Crystal Prison: The Dazzling Song of Retribution

by HeirofHades

Rating: teen
Tags: Profanity, Twilight Sparkle (EqG), Slice of Life, Dazzlings, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Alternate Universe, Human, Shadowbolts (EqG), Romance, Drama, Princess Cadance, Equestria Girls, Violence
Length: 23332

Dusk Shine rested, barely holding on after the Games. Retribution blazed his soul. He can't allow them to simply walk from it all. His loved ones feared what he's becoming while other enjoyed it. Two paths lay before Dusk Shine. What will he pick?

Rage fueled Dusk Shine's soul after the Games as he rested. A choice must be made. Leave CPA & start anew at CHS, or take his revenge. It's a simple answer. New and familiar faces appeared leaving his morals conflicted and blazing hot. Lies will be told. Bonds broken. Hidden secrets are revealed for all to witness. For what? To hear that sweet siren song of retribution

Welcome to part 2. The first story was rough which I'll take full accountability for. Hopefully I can go back and rework some of those earlier chapters.

Now I can clear a few plot-holes and expand on various concepts and dynamics. As the title implies, we're meeting in THE DAZZLINGS. Other minor characters will appear and have a prominent role but you'll have to win and see for yourself

Published 2024-08-08 13:40:00 UTC
Last updated 2025-02-13 23:09:52 UTC

Chapter 1

Author's Note

Hey, everyone. I wanted to do a quick simple introduction chapter due to me having issues figuring which scene to do first. The scenes were with Dusk Shine in the hospital as his family visited him and Sour Sweet and the other Shadow 5 riddled with guilt after the games before heading back to CPA. Both scenes are good but didn't know which ones do first. I'll worry about it later.

Until then, sit back and enjoy

Chapter 1

Wake up

"Who said that?!" Dusk Shine questioned the void.

Wake. Up

"Where are you? Where am I? Tell me," Dusk Shine resumed, hoping for something about his situation.

WAKE UP!

Dusk Shine gasped, opening his amethyst eyes. He found his body free from his hospital gown and restraints. Instead, Dusk Shine was adorned with the finest regalia of lavender, sapphire, and silver in a golden, verdant field—fit for a prince.

What's a prince without his crown?

Dusk Shine jumped from the sudden baleful flame. There it was—his crown. Dusk Shine's hand twitched, grabbing the suspiciously dense crown and placing it on his head. A stygian path lay before him. He followed. This was definitely a dream. Celestia and Luna often told him about these dreams and how they're the gates to the soul and future.

Hail the scorned prince!

"Scorned prince?" Dusk Shine muttered. His crown ignited hauntingly with a cyan hue, yet it didn't burn. The heat spread throughout his body, and not a bead of sweat or discomfort emerged. They dare not to harm him. Soon, Dusk Shine found himself sitting on a lofty throne above a countless crowd, kneeling, praising, applauding, and more. Banners bearing his emblem flapped throughout the city. Dusk Shine raised his hand in a polite wave to his audience, enjoying the reverie. He wondered where his family was.

What about them? This is your achievement.

Dusk Shine frowned before adjusting himself on his throne. Someone groaned before another silenced them with a harsh shush. His face paled, darting his gaze to his 'throne' as it shifted under his weight. His throne morphed into . . . his schoolmates at CPA! They were neatly arranged in a boxy pyramid with Cinch at the helm. Why are they here?!

"WHAT?!" His booming voice cracked the sky, enraged at this discovery. People ran. Fearful at their prince's outrage. The Scorned Prince wasn't known for his mercy upon acting on his draconic wrath. His throne was evidence of that.

Here's the lie the traitorous fate of those who dare cross him

His horrified gaze scanned them. Their skin was heavily scarred with either whips or rods by their symmetrical patterns. Scorch marks burned their skeletal bodies. Gone are their arrogance and sense of egoistical superiority. Here they lay. Bare, humiliated, and ashamed.

Dusk Shine removed himself from the throne as thoughts buzzed like locusts. His family came to view. Their eyes are marked by fear, guilt, shame, and pity for what he has become. Did they miss the signs? Were there things they could've done to help him? Dusk Shine watched his banners burn, replacing his elegant magenta star with a nightmarish mockery engulfed in cyan flames. Members of the crowd started to jeer venomously. His legions marched, eradicating any who dared oppose him as they praised and chanted his name.

No, no, no, no, . This wasn't him. He ran. Away from it all. People hid in any hold or covering they could, abandoning those to their terrifying fate. Dusk Shine continued to flee, leaving a trail of flaming footprints behind him. There was another.

A glimmer of starlight trailed, filled with zeal and fervor, holding a box. She's in front of him now, kneeling as all obedient servants do. It opened. Emblems fell from it, marking his triumph over his foes. She stood, exposing herself to him with open arms.

"Come to me, my liege," Her voice beckoned him towards her. And he did. The tolls of time eluded him; Dusk Shine found himself around a decade older. He had everything. All of his enemies are defeated. Buildings and prestigious awards are named after him. Mountains of wealth with his fair cache of reliable suitors. It wasn't enough. His avarice and ego are limitless. Dusk Shine gazed at the sky at its boundless possibilities.

He soared with sleek wings. A trio of sirens with eerie, bewitching voices approached him as their eyes and amulets blazed red. Through his will alone, he shattered their gems and banished them back to the depths. Dusk Shine left this world, targeting the cosmos and beyond. Crushing the moon in his palms. Devouring the sun. He needed more, far more. Until the stars themself and beyond are nothing more than playthings to him. Something pulled him back.

Dusk Shine found himself again in the fields. He panicked, fearing that he still wore those dreadful clothes. Relief ballooned in his heart, and he was now wearing clothes that suited his scholarly background and a quality book. Spike lay on his lap, snoring and scratching his ears with his hind legs. Flurry's jubilant screaming and the chatter and aura of good company filled the air. He smiled, seeing his family and friends. The scarred woman offered him a refreshing drink. He took it. Dusk Shine felt . . . safe and relaxed. His pocket glowed crimson. He reached into it with a confused expression, pulling three gem shards. The sirens came to him with rage and fear in their eyes. Their eyes screamed that they wanted their gems back. Dusk Shine returned it as they weren't his. He didn't need them. They thanked him and offered their allegiance. He refused, yet they still followed him as did that glimmer.

Where is she? This glimmer smiled, appearing much calmer and surprisingly younger compared to earlier. She looked his age now. The ground rumbled as a mighty tree loomed over them. Vines writhed and snapped, suffocating the earth around it. Dusk Shine dusted himself off, charging the arboreal monstrosity, but he wasn't alone. He had help. Someone was controlling this tree. A nymph? His gaze caught in the trunk. Was that a gem? Dusk Shine reached it as the flames engulfed him once more.

Celestia gasps in a cold sweat. She touched her chest to ease her breathing while another wiped her brow. Her silken hands gripped her lavish sheets. Those accursed dreams. It plagued her venerable family for countless generations before the establishment of Equestria itself. To witness these terrible events and oath sworn to do the minimum at best. The concept of dreams has dwindled in the modern era, relying more on reason and logic. However, her late grandmother advised her to be wary and document these dreams as they can provide an unexpected insight. Celestia grabbed her dream journal and recorded everything she could remember. She swiftly called her sister.

"Morning, elder sister. What brings you at this hour?" Luna answered. It's unlike her to call before the first light.

"Call Cadence now. I had one of those dreams again," Celestia ordered, making Luna pause her actions. "I . . . saw Dusk Shine," Her soft voice shook.

"We'll be right there," Luna avowed, hanging up and immediately dialing the number. Cadence woke up in a drowsy stupor, answering the phone. Luna swifty explained the situation, jolting her niece into action, grabbing whatever appropriate clothes for the provided transport, and explaining it to Shining Armor before leaving.

All three nobles sat at a table with a warm beverage one of Celestia's servants provided. They need something to elevate their worries. The servant stood idle away from the conservation.

"Auntie, what did you see?" Cadence questioned, breaking the suffocating silence.

"Two stars. A glimmer of light. Three red gems. Finally, a massive tree with a gem inside," Celestia revealed in her journal entry.

"Dusk Shine is on the path, isn't he?" Luna feared, taking a gentle sip.

"I'm afraid so or is close to walking it," Celestia confirmed. Luna sighed as her suspicions came true. Knots formed in Cadence's stomach. "His emblem turned black with fire surrounding it,"

"Is this glimmer a person or something should watch out for?" Cadence prodded. They can search for names or listen to Dusk Shine stargaze.

"Yes. She'll be his most loyal companion for better or worse." Celestia replied. This glimmer can help Dusk Shine become his true self or corrupt him into a sophisticated monster.

"Have we met this person?" Luna asked, hoping it would narrow down their search.

"Not yet. Given what happened with CPA and Cinch, there's going to be a few openings," Celestia advised, shooting Cadance a look to be wary. "Same with those red gems. A trio will enter his life, attempting to lead him further down the path," She continued, sparking recognition in the sister's minds—those three girls.

"Is there hope?" Luna muttered.

"Yes, but it won't be easy," Celestia replied sullenly, recalling those horrible moments when she slumbered. "He'll devour everything in his path until he figures out why he's hungry. The tree with the gem shows that" She showed them her drawings.

"Wait. That's one of the trees from Camp Everfree near one of the caves," Luna revealed with widened eyes. Celestia nodded, remembering the camp fondly in their youth.

"I'll book a field trip as soon as possible," Cadence interjected. That saves them plenty of time and possibly even a few lives.

"No," Celestia denied, leaving them shocked. "These predictions can take months to years to come true. All we can do is allow fate to decide what's best and help guide him," She disclosed with a heavy heart.

"We can't let him destroy himself," Luna argued, with Cadence nodding.

"YOU DON'T THINK I KNOW THAT!" Celestia exploded, slamming her fists on the table and shaking it. That startled the room, for they never saw her act in such a way. "Our elder warned me about interfering with matters such as this. She had to watch, only acting briefly in crucial moments, unable to ease the suffering of others, fearing it'll cause a greater calamity," Sorrow and regret twisted her graceful features as tears swelled. "If we act too swiftly, then Dusk Shine will be lost, and countless others will be burned in his ambitions," Celestia cautioned as her heavy words rested.

"What can we do?" Luna weighed their options.

"Hope, pray for the best, and ease the pain," Celestia answered, yet it didn't ease the heavy burden on their shoulders. To watch a loved one suffer while being unable to help. There are few pains greater than that. They shifted their conversations to more palpable topics regarding how to proceed with the school year after the Friendship Games. The education board and the ministry will demand a full report and their cooperation. Luna and Cadence finished their teas and headed home."Can you please leave me alone for a moment?" Celestia requested as she stood to gaze out a window.

"Yes, ma'am," The servant obeyed, leaving their mistress to have privacy. Tears flowed as the door shut. This window had an ideal view of her garden as the sun rose. She did it every morning.

Galaxia urged Celestia to do this, reminding her about the simpler things in life. Things that made life worth living. Wealth, material possessions, and social status are all good things but aren't worth everything. Treasuries drained. Possessions lost or destroyed. Status can be erased with a few pen strokes. Those can happen at any time. Sometimes, having a good cup of tea with good company as the sun warms the skin is enough. Celestia relayed those words to Dusk Shine when he was a child. He was so energetic when it came to learning. She smiled as Dusk Shine babbled about the various flowers in the garden, the greenhouse, and the koi fish. Celestia missed those days. Does a spark of that person still exist anymore?

"Faust, if you can hear me. Please give Dusk Shine the strength to make it through these troubling times," Celestia prayed, hoping their patron heard her humble request.

Chapter 2

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 3

Cadance, Shining Armor, Spike, Flurry Heart, Luna, Celestia, Trixie, Sunset Shimmer, Night Light, and Twilight Velvet arrived at the hospital. They cleared their schedules to see Dusk Shine. Jade reported he woke up a few days ago. A guard directed them to a restricted seating area. Dusk Shine is stable but they can't take any risks due to his unique circumstances.

"Night Light," Sombra greeted from the lounge area. Trixie and Sunset can't determine if this is a handsome woman or a beautiful man. Sombra was lithe, imposing with a shadowy intelligence in their crimson eyes. They wore an onyx power suit, distinguishing themselves as a social superior who earned their position. His grandparents were there. I'll call Dusk Shine's grandfather Ulric or Alaric and grandmother Skydancer for the time being. They're dressed casually with an exquisite aura about them. The family chatted until they were called up.

"Shine family and approved guests?" A medical professional asked.

"Yes, that's us,"

"Follow me," The medical professional instructed, following them into a nearby hall. "Dr. Beats will be with you soon," They waited.

"Is Shiny okay?" Flurry Heart asked, holding her parents' hand. They didn't know what to say to their families' youngest.

"He will be soon," Shining Armor comforted but didn't believe his words. Jade Beat appeared with bags under her eyes.

"Follow me, please," Jade Beat informed the family. They followed her. "As I said before, the Aether briefly hyper-accelerated his healing capabilities turning years into a few good weeks or months. We still had to surgery and,"

"Dr. Beat!" A nurse interrupted with a panicked expression.

"He's out of his room again isn't he?" Jade deadpanned, massaged her oncoming migraine

"Yes,"

"For Faust's sake!" Jade grumbled. Dusk Shine was a good kid. So cooperative and now he has his mother's rebellious spirit. "And I thought you were stubborn," She glared at Night Light who shrugged.

"Don't worry, I got his scent," Spike remarked, hopping from Trixie's arms. He sniffed the ground before finding a decent lock on him. "This way," Spike directed them and followed. There he was, using the wall as support.

"Damn it!" Dusk Shine growled, his face crashing on the ground. "Come on. . . get up, get up, get up, get up, get up," He gritted his teeth, pushing his body up with what little strength he had. Disgust coiled and blazed in his veins and trembling muscle fibers. He hated this! There's no word or series of words in the modern human lexicon that can comprehend how much he loathes this experience. This weakness! Helplessness. Unable to do the simple act of standing despite having two functional legs! If he can't stand up with his own strength, then he should've died over a week ago.

"DUSK SHINE! They rushed towards him. He's dressed in a hospital shirt and lounge pants to preserve his dignity. Their eyes widened in horror at his dreadful injuries. One of his arms was wrapped in a dense cast limiting the motion of his fingers. Some covered their mouths. Their faces turned a nauseating white from the foul scorch marks. His scars were faint yet clearly visible. Aether defiled Dusk Shine's features spreading from his fingertips to his neck and the lower regions of his face. A medical wrapping covered one of his eyes. Where are his glasses?!

"Get off of me!" Dusk Shine snarled, knocking their hands out of the way. Alarmed by this aggression, they stepped back, watching him struggle like a freshly birthed calf on the feral savannah rife with predators. Each wanted to help but was held back by others aware of Dusk Shine's pride and self-reliance. Luna, Shining Armor, his parents, Spike, Sombra, Sunset, and Trixie knew this better than anyone despite how much it pained them. He struggled to rise. Limbs shaking. Heavy breathing. Muscles burn at the painful action. He has to do it. There's no worse feeling than being helpless. Pride, wrath, spite, determination, or any combination of such bitter emotions fueled, using the pristine walls as support to stand himself upright.

"You shouldn't be walking let alone standing," Jade scolded, observing his buckling knees. Dusk Shine clicked his teeth, rolling his eyes at the response. "Get him a crutch. Now," She ordered a staff member, swiftly returning with a standard issue crutch. He nodded, placing it under his arm. Jade motioned for them to follow her into a conference room with lounge elements. She would've preferred his room but this was more guests than she expected. They sat amidst the tense silence. Spike hopped into Dusk Shine's lap, invoking the first tiny smile since the Games. The illuminated quasar burned dimly.

"I got some donuts from Joe's," Shining Armor broke the air, resting a white box on the table. "Still better than whatever they've been feeding you here," He joked.

"It's supposed to be nutritious, not tasty. I don't control that," Jade corrected, rolling her eyes as she took a glazed donut as payment.

"I take it CPA is in damage control mode isn't it," Dusk Shine calculated, nibbling into a frosted donut. It's over a week after Cinch was exposed in front of two student bodies and the Aether Foundation pursuing her. She can't escape, only mitigate.

"Absolutely," Sombra & Cadance admitted. "Oh, you won't believe the looks on their faces when they heard your statement and likely seeking damages," Sombra extolled with an avaricious smirk, imagining the terrified faces of those haughty students and their families upon receiving a dreaded certified letter.

Dusk Shine paused. "I didn't put that part in," He questioned his Auncle.

"That was me," Sombra replied, keeping a feral grin. "I wanted to make them sweat, divide the herd to find the weak links," They assured with the classic divide and conquer tactic. These students can't risk losing their golden mountain "Although you already did most of that yourself. Can you pass one of the jelly donuts?" Sombra asked, pointing to the box. Dusk Shine slid the box over to them. "Danke. Honestly, Dusk Shine if the science route doesn't work, you can always work for one of my firms," They inferred to an alternative career path. It can be better than staying in a suffocating lab all day. "How did you obtain the contents of your files?" They probed on Dusk Shine's methods. Was it something technologically complex or another method?

"Simple," Dusk Shine said. "They talked and I listened," His elders nodded approvingly. Keep it simple, keep it stupid and people will talk their ears off. "A good number of CPA students aren't 'friends'. They're simply associated with each other because of their parents seeking a long-term partnership," He attested by observing the superficial interactions among his schoolmates.

"Coco and Suri, am I correct?" Skydancer asked, aware of the master-servant style relationship. He nodded.

"Others I had suspicions such as Potter and Marco. A quick search can do wonders," Dusk Shine remarked. "Few were fortunate opportunities while they thought I wasn't listening or they thought they were alone and won't get caught," He added as he continued his reports. The door opened revealing Sour Sweet and Baton Switch. Sunset glared at the twins but they wore caps, hiding their hair to keep their identity hidden. Dusk Shine glanced at Sunset, getting her to relax and she did. The twins gasped at Dusk Shine's grievous injuries, coiling the knots in their stomachs as a serpent crushed the life out of their prey. Was this the price of power?

One of them stepped forward, holding a manilla folder. "Hey Dusk Shine, this is what we discussed today," This must be Sour Sweet. She offered to go first since she's the leader after Dusk Shine. He wiped his face, stood up, and approached her, limping as he did. His blank face and cold eyes pierced her soul. She perspired with trembling hands.

"Nice try, Baton Switch but that won't work on me. I dated your sister," Dusk Shine revealed, taking the folder away. Baton Switch stumbled away from his answer, turning to an equally shocked Sour Sweet. How did he know? Was it her face? The tone of her voice or how she pronounced certain words. Smell? Her posture? The look in her eyes. What was it? Dusk Shine's family was impressed by his analytic skills, muttering how. Cadance's eyes bounced between Dusk Shine and Sour Sweet, finding great interest in their relationship. "Didn't think you thought I was dumb enough to be fooled by this," He gestured between them before turning his back. Something snapped in Sour Sweet's mind, pouncing on Dusk Shine, wrapping her arms around him.

"I'm sorry," Sour Sweet started. Sunset stood, glowering at the archer when Shining Armor grabbed her arm and returned her to her seat. She accepted it but reluctantly.

"Sour Sweet," Dusk Shine said with widened eyes. Her voice didn't hold her signature double tone. Remorse thundered her words.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm so sorry," Sour Sweet blurted out. "I shouldn't have made that stupid fucking deal with Cinch but I was scared what would happen if I said no," She confessed, yearning to hold him tightly but couldn't due to his injuries. Baton Switch gazed at her questioning what deal Cinch could've offered. Her eyes grew in recognition. "Instead I hurt you in ways you didn't deserve," She stumbled over her words, unable to form a proper sentence anymore. "I wished, I could've . . fuck" Sour Sweet mumbled, cursing at her hesitation. She exhaled, resigning to the possibility that this might be the last time she'd ever talk to Dusk Shine. He faced her. Their eyes met once more. Her indigo eyes were moist, unable to release her cascading sorrow from weeks prior. "I don't care if you hate me for the rest of your life," Her knees kissed the ground, gripping the hem of his hospital gown. "Please. Just get better." In all of his days, Sour Sweet exhibited confidence in the speartip of arrogance. Never would he have expected to see her this humbled. "I'm-I'm-I'm sorry," Sour Sweet stammered out an apology one last time before leaving the room. Baton Switch bowed her head to the group before following her out. All eyes were on Dusk Shine, looking befuddled at the situation.

"Dusk Shine," Ulric called to him, laying a gentle hand on his shoulder. A voice rich with wisdom and honor. "Do you want some time to talk with her?" Their eyes met, motioning to the door. It didn't take a genius to know they were important to each other.

Dusk Shine moved his leg and then paused, returning it to its original position. "I. . . I don't know. I need some time to think about this," He muttered, bringing his hand to his head. He wanted to go but couldn't.

"Alright," Ulric nodded, respecting his choice. Dusk Shine buckled. "Woah, easy there," He caught Dusk Shine by the shoulders. "That girl must have had an effect on you. Usually, it's the other way around," Ulric joked, helping him back to his feet. "You were able to distinguish identical twins,"

"Oh ha ha," Dusk Shine deadpanned, rolling his eyes as another pair of hands helped. "Yes, Cadance?" He exhaled, accepting her interrogation.

"What do you mean that you dated Sour Sweet?" Cadance started, holding him by the shoulders with a blank look. "When did this happen? How did it happen? Who helped you? More importantly, why did YOU keep it a SECRET from ME?!" She rambled on, her obsessive romantic intuition SKYROCKETED. "Am I wrong here?" Cadance turned to the group who shrugged.

"Can we . . . leave it alone please?" Dusk Shine pleaded. He thought he buried those emotions years ago.

"On to more pressing matters, since you'll be here but given your circumstances," Celestia interjected. "Do you want to come to CHS? We have plenty of room for you," She offered as the scales swang before her. Celestia prayed that her prophetic dreams were wrong for once in her life. Deep down she knew never fortunate was that merciful. Sunset and Trixie smiled, persuading him to enroll.

Dusk Shine's mind split offering two paths. One showed greener pastures free from the bitter toll and another showed diamonds crafted from the ashes of his foes. He picked.

"No," Dusk Shine declared with fire in his gullet. Luna's heart shattered, gripping the fabric of her pants to her frustrations until her knuckles whitened. Damn it! "If I run away from my problems then I'm no better than them and I must be better than them. I'm the Schola Perfecta, the crown diamond of CPA. I don't break from the pressure. That's something they can't take away from me," Dusk Shine pronounced, his amethyst eye blazed with resolute authority and greed.

"You know they'll either butter you up or seek revenge from it," Sombra mentioned. Fleeing wasn't an option for them. Fawning will be the most common option as that's how they'll obtain their ranks. Cozying up to the powerful's ego, reducing themselves to parasites until a new stronger force appears. It's cleaner. Preferable to an outright fight seeking to maintain their place in society. They might lose their lofty status but can prolong their reputation and influence. Others won't. Hubris and honor needled the core of their foundation. They would rather destroy everything they have before allowing someone else to take it from them.

"Of course, that's the logical thing. The human thing," Dusk Shine droned as if he was different. "Trixie, Sunset, can you guys take Flurry for something to drink, please? This is going to be a private family matter," He instructed. They didn't want to leave but they must.

"Come on Flurry," Trixie smiled, taking Flurry's hand. "I'll show you a few magic tricks," She suggested but had a worried look in her eyes as did Sunset. Jade trailed them and closed the door.

"I believe you have a plan for them," Sombra predicted. His dossier proved that as why else would he have it.

"Of course," Dusk Shine said. He relayed his plans to them. Sombra cackled in amazement, embracing Dusk Shine as he blinked in confusion. "See this is why you're my favorite nephew," The 2nd eldest child of Ulric praised. "Sometimes I swear your genius is wasted on being in a stuffy lab. This will keep me and your brother busy for months to maybe even years," Sombra extolled. Dusk Shine's boons were the perfect reason for their enterprise and crushed a few obstacles in their way. Shining Armor's blazed with duty, not glory.

"I expected it. That's why I'm telling you this now," Dusk Shine responded.

"You placed plenty of thought into this," Ulric mentioned. Dusk Shined confirmed with a nod, averting his gaze for a split moment. "These people or at least some of them won't take this too lightly. People like them," He paused and frowned as if remembering a haunted memory that altered his life forever. "They'll do anything to keep their livelihoods. Entfachen Sie keinen Waldbrand, weil Ihnen kalt ist," The elder warned.

"Stop scaring him. Dusk Shine isn't stupid, he knows how slimy these people are," Sombra defended. "Besides, I know their type. Cowards. As you said before they'll do anything to keep it. They'll lie, cheat, toss whomever they can under the bus, or burn the ship and bribe you to look the other way. Night Light. You remember her." Night Light nodded. It was back when he was at CPA around Dusk Shine's age or a bit older. Night Light was in the talking stage with the daughter of an associated business. Same year but a different class. Their relationship was blossoming until Night Light found her locking lips with one of their schoolmates. It pained him but accepted the outcome. He absentmindedly informed his father, Ulric, about it during dinner. Night Light couldn't envision her parent's tragic lividness. He can never forget her tears and bruises inflicted by her parents' desperate wrath.

"Yes, but they can't be that cruel," Night Light confuted, planting an array of light in the dark.

"Yeah they will," Dusk Shine refuted, eradicating any potential of mercy or empathy. Night Light sighed aware of the fact. Everything's becoming a competition among members of their social class finding the most diminutive pedestal to look down on their peers. "Some of these parents are fucking nutcases. If their kids look good then they look good. But if their kid does bad then that's on them," He scoffed, his eyes motioned to his elders "Pardon my french,"

"None taken, I said worse," Skydancer shrugged. "I thought that disgusting mindset largely died with my generation," She frowned at the rotten mindset.

"No, they haven't" Cadance denied, gliding her hands over each other. "Especially with the more 'elite' families. They'll complain why they got a 100% instead of a 110%," She added. After every event, those parents will chastise their students for not setting a new record despite getting first place "After Dusk Shine became the Schola Perfecta over 2 years ago, I haven't seen those parents anymore," She revealed with a deep frown.

"What?" Dusk Shine muttered with narrowing eyes. These people are sick.

"It's often a sibling, a cousin, or some older relatives who come to PTA meetings or evaluations," Cadance explained. Her reports mentioned they were in a different city or country.

"What a bag of cunts!" Skydancer exclaimed.

"That's why we have laws to largely prevent this from happening," Ulric exhaled, taking a raspberry donut from the box. "These people don't see their kids as people. Only as pawns or accessories to make themselves look good or achieve their goal," He grumbled before taking a bite.

"Speaking of goals, Mom, I would tell you to have a seat but you already are" Dusk Shine cautioned.

"What is?" Velvet questioned. "I know that some of your schoolmates' families do business with my company," She elaborated on the situation. Numerous parties sent their condolences either expressing their concern or saving their necks.

"Oh no, it's um," Dusk Shine stammered, wondering how to continue this.

"It's about Cinch," Spike chimed in. Velvet's gaze hardened, despising where this was going. How low are Cinch's morals?

"You already know she offered to compensate me if my application to Everton was denied," Dusk Shine retold. She nodded. "Cinch added Sunny Flare to the mix to 'fatten the pot',"

"That bitch fucking didn't," Velvet seethed. Cinch offered her own daughter as a bargaining chip!

"She worded it in a way allowing lawyers could argue that Sunny Flare was supposed to be my assistant, not a concubine or whatever weird legal term they use," Dusk Shine elaborated, briefly recalling the letter's contents.

"Concubine is widely accurate," Sombra confirmed but prepared themselves for a crucial question. "Did she have photos?"

"Yes," Dusk Shine answered after a brief pause. Appalled gasps and curses flooded the room. "They weren't explicit but were something that shouldn't be easily accessible," He emphasized, adding a cup of lukewarm water to douse their wrath. It did little but soon regained its composure. Sombra recorded that information, definitely adding more charges to the list.

"Her sister might be involved," Skydancer said.

"Cinch?" Dusk Shine arched his brow.

"No, Sunny Flare," Skydancer corrected.

"She has a sister?!" Dusk Shine exclaimed. Why would Sunny Flare hide that unless she didn't know?

"Two actually," Skydancer clarified. "Older," She explained. "It's causing her quite a bit of worry as the news spreads,"

"Cinch should be more worried about the underground," Sombra mentioned. People like her always have graveyards in their closets.

"Same with some of my schoolmates and their parents," Dusk Shine added.

"A few teachers too. They're traditionalists. Probably has a few connections with said families," Cadance contributed. Shining Armor rubbed his brows, preparing the consistent night shifts for the coming months. "It would explain why several generations were taught by the same teachers," She calculated from the entries in CPA archives.

"How long will you be here, Dusk Shine?" Luna asked, directing the conversation to more palatable topics.

"They estimated a good month, wanting to do more tests on me," Dusk Shine reported, floundering the folder. It should keep him busy for a few hours until the next batch. "I might be able to go home soon, depending on what happens,"

"Dusk Shine, it's time to go," Jade reentered, tapping her watch, signaling for them to end their discussion. He glanced at the box. "Yes, you can keep the donuts but I'm taking some," She deadpanned. Dusk Shine smiled as his nurse helped carry his items. He stood with his crutch. His family hugged him before he left with the medical team.

The family walked for a bit until they had privacy. "DAMN IT ALL!" Luna snarled, putting a nearby wall now they were alone. She's fortunate that her students and Flurry weren't here. Tears leaked from her eyes, fearing what Celestia predicted was coming true. They had it. IT WAS RIGHT THERE IN FRONT THEM! She saw it in his eyes. Dusk Shine wanted to leave CPA but that accursed flame snatched him away.

"I know Luna, I know," Celestia comforted solemnly as tears fell from her eyes as well. "I detest it as much as you but we must respect his choices," She advised. Luna glared at her elder sister. How could she detest this as much as she?! Night Light and Velvet made her Dusk Shine's Consul, making her his mother in everything but blood. How could Celestia know how they feel? Has she ever been forced into the shadows of a shining older sibling? Belittled and isolated by your peers? Forced to be a monster, the worst possible version of yourself to merely survive? How could Celestia ever know from sitting on her lofty sun-blessed throne?

"Did we fail him?" Skydancer lamented on Dusk Shine's condition. Celestia informed them about her recent dreams and what they foretold. Was there something they could've done to prevent this? A sign they missed?

"Mama, es war nicht deine Schuld," Sombra groaned, pinching their brow. Not this again. "I made my choice that day. Yes, I could've made better choices but I made peace with it," They confessed, caressing their mother's hands. "Dusk Shine is more justified compared to my reasons," Sombra remarked, lowering their sorrowful gaze to examine their suit. How many people have Sombra buried throughout their life? Who's funeral have they hastened? Their hands reeked of blood, washed by tears, and strengthened by the bones of those who defied them. Sombra hopes Dusk Shine escapes the path with a lighter soul.

"There's hope for him," Celestia remarked. They stared.

"How long," His family asked.

Celestia shrugged, shaking her head solemnly. "That's beyond the skills of myself and predecessors. Especially with magic involved," She announced, dashing their hopes of a swift yet brutal ordeal. "This could take an entire semester, within a year, a decade, or never," The sterile hospital air hangs still. Never? Was their Dusk Shine lost forever in Cinch's fiery ambitions?

"Until then we have a job to do," Sombra ordered, removing the melancholic aura as it was time for them to act. "Shining Armor, you investigate those files and I'll make sure they stay in jail," They proposed. Shining nodded in agreement, opening the door for convictions. Sombra turned to Night Light and Velvet. "You two keep being good parents. Dusk Shine and many of these kids will need it more than ever. Velvet, watch out for people trying to fill the power gap," It won't be the first time people attempted to cozy up to her. The price of being the CEO of a major comgenerate. Everyone wants to be your friend. "Principal Mi Amore Cadenza. I don't have to tell you anything," Sombra smiled at her impending promotion. Who else could take Cinch's place as principal? " However, Cinch, if she's smart, will have something in reserve to save herself. A bargaining chip to avoid the most severe of punishments. People like her always do. There's no telling what monsters roam through this fine city," Sombra calculated what's to come. Determination mixed with unease glimmered in their features. They left with Trixie, Sunset, Flurry, and Spike, promising to visit Dusk Shine soon.

Dusk Shine examined his school and homework while munching on his remaining donuts. His teachers eased the workload likely due to the aftermath and to avoid Cadance's and societal backlash. He rolled his eyes. CPA is enduring a political shitstorm right now. Good. That'll remove some of the bad apples from CPA. Both students and teachers. His files listed several candidates whose values didn't align with CPA. He groaned, shuffling through his assignments. Some of them might be on a registry. He glanced at his phone.

"Dusk Shine, you have another guest," Jade answered through the door. Was it one of his family members? No. They would've messaged him about that. Cinch? That's another no. Security won't let her get within kilometers of him without heavy supervision.

"Who?" Dusk Shine asked, putting his items away on a nearby nightstand.

"That would be us, young Dusk Shine," A familiar scholarly voice answered upon entering. His jaw dropped like a melting glacier at the two men. One wore a starry blue lab coat with a long elderly beard. The other was somewhat younger with stern angular features and a maroon coat.

"Dr. Swirlswirl?! Chancellor Neighsay?!" Dusk Shine stammered, wiping his mouth clean. One of his icons and the head of state were here?! "Is this because of what happened?" He predicted why they were here. He's sharp. The two men thought.

"Yes," Neighsay confirmed, both taking a seat around Dusk Shine's hospital bed. "We would like to ask you a few questions," The Chancellor started.

"I'll ask the best I can," Dusk Shine confirmed but can't escape his shame in front of his ideal. "I'm sorry, Professor Starswirl,"

"What for? Using Aether?" Starswirl chuckled, humoring him with animosity. "I've read about you, Dusk Shine. You're not the type of person to be so reckless,"

"I agree. I've encountered people like Cinch many times before," Neighsay contributed, he hid his rancor but let his eyes narrow. "They don't give people the luxury or the privilege to say no without dire consequence on the other party," He seethed then calmed himself. "Besides all that how are you feeling,"

"I've been unconscious for 4-5 days thanks to my scumbag principal and schoolmates who would rather sacrifice me and rip a hole in reality to win a stupid game. Those said schoolmates widely isolated me because of their petty jealousy. Cinch knew about it and did nothing about it. I'm sure that I died twice. I don't know how many surgeries I went through. Can barely walk. Got nasty burns all over my body. Found out my ex-girlfriend broke up with me thanks to Cinch. My mind split in half and I'm not sure if or when he's returning. Hell, I don't know If I'm still myself. There's no telling what level of social backlash my family will endure for sharing blood with a monster," Dusk Shine deadpanned. "Besides that I'm peachy," He grumbled, rolling his eyes.

"Let's start with a simple question," Starswirl responded, clicking his pen to document. "Where do you get the amulet," The catalyst of this entire event.

"Cinch gave it to me, telling me it was a gift from a benefactor," Dusk Shine answered. He knew he was popular among the alumni during his enrollment. CPA hosted numerous gatherings and luncheons for the socially elite and athletically & intellectually gifted, serving as a recruitment hub to gauge their potential prospects. Dusk Shine understood that he's a highly valuable candidate coupled with his family's influence. He thought it was bizarre as a benefactor would give an indicator of who they are.

"It came from Sire's Hallow," Neighsay confirmed. Dusk Shine's covered eye twitched at the name. Sire's Hallow. His eye cast a view of a humble settlement to Equestria's west. There's the Glimmer. She's standing in front of a crowd congratulating her while holding a lavish bouquet with other students abreast. The Glimmer smiled at him, locking her gaze intensely, and mouthed 'See you soon,' "Are you alright?" The Chancellor asked, pondering about Aether's after-effects.

"Honestly I don't know. Aether messed with my head and body," Dusk Shine stammered, his fear spiked at the vision. "It's almost like a sixth sense, telling or warning about certain things," He recalled earlier events with Dazzlings, the statue, and fighting those plants. The princess too. Why were they sharing memories? Was she his mirror?

"Why did the other students isolate you and Cinch refused to do anything?" Neighsay continued, desiring more intel about the situation.

"The utmost nail gets the hammer. I'm an 'elite' like them but I'm producing greater results with my own hard work and skills than what they ever could with under-the-table deals," Dusk Shine replied and shrugged. His natural skills, abilities, and moralistic work ethic belittled them and shattered their ego. Dusk Shine's family had a similar influence, enabling him to occupy any significant position with a few pulled strings. Yet he didn't nor did his brother. The Star siblings earned their ranks exemplifying the merits. It humiliated those who required extensive internal connections to get it. Ironically they dismissed the notion of personal merit believing it to be the crutch of lesser people.

"No doubt their parents compared them to you," Neighsay avouched, linking the reasons for their animosity. Those students were likely high-ranking students of their previous schools only to tumble down to slightly above average or below average within CPA.

"Some of their parents are piles of horseshit. Dean Cadance told me after I became the Schola Perfecta, some sent their kids to live with other relatives," Dusk Shine cursed, unable to hold his disgust. "She hasn't seen those parents in over 2 years,"

"By the trio," The men whispered.

"It's likely Cinch wanted me to be isolated so she can keep me under her control and view her daughter Sunny Flare as a romantic partner," Dusk Shine continued his explanation between him and Cinch. Neighsay's eyes narrowed at this audacious breach of professionalism. "It's also another reason, I had to release the magic," He paused. They leaned in to hear him. "If it wasn't going to be me then it was going to be her," Dusk Shine revealed. "Plus she didn't have my special trait," He implied.

"Are you telling us that you have latent aether?" Starswirl asked, his eyes glimmering in scholarly admiration. Dusk Shine nodded. "That would also explain Sunset Shimmer," He analyzed his earlier notes. "When did you become aware of it," Starswirl asked, desiring to make another breakthrough in his research. Did Luxarians have the highest potential?

"When I touched the statue at CHS. I think it's one of those weak points you've hypothesized about," Dusk Shine recalled when Celestia and Luna requested his assistance during the Anon event. A weak point? A few years after the tragic Gateway experiment provided ample information about Aether. When specific conditions are met, Aether can slither through causing mass destruction. They can appear anywhere. It's random. They despised random. However, a stable weak point provided "I cracked it when I and Sunset fought. She used what remaining magic was in the amulet to stop me. Please don't blame her," Dusk Shine pleaded. Their friendship was already damaged, he wouldn't let them hinder her life because of him.

"Of course," Starswirl obliged, flipping another page. "We've reported that there was a third entity," The third entity was significantly powerful compared to Dusk Shine and Sunset but left within moments.

"The princess. She appeared from the statue to stop me, reducing my power to where I can't destroy reality," Dusk Shine informed. The room stilled with his casual answer.

"What?" The men gagged. She appeared from the statue?!

"The statue is a portal to another world?!" Neighsay burst out, casting off his mask of political calmness. How can he be calm?! Someone with earth-shattering power was right there in the capital. "We must investigate this and quarantine that area now," He commanded, his mind racing on the substantial budget required for this dauntless task and for a possible invasion.

"It's fine," Dusk Shine consoled, raising his hand to ease their worries. "When I was . . . Night Blaze, we chatted as we fought," He started after a shaky breath at the dreadful mention of the name. "They knew about this mirror world for millennia. Monarchs sent the powerful magical entities here as a punishment due to the severe lack of magic," Dusk Shine disclosed

"We're a prison. Using to clip a bird's wings," Starswirl quoted. It's from one of his books.

"A reverse Isekai correct?" Neighsay analyzed. Dusk Shine's and Starswirl's raised their brows at his knowledge. "What else can you tell?" Dusk Shine recounted the various mythological creatures that casually roam throughout the Mirror Equestria. Dragons, Griffons, Minotaurs, Kirins etc. Others were mere beasts while others had fully functioning societies with treaties, diplomats, and industries. Their mythos mimicked what he saw solidifying the link. Starswirl chilled. His words echoed in his mind. Perhaps those legends and myths had more truth to them. The stark revelation of CHS's statue as a portal to another world begs the question. How many are there and where? What baleful creature or item slipped through and is living among them?

They left, saving their questions for later. Dusk Shine resumed his studies to occupy his mind. A stygian flame flickered in his chest. He wasn't done with CPA.

The bomb ticks

Sunset and Trixie chatted. They wanted Dusk Shine to be their schoolmate away from CPA's bullshit. Why did he stay? Sunset grumbled at Sour Sweet's 'apology' believing it to be a desperate theatric to save herself. Trixie played devil's advocate.

"Hey Sunset, how's the hospital visit?" Pinkie Pie chimed in, breaking their conversation with the other Mane 6. "Is Dusk Shine coming here?" She asked with a smile. CHS is much better compared to those meanies at CPA.

"Um, he's staying at CPA," Sunset answered after a pause.

"WHAT?!" They exclaimed.

"After everything they did to him, he's staying with those vermints?" Applejack grumbled, astonished at Dusk Shine's reasons for staying. Did he feel guilty about his actions?

"Dusk Shine said that if he did then he's no better than some of his classmates," Sunset informed.

"Men and their egos," Rarity commented, rolling her eyes as the others nodded.

"After what he did to us, he's already worse," Rainbow Dash snorted, recalling the humiliating beatdown she endured. He got lucky.

"HEY!" Sunset snapped, lunging at Rainbow Dash, grabbing her by the shirt collar. Rainbow's body touted Sunset's unexpected action. "That wasn't the real him and I know it. Whoever that Night Blaze was," She defended through narrowed and intense eyes. "He was a twisted mess thanks to that bitch Cinch and those bastards," Her knuckles tightened, losing color. "I almost lost one of the most important people in my life. The doctors even labeled it as an attempt," Sunset choked, revealing the endless pit of Dusk Shine despair.

"Oh…what," Their jaws slacked. An attempt? Dusk Shine was trying to? No! Pinkie's eyes watered, her mind recalling his tender moments with his niece.

"You still think he's worse than them," Sunset gritted her teeth with hot inky tears sliding down her face. "Only seeing the worst possible version of himself," Her body shook. "We ALL saw how they treated him during games last week. Dusk Shine's been on the cliffs for years because of their petty egos," Sunset glowered. How could they? Their biting jeers and haughty remarks as they sat and did nothing. "If it wasn't for Cinch and CPA, none of this would've happened and he'd be here instead of suffering in a hospital bed muttering why he's still even alive," She lamented, her throat scraped and body trembling as his nihilistic words hammered her skull.

"I-I-I didn't mean it like that," Rainbow Dash fretted.

"Then what did you mean, Rainbow Dash?!" Sunset snapped, pushing her against the wall and lifting her off the ground, "Now I'm starting to think you'll be the same as them, making him release the magic so you can get another trophy because all you care about is winning. Just. Like. Them," She seethed into Rainbow ears, emphasizing her and CPA's similarities.

"Sunset, calm down," They pulled Sunset off of Dash. Rainbow slid to the ground with a vacant expression.

"We're in the middle of the semester. You know how Dusk Shine loves his studies," Trixie consoled, getting between the girls. "He could transfer by the Spring semester," She suggested, calming Sunset down. For as long as they could remember, Dusk Shine has never left an assignment uncompleted.

"That . . . sounds like him," Sunset whispered, wiping the black streaks from her cheeks. She hoped Trixie was right. They called her a demon for her bullying but Dusk Shine became one through Aether. Not his choice. CHS would Dusk Shine welcome with open arms where he'll still be the Schola Perfecta and have trusted friends to support him. Sunset exhaled deep. Rarity handed her a pocket mirror to help reapply her mascara and prepared for the day's end. During the interim, agents and representatives visited her and others offering financial compensation for their deeds and struggles. The money is placed under a contract until they reach maturity to avoid wasteful spending. A pair visited the school looking for Photo Finish. They did and went into a room.

Photo Finish answered all of their questions straightforwardly. No stories or circling. The final question was which camera had the photos. She released the camera around her neck and placed it on the table.

"This is ze original and only copy of what happened," Photo Finish slid the camera towards the agents. They shared a look, passing her a thick folder of cold hard cash. "Nein. I can't accept this," She refused, pushing it back with a turned head.

"Why not?" One of them asked. It's easy money worth a few ten thousand dollars.

"Meine character und meine Mutter will exile me," Photo Finish explained. "I've-I've seen how Dusk Shine truly acts in the brief moments. The wit. The serene gentlemanly aura. The love he had for his friends and others. The unyielding sorrow," She praised Dusk Shine's attributes before lowering it. "He was hurting. I can't experience ze magic based on another's suffering," Photo Finish wiped a tear from her eyes. "Anything else?" She asked

"No, that was it. Thank your time," The agents commented, returning the folder to the coat.

"I go!" Photo Finish announced, leaving the room with a dramatic flare. Not without leaving a business card. The agents secured the images and sent them to the Aether Facility. Testimonies from Sunset, Luna, and other individuals helped broaden their understanding of magic. It frightened them. Another world where Aether reigns as freely as the air. Mythical creatures in nearby areas. The notion of portals linking them together and the CHS statue is one of them. How many beings or destructive items slipped under their radar? Were they lost to time? Destroyed during a major disaster such as war and Gaia's wrath? Or were they trapped in a museum where students on a field trip can see?

Tempest Shadow and her team had business to attend to. She spent over a week tracking down and hunting those who had late payments. Their group despised tardiness. It sullied their reputation, making them weak and foolish if they allowed others to stall them. They can't allow that. The underground doesn't permit such weaknesses. She reexamined the list for their target, shaking her head at the fool. He made good money at a dependable company with a decent family and has a fancy title. All for his greed and cowardice to ruin it. This was one of Dusk Shine's schoolmate's parents. Ginger Owleye & Peter Bread. Was Ginger a total bitch to Dusk Shine over the years? This should be fun.

"We're here," The driver announced. They scrolled down their window, raising their brows at the building. QuickQuill operations. A moderate business specializing in literature and delivery.

"Ready," Tempest Shadow asked. She received affirmations from them all. Her team marched. She had two people with her. Onyx Ledger and Hunter. Security personnel apprehended but Tempest's blank stare and raised brow halted their orders. They smiled sheepishly with a polite bob, opening the door for them as Tempest and her crew entered.

"May I hel-eep!" A receptionist droned before shrieking at their presence.

"Good afternoon. We're looking for him," Tempest requested. She held a picture of a man labeled Auburn Cream. The receptionist raised a faltering finger in his general direction. They thanked her. The office buzzed with anticipation, pondering why debt collectors are. Is it one of their bosses or one of them?

"HEY YOU!" Tempest Shadow thundered. Auburn spat out his drink, his heart pounding his skull at the approaching women."You're late on your payments. Again!" She grabbed his shirt with a snarl.

"No, wait, give me some time. We can chat," Auburn pleaded. His coworkers gossiped about how much money he owed.

"Talk is cheap, you little shit," Onyx Ledger denied. It didn't help that he was extra late and took out another loan.

"Besides, we know you have the money," Tempest Shadow broadcasted, tossing him like a used rag onto the ground. "You bought a fancy new car and went on a vacation to Las Pegasus with some broad while your wife was at home thinking you were on a business trip," She tossed a manilla folder to him. Photos of him and his coworker were scattered across the floor for all to see.

"Found her. She ran into one of the closets on the second floor," Hunter chimed in, holding a woman over his shoulder. She had deep gray and blue hair. Hunter tossed her to Auburn. She growled before paling at the photos. It's them at resort hotels with clearly marked dates.

"How-how do you know about all this?" Auburn panicked, his eyes bouncing between the damning photos and the scornful looks of his peers.

"We always keep tabs on those in business with our organization. The only thing we're concerned about is the money. But your soon-to-be ex-wife fed us some intel about your endeavors," Tempest Shadow divulged to the aghast man. "Hoped you updated your resume because you won't be here for long," She mocked. "Let's go," Tempest ordered, turning her back on the pair, leaving them to burn in their reckless flames of desire.

"Yes ma'am," The group obeyed their boss and left. They checked him off their list, reentered the car, and left. He was 9th for the day. Skydancer and other bosses placed them into overdrive. The Games, Aether, and Cinch rumbled Canterlot's serene waters, forcing them to capture schools of fools. They had one more. Their highest profile debtors so far.

It took them around twenty minutes. Tempest Shadow and her crew arrived at their location. A lavish mansion owned by one of their higher-profile clients. Tempest knocked. A middle-aged woman with ivy hair and other jewelry decorated her body.

"Hello," The woman stuttered. Her name was Ivy Jewel. She works at a high-end jewelry store.

"Good afternoon, ma'am we're looking for your husband, Golden Flash" Tempest Shadow explained their presence.

"Wh-why?" Ivy fretted as she allowed them inside. What did he do? Why was the underground here today? Just do what they say.

"You see he owes us money. A lot." Tempest Shadow implied, scanning the inside for potential hiding places.

"How much? We have some savings that help out," Ivy asked, hoping it's enough to cover it. They made plenty of money. This wasn't a problem for them but Ivy will talk with Golden after this.

"Unfortunately the amount of money he owes us is greater than what you assume," Tempest Shadow conveyed the severity of Golden's debt. "You can sell this house for a profit but it won't cover a tenth," She gestured to the exquisite abode.

"A tenth?! This house is worth over a million," Ivy exploded before calming down. Her anger wasn't directed at them but at Golden. She wanted to know. How much money does he owe them to where selling their home won't cover it? Her blood chilled, glancing at their home. Did he buy this home using underground money?

"Well, he owes us over 20 million give or take because we charge interest," Onyx Ledger.

"20 million?" Ivy couldn't believe what she heard. 20 million. Not twenty thousand or two hundred thousand. 20 million! Their house was easily worth a few million in this prime location.

"Where is he now?" Tempest Shadow directed the conversation. He's their target.

"I said he went to get some drinks with his friends," Ivy recalled what he said this morning.

"Double check," Tempest ordered. Their instincts blared in their nerves, preparing for the worst. Ivy called and waited for the call.

"I'm sorry the number you've dialed is unavailable. Please call again" The automatic voice repeated. Tempest and her crew shared a knowing look. They have a runner.

Ivy paled and called another number. "Hey-um do you know where Golden Flash is? He told me that you went drinking," She panicked.

"No? What happened?" A man's voice dragged in confusion. It's one of his coworkers and an old friend from their school days.

"I tried to call his number but nothing," Ivy said trembling.

"Golden wasn't at work either. He left during our lunch break and hasn't come back," His friend revealed. Tempest raised a brow. Skipping work? She signaled her team to record this transaction.

"Oh no," Ivy mumbled. "He owes people money,"

"How much?" His friend asked.

"Collectors came by today and told me his debt was over 20 million," Ivy answered, her eyes darted to the group. Tempest nodded, keeping their appearance hidden.

"The fuck was he doing?" His friend exclaimed at Golden's foolishness.

"I don't know," Ivy breathed with defeat.

"I'm sorry. I'm going to ask around okay,"

"Thank you," Ivy replied, ending the call. He abandoned them. Their child was still at practice.

"You mentioned that you have some savings right?" Tempest Shadow asked. Ivy affirmed. "Check it," She advised. Ivy frantically accessed their joint savings account. This determines who Golden Flash is as a person.

"There's . . . nothing," Ivy whispered, displaying her phone with trembling hands. Gone. All gone. Years of collective work evaporated into a mist as if cleaning a freshly used cast iron. They expected this. Her mind was whirled in despair. She collapsed on the sofa; her tight grip on the cushions and phone were the only things anchoring her in reality. What were they-she going to do? The mortgage still needs to be paid. Their child's tuition. Everything.

"I'm sorry but we have a job to do and we're leaving here with something" Tempest replied with a heavy heart.

The wife tearfully surrendered her jewelry and other luxury items. They were in luck. These were among the more popular and sought-after merchandise. Probably brought with their money. They left the sobbing woman, sniffling through her tears devastated about to proceed from this reveal. Tempest and her crew found no joy in this. Betrayed by someone who took an oath to love and support until death claims them. Collateral damage. These unfortunate victims are caught in their loved one's selfish cesspool. They've seen entire families plunge into a whirlpool of debt & despair thanks to one person. It's never a good debt. These individuals beg and plead for their loans to repay copious gambling debts, continuing their addictions, exaggerating their income to impress others with senseless purchases, or believing they can pay their debts with their jobs or thinking they'll have assistance. Idiots. Shadow Tempest was a part of the underground for more than half of her life. She's done . . . questionable at best and outright horrible things in her career. Damnation has a reserved spot for her. Yet Shadow had a better chance of resting in the golden fields compared to him. She snarled. Same with her crew, echoing the thoughts. It's always regular, ordinary, 'law-abiding' citizens who manage to be the scum of the earth.

They re-entered the car and drove off.

Days passed. It didn't take them long to find Golden Flash. His coworkers offered information about his last whereabouts. Camera footage identified him withdrawing cash at an ATM along with cross-referring train and bus departure & arrival times. One of them took the liberty of scanning his computer to hone their search. Not in Canterlot or Ponyville. If Golden was there, they would've found him that day. Cloudsdale, Baltimare, and Fillydelihia remain. He left during his lunch break. It takes around an hour for him to get to the ATM near a Hayburger, take the bus to head home for any pre-packaged belongings, and wait for the next bus leading to the train station. 1pm is out of the question. What about the 1:15 or anything after that? There. A 1:45 pm express ticket to Baltimare. Time to go.

Golden Flash peered through his blinds and paced around, listening and pausing for any sounds. That's been his routine since he left Canterlot. He can't go home. Not with the anchoring debt he had. His company likely fired him already. Those selfish fools gave the promotion to someone else. He perched himself on the bed and shook his head. It should be fine. Golden and his wife's family were moderately wealthy with luxury items they could sell. The house too if it came to that. Their child was a part of one of the CPA sports teams. The underground can take a portion of their winnings. All could reduce his debt by at least a few million or a hundred thousand. What was his debt again? Can't be much. He's been paying it off for the last few years. Maybe a decade or more. A few hundred thousand or barely a million should be left over.

"Shit," Golden Flash mumbled, rubbing his hands across his face. Can't go home again. He's pollen, drifting to wherever the wind takes him. Stuck in a dark shabby efficiency; his possessions are his clothes, a few personal items, and whatever he can scavenge before fleeing. Whatever money he had, he lost it again at the casino where he spent his days. He still had something but a husk of it remained. His mind blurred with Goblin's den, the crashing waves of Cursed Gold, and the comforting flames of Phoenix Flip. It should be open. He can win it all back, he's sure of it.

The door exploded muffling Golden's terrified screams. A gas canister rolled. He coughed and gagged at the smoke, waving the vapor away to create an air pocket for him to breathe. Stern voices and darts of light stabbed panic into his muscles. The window! Before he could, someone crashed through the window, slamming their boots into his chest. He spiraled to the ground, coughing, and wheezing as he clutched his aching sternum.

"There you are," Tempest remarked, glaring at the pathetic and cowardly man. This place was a dump. Fast food, takeout containers, and glass littered the floor. Cracks decorated the walls. Dust and stale air jetted into their nostrils. The 'kitchen' and bathroom were closet-sized with poorly functioning appliances. Rent was $300. Ideal for the destitute or people trying to hide.

"How did you find me?" Golden Flash muttered as two agents restrained him. They weren't in suits but in tactical armor seen in special law enforcement operations.

"Camera footage, intel from your former friends and family, your search history and this was a handful of places that had a casino within a 5-kilometer radius," Tempest Shadow listed as the man's face paled. Did they see him at the casino?! She glared. "You still owe us money,"

"But-" Golden Flash stammered.

"Don't go there," Tempest interrupted, holding a finger with a volcanic glare. "Your family paid for some of it but it wasn't enough," She snarled, remembering how his wife cried at his betrayal. "You owe us over 20 million remember,"

His jaw slacked. Did he hear her correctly? "What?! No that can't be right," Golden refuted.

"Yes. We charge interest. Let's also include your gambling debts, your frequent visits to cabaret bars, and your tabs," Tempest Shadow recalling the contract deals.

"You can't do this to me!" Golden Flash demanded, retaining his former level of power and entitlement. Where was this when he was begging them for a loan? Where was this when he abandoned his family, friends, workplace, and values in the same name of self-preservation? Where was this when he decided to hide like a verminous dreg

"We can and will," Tempest declared as she's done several times in her career. "What are you going to do? Call the police?!" The room filled with a burst of mocking laughter, chilling his bones "Besides you abandoned everyone to save your sorry hide, making your family pay a portion of your debt and making us look for you,"

"Those are extra fees adding up to 33 million," Onyx Ledger calculated. "Don't worry we have a few generous organizations who can take you in. Hope you like mining ore" Their smile had no comfort or safety. Golden's eyes sunken into his skull at the mention. The mines?! No. Anything but that.

A gag and hood were placed over his head before he could scream. They hauled him into one of their unmarked obsidian vehicles to his new 'home'. The leasing manager was paid handsomely for the inconvenience. His family never heard from him again. Why would they care? Their only connection to Golden Flash was his routine payments and child support. It took years to complete. Once it stopped, then he was truly dead in their minds. Decades later, they received notice of his death, leading them to his tombstone. His ex-wife had a new partner, their child was grown up with kids of their own with their half-siblings and whatever remaining relatives. A priest gave a sermon while a lawyer handed them a will. They left him alone to be with the only one he cared about. Himself.

Things cooled at CPA after the disastrous announcement of lawsuits, expulsions, and dismal. Many students attempted to scrub the ancestral blood off their hands, becoming diligent for once in their careers. Same with teachers who gained Cinch's favor. Both parties discarded Cinch, conspiring to strike gold with Cadance her successor, and Dusk Shine upon his return. Of course, Cadance ignored their ludacris attempts of flattering her, recalling some of their spiteful words earlier in her career and as a student. She gave a sweet smile advising them to clear their desk soon and left. A cheetah's heartbeat flushed their skins with an unbearable heat countering their body's chills to Cadance's words. Sweats and tremors were their only companions as stones crushed their sternums asphyxiating them. Tragedy overhangs them. Divorce, loss of status, social isolation, and many more. It became too much for them; dragging their backs on the walls or lockers. Perching themselves on the ground. Grabbing anything or anyone to remain steady

"What are we going to do?" A woman with a two-toned bob, grabbing the arm of one of her colleagues. She's an English teacher. Her emblem was a pearly white book.

"I'm one of Dusk Shine's AP teachers. You need to figure out something for yourselves" He shrugged her off. He's approaching 30 with silver eyes and has a chemical compound on his sleeve.

"I've been here for over 40 years. They can't toss me away so casually before my retirement," An elderly woman wearing a mild sweater with stylized pencils on the front pockets.

Discord observed with a contemptful frown. Listening to them argue and fight over their own survival irritated him like a rash that you can't touch. He clicked his teeth, abandoning the cannibalistic scavengers to their own devices. If things get irreparable, CHS has a spot for him.

That sentiment afflicted the students. Parents expressed dreadful concerns about Cinch's leadership and influence over their children during an urgent PTA meeting. No responsible parent would EVER allow their child to be infected with callous notions about success particularly if it resulted in another student almost dying. Other parents and members had a kamikaze view about success and achieving superior goals. If students aren't prepared to relinquish everything to win, they already lose their competitive edge and become useless in society. Arguments sparked throughout the meeting, forcing its end. Many became disillusioned, reevaluating their relationships with their friends and family.

Failure.

It's life's cruelest and ultimate motivator. The prevalent fear of failure echoed throughout time, culture, social classes, and ages. It's worse than death as death is a mercy. History archives some of the most ruinous and humiliating blunders documenting for all to see; The fall of empires. Disastrous operations. Corporations decompose into fragments until fading to nothing. Nations suffering generations of crisis resulting from their leaders' mismanagement.

Extreme examples, yes. Despite the grandiose instances, many CPAs are the scions of influential members ranging from managers of top companies, executives & directors of various industries, local politicians or administrators were their circle and accomplished in their fields. Their failure craved death in their families' legacy. A tangible fear echoed as the rusty barbed noose strangled them while their family gazed heartlessly at their twitching body. Galvanized by their bale nightmares spurred a rush of students diligently studying likely for the first time upon enrolling. Years they rested on their families' laurels, cruising on the lazy river of mediocrity as a verdant and bountiful oasis laid before them. Now with Cinch's immediate dismissal, ruptured their easy river onboard their cruise ship abandoning to swim in a monsoon.

Their friends urged them to relax, believed they were exaggerating, or could transfer to another prestigious school like them. Their wild eyes burned in fearful anticipation. Only for them to SNAP! HOW DON'T THEY UNDERSTAND ABOUT THIS SITUATION!

Firstly, relaxation is a SELDOM privilege for them. Before they were born, their parents expected them to be an elite. Above average thanks to their legacy. It's all or nothing. Be the best or be less than nothing. Those students overheard their parents clinging to that belief during the PTA. One folly is required for them to be a disappointment who should've died at birth. Some were 'advised' to live with other relatives upon Dusk Shine's ascension to Schola Perfecta. Pillows were tear-soaked, pleading for a nanogram of paternal love without the Sisyphean goalpost tantalizing them within a breath of their fingers. DUSK SHINE! WAS! THE PINNACLE! The Friendship games were their LAST chance to be something in their parents, forming study groups to improve their chances only for that to fail as well. Rumors spread about the games being canceled in the foreseeable future. WHAT ELSE TO DO THEY HAVE?! Sunny Flare or Sugarcoat will take the helm of Schola Perfecta. Indigo Zap & Sour Sweet had their sports scholarships. Lemon Zest is a skilled baker. Dusk Shine can be anything he wants to be and remains greater than all of them.

The B-team members had their niches. Upper Crust came from a family of bankers and investors. Jet Set enjoyed his planes and other aircraft explaining the business side of his and Upper Crust's relationship. Trenderhoof enjoyed traveling and perspective on the latest trends. Neon Lights loves to party and is pleasant to be around. Suri's family had ties to creative ventures, particularly fashion design. Her tearful eyes were bloodshot with bundles of crumpled paper by her feet, comprehending the grueling toll of a creative process. Royal Pin came from Old money opening doors decades in advance.

What do they have? Their parents didn't allow them to craft their individuality. No clubs, hobbies, or extracurricular activities. A dull obedient automaton.

Secondly, despite their colleagues' attempts to ease their worries. It didn't help. They were blessed with sensible parents aware of their limits. Several aren't as fortunate. Their parents don't view them as an individual. No. Puppets for their parents to yank and pull at their strings removing their autonomy. A self-insert to live as a surrogate, compensating for their earlier failures and shortcomings. Proof of their status. Proof that something valuable came from them. Despite all of that, their parents had an ax in one hand and an ignitor in the other for the first bitter fruit.

Thirdly transfering wasn't an option. CPA was their only and final option pathing the way for college and triumph. Why? They're the aristocratic remnants of Queen Galaxia's rule after the monarchy officially dissolved around 150 years ago. The end of an era. Equestria's last monarch, Celestia's, Luna's & Cadance's honored elder implemented significant reworks for the greater good of everyone, outraging the despondent aristocracy. Galaxia ignored them, flourishing in this new era, and lived long enough to see Celestia & Luna be in CHS. Whereas some of her peers grew bittered, cursing her name until their final breath. Enrolling & graduating from Crystal Prep was their final vestige of that once sophisticated exclusivity only accessible to blue bloods before their halls opened. It equaled a rite of passage especially among Luxarian families. Pre-Equestrian heritage was dismissed, blinded by the dazzling trinkets and baubles in their pursuit of simplistic wealth and power. Skybornes had their militaristic origins. Oaths of bravery, swift action, and cooperation. Earthfolk were simple and practical people showing their diligence with their work. Luxarians had their splendid excellence. What does that mean?

Existential questions probed and stabbed their brains as a prospector cracked their earth for gold and other ores. Who were they?! Centuries of this superficial lifestyle regressed their psyche into hollow indulgence. To be nothing more than an extravagant blank canvas? What would their ancestors think? Wait. Who were their ancestors?

Equestria is known for its countless celebrations and heritage months. Dusk Shine. AGAIN! Knows where his ancestors came from. Germanic from his father's side and the far east on his mother's side. He knows. His heritage personalized his ethics, personality, and goals; Directing him to objective career paths. It connected him to something beyond him and gave something after him. But who were they? Did they hail from the same homeland as Dusk Shine? Were they members of the original hosts? What about the shores of Albion & Trottingham? The island nation of Nipon? Did they come from the various countries emerging from a fallen empire's vast territory? Where?!

It's an itch. They! CAN'T! Scratch! NO MATTER! How many times they've scratched, peeling away skin, meat, nerves to the bone. Nothing worked. Their emblems mocked them, discovering a mediocre reflection of gaudy excess. Why can't they decipher its higher understanding?

However, that's not the worst part. Those students clung to hope. Hope is the lighthouse after a merciless seastorm guiding you to a sanctuary. A candle in the darkness. They believe their fate can change. Others yielded. A polluting nihilism ensnared their souls. Uniforms clung to haggard frozen and rotting corpses. All they yearned for, finding an obscure pit or corner, huddling into a tight ball, and waiting for the end. Numerous CPA students resigned from their clubs or were absent from practice. They didn't see the point of staying.

Track Starr searched CPA's halls for one of his teammates who was supposed to be conditioning with them. Sports events were postponed after the Friendship aftermath. Neighsayer didn't want other schools to mimic Cinch's foolish actions. Coach Rommel ordered them to maintain their skills until further notice. Some stayed and others didn't. Track Starr found Peacock Plume under one of the staircases.

"Hey," Peacock Plume acknowledged his teammate, Track Starr, approaching him.

"Hey," Track Starr replied. Plume made space for him to sit. He did. "You too?" Track Starr predicted, cracking open a drink as the carbonated air hissed. Plume nodded with tears swelling. Track handed him the drink amidst the silence. Plume took it, resting his head on Track's shoulders with nothing but their thoughts until the storm passed.

CPA students divided among themselves in the cafeteria and throughout the school. Forming generic groups mimicking every cliche high school setting imaginable with their own table. You know the type. Jocks, nerds, prep and more. Sub-groups emerged. If you were a part of the softball team then you can't sit with the swim team. In their fear, they've regressed to tribalism. That forgotten and disastrous caste system from a bygone era. Friends branch off to preserve their place, picking any arbitrary reason to eject current members. Bonded by their rejection, new fledgling alliances emerged fueling embitterment against their former friends. Some were grateful to be away from them; their bodies eased and minds cleared.

This was their Anon event. That's an understatement. CPA's plight was a dire catastrophe sparked by sacrificing one of them for their personal glory. Their flaming ambitions smoldered Dusk Shine to ash. Aether revived him, cracking the veil and surmounting himself as Hell's ruler. Their betrayal will be paid in blood and gold. Earlier they mocked CHS for the Anon event. Hubris wrung their necks, slamming against a craggy stone.

CHS had petty locker room gossip while CPA had cell-locking accusations altering their life's course. Nobility to nobodies. Sitting on the precipice then crashing into the ground. Nerves tingled as their muscles tightened. Eyes shifted around.

Who were the innocent?

Who was guilty?

Some believed in their safety either their status protected them or could persuade others to overlook it. Wariness stabbed their neck remembering Cadance's words. Don't expect to keep your uniforms by the end of the semester. It haunted them. Dusk Shine doesn't produce sloppy work. They've seen a fraction of his skills when his brother was hounded by similar female students and teachers. Can they surf on the ripple effects and remain dry in the aftermath?

The Shadow 5 assembled at what students called the 'Oubliette', a table farthest from other tables located near a corner and one of the exits. An archaic tradition from centuries ago, enduring several renovations and changes such as wars throughout Equestria. Equestrian nobility predominantly Luxarians utilized subtle jabs to exhibit their contempt. The closer you are to the host at a table, they view you as a trusted ally. The farther you are, resulting in you sitting at a different table away from the festivities illustrates you're one of us but not welcomed. Why does this custom persist? It's used as a disciplinary tool to shun or shame unruly students or employees until they reform. Others it's a deterrent, warning those involved to conform and avoid becoming the guilty. The threat of losing one's rank within their family and workplace mitigates any disruptive party for the foreseeable future.

What about these girls? They're in a self-imposed exile, shielding themselves away from the contemptible glares of their schoolmates. Everyone blamed them for everything. They almost died. They're about to be exiled, fired, or forced to move. Nothing happened. However, that's the worst thing. Something was going to happen but don't know what or when. They're blind and deaf in this tortuous labyrinth, hugging the walls and dragging their heels mindful of what's to come. Dusk Shine managed to outflank Cinch, playing her foul game for years until the collective microfractures in her ship's hull exposed an imperative weakness for a singular explosive blow. He exploited Cinch's ego, circumvented any implications of his deception, and won. Dusk Shine won. Uneasy whispers engulfed them in a choking squall pondering how much Dusk Shine knew about their sins. Another question haunted them. Who told him?

Each girl discussed how they visited Dusk Shine. Nobody would interrupt them. Contractors were specifically instructed to mark the Oubliette, distinguishing it from the others. The surrounding tiles were of a different color and had a noticeable dip, signaling their lost rank within the halls. A lower-quality metal caked with rust made the chassis.

Lemon Zest was after Sour Sweet due to their mother's relationship. She dressed more neatly with her hair wrapped in a bun and held a container with a fresh disk straight from the oven. Sweet Tart and Lemon Zest entered Dusk Shine's hospital room. In front of them, 5 women surrounded Dusk Shine as they all turned to meet her. Zest recognized four; Sunset, Trixie, Twilight Velvet, and Luna. The fifth was a noticeably older woman dressed in an elegant kimono-style dress. She shared the same striped hair as Dusk Shine and Velvet. Lemon deduced the matron to be his maternal grandmother. Each woman glared sideways except Sunset Shimmer motioned her body to meet Lemon Zest head-on with crossed arms. CHS's rising phoenix wanted her to know her disdain. Their glares were white hot rods probing Lemon's skin. The matron whispered something in her native tongue to Velvet, tilting her head to Zest. Velvet nodded as Dusk Shine grimaced, replying in the same language. It didn't surprise Lemon Zest that he's bilingual and likely multilingual. Lemon Zest squared her shoulders and approached with a bow head as she lengthed her sincere apology for abandoning Dusk Shine and making him use Aether. She left the container and exited. Sweet Tart found Lemon Zest with her head in her hands after seeing the extent of Dusk Shine's injuries. After a brief consoling, they left.

Sugarcoat had an easier time. Somewhat. Her parents were clients or associates under Twilight Velvet's corporation umbrella. That's how Dusk Shine and Sugarcoat met during a business dinner and were among the few youths there. Whether fueled by economic survival and preventing the collapse of their workplace or shamed by Sugarcoat's actions; they've arrived. They brought snacks as a starter apology. Sugarcoat stepped forward with another assignment packet. She struggled to find words to convey her remorse. Pausing, backtracking, and tripping over between her sentences. An atypical behavior. Her shoulders quaked, delayed tears flooded her eyes unable to hold back. This alarmed them. Her parents tried to console but she was a snotty mess blubbering 'I'm sorry'. Dusk Shine thought Sunset was a messy crier. He needs to stop this. Dusk Shine asked for her notes, citing feigning confusion about the assignment as it's difficult for him to see. It paused Sugarcoat's sniffling as she answered. The two partnered as Sugarcoat helped clarify the information. Velvet's brow raised. Dusk Shine didn't need Sugarcoat's help. She ignored it, believing Dusk Shine asked for Sugarcoat's help to stop her crying. It worked. They looked good together. Whether that's Velvet's maternal instincts or business skills whispering to her. She dismissed, cursing at herself. Was Velvet no better than Cinch?

Indigo Zap had the easiest visit. She constantly groomed herself and analyzed her appearance in the mirror. Zap never cared much for her looks. She knew she wasn't ugly but wasn't a Fleur De Lis or getting first place in a beauty competition. By the trio, Zap's a tomboy. Dusk Shine was more feminine than her! Despite all of that, Dusk Shine's alter ego; what was his name, Night Blaze or something? He revealed Dusk Shine found her attractive and didn't want to ruin any future potential romantic encounters. Heat flushed across her face, highlighting her freckles. She smacked herself, breaking those distracting thoughts. No! Focus. Zap told herself. However, a quick hygiene check won't kill her. Her mother asked if she needed help but Zap refused. This was her problem. Indigo entered Dusk Shine's sterile hospital room; her face dropped at his healed injuries after the Friendship games. If Dusk Shine looked this terrible then she didn't want to know what he looked after he chased Cinch. The two exchanged awkward greetings. Dusk Shine expressed his apologies for how he acted. Indigo was shocked but decided to wave it off as it wasn't his fault. That was CPA. Dusk Shine countered stating that he should take responsibility for it otherwise he'll be no better than his aunt. Indigo shared his frown as she experienced similar grievances with Lighting Dust and her family. She got an idea. Indigo offered between pauses and her crimson face to help him regain his muscle mass. Zap darted before Dusk Shine could answer.

Sunny Flare was last. The daughter of the woman who caused all this. She came with her maid-sister, Silver Gloves, for support. When will the final 3rd and eldest sister appear or was Silver Gloves the eldest? As with Sugarcoat, they brought snacks as a token of their sincerity. Cadance was with them. Sunny Flare became CPA's lighting rod directing their animosity in his absence. Students, teachers, their families, and other prospects expressed their contempt bellowing how they ruined their lives and blunted their potential. Sunny Flare apologized. Aware that Cinch won't take full responsibility for it. They predict 70%, taking a majority of the blame but still deflecting a portion to other parties such as whoever sent her the amulet. Sire's Hallow. Dusk Shine thought to himself. Cadance informed them about incoming changes within the semester. Canterlot's school board approved Cinch's 'voluntary' resignation and Cadance's promotion to Principal. It'll take time for the proper channels to certify everything. His lab is under renovation as per Cinch's original wishes. Dusk Shine rolled his eyes. He shifted his focus to Sunny Flare asking her how she was doing with all the mess. Her eyes grew. Why did he ask that? This was about him not her. Sunny Flare's deliberate words flatted with indifferent shrugging away concerns. There's nothing she can do. What happened, happened. Her downcasted eyes alluded to the similar isolation tactics endured by Dusk Shine. An outcast. Dusk Shine expressed his apologies. Sunny Flare blinked owlishly. Why was he apologizing for this? He did nothing. People already despised her for merely being the Principal daughter. Dusk Shine explained that Cinch won't and someone should. She grinned. Cadance's blue eyes piqued at their organic interaction. Without Cinch's interference, they can be friends or more. She pushed it aside focusing on the present and upcoming reforms at CPA. New students are coming and need to be ready.

They enjoyed their lunches, chatting about miscellaneous things under the dim light. One of their key topics was about Ginger & Peter's father's involvement in the underground. The twins aren't taking it well(Yes, I headcanon them as twins. Just look at them!). How can they? Gossip about their father cheating on their mother with a coworker, making dealings with the underground, and using that money for his hedonistic whims. Their plight offered momentary respite among the students, relishing the fact it wasn't them. Until now. Simultaneously, their phones buzzed and checked them as a well-rehearsed drill. A message from Dusk Shine? They wondered what it could be. Eyes scrolled on the files slowly sharpening with frowns hardening into gritted tears. Within a breath, students screamed as punches were thrown and hammered throughout the room. Some were on the ground, thundering blows against the other's faces. Others lamented, their sorrows ground their vocal chords.

"What the fuck?" Indigo Zap muttered, jerking to the chaos. Sugarcoat opened the dossier, searching for any clue. She didn't need a clue. It's there in precise layering black and white. Sunny Flare helped, being more experienced in how Dusk Shine conducted his organization. His system was intricate yet explicit, making it simple to navigate. That's what makes it so insidious. No complicated phrases or tedious hunts to discover what one wanted. The massive dossier had sub-folders and filters with names and reasons for it. Her hand covered her mouth as did the rest of the Shadow 5 at the scandalous information. An interlocking web built by guile and served bonds.

"YOU SHIT EATING BASTARD!" Ruckus spiked, daring their attention, and stood on the table for a better view. A crowd formed. Star Spark had Duke Nimble on the ground, battering his rage-tightened fists into Duke's face.

"Hey stop," Pearl Putania begged, grabbing Spark's shoulder to stop this madness.

"Get off of me, you two-timing slut!" Star Spark snapped in a pained voice, pushing his girlfriend aside. Her skin paled as people gossiped in whispers at his insult. "How long?" He stood, leaving Duke with a bruised eye and swollen cheeks. "HOW LONG WERE YOU LYING TO ME?!" Tears flooded his eyes as Star shouted. The room stilled. He heaved, wiping his face clean to confront Pearl. "After everything we've been through for the last 7 years together. You toss me away! For him?!" Star Spark fumed, tossing an accusing finger at his former friend. Memories rushed past at his and Pearl's tender moments. USELESS! "He has a fiance," He revealed with a sneer.

"You had a fiance this entire time," Pearl turned slowly with a harsh glare. "You told me that I was the only one for you when you got this," She held up her wrist, displaying a bracelet. People sneered at her for her hypocrisy.

"Duke got me the same thing a while ago," Another girl added, holding up her wrist. Then another girl from the year below them followed by two more. A few more added to the flame as Duke sweated with a smarmy grin against the furious mob.

"I knew it was you!" Another person exploded, tackling another student to the ground. The lunchroom became a thunderstorm with a riot with students escaping and seeking shelter away from the brawls and projectiles staining their uniforms.

"Holy shit," Indigo Zap muttered as her stomach whirled. The Shadow 5 shared a worrying look and reached the same conclusion. Escaping through the exit in search of Cadance, Discord, or someone to stop this madness.

Nobody was safe.

Pandemonium formed the bedrock of CPA. Students brawled; Dusk Shine's file reignited their wrath. Wrath born by petty arguments was nothing but kindling. Their ignited rage was fueled by the stinging bitter ichor of betrayal. The Shadow 5 surveyed during their rush. Students angrily confronted each other within the halls demanding answers. More formed firing squads against the trembling guilty party echoing what occurred in the lunchroom. Some burst from their classes to preserve their self-respect in one of the bathrooms or anywhere else. Indigo Zap glanced briefly through the window. Sports team members were yanking one of their own like a spiteful barnacle off another. Their ears caught frantic steps from the staircase. Sour Sweet held her hand for them to stop and hide on the other side. They did.

"Just let me explain please," A student pleaded. From the corner, they observed Sweet Smirk being corned like an isolated herd animal by a pride of furious CPA students. Varsity Trim was one of them.

"You fucking sack of bird shit. You sold out our plans and all you could do was SMILE!" Another barked in white-hot vitriol. The Shadow 5 sneaked away from the impending carnage. Their passage highlighted the cataclysm of Dusk Shine's files. Melancholy captured the students with flickers of rage sprinkled in their eyes. School supplies littered the floors. Hallways echoed with sobs as students attempted to console their friends, creating a barrier against those trying to apologize and explain themselves. Their insincerity reinforced their former friends' reasons for cutting ties. Teachers weren't safe either. Several faced their peers and deceived students; their faces dismayed at their spouses' unexpected arrival breaking their facade. Phones were shoved in their gaunt faces, demanding truthful answers. Cadance issued commands over the intercom, bringing minor stability to CPA.

"Mr. Discord," Lemon Zest called. He's someone they can trust.

"Get in here," Discord ordered, gesturing to his classroom. They took it. Each sat in a chair with a heavy slump, exhausted from today. They're safe. "What happened?" A simple question with columns of answers. They retold what they believed to be the start of the chaos in the cafeteria. "Thank you. I'll report to this Cadance," Discord smiled, allowing the girls to recover. He left, abandoning his grin for a frown. Was this what you wanted Dusk Shine? Discord shook his head. No. It can't be. His mind was split between relishing in the chaos brought and fearful concern at the scale. If Discord was still an insensitive prankster, Dusk Shine greatly impressed him as expected but as an adult. It's madness. Discord couldn't help but chuckle at the irony. He's the one restoring order. His phone buzzed with a message from Cadance. Bring this student. Now. Discord arched his brow from the authoritative message. He shrugged. She's his boss now. Discord brought the student to Cadance's office. The student's muscles tensed as sweat globules blossomed on their neck. Cadance's office now lacked its iconic tender atmosphere where students can relax mirroring Cinch's frigid office. Their friends, teammates, and associates stood before a stone-faced Cadance wringing their hands as pallid automatons to loosen their joints. Some can't shake their fears, averting Cadance's gaze to the smooth desk and the ground. One rotated their necks to them; eyes widened with unadulterated terror as they revealed an earth-shattering phrase.

"Our group chat was leaked,"

Cinch peered through the glass from her office. Police vehicles and news vans screeched into the parking lot. A serene finality graced her. It was liberating. She can't fight against the charges nor beg or plead. Her reputation won't allow it.

The door squeaked open, signaling the end. "Hello Shining Armor," Cinch spoke, her back facing him. It had to be him. There was no other choice but one of her best students.

"Principal Abacus Cinch," Shining Armor started, holding a pair of handcuffs. She exhaled, rotating to face him and extending her arms. The cuffs secured with a click as a blanket covered her hands, preventing false rumors. Shining Armor lengthed her fundamental legal rights. An automatic reflex drilled into all law enforcement personnel regardless of whom they're arresting. Shining Armor and his team escorted Cinch to the elevator, pushing the bottom floor. A rhythmic beat conveyed her fall, closing her eyes with an exhale as the doors opened.

Cameras flashed as reporters barraged with her and students with a tide of questions. She didn't answer. More officers captured various teachers following Cinch at the head. Some remained quiet, sagging their heads in shame. Teachers of weaker spirits had tears and snot cascading down their faces as their bodies became sputtering faulty engines nearing destruction. More were slammed with entitlement, raging, and spitting against the officers, and were muzzled. Cinch briefly opened her eyes before they widened in disbelief. Officials were taking various trophies and awards for their investigations. They must know if they were obtained legitimately.

"No, my trophies!" Cinch snapped, darting forward but Shining's resolute grasp locked her in place. They can't take them! Decades of her life's work as CPA's principal were immortalized in those achievements.

"Is that how you want your career to end?" A familiar voice of starry discipline questioned. No, it can't be. Their knees buckled. Some met the ground obeying his earlier demands from that day. "Acting like a spoiled child whose toys are being taken away" His voice admonished.

"DUSK SHINE?!" The Schola Perfecta stood before them. CPA's pillar of academic excellence; cracked but never broken or surrendering. Being shocked was an understatement. His return in his full CPA uniform bewildered them. Dusk Shine had his arm in a sling with the other holding Spike's leash. A satchel rested on his hip. One of his eyes remained covered, now with simple wrappings but Dusk Shine chose to wear his glasses.

Diverse muttering about why he was out of the hospital and pondering the reasoning for his appearance here. Few disfigured their expressions with irate snarls. How DARE Dusk Shine return after ruining their lives with his files? Is their suffering amusing to him?! Did his decrypt heart sing joyfully as their parents barged into the halls like male elephants consumed with enraging musth? Dragged by their necks and hairs by cartoonish cavemen? Weathering the horrendous storms of insults and various curses from their loved ones' tongues? Others were pallid with their breaths cutting in their throats, requiring assistance to stand. They hyperventilate. Those chains, violet flames, and his maniacal cackle returned, undoing their therapy sessions. Is he going to finish the job?! Those with persisting mental clarity formulated their last-ditch effort to come out on top.

"What the hell are you doing here?! You're supposed to be home," Shining Armor scolded, handing Cinch over to one of his crew members as he approached his brother. This wasn't part of the plan. Dusk Shine was supposed to appear after Cinch got arrested. What changed? Dusk Shine shrugged, handing Spike over to Shining; his dead eyes honed on Cinch. She watched him limp. Slow and steady. Measuring each step, avoiding pain in his screaming burnt nerves and muscles. Unease marked the students' faces, parting away from him as he approached Cinch. It's surreal. Barely a month ago, they scurried in fear from this raging amethyst monster. Fear marked them. How could it not? He's an unstoppable force, commanding aether, and fundamental forces like an orchestra conductor. Through the force of his will, sparking himself alive to complete his mission and maintain his sanity. Who else can do that? They were equally impressed and haunted by his return. Dusk Shine is a juggernaut, overcoming any obstacle in his path without pause. As the stars shined, he'll remain and continue. A haunting cloud overcast them with a simple question; were they next?

Cinch paled, recalling those traumatic moments in the hospital. Officers restrained her, locking the principal there as she struggled. He's in pouncing range. A disturbing stillness. The former Principal of CPA and her prized student. Master and student. Was that guilt in her features? Shameful that Cinch's foolishness had enduring consequences? Does the bystanders' sharp glares flay your back into bacon strips as you have no blame but yourself, witnessing how you almost killed your 'prized' student?

Reporters whispered, uttering a volley of questions. Cameras focused on the potential interaction, contemplating what they'd say or do. Was Cinch going to apologize with a well-rehearsed oration? Did Dusk Shine have any final words expressing his rage and disappointment against his former principal? Silence echoed.

Dusk Shine dug into his satchel. In his hand was a trinket, a small coin or medallion, presenting it to Cinch. A token of his prestige of the Schola Perfecta granted to him by Cinch years ago. Her eyes widened. Is he returning it to her?

Cinch shook her head. "No. You've earned it through your efforts, Dusk Shine." She smiled. A genuine one filled with approval. He outmaneuvered her and won. The classic tale of the student surpassing the master. It's how things should be. Too many of her colleagues resort to disgraceful tactics to ensure their longevity in power. Crushing wonderful talent to remain critical, resulting in their organization rotting with their inbred mindset. Parasites nestle with popular controversial distasteful characters to reclaim diminishing influence. The forgotten celebrity unable to cope with their decline resorts to provocative actions for a crumb of publicity. She can't and won't disrespect herself to become them. Cinch nurtured some of the world's best; it's her duty to gracefully accept her defeat. The end of her era ushering Principal Cadance's.

Dusk Shine slammed his functioning arm on his chest, saluting with a firm nod. His final respects. Cinch returned the nod. Shining Armor motioned to his team to resume transporting Cinch and the other teachers to the transports. Cinch glanced over her shoulder as Dusk Shine returned the trinket to his satchel. Will he discover the true meaning? She scolded herself. Of course, he will. He always does.

Spike returned to Dusk Shine's side; his leash handle between his teeth. Dusk Shine took it and moved. His ears buzzed with desperate pleas from the captured teachers. Claiming they were good to him and his family or that he owes them. What does Dusk Shine owe them? Did they think he'd circumvent his morals and ethics for their convenience? Illogical.

Their shouts drowned as they reached the exit, slamming behind them. Reporters trailed after them, continuing their questions desiring profitable and insightful moments in later news segments. Few stayed conducting brief interviews with students and teachers for their opinions.

"Thank you for your time. We'll give a proper report within the coming weeks," Cadance interjected, preventing reporters from exploiting CPA's vulnerability. They obeyed amidst a few disgruntled mutters. Cadance turned, pausing at Dusk Shine and Sour Sweet. Their posture and features exhibited longing and remorse as old lovers rekindled the flame. She enabled nature to take its course.

"Hey," Dusk Shine started. His voice was cooled silk and pleasant to the ears. He didn't project his usual deadpan tone, becoming more relaxed and lively. As lively Dusk Shine can get with his injuries. The most severe ones were in the healing process, mitigating any intensive medical treatments. However, Dr. Beat demeaned that they have routine check-ups to monitor any long-term damage. His latest improvement is walking without assistance. Sour Sweet's healthier now. Her eyes were no longer sunken and stained with crimson tearful misery. Humility and atonement stayed. She placed her flowing hair into a casual ponytail instead of her classic tight sports one. Dusk Shine hoped she didn't quit the archery team.

"Hey," Sour Sweet replied. Her voice was a refreshing drink. She's shocked he's speaking to her openly after what she did. Dusk Shine's injuries persisted. He's healing. His horrific scars faded but her precise eyes trailed the outlines. They replaced his heavy cast with sturdy bandages. She's grateful Dusk Shine can walk with his own strength.

Their soft gazes lingered as neither spoke. Why can they say? The other Shadow 5 muttered about this interaction but left them alone. Spike nudged Dusk Shine forward. He sighed. Dusk Shine leaned and whispered into Sour Sweet's ear. Her eyes brightened at his words. "Okay," She smiled. Two fingers extended, offering it to Dusk Shine. He returned it; interlocking them for a brief moment. They released it.

Cadance raised a gleeful brow at this. "Well this got interesting," It's a beautiful sight. She wanted to know the story of how they got together. Cadance dismissed it. That's old now. They can't reclaim what they lost but can rebuild into something better.

"Let's head to class," Dusk Shine remarked with slightly curved lips, directing his head to their next mandatory class. She followed with Sunny Flare and Sugarcoat close by. Sunny Flare's glare lingered on Dusk Shine's back. She wanted to hate him but couldn't. Lemon Zest and Indigo Zap to their classes too as did the rest of the bystanders. Glares doused with acid stabbed into his back. Others whispered their last ditched plans with a gambler's conviction sparkling in their pupils. It has to work.

He, Sour Sweet, Sunny Flare, and Sugarcoat entered. His teacher and classmates gasped at his arrival but he ignored it. Dusk Shine returned the assignment folder and sat. Spike nested by his feet. The bell rang. Their teacher started their lesson. Dusk Shine diligently took his notes as always. He's the Schola Perfecta. That's his job.

Trivia:

Ulric means Wolf or Ruler

Alaric meanings Ruler, Ruler of All, or Powerful Ruler

Night Light's side of the family is Germanic due to him being a G3 character named Nachtlicht

For Velvet's side of the family, I'm leaning towards Korean.

Thanks for reading.

Chapter 4

They've been staring. All. Day. It's so annoying. Dusk Shine muttered to himself as the day progressed. EVERYONE! His remaining teachers, classmates, and other faculty viewed him with anticipation. They're scared. Waiting for something to happen. Dusk Shine's megafile and witnessing Cinch and her crew being arrested. What's next? Or better yet who's next? They played safe. Smiling at Dusk Shine and greeting him warmly as he walked by. He nodded. A total reversal of how they treated him. Dusk Shine smelled their fear and cowardice with every breath they took. He's the most powerful student. Him being the Schola Perfecta and the principal is his former babysitter and sister-in-law. They're protecting themselves. Weaklings. He's in Discord class with Lemon Zest sitting beside him.

"Complete these problems before I get back," Discord announced. His concerned gaze lingered on Dusk Shine before exiting. They worked diligently. Several students exchanged worried glances with each other before someone spoke up.

"Dusk Shine," One of his classmates asked.

"Mhm," Dusk Shine grunted in acknowledgment. Lemon Zest turned and glared at them but focused on the assignment.

"We're cool, right?" Another with braces asked, barely able to hide their stammer.

"Yeah. Do we have a reason not to be?" Dusk Shine deadpanned, peering over his shoulder, chilling their nerves.

"No, no, sir," They shook their heads and returned to work. Some exhaled, releasing the tension in their chest. They aren't on his radar. They're safe. Yet a trickle of fear nursed itself in their minds. Were they really safe? There's no way Dusk Shine gathered all the information himself. Did he have a team? Who were they? Dusk Shine knew what they were thinking. Were they next? Probably not. The past month must've been a cataclysm for everyone. As it should. Dusk Shine raised his brow, calculating the probable upcoming events, and resumed working.

Discord returned. Class continued until the bell rang. It's lunchtime.

"Dusk Shine," Discord called out. He needed to talk to him. Immediately.

"I'm fine, Mr. Discord," Dusk Shine answered dully and exited the room.

"I really hope so but I don't believe it," Discord muttered while shaking his head. He dialed a number. They answered. "Hey, Celestia,"

Dusk Shine reorganized his belongings at his locker with Spike on his shoulder. It reeked of fresh paint and cleaning solutions, likely because of renovations or covering graffiti. Someone defended his dignity. The day had been remarkably peaceful. Cinch's arrest and return were the only notable things today.

"Where is he," Pearl fretted. Until now that is.

"Oh fuck here we go," Dusk Shine sighed, rubbing Spike's head to ease his annoyance.

"It's the first of many," Spike answered, nuzzling into his palm. She's going to ask him to help solve her problems.

"There you are, I need your help to get Spark to talk to me again," Pearl requested if not demanded. Bingo. So predictable. Dusk Shine turned his head to view her. She definitely saw better days. Her flowery pearl hair decayed into an unkempt meadow with a forest of weeds sprouting. She kept her pride, maintaining her pristine uniform. The edges of her mouth twitched. Pearl swapped wanting to cry and roar with frustration seeing the desperate panic in her eyes.

"You're missing a key part of the equation," Dusk Shine replied and closed his locker. "How the fuck is that my problem exactly?" He queried about his involvement. Their relationship was a personal matter. There's no benefit to Dusk Shine inserting himself in the drama. Her mouth opened slightly.

"It's your fault we broke up," Pearl accused as the muscles in her neck and jaw tightened. If Dusk Shine didn't send this file to the ENTIRE school then none of this wouldn't have happened.

"Yeah, I exposed your wrongdoings like any responsible citizen," Dusk Shine countered. He caught the cheating duo by chance when Spark was away. "Did you think I'd turn a blind eye to something like that? I have a reputation to uphold," He cited. Cadance would have his skull if he allowed something like that and had the power to do something about it but chose inaction. Starry Spark is a good man.

"But you don't care about that," Pearl fumed. He never cared about any of this before so why now?

"I do care," Dusk Shine corrected. "You assumed that I didn't care," He retorted before inhaling. "Let's go back to your request to see if I fully understand," Dusk Shine redirected the conversation to speed it up. He's hungry. "You want to . . . somehow get Starry Star to rekindle your relationship after you betrayed him?" He clarified throwing confusion

"Yes," Pearl confirmed.

"How?" Dusk Shine raised a brow

"What?" Pearl stammered at his response. What does he mean by how?

"How do you want me to do it?" Dusk Shine quizzed. "This is between you, him, and Duke," "You're the one who cheated. Stark distancing himself from you is a reasonable reaction after being betrayed like that," He explained, widening the distance between the trio's problem.

"I don't know!" Pearl exclaimed. Her eyes glimmered with a gambler's plea, pulling for any hope of a miracle as their savings dwindled into the void."You're smart. You can figure something out. My life has been fucking hell since we broke up and Duke has been ignoring me too," She whined about her disrupting experience. Spark dumped her in front of everyone after attacking Duke. She and the other girls confronted Duke about his multi-timing. Was he serious about any of them? Both boys blocked her numbers and all their mutual friends avoided her like tomato sauce while in all white. Pearl's remaining 'friends' were the other girls. All hell broke loose when she got home after Dusk Shine's nuke erupted. They screamed, yelled, and berated Pearl, calling her names only uttered in bars and locker rooms. Her parents took everything and sold some of her prized belongings to pay compensation to Spark and Duke's fiance.

"So selfish," Spike growled.

"What the hell?" Pearl muttered taken aback by Spike's speech

"Think about it for a moment," Dusk Shine suggested, pushing up his glasses with his good hand. "Starry was betrayed by someone he loved. He's hurt, angry, and self-conscious about whether or not his significant other truly loves him. Then you want me to invalidate his suffering, get him to lower standards, self-respect and avoid his boundaries, humiliate him and make him like a cuck by taking you back all so you could avoid the consequences of your actions," He enumerated and deconstructed Pearl's request, putting himself in Starry Spark's shoes.

"I'm not saying that," Pearl deflected, darting her eyes for a moment. His lowered eyes didn't believe her in the slightest. A critical lesson he learned was not to listen to what they say but to focus on what they don't say. The hidden meanings and intent behind their words. For instance, a friend wants another to give an alibi or look the other way as they do something they shouldn't be doing. Who's that going to benefit? They become a liar and enabler, shaming the people around them.

"Yes. Yes, you are. How else am I or anyone with a functioning brain supposed to interpret that?" Dusk Shine argued, tapping the side of his head. Memories of Cozy Glow's and Gallant's divorce flashed before him. It'll be almost 2 years. Yet Pearl regurgitated the exact dialogue tree as his childish aunt. Why? Pride, control, and hypocrisy. Selfish people like them believe everything should operate on their terms regardless of the incompatibility. "You cheated on him with a notorious player. Did you think you could've played both sides and still win? If Spark did this to you and he asked me the same thing as you, what would you say?" He interrogated her, picking Pearl's brain and soul to evaluate who she was as a person. Was Pearl going to be selfish by ignoring all her wrongdoings and focusing solely on what she wants? The victim card by making others feel sympathy for her? Egotistical and vindictive, demanding they have no choice but to get back together with her or she'll ruin their lives. Which is it?

"He said he loved him," Pearl whispered with quivering lips and watery eyes. Bystanders gagged at her declaration. How dare she play the victim in this? Dusk Shine raised a brow. Self-reflection?

"I don't know who you're referring to," Dusk Shine commented, unable to decipher who she was referring to. Remorse slivered in her tone. Was Pearl talking about Spark now? Dusk Shine's expression darkened into a frozen killer's mask. "Spark did love you because he thought the love was mutual. Duke only loved you for how easy you were. You abandoned a seven-year relationship for someone who only saw you as a late-night hookup. He had several girls on his team. Were you even his favorite?" Pearl collapsed with freefalling tears splashing on the floor. His words were a hammerblow of devastating revelations making her think that as well. Was Pearl even Duke's favorite in all of this? Duke had his esteemed former finance and the various girls in the grades below and above them. Where did she rank among them? Dusk Shine stared apathetically. He crouched. His silvery tone was acid, inflaming her soul and nerves to the base material. "Neither wants you. Spark is a great guy and you know it so there's no shortage of suitors to replace you. Hell, he probably got an upgrade. Duke is busy dealing with the heavy compensation thanks to his infidelity and the blowback from it. His family will lose major clients. Then there's you," Pearl's woeful eyes met his empty one. There's nothing. Yet there's something. He wasn't angry, disappointed, or relishing her lowest point. A scholar stating the facts. "The worst thing about this whole thing. You still think you did nothing wrong," Dusk Shine scrutinized further. "Want my advice?" Pearl looked up, clinging to whatever hope she could. Her chest tightened. His eye blazed into a razor slit keeping his soft baleful tone. "Stop wasting my time. Take accountability for your actions without trying to shift blame. Apologize to Spark. If you have any form of genuine love for him then stay out of his life and let him be happy. You messed up. Deal with it and don't let it happen again," Dusk Shine stood, dusting off his knees, and left. "If you can, that is," He muttered, casting his final doubts as her features trembled. Pearl heaved, draining her nails, and pounded her fist into the floor. Bystanders raised their hands and backed away in surrender as Dusk Shine strolled past but he ignored them.

Dusk Shine examined the trinket when his thumb felt bizarre markings. He paused. Why didn't he notice them before? Dusk Shine cursed his poor vision as he brought it close. He sat at a window and observed the trinket at various angles to search for any clues. What's missing? The sun glimmered behind Dusk Shine illuminating faint symbols on the trinket.

"No way," Spike marveled. Dusk Shine flipped it to the other side, highlighting a phrase and one of CPA's old symbols.

"The plaque at the entrance and the archives in the school library," Dusk Shine calculated the possible locations. Those are the oldest places in CPA surviving numerous disasters and renovations since the doors opened. Where first? It can't be today. Too many eyes and vengeful spirits around.

"You think that's why Cinch wanted you to keep it," Spike questioned, recalling Cinch's smile and refusal.

"Maybe," Dusk Shine replied and stood. "Let's get something to eat," He remarked but his lab is still under construction. Cinch kept her word. She's expanding his small sanctuary to cozy his time at CPA. How long? Another week or so. An exhausted sigh breezed past his lips. Dusk Shine has to eat in the cafeteria. Fuck.

The B-team barring Royal Pin was busy plotting with the other 'elites' to conduct damage control and draft potential proposals to curry favor with Dusk Shine.

"Hey, Jet Set, can I ask you something?"Neon Lights asked, getting the aerospace heir's attention. "During the friendship games when Dusk Shine started whistling, you were freaking out," Jet's heart skipped briefly. "What was that all about?"

"Shut up!" Jet Set and Upper Crust hushed, covering the Neon Light mouth. The couple scanned both sides of the hallway, waiting for him. Nothing. "He could be listening," They warned.

"Dusk Shine?" Neon Lights questioned.

"Yeah who else," Jet Set scoffed. "Listen. One of the things we learn is that there are some people you can't or shouldn't mess with," He attested with Upper Crust, Trenderhoof, and Suri nodding in support. The intoxicating bliss of power and wealth warps one's perception of reality after generations of people bowing and obeying their most ridiculous requests. Once someone says no or ignores their authority, indignation bounded by wounded pride burns their soul. However, it's something they all must endure.

"Especially the underground," Upper Crust added. The underground doesn't operate on standard societal norms. You can't threaten, bribe, or coerce them in any shape or form, citing their oath and group taking priority. Unfortunately, people need reminding.

"Wait, is Dusk Shine a part of them?"

"Or has close ties to them but we don't know which ones?" Jet Set suggested another question.

"Should we inform the police?" Neon Lights suggested

"Are you fucking stupid?!" Upper Crust cursed in a rare display of profanity. "Those groups are involved with the police but unofficially. They inform the police and help with the more sinister cases," Ironically the Underground is one of their best assets keeping Canterlot and Equestria safe from the true monsters. They're the anonymous tips. The specialists. The extra muscle. The deliverers of justice when justice fails.

"I remember one of my parents' business associates pissed one of them off. Within a week, all of their clients were gone and their business was set on fire," Suri disclosed with a sketchbook in hand.

"Wasn't that the story about how they did it to avoid bankruptcy and take the insurance money?" Trenderhoof recalled. Suri nodded

"Shit," Neon Lights mumbled, removing his shades and gliding his hand through his wild hair. "Which group is he from?"

"There's an elite handful of groups in the underground," Jet Set informed, narrowing the possibilities in his mind. There are 3 everyone knows. "We all use them even if we don't know it," He implied. The underground has fronts masked as ordinary businesses and services. A mom-and-pop store. One of the local market shops.

"Given what he did," Upper Crust added. None of them dared to speak about the chaos from that day. "Only one group can provide him with the skills to achieve it. It's the-" She began when whistling and echoing footsteps approached. The frost of terror locked her words as she turned to the source. Dusk Shine. The B-team's mitochondria shut down and restarted. WHY IS HE HERE?! HOW MUCH DID HE HEAR?!

Dusk Shine approached Jet Set and Upper Crust. Jet put himself in front of Upper Crust but couldn't hide his fear. Dusk Shine smelt it. Jet Set and Upper Crust paled and gulped at his blank predatory stare evaluating them to his standards. Dusk Shine placed his knuckles on Jet's chest and waited. Jet froze.

Thump-Thump-Thump-Thump-Thump

Jet thought his heart was going to explode. What was he doing? Was this some form of test but for what purpose? Dusk Shine backed off and set his sights on Upper Crust. His fingers were on her wrists and waited as well. Dusk Shine backed off and sniffed, darting his head to the shuddering trio. He sniffed and whispered something to Spike. Spike whispered back. Dusk Shine grunted in acknowledgment and left them. They shared terrified looks.

"Anyone wants to eat outside today?" Someone suggested

"Yes," They can't run any faster.

Dusk Shine entered the cafeteria. He groaned. The spacious eating area always highlighted his isolation. That's why he preferred eating his lab or with Cadance when available. The most he was getting was a drink. Never sit down to eat. However, Cinch often urged him to eat with Sunny Flare. Those weren't bad but he wished they were more natural. Dusk Shine scanned for a table. He recorded the division among the students leaving an entire table between them like a curtain wall in a divided nation. Friend groups were split. Miscellaneous students ate together, kindling their newfound friendship during this troubling era. Others were missing. Cadance reported some were suspended or placed on leave until further notice. Although some of them probably ate somewhere else. The outside tables were popular. Some spots in the library once they follow the rules. A few classrooms too. He hasn't seen Ginger or Peter all day. What a mess their family situation was so they likely took a few days off. Dusk Shine found a table and walked.

Bystanders whispered, acknowledging his presence with a tense shudder. They kept their heads down and remained silent attempting to avoid his wrath. Others presented a seat for Dusk Shine at their table with a honeyed expression to be part of the cool kids or 'in crowd'. The rich kids, elite academics, and more. People who'll rule the world and become titans of their respective industries. His people yet Dusk Shine ignored them. Why? Some of them were his biggest tormentors doing Cinch's bidding to keep him isolated. Hell, some didn't need convincing. He didn't know Fleur or Royal's reasons for despising but didn't care. Dusk Shine's presence and achievements made their shining accomplishments look poultry. Perhaps some were genuine in their friendships but emotional wounds don't heal as readily as physical ones. Dusk Shine stepped into the Oubliette area where the Shadow 5 resided. The room stilled.

"Got room for two," Spike asked, wagging his tail.

"Sure," Sour Sweet smiled, skidding over to make for him. Dusk Shine nodded sitting on the bench's edge with Sour Sweet and Indigo Zap on his right. Lemon, Sugarcoat, and Sunnyflare had their backs to the exit. Spike rested on his lap. They resumed their conversation with Dusk Shine adding a few comments here and there. He slid a food container to Lemon Zest.

"Ohhhhhh," Her eyes brightened at the delicious meal. She sniffed the mild spices from the orangish-yellow sauce.

"It's butter chicken. My mom made it as thanks," Dusk Shine explained, repaying the food she sent him while in the hospital. Chunks of chicken floated in the smooth curry sauce on top of a dam of rice with a spread of flaky garlic naan.

"Yeah right," Spike teased.

"Quiet," Dusk Shine hushed, playing the green fluff on his head. "I'm getting a drink," He announced, putting Spike back on his shoulder and leaving the girls. Lemon Zest didn't waste a second and tore into her meal. A mild spice exploded on her taste buds, shivering as she purred while chewing. Was the chicken grilled? No, the mild char and crunch suggested it was pan-fried. Lemon tore a piece of naan, scooped chunks of rice & chicken, and made a mini taco or burrito. Her face brightened, restricting her cheers as she swallowed. The girls shared a blank look wondering if it was that good.

"Spare a piece?" Indigo Zap requested. Will it mess with her stomach? Probably. Will it be some of the best food ever? Absolutely

"No," Lemon Zest denied wiping her mouth with a piece of naan. She exhaled, allowing the spices to tingle her lips. "The way I'll fuck the holy-moly shit out of him," Lemon Zest beamed, gesturing to Dusk Shine waiting on the line. Her amber eyes leered.

"Are you serious?" Sour Sweet deadpanned.

"Am I wrong for this?" Lemon Zest shrugged with a grin. She couldn't be the only one who had their sights on the star.

"Yes," The table replied.

"Come on, he's a total package deal. Baring all the creepy shit Cinch did to get him and Flare, she saw you as a threat," Lemon persuaded and motioned to the archer. Cinch had to blackmail Sour Sweet to get the two to break up. "Sour Sweet, he got you feeling down horrendous like what a year after you two broke up. Dusk Shine is doing something right," She inferred. Everything from the Friendship games and after told them about the relationship.

"I mean you're not wrong but I," Sour Sweet grumbled before looking over her shoulder and softening. "I do miss some of our study sessions together," She confessed, stroking her ponytail.

"Is that what you call it?" Sugarcoat questioned with a teasing grin.

"No, we did study," Sour Sweet corrected before a mild heat twitched her lips upwards. "With a few rewards afterward," She implied, grazing her lips.

"Bet you a burger, you got him quivering his notes," Indigo chuckled while munching on some fries.

"Well," Sour Sweet rolled her eyes, keeping her smirk.

"Wait. He was the purser?" Indigo muttered, jerking her thumb to Dusk Shine. She could see with the current Dusk Shine. The Dusk Shine with a sophisticated confidence and cold intellect. Not pre-Prefecta Dusk Shine. Indigo has only been here for around a year and only knew this version. She never saw the shy or docile version.

"Dusk Shine isn't shy but he needs an open door," Sugarcoat remarked, detailing the times he asked her out to dance during a few conferences. It helped against the more predatory and creepy attendants from both sides.

"Mhm," Sour Sweet smirked and glanced over her shoulder again. "It was . . . nice not being the aggressive one sometimes," She confessed, recalling a handful of their dates. "I hit a few bullseyes myself. I couldn't let him do all the work," Sour Sweet bragged. "I remember one time I overloaded his brain so that his glasses fogged up," She chortled remembering one of their dates to the arcade and gave Dusk Shine the biggest kiss after he won her a prize.

"You fogged up his glasses," A bubbling laughter spread amongst the girls. Some turned and snorted while wallowing in their misery and grumbled about how they found joy in these troubling times.

"It was during a date during the spring," Sour Sweet giggled, resting her chin on her hands. "The damn top doesn't fit me anymore," She grumbled as it was one of her favorites.

"Growth spurt?"

"Puberty," Sour Sweet stated gesturing to her chest. "I miss those days," She exhaled. What would their life be if Cinch didn't interfere with her weird breeding program thing? Will they be like Upper Crust & Jet Set or Shining Armor & Cadance? "Also no, I have no idea if the carpet matches the drapes," She deadpanned, narrowing her eyes at Lemon Zest.

"I wasn't asking that," Lemon Zest raised her hands.

"But you were thinking about it," Sugarcoat calculated.

". . . Maybe," Lemon Zest deflected. Was it stripped or had a singular color? "Dusk Shine better not play shy with me," She avouched, getting tingles at the possibility. Which Dusk Shine could she get? "I prayed to Faust as if he lived, I'll let him smash when those plants went crazy," Lemon Zest brought up casually. Anger spiked in an onlooker's veins. What?!

"You know that was Aether right?" Sugarcoat informed.

"I know but," Lemon agreed before pausing. " I have to do it now," She determined. "You don't play with stuff like this. Hell, I'm fine with going to second base because we're not close enough for a home run," Lemon confided, twirling her spoon in the rice and sauce. "Would Dusk even be comfortable with that? She questioned. His brain was overloaded by a kiss on the cheek.

"Probably," Sour Sweet shrugged.

"I have a chance?" Lemon Zest reckoned. Sour Sweet gave a so-so gesture "Time to play some mood music after dinner and let the vibes roll," She smirked, enjoying the food while admiring the cook as a romantic scene played out. From behind, someone with a snarl had a different story.

"Fucking skank!" Someone erupted, forcing everyone to dart their attention to the sound. Students left; traumatized by Dusk Shine's exposure earlier in the month. A ring formed as onlookers shouted pleas or encouragements.

Dusk Shine slithered through the crowd and tables to see the commotion. Who was fighting? He raised his brow in astonishment. It was Moondancer and Lemon Zest engaging in a bar brawl. The girls scratched, flipped, ripped, tore, and snarled at each other on the ground. Rage fueled and blinded them. They wanted to hurt and humiliate the other. Lemon Zest was soaked. Her triple green hair dripped in sticky cola and stained her uniform. Moondancer had sauce and rice all over her face, hair, and uniform. Both cursed as they grappled and defaced the other's uniform, exposing what was under them. Dusk Shine's face hardened, pushing himself to the front to end this. Students backed off from his smoldering aura, glaring at the pair as they continued to fight. Lemon Zest lost her headphones and Moondancer with her glasses but she didn't need them to see like him. Moondancer struggled to push Lemon Zest off. She chomped.

"OUCH! YOU FUCKING BITCH!" Lemon zest yelled and readied another punch in Moondancer's face.

"Moondancer. Lemon Zest. What are you doing?" Dusk Shine demanded; his low thunderous voice rumbled their bones. The two halted their brawl and met his empty gaze and frown. They pushed each other off, hurried to establish their dignity.

"She started it," Both accused the other before snarling into another argument.

"Quiet" Dusk Shine ordered and they obeyed, submitting to his authority. "Sugarcoat, explain," He directed. She can give an overview.

"Lemon Zest and the rest of us were eating when she attacked," Sugarcoat summarized. Dusk Shine turned to his old classmate with a partly opened jaw. She did this? Moondancer didn't meet his gaze, keeping a frown.

"Moondancer wanted a rematch," Indigo Zap added.

"A rematch," Dusk Shine repeated, glaring at the girls. "So this is the 2nd time this has happened," He questioned the girls but this doesn't make sense. Lemon Zest and Moondancer don't have any reason, motive, or logic to have a nasty physical fight on school grounds. Dusk Shine resumed the facts.

Moondancer was the aggressor while Lemon Zest defended herself. Lemon's soaked form with most of it on her back suggested that Moondancer came from behind and doused with a soda bottle. Moondancer received a handful of butter chicken leading to their floor fight. A catalyst was missing. Dusk Shine something had to happen. Was there a hidden grudge between them but he never noticed because of Cinch? Nothing in his files either. Why?

"The first one was during the Games. Moondancer grabbed the flag and rushed to the podium after the ambulance left," Sugarcoat reported about the game's aftermath. This was a month-long issue.

"Sorry for playing my role while you guys sit on your lumpy asses and did nothing," Moondancer criticized.

"Are you fucking serious?" Lemon Zest snapped her moronic desire to win and be superior. "Dusk Shine almost died and all you cared about was winning some stupid game," Her rage blazed seeing Moondancer as the same as them on that day.

"I wasn't going to let his efforts go in vain," Moondancer defended.

"Moondancer are you dumb or fucking stupid?!" Lemon Zest berated. "He never wanted to be in the games from the start. Cinch forced him. Were you even listening to the audio of Cinch blackmailing him?" She glowered

"Oh fuck off. I'm surprised you can even hear anything," Moondancer mocked, tapping her on earlobes.

"Enough," Dusk Shine commanded and closed the gap

"Dusk Shine," Moondancer chilled. She viewed his scars and burns.

"Moondancer, we're from the Excellence program. We're better than this. You're better than this to be starting fights for no good reason," Dusk Shine scolded, gesturing to himself and her. He urged her to see reason. Both were some of the best Canterlot and Equestria had to offer, pushing to the zenith of excellence in their work, conduct, and morals. Dusk Shine pinched his lips. "I don't know what to say about this but why?" He prodded with a slacked face. Why? Why did she do it? This isn't her.

"She doesn't deserve to be in your life!" Moondancer blurted out, her face hot with shock, rage, and a dash of embarrassment. She heaved, matching her breathing with her racing heartbeat in the silent cafeteria. Those who were disinterested turned their heads. It got interesting. Dusk Shine blinked once. He processed the information and made a face. His face twisted; almost sneering at Moondancer for saying that. Confusion, astonishment, and insult.

"Moondancer, we're nowhere near close enough for you to determine that," Dusk Shine pronounced with lowered eyes. Someone choked on their food amidst the gale of gasps and whispers.

"We're-we're friends," Moondancer pleaded. Her hands tightened, grabbing the hell out of her skirt. Lemon stepped away. Their conversation got personal.

"When you look at our relationship in a vacuum. We're more like associates," Dusk Shine admitted while rubbing his neck. Moondancer's heart shattered with a cannon shot and made a silent groan, clutching her heart. Associates? That's all he saw her as. "Although Cinch likely manipulated our schedules to reduce our interactions," He predicted knowing their former principal skewed the schedules and class roster to further isolate him. "You didn't visit me in the hospital but your sister did. Not a message, card, or anything after I woke up. Twinkleshine, Lemonheart, Lyra, and Minuette all sent me something. Same with CHS. Hell Upper Crust and Jet Set offered their remorse," Dusk Shine exposed. The scornful and judgemental crowd stabbed their glares and twisted faces like a pig on a roasting fire. She called herself his friend?

"But I know you, Dusk Shine," Moondancer pushed forward, peering with her dark purple eyes.

"No. You know of him," Sour Sweet interjected, pushing herself between them. "Besides his family, I know him more than you ever could," She gloated, sneering at the other girl.

"Bullshit!" Moondancer refuted, getting right in Sour Sweet's face. "Who gave you that right?" She stabbed her finger, pushing the archer in the chest. Who does Sour Sweet think she is claiming she knew Dusk Shine better than her?

"I'm his ex," Sour Sweet bragged nastily with crossed arms.

"What? She's lying," Moondancer gasped, stumbling back refusing to believe it. Out of all the people in CPA, Sour Sweet was his ex?! No. They had a short-term relationship. That's all.

"No, she's my ex-girlfriend. We've kept our relationship private. Cadance didn't know about it until after I was in the hospital," Dusk Shine clarified with pink cheeks. Cadance is probably in the room right now observing the situation. Was she testing him?

"But you broke up," Moondancer retorted. Dusk Shine's reveal launched a hammer into Moondancer's sternum. He won't lie about relationships. Her stomach performed an award-winning gymnastics routine with their matching pink cheeks. It's true.

"That's because of my bitch of a mother," Sunny Flare chimed in. Her bitter tone cut deeper than usual.

"I'm the one who has the most interactions with Dusk Shine outside of school," Sugarcoat admitted. They swapped their focus on her.

"Our parents do business with each other so there's a ton of business dinners and conferences," Dusk Shine explained. "She's the only person I know and feel comfortable with," He divulged on their outside school relationship. Dusk Shine trusted Sugarcoat.

"A lot of them are weird," Sugarcoat snorted with Dusk Shine nodding. Both chilled recalling their uneasy experiences with some of the participants. They reeked of knowing the age of consent in EVERY region by heart to barrier themselves when people questioned the ages of their latest sugar baby. It'll be a matter of time before they get arrested for corruption or worse.

"We've known each other for a decade," Moondancer repeated. Besides Principal Cadance she knew Dusk Shine the best.

"Okay, where is my dad from?" Dusk Shine started with a basic question. She smiled, turning her nose at Lemon Zest.

"Nordic," Moondancer answered confidently but that confidence evaporated. Dusk Shine gazed blankly and titled his head along with Spike. Was she wrong? No, she can't be wrong. It's impossible.

"His dad is German," Sugarcoat corrected, arching her brow at the incorrection. Moondancer wasn't wrong but went too far north. However, that doesn't excuse it. Canterot and Equestria had dozens of cultural & heritage celebrations with Dusk Shine, Night Light, and Shining Armor participating in the German festivals. Judgemental mutters buzzed around Moondancer's head for her folly.

"How about my mom," Dusk Shine quizzed again.

"Asian," Moondancer replied. Dusk Shine gestured for her to continue. The tension eased from Moondancer's shoulder but it returned. Where is she from? Moondancer picked one of the big three countries. "She's um Chinese. No Vietnamese," She answered but quickly corrected herself. Her answer wasn't exactly wrong due to China's massive empire and fracturing into numerous countries.

"Korean," Dusk Shine exhaled. Some people muttered to themselves thinking he was Hindu or from SEA. "My mom is Korean. You really don't know anything about me," He muttered with a downcast look. Moondancer denied it and rattled off something, anything to prove her statement. Dusk Shine enumerated all the things he knew about Moondancer. Her sister and family. Her favorite and least favorite things. Some of her habits & quirks which greatly surprised her. Dusk Shine acknowledged that his data might be outdated as they haven't hung out as much. Despite all of that, he knew.

"Dusk Shine, I-I-we," Moondancer stammered a response as she fumbled her words and swelling tears. Several backed away with a wince believing they were watching a break-up scene.

"Please stop, Moondancer," Dusk Shine muttered, pitching the bridge of his nose. Moondancer's body trembled like a disturbed beehive in a washing machine. The disappointment of Dusk Shine's tone. Hurt. Her mouth closed like a faucet and slumped her head and shoulders. Cadance finally interacted, handing Moondancer a mop, bucket, and several cleaning products. She raised her head and began mopping. The crowd dispersed and resumed eating. Cadance turned, widening her eyes at Dusk Shine dragging a trashcan and picking up debris with a napkin.

"Dusk Shine, you don't have to clean up," Cadance informed. He's still injured. There's no reason for him to be doing this.

"I know,' Dusk Shine answered. "I'm the Top student. I have to set the standard for CPA," He confessed and focused on his task.

"Dusk Shine," Cadance consoled, laying a hand on his uninjured shoulder.

"Fine," Dusk Shine obeyed, casting a mournful glance on Lemon Zest. "I'm sorry," He lowered his head.

"It's not your fault," Lemon Zest shrugged, wiping her face with some napkins. He didn't do anything.

"Can one of you girls get Zest cleaned up please?" Cadance requested. She knows the stress of removing curry stains. Sour Sweet and Indigo took her. "We'll talk later, Moondancer," CPA's new principal warned. Cadance is grateful that Moondancer was a palatable subject compared to the leaked group chat.

"Yes, ma'am," Moondancer muttered and resumed cleaning with sniffs in between

"Are you okay, Dusk Shine?" Cadance asked with Sour Sweet behind her.

"Not really," Dusk Shine muttered and shook his head. "Can you give me time to think? I'm not hungry," He requested while flexing his fingers to ease his nerves.

"Come to my office when you have the chance," Cadance informed, giving him a gentle embrace. Dusk Shine nodded, retrieving his belongings, and left. However not without being followed.