The Slash of Truth

Brown awoke all of a sudden, screaming psychotically as he grabbed a 9-millimetre pistol from under his torn and stained pillow. He breathed excessively as sweat fell from his chin, and his wide, bloodshot eyes darted every which way. A nightmare, once he realised that he was in his room, he slowly calmed as the nightmare faded into the back of his brain. He sighed softly as his arms went limp with his gun in his hand, laying back down as he just looked up at the peeling ceiling, a single bulb protruding from it, he could see it perfectly even in the morning dark.

Every particle, the copper wire within the bulb, even the fingerprints of whoever touched it last. In the corners of the room, he could see the organised quagmires that the spiders created. Every lines of silk connected to each other as if it was in front of him. A special gift that the brown-skinned pegasus hated. The third eye some call it, it is a very rare trait that not many have. Brown is the only one record in history to unlock it’s full potential. A man who can see the world through a clear lens.

Instinctively, Brown looked to see his alarm clock reading 7:23 am, too early yet again. He also had a half-empty glass of beer on his desk with scattered paperwork everywhere, an OCD person’s nightmare. Getting up from his bed, he grabbed the half-empty beverage and he dragged himself towards the bathroom, taking a decent swig. Almost tripping from the bottom part of the door frame, Brown grabbed hold of the old and rustic sink. Standing up properly, he stared at himself in the mirror. He almost didn’t recognise himself, the way he stood, the way he presented himself, and the way he looked at himself with emotionless, dead eyes made him believe that the light brown earthling in front of him was going to kill him. Brown felt like killing him, he thought about it but, he was too lazy to cover up the murder.

“Another day in Canterlot City, The City Of Gold, The Land Of Opportunity.” He spat as he talked to the man in the mirror, taking another pull of the bottle. “What a joke.”

Suddenly, his phone vibrated in his jeans pocket, a little tune ringing with it. Pulling out his flip phone, he opened it with practice ease and pressed it against his ear.

“What is it.” He said groggily.

“Hi Detective, it’s Tempest. We are needed at Wood Road, by the Canterlot High school.” A female voice said seriously, hearing the sound of cars passing by in the background. He sighed internally.

“I’m on my way, what’s the case?” he mumbled, leaving the bathroom.

“There have been reports of two bodies found dead. One in an alleyway and the other on the street. There are some more things I have to talk to you about but, that can wait until we meet.” She stated.

“Did you pick me up a coffee?” he quickly asked, fixing his loose crimson tie as he at least tried to look presentable.

“It’s here and it’s got your name on it. See ya.” She said before hanging up. Oh Tempest, what would I do without you, he thought before heading out, Forgetting to lock his door on the way out.

Arriving at the scene of the crime, Brown knew it was bad as the street was completely cut off at both ends, a crowd growing at both ends as pictures were being taken by journalists and nosy people. It took him awhile to push through the crowd just to get passed to the location. Getting to the front, he confronted the offices that guarded their post.

“I’m Detective Brown,” he said, showing his badge and ID. Nodding, the officer stepped aside, letting Brown pass without a fuss. Then, all the attention was on him. The paparazzi and Journalists called his name, asking questions left, right and centre about him and his personal life. Let’s just say they’re not a big fan of the detective. He’s being constantly attacked by the media for his lifestyle and his strong addiction to alcohol. Being one of the best detectives of Canterlot, they didn’t like how he was exemplified, not the model they wanted. So they attacked in the only way they know, rumours. Some made Brown chuckle. There have been some rumours that Detective Brown is a Psychopath and has been the one around these murders around the city and has been blaming others for his crimes. Some say that his special ability is fake and has been paid by the killer to cover his doings and some have said that he was a criminal before the era of magic, but because of his rare ability, the CPD is using him for their own needs. Then, there were the random ones that had no right to be so funny. Leak footage of Detective Brown with two hookers, pictures of the detective taking illegal substances with drug lords, and Detective Brown pouring the milk first before the cereal. The list goes on. Brown didn’t think too much about it, he didn’t really know what to think of it. He’s been alone for so long that he didn’t know how to feel.

Walking up the street, he watched the CDD (Canterlot Detective Department) work their magic. Pictures were being taken, blood samples were picked while it was still fresh and unicorns were trying to pick up metaphysical energy from the night. But he wasn’t interested in all that mumbo jumbo, he just needed to find his partner, Tempest.

“Detective Brown!” a woman’s voice called out. Turning to the voice, the detective saw Tempest leaning against a wall, two cups of coffee in hand and one of them literally had his name on it. Walking over to the purple unicorn, he nodded in greeting. “Good morning, get any sleep last night?” she asked, handing over the cup of hot coffee.

“Don’t ask stupid questions you know the answer to, it pisses me off.” He muttered, taking a sip of his drink.

“Hey, I was only trying to be nice, and a thank you for the coffee would be appreciated!” she scowled. He sighed.

“Your right, sorry for the attitude, you know how I am in the morning… And, well, any other time of the day, and thanks for the coffee, it’s nice.” He murmured, taking another sip.

“Thank you… I got it from it from Dim Morten’s.” she added. Quickly, he spat it out.

“In other words then, it tastes like shit,” he said, throwing the cup over his shoulder. “Let’s just get to work before I start drinking contaminated mud coffee from a Seven-Eleven rip-off company.”

“That was 3 dollars!”

“You’ll learn next time to get me that cheap shit,” he replied, walking away.

“Asshole,” she muttered to herself.

“I heard that.” He shouted from a distance. She just sighed, the familiar behaviour of the detective really getting old.

“Of course you did.”

In the ominous alley he walked into, he met the first round of blood around a white outline of where the body used to be, blood splatter on the walls and signs of struggle, Every sign of a fight and little details that Brown picked up on showing that it’s more than likely his work, Frank. A psychopathic serial killer that is Believed to be behind the murders of his first victim, Rosette he believes her name was, to send a message to the city. Then that’s where he began his rampage, the biggest amount of people he had killed in a night was 15 in a bar called St Judy’s Bar, a popular place for religious people come to socialise. That night, he recorded his dirty work and showed himself with a white, blood-stained mask with a smiley face, he introduced himself as Frank. When he heard about the news, he knew enough was enough, he had to get involved. What was his motive? What’s his goal? Where did he come from? Why now? Why here? These are questions that he is eagerly wanted answers too but, this guy knows what he’s doing. No matching blood DNA, no match found for fingerprints, he’s completely off the grid. at the end of every footage of the killer from CCTV has him leaving in all the camera’s blind spots. He is clearly no amateur, he's done his research. As much as he hated this killer's guts, he had to give him props for getting away with it, but, it stops now.

“Find anything yet? a fingerprint, a strand of hair or maybe you can hear voices in your head again.” Tempest mocked, standing by him as she strapped on some rubber gloves.

“You do know the killer we are looking for isn’t on the system, he’s Anonymous to the government. There is a strand of blond hair by that dumpster and yes, I hear voices in my head every day and every night.” He said nonchalantly, she chuckled as she went where he pointed, finding it and filing it away in a small, plastic bag.

“Nothing new then ay, have you been taking your pills lately?” she asked.

“Of course not. I don’t need them, no point in taking pills that don’t work.” He said, looking deeper into the alleyway.

“…and how did you come to that conclusion?” she raised a brow.

“The voices in my head said so.” He replied, making her facepalm.

“Of course they did.” She sighed. Silently, she just watched him as he intensely scanned the whole area with a single glance, like this whole world is one big simulation. She was always amazed every single time he used his ability. How easy life has become when she had a guy like Detective Brown by her side, he didn’t put a lot of effort into the case but, who would when all they had to do was scan, hear and envision what happened with accuracy? He’s just amazing in her eyes, a perfect detective.

“Okay, we’re done here.” He said, turning around and catching Tempest off guard as she was caught staring.

“Uhhh, detective… We haven’t checked out the crash sight. There is a dead body th-”

“Doesn’t matter, I’ve got all I need to know,” he said without turning. She deadpanned.

“Detective…” she said condescendingly.

“Tempest…” he replied back, right before turning the corner.

“Asshole.”

“Heard that too!”

Tempest sighed internally. As much as he was a genius in his own right, he was also a confusing piece of work to deal with. He never did share his info with the eager young girl; always so secretive even though they are partners. Something is going on with that guy and Tempest was growing restless about the mysterious nature.

She didn’t follow, if he wasn’t going to play fair, she might as well get the full picture the hard way.

“Time to get dirty.”

Meanwhile, at Canterlot High School, the school bell rang indicating that it was the second lesson of today and the hallway was quickly filled with students as they walked to their next lesson. In the middle of this mob were the Harmony Girls, all on edge about the sudden disappearance of their shy friend, Rainbow Dash the most affected. Rainbow Dash was feeling tense; with a human on the loose and her friend nowhere to be found, she couldn’t help but feel that something has happened or something is about to happen. She couldn’t help but imagine her friend dead on the floor in a empty classroom, in the girls toilets or in the janitor's closet. It haunted her deeply that it sent chills down her spine. She shouldn’t be worrying like this but, thanks to the human, she’s more worried while she should be pumped and ready for her sports practical lesson.

“What’s worrying your pretty little head, Dashie?” Pinkie Pie appeared behind Rainbow Dash's shoulder, seeing her trademark smile at the corner of her eye. “You look like you are in a debate whether Sunset Shimmer’s hair is made out of lasagna with red and white sauce or a quesadilla with a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over high heat. With a Sprinkle of salt, pepper and taco seasoning on the chicken. I’ve been trying to figure that out myself, you're not alone on that.” A contemplative Pinkie hummed, rubbing her chin as she stared at the back of Sunset's head. “Actually… I think I’m about to find out.” She grinned determinedly, pulling a napkin from her puffy hair as she tied around her neck, then pulling a knife and fork out of nowhere as she licked her lips.

“Don’t you dare, Pinkie!” Sunset veered around to see the pinkie girl creeping up behind her.

“Awww…” The pink girl moaned, her stomach rumbling like a monster groaning. “Anyway, what do you think?” Pinkie asked, doing a complete u-turn in her mood.

“I think your random, pinkie.” Rainbow chuckled, Pinkie’s antics putting a half smile on her face. The grin didn’t last long as she looked away with a sigh.“I’m worried about Fluttershy. She hasn’t been acting herself recently and it’s not like her to disappear from class. Sometimes I'd just watch her stare into space with a sad look. What’s going on with her?” she asked with melancholy. Pinkie frowned at this, catching Dashe's attention.

“Guess you saw that, huh… well, she hasn’t been happy for a while. I’ve tried my hardest to cheer her up. I’ve made silly jokes, I’ve invited her over to have fun, I’ve thrown her random parties just to see her smile but, every time she smiles, it’s fake… she’s really, really depressed… *sniff* and I don’t know what to do.” Pinkie Sniffed, rubbing her eyes quickly, embarrassed to be crying in the middle of her friends.

“Fluttershy… Depressed?” a shocked Twilight said, the rest of the girls stopping in there tracks as they heard the terrible news.

“After Rosette’s… Death. I’ve noticed something I didn’t see before. *sniff* but now, I think I understand, why she’s been distant, why she has been wearing a fake smile. It’s because of us.” Pinkie sobbed and was quickly grabbed into a hug by Applejack, hiding her face in her chest. They all basked in the dull silence of the group, everyone around them oblivious to their state.

“I don’t understand. How is this our fault? What did we do?” A sceptical Rainbow Dash asked, a hint of fear in her tone.

“We didn’t do anything, that’s the problem…” Pinkie said after calming down considerably as she separated from Applejack, making the girls bewildered. “Do you remember how we were after we heard the news about Rosette, we were destroyed, we were all a reck, but Fluttershy was there from the start, she comforted us in our time of need, and while we were in our own shells, Fluttershy was dealing with the pain and grief alone. Not once have we thought about Fluttershy in that time, didn’t think to check up on her. It… It makes me sick how I — we left her to mourn alone for so long.” Pinkie said sadly, all the colour in her skin and hair dulling as her puffy hair straightened. It didn’t take long for the Harmony Girls to process Pinkie’s theory but, the more they thought about it, the more it made sense. How could they — their friend — abandon such a sensitive girl in a time when everyone had to come together?

“How… I… Fuck.” Sunset whispered to herself as she covered her mouth. How could she of all people not see that her friend was hurting? “We’re fucked, heartless bastards.” When Sunset Shimmer first met the shy, young girl, she didn’t think much about her other than an easy target to bully, back when she was an utter bitch, the one that she enjoyed targeting the most because she was weak and the most vulnerable. Ever since that day when Sunset Shimmer reformed and saw the error in her ways, life was hard on Sunset, everyone still saw her as a monster, a demon under a girl’s skin. Sunset guessed that’s how Fluttershy felt after all that time of being bullied; weak and powerless but, out of the kindness of Fluttershy’s heart, Fluttershy was there for her and cared for her in them dark times. Sunset made a personal vow to always be there for her best friend. But now, that promise is broken because she couldn’t see the hurt in the eyes of the person she cared for the most. They… She needed to make things right.

“I… I did find it odd that Fluttershy of all people was the least affected by the sad news but… I now know I am wrong, terribly wrong.” Rarity added, disheartened for her friend.

“Now I just feel like a rotten apple, all this time I’ve been workin on the farm to keep my mind elsewhere. Darn it, I’m so selfish, thinking about myself like that. I should have paid more attention to my friends than my work.” Applejack said regrettably.

“Don’t beat yourself up over it, this is a lesson we will all learn from together and a lesson we will not make again.” Twilight said. Suddenly, Rainbow's fist struck the closest locker next to her, leaving a dent.

“A lesson… Are you joking right now, Twilight?” a furious Rainbow said, her rainbow hair covering her eyes slightly as she grinded her teeth, tears falling from her chin one by one. “Being there for your friend is what a friend is all about. That’s basic shit, Twilight. The way I see it, we’re just not very good friends.” She said dryly as she turned, her head down and hands in her pockets as she walked away.

As she walked away, they all stared in guilt at one another. Everyone was thinking it but no one wanted to say it in the open, but now that it’s finally said, they felt embarrassed, nefarious and the biggest jerks in this school. They had to make this right, starting with an apology.

“Rarity!” a young, girl shouted from behind the group. Turning they all saw a young pale face of Sweetie Belle, panting heavily.

“Good grief, Sweetie Belle. What’s got you in such a hurry? “ Rarity asked with worry As she approached her sister. Quickly, the little girl wrapped her arms around Rarity’s waist, taking Rarity by surprise as she sobbed into rarity’s clothes. “Sweetie Belle, what’s the matter?” Rarity said, wrapping her arms around her the best she could, trying to calm her sister down with small strokes.

“M-me and the crusaders *sniff* are looking f-for Dinky, *sniff sniff* but we can’t find her. D-do you think that...” Sweetie Belle sobbed, looking up to meet her sister’s concerned eyes as another round of tears came. Rarity got down to her little sister’s level and hugged her tightly without a word. What could she say? That her friend is fine? That it’s just a coincidence? No, how could she say that when she doesn’t even believe it herself? It’s happened before, and the bastard is still out there. As much as she hated to say it, she couldn’t deny that another young soul may have been taken away from them. When will this madness end? Who will stop this carnage?

“So, you volunteered at the Animal Control Shelter, that’s cool. Bet you’ve got a ton of stories to tell.” Joel strolled down the hallway with his new ‘friend’ at his side, amused by how quickly she pointed that fact out, must have been proud of it. He never knew she was interested in animals.

“I’d love to tell you them but, maybe later, your changing room is up ahead.” She pointed, baffling Joel for a second. Looking forward for the first time since they walked together. To his amazement, she was right. Guess he lost track of where he was.

“Oh, your right. I guess I’ll see you around, Fluttershy.” He muttered, rubbing the back of his head in chagrin as he watched her walk passed him.

“Bye.” She waved back with a happy smile, a bit of a spring in her step. Why is she so happy? She just made the biggest mistake of her life, so why is she all smiles and has no thought about how life is going to change for the worse for her? Shaking his head, he turned and entered the changing room.

When he first opened the door, he noticed something was off. The room was fine, lockers lining the room, benches in between the lockers lining in the middle, showers and the toilets in an extended room that smells like piss and sweat, standard shit for a boy's locker room but, the thing was, Joel gets here early... So why is there already someone here, sitting and waiting? For him, if the grin he wore indicated anything. Now that Joel looked at him properly, he realised he knows this kid. With his purple hoodie and his thick skin, Joel quickly identified this kid as Spike, he has been seen hanging out with the Harmony Girls but mostly Princess Twilight Sparkle for whatever reason. Spike is a bit different than the rest of the equestrians, the closest thing to a dragon with his reptilian features, a really weird kid. Joel didn’t notice at first but, this kid has always had his eyes on Joel from a distance but never did anything, but he never scornfully looked at Joel, more like in novelty. Joel didn’t think Spike hated him in such away others did, yet again, that smile he’s wearing and the photos in his hands says he’s not a friend either. What does this bastard want? They stared for a while which agitated Joel.

“Hey…” Spike finally said, the smile never leaving.

“Hey…” Joel replied dryly, leaving another pause that was really annoying Joel. “So, are you gonna tell me what you want or am I just gonna stand here with my dick in my hand.” Joel mumbled, unimpressed by the smug grin. Spike didn’t respond, content to just stare at Joel’s scarred face, taking in all his features. Spike got up and walked to Joel calmly until stopping at a respectable distance.

“Joel… Right?” Spike asked. It took Joel by surprise that he knew his name, not many knew his name. He’d often be called by his own race or some sort of insult, no one ever cared to know his name. The only two people that know him by his name was Principle Celestia and Fluttershy, so how does this fucker know.

“Yeah… That’s right.” Joel confirmed, seeing no other reason to hide his name. “What about it?” Joel asked bluntly. Spike nodded in satisfaction, his smile growing.

“I knew it… I had a hunch that it was you but, I never had a good reason to know that you were the right guy other than you a human… I guess my hunch was right.” Spike said, holding up two pictures, they were pictures of him and Fluttershy. “Now I know what I’m going to do is about to sound strange but, I’m going to give them to you.”

“Really…” Joel raised his brow. “you’re not going to blackmail me? You're going to waste a golden chance to get whatever you want from me? What’s the fucking point then?” Joel scrutinised, making Spike frown slightly.

“Well, don’t get me wrong, doing this makes perfect sense to me, stupid but it was the only idea I had come up with. It’s a token of trust, of goodwill. I don’t want to expose you or Fluttershy but, I want to earn your trust as a friend.” Spike said confidently, holding the two photos out, waiting for the pictures to be taken, but Joel never took them, instead he just looked at them with suspicion. What is this kid playing at? Joel looked up to meet the now uncertain drake.

“Trust… You want trust as a friend. You really expect me to believe that you only want to be my friend… a human? I’ve dealt with some dumbasses before but, you and Fluttershy take the fucking piss.” Joel said uncompromisingly, snatching the photos from his hand. “I don’t know why you want trust from a human, but it takes more than just handing over some photos that aren't going to be a surprise to anyone soon enough,” Joel said, turning to go to the next lane of lockers.

“W-wait… What? you and Fluttershy are going to go public about it? I would have thought you were going to stay private about it for as long as possible.” Spike stuttered in surprise, following Joel.

“I want it to stay as private for as long as possible but, nothing escapes the public eye. You are proof of that, I and Fluttershy have been friends for what… 10-15 minutes now, and you come up to me with pictures making it evident. It’s just a matter of time until we are found out.” Joel explained, unstrapping himself from his bag as he sat at one of the benches, undoing the laces from his shoes. “Now leave me alone while I get changed.” Joel dismissed, aggravating Spike slightly.

“you know what… I’ve just decided that I’m your friend.” Spike said seriously, crossing his arms, making Joel pause and look up with a deadpan.

“Seriously, you’ve all of a sudden just decided to be my mate. Do I even get a choice in this?”

“No, you’ve forced me into plan B and I won’t take no for an answer.” Spike said defiantly.

“Hard no!” Joel said Blankly, his arms crossed into an ‘X’. Spike's eye twitched.

“What do you mean no, I just said yes!”

“Motherfucker, I just said no!” Joel shouted, standing to be face to face. In the back of Joel’s head, Joel realised that he was breaking one of his rules but, for some reason, he thought it would be okay to break it for now. This kid hasn’t struck him yet so, why not push the boundaries for this kid?

“Yes, motherfucker, yes!” Spike reacted quickly as he barked back.

“No.”

“Yes!”

“NO!”

“NOO!”

“LISTEN HERE YOU PRICK! WHEN I SAY YES, I MEAN I WILL BE YOUR…” Joel stopped, he saw Spike was wearing a smug grin. Joel squinted. “…friend?” Joel finished lamely as Spike had a massive grin.

“Glad to hear it, friend! You will not regret this, I promise!” Spike stated, walking away back to his own bench with satisfaction. Joel was confused, what just happened? Did he just have a stroke? Did he just… Wait, huh? Then it hit him. Joel rubbed his eyes in frustration as he let out a long sigh.

“Spike, you’re a cunt and I hope you know that,” Joel said in his monotone voice, Spike only chuckled in victory. It was silent after that, neither Spike nor Joel spoke as they got ready in their sports kit which consisted of dark blue, silk shorts and a white t-shirt with the school’s badge stitched where the heart is. Joel’s mind was muddled. he was stressed, fatigued and his body was weak. He didn’t know what to think about Spike, an ally or foe. Unfortunately, Joel couldn’t think straight as he rubbed his eyes with a yawn. When was the last time he had a decent sleep, a week? A month? A year? He didn’t know anymore, with Frank hungry for blood and the nightmares keeping him up, he felt like a corpse moving and yet, here he is getting ready for the sports lesson.

Suddenly, the door was kicked open and a loud, obnoxious brat walked in with his crew. “Hey-o! The Wonder Colts are in the house!” Flash Sentry proclaimed to the whole of the two boys in the room. Spike just blinked and Joel just rolled his eyes.

“Erh, hey guys.” Spike greeted with a shaky smile. Oh boy, Spike thought apprehensively.

“Hey Spike, I didn’t see you in science, where we’re you?” Thunderlane asked, walking in next after Flash. Next thing, the locker was filled with chatter as all the benches were taken, all of them getting changed into their sportswear and jugging energy drinks before the practical. Joel was one step ahead of the crowd as he moved off the bench and leaned against the corner wall, head down as he minded his own business. He did keep his ears open for a conversation that caught his attention, there is a killer in this school other than him, a killer he needs to snoop out. So, he had to stay focused but, that’s easier said then done when he gets 4-5 hours of sleep and now has two ‘friends’ to think about.

“Oh, err, I was late coming into school. It was a drag getting up this morning, you know how it is on the weekends.” Spike said, making Noteworthy chuckle who was sitting next to Spike.

“Ohhh, late night ay? So who’s the lucky girl then? Is it Vinyl Scratch, heard she’s a freak in bed. Carrot Top…? Meh, she’s average. Or-or maybe it’s-”

“I wasn’t with any girl actually, I was studying for the exams this week.” Spike interrupted Noteworthy, making Cheese Sandwich’s eyes widen.

“WHAT!!!!!” Cheese yelled in cold-hearted terror. “WHEN WAS THIS???? I NEVER HEARD ABOUT THIS!!!!”

“Dude, the principal told us months ago. Even the fucking human knows.” Caramel laughed, slabbing his back in hysterics.

“Dude, it’s not funny! I can’t fuck this up! My mum will kill me!” Cheese said, scratching his skull frantically.

“Here, you can have my revision books. I’ve got all the possible answers that are most likely going to be in the test highlighted. Keep them, I’ve got it all in my head.” Spike offered, reaching into his bag and pulling out some books for math, english and science, the basic fundamentals that should be learnt.

“Oh my Celestia, Spike. You’re a living legend. Thank you, I owe you one.” Cheese sighed in relief, taking one book and skimming through it at a rapid pace.

“It’s no problem, honestly,” Spike said, zipping his bag back up.

“Wow, Spike. What happened to you? You use to be one of the boys but, you’ve changed a lot in a short amount of time. You spend more time in the books than with us. You’ve turned into a real nerd.” Dosh said, looking up from his phone to stare at Spike. Spike was confused.

“What do you mean? I’ve always been one of the boys, it’s just… I have a lot on my mind, y’know.” Spike explained, feeling a bit bleak.

“A lot on your mind? Spike, we get it. Your single now and you're sad about your ex and you're scared to have your heart broken again. But that’s no reason to avoid us sometimes. We’re your friends and you’ve been acting a real asshole lately.” Feather Bang joined in, standing up to stand over Spike with a glare.

“Guys…” Spike began to explain himself but then, he stopped. Why is he trying to explain himself to these bastards? Is he really this insecure? To not stand up to these bullies he somewhat hated. Why is he still treating them like friends? Fuck it. “You know what… your right, I am an asshole for being distant from you guys but…” Spike stood up with a glare. “You guys are even bigger assholes. I use to be one of you guys, the big, cool kid of the school who plays for the soccer team. But, then I came to see the lack of empathy you all had, all you guys want is sex, money and popularity and I don’t want any part of it anymore.” Spike stormed off to another part of the changing room. In a way, Joel was proud of Spike for standing up for himself. Not many would tell the popular kids of school to basically fuck off. People have their breaking points but, Spike must have a short temper if being called an asshole was all it took.

“The fuck is his problem?” Hoity Toity muttered as he finished getting changed and looked at the changing room's mirror.

“He’s not got no bitches so he’s taking it out on us, man he needs to get laid asap.” Flash Shrugged, also ready for the sports lesson.

“Fucking assholes,” Spike said, surprising Joel with his presents.

“Lad! What are you doing!” Joel whispered harshly, Joel’s eyes burning into Spike.

“Chill, I know what I’m doing.” Spike confidently leaned against the wall with Joel.

“What?! Screwing up your life? You don’t have to do this, what you are doing now is suicidal!” Joel said, trying to get through to Spike but, Spike had already made up his mind and he has for a while now.

“Too late for that, bud. We’re friends now, remember? I have no regrets.” Spike said with a gleeful smile and a thumbs up. Why is Spike so happy about this? Does he not know the consequences of his choice? Joel was ready to punch some sense into him but, he didn’t. Joel didn’t know why, he should save his life but, Spike said something that made Joel freeze. It sounded familiar like he had heard it before but from someone else’s lips.

“You’re still my friend, Joel.” A giddy child said, reaching his brown-skinned hand out as he stood over Joel. patches of the boy’s face were marked red and his eye was swollen as if he got into a fight, even more surprisingly, he was a human. Who was this kid and why does he feel great pain in His heart at just the thought of him? What was his name...? Why can’t he remember a damn thing?

“Err, Joel… you okay? Are you spacing out? You look like you’ve just seen a ghost.” Spike said, waving a hand in front of Joel’s face. Snapping Joel out of his thoughts momentarily.

“Oh… Yeah, yeah. I’m fine. I just… I think it was just deja vu.” Joel said complexed, rubbing his temple as a headache started to rise.

“See, we were destined to meet if you just had déjà vu.” Spike chuckled. “We were meant to be friends.”

“Yeah, whatever you say. Just… Just leave me alone before we get caught.” Joel waved off.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa! What the fuck is going on!” a familiar voice said from behind. Joel sighed.

“No turning away now, Spike.” Spike just winked.

“Not a problem, mate.”

“Spike, what are you doing with this scum?” Dosh said from behind, his boys glaring from behind him. Spike turned to face them.

“What do you care? I’m an asshole, so I’m doing asshole things. Why? Got a problem?” Spike stared back with his fist clenched and his eyes sharp as daggers. Dosh just stared indifferently until a grin grew with wickedness.

“Oh, Spike. You do realise what you’ve just done right? You’ve just ruined your own life just by speaking to this human.” He said, circling Spike. “What would Twilight think? Twilight’s little brother befriending a human. She would disown you, your friends will turn on you and you will have no one but…”

“…the human. I know what I’m doing.” Spike interrupted with a smirk. “It’s funny, I’d rather be a friend with a human than you fuckers, that really says a lot about you lot.” Flash gritted his teeth and stepped forward with full intention to beat him to a pulp.

“Your dead!” Flash shouted, his fist raised and ready to strike.

“Enough! Everyone sit down and shut it!” a commanding, muscular man said catching everyone’s attention and everyone obeyed. It was like listening to a Sargent scolding the recruits. Mr Berry was the sports teacher and footy coach for the school. The blueberry-skinned unicorn stood above everyone at a size of 6’3 and his firm body structure added to his intimidation, Joel didn’t know anything about him but, one look in his eyes, one look at his build, Joel knew this man was disciplined, modest and has seen some sort of conflict in his time. Ex military maybe? Once everyone was sitting down that included Spike and Joel, he glanced to the clipboard in his hands. “Right! Today, we are going to be playing soccer. We have 5 minutes to get everything set up and ready to go, the girls are already out there so let’s go!” Mr Berry ordered, sending everyone into a hurry to escape to the pitch.

Joel and Spike were the last two people to make it onto the pitch as they both jogged. Seeing the layout of the pitch, he saw that the pitch was divided by multiple coloured cones in the middle for the lasses in one half and the other for the boys to warm up. In that warm-up, they did 15 minutes of running around their own half of the pitch, stretches, drills and shooting. in that warm-up, Joel saw Spike get kicked, pushed and neglected of the ball, to say that Spike wasn’t happy with the treatment that he got in that 15 minutes is an understatement, Joel Briefly wondered when Spike would snap and end up killing someone. Sometimes in that short time, he would peek over to the girl's side to check up on Fluttershy. When he looked over, he noticed that she looked sad as her friends were constantly talking to her, speaking once or twice in response to whatever they were talking about. It only hit him that Fluttershy has already told them the news and is trying to convince her otherwise. Truthfully, he hoped that they had changed her mind. It’s the best that can happen before it’s too late for her.

In the girls changing room, the room was full of tension as a tornado of chatter filled the room, some tamer than others. The conversation consisted of the drama of cheating, love, rumours and other problems that sent the room into a ray of emotions. As for the Harmony Girls, they were dead silent as they were one locker away from Fluttershy. When they heard the news about Fluttershy, they had fully intended to confront Fluttershy immediately to apologise for their ignorance. Sounds easy right? It would have been if it wasn’t for the fact that in that period, they practically abandoned her at the worst time. Who would want to be a friend of a group like that? So they just sat there in silence as they were one locker away from their shy friend.

“Girls! What the hell are we doing just sitting here!? We should apologise right away!” Sunset whispered harshly, Rainbow Dash’s tapping foot making Sunset go crazy.

“Sunset’s right, the longer we wait, the more she is suffering. I can’t wait any longer.” Pinkie said seriously, her pink hair still straight.

“And say what, Pinkie? Hi Fluttershy, sorry we left you to grieve alone, can we be friends again?” Rainbow Dash said sarcastically, rolling her eyes. “If I was Fluttershy, I wouldn’t want to be friends with us as well.” She muttered.

“What are you saying? You’d rather turn us down if we did the same thing to you?” Applejack said sceptically.

“In a heartbeat, I wouldn’t want to be friends with anyone who wasn’t there for me. As far as I know, she hates our guts and is too afraid to say anything.” Rainbow Dash replied, head down and arms crossed as she basked in her own dismay.

“We're talking about Fluttershy here, not you, dear. I'm sure Fluttershy will be understanding enough to hear us out, I’m sure of it.” Rarity said reassuringly, but it didn’t help Rainbow’s mood. No matter what her friends said, she was convinced that she fucked up majorly as the Element Of Loyalty. She was meant to be there for her no matter what as her element portrays. Now she feels like scum, the lowest of the low, a human.

“We’ve got to start somewhere Dash, it’s unforgivable what we did, I know but, we have to try. We have to show her that we still care and that we are not going to leave her alone another second like this.” Twilight said to Rainbow as she smiled confidently which was not replicated by Rainbow.

“But Twilight… You really think that by saying sorry will fix everything?” Rainbow evangelised, waving her arms in annoyance.

“Of course not, but it’s a start in the right direction, it’s just up to Fluttershy whether she wants to continue this friendship,” Sunset answered for Twilight, leaving the rainbow-haired conflicted.

“I…I guess that’s the least I can do. Sorry girls, I guess I’m just ashamed to face her, to be rejected by one of my closest friends.” Rainbow sighed, rubbing her face furiously as stress upon stress started to pile up in her shoulders.

“Don’t worry, Rainbow. we’ll do this together, then maybe when we are all friends again, we can all go out after school and have some fun!” Pinkie suggested, some of her joy coming back as a small smile appeared.

“Yeah, about that Pinkie Pie, the exams are coming up soon and I can’t afford to fail.” Twilight said worriedly. Everyone deadpanned. “What?”

“Err… Twilight. You do know an A- isn’t a fail, right?” Sunset raised a brow.

“Ugh, I’m not having this conversation again.” Twilight scoffed. “Let’s just apologise to Fluttershy so we can all be friends again, okay? Okay, let's go girls.”

Standing up, the group of girls was about to turn the corner of the lockers when they were suddenly struck by nervousness. They just froze as the weight of the situation just hit them like a train as they watched the sitting form of their friend, with her long pink hair covering her face as her head was facing the floor, the girls around her absentminded to her mood. It broke all the girl's hearts to see Fluttershy like this. One by one they moved closer as with each step, their hearts started to beat faster and faster until they felt like bursting. Rainbow was the worst as she felt her stomach tie a knot and little droplets of tears appear at the corner of her eyes, she felt like she was going to be sick.Some stopped what they were doing and watched the group slowly make their way to Fluttershy with confusion.

Sunset was no better, as she got closer, she soon realised that she didn’t know what to say or where to start to apologise, it was like the lack of air she was getting was taking all her thoughts away. Her mind was just blank as she continued her walk of shame as she held a breath that she didn’t know she was holding.

Pinkie Pie however had hope that the friendship she had with Fluttershy was strong. With everything that had happened and saving the world not once but twice, why wouldn’t it be? From day one they were friends and they have held that bond for a while now, so why would it end here? But, Pinkie always had this niggling feeling in her pinkie finger, a pinkie sense that she has never felt before, and it was starting to hurt with each step closer to Fluttershy.

Applejack, Rarity and Twilight are calm, freaking out in the inside but was calm on the outside. They had to be otherwise they would be a crying mess when it came to apologising to Fluttershy.

In Fluttershy’s head though, it was blank. She made a deal to her newest friend to cut ties with her old friends, and she agreed. It breaks her heart knowing that she has to do this, but how? Does she tell them straight off the bat and rip it off quickly like a plaster? Does she ignore them until they get the point? Or does she wait until she is seen with Joel? She didn't know the best way to do this. She felt her eyes water up she sat with her head down, resting her head on her intertwined fists. Then, her thoughts changed to her friends in general. How much they had changed over the passed months with the clothing, the smoking, the vulgar language and the sex. But, the abuse they casually bring to Joel is unacceptable. That’s what she hated the most about her friends, the pain and suffering they bring to him just because he is a human is unsanitary. They had all picked up the habits of the Wonder Colts and it’s scary how quickly too. She was ashamed that she had picked up some of their habits too but, she was trying to be her old self where life was amazing but, things will never be the same, only because her friends will never be the same. That’s why… She has to move on, to look onward to the future before she starts to change for the worst too. It’s something she hated but, maybe it’s for the greater good.

“H-hey Fluttershy… Are you okay?” a meek voice said in front of her, making her slowly look up in dread, and meeting Twilight's nervous smile with the rest of the girls behind her with similar expressions.

“Oh… Hi Girls, I’m fine… Just thinking.” Fluttershy weakly smiled for a moment before looking away as guilt flooded in like a crumbling dam.

“Oh, okay… well, Do you have a moment to talk? It’s kinda important.” Sunset murmured, rubbing her arm anxiously. Fluttershy frowned at this, hearing the sadness in her voice made her heartache.

“Yes… I-I have to speak to you girls too.” Fluttershy looked back warily “it’s important too.”

“Of course, we are here to listen to whatever you have to say but, we’ll like for you to hear us out first… Please.” Pinkie stepped in and Fluttershy noticed her somewhat straighten hair which could only mean that she is greatly saddened, it was like a knife through Fluttershy’s heart seeing this. Fluttershy just waited with a frown, which unsettled the girls. They were so used to seeing Fluttershy with a graceful smile that could brighten the darkest of people, so used to seeing the shy girl blush every time she would get embarrassed or flustered. They hardly see that anymore, now that they thought about it, they don’t really see her smile at all.

“Fluttershy…” a sniffling Rainbow Dash said as she made her way to the front. “We’re sorry, Flutters…” Rainbow cried out, lungeing in as she tightly wrapped her arms around Fluttershy in a vicious hug and for a second the yellow pegasus had a spark of hope. “You was left alone in your darkest hour and we didn’t think to check up on you at all. I know a sorry won’t solve anything but, all we want is a second chance to show you that we are not the rats that you think we are so please, give us one more chance?” The desperate rainbow haired girl pleaded, sobbing into the crook of Fluttershy’s neck. Fluttershy arms stopped as she was going to hug Rainbow back but, that spark of hope was disintegrated. For a moment, Fluttershy thought she was going to apologise for everything she did against the human, for every punch and every kick that the human took, every slur that was venomously uttered from her lips. No, she wasn’t at all, she rather cry about nonsense. What was she even talking about? What darkest hour? Rosette’s death? Of course, the pain of her passing was horrible and had affected Fluttershy immensely but she never blamed the girls, she never once thought that the girls were in the wrong, not once. They were all going through the same thing as Fluttershy. How on earth have they got this idea that they were to blame for the pain of Rosette’s death? If anything, they should beg for forgiveness to Joel who they truly hurt the most. Fluttershy's arms went limp as she refused to hug her best friend as her frown deepened into a scowl that felt unnatural to Fluttershy.

“Dash… I… I’m sorry, I…I don’t want to be your friend anymore.” Dash’s crying stopped in an instant as she quietly gasped in utter shock, her eyes wide as she went stiff. It wasn’t the fact that Fluttershy said it, but it was the way she said it. She said it with such malice that for a second, Dash thought someone else had spoken them words. Rainbow’s world was destroyed as felt her whole body tremble as she tried to process what she had just said. Rainbow tried to speak, but what could she say? Rainbow tightened her grip around Fluttershy, but when Fluttershy gently pushed Rainbow Dash away, Rainbow felt so weak to cling on to her, every muscle in Dash’s body turning into jelly.

“Fluttershy... I-”

Suddenly, the door was slammed open and a loud whistle was blown in the changing room, catching everyone’s attention and cutting off Rainbow Dash.

“Right girls, no dilly-dallying! Let’s get ready to play some soccer and show the boys what we're made of!” Spitfire barked through a megaphone as she stood in the doorway with the trademark sunglasses. Almost everyone roared with inducement and they all cheered to the double doors that leads outside. Fluttershy saw the opportunity to get away from the situation and took it and she followed the horde of girls, leaving a stunned Rainbow Dash and confused and worried elements.

“What—just happened, Rainbow?” Applejack enquired, asking the question they all wanted to know. Rainbow didn’t turn to face them, she was too horrified to believe what had just happened. Her friend, her first and true friend had just cut ties between the Harmony Girls and herself.

“Girls… We fucked up… Big time.”

After the warm-up was over and done with, all the cones from the middle were picked up and Mr Berry called every boy and girl over with his obnoxiously loud volume. Once everyone was together except Spike and Joel that lacked behind the group, he appointed both Spitfire and a sober Rainbow Dash to his side as team captains of the two teams of blue and red bibs ironically enough, Joel could only hope that fate was kind enough to put him on the red team. Up the reds! Mr Berry chose carefully who to choose between the experience players and the students that have never played so the teams are fair. Joel had watched one or two school footy matches and, he was surprised at how good the team is with all fairness. They all have skill to some degree and they all get stuck in when the effort is needed, playing at a fast pace on and off the ball but, Joel can see different problems with different individuals. For example, Rainbow Dash is a striker for the first team: has insane speed, and can take powerful shots with accuracy, put her through on goal, and she will score all day long but, she has her downfalls — her attitude when she doesn’t score, she gets tackled, the opposition scores; she can be compared to being a baby. Her dribbling is fine but not the best, she just doesn’t pass and she doesn’t press to win the ball back. In her head, her job is just to score goals which she does really well but, her work ethic needs improvement. But, that was his personal opinion, Joel didn’t know the squads tactics or system they play at so, she might have been told to stay up top and wait for the ball.

The teams were quickly made by Mr Berry, all fairly divided by the senior team and the students. The team with the red bibs were playing in a 3-4-3 system with Noteworthy in goal, Caramel, Bom Bom and Comet Tail in defence. On the left mid was Spitfire and on the right was Applejack with Tender Taps and Lyra in the middle of the two. Last but not least, Soarin was on the left wing, Shining Armour on the right wing and Feather Bang was the striker. That was the starting 11 for the red team. Joel, Apple Split, Spike, Fire Streak, Mr Berry, etc were on the bench.

For the blue bibs, they played in a defensive 4-3-3 formation with Braeburn in goal, Pinkie Pie playing as a left back and Fleetfoot on the right with Big Mac and Sun Burst in the heart of the defence. In the middle were Sunset, Dosh and Vinyl Scratch and upfront are Flash Sentry on the right wing, Rainbow Dash as the striker and Double Diamond on the left. On the bench for them were Thunderlane, Cheese Sandwich, Star Gazer and Emerald Green. There were a lot more students that could have partaken in this match but, because of the upcoming exams, he allowed students to sit out of the match to study or just to watch the match that included Twilight, Rarity and Hoity Toity sitting out as well as Fluttershy who sat on the opposite end of the stands, completely missing the sadden looks Rarity and Twilight were given her.

The rhythm of the game was a bit shaky at the start as the ones that don’t usually play were having a hard time getting stuck in as they looked afraid of the ball, sloppy passes and couldn’t keep the ball at there feet. The senior players however didn’t have any trouble of doing what they do best.

***
For those who don’t know the roles for football, here you go!

(Defence

GK=Goal Keeper
LB=Left Back
RB=Right Back
CB=Centre Back

Midfielder

CM=Centre Midfielder
CAM=Central Attacking Midfielder
CDM=Central Defensive Midfielder

Forwards

RW=Right Winger
ST=Striker
LW=Left Winger)

***

6’ BLOCK! Sunset retrieved the ball from a goal kick as she was being marked by Lyra but shrugged her off with ease as she passed it down the right side for Flash to chase. With Flash's pace, he outran Bom Bom but, she was quickly covered by Caramel as he slide-tackled for the ball when Flash caught up, putting the ball out of play for a throw-in. Caramel just winked as Flash pulled up the finger as the game was getting competitive.

19’ Lyra (CM) and Bom Bom (CB) were subbed off for Spike (CB) and Fire Streak (CM) as the two girls came off sweating and panting.

21’ GOAL!!!! it was a corner for the Red team as Spitfire was ready to cross the ball in, with speed and a bend to the cross, the ball was perfectly placed onto Soarin’s head making it 1-0 to the red team as he slotted it to the left side of the goal, Braeburn had no chance as he dived. The girls in the stands cheered as Soarin ran by, blowing kisses and waving to the girls who wore blushes. Rainbow noticed that and made her upset mood into one of frustration and anger.

26’ FREEKICK! Applejack cursed under her breath as she gave away a foul as she took down Dosh as she tried taking the ball from just outside the 18-yard box. Rainbow Dash was the free-kick taker and there where three people in a wall to block the shot: Spike, Applejack and Shining Armour. Rainbow took a deep breath and closed her eyes. Just like she practised, hit the ball on the inside of the foot and curl it in the top corner. But, the thoughts of Fluttershy filled her head with negativity. Rainbow wasn’t too sure she could do it. Rainbow has never scored from a free kick, so why did she think she could now?

“You can do it, Rainbow Dash!” a familiar young voice cheered. Rainbow turned to the voice in surprise and what she saw made her eyes widen slightly. It was Fluttershy… A younger version of Fluttershy when they first met in school, waving a small wonder colt flag and shirt as she wore a massive grin. Rainbow could remember that Fluttershy like it was yesterday; in the stands where she sat as Rainbow was going to take the final penalty of the penalty shootout. It was a big moment for Rainbow Dash as this penalty would decide who would win the School’s Champions Cup. Of course, Rainbow felt all the pressure but, when she heard her friend's joviality, Dash was focused and like that, Canterlot High School had won their first soccer trophy in 12 years. Now, as that little girl started to fade, in her place was the present Fluttershy who watched and stared back at Rainbow as a neutral bystander. Oddly enough, knowing that Fluttershy wasn’t glaring at her with every step she took helped her somewhat calm down. Rainbow wasn’t on her game ever since the shocking news but, knowing that Fluttershy isn’t cursing her name has put her mind into perspective. Looking back at the ball and up at the target she wanted shoot at, Rainbow ran up and took her shot with a bend and power. The ball was off by an inch which allowed Noteworthy’s fingertips to push the ball away from goal but it wasn’t enough, the ball hit the inside of the post and deflected into the 6-yard box which was tapped in by Vinyl making it 1-1. The crowd went crazy as Vinyl celebrated her first-ever goal while the crowd called her out by her DJ stage name. Rainbow stood still from where she took the free kick. That was the closest she had ever gotten to scoring a free kick and she was okay with that. She turned back around to see Fluttershy, she could have sworn she saw the side of her mouth rise into a smile but, she quickly looked away before Dash could confirm it. Friend or not, Fluttershy will always support her, Dash realised, and with that, she could bare it.

38’ Vinyl (CM) and Double Diamond (LW) are subbed off for Cheese Sandwich (LW) and Emerald Green (CM), with Vinyl leaving happily with her goal, running to meet a certain grey musician.

41’ GOAL!!!! Playing from the back, Pinkie passed it forward to Sunset in a quick pass-and-go as Soarin was pressing for the ball. With Pinkie running down the line, Sunset was holding off Tender Taps and made the pass back to Pinkie who collected it. When Pinkie looked up, she spotted Rainbow making a run through the middle of the defence, Caramel Clinging to her as he struggled to keep up. Sending the ball over the top with a long pass down the middle, the ball landed right in front of Dash. With the ball now at her feet, Dash had a quick look up to see where the keeper was and took her shot. The keeper once again touched the ball with his fingertips but it wasn’t enough as the ball hit the back of the net, making it 2-1 to the blue team. To add insult to injury, the powerful shot of dashes had bent Noteworthy's middle finger back enough that it had broken his finger. Noteworthy instantly took his glove off and inspected the finger and he cringed at the sight of its bent form. As Rainbow was celebrating with the rest of the team, Mr Berry noticed that Noteworthy was on his knees and holding his wrist as he was looking at his finger. Mr Berry immediately got up from the bench and ran over. Mr Berry walked Noteworthy off and had Apple Split to take him to the infirmary. Looking on the bench for the red team, he scanned over his choices.

“Right! Who wants to be the keeper?” Mr Berry asked, his hands on his hips. Joel looked down the line of students that shook their heads rapidly as they didn’t want to go up against a mighty shot of Rainbow Dash. Joel sighed and raised his hand as he stood up. The crowd booed seeing this but Joel didn’t pay any mind, if he was being honest with himself, he was more scared of Applejack’s shots. Mr Berry grinned and handed over the gloves that Noteworthy wore. Taking them and jogging over, Joel did a quick gesture of clenching his fist and touching his head, chest and two shoulders, kissing the fist then pointing to the sky in a silent prayer. Fluttershy looked on worried as she knew Joel had a somewhat broken hand and he was about to play in goal. She mentally screamed inside as Joel jogged to the goal.

41’ Noteworthy (GK) is subbed off for Joel (GK) due to injury.

45+1’ SAVE! Flash lets the ball run for Dosh and he just tees up Cheese Sandwich on the edge of the box. He curls a great effort on goal and Joel watches it all the way before pushing it over the bar at his far post for a corner. The first save from Joel. Fluttershy flinched as she saw him use his hand and fall on his side as he landed. The crowd however, booed and cursed the human’s name.

HALF TIME — 2-1 to the blue team.

An incredible turnaround from the blue team as they see a comeback from behind to lead team red 2-1 at half-time. The reds started brilliantly and got their reward when Spitfire cross looped in of a corner. In the 26th minute, a lovely free kick that was saved but the trouble wasn’t cleared as Vinyl found the back of the net before Rainbow Dash finds herself on the scoresheet minutes before halftime!

The two teams gathered into their own group, Spitfire barking at the red team as she called them out for sloppy passes, getting control of the ball. She demanded them to use everything they got on the pitch as she refused to be bettered by her rival, Rainbow Dash. Bom Bom (CB) and Mr Berry (RW) were also coming on for Shining armour (RW) and Tender Taps (CM), changing the formation into a 4-3-3 like blue team.

In the Blue team group talk, Rainbow Dash praised her team for their hard work but pointed out a few issues that needed to be fixed. Star Gazer (CB) and Thunderlane (CB) are coming on for Big Mac (CB) and Sunburst (CB).

Up in the stands were students chattered about the human with disdain. Why was the human allowed to play soccer? It's insane! Fluttershy sat in silence as she just listened to the bickering going on around her. It annoyed her to no end how people believe humans should be banned from taking part in sports and other events. Now that she thought about it more clinically, humans couldn’t do much with their life. Most humans don't have an education, a job, shelter, or government support, They aren’t even allowed to vote. That begged the question of how is Joel a student of this school?

“Hey, Fluttershy.” Twilight voice caught Fluttershy’s attention. She turned to see Twilight, Rarity and Hoity Toity approach her as they sat awkwardly beside her. Well, Rarity and Twilight did, Hoity Toity sat down next to Rarity with his bored expression.

“Oh… Hey.” Fluttershy replied, looking away to the pitch.

“Fluttershy… We are here to personally apologise. It was wrong of us to leave you to handle your depression all by yourself.” Rarity said, putting her hand on her shoulder.

“Yeah, and we heard that… You didn’t want to be are friend anymore… Did you really suffer that much? I mean, we were all suffering, the whole school was but-”

“You don’t get it…” Fluttershy interrupted making Twilight sputter. “I’m not depressed because of Rosette’s passing. It was never about that, I had come to terms ages ago that she is dead!” Fluttershy said a bit miffed.

“Then… Then what’s the problem? Why don’t you want to be friends with us anymore? What did we do?” asked Rarity, perplexed.

“Let me know when you find out.” Fluttershy stood up suddenly and walked to the other side of the stands, leaving the girl's jaws loose.

“What’s her problem?” Hoity Toity muttered, lazily staring at Fluttershy’s backside. With that being the end of that, the two teams swapped sides of the pitch for the next half of the game.

“Oi, Spike!” Joel called for his new friend as Spike was positioned as a left-back. Spike turned his head as Joel walked over to him.

“Yo, what’s up?” Spike asked, finishing his stretching. Some people in the stands stopped and stared in disbelief as Spike and Joel spoke back and forth in a quick conversation. After snapping back to reality, Twilight heard the shocked mutters from the crowd and looked around to see what all the fuss was about. Then she saw it, Twilight’s heart stopped beating as she saw Spike and the human conversing.

“No no no no NO! SPIKE!” Twilight Screamed, her heart hammering in her chest as she stood up in a sudden jolt. Spike didn’t hear the scream but, he did realise the pitch was full of mutters and sneers. Looking around, everyone was staring at him and Joel with revulsion and vexation. Fluttershy however, could only watch in awe as they both talked. Spike, a quiet boy who had kept to himself lately was speaking to Joel like a friend. Fluttershy couldn’t help but chuckle to herself. There was finally someone who didn’t hate humans but, of all people, Fluttershy didn’t expect it would be Spike. Then, she briefly wondered if more people in school didn't hate humans like Spike and herself.

“Ay, are you listening?” Joel said, snapping his fingers in Spike’s.

“Huh? Oh, yeah. I’m listening.” Spike said.

“Good, now you do know how to handle Flash right?” Joel asked, looking in the distance as he spotted Flash glaring as he stood ready.

“Of course, all he has is pace, shouldn’t be a problem for me.” Spike dismissed, smirking cockily.

“All he does is make them runs down the right-hand side and always tries to cut in onto his left foot to shoot. He always does that, if you keep him on the right side of your body, all he will do is cross the ball in. He’s dog shit if you think about it.” Joel analysed.

“Like I said Joel, all he has is pace. I know how to keep him in my back pocket.” Spike laughed as he raised his fist. With a smirk, Joel met Spike’s fist with his gloved one as Joel walked back to his goal.

45’ Kick off.

52’ WHAT A SAVE! Joel produces a brilliant stop to deny Rainbow Dash! Emerald Green releases the Striker through on goal with only the red keeper to beat! She tries to slot a left-footed strike past Joel, but he gets the smallest of touches with his hand to push it past the post! A huge moment in the game that could have finished the game off!

59’ OFF THE BAR! Red team have really picked up the pace after the wake-up call from the Red team’s captain. Applejack bundles through the blue’s defensive third, before laying a pass-off for Feather Bang on the left side of the area. The latter's powerful shot seems goalbound, but instead strikes the crossbar and bounces away to relative safety!

61’ SUPER SAVE! An incredible display by the red team’s goalkeeper! Everyone’s jaws dropped by the stop by Joel that denies the blues yet again, after Cheese Sandwich delivers a cross to the back post from the left and Rainbow Dash thunders a close-range header at goal! Somehow, the goalkeeper acrobatically claws it away and over the top of his goal. Truly, a world-class save! His clean sheet remains!

62’ ANOTHER SAVE! Another stop from Joel from a corner - this time shutting out Sunset at his near post - keeps reds in the game! Sunset opted to shoot from tight on the right byline, when she perhaps could have pulled the ball back for a team-mate. Could it be that she has this strong urge to score passed this human? It’s no secret that she has history with humans.

65’ STRONG CHALLENGE! The blue team are causing all sorts of problems on the counter as Flash bursts forward down the right again. Spike was there to the rescue as he knocks Flash off the ball and is passed back to the red’s keeper's safe feet! Now, this is more like it! The game has just begun as things are heating up!

71’ PENALTY! Mr Berry wins a penalty for the reds after drawing a foul from Braeburn! The forward is quickest to react after the goalkeeper parries the ball and he is impeded by Braeburn!

72’ GOALLL!!!! 2-2 Feather Bang!! Feather Bang makes no mistake from the spot and puts the reds level with there rivals! He slots the ball into the bottom-left corner and Braeburn cannot save it despite diving the right way! This game keeps getting better and BETTER!

75’ BIG CHANCE! The blues are relentless after the equaliser! The ball breaks kindly for Cheese Sandwich after a miscommunication between Applejack and Comet, but the winger loses his balance and shoots over the bar! Blue team is getting fired up!

79’ HUGE CHANCE! Rainbow Dash is put in behind by a long ball from Thunderlane and she beats Caramel in a foot race before reaching the box. She tries to go for goal but doesn’t anticipate Spike to come in from her left and stick a foot out and block the shot, sending them both tumbling! An excellent piece of defending from Spike yet again!

This isn’t good, Joel thought as he watched the play. Spitfire is trying her best to keep her team in formation but, with everyone knackered. There’s not much she could do as there were only two red subs on the bench. The blue team pushed the red team into their half as the red team defended like it was the world cup finals. The blue team was relentless; every time the red team got the ball, the blue team always won the ball back, and every pass was met with a run. The creativity of the blues midfield was too much as every ball they played almost ended up as a goal, if it wasn’t for the last-ditch defending or save from Joel. Spike kept his word, he had Flash in his back pocket but, Rainbow Dash is too much for Caramel and Bom Bom. The pace and her ability to shrug off the defender were unreal. It would take a miracle to keep his clean sheet.

Fluttershy was so indrawn in the game that she couldn’t keep her eyes off it. She never felt so exhilarated so much by a simple sports lesson but, here she is, secretly rooting for Joel as he did everything he can to stop the ball from ending up at the back of the net. In Pinkie’s terms… Fluttershy was nervicited!

80’ Feather Bang (ST) and Comet (RB) are subbed off for Tender Tap (CB) and Lyra (RB)! Red team are happy with a Draw and is ready to park the bus as they play in a back five in a 5-3-2 formation!

82’ RAINBOW PUTS IT WIDE! Flash delivers a cross into the penalty area from a standing position, picking out the run of the rainbow-haired striker. Splitting Caramel and Bom Bom, Rainbow Dash leaps to get her head to the ball but turns it the wrong side of the post! A rare miss for Rainbow Dash! Can the blue team score with less than 10 minutes to go!?

86’ GOOD SAVE! It's well worked through the middle by the blues, with Rainbow sliding it between the two defenders to pick out Cheese Sandwich’s run! He nudges Bom Bom out of the way before poking it towards goal, but Joel smothers the shot away with ease, which infuriated the left winger! They just can’t seem to score passed the human!

87’ HUGE SAVE AGAIN! Soarin plays a loose pass and it gets intercepted by Fleetfoot, who starts a counter-attack. The ball pinballs around the right wing before finding its way to Dosh in the middle of the box, but Joel closes the angle down in a 1 on 1 and makes another big save for the reds. This human is a brick wall!

90’ BIG CHANCE! The ball rebounds its way around the Red’s penalty area before falling to Flash. The winger shoots with his right foot but Spike once again blocks it well with his feet! Spike and Joel putting in a shift in tonight and will see it through till the end!

90+2 CLASH! Sunset played a lovely pass-and-go with Flash Sentry as Sunset laid the ball of down his side as he chased for the ball a few yards ahead of Spike! Flash quickly pulled it back and spotted Rainbow on the edge of the box! With a hard and low pass to his target, Rainbow couldn’t control the ball as she took a heavy touch! Bravely Joel slide down to collect the ball but at the same time, Rainbow followed through, kicking the keeper right in the gut as a loud, pained groan came from the human! The keeper is not getting up! In a moment of unsportsmanlike behaviour, Rainbow stood over the human with delight and spat on him as she walked away.

Joel couldn’t breath, it actually terrified him how he couldn’t find any air as he laid there like a fish out of water. He could hear cheering, chanting Rainbow’s name over and over again, he could hear Spike f-ing and jeffing as he was arguing with someone. Idiot, doesn’t he know that he’s going to get twatted everywhere if he doesn’t keep his mouth shut? Joel didn’t care about that though, as he lay there breathless, he had a smile. It’s not every day he would play football, never mind a match. The closest thing he had to football was the matches he watches on tv and the Tattoo he wore on his left arm. To actually play again… It was fun, it was exhilarating, it was panoramic and it was competitive. Today, wasn’t a bad day after all. Joel turned his head towards the noise of the bickering and there he saw, Spike going off on Rainbow Dash who looked confused more than anything. He was being held back by Spitfire who blocked his way as she tried to calm him down. Joel could only wheeze as he attempted to chuckle. He guessed Spike was an alright guy after all. Looking up at the stands though, he spotted a pink-haired pegasus with her hands clasped over her mouth as tears formed in the corners of her eyes. Why is she crying? Can’t she tell I had fun? That was the last thought he had before blackness claimed him.