Friendship is Fragile

by Cahpical

Rating: teen
Tags: Main 6, Princess Luna, Drama, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Cutie Mark Crusaders, Adventure, Tragedy, Profanity, Violence, Princess Celestia, Alternate Universe
Length: 12851

Brother protecting his Little Brothers

The story of Dax and his two young brothers Drake and Hilm, who lost their parents 8 years ago from an attack by an angry mob, forced into a position where they eventually get attacked by everyone they see, they must seek shelter in out of sight places, often stealing to survive, until one night in the woods, the two brothers are kidnapped by Nightmare Moon, forced to do her bidding for the sake of his brothers safety, he's ordered to sabotage the mane 6 in their efforts to stop her...

Published 2024-04-28 19:10:01 UTC
Last updated 2024-04-29 20:21:09 UTC

Part 1: Running...

Heavy Breathing
"You two, this way!"
...
"We can lose them this way!"
...
"Quick, in the tunnel!"
...
'Running... It's all we've done for a while now...'
"Quickly, in the secret compartment"
...
'and that's not ever going to change...'

"Why don't you two listen?!? You could have been killed!" Yelled a Yellow stallion with a light blue mane and green eyes
The two other younger colts stood silently, on the verge of tears

"I keep trying to warn you both, Don't. Trust. Anyone!" Yelled the Yellow Stallion

"I just... I hate this... why must everyone try to kill us..." said one of the younger colts, this one was black with a lime green mane and green eyes with blue Sclera's

"You always tell us to not trust anyone... that everyone wants to kill us... I... I thought this would be different..." said the other Colt, this one had red fur with yellow spirals on his legs, a dark red mane, purple eyes with orange Sclera's, horns and wings

"...Listen, Drake, Hilm, trust me, if there were others who wouldn't try to kill us, we'd be there instead of on the run..." said the older Stallion

The two sat in silence...

"Dax... When will this stop... We've been running away from everyone... ever since Ma and Pa died..." said Drake, who was the red colt

Hilm, who was the black one, began to tear up at the mention of their parents

Dax also looked miserable at the mention

"Look... when they died, I promised to take care of you two... what older brother wouldn't... but I can't keep that promise if you two keep disobeying..." said Dax

"It feels like an eternity since then..." said Hilm

The three began to think back to their lives just a couple years prior...

(Flashback)

Things we're fine, everyone always gave the family bad looks, to which the family never understood why

Dax was but a teenager... the constant bullying from his peers always got to him, some considered him a massive cry baby, his two brothers Hilm and Drake we're too young to notice any of the bad looks people gave them, but Dax... he noticed... the parents had also noticed but they persevered, they tried to teach their son to ignore those who wished his downfall, and to focus on those he viewed as friends...

Dax tried his absolute best to take this to heart, but absolutely no one would even attempt to be his friend and would shut down any of his attempts, making him resent everyone but his family more and more...

The parents had enough resources to have transactional friendships, who they always tried to respect the three young colts
That was... Until a year ago... suddenly everyone turned against them fully, they had enough with the family's existence and wanted it gone, so one day, they stormed the family's home, the parents, terrified for the safety of their children, tried to flee from the ever increasing mob

The family ran and ran until...

"Damn it..." said the father as the family was cut off by a very large river

The family heard the mobs angry voices, the parents had to do something

"Dax... listen to me son... Take Hilm and Drake, find safety, take care of them... Be strong" said the father

"Mama loves you all... please... be safe... find other's who will help you... I know they're out there..." said the Mother

"What are you doing?!?" Screamed Dax in terror

"Mom! Dad!" screamed the two little terrified colts

"Buying you some time! Run!" said the father as he prepared his earth pony legs

"Please... Don't lose hope you three, live good lives... I love you..." said the mother as she pushed the three into the river, which swept them away from their parents, the last they'd see of them was the mob closing in on them...

(Flashback End)

'I'm sorry Mother... I don't think you were right about that...' thought Dax

"Anyways... this place isn't safe anymore, we rest and leave first thing tomorrow" said Dax

"Moving again?..." groaned Drake

"I was just starting to get comfortable..." said Hilm

"Well if you two didn't go and almost get yourselves killed we'd have stayed longer" said Dax

The two looked down in sadness

"Hey, look, how about this, I make your favourite dinner?" said Dax with a small smile

This lightened spirits a bit

"Blooming Onions!" cheered the two colts

"I'll get them ready" Chuckled Dax

The night went off without a hitch, as the sun started to rise, the three had packed up their belongings

"We can't go north due to the angry mob, the east is plains, anyone could see us, the west is fully mountain, no way we're climbing that..." said Dax as he looked south, spotting a very creepy looking forest

"Dax... that place is scary... can we not go in there?" asked Drake

"That's just it, it's the perfect deterrent, besides, how bad could it be?" said Dax

Hilm wasn't a big fan of this plan either

"Oh come on you two, I know you're still colts and all but you can handle a bit of spookiness" said Dax as he began to walk into the forest, the two VERY close behind him

The group walked for what seemed like hours, the forest just seemed to go on and on and on, fortunately giving them lots of food in terms of Berries

"These trees are terrifying..." said Hilm as the three looked at them

"They look like they have faces..." said Drake

"Nonsense, it's just the natural formation of the tree is all" said Dax trying to ease them

They continued to walk for what seemed to be even longer...

"Okay, we're lost" said Dax in annoyance

Hilm and Drake looked up, seeing nothing but leaves, they couldn't tell whether it was day or night

Hilm looked at Drake who tried to use his wings, but due to never being taught how to, failed...

"If mom was still here she'd be able to teach me..." said Drake in sadness

Dax looked around and listened in

(Rustle)

Rustling in the bushes

Dax looked at the bush that had been rustling and looked back at the two colts

"You two, stay put" said Dax as he went up to the bush

Dax prepared himself for what was in the bush

Dax quickly opened the bush to see a small bunny

"Phew, atleast it's nothing of worry" said Dax as he looked behind him to see his two brothers had disappeared

"I told you two to stay put dammit" said Dax as he looked around and saw them walking off towards a cave entrance

"Dax look! A place to stay for the night!" said Hilm

"You two will be the death of me someday I swear..." said Dax as he looked into the cave

"I can't tell... but I think there's something in there..." said Dax as he listened in

(Snore...)

'Snoring?' thought Dax, before going pale

"Guys, we need to leave quietly" whispered Dax

"Why?" asked Drake

"Shhhhh, we don't wanna wake them up" said Dax

"Wake who up?" asked Hilm

"Bears..." said Dax

The two also went pale, before quietly scurrying off...

They continued walking for even longer, not getting anywhere

"Why did we enter this stupid damn forest!" yelled Dax

"You told us it would be the best option" said Hilm

"Regret is an addictive drug, don't follow in you're big brothers footsteps" said Dax trying to lighten the mood again

The air around them had been becoming colder and colder as they walked, they had to guess that it meant night had fallen
"Looks like, we'll need to set up here for now" said Dax

"But what about shelter?" asked Drake

"It's just for the night, we'll be fine" said Dax

Hilm actually agreed with Dax

"Can we atleast-" The group stopped talking as they heard voices in the background

"There it is! The ruin that holds the Elements of Harmony! We made it!" Exclaimed a voice close by

"You two, get down" Whispered Dax as he creeped around trying to see who was there

Dax saw what seemed to be a collapsed bridge with a Light Blue Pegasus with a Rainbow mane flying over the gorge, along with 5 other mares waiting for her to fix the bridge

One was Orange with a Yellow mane and a wild western style hat

Another was White Unicorn with a Purple mane

The Third was a Pink Mare with an even Pinker mane

The forth was a Light Yellow Pegasus with a Light Pink Mane

and the last was a Purple Unicorn with Dark Purple hair and Pink Highlights

"Shit, there are 6 of them, I wouldn't be able to take on 6 at the same time, plus that Blue one seems fast, we wouldn't be able to outrun, It's best if we just keep out distance" whispered Dax to himself

"Indeed you should" said a dark regal voice from behind him

Dax Immediately went to kick the person with his hind legs, but before it made contact with anything they became engulfed in magic

Dax used this time to have a look at who this person was, it was a tall and very dark Mare with both a horn and wings, an Alicorn as he recalls, his mother had told him the legends, he never thought them true

As Dax looked at her more, he noticed his two brothers being lifted and gagged by her magic

"Let go of them!" shouted Dax in anger

"Now now Dax, don't worry, I won't do anything to you or you're little brothers, as long as you do something for me" said the Dark Mare

"How do-" he was interrupted

"I know a lot about every pony that lives in my realm" said the Dark Mare

"You lead a very interesting life young Dax, It would be a shame if it all came to a close so soon" said the Dark Mare

Dax couldn't fight, this magic was too powerful even for him, what was this monster?!?

"As I said Dax, I have an offer for you, you see, I'm the future ruler of this land, and those Ponies over there? Are the only ones standing in my way, you help me deal with them, I don't kill your little brothers, and who knows, I may even help protect them" said the Dark Mare

"Oh please, as if you'd do such a thing, no one has done such a thing" said Dax

"Yes, I noticed, everyone seems to hate you and you're entire family, even if they don't know of your existence they seem to hate you, not me though, you're story has been intriguing me during my 1000 year banishment to the moon" said the Dark Mare

"Banishment to the moon? Wait..." Said Dax as he thought back to a tale his mother used to tell him and his brothers

"You're the Mare in the Moon" said Dax

"I see my reputation proceeds me, good, You can henceforth call me "Nightmare Moon" said Nightmare Moon
Dax looked both horrified and angry

"Now, back to business, you have two choices, help me end those who seek to defeat me and live, or watch as I drain the life from your beloved brothers before I end you" said Nightmare Moon

Dax couldn't fight, he tried with all his might but the magic wouldn't budge, he knew if he refused to help his brothers we're goners

"Fine, what do I do?" asked Dax as he gave in

"I want you to sabotage those 6 ponies over there, once they're gone, I'll let you go" said Nightmare moon as she turned into a dark sparkly cloud, taking his brothers with her

"And remember, I'm watching"

Dax growled in anger, and began to kick a tree

"Dammit! Fine" said Dax as he began to walk over to where the 5 ponies were

Dax looked at the bridge that had since been rebuilt, the Blue Pegasus flying back to her friends

The group of Ponies Cheered as the Pegasus came back to their side

"Good Job Rainbow!" said the group

'Here goes nothing' thought Dax as he breathed in and out

"Hey, Who's that guy?" asked the Blue one

"More importantly, who are you? I've been trying to reach these ruins for years" said Dax trying to earn their trust
The 6 of them eyeballed him, the pink one twitching her eye

'Dammit, I know that twitch, that's a sign they're ready to attack!' thought Dax as he thought of going into attack mode

"Oooooh, Eye Twitch that means something great is gonna happen!" said the Pink one

Dax was dumbfounded...

"Pinkie Pie, what are you talking about?" asked the Purple one

"I have these little quirk things that happen and I've learnt that some of them mean something happens! The Eye Twitch means that good fortune has arrived!" said the Pink one who's name is apparently 'Pinkie Pie'

"Wouldn't consider myself 'Good Fortune' Said Dax

"Well, either way, since you're with us and have been wanting to explore these here ruins, perhaps you'd like to come with us?" said the Orange one

"Applejack, we can't get anyone else involved" said the Purple one

"Twilight, we need all the help we can get" said the Orange one who's name was Applejack

"He looks tough, I'd say bring him" said the Blue one

"Only if he wants" said the Purple one who's name is twilight giving in

"I'll come" said Dax

"Brilliant, follow us" said Twilight as the 7 began to walk across the bridge

'That was close' thought Dax

As the group crossed, Dax thought of an idea for sabotage

Dax purposely broke the wooden panel underneath his back hooves to stage like he was gonna fall

"What the- Help!" Exclaimed Kax trying to seem convincing

"Oh no! Rainbow Dash, Fly Under!" Said Applejack as she grabbed Dax's arms, prompting Dax to flail about causing the planks under her to collapse

"Applejack!" Screamed the yellow one in fear as both she and the blue one who's name was Rainbow Dash began to fly downwards

"Don't let go!" said Applejack as Dax began to fake his hand slipping

"Dammit, my hoof is slipping!" yelled Dax

Suddenly his hand was enveloped in a light blue magic

"Good thinking Rarity!" Said Twilight as she also used her magic to strengthen their grip, allowing the other two to lift both Dax and Applejack back up

"Great heavens... I'm so sorry... I didn't think the bridge was so... Rickety" said Dax trying to play it off

"Thank you for holding on... I would have died if it weren't for you" said Applejack

Dax mentally scoffed, he had to try something else...

The group began their ascent into the ruins, going up the stairs

Dax found another opportunity, he'd pretend to slip down the stairs and knock some of them down with him

'It's now or never' thought Dax as he purposefully slipped and began to tumble down the stairs, hitting the White one who's name was Rarity and the Yellow one

"Dammit! We're gonna fall!" Yelled Dax once again trying to be convincing

"Rarity use you're magic on Fluttershy!" yelled Twilight as Twilight used her magic on Rarity, Leaving Rainbow Dash to quickly come and save Dax

'Dammit! Why won't these work!' Mentally screamed Dax

"My gosh... I'm so sorry... These stairs must be badly kept..." said Dax

"No wonder... It's a ruin..." said Twilight becoming suspicious

"I'm so sorry, once again" said Dax

"It's fine" said Twilight as the group began to continue their ascent...

The group entered the ruins, into a room revealing 5 rocks, each with a symbol on them

"Wow... Come on Twilight, Isn't this what you've been waiting for?" asked Applejack as Twilight walked forward

"The Elements of Harmony! We found them!" Exclaimed Twilight

Each of the 6 ponies grabbed one except for twilight, who couldn't find the 6th

"1, 2, 3, 4, Wait, there's only 5!" said Pinkie Pie

"Where's the 6th?" Exclaimed Rainbow Dash

Dax had an idea, it would blow his cover, but it would sabotage them enough so that Nightmare Moon can finish her plan, whatever it was, he didn't care, we just wanted his brothers back safe

'This is my only chance' Thought Dax

"Well, you see girls..." said Dax

"I've hidden the last one from you all" said Dax

"But you said you've never been inside?" said Rainbow narrowing her eyes

"You see, I know you 6 are trying to defeat Nightmare Moon, I can't allow that to happen" said Dax as he pinned down both Rarity and Fluttershy with his body weight

"Oh, you are SO getting it" said Rainbow and Applejack as they approached Dax angrily

"Get any closer, I apply more pressure, you do not wanna see what happens when they cave in to it" warned Dax

The two growled

"I should have known, I suspected it when you fell over the stairs, let me guess, you tried to sabotage us with those too?" asked Twilight angrily

"You would be correct, now, you all leave this ruin, and I'll let go of these two, I'm not telling you the location of the 6th element" said Dax in a bluff

"You can't have hidden it, it only appears when the 5 are brought together and a spark makes the 6th appear" said Twilight

Dax growled

"Another attempt at sabotage" said Pinkie

The 4 surrounded Dax, he applied more pressure

"Why are you even helping her!?! She's going to bring endless night!" warned Twilight

"Trust me, you'd do the same thing in my boots" said Dax

All of a sudden a dark sparkly cloud arisen from the ground, manifesting into 3 figures, Nightmare Moon, Drake and Hilm

"She has children as hostages?!?" said Applejack

"Dax! Help us!" yelled the two colts

"Dax?" Asked Pinkie as they all looked at Dax

"As I said, You'd all do the same in my boots" said Dax

"Good job Dax, I must say, you make a splendid entertainer" said Nightmare Moon

"You remember the deal right, I sabotage them, you let my little brothers go" said Dax

"You will wait until the job is complete" said Nightmare Moon in a royal tone

Dax growled

Nightmare Moon began to cackle

"You lot think you can defeat me! What foolishness" laughed Nightmare Moon as she lifted her front hooves in the air stomping them into the ground, shattering the elements into pieces

"Now you'll never see your Princess, or sun ever again, the night, will last, FOREVER!!!"

"Wait a minute... we don't need some rocks to defeat you" said Twilight

"Oh? You wanna try brute strength?" snickered Nightmare Moon

"No, what I mean is, we've already got the elements with us! We're all the elements, Applejack's Honesty, Fluttershy's Kindness, Pinkie's Laughter, Rarity's Generosity, Rainbow's Loyalty" Said Twilight as the 6 began to glow, the orbs cracking the five orbs into their respective elements, whilst also forming the 6th

"What is the meaning of this!" yelled Nightmare Moon

"You see Nightmare Moon, when those elements are ignited by the... uhh, the spark! that resides within us all, it creates the sixth element, the element of, Magic!" Said Twilight as the Glowing began to get brighter before suddenly turning off
"W-what the?!?" Said Twilight as the glowing stopped

Nightmare Moon started to laugh

"You fools! You seriously thought you could defeat me! You're even more gullible then Dax!" Said Nightmare Moon

"What does that mean!" Scoffed Dax

"I mean, you're not getting back your brothers, I don't like leaving loose ends" said Nightmare Moon

"Don't you dare hurt them!" Said Dax as he began to run at Nightmare Moon, who instantly engulfed him in her magic

"Oh please, you wouldn't be able to touch me" said Nightmare Moon

Dax looked at his two little brothers squirming, trying to escape

"Don't... you... DARE!" Said Dax as he began to break free from nightmare Moons magic, glowing a bright black

"What! How are you resisting my magic!" Said Nightmare Moon as she strengthened her hold on him, resulting in him eventually breaking through that

"This is Impossible! No one is powerful enough to resist my magic! No one!" Said Nightmare Moon as an element seemed to manifest around him, just like the elements did for the other 6

"You're not telling me... there's a 7th!?!" Shouted Nightmare Moon as the 7 began to glow, this time, they fired off what seemed to be a rainbow at Nightmare Moon

"Wow..." Said Hilm and Drake as they began to shield their eyes against the onslaught of light heading there way...
...
...
...
"Ow... My head..." Said Rainbow Dash

"Everypony okay?" Asked Applejack

"Oh Thank Goodness!" Said Rarity

"Why Rarity, it's so lovely" said Fluttershy

"I Know, I'll never part with it again!" said Rarity

The 5 began to celebrate their victory

"Wait, where's Dax and the two little colts?" asked Twilight

"Hilm! Drake!" Yelled Dax as he ran and hugged his two brothers who were crying

"Big brother Dax!" Said the two of them

"It's okay you two... It's okay... I'm here..." said Dax as he shed a few tears

The three continued to hug when all of a sudden Light started to form in the room, and suddenly another large Alicorn had appeared, Kax immediately shielded the two and got into fighting stance

"Princess Celestia!" Questioned Twilight

"Twilight, my faithful student, I knew you could do it" said Celestia

"But... you said it was just a tale?" asked Twilight

"I said you needed to make friends, and look what you've gone and done, you've proven yourself to be exactly what I thought you were, and it seems that we were all wrong about the elements, there's not 6, there's 7" said Celestia as she saw Dax and his brothers at the end of the room

"Oh don't think you're retreating that easily buddy!" said Rainbow Dash Angrily as she prepared to attack

"Rainbow Dash, Cease" said Celestia

Rainbow Dash didn't dare to object

"If I remember correctly, your name is Dax yes?" asked Celestia

Dax immediately got into fighting stance, something the 6 ponies were shocked to see, someone getting ready to fight with the princess? that would be considered a national offence!

"It's okay Dax, we're not here to hurt you" said Celestia

"Oh please, I have heard that same line time and time again, I will never trust anyone other then myself and them" said Dax protecting them

"But to believe that there was a 7th element all along, the element of... Family..." said Celestia

"None of the books ever stated a 7th element... I wonder why..." said Twilight

"Either way, we still have someone to deal with..." said Celestia as everyone looked over to what appeared to be a small Alicorn with light purple fur and a sparkly night blue mane lying in the ground

"Princess Luna, it has been a thousand years since I have seen you like this, it is time to put our differences behind us, we were meant to rule together, little sister" said Celestia

"Little Sister!?!" said Twilight Shocked

"Will you accept my friendship?" asked Celestia

...

"I'm so sorry sister!, I'm so so so sorry... I missed you so much big sister" said Luna, who appeared to have been the true uncorrupted form of what was once Nightmare Moon

"I've missed you too sister" said as the two embraced

"Okay, this is all fine and dandy, but if you don't mind, We'd like to leave before you all turn on us" said Dax as he tried to push the two little ones out the door

"Wait a minute!" Yelled Applejack in anger

"Cease, Let them decide" said Celestia

"Thank you, now if you'll excuse us..." said Dax as he once more tried to push the two colts out the door, but they wouldn't budge

"Come On Drake, Hilm, you know what happens sooner or later" said Dax

The two immediately went to hug Celestia

"Thank you so much, all of you!" said Hilm

"We can't thank you enough, you saved our lives!" Said Drake

"Well, it seems they've made their mind up" Giggled Luna

"Hilm, Drake, a word" Sternly said Dax

The two went over to their big brother

"What do you two think you're doing? you know damn well what happens" Whispered Dax Angrily

"Big Brother, I know what usually happens, but these guys... they're different... I know they are" said Hilm
"Why should we be afraid of our heroes?" said Drake

"Because what do you think will happen if... no not if, WHEN, they turn on us, we wont be able to outrun them, hide from them or fight them, we'd be goners" said Dax

The two pondered before walking back over to Celestia

"You have to believe us brother" Drake

"Please" said Hilm

Dax looked at them before giving in

"Fine, but I'm letting you all know right now, NONE of you are laying even a finger on them, they may trust you but I. DO. NOT, when you turn on us, I'll be waiting" Said Dax

"We'll be having a talk about that soon, since your so Tartarus Bent on believing we'll hurt them" said Twilight

"Before we even think of going forwards, you" said Kax pointing at Luna

"You will stay the furthest away from them, I may not trust any of you, but you are the one I trust the least, especially after that stunt" growled Dax

"I guess I do deserve that, after all, alternate me did threaten their lives" said Luna regretfully

"Umm... Twilight... How did you know that we we're the bearers of the elements?" asked Fluttershy

"Well I wasn't sure until right after Dax took down Rarity and Fluttershy, but seeing us all surround him assured me that we were meant to stay together, much like the elements" said Twilight

"We're still waiting on an apology" said Rarity angrily

"It was mean, it also hurt" said Fluttershy in a mixture of anger and shyness

"I will not apologize for trying to protect my brothers" said Dax annoyed

"Okay, everyone's questions will be answered, however we must first return to Ponyville, it's guaranteed that people are in a frenzy right now" giggled Celestia

"Great, more walking" said Rarity annoyed

"Nope, we'll be back there in an instant said Celestia as she began to glow brightly, causing the others to shield their eyes and Dax to shield his brothers...

(Ponyville...)

It was as that Princess Celestia said, she had teleported them to quite a large village...

'Oh no!' internally screamed Kax as this was not a good place to be in, he looked in all directions, other ponies all looking in their general direction

'Shit, Shit, SHIT!' Thought Dax as he would almost begin to grab Hilm and Drake and book it

Instead what he heard was cheering, loud happy cheering, it would appear that all the villagers were excited about their Princess being back

"Dear residents of Ponyville, do not fret, for I am safe, and I come bearing the return of my long lost Sister, my other half, Princess Luna!" said Celestia which caused the entire village to erupt in cheers

"And not only that, but I also bring the 7 heroes who defeated the dreaded Nightmare Moon, they carry within them the light of the 7 Elements of Harmony, Laughter, Kindness, Loyalty, Honesty, Generosity, Family and Magic!" said Celestia as the crowd Looked at every other member of this so called "Elements"

And then finally their eyes landed on us... the cheering stopped, but they didn't advance, they stood still and gazed quietly before going back to cheering for their reunited Princesses

That Purple mare, Twilight seemed to have noticed the sudden quietness when they saw us

Before long the Princess ordered the Members to take a long well deserved rest...

"Dax, Hilm, Drake" said Celestia

"What is it" said Dax

"I'm surprised you haven't left for home yet, I saw how you were practically begging to get out of the open" said Celestia
"If I may explain Sister" said Luna

"You see, they... don't have a home, my alternate self had kept tracks on them, they rely on foraging foods to survive, or even sometimes Dax himself would go out in the night and steal leftover foods" said Luna

"You would suggest the two of them starve?" asked Dax with a scowl

"Heavens no, I personally think you did the right thing, as petty as thieving is, you did it not out of greed or gluttony, but out of necessity and love" said Luna

"Doing it at night is genuinely a good idea" said Celestia casually

"Actually he did it at night whilst we were asleep to make sure that if he ever got caught, we would be safe" said Hilm
"The night time cloak was just an added bonus" said Drake

Celestia was dumbfounded, she needed to find out more about this stallion, there was much more then meets the eye...

"Yes, everything he has done has been out of desperation to protect his two little brothers" said Luna

"Well, we cant just leave them to fend for themselves..." said Celestia

"And we certainly can't take him to the palace, it wouldn't, I'll fill you in on those details in private" said Luna

"Then I guess the best option is to take him to Twilight and ask her to take them in" said Celestia

"No" said Dax sternly

"But where else would you go?" asked Celestia

"Somewhere other then here" said Dax

"But Dax, we don't want to live like that anymore..." said Drake

"Yeah, we could have friends here!" said Hilm

"You two saw how they all went silent when they saw us, they're already planning on taking us out when they have the chance" said Dax to the two

"Take you out? Why they would never, why they could never" said Celestia

"Actually sis... that's part of things I need to talk to you in private for" said Luna

Celestia lost her smile, what could cause he subjects to... 'Take Down' someone?

"Look, we'll go to Twilight, if even for a day or two until we sort things out okay Dax?" asked Celestia

Dax really didn't like this

"Come on Big Brother" said Hilm

"We can trust them" said Drake

Dax looked at his two little brothers, both with pleading but unwavering faces

"Ughhhh, fine, but we're leaving the first sign of danger" said Dax

"Yay!!!" said the two

"Remember, that's even if she accepts us, after what I did, I doubt she'd do so" said Dax

"You leave that part to me Dax, she is my student after all, I could spin this to her in a way for her to accept" said Celestia

Dax remained silent as his brothers cheered happily...

(At the Library...)

Knock Knock Knock

"Coming!" said a voice from inside

The door locks began to make noise as the door opened to reveal what appeared to be... a baby dragon?

"Ahh Spike, it's been a while" said Celestia

"Princess Celestia!" said Spike happily as he ran up and hugged the large Alicorn

"Could you grab Twilight for me?" asked Celestia

"Actually she's not here right now, she's out getting food, she'll be back in a few minutes I believe, come in!" said Spike as he offered entrance

The group walked in, Dax followed

"Oh sorry, I didn't ask, what's your name?" asked Spike as he looked up at the Bright Yellow Stallion

"Dax" said Dax shortly

"Cool name!" said Spike genuinely

"What are your two's names?" asked Spike

"My name is Hilm!" said Hilm excitedly

"My names Drake!" said Drake equally as Excited

"Now that's a really cool name!" said Spike as the name Drake referred to another species of Dragon

"Yeah, apparently I got it from my horns" said Drake

As the three younglings got together, the door opened once again, revealing a purple mare with purple hair and a pink highlight

"Spike! Can you help me put away the-" Twilight stopped talking as she noticed the 5 ponies currently sitting in her living room

"Celestia, Luna!" said Twilight as she then turned to Dax, who in turn only glanced in her direction

"Hello again Twilight, I have come to ask a favour, one that I believe will teach you the power of friendship more then any other" said Celestia

Twilight was confused but she decided that she was going to do whatever Celestia required of her

"We would ask that you take in Dax and his two little brothers Hilm and Dax for a bit, until we sort something out at the castle" said Celestia

"Take in him? Does he not have have anywhere else to be?" asked Twilight as she glared at Dax, it was evident she didn't like him, not after he endangered them all back in that ruin

"Believe it or not, no, no they don't" said Luna

Twilight almost felt guilty for asking that, whilst she didn't like Dax one bit, she did atleast want the two little ones to be safe, they didn't deserve that

"I do believe that it'll greatly help you learn the values of friendship, and as I said, It'll only be a couple days until we figure something out" said Celestia

Twilight once again glared in Dax's direction

Twilight sighed

"There's a spare room just below mine, you can have that" said Twilight

The two little ones were ecstatic, same with Spike

Dax didn't like this one bit but decided to just get it all over with, it was only a couple days after all

"You two, with me" said Dax as he held the two brothers hands as he guided them to the description of the room

"Twilight, I understand your position on this matter" said Celestia

"I don't trust him, what do you see in him? even if he's another member of the Elements, doesn't mean he's a friend, he's made no effort and has infact worked against us" said Twilight

"Well I guess this is a good of a time as any" said Luna

The three looked at Luna quizzically

"Whilst I was Nightmare Moon, I had been watching them for a while, they've gone through a lot" said Luna

"Such as?" asked Celestia curious

"Everywhere they go, they get attacked" said Luna

"Attacked? By what?" asked Twilight

"Everyone, no matter how long they've been there or how much they've done, the people always begin attacking them for some reason" said Luna

"But why? There's gotta be a reason?" asked Celestia

"His cold annoying behaviour most likely" said Twilight

"No, I don't know what causes it, even if they just arrive and haven't talked, they'll sometimes attack automatically, you guys sensed it when we first teleported here right?" asked Luna

'So I was right about something feeling off there' thought Twilight

"Where are their parents, even Dax is barely an adult" said Celestia

Luna hesitated to answer that question as she knew that those kind of questions were not hers to answer, but alas she had to

"They're gone... whilst those three were young, the villagers of another place attacked and killed their parents... It's why Dax is so untrusting, everyone he has ever met has tried to kill him and his brothers" said Luna

Twilight's eyes expanded, she was actually starting to feel sorry for the the stallion, it's now obvious he's just trying to protect his brothers, how she couldn't look past her dislike of him and see that was beyond her

"I see... how long have they been on the run for?" asked Celestia

"...8 years now..." said Luna

Twilight was mortified, did Luna just say 8 years? Have they really been on the run for 8 years? if so then that means... Dax was only 10 when it happened...

"So, Twilight, we hope you understand why we ask this favour from you, even if it's just a couple days, just give them some time to rest, they deserve it" said Luna

"I will" said Twilight determined

"Thank you Twilight" said Celestia

"My question is..." said Twilight

"Hmm?" asked the two Princess

"Why aren't we attacking them?" asked Twilight

"I assume it has something to do with us in particular, we're Alicorns so it's nigh impossible for us to be inflicted with anything, for you and your friends, it's probably due to the elements protecting you, and for Spike here, it's probably because your still just a baby" said Luna

"I'll do my best Princesses, you do what you need to do" said Twilight

"Thank you" said Celestia as the two Alicorns got up and went to the front door

"Once again, this should hopefully help you in your friendship quest" said Celestia

"Hopefully" said Twilight

The two Alicorns smiled as they teleported away, probably to tell the Canterlot residents that Celestia is okay

'It's okay Twilight, you can do this...' thought Twilight as she closed the door and proceeded to move to the spare room...

(End of Chapter 1)

Author's Note

Hello! Welcome to the start of a new fanfiction! I've been hoping to get this out months ago, but I had to focus on other things, so hopefully this can satiate for now, I hope you all enjoy, although it may take me a while to update as I'm currently writing another fanfic alongside this one (Pokemon related if your into that), plus life might halt my progress, but I'll eventually get to writing both at a comfortable pace soon enough

This is Cahp! Signing off to hopefully plan more of this story out, aswell as get some sleep because it is 6:30 at the time of this sentence, hope you all love the fanfic and hope to continue on this great story!

(p.s If you see any mistakes, either grammatically or spelling wise, feel free to point it out so I can change it)

Part 2: Staying...

Twilight had to talk with Dax, she wanted to make him and his brothers feel welcomed, even if she was against having strangers life with her

"You've got this" said Twilight to herself as she knocked on the door, after a few seconds the door opened to reveal Dax

"Yes?" said Dax shortly

"I just wanted to say umm, welcome! and umm, I wanted you to know that I am willing to put that happened before behind me, I know you were just trying to protect them... so uhhh, if there's anything I can do just let me know" awkwardly smiled Twilight

"Thanks I guess" said Dax as he wasn't particularly excited about talking to her

Truthfully he didn't want to even be here, the only reason he was even here to begin with was because Hilm and Drake wanted to be, he really needed to learn to put his hoof down in these kind of matters

"Hey just to let you know, I'm going to have Applejack and Rarity over in two days, just thought I'd let you know" said Twilight

"Don't worry, we'll be out of your mane by then" said Dax

"Oh, I see" said Twilight slightly uncomfortable

"Is that all?" asked Dax

Twilight was very uncomfortable now, she could see he didn't want to talk with her

"Yeah, that's it..." said Twilight as Dax closed the door

Twilight silently groaned

'This is going to be hard' thought Twilight

As she walked away, thinking of ideas to make things less awkward, she heard a Knock on her front door

"Twilight! It's me! Pinkie! Open up!" Said the visitor

"Coming!" Said Twilight as she went to open up the door

"Hey Twilight! I've been thinking of making a welcome party for Dax and the two little ones! Do you know where they are?" Asked Pinkie excitedly

Twilight looked behind her at the hallway leading to the rooms

"Pinkie, uhhh, let's talk about that somewhere else" said Twilight

"Okie dokie lokie" Said Pinkie as she bounded around excitedly

Twilight left the building awkwardly, Pinkie following along, eventually they reached a place far enough away

"So what did you want to come out here for?" Asked Pinkie

"Listen, Dax and his brothers are... Living with me at the momen-" Twilight was interrupted

"THEY ARE!?!?" Asked Pinkie Loudly and Excitedly

"Listen, I don't think throwing them a party is the best Idea" said Twilight

"Why not? Sure Dax betrayed us but that was because he was protecting his Brothers, he was essentially being held captive and forced" said Pinkie

"Yes, but that's not the reason" said Twilight

"What is it than silly?" Asked Pinkie confused

"They don't like people, I won't reveal why as I'm not comfortable with revealing them without permission, but I think it's best for now to hold off on any parties regarding them" said Twilight

"But..." Pinkie objected

"How about this, we can make a small cake for them, but that's it" said Twilight, thinking it might help the awkwardness

"Yay!! Quick let's go to Sugarcube! We can get it made there!" Danced Pinkie

"Let's take out time, I do want to spend some time with my new friends after all" said Twilight wanting to take her new friendship task seriously

Pinkie got excited as she led the purple unicorn towards the bakery...

(Pov switch to Dax...)

Dax was not happy, but Hilm and Drake were, that's at least worth something

"Hilm, Drake, we need to talk" said Dax

The two knew what was coming and silently sat around him

"Look, I know you want friends, trust me, I do, but I must ask, why do you think these ponies will be any better then the others who tried to attack us?" Asked Dax trying to be reasonable

"They seem really nice..." Said Hilm

"They defeated that thing that was going to hurt us!" Said Drake

Dax had to give them that one, he knew he wouldn't have been able to do it himself

"I understand that, but remember, everypony turns eventually, It would be much safer if we stayed as little as possible" responded Dax

"But what about you? You're an Element now!" Said Hilm

"I couldn't care less about being an Element, my Job is to protect you, that is it" said Dax

"But what about them?" Asked Drake

"I don't really care, they'll turn just like the rest of them" said Dax

"But-" Hilm was cut off

"You guys know it, I know it, everypony turns on us eventually, no matter how kind they may be" said Dax

"Can't you atleast try?" Asked Drake

"I'm not being friends with them, it would serve no purpose, it would actively work against us" said Dax

The two were defeated, they knew their big brother was stubborn about these topics, and they knew it was for good reason, as much as they want to believe these new ponies are different, but he has always been right...

"I just... I don't want to run anymore..." Said Drake

"I want to make friends... All those times you caught me sneaking out to watch others play... I want that..." Said Hilm

Dax grew saddened

"I know you two... I know... I truly wish we could, I would give anything for you two to have that" said Dax as he hugged the two little ones

The two silently sobbed into their Dax

"Tell you what, how about we play that game you like" said Dax

The two slowly stopped sobbing before softly smiling

"Yes please" said the two in unison...

(A few hours later at Sugarcube Corner...)

"Aaaaaand done!" Yelled Pinkie as she marvelled at the cake they had made

"Wow, I didn't know I'd be that good at fetching ingredients" smiled Twilight sheepishly

"Nonsense you did amazing!" Said Pinkie humming

"I just hope this gets him to lighten up, I want him to see that we truly mean no harm" said Twilight

"Why would we attack them? He's silly" giggled Pinkie

Once again Twilight wanted to dodge answering that

"He has his reasons" said Twilight as she used her magic to box the cake

Pinkie could tell Twilight was hiding something from her

"Oh well, I'm sure this'll get him to loosen up" sung Pinkie

"Hopefully" said Twilight hoping to make things less awkward

"Well, I hope it works out" said Pinkie happily

"Thanks Pinkie, just remember, no parties for them" said Twilight

"Okie Dokie Lokie" said Pinkie as she bounded around

"Well, I'm off, I'll tell them it's from you as well!" Yelled Twilight

"Thankies!!" Yelled Pinkie back

Twilight was walking herself back home, she was pretty nervous about the entire situation, how would he react?

'Hopefully this helps him gain trust in me, even if by a little' prayed Twilight as she reached her front door, thankfully she had returned just before it hit night so she could make herself some dinner

'Wait, what about them? They'd probably be hungry too after what happened today...' thought Twilight as she opened the door to what seemed to be complete silence

"Well, at least they aren't noisy" said Twilight to herself as she walked up to the kitchen where she placed the cake in the fridge and began to prepare dinner, she didn't know whether or not they had food so she decided to make some for them too

"Hopefully they don't mind Pumpkin Soup" says Twilight as she begins to set the pot to boil before she hears some laughter

Twilight stayed silent, she wanted to know if she heard that correctly

There it was, more laughter!

She had to check in silently just to see what was going on

She used her magic to open the door, revealing the two little colts each trying to grab ahold of a ball held above then by Dax, who was smiling happily

Twilight was very surprised, this is the first time she's seen him express something other than distrust and/or anger

She took a few more glances as she silently closed the door without them noticing

'He must care for them a lot...' thought Twilight as she thought about her own older brother, Shining Armor

'I wonder if this is what it felt like for you when I was still young' thought Twilight as she smiled and went back to making dinner

It wouldn't take long before the soup was ready

She allowed the soup to cool down a bit before finally going back to their room door

(Knock Knock Knock)

"Hey It's me, Twilight" said Twilight nervously

After a few seconds the door opened to Dax, who stared back

"Hey... I didn't know if you guys had any food with you so I ummm... Made some dinner for you three" said Twilight

Dax stood still eying the food, he wanted to know what was in it, as he still didn't trust her

He was about to open his mouth before he heard the stomachs of both Hilm and Drake grumble, he turned to look at them and showed a saddened face for all but a split second before accepting the bowls from her

"I'll be having a taste first, just to make sure there's nothing bad in it" said Dax to Twilight as he closed the door

Twilight didn't know what to do

'He could have at least said thanks' thought Twilight annoyed

She walked down the hall back to the kitchen again

"What am I gonna do..." Said Twilight as she wanted him to know she meant no harm

She grabbed two more bowls meant for her and Spike, which was filled with Gemstones for him

She walked upstairs where she was greeted by the baby dragon

"Hey Twilight, thanks for the food!" Said Twilight

"Well, at least someone thanked me for that" said Twilight slightly annoyed

Spike automatically knew what that meant and wanted to give Dax a piece of his mind but decided it would be best to not make things more awkward in the house

"Hey Spike, if you had a younger sibling, what would you do if they were in danger?" Asked Twilight

"I'd protect them obviously, even if I had to get a bit rough and dirty to do so" said Spike

Twilight couldn't help but feel good from that comment

"After all, you’re the one who taught me that" said Spike

"What?" Asked Twilight confused

"Whenever I was being bullied for being different, you would always help and protect me, if I was to be in that same situation I would do just as you did!" Said Spike

Twilight smiled and hugged Spike, who hugged in return

"Glad I raised such a gentleman" giggled Twilight

Spike laughed in response

The two happily ate their soup, before Twilight would tuck Spike into bed and wish him goodnight

"Alright, it's late. I should probably go give them some cake as a token of friendliness" said Twilight as she walked back downstairs

She grabbed the cake from the fridge and cut it three pieces out, using her magic to walk over to the door, this time she was going to try something different, she was going to place down the cake, knock on the door and run, since Dax obviously wasn't in a talking mood she didn't want to push him

She placed down the cakes and knocked on the door before going back upstairs

The door opened to Dax, who looked annoyed but saw that no-one was in sight, he did however notice the cake pieces lying on the floor

He looked slightly regretful and saddened but also looked stoic as he took the cakes and placed them inside, the two little ones were confused before they saw the cakes

"Cake?" Said Hilm drooling

"It's been so long..." Said Drake

"Wait" said Dax as he took a small section out of all three slices

"Just making sure there's no poison, just like I did with the soups", said Dax as he inspected the cakes, finally mentally declaring them safe to consume he gave them their own slice then sliced his slice in two and gave each half to them

"You two have it, I know how much you both like cake" said Dax as he smiled slightly

"Thanks Dax! You're the best" said the two in unison as they began to dig into the cake

Dax was still very confused, why was she doing so much for them, surely she just wanted them to lower their guard so she could strike, that had to be the case!

"Savour them, we might not have another chance like this anytime soon" said Dax

The two nodded, this was the first time in ages where they felt truly happy

Dax smiled seeing their happy faces before his stomach growled, he ignored it though, as the only thing he wanted was to see his little brothers happy and safe

It wouldn't be too long until both Hilm and Drake finally began to get tired and fall asleep

Dax decided to stay up to make sure nothing could sneak in and attack them...

Back upstairs Twilight had finally begun to feel the fatigue of the day weighing on her, she began to note down her findings on friendship for the day before finally falling asleep...

(The next day, early in the morning...)

Twilight began to finally wake up, the sun just about to start rising

She didn't have much to do today, but she also didn't feel like being contained in the building, she thought of maybe talking more to Fluttershy, since she's the one Twilight knows least about

"That sounds like a plan" said Twilight as she went downstairs and thought of ways to become better friends with Fluttershy

"She does like Spike, maybe I can bring him over to her so she can study more" said Twilight herself

She then heard what sounded to be a door opening, she looked down the hall when all of a sudden two little colts were in sight

The two didn't notice her right away, instead trying to be as silent as possible

Twilight then hid behind some furniture, wanting to see what they were doing

"Okay, Hilm, you get some daffodils, I'll get the bread" whispered Drake

'they're making sandwiches?' thought Twilight to herself as she watched closely

"He'll love this" whispered Hilm

"Yeah, he barely eats anything so this'll make him feel much better" whispered Drake

'They're making sandwiches for Dax...' though Twilight as she thought back to when she'd make little things for Shining back when she was a filly

'Wait did they just say he barely eats? Did he not eat any of the soup or cake?' she wondered

"You have the daffodils?" Asked Drake quietly

"Yeah, you got the bread?" Asked Hilm back quietly

Twilight watched as they formed a sandwich, it didn't look very neat but she genuinely felt happy watching these two do something nice for their big brother, it gave her many nostalgic memories

She began to walk towards the kitchen again, revealing herself as the two colts looked in both shock and slight terror

The two looked at her and couldn't even form a sentence

Twilight was confused, did she have something on her face?

Then she remembered the conversation she had with the princesses yesterday

(Flashback)

"Everywhere they go, they get attacked" said Luna

"Attacked? By what?" asked Twilight

"Everyone, no matter how long they've been there or how much they've done, the people always begin attacking them for some reason" said Luna

(Flashback end)

'Wait, do they think I'm going to hurt them?' asked Twilight mentally

Twilight backed away slightly

The two looked terrified, as they looked down at the fact they used her ingredients without asking

Twilight then began to talk

"It's okay, I'm not here to hurt you" said Twilight softly

The two backed away slightly, they didn't know if she was telling the truth

"It's okay, I truly do not wish to harm you" said Twilight softly

The two slowly started to straighten out before speaking softly

"We... Just wanted to make big brother a sandwich for when he wakes up... I'm sorry we didn't ask..." Said Drake

Twilight got a bit sad at that comment

"It's okay, I'm fine with it, you just want to surprise him" said Twilight

"The two looked very uncomfortable, but were beginning to relax

"He stayed awake all night... Keeping us safe... He also didn't have any of the soup or cake either, he gave it all to us... We just want him to also have something..." Cried Hilm softly

Twilight's heart broke in two, tears forming in the corners of her eyes

The two colts took notice and were confused, but it did cause them to loosen up

Twilight found herself lucky, she reflected back on her brother Shining, he'd do the same...

"He's sleeping currently... He waited until we woke up and made us promise not to go outside..." Said Drake

"I'm sure he's proud of you two" Twilight said crying softly

The two were taken aback by the crying, never before have they talked to someone who didn't automatically attack them, let alone someone who is saddened over their struggles

"It's a brilliant idea" said Twilight as she neatened up the sandwich and plated it for them

The two began crying a little more, was this what it felt like to have a friend?

"I may not know you or your brother very much, and as much as we got off on the wrong foot... I do want you all to feel safe here" said Twilight as she felt two forced push into her, the two colts hugging and crying softly into her

Twilight felt guilty over their situation and hugged back, also crying a little

"You're the only one who's done this for us... Everyone else would have tried to hurt us..." Said Hilm

"Why do people hate us? We haven't done anything..." Said Drake

Twilight didn't know... She couldn't understand why people would do such nasty things, the fact that the people in Ponyville wished to do such things, it sickened her, but she was also confused

'The people here wouldn't hurt a fly... So why all of a sudden does everyone hate them?...' thought Twilight

"Thank you miss..." Said Drake

"Thank you..." Said Hilm

Twilight hugged them both again

"You can just call me Twilight, we're friends after all" smiled Twilight softly

The two colts formed a smile of what felt like pure joy

"Friends..." Said the two in unison

Twilight truly wished they didn't have to go through this

"Say, Princess Celestia's going to raise the sun soon, wanna go have a watch?" Asked Twilight to the two colts

"Yes! Dax takes us to watch it sometimes!" Said Hilm excitedly

"This is the first time someone else is doing it" said Drake

Twilight walked the two up to the observatory, which gave a clear view of the currently dark sky

"In a few moments now" said Twilight knowing Celestia

"So this princess... She's able to raise the sun and moon?" Asked Drake

"Yes, however raising the moon is actually Princess Luna's job, but since she has been absent for the past millennia, Celestia has had to do it" explained Twilight

"I don't like that one..." Said Hilm recalling yesterday

"She tried to hurt us..." Said Drake

"She wasn't herself, that thing that wanted to hurt you wasn't her, that was her corrupted magic controlling her, she really doesn't mean you any harm" explained Twilight

The two looked down, before something in the corner of their eye caught their attention

"Oooh it's starting" said Twilight as she readied the two

The three watched sky progressively turn yellow, the two marvelled at the sight, usually they didn't see much due to trees but here they had an unobstructed view

"That's so cool!" Said Drake

"That white pony does that?" Asked Hilm

"Yep, princess Celestia is amazing isn't she?" Asked Twilight

"She sure is!" Said Hilm

The sky had now fully turned blue and ponies were beginning to fill the streets, wiping the smiles off the two colts' faces...

Twilight once again went to think, why in tartarus would the people of Ponyville wish to harm them? Even if she had only been here for two days she felt like she knew the town in and out, they wouldn't hurt a fly...

"I guess I should let you two go now" said Twilight as she got up and went to wake up Spike

The two were saddened but also happy, this was the only time they could remember that someone other than Dax was nice to them, perhaps they were right about this

"Thanks Twilight" said the two colts as they began to walk down the stairs

She liked how they took to saying her name, they really do just want some friends... Or even for people to just stop attacking them...

"Spike..." Whispered Twilight trying to wake Spike up

The snoring continued

She shook his body a little to get him up

Nope, nothing

"Spike, come on, we're going out today" said Twilight as she shook a bit harder, waking Spike up finally

Spike groaned

"Just five more minutes..." Said Spike

"We know full well your not going to sleep just 'Five more minutes'" said Twilight

Spike groaned as he finally got up and went to brush his teeth

"Good, don't worry, we'll be heading to Fluttershy's" said Twilight

"She's cool" said Spike as he closed the door

Twilight opened the window to her room, letting in the air, looking at the residents below

"I still don't understand..." Said Twilight as she continued to look down at the populace before eventually spotting a light yellow mare with a light pink mane

"Fluttershy?" Asked Twilight to herself

She watched as the mare looked quite uncomfortable with the noise finally picking up

Twilight decided this would be perfect as she went downstairs and opened the door to her house

"Fluttershy!" Yelled Twilight trying to get her attention

"Twilight?" Asked Fluttershy as she looked around and noticed her, immediately flying over

"Come in, I can tell the noise is getting to you" said Twilight as she lead her inside

"Thanks Twilight..." Said Fluttershy shyly

Twilight shut the door

"You know what's funny? I was originally going to visit you today" laughed Twilight

"Oh no... My home is not very clean at the moment... I'd be very embarrassed..." Said Fluttershy softly

"Trust me, it can't be that bad" said Twilight

"So umm... What is it you wanted me for?" Asked Fluttershy

"Well, I wanted to get to know you more, since we're friends and all" said Twilight

"Oh... I see, what do you wish to know?" Asked Fluttershy

"Well... For starters... What do you like to do for fun?" Asked Twilight

"Ooooooh I like to play with animals, they're so cute and adorable" smiled Fluttershy

"Oh wait right, I do have Spike here for you, I thought you would like to know more about him" said Twilight

"Really?!? Where is he" smiled Fluttershy happily

"He's just getting ready, since we were originally going to head to yours" said Twilight

"Well... what about you Twilight? What do you like to do?" Asked Fluttershy

Twilight thought about it, she didn't really have many hobbies other than reading, magic and studying

"Umm, I like... Reading..." Said Twilight

"Something quiet, I like that..." said Fluttershy

"Did you think I was going to say something else?" Asked Twilight

"Well... Kinda... Rainbow has always been quite... Fast paced, even since we were little" said Fluttershy

"I can tell, I'll need to talk with her sometime after tomorrow" said Twilight

That's when they heard tiny feet coming from behind them, Spike had finally showed himself

"Hi Fluttershy" said Spike all refreshed

"Ooooh Spike! It's been forever since I saw you!" Said Fluttershy happily

"It's been almost a full day" said Twilight

"Tell me more about yourself!" Asked Fluttershy wanting to hear more about Spike

"We'll, I've already told you everything about me" said Spike

"Oh... I'm sorry but I'm so excited to see a baby dragon!" Smiled Fluttershy

"I can tell you about the time leading up to his hatching?" Asked Twilight

"Please do!" Squealed Fluttershy in excitement...

In the spare room, the two colts were waiting for their brother to wake up, he usually didn't sleep very long...

"Twilight is so cool" said Hilm

"She is! I can't wait to see what the rest of them are like!" Agreed Drake

The two had been excited about finally being friends with someone, they just wished their brother would also try to be friends with her, but they knew it would be nigh impossible, not that they blame him

The thought of the outside forces its way into their minds, then it finally dawned upon them

"Hey Drake" asked Hilm

"Yeah?" Asked Drake

"Why aren't they attacking us? I mean, everyone else does..." Said Hilm

"I... Don't know... Maybe they're just that amazing!" Said Drake

Hilm laughed

They would hear groans coming from the bed with Dax finally rising up

"Morning you two" said Dax smiling slightly

"Morning Dax!" Yelled the two in unison as they present to him the sandwich they made him

Dax was surprised, but he hugged them both tightly and ate the sandwich, even though he had already pieced together the fact they made it with the ingredients they snuck from the kitchen

All this did make him a bit sad, he knew that they'd be gone soon, and they'd be back on the run

"It's amazing you two" smiled Dax

"Yay!!!" Yelled the two of them as they hugged their brother again...

From downstairs the two ponies and dragon heard the noise coming from upstairs

"Oh, I'm sorry Twilight, I didn't know you had others over" said Fluttershy shyly

"No, no, it's okay Fluttershy, I'll explain things" said Twilight

"You see, Princess Celestia has asked me to house them until they can figure out what to do" said Twilight

"House who?" Asked Fluttershy

"Dax and his brothers..." Said Twilight

"...oh..." Said Fluttershy, she still didn't like Dax, he had both her and Rarity as hostages

"He's mean" said Fluttershy with a hint of anger

"Look, I know he did bad things that night, but he was only doing it to save his brothers, I'm trying to forgive him, I know I have no right to ask this of you, but I'd ask you to find it in yourself to forgive him too" asked Twilight

Fluttershy didn't know how to answer, she wasn't one to hold grudges, she knew she was a major pushover, she knew he was doing it for his brothers, but she didn't know if she had it in her to forgive him, let alone the fact he hasn't even apologised for it yet, not even to Rarity

Eventually they heard hoofsteps coming towards them, the two colts, closely followed by Dax, who they could tell really didn't want to be there

He gave them each a glare before the two colts began to notice Fluttershy, they thought it was just Twilight home

Fluttershy was both scared and angry, but mostly scared until the colts spoke

"Hey, I'm Drake..." Said Drake

"I'm Hilm..." said Hilm

"Sorry, we didn't think Twilight would have guests..." Said Drake

Fluttershy was surprised at the fact the little colts were so polite, complete opposite of their big brother who was still staring them down

"Fluttershy, meet Hilm, Drake and Dax..." Said Twilight trying to get things less awkward

"I'm... Flut..." Whispered Fluttershy

"I'm sorry, we couldn't hear that" said Hilm

"I'm... Fluttershy..." Whispered Fluttershy as she hid behind her hair, not because of the colts, but because Dax was still staring them down, making sure nothing happens to them

"Nice to meet you, Fluttershy" said Drake

Fluttershy loosened up when it came to them, but still couldn't even face Dax's direction

The two colts looked at Dax solemnly

Dax looked back at his little brothers and sighed, finally relaxing his body, as much as he could at least, no longer staring down the two mares

"My name's Dax, anything regarding them will go through me" said Dax annoyed

"Yes... I'll make sure it does..." Said Twilight who was also a little annoyed, she knew he just wanted to protect them, but did he really have to be so mean and go to such lengths?

"Well... What is it you two like to do?..." Asked Fluttershy who has loosened up a bit

"We... We like playing games..." Said Drake

"We also like... Blooming Onions..." Said Hilm

"What kind of games?" Asked Twilight as she remembered last night, watching as they tried to take a ball from Dax, who held it high above him

"We like playing Tic, Tac, Toe..." Said Hilm

"Ooooh, I also like that game" said Fluttershy who genuinely did also like playing that game as it was quiet

"I also like it, it requires quite the strategy at times" said Twilight who liked the actual mechanics more then the feeling

"Well... We have some paper and pens... Would you like to play?" Asked Hilm

Dax was about to object but didn't, he knew how much his brothers wanted to make friends and as much as he knew they would eventually turn on them, he couldn't just take this joy away from them, for him it was a full time job trying to keep them safe whilst also keeping them happy...

"Well... I guess we can" said Twilight

"I can I guess..." Said Fluttershy

The two were happy and began to set up the paper and pen, and they began to play, Twilight had to go a bit easy on them as she knew the strategies down pat, Fluttershy however was naturally at their level, each would win the same amount of games, until eventually the crowd outside started to dissipate, and the moon was going to raise soon

"Wow... Today went pretty fast..." Said Drake

"Yeah... This is the most fun I've had in forever..." Said Hilm

Fluttershy liked these two, they were quiet, and weren't aggressive like their brother

The two brothers then had an idea, they went to their brother to ask him something

"No, absolutely not" said Dax

"But why? We'd be safe" said Drake

"It's better to be sure then to take chances" said Dax

"But... The sun is going to set soon... Don't you wanna see it?" Asked Hilm

Dax really didn't want to risk it, he didn't even care about the sunset, but he knew how much it meant to his brothers...

"Fine, but you stick close to me, if even one person tries to attack us, we're gone" said Dax

The two hoped that would never happen...

"Umm... Twilight... Could we watch the sunset?..." Asked Hilm

"Yeah, we can go to the observatory and-" Twilight was cut off

"We meant... Outside..." Said Drake

Twilight couldn't say no to those two, besides, she did want to accompany Fluttershy home

"Okay, wanna join Fluttershy?" Asked Twilight

Fluttershy didn't really know, she knew she'd enjoy it but she didn't want to stay around Dax any longer, she could practically feel his distrust radiating off him, it was uncomfortable...

"I... I guess I could... If you want..." Said Fluttershy

"Of course I do" said Twilight softly as she helped Fluttershy up

"I know a hill not far from here, out of range of most places, so you won't need to worry about other ponies" Said Twilight

"I think I'm going to stay here" said Spike

Dax didn't trust her but the look his brothers gave him pushed him to agree

"Okay" said Dax shortly

"Yay!!!" Said the two colts as they hugged their big brother again

Twilight opened the door and looked around, no pony in sight

"Alright, we can go now" said Twilight as the group began to rush to the hill, making sure no one was around

Fluttershy still didn't understand the reasoning behind there having to not be any ponies around, she was shy for sure, but even she wasn't that uncomfortable around at least a few people...

Eventually they had finally reached the hill, Dax looked around, she was telling the truth, basically no buildings in sight, completely isolated

The two colts stayed near their brother whereas Twilight and Fluttershy were a bit away

"Umm, Twilight?..." Asked Fluttershy

"Yeah?" Asked Twilight

"Why does Dax hate everypony so much?" Asked Fluttershy wondering if Twilight knew the answer

"I... I can't say" said Twilight not wanting to reveal that information yet

"Oh... So you don't know..." Said Fluttershy

"It's... Complicated... I do know but... It's a bit personal let's just say" said Twilight

"Oh... I won't pry then..." Said Fluttershy

The two looked over at the three, the two colts looking at the sky

"Hey Twilight..." Asked Fluttershy

"What's up?" Asked Twilight

"Have you noticed that Dax doesn't have a Cutie Mark?" Asked Fluttershy

"Wait, what?" Asked Twilight as she looked at Dax and sure enough, no cutie mark...

"Why wouldn't he have a cutie mark? Surely he has found something he loves or is good at?" Asked Twilight

She remembered back to the conversation with Princess Luna...

(Flashback...)

"I see... how long have they been on the run for?" asked Celestia

"...8 years now..." said Luna...

(Flashback end...)

They've been on the run for 8 years...

'He was only 10 when it happened...' thought Twilight

And then it hit her

'Celestia... He never learnt what he was good at... He spent his entire childhood trying to survive...' thought Twilight finally figuring it out

Tears began to form in her eyes for a moment

‘He gave his entire childhood to protect them..’ thought Twilight

"Are you okay Twilight?" Asked Fluttershy worried as she noticed the crying

"I'm okay..." Said Twilight as she wiped her eyes

They watched before turning their attention to the now setting sun

Fluttershy found it more beautiful than she originally thought, although it wasn't her first time watching it happen

Twilight felt genuinely terrible. She truly wanted to help the three of them, but she knew that Dax wouldn't ever trust her, or anyone for that matter

The two mares looked at the three, the two little colts mesmerised at the moment, whilst Dax seemed to be somewhat both saddened and genuinely happy, even showing a solemn smile for them

"Is he smiling?" Asked Fluttershy surprised

"It would seem so..." Said Twilight

As the sun had finally set, the two colts happily embraced their brother, who genuinely looked ready to cry, but didn't as he smiled at them and returned the hug

Fluttershy was surprised...

"Well... I guess we should go now" said Twilight as she got up

"Yeah..." Said Fluttershy

The three brothers also got up and began to walk towards them

"Twilight..." Asked Fluttershy

"Yeah?" Asked Twilight

"Before they reach here, I just wanna say... I made my mind up..." Said Fluttershy

"About what?" Asked Twilight confused

"I'm going to forgive him..." Said Fluttershy

Twilight was genuinely happy to hear that, she hugged Fluttershy which surprised her

The three brothers finally made their way over

"They're ready" said Dax

"Alright, I've gotta go walk Fluttershy back home, you know where the house is" said Twilight

"Hey... Fluttershy..." Said Hilm

"Can... We call you that?" Asked Drake

Fluttershy was taken aback

"Of course you can" said Fluttershy gladly

The two colts hugged her, which Dax didn't seem to like, but still didn't react

Fluttershy was surprised but still hugged back

Dax really did not like that, he took a step forward but caught himself...

He looked at his brothers who genuinely looked happy... The happiest they had been in the longest time...

Was he supposed to stop the hug in case she wanted to hurt them? He was torn, he didn't know, he knew she'd turn on them with the snap of a finger but... He couldn't help but look at their happy faces... This is what he wanted for them... Even if he believed it would never be so...

The mare let go of the colts and smiled brightly at them

"Be safe you two" said Fluttershy without a hint of shyness

"We will!" Said Hilm and Drake as they walked back to their brother, who could only stare at the mare, not out of anger or distrust, but in confusion, everypony else would have attacked by now... Why were they so different? They had to have been planning something... But he had a feeling he was wrong, but he knew he couldn't afford to trust "feelings"

He truly didn't understand... So he just turned around and took the two now tired colts home quickly

Twilight began to take Fluttershy home, little did anyone know they had eyes trained on them from above, a light blue pony with rainbow hair

"Well that was weird to watch" said Rainbow Dash as she closed the cloud...

Twilight had finally dropped Fluttershy home and had a small talk about the three of them

"I like Hilm and Drake, they're little angels" said Fluttershy

Grunting noises came from the bunny besides her

"Oh, not you Angel, sorry" said Fluttershy

"Yes, I had something similar to them this morning whilst Dax was asleep" said Twilight

"I didn't feel shy whilst talking to them at all" said Fluttershy

"Well, I guess they're amazing friends to have for you then" said Twilight

"Friends... Yeah, I'd call them that" said Fluttershy happily

"Amazing, we'll I've gotta quickly go, I hope we can learn more about each other at some point" said Twilight having fun with Fluttershy

"Same" smiled Fluttershy as Twilight began to walk away, Fluttershy closing the door...

Twilight would get home and make some more Pumpkin soup for the 5 residents of the home, made sure to give Spike extra gems

She also cut up some more of the cake for the three of them and knocked on the door, leaving the food there for Dax to give to the two colts

She then walked up to her room, gave Spike some dinner and eventually they both fell asleep not long afterwards...

Tomorrow was a big day, Rarity and Applejack were both coming over to discuss the details of being an Element

Hopefully Dax and the two colts would also join them...

Twilight hoped everything would go well...

(Chapter 2 end...)

Author's Note

Aaaaaand chapter 2 done, if only it was this easy to write chapters for the Pokemon fanfic XD

Once again, if anyone notices any mistakes, whether grammatical, spelling or anything un-ponylike (Anyone instead of Anypony / everyone instead of everypony), feel free to tell me and I'll fix it as soon as possible :)

This is Cahp signing off again! I hope you all have fun reading!