Chapters Stacking Up (PinkieFluttershy)
The mid-afternoon sun shone brightly down on Ponyville as its inhabitants moved about busily, some talking to friends and others going about their daily routine. Many ponies would say that the light that touched Ponyville was brighter than anywhere else in Equestria. Those ponies might be correct, for in this town was the residence of the unicorn Twilight Sparkle,Princess Celestia's protege. However today is not about Twilight, nor is it about Celestia. Today is about an earth pony, a pink earth pony. Pinkie to be exact.
This is going to be so much fun! the pink mare thought to herself as she bounded through town square. Today was Friday, which meant Pinkie Pie didn't have to work this afternoon. As usual on Friday, Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash would meet up to spend the afternoon gaming. This was the ritual the two of them had observed every Friday for the past couple of months. Now Pinkie was on her way to meet Rainbow at her cloud house.
"Sorry Pinkie Pie, I can't play today," Rainbow said as descended from her home.
"Aw, why not Dashie?" asked a slightly deflated Pinkie.
"All the weather pegasi were called to Canterlot. Apparently they've fallen behind on their storm schedule so they need us to help with a big one. It's going to be so awesome," squealed the cyan Pegasus. "Though how about just me and you meet up this weekend?"
"I'm sorry Dashie, but the Cakes need me this weekend. The Princess is throwing a super big party in the castle!" exclaimed Pinkie.
"What's the party for?" asked Rainbow, "It can't be the Summer Sun Celebration, that's not until next month."
Pinkie Pie shrugged and replied, "Not sure, the princess only said it had something to do with Discord and Nightmare Moon."
A look of anger quickly flashed over her face. No, no The Princess said they've changed. Just give them a chance, she told herself, trying to focus back on Pinkie Pie.
"You okay Dashie? You were staring off at the Reader pretty weirdly," Pinkie said as she stared at you knowingly.
Dash laughed nervously "Yes, the Readers..." Pinkie Pie can be so random sometimes. Actually, all the time. "I was just... So Pinks, what are you going to do now?" Dash changed the subject, in a quite unsubtle fashion.
"Oh, I had forgotten about that. I guess I'll go and see if one of the others wants to play, but I just don't know who," Pinkie finished with a slightly sad tone in her voice. She had really been looking forward to today.
"How about Fluttershy? She came over earlier and asked me if I needed help with anything, she seemed bored," Rainbow said with a shrug.
Pinkie laughed and jabbed, "That's hilarious Dashie, Fluttershy playing a video game."
Rainbow stared at the laughing mare and said, "I'm serious Pinkie, why not let Fluttershy have a chance? Just don't bring her into anything too rough, keep it simple and talk her through it."
Pinkie Laughed again. "Okie dokie Dashie, I'll go see if she wants to play,'' she finished as she bounded off, back towards Ponyville.
Rainbow Dash watched as Pinkie Pie disappeared over the hill. "Celestia have mercy on Fluttershy," she said aloud to herself. Pinkie Pie was going to destroy the poor mare but Rainbow couldn't worry about that now, she had work to do.
For a pony who mostly hopped everywhere, Pinkie could get make some distance quite quickly. Less than five minutes after leaving Rainbow Dash to her work, Pinkie had arrived at Fluttershy's cottage. Pinkie Pie approached the door and knocked. Several seconds later, the door creaked open, revealing the bright yellow-coated pink-maned Fluttershy.
"Oh, hello Pinkie Pie, how are you?" asked the meek pony.
"Hi Flutters, I'm spectacular, how ‘bout you?" answered the bouncing pony.
"I'm good Pinkie, what brings you out here?" she asked as she exited her cottage and shut the door.
"Oh! Well you see, first I went to see Rainbow Dash because today is the day we normally get together and play some video games but she has to work today so I came to ask you if you wanted to come and play with me since I heard you were bored and if I don't have anyone to play with I'll be bored so instead of us both being bored we can have fun," the speed talking mare finished, taking in a deep breath.
"I don't know Pinkie, I heard those things were bad for you," Fluttershy replied in her normal nervous tone.
"Don't worry Shy, auntie Pinkie Pie will be there with you," Pinkie said with a toothy grin.
Fluttershy stared at Pinkie awkwardly. "I'm still a year older than you."
Pinkie moved closer to Fluttershy. "So is that a yes?"
Fluttershy wasn't sure what to do. She didn't want to disappoint Pinkie Pie by saying no. Part of her wanted to go with Pinkie just to add something to her day. Fridays were always slow. Rarity normally delivered her dresses for the week, Applejack finished tending the trees, Twilight re-organized the library every Friday and Monday and Wednesday. Which left her nothing to do, but today she was given the opportunity to try something new. What could go wrong? she thought to herself.
"Sure Pinkie, I'll go with you," Fluttershy said with a sweet smile. “Just let me feed the chickens, they get hungry pretty quickly."
One hour later, Pinkie and Fluttershy arrived at Sugarcube Corner. Though it had taken longer than Pinkie would have liked, seeing as Fluttershy refused to fly for fear that she might fall, she also refused to walk faster for fear she might trip. But even Pinkie Pie knew there were some things she couldn't rush with Fluttershy.
"Hello Pinkie, hello Fluttershy," rang the voice of Mrs. Cake.
"Hi Mrs.Cake!" both Pinkie and Fluttershy answered in unison.
"Me and Fluttershy are gonna go up to my room, Mrs. Cake, so if you need anything come get us," said Pinkie as she began to climb the stairs Fluttershy right behind her.
"Okay dearies, you two have fun," Mrs.Cake answered, not noticing that they were already gone.
Once up stairs Fluttershy was surprised, Pinkies room looked quite different from the last time she had seen it. Though, the last time she had seen it was just before the Grand Galloping Gala. For some part Pinkie Pie’s room had the same party feel as Pinkie herself had, but the biggest difference was the large television on the wall across from the stairs.
Pinkie approached the television. She turned it on, then sat down on the couch.
"Come on Silly, you can't play from over there," Pinkie said as she patted the open seat next to her.
Fluttershy took a seat on the couch next to Pinkie who had already passed her a white controller. A few seconds later, Pinkie had the television and the game console completely set up and was ready to play. Fluttershy, on the other hoof, was completely confused by the controller Pinkie had passed her.
"What do all the buttons do?" she asked, pressing randomly and hoping to get some kind of response from the device.
"Oh, silly me, I forgot you've never played a video game before," chortled Pinkie. "Okay, so this little stick here lets you look around."
Fluttershy nodded.
"This stick lets you move around," Pinkie Pie said, pointing to the stick on the right side of the controller.
Fluttershy nodded again.
"Finally, this button here fires your weapon, you'll figure out the other buttons as we play," Pinkie said as she placed the game disk inside the console.
Fluttershy was about to nod again, but then her mind just finished processing Pinkie Pie’s words.
"Weapon!?" The yellow pegasus stammered "You never said anything about weapons..."
Pinkie Pie giggled. "Well, duh! If I told you about the weapons, you wouldn't have come over here, now would you? Anyways, think of it as an exercise to become more assertive," Pinkie finished with a beaming smile.
Fluttershy didn't know what to say. Nopony told her she had to use weapons. Part of her wanted to flee, run back home and spend the rest of her day in boring peace. However, a small part of her liked the idea of becoming more assertive.
"Okay, Pinkie, I trust you. So what is this game called?" Fluttershy asked, somewhat excited at the prospect of something completely new.
Pinkie smiled "Rainbow Six, it's one of Dashie and I’s favorite games."
"Rainbow Six? That doesn't sound bad at all," Fluttershy giggled. She felt extremely foalish now, of course it wouldn't be that bad if Pinkie Pie was willing to play it.
The Game Begins
Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy were standing in what appeared to be a garage. Racks of tools covered the walls and a large red carriage was partially blocking what appeared to be the only exit to the small building. After several seconds of looking around the room, she noticed a large metal object on her side.
"Pinkie, what is this?" asked the confused Pegasus as she tried to get a better look at the object.
Pinkie Pie laughed. "Silly, that's a shotgun."
"A shotgun?! Pinkie, why are ponies using guns?" asked the panicked pegasus as she tried to out run her weapon.
"Duh, how else are we going to get rid of the bad guys?" answered Pinkie, giggling as she watched her panicked friend run around. "You know you can't get away from it, right Fluttershy? It's strapped to your side." she finished with another laugh.
"But I don't want to hurt another pony. Even if they're bad ponies. I'm sorry Pinkie, I can't do it."
Pinkie put a hoof on Fluttershy's back. "It's okay Flutters, how about you follow me and I'll do the work and if you work up the courage to play, you can join at any time."
Fluttershy smiled. "I like that plan Pinkie, I'll stay behind you"
With the plan set the two armed ponies were ready to begin their assault. Well, at least one pony was ready. The other pony was quite ready to curl up into a ball and wait the whole thing out. However, even if she couldn’t actually help Pinkie, she wasn't about to leave one of her friends alone.
"Okay Private Fluttershy, I'm going to check out side. Stay here and wait for my signal," Pinkie Pie spoke in an unusual manner, her normally happy tone was replaced by a strict and commanding tone.
"Pinkie, why are you talking like that?" asked the confused mare.
"That's Commander Pinkie to you and this is how Commander Dash and I communicate in combat situations," responded Pinkie Pie, not breaking character.
Pinkie Pie stared at Fluttershy for a few seconds before noticing the nervous look on Fluttershy's face.
"I'm sorry Fluttershy," she said, reverting back to her happy tone. "I didn't mean to scare you or anything, it's just that’s how me and Dashie play."
Hearing her friend switch back to her happy self helped raise Fluttershy's spirit. "I would really like that Pinkie. If you want though, you can still call me Private Fluttershy if you want," spoke Fluttershy cheerfully.
"Okie dokie Private Fluttershy, you wait here I'll go peek around the corner and see if there's any baddies."
Fluttershy sat with her back to some crates and watched anxiously as Pinkie went outside. After several seconds of silence, Fluttershy began to worry, having completely forgotten that they were in fact not actually in the game but sitting on the same couch. Fluttershy worked up the courage to go outside. However, just before Fluttershy could peek out the door, a Pink blur darted through the door and behind the carriage.
"Don't go out there!" shouted Pinkie from behind the carriage.
"Why not?" Asked Fluttershy confused by her friends new found fear.
As if on cue a barge of bullets began to impact the outside wall of the garage. Many of the rounds were stopped by the wall but some managed to penetrate barely skimming the two ponies hiding inside. Fluttershy had crouched into a tiny puddle of fear behind her crates.
"I don't want to die Pinkie," whimpered the terrified Pegasus
"Don't worry Flutter, if either of us die as long as one of us is still alive we'll come back," answered Pinkie as she attempted to return fire.
"What do you mean come back?" Fluttershy whimpered once again.
"Since its just a game, nopony actually dies. Instead, if one of us dies, we'll just come back after the area is safe, good as new."
As Pinkie Pie finished explaining the respawn system to Fluttershy, a bullet whizzed through the air pegging Pinkie right between the eyes. She dropped to the ground and her screen faded to black.
"It's up to you Private Fluttershy." Pinkie said saluting her friend on the couch.
Fluttershy wasn't sure what to do. Her friend had just been shot, but not really. She stood up and faced their attacker. A large colt fully suited in black. On his side was another gun, though it appeared to be different then Fluttershy's.
She took a deep breath Okay Fluttershy, it's you or him, She told herself. The colt just stood there, looking at her. As if he knew she couldn't do it. Fluttershy used every ounce of her willpower to shoot, but she just couldn't.
The Colt laughed. "Ha, I got the first one and now I'm going to kill the second one."
After hearing the colt the laugh at her something in Fluttershy snapped. A look of anger covered her face. The sudden change in Fluttershy's demeanor caused Pinkie to jump behind the couch. Pinkie peeked over the side of the couch and watched her friend carefully as she stood up and stared at the colt on the screen.
"How dare you!" shouted Fluttershy as she pulled the trigger. "How dare you hurt one of my friends!" She pulled the trigger again. The large colt dropped to the ground. Fluttershy breathed a sigh of relief, though it was short lived as an unseen colt managed to get a shot off placing a bullet clean through her skull.
"Whoa Fluttershy, that was amazing!" Exclaimed Pinkie "You were all like ‘You big meanie’ then you got him."
"Oh, it was nothing Pinkie. I'm sorry I got killed," Fluttershy said awkwardly, looking back at the screen. "So, are we going to try again?"
A sly grin covered Pinkie's face. "Soooo, you liked it, didn't you?
Fluttershy blushed. "Just a tiny bit."
"Okie dokie Flutters, this time we'll both go after them," Pinkie said with a smile, returning to her seat.
Fluttershy and Pinkie were back inside the garage, though now it appeared as if it had not seen a single battle. Pinkie immediately rushed to her position behind the red carriage and carefully aimed towards stairs leading into the house. Fluttershy with a new sense of battle found the second entrance from which the large colt had snuck up on her from. She took cover behind several wheels and waited for her sign.
"Private Fluttershy, are you in position?" asked Commander Pinkie, once again using her military tone.
"Yes Commander Pinkie," responded Fluttershy as she saluted Pinkie Pie from across the couch.
"Go! Go! Go!" shouted Pinkie Pie
Both Pinkie and Fluttershy moved from their positions each heading in a separate direction. Pinkie heading towards the stairs leading to the second floor of the house, Fluttershy heading towards the smaller garage attached to the house. However, Fluttershy was not as lucky as Pinkie who had met no resistance on her path. Another black colt was waiting for her inside the garage.
"Aim for the head!" the colt shouted to absolutely no other pony, as he took a shot barely missing Fluttershy's head.
Fluttershy hid behind the wall. This time she would have to plan it out, the only reason she had beaten the first colt was because it had gotten cocky. However, this colt seemed to be aware she was threat and was quite ready to shoot her.
"Aim for the head!" the colt shouted once again, apparently still unaware he was alone.
Meanwhile, Up Stairs
Pinkie had made it up to the second floor. She flung the door open, eliminating the three unprepared colts in a hail of bullets. She knew that more would be on their way. Pinkie hid behind the door and waited for her prey to come to her.
Meanwhile, Down Stairs
"Aim for the head!" the colt shouted for the seventh time.
Why does he keep yelling that? Fluttershy thought to herself.
"Aim for the head!" the colt shouted again
"That's it." Fluttershy said aloud, startling Pinkie Pie in the process.
Fluttershy dived from her cover, catching the colt off guard. Before the guard saw her she managed a direct hit on his front leg. She quickly dived back into cover and reloaded. She peeked back around the corner and was surprised when the colt attempt to get another shot. Fluttershy waited for the colt to begin reloading before emerging from her hiding spot. With two quick pulls of the trigger, the colt dropped.
"Aim for the head now." she muttered under her breath as she entered the garage. Two more colts were waiting for her on the stairs leading out of the garage. However, they posed little threat as she eliminated them both with a single shot.
Fluttershy charged her way through the building, ramming doors and blasting anypony who got in her way. Fluttershy was now in a full gallop heading for the door at the end of the hall. She kicked the door open and immediately saw her next target. However her target saw her as well, they both pulled the trigger and in a flash both screens went black
Awkward silence filled the room as the two ponies stared at each other.
"We shot each other, didn't we?" Pinkie asked flatly.
"Yup," Fluttershy answered, stunned.
Though they both died the colts in the game continued to move around. Eventually, two colts wandered over to their bodies
"Haha, these two colts fought like mares," the first one said before kicking Fluttershy's body.
The second colt laughed. "If only they had aimed for the head, they might have been a challenge."
The two mares stared at the screen blankly. The two of them had eliminated over half their comrades, yet they treated them as if they were foals. Though Fluttershy would never admit it, this made her slightly mad.
"One more time?" she asked Pinkie.
"You're more fun then Dashie, Fluttershy. She would normally get mad and leave at this point. Let’s go again."
The two ponies reappeared in the now familiar garage. However, before either of them could leave the building, the door to Pinkie’s room opened and there stood Mrs.Cake.
"Pinkie Pie dearie?" Asked the light blue mare.
"Yes Mrs.Cake?" Answered Pinkie as she bounded over the couch.
"Would you be a dear and come help us real quick, it won’t take more than twenty minutes."
"Okie dokie Mrs. Cake, Fluttershy, you'll be okay alone for a few minutes, right?"
Fluttershy nodded.
"If you want you can go ahead without me, though I think there might be too many for just one pony." With that, she shut the door and descended back to the bakery with Mrs. Cake ahead of her.
"So, what do you need help with Mrs. Cake?" asked Pinkie as she dived over the counter and into the kitchen.
It took Mrs. Cake a few moments to catch up with the hyperactive mare. "We just need your help with a couple batches of cupcakes.”
Several minutes later, Pinkie was making her way back up stairs when she heard the muffled shouts of Fluttershy.
"Don't worry Fluttershy, auntie Pinkie Pie is coming!" shouted Pinkie as she hurried up the stairs, determined to save her friend from whatever had befallen her. She rammed the door open. What she saw left the Pinkie Pie completely speechless, which was a feat on it's own. Fluttershy wasn't shouting because she was in trouble. Instead, she was shouting out in joy something Pinkie hadn't seen since Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom in Cloudsdale.
On the screen in big bold letters were the words "Mission Accomplished Team, All Terrorists have been eliminated."
"Wha... What... How?!" Stammered the Pink earth pony "Dashie and I have never been able to beat that!" exclaimed the still shocked earth pony. "What happened? How did you do it?!"
Fluttershy shrugged. "I don't know. They laughed at me, I didn't like that."
Pinkie Pie just stared at the yellow Pegasus. Note to self, don't laugh at Fluttershy, ever.
"Where is he?" Celestia said, tapping her hoof impatiently on the marble floor.
"Sister, you need to calm down," Luna said as she placed a hoof on her sister. "You get like this every time. Brass Beast hasn't let us down yet," she finished sitting back down on her sisters bed.
"I know, I know, it's just been so long since we've had real food," she said, now staring out her balcony door.
Luna let out a soft chuckle. "I thought you said Flambe made some of the finest food in Equestria."
"That's the problem," Celestia said, throwing herself onto the bed. "It’s the finest food, but would it kill him to make some eggs and hay bacon strips?" she finished, giving her sister a pleading look.
Geez, and I thought I was a drama queen, Luna said to herself as she stared at her sister. However, before she could call her sister out, the large chamber doors flew open, revealing Nightmare Moon and Discord.
"Do you two really have to do that with every door?" asked a slightly annoyed Celestia as she used her magic to fix the doors once again.
Nightmare nodded. "Yes, yes I do. You won't let me enter in my previous fashion."
"That's because your old fashion involved you entering a room with several lightning clouds and cackling like a mad mare," Celestia said, glaring at the midnight black Alicorn.
Nightmare shrugged. "My way had some royal flare."
"Yeah, but you're not royalty," Luna retorted
Nightmare glared at Luna, obviously not amused by her comment. "I was born from a piece of your mind, therefore I'm royalty," she finished with a smug smile.
Celestia chuckled. "She has a point sister. Though Nightmare, hurling lightning bolts around wildly as you enter a room is not going to help your public image."
"Fine then, if my way wasn't safe then why can't Discord go in his way? It didn't hurt anypony and didn't cause any damage."
"Yeah!" Discord said, crossing his arms. "My way had flare and comedic value."
"You didn't even enter through doors. Instead, you opened and doors went through you," Celestia said with a nauseous look on her face. “There was nothing funny about your entrance, it was just disturbing."
"Discord iz hertbrkn," he said as his color faded slightly.
"It's okay Discord, I thought it was funny," Nightmare said, patting him on the back.
Discord perked up and his colors returned. "Really, you really thought I was funny?"
"Nope," she said flatly. "In fact, I thought it was the single most disgusting and creepy thing I've ever had the misfortune of seeing." A look of honest disgust covering her face. "You split right down the center and all your little fleshy and chunky bits feel out. Then the door flew off its hinges and right between your two halves. You then proceeded to pick everything up and walked into the room like nothing had just happened."
Discord's smile quickly dissolved, along with the rest of his face.
"That's exactly what we mean!" shouted Celestia as she pointed at Discord’s now blank face. "It's just creepy." With a tap of her hoof, Discord's face returned in a golden flash. "So, what did you to need anyways?"
"Aw Celestia, such a party pooper," Discord said with a sly grin "and we're here for the same reason you are, food."
Celestia was confused. "Wait, Brass is picking food up for you guys as well?"
Discord and Nightmare nodded in unison.
"Saves us a trip if someone else is already going out," Nightmare said with a shrug. "Anyways, Discord wanted to try some real Canterlot food."
"Yeah!" Discord said, crossing his arms. "You made me stay inside the castle and eat all this hoity toity junk when you two are smuggling in finest junk food using your own guards."
As if on cue, there came a knock from the balcony door. All four of them were startled by the sudden sound. After a few seconds though, they realized what had made the sound. Outside the window stood the Pegasus guard Brass Beast. In his mouth he held four large white bags.
"Food!" shouted Luna as she dived off the bed and opened the door.
Before Brass knew what had happened he found himself pulled through the door. With a flash the bags he carried were transported from his mouth to the bed with Celestia.
"Okay then, lets see what we have here," she said as she read the label on each of the bags. "Two Hay Bacon and egg sandwiches and two shakes for Luna and I."
"There should be one Hay Bacon and egg sandwich and a shake in there for me too," interrupted Nightmare as she walked over to the bed and retrieved her bag.
"So that leaves this bag for you Discord." She eyed the bag for a second, trying to figure out what seemed off about it. After several seconds, she realized what had seemed off about it. "Discord, did you really order a foal’s meal?"
Discord's eyes began to shift around the room. "Maaaaybe."
"You remember that talk we had less than then five minutes ago about being creepy? Ordering a foal’s meal when you're as old as us is creepy," Celestia said, taking a sip from her drink.
"It was my only choice!" he said defensively. "When Nightmare told me what I could order, I told her I wanted Hay Nuggets. She told me the only way to get them was foal’s meals."
"Fine then I guess, that’s not so creepy," Celestia said as she floated the bag over to Discord.
Brass was about to shut the door as he made his way out of the room. However, Celestia noticed his escape attempt and pulled him back into the room with her magic.
"Brass, you know you're always welcome to eat with us," she said, pointing to the small white bags on his side.
Brass let out a chuckle. "Thank you Princess, but these are for Hammer and Forge." With that, he left the room, shutting the door behind himself.
"If those were for his friends, why did he have three bags?" Luna said with a laugh.
Discord was about to dig in when he noticed the label on the bag. "Burger Queen," he read aloud.
"Celestia, why does it have your picture in the logo?" he asked, staring at the image of Celestia holding a what appeared to be a Tofu Burger. "You're neither a Queen nor are you anything related to a burger," he finished, staring back up at her
Celestia let out a nervous chuckle. "Funny story you see, before Luna's return the Restaurant was called Burger Princess. The owner thought it would be good to use somepony famous to advertise their food so they used me," she finished, now staring at her own image. Boy do I look creepy, she thought to herself
"Why did they change the name?" asked Nightmare, having already finished most of her food.
Celestia chuckled once again. "Well you see, I got a little bored of being called ‘Princess’ Celestia. So I declared myself Queen of Equestria. I guess the owner changed the name to fit my new title. Sadly for him, I changed my title back after about a week. Now, no more questions, let's eat before I starve," she demanded as she ripped open the bag.
Several minutes later, the occupants of the room sat, stomachs filled and as bored as they were before. All except for Discord, who was still somewhat hungry. The Draconequus stuck his paw into the bag in hopes that maybe, just maybe a nugget had fallen out of its package. However he was surprised when his paw was met with not a nugget or empty space, but instead a solid object. He eagerly pulled it up from the depths of the bag.
"Why did nobody tell me it came with a surprise? I love surprises!" he said as his prize finally emerged from the abyss that was the foal’s meal bag.
"What is it? What is it!?" Luna shouted, overly excited, earning her a stare from everyone present. "What, I like surprises too," she muttered to herself.
"It's a game, Sneak Queen," he read aloud, staring at the case.
"What do you do in it?" asked Luna, intrigued by this new game.
Discord flipped the case over before reading the description aloud. "It says ‘The player takes control of Princess Celestia, the mascot for Burger Queen, attempting to sneak around and deliver Burger Queen meals to hungry ponies, whoever they may be.’" He laughed at the sheer absurdity of the game.
"Ha! Celestia sneaking around. Now that's something I'd love to see," Luna said, stifling another laugh.
"Surely ponies don't think I would actually do this, do they?" Celestia asked, reading over the back of the case. Where would somepony come up with this idea? she asked herself.
"Discord, I demand you let me play this game at once. I wish to see how ponies are portraying me," she ordered still staring at the case.
"Yes my Queen," The Draconequus said sarcastically. With a snap of his talons a large television and the Console he had kept hidden in his chambers appeared, landing in the center of the room.
Celestia wasn't quite sure where to begin. Sure, she and Luna had both used a T.V. before. Sometimes Luna and her would sneak out of morning or night court and watch a movie during the evenings, but video games were something completely new to her.
"So, what do I do?" she asked awkwardly, staring at the device in front of her.
With another snap of Discord’s talons everything was set. The Television screen turned on, as did the console.
"That's cheating," Celestia said as she picked up the controller and prepared herself.
As the screen began to fade in, many different logos flashed on screen, including the Burger Queen logo and the Equestrian Royal Flag. Eventually the screen was black once more except for the first the words Press Start To Begin.
"Press start? That should be easy," she said aloud, staring at the controller. A sudden feeling of dried filled her. None of the buttons were labeled start. Some were labeled A, B and another two were labeled with triangle and a square. Not wanting to be defeated by a foal’s toy, she decided to pick a button at random. After several seconds of careful thought she picked one of the smaller buttons near the top. Upon pressing it, Celestia was met with a satisfying ding signifying she had chosen correctly.
After several seconds of darkness the screen faded back in to what appeared to be a video of somepony’s backyard. After a few more seconds, what appeared to be Celestia climbed out of the bushes and began to creep towards the pony's house. However, after further inspection it became quite clear that what once the four had assumed to be Celestia was nothing more than a pony in a costume.
"And you said I was creepy," Discord said with a smug smile, though slightly horrified by the Celestia imposter on the screen.
The screen faded to black once again. However, it quickly faded back in, this time to a bright forest where ponies were ponies were collecting wood and replanting trees for construction in other towns.
"Hello," A voice rang out from within the T.V. "What a wonderful day, but sadly there are some hungry ponies in this Lumber mill," The voice said as the camera began to turn revealing many ponies working hard some looked quite hungry well others looked thirsty. "Luckily for these hungry ponies, you're Princess Celestia, here to bring them delicious snack food in their time of need, with flare of course." With that, the camera zoomed through the lumber mill before finally stopping over the back of the Celestia imposter.
The Game Begins
Celestia stood in the center of the middle of the Lumber mill. She looked around, trying to get a better feeling for her surroundings. She began to creep through the fields in search of hungry ponies as the voice had suggested earlier, though as she continued her search it became quite apparent that feeding hungry ponies would be a much harder task than she originally thought
"If you're having trouble find some ponies, why not check by the water tower," the voice rang out through the air.
How helpful, Celestia thought to herself. Maybe this voice will come in handy.
Taking the voice’s advice, Celestia did her best to find the water tower. Though once again, that was easier said than done. In her search for the water tower she managed to stumble into the cutting area which seemed far more unsafe than anything she'd seen so far.
"The water tower can be found in the furthest North portion of the mill," the voice rang out once again.
Once again the voice had saved her from defeat once again. Celestia quickly sped off towards the water tower, eager to help some hungry ponies. After a matter of seconds, she found herself surrounded by ponies of all type and colors.
"Now that you have found some hungry ponies, it's time to get to work." The voice cheerfully said. "Just remember, Ponies like it more when you surprise them."
It took Celestia only a few seconds to find her first target. A large earth stallion was attempting to cut down a tree. However due to hunger it looked like he was fighting a losing a battle. Celestia knew she could help this pony. All he needed was a Hay BLT and she was just the Princess to give him it.
Celestia surveyed the area carefully. If she wanted to do this properly, she would have to sneak up on him. As everypony knows, there is no surprise if somepony sees it coming. After watching her target’s routine for several minutes she soon figured out his pattern. The stallion would attempt to cut down the tree, but after several attempts he would give up and take a rest. That was the moment she would have to strike.
The pony had once again taken up his position attempting to the defeat the same tree, Celestia used this short distraction to gain some ground, quickly diving into a bush when the stallion turned around.
That was close, she thought to herself.
The stallion stood up once again and gave his ax a few more swings before dropping it. He then trotted over to the bench and sat down, facing the forest.
This is it, Celesta told herself. Strike now or never
Celestia made her way towards the stallion as quickly and as quietly as possible. She was surprised at how agile she was. The stallion never saw her coming. She made her way up to bench without so much as snapping a twig. With a grin she tapped the stallion on the shoulder. At first Celestia was worried. Judging by the stallion’s reaction she hadn't surprised him. Instead, she only managed to scare the poor pony, though after several seconds he seemed to warm up to her. Though her handing him a hot sandwich probably helped. After giving the pony a small jig she dived back into the bush.
Mission Complete
Game Paused
"Ha! I think I did great." Celestia said as a large smile spread across her face.
Discord, the only other who remained awake was quite stunned. He wasn't sure if they should laugh or feel disturbed. He had just witnessed the most regal creature in all of Equestria sneak up on a pony in order to give him a Sandwich. Sure, it was only a video game, but in the end Celestia was the one still playing it.
"Geez, and you guys say I'm random," Discord said, staring at the screen blankly.
The sudden voice surprised Celestia. She had completely forgotten she wasn't alone in her room.
Celestia let out a nervous chuckle. "So, does anypony else want to give it a try?" she said, turning to offer the controller to anypony who wanted it.
It was only then that Celestia noticed both Nightmare and Luna had succumbed to fatigue. Luna was now sprawled across Celestia's bed snoring quite loudly. Nightmare had fallen asleep on the floor with her head resting on Discords back.
She let out another awkward chuckle. "Do you want to try?" she asked, trying to pass the controller to Discord.
He just shook his head. "I might be insane, but I'm not that insane."
"Okay then, I guess I'll help one more pony and then we'll get these two to their rooms," she finished, pointing at the sleeping Alicorns.
"Sounds like a good idea," answered Discord, already beginning to drift off.
Game unpaused
"Good," the voice said. "You've delivered your first delicious meal and helped an innocent pony. However, now it's time to start the real work." With that the camera shifted from Celestia's back and flew through the air, eventually coming to a stop in front of a large orange stallion. "This is Mr.Trav, the captain of this camp. He's not impressed by simple surprises, so you'll have to be a little more creative."
What's so special about him? Celestia thought to herself. Surely the thought of me delivering his found should be a big enough surprise.
Once again, Celestia watched the stallion’s routine and once again she was able to formulate a plan. However this stallion wouldn't be so easy. At first he spent several minutes yelling at other ponies trying to make them work harder. Eventually though, he would return to his office and rummage through his locker for a few minutes before returning to yell at those poor ponies.
Celestia was unsure why this pony deserved free food, yet the poor ponies who he yelled at got nothing, though she would get to them tomorrow. Right now however, all she wanted to do was get this over with and go to sleep.
She prepared herself for the attack, once the stallion began his verbal assault on his coworkers, she began her creep towards his office. Once he had finished yelling and returned to his office, Celestia changed her position to greet him at the door. After what seemed like ages the Captain finally made his way back to the poor working ponies outside. Though now Celestia was in position, the moment he opened the door Celestia raised the plate holding the Sandwich in front of him. Sadly this only caused him to grow angry, shouting at Celestia and demanding she leave him and his workers alone.
"Mission Failed," came the mocking sound of the voice "Next time try hiding to truly catch you target by surprise."
Hiding? she said to herself That might just work.
Already knowing the stallion’s routine and having already made this approach before, it only took Celestia a couple of seconds to move back into position. However, instead of waiting for him at the door, she waited for him to leave his office completely. Once she was sure he was out of view, Celestia made her way into the office and towards the lockers.
"There's no way I can fit in there!" she said aloud.
"Whats the problem Celestia is you virtual flank to big?" Discord asked mockingly.
"Didn’t you go to bed or something?" Celestia answered with a glare that Discord could almost feel attempting to kill him.
Discord stood up carefully, so as not to drop Nightmare too suddenly, lest he wake the sleeping beast. "Fine, I'll go to bed. Can't be anymore boring than watching you to try to get your big flank in a locker," he said with a grin
Before Celestia could send him to the moon or turn him back to stone or something equally horrible, Discord vanished with a snap of his talons, taking both Nightmare Moon and Luna with him.
"Don't worry, I'll get you later," she muttered to herself, before resuming the game.
"Okay now Celly, you can do this," she said, trying to psych herself up.
After what seemed like hours but in reality was merely seconds Celestia had managed to get herself in the locker. Though she had by no means wiggle room, it would have to suffice. She listened closely, waiting for the approaching sounds of hoofsteps. Eventually her patience was rewarded by the sound of the captain returning to his locker once again.
"Boo!" she shouted as the stallion opened the door. Once again she was worried by the pony's terrified reaction. However, this time her fears were justified as instead of his fear quickly dissolving into joy, he fainted, hitting the floor with a loud thud. Celestia quickly looked around the room. Grateful that nopony had seen what she had done, she placed the Sandwich by the pony's face before making an extremely fast exit through the nearest opening.
"Mission Accomplished, I guess," The voice cheered.
Game Complete
Celestia had felt pleased with herself, she helped not only one, but two ponies. Even if both of them were virtual it still made her feel good to know that she had helped them. Now though, there was only one thing that she wanted to do, sleep. She did her best to make it to her bed, but fatigue had won the war before the first battle had even begun. Celestia embraced the cold floor as she drifted off to sleep
The next morning at breakfast
"Discord, do you mind sneaking us some cereal from the pantry," asked a still groggy Luna.
Discord nodded lazily before slowly trudging his way out of the dining room. It took him several minutes but he eventually remembered where the kitchen was located. Once inside the kitchen it took surprisingly little effort to get Flambe to let him into the pantry, though Discord was too tired to question this. Discord made his way to the pantry door and began to open it. Sadly for him he was too tired to notice any signs of the trap.
"Boo!" Celestia shouted, laughing as Discord fell to the ground, a look of terror frozen on his face. Almost as if he had been to turned to stone. Though, it probably had something to do with that fact that Celestia had turned him to stone.
"Don't worry, I'll come back and get you later," she said with a grin, before heading out of the kitchen, doing her best to making sure he got the best possible view of her "Big Flank."
(Closing Author note: It's 3:30am my eye's are burning and my head hurts I love all you peoples but I'm going to bed now )
A Nightmare to Forget (Moony)
{Author Note: I'm sorry for having a weaker chapter than normal. I'm also sorry for such a long delay in new chapters. I wrote this in an attempt to break my writer’s blocks }
"Play this game they, it'll be fun they said. This is why I hate everyone." The black Alicorn muttered to herself as she hid behind a stack of small boxes. The monstrous pony like creature tearing the room apart, in its desperate search to find her. Nightmare was quickly becoming aware that this game wasn't just nice dark scenery and cheerful music.
"Hide and seek, hide and seek" came the distorted voice of the creature, the sound of its cries sending a shiver down Nightmares spine.
"Okay its blind" Nightmare said staring at the creature, were its eyes once were, there was now only black pits. Its lower jaw was missing yet it still managed to speak. "So, all I have to do is move silently and I can get away from it."
Slowly Nightmare stood up making sure not to cause even the slightest bit of noise, sadly even her virtual flank was apparently larger than she had thought. She could only watch in completely horrors as box atop the stack began it’s loud decent to the bottom slowly coming to a stop in front of the creature's feet.
"Found you!" it growled with sickening glee
Nightmare sat in shock as the creature approached broke into a limping sprint
"Oh fu-" Two hours earlier
The sun had just set over Equestria and the moon had taken its place as the rightful ruler of the night. The creatures of Equestria had begun their usual routines before they packed it in for the night. The Streets of Canterlot were one of the few exceptions to this almost clockwork schedule. The streets were still alive with ponies and griffins alike as they all enjoyed the wonderful night brought by the lunar goddess.
Meanwhile in Canterlot Castle, The other half of the night was finally beginning to relax. The horrific events of the day slowly shifting to the back of her minds and yet she continued to snap back to those horrific hours.
Once again Nightmare Moon had found herself on the battle field; it had been a thousand years since she had taken part in combat as glorious as the battle that had occurred inside the castle library. Discord had claimed the eastern wing along with the traitorous Princess Luna. Nightmare found herself surprisingly allied with Celestia. Luna and Discord had fought valiantly however they were easily slaughtered by the combined powers of pure dusk and dawn.
Book forts are serious business.
Nightmare was abruptly knocked back into reality, as she was pelted with an apple. Casting a glare to her attacker she felt a tinge of glee as she looked at the bandaged Luna. During the battle of the previous afternoon, Luna had sought to attempt a sneak attack, However dropping a bookshelf onto her, thwarted any plans. Sure she didn’t enjoy inflicting pain on Luna, as she enjoyed inflicting it on Celestia or Discord, but all is fair in love and war.
“Do you require something?” Nightmare asked doing the best to suppress her anger from the apple strike.
“Oh no, I was hoping we could just talk, you’re normally so silent during our meals and tonight I find you are my only companion.”
Nightmare was surprised by the request; normally a request from either Luna or Celestia had a catch to it, that usually ended in her severely injured and quite a few times she found herself dead.
“Very well, I see no reason why we cannot converse during our meal. What exactly is it that you wish to discuss?”
Luna shrugged as she prodded her salad with a fork
“Well we haven’t really “talked” since you were still stuck in my head, and every other time we get a chance to talk it seems something extremely stupid or ridiculous is happening within the castle.”
“You can say that again.” Nightmare said with a groan as she took a bite of the apple, it had hurt her head, so she ended it existence. “But what exactly do you want to talk about?” She asked
“Have you found you’re self a hobby yet?” Asked the cheerful Lunar Princess
“You’re kidding, right?” scoffed Nightmare “Between dealing with you three and all the tasks you’ve given me, I don’t have the time to have a hobby.”
Luna thought about Nightmares response. Celestia and Luna had indeed been giving Nightmare a very large portion of work. However, it was not without reason, they needed to be sure Nightmare was willing to take the opportunity that had been given to her and so far she had proven herself quite well.
One of Luna’s personal favourite accomplishments of Nightmare’s was a peace treaty between Equestria and the “Griffin Nation” Many creatures across Equestria refuse to accept Celestia and Luna as the leaders of the planet that is Equestria and many attempt to start their own nations. Something that both of them completely encourage, it was nice to see their children take charge of the world they live in.
However, the “Griffin Nation” had deemed themselves better than the rest of the griffins and refused to acknowledge any griffin that follow Celestia or Luna as their equals and had begun attacking the smaller griffin villages. After several attempts to contact them, Celestia had managed to call set up a meeting to discuss a possible agreement.
Their leader had waltzed into the castle the day before the planned meeting demanding that their terms be met or they’d lay siege to Canterlot Castle. However, the poor idiot stormed the wrong room and managed to wake Nightmare from her sleep. Though Luna had not actually seen what occurred she heard the explosion. Within the two days that followed “Griffin Nation” had declared peace with Equestria and deemed Nightmare their Goddess of War.
“That’s my favourite flash back as well.” Nightmare said with a chuckle
“Hey!” Luna shouted accusingly “When I took you out of my head, I expected you to stay out of it.”
“Fine, but if you really want to know what happened I could tell you.” Nightmare said with a wicked grin “That poor foal didn’t stand a chance.”
“That won’t be necessary, it seems my little flash back used up all the time we had. I have to get to my royal duties.” She said as she returned her crown to the top of her head.
“Do you not mean, “We” have to get to our royal duties?” Asked the curious mare
Luna shook her head “No, you’ll be taking the night off, head back to your room I’ve got a little surprise for you.”
“Hey if I’m doing anything wrong you need to tell me, I can’t help you two if I’m not told when I make a mistake.” Nightmare said with a growl as she stood up from her seat “I’m just as capable as you.”
“I know you are” Luna said with a smile as she magicked their plates away. “This night off isn’t some form of punishment, it’s something you’ve earned. Now don’t try to argue with me, technically I’m older than you, so you have to listen to me.” With a flare of her horn both Nightmare and she were sent on their way.
Nightmare once again found herself her room, shifting her gaze around the room she was able to see that her disguise spell was still activate, the walls remained black and all her things remained hidden from any intruders view.
With a flare of her own horn the spell was released and the once black walls returned to their pink colors the once empty walls were replaced with shelves and several paintings of different areas of Equestria. However there was something odd about the room.
Originally there were only two doors in room, the obvious one leading to her room and one leading to her balcony. However, now there was a third one that sat by her bed. Cautiously Nightmare pulled the door open and was greeted by a familiar sight.
Luna’s gaming room, during the short time they shared a mind back in Equestria. Luna had become quite addicted with “Video games” she had even gone so far as to create a small void in time and space where she could play in peace. It seemed now that Luna had wanted her to do the same thing.
Nightmare slowly approached the large set up, large Television sat on the middle of the desk. Nightmare chuckled, a Television, such a strange device. It allowed ponies to witness event that happened in the past and some that had never even occurred and if she remembered correctly, it served as display unit for Luna’s games. Nightmare took a seat in the large cushioned throne. Upon closer inspection she came across a note.
“Dear Moony
I’m sure you remember this room; we did spend a good portion of our time back in Equestria here. If I recall correctly you enjoyed horror games, I recently stumbled upon one that is even too much for me, though given your darker nature I’m sure you’ll be able to find some joy in it.
Do not worry about the technical aspects of the game, I already set up the entire system all you have to do is press the button on bottom of the TV and pick up the controller that sat on top of the note. I trust you remember the basic controls.
Good luck
Sincerely Luna”
Nightmare was able to spot the small on button at the base of the TV and with a blinding flash of light the Television sprang to light, allowing Nightmare to begin the game.
“Amnesia: The Dark Decent” She read the title aloud “That doesn’t sound too spooky.” Picking up the controller Nightmare gave a smile, though she had never played a game herself, it felt natural and with very little trouble she began the game.
Let the Game Begin
Nightmare staggered down the large stone halls, her vision blurred and her path dark she continued to lose herself in the darkness. Slowly she could feel her memories slip away as her consciousness went with it.
"Don't forget.... Something mustn't be forgotten." the muttered to herself as she clumsy stumbled through the halls. "The shadow is hunting me.... I must hurry. My name is Dusk Star, at...at Hayfair." Blurted Nightmare as she lost track of time once again.
"What have I done? This is crazy. Don't forget, don't forget. I must stop him. Focus, my name is.... I am.. Dusk." with that Nightmare collapsed to the ground
Several hours past and eventually life returned to the unconscious pony.
Wow, it's only been two minutes and I've already seen more darkness than game it’s a good thing he didn't bother to tell me what I had to do before he passed out. Nightmare told herself sarcastically
Slowly Nightmare climbed back to her hooves as she glanced around the room, she had no knowledge of where she was or why she was here, the only thing obvious was the fact that she was inside some form of castle.
*Boom*
The crack of thunder sent Nightmare's heart into overdrive as she quickly fled from the large loft like area into a small hallway.
Okay calm done there moon, it's just some lightning in a video games, we're not a scared little foal.
Nightmare slowly started to make her way down the hall. Without any warning the wooden door to her left shot open, stopping Nightmare dead in her tracks
Nope Nope Nope
Quickly she darted down the hall past the door doing her best to avoid any more possible scares. However, she once again found herself on the ground as a roar shook the halls and sent her to the floor in fear. After several minutes of working her nerves back up Nightmare had managed to work up the courage to continue down the path.
After traversing the halls for several minutes she was eventually able to stumble upon a useable lantern, however the oil inside was quite low.
Good I'll save this for the darker areas
After several more minutes of searching around she was able to find a crumpled up piece of paper, slowly she unrolled it and began to read.
19th of August, 1839.
I wish I could ask you how much you remember. I don't know if there will be anything left after I consume this drink.
Don't be afraid Dusk. I can't tell you why, but know this..I choose to forget. Try to find comfort and strength in that fact. There is a purpose, you are my final effort to put things right.
Celestia willing, the name Silver Hoof of Brennenburg still invokes bitter anger in you. If not, this will sound horrible.
Go to the Inner Sanctum, find Silver and kill him. His body is old and weak, and yours, young and strong. He will be no match for you. One last thing. A Shadow is following you. It's a living nightmare, breaking down reality. I have tried everything, and there is no way to fight back. You need to escape it as long as you can. 'Redeem us both Dusk. Descend into the darkness where Silver waits and murder him.
Your former self,
Dusk.
This Darkness sounds like my kind of thing
Several Hours later
You know what darkness? I hate you; in fact I'm going to bring about eternal day, just so I never have to deal with you. Hissed the angry mare of darkness
Nightmare had been slowly progressing her way through Brennenburg castle, slowly finding pieces of her old self in the form notes scattered throughout the castle. Slowly making progress through the stone halls in a search for any surviving members.
So far she had learned that the darkness was a complete donkey that only enjoyed opening doors and blowing out her candles other than that, there appeared to be no actual threats. This revelation had served to put her nerve to rest
However, this sense of safety was quickly shattered as the wooden door the room was assaulted by an unseen force in a moment of utter panic Nightmare quickly darted behind a small stack of boxes that stood in the corner of the room. With one final mighty swing the door gave way, revealing a creature of utter disgust.
"I know you're here" Hissed the creature as he began to destroy the room, the closet being his first victim.
Play this game they said, it'll be fun they said. This is why I hate everyone. The black Alicorn muttered to herself as she hid behind her stack of small boxes. The monstrous pony like creature tearing the room apart, in its desperate search to find her. Nightmare was quickly becoming aware that this game wasn't just nice dark scenery and cheerful music.
"Hide and seek, hide and seek" came the distorted voice of the creature, the sound of its cries sending a shiver down Nightmares spine.
Okay its blind Nightmare said staring at the creature, were its eyes once were, there was now only black pits. Its lower jaw was missing yet it still managed to speak. So, all I have to do is move silently and I can get away from it.
Slowly Nightmare stood up making sure not to cause even the slightest bit of noise, sadly even her virtual flank was apparently larger than she had thought. She could only watch in completely horrors as box atop the stack began it’s loud decent to the bottom slowly coming to a stop in front of the creature's feet.
"Found you!" it growled with sickening glee
Nightmare sat in shock as the creature approached and broke into a limping sprint
"Oh fu-" Nightmare bolted.
For a blind creature he's really good a following me She mentally screamed at herself
Nightmare did her best to lose the creature quickly following the winding hallways and stairwell in a blind attempt to get away. Several minutes of running later Nightmare was finally sure she had gotten away. She turned around and there he was.
Game Over
Nightmare screamed and in a blind panic she blasted the Television leaving her in utter darkness. Slowly her horn sparked to life as she casted a basic lighting spell. Painting she did her best to calm down.
"You shouldn't have done that." came a distorted voice of the creature voice from behind her. She didn't even turn to see its source with a blinding flare of her horn she was gone.
Leaving only an angry Princess Luna "Serves you right" she muttered to herself. "Who blasts someone’s computer?! Though I wonder where she went."
Meanwhile on the moon
Nightmare laid curled up in a ball, they couldn't find her here. This was her home and they had no way to find her. However, she would not let down her guard.
"They won't get me" she told herself as she continued to pet her tail.
The Next Evening
Nightmare had finally returned from her self-imposed vacation to the moon.
She sat in her bed, she couldn't sleep, and if she slept they'd probably strike. No, she'd wait for them and when the time comes she'd strike. A tingle of fear shot down her spine as the sound of approaching hoof steps echoed down the halls she was ready for this she told herself, she was the queen of darkness and she wouldn't be scared of some monster.
"Hello?" rang the regal voice of Celestia as she slowly opened the door. "Nightmare? Hello?" She repeated as she entered the room. At first glance it appeared the room was vacant. However, upon closer inspection she could see the small wisps of ethereal magic slipping out of the closet it door.
"Nightmare? Are you in there?" Asked the concerned Sun Goddess
"Ye..Yeah" came the stuttered response of Nightmare
"Are you okay? Why are you in the closet?"
"I'm trying out a new sleeping position one of the guards recommended"
"Are you sure? Why don't you just sleep in your bed? is it not to your liking? I can have them send you a new one."
"No it’s all right; I'm just trying this out for tonight"
"Okay I'll leave you to your rest then."
'"W..w..wait." stammered the mare of darkness
"Yes Nightmare?"
"Could you um... Could you please leave the light on?"
"Okay" Answered Celestia as she exited the room making sure to leave the light on.
Celestia pulled her head out of the room as she slowly shut the large wooden door and turned to face her sister who had been listening in on most of the conversation.
"Good job, you managed to break her." Celestia said as she glaring at her younger sister
"How was I supposed to know without me she's apparently a chicken? Don't worry sister, I can fix this."
With a bit of focus, Luna focused her magic into a single spell which she released on the chamber doors.
"What did you do?" Asked the curious Sun Goddess as she peaked into the room. Darkness had engulfed the room, flipping the switching the lights on revealed that the mare of darkness was now in her bed and no longer in a state of hiding.
"I sent the entire room back two days, she has no memories of the events of the last 2 days."
Celestia paused "So, after her Dark Decent, you gave her Amnesia?"
Luna gave a chuckle and shrugged "When you've got godly powers it's good to abuse them every now and again. It helps keep the mortals in check."
