An adult Twilight Sparkle walked back and forth in her room of her house. Nervously biting her thumb Twilight looked at the clock then looked at her front door. “Twilight, you gotta relax, they will be here.” Spike spoke to her, his back foot scratching his ear. Spike's older body, now able to reach his head and other parts with ease. Though his bed was a bit small he didn’t mind at all his head laying on the pillow as his body cooled down with the cool floor.
Twilight looked at him and then sighed. “I- I know Spike it’s just been five years since we last saw each other. What if they changed? Or what if they have a better friend?” Twilight started as Spike rolled his eyes knowing where this was going. Sitting up as Twilight continued Spike walked toward her. “What if they don’t want to be my friend!” Twilight continued.
Waiting for her to take a breath Spike wagged his tail and barked making Twilight get out of her head and look at him. “Look, I doubt they would tell you they don’t want to be your friend in person. I am sure they miss you a lot and just were busy with work. So relax. Do that practice Cadence taught you so long ago. Breath in and out.” Spike said while pushing his front paw away from his chest as if he pushed the negative away.
Twilight looked at him and smiled. Breathing in she pushed the negative thoughts away as she pushed her hand out. Twilight opened her eyes and smiled. “Thanks Spike… sorry about that I am just nervous and can’t wait to see them again.” Twilight said. Crouching down and scratching Spike's head Twilight giggled as Spike shivered at the scratches.
Before either could start a knocking came at the door. “It’s them!” Twilight shouted louder than she would have liked. Twilight jumped up more of excitement than fear as she ran over to the door. Spike ran behind her as he couldn’t wait to see the others again.
Before she opened the door she looked at the tall mirror right next to the front door. Her hair was down as she put it in a bun. She no longer wore glasses but contacts as she had a nice black shirt with a twilight star on it. She wore a purple jacket above with the letters “WCU'' and she wore black sweatpants. Checking that she was presentable, Twilight smiled and turned to the door. Her hand hovered over the doorknob as she gulped. Grabbing the door and opening it Twilight looked outside.
Twilight only saw a big cannon at her doorway. Before she could look around Pinkie jumped out from behind the cannon and yelled, “SURPRISE!” Confetti hit Twilight like a hard gust of air. Pushing her onto the floor.
“Oof!” Twilight said as the floor beneath her broke her fall along with a few other things. The giggling of pinkie pie and the other girls made the pain Twilight felt magically go away.
A cyan woman with rainbow hair could be recognized from miles away. She wore a green jacket,the words “Equestrian army”, placed on the back a white undershirt and black pants with a belt on. “Hey Twi you gonna stay down there or get up?” Rainbow Dash asked with a chuckle as she entered the house putting a hand out to help Twilight. Spike was barking around as the others slowly entered one by one.
Twilight looked up and grabbed the hand. “Pinkie, I told you she wouldn’t be prepared for that.” Rarity said as she walked around the cannon she wore a light pink shirt and a dark green skirt. The confetti everywhere as Rarity tried to side step it all.
Applejack chuckled entering next, “you got to admit. It was hilarious. No offense Twi.” Applejack said through chuckled. Her usual cowboy hat on her head as she wore a long sleeve brown lined shirt, her white undershirt stopping at her black belt and blue work jeans. Twilight started to smile as she saw each and one of her friends take their time to come and visit.
Fluttershy sidestepped the cannon with her hands on her ears. She wore a yellow skirt with a white T-shirt, a black belt and a brown jacket. A backpack with Ángel on her back “Is the sound off? I don’t want to scare Angel if another one goes off.” Fluttershy said as Pinkie Pie skipped inside the room.
“All clear Fluttershy!” Pinkie sang in a musical tone all while she pulled on the cannon bringing it into the room. Pinkie would have her usual get up, along with a dark pink small jacket with Colorful balloons all over it. Three certain balloons within a circle.
Finally Sunset Shimmer entered the room last as she pushed the cannon to the side her bacon hair contrasting against the black jacket she had on. A red yellow shirt with her sunset mark under the black jacket and some jeans. “Sorry Twilight, I have to admit it was mostly my idea.” Sunset said as she closed the door behind her. “Your not hurt right?” Sunset asked as she joined the Group.
The group looked at Twilight as her smile was ear to ear. “With you all no amount of pain will stop me!” Twilight said. Within seconds the group came into a small hug.
Before anyone could split up Pinkie disappeared from the group and reappeared near the kitchen table. Pulling bag out and dropping it. The bag opened as snacks goods and treats landed all around the table. “LET'S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!” Pinkie shouted
The group had started to converse about their lives for the last five years. Rainbow Dash talked with Pinkie as Rarity spoke with Fluttershy who was currently scratching spike. Applejack and Sunset were with Twilight as they spoke.
“So Pinkie, how are Mr and Mrs Cake doing with Pound and Pumpkin Cake?” Rainbow asked her soda in her hand as she leaned back on the wall near the kitchen table.
Pinkie who had just gulped a huge amount of food down her throat. With a bit of frosting on her mouth she licked it away and smiled. “Oh the cakes are fine. Pumpkin and Pound had entered first grade and they are loving it. Of course their auntie Pinkie is helping them for their studies so of course they are getting the best out of their class. Look!” Pinkie said as she pulled out a small wallet and opened it a line of pictures falling out and making a trail to the ground.
Rainbow was soon having picture after picture pushed to her face as she chuckled. Pinkie's excitement never seemed to frustrate her. “This one is them thinking I will never come back for them from preschool! And this one is them throwing a tantrum at their first grocery store trip with me and this one is them taking over the parks playground and managing to make everyone else bow to them-“ Pinkie said pointing to one and another as Rainbow smiled.
“It seems you and the cake twins have a lot of bonding time.” Rainbow said stopping Pinkie from showing another. “It’s nice you get to spend time with kids like that. Meanwhile I am stuck in the army for a while.” Rainbow said.
Pinkie nodded her head and looked at Rainbow confused. “You're sad. Why are you sad isn’t the army what you wanted?” Pinkie asked as Rainbow quickly nodded.
“Of course! I wanted to be in the army but since it’s peace time it gets so boring! I go day in and day out doing nothing at a base and then move to another one. I don’t want a war but the recruiting Sargent’s overhyped it.” Rainbow said sadly, Pinkie seemed a bit confused but nodded.
“Well Dashie if it makes you feel better I am thankful you are protecting us and our country even if it’s just you standing around for hours.” Pinkie said, putting her hand on Rainbow's shoulder.
Smiling and nodding, Rainbow Dash cleared her voice “thank you it means a lot.” Rainbow lied, but didn’t want to make an old friend upset.
Rarity and Fluttershy spoke as Spike quietly listened, always whimpering to get Fluttershys pats. “So the boutique is going well. I now have three shops and everyone is running very successfully. I even started to have my own personal assistant. Her name is Flour. She is learning step by step on how to cut and sew clothing.” Rarity boasted proudly something that was rare from the fashionista but still there.
Fluttershy stopped scratching Spike behind the ear as she turned to Rarity. “Wasn’t Sweetie your assistant?” Fluttershy asked a confused tone in her voice
Rarity made a “humph” sound as she crossed her arms and turned her head up with disgust “Sweetie Belle has moved out of the house and is now living in an apartment with Scootaloo… she isn’t in her right mind and I tried to tell her but she wouldn’t listen.” Rarity stopped for a second, her face cringing for a second.
Fluttershy looked confused and was feeling a bit more daring than usual. “Is something wrong Rarity?” Fluttershy asked, wanting to see why her old friend cringed.
Rarity removed the expression from her face and laughed a small fake laugh. “No no no. It’s nothing. Just thinking about Sweetie and Scootaloo is, I mean it’s alright let’s move on, how is your life?” Rarity asked Fluttershy, trying to get another conversation started.
Fluttershy's daringness had subsided as her shyness took over. “Oh okay. W-well it’s been good. I went to college. And I got a veterinarian degree. And I am working as a vet, and it’s nice and easy since I can still talk with animals.” Fluttershy said as she scratched Spike's head.
“Huh sounds nice.” Spike interrupted, not knowing his action as he continued. “Maybe one day Twi will take me to you, the other vet she takes me to is a bit more strict. But hey it sounds nice that both of your lives are going well! I wish Twilight was having the same luck as you two are” Spike said, his foot kicking instantly as Fluttershy scratched his ear again.
The two young women looked at one another and then down to Spike. “Um Darling what do you mean by “wish Twilight had the same luck as we did?” Rarity asked as Spike sat up on the couch.
“Well… I don’t know If I should.” Spike said hesitantly as Fluttershy thought of something. Getting closer to him she scratched his back.
Spikes back arched as he felt as if he was in heaven. Rarity took this opportunity to try to persuade Spike to spill the beans. “So Spike, could you please tell us what’s going on with Twilight? She is our friend and we want to make sure she is alright.” Rarity said carefully not wanting Spike to close the chance.
“Well… since you are her best friend I guess it wouldn’t hurt. I guess recently she has been working night and day to make this new thing to sell. She said “it will be the next biggest thing!” Whatever that means, but she always works herself to death and back. It’s kinda worrying. I tell her to take a rest but she seems to be intent on working on it.” Spike said, putting his paw under his chin thinking of what Twilight was making.
Rarity seemed confused and looked at Twilight. “But she seems fine now.” Fluttershy nodded quietly, her hand now on the head of spike just staying there as the two girls looked at the purple scientist.
“Well that’s because she was able to get a good night's rest . It's crazy. She stays up for days and rarely sleeps and she is somehow good as new! At least I think she rarely sleeps. She is in her lab for days.” Spike said in a hushed whisper as he started to stand on the couch on all four legs.
Turning toward Spike, Fluttershy thought of the last times Twilight had shown them things she made. Either on the phone or in person. Though it was a long time ago that she has done that. “Does she ever tell you what it is?” Fluttershy asked Spike who only shook his head.
“Nope. She said it’s a surprise and that it will be done in a few more days. That was last week and ever since she went quiet about it. Kinda makes me happy she isn’t doing it anymore but still makes me worried.” Spike said seriously.
The two girls turned to Twilight who was currently in a conversation with Applejack and Sunset. “So you are now the head of sweet apple acres?” Sunset asked as Applejack puffed up her chest and nodded.
“Darn right. My granny is still there but she is mostly just enjoying retirement and guiding us. Guess she knew that one day she will have to step aside and let the new generation move on.” Applejack said a twinge of pain in her tone but nonetheless it was still pride.
Sunset smiled, “well I think that’s great for you I am sure your parents are proud AJ.” Sunset said supportively as Twilight agreed with a nod.
“Hey Twilight, I noticed you're not wearing those old glasses. You got contacts or fixed them up or something?” Applejack asked, Twilight smiled at the question.
“I got contacts recently. They are way better from the old glasses I have. But I kept them just in case anything happened to my contacts. You can never be too safe.” Twilight explained, her face turning red as she realized she was being too nerdy.
Sunset smiled at that, Applejack didn’t seem to notice, “you know you look kinda like the other Twilight. It’s been so long since I saw her… how our lives could have been so different… how is she anyway Sunset.” Applejack started and changed the conversation as fast as she could not wanting to down the mood.
Sunset turned to Applejack and smiled. “Oh she is actually going on well. She is the ruler of equestria for a while and she managed to keep peace along the lands. Some foes do arrive but her and her friends stop them.” Sunset said as Applejack and Twilight both smiled, “she misses you guys but she can’t come much anymore or at all.” Sunset finished the statement as Applejack nodded and Twilight was quiet.
Twilight didn’t know much of the princess but she always wanted to be as good as she was. “So Sunset I heard ya started as a teacher at the highschool. Is it true?” Applejack asked.
Sunset's face seemed to brighten up as she nodded “yeah! I started last semester. It had been a rough start since we needed a lot of teachers but we managed it. Principle- I mean, Celestia had given me the job without a question. Since she saw how much I have grown from who I once was.” Sunset said the past memories are only a small chapter to her life now. “And Dean Luna is actually happy to have one of her own students come back.”
Twilight and Applejack smiled. “Hey, that's a great Sunset, so what do you teach?” Twilight was curious to hear her friend's work.
“Oh well I teach science but on the side a bit of history. Since we still need teachers we were split up to take in two class subjects. Of course any of the students that had heard or seen us knows about equestrian magic and I am always asked about that so I guess I do some equestria history as well.” Sunset gleamed happily
Applejack looked a bit uncertain at that statement. “Are you not worried that maybe one of the kids could go evil and try to take over the school or world like well you or Twi once did?” Applejack said worried.
Twilight was quiet still remembering the thoughts, before anyone could notice, Sunset shook her head. “I have all the magical artifacts we found other than the necklaces in a safe place in Celestias, Lunas and my house. If anyone tried, it would be impossible.” Sunset said her face turned from guilt from all the past events they had gone through. Twilight still seemed to blame herself for the friendship games since she rubbed her arm and looked down away from either of the two.
“Ah... nevermind that, so Twilight you're going for your masters in- oh um… in what major exactly?” Applejack asked, seeing that Twilight was still a bit sore at the event.
Twilight turned to her. “Oh I am majoring in three things actually. Biology, Biochemistry and even general Psychology. It’s all fascinating. But yes I wanted to get a masters and then a doctor's degree.” Twilight explained. Sunset looked a bit surprised.
“Isn’t that a lot of classes and a lot of work?” Sunset asked, putting the cup of what looked like to be apple cider to her lips.
“Oh it is, but that’s why I am doing other things as I am studying. I took up computer science, programming and even development.” Twilight said with a calm smile Sunset and Applejack were shocked at what their friend just said.
“How in the world did you even manage that!” Sunset asked, Applejack was still speechless as Twilight smirked. “Since I studied all of those majors and since I needed to make a way to get money for the house and other items I started to build things and sell them to companies.” Twilight said.
Applejack shook her head in shock. “Wait what type of things did you build?” Applejack asked, wanting to know what her friend was up to.
Twilight rolled her hand. “Well it’s actually a couple of things. I made a contact lense that works as both contact and camera that saves stuff to a cloud that sold faster than I expected and a company bought it. So I get paid about half of the sales they make. They are called the Lenscam. I was also paid to make the xsquare faster and the playtermimal run smoother. So I get about a good 5% off for that.” Twilight started to list the items off as Sunset stopped her.
“Wait wait wait. You're telling me that you made the newest version of the Xsquares? The “Xsquare T”?” Sunset asked as Applejack stopped her from answering that
“And you made that fancy eye camera thing too!” Applejack asked in a more shock tone than impressed. Twilight chuckled and nodded.
“Well yes. But that’s not all. I was able to make R-D system. You know the movie projection that makes the movie happen all around you. It was honestly the hardest thing to make… until a few days ago.” Twilight said as the two friends were shocked at the progress their friend made in 5 years.
Sunset stopped her shock with a confused question. “Okay wait, you just said until a few days ago? How the hell can anything be any harder than the Real- Dimension video play system?” Sunset asked Twilight rubbed the back of her neck
“Well… look it was supposed to be a surprise thing but if you like I can show you.” Twilight said hesitantly, her nerdy side showing once more as she went to push up glasses that were not there.
Applejack nodded excitedly wanting to see what else her friend made. Sunset was thinking about it and soon enough agreed with Applejack. “Alright, let's see your big design.” Sunset supportively said.
Twilight nodded, putting her cup on a coaster and walking into another room that seemed to be a little lab. Fluttershy and Rarity were watching.
Rainbow and Pinkie didn’t seem to notice. Coming back Twilight brought a small box. Her face showed excitement as she put the box down on the nearby coffee table. “Alright here it is.” Twilight said as she reached her hand inside.
Applejack was confused at what “this'' was but still quietly watched. Sunset went a bit closer wanting to see what item her friend made. Rainbow and Pinkie had stopped talking after hearing Twilight’s announcement. Fluttershy was slowly worried at what Twilight made as for Rarity she patiently watched.
Twilight lifted her hand and showed it to everyone. It was a small earbud. The room was quiet, Twilight didn’t like that. “S-so what do you think?” Twilight asked, Rainbow struggled not to chuckle as Applejack's excitement died down. “Um sorry to break this to you partner but that is already been made.” Applejack said pointing to the ear bud.
Twilight looked at Applejack confused. “Wait what? How! The most realistic virtual reality is the R-D there is no way someone else made this!” Twilight said with surprise and shock in her voice.
Rarity looked at Applejack and then to Twilight, “Maybe if you explain it to us Darling we will know what you made. Perhaps it is the first of its kind.” Rarity said, trying to help the purple scientist.
Sunset nodded, “yeah does it play music better? Or does it cut everything else out of the world so you can hear your songs?” Sunset asked. Twilight's expression of confusion made Sunset think she was incorrect on both guesses.
Moving the earpiece closer to her Twilight stumbled for the words. “N-No but I can try to make that-'' Twilight was saying until a Pinkie blur appeared in front of her.
Pinkie looked inside the box. “OH Is it an adless version of Dotify? Can you download music or find it just by asking for it! Box! Play Boulevard of Broken Dreams!” Pinkie yelled trying to guess the item at hand.
Again Twilight shook her head and gulped, “N-no l, I haven’t made that but-“ Twilight was then cut off by Rainbow.
“Is it a way to have easier communication in any terrain?” Rainbow asked a bit of her, wanting the item at hand to be exactly that as another half joking.
Twilight shook her head as a flurry of questions started to be thrown at her. One from Applejack, another from Rainbow, then from Pinkie, Rarity tried to ask but was muffled out as Sunset looked at the earpiece.
This went on for a second until an unlikely voice raised above all. “EVERYONE QUIET!” Fluttershy shouted, scaring everyone. She soon blushed and smiled, “I mean, please everyone quiet. Perhaps if you let her talk she will tell you.” Fluttershy said.
The group looked at Twilight who rubbed her eyes. “Well for your answers no it’s not. This earpiece is actually the next generation of video games.” Twilight said. Everyone quietly watched except for Rainbow Dash who made a “huh?” Sound.
Twilight took this as a question, “well you see video games are evolving faster and faster nowadays. So I was thinking what makes a fun video game? The quest? The power ups? The revenge? The multiplayer?” Twilight asked rhetorically as she walked from the living room around the couch, everyone watching her as Spike was waiting to see where this was going.
“Well in a way yes it is all what makes a game fun but there is another factor. The fact that it takes you out of the stress of this world and into a make believe one. The only problem is we are still bound by time itself.” Twilight explained as she sat down next to Fluttershy and the box.
“So I was thinking, is it possible to extend that time or even enter a game? And I started to work… It took a while and a lot of lab rats and even my own personal test but I can say for certain I got it to work.” Twilight said excitedly as Fluttershy chuckled shyly.
“Those little rats are okay, right? Twilight? Um Twi?” Fluttershy asked but Twilight changed subjects before she could get an answer.
“So you might be wondering “Twilight, how is that going to be the next generation of gaming?” Well it is connected to a console. I call it…” Twilight waited for dramatic effect as she reached inside the box and pulled out a rectangular plastic and metal box with two antennas stick from the top and one button with the letter C on it. “The Cyberspace!” Twilight said as everyone watched.
“That’s the new generation of video games? You're joking right, it's so small! How does it even contain storage or even use online for multiplayer or how do you control it?” Rainbow asked as Twilight turned to her.
Though it was sounding disrespectful, Twilight still explained it. “Now the storage was hard to make but I managed to get this Cyberspace system to save with you since you could just put your information in and it will save it up.” Twilight explained. Rainbow was quietly watching now interested at this new development
“The online was tricky but if you see on the earbud there is a button. The same for the cyberspace system. The on button is in the middle and the connect button is on the right side of the front.” Twilight said as she pushed a small red button and held it. “The earpiece needing to connect is all in the little button on the side. Tapping it and holding it the earbud would vibrate.” Twilight said feeling the earpiece vibrate. “Then it should turn purple and you're good to go!” Twilight explained happily. The gang watched in awe and surprise.
Rainbows last worry about this system was how do we control it. “That is simple… you control it with your mind.” Twilight said as everyone was quiet in surprise.
“Wait wait wait. How do you control it with your mind?” Rainbow asked now a bit more hesitant to put the earpiece on and try for herself.
Sunset nodded, “yeah can’t that cause brain damage or even break you?” Sunset worried for her friend's life. Twilight only made a small laugh.
“You two are funny, I wouldn’t make an experiment that would hurt or even kill someone. It scans your brain and watches what movement you think of doing. You won’t move because the system makes your mind think it’s asleep so when you take one step your mind does it in the game but in real life you are in a sleeping state.” Twilight said as Spike sat up.
“That’s why you were never tired! Your body was resting, your mind was put in a sleeping state but you were still doing tests and runs!” Spike pieced it together.
With a nod Twilight smiled. “Yep! This system will put your body on sleep mode and though you will be in the game doing impossible feats, when you get out of the game it would be like you went to bed and had a long restful sleep. Didn’t want to deprive anyone of their sleep you know.” Twilight explained now feeling more confident at her little experiment.
“Um partner sorry to say but what if the power goes out or if someone turns the system off? What happens to whoever is playing in it?” Asked Applejack who took a sip of her drink.
“Oh simple, we just get kicked from the system and wake up where we were in the real world.” Twilight explained with a wave of her hand. The girls waited for more questions to pop up. Pinkie seemed excited to try it out as she would try to reach into the box only for Sunset to move it away from her.
“So how long will you be able to play a game, until the battery dies? Or when you finish the game?” Sunset asked, making sure no one put an earpiece in just yet.
Turing to her bacon haired friend Twilight smiled. “Well get this, since dreams move super fast and we can have a super long dream that feels forever but in the real world it’s only hours I managed to pick up the same brain waves that dreams have. Since you know it puts you to sleep mode. So you can be in a game for years and when you pop out. It will just be a few minutes! How cool is that!” Twilight said as she almost dropped the Cyberspace. Sunset was confused but oddly excited to test it out
“So this thing is 100% safe, correct?” Rarity asked hesitantly. Twilight nodded.
“It should be, I only tested on rats and myself but I think it’s fine since I am still kicking you know? So wanna try it out? The AI should have found a suitable game to start on.” Twilight informed the rest.
“Woah woah woah… can we enter the game like us? Doesn't this make your own character?” Pinkie asked in shock.
Before Twilight could respond Sunset spoke up with another question. “A Artificial intelligence will be controlling the game… is that even safe?” Sunset asked.
Twilight nodded. “Yes, this AI is just called Computer. It is supposed to help the player feel more relaxed and happy with the environment or the game they play. Computers will look into the human mind and use what good or bad things they find. It’s honestly the hardest part of the whole system.” Twilight said. Putting the box down she tapped the on button.
Before anyone could ask any more questions Twilight turned to the box Sunset had. “I made a spare for everyone one to use. So wanna jump in?” Twilight asked. The group was hesitant and quiet. Pinkie was first to raise her hand as everyone looked at her with shock
“What, it sounds fun and I trust Twilight, so let’s do it!” Pinkie said, skipping toward Sunset and grabbing another earpiece. Sunset rolled her eyes and looked at the group.
Rainbow took a step ahead and grabbed another earpiece, “Hey if Twilight thinks it’s safe then so do I.” Rainbow said confidently though she trembled a bit from the worry.
Applejack chuckled and nodded. “Sounds kinda fun to be honest. Let’s do it.” Applejack said reaching for another as Fluttershy slowly and timidly reached in.
Sunset looked at Fluttershy a bit surprised as Fluttershy turned red. “I- I just want to see. You know?” Fluttershy said with a grin as Sunset nodded. Rarity looked at Sunset and everyone.
Looking at her friends agreeing and connecting their earpieces up Rarity turned to Sunset “So will you be joining this little endeavor of theirs?” Rarity asked Sunset who nodded reluctantly.
Reaching in and grabbing an earpiece Sunset offered the box to Rarity. “I am kinda excited to see this. I wanna know what might come up so that I can use it in my Shimmer Code channel.” Sunset said, walking toward the group as Rarity took the box from her.
Rarity was confused at the reasoning but sighed. Spike walked toward Twilight who was connecting everyone to the Cyberspace system. “So is there any chance I could join?” Spike asked, his eyes big and puppy shaped.
Twilight rolled her eyes with a small smirk and rubbed his head “Of course Spike, I know how you get and I wouldn’t dream of making you miss out. Here.” Twilight walked to Rarity who was holding the box and grabbed a earpiece designed in a different way. Walking back to Spike she knelt to him and gently placed it as his tail wagged.
Twilight turned to Rarity, “so you gonna join or be the odd one out?” Twilight asked in a joke. Rarity looked at the last earpiece waiting. Looking at her friends Rarity let out a defeated sigh and nodded.
“Not like it will hurt right?” Rarity asked grabbing the last earpiece and put the box down
The group waited for Rarity to pair hers with the cyberspace system. Within seconds Rarity's earpiece finally turned purple and they were ready to enter the Cyberspace. “Alright… Everyone ready?” Twilight asked as she sat down on the couch. The rest walked to a nearby chair or couch seat. Twilight looked at the group and smiled, “Here we go.” Twilight said as she placed the earpiece into her ear. Within a second Twilight was fast asleep on the couch.
Sunset followed suit as Rarity placed hers in her ear, both falling to sleep as they entered. Fluttershy hesitantly placed hers on as Pinkie excitedly put it on. Spike and Rainbow were both the last ones as soon the room was quiet, everyone within the room fast asleep.
Author's Note
Hello everyone and welcome to a new story, this one might not be as child friendly as my other story but I am enjoying this idea after watching a few shows/movies(Ready Player One, Black Mirror(not for kids!) and a few other shows.) Don’t worry I am not done writing my stories it’s just been a hard semester at University and I just finished, so I will try to write more soon! If you see typos or mistakes please point them out so I can better my writing! Also before I forget, some of the main 7 are not like their actual shows counterparts, this is on purpose to show they are grown to different people. Thank you for taking the time to read my Fanfic and please enjoy!
Chapter One: Character Creation
Chapter One: Character Creation
The mane seven and Spike all slowly awoke. The group felt as if they just woken up from a nap. Some rubbed their eyes out of habit, others tried to yawn but nothing came out. Spike shook his head and looked around the area. Seeing a dark corridor with white frames Spike turned to see the people around him. “Um Twilight where are we?” Spike asked as Twilight was already on her feet and looking around the place with an impressed smile.
Turning to her friends, Twilight's smile became wider. “Welcome to the Cyberspace!” Twilight shouted as she put her hands into the air. The group looked at the area around them as Twilight smiled waiting for a response.
“Hello Mr Cyberspace!” Pinkie shouted “Nice to meet you!” Pinkie continued as she patted the ground below her, her reflection looking back at her. Seeing the face on the floor Pinkie made faces and laughed at the other Pinkie.
Sunset helped Rarity up as she looked around the room. The Hallway glowed around the area as a white aura shone all around them and then darkened. “So what exactly are we doing here, Twilight?” Sunset asked as Rainbow sat up and rubbed her head.
Twilight turned toward the end of the hall and walked over to it. “When we play video games we need to think of what will interest us, since we will be playing the game ourselves we will have to define our character and make them into the story.” Twilight stated as she stopped. “Alright, watch closely.” Twilight said as she faced ahead.
The group managed to get up and walk to Twilight. Looking at the area in front of Twilight they saw a small metal ball floating from the darkness of the hallway. Looking at the group the metal ball saw the closest one. It whirred to life as a blue scan was signaled. The group was worried as Fluttershy hid behind Applejack.
The robot slowly floated to Twilight and scanned her, the scan was a blue light as it finished. Twilight didn't flinch nor did she move, the others watched in silence. The machine scanned all around Twilight and then returned in front of her again, floating a few feet away the machine whirred and a hologram of a screen appeared in front of Twilight.
Twilight looked at the screen and smiled, “Okay then lets see my character.” Twilight said as she looked at her character sheet. The group looked to one another as Sunset walked over to Twilight.
Looking over her shoulder Sunset could see the light blue screen Twilight was currently tapping on. The first thing she noticed was that Twilight's name was already put in for her, along with an age number. “Eightteen? Twilight aren't you twenty?” Sunset asked with a raised eyebrow.
Twilight could feel a sudden red blush enter her face before she turned to Sunset. “Y-Yes but i want to be young. Your age will affect your playthrough or even how you react to things. Along with other stats. Of course you can pick what you want but for me I want to enter this game with an advantage.” Twilight explained as she pulled the screen closer to herself. Trying to hide more items of her character.
Another small ball came from the darkness and hovered around Sunset, a blue line scanning Sunset. Staying still and letting the ball scan her, Sunset asked. “Speaking of the game, what game will we be entering exactly?” Sunset asked. The ball stopped in front of Sunset and showed a similar screen.
Twilight looked at the top of the screen and tilted her head in confusion, “Usually the computer generates something that everyone would enjoy and have fun playing. I think it gave us a game called Fallout.” Twilight explained with a hint of confusion
Spike quickly ran up to the line Twilight and Sunset were at. “Do me next time!” Spike shouted into the darkness, as if in command the ball flew out of the darkness.
Floating around the dog, the ball scanned as Spike did a quick pose. Making himself seem stronger and braver in the pose. Rarity walked toward the trio as looked at the area. “Dear, this is very impressive. The design, the intelligence, but if i remember correctly isn’t a “Fallout” a break up or a fall of a friendship?” Rarity asked in fear and worry.
Rainbow Dash walked up next to Spike and smiled with excitement. “No no no Rarity you're thinking of it all wrong.” Rainbow said as another bot flew out of the darkness and proceeded to scan her. “I think this fallout means like the bomb from Hiroshima, oh i bet this is going to be a war game!“
Fluttershy who was walking to the lineup heard what Rainbow had just said. Feeling the idea of war Fluttershy stopped and looked at her friends “W-war?” Fluttershy asked in fear as she hesitated to step forward.
Almost as if no one heard her, the conversation continued. “Seeing how there is a slot for small guns, sneak and big guns I wouldn't be surprised. Kinda confused as to why we have this as our first game…” Twilight said as she put her hand under her chin and she thought.
Sunset looked at the group behind her, Fluttershy, Applejack and Rarity all, quiet. “Twilight you said this AI will look into the minds of the players, giving us a game to work together and play in right?” Sunset asked.
Twilight had to look past the sudden Pink woman as she spoke to Sunset. “I mean, we don’t have to. But we can, the idea was to make a game that will be fun for all to play, with one another or solo. But solo in multiplayer. Why?” Twilight asked. Following the gaze of Sunset Twilight realized those that were hesitant.
Applejack was looking at the windows, seeing a blank outside Applejack turned toward the crew as they spoke about the game the crew was about to enter. Pinkie had already appeared in between Twilight and Sunset. “Ohhh Look at that, it's me!” Pinkie shouted in excitement.
“Should we see what we got ourselves into?” Applejack asked Rarity. Rarity looked at the group with a worried expression. “Um Rarity? Ya okay?” Applejack asked, waving a hand in front of her face.
Rarity jumped back in surprisement. “Don’t scare me like that Applejack,” Rarity started with a chuckle, “What did you say darling, I was caught up in my mind.” Rarity rubbed her elbow as she looked at the group again.
“Um, I asked do you want to go see what we got into? I don’t think there is a back door to this place and it seems like they are all getting ready.” Applejack stated calmly as Rarity nodded.
“Yes. We musnt keep them waiting. I was just thinking about something else…” Rarity started as she walked toward the group, Applejack followed behind as the two were passing Fluttershy, Applejack stopped.
“Ill be right there Rars, Hey ya doing okay sugarcube?” Applejack asked Fluttershy who was looking at the ground. She looked up and hesidently nodded her head. Though Fluttershy nodded her head, Applejack felt the fear from Fluttershy. “You're scared?” Applejack asked.
Fluttershy looked at the group and then at Applejack. “Y-yes.” Fluttershy quietly meeped out as Applejack looked at her with a caring smile. The smile telling her to continue to talk, Fluttershy continued. “I don’t want to enter a war game. I don't want to hurt others, I just want to play with my friends.” Fluttershy stated as she looked at the group.
Applejack looked at the group as the group talked about what they think the game will hold. Rarity had already gotten scanned and now had a screen in front of her. Turning to the scared woman next to her Applejack thought of the next words she should say. “Look Fluttershy, I know it seems scary but I promise you I will try to help ya in any way I can. If we get seperated we will try to find one another again just enjoy the game. I am sure the AI knows what it's doing.” Applejack stated confidently as she put her hand out to hug.
Fluttershy looked at Applejack and smiled, taking the hug Fluttershy and Applejack walked to the line of the group two more robots appeared and circled around them. Seeing the two last robots float in front of them a screen popped up showing themselves on the screen. “So Twilight? What do we do here?” Applejack asked Twilight who was looking at her screen.
With a hand to her chin Twilight turned to the others. “Okay so lets go step by step.” Twilight said as she waited for the team to pay attention to her. “First step is the Name, Age and Gender, along with the race. You can leave it at your default or you can change it. Remember everything we pick will matter in the game. If you're an unpopular race you will be unpopular, if you are a man or a woman you will be considered the whole game.” Twilight explained as the group started to put their information in.
Applejack put her name down the sheet now read “Applejack” though the information was already written down Applejack changed her age to 25. “That's a good number to keep it at.” Applejack thought to herself as she then moved past the gender, keeping it to female and toward the race. Looking at the races choices Applejack could see a list of races. Human was currently the one clicked in. Within the list are Dwarf, Ghoul, Human, Humanoid Robot, Mole Miner, Super Mutant, and Synth. “Hmm… I say Super Mutant.” Applejack thought to herself in confidence as she tapped it.
The second she tapped the race her character on the screen changed. From the human form Applejack into a hulking green humanoid version of Applejack, It wore scraps of metal and items around itself as if battle ready. It had a Cowboy hat on similar to the one Applejack wore in the real world. On the back the remains of a ripped blue and yellow suit hung on the Super mutant, the number 15. “Woah.” Was all Applejack said. Looking at the hulking beast Applejack turned to Twilight. “So we play as the races we pick correct sugarcube?” Applejack asked Twililight who nodded
“Yes, whatever thing you pick for the race you must play it in the game. It will be your person you play. So choose carefully.” Twilight explained to Applejack. Nodding and turning back to the screen Applejack looked at the supermutant one last time.
The idea of being a hulking monster was worrying for her until she caught a glance at the stats it boosted. “Woah…” Applejack said quietly as she looked, around at the others in the group. Seeing that some of them were thinking about the situation they were in. Applejack waited for the rest.
Rarity had her name in the title before Twilight had started to explain the points of the work. Seeing her age, Rarity kept it the same not seeing any reason to change it. She passed the gender part leaving it on female as she then got to her race. Looking at the race option she tapped on it. Seeing the same list Applejack had Rarity thought for a second. “I will keep myself as myself, no need for perfection when you are already perfect.” Rarity cheered in her mind as she move back to the human option and waited for the rest.
Spike tapped on his name as he looked at the options. Seeing his name typed in for him Spike moved onto the next step. His age the number eight shined in the box, “Um Twilight? Do dogs ages matter in this or should I change it to human years?” Spike asked Twilight.
“Um no, I don’t believe it is to dog years, maybe it could effect it but in all honesty you will be the first dog tester.” Twilight explained to Spike as she was thinking about her sheet infront of her. With that Spike nodded and looked at his age. Touching it the eight brightened up. Looking at the line under Spike moved his hand left and right, trying to see where he could go.
Spike moved the slider all the way to the right and he could see the number changed from 8 to 100. “Huh neat, Spike said simply as he slid the number back to the number eight. “I will keep it at that for now, but the good news I will be in the life zone of a human.” Spike said as he then moved onto gender. The title said male as Spike moved on into race.
“Race… hmm what do i want to be?” Spike asked himself as he tapped on the title. Tapping onto the list Spike saw the list of races. “Woah so many.” Spike said as his tail wagged behind him, his curiosity peaked. “Dwarf? Nah I am already small enough dont need to be smaller in the video game.”
Spike moved to the next one, “Ghoul?” Spike asked in confusion as he tapped it. Seeing a ghoulified version of himself Spike shook his head and moved onto the next race while saying, “Too undead looking.”
Seeing the human option Spike kept the option in mind but moved to the next one. “Robotic Huminoid? Oh that should be cool!” Spike said tapping his option. The character changed again as a assaultron appeared on screen, “Aww… dang it, i thought it was going to look more like the Terminator movie.” Spike said as he continued to the next option.
Moleminer was ignored as Spike went through the rest with just a glance, until he moved to Super Mutant. Tapping onto Super Mutant, Spike saw his character change into a green hulking beast similar to Applejacks. “Nope too big.” Spike said as he tapped into the next one. Finally landing on Synth, Spike saw the character change. A plastic looking man with mechanical parts looked back at Spike as he felt that this race was the one he wanted. “Terminator…” Was all Spike said as he tapped onto it.
Rainbow had already put her name and fixed her age to 24 until she landed onto the gender section “Wait we can be a diffrent gender too? Why is that?” Was what Rainbow first asked out loud but Twilight who looked at Rainbow.
Twilight looked at Rainbow, “Well its because some players that are guys play as girls and some players that are girls play as guys.” Twilight explained as she continued. “Such as in DnD or even roleplaying Video games. Its all about making a new character and exploring things that we can’t in real life.” Twilight finished as Rainbow had already moved on keeping the gender to female.
“Race?” Rainbow cuckled as she looked at the race options. “Who needs to pick another race than human, we are obviously the best.” Rainbow said as she picked her race. The word Human lighting up the race section.
Pinkie bounced in place as she looked at her name. “Ohh what should my name be?” Pinkie asked as she looked at the name section. “Pinkie? Pinkamina? OH Pie!” Pinkie stated out loud as some of the girls couldnt help to chuckle at her enthusiasm.
“Pinkie works too…hmm so much to choose from.” Pinkie said as she tapped Pinkie in. Moving onto the next part of the character sheet Pinkie smiled. “Alright, My age…hmm” Pinkie started again as she saw the gender role. “Nah thats fine. I should focus on the age part first tho- Oh races!” Pinkie said as she skipped her age and left the gender role to female.
”Dwarf, Ghoul, Human, Humanoid Robot, Mole Miner, Super Mutant, and Synth. Ohh so many options.” Pinkie said with excitement as she tapped one by one seeing the character change as the Pinke woman hummed to herself. Finally landing on the last one Pinkie thought on what she wanted. “Some of these are scary others are cool. But what if i want to be scary…” Pinkie thought to herself as she was struggling to pick a character.
“Eeny, meeny, miny, moe, catch a tiger by the toe, if he hollers, let him go. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe!” Pinkie said while her eyes were closed. Going from race to race Pinkie landed on one final one. Opening her eyes Pinkie saw she landed on ghoul. “Oh ghoul… well it will be intresting to try it.” Pinkie said a bit worried as she chuckled and continued into the rest of the sheet
Sunset placed her name into the section that said “Name” After her name was placed in Sunset saw that her age was 21. Seeming okay with that age, Sunset continued as she moved onto race, leaving gender as female. Going to race Sunset thought onto her past games. “So in the past games i played before i always pick something normal first and then pick a diffrent thing later. So… if i will keep it as Human for now.” Sunset tapped onto human as she waited for the rest of the group.
Fluttershy looked at her screen as she typed in her name. Waiting for a second to see if she messed up, Fluttershy continued, “Oh… my age? Hm do I use my real age or should i make one up…”Fluttershy said quietly to herself as she looked at the age and kept it the same number as her real life age 21.
Looking at the next part, Fluttershy saw the gender on female. “I don’t think i want to change that….” Fluttershy said shakly. A red blush appearing on her face as she looked past the gender one and she kept it female. Moving to the race section Fluttershy thought on the other races and went one by one. Seeing the horrors of the other races Fluttershy returned back to human and thought of what she had gotten herself into.
Twilight looked at her character sheet. Her name and age were already filled in as the gender was left as female, and the race was left as human. “When everyone is done and ready with the first part we will have to go on, which I believe will be harder for all of us.I think this “SPECIAL” Section will be boosting or decreasing our stats in the game so we must be careful with what we pick.” Twilight explained as she went down to the list.
Looking at the special stats Twilight tapped on the “S” Letter. The text box on the bottom right changed as Twilight tapped it. Looking at the box Twilight read the following text. “In the wasteland, essential supplies will be scarce. When an item of value is found, keep it close, and away from bullies. The stronger you are, the more you can carry.”
Stopping at the end of the sentence Twilight heard Rainbow speak, “So what does that help us with our hits and punches or just our strength to hold onto things?” Rainbow asked as Pinkie tapped on her strength starting to mess with it.
“There is more. Here let me read it.” Twilight stated as she cleared her voice and then continue. “Be sure to know your limits, or you may find it challenging to escape from hazardous scenarios, no matter how strong you are.There are other situations where you may find yourself in close proximity to unfriendly neighbors. For such cases, you must learn to defend yourself using your natural strength.”
Applejack looked at her strength seeing that it was set to 10, seeing the hulking form and the states Applejack thought to keep it the same. “So this is actually both, it helps with our attacks and to hold onto more items. It seems that this will be a war game, but maybe a base building game too.” Sunset said as Fluttershy’s expression went more wide with fear.
Continuing with the text Twilight read on “Use anything sharp, or sturdy enough to swing. Get creative with your implement, but stay reasonable, and look for anything that can further enhance your innate vigor. The greater your strength, the greater the impact. But remember, some moments require more than muscle.”
Rarity looked at her strength and whispered to herself, “This will be a intresting game thats for sure.” Tapping on the system to add or subtract more Rarity waited for the others to follow.
“Keep doing your chin ups and push ups, because there's more Strength can do for you. Regularly study your Vault-Tec provided materials to prepare for survival, and to answer the question, do you know what makes you S.P.E.C.I.A.L.?” Twilight finished the text as she turned to her friends. “So its your strength in arms and in carrying capacity. This should be for things like in a fight or even if you want items.” Twilight explained as Fluttershy shivered at the idea of a fight.
The group quietly listened as they seemed to agree “So then what is the rest of this stuff. And what does the other stuff do?” Spike asked the group as they all looked at Twilight for a response.
“Okay let me see here. I am going to read on with these if you all want to edit your stats feel free to do so. We can also take all the time we want too.” Twilight explained as the group nodded in silent agreement.
Looking at the “P” Twilight went to push her glasses up but realized again there was nothing to push up. Ignoring the action Twilight started, “It is the unfortunate truth that when you go above ground, you will be faced with many post-nuclear nuisances. These frightening menaces will come in all different shapes and sizes, and pose an immediate threat to your survival.”
Fluttershy had looked at Twilight with eyes as big as saucers, “O-our survival? You mean we can die?” Fluttershy asked as Rainbow turned to her youngest friend.
“Well it’s a video game Fluttershy, we will die here and there so that we can have a challenge, just think of it as a… taking a step back type of thing.” Rainbow explained to her friend as she rubbed her head trying to not freak out Fluttershy.
The group looked at Fluttershy all wore a worried face as Fluttershy nodded, “Sugar cube it will be fine, I am sure of it. Just stick near us and we will work together. Just like the good old days.” Applejack explained as Spike nodded.
“Okay, okay, just… give me a second to relax. I just need a second.” Fluttershy said as her breath that had gotten heavy, was now slowly returning to a calm breath. With a sigh, Fluttershy looked at her friends and nodded.
Taking the nod as a good to go signal from Fluttershy Twilight continued. “You must learn to deal with these dangers, but may find this challenging at first. That's why we've provided you with the Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System, so you can scan the threat, and pinpoint areas of weakness. And the higher your Perception, the more accurate you will be. Why, you'll put Davey Crockett to shame.”
It was now Rarity’s turn to turn in confusion to the reader of the group. “I am sorry, Davey Crockett?” Rarity asked while tilting her head to the side.
Rainbow took this question with a answer “Oh thats easy, the Davy Crockett Weapon System, also known as the M-28 or M-29, was a Cold War-era tactical nuclear recoilless smoothbore gun that fired the M388 nuclear projectile with the W54 nuclear warhead.” Rainbow explained as she crossed her arms and smirked.
The silence filled the corridor as Spike tilted his head, obviously not understanding what was said. “Um, how do you know that?” Applejack asked Rainbow.
“I’m in the military, stuff like this is talked about a lot within the military. Especially that one, people like it a lot because of the explosion but we don't use it either because of the radiation.” Rainbow explained as she turned to Fluttershy. “Which I doubt there would be any type of thing in the game! This could be a city building game.” Rainbow tried to lied about as Fluttershy just calmly nodded
Feeling the awkward silence rise up again Twilight continued with the explanation. “There may be times when you must engage in questionable activities. Your Perception can help keep you safe during these morally ambiguous moments.” Wincing at the statement Twilight looked at Fluttershy and smiled in worry.
“Twilight darling, what game are we about to enter? It sounds a bit too much, especially for one of us here.” Rarity stated as she sneakily pointed to Fluttershy, the young woman noticed the action.
“I’m not a child…” Fluttershy stated quietly not audible enough to be heard by the rest except for a certain K-9 in the area. Spike turned to Fluttershy and then slowly turned to the group.
“Oh I am sure she can handle this! Heck we saw her handle worse in the real world. This is a video game for Pete’s sake, so let's stop treating her like she is 5 and start to see her for who she truly is.” Spike stated. Fluttershy looked at Spike with a surprised expression as the group nodded.
Fluttershys face turned red for a moment as she smiled at Spike, “Yeah Spike is right, Fluttershy can do anything! Isn’t that right Fluttershy?” Pinkie asked her friend.
Fluttershy jumped at the sudden call of her name as her face turned reder. The embarrassment of being put on the spot a bit too much as she quickly nodded her head. The group nodded as they looked back to Twilight. “You may continue Twilight, I would like to see more.”
“Practice your pilfering on youths, the elderly, or the incapacitated. As you continue to purloin your way to success, try more challenging targets, and more skillful techniques, for greater returns. Don't get too cocky there, sport. Always look to sharpen your five senses, your Perception doesn't stop there. Regularly study your Vault-Tec provided materials to prepare for survival, and to answer the question, do you know what makes you S.P.E.C.I.A.L.?” Twilight finally finished as she turned to her group. “It seems that perception is supposed to be for acceracty, or sneaking around. It also might help with us hiding items.”
Applejack looked confused, “Ya mean we can be stealing items or weapons from anyone? Ain’t that a bit messed up, it says youth, elderly or even the incapacitated.” Applejack stated
“Well since this seems to be more of a Roleplaying game, it is anyone's choice to steal from others. It could be your stealing a candy back for another kid, or maybe that incapacitated man is a bad guy who has the keys to a room or something like that.” Sunset stated as she tried to find a way to understand it herself.
Applejack crossed her arms not wanting to speak more on the madder as Rarity spoke up. “Why would we even use keys to enter some place that we shouldn’t be in? It might be locked for a reason.” Rainbow turned to Rarity with a confused look.
“Well wouldn’t it be the point of the video game if you do snoop around?” Pinkie asked as Rarity turned to Pinkie, “Well think of it, we are going to enter a game that will most likely explore the areas around the world of this place so it will be good to explore every unturned rock.”
Rarity was about to open her mouth but Sunset spoke up. “Yes that’s it, usually that’s what these types of games do, it gives us a mission we need to pass and we get rewards that are behind locked doors.” Sunset stated
Fluttershy looked at her character sheet and then faced the others, “Should I be editing this stuff as we speak or should I wait?” Fluttershy asked the ground as Twilight turned to respond to her.
“You can continue if you like. I am just going to read out the parts so that everyone can understand… and so that I can understand it too.” Twilight stated as she faced back to the S.P.E.C.I.A.L. List.
Continuing from the last point Twilight continued as the group waited and listened, wishing to not mess up their new characters. All except Rainbow who was moving stats around left and right. Trying to find the “awesomest” settings. “Endurance we will all be faced with many new and unfamiliar health risks, such as infection, sudden loss of limb, and above all, harmful radiation. Fortunately, your formidable Endurance has turned your body into a hardworking machine that can resist the harmful effects of radiation and physical violence. Like any machine, then, your body must be well-maintained to stay in tip-top shape.”
“Loss of limbs?” Fluttershy asked her eyes wide open as the idea of losing a arm or leg started to penetrate her mind. The group turned to Fluttershy as she started to hyperventilate. “What happens if we lose an arm here? Does it happen in the real world?” Fluttershy asked as she pointed to a random wall.
“No, you will feel only a pinch in the game but nothing will happen in the real world. It will only be here so you may know that you’re being hurt in game and don’t die- lose! So you don’t lose!” Twilight lied trying to calm her old friend down. “The pain will be exactly how it will feel in the real world. I don’t think Fluttershy will relax if I tell her that.”
“Why would we even feel anything in the first place? Wouldn’t any damage just be in the game not on us?” Rarity asked Twilight while Rainbow and Pinkie tried to calm Fluttershy down. “This might be a bit too much for us if we feel a pinch for every single hit.”
Spike had faced Fluttershy trying to relax her as Twilight and Rarity tried to speak to one another. Sunset spoke up to Rarity trying to explain the idea. “If we don't feel anything while we take damage, we might end up losing all our progress due to one injury or a fault of not paying attention. It helps the player know that the damage to us will be detrimental to the game.” Sunset tried to explain as Rarity scoffed at the response.
Twilight looked at her group of friends as she ended up scrunching her face. Looking back and forth at the group of friends Twilight tried to stay calm at the lie she had just explained to Fluttershy. Applejack had noticed this and had watched Twilight carefully. “Well I think that's insane. If we enter a game to play we shouldn’t feel the pain and we should just reset and go on with our items.” Rarity said to Sunset trying to explain a flaw in the project. Fluttershy was slowly calming down as Pinkie had picked up Spike and put him in front of her. Spike, confused on what to do just looked at Fluttershy and smiled. The bot that had all of Spike's information stayed in place as it waited for Spike to return.
Applejack had gone to Twilight's side as the group of friends were distracted, “So… is there something you want to tell me, and the rest of us or are ya going to keep it to yourself?” Applejack asked Twilight who jumped at the sudden appearance of Applejack.
“What? No, I am not hiding anything. I just want to keep everyone calm.” Twilight said simply as she laughed, Applejack's face became one from straight and understanding to judging and watchful.
“Is that so? Because to me I think that you are trying to keep something quiet so that Fluttershy doesn't freak out more. So why don't you tell me and I won’t have to pus the secret out so that others hear.” Applejack asked as she tried to keep a worried but also angered tone in her voice. Twilight looked at the group that had already started to fight as she turned to Applejack.
“Okay, but please promise me that you won’t if Fluttershy hears this she will freak out even worse.” Twilight said as she looked around one last time. Applejack waited as she crossed her arms and watched Twilight prepare herself. “The damage we feel in the game will be just like the real life counterpart…” Twilight started as Applejack's eyes opened with shock. “Now wait before you freak out, nothing will happen to your body in the real world.” Twilight tried to speak before Applejack spoke
“Twi that's horrible!” Applejack shouted out loud as she stepped back from Twilight. The others in the group heard Applejacks yell as they turned to see what happened. Twilight saw her friends turn to them as she could feel her blood rise to her cheeks. Trying to speak out to try to stop Applejack Twilight spoke only for Applejack to continue. “Why would we feel the exact same pain in game to real life! How- how did you even do that?” Applejack asked Twilight who turned to the others only to see their expressions, fear and shock filled all of theirs all but two, Sunset had a confused expression and Spike looked at Twilight with hurt.
“Twilight is that true?” Sunset asked, her scared tone mixed with confusion as she stared at Twilight. Before Twilight could speak more on the topic Spike spoke up.
“Of course its true! It came from Applejack and worst off if she has been doing this for multiple times so maybe she already has gotten used to it haven’t you Twilight!” Spike asked his puppy eyes, tearing up as Twilight looked at Spike for only a second and then toward the ground.
Spike watched her reaction and sat down as he felt his heart break at the realization that his owner, the woman that cared for him ever since he was a pup, had been going into a system that would make her feel the pain just in the real world. The silence was a while until Pinkie spoke up. “Maybe it's not as bad, I mean Twilight couldn’t know for sure because you know she still has all of her limbs in the real world. What if it is only supposed to feel like that because our brains just freak?” Pinkie tried to inform the rest as Applejack shook her head.
“It doesn’t matter, some of us don’t even want to think about losing parts of our bodies. We want to know that we are safe and we are able to play a game, for the fun of it not to be stressed on when we will explode or miss an arm.” Applejack said now her never getting onto her.
Fluttershy had started to weep at the stress of being in a life or death situation each and every second as she played this game. “I don’t want to play this anymore, can we go back please?” Fluttershy asked as she looked at the group.
The group looked at one another as they all agreed. Looking at one another, the group turned to Twilight who had been quiet. She didn't speak nor did she look at her friends. Seeming hurt, Twilight was just quiet. “Twilight? Are you-“Rarity started as Twilight just put her hand up and stopped Rarity.
“This was a bad idea anyway… here.” Twilight started as she looked at the top of the hallway, “Cyberspace… turn off…” Twilight said as she looked at her friends. A few seconds passed as she looked around. Seeing the hallway Twilight continued, “C-cyberspace? Turn off…” Twilight repeated. The hallway was quiet as the group of people within the hallway just watched one another.
Twilight then looked at the group of friends, her eyes panicked and watering, “ Cyberspace! Turn off! Now!”Twilight shouted her voice filled with fear and confusion. The women and dog watching this happen turned to one another as they were quiet.
“Um Twilight, darling… what's going on?” Rarity asked, trying to take a step to Twilight. This time Twilight didn't stop her as she turned to Rarity. “Darling what's going on please talk to us.”
Applejack looked at the group and then toward Twilight. “Sugarcube… what is going on?” Applejack asked as she turned to the area around them. Applejack then looked back to Twilight and spoke. “Was that supposed to do something?”
Twilight looked at Applejack as she spoke. “The order isn’t going through. The system is supposed to follow the orders we give it. It- it always follows the orders.” Twilight stammered out as the group stared at her in worry.
“So what does that mean! Are we going to get out of here or what?” Rainbow asked the group to be silent as Twilight started to calm down her breathing looking at Rainbow Twilight spoke.
“It means we are stuck! The computer isn't shutting down and without it to shut down we will be stuck here!” Twilight said in fear as she looked around the area. “And since time slows down here, we might be here for hours, years, or even decades! And no one is near to unplugging it!” Twilight looked at her friends in fear.
Fluttershy had started to breathe harder as her axienty skyrocketed. Her fear of being stuck for every scared her as she looked at the group. “I can't breathe. I can't breathe!” Fluttershy shouted in fear as Pinkie looked around to try to find something to calm Fluttershy down.
Applejack could feel her body become light as she almost passed out, but caught herself before she could fall. Sunset looked at her hands as she tried to wrap her brain around the idea of being stuck in one place forever. Rarity pushed Twilight off as if she was the plague as she looked at the area around them. “You- you can't be serious! This can't be happening!” Rarity shouted as she put her hands on top of her head.
Spike didnt know what to say or do as he just stared at his friends and watched the area around them. Rainbow was quiet for a second as she could feel her hand clentch up. Her anger rose as she looked at Twilight, “You made this right?” Rainbow asked quietly barely audible by others.
Twilight wiped her eyes as she looked at Rainbow confused.”What?” Twilight asked, trying to see if she could rehear what Rainbow said. Rainbow walked up slowly at Twilight, not repeating anything.
Getting to Twilight Rainbow grabbed her shirt and yelled. “You made this! You know how to get out! Stop fucking with us and let us out!” Rainbow shouted at Twilight. Twilight winced at the shout, more tears running down her eyes as she saw an old friend become angry with her.
Applejack had gotten to their side as she faced Rainbow, “Hey let’s relax. I know it’s pretty bad right now. But we will have to work together if we want to get out of here. Yelling at one another ain't going to do anything for us.” Applejack tried to calm down as Rainbow faced Applejack.
Pinkie had let go of Fluttershy and had run to Rainbow. “We can figure out a better idea to get out of here. We will find it just like before.” Pinkie shouted as Sunset ran to Twilight’s right side trying to get Rainbow's hand off of her.
“You’re scaring her! Stop, you’re both friends! Let's talk it out. We can talk it out!” Sunset said as she pulled back on Rainbow's arm. The group had gone into yells as Rainbow only got more heated
Rainbow turned her face to Applejack, her anger now facing her, “You think that's all that matters? We can die here and she is playing us! There has to be a way out, and she knows it!” Rainbow shouted facing Twilight again.
Spike had run to Twilight's aid biting on Rainbow's leg and trying to pull her off of Twilight as the group of friends started to argue with one another. Rainbow pulled back her right arm as she was about to swing a punch at Twilight.
At this point Applejack would have grabbed Rainbow's arm and put her foot behind Rainbow. With a quick and hard shove, Rainbow went tumbling to the ground as Applejack stood above her. “You need to calm the fuck down!” Applejack shouted to Rainbow, turning to Twilight. “Twi, are you sure that you didn't say the passcode incorrectly or something?” Applejack asked as Rainbow looked at the group.
Twilight shook her head and put her hands to her head, “No it doesn't matter how you say it the computer should understand what you mean and what you should do! I don't know why it isn’t working.”
Applejack looked at Sunset who looked at Twilight, “Okay so is there a back door? Or maybe a safety lock? There has to be something.” Sunset said as Twilight looked at her, her eyes telling Sunset that there was none.
Rainbow got up and spoke with venom “This is just great, we are stuck hee because of her, there is no way out and the only thing we can do is sit here until we die!” Rainbow stood up, before she could say more Applejack spoke up.
“She didn’t know it would do this, I doubt she would have done this to us! Now sit down and relax, your yelling isn't helping us figure a way out.” Applejack shouted back to Rainbow.
The two started to become heated as Sunset got in between the two. Trying to push the two back from one another. “We need to stop, this isn't helping our friends, it's only going to stress them out and stress us out.” Sunset shouted at the two as the group started talking over one another in an argument as Twilight saw something appear on the top right of the character sheet she had.
Looking at her character sheet Twilight tapped on the new icon, a mail icon beeped for a second as it opened and showed a message. Twilight slowly read it with confusion and then nodded. “Um girls…” Twilight said as she was not able to be heard by the group of women shouting as Spike just laced on Fluttershy’s lap
“Girls,I found something!”Twilight said a bit louder not being heard again, now a bit more upset, Twilight prepared her voice, “Girls listen!” Twilight shouted, the echo of her voice went down the hallways as she managed to get the attention of everyone within the hallway. The room went silent as Rainbow Dash and Applejack turned to Twilight. Sunset, happy to see her two friends not yelling at one another, turned to Twilight.
Twilight looked at her friends, her eyes filled with determination. “I found something that could get us out. Before anyone asks any questions I need you to look into your character sheet. Is there any mail emoji there?” Twilight asked as the group looked at one another and then into their character sheet. One by one they either nodded or said yes as they tapped on it. “Okay, I don’t believe that they will be the same so we will have to read them out loud and figure this out. I will go first…” Twilight said as she looked at her character sheet again
Seeing the message Twilight cleared her voice before starting, “Once alone, once with friends and all over again, you must find that which makes you happy, open your eyes to see the truth to those around you. Once you see what isn't and what can be, may you leave in peace.” Twilight said as she finished hers, she looked up to see what the others would say, seeing that the group was silent Twilight assumed that they were all different. “Okay if no one else had that same message, the next person has to go.”
The group was silent as they looked at theirs, Rarity watched her friends with her arms crossed, “I don't know what this will do for us to find a way out.” Rarity stated simply
“This is for us to find the keys to get out. The answers will be in the game. We just need to know what we will be looking for and we will be out of here in no time.” Twilight explained, the group looked at the messages and then to Twilight.
“I’m sorry Sugercube but why would a game have our answers to this funny stuff?” Applejack asked Twilight as she scratched her head while reading the message she had infront of her.
“I made this AI to make the game enjoyable for everyone who plays it. It will scan the brain for the dopamine levels but I guess along with checking how people enjoy the game it would also check for things that are bothering the players extremely in the real world. So to counter those negative reactions, it would try to help the players to face them in their own way. The AI has become smarter in that regard. It's actually very impressive.” Twilight explained as she wiped the rest of the tears off her eyes and looked at the hallway.
“Isn't that dangerous if the AI becomes smarter by itself?” Pinkie asked as she raised her hand into the air as if a student was asking a question. Twilight shook her head and turned toward the Pink woman
“No, not at all. This Artificial intelligence is only supposed to bring the dopamine levels higher, it's only mission is to make people happier when trying to relax and play a game.” Twilight responded to Pinkie. “Now come on, this problem won't fix itself if we don't figure out what we all need to look for.”
No one spoke for the first few seconds. The hallway was quiet until Spike spoke up “Grown up but still young, bravehearted but fearful as a kid in the dark. The world you see isn't the true one, willingly staying oblivious and enjoying life might one day, before the worst.” Spike finished in a confused tone. Looking at Twilight, Spike asked, “What does that even mean? I know who I am. And I am already grown up!” Spike said in an annoyed tone.
Twilight would only shrug as she turned to the next person Fluttershy, “ Alright Fluttershy your turn.” Twilight said to the shy girl, she shook in fear as she turned to the group and Twilight,
Speaking in a quiet tone Fluttershy looked at the message. “Hiding behind your hair, you seem to be invisible to the world. You are in space as you cry out to be heard, though people can see your lips move, silence is all they hear. Every Step you take forward you take five back. The question now is, will you step back, or take another step forward?” Fluttershy looked up at Twilight as she shook a bit more. “Do we have to do this? Are you sure it's in the game and not in the hallway?” Fluttershy asked trying to find another way to exit this system.
Twilight shook her head. “Sorry Fluttershy but the game is the only other place to go after this. We have to go through it and find the keys to these questions, just stay strong and I know we will get through it.” Twilight said to Fluttershy, turning toward Pinkie, Twilight smiled, “Alright your turn.”
Pinkie smiled as she started to read hers, “Smiles and laughter you bring but what do you hide? Distractions from the world are only there for a second, and though you ignore it with parties and smile you wear a mask. Has this mask become stuck? Is it truly who you are or have you forgotten already?” Pinkie finished reading the sentence her hair deflated a bit as she stared at the words. “Oh…”
Twilight looked worried as she looked at the others, “Well we can work on that together Pinkie, you got this!” Twilight said motivating her friend, it seemed to work as Pinkie gave a soft smile at Twilight, turning to Rainbow, Twilight continued, “Your turn Rainbow.”
Rainbow looked at her message and started, “Loyalty to those you deem but are they the right loyalty you wish for? Who can you trust without losing yourself and who must you leave. For you the future is vast and unclear perhaps you can find your answers near” Rainbow finished the message with a scoff,
Twilight put her hand under her chin as she scratched it,”okay then… I am sure that will be easy for you.” Twilight tried to support her friend, Turning toward Applejack Twilight spoke, “and you Applejack?” Twilight asked
Applejack nodded and looked at hers, “A woman of strength and leadership, filled with fear and self doubt. Through the old comes the new, and with the new comes advanced ideas it’s time you look for your own ideas.” Applejack finished as she looked confused at the message. “Um, Twi I don’t think your computer knows how to make normal sentences.”
Twilight looked at the woman as if to study the message, her eyes slowly darting to the group as she didn't understand any of them. “Um okay then let's see what Rarity has.” Twilight said with a shaking voice.
Rarity turned to the group as she looked at her message, “A woman of generosity and pride though judgement clouds your mind. The world isn’t perfect and neither are you. To reunite with those that you care for you must realize your own faults and learn from them, for fear of a ruined boutique won’t be the only thing that worries you so.” Rarity finished as she stared at the character sheet, her face dumbfounded. “Um what does this mean…”
Twilight nodded and whispered. “Okay, okay…Sunset, what about yours.” Twilight said as she tried to make it seem as if she understood what was going on. Turning to Sunset Twilight waited.
Sunset looked at her character sheet as she spoke, “A life filled with stress, pain and loss, you judge yourself for things that may have already been forgiven, yet you fear power. Trusting others and making actions that risk it all may lead to a better path. You must look into yourself and ask what will, could, and has been.” Sunset finished as she turned to Twilight
Twilight had listened to it all as she nodded, “Okay so it seems that each of these missions are given to us personally so we can figure it out. The answers aren’t here so the only other place it would be is in the game.” Twilight stated as she closed her message, “Before anyone says anything, I know that you guys probably do not want to enter this game, but it might be the only way out of here so please lets go into this game as friends and finish it like friends.” Twilight begged her friends as she faced the group.
Sunset looked at Twilight and took a step to Twilight, “If it means that I can play a video with my friends and get to explore a new world together, I'm in.” Sunset said, the group of friends was hesitant but right after Sunset stepped up Applejack stepped up.
“I might need a break from the real world and just enjoy some time with my friends, plus if this is the only way out then, it looks like we have no other choice. Count me in.” Applejack said as she put a thumbs up at Twilight.
Fluttershy was the next to step up to everyone's surprise as she spoke, “I'm scared of this but, I am sure that with everyone here with me we will get through it.” Fluttershy said with determination in her shy and quite voice.
Pinkie scratched her head but then joined in as she smiled at her friends, “Im ready to go when you all are!” Pinkie shouted. Rainbow put her hand in the group and agreed with a cheer. as Rarity and Spike were the last to join.
As the team threw their hands into the air with a cheer, the group went back to where they originally were, Twilight looked at the team she had around her, “Alright I’m going to continue, please listen and prepare your character.” Twilight said as she tapped on the E again. “While average joes will survive on old packaged standbys, your ironclad insides will allow you to seek fresh meat. Radiation poisoning may have enlarged your favorite meals, this means more healthful nutrition for you. Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew.” Twilight continued as the group was silent for the first part.
“Endurance can also provide new options for food. Some of which can be an acquired taste. Gone are the days of exercising for fun. Instead you will need to combine athletics with crucial survival activities. The greater your Endurance, the further you can go. Just be certain to be mindful of others. Build your Endurance and soon you will find ways that it improves your life above ground.”Twilight finished as Sunset spoke up.
“So endurance helps with food, strength and speed?” Sunset asked as the group waited for Twilight to answer. With a few seconds to think on the meaning of the words Twilight seemed to get an idea.
“I believe it will help us with speed, and resistance to bad foods or poisoning, dehydration and more.” Twilight stated as the group was quiet, the grim silence telling Twilight to move on with the next one. Clearing her voice Twilight spoke, “Unlike the clean, wholesome America you may recall, the wasteland will be a distrustful place, full of unsavory characters and few morals.” Twilight started as no one said a thing.
“America? Huh, so we are in a world of our own world or is it a different type of America, like futuristic?” Rainbow asked as Twilight turned to her. Looking at the description Twilight scratched her head.
“Um, post apocalyptic? It mentions America, but also nuclear and radiation. Maybe some war zone areas. Or what after. I don't know but it would make sense with the title of the game.” Twilight said as Fluttershy stepped back, almost falling over but managing to stay up.
“Earning the trust of your fellow man is an often-overlooked key to survival. One way to prove your trustworthiness is through fair commercial exchange. Your renowned charisma will enable more favorable bartering. Don't get greedy now! Use your charismatic nature to negotiate your way out of tense moments. Having friends is always of value. "How else do I find friends?" you may wonder. You may find an impromptu cocktail hour helps to ease social stress.” Twilight kept going as Rarity smiled and spoke.
“At least my score will be high on that, it would be nice to have people do dangerous things for me if i can’t do it alone.” Rarity said as the group of friends looked at Rarity in silence. “W-what? Do you think these arms can carry big items?” Rarity asked as the group started to laugh, though it was a real laugh it still was silence by the grim situation they were in.
Continueing with the text Twilight spoke, “Your Charisma will help you avoid the perils of addiction, but not the immediate effects of drink. So practice moderation, or you'll find out who your real friends are the hard way. You'll find that even wild animals can be charmed by your Charisma. Looks like you've found a new pal! Oh-ho, don't get carried away there, big fella. So you see, taking the charismatic approach is more than just good manners.” Twilight finished as Pinkie tilted her head.
“How will being charismatic help us not get drunk? Shouldn’t that be in endurance?” Pinkie asked as Twilight looked at her in confusion but shook her head.
“It might be as if the effects won't look like they are hitting you if you are so charismatic that you play it off. It could work but these are the stats for the game.” Twilight explained as Pinkie nodded slowly.
Twilight then continued down the next one, smiling at the description Twilight felt as if this would be hers “With all the talk of physical survival in the wasteland, you may forget that sometimes it's survival of the smartest. An empty mind is a vessel for knowledge, and Intelligence is the key to unlocking opportunity, and adapting to your new world above ground. Your advanced know-how will grant you access to new places, and new technologies. Space-age, isn't it?” Twilight started and it seemed that everyone understood as she continued.
“Intelligent survivors are also more intelligent, creating technological wonders of their own. Note that the "S" in science stands for "Safety." And when the tables are turned against you, don't be afraid to set aside your refined Intelligence for the raw instincts of survival. Just don't lose your head. Advanced learning in the field of Intelligence can offer even more benefits in this modern age of wonder.” Twilight finished as she looked at the group.
Applejack raised her hand and asked, “So its supposed to give us more abilities or… what?” Applejack asked as she looked at her character sheet and tapped on a few things. Twilight looked up and spoke.
“It seems like it's more like to help with upgrades to equipment, maybe even to make new items or perhaps to have an easier time in small mini games.” Twilight said as she looked at the next one. Tapping on it Twilight saw the description pop up but she waited in case anyone else had any more questions. Looking around to her friends, Twilight didn't hear anyone speak so she continued.
“A nuclear blast, and the subsequent fallout, will have many adverse effects on life as we know it. Intensive prolonged radioactive exposure may transform those above ground into decrepit, rotting, beings that have lost their ability to reason. “ Twilight felt a shiver to the back of her head as she ignored it and kept reading.
“They will likely be without manners, and quick to anger. You must learn to make the most of available firearms, but enthusiasm will only take you so far. Now, let's try that again. And remember, that with your impressive Agility, you can act more decisively in V.A.T.S. See? It's a snap!” Twilight finished as Spike was confused.
“Wait, so we got a Vat? What will a pool of something do?” Spike asked as Twilight turned to Spike, the dogs tilted head showing that he didn’t know what it was yet she didn't know it either.
“It could be a acryonym, it has the same style. Guess that will be something we will have to learn in game.” Twilight said as she looked at the description again and continued. “Agility can also help you out in difficult moments. But why place yourself in undue stress? Instead, try a simpler route, taking the quieter approach is always worth consideration. Your Agility can turn a sneak attack into a complete tactical move. Keep in mind, others may have the same bright idea. Your Agility will help you move through the wasteland with ease and yield other benefits like” Twilight finished as she turned around to see if anyone was confused or needed to ask a question, seeing no one Twilight moved to the last one.
“Last one of the major items from there we will move to the bottom and see more of our characters.” Twilight started as she looked around, the group seemed to nod and prepared to hear the worst. Twilight turned to the description and started to read. “Got your rabbit's foot? Good, it's time we talk about Luck.” Twilight started, the group became confused as Pinkie and Rainbow said “huh?”
“The difference between whether you live or die in the post-nuclear world may depend on the flip of a coin. Luck is a mysterious source of curiosity. See here? Your well-placed shot may not always do the trick. If Lady Luck favors you though, you'll find those critical moments a breeze.” Twilight stated as she looked at her friends and was confused. “Is there really a luck section in this game?” Twilight asked.
The group shrugged, looked away or even agreed in hesitation. “Well, it gives a crazy outcome if there is luck. I mean imagine if you can put all your points into luck and go to a casino or something.” Sunset said as she pointed out the idea, some of the friends agreed as others seem to be thinking evilly.
Twilight then continued wanting to finish the special stats. “What's this? Only scrounging up duds? Time and patience may net you a suitable collection, but with Luck on your side, you're bound to find some swell keepers. No, no, hold onto anything shiny, it may be of hidden value. Be careful not to get distracted by your newfound fortune. Uh-oh, that wasn't the only pest. It looks like Luck has helped you once again. Unfortunately, she can't save you from every situation. At least your misfortune can become someone else's fortune. Luck may be fickle, but if you can move her to your side, the possibilities are endless.” Twilight finished as the group listened, turning to the others
Twilight smiled. “Okay then any questions?” Twilight asked, waiting for any, the group shook their heads or said no as Twilight nodded. “Alright, let's set up our special stats and for the rest, you guys pick what you think is the best.” Twilight said as the group started to look at the characters and their abilities and skills.
The group had quietly finished the last parts as they looked down at their characters. Thinking quietly, to themselves on the traits and talents they gave themselves the group silently looked up. Seeing the others looking at one another, the friends quietly waited for someone to speak.
Twilight cleared her voice as she looked around. The friends looked at her, “Are we ready?” Twilight asked her friends, one by one they looked to one another and then with a unsure determination they agreed. Twilight looked at the character screen once more and tapped on the “Done” option. Her character sheet closed as a set of text appeared.
“Waiting for 7 other players” The text read, Twilight looked at her friends as they turned their heads to the sheet. Applejack tapped on the done button. Her character sheet went up as she looked at her sheet. The same text appeared in front of her.
“Welp, we ain’t got anywhere else to go. So come on y’all let’s get this show on the road!” Applejack cheered. Spike looked at Applejack, with confidence Spike tapped on the done button with his paw.
Pinkie pushed the button slowly as she unsurely smiled, “Y-yeah… lets get this party started!” Pinkie shouted, her smile wide but her eyes holding worry. Sunset looked at her friends and tapped on the button.
Rainbow pushed the button as she crossed her arms, looking around, Rainbow stopped as she looked at her friend. Fluttershy’s hand was shaking as she hovered over the button. “Hey, Flutters…” Rainbow started as Fluttershy turned to her, “I will be by your side every step of the way. I promise.” Rainbow said to Fluttershy.
Fluttershy slowly nodded and smiled, though it was a small smile, Fluttershy turned her head, the smile quickly disappearing. Rarity had tapped hers as all the players' pages said, “Waiting for 1 player.” The group faced Fluttershy as she looked up. With the kind smiles and determined looks to get through the situation, Fluttershy tapped the button. The final character sheet scrolled as the screens started to load.
With that the robots all shut their lights off and flew back to the ceiling. The group left behind, confusion and worry filled the group. After waiting for a few seconds the group stood in silent, “Um is something suppose to happen?” Rarity asked. Before anyone could speak, a sudden light shined in the room as the group was absorbed.
