Chapters Five girls stood nervously in front of Canterlot High. Lemon Zest’s jacket and dress were blowing in the wind as she was bobbing her head to her loud music. Sunny Flare sighed and tapped her on the shoulder. Lemon ignored her and started dancing to the music, ignoring the looks from the CHS students walking up the stairs into the school to begin their day. Groaning, Indigo plucked the headphones off and shut them off mid song.
“Hey!” Lemon shot her a glare. “Gimme em back!” Sugarcoat pushed her glasses up.
“You’re going to go deaf with how loud they are,” she stated dryly.
“You’ll get them back after we discuss if this is the best option,” Indigo snapped as she held them above her head as the shorter pink girl jumped and tried to get them.
“And not so loud dearie,” Sunny pointed out.
“Because we would totally hate for you to not hear us anymore,” Sour Sweet said in a honeyed tone. “Because you definitely listen to us all the time!” Resigned, Lemon quit trying to get her headphones and started tapping her foot.
“Are we sure this is the right course of action?” Indigo asked, a fraction of nervousness breaking through her carefully built mask of nonchalance.
“Well, it’s too late to reconsider,” Sunny pointed out. “Dean Cadence and Principal Celestia already accepted our transfer requests to this school.”
“Isn’t it kinda weird how she still goes by Dean even though she is the principal?” Indigo asked. Lemon shrugged.
“I guess so. Apparently she’s more comfortable with Dean instead of the title of Principal,” she said as she started clapping her hands.
“Can you go five seconds without making some form of noise?” Sour demanded. Lemon propped a finger on her chin.
“Hmm nope!” She shouted. A girl tapped her on the shoulder and she turned around to look at her. A grey girl was holding a basket of muffins out to her.
“Muffin?” The girl offered with a shy smile. Lemon grinned and took it, taking a bit. Her eyes lit up after she swallowed it.
“Wow! These are spectacular!” She exclaimed. “Do you make these?”
“Mhm,” the girl answered. Shrugging, the other former Shadowbolts took a muffin and started eating theirs. They all gave the girl incredulous looks.
“These are pretty good,” Sunny Flare smiled at her sweetly. “What’s your name, dear?” The girl shuffled her feet nervously, staring at the ground.
“Derpy,” she finally said. Indigo grinned and wrapped an arm around the girl, making her squeak.
“Thanks for the muffins, Derpy. I was starving!”
“They had a lot of blueberries,” Sugarcoat stated. Derpy shrugged and Indigo slapped her on the back of head.
“Why are you so nice to us?” Sour asked.
“Everybody deserves kindness,” Derpy explained with a grin. “Even former rivals.”
“Derpy!” A mint girl shouted, running up to her with a cream girl. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you!” She skidded to a stop and glared at the five girls. “What are they doing here?” She pointed an accusing finger.
“We go to school here now,” Sunny explained. The mint girl snorted and rolled her eyes.
“Likely story. You’re probably here to vandalize what remains of our Wondercolt statue,” the cream girl growled.
“Lyra! Bon Bon!” Derpy chided. “Be nice, everyone deserves respect. Even them.” She gestured to them. The two girls flinched and shared a look between each other.
“I don’t trust them,” Lyra finally said. Bon Bon crossed her arms and looked away.
“Me neither,” she agreed. Derpy sighed.
“If I can trust them, so can you.” The new Wondercolts stared at her in shock, Lyra and Bon Bon stared at her too.
“We respect you, Derpy,” Lyra stated as she rubbed the back of her head. “But they’re Shadowbolts.”
“Technically we’re Wondercolts,” Sugarcoat pointed out.
“Let’s go Wondercolts!” Indigo shouted, enthusiastically pumping her fist in the air. Lyra rolled her eyes at that.
“If you say so,” Lyra grumbled as she tried to steal a muffin. Derpy smacked her hand. “Hey! I haven’t had breakfast!”
“You were mean to them. No muffins for you,” Derpy stated firmly. Lyra groaned and Sour shot her a smug grin.
“We can go get breakfast from the cafeteria,” Bon Bon grabbed her hand. “Let’s go. See you in Algebra, Derpy.”
“Bye Bonnie!” Derpy waved as the two girls walked into the school, shooting a distrusting look back at the five girls with Derpy.
“Why do they hate us so much?” Lemon mused.
“Well to be fair, we did beat them countless times and vandalize their statue,” Sugarcoat stated.
“Thanks Captain Obvious,” Sour Sweet grumbled.
“What are your names?” Derpy asked with her big smile.
“I’m Indigo Zap,” Indigo told her. She pointed to each of her group. “That’s Lemon Zest, Sunny Flare, Sugarcoat and Sour Sweet.” The first two smiled and gave her eager waves while the last two gave her barely noticeable nods.
“Nice to meet you,” Derpy grinned. “What classes do you got?” She focused on Indigo and Sunny Flare, who seemed to be the spokespeople for the group. Lemon Zest snatched her head phones when she saw her chance and shoved them in her bag.
“Uh first hour is science, then math, history, english, gym and woodworking” Indigo told her.
“Algebra, history, science, english, tech theater and gym,” Sunny announced.
“Music, history, english, woodworking, chemisty and physics,” Lemon admitted.
“I have chemistry, biology, english, history, dance and math,” Sugarcoat stated. The group stared at Sour Sweet and she groaned.
“Chemistry, architecture, history, english, math and music,” she grumbled.
“I didn’t know we had architecture as a class,” Derpy admitted.
“It’s new according to Vice Principal Luna,” she stated. Derpy grinned eagerly.
“Me, Indigo and Sunny share english class. I have chemistry with Sugarcoat and Sour Sweet and physics with Lemon,” Derpy said excitedly.
“Excellent,” Sunny smiled. “If you’ll excuse us, we really need to get to class.” Derpy nodded as she started walking up the steps.
“See you all later!” She waved as she opened the door and disappeared in the school. Sunny straightened her skirt and smoothed the wrinkles.
“She’s scarily nice. Wonder what she wants,” Sour mumbled. “People are only that nice if they want something.”
“Or maybe she’s naturally nice?” Lemon offered. Sour snorted at that and rolled her eyes.
“Nobody is naturally nice,” she pointed out. “Everybody always wants something, no matter who they are.” Indigo shrugged as as she lead the others up the stairs, adjusting her backpack.
“Well we can worry about that later,” she said confidently. “Let’s face the day, Wondercolts!” Sour face palmed.
“God kill me now,” she mumbled as she walked into the school. The talking in the hallway ceased as the other students stared at them and started whispering, pointing.
“They’re pointing at us,” Sugarcoat pointed out as she adjusted her glasses and brushed some dog hair off her dress.
“Brilliant observation. Did you figure that out on your own?” Sour snarled, then smiled. “I appreciate it, Sugarcoat. Sincerely.”
“Hey!” Sunset grinned as she walked up. “Glad to see you guys took my suggestion seriously and transferred.”
“Cinch was a bit much afterwards,” Sunny admitted as she gave her a hug. Sunset returned her in confusion.
“Didn’t she get fired?” Sunset questioned. Indigo inhaled.
“She did but it took a bit before they did so and find a replacement. The three weeks after were a living hell and by the time they announced her replacement was Cadence, we all had put our transfers in and they got accepted. Besides, we had already talked about coming over here for a bit do we didn’t bother trying to change their minds,” she explained as she adjusted her goggles.
“Where’s the other Rainbooms?” Lemon looked around.
“In our band room. We’re getting some practice in before class,” Sunset explained as she patted her guitar. “I was just headed there.”
“Can we uhm come with?” Lemon asked hopefully. “It was cool after you helped us with the music video thing.” Sunset shrugged and smiled.
“Sure why not?” She lead them around some glaring students and into a room nearby. “Hey, guys. Look who I found.”
“Hey y’all,” Applejack tipped her hat as she strummed her bass.
“Hi,” Sugarcoat waved.
“Indigo!” Rainbow exclaimed eagerly as she set her guitar down and highfived her.
“Nice to see ya Rainbow!” Indigo grinned.
“Hello darling. You look absolutely stunning!” Rarity looked over Sunnys magenta dress.
“You as well,” she smiled at Rarity’s comment and took in her purple dress.
“Wanna hear a song?” Rainbow eagerly asked.
“Sure?” Sour shrugged.
“What song? We haven’t wrote any new ones,” Sunset pointed out and Rainbow shrugged.
“I’m in the mood for shine like rainbows,” Rainbow admitted.
“Okay then,” Sunset shrugged as she picked up her guitar.
“Once upon a time, you came into my world and made the stars align,” Applejack sang as she played her bass.
“Now I can see the signs, you pick me up when I get down so I can shine,” Rarity took over.
“Shine like rainbows,” the group sang and Lemon started bobbing her head with a grin.
“Friends, you are in my life, and you can count on me to be there by your side,” Rainbow sang and played her guitar that Indigo could only describe as intensely.
“And when the music comes alive, we sing our songs to lift us up so we can shine,” Sunset took over and smiled.
“And the sound that we hear in our hearts, makes a crescendo. And the light that ignites in the dark, it makes us all glow. And shine like rainbows, we shine like rainbows, shine like rainbows. Together we stand, as the rain begins to fall and holdin’ our heads up high as the sun shines through it all,” the Rainbooms sang in unison. A bright glow made the new Wondercolts cover their eyes as the other girls ponied up.
“And the sound that we hear in our hearts, makes a crescendo. And the light that ignites in the dark, it makes us all glow. And shine like rainbows, we shine like rainbows, shine like rainbows,” they repeated and finished the last few notes of their song.
“Excellent song and message dearies,” Sunny clapped.
“Thank you,” Rainbow bowed.
“Where’s Twilight?” Indigo realized one was missing and looked around. Sunset sighed and rolled her eyes.
“She’s a bit nervous about seeing you all again,” Sunset admitted.
“Oh,” Indigo’s expression fell as did Sunnys.
“We were awful to her,” Lemon admitted. Sunset stepped forward and placed a hand on her shoulder.
“So was I. Remember, I yelled at her after the motocross event,” Sunset reminded everyone in the room.
“Absolutely terrifying,” Fluttershy mumbled.
“Ah thought Ah’d never seen the old Sunset again. For a minute, she was back,” Applejack agreed.
“It wasn’t that bad. Not like how it could have been. I could have yelled at her like I did to the princess version,” Sunset disagreed. The Rainbooms stared at her.
“Okay, it was bad,” Sunset admitted sheepishly.
“It was like a return to the dark ages,” Rainbow announced. Everyone stared at her in surprise. “What? I didn’t have my phone when Harshwhinny went over that topic that day.”
“Surprised you even paid attention,” Sugarcoat said dryly. Applejack snickered at that and hid it behind her hand when Rainbow glared at her. A loud wet sound came from the back of the room and Rainbow turned her glare to the two girls making out.
“Sunset! Pinkie Pie! Get a room that isn’t where I’m at!” Rainbow snapped. Indigo and Lemon Zest burst out laughing. The two girls stopped kissing and stepped away, cheeks burning bright red.
“Sorry,” Sunset rubbed her head.
“I didn’t even know they were dating,” Sunny admitted in surprise.
“We just started dating,” Sunset smirked nervously.
“Like, last week!” Pinkie shouted. Everyone except Lemon was affected by the loud sound. She gave Pinkie a fist bump and a grin.
“Ah a new relationship,” Sunny cooed. “How adorable.”
“I think its adorable,” Rarity agreed.
“You only think that because you planned everything out and they wore the dresses you made,” Rainbow scoffed. Rarity looked offended at that.
“I find it adorable that two of my friends are finding love with each other!” Rarity snapped.
“Oh sweet god,” Applejack grumbled. “When are you two gonna quit?” She gestured at the former Shadowbolts. “This ain’t a good first impression.”
“Technically we’ve met before,” Sugarcoat corrected. Pinkie rolled her eyes and giggled.
“You sound just like my sisters boyfriend!” Pinkie giggled.
“Is that a good thing or a bad thing?” Sugarcoat asked. Pinkie shrugged and leaned up close to her.
“Up to you to decideeee!” She sang. The bell rang and everyone jumped.
“Shit! That’s the five minute bell! Gotta go. Bye!” Rainbow shouted as she took off into the hallway. Laughing, Indigo followed and everyone went to their respective classes.
Sour grunted as she slammed down her lunch tray and sat at the lunch table. Her companions gave her a worried look. Sugarcoat sighed and pushed her glasses back up and continued to eat her pasta.
“Are you okay?” Rainbow asked around a mouthful of food. Sunny and Rarity gave her disgusted looks before eating their own lunch. Sour rolled her eyes before eating.
“I am fine,” she announced in a tone that suggested the opposite of fine. Applejack narrowed her eyes.
“Ah know ya are lying,” she announced and Sour glared at her while Indigo chuckled.
“She called you out instantly,” Indigo smirked. “How did you know she lied so fast?” Sunset swallowed a drink of her water.
“It’s the magic from Equestria. Applejack represents Honesty, Fluttershy represents Kindness, Rainbow is Loyalty, Rarity is Generosity and Pinkie is laughter,” Sunset explained. “I represent Empathy. Oh and in Equestria, Starlight represents Peace.”
“What about Twilight?” Sunny leaned forward. Sunset and the Rainbooms looked to each other and shrugged.
“We have no clue,” Sunset admitted. “In my world, she’s Princess Twilight and represents the element of magic.” Sugarcoat stared at her.
“Princess of what?” She asked and adjusted her glasses.
“Princess of Friendship,” Sunset said helpfully.
“Wow,” Indigo mused. “Didn’t see that coming from the Twilight I know.”
“Technically she’s not the Twilight you know,” Sunset corrected. “She’s one of the four leaders of a sovereign country. She’s fought off Tirek, the Changelings, Discord and the Sirens.”
“Fascinating,” Sugarcoat mused. “What is a Tirek?”
“Yeah, what is that?” Applejack asked. “You’ve never told us either.”
“Magic stealing centaur. Hellbent on taking over Equestria. I wasn’t there for that thankfully. Or the Changelings infiltrating Princess Cadences wedding. Or Discord.”
“Whoa now. Hold the phone, everyone stop,” Sour Sweet rubbed the bridge of her nose. She stared at Sunset. “Princess Cadence?”
“Mhm,” Sunset ate the rest of her salad.
“Weird,” Sunny muttered and Rainbow chuckled.
“Weird usually follows Sunset around,” she smirked.
“I’m sitting right next to you. Pick your next words very carefully,” Sunset warned. Indigo snickered at that.
“Anyway, ya didn’t tell us what’s bothering ya. So spill,” Applejack focused on Sour with such an intense look she felt a bit of sweat starting to form. She thought only she could give looks like that.
“I’m having a hard time trusting the students here,” she admitted. “Not like I ever trusted the ones at CPA. But here they’re overly nice. Like that Derpy girl, she’s been giving me and the others muffins everyday since we got here. Can’t help but wonder what she wants.”
“To give you muffins?” Rainbow offered. “She’s been like that for as long as I can remember, we went to middle school together. She’s a nice girl. Just extremely misunderstood.”
“Why is her eye you know?” Sunny hesitanted.
“Different looking?” Rainbow shrugged. “She got hit by a car after she pulled her sister out of the way in eighth grade. She was in surgery for like three days nonstop.” Indigo gave an impressed whistle. She gave a wave to the girl who walked past with a younger girl with blond hair.
“Damn. I don’t think I could have been able to do that,” she admitted.
“I would have done it for Scootaloo,” Rainbow exclaimed. “In a heartbeat.”
“Who on earth is Scootaloo?” Sunny asked.
“Scoots! Cmere!” Rainbow shouted across the lunch room. The girl limped her way over with a eyeroll. Rainbow gave her a one armed hug. “This is Scootaloo.”
“Uhm hi?” Scootaloo flicked nervous glances at the older girls staring at her. “Why am I here?”
“Meeting some of our friends,” Rainbow explained. “This is Indigo, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, Lemon Zest and Sunny Flare.”
“Uh okay? Why am I meeting a bunch of ex Shadowbolts?” Scootaloo wanted to know. Sour scoffed and crossed her arms, looking away.
“Scoots! Be nice,” Rainbow chided.
“Sorry,” Scootaloo rubbed the back of her head. “Kinda hard to accept you all a bit, after the Games and all.”
“It’s quite all right dearie,” Sunny reassured her. “If our positions were swapped, I’d be feeling the exact same way.”
“I suppose it is justified,” Sugarcoat shrugged.
“Can I go back to hanging out with Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom please? Are we still on for soccer next week?” Scootaloo asked with a hopeful grin. Rainbow ruffled her hair with a grin of her own.
“Yeah, go back to your friends. And we’re on for soccer next week still. Thanks, kid.” Scootaloo waved as she limped back and Rainbow sighed.
“Soccer huh?” Indigo asked with a grin. “Little sister?”
“Mentorship but we call each other sisters,” Rainbow explained. “And yeah, I teach her soccer. She’s good at it.”
“If it’s not too much trouble, could I tag along?” Indigo asked hopefully. Rainbow shrugged as the bell went off.
“Yeah sure.”
“Move it,” Lightning Dust snapped as she gave Lemon a shove. The pink girl slammed against the locker and rubbed her sore shoulder. Lightning smirked as she opened her locker and started shoving books into her bag. She slammed it shut and her eyes flicked to the girl who was bobbing her head to music still like nothing happened. Lightning rolled her eyes and walked away and slammed into Indigo’s chest. The two girls glared at each other with clenched fists.
“Watch what you do to my friend,” Indigo snapped as students watched the altercation quietly.
“Why should I care?” Lightning retorted as she walked around Indigo. Indigo instinctively tripped the other girl and she faceplanted. She shoved herself up and glared at Indigo.
“You need to watch your back,” Lightning said softly in a threatening tone.
“I really am not scared of you,” Indigo shot back as she folded her arms.
“You should be,” Lightning told her as she disappeared into a crowd of students heading for the doors. Rolling her eyes, Indigo turned back to Lemon.
“You good?” She asked and Lemon nodded, giving her a thumbs up. She opened her locker and grabbed her bag, quietly shutting it.
“Thanks by the way,” Lemon sighed as she slipped her headphones off to the surprise of her companion.
“No problem,” Indigo mumbled as she and Lemon walked out the school.
“What are your plans after school?” Lemon asked.
“Well, Rainbow and Scootaloo added another soccer day to this week so I can go play with em. What about you?” Lemon shrugged.
“Play some video games, maybe the drums. Or sleep. Or eat pizza,” Lemon stated with a grin.
“Fair enough,” Indigo waved as she headed towards the soccer field. “I’ll see ya monday.”
“See you around,” Lemon grinned as she started to walk home. Indigo smirked as she watched Scootaloo score another goal.
“Nice kick kid,” Indigo said as Scootaloo spun around. Indigo and Rainbow snickered.
“She’s gotten way better,” Rainbow agreed.
“Only because of you helping me,” Scootaloo hugged Rainbow. “Especially after what me and my friends did.” Indigo looked at the two in confusion.
“What are you talking about?” Indigo asked.
“Nothing,” Scootaloo said hastily. Rainbow sighed and rubbed the bridge of her nose.
“She’s a friend. Tell her the truth,” Rainbow instructed.
“Fine. Me, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle may have framed Sunset and leaked everyone’s secrets on the internet,” Scootaloo admitted.
“Why?” Indigo asked incredulously.
“We were jealous. I didn’t want to help at first but I just wanted to hang out with Rainbow. It took her a bit to forgive me but here we are,” Scootaloo sighed.
“In a way, I’m to blame also. I should have paid more attention to your feelings,” Rainbow told her.
“I probably wouldn’t have forgiven you if I had a sister who did that,” Indigo admitted. “At least you know it was wrong and won’t do it again.” Rainbow nodded with a smile.
“She’s a good kid who made a mistake. Sunset even asked for them to be shown leniency. Now enough depressing stuff, Let’s play soccer!” Rainbow shouted with an eager fist pump and grin. Indigo gave a grin as she jogged to the goal. Her grin grew bigger as Rainbow passed the ball to Scootaloo who gave the ball a powerful kick to Indigo. Indigo jumped up and held the ball close to her stomach, falling to the ground. She tossed the ball to Scootaloo who caught it.
“That was a good attempt!” Indigo encouraged her. “Let’s see what else you got.” Scootaloo nodded as she and Rainbow went to the other side of the field. She started running towards Indigo with the ball before she passed it to Rainbow. Rainbow gave it a hard kick and Indigo barely caught it. Indigo gave a smirk and kicked it to Rainbow. Scootaloo gritted her teeth in frustration. Rainbow gave her a grin.
“Ready?” Scootaloo nodded and matched her grin.
“Ready.” Rainbow and her started kicking the ball back and forth. Rainbow kept control of the ball till she got close to Indigo.
“Scootaloo, take it!” She kicked it to Scootaloo who took a risk and kicked it at the goal. Indigo jumped for it and it flew past her fingers into the goal. She laid stunned on the ground before standing up, laughing.
“That was impressive kid, you got skill!” She grinned at Scootaloo. “You too Rainbow.”
“You really think I’m good?” Scootaloo asked with a blush. Indigo’s grin got wider.
“Well yeah! I haven’t seen someone play that well in years.”
“That means a lot, coming from the captain of all the Shadowbolts sports teams,” Scootaloo admitted. Indigo frowned and placed a cautious hand on her shoulder.
“I’m a Wondercolt now,” Indigo reminded her. “I’m not a Shadowbolt anymore. And I don’t plan on being one ever again.” She removed her hand and switched to a smile.
“I’m sorry. It’s so hard to get used to,” Scootaloo admitted.
“I can believe that,” Indigo chuckled.
“It was hard for me too at first,” Rainbow sighed. “But I totally support it now. Especially since Sunset and I came up with telling you guys after she suggested it.”
“It was hard for my parents too,” Indigo rubbed her shoulder. “But all our parents supported it. I know Sour Sweets mom and dad were on board. Sunny Flares were the hardest to convince.”
“I can believe that,” Rainbow chuckled. “You ever think about joining the soccer or softball team?” Indigo shrugged nervously.
“I’m not sure that’s a good idea. They probably won’t accept me. I don’t even know who’s all on the team.”
“Cloudkicker, Cloudchaser, Flitter, Lightning Dust, Sunset, Fleetfoot, Spitfire, Aria Blaze, me and Shoeshine,” Rainbow said helpfully. Indigo narrowed her eyes.
“You expect me to believe you’re conveniently down a player right after you suggest I join?” Indigo asked pointedly.
“Uh yes?” Rainbow asked nervously as Scootaloo watched the altercation. Indigo sighed and rubbed the bridge of her nose.
“I’ll think about it okay?” Rainbow brightened up. The two girls shook on it.
“Deal!”
“What are we doing here?” Sour demanded as Fluttershy knelt down and stroked a cats fur.
“I volunteer here. You said you needed a friend, so I took you to the animal shelter. So many cute dogs, cats and bunnies,” Fluttershy explained as more cats brushed up against her leg. She let out a giggle at the feeling. “Here, hold one.” She held out a tabby kitten to Sour. She nervously looked at it.
“I uh don’t know,” she admitted. “I’m not sure how.” Fluttershy stood up with the kitten.
“Open your hands,” she instructed. Sour hesitated before doing so. Fluttershy placed the cat in her hands. “Now slowly bring her to your chest.” Sour complied and put the cat to her chest. She flinched when the cat licked her neck. “Aww, she likes you.” Fluttershy beamed.
“She’s....cute,” Sour allowed a faint smile to cross her face. “What’s her name?”
“Marcee.” Sour hesitated before petting the cat.
“Do you like her?” Fluttershy asked hopefully as she picked up a cat of her own and started petting him.
“Surprisingly yes,” Sour admitted. “I can’t believe i said that about a furball. I prefer dogs.”
“You can keep her and take her home,” Fluttershy suggested with an eager smile.
“I’m not so sure. She is adorable,” Sour scratched the cat behind her eats and smiled a genuine smile at the purring sound. She set the cat down gently who started rubbing against her leg.
“She’s attached to you,” Fluttershy argued as she and Sour started walking outside to go home. Sour paused and looked between her and the shelter.
“Screw it,” she shrugged and walked back inside. “I’m getting that cat. Marcee please.” Fluttershy gave a smile and nodded. She handed her a pen and a piece of paper.
“Need you to sign this. It’s a legal document so answer honestly,” Fluttershy warned her as she disappeared behind a door. She chewed the end of the pen as she scanned the document. She sighed an starting filling out the paper. Mainly just where does she live, what’s her phone number. She finished writing and set the pen down, cracking her knuckles. She smiled as Fluttershy came out the back with the cat in a cat carrier.
“Here’s the paper,” Sour announced as she handed it to her.
“Thanks. Here’s the cat,” Fluttershy held her out and hesitated. “Got your state id or drivers license?”
“Yeah,” Sour sighed in frustration and handed her id over.
“Thanks.” Fluttershy disappeared into a officer nearby and printed out a paper. She handed Sours id back with a smile.
“Can I go home with Marcee now?” Sour eagerly asked.
“Yes,” Fluttershy mumbled. “Just remember to feed her, give her water, litter box, change it out very often otherwise she will find new areas in the house to use the bathroom. Oh and toys.”
“Do you want to come help me find some toys and food for her?” Sour startled herself by asking.
“I’d love to.”
Lemon sighed in frustration as she stuck her pen in her mouth, chewing on the end. She stared in growing frustration at the math test sitting in front of her that she had yet to start. So far, all she had wrote on it was some drawings at the top. She pressed the pen to the paper before moving it away and slamming her head to the desk with a groan.
“Pretty annoying, right?” A girl next to her wearing a red beret, black top and red skirt whispered to her.
“Got that right,” Lemon whispered back. “I hate math, it’s my worst subject. I’ve just been drawing.”
“Me too,” the girl snickered quietly. “Can I see your drawings?” The two girls quickly swapped papers after making sure Cheerilee wasn’t watching. “Wow. Good stuff.”
“You as well,” Lemon admitted. “I like the skull on the top.” She admired the skull drawing surrounded by roses. “Lemon Zest, who are you?”
“Watermelody,” she replied quietly, glancing quickly at Cheerilee reading a book. “Stop by the art club after school and we will talk.” The two swapped papers again and started writing.
“Lemon Zest! Watermelody! No cheating,” Cheerilee stood at the two girls desk after having snuck up on them.
“Sorry Miss Cheerilee,” Watermelody said.
“Both of you take your papers to the principals office and do your test there please.” Sighing, the two girls nodded and stood up after gathing up their belongings, heading for the door. The two walked quietly to the office and slipped in.
“Drawing again in class?” Raven asked without looking up from her computer.
“Again?” Lemon stared at Watermelody. “How often do you get sent down here?”
“Often,” she answered with a smirk. “I enjoy drawing.”
“You should focus more on your math. We have art class for a reason,” Celestia chided from her open office. Watermelody scoffed at that.
“I’m not gonna be a math teacher when I grow up. I’m gonna an artist, math is stupid and will not help me achieve that goal,” Watermelody shot back. “The only important classes here is drama, art and history of art.” Celestia sighed in frustration.
“I have to go cover for Harshwhinny. Use my office to do your test and you can return to class after,” Celestia stood up and left the office. Shrugging, the younger girls sat in her office.
“What school did you go to?” Watermelody asked as she stared at her test.
“Uh Crystal Prep,” Lemon admitted nervously. Watermelody snapped her fingers.
“That’s right! I remember seeing you in the gym before the Games started and during the Games.”
“Yeah,” Lemon sighed and rubbed her head. “We were awful. Especially to you guys and Twilight. I guess we all got caught up in winning and Cinchs overly evil personality.”
“I remember. I was there when she turned into that scary demon thing like when Sunset did that. I almost fell into the hole in the ground,” Watermelody shivered at that.
“Why didn’t you compete in the Games?” Lemon asked as she started to doodle.
“I didn’t get picked for the team because of my failing math grade. I would have liked to though. The baking competition would have been a fun art one,” Watermelody shrugged.
“Uh it’s baking? How is that art?” Lemon propped herself up with a hand under her chin.
“Art is subjective. It’s all up to the person who views it. Plus, Pinkie baked the Mona Lisa INSIDE of her cake. That right there is true talent,” Watermelody explained with a grin.
“That was impressive,” Lemon admitted. “I still don’t know how she did that.”
“Me neither,” Watermelody agreed. “But I can respect the skill.”
“We should probably finish this stupid test,” Lemon groaned. Watermelody gave her a smirk.
“She didn’t say we couldn’t do it together. All she said was finish our test.” Lemon thought for a second and grinned back.
“I like how you think.”
---------------------------------------------------‐---------
Lemon nervously slipped her backpack on and stepped into the classroom Watermelody told her was the art clubs meeting room. She looked around nervously the room at the people drawing or modeling with clay.
“Lemon!” Watermelody gave her an eager wave and a grin, quickly walking over. “You came!”
“Well yeah. I said I would,” Lemon smirked.
“Let me introduce you to everyone,” Watermelody announced. “Listen up, you all!” The others stopped and gazed at her expectantly. “This is Lemon Zest, she’s a new member.”
“Hi,” a light ceruleanish grey girl waved. Watermelody pointed at her.
“That’s Mystery Mint, that’s Scribble Dee, Velvet Sky, Sweet Leafs, Blueberry Cake, Bright Idea and Cherry Crash,” Watermelody announced as she pointed to each one as she named them off.
“I know you,” Blueberry stared at Lemon with an unreadable expression. “You were a Shadowbolt.”
“I was,” Lemon admitted. “Not anymore. Not a place I wanted to be in life.”
“We’re aren’t here to discuss our past,” Watermelody quickly intervened. “We’re here to be bonded by our love for art.” The other clubmembers nodded and went back to their projects. Lemon looked around in curiosity at the occasional laughing students.
“This is such a different environment from Crystal Prep,” she mused aloud.
“We try,” Watermelody grinned as she plopped down at a table and picked up a pencil. Lemon sat down next to her and watched as the girl quickly drew a dragon breathing fire.
“Wow,” Lemon stared in awe. “That’s great.” Watermelody slightly blushed.
“Thanks,” she slid a paper and pencil to Lemon. “Wanna draw something?”
“I don’t know what to draw,” Lemon admitted as she stared at the pencil in front of her.
“Well what usually inspires you?” Watermelody questioned.
“Music. Preferably loud rock music and rap,” Lemon answered eagerly with a grin. “Beastie Boys, Hollywood Undead, Hush, Tech N9ne and others.”
“I have no idea who those are,” Watermelody admitted. “If music inspires you, listen to some. You got headphones.” She gestured to the headphones sticking out of the bag.
“Okay!” The others in the room watched the altercation out of the corner of their eyes. They watched curiously as Lemon started bobbing her head enthusiastically drawing, occasionally glancing at Watermelody and the others. An hour went passed.
“Done!” She said enthusiastically as she set her pencil down and grinned, rubbing her hands together.
“Let’s see it,” Watermelody announced as she leaned over her shoulder, pressing against Lemons back. She tried her hardest to ignore the feeling of the other girls chest as the others looked the drawing over.
“Wow,” Mystery said in awe. She smiled at the hyper realistic drawing of all of them in the room doing their projects. “That’s incredible.”
“It’s okay,” Lemon admitted as she slipped her headphones off.
“It’s better than okay! It’s spectacular!” Watermelody grinned. “I want a copy.”
“Me too,” Scribble Dee piped in with a smile.
“Wanna join the club?” Watermelody asked hesitantly.
“I’m a former Shadowbolt,” Lemon reminded her. “The others won’t want me here.” Watermelody folded her arms across her chest.
“I’m the founder of the art club. It’s my decision who to allow in,” Watermelody stated firmly.
“Besides you’re cool,” Cherry Crash pointed out.
“So?” Watermelody focused on Lemon. “You in?” Lemon grinned at her.
“I’m in.”
“Do you always meet here?” Sunny asked as she stirred her milkshake before taking a sip.
“Yeah,” Rainbow confirmed. “We’ve been meeting here since middle school.” She sipped her own and contently sighed.
“This is our favorite place,” Sunset piped in. She sighed and stared at a couch.
“Are you good?” Lemon asked around a mouthful of her cookies and cream milkshake.
“Yeah,” Sunset said distractedly. Applejack followed her gaze and let out a sigh of her own.
“Ya know, we’re sorry about bringing up ya past,” Applejack told her.
“I know. Doesn’t make the memory any less painful.”
“What past?” Sugarcoat asked.
“Remember what happened to the ending of the Friendship Games?” Sunset asked and the others nodded.
“After the Fall Formal, I turned into one. It was a less than stellar experience for us all,” Sunset sighed. The Rainbooms shivered at the memory.
“And we were all like Sunset turning into a monster this and then being all like no offense and she’d lie to us by saying none taken!” Pinkie exclaimed as she slurped her shake.
“Yeah it sucked,” Sunset sighed. “But I accept the jokes now. Hell, I make a few. Just kinda hard to ignore every now and again.”
“So I heard you joined the art club last week,” Indigo changed the topic, looking at Lemon.
“Yeah it’s pretty cool. Watermelody asked me to join. I stayed after school to hang out with the club one day after we hung out in Principle Celestia’s office,” Lemon nodded.
“Why were you in her office?” Sour asked.
“Cheerile sent us up for cheating. In all reality we were sharing the drawings we drew on our papers and gave our papers back to each other when Cheerilee caught us.”
“That’s good,” Sunny smiled. “I’ve been too busy studying for my tests to talk to anyone other than you all.”
“Watermelody is nice,” Rarity agreed. “She’s super looking forward to going to Camp Everfree next week with us all. Are you guys going?”
“Yes!” They all said in unison.
“Me too!” Applejack grinned. “Ahm gonna forage, sleep in the wilderness.”
“You do realize they supply us with shelter, right? Rainbow pointed out.
“Ah still plan on foragin.”
“I’m just gonna study a bunch of insects,” Twilight mumbled softly, casting a nervous glance at the others across from her. Indigo and Sugarcoat gave each other a look after catching them look Twilight gave their group.
“You okay there Twilight?” Indigo asked hesitantly.
“Why wouldn’t I be?” She asked, eyes flicking around her.
“You’ve been distant recently,” Sugarcoat pointed out. Twilight sighed and sipped her milkshake.
“Can I be alone with Indigo and the others please?” She asked.
“Sure sugarcube,” Applejack pushed her chair and dragged Rainbow to a different table. Rarity squeezed her shoulders reassuringly as she followed.
“What’s up?” Lemon asked.
“I’m nervous around you all,” Twilight admitted. “You guys bullied me a lot. Lemon didn’t really do much to me but she did help force me into releasing the magic along with you all and turn me into that ugly thing. It’s why I’ve been avoiding you all.”
“I’m sorry,” Lemon mumbled.
“We all are,” Indigo piped in, staring at her milkshake.
“It was fucked up,” Sugarcoat agreed. Sunny stared at her in shock. “What? I don’t sugarcoat anything.”
“I know I just didn’t expect that language so...randomly I guess,” Sunny admitted.
“Anyway. It was wrong of us all and we know that. We should have stood up against Cinch,” Sour sighed. “That witch is crazy!”
“Got that right,” Indigo agreed. She focused on the nervous girl across from her. “If you don’t feel comfortable around us, we understand. I hope you can forgive us one day.” Twilight took a deep breath.
“I want to try. So the others want to invite you to a sleep over tonight.”
“That’s adorable,” Sour cooed. “If we were freaking seven!” Sunny elbowed her under the table when she saw Twilight’s hurt expression.
“I’m in,” Indigo announced.
“Me too,” Sunny and Lemon said in unison.
“I suppose I could,” Sour grunted with a smile. They stared at Sugarcoat who wore an uncharacteristically nervous expression.
“I will try,” she sighed and stood up. “I’ll go get my stuff right now.” Twilight nodded and gave the Rainbooms a thumbs up.
“They’re in!” She announced. Rainbow grinned and gave a fist pump. Sugarcoat pushed the door open and started walking. Walking past all the downtown buildings till she got to the bus stop. She tapped her foot impatiently till the bus came into view and stopped in front of her. The doors opened with a hiss and she stepped aboard, showing the driver her card and took her seat. She watched out the window was the bus passed multiple houses and made multiple stops before reaching hers. She climbed out of her seat and stepped off.
“Have a good night,” the bus driver told her as she gave him a brief nod and pushed the door open to her self and groaned quietly at the smell of alcohol.
“Where ya been bitch?” Strong Arm demanded. She made a face at the alcohol on his breath.
“Out with friends. I’m getting clothes because we have a sleepover tonight.”
“And you’re not even gonna ask me for permission?” He slurred out. She sighed.
“Can I please go to a sleepover with my friends dad?”
“Yes,” he answered with a smug grin. “When ya hoe mom getting home?” She sighed again and straightened her glasses.
“Mom has been dead for three years now. Remember? I found her.”
“Bullshit! She’s at work and is coming home!” He stumbled back to the living room and Sugarcoat sighed, walking up the stairs to her room. She thought about the day she found her mom in the garage and quickly pushed the memory out of her mind for the time being. She really didn’t want to think about that moment right now. She started shoving pajamas, shirt and pants for tomorrow along with her intimates. She slipped out the house and hopped on the bus before it took off.
“So what do you guys do now?” Indigo asked as she sat crosslegged on Sunset’s bedroom floor.
“Typically video games, order pizza, card games, gossip, then sleep,” Rarity explained as she did Sunnys nail polish.
“Gossip about what?” Sour asked.
“Anything. Like how Octavia may or may not have gone on a date with Bulk Biceps. How Lightning may have a steroid addiction,” Rarity told her. Indigo looked away and rubbed her shoulder at that.
“Wait, I thought Octavia was dating Vinyl?” Rainbow looked confused.
“She is,” Sunset confirmed. “Lyra and Bon Bon told me. They were doing a surprise party at Vinyl’s house and watched the two make out on the front steps.”
“Damn,” Rainbow muttered. “Never saw that coming. Surprised that happened. I heard Octavia was really shut in and her mom didn’t let her leave the house unless it was school or cello.”
“Did you hear about the shouting match between Diamond Tiara and Silverspoon?” Pinkie asked.
“I was there,” Sunset told her. “Something about not following Diamond’s drama anymore.”
“Good,” Rarity scoffed. “The amount of times Sweetie Belle has ran home crying because of those two bullying her is too much to count.”
“Same with Bloom,” Applejack agreed.
“And Scootaloo,” Rainbow sighed. “I suggested she fight Diamond and stand up for herself. I wouldn’t condone fighting but sometimes bullies only understand one language.”
“Of course you would suggest that,” Rarity grunted.
“She’s right though,” Indigo sighed. “Sometimes you just gotta stand up for yourself. Let them swing first, it’s self defense afterwards.”
“Scootaloo already has a limp Dash,” Fluttershy pointed out. “It could be worse if she fought Diamond.”
“I know,” Rainbow grunted as she stood up. “Piss break.” Rarity glared at her.
“Don’t need to be so crude,” she rolled her eyes.
“Other than gossip, what do you do?” Sugarcoat asked.
“Well watch movies sometimes,” Sunset smirked. “Twilight is currently the champion so she picks.”
“Champion of what?” Indigo asked eagerly.
“She beat all of us in our monthly video game competition,” Fluttershy explained. “I was surprised she beat Rainbow and Sunset.” Indigo and her friends stared at the blushing purple girl in shock.
“That’s so cool!” Indigo cheered. “We gotta play sometime, Twi.”
“If you want to lose,” Twilight mumbled. Indigo smirked and raised an eyebrow.
“Someone is feeling confident,” Indigo taunted playfully.
“So heroin, so cocaine, so ketamine, promethazine, so x, so wet, so thorazine, so morphine, so dope that they wanna have sex.” Everybody in the room stared at Lemon. The girl was dancing in the corner with her head phones on. Sour groaned and snatched the head phones off her head.
“Lemon! You’re rapping again!” Sunny snapped. The girl turned a bright shade of red and slumped against the wall.
“Sorry?” She sheepishly offered. Pinkie grabbed the headphones and started bobbing her head.
“Wow! I haven’t heard this song in ages!” Pinkie shouted way too loudly for the room. Lemon stared at her in mild surprise.
“You like Tech N9ne?” Lemon questioned with a raised eyebrow.
“Well duh! Me Rainbow and Vinyl listen to him like all the time after school!” Pinkie tossed the headphones to Lemon.
“Epic!” Lemon grinned. Rainbow shook the water off her hands as she walked into the room.
“What are we talking about?” She asked as she sat down on the floor on her sleeping bag.
“Rap,” Rarity said with disinterest.
“If I wasn’t exhausted after practice today, I’d be more excited.”
“We start the sports events against Manehatten University tomorrow don’t we?” Fluttershy asked nervously.
“Yup,” Rainbow groaned.
“The what?” Twilight asked.
“It’s a bunch of sporting events we play against each other. It’s fifty fifty with who wins but they’re stepping their game up recently. Literally and figuratively,” Rainbow grumbled.
“Another loss,” Applejack growled as she slammed a fist into her open palm.
“Not anymore!” Rainbow grinned mischievously. “I got the schools spirit up when we played in the Friendship Games and I’ll do it again.”
“This won’t end well,” Sunset announced.
“Oh yes it will,” Rainbow argued.
“What are ya gonna do?” Sugarcoat asked.
“You’ll see.”
“I know some of you all think we might not stand a chance again this year against Manehatten University today but we will,” Rainbow announced. Indigo, her former Shadowbolts and the Rainbooms sat on the bleachers surrounded by other students.
“What is she doing?” Twilight demanded. Sunset rolled her eyes with a smirk.
“Doing what Rainbow does best.”
“Manhattan University students are super athletic, super smart, and super motivated. But there’s one thing they aren’t. They aren’t Wondercolts!
“She is literally reusing this song from when she hyped up the students before the games,” Rarity moaned. “So unoriginal.”
“But effective,” Sunset retorted.
“There’s other schools, but none can make those claims. Together we are Canterlot, come and cheer our name. This will be our year to maintain our streak.”
“We’ll always be Wondercolts forever
“She’s motivational,” Indigo mused.
“We’re not the school we were before,” Rainbow grinned.
“Before!” Indigo and her friends jumped at the other students in the gym joining in, including Sunset and the other Rainbooms.
“Yeah we’re different now,” Rainbow kept grinning. “We overcame the obstacles we faced.” Three signs depicting Sunset, The Sirens and Twilight flipped over. Twilight looked away in shame and Sunset gave her a hug.
“Overcame the obstacles we faced.” Indigo looked around curiously.
“We’re Canterlot united and we will never bow!” Rainbow tossed her band hat into the air and a girl caught it. Sour Sweets eyes widened slightly when she saw and recognized the girl.
“No way,” she said.
“What?” Applejack asked.
“I’ll tell you later.”
“Get ready to see us keep first place!” Rainbow shouted eagerly as she tossed some ears and tails into the crowd, putting hers on. Sour and Sunny stared at the ones that fell at their feet. Hesitantly, they put them on. Indigo stared in surprise at Lyra and Bon Bon grinning enthusiastically next to Derpy wearing their own tails and ears.
“We’ll always be Wondercolts and our time has finally arrived, cause we believe in the magic of friendship and you know at the end of the day it is we who survive,” Rainbow and the girl leading the band leaned against each other and raised their fists. “At the end of the day it is we who survive!” Sour surprised the others by stomping her feet enthusiastically with a grin.
“What? It’s catchy!” She defended herself with a blush.
“This is so crazy!” Sunny exclaimed. “You would never see anything like this at CPA! It was mainly Cinch threatening everyone.”
“We are unique,” Applejack chuckled. “Why do you have in interest in Baton Switch, Sour?”
“Because she’s my sister.”
“I didn’t know you had a sister,” Sugarcoat stared. “Wait, why did you go to cpa and she go here?”
“Because when I was a stuck up jerk at CPA, I degraded and bullied her for choosing to go here. She chose to live with our grandparents who live nearby. It was a mistake and we haven’t talked since,” Sour sighed as the students calmed down and started leaving the gym.
“Well, you can apologize to her now,” Sunset smiled. “She’s right there.” She pointed to where the girl was glaring with crossed arms and tapping her boot against the floor. Gulping, Sour walked up to her.
“H-hey sis. Been awhile,” Sour stammered.
“It has,” Baton said coolly.
“How have you been?”
“Fine. And you?” Baton asked cautiously.
“I’ve been better,” Sour sighed.
“I noticed,” Baton admitted. Sour gave her a surprised look.
“Really?” She asked.
“Yeah. Guess I’m not a stupid Wondercolt like you said,” Baton mumbled and Sour flinched and quickly looked down.
“I’m sorry about that. It was wrong of me. You’re anything but stupid. Hell, you’re in charge of the band and have Rainbow’s respect,” Sour sighed again. “Just wanted to say that, I’ll get out of your hair now.” She turned around and took a step away from her sister.
“Wait,” Baton called out and she froze. “I didn’t say leave.” Sour turned around in surprise.
“Really?”
“You’re my sister. Sure, the things you said to me hurt but I never stopped loving you. That’s what siblings do. I shouldn’t have ran away to live with Grandma and Grandpa when things got hard,” Baton stepped to her.
“You actually still care about me? You don’t hate my guts?” Sour stared at the other girl. She was even more surprised when Baton hugged her. She cautiously returned it and smiled.
“If I hated you, I wouldn’t have waited for you to come talk to me. I would have left the gym after the song. Which I’m surprised it’s still able to hype people up, I thought it would have lost it’s meaning after the Games. Guess I was wrong.”
“Wanna go get coffee and catch up?” Sour asked hopefully. “If you’re not busy and all with the band. I know this is sudden.” Baton smirked and rolled her eyes at her older sister.
“I’d like that a lot.”
Author's Note
I decided to reuse the prep rally song to help the former Shadowbolts see some more differences between the schools. Plus I really enjoy the song, one of my favorites. I also really liked the theory of Baton Switch actually being Sour Sweets sister. As for Sugarcoats dad, I'm gonna use him to help her get closer to a friend of hers. Hope you enjoy and leave a comment. Kind ones only please.
Rainbow stared at the assembled girls in the locker room before her. Indigo adjusted her soccer shirts collar as she looked around at Flitter and Cloudchaser giving her dirty looks.
“Hey!” Rainbows voice cut in. “Pay attention! We got a game to win!” Indigo snickered as Flitter turned red and focused on Rainbow.
“This is our turf. Our home town, we must win. A defeat on our own turf would be a disappointment,” Rainbow lectured in a tone akin to a drill sergeant. She slammed her fist against her hand. “Let’s get out there and show them who we are.” She jumped up and slammed her open palm against the Wondercolt logo above the door as she lead them onto the field. Indigo covered her eyes for a second and squinted at the bright sun. Her eyes widened as she saw a bunch of cheering classmates on the home side and her friends. Lemon gave her an enthusiastic grin and wave as she stood on the side lines with Sunny, Watermelody, Lyra and a blue haired girl she didn’t recognize.
“What are they doing?” Indigo questioned aloud.
“They’re cheerleaders stupid. Didn’t you have them at Crystal Prep?” Lightning scoffed.
“No,” Indigo admitted. “If it didn’t serve a purpose to further education, Cinch didn’t allow it.”
“Lame,” Lightning scoffed.
“Lay off her Lightning,” Spitfire snapped. “Focus on beating the opposition.”
“What’s your name?” Lemon asked the blue girl who was eagerly jumping around.
“Sonata! I like tacos!” She shouted.
“I prefer hamburgers,” Lemon admitted. “Tacos are good though.”
“Got to admit,” Sunny smirked as she waved her pom poms around. “I always did admire the spirit of Canterlots side during the sport events and the Friendship Games. Way better than ours ever was.”
“You guys know anyone on the team?” Sonata asked as she kicked her leg up. “My sister, Aria is on the team! Really helps her anger issues.”
“Yeah,” Sunny smirked. “Indigo, Rainbow and Sunset.”
“I know the last two,” Sonata mumbled and blushed. “They stopped me, Aria and Adagio from mindcontrolling the school.”
“Thankfully,” Watermelody whispered. Lemon glanced over at the girl quickly. They were wearing matching shirts and skirts. “You guys still can’t sing?”
“Nope!” Sonata sighed. “I miss my singing voice. I would have liked to use my singing for other things but meh. Too late now.”
“You know they see up our skirts when we kick our legs up right?” Sunny said nervously.
“So?” Sonata giggled as she smoothed her wrinkled skirt. Sunny rolled her eyes.
“Nothing.”
“They’re scarily just like what cpa was like,” Sour mused as she stared the quiet Trottingham students. “Mindless zombies.”
“For real,” Rarity glared at them. “Stuck up jerks.” Rarity turned her nose up and away.
“I don’t know if I should be insulted by that or not.” Rarity’s eyes widened at the implication.
“Oh no darling! I didn’t mean you honestly. I meant them!” Rarity pointed at the opposing students.
“Okay,” Sour grunted as she joined Rarity in glaring at them.
“Let’s get this over with,” Fleetfoot sighed. “One more win and the week is over. We’re tied right now with em. Then we go to Camp Everfree.” Spitfire pressed her palms to her knees and got into her position.
“Hopefully. Less chatter, more kicking ass,” Aria grunted. Fleetfoot glared at her.
“I only take orders from Dash, thanks.”
“Would you two stop and save it for them?” Sunset growled.
“Fine.” The two girls stared at each other before giving the opposing team dirty looks. The referee set the bowl down and blew her whistle. Rainbow kicked the ball to Cloudkicker and she shot it towards the goal. The goalie jumped and caught it and Cloudkicker gritted her teeth. The goalie tossed it to a player on her side and she shot to her teammate. The other teammate sent it to the goalie and Flitter caught it, holding it to her chest. The two teams kicked it back and forth. Aria grinned as she shoved an opposing girl to the ground and played it off as an accident.
“Alright it’s half time,” Rainbow announced as she poured some water on herself. The sun was setting and the lights had turned on. “Let’s go to the locker room and talk a play over.” Her teammates nodded and they went to the locker room.
“Alright, gather around,” Rainbow shouted. “This is ridiculous. We gotta end this with a win. We have no choice.”
“Don’t yell at us,” Cloudchaser grumbled. “We’re doing our best.”
“Our best isn’t enough!” Rainbow shouted.
“Yelling doesn’t solve anything,” Indigo stepped forward. “We just gotta up our offense.” Some of the players nodded.
“Who’s the captain?” Rainbow snapped. “You?”
“She didn’t mean anything like that Dash,” Spitfire pointed out. “She’s just giving out advice which always listen to our teammates opinions.”
“I’m sorry,” Rainbow sighed. “Stressed.”
“It’s fine,” Indigo opened her locker and took a black bag out, holding it behind her back and slipping into the bathroom. She opened the bag and took the needle out, flicking the needles tip.
“What the fuck?” She jumped and stared at Lightning Dust and Rainbow. She hadn’t heard them coming in. She shoved the needle behind her back.
“W-what’s up?” She stammered out. Lightning stomped to her and grabbed the needle from behind her back.
“What the hell is this?” Rainbow snapped.
“Steroids,” Indigo’s head fell into her hands.
“Why do you even have these?” Lightning questioned. Indigo sighed and took a breath.
“Cinch gave them to the sports players so they performed better. I was strong before already but she still gave them to me.” Rainbow rolled her eyes and sat next to her.
“You gotta stop the habit,” she said in a stern tone and Lightning nodded.
“Are you gonna tell Coach Misty Fly?” Indigo asked nervously.
“We should,” Lightning admitted. “But we won’t. You getting in trouble isn’t what we need. I may not like you much, but you need help.”
“Thanks?” Indigo said weakly.
“We’re taking the steroids though,” Rainbow told her. “This doesn’t leave this room, deal?” Lightning nodded as Indigo wiped a tear away discreetly.
“Let’s get back out there and win,” Lightning grinned. She held out her hand and Indigo hesitantly took it. Rainbow grabbed the bag and slipped it into her bra as they walked into the locker room. She shoved the bag into her backpack and locked her locker.
“We got a game to win.”
--------‐----------------------------------------------------
“I’m so bored!” Pinkie groaned as she leaned against Sunset. “Are we at Camp yet?”
“For the tenth time Pinkie, no we aren’t,” Rainbow growled. She went flying up a bit as the bus hit a pothole. “Good god. Who gave Harshwhinny her driver’s license?”
“The dinosaurs,” Sunset smirked.
“God himself,” Rainbow grinned.
“Or the devil,” Sour grumbled.
“Rainbow Dash! Sing us a song!” Someone shouted.
“We don’t have any!” Rainbow called back.
“Actually I wrote one,” Fluttershy said timidly as she waved a piece of paper. Rainbow snatched her copy and grinned at it.
“This could work well,” she passed it to Applejack who grabbed her bass under her seat.
“Do you carry that everywhere?” Sugarcoat asked.
“Well yeah,” Applejack admitted as she tuned it. “For campfire songs.”
“Do we really need to clap for this?” Rainbow grunted.
“Yes!” Fluttershy said excitedly. Rolling her eyes, Rainbow and the others on the bus started clapping. Sunny elbowed Sugarcoat who grudgingly started herself.
“Will you be lost by time, or be part of history? Will your story be told or remain a mystery? Will they sing your song, telling all that you have done? Time to make your choice, only you can be the one,” the Rainbooms sang while Rainbow rolled her eyes. This really wasn’t her type of song but she knew she couldn’t convince them to play anything else without hurting Fluttershy’s feelings.
“Oh, as you join in the Legend of Everfree. Will you do something great with the time that you have here? Wiill you make your mark? Will you conquer what you fear? And when you go back home everybody there will see you were part of the Legend of Everfree.”
“I like this one a lot,” Watermelody nudged Lemon with a grin. Lemon nodded her agreement to her seatmate.
“As you join in the Legend of Everfree. Will you find your greatest glory? Will you be a falling star? Here you’ll learn what nature teaches, here you’ll learn more who you are.”
“Isn’t it weird how Fluttershy can come up with their songs so fast?” Scribble Dee whispered.
“A bit. Probably related to her magic,” Mystery whispered back.
“Will you be lost by time or be part of history? Will your story be told or remain a mystery? And when you go back home everybody there will see you were part of the Legend of Everfree, as you join in the Legend of Everfree!”
“Good one!” The same student Rainbow recognized as Norman shouted. “Thanks!” Watermelody finished recording the audio and grinned.
“So I can listen to it later,” she explained to Applejacks confused expression.
“We release cds of all our songs sugarcube,” Applejack told her. “Might be better audio quality no offense.”
“I didn’t know that to be honest,” Watermelody admitted.
“I’ll bring you some when we get back darling,” Rarity gave her a warm smile.
“Thanks!”
“Do we HAVE to go to this?” Aria grumbled.
“Yes. It’s good to get away from the town, plus Sonata is excited. It’ll be nice for her to finally quit talking about it,” Adagio snapped.
“I’m so excited!” Sonata screamed and her part of the bus covered their ears, glaring at her. Ignoring them, she continued. “I’m gonna kayak, swim, make arts and crafts with Bulkie!”
“Bulkie?” Aria asked in disbelief. “Who the hell is Bulkie?”
“Bulk Biceps!” Sonata shouted.
“For the love of all things holy, can you quit yelling?” Adagio growled as she facepalmed.
“You wouldn’t know holy if it came up and hit you in the face,” Aria grumbled.
“Just wait till we get off this bus,” Adagio snarled. “I’m gonna smack you so hard.”
“If you can catch me with that poofy ass hair,” Aria shot back with a grin. “Probably weighs you down. That and your big tits.” Adagio glared at her.
“At least I have tits,” Adagio grumbled softly.
“Can we not?” Sonata sighed. “We’re gonna outdoors! With the animals and the woods! Nature!” Aria and Adagio glared at each other.
“Fine,” they said in unison.
“Hey,” Watermelody nudged a snoring Lemon. “Lemon.” She let out a sigh. “Tech N9ne is here and wants to meet you.” Lemon jumped up and looked around excitedly.
“Where is here!?” She squeezed Watermelodys cheeks, making her look like a fish. She quickly pushed her hands off.
“I like you but please never do that again,” Watermelody snickered. “Anyway, we’re pulling up to Camp. Wanna be tent mates?”
“Yeah sure,” Lemon shrugged.
“Epic!” Watermelody grinned widely.
“No! Stop! Aaagghhh!” Twilight screamed and shot up.
“We can’t stop silly!” Pinkie leaned over the seat. “We’re not there yet!”
“What the fuck was that?” Shoeshine grumbled, sitting up from her nap.
“Twilight? Are you okay?” Sunset asked worriedly.
“Hah, I’m fine,” Twilight lied. Sunset raised an eyebrow and a finger, opening her mouth.
“We are gonna have so much fun! We’re gonna roast marshmallows, eat marshmallows and sleep on marshmallow pillows!” Pinkie screamed.
“Yeah pretty sure we’re not gonna do that,” Rainbow smirked.
“At least I’m not,” Sour agreed.
“Maybe you’re notttt,” Pinkie sang as she held up a bag of marshmallows.
“Attention students,” Celestia called out as talking in the bus quieted down. “We’re pulling into camp. Before we arrive, we would like to say how proud we are of you all raising enough money for all of us to come here.”
“When we were your age, we made some of our favorite memories in these woods. And we’re sure you will too,” Luna smiled.
“Now who’s excited for Camp Everfree?” Celestia asked with a grin as the bus doors opened. She and her sister stepped off and watched as the students followed them off the bus.
“I can’t wait to go a nature walk,” Fluttershy gushed as she admired the wooded area.
“Me too,” Spike agreed.
“You wanna see all the cute woodland creatures?” Fluttershy knelt down and stared him in the eyes.
“Yeah. More precisely the squirrels so I can chase em!” Spike announced as he chased his tail. Bon Bon giggled at that and stared as Lemon jumped off and almost splashed her with mud.
“Hey! Watch it!” Bon Bon snapped.
“Ah’m just lookin forward to roughin it,” Applejack announced as she yanked on her bag repeatedly to get it free from the bus. “Foragin, buildin mah own shelter.” Rainbow groaned and rolled her eyes.
“For the last time, they give us shelter and food!”
“And ah don’t care,” Applejack snorted. Indigo covered her ears as the intercom made an awful noise.
“Jesus,” she muttered.
“If everyone could report to the gazebo, that would be greatly appreciated!” A voice shouted eagerly over the intercom. Shrugging, Indigo worked her way over with the others.
“Hi everyone. I’m Gloriosa Daisy, the camp director. And this is my brother, Timber Spruce,” she gestured to the man standing next to her. She handed him the microphone.
“You can think of me as the guy who should always be invited to fun things,” he juggled the microphone.
“We wanna know what you guys wanna do here!” Gloriosa shouted.
“Tether ball!” Rainbow shouted and shouted out two other suggestions before Sunset calmed her down.
“Cookie baking!” Pinkie shouted to no one’s surprise.
“I do make a mean sugar cookie!” Gloriosa winked.
“Arts and crafts!”
“A fashion show!” Rarity shouted. Indigo and Rainbow stifled groans as they watched Gloriosa and Timber have a quick conversation they didn’t hear. “All of us can model in it and can also decide our camp gift!”
“All good suggestions. We’re gonna give out tent assignments. Boys, you’re with me!” Gloriosa gestured them over. “Girls, you get Timber!” Watermelody appeared frustrated over the fact that they were assigned tents. She groaned at her tent mate when she found out her card didn’t match Lemons. Lemon highfived Mystery Mint and the pair walked off.
“Me and Lightning Dust are tent mates,” Indigo sighed in frustration. She was the last one Indigo had wanted. She respected the girl but they didn’t get along well. “I’ll see you all if I don’t get arrested for murder.”
“Good job on winning the game by the way,” Blossomforth gave Cloudkicker a quick kiss on the cheek.
“It was a group effort,” Cloudkicker grinned as she lead Blossomforth to their tent.
“Do you snore?” Indigo suddenly asked Lightning who snorted.
“No. Snoring is for losers,” Lightning focused on Indigo with narrowed eyes. “Do you snore?”
“No.”
Watermelody tossed her bag onto her bunk and grunted. Scribble Dee looked at her from her bunk nervously and set her book down.
“You good?”
“Yeah, just frustrated. I’m mad,” Watermelody admitted as she sat down, smoothing down her skirt.
“About not being Lemons tent partner?” Scribble asked in a sympathetic tone.
“Yup.” Scribble jumped off her bunk and landed on her feet.
“I’m sure you guys will be able to hang out all week,” Scribble reassured her.
“I know,” Watermelody grunted in frustration. “She’s cool, but dense as a bag of rocks.”
“I don’t get it.”
“It means she’s being stupid.”
“Oh,” Scribble paused. “It could be worse you know?”
“How do you figure?” Watermelody asked as she kicked her legs back and forth.
“You could be tentmates with Trixie. Or Fuschia Blush. Or Lavender Lace. Or Silverspoon.”
“Fair enough,” Watermelody agreed. “Lavender Lace isn’t so bad, I guess. Haven’t had much interaction with since battle of the bands. Or the other girls you named, other than Trixie.”
“You know who Trixie who should date?” Scribble suddenly asked.
“Who, Miss Matchmaker?” Watermelody asked in amusement.
“Rainbow Dash. Both are self conceited.” Watermelody gave a short laugh.
“True!”
“Or Sunset,” Scribble grinned.
“She’s dating Pinkie.”
“Right,” Scribble frowned. “That surprised me.”
“Why’s that?” Watermelody asked absentmindly as she pulled out her sketch pad and started to draw.
“Because Sunset terrorized the whole school and tried to kill them and then she just dates one of them like nothing happened.”
“She did bend over backwards to the people she wronged. She annoyed me for months doing little projects and everything else for me till I forgave her. I still feel bad for rejecting her alongside Mystery Mint. I feel the hardest part was when she used the footage of me literally turning my back on her in her music video talking about her feelings and regrets. My past is not today is a really good song. Kinda really drove home that we were just as bad as her when we intentionally ostracized her,” Watermelody sighed. “She could have killed herself over something stupid we did. And then there was the whole anon a miss thing where we all turned our backs on her again. Even the Rainbooms did. I heard a rumor she cut herself during that whole thing.”
“Not everyone turned their backs on her,” Scribble admitted. “Pinkie and Rainbow stuck with her, so did Octavia, Lyra, Bon Bon, Diamond Tiara, Silverspoon, Vinyl Scratch and Lightning Dust.”
“That explains why she hung out with them a lot during lunch during that incident,” Watermelody grunted as she kept drawing. “I should have believed her. It was sloppy work, we all really dropped the ball on that one didn’t we?”
“Yup,” Scribble grunted as she climbed on her bunk and laid down, resting her hands behind her head. “Well, we never did anything to her or hurt her. We kinda just avoided her at all costs. And remember, Sunset used the footage of Scootaloo, Golden Harvest and Paisley turning their backs on her too.”
“I remember, Rainbow went off on Scootaloo. Made her apologize and hang out with her. Even made Sunset a member of the soccer team to make people accept her.”
“Remember when Sunset threw away the pictures of her winning the Fall Formals?” The two girls shared a laugh.
“I was there!” Watermelody smirked. “I was so confused about why she was singing in the hallway and throwing the pictures away till I watched the music video. I didn’t even know she did solo songs.”
“It’s rare but they do it,” Scribble told her. “Remember, Awesome as I wanna be?”
“Oh yeah that dumpster fire.”
“I quite like it.”
“It’s very Rainbow Dash. Self conceited, all about her and stuck up,” Watermelody rolled her eyes.
“Hey!” Rainbow shouted while Applejack laughed. “Our tents are next to each other, we can hear everything!”
“Sorry!” Sunset’s head unexpectedly poked in, startling the two girls.
“I forgive you by the way. Next time I’ll ask if I can use you in a music video. After all, you are one of our biggest fans. And yes, I did cut during anon a miss. Lowest I’ve been since I ran away from home in Equestria. But you’re both forgiven. And before you ask, yes I still hang out with my crew from anon a miss. Me and Lightning are really cool. Me, Octavia and Vinyl go to concerts. I’m Diamond Tiara’s sister figure especially since her dad adopted me afterwards. Me and Silverspoon hang out, same with Lyra and Bon Bon.”
“Thanks,” Watermelody and Scribble said in unison. Watermelody ripped out the page was drawing and handed it to Sunset. Sunset admired the drawing of her on the schools roof floating surrounded by flames and phoenix’s wings. She smiled at it.
“Thanks for this. I’m gonna frame it.”
“No problem,” Watermelody grinned and yawned.
“Goodnight you two,” Sunset disappeared and went back to her tent next to theirs. Watermelody focused on Scribble Dee.
“We really need to be quieter,” Watermelody announced. “Scribble?” The girl answered with a snore. “Are you seriously asleep on me?” When she heard no response except another snore, Watermelody smiled and rolled her eyes.
“Goodnight, Scribble.”
Author's Note
For those wondering about Sunset being adopted by Diamond's dad, it's apart of the prequel story I have out rn that I'm still working on. I just didn't want to link it as a prequel yet till it was completed. Whether or not Flithy Rich is the antagonist in this story, well you gotta keep on reading to find out. Have a great day.
Smiling, Sour picked up the bow and notched an arrow. She pulled the string back and closed her eyes, breathing in and out like she had practiced. Doing that ritual of sorts made her feel like she was one with the bow and had complete control. She let the arrow fly and opened her eyes when she heard it thunk into the target and smiled when she saw it was another bullseye. After making sure it was safe, she jogged to her target and pulled out her arrows. Most would argue that she didn’t need to make sure it was safe because she was the only one at the range. Her other classmates were doing other stuff Camp Everfree had to offer. Indigo and Rainbow were playing Tether ball, Sunny was helping Rarity sew, Lemon was hanging out with Watermelody and Sugarcoat was reading a book while sitting on a tree branch. She started her ritual of closing her eyes and breathing in and out while she pulled the arrow back.
“Hi Sour!” Sours eyes shot open as she let go of the arrow and watched it thunk into the dirt. She glared at the girl next to her.
“Derpy! You messed up my shot.” The other girl looked away and held her bow at her side.
“I’m sorry. You looked lonely so I figured I’d come hang out. Plus, I wanted to shoot some arrows,” Derpy mumbled and nodded at her bow.
“I’m not lonely,” Sour snapped.
“Oh,” Derpy sighed as she turned and started to walk away.
“Wait!” Sour called out. “I’m sorry. Come back, let’s shoot some arrows.”
“Are you sure?” Derpy asked unsure.
“Yes.” Derpy grinned and the two started shooting their arrows. Well, Derpy broke all but one. Grumbling she threw her bow down and wiped a tear away.
“I can’t do this,” she sighed.
“Because you’re not concentrating,” Sour said with her eyes closed as she hit the bullseye again.
“What do you mean?” Derpy asked.
“You’re just shooting. You’re not taking time to calm yourself down or be one with the bow and arrow.”
“How do I do that?” Derpy asked in awe as Sours arrow was an inch away from the center of the target. Sour set her bow down and walked over to her.
“Like this. Pick up your arrow,” Sour instructed and Derpy did so. “Notch an arrow.” Derpy once again complied. “Close your eyes and pull the arrow back. Now breath in and out repeatedly.” Nodding, Derpy did as she was told and felt herself becoming calmer and more at peace.
“Smell the nature around us,” Sour whispered in her ear. “Picture the arrow hitting the center of the target. Are you picturing it?”
“I am,” Derpy replied with her eyes still closed.
“Let the arrow go now,” Sour ordered. Derpy nodded before doing so. “Open your eyes.” Derpy slowly opened her eyes and stared in shock at her arrow in the center of the target.
“I did it!” She startled Sour by screaming and hugging her. “I’m so happy I could kiss you right here, right now!”
“Please don’t kiss me,” Sour smirked. “Not on the mouth at least.” Derpy rolled her eyes and kissed her on the cheek. “I think we should go get you more arrows, yours are broken.”
“Can you take a picture of me next to the bullseye?” Derpy asked, holding her phone out.
“Yeah sure,” Sour took the phone and Derpy ran to the target. “Hey! Make sure it’s clear next time unless you wanna get shot with an arrow!”
“Sorry!” Derpy posed next to the target and Sour took a quick picture of the grinning girl.
“Thanks!” Derpy jogged back up and took her phone. “Selfie!” She wrapped an arm around Sour and flipped her phones camera to the front. “Say arrow!” Sour rolled her eyes and sighed, deciding to amuse the girl.
“Arrow!” The two shouted and Derpy took the picture. She examined it with a grin.
“New background!” She kept grinning. The two jumped at a loud scream.
“What the hell was that?” Sour snapped as she and Derpy looked around.
“I have no idea,” Derpy admitted. “Let’s go find out. We can get me some more arrows in the process.” She scooped up her broken ones.
“Gloriosa is probably the one to go to for that, we can wander till we find her,” Sour shrugged. The two started walking to the lunch room first. They both reasoned she might be there, close to her office and all. Besides, Pinkie was baking in there and Sour assumed she would be constantly checked on.
“Do you hate me?” Derpy startled her.
“What? No! Why would I hate you?” Sour asked.
“Everytime I talk to you and your group, you seem not happy to see me.” Sour gave a sigh.
“Do you want the truth?”
“Yes,” Derpy said and stared at her.
“At first I didn’t know if you were being because you wanted something. At CPA, people were only nice if they needed something, not because they cared about you. When you came up to us our first day, I didn’t know if you were being just yourself or what,” Sour admitted.
“I’m just being my typical bubbly self. I can see why you thought I was trying to take advantage of you though,” Derpy sighed as the two stepped up the stairs to the pavilion into the open door.
“What the hell happened here?” Sour demanded as the two girls took in the messy room in. There was cookie batter everywhere and sprinkles.
“Pinkie Pie happened,” Applejack said dryly, shivering.
“I brought towels,” Gloriosa stepped past the two girls and Sandalwood.
“I kicked my bean bag into lake.”
“And I’m all out of arrows!” Derpy stepped forward, showing her snapped arrows. Gloriosa’s eye twitched for a second.
“I’ll take care of it!”
“There you are!” Timber shoved Derpy aside and Sour glared at him. “Spoiled Milk is back.” He whispered. Gloriosa glared at him as well.
“Go deal with it,” she hissed. “Camp fire tonight!”
“Burgundy darlings! The same color family!” Rarity screamed. Derpy looked at Sour with a bored expression.
“Kill me now,” Adagio grumbled.
“That was sooo scary,” Applejack snickered.
“Was scared it would never end,” Rainbow smirked.
“Fine!” Rarity snapped. “Someone else tell a scary story. If they have one.”
“I do,” Sunset raised her hand with an evil grin. “I’ve got two.”
“You’re from another world, you gotta have some scary stories,” Lemon announced.
“Oh I do. Do you wanna hear about the Windigos first or the Rainbow Factory?”
“Windigos,” Rainbow declared. “Rainbow Factory sounds childish.”
“Suit yourself,” Sunset kept up her evil grin and started her story.
“Long ago, two younger siblings, a colt and a filly were lost in a snowy mountain. They had been lost for days, surviving only by drinking melting snow and wild berries they found, but the winter was getting harsher and colder. Finding food was becoming more and more difficult. The cold and hunger angered them both. The sister kept screaming at the brother, blaming him for their situation. The brother tried his hardest to ignore her shouting. But being so hungry and cold, it was getting more difficult to not fight back.” Sunset paused to take a sip of her water.
“Each day, the cold got worse. Everyday, they had less to eat. Everyday the tension between the two got more and more intense. The sister didn’t stop her screaming and insulting to her brother, blaming him for everything, saying how cold and hungry she was and he was slowly losing his patience. One day, a strong snow storm arrived, the snow and wind attacking them furiously, making it impossible to carry on. Luckily, they found a cave and took shelter inside but their luck ran out fairly fast. Even though they had shelter, they had no matches so the cave was pitch black. That fact only made them feel colder. Every attempt to start a fire was a failure due to the wood being frozen from the cold.”
“Her brother was angry, afraid and hungry. Very hungry. His sister kept making things worse, with her screaming and complaining. Even though he tried to stay calm, he had enough. He finally told her to shut up, that he was terrified too and was starving just like her. That only angered her more. She got closer and closer to him, screaming in his face. He had enough at that point and the two started to fight. They started slamming their hooves and heads into their opponent, the wind roaring along with their screams of hatred to each other. The brother managed to get the upper hand, slamming his sisters head against the rock wall. Dazed, she stumbled back and laid on her back. Taking advantage of the moment, the brother took a rock and then....” Sunset snapped a nearby stick in half. Everyone understood immediately what it meant. She was staring at the ground and missed their shocked faces.
“Silence filled the cave. Only the wind could be heard outside; it took him a long time, before he realized what he had done. He stared at his limp sister, dejected. Terrified, he grabbed the same rock and continued his actions, fueled by hate and fear. He finally collapsed, exhausted by the effort of what he just did. He tried to not think about what he just did but his body reminded him of how hungry he was. So hungry.” Sunset tossed a few peanuts into her mouth and chewed them before continuing.
“He went days without eating. Days without walking. Just laying there, on his stomach. He had lost all strength to do anything. He needed to something, anything and looked over at his sister. He couldn’t take it anymore. He needed to eat.” Sunset looked up for the first time since she started the story and took in the expressions of her classmates as her words sunk in. Horror, shock and primarily disgust. She felt she got the point across with what she said and continued the story.
“After he ate all he could, he waited for the storm to end. And waited. And waited, but the storm never ended. He felt himself going crazy from the isolation and his murderous act. The thought of his sister made him angrier and angrier till that was all left. He tortured himself with those thoughts till he realized he was going to die in that cave from the cold. And soon enough, he did. The cold and ice overtook the cave and his body. He died, but he didn’t leave. He felt light and started to move again. He got up and didn’t feel a thing even with some of his coat ripping off. He was made completely of ice and was able to walk out of the cave. All he could remember was his hatred he held in his soul. His heart was completely made of ice now, no warm emotions to be found. The books call him the first Windigo.” Sunset finished her story and stared at her fellow campers. A cold wind breezed over them, making them all shiver. Rarity and Pinkie were holding onto her tightly, the first girls face was green. “When alone in the cold woods, always keep love in your heart. Think of warm thoughts, of your family, of your loved ones and you will be safe. If not, you will be taken over by a Windigo.”
“That was terrifying and quite frankly disgusting when he ate his sisters remains,” Fluttershy whispered.
“Absolutely,” Watermelody squeezed Lemon in fear.
“Wanna hear the next?” Sunset offered. “It’s a true story. And worse in my opinion, because of the ponies it involves.”
“Yes!” She jumped at Sonata’s excited scream.
“It’s a short one,” Sunset warned. “In Equestria, we control our weather. Nothing happens without the pegasi’ say so. They bring snow, rain, tornadoes when needed to the areas. Cloudsdale is a floating city, it’s main job is making the weather. We also make rainbows. They used to gather up fillies and colts, or girls and boys as they are called here, they would gather up the pegasi kids who failed their flight test and take them to the Rainbow Factory.” Sunset sipped her water again.
“And they would help them fly better?” Octavia asked hopefully.
“Sorry Tavi but nope. They hooked them up to a machine killed them, draining them of their blood and using it to make different colors in a rainbow. They burned the bodies and told their parents they were missing and would look for them.” Fluttershy leaned over the back of her log and vomited.
“And you guys called us evil,” Adagio grumbled. “We never wanted to kill anyone.”
“Is that the story?” Lightning asked, hiding her nervousness.
“Pretty much. I have no idea who ran it but it’s so bad because kids were murdered for weather. Of course, we found a nonviolent way to make rainbows after the truth came out and there was a justified outrage over the killings.”
“That’s awful,” Lyra shuddered. “Hey! There’s a Rainbow Factory in town that used to be an amusement park in the eighties. It got shut down due to a few gruesome murders. We should go, Bon Bon!” The cream girl was clinging to Lyra’s arm and glared at her.
“Absolutely not!” Bon Bon shouted.
“Wanna hear one of the songs about the Rainbow Factory?” Sunset suddenly asked.
“I’m gonna regret this but sure,” Sour grunted.
“Deep in the pages of history lies a shadow hiding in a mystery. A late night story buried far away until it once again sees the light of day. And when the little colts and fillies turn out all lights and tell a story of a factory as black as night. The luxury of rainbows comes at a price, just ignore the screams, and don’t think twice. You’ve proven to yourself and to all of us that you’re not fit to fly like a pegasus. You don’t even deserve those wings you bear. When you stand beside a legend, you don’t even compare. All of the failures help to fuel success in the bloody and visceral weather game of chess. Just because you disappointed you’ll pay the price. Now accept your fate and die in the pegasus device,” Sunset sang softly and people shivered at the words. “Phantom screams echo through the ruined a facility. A horrible silence builds an eerie tranquility. The souls of many innocent fill the air and the hope that they all died were scattered here and there. A mighty machine built within the wake of a long dead dream little demon awake. The citizens sleep never quite knowing when the machine will awaken, hungry again.”
“Hey guys!” Gloriosa appeared behind Watermelody. She screamed and covered her mouth with her gloved hands, turning a bright shade of red and her eyes widened as she almost fell off the log. Lemon grabbed her and pulled her back up.
“Thanks Lemon,” Watermelody smiled.
“You’re welcome.”
“Time to retire to bed, everyone!” Timber announced after he had some words with Gloriosa.
“Did you tell them that stupid story?” Gloriosa hissed quietly.
“I had to cover for you! So yes I did,” he snapped back.
“That’s some tension alright,” Sunset whispered to Pinkie as the two walked to their different tents. Pinkie gave her a quick kiss that she happily returned.
“It is,” Pinkie agreed. “Goodnight, I love you.”
“Love you too.”
Octavia slammed her hand down on the table as she sat down. Lyra and Bon Bon gave her nervous looks as they kept eating their breakfast.
“Are you okay?” Lyra hesitantly asked.
“No!’ Octavia whimpered as she slumped down. “Ever since Rainbow Dash introduced Vinyl to that accursed Lemon Zest, all Vinyl has been doing is either talking about her, talking to her on the phone or hanging out with her. It’s like she likes her more than me. Hell, she’s probably cheating on me with her.”
“I highly doubt that,” Bon Bon scoffed as she stirred her oatmeal. “Vinyl loves you. She wouldn’t cheat. Besides, she and Lemon are most likely just friends.”
“I caught her hugging Lemon,” Octavia sighed.
“And?” Lyra pointed out. “That could just be a friendly hug. I hug you all the time and Bon Bon doesn’t think I’m cheating on her. I hug Sunset all the time, same with Derpy, Diamond, Silverspoon. Need I go on?”
“That’s because you love hugs just as much as Derpy loves hugs.”
“Besides, someone else likes Lemon currently,” Lyra smirked.
“Spill,” Lightning elbowed her.
“Can’t. I signed a NDA.” Bon Bon stared at her incredulously.
“Lyra, do you even know what an NDA is?” Bon Bon demanded.
“Of course I do,” Lyra scoffed. “Non discussable agreement.” Bon Bon facepalmed.
“Non disclosure agreement, Lyra. But you were close and technically right in a way so I can’t be that upset.”
“Now who likes Lemon?” Octavia snapped. “This way I can keep Vinyl to myself and not break up with me.”
“Doesn’t that sound manipulative?” Lyra asked as she pointed a spoon at her.
“Big word for you,” Lightning grumbled and Lyra gave her a dirty look.
“It is a bit now that you mention it,” Octavia admitted. “But seriously, out of curiosity. Who likes Lemon?”
“Let’s just say it’s the person you would expect the least,” Lyra grinned and gave a quick glance at a certain girl sitting on the other side of the camps lunchroom. “You wouldn’t expect her at all.”
Author's Note
So I only wanted to do the windigo story but I lost a bet to my sister and she got to pick the second story to tell at the campfire. She had just listened to that song earlier to my shock. I never introduced her to it, she just found it and I was like damn that's a trip down memory lane. Anyway, hopefully you enjoy the chapter. I didn't want the Rainbow Factory story to be super long so I just summarized it really, really fast.
“How the hell did the dock get destroyed?” Indigo sighed as she stared at the damaged dock.
“A kayak crashed into it,” Sugarcoat stated.
“A kayak did all that?” Indigo asked in awe. “God damn. Musta been moving.”
“There was no wind and then suddenly it went flying into the dock. At least Derpy wasn’t hurt,” Sour grumbled. “I could care less about Sandalwood, he’s weird.”
“Maybe it was Gaia Everfree!” Bulk Biceps shouted.
“Gaia what?” Indigo asked in confusion.
“Before we woke you up for Sunset’s stories, Timber told a story about some spirit haunting the property,” Rainbow said.
“Don’t tell me you actually believe it,” Sunny scoffed.
“You never know. Weird stuff happens around us,” Sunset rolled her eyes and kneeled on the docks entrance. “Me becoming a demon, the sirens.”
“And me,” Twilight said softly.
“None of us were gonna bring that up,” Sunset frowned at her. “Right guys?” She switched her frown to the others.
“Yeah,” Rainbow rubbed the back of her head. “Not at all. Because that would be messed up.”
“Plus Sunny, you believed the stories Sunset told us,” Sugarcoat pointed out.
“That’s because she promised they’re real!”
“And who said Gaia wasn’t real?” Pinkie countered. “Also, we have new magic! Everyone except Twilight.” The girl looked away nervously.
“I’m intrigued. What can you do?” Sunny asked.
“Sunset can read memories, Rainbow has super speed, Applejack has super strength, Rarity summons weird gem thingies, I can blow up stuff with sprinkles and Fluttershy can talk to animals!” Pinkie shouted excitedly. “Twilight has none yet, but if we got ours then hers must be around the corner.”
“Hopefully,” Rainbow agreed. “That would be awesome!”
“No it isn’t,” Twilight whispered.
“I can’t believe I’m gonna admit this,” Aria sighed to Adagio as they relaxed on some chairs near the Rainbooms and watched Sonata swimming. “But this is kinda nice.”
“See?” Adagio gave her a smug grin. “And you didn’t want to come.”
“Adagio! Aria! Come swim with me!” Sonata shouted.
“No!” The two shouted back.
“We’re relaxing. We’ve played with you earlier.”
“Fine,” Sonata pouted. She resumed her splashing around and playing by herself.
“I’m so bored,” Aria grumbled. “I’ve read all my anime, slept all day, climbed the rock wall they told us to stay away from.”
“Entertain yourself,” Adagio groaned. “Like Sonata.” The two jumped up at Sonata’s scream.
“Sonata!” Aria called out as she and Adagio darted into the water.
“What’s wrong?” Adagio demanded as she grabbed Sonata who screamed again.
“Nothing!” Sonata gave her a mischievous grin. “I wanted you two to come play with me.”
“You asshole!” Adagio snapped. “We thought you were drowning!”
“Don’t ever do that to us again!” Aria growled in anger. “You scared me!” Se missed Sonata’s grin turn smug. Grumbling, the pair turned to head back to shore. Sonata splashed them with water and they spun around.
“You little...,” Adagio grumbled. Aria glared at Sonata and splashed her back.
“How do you like it?” Aria demanded. Sonata gave a giggle and disappeared under the water. Adagio and Aria looked around.
“Where the fuck did she go?” Adagio snapped. Aria gave a loud yelp as she felt something pulling her under the water.
“Adagio!” She shouted as her head disappeared under the surface. Adagio looked around nervously.
“Aria? Sonata?” Adagio hesitantly called out. “Where are you guys?” She spun around at the sound of something surfacing behind her. She jumped when she felt something pull her leg. She glared at Aria and Sonata, both gasping for air. “What the hell happened?”
“Sonata pulled me under the water,” Aria grumbled with a faint smile. “I pulled your leg but you’re stronger than me.” Aria flicked some water Adagio’s way.
“Oh it’s on!” Adagio snapped as she splashed Aria.
“About time you two loosened up,” Sonata smiled, interrupting their water fight. The two girls looked to each other and approached Sonata before splashing her with water.
“No! Wait!” Rainbow smirked as she watched the sisters fight each other with water.
“Now that’s a surprise,” Applejack mumbled as she watched with wide eyes.
“Yup,” Rarity agreed.
“Hey you guys,” Watermelody tapped Sunset on the back. She held out a drawing book with the designs for the dock the Rainbooms asked for. “Finished up that dock design you guys requested.”
“Thanks darling,” Rarity smiled gratefully as she took it.
“Do you know where Lemon went?” Rainbow asked.
“We’re hanging out and talking in her tent.” Watermelody stepped off the remains of the dock and headed back to the tent. She eagerly jogged to it and opened the flap.
“Hey,” Lemon looked up from her drawing of a tiger. “Did they like your design?”
“Loved it,” Watermelody sat down next to her. “Where’s Mystery at? She was here when I left.”
“She went with Cherry and Scribble Dee to go climb the rock wall,” Lemon went back to drawing. “They said you can join them if you want.”
“Nah, I’m good. I’d rather stay here with you,” Watermelody told her as she grabbed a pencil of her own and her notebook, starting to draw. “I don’t like heights anyway.”
“Are you sure? Might have more fun with them instead of me.”
“I’m sure,” Watermelody reassured her.
“How’s your afternoon going?” Lemon asked as she started coloring her tiger in.
“Great. What about you?”
“Got a slight migraine. Mystery snores, talks and moves in her sleep. I woke up needing to use the bathroom and she was standing in the corner with her eyes closed. Scared the everloving shit out of me,” Lemon rolled her eyes with a grin.
“So that’s what the scream I heard last night was,” Watermelody snickered and nudged her. “Thought Pinkie had snuck into Sunset’s tent for some adult time.” The two girls shared a laugh.
“I was at a sleepover before we came to camp with them and walked in on them making out. Who knows where it was going to go if I hadn’t accidentally walked into the kitchen.”
“The kitchen?” Watermelody repeated in disbelief.
“The kitchen,” Lemon confirmed.
“Isn’t that a weird place to do it?” Lemon shrugged at the question.
“You can have sex anywhere technically. Some places it’s illegal, like the outdoors. But inside your home is fair game,” she replied.
“It’s kinda weird you can’t have sex in your own backyard. Like it’s your property, who cares?” Watermelody pointed out.
“You can in a tent. Probably going to get the police called on you for a noise complaint depending on how loud you are.”
“Good point,” Watermelody smirked. “I’ve never had sex but if I did, I’d prefer the bed. Comfortable and romantic.” Lemon smirked back and rolled her eyes.
“I haven’t had sex either. And I can tell you’re a drama student based on the fact you call a bed romantic.”
“I called it comfortable too!” Watermelody retorted.
“Touche green hair. You did,” Lemon gave her a quick once over. “Why did you switch out the skirt with shorts? It worked well on you.”
“We are at camp,” Watermelody reminded her. “While I do love my skirt and my skull heels, I figured I should get comfortable. Hence the shorts and tennis shoes. Hell, even Octavia is wearing shorts and a tshirt and she rarely does. She’s typically always wears a dress, skirt or heels with her pink bowtie.”
“Isn’t she British?” Lemon asked.
“Yeah, apparently she moved here in middle school. How she hasn’t lost her accent is beyond me.”
“Is that possible?” Lemon wondered as she paused her coloring. “To lose an accent?”
“Yeah,” Watermelody nodded. “If you spend a lot of time around people who don’t have the same accent as you do, you pick up on their accent and it gets replaced with the accent of where you currently are. You can always regain you old one, but you gotta go live where you first were born.”
“That’s cool.” The two sat drawing in quiet.
“I hate we got partners at random. I wanted to share a tent with you,” Watermelody suddenly grumbled.
“Why?” Lemon raised an eyebrow as she kept coloring.
“Because. I like spending time with you,” Watermelody admitted with a faint blush as she looked away.
“Likewise. You’re a great person,” Lemon patted her on the head. “First friend I made outside the Rainbooms. If you want to hang out more, I’ll be sitting on the dock tonight probably. I enjoy looking at the stars. Helps me think.”
“I’ll be there.”
------------------------------------------‐------------------
“Why do you constantly get salads?” Sunny asked Sunset. The girl paused with a fork full of lettuce near her mouth.
“I’m a pony remember?” Sunset reminded her. “We don’t eat meat. It’s gross.”
“You’re a human right now though,” Sunny pointed out.
“And?” Sunset asked as she chewed her lettuce.
“Shouldn’t your body change to suit human needs?” Sunset shook her head no.
“What the fuck is that?” Rarity exclaimed as she poured her glass of water out onto the table. A rat fell out of the glass and Sunny stared at it in horror. Sunset stared at Rarity in shock.
“Rarity! You just cussed!” She smirked.
“I don’t care darling! It’s a rat in my water!” She snapped. Timber had come over and poked it with a pocket knife. Frowning, he picked it up and Rarity about fainted.
“It’s rubber,” he announced. “You’re okay.”
“Thank God,” Rarity grumbled. “Who put a rubber rat in my water?” She glared at Pinkie who started giggling. “Pinkie Pie.” She gazed in shock as Pinkie highfived Sugarcoat.
“You helped her?” Sour asked in surprise as she pointed a finger at Sugarcoat.
“It was my idea,” Sugarcoat allowed a faint smile play across her face as she pushed her glasses up.
“Wow,” Fluttershy whispered.
“I did not see that coming,” Twilight admitted.
“She suggested I loosen up and offered to help me by telling me to prank someone,” Sugarcoat shrugged.
“And you picked me with a rubber rat?” Rarity guessed. “Why me?”
“Figured your reaction would be funny.”
“How didn’t ya see it?” Applejack chuckled.
“The glass is tinted darling. I don’t have super vison!”
“I’d love to stay but I’m gonna go and stargaze,” Lemon pushed her chair out as she picked up her plate fork and glass. “Goodnight, see you all tomorrow.”
“Night sugarcube,” Applejack smiled at her and nodded.
“Aren’t we supposed to head directly to our tents after dinner tonight because of a bear in the campsite they found?” Fluttershy asked.
“We are outdoors. We were always going go run into the risk of a bear coming near us. I’d be more concerned if we didn’t,” Sunset piped in.
“Plus a bear could easily rip through a tent and all people would hear is screaming as their friends were cut with claws,” Sour said calmly. Everyone stared at her.
“Not helping sis,” Baton smirked.
“I’m not sleeping tonight,” Spike mumbled.
“Good. Last time you did, you were slobbering my face with saliva in my sleep. Most disgusting thing ever to wake up to,” Sunset scoffed.
“Remember the one time I tricked Sunset into eating meat?” Rainbow laughed as Sunset glared at her.
“Yeah. I almost punched you.” The group stood up and dropped their dirty dishes at the place they were told to and walked outside.
“Speaking of punching,” Applejack spoke up. “Ya never did get to punch me back for slapping ya during anon a miss. Hit me.”
“Anon a what?” Sour asked, eyes flicking between the two. Indigo sighed and quickly filled them in.
“Oh wow,” Sugarcoat stared at the group.
“Anyway hit me,” Applejack said.
“Applejack I don’t think that’s such a idea,” Rainbow warned her. Applejack slammed against the wall of the lunch room and slid down it. The group let out various sounds of shock.
“Sunset!” Rarity chided as she knelt down to Applejack and started wiping some blood off her nose. “You didn’t have to do that!”
“What? She offered!” Sunset pointed out.
“She kinda did,” Sugarcoat agreed.
“That was an insane right hook!” Indigo stared at Sunset. “I never expected that of you.”
“I’m a mystery,” Sunset smirked as she knelt down next to Applejack. “Are you okay?”
“Ah’ll be fine. Ah don’t think Ah’m gonna allow ya to hit me again though,” Applejack smirked as she stood up and held her bleeding nose with a hand. “Ya hit hard, harder than me probably.”
“Let’s get you to Nurse Redheart,” Rarity grunted as the pair walked over.
“Ah don’t need a damn nurse!”
“Yes you do.”
“Hey look over there,” Sunset pointed at the docks and Lemon.
“Oh I guess Watermelody is joining her,” Fluttershy brushed some hair aside.
“Let’s go to sleep,” Sunset suggested. “All of us.”
“Looks nice out,” Watermelody sat down nervously. “Aren’t we not supposed to be out this late?”
“Safety is boring. Rules are made to be broken. I got suspended all the time at CPA for listening to music.”
“I’ve never been suspended. What’s it like?”
“Vacation from school. You just get in trouble at home depending on your parents,” Lemon smirked. “I always got my homework done and was in the top of the school so they didn’t care.”
“Mine would kill me. They hate that I don’t take my schoolwork seriously. All I care about is art class and drama club.”
“All I care about is music class. It’s a great class.”
“Astronomy is okay I suppose,” Watermelody admitted as she tossed a rock across the water.
“I’ve never learned how to skip rocks.”
“It’s complicated to explain. It’s fifty fifty with often it works.”
“I’ve heard that,” Lemon let out an aggravated sigh as she threw a rock and watched it sink.
“Damn. It’s already eleven.”
“We had dinner like thirty minutes ago. I’m surprised Pinkie is as good at cooking as she is at baking.”
“She’s a talented girl. Sunset is lucky,” Watermelody gave a chuckle and leaned against Lemon. “How’s it going with the rest of the new Wondercolts?”
“Sugarcoat just pranked Rarity. Rarity even cussed!”
“Woah,” Watermelody said in awe. “That never happens.”
“I’ve never heard her say fuck either. Then again, I just met her a few months ago.”
“Get back to your tents, please. Lights out,” Timber startled them.
“Sorry!” Watermelody grinned. She took a deep breath and gave Lemon a quick kiss on the mouth and stood up, running to her tent. “See you around!” Lemon stared at her in shock and touched her lips.
“What the hell was that?”
Author's Note
I've noticed I'm giving Lemon Zest, Indigo and Sour a lot of love lmao. Which is weird Sour is getting attention, because Sugarcoat is one of my favorites. Anyway, my brother suggested I give the main characters mottos so here we go.
Lemon Zest: When the music is rocking, I'm rolling.
Sour Sweet: Believing in yourself improves your aim better than target practice.
Sunny Flare: Looking good is what life's all about.
Indigo Zap: Quick action equals quick victory.
Sugarcoat: Things are never as good as they seem, usually they're worse.
Rainbow Dash: The faster it is, the better I like it.
Rarity: Beauty is in everything, except war.
Fluttershy: The least likely can be the most dangerous.
Pinkie Pie: It's my duty to know the unknown.
Applejack: Truth is revealed in the smallest detail.
Twilight: The mind is the greatest weapon.
Sunset: It's better to have fought and lost than never to have fought at all.
Watermelody: One person's junk is another's person's art.
(Honorable mentions)
Adagio: Strive for perfection, even if others must suffer.
Aria: Anger gets me running better than anything else.
Sonata: If it ain't fun to do, it ain't worth doing.
Lyra: I don't break rules, I just bend them a lot.
Bon Bon: If at first you don't succeed, keep trying.
Lightning Dust: Winning is everything.
Octavia: Looks are always deceiving.
Vinyl: Let your actions do your talking and no one will misunderstand you.
Derpy: The thrill is in the journey.
Fleetfoot: In confusion there is opportunity.
Spitfire: They can't beat the best.
“Why haven’t you hanging out with Watermelody recently, Lemon?” Rarity asked as she watched Lyra and a few others walk down the newly completed dock.
“It’s complicated. She’s cool and all, I’m just getting my thoughts sorted out. You get me?”
“Yeah. Is it because she kissed you?” Rarity asked with a smirk.
“Yeah. Wait how did you know about that?” Lemon stared at her in surprise. “I didn’t tell anyone about that.”
“I was there. Walking to the bathroom. Quite bold on her part to be honest, I wouldn’t have done that.”
“It was,” Lemon sighed. “I don’t know what to do.”
“Well, do you like her?” Rarity questioned. Lemon threw her hands up in frustration.
“I have no clue! She’s cute yeah and she can rock that red skirt but I don’t even know,” Lemon sighed. “Don’t even get me started on her legs or her shirt or her gloves.”
“Sure sounds like you like her to me,” Rarity shrugged. “Go for it.”
“We will see. I just don’t want to ruin things.”
“You won’t,” Rarity promised. “Why is Indigo running to us?” Lemon turned and faced the athlete running at them with a nervous expression.
“Have you guys seen Sunset or Twilight?” She panted.
“No. Not since breakfast, they went on a walk they said,” Rarity told her.
“No one has seen them since. Lyra hasn’t, Bulk hasn’t. Nor has Derpy or Octavia,” Indigo told them. “We’re getting nervous.”
“Uh what is that?” Lyra pointed behind them nervously. A floating girl was levitating their way.
“I have no clue,” Indigo admitted as she took a step back. “But I have a feeling we aren’t going to like it.”
“Attention campers!” She shouted.
“It’s Gaia Everfree!” Trixie screamed and pointed.
“She’s real!” Sunny and Flash screamed in unison.
“We’re doomed!”
“I have a feeling our day is going from decent to shitty real fast,” Sugarcoat stated and adjusted her glasses.
“Thanka for pointing that out dear,” Sour snapped. “Because none of us came to that conclusion on our own!”
“Gloriosa? What are on earth you doing?” Timber demanded nervously.
“That’s Gloriosa?” Applejack asked. “Am Ah going crazy or are her feet not touching the ground?”
“Freaky deaky!” Pinkie shouted.
“How are you that high up without a ladder?” Sunny asked.
“Movie magic!” Pinkie exclaimed. “You can do anything in a movie.”
“Uh okay?”
“I have an announcement to make! Spoiled Milk wants this to be the last session of Camp Everfree. But don’t worry, I got this!” Gloriosa screamed.
“I think we should probably get away from her,” Lemon mumbled. She stared nervously at a bunch of branches growing around them. She yanked Rainbow and jumped off the dock with everyone else, landing on her back.
“Oh come on! We literally just got done building that!” Rainbow shouted.
“I think we have bigger problems than that right now.”
”I have waited for the day, to send this greedy wolf away. Now the magic is my salvation, gather close in my protection. We will stand for Everfree!”
“Oh joy,” Flash grumbled. “They always have to sing a song.”
”We hold the beauty of nature, in all it’s glory. No need to fear the vultures at the door,” Gloriosa stroked Starlights chin before letting go of her. She ran away and hide behind Celestia along with Mystery Mint, Vinyl and Derpy.
”Right here you have me to protect you within these walls of thorns, for Everfree. For ever more. They have come into our domain, here to seal our camp in chains. But we have held it for generations, this just a complication. We will stand for Everfree!”
“I don’t even know what she’s trying to do here,” Lightning growled.
”Trust in me, this is for your own good. Don’t be afraid, nature is our friend. All of this beauty that surrounds us, every lovely bloom designed to defend,” she climbed onto a bird bath. ”Let them come, just let them try. I’m not about to say goodbye! This camp will be here throughout the ages, written into fhe history pages. We will stand for Everfree!”
“Why were we just standing here when we could have been fighting her?” Rainbow wondered as she and the others dove behind some kayaks.
“Why does this always happen to us?” Fluttershy grumbled.
“What are we gonna do?” Applejack asked.
“Duh! What we always do. Save the day!” Rainbow held out her hand with a grin. The others put their hands in the middle. “Indigo, help Fluttershy get Lyra, Bon Bon and Sandalwood out of here with the animals. Pinkie and Lemon, use your sprinkles to destroy the thorns in an attempt to get others out. Applejack and Sugarcoat, use your strength to do something. Rarity and Sunny, do something!” Rainbow took charge in absence of Sunset.
“If you could give us a hand or well a paw and get us out of her, we would greatly appreciate it!” Fluttershy tapped the ground and a bunch of beavers or whatever they were popped up. Indigo didn’t really know much about them. “Alrighty, you first Bon Bon.” Bon Bon gave a smile and a nod.
“See you on the other side, Lyra.” Bon Bon stepped to it and Indigo yanked her back before some tree branches shot out of it, missing her head. “My god!” She and Indigo looked around as a bunch of thorns encased the pair, Lyra and Sandalwood.
“This blows,” Indigo grumbled as she kicked the branchs.
“Why did you save me?” Bon Bon asked.
“Because I would much rather you not die,” Indigo commented idly as she started pulling on the branches. “Even though you hate me, I still don’t want you or Lyra dead.”
“We don’t hate you,” Lyra announced. “We just didn’t trust you at first.”
“We do now,” Bon Bon chimed in.
“Let’s get the hell out of here!” Lyra agreed as the two started yanking fhe branches too. Shrugging, Sandalwood started to help.
“My god, this is the fucking worst!” Aria shouted as she paced around her small thorny prison.
“It could be worse. We could have been impaled by some branches,” Sonata pointed out.
“I would much rather get killed instantly inside of starve to death in here,” Aria grumbled.
“I’d rather not die at all!” Adagio snapped back. She gave the branches a swift kick and grunted. “Fucking branches. Fucking Gloriosa.” She plopped down next to Sonata and Aria joined her.
“We’re gonna die in here,” Aria sighed.
“Sorry for being so annoying,” Sonata mumbled.
“Sorry for being mean to you both,” Aria grumbled.
“Sorry for not taking your guys thoughts and feelings into consideration,” Adagio admitted. “At least we can die with that out of the way.”
“I like plants but this is too much!” Roseluck screamed as she and her two sisters, Daisy and Lily were imprisoned in trees. Rainbow tripped over a green haired girl and faceplanted.
“What on earth did I just trip over?” She looked around and groaned when she saw nothing. Shrugging, she got up and kept running.
“How does no one notice me?” The girl mumbled.
“Baton!” Sour hugged her sister as they fell next to the green girl and were surrounded by thorns.
“Well shit,” Baton Switch rolled her eyes.
“Don’t talk like that. You’re not old enough.”
“You’re only a year older than me!” Baton pointed out angrily.
“Okay you’re right, just don’t get caught by grandma and grandpa.”
“Thanks for the hug by the way. If we’re gonna die in this hellhole, at least I’m not alone.”
“We aren’t gonna die in here,” Sour retorted. “Rainbow and the others will get us out of here in no time.” How, she had no idea but she wasn’t gonna admit to that.
“Ow!” Lemon yelped as she yanked a roses thorn out of her fist. “Damn flowers with thorns.”
“Are you okay?” Watermelody asked hesitantly.
“Watermelody?” Lemon spun around and stared at her. “You’re trapped here too?”
“Yep,” the girl sighed. “Octavia is in here too.” Lemon glanced at the girl and recoiled at the dirty look she received from Octavia.
“Aren’t you Vinyl’s girlfriend?”
“I am, yes.”
“Nice to finally meet you. She talks about you a lot,” Lemon smiled at her. “I’ve heard great things.”
“Wait? She’s not cheating on me with you?” Octavia asked incredulously.
“No!” Lemon gave a laugh. “She’s in love with you. Besides, I like someone else.” She gave a glance at Watermelody’s excited expression.
“Wait who?” Octavia asked. Lemon ignored her and stepped to Watermelody.
“I’m sorry for avoiding you these past few days. I just needed to get my thoughts together. I shouldn’t have waited until the last day of camp to talk to you. Some last day this is, huh?”
“It’s okay. I don’t blame you. I still like you though,” Watermelody smiled.
“Wait. You’re the one who Lyra was talking about liking Lemon?” Octavia pointed at her.
“Yes,” Watermelody nodded.
“I’m sorry,” Lemon sighed. “So here.” She stepped closer to Watermelody and kissed her. Watermelody’s eyes widened before she kissed her back eagerly.
“Adorable,” Octavia grinned.
“So do you wanna go out?” Lemon asked with a grin.
“I think me kissing you back was the answer that you needed,” Watermelody grinned. “Wanna go again?” Lemon nodded and Watermelody kissed her again.
“Well this sucks,” Trixie sighed.
“That it does,” Sugarcoat agreed.
“So what now?” Flash asked.
“Well there three things we can do,” Sugarcoat held up three fingers. “One, we have a fight to the death, two we starve. Three we just sit around and talk while we wait for someone to save us.”
“Or we have a massive orgy?” Cloudkicker suggested with a grin.
“I’m down,” Strawberry Sunrise shrugged.
“Absolutely not,” Sugarcoat snapped.
“Trixie agrees with her,” Trixie nodded.
“Same here!” Flash shouted. “Besides, it’s just the four of us and Blossomforth in here.”
“Fine,” Cloudkicker sighed.
“You’re no fun,” Strawberry whined.
“Me you and Blossomforth can just have sex then,” Cloudkicker grinned. Sugarcoat rolled her eyes.
“God kill me now.”
“I feel it says a lot about our performance and abilities that all of us got caught in this godforsaken thing,” Sunny snapped.
“Agreed,” Cloudchaser nodded and Sweet Leafs sighed as she sat down.
“I think it’s quite beautiful. If it wasn’t created to trap us by a magical maniac,” Sweet Leafs smiled.
“We have different definitions of beautiful,” Cloudchaser scoffed.
“What’s your definition?” Sweet Leafs asked as she stroked a plant.
“Anything but this!”
“God give us strength,” Flitter sighed. “From what I saw before we got trapped in this thing, all our classmates got trapped in similar ones spread throughout the camp.”
“Well damn,” Cloudchaser sighed. “At least we aren’t the only ones I guess. Rainbow will save us, she’s done it before.”
“Hey look,” Flitter pointed. “The stupid branches are going away.”
“Thank god!” Sunny exclaimed. They all stepped and looked around curiously.
“Well this was a fucking trip,” Flitter grumbled. “Literally because we are away from home.”
“Haha, very funny sis.” Sunny approached Sunset nervously.
“What just happened?” She hesitantly asked.
“A whole lot of things but it’s chill now,” Sunset sighed.
“What do we do now?” Timber asked, looking at his sleeping sister. Sunset placed a hand on his shoulder and smiled.
“You help her keep the camp.”
