Out of their Elementsby setiellChaptersChapter 1PrologueChapter 2Chapter 3Chapter 1Sunset slowly walked towards her friends. Not sure of what just happened, she slowly opened her mouth. “Girls.. Do you remember me?” All of them stared at her hesitantly. After a moment of silence, Fluttershy stepped out. “It’s hard to forget you after everything you’ve done.” “What am I even doing here?” she whispered to herself. After giving Sunset the final glare, she walked in the direction of the school building. Seeing Fluttershy walking away, the other girls started to mumble too. “I think I have to go somewhere.” “Me too.” With an agreeing nod, they all turned around and started to get away from the scene. Everyone, except for Twilight. Twilight looked into Sunset’s eyes, her pupils trembling. The look on her face made it clear that Twilight was very uncomfortable with this situation. “Twilight..?” Sunset reached a hand. “I.. have to go too.” Twilight said, trying to avoid Sunset’s hand. Twilight started to run, not giving Sunset a chance to say anything else. “Twilight! Wait!” Sunset grabbed Twilight’s hand with a firm grip. With a flash in her eyes, Sunset’s whole world turned white. —------ Twilight Sparkle slowly descended from the sky. Her body was back to her usual form, and the monster-like horns and wings were gone. Everyone watched with fear and pity on their faces. “I’m.. sorry.” Twilight waited for anyone to say anything, but nothing came. Silence was the only thing the slicing wind was carrying. – It was a week after the friendship games. At Crystal Prep, the hottest topic of the week was the nerd student’s demonic transformation. There were rumors like it was all Principal Cinch’s fault that Twilight made that choice, but no one knew the truth, or rather, they were pretending to be ignorant of the actual truth, keeping their distance from all their sins and faults. I just want to get away from all this, and it isn’t even possible since there’s no chance that Principal Cinch would approve of my application after last week’s events. Twilight kept her head down, walking towards the science lab. All she wanted now was to be alone. She kept on walking, until she bumped into a tall figure. “Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to -” The girl quickly said. She raised her head, only to meet the stern face from her school’s very own principal. “Twilight Sparkle, just the girl I wanted to see. Follow me to my office.” – Principal Cinch sat on her chair, gesturing to Twilight to sit facing her. She opened her mouth with a winner’s grin on her face. “Twilight Sparkle, Do you realize that you are one of my most prized pupils?” Twilight wasn’t expecting that. “Well, but after last week’s rather.. disturbing event, I’m afraid I have to decline your application for the Independent study course in Everton.” “I…” At least Twilight expected that to happen at some point. Seeing the sad expression emerging from her student’s face, Principal Cinch continued. “Also, I’m afraid I have to expel you from CPA.” Twilight wasn’t definitely expecting that. Tears were starting to form around her eyes, and she started to breathe heavily. “What?? But that can’t be! How can I hold full responsibility for what happened at the games! You were the one who told me to do it… I… It isn’t fair...” “Nothing is fair in life, dear. I’ll give you a choice.” Cinch stood up and started to walk slowly around Twilight. “You can either get expelled from this school, and get a permanent record about all these events,” Twilight looked at her principal’s eyes with disbelief and terror. “or, you can just transfer to CHS,” She raised her index finger and continued to talk. “Only if you agree to tell anyone else that this was none of my fault, but all yours. If you do the latter, I’ll make sure that none of this would get into any of your records.” “So, what’s your choice?” Twilight answered with a shaking voice, sobbing quietly. “I’ll… take the latter..” Cinch looked down at the crying girl with a huge smile on her face. “Very good. You are free to go now.” – Twilight walked down the hallway with her head down. “Is that.. Twilight?” “No, she’s the other Twilight who turned into a monster at the games. Don’t you remember?” “Oh right.” Twilight tried to block out the others’ hurtful words that were directed at her. It turns out CHS wasn’t that different from CPA. I guess no one wants to be my friend. Not that I need friends. After all, I’m better when I work alone. Right? —------------- “What..?” Sunset took her hand off the purple skinned girl, trying to process what she just saw in the vision. “I’ll be going.” Twilight Sparkle ran away, leaving the red headed girl consumed in her own thoughts, alone in the parking lot. The sky was colored in red and orange, and the wind was howling through the heavy atmosphere. —————- Sunset Shimmer started to scribble down words in the journal. Her hand was shaking, and her handwriting was all messed up due to this. Twilight. Can I go to Equestria right now? I have an urgent matter to talk about, and I think it’s better to meet and discuss rather than write. Of course, you can. Did something go wrong with the memory stone? Yes. Something went wrong. Very wrong. —————- “What??? So you’re saying that she got new magical powers and actually erased their memories?” Twilight started to walk back and forth, panicking, and repeatedly breathing in and out of a brown paper bag. “Don’t forget the part where the geodes absorbed all the memories and my geode merged with the memory stone.” Sunset said, in a pretty hopeless voice. She wrapped her hooves around her head. “Seriously Twilight. What am I gonna do???? When I read my world’s Twilight’s memory, it was different from what happened. Before you say anything, Yes. I know the use of memory stone affects and alters other memories. But this was just drastically different! I can’t even compare this to the change I saw when Wallflower used the memory stone for the first time.” Twilight was quiet for a moment, probably thinking about the whole situation, and she started to talk. “Can you show me your geode Sunset? Maybe I can run some tests and figure out what happened to the memory stone. It might actually give us some answers about how we are going to get the girls’ memories back. You know, since we don’t have the destroying option left anymore.” “Oh. sure.” Sunset reached her hooves to her neck. She easily removed her geode and handed it over to the alicorn mare. Twilight grabbed it with her telekinesis, closed her eyes and mumbled some words, which Sunset figured it was a magical signature examination spell. After a while, Twilight opened her eyes again and talked. “It doesn’t seem to hold any memories inside. So, since the memories aren't contained inside the stone, I doubt that the memories will be gone permanently after 3 days.” “Then they are probably contained inside the geode of theirs.” Sunset said. “Also, this actually has a very interesting magical energy contained inside it. I’ve never seen anything like this!” Twilight said, looking very excited. “What does it mean?” “Uh.. That part is the problem. I have no idea!!!! But, don’t worry Sunset, I’ll make sure to analyze and get some results we can comprehend in a few days-” “A few days??” Sunset shouted. She wasn’t expecting to give up her geode, even if it was for a short while. Twilight closed her eyes and continued. “Yes. It will take at least a week to properly analyze them without getting affected by any possible side effects. Also, Princess Celestia went to the Crystal Empire with Princess Luna for some royal decree. She really wanted to stay until your circumstances got better, but she had no choice. To show her all this and get some advice, we have to wait 3 more days for them to come back to Canterlot. I’m sorry about this, Sunset.” Sunset sighed, knowing that she didn’t have any choice if she wanted some answers. “It’s okay Twilight.. Aside from how much I don’t want to give up my geode, especially in this kind of circumstance, I understand the importance of proper research too. Just.. make sure to let me know any new progress. Okay?” “Of course.” Twilight smiled. Sunset started to pack her things. Being curious, Twilight asked. “So.. what will you be doing in the meantime? We have a spare room in the castle if you want.” She offered. Sunset considered staying, but she quickly chose her mind. “I think I should be going back. We don’t know how long this situation will last, and if what I saw in Twilight’s vision happened similarly in others' memories, it can’t be good. I can’t just stand here and watch everyone suffering from the fake past all by themselves.” “So?” Twilight asked. “I’ll try to befriend them…Again.” Sunset said in a sad, but determined tone. “You really are a good friend Sunset.” —————- Sunset stood in front of the schoolyard. It was a new day. A very new day. She walked down the hallways, lost in her thoughts. What will my friends be like? How am I supposed to approach them? How do I know what happened in their fake pasts if I don’t have the geode? Well, I guess there’s only one way to find out. Now, where would the girls be? She continued the endless train of thoughts until she bumped into a smaller girl. “Oof. I’m sorry.” “Uh.. Okay?” The girl answered. She looked at her friends and whispered. “Did she just say ‘sorry’?” “I guess so.” Her friend said. Sunset, hearing all this conversation, turned around to see who the voices belonged to. She was able to see some familiar faces, which she immediately recognized as Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. “Oh it’s you girls. How is it going on with your little club?” Sunset managed a small smile. “We’re.. fine..?” Sweetie Belle answered. “Why is she talking to us..?” Scootaloo whispered to the others. Oh. I was so focused on others’ memories that I almost forgot that no one remembers that I am nice. Sunset realized. She sighed and continued to talk. “I’m not trying to do anything, girls.” “Okay? We’ll be going.” Apple Bloom said. “Yeah. We probably should.” Scootaloo seconded. The three girls started to walk away. Watching them go, suddenly, an idea struck in Sunset’s head. “Wait!” “Huh?” They turned their heads. “Can we talk somewhere private? I have something to talk about. It’s very important. It’s about your sisters.” Sunset said. “Are you trying to do something to them again?” Sweetie Belle asked reluctantly. “No. Not at all. Meet me at the band practice room in ten minutes. Just let me go and grab something real quick.” Sunset started to run, leaving the three girls confused. —————- “So, why did you call us?” Sunset sat down and started to talk in a serious tone. “Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo. I’m going to tell you something, and no matter how ridiculous it sounds, this is all the truth. I want you to hear me out, so, No running off being scared that I’m crazy and making this all up.” “Okay..?” The girls answered. Sunset sighed before she continued. “The memories about your sisters’ friendship were all wiped. What you know about their high school life could be all fake and -” “Whoa whoa whoah.. I know you said to us to just hear it out, but do you really think we would believe that?” Scootaloo interrupted. “Yeah. After everything you’ve done?” Apple Bloom added. Sunset knew there was no way to get out of this. So, she decided to face it. “I’m sorry for what I did to Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash. I’m sorry for everything I have done in the past, and I can swear I have changed. Now I’m trying to make up for them. I can’t just -” “Wait. Did ya just say Applejack?” Apple Bloom cut in. “Uh.. Yeah..? She’s your sister.” “How did ya know she’s mah sister? Are ya tryin’ to blackmail her?“ The small girl started to ask. “Everyone knows that you two are sisters! How can this possibly be blackmailing??” Sunset said. “Because everyone doesn’t.” Sweetie Belle said as if it was a matter of fact. “What..?” “Applejack told me to keep it a secret that she and ah are sisters. Not many know about it, ya know.” “Oh..” “So, how did ya know about it? Have ya stalked us?!” Apple Bloom said. Sunset continued in a sincere voice. “I haven’t. Girls, I know this is really hard to believe. But what I’ve told you, it’s all true. Someone called Wallflower Blush has wiped out some important memories from everyone. First, It started with her erasing everyone’s memories about my redemption, and now, she stole everyone’s memory about your sisters’ friendships that were made after CHS.” “You’re saying that..” “Yes. Everything you remember could be fake. I knew those things because I used to be friends with them. See?” Sunset pulled out her phone and showed the girls all the group photos they’d taken. “But.. How can we trust you? How do we know if you’re telling the truth?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Because I have proof.” Sunset reached her backpack and pulled out a drone. She connected it with her laptop, and played a video. A video that Wallflower Blush was admitting all her sins. When the video ended, the room was filled with heavy silence. It was a while before Apple Bloom opened her mouth. “So.. it’s all true then.” “Yeah, and I really want to help your sisters. My friends.” Sunset said. “How were they like in your memories?” Sweetie Belle asked in a small voice. Sunset smiled and closed her eyes, thinking about her friends. “Well, I honestly don’t know what they are like now, so this can have no difference from what you know.” And I really want it to. “Rarity is caring, fashion forward and generous. She can sure be a drama queen, but she’s probably one of the most giving people I’ve ever known. Applejack.. She is very hardworking, has a lot of pride in her farm and Sweet apple Acres stuff. She loves her family very much, and she is honest. Very, honest. And for Rainbow Dash, she loves to play sports, and is brash, hotheaded, boastful, and can be a bit handful. But at the end of the day, she’s the most loyal friend you can ever ask for.” Sunset finished with a bitter smile. When she opened her eyes again, she was able to see tears streaming down the little girls’ faces. It was obvious that they weren’t aware of it. “Are you girls.. crying?” “No I’m not..” Scootaloo said as she wiped down her face with her hands. “Maybe..?” Sweetie Belle said. “Um.. Ah think It just reminded me of what it used ta be?” Apple Bloom added. Sunset saw the girls astounded for a moment. She then approached them with a sad look. Sunset hugged the girls, comforting them in her embrace. The girls sniffed as they let their tears flow freely. “I really want mah sis back.. it’s not that she’s not there anymore.. but she’s not like she used ta be..” Apple Bloom said. “Yeah. It’s just like she’s suddenly distant. Every time I try to talk to Dash about it, she just avoids me, and pretends everything is fine. But I know she’s not. She doesn’t act like her old self anymore.” Scootaloo said. “Rarity isn’t all that different, but she did become a bit distant. I wanted to know what happened, but I guess she doesn’t want me to.” “I’m sorry that happened girls. But I know what they need, and I’m going to need your help for it.” Sunset said. “What is it that they need? How can we help?” Scootaloo asked. “You can start by telling me how they act, or anything you know about what has been going on. All they need is a true friend.” Author's Note Cutie Mark Crusaders Sister Helpers! Yay! PrologueSunset Shimmer started to run across the parking lot. The sun was already starting to set, and she had no time to lose. She ran past her friends, who were looking, or rather, glaring at her and shouted to the girl who was trying to sneak out. “Wallflower! Stop!” “You remember my name..?” Wallflower Blush said, with a trembling voice. “I remember everything. The memory stone. How I acted. All of it!” Sunset said. “What? How?! I erased the whole afternoon!” The rest of the six stared at Wallflower unbelievingly. “Listen. I used to be just like you. Sure, I was popular but.. I was lonely.” Sunset said in a soft voice. She realized being mad and getting into your opponent’s nerve isn’t going to be helpful when the opponent can magically erase your memory. “You’re nothing like me, and I am not lonely because I have.. ugh..um.. PLANTS!! …That sounded less lonelier in my head.” Wallflower said. “I’m sorry Wallflower.” “No you’re not! You’re just trying to look good in front of your friends! And it’s working! Guah!! How am I supposed to get back at you when nothing I do matters?!! I HATE YOU!!!” As Wallflower finished her shouting, Sunset looked at her. Her face contained disbelief, but mostly, hurt. “I wanted to teach you a lesson by erasing your friends’ good memories of you. But obviously, that didn’t work..” Wallflower said as she started to reach her backpack, trying to find the object she needed. “What are you talking about?” Twilight interrupted. Wallflower looked straight at Twilight and started shouting. Tears were getting out from her eyes. “I said! I wanted to teach her a lesson!! I erased her memories! You girls are all the same too. You all act like friendship is everything, but at the end of the day, nobody even cares about.. Me!! Your classmate! Your fellow yearbook committee member! Everyone acts like I’m invisible!!!” “So.. what Sunset gal here was talking about.. It was all true?” Applejack quietly said to herself. Wallflower throwed her bag to the ground, revealing the memory stone in her hand. “It doesn’t matter! You are all so annoying. My first plan was to erase all your high school memories to teach Sunset a lesson. But you know what? Scratch that. It's time for you six to learn a lesson.” The girls just looked at her, not sure how they should respond. Meanwhile, Wallflower continued. Tears gone, now with a grin on her face. “What if.. I erase all the memories of the friendships you girls made after attending CHS? Then you will all know what I feel for the rest of your time in high school!” “Wallflower! No!” The girl held the memory stone in her hand, releasing its power to the sky. Sunset ran over, trying her best to stop her, but by the time she managed to knock Wallflower down, it was too late. A magical beam surged out from the stone, spreading across the city as it hit the warm atmosphere. As Sunset looked upon the sky, she was able to see the little films of memories coming out from the school, their houses, over the everfree forest, slowly gathering toward their direction. She turned her head, and saw her friends. She saw the memories leaking out with horror in their eyes. But that wasn’t even the worst part. As soon as the memory wiping was done, Wallflower was engulfed with a green light, making her silhouette unrecognizable. “Wha.. What..? What’s happening to me?!!!” Wallflower screamed in terror. The green light turned into a sphere, glowing more and more brightly while floating until the light finally calmed down. The sphere landed on the ground, opening, only to reveal Wallflower Blush’s new magical form. She was definitely taller than before, wearing a black colored full suit with greenish highlights on it. She held a golden flower with five petals in her hand, and wore a smug grin that could even beat Rainbow Dash in the term of confidence. Her eyes also changed their color to bright yellow. “Huh.. I like this form. You know.” Wallflower took a petal from the golden flower and threw it to the sky. With another boom, the petal got a lot bigger, and started to fall. The giant petal landed on the unconscious forms of Sunset’s friends, covering them in a yellow glow. “What have you done!!” “Nothing. Actually, I was just helping. Did you realize that when someone uses the memory stone, it alters the memories of other events to have them make sense?” It was true. Sunset remembered when she saw her friends’ memories, the events of the past have changed differently. “Well, I was giving them new forms just to help them adjust in their new lives. Nothing mental. What do you think Sunset?! You can’t do anything now. The only one who could get the memories back is me, and I won’t do it!! With my new powers now I will be recognizable, I will make sure no one will ignore me!!” Wallflower said as she was unaware of the memory stone slipping off her grip, making it fall not too far away from sunset. “You won’t get away with this Wallflower!” Sunset said with tears forming in her eyes. “Actually, I can.” —---------------- Sunset cried. This was truly the worst day of her life. Everything went wrong. And I am the only one who can fix this. She turned her head to the empty parking lot, only to see the girls engulfed in a yellow light. “Girls! Twilight! Pinkie! Wake up!” But the only response she could get was those from the geodes. The six geode shined brightly, floating in the red horizon. The memory stone suddenly started to open, releasing the memories, only for them to get divided into six pieces. Each piece was absorbed by the six geodes. The geode shone brightly again, then became dim. Even dimmer than their usual forms. “No..Nonononono….” Sunset allowed her tears to flow freely. She grabbed the memory stone. All of a sudden, the memory stone floated, and started to merge with her own geode. Sunset looked down on her own geode. It was the same color, but it had some new touch of design on it. What? Why did it merge with my geode? What just happened? Why are their geode more dimmer than usual? What was all that memory release? Are their memories back? Sunset was able to snap out of her thought as a light groan was heard from her back. The light covering her friends was gone. And her friends looked… rather different. Twilight and Rarity looked almost the same, but the others had different outfits. Rainbow Dash was wearing a navy colored hoodie with some comfortable gray pants on instead of her usual sporty attire, and her hair was cut short. Only to fall an inch above her shoulders. Applejack’s hat was gone, and she was wearing a shirt with some fancy necklaces and earrings under a nice black jacket. She also wore sneakers instead of her brown boots. But what shocked Sunset the most was Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy wasn’t wearing any breezy dress, or a comfortable sweater, but a leather jacket with black jeans. She was also putting her long hair in a ponytail. Lastly, Pinkie pie wasn’t dressed up all colorful and bouncy, but a bit colorless. Also, it catched her eyes that Pinkie’s hair was flat. And for the cherry on the top, they were all glaring at her, some in anger, some in fear, some in disbelief. “What am I gonna do..?” Author's Note I was always curious of what would have happened if Wallflower actually succeeded. I'm planning to give this fic 15~20 chapters. This is my first fanfiction, so feel free to give any constructive comments! Chapter 2Sunset pulled out a notepad from her backpack. She grabbed her pencil and got prepared to write. “So, why don’t you girls tell me what’s going on?” Scootaloo was the first one to open her mouth. She scratched the back of her head and started to talk. “Rainbow Dash used to love sports, but now she doesn’t. All she likes is books and music. And, No, I’m not talking about nonfiction science-y egghead books. I’m talking about books like Daring Do.” Sunset wrote down what she just heard. “Well, Dash was a huge fan of Daring Do, and she really loved to play the guitar, so it does make sense.” Sunset said. After a moment, she asked again. “But what happened to make her not like sports? That's her passion!” Scootaloo shook her head and closed her eyes. “I have no idea. Something happened in her freshman year, but I wasn’t in CHS back then. And that’s not the only thing that’s gone. I think she is trying to act normal, and it works, so no one else seems to notice, but she is different. She doesn’t boast any more. It’s been moons since I heard her use the word ‘Awesome’. Mom and I tried to talk to her about all this, but all she says is ‘I’m fine!’” She opened her arms in a frustrated manner. Sunset frowned. “Wait. You two are sisters?” “Obviously? You said that.” Scootaloo said. “Like Sisters-sisters?” “Yes..?” “Like Live-Under-the-Same-Roof-kind-of-sisters?” “Yes! Why do you keep asking?” “Well, I knew you two were sisters. Dash told me that too. But I had no idea you two were related. I thought you two were honorary sisters or something?” Sunset said, looking dumbfounded. “What makes you think that?” “Let's just say.. World Parallels, and I’ve never gone to her place before.” Sunset said. “Actually, you're half right since we are not exactly related. I was adopted.” Scootaloo pointed out. “Oh.” “Don’t worry. It’s not a sensitive topic anymore. I got over it years ago.” Scootaloo said as she gave Sunset an assuring smile. Sunset smiled back at the girl as she continued. “So.. What about the others?” “Well, Rarity is not that different from what you said. She’s all about fashion, and I have no idea what made us distant. It was around sometime last year.” Sweetie Belle said. “Do you know something that might have happened before that?” Sunset asked. The three girls kept on saying ‘Umm’s and ‘Uh’s as they shared some looks. Sunset wasn’t sure why they were shy to talk all of a sudden. It took a while before Sweetie Belle squeaked out in a tiny voice. “Um.. You..?” She wasn’t expecting that. But then, memories of her history with Rarity flashed in her head. It can’t be it. With a trembling voice, Sunset slowly asked again. “What do you mean ‘me’?” “Well…. you did kinda crush her when she ran for the Princess of the Spring Fling. You don’t wanna know how much ice cream she ate back then. I seriously thought she’d have diabetes.” Sweetie Belle finished. As Sunset’s face grew darker and darker, Sweetie Belle quickly added. “When you were mean you know! You are nice now! Right?” “You’re saying that.. she became distant with you because of.. me..?” Sunset quietly said. Sweetie Belle sat next to the taller girl, and put a hand over her shoulder before she opened her mouth. “But we don’t know that for sure. Every time I tried to make Rarity tell me why she has become distant, she just says she’s sorry and she’ll try to make it up for me, and it’s nothing I have to be concerned about. All the time! I think if this was really about the Spring Fling thing, she would’ve told me since I knew about it, and there’s no point in hiding it. But I’ll try to talk to her about it again. I doubt that she’ll tell me though..” Sweetie’s smile faded as she said. “Okay..” “Oh! I almost forgot. She made a lot of friends after that incident! What you did was wrong, but it may..? have had a positive impact on her in the end, and you seem like you are really sorry about it. Don’t beat yourself too much about it.” Sweetie Belle managed a smile again. Sunset gave a bitter smile. “Thanks, Sweetie Belle. I needed that. But friends? How is that even possible?” “I dunno. She invited them to the boutique once.” “Applejack has friends too! She always hangs out with them on Sundays.” Apple Bloom said. “Rainbow Dash used to have one.” Scootaloo added. “What? But Wallflower said she erased it all!” Sunset shouted as she wrote down the new facts. The girls shared looks as they just shrugged. Sunset sighed as she said. “Let’s just think about it later. So?” “I think that’s it for Rarity.” As Sweetie Belle finished her talk, Apple Bloom opened her mouth. “Applejack is… Ah don’t know. She’s kinda similar to what you said when she’s home. She loves the family and is a hard worker. But.. not when she’s outside. She wants to keep it a secret that we are siblings. It’s not that she doesn't like me. She loves me, and she’s really overprotective of me when we’re home. The weird point is that in public, she’s just one of the cool girls, and she pretends she doesn’t know me...and It… hurts mah feelings.” Apple Bloom said in a sad voice. It was sure for Sunset that there was some tension between the Apple siblings. “Have you two talked about it?” Sunset said in a caring voice. She sat on her knee and looked up straight into the yellow girl’s eyes. “I wanted to.. but I think I’ve never had a chance.” Apple Bloom looked away. “Now might be a good time. Why don’t you talk about all this with her after school? After all, we have to know what happened.” Sunset smiled. “Okay.” Apple Bloom nodded and looked into Sunset’s eyes. “Maybe I’ll try to talk with Dash again about what happened too.” Scootaloo said. “Great. Let’s meet up again after the talk.” Sunset stood up as she prepared to go. “What are you going to do?” “I have someone I need to talk to.” ———————- Sunset waited at the parking lot. She tapped her right foot as she was starting to get worried. What if she doesn’t remember? Sunset looked up and turned around as some footsteps were heard from the direction of her back. “Sunset Shimmer. You wanted to see me?” A light blue skinned girl with silver hair was standing behind her with her arms crossed. “Trixie! Do you remember me..?” Sunset asked. “You can’t seriously think of someone as Great and Powerful as Trixie being so easy to manipulate.” Trixie smirked. Sunset let out a sigh of relief. “Thank Goodness you remember Trixie. But.. How did you get out of that room?” “A magician never reveals her secrets. Just know that it took a lot of smoke bombs. A LOT of it.” They both laughed. Trixie opened her mouth again. “So.. what happened with Wallflower Blush?” “She.. kinda erased all my friends’ memories.” Sunset rubbed her back. “Your friends?” Trixie raised her eyebrows. “My friends. The Rainbooms. Don’t you remember?” Sunset’s eyes twitched. “Who are.. the Rainbooms..? All you wanted was to get everyone to remember you were nice again. Right?” Trixie said, unsure of herself. “You don’t remember?” Sunset said. It was a moment before she realized that Trixie wasn’t an exception to the memory wipe about her friends. “Oh.. right.. It makes sense.” “Well, Trixie doesn’t know what happened. Care to fill in?” Sunset told everything that happened from the start of her friendship to Wallflower’s memory wipe. As she finished talking, Sunset was able to see Trixie looking dumbfounded, trying to process all the new information she never knew. “So, will you help me again, Trixie?” Sunset asked. Trixie grinned deviously, crossing her arms. “Only if I get to be voted as the Great and Powerfulest!” Sunset smirked at her friend. “Whatever.” They started to walk home, smiling and talking to each other. After minutes of small talk, Sunset spoke in a sincere tone. “Hey, Trixie?” “Huh?” “Thanks.” Trixie smiled. They continued the small talk as the sun started to fall on the horizon. No one noticed a dark silhouette behind them, watching the whole scene. —————— The CMCs started to walk home. “So, we’re going to talk to our sisters, huh?” Scootaloo said. “Yeah.. Ah hope it will turn out fine.” Apple Bloom replied. “Let’s hope for the best.” Sweetie Belle sighed. Apple Bloom tapped her chin as she started to talk. “How will you two get ‘em to talk about it? No offense, but you two have already tried and failed.” “Honestly, I have no idea.” Scootaloo said. “I don’t know about you, Apple Bloom, but I think Scootaloo and I shouldn’t talk about this directly.” Sweetie Belle said. “Then what do we do?” Scootaloo asked. “We’re going to have to ask a question that doesn’t let them know what we want to know, but can still let us know all the information we need!” Sweetie Belle said in an excited voice. “Like?” “Hmm… like.. I can ask Rarity for some advice about the Spring Fling? It’s only a few months ahead.” “Oh, and I can ask Rainbow Dash about some soccer stuff! The junior team match against CPA is this week, so it won’t look suspicious. At least I hope so.” Scootaloo added. “We’re the CMCs! There’s nothing we can’t do!” Apple Bloom said. The three girls jumped and performed a high-five as they shouted. “YAY!” —————— Apple Bloom ran over the grounds of Sweet Apple Acres. She stopped as she found a familiar figure. Applejack was standing on a stool, picking apples with a basket on her other arm. Apple Bloom shouted. “Applejack! Ya busy now?” “Nah. I was just getting done with picking those apples. Why?” Applejack turned her head and replied. “Can I talk to you for a minute..? It’s important.” “Sure thing, Sugarcube.” Applejack smiled as she put the basket on the ground. The two sisters walked into the house. They went past the kitchen and entered straight to Apple Bloom’s room. Applejack sat on Apple Bloom’s bed and started to talk. “So, what’s it ya wanted to talk to me about?” “Umm.. Applejack.. Why do we have to keep it a secret that we’re sisters? Ah really like you.. you’re the coolest big sis ah could get, and ah can’t tell anyone.” Apple Bloom slowly said. Applejack’s face turned pale. She gulped and let out a sigh before she opened her mouth. “Remember when ah asked you if ya wanted to tell others you’re from the farm?” “Of course I do. Ah remember sayin’ yes to that.” Apple Bloom said. “Do ya still think the same?” Applejack asked back. “Of course! There’s nothin’ ta be ashamed of the fact that ah’m part of the Apple family! Right, Applejack?” Apple Bloom said as if it was an obvious thing. She smiled proudly. The little girl looked into her sister’s eyes, her own eyes shining. “.…Of course, sugarcube. Of course.” Applejack said in a low voice, smiling warmly back to her sister. “So.. why can’t ah tell?” Apple Bloom asked again as she hugged Applejack. “It’s.. nothing you should be worried about. Ah’m mighty sorry if I hurt your feelings Lil’ Bloom. You know ah love you. Right?” Applejack said as she patted Apple Bloom’s head. “Yes.. But when you sorta avoid me outside, it.. hurts..” Apple Bloom quietly said. “I’m sorry. Ah promise to not avoid you. But… can you still keep it a secret that we’re siblings?” Applejack asked. “But..why..?” “I’m sorry Apple Bloom. But.. Ah think you won’t be able ta understand.” Applejack said as she pulled herself away from the hug, trying to avoid her little sister’s eyes. “Did anything happen to you??” “No. Ah’m fine.” Apple Bloom stood up as she stomped her left foot on the floor. She clenched her fist and started to shout. “Ah won’t buy that anymore! Ah’m sick of all these lies!!! Why can’t you just tell me what’s going on big sis..? You said you love me, so why are you keeping me from all these truths!!!” Tears were about to well up in the little girl’s eyes. Applejack’s head fell. She looked away. “I’m.. sorry. Ah really want to, but.. Ah can’t tell you the truth.” The blonde girl said, looking ashamed. “FINE! Ah guess.. you don’t want mah help!” Apple Bloom let all of her anger out. The anger that has been growing for moons. The anger she has been trying to avoid for ages. She ran away from her sister, leaving her alone in the room. Applejack saw her sister running away. Being shocked and all alone, Applejack stood up, trying to follow her. That was when her phone started to ring. She saw her phone screen with shame, and let her own tears fall on the screen. After a moment, she wiped out her tears as she cleared her throat and accepted the call. —————— “Hey! Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo shouted as she opened her sister’s room door. Quite loudly. Very loudly. “Whoa! Seriously? I was getting to the best part!” Rainbow Dash said in frustration. She was lying on her stomach on the bed, reading the latest Daring Do book that just came out last week. “Hehe… Sorry.” Scootaloo smiled sheepishly. “Uh-huh.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “So.. whatcha doing Dash?” The small girl asked. “Duh, Reading, of course.” Rainbow said as she closed her book and showed its cover. “Oh. So… you have some time?” “Sure.” Rainbow Dash sat up and gave a small smile to her little sister. “Great. So, the junior team match against CPA is this week.. so.. I just wanted some tips..?” Scootaloo sat next to her. “Scoots, you know I don’t do sports stuff anymore. Just go and ask your coach.” Rainbow frowned. “But you used to! Besides, Coach Iron Will will only say the same thing over and over again. ‘If someone tries to block, show them that you ROCK!!!’” Scootaloo finished as she started laughing. Rainbow chuckled alongside her sister. “That was pretty accurate. But nah, you probably won’t get any good advice from me. I wasn’t that good at it anyway.” She said as she stood up, walking to the door. “What?? But no!!! You were the most awesome-st amazing soccer player I’ve ever seen!” Scootaloo shouted. She couldn’t believe what she just heard. “Thanks, but no.” Rainbow said as she continued to walk out. “Why did you even quit soccer? And every other sport? You never told me.” That made the taller girl stop. She turned around and rubbed her neck. “It’s…. never mind. I guess I just grew out of it. Some new things caught my attention.” “But..but.. what you like now is nothing new!!! You have liked Daring Do since middle school, and you always liked cool music!” Scootaloo said. “I said, never mind.” There was a hint of venom in the voice. It was clear that the conversation was getting uncomfortable. However, Scootaloo pushed more. “No! I won’t until you tell me what's been going on!! You’re nothing like your past self! You don’t say that you are awesome anymore, you hate sports that you don’t want to even touch the ball, and you do nothing except listen to rock music or read those dusty old fantasy adventure books! And what about Fluttershy?? You never told me wh-” “Don’t you dare say another word.” Rainbow Dash suddenly hissed in a low, toxic tone, raising her index finger. She continued her talk as her voice grew louder. “And now you’re saying I’m useless huh? I thought you wanted me to give you some damn advice, but I guess this was your plan all along! You wanted me to talk about what happened!” Scootaloo shook her head. She quickly started to talk. “No Dash.. No! I never said anything about being useless! Just hear me out, I’m just-“ “Well, here is some advice if you want, NEVER MIND!!” Rainbow Dash shouted. A long silence followed her outburst. Scootaloo looked at her sister’s face. She managed to speak in a small, cracking voice. “Rainbow Dash…” Rainbow Dash looked into her sister’s eyes. Her facial expressions mellowed out as she realized how hurt Scootaloo was. “… I ... .I shouldn’t have snapped at you Scoots. I’m sorry.” Rainbow said as she looked away. “It’s okay, do you wanna talk about it?” Scootaloo asked in a quiet tone. “No.” Dash said sternly. “But..” “But nothing. I.. I have to be alone. Just go. I’m sorry.” Rainbow opened the door, waiting for Scootaloo to go out. “Can I just-“ Scootaloo stood up and tried to argue. “I said, just go.” Scootaloo had no choice but to leave the room. As she stepped outside, she heard the door closing behind her. All she could hear after was a quiet crying sound coming from the room. —————— Sweetie Belle opened the door of Carousel Boutique. “Rarity! Are you here?” “Sweetie! Darling! You came early. I thought you had those meetings with your friends this time every week?” Rarity was in her room, looking at her inspiration note. “Yeah! But.. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo had to go home early today.” “That’s nice.” Rarity replied without looking at Sweetie Belle. The conversation died down quickly. Sweetie Belle noticed it and started talking. “Anything I can do to help?” “Oh. It’s been a while since you have helped me, Sweetie. If you insist.. would you be a dear and get those fabrics over here?” Rarity said, still not looking at Sweetie Belle. She was now doing some sketches. “Sure!” Sweetie Belle said. “Thank you. Now you may go up to your room. I’m going to the mall later, so I’ll bring dinner to your room before I leave.” “Uh.. Rarity? I wanted to talk to you about something.” Sweetie Belle said as she handed over the fabrics. “What is it?” “My new friend said she wanted to run for the Princess of the Spring Fling.. and.. since you’ve been through it before.. you can.. help..?” Sweetie Belle tried to give her the most innocent look. “Sorry, Come again?” Rarity took her glasses off and finally met her eyes with Sweetie’s. “My new friend wants to run for the Princess of the Spring Fling.” Sweetie Belle said. “What??? Is she mad or something?” Rarity shouted dramatically. “I guess… no..?” Rarity turned around again and put her glasses on. She opened her mouth. “Well, the only help I can give is to tell her to be careful of Sunset Shimmer. But.. I doubt she’ll try to do anything after what happened at the Fall Formal.” She said, rolling her eyes. “Oh.. okay..” Sweetie Belle said. She was expecting a longer conversation than this. Maybe she came at the wrong time. As she was trying to leave with a disappointed face, Rarity suddenly called her. “By the way, who is this friend of yours?” Rarity said as she turned her back to Sweetie Belle. “Uh.. she’s a friend I just met yesterday! You probably won’t know her even if I told you her name.” Sweetie lied. “Is she nice?” Rarity asked. “Yeah! I think she is a good friend.” Sweetie Belle gave an assuring smile. Rarity smiled back at her as she stood up and walked toward her little sister. She lowered her arms, gesturing to Sweetie Belle to come. As the little girl came closer, Rarity braced her into a hug. The two sisters enjoyed each other’s embrace until Rarity whispered in Sweetie Belle’s ears in a quiet tone. “Don’t trust her so early darling. Help isn’t a thing you can give to anyone, anytime.” Sweetie Belle pulled out herself from the hug and looked at her sister in disbelief. Rarity simply smiled at her warmly as she continued. “After all, in this school, everybody acts like it’s everyone for themselves.” Author's Note Well, there is a reason why this story's title is 'Out of their Elements'. I assure you, there will be a pretty good explanation on why they are all like this. Next chapter is going to be about our beloved Sci-Twi. Feel free to give any constructive feedbacks! Chapter 3Twilight Sparkle was a student with a bright mind. She knew better than her peers about everything, and yes, even friendship. She knew that no one actually understood her. She knew that what everyone gave her was a pity, disguised in a pretty wrapper named friendship. Twilight looked around the cafeteria, trying to find a quiet place where she could eat alone without interacting with others. As she found a nice seat, she put her tray down and sat down. She turned her attention toward the other tables. Most of the students were talking, smiling brightly as they continued to eat. Twilight sighed. Maybe Cadence was right. What is it like to make a friend? The girl shook her head immediately. No, I couldn’t risk it. Others don’t even want to be friends with me, and I don’t need friends either. After lunch, Twilight walked down the hallway, heading to her next class: Physical Education. She was never a sports person, so it was clear she wouldn’t enjoy this class period. As usual. The class bell rang, and Twilight stood next to her peers and gave herself some stretches. A few minutes passed, and Coach Iron Will started to talk. “Starting from today and until your vacation, we will be learning basic soccer techniques and moves. Today, you will be practicing dribbling, passing, and shooting as a pair. So get up and pair up with your classmates!!” Twilight sighed. Great. It was just Great. Everyone started to team up with her friends, and it was obvious Twilight was going to end up alone. That was until Twilight saw another girl standing in the corner with her arms crossed. It was that moment when the coach blew a whistle. “Miss Sparkle! Go over there and pair up with Dash.” So, the girl’s name was Dash. She was not familiar with her, but she gave Twilight this weird sensation in her guts. Huh. That was new. Twilight walked over and poked her shoulder. She gave a deep breath and waved her hand to the rainbow haired girl. “Um… Hi..? My name is Twilight.” The girl smiled back and replied. “Name’s Rainbow Dash.” Silence. The scene was getting awkward, so Twilight quickly added. “So.. let’s get this done as soon as possible. Okay? Since it’s clear that you don’t like this.. and I don’t like this either.. so..” “Uh huh. But is there a way we can just slack this thing off? I.. really don’t want to do this.” Rainbow asked with an unamused tone. “I wish there was,” Twilight said, only to get an annoyed side glare from the coach. “But apparently, there isn’t.” “Lame.” As Twilight started to kick the ball, Rainbow frowned. “No, no. You shouldn’t give a pass like that. You will probably end up spraining your ankle. Try to kick with the inside part of your foot. Like this.” The girl then gave a smooth pass back to Twilight. “Whoa. You’re good at this. Did you practice this?” “Haha. Funny. You almost made it sound like I practiced soccer.” Rainbow glared at Twilight, not giving her the chance to argue back. Trying to lighten up the mood, Twilight started to talk. “Heh Heh.. I was just complimenting. I can’t understand those who like sports either. I was never that kind of person.” “There are many things we can’t understand. I can’t even understand myself sometimes.” Dash added. This segment of the girl gave Twilight a strange feeling. It felt like.. she didn’t know how to put it in words. It was suddenly like.. someone was able to understand her. She stood quiet for a moment. Was she able to tell her feelings to the person she just met? Was she able to- “Uh.. Twi?” “Yes?” Twilight smiled. “You zoned out there for like, two minutes.” “Oh. Sorry. I was.. just thinking about something.” Twilight said. “Wanna talk about it? It’s not like I have anyone else to tell what you’re gonna say.” Rainbow smiled back. Maybe it was okay. Maybe Dash didn’t want to be friends with her, and if she was not going to see her again, saying some of her feelings wouldn’t hurt. Twilight took a deep breath and talked. “It’s like.. I’m not able to fully understand my own feelings too. I feel like I am missing something, but I couldn’t figure out what is missing.” “You felt that too? I live with that feeling every day.” Dash chuckled. “Huh.. I guess it’s just some common symptom of adolescence.” Twilight said sheepishly. “It probably is.” Dash said as she looked up in the sky. Talking with Rainbow Dash gave Twilight comfort. It was the first time somebody actually looked at her without pity or comparison. The first time she felt understood, even if it was for a small time. Maybe this was friendship? She wasn’t sure. What interrupted Twilight’s thoughts was the school bell. Rainbow gave a small pat on her back and started to leave. Twilight had to know. “Wait! Rainbow Dash.” “Yeah, Twilight?” Rainbow turned around. “Are we friends?” A silence filled the atmosphere. Maybe she shouldn’t have asked the question. She didn’t even know how much time passed. Sweat was on her hands, and she started to get uncomfortable. Rainbow’s expressions were mostly incomprehensible, but Twilight was able to read at least one emotion right. Anxiety. Rainbow was completely different from what she saw while they were practicing and talking. It seemed like her confidence was suddenly wiped away. Was it because of her? “I… You… I don’t think so.” Rainbow quickly said and ran away. Of course. No one wanted to be friends with Twilight. Twilight saw the rainbow headed girl’s figure getting smaller. She sighed. Today’s experience made it even clearer: Twilight Sparkle can’t, no, no, doesn’t need friends. —————— Sunset and Trixie started to talk, getting to their next classes. “So, here’s the plan. I share Advanced Biology with Twilight 5 minutes later, so I go and talk to her, and since you don’t have classes, you go and find Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy’s whereabouts. Neither of them has any classes in this period like you.” “Okay, but why do you insist on talking to Twilight first?” Trixie said. “Because I already read some memories about her. It will be easier to approach her.. at least easier than the others.” Sunset said as she gave a bitter smile. “Uh huh. But are you sure.. Fluttershy is one of your friends?” Trixie asked as she raised her eyebrows. “Yes Trixie, you’ve already asked 7 times.” Sunset sighed out of frustration. “It’s just.. Trixie has never met her.. but she’s…” “Just spill it, Trixie! What’s wrong??” Sunset shouted. “She’s kinda… unkind?” “Huh?” Wow. And that was something Sunset never thought she would hear about Fluttershy. It was unimaginable just to put the words ‘Fluttershy’ and ‘unkind’ in the same sentence. “You’ve heard it right. She isn’t known to be the kindest person in the world as you claim to be.” “It might be a misunderstanding. Are we talking about the same Fluttershy?” Sunset asked again. “Trixie was saying that all along!!” Trixie raised her voice, annoyed. “But why?” Thanks a lot, Wallflower. “Uh. Nevermind. Just.. then.. Can you find Pinkie pie? You don’t need to talk to her. Text me where she is, and how she acts.” “And That’s what the Great and Powerful Trixie can do.” Trixie said as she grinned. “I don’t know what I could do without you, Trixie.” Sunset said, approaching her new friend and giving her a hug. “Just make sure you get me as the Great and Powerful-est.” Trixie said as she patted Sunset’s back. The two girls pulled out from their hug, and gave each other a small handshake. Sunset saw her destination and started to walk towards the classroom with confidence. It’s time for you to taste some magic of friendship, Twilight. The red headed girl smiled and entered the room. —————— Twilight ran into her room and sat on her bed, covering her face with her blankets. She sobbed her eyes out until she heard her dog, Spike’s voice. “Twilight… Can you tell me what happened..?” He whispered softly. Twilight lifted her head, meeting her eyes with Spike’s. Spike slowly walked and sat on Twilight’s lap, licking her hands to give her comfort. As Twilight’s sob faded down, she started to talk about what happened that day. “Cinch.. She.. I have to transfer to CHS.. and take full responsibility for what happened.” “What??? How could she! That’s not fair!” Spike shouted out. “At first, I thought so too. But.. I guess I sucked all the magic from… I can’t remember who.. but some people, and turned into a rampaging demon, got overwhelmed, and tried to destroy two worlds.” Twilight said as her head dropped in guilt. Spike put his paw on Twilight’s arm. “It’s not your fault Twilight.” Twilight sighed, and opened her mouth. “The initial reason? No. But it was still me Spike. I felt all that. I remember saying all those words as Midnight Sparkle.” Her voice choked as she finished the sentence. “Twilight, there’s no way you’re Midnight Sparkle. Do you still want to understand magic so badly that you don’t want to consider the consequences of the action you plan to do? Destroying the world?” Spike said. “No!! Never!” Twilight shouted out as she shook her head. Spike smiled. “My thoughts exactly. Midnight Sparkle doesn’t exist anymore! She was defeated by… uh.. whatever.. I couldn’t remember. But you still get the point. Let’s just get a good night’s sleep. We should probably go and talk to Cadence about this tomorrow before you go. You still have a few days left.” Twilight’s tears were gone now, thanks to Spike. She stroked her dog’s head as she laid down on her bed, putting herself into a nice sleep. She took off her glasses, and smiled warmly at her dog. “That sounds like a great idea. Thanks Spike…. And I hope you’re right.” — Twilight woke up the next morning and smiled. A brand new day. What made it the best day was that it was Saturday. Saturdays meant that she didn’t have to go to school, and no school meant no Cinch, no peer pressure, no back talking, no everything. She gave a small grin and got up from her bed. Twilight headed to the bathroom. The splash of the cold water on her face made her feel good. So, today’s plan was to talk about the matter to Cadence, get back home, and have some rest. Twilight sighed as she thought about the idea, of attending to CHS. Maybe CHS isn’t that bad after all. Maybe she could have a nice, new life with some new associates? Twilight thought as she looked into the mirror. Suddenly, a mint-damaged horn and a flame of light appeared on Twilight’s face. “No… nononono.. It can’t be..!” A doppelgänger of Twilight emerged from her very own figure. The only thing that separated herself from that creature was that the new figure had the demonic form of herself. It was Midnight Sparkle. “Did you miss me, Twilight?” Midnight said as she gave an evil grin. “Midnight Sparkle..?? But you were defeated at the Friendship Games!” Twilight said as she pointed a finger. Midnight laughed. “Oh little Twilight, hate to ruin your hopes, but I cannot be defeated. I am you.” Midnight Sparkle said as she put her hand on Twilight’s chin. Twilight shook off her hand and shouted. “NO! I’m nothing like you!” “You really think so? Then, what do you think made me in the first place?” Midnight hissed in a dangerous manner. “You are just a consequence of misused magic. I…. am not you.” Twilight said. For a moment, peace came. Midnight Sparkle was gone. As Twilight gave a relieved sigh, Two demonic wings appeared on her back. Her own mouth started to move outside her will. Twilight tried to resist, but it was impossible. She started to speak. “You are wrong Twilight. I am You. It was you who made me, and you will never be forgiven, even in CHS. You don’t deserve friends, and you don’t need friends.” — “NOOOOOOO!!” Twilight snapped her eyes open as the horrible dream was over. What a terrific way to start a day. Spike came running, worried about Twilight. He gave Twilight his best puppy dog eyes, well, quite literally, and talked to her. “Did you have a bad dream, Twilight?” Twilight managed a fake smile and patted Spike on his head. “Um… yes. And Spike, it’s okay. I really don’t want to talk about it.” “Uh.. if you say so. Shining Armor said he would give you a ride. Come outside when you are ready. Okay?” Spike said. “Sure.” Twilight got dressed up and went to the living room. A new start. That was just a dream. It’s a dream. Right? It will be okay. It will be okay. She kept on reminding herself of the same phrase over and over she didn’t even notice Shining Armor talking. It will be okay. It was just a dream. It will- “TWILY!!!” “Yes?” “We’re here.” Shining Armor said. Looking concerned for her own sister. “Oh. Thanks for the ride.” Twilight said. “Anything for you. Just remember that it’ll-“ Twilight ran off the car, not giving his brother a chance to finish his sentence. “- turn out fine eventually.” Twilight opened the door, only to see her old babysitter and her school’s dean sitting down, waiting for her to come in. Twilight slowly stepped in and told Cadence everything, from the start to the end. “Principal Cinch did WHAT??” Yep, a legit response. “You heard it right.. What am I gonna do? How can this happen?” Twilight said. Cadence held Twilight’s hand as she started to talk. “I’m so so sorry for this Twilight. It was actually my idea to help you get transferred to another school. The peer pressure and bullying were getting worse.. and Cinch really wanted to get you expelled. I suggested helping you by letting you get transferred, only if you agreed, but I never thought Cinch was going to blackmail you with all this. I should have known.” Cadence’s voice held sympathy, trying to be totally sincere with Twilight. “I.. you did?” Twilight asked in a small voice. “Yes..” Twilight smiled. “Thanks, Cadence. I really appreciate your effort. I think I’ll be fine. Don’t worry about me.” Cadence’s face darkened as she continued. “But are you going to be okay in CHS? They all know you.” “It’s fine. My only real friends are you, Spike, and Shining Armor.. so I don’t have to care about anyone else…. but these relationships are not exactly friendship, aren’t they?” Twilight smiled sheepishly. “Heh.. yeah.” Cadence smiled back. “It’s not like I need friends. I’ll just… do my studies… for like a year and a half, then it’s graduation!” Twilight said. “I’m glad you have plans, though, Twilight, please consider making friends. It’s important.” Cadence said as she gave her a concerned look. Cadence continued. “And.. Twilight, could you tell me what role mitochondria play in respiration?” “Huh?” Twilight blinked and shook her head as she snapped back to reality. Right. This was Advanced Biology class. Twilight looked at her teacher with a sorry smile. “Miss Twilight, I asked you what role mitochondria play in respiration.” Ms Harshwhinny said. “Oh.. it helps produce ATP.” Twilight answered quickly. “Very well, Twilight. Next time, don’t zone out during class, and try to pay attention.” Ms. Harshwhinny clapped her hands and cleared her throat as she started to give an announcement. “Class, that’s for today, and I will be giving you some new assignments. You will be writing a report and giving a 10 minute presentation about a topic branched from what you've learned in this semester’s AB class. You may do this alone, or you may do this as a team. The report is due this weekend, so get started on the research!” She was definitely doing this alone. Numerous ideas flashed through Twilight’s mind. That was until a voice interrupted her thoughts. A red-yellow haired girl, which she recognized as Sunset Shimmer, was standing next to her, and talking to her. “Hi Twilight. Do you want to do the project with me?” Sunset smiled. “Uh.. I was planning to do this alone.” Twilight said. She put on her kindest look. Sunset seemed a bit disappointed at this point. But she quickly smiled again and continued. “Oh.. but.. can I do it with you anyway? I want to be friends with you.” Friends. Is she saying this genuinely? Can I trust her? But Twilight remembered who she was. She was Sunset Shimmer out of all people. Twilight knew that she didn’t have a nice reputation, even though she didn’t know the exact reason. And she realized that this was the girl who yelled at her at the Friendship games. I should’ve listened to her back then... She might be saying nice things because she wants to use me. I can’t keep my guard down. “Are you trying to blackmail me?’’ Twilight asked. “No, In fact, I’m trying to make it up to you. I’m sorry I yelled at you at the friendship games. It must have hurt your feelings back then.” Sunset said as she gave Twilight a warm smile and an apologetic expression. That felt genuine. Should I be nice to her? “Okay? It’s fine.” Twilight said. Sunset tilted her head and raised her eyebrows. “So…??” “So what?” Twilight asked. “Can we be teammates?!” Sunset asked. Twilight wondered. Is she really willing to be her friend? How was she able to know if she could trust her? Maybe I can just get the project done quickly, so that I don’t have to end up being friends with her. That way I don’t have to worry about her true motives. “.. Fine. But let’s make this quick. I’ll write the report, you do the presentation, and I-” “Wait, What? That’s not teamwork?” Sunset interrupted. “Well… then what did you expect?” Twilight asked. Sunset seemed to think for a second before she started to talk again. She made a slight grin. “Why don’t you come over to my place tonight? We’ll have a nice time brainstorming ideas, writing reports, and eating pizzas.” Is this what friends did? “Uh.. Why not just use the library?” Twilight tried to argue. Sunset gave a wink as she started to speak. “If I wanted to just get the assignment done, that would’ve been perfect. But this isn’t about biology. I want to be friends with you Twilight. Uh…..And mostly, the library won’t let us bring pizza inside.” Maybe this won’t hurt. She didn’t see any pity or comparison with the other Twilight when Sunset talked. While she wasn’t sure why Sunset was doing this, she thought this wouldn’t go wrong unless they didn’t get too close. “Okay. I’ll take your offer, But… I… really don’t know about the friendship part.” Sunset smiled. “It’s fine Twilight. Just meet me after school, and I’ll take you to my place.” —————— Yes Yes Yes it worked!!!! I can’t believe I pulled that off! Sunset thought as she waited for Twilight in front of the destroyed Wondercolt statue. Sunset continued her thoughts. Let me just clear up some things I already know about Twilight. 1. She is from CPA, and she transferred right after the Friendship games. 2. She transformed into Midnight Sparkle at the Friendship games and - wait. How was she able to transform into Midnight Sparkle if there was no friendship between the other girls, which means no ponying up, which means there’s no magic to take in the first place? Sunset thought of the matter for a second. Then she remembered seeing Applejack’s memory at the beach. Right! The use of a memory stone can lead to some memory alterations, but it can also just erase the memory instead of filling it with a reasonable explanation! Well.. I probably should find what differentiates the erased events that altered other memories and events that are simply left blank instead of altering other memories, but that could wait. This is a great plot hole! I think I can use this along with the selfie sensor camera to convince the girls if they keep thinking I am a jerk! “Sorry I’m late.” Sunset quitted her thoughts as Twilight arrived. She smiled at her friend. “It’s fine. Let’s get moving.” The two girls started to walk to the bus stop. Sunset wasn’t going to miss this opportunity to have a small talk, so she asked Twilight a question. “So.. How’s everything going on?” “Um… fine, I guess.” Twilight rubbed her neck as she replied. “Uh.. sure.” An awkward silence followed as Sunset finished her sentence. “Oh. There’s our bus.” Sunset said as she signed Twilight to come. Don’t worry Sunset, this will get better once you get comfortable. You’ve got this. The pair soon reached Sunset’s place. Sunset led the other girl in her room, and the red haired girl asked Twilight another question. “I’ll order pizza for us in Domino’s. What kind of pizza do you prefer?” Sunset said as she scrolled her phone screen. “I like Hawaiian pizzas.” Twilight said. This led the girls’ scene into another dramatic silence. “What??” Sunset shouted. “Huh?” “You.. like pineapple toppings?” Sunset asked. “I don’t see any problem in that?” Twilight simply smiled. “How did I never know?” Sunset whispered. She surely didn’t know that Twilight loved pineapple pizzas. Was this another kind of cruel joke of Wallflower’s? “What?” Twilight asked. “Just.. never mind. But how, just HOW can one like Hawaiian pizza??!! Pineapples are fruits. Fruits aren’t meant to be eaten warm.” Sunset frowned as she said. “Well, at least it tastes better than Pepperoni pizzas.” “What did you just say..?? I can’t even….” Sunset realized this was getting nowhere and would just get her image worse. “Let’s just drop this topic. I’ll order half Hawaiian, half pepperoni.” “Um.. Okay?” Twilight said. Sunset put down her phone as she finished the order and sat on her bed. She signed Twilight to sit on the chair and started her talk. “So.. why don’t we talk about… life?” “Shouldn’t we talk about the biology project?” Twilight said. “We have plenty of time.” Sunset said as she spread her arms. Twilight seemed to look uncomfortable. Maybe she was pushing too hard? After a few seconds, Twilight sighed and spoke. “No, we don’t. Sunset, why are you insisting on getting close to me?” “I’m.. not?” Sunset said, trying to look innocent. “Yes, you are. Why should I even trust you with my feelings? I don’t need friends.” Twilight said. It was obvious that she had some history regarding this topic. Sunset cleared her voice and spoke in a soft, sincere voice. “No Twilight, everyone needs friends.” She smiled as she finished her sentence. “But not me I guess! I… I think I’m not even forgiven.” Twilight said. This really hit Sunset’s feels. A memory of a purple demon-like creature flashed through her head. She was soon able to realize where her anxiety and problems were coming from. “This is about the Midnight Sparkle incident, isn’t it?” Sunset slowly spoke. Twilight’s pupils started to tremble. “I…. it’s none of your business.” She said in a shaking voice. “It is Twilight, I just want to help you.” Sunset said as she snatched Twilight’s hand. Twilight immediately shook off her hand, and raised her voice. “Oh, so now you are talking about your motives? I bet you will try to help me by making me say everything that happened and once I did, you will just say, ‘The other Twilight is better.’” Twilight’s voice held fear, and hurt. “Twilight.. I’m sorry you had to go through that. But you have to believe me when I say I want to help you. You just need a friend.” Sunset smiled and stood up. This made Twilight stand up too. The purple skinned teenager stomped her way to the room’s door. Sunset just watched as her ex-friend’s face was covered with tears. Twilight turned around and looked straight into Sunset’s eyes. “If you are sorry for me, just leave me alone. I don’t want to get pitted by someone who doesn’t even understand me.” She said in a weak, but low voice. Sunset really felt bad for Twilight. What did the poor girl have to go through to block everyone from herself? She really wanted to help her, especially because she saw her past self from Twilight. “But what if I did?” Sunset asked. “What?” “What if I did understand you?” Sunset asked again. “You can’t.” Twilight said as her head fell. “I can. Twilight, I’ve been through the exact same thing as you. You would’ve realized that I don’t have a good reputation. I used to be mean, and I craved power. So I stole a magical artifact that can make me have ultimate power. It turned me into a demon. That’s why I understand you Twilight. I was a monster too.” Sunset ran over to the door and grabbed Twilight’s arm. This time, she didn’t shove it away. Instead, Twilight looked moved. Sunset continued. “But you can be better off if you give other people a chance to give you help. People will forgive you because they know it wasn’t your fault. I know that too.” “…But.. What if I end up getting hurt? Once I open up?” Twilight asked in a meek voice. “I won’t let you. When I was going through a hard time, some good people taught me how friendships can be the cure. Now, Let me show you that you don’t have to go through this alone.” Sunset led Twilight to somewhere she could sit down. The two girls shared looks as they finally sat down. “Friends?” Sunset said. Twilight smiled. “I’ll give it a try.” Twilight hugged Sunset. As the hug ended, the purple geode on the teenager’s neck started to glow. The glow grew brighter, and brighter until it blinded both of the girls’ sight. A big boom was heard, literally knocking down every object in Sunset’s room. Sunset’s vision came back a few minutes later. She rubbed her eyes as she tried to get a better look at her surroundings. Twilight was sitting on the floor, staring at Sunset with a bright smile, tears welling up in her eyes. “Sunset?” Author's Note Sunset was never gonna give Twilight up, or let her down, or run around and desert… Okay I’ll shut up.
Chapter 1Sunset slowly walked towards her friends. Not sure of what just happened, she slowly opened her mouth. “Girls.. Do you remember me?” All of them stared at her hesitantly. After a moment of silence, Fluttershy stepped out. “It’s hard to forget you after everything you’ve done.” “What am I even doing here?” she whispered to herself. After giving Sunset the final glare, she walked in the direction of the school building. Seeing Fluttershy walking away, the other girls started to mumble too. “I think I have to go somewhere.” “Me too.” With an agreeing nod, they all turned around and started to get away from the scene. Everyone, except for Twilight. Twilight looked into Sunset’s eyes, her pupils trembling. The look on her face made it clear that Twilight was very uncomfortable with this situation. “Twilight..?” Sunset reached a hand. “I.. have to go too.” Twilight said, trying to avoid Sunset’s hand. Twilight started to run, not giving Sunset a chance to say anything else. “Twilight! Wait!” Sunset grabbed Twilight’s hand with a firm grip. With a flash in her eyes, Sunset’s whole world turned white. —------ Twilight Sparkle slowly descended from the sky. Her body was back to her usual form, and the monster-like horns and wings were gone. Everyone watched with fear and pity on their faces. “I’m.. sorry.” Twilight waited for anyone to say anything, but nothing came. Silence was the only thing the slicing wind was carrying. – It was a week after the friendship games. At Crystal Prep, the hottest topic of the week was the nerd student’s demonic transformation. There were rumors like it was all Principal Cinch’s fault that Twilight made that choice, but no one knew the truth, or rather, they were pretending to be ignorant of the actual truth, keeping their distance from all their sins and faults. I just want to get away from all this, and it isn’t even possible since there’s no chance that Principal Cinch would approve of my application after last week’s events. Twilight kept her head down, walking towards the science lab. All she wanted now was to be alone. She kept on walking, until she bumped into a tall figure. “Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to -” The girl quickly said. She raised her head, only to meet the stern face from her school’s very own principal. “Twilight Sparkle, just the girl I wanted to see. Follow me to my office.” – Principal Cinch sat on her chair, gesturing to Twilight to sit facing her. She opened her mouth with a winner’s grin on her face. “Twilight Sparkle, Do you realize that you are one of my most prized pupils?” Twilight wasn’t expecting that. “Well, but after last week’s rather.. disturbing event, I’m afraid I have to decline your application for the Independent study course in Everton.” “I…” At least Twilight expected that to happen at some point. Seeing the sad expression emerging from her student’s face, Principal Cinch continued. “Also, I’m afraid I have to expel you from CPA.” Twilight wasn’t definitely expecting that. Tears were starting to form around her eyes, and she started to breathe heavily. “What?? But that can’t be! How can I hold full responsibility for what happened at the games! You were the one who told me to do it… I… It isn’t fair...” “Nothing is fair in life, dear. I’ll give you a choice.” Cinch stood up and started to walk slowly around Twilight. “You can either get expelled from this school, and get a permanent record about all these events,” Twilight looked at her principal’s eyes with disbelief and terror. “or, you can just transfer to CHS,” She raised her index finger and continued to talk. “Only if you agree to tell anyone else that this was none of my fault, but all yours. If you do the latter, I’ll make sure that none of this would get into any of your records.” “So, what’s your choice?” Twilight answered with a shaking voice, sobbing quietly. “I’ll… take the latter..” Cinch looked down at the crying girl with a huge smile on her face. “Very good. You are free to go now.” – Twilight walked down the hallway with her head down. “Is that.. Twilight?” “No, she’s the other Twilight who turned into a monster at the games. Don’t you remember?” “Oh right.” Twilight tried to block out the others’ hurtful words that were directed at her. It turns out CHS wasn’t that different from CPA. I guess no one wants to be my friend. Not that I need friends. After all, I’m better when I work alone. Right? —------------- “What..?” Sunset took her hand off the purple skinned girl, trying to process what she just saw in the vision. “I’ll be going.” Twilight Sparkle ran away, leaving the red headed girl consumed in her own thoughts, alone in the parking lot. The sky was colored in red and orange, and the wind was howling through the heavy atmosphere. —————- Sunset Shimmer started to scribble down words in the journal. Her hand was shaking, and her handwriting was all messed up due to this. Twilight. Can I go to Equestria right now? I have an urgent matter to talk about, and I think it’s better to meet and discuss rather than write. Of course, you can. Did something go wrong with the memory stone? Yes. Something went wrong. Very wrong. —————- “What??? So you’re saying that she got new magical powers and actually erased their memories?” Twilight started to walk back and forth, panicking, and repeatedly breathing in and out of a brown paper bag. “Don’t forget the part where the geodes absorbed all the memories and my geode merged with the memory stone.” Sunset said, in a pretty hopeless voice. She wrapped her hooves around her head. “Seriously Twilight. What am I gonna do???? When I read my world’s Twilight’s memory, it was different from what happened. Before you say anything, Yes. I know the use of memory stone affects and alters other memories. But this was just drastically different! I can’t even compare this to the change I saw when Wallflower used the memory stone for the first time.” Twilight was quiet for a moment, probably thinking about the whole situation, and she started to talk. “Can you show me your geode Sunset? Maybe I can run some tests and figure out what happened to the memory stone. It might actually give us some answers about how we are going to get the girls’ memories back. You know, since we don’t have the destroying option left anymore.” “Oh. sure.” Sunset reached her hooves to her neck. She easily removed her geode and handed it over to the alicorn mare. Twilight grabbed it with her telekinesis, closed her eyes and mumbled some words, which Sunset figured it was a magical signature examination spell. After a while, Twilight opened her eyes again and talked. “It doesn’t seem to hold any memories inside. So, since the memories aren't contained inside the stone, I doubt that the memories will be gone permanently after 3 days.” “Then they are probably contained inside the geode of theirs.” Sunset said. “Also, this actually has a very interesting magical energy contained inside it. I’ve never seen anything like this!” Twilight said, looking very excited. “What does it mean?” “Uh.. That part is the problem. I have no idea!!!! But, don’t worry Sunset, I’ll make sure to analyze and get some results we can comprehend in a few days-” “A few days??” Sunset shouted. She wasn’t expecting to give up her geode, even if it was for a short while. Twilight closed her eyes and continued. “Yes. It will take at least a week to properly analyze them without getting affected by any possible side effects. Also, Princess Celestia went to the Crystal Empire with Princess Luna for some royal decree. She really wanted to stay until your circumstances got better, but she had no choice. To show her all this and get some advice, we have to wait 3 more days for them to come back to Canterlot. I’m sorry about this, Sunset.” Sunset sighed, knowing that she didn’t have any choice if she wanted some answers. “It’s okay Twilight.. Aside from how much I don’t want to give up my geode, especially in this kind of circumstance, I understand the importance of proper research too. Just.. make sure to let me know any new progress. Okay?” “Of course.” Twilight smiled. Sunset started to pack her things. Being curious, Twilight asked. “So.. what will you be doing in the meantime? We have a spare room in the castle if you want.” She offered. Sunset considered staying, but she quickly chose her mind. “I think I should be going back. We don’t know how long this situation will last, and if what I saw in Twilight’s vision happened similarly in others' memories, it can’t be good. I can’t just stand here and watch everyone suffering from the fake past all by themselves.” “So?” Twilight asked. “I’ll try to befriend them…Again.” Sunset said in a sad, but determined tone. “You really are a good friend Sunset.” —————- Sunset stood in front of the schoolyard. It was a new day. A very new day. She walked down the hallways, lost in her thoughts. What will my friends be like? How am I supposed to approach them? How do I know what happened in their fake pasts if I don’t have the geode? Well, I guess there’s only one way to find out. Now, where would the girls be? She continued the endless train of thoughts until she bumped into a smaller girl. “Oof. I’m sorry.” “Uh.. Okay?” The girl answered. She looked at her friends and whispered. “Did she just say ‘sorry’?” “I guess so.” Her friend said. Sunset, hearing all this conversation, turned around to see who the voices belonged to. She was able to see some familiar faces, which she immediately recognized as Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. “Oh it’s you girls. How is it going on with your little club?” Sunset managed a small smile. “We’re.. fine..?” Sweetie Belle answered. “Why is she talking to us..?” Scootaloo whispered to the others. Oh. I was so focused on others’ memories that I almost forgot that no one remembers that I am nice. Sunset realized. She sighed and continued to talk. “I’m not trying to do anything, girls.” “Okay? We’ll be going.” Apple Bloom said. “Yeah. We probably should.” Scootaloo seconded. The three girls started to walk away. Watching them go, suddenly, an idea struck in Sunset’s head. “Wait!” “Huh?” They turned their heads. “Can we talk somewhere private? I have something to talk about. It’s very important. It’s about your sisters.” Sunset said. “Are you trying to do something to them again?” Sweetie Belle asked reluctantly. “No. Not at all. Meet me at the band practice room in ten minutes. Just let me go and grab something real quick.” Sunset started to run, leaving the three girls confused. —————- “So, why did you call us?” Sunset sat down and started to talk in a serious tone. “Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo. I’m going to tell you something, and no matter how ridiculous it sounds, this is all the truth. I want you to hear me out, so, No running off being scared that I’m crazy and making this all up.” “Okay..?” The girls answered. Sunset sighed before she continued. “The memories about your sisters’ friendship were all wiped. What you know about their high school life could be all fake and -” “Whoa whoa whoah.. I know you said to us to just hear it out, but do you really think we would believe that?” Scootaloo interrupted. “Yeah. After everything you’ve done?” Apple Bloom added. Sunset knew there was no way to get out of this. So, she decided to face it. “I’m sorry for what I did to Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash. I’m sorry for everything I have done in the past, and I can swear I have changed. Now I’m trying to make up for them. I can’t just -” “Wait. Did ya just say Applejack?” Apple Bloom cut in. “Uh.. Yeah..? She’s your sister.” “How did ya know she’s mah sister? Are ya tryin’ to blackmail her?“ The small girl started to ask. “Everyone knows that you two are sisters! How can this possibly be blackmailing??” Sunset said. “Because everyone doesn’t.” Sweetie Belle said as if it was a matter of fact. “What..?” “Applejack told me to keep it a secret that she and ah are sisters. Not many know about it, ya know.” “Oh..” “So, how did ya know about it? Have ya stalked us?!” Apple Bloom said. Sunset continued in a sincere voice. “I haven’t. Girls, I know this is really hard to believe. But what I’ve told you, it’s all true. Someone called Wallflower Blush has wiped out some important memories from everyone. First, It started with her erasing everyone’s memories about my redemption, and now, she stole everyone’s memory about your sisters’ friendships that were made after CHS.” “You’re saying that..” “Yes. Everything you remember could be fake. I knew those things because I used to be friends with them. See?” Sunset pulled out her phone and showed the girls all the group photos they’d taken. “But.. How can we trust you? How do we know if you’re telling the truth?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Because I have proof.” Sunset reached her backpack and pulled out a drone. She connected it with her laptop, and played a video. A video that Wallflower Blush was admitting all her sins. When the video ended, the room was filled with heavy silence. It was a while before Apple Bloom opened her mouth. “So.. it’s all true then.” “Yeah, and I really want to help your sisters. My friends.” Sunset said. “How were they like in your memories?” Sweetie Belle asked in a small voice. Sunset smiled and closed her eyes, thinking about her friends. “Well, I honestly don’t know what they are like now, so this can have no difference from what you know.” And I really want it to. “Rarity is caring, fashion forward and generous. She can sure be a drama queen, but she’s probably one of the most giving people I’ve ever known. Applejack.. She is very hardworking, has a lot of pride in her farm and Sweet apple Acres stuff. She loves her family very much, and she is honest. Very, honest. And for Rainbow Dash, she loves to play sports, and is brash, hotheaded, boastful, and can be a bit handful. But at the end of the day, she’s the most loyal friend you can ever ask for.” Sunset finished with a bitter smile. When she opened her eyes again, she was able to see tears streaming down the little girls’ faces. It was obvious that they weren’t aware of it. “Are you girls.. crying?” “No I’m not..” Scootaloo said as she wiped down her face with her hands. “Maybe..?” Sweetie Belle said. “Um.. Ah think It just reminded me of what it used ta be?” Apple Bloom added. Sunset saw the girls astounded for a moment. She then approached them with a sad look. Sunset hugged the girls, comforting them in her embrace. The girls sniffed as they let their tears flow freely. “I really want mah sis back.. it’s not that she’s not there anymore.. but she’s not like she used ta be..” Apple Bloom said. “Yeah. It’s just like she’s suddenly distant. Every time I try to talk to Dash about it, she just avoids me, and pretends everything is fine. But I know she’s not. She doesn’t act like her old self anymore.” Scootaloo said. “Rarity isn’t all that different, but she did become a bit distant. I wanted to know what happened, but I guess she doesn’t want me to.” “I’m sorry that happened girls. But I know what they need, and I’m going to need your help for it.” Sunset said. “What is it that they need? How can we help?” Scootaloo asked. “You can start by telling me how they act, or anything you know about what has been going on. All they need is a true friend.” Author's Note Cutie Mark Crusaders Sister Helpers! Yay!
PrologueSunset Shimmer started to run across the parking lot. The sun was already starting to set, and she had no time to lose. She ran past her friends, who were looking, or rather, glaring at her and shouted to the girl who was trying to sneak out. “Wallflower! Stop!” “You remember my name..?” Wallflower Blush said, with a trembling voice. “I remember everything. The memory stone. How I acted. All of it!” Sunset said. “What? How?! I erased the whole afternoon!” The rest of the six stared at Wallflower unbelievingly. “Listen. I used to be just like you. Sure, I was popular but.. I was lonely.” Sunset said in a soft voice. She realized being mad and getting into your opponent’s nerve isn’t going to be helpful when the opponent can magically erase your memory. “You’re nothing like me, and I am not lonely because I have.. ugh..um.. PLANTS!! …That sounded less lonelier in my head.” Wallflower said. “I’m sorry Wallflower.” “No you’re not! You’re just trying to look good in front of your friends! And it’s working! Guah!! How am I supposed to get back at you when nothing I do matters?!! I HATE YOU!!!” As Wallflower finished her shouting, Sunset looked at her. Her face contained disbelief, but mostly, hurt. “I wanted to teach you a lesson by erasing your friends’ good memories of you. But obviously, that didn’t work..” Wallflower said as she started to reach her backpack, trying to find the object she needed. “What are you talking about?” Twilight interrupted. Wallflower looked straight at Twilight and started shouting. Tears were getting out from her eyes. “I said! I wanted to teach her a lesson!! I erased her memories! You girls are all the same too. You all act like friendship is everything, but at the end of the day, nobody even cares about.. Me!! Your classmate! Your fellow yearbook committee member! Everyone acts like I’m invisible!!!” “So.. what Sunset gal here was talking about.. It was all true?” Applejack quietly said to herself. Wallflower throwed her bag to the ground, revealing the memory stone in her hand. “It doesn’t matter! You are all so annoying. My first plan was to erase all your high school memories to teach Sunset a lesson. But you know what? Scratch that. It's time for you six to learn a lesson.” The girls just looked at her, not sure how they should respond. Meanwhile, Wallflower continued. Tears gone, now with a grin on her face. “What if.. I erase all the memories of the friendships you girls made after attending CHS? Then you will all know what I feel for the rest of your time in high school!” “Wallflower! No!” The girl held the memory stone in her hand, releasing its power to the sky. Sunset ran over, trying her best to stop her, but by the time she managed to knock Wallflower down, it was too late. A magical beam surged out from the stone, spreading across the city as it hit the warm atmosphere. As Sunset looked upon the sky, she was able to see the little films of memories coming out from the school, their houses, over the everfree forest, slowly gathering toward their direction. She turned her head, and saw her friends. She saw the memories leaking out with horror in their eyes. But that wasn’t even the worst part. As soon as the memory wiping was done, Wallflower was engulfed with a green light, making her silhouette unrecognizable. “Wha.. What..? What’s happening to me?!!!” Wallflower screamed in terror. The green light turned into a sphere, glowing more and more brightly while floating until the light finally calmed down. The sphere landed on the ground, opening, only to reveal Wallflower Blush’s new magical form. She was definitely taller than before, wearing a black colored full suit with greenish highlights on it. She held a golden flower with five petals in her hand, and wore a smug grin that could even beat Rainbow Dash in the term of confidence. Her eyes also changed their color to bright yellow. “Huh.. I like this form. You know.” Wallflower took a petal from the golden flower and threw it to the sky. With another boom, the petal got a lot bigger, and started to fall. The giant petal landed on the unconscious forms of Sunset’s friends, covering them in a yellow glow. “What have you done!!” “Nothing. Actually, I was just helping. Did you realize that when someone uses the memory stone, it alters the memories of other events to have them make sense?” It was true. Sunset remembered when she saw her friends’ memories, the events of the past have changed differently. “Well, I was giving them new forms just to help them adjust in their new lives. Nothing mental. What do you think Sunset?! You can’t do anything now. The only one who could get the memories back is me, and I won’t do it!! With my new powers now I will be recognizable, I will make sure no one will ignore me!!” Wallflower said as she was unaware of the memory stone slipping off her grip, making it fall not too far away from sunset. “You won’t get away with this Wallflower!” Sunset said with tears forming in her eyes. “Actually, I can.” —---------------- Sunset cried. This was truly the worst day of her life. Everything went wrong. And I am the only one who can fix this. She turned her head to the empty parking lot, only to see the girls engulfed in a yellow light. “Girls! Twilight! Pinkie! Wake up!” But the only response she could get was those from the geodes. The six geode shined brightly, floating in the red horizon. The memory stone suddenly started to open, releasing the memories, only for them to get divided into six pieces. Each piece was absorbed by the six geodes. The geode shone brightly again, then became dim. Even dimmer than their usual forms. “No..Nonononono….” Sunset allowed her tears to flow freely. She grabbed the memory stone. All of a sudden, the memory stone floated, and started to merge with her own geode. Sunset looked down on her own geode. It was the same color, but it had some new touch of design on it. What? Why did it merge with my geode? What just happened? Why are their geode more dimmer than usual? What was all that memory release? Are their memories back? Sunset was able to snap out of her thought as a light groan was heard from her back. The light covering her friends was gone. And her friends looked… rather different. Twilight and Rarity looked almost the same, but the others had different outfits. Rainbow Dash was wearing a navy colored hoodie with some comfortable gray pants on instead of her usual sporty attire, and her hair was cut short. Only to fall an inch above her shoulders. Applejack’s hat was gone, and she was wearing a shirt with some fancy necklaces and earrings under a nice black jacket. She also wore sneakers instead of her brown boots. But what shocked Sunset the most was Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie. Fluttershy wasn’t wearing any breezy dress, or a comfortable sweater, but a leather jacket with black jeans. She was also putting her long hair in a ponytail. Lastly, Pinkie pie wasn’t dressed up all colorful and bouncy, but a bit colorless. Also, it catched her eyes that Pinkie’s hair was flat. And for the cherry on the top, they were all glaring at her, some in anger, some in fear, some in disbelief. “What am I gonna do..?” Author's Note I was always curious of what would have happened if Wallflower actually succeeded. I'm planning to give this fic 15~20 chapters. This is my first fanfiction, so feel free to give any constructive comments!
Chapter 2Sunset pulled out a notepad from her backpack. She grabbed her pencil and got prepared to write. “So, why don’t you girls tell me what’s going on?” Scootaloo was the first one to open her mouth. She scratched the back of her head and started to talk. “Rainbow Dash used to love sports, but now she doesn’t. All she likes is books and music. And, No, I’m not talking about nonfiction science-y egghead books. I’m talking about books like Daring Do.” Sunset wrote down what she just heard. “Well, Dash was a huge fan of Daring Do, and she really loved to play the guitar, so it does make sense.” Sunset said. After a moment, she asked again. “But what happened to make her not like sports? That's her passion!” Scootaloo shook her head and closed her eyes. “I have no idea. Something happened in her freshman year, but I wasn’t in CHS back then. And that’s not the only thing that’s gone. I think she is trying to act normal, and it works, so no one else seems to notice, but she is different. She doesn’t boast any more. It’s been moons since I heard her use the word ‘Awesome’. Mom and I tried to talk to her about all this, but all she says is ‘I’m fine!’” She opened her arms in a frustrated manner. Sunset frowned. “Wait. You two are sisters?” “Obviously? You said that.” Scootaloo said. “Like Sisters-sisters?” “Yes..?” “Like Live-Under-the-Same-Roof-kind-of-sisters?” “Yes! Why do you keep asking?” “Well, I knew you two were sisters. Dash told me that too. But I had no idea you two were related. I thought you two were honorary sisters or something?” Sunset said, looking dumbfounded. “What makes you think that?” “Let's just say.. World Parallels, and I’ve never gone to her place before.” Sunset said. “Actually, you're half right since we are not exactly related. I was adopted.” Scootaloo pointed out. “Oh.” “Don’t worry. It’s not a sensitive topic anymore. I got over it years ago.” Scootaloo said as she gave Sunset an assuring smile. Sunset smiled back at the girl as she continued. “So.. What about the others?” “Well, Rarity is not that different from what you said. She’s all about fashion, and I have no idea what made us distant. It was around sometime last year.” Sweetie Belle said. “Do you know something that might have happened before that?” Sunset asked. The three girls kept on saying ‘Umm’s and ‘Uh’s as they shared some looks. Sunset wasn’t sure why they were shy to talk all of a sudden. It took a while before Sweetie Belle squeaked out in a tiny voice. “Um.. You..?” She wasn’t expecting that. But then, memories of her history with Rarity flashed in her head. It can’t be it. With a trembling voice, Sunset slowly asked again. “What do you mean ‘me’?” “Well…. you did kinda crush her when she ran for the Princess of the Spring Fling. You don’t wanna know how much ice cream she ate back then. I seriously thought she’d have diabetes.” Sweetie Belle finished. As Sunset’s face grew darker and darker, Sweetie Belle quickly added. “When you were mean you know! You are nice now! Right?” “You’re saying that.. she became distant with you because of.. me..?” Sunset quietly said. Sweetie Belle sat next to the taller girl, and put a hand over her shoulder before she opened her mouth. “But we don’t know that for sure. Every time I tried to make Rarity tell me why she has become distant, she just says she’s sorry and she’ll try to make it up for me, and it’s nothing I have to be concerned about. All the time! I think if this was really about the Spring Fling thing, she would’ve told me since I knew about it, and there’s no point in hiding it. But I’ll try to talk to her about it again. I doubt that she’ll tell me though..” Sweetie’s smile faded as she said. “Okay..” “Oh! I almost forgot. She made a lot of friends after that incident! What you did was wrong, but it may..? have had a positive impact on her in the end, and you seem like you are really sorry about it. Don’t beat yourself too much about it.” Sweetie Belle managed a smile again. Sunset gave a bitter smile. “Thanks, Sweetie Belle. I needed that. But friends? How is that even possible?” “I dunno. She invited them to the boutique once.” “Applejack has friends too! She always hangs out with them on Sundays.” Apple Bloom said. “Rainbow Dash used to have one.” Scootaloo added. “What? But Wallflower said she erased it all!” Sunset shouted as she wrote down the new facts. The girls shared looks as they just shrugged. Sunset sighed as she said. “Let’s just think about it later. So?” “I think that’s it for Rarity.” As Sweetie Belle finished her talk, Apple Bloom opened her mouth. “Applejack is… Ah don’t know. She’s kinda similar to what you said when she’s home. She loves the family and is a hard worker. But.. not when she’s outside. She wants to keep it a secret that we are siblings. It’s not that she doesn't like me. She loves me, and she’s really overprotective of me when we’re home. The weird point is that in public, she’s just one of the cool girls, and she pretends she doesn’t know me...and It… hurts mah feelings.” Apple Bloom said in a sad voice. It was sure for Sunset that there was some tension between the Apple siblings. “Have you two talked about it?” Sunset said in a caring voice. She sat on her knee and looked up straight into the yellow girl’s eyes. “I wanted to.. but I think I’ve never had a chance.” Apple Bloom looked away. “Now might be a good time. Why don’t you talk about all this with her after school? After all, we have to know what happened.” Sunset smiled. “Okay.” Apple Bloom nodded and looked into Sunset’s eyes. “Maybe I’ll try to talk with Dash again about what happened too.” Scootaloo said. “Great. Let’s meet up again after the talk.” Sunset stood up as she prepared to go. “What are you going to do?” “I have someone I need to talk to.” ———————- Sunset waited at the parking lot. She tapped her right foot as she was starting to get worried. What if she doesn’t remember? Sunset looked up and turned around as some footsteps were heard from the direction of her back. “Sunset Shimmer. You wanted to see me?” A light blue skinned girl with silver hair was standing behind her with her arms crossed. “Trixie! Do you remember me..?” Sunset asked. “You can’t seriously think of someone as Great and Powerful as Trixie being so easy to manipulate.” Trixie smirked. Sunset let out a sigh of relief. “Thank Goodness you remember Trixie. But.. How did you get out of that room?” “A magician never reveals her secrets. Just know that it took a lot of smoke bombs. A LOT of it.” They both laughed. Trixie opened her mouth again. “So.. what happened with Wallflower Blush?” “She.. kinda erased all my friends’ memories.” Sunset rubbed her back. “Your friends?” Trixie raised her eyebrows. “My friends. The Rainbooms. Don’t you remember?” Sunset’s eyes twitched. “Who are.. the Rainbooms..? All you wanted was to get everyone to remember you were nice again. Right?” Trixie said, unsure of herself. “You don’t remember?” Sunset said. It was a moment before she realized that Trixie wasn’t an exception to the memory wipe about her friends. “Oh.. right.. It makes sense.” “Well, Trixie doesn’t know what happened. Care to fill in?” Sunset told everything that happened from the start of her friendship to Wallflower’s memory wipe. As she finished talking, Sunset was able to see Trixie looking dumbfounded, trying to process all the new information she never knew. “So, will you help me again, Trixie?” Sunset asked. Trixie grinned deviously, crossing her arms. “Only if I get to be voted as the Great and Powerfulest!” Sunset smirked at her friend. “Whatever.” They started to walk home, smiling and talking to each other. After minutes of small talk, Sunset spoke in a sincere tone. “Hey, Trixie?” “Huh?” “Thanks.” Trixie smiled. They continued the small talk as the sun started to fall on the horizon. No one noticed a dark silhouette behind them, watching the whole scene. —————— The CMCs started to walk home. “So, we’re going to talk to our sisters, huh?” Scootaloo said. “Yeah.. Ah hope it will turn out fine.” Apple Bloom replied. “Let’s hope for the best.” Sweetie Belle sighed. Apple Bloom tapped her chin as she started to talk. “How will you two get ‘em to talk about it? No offense, but you two have already tried and failed.” “Honestly, I have no idea.” Scootaloo said. “I don’t know about you, Apple Bloom, but I think Scootaloo and I shouldn’t talk about this directly.” Sweetie Belle said. “Then what do we do?” Scootaloo asked. “We’re going to have to ask a question that doesn’t let them know what we want to know, but can still let us know all the information we need!” Sweetie Belle said in an excited voice. “Like?” “Hmm… like.. I can ask Rarity for some advice about the Spring Fling? It’s only a few months ahead.” “Oh, and I can ask Rainbow Dash about some soccer stuff! The junior team match against CPA is this week, so it won’t look suspicious. At least I hope so.” Scootaloo added. “We’re the CMCs! There’s nothing we can’t do!” Apple Bloom said. The three girls jumped and performed a high-five as they shouted. “YAY!” —————— Apple Bloom ran over the grounds of Sweet Apple Acres. She stopped as she found a familiar figure. Applejack was standing on a stool, picking apples with a basket on her other arm. Apple Bloom shouted. “Applejack! Ya busy now?” “Nah. I was just getting done with picking those apples. Why?” Applejack turned her head and replied. “Can I talk to you for a minute..? It’s important.” “Sure thing, Sugarcube.” Applejack smiled as she put the basket on the ground. The two sisters walked into the house. They went past the kitchen and entered straight to Apple Bloom’s room. Applejack sat on Apple Bloom’s bed and started to talk. “So, what’s it ya wanted to talk to me about?” “Umm.. Applejack.. Why do we have to keep it a secret that we’re sisters? Ah really like you.. you’re the coolest big sis ah could get, and ah can’t tell anyone.” Apple Bloom slowly said. Applejack’s face turned pale. She gulped and let out a sigh before she opened her mouth. “Remember when ah asked you if ya wanted to tell others you’re from the farm?” “Of course I do. Ah remember sayin’ yes to that.” Apple Bloom said. “Do ya still think the same?” Applejack asked back. “Of course! There’s nothin’ ta be ashamed of the fact that ah’m part of the Apple family! Right, Applejack?” Apple Bloom said as if it was an obvious thing. She smiled proudly. The little girl looked into her sister’s eyes, her own eyes shining. “.…Of course, sugarcube. Of course.” Applejack said in a low voice, smiling warmly back to her sister. “So.. why can’t ah tell?” Apple Bloom asked again as she hugged Applejack. “It’s.. nothing you should be worried about. Ah’m mighty sorry if I hurt your feelings Lil’ Bloom. You know ah love you. Right?” Applejack said as she patted Apple Bloom’s head. “Yes.. But when you sorta avoid me outside, it.. hurts..” Apple Bloom quietly said. “I’m sorry. Ah promise to not avoid you. But… can you still keep it a secret that we’re siblings?” Applejack asked. “But..why..?” “I’m sorry Apple Bloom. But.. Ah think you won’t be able ta understand.” Applejack said as she pulled herself away from the hug, trying to avoid her little sister’s eyes. “Did anything happen to you??” “No. Ah’m fine.” Apple Bloom stood up as she stomped her left foot on the floor. She clenched her fist and started to shout. “Ah won’t buy that anymore! Ah’m sick of all these lies!!! Why can’t you just tell me what’s going on big sis..? You said you love me, so why are you keeping me from all these truths!!!” Tears were about to well up in the little girl’s eyes. Applejack’s head fell. She looked away. “I’m.. sorry. Ah really want to, but.. Ah can’t tell you the truth.” The blonde girl said, looking ashamed. “FINE! Ah guess.. you don’t want mah help!” Apple Bloom let all of her anger out. The anger that has been growing for moons. The anger she has been trying to avoid for ages. She ran away from her sister, leaving her alone in the room. Applejack saw her sister running away. Being shocked and all alone, Applejack stood up, trying to follow her. That was when her phone started to ring. She saw her phone screen with shame, and let her own tears fall on the screen. After a moment, she wiped out her tears as she cleared her throat and accepted the call. —————— “Hey! Rainbow Dash!” Scootaloo shouted as she opened her sister’s room door. Quite loudly. Very loudly. “Whoa! Seriously? I was getting to the best part!” Rainbow Dash said in frustration. She was lying on her stomach on the bed, reading the latest Daring Do book that just came out last week. “Hehe… Sorry.” Scootaloo smiled sheepishly. “Uh-huh.” Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “So.. whatcha doing Dash?” The small girl asked. “Duh, Reading, of course.” Rainbow said as she closed her book and showed its cover. “Oh. So… you have some time?” “Sure.” Rainbow Dash sat up and gave a small smile to her little sister. “Great. So, the junior team match against CPA is this week.. so.. I just wanted some tips..?” Scootaloo sat next to her. “Scoots, you know I don’t do sports stuff anymore. Just go and ask your coach.” Rainbow frowned. “But you used to! Besides, Coach Iron Will will only say the same thing over and over again. ‘If someone tries to block, show them that you ROCK!!!’” Scootaloo finished as she started laughing. Rainbow chuckled alongside her sister. “That was pretty accurate. But nah, you probably won’t get any good advice from me. I wasn’t that good at it anyway.” She said as she stood up, walking to the door. “What?? But no!!! You were the most awesome-st amazing soccer player I’ve ever seen!” Scootaloo shouted. She couldn’t believe what she just heard. “Thanks, but no.” Rainbow said as she continued to walk out. “Why did you even quit soccer? And every other sport? You never told me.” That made the taller girl stop. She turned around and rubbed her neck. “It’s…. never mind. I guess I just grew out of it. Some new things caught my attention.” “But..but.. what you like now is nothing new!!! You have liked Daring Do since middle school, and you always liked cool music!” Scootaloo said. “I said, never mind.” There was a hint of venom in the voice. It was clear that the conversation was getting uncomfortable. However, Scootaloo pushed more. “No! I won’t until you tell me what's been going on!! You’re nothing like your past self! You don’t say that you are awesome anymore, you hate sports that you don’t want to even touch the ball, and you do nothing except listen to rock music or read those dusty old fantasy adventure books! And what about Fluttershy?? You never told me wh-” “Don’t you dare say another word.” Rainbow Dash suddenly hissed in a low, toxic tone, raising her index finger. She continued her talk as her voice grew louder. “And now you’re saying I’m useless huh? I thought you wanted me to give you some damn advice, but I guess this was your plan all along! You wanted me to talk about what happened!” Scootaloo shook her head. She quickly started to talk. “No Dash.. No! I never said anything about being useless! Just hear me out, I’m just-“ “Well, here is some advice if you want, NEVER MIND!!” Rainbow Dash shouted. A long silence followed her outburst. Scootaloo looked at her sister’s face. She managed to speak in a small, cracking voice. “Rainbow Dash…” Rainbow Dash looked into her sister’s eyes. Her facial expressions mellowed out as she realized how hurt Scootaloo was. “… I ... .I shouldn’t have snapped at you Scoots. I’m sorry.” Rainbow said as she looked away. “It’s okay, do you wanna talk about it?” Scootaloo asked in a quiet tone. “No.” Dash said sternly. “But..” “But nothing. I.. I have to be alone. Just go. I’m sorry.” Rainbow opened the door, waiting for Scootaloo to go out. “Can I just-“ Scootaloo stood up and tried to argue. “I said, just go.” Scootaloo had no choice but to leave the room. As she stepped outside, she heard the door closing behind her. All she could hear after was a quiet crying sound coming from the room. —————— Sweetie Belle opened the door of Carousel Boutique. “Rarity! Are you here?” “Sweetie! Darling! You came early. I thought you had those meetings with your friends this time every week?” Rarity was in her room, looking at her inspiration note. “Yeah! But.. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo had to go home early today.” “That’s nice.” Rarity replied without looking at Sweetie Belle. The conversation died down quickly. Sweetie Belle noticed it and started talking. “Anything I can do to help?” “Oh. It’s been a while since you have helped me, Sweetie. If you insist.. would you be a dear and get those fabrics over here?” Rarity said, still not looking at Sweetie Belle. She was now doing some sketches. “Sure!” Sweetie Belle said. “Thank you. Now you may go up to your room. I’m going to the mall later, so I’ll bring dinner to your room before I leave.” “Uh.. Rarity? I wanted to talk to you about something.” Sweetie Belle said as she handed over the fabrics. “What is it?” “My new friend said she wanted to run for the Princess of the Spring Fling.. and.. since you’ve been through it before.. you can.. help..?” Sweetie Belle tried to give her the most innocent look. “Sorry, Come again?” Rarity took her glasses off and finally met her eyes with Sweetie’s. “My new friend wants to run for the Princess of the Spring Fling.” Sweetie Belle said. “What??? Is she mad or something?” Rarity shouted dramatically. “I guess… no..?” Rarity turned around again and put her glasses on. She opened her mouth. “Well, the only help I can give is to tell her to be careful of Sunset Shimmer. But.. I doubt she’ll try to do anything after what happened at the Fall Formal.” She said, rolling her eyes. “Oh.. okay..” Sweetie Belle said. She was expecting a longer conversation than this. Maybe she came at the wrong time. As she was trying to leave with a disappointed face, Rarity suddenly called her. “By the way, who is this friend of yours?” Rarity said as she turned her back to Sweetie Belle. “Uh.. she’s a friend I just met yesterday! You probably won’t know her even if I told you her name.” Sweetie lied. “Is she nice?” Rarity asked. “Yeah! I think she is a good friend.” Sweetie Belle gave an assuring smile. Rarity smiled back at her as she stood up and walked toward her little sister. She lowered her arms, gesturing to Sweetie Belle to come. As the little girl came closer, Rarity braced her into a hug. The two sisters enjoyed each other’s embrace until Rarity whispered in Sweetie Belle’s ears in a quiet tone. “Don’t trust her so early darling. Help isn’t a thing you can give to anyone, anytime.” Sweetie Belle pulled out herself from the hug and looked at her sister in disbelief. Rarity simply smiled at her warmly as she continued. “After all, in this school, everybody acts like it’s everyone for themselves.” Author's Note Well, there is a reason why this story's title is 'Out of their Elements'. I assure you, there will be a pretty good explanation on why they are all like this. Next chapter is going to be about our beloved Sci-Twi. Feel free to give any constructive feedbacks!
Chapter 3Twilight Sparkle was a student with a bright mind. She knew better than her peers about everything, and yes, even friendship. She knew that no one actually understood her. She knew that what everyone gave her was a pity, disguised in a pretty wrapper named friendship. Twilight looked around the cafeteria, trying to find a quiet place where she could eat alone without interacting with others. As she found a nice seat, she put her tray down and sat down. She turned her attention toward the other tables. Most of the students were talking, smiling brightly as they continued to eat. Twilight sighed. Maybe Cadence was right. What is it like to make a friend? The girl shook her head immediately. No, I couldn’t risk it. Others don’t even want to be friends with me, and I don’t need friends either. After lunch, Twilight walked down the hallway, heading to her next class: Physical Education. She was never a sports person, so it was clear she wouldn’t enjoy this class period. As usual. The class bell rang, and Twilight stood next to her peers and gave herself some stretches. A few minutes passed, and Coach Iron Will started to talk. “Starting from today and until your vacation, we will be learning basic soccer techniques and moves. Today, you will be practicing dribbling, passing, and shooting as a pair. So get up and pair up with your classmates!!” Twilight sighed. Great. It was just Great. Everyone started to team up with her friends, and it was obvious Twilight was going to end up alone. That was until Twilight saw another girl standing in the corner with her arms crossed. It was that moment when the coach blew a whistle. “Miss Sparkle! Go over there and pair up with Dash.” So, the girl’s name was Dash. She was not familiar with her, but she gave Twilight this weird sensation in her guts. Huh. That was new. Twilight walked over and poked her shoulder. She gave a deep breath and waved her hand to the rainbow haired girl. “Um… Hi..? My name is Twilight.” The girl smiled back and replied. “Name’s Rainbow Dash.” Silence. The scene was getting awkward, so Twilight quickly added. “So.. let’s get this done as soon as possible. Okay? Since it’s clear that you don’t like this.. and I don’t like this either.. so..” “Uh huh. But is there a way we can just slack this thing off? I.. really don’t want to do this.” Rainbow asked with an unamused tone. “I wish there was,” Twilight said, only to get an annoyed side glare from the coach. “But apparently, there isn’t.” “Lame.” As Twilight started to kick the ball, Rainbow frowned. “No, no. You shouldn’t give a pass like that. You will probably end up spraining your ankle. Try to kick with the inside part of your foot. Like this.” The girl then gave a smooth pass back to Twilight. “Whoa. You’re good at this. Did you practice this?” “Haha. Funny. You almost made it sound like I practiced soccer.” Rainbow glared at Twilight, not giving her the chance to argue back. Trying to lighten up the mood, Twilight started to talk. “Heh Heh.. I was just complimenting. I can’t understand those who like sports either. I was never that kind of person.” “There are many things we can’t understand. I can’t even understand myself sometimes.” Dash added. This segment of the girl gave Twilight a strange feeling. It felt like.. she didn’t know how to put it in words. It was suddenly like.. someone was able to understand her. She stood quiet for a moment. Was she able to tell her feelings to the person she just met? Was she able to- “Uh.. Twi?” “Yes?” Twilight smiled. “You zoned out there for like, two minutes.” “Oh. Sorry. I was.. just thinking about something.” Twilight said. “Wanna talk about it? It’s not like I have anyone else to tell what you’re gonna say.” Rainbow smiled back. Maybe it was okay. Maybe Dash didn’t want to be friends with her, and if she was not going to see her again, saying some of her feelings wouldn’t hurt. Twilight took a deep breath and talked. “It’s like.. I’m not able to fully understand my own feelings too. I feel like I am missing something, but I couldn’t figure out what is missing.” “You felt that too? I live with that feeling every day.” Dash chuckled. “Huh.. I guess it’s just some common symptom of adolescence.” Twilight said sheepishly. “It probably is.” Dash said as she looked up in the sky. Talking with Rainbow Dash gave Twilight comfort. It was the first time somebody actually looked at her without pity or comparison. The first time she felt understood, even if it was for a small time. Maybe this was friendship? She wasn’t sure. What interrupted Twilight’s thoughts was the school bell. Rainbow gave a small pat on her back and started to leave. Twilight had to know. “Wait! Rainbow Dash.” “Yeah, Twilight?” Rainbow turned around. “Are we friends?” A silence filled the atmosphere. Maybe she shouldn’t have asked the question. She didn’t even know how much time passed. Sweat was on her hands, and she started to get uncomfortable. Rainbow’s expressions were mostly incomprehensible, but Twilight was able to read at least one emotion right. Anxiety. Rainbow was completely different from what she saw while they were practicing and talking. It seemed like her confidence was suddenly wiped away. Was it because of her? “I… You… I don’t think so.” Rainbow quickly said and ran away. Of course. No one wanted to be friends with Twilight. Twilight saw the rainbow headed girl’s figure getting smaller. She sighed. Today’s experience made it even clearer: Twilight Sparkle can’t, no, no, doesn’t need friends. —————— Sunset and Trixie started to talk, getting to their next classes. “So, here’s the plan. I share Advanced Biology with Twilight 5 minutes later, so I go and talk to her, and since you don’t have classes, you go and find Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy’s whereabouts. Neither of them has any classes in this period like you.” “Okay, but why do you insist on talking to Twilight first?” Trixie said. “Because I already read some memories about her. It will be easier to approach her.. at least easier than the others.” Sunset said as she gave a bitter smile. “Uh huh. But are you sure.. Fluttershy is one of your friends?” Trixie asked as she raised her eyebrows. “Yes Trixie, you’ve already asked 7 times.” Sunset sighed out of frustration. “It’s just.. Trixie has never met her.. but she’s…” “Just spill it, Trixie! What’s wrong??” Sunset shouted. “She’s kinda… unkind?” “Huh?” Wow. And that was something Sunset never thought she would hear about Fluttershy. It was unimaginable just to put the words ‘Fluttershy’ and ‘unkind’ in the same sentence. “You’ve heard it right. She isn’t known to be the kindest person in the world as you claim to be.” “It might be a misunderstanding. Are we talking about the same Fluttershy?” Sunset asked again. “Trixie was saying that all along!!” Trixie raised her voice, annoyed. “But why?” Thanks a lot, Wallflower. “Uh. Nevermind. Just.. then.. Can you find Pinkie pie? You don’t need to talk to her. Text me where she is, and how she acts.” “And That’s what the Great and Powerful Trixie can do.” Trixie said as she grinned. “I don’t know what I could do without you, Trixie.” Sunset said, approaching her new friend and giving her a hug. “Just make sure you get me as the Great and Powerful-est.” Trixie said as she patted Sunset’s back. The two girls pulled out from their hug, and gave each other a small handshake. Sunset saw her destination and started to walk towards the classroom with confidence. It’s time for you to taste some magic of friendship, Twilight. The red headed girl smiled and entered the room. —————— Twilight ran into her room and sat on her bed, covering her face with her blankets. She sobbed her eyes out until she heard her dog, Spike’s voice. “Twilight… Can you tell me what happened..?” He whispered softly. Twilight lifted her head, meeting her eyes with Spike’s. Spike slowly walked and sat on Twilight’s lap, licking her hands to give her comfort. As Twilight’s sob faded down, she started to talk about what happened that day. “Cinch.. She.. I have to transfer to CHS.. and take full responsibility for what happened.” “What??? How could she! That’s not fair!” Spike shouted out. “At first, I thought so too. But.. I guess I sucked all the magic from… I can’t remember who.. but some people, and turned into a rampaging demon, got overwhelmed, and tried to destroy two worlds.” Twilight said as her head dropped in guilt. Spike put his paw on Twilight’s arm. “It’s not your fault Twilight.” Twilight sighed, and opened her mouth. “The initial reason? No. But it was still me Spike. I felt all that. I remember saying all those words as Midnight Sparkle.” Her voice choked as she finished the sentence. “Twilight, there’s no way you’re Midnight Sparkle. Do you still want to understand magic so badly that you don’t want to consider the consequences of the action you plan to do? Destroying the world?” Spike said. “No!! Never!” Twilight shouted out as she shook her head. Spike smiled. “My thoughts exactly. Midnight Sparkle doesn’t exist anymore! She was defeated by… uh.. whatever.. I couldn’t remember. But you still get the point. Let’s just get a good night’s sleep. We should probably go and talk to Cadence about this tomorrow before you go. You still have a few days left.” Twilight’s tears were gone now, thanks to Spike. She stroked her dog’s head as she laid down on her bed, putting herself into a nice sleep. She took off her glasses, and smiled warmly at her dog. “That sounds like a great idea. Thanks Spike…. And I hope you’re right.” — Twilight woke up the next morning and smiled. A brand new day. What made it the best day was that it was Saturday. Saturdays meant that she didn’t have to go to school, and no school meant no Cinch, no peer pressure, no back talking, no everything. She gave a small grin and got up from her bed. Twilight headed to the bathroom. The splash of the cold water on her face made her feel good. So, today’s plan was to talk about the matter to Cadence, get back home, and have some rest. Twilight sighed as she thought about the idea, of attending to CHS. Maybe CHS isn’t that bad after all. Maybe she could have a nice, new life with some new associates? Twilight thought as she looked into the mirror. Suddenly, a mint-damaged horn and a flame of light appeared on Twilight’s face. “No… nononono.. It can’t be..!” A doppelgänger of Twilight emerged from her very own figure. The only thing that separated herself from that creature was that the new figure had the demonic form of herself. It was Midnight Sparkle. “Did you miss me, Twilight?” Midnight said as she gave an evil grin. “Midnight Sparkle..?? But you were defeated at the Friendship Games!” Twilight said as she pointed a finger. Midnight laughed. “Oh little Twilight, hate to ruin your hopes, but I cannot be defeated. I am you.” Midnight Sparkle said as she put her hand on Twilight’s chin. Twilight shook off her hand and shouted. “NO! I’m nothing like you!” “You really think so? Then, what do you think made me in the first place?” Midnight hissed in a dangerous manner. “You are just a consequence of misused magic. I…. am not you.” Twilight said. For a moment, peace came. Midnight Sparkle was gone. As Twilight gave a relieved sigh, Two demonic wings appeared on her back. Her own mouth started to move outside her will. Twilight tried to resist, but it was impossible. She started to speak. “You are wrong Twilight. I am You. It was you who made me, and you will never be forgiven, even in CHS. You don’t deserve friends, and you don’t need friends.” — “NOOOOOOO!!” Twilight snapped her eyes open as the horrible dream was over. What a terrific way to start a day. Spike came running, worried about Twilight. He gave Twilight his best puppy dog eyes, well, quite literally, and talked to her. “Did you have a bad dream, Twilight?” Twilight managed a fake smile and patted Spike on his head. “Um… yes. And Spike, it’s okay. I really don’t want to talk about it.” “Uh.. if you say so. Shining Armor said he would give you a ride. Come outside when you are ready. Okay?” Spike said. “Sure.” Twilight got dressed up and went to the living room. A new start. That was just a dream. It’s a dream. Right? It will be okay. It will be okay. She kept on reminding herself of the same phrase over and over she didn’t even notice Shining Armor talking. It will be okay. It was just a dream. It will- “TWILY!!!” “Yes?” “We’re here.” Shining Armor said. Looking concerned for her own sister. “Oh. Thanks for the ride.” Twilight said. “Anything for you. Just remember that it’ll-“ Twilight ran off the car, not giving his brother a chance to finish his sentence. “- turn out fine eventually.” Twilight opened the door, only to see her old babysitter and her school’s dean sitting down, waiting for her to come in. Twilight slowly stepped in and told Cadence everything, from the start to the end. “Principal Cinch did WHAT??” Yep, a legit response. “You heard it right.. What am I gonna do? How can this happen?” Twilight said. Cadence held Twilight’s hand as she started to talk. “I’m so so sorry for this Twilight. It was actually my idea to help you get transferred to another school. The peer pressure and bullying were getting worse.. and Cinch really wanted to get you expelled. I suggested helping you by letting you get transferred, only if you agreed, but I never thought Cinch was going to blackmail you with all this. I should have known.” Cadence’s voice held sympathy, trying to be totally sincere with Twilight. “I.. you did?” Twilight asked in a small voice. “Yes..” Twilight smiled. “Thanks, Cadence. I really appreciate your effort. I think I’ll be fine. Don’t worry about me.” Cadence’s face darkened as she continued. “But are you going to be okay in CHS? They all know you.” “It’s fine. My only real friends are you, Spike, and Shining Armor.. so I don’t have to care about anyone else…. but these relationships are not exactly friendship, aren’t they?” Twilight smiled sheepishly. “Heh.. yeah.” Cadence smiled back. “It’s not like I need friends. I’ll just… do my studies… for like a year and a half, then it’s graduation!” Twilight said. “I’m glad you have plans, though, Twilight, please consider making friends. It’s important.” Cadence said as she gave her a concerned look. Cadence continued. “And.. Twilight, could you tell me what role mitochondria play in respiration?” “Huh?” Twilight blinked and shook her head as she snapped back to reality. Right. This was Advanced Biology class. Twilight looked at her teacher with a sorry smile. “Miss Twilight, I asked you what role mitochondria play in respiration.” Ms Harshwhinny said. “Oh.. it helps produce ATP.” Twilight answered quickly. “Very well, Twilight. Next time, don’t zone out during class, and try to pay attention.” Ms. Harshwhinny clapped her hands and cleared her throat as she started to give an announcement. “Class, that’s for today, and I will be giving you some new assignments. You will be writing a report and giving a 10 minute presentation about a topic branched from what you've learned in this semester’s AB class. You may do this alone, or you may do this as a team. The report is due this weekend, so get started on the research!” She was definitely doing this alone. Numerous ideas flashed through Twilight’s mind. That was until a voice interrupted her thoughts. A red-yellow haired girl, which she recognized as Sunset Shimmer, was standing next to her, and talking to her. “Hi Twilight. Do you want to do the project with me?” Sunset smiled. “Uh.. I was planning to do this alone.” Twilight said. She put on her kindest look. Sunset seemed a bit disappointed at this point. But she quickly smiled again and continued. “Oh.. but.. can I do it with you anyway? I want to be friends with you.” Friends. Is she saying this genuinely? Can I trust her? But Twilight remembered who she was. She was Sunset Shimmer out of all people. Twilight knew that she didn’t have a nice reputation, even though she didn’t know the exact reason. And she realized that this was the girl who yelled at her at the Friendship games. I should’ve listened to her back then... She might be saying nice things because she wants to use me. I can’t keep my guard down. “Are you trying to blackmail me?’’ Twilight asked. “No, In fact, I’m trying to make it up to you. I’m sorry I yelled at you at the friendship games. It must have hurt your feelings back then.” Sunset said as she gave Twilight a warm smile and an apologetic expression. That felt genuine. Should I be nice to her? “Okay? It’s fine.” Twilight said. Sunset tilted her head and raised her eyebrows. “So…??” “So what?” Twilight asked. “Can we be teammates?!” Sunset asked. Twilight wondered. Is she really willing to be her friend? How was she able to know if she could trust her? Maybe I can just get the project done quickly, so that I don’t have to end up being friends with her. That way I don’t have to worry about her true motives. “.. Fine. But let’s make this quick. I’ll write the report, you do the presentation, and I-” “Wait, What? That’s not teamwork?” Sunset interrupted. “Well… then what did you expect?” Twilight asked. Sunset seemed to think for a second before she started to talk again. She made a slight grin. “Why don’t you come over to my place tonight? We’ll have a nice time brainstorming ideas, writing reports, and eating pizzas.” Is this what friends did? “Uh.. Why not just use the library?” Twilight tried to argue. Sunset gave a wink as she started to speak. “If I wanted to just get the assignment done, that would’ve been perfect. But this isn’t about biology. I want to be friends with you Twilight. Uh…..And mostly, the library won’t let us bring pizza inside.” Maybe this won’t hurt. She didn’t see any pity or comparison with the other Twilight when Sunset talked. While she wasn’t sure why Sunset was doing this, she thought this wouldn’t go wrong unless they didn’t get too close. “Okay. I’ll take your offer, But… I… really don’t know about the friendship part.” Sunset smiled. “It’s fine Twilight. Just meet me after school, and I’ll take you to my place.” —————— Yes Yes Yes it worked!!!! I can’t believe I pulled that off! Sunset thought as she waited for Twilight in front of the destroyed Wondercolt statue. Sunset continued her thoughts. Let me just clear up some things I already know about Twilight. 1. She is from CPA, and she transferred right after the Friendship games. 2. She transformed into Midnight Sparkle at the Friendship games and - wait. How was she able to transform into Midnight Sparkle if there was no friendship between the other girls, which means no ponying up, which means there’s no magic to take in the first place? Sunset thought of the matter for a second. Then she remembered seeing Applejack’s memory at the beach. Right! The use of a memory stone can lead to some memory alterations, but it can also just erase the memory instead of filling it with a reasonable explanation! Well.. I probably should find what differentiates the erased events that altered other memories and events that are simply left blank instead of altering other memories, but that could wait. This is a great plot hole! I think I can use this along with the selfie sensor camera to convince the girls if they keep thinking I am a jerk! “Sorry I’m late.” Sunset quitted her thoughts as Twilight arrived. She smiled at her friend. “It’s fine. Let’s get moving.” The two girls started to walk to the bus stop. Sunset wasn’t going to miss this opportunity to have a small talk, so she asked Twilight a question. “So.. How’s everything going on?” “Um… fine, I guess.” Twilight rubbed her neck as she replied. “Uh.. sure.” An awkward silence followed as Sunset finished her sentence. “Oh. There’s our bus.” Sunset said as she signed Twilight to come. Don’t worry Sunset, this will get better once you get comfortable. You’ve got this. The pair soon reached Sunset’s place. Sunset led the other girl in her room, and the red haired girl asked Twilight another question. “I’ll order pizza for us in Domino’s. What kind of pizza do you prefer?” Sunset said as she scrolled her phone screen. “I like Hawaiian pizzas.” Twilight said. This led the girls’ scene into another dramatic silence. “What??” Sunset shouted. “Huh?” “You.. like pineapple toppings?” Sunset asked. “I don’t see any problem in that?” Twilight simply smiled. “How did I never know?” Sunset whispered. She surely didn’t know that Twilight loved pineapple pizzas. Was this another kind of cruel joke of Wallflower’s? “What?” Twilight asked. “Just.. never mind. But how, just HOW can one like Hawaiian pizza??!! Pineapples are fruits. Fruits aren’t meant to be eaten warm.” Sunset frowned as she said. “Well, at least it tastes better than Pepperoni pizzas.” “What did you just say..?? I can’t even….” Sunset realized this was getting nowhere and would just get her image worse. “Let’s just drop this topic. I’ll order half Hawaiian, half pepperoni.” “Um.. Okay?” Twilight said. Sunset put down her phone as she finished the order and sat on her bed. She signed Twilight to sit on the chair and started her talk. “So.. why don’t we talk about… life?” “Shouldn’t we talk about the biology project?” Twilight said. “We have plenty of time.” Sunset said as she spread her arms. Twilight seemed to look uncomfortable. Maybe she was pushing too hard? After a few seconds, Twilight sighed and spoke. “No, we don’t. Sunset, why are you insisting on getting close to me?” “I’m.. not?” Sunset said, trying to look innocent. “Yes, you are. Why should I even trust you with my feelings? I don’t need friends.” Twilight said. It was obvious that she had some history regarding this topic. Sunset cleared her voice and spoke in a soft, sincere voice. “No Twilight, everyone needs friends.” She smiled as she finished her sentence. “But not me I guess! I… I think I’m not even forgiven.” Twilight said. This really hit Sunset’s feels. A memory of a purple demon-like creature flashed through her head. She was soon able to realize where her anxiety and problems were coming from. “This is about the Midnight Sparkle incident, isn’t it?” Sunset slowly spoke. Twilight’s pupils started to tremble. “I…. it’s none of your business.” She said in a shaking voice. “It is Twilight, I just want to help you.” Sunset said as she snatched Twilight’s hand. Twilight immediately shook off her hand, and raised her voice. “Oh, so now you are talking about your motives? I bet you will try to help me by making me say everything that happened and once I did, you will just say, ‘The other Twilight is better.’” Twilight’s voice held fear, and hurt. “Twilight.. I’m sorry you had to go through that. But you have to believe me when I say I want to help you. You just need a friend.” Sunset smiled and stood up. This made Twilight stand up too. The purple skinned teenager stomped her way to the room’s door. Sunset just watched as her ex-friend’s face was covered with tears. Twilight turned around and looked straight into Sunset’s eyes. “If you are sorry for me, just leave me alone. I don’t want to get pitted by someone who doesn’t even understand me.” She said in a weak, but low voice. Sunset really felt bad for Twilight. What did the poor girl have to go through to block everyone from herself? She really wanted to help her, especially because she saw her past self from Twilight. “But what if I did?” Sunset asked. “What?” “What if I did understand you?” Sunset asked again. “You can’t.” Twilight said as her head fell. “I can. Twilight, I’ve been through the exact same thing as you. You would’ve realized that I don’t have a good reputation. I used to be mean, and I craved power. So I stole a magical artifact that can make me have ultimate power. It turned me into a demon. That’s why I understand you Twilight. I was a monster too.” Sunset ran over to the door and grabbed Twilight’s arm. This time, she didn’t shove it away. Instead, Twilight looked moved. Sunset continued. “But you can be better off if you give other people a chance to give you help. People will forgive you because they know it wasn’t your fault. I know that too.” “…But.. What if I end up getting hurt? Once I open up?” Twilight asked in a meek voice. “I won’t let you. When I was going through a hard time, some good people taught me how friendships can be the cure. Now, Let me show you that you don’t have to go through this alone.” Sunset led Twilight to somewhere she could sit down. The two girls shared looks as they finally sat down. “Friends?” Sunset said. Twilight smiled. “I’ll give it a try.” Twilight hugged Sunset. As the hug ended, the purple geode on the teenager’s neck started to glow. The glow grew brighter, and brighter until it blinded both of the girls’ sight. A big boom was heard, literally knocking down every object in Sunset’s room. Sunset’s vision came back a few minutes later. She rubbed her eyes as she tried to get a better look at her surroundings. Twilight was sitting on the floor, staring at Sunset with a bright smile, tears welling up in her eyes. “Sunset?” Author's Note Sunset was never gonna give Twilight up, or let her down, or run around and desert… Okay I’ll shut up.
