloo frowned. "I think you should, if I know the Cutie Mark Crusaders then I know that nothing is going to stop them from being friends," Rainbow gave a large smile to Scootaloo. "But it is your decision," Rainbow shrugged. "I know your right Rainbow... Its just a little scary," Scootaloo looked away. "Hey Scoot, you know what it means to have courage?" Rainbow tilted her head at Scootaloo. "Um, is it.. To never be scared and always do the right thing?" Scootaloo looked back to Rainbow. "Nope! Its the ability to look danger in the eyes and charge forward, be that pain, or even something scary," Rainbow smiled. "If only I could be as courageous as you," Scootaloo kicked the ground as she trotted. "And why can't you?" Rainbow asked. "Well, because you're awesome and its really difficult." Scootaloo said in a defeated tone. "I am pretty awesome but so are you!" Rainbow pointed her hoof at Scootaloo, "Who said having courage was easy? If it was then the two of us would not be nearly as awesome," Rainbow smirked. "You're right Rainbow! I feel like I can tell the whole world I'm a changeling!" Scootaloo smiled. "That's not the best idea-" "I'M A CHANGELI-" Scootaloo yelled before Rainbow threw her hoof in front of Scootaloo's mouth. "Maybe I'm too good at giving prep speeches," Rainbow smiled as Scootaloo blushed. Scootaloo frowned as she sat on the wood floor of Twilight's house, she brought out a large collection of books and pages. "I have them all," Scootaloo closed her eyes. "I can finally rid the world of such unholy things..." Scootaloo took out a match and stared into the pile of books about bugs. She lit the match and held it above the pile. "You may no longer curse my friends with your wicked knowledge!" Twilight entered the room as she read a book, "Hey Scootaloo, what are you-" Twilight looked up from her book and raced over, "SCOOTALOO!" "I'm sorry Twilight! This has to be done!" Scootaloo dropped the match above the pile but was quickly snuffed out by magic as Twilight now stood in front of her. "Scootaloo, let me start by saying, DO NOT BURN BOOKS! Then let me also say, DON'T BURN THINGS INSIDE A BUILDING, ESPECIALLY IF ITS A TREE!" Twilight yelled. "Um, I was framed," Scootaloo smiled. Author's Note I am proud of this chapter, I think the conversation between Rainbow and Scootaloo is a great one and I think I did a proper setup to the bug joke of this chapter. Other then Scootaloo changing a lot depending on what scene she is in I think its overall good. Its definitely somewhat different from the other chapters that were focused more on comedy I think this one is focused more on Slice of Life which is kind of what the title of this chapter is. I think I'm a lot better at Slice of Life then I am at comedy or even sad stories. Also regardless of how I write each character its always fun writing the CMCs as a group. Honestly I have the wiki up for the CMCs, I know how to think like each of the characters but if you ask me to describe their personalities I legit couldn't tell you. For this story I have been very relaxed when it came to their personalities and I think it helped with the laid back nature of this story. Hope you guys found this one to be entertaining! Also prepare for the FINAL CHAPTER!
Chapter 5: A Changeling FriendScootaloo stood by the door inside of Twilight's library, she looked nervous and was fidgety. Twilight trotted down the stairs and looked up to the top "Alright Spike you have the Library all to yourself tonight, don't stay up too late reading comics and a small list is on your bed for chores," Twilight smiled. "Yeah, yeah, Twilight. Now get going, this place will be spotless in no time, go and enjoy your sleepover," Spike smiled. "Alright but if you need anything you know where I'm at." Twilight trotted over to the door, "Come on Scootaloo," Twilight opened the door and left. Scootaloo slowly followed and Twilight closed the door behind them with magic. Twilight looked down to Scootaloo as she had a lack of energy. "Hey Scootaloo, is everything alright?" Scootaloo nodded in a frown. "Are you sure?" Twilight pushed. Scootaloo shook her head, "I just thought I was going to be prepared for tonight but my heart wont stop racing." "For a sleepover?" Twilight looked confused. "It's not that, I have something I need to tell Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle..." Scootaloo frowned. "Whatever it is I'm sure they will understand, what exactly are you scared about?" Twilight sat down. "Well.. When I tell them its going to change our friendship forever," Scootaloo looked unsure. "That is a tricky situation," Twilight rubbed her hoof under her chin. "Rainbow Dash helped me out but I still feel uneasy," Scootaloo said with mixed emotions. "Hmm, Rainbow helped you... Well Scootaloo I feel uneasy all of the time!" Twilight smiled. "Yeah.. I noticed.." Scootaloo looked at Twilight with a deadpanned expression. "I always feel better after its over, so I think the first thing you should do is go right up to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle to tell them what's on your mind. After you tell them you'll feel satisfied to get it off your chest," Twilight smirked. "Your right Twilight, I'm ready now," Scootaloo began trotting. Twilight followed behind as she checked her notes, she went through multiple theories in her head about what Scootaloo was going to tell her friends and thought it was strange that the weird creature was also orange but Twilight thought more about the most likely theory. Twilight read over and over again in her mind; 'No kissing Scootaloo rule'. 'What did Rainbow Dash help this filly with' Twilight thought. There were six ponies outside Apple Bloom's room, Twilight cast a spell so that a bubble surrounded them were no sound can escape but sounds can still enter. Twilight and Applejack stood by the door and listened to the three voices inside while the rest watched them. "Are we just going to stand around and watch you two listen to that door all night long?" Rarity asked in a annoyed tone. "Ah'm sorry but I want to make sure that they are not kissing in there," Applejack whispered. "Look, they aren't going to kiss. I have one hundred percent confidence! Now lets go back down stairs, Pinkie setup some really cool games," Rainbow said in a fake smirk. "Rainbow, I have reason to believe that you... I don't know yet but I want to make sure that you didn't convince her of anything," Twilight said as she looked over her notes. "Wha-What does that mean?" Rainbow looked hurt. "Guys isn't this morally wrong?" Pinkie asked as she looked at the group. "I mean, come on. We got games downstairs but instead you two want to hear something that you shouldn't!" "Yeah, lets just go downstairs..." Fluttershy quietly agreed. "Girls, I have something important to tell you," said a loud muffled voice came from the door. Applejack and Twilight listened closely as Rarity joined them. Rainbow started sweating then she took a pen and popped the bubble while they weren't looking and proceeded to fake a trip and yelled "OUCH!" The group all came over to Rainbow as she got up and the door behind them opened revealing three faces poking out. "Are you okay Rainbow?" asked Pinkie. "Yeah, I'm alright," Rainbow said turning to the group. "Wait, how did the bubble pop?" Twilight asked. "What bubble?" Apple Bloom approached the large group of ponies in the hallway. "Oh, hi Apple Bloom," Twilight faked a smile. "Don't 'hi Apple Bloom' me. What the hay is going on here?" Apple Bloom was mad. The group of six ponies looked to each other with frowns. "Listen sugar cube, Ah-" "This better not be an excuse to spy on us," Apple Bloom narrowed her eyes. Applejack took a hoofstep back as she looked down. "Its okay Apple Bloom..." Scootaloo trotted to the group of six. "I have something I want to tell all of you too," Scootaloo smiled to Rainbow. Rainbow nodded back in a grin. "First lets go downstairs, its a little crowded up here," Pinkie smiled The large group of ponies made there way downstairs except for Rainbow and Scootaloo. "Hey squirt, how are you holding up?" Rainbow smirked. "I'm okay, my heart is just racing," Scootaloo smiled. "Scootaloo, you have more courage then I ever had. You got this!" Rainbow gave Scootaloo a huge smile. "T-That's not true, I mean, you saved Equestria from Nightmare Moon!" Scootaloo blushed. "That may be true but I had five other ponies helping me out," Rainbow said. "Well, it may not be five ponies helping me out but I do have one," Scootaloo smiled wholeheartedly back to Rainbow. Rainbow pulled Scootaloo in for a warm hug. "Do you-" Rainbow said as she held back tears, she cleared her throat before talking again. "Do you want to come live with me?" "A-Are you sure?" Scootaloo retuned the hug as small tears fell. "Yeah... Also trash goes out once a week so make sure you take care of that," Rainbow smiled. "Hey are you two coming down," Pinkie came up the stairs and saw Rainbow quickly got out of the hug. "Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to-" "Mean to what?" Rainbow cleared her voice. "Yeah I'm heading down, come down when you're ready," said Rainbow as she trotted downstairs with Pinkie. Scootaloo wiped the tears from her face. 'Alright Scootaloo! YOU GOT THIS!' she thought to herself. Eight ponies sat in a half circle as they talked to the ponies next to them while they waited. Eventually Scootaloo came down and trotted in the middle of the half circle as everyponie's eyes shifted to the orange filly. Scootaloo took in a deep breath as the room silenced and she slowly let the air out as she calmed herself. Scootaloo looked at all the ponies in the room as they watched back. "I don't have any parents, I lived by myself in a cave for a long time," she started. "I am lucky to have each and everyone of you as my friends," she smiled. "But I have been lying to all of you.. I am not a pony, I'm a changeling..." Scootaloo erupted in a green flame and after she appeared as a changeling. Most ponies were stunned but Apple Bloom got down from her chair and trotted in front of Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle followed behind. "Why..." Apple Bloom said as she looked to the floor. "Why didn't you tell us you didn't have parents!" Apple Bloom looked Scootaloo in the eyes as tears created a waterfall. Apple Bloom threw her hooves around Scootaloo as she cried. "I-I-" Scootaloo didn't know what to say. "That must have been so lonely," Sweetie joined the hug as tears also began to form for her. "Also why didn't you tell us you had awesome powers?" Apple Bloom whispered as she chuckled through her crying. "Or tell us that you are a weird bug?" Sweetie Belle did the same. "Can we not talk about bugs right now.." Scootaloo returned the hug as tears formed in her eyes. The End! Author's Note Omega thanks for reaching The End! Hope everyone enjoyed it! A Blog will be going up after I release this chapter talking about this story and the last one I made, also the next story I'm planning on. If you guys want I can continue this story, I would probably start out part 2 with going to Canterlot with the fieldtrip and changeling stuffs. Despite this story being about a changeling it was challenging to actually include the shapeshifting for the type of story I wanted to write, but if I were to continue it then shapeshifting would be used a lot more. I enjoyed how the ending was clear from the start of the story and it was actually more relaxing to have it that way, plus I think it made it feel each interaction more important then it otherwise would be. I wish this story was more consistent in tone as I tried and lean more comedy but felt as though it wasn't worth it by the end of the third chapter It was fun writing this story but I'm not sure if anyone will actually enjoy reading this one. If anyone reading this knows what I am lacking the most, please do tell! I want to continue improving but I don't know what I need to improve, I feel like I am good at writing characters and shorter stories but lack in most other departments. I'm probably going to release the entire story all at once instead of releasing it every other day or so, I'm not entirely sure why I want to do this. Well, have a good rest of your day and expect a blog soon if you want to read a little more about this story.
