What Happened When He Diedby Lady SpiderChaptersPrologue: The Good Die YoungSide EffectsA Change from the UsualLife is a Storm and I'm Riding the WavesEpilogue: Friends ForeverPrologue: The Good Die YoungChapter One The Good Die Young -12 Years Ago- “Have fun!” I trembled. My mother had just dropped me off at school for the first time. I looked into Miss Cheerilee’s room. Excited earth ponies and pegasi were walking around, taking seats, and chattering happily. My eyes grew wide as I realized I was the only unicorn in the class. I breathed deeply. Okay, Easel. You can do this. I trotted lightly into the classroom, glancing around fearfully. Somepony started giggling and I got nervous, starting to walk a little slower. My mane fell slightly, hiding my face. I went to take a seat, and a pink pegasus with a deep purple mane quickly sat down and sneered at me. Hot with shyness, I smiled sheepishly and turned to take a different desk. A yellow earth filly with a bright blue mane stole the seat and sneered at me as well. Everytime I turned to a chair, somepony sat in it. Then the names started. “Hornhead!” scoffed the pink pegasus. The room burst out laughing. Somepony else called out “Pokey!” I felt tears rising. A hoof gently touched my shoulder, causing me to jump. A smiling pale orange colt with a blonde mane that had one green streak was standing next to me. Instantly, the laughter stopped. The others looked at the colt with a look of fondness and respect. “Hi!” He greeted cheerfully. “I’m Sprint Pass. What’s your name?” I stared at him, forgetting my name for a moment. This was so different from the name calling and seat stealing that I had just been treated to. “Um... Easel...” Sprint beamed at me. “Well, hello Easel! Come sit next to me!” “O-okay.” I followed the happy colt to the back row of seats, trying to ignore the glare the pink pegasus was throwing my way. I sat next to Sprint and smiled involuntarily. His smile was contagious. My smile faltered for a moment, as I spotted the pink pegasus whisper something to the yellow earth pony. Miss Cheerilee entered. “Good morning class!” She sang. “Good morning Miss Cheerilee.” We chanted back. “I am so very lucky to have such a full class this year. How about we go through everypony’s names?” She then pointed at each of us, letting us say our names. The pink pegasus and yellow filly’s names, I made sure to remember: Dressa Randy and Linia Glittereyes. The embarrassing events of the morning were nearly forgotten. Miss Cheerilee was a wonderful teacher, and Sprint helped me with my letters. The time flew by quickly and soon Miss Cheerilee announced recess. Everypony scrambled out to the playground except me. I was determined to learn my “b” from my “d”. Eventually, I could tell them apart, and I proudly made my way to the playground. “Hornhead.” The snickers went through the yard like a wave. “Pokey.” “Weasel.” “Hornhead.” Dressa and Linia were standing in front of me with wide smiles on their faces. I shrank a little. The rest of my peers were scattered behind them, watching and laughing at my discomfort. “Why don’t you go home, Weasel?” Dressa sneered. “We don’t need any hornheads like you here.” I cowered, tears forming in my eyes. I didn’t understand why they had to make fun of me. A pony appeared behind Dressa. Her ears pricked up and she turned. Sprint was standing behind Dressa with a slightly irritated look on his face. “Dressa. I’ll tell Aunt you’re causing trouble.” Dressa flushed scarlet and stumbled back. Sprint trotted up to me and his smile returned to his face. “Don’t mind my cousin...” He hugged me. “Wanna play some soccer?” Three years of school passed like this. The summers I would spend playing soccer with Sprint. He was the first to get his cutie mark: a soccer ball, no surprise. The fourth year of school started the same as the past three. But it ended much differently . -8 Years Ago- The beginning of the year started as any other although there was not as much name calling with Sprint hanging out with me so often. “Hey Easel!” I turned, grinning. Sprint was running up to me, Celestia knows he never walked if he didn’t have to, with his huge happy smile on his face. We had spent all summer together playing soccer in the field, but we still got excited to see each other. “Hey Sprint.” I was still a quieter pony. The little orange colt reached me and started giggling. “I showed Miss Cheerilee my cutie mark and she was so happy for me!” During one of the soccer matches that summer, Sprint had performed this super kick and not only won, but earned his cutie mark too: a little soccer ball in front of a sun. “That’s great!” The bell rang and we dashed into the schoolroom, still giggling. Our class hadn’t changed much since the first year. A few new ponies had joined, and one colt from our class had moved to Manehatten, but other than that, the same ponies we started with still made our entire class. Linia and Dressa sneered at me as I entered, of course, but I simply ignored them. Sprint wouldn’t let them say anything to me. He was like a protector in that sort of way. Miss Cheerilee smiled at the class. “Good morning class! Welcome back!” “Good morning, Miss Cheerilee!” We chanted. Everypony loved Miss Cheerliee. Our teacher smiled at us and turned to the board. “Alright, to start the year off we are going to learn...” Next to me, Sprint collapsed. At first I thought he was joking around, but then he didn’t respond to my calling. “Sprint... Sprint...” I hissed. No response. “Miss Cheerilee! I think Sprint is sick!” Miss Cheerilee paused in her talking. “Sprint?” When he didn’t respond to her, she sent us out. “Alright, everypony go play. I’ll talk to Sprint for a few moments.” Everypony walked out slowly, whispering amongst each other. Even Linia and Dressa lost their airs and looked worried, almost scared. I sat for an extra moment, watching Miss Cheerilee walk toward Sprint, then got up and stepped outside. I didn’t want to be away from Sprint. Somehow I felt responsible. I was sitting next to him after all... The playground was covered in muted whispers. No one screamed or ran or played. We all stood around wondering what was happening. Somepony came to the front of the schoolhouse and a little red mare went over to see who it was. “It’s the hospital ponies.” She whispered when she came back. The murmurs picked up again. I was scared. Why were hospital ponies here? Sprint was never sick. Hoofsteps entered and left the building multiple times before Miss Cheerilee came out. Her smile was there but there didn’t seem to be anything behind it. “Come along! The lesson can resume!” She said, sounding as if she were trying to be enthusiastic. We filed into the schoolroom slowly. Sprint was gone and so were the hospital ponies. “Where’s Sprint?” somepony asked. Miss Cheerilee’s smile disappeared. “He’s sick. The hospital took him in. He should be himself again come tomorrow! Don’t you worry.” For some reason, none of us believed her. Although I wanted to. Sprint was a strong colt. The lesson continued, quietly if nothing else. The day ended and hardly anypony had said a word, except for Miss Cheerilee and her lesson. We walked slowly out of the building and off our separate ways. All alone, I dragged my hooves down the road. Alone was not a new feeling to me although it had been years since I had last been alone. Sprint was always by my side. “Mom... I’m home...” I trudged into my house. My mother was somewhere upstairs. Her voice shouted down to me but lacked the usual sharpness. “Hey, your grandmother is waiting for you over at the hospital. I’d head over quickly if I were you.” I froze for a minute. The hospital? My school bag dropped to the floor and I dashed back out the door. The run to the hospital was fairly short but seemed longer due to my anxiety. I galloped into the hospital doors, letting them bang behind me. My grandmother, a sweet pale yellow mare with a faded green mane, was standing next to the check-in desk. “Grandmother? What’s going on?” I trotted up to her. Her face was pale. “Easel, dear, Sprint is very sick.” I stared blankly at her. I mean, no duh. I figured that out. “I guessed that...” She stepped away from the counter and looked me intently in the eye. “Easel. Sprint is very seriously sick. He’s going to be out of school for a very long time.” Every muscle inside me froze. Out of school? I trembled. School wouldn’t be fun without him. “When will he come back?” Grandmother shook her head. “We don’t know, dear. The Pass Family doesn’t have a lot of money to pay for his medical bills.” I thought for a moment. My filly brain was conjuring up ways to help my only friend. “Why don’t they just raise money?” Grandmother smiled a little. “If only it was that easy, little one. Mr and Mrs Pass have to work all day. When would they ever have time to hold fundraisers or benefits for him?” I frowned. “Grandmother. You and I don’t do anything. I just go to school. We could raise money.” Even the secretary at the desk smiled at that. Grandmother scratched her mane for a moment. “Well... how would we do that then?” This I had no answer for. Then I caught sight of Grandmother’s blue beaded bracelet. “I know! They make little charms with specially made names cut into them. We could make bracelets that say Sprint on them!” Grandmother considered for a moment. “Well now. That’s a brilliant idea. Let me talk to Mr and Mrs Pass about it when they come downstairs okay?” I bounced happily. “Can I see him, Grandmother?” Grandmother sighed. “He’s resting now. How about you come see him tomorrow right after school?” I nodded, slightly put out and turned to leave the hospital. That night I thought endlessly about my friend. I do hope Sprint will be alright. The very next day, after I chatted with Sprint for a half an hour about the latest soccer game, Grandmother and I began making bracelets. We named them “Sprint Bracelets” and sold them as a fundraiser to help pay for Sprint’s medical bills. Not only that, but the school and local shops held their own benefits and fundraisers. The Pass Family was very grateful for the generous help the village was giving them. This went on for almost a year. I would visit Sprint after school for a half an hour, (stupid hospital visiting rules), then go help the most recent fundraiser or make bracelets with Grandmother. Without Sprint, school was a place of torture with endless name calling and pointless rude comments. Seeing him was the only bright part of my day. Over time, I noticed changes. With each visit, Sprint seemed to grow duller. His coat grew darker and his mane became disheveled. His features became blotchy and swelled in size. Despite this, his eyes still held the same twinkle and he maintained his cheerful personality. One day, almost an entire year later, the hospital refused to allow me to see Sprint. I threw a fit until I learned why. He had died. Side EffectsChapter Two Side Effects -Present Day- It’s been eight years. I rolled over in my half-asleep state. Eight years. And you still have the same dream over and over, you stupid mare. The blanket had slid off my leg. I sleepily pulled it back up. He isn’t coming back. You can’t bring him back. You stupid mare. He’s there. I can see him: his soft pale orange coat, his slightly shaggy blonde mane and tail with that one little green streak. His beautiful, twinkling, big brown eyes. And his smile. Oh, his smile. I groaned and rolled over again. Near, far, wherever you are, I believe that the heart does go on... Once more, you open the door, and you’re here in my heart and my heart will go on and on... “No...” I moaned. His voice... It sang to me... I was falling asleep again... You’re here, there’s nothing I fear, and I know that my heart will go on, we’ll stay forever this way, you are safe in my heart, and my heart will go on and on... I sat straight up, gasping. My heavy breath was all I could hear. His voice was gone. I fell back into my bed and groaned. Every night for eight years had been like this. I glanced at my alarm clock. Only five minutes before it went off anyway. I flipped the alarm to off and rolled out of bed. The floor was cold, making me almost hop over to my desk and mirror. The glass was cracked from the top of the left corner down to the bottom right corner. I had blasted it with magic one night in anger. I hated my reflection. Why am I still here and he isn’t? A photograph sat tucked into the corner of the mirror frame. I picked it up with my magic and looked at it dully. It was me and him. We were standing in front of the soccer field. He loved soccer. He fit in so well on that field. He had one hoof on a soccer ball and the other around my shoulder. He was so confident and smiling, as if he was the sun itself. I just stood shyly next to him, smiling in my own little way. I was so plain next to him. Yet we went together so well. He loved soccer and I loved... I shook my head and placed the photo back where it came from. I trotted into my bathroom and brushed through my mane. The curls from my filly years were gone, and my mane now fell flat and silky against my face and neck. He had often commented on how much he liked my curls... Now they were gone. Just like him. I sighed again and threw the brush at the bathtub. It clanked against the tiles and knocked into the rose scented shampoo, before clattering into the bottom of the tub and lying still. He liked smelling the roses... “BUCK IT! JUST BUCK IT!” I screamed and fell backwards against the wall. Tears streamed down my face. I don’t know how long I sat there and cried. I hadn’t cried so much since his passing. Time was slipping by without me. While I sat and mourned the only thing I had ever loved, time was moving on. I did love him. “No, that’s stupid. He was just a friend. We were so young.” But I did love him. I lifted my head and stared at the ceiling. You stupid mare. What does age have to do with anything? Love knows no limits. Why didn’t I tell him? “Why didn’t I tell him?” More tears splashed to the floor. “I didn’t know. I didn’t know...” What was the last thing I said to him? Last thing I did? My mind went blank. … “…” What should I have said to him? That was enough for one morning. As if something had clicked in my mind, all emotion was wiped from my face, leaving me with a blank, distant stare. I rose from the floor, washed my face clear of tears, and left. Going outside was difficult for me. All my peers had grown up and gotten jobs around Ponyville. It was at a point where I couldn’t go out onto my front step without seeing someone who gave me a bad memory. Thus, I found staring at the ground a wonderful antidote for such a dilemma. Today I only needed to get some paint in Ponyville. Then I could return to my hermit like house. I hated being in town. So many ponies looked at me strangely. I wandered into the town, keeping my eyes down. Ponies were walking all around me and chattering away. Several nearly bumped into me. Eventually I made it the the little art shop. The door was shut with a closed sign. I sighed. Now I would have to leave my house again tomorrow. I turned and walked toward home. No one ever remembers. What ponies don’t want to remember, they won’t. It’s just that simple. Everypony makes fun of me for having a short term memory. Yet if you ask any of them what happened eight years ago, they’ll just look at you funny. I remember. I remember everything… Please... ask me... make me tell you everything... I turned sharply around the next building... … and ran right into a stallion walking along to road. “I’m sorry.” I said roughly without meaning it, as I picked myself up out of the dust. My eyes fell on him and my cold exterior faltered a moment. He was grey-blue with a black and bright green mane. His cutie mark was a bass clef with a set of headphones around it. He shook dust from his coat and looked at me. His eyes were like twinkling blue diamonds. “It’s fine.” He said, smiling. Then he squinted at me. “I know almost everypony in Ponyville now. I’ve only been here a week, but I don’t believe I’ve met you yet.” I felt a slight blush come to my cheeks. “Oh, I’m Easel Inkwell.” “Storm Half-Note.” Storm eyed my expression. I’m sure it was a mixture of hunger and a lack of composure that rarely showed itself on my face. “Would you like to get something to eat?” He nodded toward Sweet Apple Acres. “The Apple family invited me to lunch.” I smiled slightly. “Well...” I caught my smile and erased it quickly. I had never met any of the Apple family... “I suppose...” Storm looked puzzled at my sudden change of expression but didn’t comment. We turned and walked towards the ever famous Sweet Apple Acres. I tried not to look at Storm. Whenever I did, I got a funny tingly feeling in my chest. I remained silent the whole time, listening to Storm try to engage me in conversations: the weather, music, the Wonderbolts, the Gala, my cutie mark... Eventually we reached Sweet Apple Acres. An orange mare with a blonde mane and a stetson was waiting for us. A little yellow filly with a red mane and a big bow was bouncing up and down around her. The sight of the orange mare made me freeze. She looked like a female version of Sprint without the green streak. Storm glanced back startled. “Is something wrong?” I shook my head and cleared my face of any expression that might have been there. “No, no, everything is fine.” Storm looked unconvinced but smiled as we approached the two ponies. “Well howdy! Brought along a new friend I see!” The orange mare called out, smiling. She had a major southern twang. It was kind of funny. Storm nodded his head toward me. “Yep. This is Easel. Ran into her in Ponyville and thought she’d like to tag along.” I stood beside the stallion awkwardly. I was definitely not used to being around other friendly ponies. “Ah’m Applejack and this here’s Applebloom.” Applejack began walking towards the big red barn a few yards away. “Come on then! Food’s still hot!” The filly, Applebloom, cheered happily and ran off into the barn as we trotted behind her. Storm and Applejack chatted idly behind me. The area seemed friendly. Trees were everywhere and the entire place smelled sweetly of apples. Applebloom disappeared into the barn. I stopped a few feet away. I could hear ponies talking inside. Applejack and Storm reached me. Applejack finished her sentence, smiled at me widely, and went into the barn. Storm came beside me. “Hey, what’s wrong?” His voice held genuine concern, something I hadn’t heard from anypony in a long time. A sense of confusion came to me. My usual feelings of fear and disrespect for all ponies were mixed with old feelings of happiness and belonging. A faint blush appeared in my cheeks and I dropped my gaze quickly. “Nothing. I’m just... shy.” The stallion shifted as I spoke. A quick glance to his expression showed he didn’t quite believe me yet he didn’t persist. Storm sighed and smiled at me. “Well, come on then. Food’ll be gettin’ cold!” I chuckled lightly at his improper language and followed him into Applejack’s barn. A Change from the UsualChapter Three A Change from the Usual The barn was full of ponies. That... that was an understatement. There were ponies in places I didn’t know ponies could get to. Applejack came over to me with an apple cider in her hoof. “Easel, right?” I nodded. “Well then, pardner, this here's the Apple Family. Ya caught us right in th' middle of a family reunion, ya did. That there's Apple Fritter, and this is Golden Apple..." The country pony continued to point out names and ponies until I’m sure she named everypony in the barn. Although... I remembered none of the names. Soon I was left alone on the sidelines, just as with everything else. At least, I thought I was alone. Storm approached me. “Hey, why are you all alone?” Because no one likes me. Because I’m different than the rest of you. Because no one cares about the past. Because I’ve been alone for so long now that it’s almost comforting to be alone. Because I am afraid. I smiled. “I’m a little shy.” Storm returned my smile. His smile wasn’t as glowing and full of pure joy as Sprint’s had been, but it was a warm, happy smile. I glanced into his eyes. I only meant to glance quickly than look away, but I found myself captivated into a stare. His eyes were such a cool blue. They seemed to reflect so many emotions all at once: happiness, loneliness, sadness, honesty... The emotions swirled in his eyes like smoke. Something inside me stirred. As I stared into his soul, I felt my own releasing itself from it’s icicle caging. The giant, cold metal spikes driven into my heart from despair, heartbreak, and years of loneliness seemed to not pain me so much. My soul was slowing shaking its crumpled wings and preparing to fly into Storm’s arms. I wrenched my eyes away and glared at the floor. Stop being so vulnerable. You’re going to get hurt again, you stupid mare. “Have you eaten anything yet?” I turned back to Storm. His smile had faded slightly, almost in disappointment. “No. Not yet...” “Come then. You really oughta eat something before everything’s gone.” His smile grew again and I felt I had no choice but to fall in step beside him as he walked toward the long table of food in the center of the barn. The table extended from one end of the barn to the other, meaning, there were at least ten tables lined up, covered in platters and platters of food. “Does anything look good?” Storm asked cheerfully. “Everything was made right here by the Apple family and has the best of the Sweet Apple Acre apples in it.” I eyed the tables. Every possible apple dish I could ever think of was somewhere on those tables. Some dishes I didn’t even recognize were scattered here and there too. “These seem pretty good. There’s not much left.” I took a few apple dumplings. Storm nodded. “I’ve had some already.” He beamed at me as I ate. I found myself enjoying his company. I had never had much of an appetite and after much protesting, Storm reluctantly allowed me to not refill my plate several times. As evening fell, several more groups of ponies from Ponyville came and joined the anything-but-little party. Soon the barn was overcrowded and hot. “I’m going to step outside, okay?” I muttered in Storm’s ear. I recognized some of the newcomers as old classmates and wanted out as soon as possible. He nodded and, much to my surprise, followed me out into the apple trees. We walked in silence for a few minutes. “So, I know hardly anything about you and you know little about me, yet you follow me into a dark apple tree orchard.” I stated bluntly. The stallion laughed lightly. “Well. I know you’re a pretty, little shy unicorn.” I blushed slightly. “How about this: every time you tell me something about you, I’ll tell you something about me.” He thought for a moment. “Sure.” We sat against one of the trees and looked toward the lit up barn. “I’m from Fillydelphia. I moved here just last week.” He laughed. “I’m actually a pretty shy stallion myself. If I don’t know you I don’t usually approach you. Although, I think running me down in the middle of Ponyville counts as knowing you.” I blushed and smiled again. “Yeah... Sorry ‘bout that...” Storm shook his head and continued. “No biggie. I have three brothers and a sister, all older than me. I got my cutie mark during a singing lesson where I made up a song on the spot. I hope to work with a musician here in Ponyville. I always liked the country better than the city.” He fell silent and I sighed as I realized it was my turn. “I’ve been here all my life. Most of the other ponies around here don’t get along well with me.” “Why?” Storm interrupted. I froze. “Um. It’s a long story.” He turned toward me. “I’ve got time.” ... Somepony... Somepony asked? I took a deep breath. “Well... okay... Well... 12 years ago...” ***************************************************** You stupid mare. Why did you bother telling him everything? He will forget. Just like everypony else. Talking to him was a mistake. Coming to the party was a mistake. Going out of the house this morning was a horrible horrible mistake. I was panting a little. For the first time, I had told somepony everything. The entire story. All of Sprint Pass’s short life. Storm was sitting beside me quietly. “Losing a close friend is hard. Especially at that young an age.” Oh Celestia. He’s being cliche now. Everything I’ve heard before. Just stop. He faced me again. “You loved him didn’t you?’ Every part of me stopped. It felt so wrong to hear those words come out of Storm’s mouth. It felt so wrong. “Yes... I guess I did...” He nodded. “Did you ever tell him?” I stared off into the darkness. “It’s late... I should be going home...” I stood abruptly. I had said too much, I was open to this strange stallion I didn’t even know well. The feeling of vulnerability rushed through my body. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have told you...” My hooves began to lead me away from him, away from the apple trees, away from the barn, away from everything. “Easel, wait.” I paused, mid-step. Storm came up behind me. “At least let me walk you home? I don’t want something to happen to you.” It’s too late. Something already happened to me. You are of no use. “Alright.” ************************************************************* Are you stupid? Now he knows where you live. You idiotic mare. What even made you want to talk to that stallion? He’s just going to turn into everypony else: a liar, a sneak, another taunting nightmare. I groaned and pulled my pillow over my ears which were laid back in annoyance. Downstairs, somepony rang the doorbell. See? He’s come calling already. Probably with his little gang of friends to taunt you. “Just shut up already.” I growled to myself. The bell rang again causing me to jump out of bed and rush to the bathroom. “Just a minute!” I brushed my mane and coat quickly then ran downstairs to the door. No pony ever called on me. Ever. I opened the door a crack. Storm was standing outside on my step. Alone. “Goodmorning. I’m sorry I woke you.” He said sweetly. I opened the door wider and tried my best not to look the least bit pleased he was the first one I saw this morning. “No, it’s alright. I have to get going to the art shop anyway.” He smiled. “Ah, I see. Mind if I come with you? I was going to ask you if you wanted to join me for breakfast at Sugarcube Corner.” I thought it over. On one hoof I really wanted to talk to him more, but on the other I was wary of him. “Well. Okay. Art shop, then Sugarcube Corner?” Storm nodded. “Okay. Wait one sec, then.” Leaving the door open, I ran back upstairs and grabbed a bag and some bits. It only took a moment, and when I came back down to the door, Storm was still standing on the step, smiling. On the way into Ponyville, Storm talked about his singing. He seemed used to the fact that I was not likely to answer him very much and it was nice to just listen to somepony’s friendly chatter. The art shop was open, thankfully. I nearly bounced into the shop with excitement. Storm laughed at my obvious enthusiasm and stood by the door to wait for me. After buying my much needed canvas and paint, we headed deeper into Ponyville toward the ever famous Sugarcube Corner. The day had begun and the roads were full of ponies. My usual insecurity and irritability was kicking in as more and more ponies jostled me around. I soon found myself nearly on top of Storm in an attempt to get away from all the ponies around me. Then they showed up. Storm and I stopped walking as three ponies blocked our way. Linia Glittereyes, Dressa Randy and a stallion from my youth, Grey Howler, smiled sweetly at us. Years had definitely had an effect on them. Dressa and Linia were both grown and beautiful with shimmering fur and silky manes. Grey, too, had grown and was well built and fit. “Why, hello Easel.” cooed Dressa. My cold mask took complete control over my words and actions. “Hello, Dressa.” I nodded to the other two as well. “Linia. Grey.” Dressa took a step toward me. “Well well. Who’s this?” Her eyes ran over every inch of Storm. “Such a nice looking stallion... How would you ever get tangled up in somepony like Weasel?” The nickname from so many years ago reared its ugly face. The cold mask took the hit and only a slight crack appeared. “Come now, Dressa. You’re still flocked by a little colt and a little copycat. No wonder you can’t get within two yards of a handsome stallion.” Their faces grew red. “Listen here Weasel...” Dressa started. Storm stepped between us so I could no longer see her. “Enough.” I heard Dressa step back. “I don’t know who you ponies are, but your attitudes are unacceptable.” Dressa clicked her tongue. “Shame... such a waste of a nice stallion... Let’s go.” The three of them continued on their way. All three glaring at me as they passed. Storm turned to me. “Who were they?” “They’re my peers.” I said dully. “From school. Everypony around here does that... s’why I don’t often leave my house...” My cheerful attitude that had been drawn out by Storm was disintegrated to nonexistence. The exchange was short but it had triggered feelings and memories that I had pushed away for years. “I think I’m going to go home...” Storm looked disappointed and that only made me feel guilty. You don’t want to stay around him. Shut up. He may have defended you but he’s still going to turn on you. Shut up. “I’ll go to breakfast with you first, though...” I said. My voice sounded heavy and dull but Storm smiled a little. An attempt to cheer me up again, I guessed. Life is a Storm and I'm Riding the WavesChapter Four Life is a Storm and I’m Riding the Waves The walk to Sugarcube Corner was silent. Something was bothering Storm, and I could see it. Probably the exchange Dressa and I had. We reached the bakery in due time. Luckily, it was almost entirely empty. I took a seat against the wall while Storm went up to the counter. “Heeeeeeelloooooo! Welcome to Sugarcube Corner! What can I getcha?!” I heard the pink pony who was often at the counter greet him. Storm ordered something for the two of us and I watched the ponies out the window. Everypony smiled at each other and greeted each other. A feeling of hurt and betrayal weighed in my chest. No pony greets me like that... Storm came over and sat across from me, blocking my view of the giant glass windows. “Here we go!” He said, smiling. The stallion set down a large chocolate cupcake in front of me. It was covered in chocolate frosting and had a yellow smiley face drawn on it in icing. I had no choice but to giggle. “Um. I think there’s something wrong with my food.” Storm’s expression became one of mock concern. “Oh? What might be wrong, Miss?” “My cupcake is smiling at me. I feel threatened.” I smirked. Storm laughed. “Well then you don’t want mine.” He turned his cupcake around so I could see. It was decorated with many smiley faces. We both laughed and ate our smiling cupcakes. Over the frosting, I eyed Storm. He was grinning in laughter and seemed to be enjoying himself. His eyes were sparkling with a thousand jokes and he seemed relaxed. He’s very nice. That’s for sure. Pretty cute too. Dressa was right. The longer I looked at him, the funnier I felt. I just want to sit here and smile at him. My heart is all fluttery and my mind keeps going blank on me. I haven’t felt this way since Sprint... His voice jerked me out of my thoughts. “Easel? You’re staring at me. Are you okay?” “Huh?” I shook my head and blushed. Buck. He noticed. “I’m fine. Just zoning out a little.” Storm appeared skeptical but smiled anyway. “If you say so.” I dug a few bits out of my bag and tried to give them to him. “No, it’s on me.” “But, those are like five bits each!” “After seeing your appetite last night, I want to be sure you’re eating.” “I...” I stopped myself. I wasn’t even sure what I had started to say. “Thanks.” A silence fell on our table as I found myself caught in another stare. Only this time it was in his eyes. Our eyes were locked together, reading each other. What is that? In his eyes? I know what it is... I’ve seen it before... Once... What is it...? Then it dawned on me. No... it can’t be... l-love... I stood quickly, breaking the connection. “I should probably get going. Art order to finish that needs to be sent in next week.” I mumbled. Storm stood as well. “Want somepony to walk home with?” I shook my head quickly. “N-no, thank y-you but I really just.. I have to go.” My stammering was only making me feel worse. It felt so right to be around him but my heart and head were screaming protests at me. “I’m sorry.” I all but galloped out of the bakery and trotted down the road at a fast pace, weaving through ponies. “Easel!” His voice echoed behind me. “Easel!” I slowed and Storm appeared at my side. “Just let me walk you home, okay?” I groaned. “Fine... You’re one stubborn stallion, you know that?” He smiled. “Yeah. I get that alot.” The smile faltered for a moment. “I just want to be sure you’re okay, okay?” “Okay.” ******************************* Somepony asked. Somepony asked. Somepony asked. ... Why? He isn’t even involved. He’s an outsider. He shouldn’t care. Of all the ponies, he shouldn’t care. Of all the ponies, He. Shouldn’t. Care. Why? … I sat, staring into my cracked mirror. The picture of Sprint and me was leaning against the broken glass. His look of pure joy was frozen in time. “Sprint...” What’s wrong Easel? His voice filled my ears. What’s wrong? “Sprint. I miss you.” A tear escaped my eyes and fell onto the floor. I know, Easel. I miss you too. It’s been so long. The Sprint in the picture seemed to look directly at me. “Sprint. Why did it have to be you? Of all the ponies in Equestria it had to be you. You had to leave me. I haven’t been living without you. I should have been the one to die!” More tears joined the one on the floor. “You were everything to me! Not just me! Everypony! Everypony loved you. I loved you Sprint! I still love you...” The picture blurred as my tears took over my sight. The entire house was silent except for my sobbing. This time, I couldn’t stop. “Sprint.. I loved you.. and I never told you... and now it’s too late..” Easel. I loved you too. I am always in your heart now. Whenever you need me I can be there for you. Through my tears, I thought I saw Sprint’s smile grow. It’s not too late for you. Somepony else is here now. They can love you because I’m gone. “Storm...” I am here but I am gone. He can love you. “I’m scared of him, Sprint.” Don’t be. You can trust him. My tears fell slowly now. I felt as if Celestia had taken the world off my shoulders. I had finally told him. I could move on now. I sat in front of my mirror until sundown. Over the hours, the tears stopped and a faint smile appeared on my face. As the moon began to glow outside my window, I stood and went downstairs to my front step. “I can live.” *********************************** Everypony’s looking for you. “I know.” Even the ponies who were so cruel to you in those years. “I know.” You’re not a filly anymore. You’re a mare. And you have a whole life ahead of you. You have somepony to live for now. Somepony to get up every morning for. “...I know.” I had walked away from Ponyville into the fields. Here it was entirely dark and only the moon and her stars glowed above me. I had been sitting here for hours on end, occasionally hearing a pony in the distance call out my name then disappear back into Ponyville. Somewhere, I heard Sprint’s voice echo across my mind. It danced across my ears and into my open heart. Easel, tell me that story again. The one you learned from your Grandmother. The one with Princess Celestia. I smile. “Of course, Sprint.” Sprint settles down into his hospital pillow and smiles that precious smile at me. I opened my mouth and the words of the story I had told him so many times flew from my mouth into the night air around me. “One night a pony had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with Princess Celestia. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene he noticed two sets of hoofprints in the sand; one belonged to him, and the other to Princess Celestia. When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the hoofprints in the sand. He noticed that at many times along the path of his life, there were only one set of hoofprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life. This really bothered him, and he questioned Princess Celestia about it. ‘Princess, you said that once I decided to follow you, you’d walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of hoofprints. I don’t understand why when I needed you most, you weren’t there.’ Princess Celestia replied, ‘My little pony, I love you, and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of hoofprints, it was then that I carried you.’ I sat in the middle of the field staring up at the moon. I was amazed I could still remember that story. My voice had seemed too loud in the silence of the night. Hoofsteps could be heard rustling the grass behind me. I didn’t turn. I had a feeling I knew who it was. “Dreams are messages.” Stated Princess Luna. “What you dream is meant to tell you what to do next.” I didn’t reply. Princess Luna sat in the grass beside me. “I watched your dream.” I turned and looked at the princess of the night. She was gazing up at her moon. “I know what it means.” I whispered. More hoofsteps were heard behind us. I turned farther to see Storm Half-Note running towards us. He reached me and swept me up into a hug. “Don’t run away like that again.” He growled into my ear. For the first time in a long time, tears escaped my eyes, and I smiled at the same time. I hugged him back and squeezed. “I won’t...” I turned my head to thank Princess Luna, but she was gone. Storm pulled back and held me by the shoulders. “Easel. I love you. Please... don’t ever do that to me again...” His blue eyes stared into my violet ones. They were full of worry and love. In the words “I love you” I could almost hear Sprint saying it as well. As reassurance. I leaned forward and rested my cheek against his neck. “Don’t worry. I’m back.” I breathed out slowly as I thought back to the story. “I’m back for good.” Author's Note The original story “Footprints” belongs to its original writer (which is not me lol). Thank you original anonymous author. Epilogue: Friends ForeverEpilogue Friends Forever The more anger towards the past you carry in your heart, the less capable you are of loving in the present.... The story of What Happened When He Died is based off a true story. I had found a folder of things I kept from my friend’s passing and decided I should get some of the past off my chest. This was the best way for me to do it. Tyler Bihler was born December 13, 1995 and left us on August 24, 2005. Our entire town used to know his story. Now, almost eight years later, I am the only one who is still visually pained by his parting. If you were to ask someone in my class about Tyler, they could give you a name and the fact of his passing... if you were lucky. Many, I’m certain, can’t even remember where his tombstone is. I still visit it. The first few years after his passing, you would be able to see flowers and little trinkets on Tyler’s stone. Now, the only flowers there are dead weeds and the trinkets from me. To everyone else, he’s now just a name. Growing up, the name calling and bullying were much worse than in What Happened When He Died as I was the only asian student. Plus I had curly hair, glasses, braces, and a life threatening peanut allergy among other undiscovered issues at the time. Just as in the story, Tyler came to be my only friend. Tyler was well-loved by everyone who met him. No matter what happened that day, he always made sure his smile was genuine. Tyler had a gift for making people smile even in the worst times. He didn’t care if you had a physical or mental disability, he would simply adjust whatever he was doing so you could join in as well. Tyler was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in late August of 2004. The location of the tumor prevented surgery and a biopsy from being done. Tyler passed away at nine years old, on Wednesday, August 24, 2005 at 6:33 pm. During that year, our city held multiple fundraisers and charities to help pay for the medical bills. Thousands of dollars were raised and spent to keep him alive in hopes someone would think of a way to cure him. The “Sprint Bracelets” were really created. My grandmother and I loved to make jewelry and we found these little heart charms with Tyler engraved across them in bold letters. We took the charms and made what became known as the Tyler Bracelets. Last year I took my bracelet Tyler had given me as a gift and attached my Tyler charm to it to make a pendant. The one on the right is an original Tyler bracelet and the one on the left is the pendent. Accompanied by two extra Tyler charms. His passing influenced his older brother in his career choice. Last I heard, which was sometime this past December, Tyler’s older brother was in college for brain medical science. Tyler also has two younger brothers, currently in the local middle and elementary schools. His cousins are in my classes, two girls, represented by the two mares in the story. Just as I have to everyone else of our class, I’ve watched them grow into very pretty yet vain young adults. I’ve watched them all become meaner and harsher than the other students our age. And just as Easel did in What Happened When He Died, I cut myself off from everything. Without Tyler, I was alone again. And although I didn’t know it then, I did love Tyler. After his passing I became cold and emotionless. I was terrified to love anyone else because I was afraid I would be left alone again so suddenly and unexpectedly. The others were not so affected as they had other friends to lean on other than him. My classmates leaned on each other and left me to lean on no one. For eight years I loved no one and in the past few years I began playing with hearts and breaking them. At the beginning of last year (2012), the victim I chose to break his heart, played mine back. Except they weren’t playing. They really did love me. I became confused as I hadn’t felt or received love since Tyler’s passing and I left him. He remained my friend and my definition of “friend” was drastically changed. I began to open up to select people, showing emotion, and stopped playing hearts. Tyler still holds a large part of my heart and my memory and I still have regrets of things I wish I’d said, but I can proudly say that I can hold him in my memory and still live my life. I still adore soccer, due to the fact that we were on the same team for those three years. I have his favorite song, My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion, memorized and can still hear him putting all his soul and every ounce of emotion into singing it. I still have to deal with the memories of him and the pain of knowing he’ll never smile again, but I know everything will be better, I learned my lesson: Don’t wait until it’s too late to tell someone how much you love them, how much you care. Because when they’re gone, no matter how loud you shout and cry, they won’t hear you anymore.
Prologue: The Good Die YoungChapter One The Good Die Young -12 Years Ago- “Have fun!” I trembled. My mother had just dropped me off at school for the first time. I looked into Miss Cheerilee’s room. Excited earth ponies and pegasi were walking around, taking seats, and chattering happily. My eyes grew wide as I realized I was the only unicorn in the class. I breathed deeply. Okay, Easel. You can do this. I trotted lightly into the classroom, glancing around fearfully. Somepony started giggling and I got nervous, starting to walk a little slower. My mane fell slightly, hiding my face. I went to take a seat, and a pink pegasus with a deep purple mane quickly sat down and sneered at me. Hot with shyness, I smiled sheepishly and turned to take a different desk. A yellow earth filly with a bright blue mane stole the seat and sneered at me as well. Everytime I turned to a chair, somepony sat in it. Then the names started. “Hornhead!” scoffed the pink pegasus. The room burst out laughing. Somepony else called out “Pokey!” I felt tears rising. A hoof gently touched my shoulder, causing me to jump. A smiling pale orange colt with a blonde mane that had one green streak was standing next to me. Instantly, the laughter stopped. The others looked at the colt with a look of fondness and respect. “Hi!” He greeted cheerfully. “I’m Sprint Pass. What’s your name?” I stared at him, forgetting my name for a moment. This was so different from the name calling and seat stealing that I had just been treated to. “Um... Easel...” Sprint beamed at me. “Well, hello Easel! Come sit next to me!” “O-okay.” I followed the happy colt to the back row of seats, trying to ignore the glare the pink pegasus was throwing my way. I sat next to Sprint and smiled involuntarily. His smile was contagious. My smile faltered for a moment, as I spotted the pink pegasus whisper something to the yellow earth pony. Miss Cheerilee entered. “Good morning class!” She sang. “Good morning Miss Cheerilee.” We chanted back. “I am so very lucky to have such a full class this year. How about we go through everypony’s names?” She then pointed at each of us, letting us say our names. The pink pegasus and yellow filly’s names, I made sure to remember: Dressa Randy and Linia Glittereyes. The embarrassing events of the morning were nearly forgotten. Miss Cheerilee was a wonderful teacher, and Sprint helped me with my letters. The time flew by quickly and soon Miss Cheerilee announced recess. Everypony scrambled out to the playground except me. I was determined to learn my “b” from my “d”. Eventually, I could tell them apart, and I proudly made my way to the playground. “Hornhead.” The snickers went through the yard like a wave. “Pokey.” “Weasel.” “Hornhead.” Dressa and Linia were standing in front of me with wide smiles on their faces. I shrank a little. The rest of my peers were scattered behind them, watching and laughing at my discomfort. “Why don’t you go home, Weasel?” Dressa sneered. “We don’t need any hornheads like you here.” I cowered, tears forming in my eyes. I didn’t understand why they had to make fun of me. A pony appeared behind Dressa. Her ears pricked up and she turned. Sprint was standing behind Dressa with a slightly irritated look on his face. “Dressa. I’ll tell Aunt you’re causing trouble.” Dressa flushed scarlet and stumbled back. Sprint trotted up to me and his smile returned to his face. “Don’t mind my cousin...” He hugged me. “Wanna play some soccer?” Three years of school passed like this. The summers I would spend playing soccer with Sprint. He was the first to get his cutie mark: a soccer ball, no surprise. The fourth year of school started the same as the past three. But it ended much differently . -8 Years Ago- The beginning of the year started as any other although there was not as much name calling with Sprint hanging out with me so often. “Hey Easel!” I turned, grinning. Sprint was running up to me, Celestia knows he never walked if he didn’t have to, with his huge happy smile on his face. We had spent all summer together playing soccer in the field, but we still got excited to see each other. “Hey Sprint.” I was still a quieter pony. The little orange colt reached me and started giggling. “I showed Miss Cheerilee my cutie mark and she was so happy for me!” During one of the soccer matches that summer, Sprint had performed this super kick and not only won, but earned his cutie mark too: a little soccer ball in front of a sun. “That’s great!” The bell rang and we dashed into the schoolroom, still giggling. Our class hadn’t changed much since the first year. A few new ponies had joined, and one colt from our class had moved to Manehatten, but other than that, the same ponies we started with still made our entire class. Linia and Dressa sneered at me as I entered, of course, but I simply ignored them. Sprint wouldn’t let them say anything to me. He was like a protector in that sort of way. Miss Cheerilee smiled at the class. “Good morning class! Welcome back!” “Good morning, Miss Cheerilee!” We chanted. Everypony loved Miss Cheerliee. Our teacher smiled at us and turned to the board. “Alright, to start the year off we are going to learn...” Next to me, Sprint collapsed. At first I thought he was joking around, but then he didn’t respond to my calling. “Sprint... Sprint...” I hissed. No response. “Miss Cheerilee! I think Sprint is sick!” Miss Cheerilee paused in her talking. “Sprint?” When he didn’t respond to her, she sent us out. “Alright, everypony go play. I’ll talk to Sprint for a few moments.” Everypony walked out slowly, whispering amongst each other. Even Linia and Dressa lost their airs and looked worried, almost scared. I sat for an extra moment, watching Miss Cheerilee walk toward Sprint, then got up and stepped outside. I didn’t want to be away from Sprint. Somehow I felt responsible. I was sitting next to him after all... The playground was covered in muted whispers. No one screamed or ran or played. We all stood around wondering what was happening. Somepony came to the front of the schoolhouse and a little red mare went over to see who it was. “It’s the hospital ponies.” She whispered when she came back. The murmurs picked up again. I was scared. Why were hospital ponies here? Sprint was never sick. Hoofsteps entered and left the building multiple times before Miss Cheerilee came out. Her smile was there but there didn’t seem to be anything behind it. “Come along! The lesson can resume!” She said, sounding as if she were trying to be enthusiastic. We filed into the schoolroom slowly. Sprint was gone and so were the hospital ponies. “Where’s Sprint?” somepony asked. Miss Cheerilee’s smile disappeared. “He’s sick. The hospital took him in. He should be himself again come tomorrow! Don’t you worry.” For some reason, none of us believed her. Although I wanted to. Sprint was a strong colt. The lesson continued, quietly if nothing else. The day ended and hardly anypony had said a word, except for Miss Cheerilee and her lesson. We walked slowly out of the building and off our separate ways. All alone, I dragged my hooves down the road. Alone was not a new feeling to me although it had been years since I had last been alone. Sprint was always by my side. “Mom... I’m home...” I trudged into my house. My mother was somewhere upstairs. Her voice shouted down to me but lacked the usual sharpness. “Hey, your grandmother is waiting for you over at the hospital. I’d head over quickly if I were you.” I froze for a minute. The hospital? My school bag dropped to the floor and I dashed back out the door. The run to the hospital was fairly short but seemed longer due to my anxiety. I galloped into the hospital doors, letting them bang behind me. My grandmother, a sweet pale yellow mare with a faded green mane, was standing next to the check-in desk. “Grandmother? What’s going on?” I trotted up to her. Her face was pale. “Easel, dear, Sprint is very sick.” I stared blankly at her. I mean, no duh. I figured that out. “I guessed that...” She stepped away from the counter and looked me intently in the eye. “Easel. Sprint is very seriously sick. He’s going to be out of school for a very long time.” Every muscle inside me froze. Out of school? I trembled. School wouldn’t be fun without him. “When will he come back?” Grandmother shook her head. “We don’t know, dear. The Pass Family doesn’t have a lot of money to pay for his medical bills.” I thought for a moment. My filly brain was conjuring up ways to help my only friend. “Why don’t they just raise money?” Grandmother smiled a little. “If only it was that easy, little one. Mr and Mrs Pass have to work all day. When would they ever have time to hold fundraisers or benefits for him?” I frowned. “Grandmother. You and I don’t do anything. I just go to school. We could raise money.” Even the secretary at the desk smiled at that. Grandmother scratched her mane for a moment. “Well... how would we do that then?” This I had no answer for. Then I caught sight of Grandmother’s blue beaded bracelet. “I know! They make little charms with specially made names cut into them. We could make bracelets that say Sprint on them!” Grandmother considered for a moment. “Well now. That’s a brilliant idea. Let me talk to Mr and Mrs Pass about it when they come downstairs okay?” I bounced happily. “Can I see him, Grandmother?” Grandmother sighed. “He’s resting now. How about you come see him tomorrow right after school?” I nodded, slightly put out and turned to leave the hospital. That night I thought endlessly about my friend. I do hope Sprint will be alright. The very next day, after I chatted with Sprint for a half an hour about the latest soccer game, Grandmother and I began making bracelets. We named them “Sprint Bracelets” and sold them as a fundraiser to help pay for Sprint’s medical bills. Not only that, but the school and local shops held their own benefits and fundraisers. The Pass Family was very grateful for the generous help the village was giving them. This went on for almost a year. I would visit Sprint after school for a half an hour, (stupid hospital visiting rules), then go help the most recent fundraiser or make bracelets with Grandmother. Without Sprint, school was a place of torture with endless name calling and pointless rude comments. Seeing him was the only bright part of my day. Over time, I noticed changes. With each visit, Sprint seemed to grow duller. His coat grew darker and his mane became disheveled. His features became blotchy and swelled in size. Despite this, his eyes still held the same twinkle and he maintained his cheerful personality. One day, almost an entire year later, the hospital refused to allow me to see Sprint. I threw a fit until I learned why. He had died.
Side EffectsChapter Two Side Effects -Present Day- It’s been eight years. I rolled over in my half-asleep state. Eight years. And you still have the same dream over and over, you stupid mare. The blanket had slid off my leg. I sleepily pulled it back up. He isn’t coming back. You can’t bring him back. You stupid mare. He’s there. I can see him: his soft pale orange coat, his slightly shaggy blonde mane and tail with that one little green streak. His beautiful, twinkling, big brown eyes. And his smile. Oh, his smile. I groaned and rolled over again. Near, far, wherever you are, I believe that the heart does go on... Once more, you open the door, and you’re here in my heart and my heart will go on and on... “No...” I moaned. His voice... It sang to me... I was falling asleep again... You’re here, there’s nothing I fear, and I know that my heart will go on, we’ll stay forever this way, you are safe in my heart, and my heart will go on and on... I sat straight up, gasping. My heavy breath was all I could hear. His voice was gone. I fell back into my bed and groaned. Every night for eight years had been like this. I glanced at my alarm clock. Only five minutes before it went off anyway. I flipped the alarm to off and rolled out of bed. The floor was cold, making me almost hop over to my desk and mirror. The glass was cracked from the top of the left corner down to the bottom right corner. I had blasted it with magic one night in anger. I hated my reflection. Why am I still here and he isn’t? A photograph sat tucked into the corner of the mirror frame. I picked it up with my magic and looked at it dully. It was me and him. We were standing in front of the soccer field. He loved soccer. He fit in so well on that field. He had one hoof on a soccer ball and the other around my shoulder. He was so confident and smiling, as if he was the sun itself. I just stood shyly next to him, smiling in my own little way. I was so plain next to him. Yet we went together so well. He loved soccer and I loved... I shook my head and placed the photo back where it came from. I trotted into my bathroom and brushed through my mane. The curls from my filly years were gone, and my mane now fell flat and silky against my face and neck. He had often commented on how much he liked my curls... Now they were gone. Just like him. I sighed again and threw the brush at the bathtub. It clanked against the tiles and knocked into the rose scented shampoo, before clattering into the bottom of the tub and lying still. He liked smelling the roses... “BUCK IT! JUST BUCK IT!” I screamed and fell backwards against the wall. Tears streamed down my face. I don’t know how long I sat there and cried. I hadn’t cried so much since his passing. Time was slipping by without me. While I sat and mourned the only thing I had ever loved, time was moving on. I did love him. “No, that’s stupid. He was just a friend. We were so young.” But I did love him. I lifted my head and stared at the ceiling. You stupid mare. What does age have to do with anything? Love knows no limits. Why didn’t I tell him? “Why didn’t I tell him?” More tears splashed to the floor. “I didn’t know. I didn’t know...” What was the last thing I said to him? Last thing I did? My mind went blank. … “…” What should I have said to him? That was enough for one morning. As if something had clicked in my mind, all emotion was wiped from my face, leaving me with a blank, distant stare. I rose from the floor, washed my face clear of tears, and left. Going outside was difficult for me. All my peers had grown up and gotten jobs around Ponyville. It was at a point where I couldn’t go out onto my front step without seeing someone who gave me a bad memory. Thus, I found staring at the ground a wonderful antidote for such a dilemma. Today I only needed to get some paint in Ponyville. Then I could return to my hermit like house. I hated being in town. So many ponies looked at me strangely. I wandered into the town, keeping my eyes down. Ponies were walking all around me and chattering away. Several nearly bumped into me. Eventually I made it the the little art shop. The door was shut with a closed sign. I sighed. Now I would have to leave my house again tomorrow. I turned and walked toward home. No one ever remembers. What ponies don’t want to remember, they won’t. It’s just that simple. Everypony makes fun of me for having a short term memory. Yet if you ask any of them what happened eight years ago, they’ll just look at you funny. I remember. I remember everything… Please... ask me... make me tell you everything... I turned sharply around the next building... … and ran right into a stallion walking along to road. “I’m sorry.” I said roughly without meaning it, as I picked myself up out of the dust. My eyes fell on him and my cold exterior faltered a moment. He was grey-blue with a black and bright green mane. His cutie mark was a bass clef with a set of headphones around it. He shook dust from his coat and looked at me. His eyes were like twinkling blue diamonds. “It’s fine.” He said, smiling. Then he squinted at me. “I know almost everypony in Ponyville now. I’ve only been here a week, but I don’t believe I’ve met you yet.” I felt a slight blush come to my cheeks. “Oh, I’m Easel Inkwell.” “Storm Half-Note.” Storm eyed my expression. I’m sure it was a mixture of hunger and a lack of composure that rarely showed itself on my face. “Would you like to get something to eat?” He nodded toward Sweet Apple Acres. “The Apple family invited me to lunch.” I smiled slightly. “Well...” I caught my smile and erased it quickly. I had never met any of the Apple family... “I suppose...” Storm looked puzzled at my sudden change of expression but didn’t comment. We turned and walked towards the ever famous Sweet Apple Acres. I tried not to look at Storm. Whenever I did, I got a funny tingly feeling in my chest. I remained silent the whole time, listening to Storm try to engage me in conversations: the weather, music, the Wonderbolts, the Gala, my cutie mark... Eventually we reached Sweet Apple Acres. An orange mare with a blonde mane and a stetson was waiting for us. A little yellow filly with a red mane and a big bow was bouncing up and down around her. The sight of the orange mare made me freeze. She looked like a female version of Sprint without the green streak. Storm glanced back startled. “Is something wrong?” I shook my head and cleared my face of any expression that might have been there. “No, no, everything is fine.” Storm looked unconvinced but smiled as we approached the two ponies. “Well howdy! Brought along a new friend I see!” The orange mare called out, smiling. She had a major southern twang. It was kind of funny. Storm nodded his head toward me. “Yep. This is Easel. Ran into her in Ponyville and thought she’d like to tag along.” I stood beside the stallion awkwardly. I was definitely not used to being around other friendly ponies. “Ah’m Applejack and this here’s Applebloom.” Applejack began walking towards the big red barn a few yards away. “Come on then! Food’s still hot!” The filly, Applebloom, cheered happily and ran off into the barn as we trotted behind her. Storm and Applejack chatted idly behind me. The area seemed friendly. Trees were everywhere and the entire place smelled sweetly of apples. Applebloom disappeared into the barn. I stopped a few feet away. I could hear ponies talking inside. Applejack and Storm reached me. Applejack finished her sentence, smiled at me widely, and went into the barn. Storm came beside me. “Hey, what’s wrong?” His voice held genuine concern, something I hadn’t heard from anypony in a long time. A sense of confusion came to me. My usual feelings of fear and disrespect for all ponies were mixed with old feelings of happiness and belonging. A faint blush appeared in my cheeks and I dropped my gaze quickly. “Nothing. I’m just... shy.” The stallion shifted as I spoke. A quick glance to his expression showed he didn’t quite believe me yet he didn’t persist. Storm sighed and smiled at me. “Well, come on then. Food’ll be gettin’ cold!” I chuckled lightly at his improper language and followed him into Applejack’s barn.
A Change from the UsualChapter Three A Change from the Usual The barn was full of ponies. That... that was an understatement. There were ponies in places I didn’t know ponies could get to. Applejack came over to me with an apple cider in her hoof. “Easel, right?” I nodded. “Well then, pardner, this here's the Apple Family. Ya caught us right in th' middle of a family reunion, ya did. That there's Apple Fritter, and this is Golden Apple..." The country pony continued to point out names and ponies until I’m sure she named everypony in the barn. Although... I remembered none of the names. Soon I was left alone on the sidelines, just as with everything else. At least, I thought I was alone. Storm approached me. “Hey, why are you all alone?” Because no one likes me. Because I’m different than the rest of you. Because no one cares about the past. Because I’ve been alone for so long now that it’s almost comforting to be alone. Because I am afraid. I smiled. “I’m a little shy.” Storm returned my smile. His smile wasn’t as glowing and full of pure joy as Sprint’s had been, but it was a warm, happy smile. I glanced into his eyes. I only meant to glance quickly than look away, but I found myself captivated into a stare. His eyes were such a cool blue. They seemed to reflect so many emotions all at once: happiness, loneliness, sadness, honesty... The emotions swirled in his eyes like smoke. Something inside me stirred. As I stared into his soul, I felt my own releasing itself from it’s icicle caging. The giant, cold metal spikes driven into my heart from despair, heartbreak, and years of loneliness seemed to not pain me so much. My soul was slowing shaking its crumpled wings and preparing to fly into Storm’s arms. I wrenched my eyes away and glared at the floor. Stop being so vulnerable. You’re going to get hurt again, you stupid mare. “Have you eaten anything yet?” I turned back to Storm. His smile had faded slightly, almost in disappointment. “No. Not yet...” “Come then. You really oughta eat something before everything’s gone.” His smile grew again and I felt I had no choice but to fall in step beside him as he walked toward the long table of food in the center of the barn. The table extended from one end of the barn to the other, meaning, there were at least ten tables lined up, covered in platters and platters of food. “Does anything look good?” Storm asked cheerfully. “Everything was made right here by the Apple family and has the best of the Sweet Apple Acre apples in it.” I eyed the tables. Every possible apple dish I could ever think of was somewhere on those tables. Some dishes I didn’t even recognize were scattered here and there too. “These seem pretty good. There’s not much left.” I took a few apple dumplings. Storm nodded. “I’ve had some already.” He beamed at me as I ate. I found myself enjoying his company. I had never had much of an appetite and after much protesting, Storm reluctantly allowed me to not refill my plate several times. As evening fell, several more groups of ponies from Ponyville came and joined the anything-but-little party. Soon the barn was overcrowded and hot. “I’m going to step outside, okay?” I muttered in Storm’s ear. I recognized some of the newcomers as old classmates and wanted out as soon as possible. He nodded and, much to my surprise, followed me out into the apple trees. We walked in silence for a few minutes. “So, I know hardly anything about you and you know little about me, yet you follow me into a dark apple tree orchard.” I stated bluntly. The stallion laughed lightly. “Well. I know you’re a pretty, little shy unicorn.” I blushed slightly. “How about this: every time you tell me something about you, I’ll tell you something about me.” He thought for a moment. “Sure.” We sat against one of the trees and looked toward the lit up barn. “I’m from Fillydelphia. I moved here just last week.” He laughed. “I’m actually a pretty shy stallion myself. If I don’t know you I don’t usually approach you. Although, I think running me down in the middle of Ponyville counts as knowing you.” I blushed and smiled again. “Yeah... Sorry ‘bout that...” Storm shook his head and continued. “No biggie. I have three brothers and a sister, all older than me. I got my cutie mark during a singing lesson where I made up a song on the spot. I hope to work with a musician here in Ponyville. I always liked the country better than the city.” He fell silent and I sighed as I realized it was my turn. “I’ve been here all my life. Most of the other ponies around here don’t get along well with me.” “Why?” Storm interrupted. I froze. “Um. It’s a long story.” He turned toward me. “I’ve got time.” ... Somepony... Somepony asked? I took a deep breath. “Well... okay... Well... 12 years ago...” ***************************************************** You stupid mare. Why did you bother telling him everything? He will forget. Just like everypony else. Talking to him was a mistake. Coming to the party was a mistake. Going out of the house this morning was a horrible horrible mistake. I was panting a little. For the first time, I had told somepony everything. The entire story. All of Sprint Pass’s short life. Storm was sitting beside me quietly. “Losing a close friend is hard. Especially at that young an age.” Oh Celestia. He’s being cliche now. Everything I’ve heard before. Just stop. He faced me again. “You loved him didn’t you?’ Every part of me stopped. It felt so wrong to hear those words come out of Storm’s mouth. It felt so wrong. “Yes... I guess I did...” He nodded. “Did you ever tell him?” I stared off into the darkness. “It’s late... I should be going home...” I stood abruptly. I had said too much, I was open to this strange stallion I didn’t even know well. The feeling of vulnerability rushed through my body. “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have told you...” My hooves began to lead me away from him, away from the apple trees, away from the barn, away from everything. “Easel, wait.” I paused, mid-step. Storm came up behind me. “At least let me walk you home? I don’t want something to happen to you.” It’s too late. Something already happened to me. You are of no use. “Alright.” ************************************************************* Are you stupid? Now he knows where you live. You idiotic mare. What even made you want to talk to that stallion? He’s just going to turn into everypony else: a liar, a sneak, another taunting nightmare. I groaned and pulled my pillow over my ears which were laid back in annoyance. Downstairs, somepony rang the doorbell. See? He’s come calling already. Probably with his little gang of friends to taunt you. “Just shut up already.” I growled to myself. The bell rang again causing me to jump out of bed and rush to the bathroom. “Just a minute!” I brushed my mane and coat quickly then ran downstairs to the door. No pony ever called on me. Ever. I opened the door a crack. Storm was standing outside on my step. Alone. “Goodmorning. I’m sorry I woke you.” He said sweetly. I opened the door wider and tried my best not to look the least bit pleased he was the first one I saw this morning. “No, it’s alright. I have to get going to the art shop anyway.” He smiled. “Ah, I see. Mind if I come with you? I was going to ask you if you wanted to join me for breakfast at Sugarcube Corner.” I thought it over. On one hoof I really wanted to talk to him more, but on the other I was wary of him. “Well. Okay. Art shop, then Sugarcube Corner?” Storm nodded. “Okay. Wait one sec, then.” Leaving the door open, I ran back upstairs and grabbed a bag and some bits. It only took a moment, and when I came back down to the door, Storm was still standing on the step, smiling. On the way into Ponyville, Storm talked about his singing. He seemed used to the fact that I was not likely to answer him very much and it was nice to just listen to somepony’s friendly chatter. The art shop was open, thankfully. I nearly bounced into the shop with excitement. Storm laughed at my obvious enthusiasm and stood by the door to wait for me. After buying my much needed canvas and paint, we headed deeper into Ponyville toward the ever famous Sugarcube Corner. The day had begun and the roads were full of ponies. My usual insecurity and irritability was kicking in as more and more ponies jostled me around. I soon found myself nearly on top of Storm in an attempt to get away from all the ponies around me. Then they showed up. Storm and I stopped walking as three ponies blocked our way. Linia Glittereyes, Dressa Randy and a stallion from my youth, Grey Howler, smiled sweetly at us. Years had definitely had an effect on them. Dressa and Linia were both grown and beautiful with shimmering fur and silky manes. Grey, too, had grown and was well built and fit. “Why, hello Easel.” cooed Dressa. My cold mask took complete control over my words and actions. “Hello, Dressa.” I nodded to the other two as well. “Linia. Grey.” Dressa took a step toward me. “Well well. Who’s this?” Her eyes ran over every inch of Storm. “Such a nice looking stallion... How would you ever get tangled up in somepony like Weasel?” The nickname from so many years ago reared its ugly face. The cold mask took the hit and only a slight crack appeared. “Come now, Dressa. You’re still flocked by a little colt and a little copycat. No wonder you can’t get within two yards of a handsome stallion.” Their faces grew red. “Listen here Weasel...” Dressa started. Storm stepped between us so I could no longer see her. “Enough.” I heard Dressa step back. “I don’t know who you ponies are, but your attitudes are unacceptable.” Dressa clicked her tongue. “Shame... such a waste of a nice stallion... Let’s go.” The three of them continued on their way. All three glaring at me as they passed. Storm turned to me. “Who were they?” “They’re my peers.” I said dully. “From school. Everypony around here does that... s’why I don’t often leave my house...” My cheerful attitude that had been drawn out by Storm was disintegrated to nonexistence. The exchange was short but it had triggered feelings and memories that I had pushed away for years. “I think I’m going to go home...” Storm looked disappointed and that only made me feel guilty. You don’t want to stay around him. Shut up. He may have defended you but he’s still going to turn on you. Shut up. “I’ll go to breakfast with you first, though...” I said. My voice sounded heavy and dull but Storm smiled a little. An attempt to cheer me up again, I guessed.
Life is a Storm and I'm Riding the WavesChapter Four Life is a Storm and I’m Riding the Waves The walk to Sugarcube Corner was silent. Something was bothering Storm, and I could see it. Probably the exchange Dressa and I had. We reached the bakery in due time. Luckily, it was almost entirely empty. I took a seat against the wall while Storm went up to the counter. “Heeeeeeelloooooo! Welcome to Sugarcube Corner! What can I getcha?!” I heard the pink pony who was often at the counter greet him. Storm ordered something for the two of us and I watched the ponies out the window. Everypony smiled at each other and greeted each other. A feeling of hurt and betrayal weighed in my chest. No pony greets me like that... Storm came over and sat across from me, blocking my view of the giant glass windows. “Here we go!” He said, smiling. The stallion set down a large chocolate cupcake in front of me. It was covered in chocolate frosting and had a yellow smiley face drawn on it in icing. I had no choice but to giggle. “Um. I think there’s something wrong with my food.” Storm’s expression became one of mock concern. “Oh? What might be wrong, Miss?” “My cupcake is smiling at me. I feel threatened.” I smirked. Storm laughed. “Well then you don’t want mine.” He turned his cupcake around so I could see. It was decorated with many smiley faces. We both laughed and ate our smiling cupcakes. Over the frosting, I eyed Storm. He was grinning in laughter and seemed to be enjoying himself. His eyes were sparkling with a thousand jokes and he seemed relaxed. He’s very nice. That’s for sure. Pretty cute too. Dressa was right. The longer I looked at him, the funnier I felt. I just want to sit here and smile at him. My heart is all fluttery and my mind keeps going blank on me. I haven’t felt this way since Sprint... His voice jerked me out of my thoughts. “Easel? You’re staring at me. Are you okay?” “Huh?” I shook my head and blushed. Buck. He noticed. “I’m fine. Just zoning out a little.” Storm appeared skeptical but smiled anyway. “If you say so.” I dug a few bits out of my bag and tried to give them to him. “No, it’s on me.” “But, those are like five bits each!” “After seeing your appetite last night, I want to be sure you’re eating.” “I...” I stopped myself. I wasn’t even sure what I had started to say. “Thanks.” A silence fell on our table as I found myself caught in another stare. Only this time it was in his eyes. Our eyes were locked together, reading each other. What is that? In his eyes? I know what it is... I’ve seen it before... Once... What is it...? Then it dawned on me. No... it can’t be... l-love... I stood quickly, breaking the connection. “I should probably get going. Art order to finish that needs to be sent in next week.” I mumbled. Storm stood as well. “Want somepony to walk home with?” I shook my head quickly. “N-no, thank y-you but I really just.. I have to go.” My stammering was only making me feel worse. It felt so right to be around him but my heart and head were screaming protests at me. “I’m sorry.” I all but galloped out of the bakery and trotted down the road at a fast pace, weaving through ponies. “Easel!” His voice echoed behind me. “Easel!” I slowed and Storm appeared at my side. “Just let me walk you home, okay?” I groaned. “Fine... You’re one stubborn stallion, you know that?” He smiled. “Yeah. I get that alot.” The smile faltered for a moment. “I just want to be sure you’re okay, okay?” “Okay.” ******************************* Somepony asked. Somepony asked. Somepony asked. ... Why? He isn’t even involved. He’s an outsider. He shouldn’t care. Of all the ponies, he shouldn’t care. Of all the ponies, He. Shouldn’t. Care. Why? … I sat, staring into my cracked mirror. The picture of Sprint and me was leaning against the broken glass. His look of pure joy was frozen in time. “Sprint...” What’s wrong Easel? His voice filled my ears. What’s wrong? “Sprint. I miss you.” A tear escaped my eyes and fell onto the floor. I know, Easel. I miss you too. It’s been so long. The Sprint in the picture seemed to look directly at me. “Sprint. Why did it have to be you? Of all the ponies in Equestria it had to be you. You had to leave me. I haven’t been living without you. I should have been the one to die!” More tears joined the one on the floor. “You were everything to me! Not just me! Everypony! Everypony loved you. I loved you Sprint! I still love you...” The picture blurred as my tears took over my sight. The entire house was silent except for my sobbing. This time, I couldn’t stop. “Sprint.. I loved you.. and I never told you... and now it’s too late..” Easel. I loved you too. I am always in your heart now. Whenever you need me I can be there for you. Through my tears, I thought I saw Sprint’s smile grow. It’s not too late for you. Somepony else is here now. They can love you because I’m gone. “Storm...” I am here but I am gone. He can love you. “I’m scared of him, Sprint.” Don’t be. You can trust him. My tears fell slowly now. I felt as if Celestia had taken the world off my shoulders. I had finally told him. I could move on now. I sat in front of my mirror until sundown. Over the hours, the tears stopped and a faint smile appeared on my face. As the moon began to glow outside my window, I stood and went downstairs to my front step. “I can live.” *********************************** Everypony’s looking for you. “I know.” Even the ponies who were so cruel to you in those years. “I know.” You’re not a filly anymore. You’re a mare. And you have a whole life ahead of you. You have somepony to live for now. Somepony to get up every morning for. “...I know.” I had walked away from Ponyville into the fields. Here it was entirely dark and only the moon and her stars glowed above me. I had been sitting here for hours on end, occasionally hearing a pony in the distance call out my name then disappear back into Ponyville. Somewhere, I heard Sprint’s voice echo across my mind. It danced across my ears and into my open heart. Easel, tell me that story again. The one you learned from your Grandmother. The one with Princess Celestia. I smile. “Of course, Sprint.” Sprint settles down into his hospital pillow and smiles that precious smile at me. I opened my mouth and the words of the story I had told him so many times flew from my mouth into the night air around me. “One night a pony had a dream. He dreamed he was walking along the beach with Princess Celestia. Across the sky flashed scenes from his life. For each scene he noticed two sets of hoofprints in the sand; one belonged to him, and the other to Princess Celestia. When the last scene of his life flashed before him, he looked back at the hoofprints in the sand. He noticed that at many times along the path of his life, there were only one set of hoofprints. He also noticed that it happened at the very lowest and saddest times in his life. This really bothered him, and he questioned Princess Celestia about it. ‘Princess, you said that once I decided to follow you, you’d walk with me all the way. But I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life, there is only one set of hoofprints. I don’t understand why when I needed you most, you weren’t there.’ Princess Celestia replied, ‘My little pony, I love you, and I would never leave you. During your times of trial and suffering, when you see only one set of hoofprints, it was then that I carried you.’ I sat in the middle of the field staring up at the moon. I was amazed I could still remember that story. My voice had seemed too loud in the silence of the night. Hoofsteps could be heard rustling the grass behind me. I didn’t turn. I had a feeling I knew who it was. “Dreams are messages.” Stated Princess Luna. “What you dream is meant to tell you what to do next.” I didn’t reply. Princess Luna sat in the grass beside me. “I watched your dream.” I turned and looked at the princess of the night. She was gazing up at her moon. “I know what it means.” I whispered. More hoofsteps were heard behind us. I turned farther to see Storm Half-Note running towards us. He reached me and swept me up into a hug. “Don’t run away like that again.” He growled into my ear. For the first time in a long time, tears escaped my eyes, and I smiled at the same time. I hugged him back and squeezed. “I won’t...” I turned my head to thank Princess Luna, but she was gone. Storm pulled back and held me by the shoulders. “Easel. I love you. Please... don’t ever do that to me again...” His blue eyes stared into my violet ones. They were full of worry and love. In the words “I love you” I could almost hear Sprint saying it as well. As reassurance. I leaned forward and rested my cheek against his neck. “Don’t worry. I’m back.” I breathed out slowly as I thought back to the story. “I’m back for good.” Author's Note The original story “Footprints” belongs to its original writer (which is not me lol). Thank you original anonymous author.
Epilogue: Friends ForeverEpilogue Friends Forever The more anger towards the past you carry in your heart, the less capable you are of loving in the present.... The story of What Happened When He Died is based off a true story. I had found a folder of things I kept from my friend’s passing and decided I should get some of the past off my chest. This was the best way for me to do it. Tyler Bihler was born December 13, 1995 and left us on August 24, 2005. Our entire town used to know his story. Now, almost eight years later, I am the only one who is still visually pained by his parting. If you were to ask someone in my class about Tyler, they could give you a name and the fact of his passing... if you were lucky. Many, I’m certain, can’t even remember where his tombstone is. I still visit it. The first few years after his passing, you would be able to see flowers and little trinkets on Tyler’s stone. Now, the only flowers there are dead weeds and the trinkets from me. To everyone else, he’s now just a name. Growing up, the name calling and bullying were much worse than in What Happened When He Died as I was the only asian student. Plus I had curly hair, glasses, braces, and a life threatening peanut allergy among other undiscovered issues at the time. Just as in the story, Tyler came to be my only friend. Tyler was well-loved by everyone who met him. No matter what happened that day, he always made sure his smile was genuine. Tyler had a gift for making people smile even in the worst times. He didn’t care if you had a physical or mental disability, he would simply adjust whatever he was doing so you could join in as well. Tyler was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in late August of 2004. The location of the tumor prevented surgery and a biopsy from being done. Tyler passed away at nine years old, on Wednesday, August 24, 2005 at 6:33 pm. During that year, our city held multiple fundraisers and charities to help pay for the medical bills. Thousands of dollars were raised and spent to keep him alive in hopes someone would think of a way to cure him. The “Sprint Bracelets” were really created. My grandmother and I loved to make jewelry and we found these little heart charms with Tyler engraved across them in bold letters. We took the charms and made what became known as the Tyler Bracelets. Last year I took my bracelet Tyler had given me as a gift and attached my Tyler charm to it to make a pendant. The one on the right is an original Tyler bracelet and the one on the left is the pendent. Accompanied by two extra Tyler charms. His passing influenced his older brother in his career choice. Last I heard, which was sometime this past December, Tyler’s older brother was in college for brain medical science. Tyler also has two younger brothers, currently in the local middle and elementary schools. His cousins are in my classes, two girls, represented by the two mares in the story. Just as I have to everyone else of our class, I’ve watched them grow into very pretty yet vain young adults. I’ve watched them all become meaner and harsher than the other students our age. And just as Easel did in What Happened When He Died, I cut myself off from everything. Without Tyler, I was alone again. And although I didn’t know it then, I did love Tyler. After his passing I became cold and emotionless. I was terrified to love anyone else because I was afraid I would be left alone again so suddenly and unexpectedly. The others were not so affected as they had other friends to lean on other than him. My classmates leaned on each other and left me to lean on no one. For eight years I loved no one and in the past few years I began playing with hearts and breaking them. At the beginning of last year (2012), the victim I chose to break his heart, played mine back. Except they weren’t playing. They really did love me. I became confused as I hadn’t felt or received love since Tyler’s passing and I left him. He remained my friend and my definition of “friend” was drastically changed. I began to open up to select people, showing emotion, and stopped playing hearts. Tyler still holds a large part of my heart and my memory and I still have regrets of things I wish I’d said, but I can proudly say that I can hold him in my memory and still live my life. I still adore soccer, due to the fact that we were on the same team for those three years. I have his favorite song, My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion, memorized and can still hear him putting all his soul and every ounce of emotion into singing it. I still have to deal with the memories of him and the pain of knowing he’ll never smile again, but I know everything will be better, I learned my lesson: Don’t wait until it’s too late to tell someone how much you love them, how much you care. Because when they’re gone, no matter how loud you shout and cry, they won’t hear you anymore.
