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SouthernCross	910	1	Original Character,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Scootaloo,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Mobile Saddle Gundam Friendship	Little Ponies in Giant Mecha	incomplete	26	2	<p>A thousand years after the darkest chapter in Equestrian history a young filly named Amethyst finds her home colony under attack by the Lunar Commonwealth while on a dare. Through the machinations of her father and the enigmatic Church of Lyra she finds herself in the cockpit of the Equestrian Empire's premier fighting machine, the Mobile Saddle Gundam Friendship.</p><p>However, war, especially in Equestria, is never as simple as good and evil and Ame finds herself in the epicenter of a thousand year old gamble revolving around an ancient, forgotten power and a mysterious pilot calling herself the 'Last Crusader.'</p><p>Part of the Equestrian Century Timeline</p>	teen	2012-06-26T14:20:44+00:00	2013-09-20T09:52:26+00:00	2,072	Two pink blades of charged particles collided in the darkness of space spraying sparks as they clashed and vied for dominance. With a final flash the two blades parted as the massive war machines wielding the blades broke away from one another and began to square off a short distance from one another. The least damaged of the two had angular, boxy armour covering its slender legs and remaining arm, its right, while sparks burst from the damaged sections where the head and left arm had previously been. Its upper torso was painted black with red sides while the arm and everything below the waist was painted white save the soles of the feet which where painted red and the remaining shoulder plate which was black. The other featured a similar, but slightly bulkier design philosophy; however it featured large, ugly, protruding thrusters on the shoulders, knees, chest and back. It too was missing its head along with the right arm from the elbow down and the entire right leg. It was painted the red of autumn leaves and featured an insignia on the left shoulder, a lightning bolt with white wings with a small banner underneath reading ‘Wonderbolts.’ The white machine swung its energy sword to its left, then right before thrusting it forward and charging straight at its opponent. The other settled for simply pointing its weapon straight at its opponent and matching its charge. As the two collided their blades pierced the other’s chest, cutting through the armour like a hot knife through butter. For a moment sparks lanced between the two machines before they where both engulfed in a fireball. Nine Months Earlier A violet mare with a deep purple mane framing her green eyes and small violet horn on her forehead and a white six pointed star on her flank slowly strolled through one of the colony’s many parks. The colony had been her home since before she was born and her family had lived there since her grandfather had helped to build it. She smiled as she heard a high pitched voice from over the crest of the hill. Making her way over her eyes fell on a filly who was playing by herself among a field of wildflowers. The filly had a pearlescent coat and a white mane along with green eyes and a tiny horn on her forehead. “Amethyst!” the filly cried out excitedly as she saw the older pony and began to run up towards her. “How was school today Iridescence?” Amethyst asked as she nuzzled the smaller equine affectionately. The little filly pawed at the ground, “It was ok, no one was mean today.” She replied with a hint of sadness. Every day was hard on the two, being of the rare breed of Earth Pony with horns on their foreheads they where considered freaks of nature and shunned by normal Earth Ponies. “Well what do we have here?” A burly voice crowed as three muscular forms descended on the two fillies. Within moments Iridescence was held down by the hoof of a brown coated stallion with a jet black mane and a compass Cutie Mark on his flank who grinned cruelly at Amethyst, “A couple of Horn-Freaks!” he laughed in mock-surprise. The elder filly found herself restrained by the brown stallion’s two friends, both Earth Ponies, one with a lime green coat, two-tone blue and white mane and a spanner Cutie Mark while the other was blue with a blonde mane and had a target Cutie Mark. Iridescence gave a pitiful cry as the stallion’s hoof dug into the side of her head causing a wave of panic to flood through Amethyst, “STOP IT!” she cried while vainly struggling against the stallion’s cohorts, “You’re hurting her Rough Edge!” “Really?” Edge asking in mock concern before grinding his hoof some and laughed, “Who cares? You’re both just Horn-Freaks after all.” He chuckled for a moment then blinked before a wide grin crossed his face, “Tell you what… we’ll leave you alone if you run a little errand for us.” He leant down and said, “Sneak into the base and bring us back a Zero-G saddle.” “You can’t be serious?” Amethyst gapped in shock, “If I get caught I’d be imprisoned… and then who would look after Irri?” “Well then… you had better not get caught.” Edge laughed before stroking the terrified little filly’s mane, “Don’t worry… we’ll take good care of your sister while you’re busy.” -6w9- Magenta eyes peered through the lenses of a white mask that covered a cyan thestral stallion’s face. His rainbow mane and tail floated in the lack of gravity inside his Mobile Saddle as the red machine clung to a resource asteroid alongside two purple companions. The pilot wore no helmet, only a red Zero-G Saddle which was connected to a large harness on the thestral’s back comprised of countless wires and cables that comprised the Sparkle Effect Interface Relay Network. His hind hooves rested a pair of pedals that where part of a set of three on each side while his fore hooves each had six pedals to work with, as well as two levers. Within reach of his snout where a dozen or so buttons rounding out the machine’s controls. In front of his where nine monitors granting him a field of view of the area in front of, above and on either side of the machine as well as in the diagonals between them, however blind spots remained in the areas of 10 and 2 o’clock high where support struts held the monitors in place. The thestral’s machines single large red camera swiveled to its left to look at its companions. All three where almost identical with dome shaped head with a ‘coal scuttle’ shape and a long slit for the single red optic to swivel within along with a cylindrical ‘snout’ like structure on the face with pipes leading out and disappearing under the ‘coal scuttle’ curve, the red one also featured a large, blade like horn. The chest was of a smooth, angular design with a slight triangular shape, the diagonal ridges leading from the shoulders to the centre of the chest and the vertical ridge running to the waist. On either side, near the shoulder joints, where protruding rectangular structures mounted with vernier thrusters and vents for the machine’s reactor along with slanted plates to deflect any shrapnel from getting into the vents. The back featured four large thruster vents that provided most of the machine’s thrust in zero gravity which where mounted on a backpack assembly on the upper back, two facing towards the feet and two towards the head. In addition the backpack mounted hardpoints on which a variety of hand carried munitions could be stored. Presently only one carried anything there, one of the purple machines carried a large cannon obviously meant to be held over its shoulder when in use. The arms featured the same rounded shaping as the head with a faux muscular accent to both halves of the arm with the elbow being a large cylindrical revolate joint. At the end of each arm was a five-digited appendage, the one on the right arm of two grasped a sculpted protrusion that extended from a large box that ended in a large hollow tube, while the middle machine carried a large weapon with four long tubes at one end and a large box underneath with a belt connecting to the weapon’s main frame. The red and the bazooka carrying machine’s shoulders where covered by rounded armour from which struts extended and supported a pair of large shields. The remaining machine, the one wielding the chain gun, lacked the shield on the right side; instead it mounted a massive cannon, even larger then its companion’s bazooka, with a large magazine protruding from the top. The legs where thick and rounded with a defining ridge along the front, the armour designed to use the slope to deflect incoming shells, the armour ending with ‘coal scuttles’ over the ankles.. On each calf where two openings for vernier thrusters as well as additional thrusters in the ‘ball’ of each foot. The cockpit was located in the abdominal assembly, appearing as a rather large, boxy protrusion from between the machines legs. Protecting the hips where several large plates forming a skirt, two in front, two on each side and a large one on the rear. A flashing light drew the thestral’ attention towards a craft drifting from the boulder field towards the colony. The signal was Morse code informing him the operation was beginning in earnest. With a smile he turned his red machine’s head towards his teammates and made it nod, soon the fun would begin. The gas propelled disposable Striker craft floated gradually towards the colony. Its size, weight and speed camouflaged it as little more then a piece of debris to the colony’s radar system, one that would theoretically bounce harmlessly off the colony hull. Under the hull seven pegasi had their hooves wrapped around underslung bars while one Pegasus sat within and guided the craft. As it neared the colony all eight pegasi bailed off and allowed the craft to crash against the massive structure, bouncing off harmlessly. All eight where clad in full body purple space suits with their heads covered by large helmets, their faces obscured by an opaque visor. The suits mounted gas powered verniers to provide mobility in zero-gravity as well as a pair of silenced sub-machineguns. One Pegasus moved towards the colony hull and opened a panel and pressed a few buttons on the console underneath causing a nearby airlock to slide open. With a nod to the other seven all eight made their way into the colony through the airlock. -6w9- “Achoo!” Dust kicked up as Amethyst sneezed forcing her to cover her snout to muffle the sound as the dust caused her to sneeze more. Her inner monologue complained about the fact nopony seemed to take the time to clean the air vents in the Royal Guard base, she was sure the military could afford to hire five or six fillies at a bit an hour to keep the vents sparkly clean and free of dust. As the sneezing fit passed the mare grumbled quietly one last time before continuing to crawl along slowly and as silently as possible. She had a rough idea of the bases layout from looking at the old blueprints her Grandfather had kept, though several sections had been changed or modified. A prime example would be the fact the Mobile Saddle Stables had been built after the original plans had been finished and the main construction area had moved on. So naturally when Amethyst realized she was currently crawling through those stables she realized she was well and truly lost. “Ah… so this is the Saddle?” A baritone voice filtered through a nearby grate as Amethyst crawled by it. Curiously she peered between the grills to see who had spoken. Her eyes falling on a shockingly tall figure clad in a brown robe emblazoned with a golden lyre on the back. Beside him was another figure in the same kind of robe, however this one appeared normal. Blinking Amethyst recalled what little she knew of the mysterious Church of Lyra and how the highest ranking members apparently took their devotion so seriously they trained their bodies to walk on their hind legs. If that rumour was true it certainly explained the first figures bizarre height. What really surprised Ame was the third figure, a dark blue Earth Pony stallion with well groomed white mane and a lab coat draped across his strong frame. He was a stallion she knew well, her own father. “Indeed my friend.” Her father replied to the bipedal figure before gesturing with his left hoof towards a Mobile Saddle Amethyst on had only just begun to notice, “This is the rebirth of the legend, a machine that biers the title from your holiest of texts. Its name is Mobile Saddle Gundam Friendship!” ‘Gun-dumb?’ Amethyst thought, ‘Kind of name is ‘Gun-dumb’ any-‘ “Amethyst dear, come out from there and join me would you?” Her father’s voice shocked her from her thoughts. “What?” She squeaked well and truly betraying her presence, “But… how did you know I was here?” She asked as she lifted the grate and crawled out of the air vent. She didn’t understand why but her eyes where drawn to the quadruped Lyrian. Amethyst’s father smiled as he noticed his daughters eyes drift and answered, “The young miss here ‘felt’ you approaching.” The Lyrian lowered her head and pawed at the ground shyly at the comment. The bipedal pony chuckled, “Do excuse Silver Lining, for an Earth Pony she is surprisingly shy.” The elder Lyrian pulled off his hood revealing his white coat and lime green mane, along with his emerald eyes and big smile, “Allow me to introduce myself, I am High Bishop Shining Bounty of the Church of Lyra.” With that he offered Amethyst a courteous bow, or what the horned pony assumed was a bow from the perspective of a biped. Silver Lining offered her a curtsy as well. As the two returned to a standing position, Bounty making Amethyst feel slightly dizzy just looking at him, she asked, “So, why Gun-dumb? What kind of name is that?” “You know of the Cataclysm one thousand years ago that wiped out 70% of pony life correct?” Bounty asked with Amethyst nodding her reply, “Well, in our sacred texts it speaks of four gun-wielding heroes who emerged during Old Equestria’s darkest hour and acted as a dam against the evils of the Cataclysm. After a terrible struggle the heroes gave their lives to defeat the evil's source, ending the Cataclysm. Collectively they where called Gundam.” “Gun… dam…” Amethyst blinked as she began to comprehend what the weight of meaning the name carried. After a moment she looked back at the White Giant and remarked, “So this… is Gundam?” -6w9- “Well that’s strange…” a slightly bored looking stallion commented as he looked at the readings displayed on his monitor. He was one of two stallions within a control room of the Colony’s docks, both wore the uniform of an Equestrian Empire officer. “What is it Biggs?” Asked the first stallion’s companion who wore a communications headset. “The sensors are picking up increasing levels of Quarkon Particles around the Colony…” Biggs replied casually before his eyes widened, “Wedge… do you think?” “An attack?” A third voice asked, “Eyup.” Two soft pops rang out in the small room and the two stallions slumped across their consoles, holes in their forehead with blood leaking out. The purple Zero-G Saddle clad Pegasus pony silently shut the door and methodically set to work tearing the consoles to pieces. -6w9- Within the service tunnels of the colony other purple suited Pegasi removed satchels from their saddlebags and stuck them to beams and behind supporting struts before flicking switches on them, the red lights on them switching to green, before floating deeper into the colony. “One-Eight to One-One, I have control.” The lead Pegasi’s earpiece crackled. The plan was progressing without a hint of trouble, with Luna’s blessings they could pull this off without anypony, on their side, getting killed. “Acknowledged, the packages have been delivered, open the welcome mat.” He ordered over the comlink before switching channels, “One-One to Zero-One, the decorations are set up, awaiting guests.” He commented before looking back at the other Pegasi with him and performing a serious of gestures with his hooves. With a nod his team split into two teams of two and a team of three before heading down different corridors. The operation was moving into its third phase and they would need to be in position before it began. -6w9- Four of the same purple machines that had been hiding behind the asteroid emerged from the darkness and raced towards the colony, their thrusters leaving a blue haze in void. Two of them where the duel shield model while the other two where the shield and cannon variant. The LMS-A13C Cloud Kicker was the mainstay of the Lunar Commonwealth’s Mobile Saddle forces and served as a sturdy and reliable general purpose machine. Of the two entering the colony one carried an assault rifle and bazooka like weapon while the other stuck to the standard rifle. The two other machines where LMS-C13C Cloud Cannons where medium range artillery support units, their shoulder mounted 250mm smoothbore cannons delivering devastating payloads with deadly accuracy over great distances. Both where armed with standard assault rifles. Inside the cockpit of the lead Saddle a stallion with a green mane and yellow coat smirked as he glanced to his left and saw the signal flare emerge from where the other units where hiding amongst the resource asteroids. The three that had been hiding emerge, visible only by the vapour trails of their thrusters at this distance, alongside eight others. The vapour trails of eight Equestrian Empire EGM-A21AM Applejack Mobile Saddles emerged from the colony on an intercept course with the larger Cloud Kicker force. “Looks like the party has started, Gentlecolts.” Lieutenant Aurora Dawn commented casually, “Let’s show the Imps why space belongs to Luna and her Commonwealth!” Two spherical pods with a pair of arms and machine guns mounted on each wrist flew out of the colony and raced towards the four approaching Mobile Saddles. The two Cloud Cannons reacted by rotating their cannons to aim at the pods before firing their cannons and striking with deadly accuracy, both pods exploded into fiery flowers as the shells struck them dead centre. The four Mobile Saddles flew past the explosions while maintaining formation as they sped into the cavernous expanse of one of the colonies multiple docks, rocketing past the startled workers as they scrambled to evacuate the area, some scattering their equipment in their haste leaving hammers, spanners and screwdrivers drifting within the gravity-less expanse. As the Lieutenant neared the middle of the dock a large gate came into focus at the far end of the structure he smirked while shifting his hooves slightly, bringing the Mobile Saddle’s right arm up to aim the massive bazooka weapon. Taking the helmet mounted trigger between his teeth he bit down, commanding the machine’s index finger to pull the weapon’s trigger. A brilliant emerald stream of particles was discharged from the beam bazooka’s emitter and surged into the centre of rear gate of the dock, the stricken section exploding a moment later. As the smoke cleared the four Mobile Saddles ignited their main verniers and flew through the improvised entrance. -6w9- All throughout the colony explosions rocked the entire structure sending ponies and debris alike flying as they tore through bulkheads and collapsed supports. Within the residential zones the blasts where felt as little more then tremors that knocked the startled residents off their hooves and filled their hearts with fear, each one realizing it wasn’t a simple debris strike. Within the bowels of the colony a muscular stallion with a grey coat and short cropped mane and tail drifted among the debris of one of the explosions. With a groan he slowly opened his eyes and started glancing around. The corridor was a wreck, walls had been torn apart and parts of the ceiling and floor had collapsed, the cables powering the lights having been severed along the way. Being a section without gravity the concept of a floor and ceiling was relative to which direction your where heading, like the lanes of a road for an automobile. Blood leaked out of the bodies of the dead and simply drifted in droplets around them, what little light remained glinted off them. The stallion quickly identified most of the bodies as his commanding officers. He recalled the reason they had even been in this passage was to get to their ship so they could scramble and fend off the Commonwealth aggressors. His eyes narrowed as he realized whoever had planned this surprise attack knew all too much about the colony and its interior to manage such a precise blow. A quick glance allowed the stallion to locate his hat and with a swift motion he returned it to its rightful place atop his head. His red uniform was charred and he could burns on several parts of his body, but he was an officer in Imperial Guard and even though his superiors where dead he still had his duty. With one of his powerful hind legs the Earth Pony kicked off the floor and began to proceed towards the military docks. There was exactly one ship in those docks and if she wasn’t destroyed then she needed to launch, with or without its assigned leadership. -6w9- Amethyst and Silver Lining stood together, giving each other support by their proximity as the ground shudder every few moments from the heavy footfalls of Mobile Saddles scrambling outside to counter the attacking Commonwealth machines. Amethyst’s father was frantically typing away at a computer console even while Shining Bounty fired wrist-mounted submachine guns at the two Commonwealth commandoes that had galloped into the hanger as the explosions started. “Quickly you two.” Amethyst’s father shouted over the gunfire, “Onto the lift!” he gestured towards the elevator in front of the Gundam with an urgency she had never seen in him before. The young mare gulped and glanced at Silver Lining who simply nodded to her before the two galloped at full speed onto the lift, her father trigger its ascent as soon as they where on. As the lift peaked the Gundam’s cockpit hatch opened and Amethyst’s father yelled up to the two mares, “Get inside, you will be safe there!” Trusting her father Amethyst quickly made her way inside the machine with Silver Lining on her heels. As soon as they where in she heard her father cry out in pain only for the hatch to slam shut, sealing the girls in the cramped cockpit. “What?” Amethyst muttered as her mind refusing to connect the dots of what she knew must have happened. Her eyes narrowed at the darkened hatch as the soft internal lights of the cockpit flickered on and she screamed, “DADDY!!” before pounding on the hatch with her forehooves in desperation to run to her father’s side. Only Lining’s soft voice speaking behind her broke her from her blind panic, “Strange…” the Lyrian mare muttered as she straddled the cockpit chair and tested all the controls, “I can’t seem to activate this Saddle.” “Why are you wasting you time with that? Help me get to my father!” Amethyst shouted hysterically back at her. Lining looked the panicking mare in the eye and replied calmly, “If we can activate this Mobile Saddle we can use its weapons to save your father and Father Bounty.” “So…” Amethyst lowered herself and carefully backed up until she was standing to Silver Lining’s left side, “Why isn’t it working?” She asked. Lining shook her head and replied, “I don’t know… Father Bounty said there was a special requirement to activating it; I had hoped my abilities where what he meant but maybe…” She glanced at Amethyst’s horn before looking the mare in the eye, “Maybe it was something your father was more familiar with?” She smiled before removing herself from the chair and gesturing for Amethyst to take her place. Anxiously the horned mare straddled the chair and gingerly flicked the activation switch. Amethyst winced as she felt energy surge through her horn as the multitude of monitors flickered to life they began to display the boot up coding of the OS while the main monitor displayed the words ‘Mobile Spatially Adaptive Dynamic Direction Locomotive Engine’ as the entire control structure lifted slightly and part of the ceiling descended and gently press against her back before attaching an emergency use muzzle control unit to her head. All the while Lining stared in awe at the violet shroud of energy that encased Amethyst’s horn. As the system finished booting up all the screens switched to displaying the area around the massive machine from the perspective of its head. Immediately Amethyst looked towards the Gundam’s feet and saw her father’s unmoving body in a pool of his own blood. Shining Bounty stood over his body as he continued to fight, one blood soaked forelimb hanging limply at his side. Blood exploded out of the warrior priest’s back before he too fell to the ground and ceased moving. Tears began to blur Lining’s vision as a shrill scream burst from Amethyst’s lungs. -6w9- “Ensign Broadside, Ensign Starboard, I’m glad to see you two alive!” The uniformed stallion declared with a relieved sigh. He gave the two mares a quick once over to check for injuries before asking, “Are you both fit for duty?” Broadside, a stocky Earth Pony mare a coat the colour of desert sands and a rusty red mane looked at the stallion with vibrant greens before nodding her head. She replied with her strong and slightly deep voice, “Yes Lieutenant North Star, I’m as fit as when I finished Boot Camp.” Starboard, a rather dainty Earth Pony with a gleaming silver coat and well groomed emerald mane cast her sapphire eyes at North Star and nodded her affirmation even as she floated upside down from the perspective of the other two. It was with a wondrously harmonic voice that carried her reply of, “Certainly Darling, I am as fit as a fiddle.” North Star nodded before explaining the situation, “All of our superiors where killed in that explosion. If the Mobile Saddle teams survived they’ve likely already launched.” As he paused the mares nodded in understanding, swallowing their shock at hearing the fates of the higher ranked officers, “If the Aasterinian is still operational then we need to get that thing moving. We have no idea what kind of force the Loonies have deployed out there so we need to get every working weapon out there to provide support.” The larger mare saluted, “Roger L-T! I’ll look around and see if any of the other crewmates are in any condition to help.” Broadside replied before disappearing down a side corridor. The shinier mare broke out a beaming smile and eagerly announced, “Alrighty then Darling! Let us be off to the Aster and wake the dear from her beauty sleep!” Starboard promptly started flailing her legs in an elegant trotting motion, somehow managing to set a steady pace towards the dock. North Star watched her for a moment before pushing off of the ground to drift after the strange, shiny mare with a single thought entering his mind, ‘This mare is going to drive me insane…’ -6w9- Seven blue Applejacks rocketed from the colony to clash with the inbound Lunar Commonwealth Mobile Saddles with one the colour of autumn leaves leading the formation. At a glance the Applejacks appeared different from their Cloud Kicker opponents, however a closer inspection revealed they shared many detail in their functionality. Their knees and elbows used the same joints as the Cloud Kickers despite the frame being overall more slender and boxy. The Applejacks head had a shape resembling something between a snoutless pony or baby dragon with a single wide visor instead of the swivelling camera of the Cloud Kicker. On the left shoulder of each and every one of the Applejacks was an insignia depicting a lightning bolt with white wings with a small banner underneath reading ‘Wonderbolts.’ The elite squadron of the Equestrian Empire, only the best of the best of the best where chosen to even attempt to join their ranks. The eight Applejacks quickly closed in on the eleven Cloud Kickers when a tracer round flew from the debris field and struck one of the Applejacks directly in the stomach region, right where the cockpit was located. “Damn it, they got Breakout.” The leader grunted from his autumn leaf coloured Applejack, “Sureshot, break away and engage that sniper, Railjumper provide support. Everyone else, break and engage at will.” Sureshot’s machine was equipped with a massive 180m ‘Dragon’s Fangs’ sniper rifle as long as the Saddle was tall. Other unique features on the sniper spec Applejack Precision was the large camera on the forehead was half again the size of the rest of the head giving the machine a conehead appearance, also the left shoulder had a swivelling scope attached allowing for triangulation of targets and a much greater degree of accuracy at great distances. Railjumper’s machine was a standard model equipped with a shield in the left hand and a 150mm Linear Rifle in its right. The mare quickly flew her machine ahead of Sureshot, firing a few rounds in the direction of the advancing Cloud Kickers to drive them out of their flight bath. As the two flew off the remaining Wonderbolts fired at the Cloud Kickers, drawing their attention back to the remaining five Applejacks as they broke formation forcing the Lunar Commonwealth machines to do the same. One Cloud Kicker accelerated faster then the rest becoming a red blur as it charged straight at autumn leafed Applejack which responded by levelling its standard 120mm assault rifle and firing burst of fire, forcing the red machine to dodge to it’s right and return fire. The custom Applejack boosted directly up, using the shield on its left arm to block any stray shots. The Wonderbolt Captain growled across the radio, “Prism Blitz! Why are the Shadowbolts attacking a civilian colony?!” he demanded even as the two whirled around each other, tracer rounds flying between them and the afterglow of their thrusters twisting and turning behind them. The masked, rainbow maned thestral in the red Cloud Kicker smirked as he replied, “Shouldn’t I be the one asking why the Wonderbolts are stationed at a ‘peaceful and unarmed’ civilian colony in direct violation of the Cadence Treaty? Are these the orders of your Empress, Autumn Wind? Or are where you acting alone?” While all colonies where entitled to a small defence force, declared civilian colonies where prohibited by both sides from stationing any Mobile Saddle forces within their garrisons, ships carrying MS must declare their presence before docking and where forbidden from launching without clearance from the militia. The Wonderbolts had responded far too quickly to be able to claim this was what they had done, making it clear they had been on patrol around the colony. Autumn growled as he realized his opponent had won the battle of words, which meant he had no choice but to win the battle of force. His custom Applejack slammed feet first into one of the Flim Flam Cylinder type colony’s three massive solar panel arms sending shattered pieces of photovoltaic cells everywhere and holstered his assault rifle to the rear waist hardpoint. A panel on the right arm flipped over the hand as he readied his attack. Prism reacted immediately by holstering his own assault rifle and drawing a Mobile Saddle sized Long Sword from the shield attached to the left shoulder with the right hand. With a flare of the Command-type Cloud Kicker’s vernier thrusters the machine launched towards the Applejack as he swung the sword at the opposing machine. Sword and knuckle clashed, the AppleBucker Knuckles used by the Applejack releasing a cushion of mega-particles that burst into a spinning vortex as they clashed against the Cloud Kickers E-Carbon sword. Neither weapon could overcome the other as the pilots fought for dominance, eventually the clash destabilized the particles resulting in a massive surge that blasted both machines away from each other, the Applejack carving a gouge in the solar panels as the Cloud Kicker was flung away from the arm with its verniers flashing violently in an attempt to stabilize the tumbling machine. “Captain Wind?” the pilot of an Applejack equipped with external boosters asked, a sense of urgency in his young voice. “What is it Joyride?” Captain Autumn Dawn replied even as he grunted from the rough treatment the blast had given him, genuinely wondering what could actually have the most aggressive member of the squad hesitating. “Sir, there are only three, maybe four Shadowbolts on the field… where are the other four?” came other Wonderbolt’s reply. The aggressive pilot’s machine’s verniers being the most obvious on the battlefield thanks to its optional boosters mounted across the modified machine’s body Autumn’s lime green eyes widened as the implications of Joyride’s statement settled into his thoughts. It wasn’t uncommon for large Squads like the Wonderbolts and Shadowbolts to split their forces into four-man squads for certain missions. If only half the Shadowbolts where here then, “Oh horseapples! The colony!” -6w9- Aurora found the defences inside the colony to be simply laughable, the AA trucks where old and fired rounds that the last generation of Cloud Kickers would have barely had to worry about and the SAM trucks relied on laser targeting making the weapon easy to dodge in an agile Mobile Saddle and causing more collateral damage then the Shadowbolts. Aside from that the internal garrison had eight Applejacks which where fighting so poorly the Pegasus had to wonder if the pilots where rent-a-cops. An explosion from behind one of the garrison’s structures signalled the destruction of the fifth of those machines. Surprisingly the combined efforts of those eight machines had lead to one of the Cloud Cannon being crippled and forced to retreat. It had been a lucky shot that struck the magazine of its cannon, blowing off the entire arm and compromising its main boosters and generator. On the ground the commando team was embroiled in a gunfight with Imperial soldiers around one particular hanger which the Shadowbolt’s computer told him was the location of the target. The only thing between him and the hanger was a single Applejack that had only just realized he was there. With a swift motion Aurora drew the sword stored in his machines right shoulder shield with the left hand and charged the Applejack. The Imperial MS panicked and fired its assault rifle wildly as it turned towards Aurora, seeming to forget it had a shield. Not a single bullet hit Aurora’s machine as his sword impaled the Applejack’s cockpit, with its CPU destroyed the Imperial machine continued to fire it’s rifle until the magazine was depleted. Then the door to the target hanger exploded outwards from the impact of a red soled foot. The rest of the Mobile Saddle soon followed the foot out of the hanger before turning to look at Aurora Dawn’s Cloud Kicker and the impaled Applejack. The mystery Mobile Saddle had an angular, boxy torso with upper chest section painted blue and the sides and stomach painted red. Instead of the usual vents on the breast it had a pair of twin vernier nozzles surrounded by forced cooling fans, both the fans and nozzles having a border of gold paint on the top and sides. The shoulder pieces where larger then those of the Applejack and Cloud Kickers, with a slight curve allowing the arms to be both mobile and store more powerful verniers then either mass-produced machine. The rest of the arm was quite similar to the Applejack series but lacked the AppleBuck Knuckles. The arms lacked the revolate elbow joints of the mass-production machines, instead it had an extra piece of armour over the elbow with the internal part of the joint being completely unarmoured, the inner workings of the arm barely visible in the small gap. Both arms and shoulders where painted white. The movements of the legs made how the knee joint all to obvious, unlike on the revolate jointed machines where it just swivelled back and forth with the aid of hydraulic pistons, the white MS had the entire leg shift, the armour on the thigh being split into front and rear sections, the front piece sliding forward as the knee bent, with the knee cap armour staying in roughly the same approximate position between the two halves of the leg, the movements showing the internal structure of the exposed sections. The pistons that moved the feet could be seen between the plates of armour as well with the heel remaining completely unarmoured. Aside from the red soles on the feet the leg armour was entirely white. Verniers where mounted on the back of the legs, the calves and the balls of the feet. Where the legs met the torso were a series of armoured plates forming a skirt. The main support structure for the legs to connect formed the central most section of the skirt and featured large codpiece like section with a red panel on the top and a vernier/cooling fan assembly on the lower section. The hips each had a mount to hold a cylinder as well as a vernier nozzle. Both cylinders and the skirt armour where painted white. Four main thruster nuzzles adorned the backpack of the Mobile Saddle, these large engines could easily be vectored thanks to the nozzles being external thus giving them a greater range of motion. The pack also included a pair of verniers on the ends of a pair of movable pylons that also mounted another pair of cylinders like those on the hips. The cylinders where painted white while the rest of the backpack was painted black. Dual emerald optics bore into the soul of the Shadowbolt with their unblinking glare; a furious expression permanently etched onto the machines face thanks the faceplates two upside-down v-shaped vents and crimson goatee, emphasizing the crimson armour surrounding the eyes. The machine’s brow added to the scowl by seeming to be slightly covering the optics, a large golden V-fin acting as eyebrows as well as a counter point to the large golden horn, where the V-fin and horn joined there was a crimson lens masquerading as a jewel. Embracing the cheeks where a pair of vents which stored a pair of 60mm Vulcan cannons. Attached to the left arm was a sleeker shield then the chunky variety the Applejacks where equipped with a red outer frame and white panels on the main protective surface. In the centre of the shield was the Sun insignia of the Equestrian Empire. In the right was a rifle with a white frame and no apparent ammo clip. Near the trigger was a drum like device that gave the weapon a bizarre revolver like appearance. On the top of the rifle was an emerald optic sensor that acted as the weapon’s sights. Aurora tossed the destroyed Applejack to the side and freed his sword before aiming at the white Mobile Saddle and fired what was left of his assault rifle’s magazine directly at where he assumed the cockpit was located. As the empty magazine dropped out of the rifle and he sheathed the sword, freeing the hand to grab on of the spare magazines on the Cloud Kicker’s hip, he kept his eyes on the white MS to ensure he had killed the pilot. His breath caught in his throat when he realized he hadn’t even scratched the paint. In the back of his mind he realized it wasn’t paint at all but nano-pigmentation, however his conscious mind was too busy dealing with the fact his primary weapon was all but useless against this machine. With a growl he raised his assault rifle to fire again, this time aiming for the head with the thought that if he couldn’t penetrate the armour maybe he could blow out the optics and either weaken it by forcing the pilot to switch to the secondary optics or open the cockpit to see better then with the secondary optics. If he got lucky the pilot might panic and even outright bail out. Aurora never had the chance to level the rifle as the white machine snapped it’s own weapon into firing position and a pink bolt of light lanced out and cut into the assault rifle sending molten E-Carbon dripping from the pierced section. The Pegasus reacted immediately by releasing the rifle even as the barrel fell off since the weight couldn’t support by the damaged section, he then shifted the right shoulder shield between him and the rifle just before the magazine was cooked off and exploded, showering the shield in shrapnel. “Ell-Tee? Are you alright, sir?” the pilot of the remaining Cloud Cannon asked over the radio even as it took to the air over the garrison and fired a pair of cannon rounds at the feet of the white machine. Aurora wasted no time in joining it in the air and equipping the beam bazooka he had stored on the back of his machine. The brightly coated Pegasus grunted his reply in annoyance, “Yeah, fine.” Loosing his rifle was just plain insulting, he was a Shadowbolt, one of Luna’s finest, the pride of the Commonwealth, the peak of soldiering fitness and he’d just lost a million bit weapon in battle against an untested machine with a pilot of unknown skill. Such humiliations just don’t happen. It was unforgivable! He demonstrated that fact by firing his beam bazooka at the last known position of the Gundam. As the dust from the Cloud Cannon’s shots cleared Aurora got a clear few of the melted tarmac his beam shot had gouged but saw no sign of the white Mobile Saddle. Black smoke could be seen rising from the wreckage of the two Applejacks Aurora’s support had been engaging. The other Cloud Kicker flew to rejoin its comrades with its back towards the ground and firing tracer rounds somewhere over the Lieutenant’s head. Glancing up he spotted the Gundam in midair, flying as easily as them but seeming to struggle to compensate for the Colony’s wind currents. -6w9- The door to the bridge slid open as North Star, Broadside and Starboard floated in and immediately flew towards three different chairs. It was painfully obvious to the three they where dreadfully understaffed as they still left seven chairs unmanned in the main bridge as they strapped in. The stallion glanced at the mares from the Captain’s chair as he ordered, “Begin the start up sequence.” As Starboard took the helmsmare seat and Broadside occupied the gunnery command chair in an alcove under the raised section the Captain’s Chair was on the two began to type frantically at their consoles bringing the various systems online. North Star picked up the phone attached to the Captain’s Chair and opened a communications line throughout the ship. “All surviving personnel aboard the Aasterinian, this is Lieutenant North Star. Due to recent events I will be assuming command as Acting-Captain, all personnel are to prepare for immediate launch and should report to battle stations.” With that he replaced the phone and looked at Starboard and asked, “How long until we can launch?” The shiny mare glanced back at the stallion with half-lidded eyes, the artificial lights of the bridge causing her lashes to glisten as her lips sensually slid from shape to shape as her heavenly voice replied, “Generator is active, but it will take 180 seconds to reach operational levels.” The helmsmare shifted her rump in the chair needily. North Star grunted in annoyance, “That’s far too long… jump start using particles from the colony.” He hoofed the console in front of him and it displayed the image of Broadside sitting below, “Broadside, prepare to fire the main guns at the bulkheads.” Broadside shouted her reply as both mares set about their work. With particles being drawn directly from the Colony’s reactor the ship’s start up sequence was greatly accelerated, dropping to ten seconds in an instant. As power was distributed across the ship its four double barrelled 300cm cannons, mounted on the top of the ship along with the two mounted on the underside parallel to the two outer guns on the upper section, swivelled and realigned their barrels towards the sealed bulkheads leading outside the colony. “Systems all green!” Starboard’s enrapturing utterance wafted from her lips and caressed North Star’s ear, which gave a flick before the Stallion gave a roar. “Starboard, prepare to exit the dock at full combat speed as soon as the way is clear.” Glancing back to his console he continued, “Broadside… do what you do best.” Suddenly the large mare in the Gunnery Alcove whooped excitedly and placed a battered Stetson hat on her head that she hadn’t possessed moments ago and grasped the cannon controls as she belted out, “YIPPEE-YI-YOO-KIA-YEEEEAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!” before biting the triggers. -6w9- A standard military green coloured Lunar Commonwealth Cloud Kicker drifted in front of one of the colony’s closed dock bulkheads while the pilot took a breather. As an alarm sounded in the cockpit the pilot spun his machine towards the dock and raised both of the assault rifles his machine had been equipped with. His eyes widened as he saw the bulkhead turn red, then gold as it began to melt. As the bulkhead burst and unleashed the swarm of pink particle beams that had tormented it the Cloud Kicker’s pilot screamed his marefriend’s name as his machine was engulfed in the deadly beam and exploded. Moments later the Aasterinian thundered out from the dock. Preceding the majority of the hull was the duel Mobile Saddle launch catapults, complete with rails on both sides of the thick, sturdy runways, nestled at the between the catapults was an armoured cylinder with a strange turbine on the front and the vents of three other turbine fans along the side. At the base of each catapult was a pair of hanger bay hatches, two above and two on the underside all four where sealed since it had no Saddles to launch. Attached to the top and bottom of the superstructure of the hanger bays, above the turbine cylinder and on a raised part of the hull between and behind the upper hanger bays where the six beam cannon turrets that had blown through the dock that had held the ship. The rear section of the ship housed a pair of large blocks on either side where two rows of six massive Thermo-Nuclear rocket motors were mounted on each block. Between each block was a dividing superstructure mounted two more beam cannon turrets. Between the Engine blocks and the hangers where covered ports for the 32 missile tubes on both hemispheres of the ship while six similar tubes where positioned on either side of the bridge tower, these six where the ships flare tubes. The bridge tower was the tallest part of the ship and sat between the engine blocks. As the ship was currently in combat status the bridge itself had large armoured bulkheads covering the Clear-Carbon viewing ports, protecting the crew inside from most weapons fire. Affixed atop the bridge where a pair of communications antennae with a red cone between them. The antennae resembled a large yellow v-shaped fin while the red cone, actually part of the radar equipment, formed the entire upper section of the bridge tower. One the bottom of the engine blocks and central hull where skid like devices that appeared to serve no purpose. Across the entire hull where over 50 small 80mm Vulcan cannon CIWS systems which could pose a respectable threat to anything dumb enough to get close, be they missile or Mobile Saddle. As the ship surged out of the dock it quickly altered its pitch so it flew towards the battle between the Wonderbolts and the Lunar Commonwealth forces. Its rapid change of course and acceleration catching both forces off guard as it charge right at them. -6w9- Iridescence drew in a ragged breath as Rough Edge and his gang forced her to sprint to keep up with them as they fled towards one of the colony’s shelters. Her green eyes glanced towards the skyline where the Gundam still fought the three Shadowbolt MS, pink beams lanced out from the Gundam’s rifle that the Commonwealth machines either barely dodged or blocked with their shields. Each time they blocked their shields melted a little more from the bombardment. Rough Edge and his gang may have been bullies but they where still Earth Ponies, and like all Earth Ponies they prided themselves on their community spirit so it was little wonder they had brought the filly with them as they fled. They may not have liked or even respected her, but leaving her for dead was simply disgraceful. The little filly caught up to the three young stallions as they reached a shelter that still had room to spare, or so the green light over the access lift told them. As Rough Edge hit the communicator switch to talk to whoever was inside to get them to let the four in Iridescence looked back up just in time to the Gundam fire another pink beam at the assault rifle wielding Cloud Kicker. This time the Cloud Kicker’s shield didn’t save it, the badly damaged defensive device failing to block the beam instead the stream of particles cleaved straight through, severing half the arm and splitting the entire machine in two, all three parts careening out of control. The upper section, with the main thrusters still active spiralled out of control into another section of the colony’s internal city while the legs crashed into a nearby apartment building where the filly could still see ponies trying to evacuate. The filly turned her head away in time to see one of her teachers and a few of the foals from her class running towards the shelter, they may not be her friends but a part of her was glad there would be some foals her age down there. Then the Cloud Kicker’s severed arm crashed down on top of all but a few that had run ahead of the herd. Rough Edge and his goons looked back at the devastation before springing into action, the three picking up the four shell shocked foals that hadn’t been crushed and Iridescence before galloping to the shelter’s lift just as it arrived to take them down. As it lurched downwards the five foals snapped out of their trance and burst into tears, everything they had seen simply being too much for them to handle. -6w9- Shock and fury coursed through Aurora Dawn at the sight of the destroyed Cloud Kicker. The Gundam was an impressive, agile and infuriatingly durable machine but it was the rifle that drew the Ace’s ire. Such a small weapon shouldn’t have that kind of firepower, it was an insulting, intolerable slap in the face that mere Earth Ponies had crafted such a compact weapon that had all the firepower of his Beam Bazooka concentrated into a beam no thicker then a 100mm round. The source of the weapons devastating power came from having such a compact beam. That level of particle concentration increased the penetrative power of the rifle to roughly three times that of the Beam Bazooka. Combined with its mobility and armour it was like fighting a whole new generation of Mobile Saddle. ‘No wonder Princess Luna was so interested in this machine…’ Aurora’s inner monologue grumbled as he dodged another shot. The Pegasus found himself not only hard pressed to keep dodging since in normal combat his Saddle’s armour could be trusted to soak a few hits, where it couldn’t against that Beam Rifle, but he was also to think of a time when he had to fight so hard when out numbering an opponent. Inverting his machine he fired his Beam Bazooka at the Gundam while his comrade in the Cloud Cannon skimmed along the Colony’s central pillar and the Artificial Sun panels that lined it. The Gundam reacted by raising it’s shield and blocking the bazooka beam, the shield barely melting from the hit, while crossing the beam rifle under its shield arm and firing a shot at the Cloud Cannon, luckily it had stopped just short of being hit by pink beam and began to aim its cannon. The Gundam spun and moved its shield just in time to deflect the large cannon round sending it hurtling into a deserted park. The white Mobile Saddle then aimed its beam rifle and fired at the Cloud Kicker which was still recovering from the recoil of its own attack had no chance of dodging and was struck directly in the chest. Immediately red warning signs flashed on Aurora Dawn’s monitors causing his eyes to widen in horror as he spun his machine and flew away from his ally at full speed, his doomed comrades screams filling the cockpit before been violently silenced. The Ace braced himself as the Cloud Cannon’s Quarkon Nuclear Fusion Reactor overloaded and exploded, the shockwave sending the Ace’s Cloud Kicker spiralling. As he regained control another alarm blared and he easily dodged a pink beam that he noticed was moving away from his machine even before he dodged. Quickly glancing around he gasped in horror as the central pillar flailed violently, a large section having been melted by the Cloud Cannon’s meltdown. The Gundam’s misaimed shot made considerably more sense as his own machine lurched and he saw the entire Colony begin to break apart. Debris of all shapes and sizes flew in all directions as the air within the colony was sucked out into space, tearing the colony apart even faster. Doomed ponies unfortunate enough to not have made it to a shelter drifted about in a panic in the sudden loss of gravity as others where sucked out by the vacuum. The last things Aurora Dawn saw where the sight of the Gundam being sucked into one of the gaps that had formed as on of the colony plates separated, the other being a rather massive piece of the superstructure careening towards his cockpit from the perspective of his machine. A moment later the beam burst through the cockpit and he saw it with his own eyes. -6w9- Amethyst’s conscious slowly began to seep back into awareness, her mind going over what it could remember to figure out what in the world just happened. The one image that stood out was the image of little Iridescence looking up at the machine she had been pilot with a look of fear as Rough Edge and his gang ran with her towards where the shelters where located. However that had been only a few minutes before her memory went fuzzy. From what she knew of how Rough Edge and his gang treated her and her sister there was every chance they had abandoned the filly to save themselves. Slowly she opened her eyes in hopes of seeing a visual reference to jog her memory a bit. Immediately her mind went blank as it refused to process, to understand, what she was seeing. Directly in front of her was a tattered stuffed pony drifting in the uncaring, unforgiving blackness of space. Behind it was the shattered corpse of the Ponyville colony, now nothing more then a huge debris field. “Iridescence…?” She wondered aloud, not even paying attention to the unconscious form of Silver Lining next to her, “Iridescence?!” Her voice took on a little more urgency as her mind came to the worst case scenario. That her sister was dead. “IRRRIIIIIDEEEESSSCCCEEEEENNNNNCCCCEEE?????!!!!!” To be Continued… Next Episode: “I am the Last Crusader.”
XX55XX	912	1	Fluttershy,Dark,Sad,Slice of Life,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	No Time for Good-bye: Fluttershy's Sad, Lonely End	Fluttershy is alone. She sees only one way out. A short story.	complete	47	2	<p>Fluttershy is the classic example of a pony who has fallen from grace. She is suffering from pneumonia, lives in squalor and poverty, and all of those who have once loved her are gone. In the end, she sees only one way out.</p>	teen	2011-09-19T21:09:07+00:00	2011-09-19T21:09:07+00:00	5,614	It was a chilly, late October evening. Condensation fogged the window. Slivers of ice graced the window sills throughout the house. Save a fierce wind howling outside, silence reigned. Fluttershy rested her head on the sofa. She shivered, gripping a dirty blanket ever more tightly around her mane. A solitary candle, fueled by only a small stump of wax, provided the sole source of illumination. It was pitch black outside, but she didn't have any more candles. This was her last one, and she surmised that it would last only another hour, at most. After that, she would be draped in shadows, with only the faint light from the moon for company. Fluttershy coughed, as a large bit of phlegm slivered out of throat. She instinctively swallowed it, for she had no napkins or even a wastebin to spit into. She may be severely impoverished and ill, but she was still civilized and ladylike, at least. Maybe. Living in an unheated hovel had taken a serious toll on her health. The local clinic diagnosed her with pneumonia, but she did not have the bits for treatment. They turned her away after the diagnosis. She coughed again, this time violently. Blood dripped from the corner of her mouth, but she did not bother to wipe her lips clean. Her resolve to care vanished long ago. Fluttershy turned to the window and peered outside at the bright lights emanating from Ponyville. She sighed. If only her friends were here... they could help her, or at the very minimum, lift her spirits up. But those ponies whom she once recognized as friends were friends no more. They had all moved on long ago, to pursue greater opportunities, to pursue their dreams... Twilight moved back to Canterlot for another bout of intense studying. Applejack moved west, hoping to establish a new business with her cousin, Braeburn. Rarity received a new job as editor for a fashion magazine in Manehatten. Rainbow Dash achieved her dream of becoming a Wonderbolt and moved to Fillydelphia. Even Pinkie Pie outgrew her job at the Sugarcube Corner and... oh where did Pinkie move to? She couldn't remember. On the eve of each departure, everypony promised the other that they would remain in touch. At first, Fluttershy received mounds of mail from each of her friends, complete with pictures, even. But as time went by, the volume dropped, little by little, until nopony wrote to her anymore. She wrote back incessantly, hoping to know what had become of them, only to see her pleas go unanswered. Most of the letters she received made verbal promises that their friendship would remain vibrant and active, but her friends had betrayed these promises – to her, and possibly, each other. Her eyes welled up. Did it ever have to end this way? Must friendships die? And so quietly? Fluttershy sank beneath the window, slouching upon the sofa. She could hold it no longer. She cried and wailed, hoping that someone would hear the dreadful noises she made, that someone would be curious enough to enter her home, that someone would drag her out of this pit of despair and poverty, that someone would just simply sit down and hear about the dreadful, lonely predicament she has sunk into- The tears then stopped. Her crying slowed to a few muted sobs. Even despair had its limits. Fluttershy took a breath, trying to regain composure. She reached for the dirty handkerchief on the coffee table, wiped her eyes, and then the blood on the corner of her mouth. Looking up, her eyes darted to the telephone on the cabinet on her left. That gave her an idea. She needed somepony to talk to, and why not make it the telephone operator? Leaning over, she picked up the receiver and dialed. “Hello, you have reached the operator,” a female voice answered. Fluttershy heaved, hopeful. “Hi. I hope you are not too busy...” “Yes? Do you know your party's extension?” the voice asked tersely. “Well, I was hoping we can talk... about anything...” Fluttershy hicupped. “Umm, sorry, sweetheart. I operate the phones. I have no time for chitchat whatsoever. Again, do you know your party's extension? Or do I need to look that-” Fluttershy slammed the receiver onto the cabinet, convulsing in anger. It was true! Nopony ever wanted to talk to her! The friendship she enjoyed two years ago – it was all one giant web of deceit! They only pretended to be her friends. They had duped her, showering her with praise about her kindness, her skills with animals, only to turn around and smash her dignity and crush her soul! Yes, it all makes sense now... She stood up angrily, casting aside her dirty blanket. Yes, tomorrow, she would go to Ponyville, and curse everypony for being stupid liars. She would reveal them to be the charlatans that they really are. Yes! That would be the proper course of action! Oh, how much of genius she was! Fluttershy laughed maniacally, as if she was on top of the world- -only to realize that she wasn't. Her rage dissipated. Her ego deflated. Oh, what was she thinking? They would take her for a fool, another looney destined for the insane asylum. Collapsing upon the sofa once again, she coughed. More blood dripped from the corner of her mouth. Her head was a block of iron. There was no use. She would never have again what she had lost. What else did she have left? Nothing, not even the animals. Even Angel, her supposedly faithful pet rabbit, moved away as her home slowly declined into a pigsty. There was only one path left – the path which would set her free from this cruel, miserable world. Yes, Fluttershy thought, it was time. Rising from the sofa, Fluttershy meandered into the kitchen, seizing a piece of rope from a cupboard and a stool from the corner. She had been saving this piece of rope for months now, awaiting the day she could use it. She set the stool under a beam in the kitchen. Fluttershy leapt upon the stool on all fours, her mind racing. She needed to do this quickly, lest she panic and back out of it. She tied a knot into the rope, creating a circle. She then tied another knot, securing the rope to the beam above. Fluttershy inserted her neck into crevice on the rope. Yes... she now knows what to do... This would set her free... at last... Free at last, free at last. Oh, how sweet those words were, and the predicament so close... Peering over into the den, Fluttershy saw that the solitary candle on the coffee table had ceased to glow, enveloping the entire hovel in darkness for one last time. She gulped. There were no more candles. Her time has come. This was the end, and there was no turning back. Fluttershy kicked the stool over gently with her hoof.
Starberry Burst	913	1	Lyra,Other,Pinkie Pie,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Cooking Floor	Ponies in a Killing Floor-styled Equestria	incomplete	8	3	<p>On the last day of August, something very strange happened. </p><p>It began as a peaceful, but tense, protest outside of the offices of a local biotech coroportation. What transpired, however, unleashed a horror that nopony could contain. All of ponydom was overrun by a howling shambling mass. Civilisation was in ruins. Buffets were cancelled. The smell of sugar filled the air. </p><p>On the last day of August, Equestria turned into a cooking floor.</p><p>(Cover art by Vednix)</p>	teen	2012-04-30T19:29:07+00:00	2012-04-30T19:29:07+00:00	833	The city of Loindon, wrapped comfortably around the banks of the river Thames. It was one of the major centres of civilisation in Equestria, rivalled only by the likes of Canterlot and Manehatten in terms of size and prosperity. As with all the other cities, Loindon was dead. Of the once blue and inspiring sky, there remained only a heavy mass of clouds. Due to the numerous fires dotted throughout the city, the clouds bore a crimson tint that dulled the once vibrant colors of the city. Aiding its comrade above, a thin, white mist covered the streets in patches like a torn blanket. Wherever it collected, the air was filled with the heady stench of burning sugar. The streets were a mess. Carriages lay overturned and empty, sporting broken wheels and shattered axels. Market stalls were in pieces, their planks splintered and wares now a putrid mass of fungus and flies. The buildings were shadows of their former selves, stooped and hollow, their colors dulled and washed away. Between the murky streets an occasional stray wind would blow, scooping up flotsam to juggle for a few yards before letting them fall to cover the pavement. Within the west district of the city, there was movement. A lone parasprite fluttered along a main pedestrian road. On weak wings, it meandered over to an abandoned stall and sniffed hungrily at the rotten fruit, before turning away to travel on. As the creature came to an open plaza, it paused briefly to look up at the bleak clouds. Suddenly its wing-beats accelerated as its eyes widened. A large object was faintly visible high in the sky and steadily becoming larger. The parasprite gave a frightened chirp and zipped underneath a broken barrel, where it hid with exaggerated shivers. Slowly, the object descended towards the district. As it passed through the mist, its shape solidified into a dark-colored air balloon. Piloting it from the basket underneath was a pegasus pony, garbed from head to hoof in tight black gear that matched his untidy dark mane. Thick goggles covered his eyes. Seated next to the pilot were a unicorn and two earth ponies, each dressed in combat gear and eyeing their surroundings cautiously. The remaining space within the basket was occupied by small, lumpy bags, their openings tied up with string threaded into the fabric. The balloon travelled over the buildings at an agonizingly slow pace. Once over the plaza, the pegasus jerked on the rope controls to bring them to a stop in mid-air. With a further tug on another rope, the balloon lowered to the ground. The basket hit the pavement with a loud thud that echoed sharply against the buildings. The four climbed out of their transport and quickly fanned out around the plaza to look in all directions. The pegasus hovered slightly in the air, scanning the rooftops warily as the grounded ponies circled around the plaza. After several seconds, however, they all gradually relaxed and regrouped near the balloon. "No sign of the candysuckers so far, sir. We should be alright for now," one of the earth ponies said. He wore dark green fatigues over his white coat and a flat camouflage helmet buckled tightly to his head. A crop of light brown mane peeked out under the back of the helmet, the color matching his short tail. His face had a weathered look, dark circles visible underneath his weary brown eyes. A cutie mark depicting a star above a pair of wings was visible on his flank, partially covered by his clothing. The pegasus pony gave the plaza another glance and nodded. He used a hoof to push the goggles up to rest on his forehead, revealing sharp green eyes. "Very observant, Lieutenant. The key words, however, are ‘for now’. We know that they hide when there's nopony around. But since our landing made quite a noise, they're sure to find us soon." "So what's the plan then, guvnor? Just wait here and then knock as many apples into the mules before we're back in time for tea?" the other earth pony roughly laughed. This one, with a coat of dark yellow and a small tail of cyan, was dressed in a blue outfit and black vest and wore a helmet with a plastic shield covering merry blue eyes. His cutie mark was an upright clenched fist. The pegasus lowered his head to eye the laughing pony disdainfully. “Regardless of your opinion, constable, I am still a Major and your ranking officer, so you will address me in the correct manner.” His jovial nature disappearing almost instantly, the ‘constable’ glared and opened his mouth to retort. The lieutenant, standing next to him, glanced sideways and jabbed a hoof into his fellow pony’s ribs with a curt "Briar”. The constable glowered for a second before lowering his head. “Yes sir.” The yellow pony muttered. The Major nodded lightly before turning to the white pony. "Let me repeat your briefing for his sake, since there aren’t obviously enough pony brain cells to pass around. Lieutenant Masterson, you and your squad are to infiltrate this area, identify any hostiles, and hold them off for as long as possible. We have had reports that, should they congregate in this sector any further, there is a risk the survivor camp east of here will be attacked. There are too many innocent fillies and colts situated there for this threat to be ignored. Therefore, you will act as a necessary diversion so that we can move as many ponies as possible. Failure is not an option here." "Blimey, I had no idea there were lives at stake. And only us three to be bait! Now I feel much more motivated," Briar the constable drawled. Rolling his eyes, the pegasus sighed and lightly fluffed his wings in agitation. "We’ve been over this, constable. We have too many squads out in the field trying to contain these hostiles in other key sectors to spare you any extra hooves.” he shook his head as if to ward off a headache before continuing: “Now, each of you has been provided with five bags of ammunition. I know that it’s not much to go on, but it’s all we can give for now. With any luck you will barely exhaust your first bag before your evac arrives. We have intel that suggests there may be preserved caches nearby that you may use if you wish.” "Do you wonder why those caches are there, sir? Why nopony has used them yet? I sure do. I think it might be because they had their brains eaten out,” Briar quipped with a raised eyebrow. The Major continued as if he had not heard any interruption, though his jaw was visibly clenched. “Be that as it may, I will return to this plaza at 1700 hours for your extraction. By my estimate, that gives you five hours. If you're not here by then, or those things are still cantering around, I’m under orders to leave. Leave and announce you all MIA. You understand the situation. Good luck." Masterson simply raised his hoof to his helmet. "Sir." Nodding, the pegasus returned the salute and turned to the balloon. Climbing into the basket, he dropped the numerous bags over the side onto the floor of the plaza. Maneuvering the controls, he gave a final wave as the balloon rose into the air. The three ponies watched it rise to a safe height above the rooftops and travel away from them. Their eyes remained fixed on it until it became a small black spot on the horizon that was quickly swallowed up by the mist. Forcing a grin, Briar mockingly wiped a hoof across his brow. "Bleedin' featherbrains give me a headache." Masterson gave him a small smirk that did not quite reach his eyes and slapped a hoof onto his back. "Get it together you pillock. There’s work to be done.” The smile quickly faded as his brown eyes darted up and down the street. “Right, let’s get our bearings first. Which way is north?” Briar’s head snapped back as he eyed the lieutenant with mocking surprise. “You telling me you didn’t bring a compass?” “That’s what I’m telling you.” Masterson replied with a straight face. “Grabbing a compass isn’t the first thing that comes to mind in an apocalypse. Powers? Help me out here?” Powers, the third of their company, was a turquoise-coated unicorn wearing similar fatigues to his lieutenant, though the coloring had worn with age and use. The pony’s face was completely covered by a gas mask, leaving his pale mint mane and horn free and unencumbered. His cutie mark was of a cross-hair surrounded by numerous stars. “How the hay is he gonna know?” Briar snorted skeptically. Without hesitation, the unicorn raised a hoof and pointed down a street running adjacent to the plaza. “Since when did hornheads have a compass in their brains?” grumbled Briar. Masterson retrieved a small map from a pocket and briefly consulted it against the layout of the nearby buildings. “Righto. Might as well go with that.” The lieutenant shrugged. “Start checking them apples, see if any are ripe that we can use as food. We move out in five," he turned to Briar. “Make sure the coast is clear down that way,” he pointed towards the south. “I don’t want any surprises.” Powers began to untie and search through the bags left by the pegasus. Each contained smooth apples of varying sizes, their color a lush green. He levitated one in front of his masked face, appearing to study it. The glow surrounding his horn dissipated, cutting off the magic holding the fruit. The apple fell to the ground and sharply bounced off at an angle, leaving a faint mark on the stone, before rolling to a stop against Briar’s hind leg. The yellow pony jumped in fright at the touch and spun around. At the sight of the apple, he sighed in relief before glaring at Powers. “Mind what you’re doing pal.” He called out angrily. “I’d rather not bite the cupcake thanks to you flinging those things about.” From behind the glassy gas mask eyes, the unicorn was silent as he levitated the apple back into the bag. Tension hung in the air as the two stared at each other, only finally broken as Briar slowly backed away with a grimace. He continued walking backwards until he reached Masterson, who was further examining the map. "Dear Celestia, he doesn't gab much does he?" Briar muttered once he was close enough. The yellow pony pushed up his visor as he continued "I never heard him speak a word on the trip here. He’s always wearing that gas mask too. Wonder where they dug the poor hayseed up. Rumour round the precinct is that his mare and filly were caught in the outbreak. Now he just keeps to himself. Serious mental problems, that." "Whatever his problem, he's a bloody good shot." Masterson replied, eyes still fixed on the map. “We’ll need all the help we can get against these things.” Briar frowned slightly. “I’ve been thinking...what some of the blokes reckon about these things, it’s a load of fudge, right? I mean, they’re not zombies, right?” The lieutenant rolled up the map and gave the pony a look of pity. “You ever seen these things up close, sunshine?” The yellow pony visibly bristled, his eyes darting around. “W-What do to take me for? I was there on the streets the first day! I got called in to deal with those protesters, the ones with their tails in a twist over the Hockzine reports. Next thing I know I’m up to my neck in blank flank zombies trying to eat everyone. I was not having that, I can tell you.” Briar puffed his chest out as he spoke. “I must’ve kicked down five dozen of the ponsies before we were called to retreat. I was assigned to your base of operations not soon after that.” “Impressive,” Masterson shook his head, “but in any case, I don’t think they’re zombies mate. I’ve seen the movies, them buggers chew on a pony but don’t properly eat them. Besides, they’re attracted to sugar. The stuff’s like a drug to them. Ever heard of a zombie into sugar?” “So, what are they then, smarty pants?” Briar asked. Masterson shrugged. “Hay knows what they are. I’ve heard people call them Zests, though. They want sugar. Sugar adds zest to any dish. Make sense?” Briar looked at him blankly. Masterson looked back before laughing. “Not the best name, yeah. But let me know if you come up with anything better.” Briar chuckled in response, but quickly sobered up as Powers approached the two of them. He pointed to the bags he had searched and shook his head. The lieutenant's smile dropped and the weariness crept back into his face. “Right, that’s enough clucking, let’s get moving.” he barked. Briar raised a hoof to flick down his visor. “Where are we moving to exactly, sir?” His superior waved a hoof to the north. “The plan is we move about in the hope we can attract the attention of these things. Once they’re out in the open, we take them down, hold them off, complete the mission. Move out!” With their bags worn at their sides in a similar fashion to saddlebags, the trio cautiously left the plaza and stepped out onto the road and turned north. Tension hung in the air as they trotted slowly, their hooves making soft clops with each step. They eyed each doorway and alley carefully before moving forward. Powers regularly checked behind the group, his horn faintly glowing in preparation for an attack. Briar crept closer to the apartment buildings lining the side of the road, cautiously avoiding the festering fruit that had been thrown from a nearby cart. Suddenly he gave a yelp as a parasprite shot out from underneath a smashed pumpkin and barrelled down a nearby alley. The yellow pony tottered slightly before hunching over, gasping and cursing. Powers quickly trotted over and swatted the constable’s ear, pressing a hoof to his gas mask to indicate silence. Suddenly, a long painful moan filled the air. All three ponies stopped dead. Craning their necks, they peered in all directions, searching for the source of the noise. At the end of the street came the faint sound of shuffling hooves, accompanied by further moaning. "Stay sharp you lot." breathed Masterson. “That’s one of them.” Appearing through the gloom, staggering on uneven legs, was another pony. Its body was completely devoid of a coat or mane, the bare skin appearing pale with a white sheen. Several small medical stickers were visible near the head and flank. Its eyes were wide and staring, twitching and rolling in their sockets, the pupils like pinpricks. Its jaw and snout were dotted with sprinkles and flecks of icing, and its mouth hung loosely open. The most disturbing feature, however, was that no cutie mark was visible on its flank. Blinking occasionally against the haze, the white pony swayed unsteadily. Suddenly its focus snapped to the three ponies ahead. With a lurch, it began to canter towards them, its moan transforming into a long guttural groan. Masterson was the first to move. He quickly dipped his shoulder, dropping one of his bags to the ground. With his teeth, the pony tugged on the drawstring around the bag’s neck whilst pressing a hoof on the fabric. The lip of the bag, without the string keeping it tight, widened to allow a couple of apples to spill onto the stone ground. With a flick of his hoof, the lieutenant sent one of the apples whizzing through the air. The pale pony approaching him could barely react before the apple struck it between the eyes. Both pupils immediately crossed and it collapsed in a heap, uttering a final moan before laying still. Briar cautiously approached the fallen pony and nudged it with a hoof. He motioned to the others, who joined him. "The lads at the base call this a Cherry," Masterson spoke, pausing to pick up the slightly bruised apple with his teeth and drop it back into the bag. "They’re always the first to come at you before the rest of them turn up. They’re the ‘cherry’ on top of the cake. Plus they’re as weak as cherries.” Briar snorted. “Come on, that’s the best they could come up with?” Ignoring him, Masterson tilted the unconscious Cherry’s head, studying the candy-covered mouth. “They’re a right handful, though. One apple to the head takes them out, but the freaks can quickly swarm you if you let your guard down. Once they grab you, they don’t let go easily." Stomping the ground, Briar laughed loudly. "If this is all we’re up against, I could take them all on with only one apple!" The laughter and noise reverberated down the street, bouncing off the hard walls of the apartments and houses. In the distance, growing steadily louder, was the sound of shuffling and moaning. Masterson sighed as he dropped a couple of his bags onto the ground. "Had to open your gob, didn't you?" Briar gave a smirk. “Admit it, I’d be boring if I kept it shut.” The squad barely had time to ready their bags before their company arrived. Cherries began to pile into the street from the north and south ends, climbing over stalls and carts and fences in their rush. The three ponies began to kick their apples at the oncoming horde, stopping only when their current bag was empty and they had to prepare a new one. More and more of the pale ponies converged on the location even as unconscious bodies began to litter the street. Each Cherry mindlessly approached, stepping on their fallen brethren with no pause for thought, their eyes whirling and mouths hanging open in a demented expression of glee. “I’m down to my last bag!” Masterson called over his shoulder as he kicked another apple. “I’m calling a retreat if they don’t let up!” “‘I’m trying my best!” Briar cried as he took down a Cherry with another apple. “These things just don’t stop coming!” Slowly, the Cherries inched closer and closer despite the barrage of apples hurtling their way. Powers, however, successfully kept the south of the street clear for several meters, flicking apples with his hoof whilst simultaneously levitating and throwing more with his magic. The unicorn was fixated on his task, his head bent forward and tail swishing, his concentration etched in every tensed muscle. He did not see the Cherry stagger out of the building behind him. Briar, happening to glance over his shoulder, saw the pale blur launch itself at his teammate. “Watch your back, Powers!” he called, but it was too late. The Cherry wrapped its forelegs around the unicorn’s neck and began to bite. Taken by surprise, Powers tried to twist and buck, but the Zest displayed surprising strength and kept its hold. It tugged on his mane and chewed at the straps of the mask, leaving flecks of drool and sprinkles in its wake. Masterson looked behind him to see Power struggling. He froze for a second before taking action. He rolled an apple behind him and sent it flying with a swift kick with his hind leg. The fruit exploded against the back of the Cherry’s head, causing it to slump over its prey. Powers, now pinned under the unconscious weight, struggled vainly to stand up, but was quickly swarmed by more of the Zests. Several of them threw themselves on top of the unicorn, whilst others lowered their heads, attempting to bite at any unexposed part of him. “Powers!” Briar yelled, abandoning his apple sack and bucking a Cherry into a wall as he turned to gallop toward his friend. A white leg shot out against his chest, barring his path. “Leave him!” the lieutenant barked, bracing his leg against the constable. While his face displayed stern control, his eyes betrayed a dull pain as he glanced at the pile where Powers had stood. “We can’t help him now.” Briar pounded the pavement with an angry hoof before turning away, a silent Masterson following him. The two ponies grabbed their open bags and galloped into the nearest alleyway, dodging overturned flower pots and discarded horseshoes. They traversed the alley until reaching its end, leading into a narrower street. Masterson turned to see the moaning mass of Cherries were giving a slow chase. “Not far enough,” he said, “let’s keep going for another block or so.” He glanced over at Briar and saw him paw the ground, glaring at the Zests. “Don’t even think about it pal,” the lieutenant warned, “we need to stay focused.” Briar turned his stare on the lieutenant, but nodded grudgingly. They set off at a canter, making their way through many streets and alleyways, travelling further and further from the plaza. Eventually they came to a halt at a narrow junction between three tall apartments. Masterson turned to view behind them whilst Briar leaned heavily against one of the buildings, gasping for air. “Ok, now I really need a break.” Briar wheezed for breath as he collapsed against the alley wall. “We might’ve put enough distance between them and us, but these things are slippery. They can crawl out of anywhere.” Masterson glanced up at the high walls of the apartments. “At least now we’re not out in the open.” “Oh yeah? Well this is a much better choice, isn’t it, guv?” Briar growled and motioned to the surroundings. “Face it you git, we’ve barely started and already it’s a disaster. We’re almost out of ammo, we’re stuck here in the city’s plot-hole, Powers is...” His voice trailed off as he lowered his gaze to stare bitterly at the ground. Masterson turned to look at the dejected pony, the weariness of his face more pronounced. “I told you, the Cherries don’t eat, they only bite. He might still be alive, I don’t know. If he is, then most of the freaks will have chased after us and given him-” His voice stopped. Frowning, Briar looked up to see Masterson’s face was frozen in fear, his gaze set straight ahead at the junction. Slowly, Briar turned his head. It was similar to the Cherry. It had no coat, no mane and no cutie mark. Its skin, however, was gone. Its body was covered only in exposed leathery muscle which, combined with a dirty red tint to the tendons and ligaments, gave it a sun-burnt appearance. The pony’s lower jaw was noticeably missing and its tongue was swollen to almost double its normal size. As a result of this and its lack of any teeth, it made rasping gurgling noises with every breath. Its right front leg was missing from the knee down, yet tied to the stump with liquorice was a long striped candy cane, covered in cracks and bite marks. It used the cane as a prosthetic leg, standing tall and glaring at the two ponies with bloodshot eyes. “Bloody Luna, what’s he got on his arm!?” Briar exclaimed. The new Zest stood there for a second before it charged. Instantly it was upon Briar, striking him in the ribs with the cane, knocking him against the side of the alley. The air exploded out of the yellow pony’s mouth with a cry as he fell to the ground. With its prey incapacitated, the Zest began to beat at Briar’s legs and neck with the cane, its gurgled breath becoming loud and frenzied. Masterson, forgetting his apples, charged forward intending to push the Zest away. A swipe of its cane against his head sent him reeling backwards with fuzzy vision. The red pony seemed to fix the lieutenant with a look of triumph as it raised the cane over its head, aiming for Briar’s skull. Suddenly several large apples flew through the air and pelted the Zest in the face repeatedly. The force of the fruits sent the pony bowling backwards to land hard on its back, its skull cracking against the stone ground. It did not get up. Shaking his head and clearing the double vision, Masterson turned around. Standing before the pony, firmly closing his bag, was Powers. His mane was splattered with frosting and sprinkles dotted his coat and fatigues. The unicorn stood unevenly, muffled breath audible through his gas mask filters. “Powers.” The lieutenant breathed. “Good to see you still alive, mate. We didn’t think you had survived.” The unicorn displayed no emotion, simply nodding his head to acknowledge the greeting. Briar, slowly struggling to his hooves, winced in pain and scrunching his eyes shut before slowly opening them. He looked at Powers for a long time, his eyes unreadable, before he grumbled “Nice one geezer.” The yellow pony tried to place weight upon his back leg, but quickly stumbled and slumped against the hard brick wall. “That leg looks damaged, constable. You’re in bad shape.” Masterson said wryly. “Hayseed to you too,” Briar grumbled as he attempted to walk forward, but his back leg clearly could not support him. “Alright, maybe I do need patching up,” he admitted. Looking around, Masterson pointed to a large building down the left exit of the junction. “In there. We can barricade the doors, take a breather, and rethink our strategy.” Briar squinted at the sign above the building’s door and groaned. “You bloody kidding me? A police station? I thought I was shot of those places.” Looking over his shoulder, Masterson waved a hoof at the now visible crowd of Cherries moving toward the junction. “Unless you can come up with a better plan in the next second or two...” He said, leaving it hanging in the air. The yellow pony gave a brief exasperated look before lowering his ears in defeat. “I’m going to really hate this day, I know it.”
ScyStorm	914	1	Pinkie Pie,Rainbow Dash,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	My First Party	Pinkie Pie & Rainbow Dash go on a journey to reconnect with Pinkie's estranged family.	incomplete	176	11	<p>Pinkie Pie is haunted by feelings of self-hatred, stemming from the day she left her family to be on her own. Never wanting to see her best friend in a crazed state of distress again, Rainbow Dash resolves to reconnect her with her estranged family and bring an end to the personal demons once and for all.</p><p>Featured at <a href="http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/09/story-my-first-party.html" rel="nofollow">Equestria Daily</a> on September 28, 2011.<br/>Featured at <a href="http://www.canterlotsfinest.com/2013/11/story-my-first-party.html" rel="nofollow">Canterlot's Finest</a> on November 21, 2013.</p>	everyone	2011-10-17T00:18:37+00:00	2011-10-17T00:18:37+00:00	9,425	MY FIRST PARTY Chapter 1: Memories MLP:FiM Fan Fiction By: Scy Storm ssbs.furrynet.com AUTHOR'S NOTES: So I thought a lot of this up at work, and also in some brainstorming sessions with a brony friend of mine. I decided to write a bit of a tragic backstory for Pinkie, and turn it into a journey to reconnect her with her family that we only briefly saw in the show. Also an excuse to write some Pinkie/Dash shipping. Let's see how it goes. One last note: This was conceived with Season 1 in mind, so apologies in advance if Season 2 completely wipes out the canon in the future. "Dash! You awake? Get out here, girl!" Two eager pegasi hopped up and down on a cloud, floating directly in front of Rainbow Dash's home. A few moments passed before the head of the rainbow pegasus popped out of one of her windows. She glanced downward at the commotion, spotting Lightning Bolt and Raindrops staring upward at her excitedly. Dash flashed them a look of annoyance. "Can't a girl get a morning routine in?!" Raindrops laughed incredulously. "Dash, you don't even own a hairbrush." Dash huffed and tossed her head back. Yeah, they knew her a bit too well. "Doesn't mean I don't have a routine! What are you two doing here, anyway? Shouldn't you be working?" "The sky is great today, so we got the day off for now, just like you!" Lightning Bolt said excitedly. "Come on, Dash! You want to go do some tricks? It's been ages since we got some practice in," Raindrops added, doing a quick backflip just for kicks. Dash chuckled and flapped her wings, hovering out of her cloud home and floating herself down to a position in front of the two. "Sorry girls, but Pinkie Pie has the day off, too." A set of disappointed whines came from the white and gold mares. "I was afraid of that," Raindrops said. "It's no fun doing tricks without you!" Lightning Bolt noted. Dash chuckled once more, striking a victory pose in midair. "You know it! You girls can't keep up with me, anyway. Maybe you should go deliver mail with Ditzy instead. That'll be more your speed. Bwahaha!" With that, Dash laughed and zipped away from the two, the shockwave of her dash disintegrating the cloud the girls were standing on. The two yelped and plummeted briefly, quickly flapping their wings and flying away from Dash's home with annoyed looks. Rainbow herself flew through the morning air of Ponyville, doing a few spins just for fun, right over the heads of some surprised townsponies. She was happy, after all. She and Pinkie had become a romantic item only a few months before. None of her friends had expected it, and honestly, Dash hadn't either. Everyone was supportive, including Pinkie's adopted family, to Dash's surprise. If only their work schedules didn't get in the way so often. Mutual days off for her and Pinkie were getting few and far between, but now, they had one. Dash wanted to make the best of it. This is gonna be so awesome! Thoughts of anything and everything she wanted to do today went through her head as Sugarcube Corner came into view. Pinkie certainly had to be awake, but just to make sure, Dash decided to head through the front door and ask nicely. After two quick barrel rolls, Dash landed gracefully on her feet and strolled into the shop, pushing the door open with her snout. A ringing bell alerted the shop owners to her presence. "Oh! Hello, Rainbow Dash," Mrs. Cake said cheerfully. The pegasus practically skipped up to the front counter. "Hi Mr. and Mrs. Cake! Is Pinkie awake yet?" All signs of cheer immediately drained from Mrs. Cake's face. "P-Pinkie? Oh... Dear me..." Rainbow tilted her head in confusion. "Huh? What's up?" Mrs. Cake found herself at a loss for words. Her husband Carrot stepped into view. "Pinkie needs some alone time right now, Dash," he said. "Alone time? Why? Is she sick?" Mr. Cake shook his head and briefly considered how to answer. "No. She's just... very upset." Dash blinked a few times. Did she really just hear that? "Pinkie Pie, upset? Is this some kind of a joke?" "No, deary. She's not well right now and needs some space," Mrs. Cake stated, ending her momentary silence. Dash found herself looking at the floor, rubbing her head with a hoof. It didn't sound right at all. She could only remember one time Pinkie had been in a bad mood, but that had been due to a misunderstanding on her birthday. Had something happened overnight? Why was Pinkie upset right in the morning? Why was Pinkie upset at all?! "Why aren't you two talking to her?" Dash finally asked. "We've tried before. Our words don't help, so we just let her get over it herself. She always does," Mrs. Cake explained. Dash looked even more shocked. "Are you telling me this happens a lot?!" Mrs. Cake looked down sadly. Mr. Cake spoke up once more. "Yes, Dash. Every so often. She doesn't tell you girls because she doesn't want you to worry." The pegasus' shock began to slip into confused anger. "Well now I'm here and now I'm worried! I can't imagine Pinkie just... closed up all day being sad! Why is she even sad?! Pinkie doesn't get sad!" Mr. Cake recoiled slightly at Dash's outburst. "We... don't really know why for sure. It's too painful for her to share, so we don't press it. We care about her." Rainbow processed these words carefully, and regained control of her emotions. Pinkie was upset and locked in her room. This was almost scary. Dash received memories of the last time something like this happened; the birthday surprise party. Something was different here, however, and the looks on the Cakes' faces said as much. Dash knew what she needed to do. "Can I talk to her?" she finally asked. The Cakes looked at each other in slight surprise. They hadn't even considered that. "A-Are you sure, Rainbow?" Mrs. Cake asked, glancing back at the pegasus. Dash nodded, standing tall and brimming with confidence. Her loyalty toward her closest of friends shone in her eyes. "You make this sound serious. I've... never really been good with mushy stuff. But I love Pinkie, I can't just go and leave her like this. She needs me." The Cakes looked at each other again, Carrot smiling and nodding to his wife. Cup returned the smile. "Alright, Rainbow. She's all yours," she said. Rainbow smiled widely. "Thank you... I'll do my best!" Cup nodded in reply, gesturing toward the stairs with one of her hooves. "Her door should be unlocked. Just be careful. If anypony can snap her out of this, it's you." Dash nodded, giving one of her trademark salutes before making her way to the stairs and beginning her climb. Halfway up, all her worries she had been withholding came rushing back to her. She stopped and shuddered slightly. Her gaze turned down to the shop owners, who still bore looks of sadness. She then turned her gaze to the top of the stairs and the darkened hallway that waited, a million feelings and thoughts running through her head. This was not how she expected today to go, or what she expected to be doing. That no longer mattered, however. All that mattered was helping the pony she loved. With a sigh, she continued her trek to the upper floors, a cold, heavy knot growing in her stomach the whole way. I'm coming, Pinkie... Rainbow stood a few feet in front of Pinkie's door, staring. The knot in her stomach was fierce. Could she do this? She had never been the best at comforting her friends during a bad moment. Pinkie could possibly be even harder to crack. Dash shook her head and knocked on it with one hoof. Pull it together, Rainbow. She needs you. With a deep breath, she stepped closer to the door. Her ears then perked as she heard the noise for the first time, muffled through the closed door. It was crying. A pitiful sobbing in that sweet, high-pitched voice she knew so well. Rainbow's courage faltered once more, her hoof frozen in the air. Fight it, Dash... Her hoof came down, quietly pushing the handle down and unlatching the door. She slipped her head inside the room, and her eyes came to rest a most pitiful sight. Pinkie's bright colorful room was partially shrouded in darkness, the windows covered by curtains blocking most of the light. The party pony herself sat on her haunches on the edge of her bed, eyes looking down at the floor. Her face was covered by her hanging hair, which was completely straight, just like the last time Dash had seen her in a bad mental state. Her entire coat seemed to be a darker shade of pink as well, just like the last time. Dash quietly slipped the rest of her body into the room and closed the door behind her, her body shuddering now that the earthmare's crying was no longer muffled by the door. She stared at her crying lover for a few moments, a rush of new emotions coursing through her head. Never before had someone so close to her been in such a state. "Pinkie..." Dash finally said, almost too quietly due to her hesitation. Pinkie gasped in shock. Her head shot up, bright blue eyes staring at Dash with a look of horror. "Dashie! Nonono, Dashie, you can't be here!!" Dash stared into those scared eyes, gulping once and slowly walking toward the earthmare. "Well, I am here, Pinkie. I'm here to help you." Pinkie whined loudly and scrambled backward onto her bed, pressing back into her jumble of pillows, as if trying to run from the pegasus. "No, Dashie, no! You can't see me like this, not again..." Dash stopped walking momentarily and winced. This was worse than she had thought. Pinkie had been angry and upset the previous time Dash had stumbled on her in her odd straight-haired state. This time, it was outright despair. The Cakes had told her Pinkie was sad, but Dash had been not prepared for just how sad. The pegasus refused to take her eyes off the crazed mare, and continued walking forward. "Too late, Pinkie." The pink mare backed herself against the back of her bed, curling her face away from Dash and wrapping her forelegs around a large pillow. "P-Please... I can deal with it alone! Just go home..." Rainbow didn't answer. She hopped onto Pinkie's bed instead, watching the miserable pony sob into her pillow. Her own cheeks became wet with tears. Normally, she hated crying. She hated showing weakness. This time, however, she didn't care. She barely even noticed. Slowly she inched closer, her hoof eventually moving to brush against Pinkie's flank. The pink pony twitched hard and shivered, squeezing her pillow tighter. Dash sniffled once, continuing to pet the earthmare's pink pelt reassuringly, or as reassuringly as she could at least, given her inexperience. "Pinkie... L-Look at me," she choked out. Pinkie shuddered hard again. She fought the urge to look, but Dash kept at it, petting her quietly. After a few moments, Pinkie hesitantly turned her head from her pillow. Their gazes met and locked. Tears dripped freely down Rainbow's cyan cheeks, her rose-colored eyes pooled with a pleading look. For the first time Pinkie had ever seen, Dash looked vulnerable. Vulnerable, sad, and yet... caring. Caring only about her. They stared at each other in near silence, the only noise being the occasional sniffle. At last, Pinkie began to shake, her pillow dropping back to the bed. "Oh Dashie!" The earthmare leapt at the pegasus, latching her forelegs around her body and sobbing hard into her chest. Dash raised her own hooves up and wrapped them gently around the crying pony, one stroking over her head and down her straightened mane. She said nothing. Nothing needed to be said yet. She didn't know what Pinkie was so upset about just yet, but she knew right then that Pinkie needed someone. Someone to cry on. Her grip around Pinkie tightened, the pegasus continuing to ignore her own tears. Just let it all out, Pinkie. You need this. I can feel it. It felt like all day before Pinkie was finally calmed down, her tears having run dry. Her sobbing had ceased, replaced instead with soft gasps and sniffles. Dash remained quiet the whole time, her own tears also having ceased, all dried up on her cheeks. She loosened her grip on Pinkie and stared down at her, the first major movement she had done since the embrace started. Pinkie felt it, and finally pulled herself away from the pegasus, looking up and locking gazes again. A soft, loving smile curled over Rainbow's face as she used a hoof to brush Pinkie's mane away from her eyes. "Feeling better now?" she asked softly. Pinkie attempted a smile, but just couldn't do it. Instead, she nodded slightly. "M-Mostly." Rainbow's smile faded only slightly. "'Mostly' is good. At least I've gotten somewhere." Pinkie's face turned downward, eyes staring at nothing in particular. "Thank you, Dashie... I didn't know how much I needed that. Somepony to cry on." The pegasus slid her hoof underneath the earthmare's chin to lift her gaze upward once more, a noticeable look of worry in her eyes. "Pinkie. What is all this? This isn't like you at all." Pinkie turned her eyes away from Dash's gaze, her lip quivering. "I... I'm..." she stammered. "Come on, Pinks. If I wasn't so worried, I'd be scared right now!" Pinkie clenched her eyes shut, her tears threatening to well up once more. "I'm a terrible pony, Dashie..." That was certainly not what Dash expected to hear. Well, she hadn't had a clue what she was going to hear, but these particular words caught her off guard nonetheless. "Why in Equestria would you say that?!" The pink mare's entire body noticeably quivered, her emotions threatening to go out of control again. A soft gasp came out of her as Dash leaned forward, nuzzling her cheek against Pinkie's forehead. Immediately, the mare's quivering stopped. Regaining her composure, she spoke calmly. "I abandoned my family." Dash blinked a few times and pondered. Pinkie's family? She recalled hearing that story. Pinkie's early years had been spent on a rock farm, of all places. Dash couldn't think of a place that sounded more boring than that. As far as she knew, however, Pinkie had connected with her family when she had gotten her cutie mark. Her first party. "What do you mean, 'you abandoned them'?" Pinkie slowly rubbed her head against Dash's cheek as her voice continued to sound calm and full of certainty. "I ran away, and never looked back. I abandoned them. My family, Dashie. I'm a terrible pony." With a blink of her eyelids, two fresh tears slid down Pinkie's cheeks. Dash pulled her head away from Pinkie's as she tried to process this new information. "You never told me that part of your story, Pinkie. What about your first party? You said you all danced together. What the heck happened?" Pinkie stared into Dash's eyes with a level of sadness the pegasus would have thought impossible to see in the party pony. "Do you really want to know?" Dash steeled her nerves and nodded. "Please." ~~~ The pink filly stared with sad eyes at her surroundings inside the silo. Another late afternoon spent putting her decorations back up with care, including inflating the balloons. Well, most of them. She hadn't gone all the way with the party. Most of the balloons were left uninflated, no treats had been prepared, and she hadn't even turned on the music. She tried to will herself to finish, but there was no point. All of these decorations she had bought with her allowance for her first party, and she couldn't get her family to enjoy them like they did the first time she put them up. It felt like every day that she was out there setting up the party again, and every time she received nothing but anger from her parents. Her work on the rocks was also suffering more and more with each attempt, which only served to make things worse. Why do they hate my parties? The first one was so great... With a heavy sigh, she leaned her face down to push the box containing the rest of the balloons and decor, intent on putting it away. "Psst, Pinkie," there suddenly came a voice. Pinkie raised her head and looked toward the door. Her two sisters were peeking inside, worried looks on their faces. For only a brief moment, Pinkie was hopeful. "You came? You came to my party?" she asked. "No, Pinkie. Mom and Dad are getting really angry again. You didn't work enough today!" "You need to stop this, sis. Please!" Pinkie whined and stared at her sisters with almost pleading eyes. "I can't! I got my cutie mark! This is my special talent! Why can't you all just come back to my parties? Our first party was so great!" Before her sisters could answer, there came the loud voice of their father. "Pinkamena!!" The two sisters practically squeaked and ran away from the silo's entrance, back toward the house. Pinkie only shuddered, and stayed put. She knew what was coming next, another repeat of the same scenario as every other day they approached her out in the silo. Eventually, the forms of her mother and father appeared at the entrance, both looking plenty angered. "Pinkamena Diane Pie! Are you decorating again?!" her mother asked. Pinkie recoiled. "M-Mom..." "There's a lot of rock harvesting that didn't get done, Pinkamena. How many times have we had this talk?!" spoke her father next. The filly shivered noticeably. Too many times. "D-Dad, I..." Clyde stomped his hoof loudly, causing Pinkie to squeak and practically leap out of her skin. That was new. "No excuses, young lady. No talking back. What I say goes around here, and I said to stop this party nonsense and keep up with your work!" Pinkie shivered. Her father was angrier than ever. "But why, Daddy, why?! Can't you see-" She was cut off by another stomp of the stallion's hoof. "I won't repeat myself again!" "And for goodness sakes, comb your hair back down. You look ridiculous," Roxy added. It was too much to bear. This angry conversation had happened too many times. The filly was practically convulsing in front her parents. Her teeth were clenched, and tears streamed down her cheeks. Day after day they had a conversation just like this, and as her parent's anger grew, so did the pink filly's own anger and despair. She had reached her boiling point. A hint of concern began to cross the faces of the two adults at the door. "P-Pinkamena, what are you doing?" Roxy stated with slight worry. There came a noise not unlike a deflating balloon. Pinkie turned her gaze back up, anger glowing in her eyes as her mane and tail hung limp. "How could you do this to me?!" she yelled, louder than she had ever been in the presence of her parents. The adults were momentarily stunned. Clyde quickly recovered. "Pinkamena, you stop yelling this instant!" Pinkie ignored the order. "Don't you see my cutie mark?! I found my special talent! The party pony, the pony who spreads happiness! It's not a bunch of ROCKS! I found my true talent and you don't even care?!" Clyde returned to being stunned at Pinkie's uncharacteristic outburst. Roxy attempted to speak. "N-Now listen here, young lady..." "What happened? I threw my first party ever, and you and the sisters loved it. We've never done anything like that before. You were happy... WE were happy! It was amazing! Why do you hate it now? Don't you love me anymore?" Roxy gasped. "P-Pinkie! Don't say such things!" "I do this all for you, for the sisters! I want us to be a family again!" "We are a family, Pinkie, always have been! We don't need parties to be a family!" Roxy tried to explain. Her daughter wouldn't be swayed. "Family?! What kind of family bans talking and laughter and parties and... and FUN! Don't you remember dancing with me, mommy, daddy? I've been doing this almost every day for you, so we can have fun again!" Clyde snorted in annoyance. "I'm sick of this foolishness!" Roxy gasped and looked at him. "Clyde, don't say that!" It may have been the worst thing to say. "I KNEW it! You don't love me anymore!" Pinkie screamed. Her mother continued her attempts at damage control. "Pinkamena, you're wrong, we-" Pinkie stomped her front hooves, causing her mother to gasp and cut her words short. Tears staining the floor below the filly. "You don't love me anymore! You hate my parties, you hate my cute mark, you... You hate me! You're not my parents! My parents should LOVE me, and everything I do! I hate you, I HATE YOU!!" Like a bolt of lightning, the filly shot right past her parents, sobbing loudly. "Pinkamena, WAIT!" Clyde yelled after her. Pinkie ran into her house, passing by her worried sisters at the front door. She ran straight upstairs to her room and buried herself in her own bed. There she cried, and cried. No one came up to the room. Her sisters may have been too afraid to do so. Eventually, she could hear arguing. Her parents argued over what had happened. Pinkie had never acted like that before, and they knew it. Her father couldn't believe he had witnessed such defiance. Her mother thought they had been too hard on her. Pinkie didn't believe a word of that. She forced a pillow over her ears to try and block out the noise. Losing track of time, she remained in a state of distress, lamenting the giant crack in her relationship with her own family, and pondering what she had to do next. She couldn't stay there, not with ponies that hated her and her talents. Making up her mind, Pinkie cried herself to sleep. She woke up some time later, several hours at least. It was night outside. Candlelight still illuminated her room; her sisters forgot to extinguish it. She raised her head and saw that her sisters were sleeping soundly. That was good... She didn't want to wake them. Fighting back her emotions, Pinkie worked quickly, and quietly. She dug out a somewhat large set of saddlebags her grandmother had left behind for her, where she kept some of her personal belongings, such as her old ice skating shoes and a jar full of what bits she had left. She took the shoes out and packed a sizable blanket instead. She then quietly snuck downstairs, taking the candle lamp with her for more light. She packed away some food from the pantry, as much as she could get into one bag without leaving the pantry cleaned out. As she sorted through the contents of her bag, she found something. One more personal item: A simple bright pink, plastic party horn. She stared at it in silence for a time. It was precious to her, the only one she had managed to find when she had bought her party supplies. Looking at it served to remind her of her fateful first party. Tears began to form in her eyes. Leaving her saddlebags, she snuck back upstairs, carefully setting the lamp back in its spot on the table near the beds. She took long glances at each of her sisters. They were innocent in all this. She loved them, and she didn't want to leave them, but she had no choice. Her mind was made up. She placed her pink horn on top of her pillow, and adjusted the blanket to make her bed neat. Tears slid down her cheeks as she looked at her sisters one last time in silence, before blowing out the candle in the lamp. I love you both... I'm sorry. Pinkie went back downstairs, using the moonlight from the windows to guide her in what would otherwise be pitch blackness. She slipped her saddlebags over her back, just managing to handle the weight. As quietly as possible, she left her home through the front door, and walked away. Once she made it a few yards from the door, she began to run. Slowly at first, then ever faster, tears running from her eyes the whole way. She ran as fast she could, eyes forward, and never looked back. ~~~ Pinkie's head lay against Rainbow's chest, new tears having managed to manifest in her eyes as she told her story of the day she left her family. Dash was in a minor state of shock. She never would have imagined Pinkie parted with her family in such a way. The two remained in silence for a time, before Pinkie raised her head. "Do you see now, Dashie? I'm a terrible pony." Dash blinked a few times, snapping out of her stunned state. "It... It sounds like it was horrible there, Pinkie... How are you a terrible pony?" Pinkie sniffled, reaching up and wiping her face with a hoof. "I abandoned my family, Dash. My sisters didn't deserve to lose their big sister. My parents might have been meanies, but they're my parents. You only have one set of parents, Dashie..." Dash rubbed her own forehead, trying to think of any way she could salvage this. "It... It just sounds to me like you got out of a bad situation. Now you're in a great one!" The earthmare looked down at the bedsheets below. "I've thrown so many parties. I have memories of all the best ones. They were great... but I always think about the first one. My first ever party. The first time my family really felt like a family... It was the happiest I'd ever felt in my life. How could I just throw that away, Dashie? I could have tried harder to get them to open their eyes. I could have made us a happy family again. Instead, I ran away. I ran and I never looked back." Rainbow stared at her in silence. Pinkie had laid her soul bare with calm, precise words, bitter tears dripping to the sheets below in the wake of her tale. She wasn't sobbing this time. Just... crying. The pegasus' mind was tied into ribbons. She had been doing so well in cheering up Pinkie until now. I don't know what to do... Pinkie sniffled once, breaking the silence and wiping her face again. Her gaze turned back up to Dash, and for just a moment, it looked as if the faintest of smiles crossed her face. "Sorry, Dashie. I know it's a lot to take in. But... I think I needed this. I needed to tell somepony all this. You're a good listener." She leaned forward and gently rested her face on the pegasus' chest once more. Dash winced. She didn't want to be just a listener. She wanted to snap Pinkie out of this, hopefully for good. She tried to find a parallel, a similarity between Pinkie's situation and her own experiences. She thought back to her time as a filly going through summer camps and eventually flight school. She remembered arguments with her parents, especially the rather heated ones. It was here that Dash had an epiphany. "Pinkie... I know what you need to do." The pink mare raised her head back up and flashed the pegasus a questioning look. "What do you mean?" Dash raised Pinkie's forelegs up slightly and firmly pressed their hooves together, looking into the pink mare's eyes. "You need to see them. You need to see your family." Pinkie gasped, and started to quiver, only softly at first but quickly gaining in intensity. "I... I... N-No! Dashie, I couldn't. I could never go back!" The pegasus leaned forward, sliding her nose against Pinkie's cheek, causing the earthmare to immediately stop her quivering. "When I was young, I was a bit of a terror sometimes. My parents often couldn't stand it. It got even worse once I was old enough for flight school. We got into a lot of fights. Some were really bad. Sometimes I even told them I hated them. But you know what always happened, Pinkie?" "W-What happened, Dashie?" Rainbow pulled her head back and stared into those blue eyes once again. "I went back to them. I told them I was sorry. They told me they were sorry. Even if I said I hated them, I never really meant it. They said things they regretted too, and never meant it. I loved them, and I missed them, and they loved me too. A few little fights could never change that." Pinkie stared into Dash's eyes, her lower lip quivering. She couldn't speak. A gentle smile curled across Dash's face. "You love them, Pinkie. You love them and you miss them, and you know what I think? I think they love you and miss you too. That's what I think." A spark of realization seemed to shine in Pinkie's eyes. "They... They miss me..." Dash saw the spark. She was finally getting somewhere. "Yes, Pinkie. That's what is going to snap you out of this, I know it!" Pinkie's hooves dropped away from Dash's as her eyes glanced to the side. She almost seemed... embarrassed. "I... I can't say I haven't thought about it. Going back to see them. I was just so afraid of what would happen, like they'd hate me even more for showing my face in front of them again." For the first time in this entire ordeal, Dash actually chuckled. "Afraid? Pinkie Pie is afraid of something? You're pulling my wing, girl." Rainbow could actually see the blush of embarrassment appear on Pinkie's face. "H-Hey... I can be afraid of things too... It's a sensitive subject!" Dash rubbed one hoof under her chin in thought. After a moment, something clicked. An almost devious smile went across her face. "You know, I was taught a song about this once." Pinkie finally looked at Dash again, confused. "You were... taught a song?" "Oh, I never sang it for you before? Would you like me to?" Pinkie looked even more confused, staring down an even wider grin on the pegasus' face. "I... guess?" Dash stood up to all fours, humming a soft tune, her body starting to bob up and down slightly. Suddenly, she leapt off the bed, going toward one of the windows. "When I was a little filly and the sun was going doooown~" she sang, pulling the curtains fully closed for effect. Pinkie stared for a moment, before gasping. "D-Dashie!" Rainbow suddenly zipped next to her. "The darkness and the shadows, they would always make me froooown~" she sang, using her hooves to stretch her face into a ridiculous frown. Pinkie stared at her with an angry look in her eyes, but the look was betrayed by the smile curled across her face. "You're stealing my song!" The pegasus ignored that exclamation and zipped underneath Pinkie's pile of pillows, shuddering like crazy for effect. "I'd hide under my pillow from what I thought I saw..." Dash suddenly stood up, sending the pillows flying. "But Granny Dash said that wasn't the way to deal with fears at all!" She zipped up in front of Pinkie and went silent, staring into her face with an wide, expecting grin. Pinkie brought her hooves up to her face, stifling a gigglefit. Finally, she played along. "Then what is?!" Dash suddenly leapt over Pinkie, landing near the end of the bed and striking a regal pose. "She said: Rainbow, you gotta stand up tall, learn to face your fears!" She began to hop up and down in the trademark Pinkie Pie bounce across the bed's edge. "You'll see that they can't hurt you, just laugh to make them disappear: HA! HA! HA-Whoooa!!" Rainbow failed to notice she had ran out of bed with her final bounce. The pegasus fell straight down to the floor, landing chest first, her legs spread out in four directions. She raised her head up, eyes spinning around briefly in dizziness. Pinkie looked down at the pegasus from her vantage point on the bed, at first with a worried look in her eyes. Then, a wide smile crept across her face. Seconds later, the pink mare flopped back onto the bed, giggling up a storm. "Ehehehehe!! Oh Celestia, you're Rainbow Crash again! Hahahaha!!" Dash shook off her dizzy spell, ears perking. Pinkie was laughing? She grinned widely. Pinkie is laughing! I did it! The pegasus hopped back to her feet, climbing on the bed again. There she saw Pinkie on her back, clutching her aching sides while continuing to giggle like crazy. Her mane and tail had returned to the poofy state Dash knew so well, and her entire body seemed to be of a brighter color pink on top of that. Dash had finally snapped her out of her rut. The pegasus briefly joined in with Pinkie's laughter. "So I guess you liked my song, huh?" Pinkie slowly but surely suppressed her gigglefit, staring at the cyan pony and wiping tears of laughter from her eyes. Dash idly wondered if she was going to answer, when suddenly Pinkie zipped in front of her, yanking the pegasus into deep kiss. Rainbow's cheeks went red as an apple. She was used to this embrace, but wasn't expecting it after all that had happened. After a moment, the pegasus closed her eyes and squeezed her forelegs around the pink pony, returning her kiss with earnest. Pinkie draped her forelegs loosely around Dash's neck, her throat rumbling with soft noises of pleasure. After what felt like minutes, their muzzles separated, noses still pressed together. "Thank you..." Pinkie said softly. Dash gently stroked one of her hooves through her marefriend's now-perky mane. "I love you, Pinkie. I just want you to be happy." Their faces separated, eyes opening once more to meet each others' gazes. Pinkie smiled warmly. "I'm happy now, Dashie. Thanks to you." Dash's face showed its own warm smile, but it soon faded as a thought came to her mind. "But for how long, Pinkie? This is just going to happen to you again, isn't it?" Pinkie's own smile faded, her head dipping downward, a look of shame showing on her face. "Y-Yes, most likely..." Dash brought one of her hooves under Pinkie's chin to raise her head back up, meeting gazes once more. "I wasn't kidding before, Pinkie. You need to see them again. You have to show your family that you still love them, and see that they still love you." Pinkie's eyes drifted away from Rainbow's gaze as she lost herself in her thoughts. Eventually, she nodded. "I know, Dashie. I've known for so long, but I've just been so afraid..." "Well what about now, Pinkie? You've told somepony your story. You've let it all out. Are you still afraid?" The pink mare took a deep breath before she answered. "No, Dashie. I... I can do it, but... I can't do it alone." Her eyes met Dash's gaze again. It was a pleading look, one full of hope. Dash stared into the beautiful blue eyes, her smile returning. "I guess that doesn't leave me much of a choice then, does it?" Her answer was met with a huge grin and a tight hug from the pink pony. "Yaaay! We're gonna go on an adventure! We've never been on an adventure before with just the two of us, have we? We did go to the Everfree Forest, and also the mountain where you kicked the dragon in the face, but our friends were there for those. Ohmigosh!" Dash grunted and shoved Pinkie's squeezing forelegs downward to her stomach, to free the constriction on her lungs. She sighed then, listening to Pinkie ramble. She never thought she'd actually be happy to hear the crazed rambling, but after being with a depressed Pinkie all morning, the rambling was like sweet music to her ears. "I'm glad you're excited, Pinkie, but we're not going yet. We should take a few days at least to prepare and let everypony know where we're going." Pinkie nodded several times. "Okie dokie lokie!" Dash smiled blissfully. Pinkie was normal again. With another shove, she popped out of the tight hug and fluttered her way to the floor. "Now that that's all settled, I had a lot of things I wanted to do today... You up for some pranks?" she asked, grinning mischievously. "Hmm... It's been a long time, hasn't it?" "Something wrong, honey bun?" "Rainbow has been up there quite a while, Carrot. Do you think she managed to cheer Pinkie up?" As if on cue, a streak of rainbow flew down the stairs, the cyan pegasus stopping and fluttering just in front of the door leading out. She had a sack around her neck, filled with unknown contents. "Hey! Sorry about the wait! Everything is cool now!" The Cakes stared at her in confusion, before gasping as Pinkie came skipping down the stairs, carrying on her back two large saddlebags full of cans of multiple colors of cake frosting. "La la la la la~ Oh hey Mr. and Mrs. Cake! Dashie and I are going out for the day to have fun! See you tonight!" Dash pulled the shop door open, letting Pinkie bounce her way outside. "Hehehe... This is gonna be so awesome!" she said before zipping out after her. The Cakes stood there in stunned silence, staring at the door for a few moments, before turning to each other and smiling brightly. TO BE CONTINUED... MLP:FiM and all Characters/Locations Copyright © Hasbro & Lauren Faust Characters/Locations used without permission ~ Scy
ScyStorm	914	2	Pinkie Pie,Rainbow Dash,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	My First Party	Pinkie Pie & Rainbow Dash go on a journey to reconnect with Pinkie's estranged family.	incomplete	176	11	<p>Pinkie Pie is haunted by feelings of self-hatred, stemming from the day she left her family to be on her own. Never wanting to see her best friend in a crazed state of distress again, Rainbow Dash resolves to reconnect her with her estranged family and bring an end to the personal demons once and for all.</p><p>Featured at <a href="http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/09/story-my-first-party.html" rel="nofollow">Equestria Daily</a> on September 28, 2011.<br/>Featured at <a href="http://www.canterlotsfinest.com/2013/11/story-my-first-party.html" rel="nofollow">Canterlot's Finest</a> on November 21, 2013.</p>	everyone	2011-11-20T07:46:21+00:00	2011-11-20T07:46:21+00:00	7,857	MY FIRST PARTY Chapter 2: Return MLP:FiM Fan Fiction By: Scy Storm ssbs.furrynet.com AUTHOR'S NOTES: Sorry for the wait, everypony! Writing is a slow process for me, given my full time job and frequent creative blocks. Plus, this is a pretty long chapter. ;) Hope you enjoy. "So that's the whole story... We're leaving tomorrow." Twilight Sparkle rubbed her hoof across her chin, staring up at the ceiling of her library in thought. Rainbow Dash stared back at her silently, letting her process the entire story she had just heard. "It's hard to believe that Pinkie Pie of all ponies could get that sad," Twilight finally spoke. "Yeah, I know... I'm really glad I snapped her out of it. Now we just need to hunt down her family so this doesn't happen again." "I'm a little confused though, Rainbow. Didn't she once say she lived on a rock farm outside Ponyville?" Dash chuckled softly and rubbed the back of her head with a hoof. "Well, you know Pinkie Pie. When she said 'outside Ponyville,' she didn't actually mean right outside..." Twilight couldn't help but laugh a little. "I should have guessed. Where is it?" "It's just outside Maresburg. I've never been there, but apparently it's a day's away by train." The librarian nodded, though a curious look remained in her eyes. "So, you think you could be gone a week or two? I'm not sure if the one and only Rainbow Dash can survive being on a rock farm for that long." Rainbow grinned with fake amusement. "Ha, ha, ha... The reason is her sisters. We think they grew up and moved away, so we need to find out where they are, then take more train rides." "Are you sure you two can afford that?" "We pooled our bits, and the Cakes helped out a little. I don't think we need very much, but it's fine." Twilight nodded in reply, a smile curling across her face. She took a few steps forward and gave her friend an affectionate nuzzle. "It's very sweet of you to do this for her, Rainbow." Dash felt her cheeks redden, the pegasus curling her face away from her friend's nuzzle, embarrassed. "Y-Yeah, whatever... She said she didn't want to be alone." "I know you would have gone with her even if she didn't say that." Rainbow smirked and forced an incredulous chuckle. Of course Twilight would be able to read her like a book. "A-Anyway, I've already told the other girls. I guess everything is set now." Twilight nodded, still smiling. "I'm sure we'll all be there to see you two off." Dash nodded in return, about to speak again, before both girls are surprised by a loud voice. "DASHIIIIE~!" The front door of the library flew open, followed closely by a bouncing pink pony, two overstuffed saddlebags rattling with her movements. "Pinkie? What the hay is it?" Dash asked. "You're done telling the girls, right? Well come on, silly filly, we gotta get ready to go! See, look, I got all the stuff I need!" Rainbow looked at the absolutely packed saddlebags, wondering briefly what could possibly be in them. Wait, scratch that, she didn't want to know. How was she even bouncing with that much weight on her back? The pegasus groaned and pressed her hoof to her forehead. "Pinkie, we're not leaving until tomorrow, and I don't think we need all of that stuff..." "But we're going on an ADVENTURE, Dashie! We need all sorts of stuff for an adventure! Haven't you ever been on an adventure before?" Pinkie ranted, apparently forgetting their various trips in the past. Dash sighed audibly, taking a passing glance back at Twilight. The librarian was simply smiling and holding back her laughter with one hoof. Rainbow then walked forward, pressing her head against Pinkie as she did, forcibly pushing her out of the library. "Come on, Pinkie, we'll get ready together so I can limit the damage..." "Oooh! Yay! Together! ... Wait, why would there be any damage?" Pinkie wondered out loud while sliding across the ground from Dash's pushing. Twilight waited for Dash to clear the door before closing it with her magic, finally letting out a quick giggle and returning to her studies. "Argh! I'm so bored!" Rainbow paced back and forth across the floor of the train car, grumbling in annoyance. She was starting to get angry at herself for making Pinkie leave all that stuff back in Ponyville. Maybe there was something interesting among it all. She turned her gaze to the pink pony in question, who was lying on one of the beds and staring out the window of the moving train. She seemed mesmerized. "Oooh~!" Dash stared at her. How long had she been laying there again? The pegasus couldn't recall. After a few moments of staring, she scooted up next to the earthmare, looking out the window. "What's got you so excited, Pinks?" Pinkie giggled in reply. "Everything moves so fast! It's neeaaat." Dash blinked a few times, staring at the moving scenery outside in confusion. Was it really enamoring Pinkie that much? How random could she get? "It's nothing special, Pinkie. You should try flying as fast as I do. Same thing." "Oh Dashie, you silly filly! I don't have wings!" The pegasus didn't even want to think up an answer to that comment. It would just hurt her head. She simply sighed and dropped her chin on her front hooves, staring out the window at the zipping scenery. The bed underneath her bounced slightly with the excited movements of her marefriend. Sometimes she really wished she could have just a little, tiny bit of Pinkie's personality. That little part that helped the pink pony find such joy in mundane things. Maybe her days would be a little more fun that way. Dash raised her head off her hooves when a thought then came to her head. It was a question she had been meaning to ask the earthmare. "Hey, Pinkie? How did you ever manage to survive that rock farm?" For the first time in quite a while, Pinkie turned her head from the window, looking at the pegasus with her usual everlasting smile plastered on her face. "Survive? I wasn't in any danger, silly! Always have to be careful with rocks! They're not snowballs, you know." Rainbow groaned and turned her eyes back to the pink mare. "I mean... How did you manage? It sounds so... boring! Plus all that stuff about no talking or laughter, or... fun." Against all odds, Pinkie's smile faded. She turned her eyes downward, away from Dash's gaze. "Oh. Yeah, that stuff." Dash felt her heart sink. "D-Don't get upset, Pinkie, I didn't mean to... Ugh! I'm sorry!" Pinkie shook her head and looked back up at the pegasus, a softer smile appearing on her face. "It's okay, Dashie. I'm not going to go all depressed on you again, really. It was actually kind of easy to manage there, at least before I got my cutie mark." Rainbow nodded, though she still felt a little unsettled by Pinkie's subdued speech. It was always weird to her to see the Princess of Random suddenly talk with a hint of seriousness. This happened to be a sensitive subject, however. "It didn't sound to me like you enjoyed it even before then, Pinks." Pinkie sighed softly, leaning her face on a hoof, her eyes turning upward as if she were losing herself in thought. "The no talking and no laughter stuff was a rule when we were working, which was a lot of the time. We... didn't really talk much in the house though, unless it was just me and my sisters in our room. We were always afraid of annoying Mom and Dad too much. It was a lot easier when Granny Pie was still alive." Dash lowered her ears at the mention of Pinkie's grandmother, mainly due to the knowledge of her no longer being around. She didn't know much about her, other than she taught Pinkie that famous little song of hers. "She was a lot nicer?" "Nicer? I guess. She wanted to make sure we stayed happy after all the hard work, you know? She also home schooled us. Once she was gone, my mother filled the void, but it just wasn't the same. Mom was nice too, but sometimes she took after Dad, is all..." Rainbow listened closely, eager to learn, holding back her feelings about Pinkie's demeanor. Home schooled? She didn't know about that detail. She didn't think it was important enough to ask about, though. "Granny Pie sounded great." Pinkie smiled from her thoughts, offering Dash a gentle nod in response. "She was great. She's the one who taught us how to ice skate when winter came along. Also baking." "Baking? I thought you learned that from Mr. and Mrs. Cake." Pinkie shook her head with a grin, her trademark cheer seeming to return, if only for a moment. "Nope! I learned it from Granny and Mom. I even baked the treats for my first party. They just... weren't all that amazing. I definitely got better thanks to the Cakes!" Dash couldn't help but smile, nodding in understanding. She found herself wishing she had talked to Pinkie more about these things before. It surprised her just how little she knew about her marefriend's past. Perhaps this whole journey was going to change all of that. While thinking of what to say next, however, she saw Pinkie's smile fade, a shiver going down the pink mare's spine. Dash immediately got concerned. Did she say too much? "Pinkie, if you want to stop talking about it, that's okay..." Pinkie glanced out the window once more. "No, it's just... I'm really nervous, Dashie. I've... actually been trying to get my mind off it by watching the scenery, but I can't. Every bit this train moves, we're closer to my parents..." The pegasus stared quietly at Pinkie for a moment, before reaching over with a hoof, stroking it through her bouncy mane. Pinkie closed her eyes gently and stopped shivering, her smile slowly returning. Dash's own smile started to return as well. "Just relax, Pinks. Everything will be okay. I promised you that." The earthmare inhaled deeply, before releasing a pleasant sigh and nodding quietly in response. Dash chuckled under her own breath, slipping her hoof back down and looking out the window. The two were quiet for a few moments as the pegasus noted the sky beginning to show an orange glow. Had that much time really passed? She had always felt time went by slower when she was bored. "Well, maybe we should just turn in early. I bet by the time we wake up, we'll be there," Dash suggested. Pinkie remained quiet for a moment, before suddenly snapping her eyes open with a loud gasp. "Ooh! Cuddles!" Dash flinched from the sudden reaction. "Er? What?" Pinkie turned to the pegasus with a wide grin, bouncing on the bed a little again. "Cuddles, Dashie! How long has it been since we slept all cuddly-wuddly together?" A silly grin crept across Dash's face. So random... "Uh, a long time, I think, but..." she turned her attention to the bed below them, "... I dunno, these beds are kind of small. I'm not sure it'd work." "I can solve that!" Dash yelped in surprise when she was suddenly lifted off the bed by the surprising strength of the pink pony, nearly hitting her head on the bunk just above. The earthmare flopped the confused pegasus onto her back, before belly-flopping right on top of her, knocking the air out of Dash's lungs. Pinkie then squeezed her front hooves at the cyan pony's sides, rubbing her nose into her multicolored mane. Dash squirmed a little to get comfortable under the sudden presence, her face heating up in embarrassment. "Oof... Dang, Pinkie, I think you need to lay off the cupcakes for a while." A sharp gasp pierced the air of the train car, Pinkie raising her head and staring down at the pegasus with a look of shock. "Rainbow Dash! Did you just call me FAT?!" Rainbow stared into those wide blue eyes and grinned widely, prodding at Pinkie's midsection with a hoof as if to test her words. "I wouldn't say faaaat... but at least chubby." Pinkie gasped again, pushing her hooves down onto Dash's chest, pinning her down staring daggers down at her. "You take that back!" Dash grinned even wider, wiggling and prodding at her again even harder. "Oh yeah? What're you gonna do about it, Piggy Pie?" A look of absolute horror crossed Pinkie's face, quickly returning back to one of anger. Then, a wide, almost menacing grin went over her face as her hooves pushed down harder. "What am I gonna do?! I'm gonna eat you, too!" In an instant, Pinkie shoved her face downward, nipping her teeth onto one of Dash's ears and tugging hard. Dash gasped, and began to giggle uncontrollably, otherwise attempting to feign being in pain. "No, noooo! Not that! Anything but that!" Pinkie growled in an animalistic manner, nibbling the pegasus' ear while she tugged it about. "Grrr, Piggy Pie hungry!" she mumbled out through her teeth. Dash's face lit up even more, squirming uncontrollably from the 'torture,' unable to stop her giggles. "Mercy, mercy! Have mercy on me!" "Then you take it baaack!" Pinkie spoke again, before gently chomping on almost the entire ear. Rainbow practically squeaked, squirming even harder the earthmare's hooves. "Hehehe, I give, I GIVE! I take it back!!" Pinkie grinned widely, finally letting go of the pegasus' ear as Dash began to pant, her body trying to calm down. She was given little time to recover before Pinkie suddenly pressed their muzzles into a firm kiss, her hooves slipping off of Dash's chest, relieving the pressure she had put there before. Dash's eyes went wide for a brief moment, before she fluttered them closed, submitting to the earthmare's forceful embrace and wiggling her hooves around her pink form. Pinkie's chest rumbled, the pink mare keeping up the kiss for a few moments before abruptly breaking it, slipping her hooves around the cyan pony and nuzzling hard into her neck. "Cuuuuddlllllles..." she mumbled out in a drunkenly happy tone of voice. Dash panted into the open air, her head leaning back instinctively when her neck was nuzzled. She stared up at the wooden bottom of the bed above her and released a blissful sigh, tightening her hug on the cuddly earthpony. This was much better than pacing around, and it had the side effect of keeping Pinkie in high spirits. Why hadn't she just thought of this before? Priorities next time, Dashie. Should get us both through this easier. Sand. Sand and rocks. Mostly the sand. That's about all Rainbow Dash could think of as she gazed upon the township of Maresburg. The entire modest settler town appeared to reside on a single main road, houses flanking both sides of it, stretching out a fair bit toward the mountain range in the distance. All of the houses were simple wooden structures of a... classical design, something like that? Where had she seen something like it before? Oh, that's right. "Are you sure we didn't take the train to Appleloosa again?" she asked the pink pony walking next to her. Pinkie let out a snorting giggle. "Of course not, silly! No pushy yellow stallions pushing us around this time." "I keep expecting him to pop up any second now..." It did look remarkably similar. Then again, Pinkie did say this was a settler town. Long before she was born, some settler ponies made a caravan and formed the town to do some mining in the nearby mountain range, hoping to strike it rich. The ones that found enough riches simply moved away to bigger places. The others gathered enough resources to live a comfortable life, and a simple community banded together and continued to modestly thrive, even as the two visitors walked through. "I can't imagine living in a desert like this," Rainbow commented, voicing her inner thoughts. "Well... Some just don't have a choice, Dashie. We're pretty far away from the bigger towns." Various ponies walked the road of the modest town, and almost all of them glanced toward the visitors strolling through. Dash figured everypony in the small town must know each other, and outsiders weren't very common. Curiously, some of the stares appeared to be ones of outright shock. Dash felt a little unsettled, but ignored it to try and keep up her conversation. "Didn't you say once that you didn't have magic items when you grew up? Or like, any kind of electricity?" "Yep! My parents were against it. They would say that real earth ponies didn't need all those fancy things to live an honest life. It saved money too, I guess." Dash grimaced. "I'm surprised you didn't leave earlier than you did..." Pinkie frowned, glancing down at the ground. Rainbow caught it, entering a minor state of panic and attempting to apologize before Pinkie's voice halted her. "It wasn't too bad, Dashie. Really. You know those weren't my reasons for... leaving." The pink pony began to quiver, her walking pace getting slower. Dash leaned over, bumping Pinkie's shoulder with her nose. "Don't fail on me now, kid. We're too close now." Pinkie took a breath, regaining her composure. She turned her head back to Dash and gave one of her trademark smiles. "Pinkamena Diane Pie, correct?" there came a sudden voice. Both of the mares gasped audibly and turned in the direction of the voice. On the porch of a nearby house, there sat a brown earthpony stallion with a black mane, reclined in a rocking chair, hindlegs dangling off the front. A golden, five-pointed star adorned the flank that the mares could see. His face was partially obscured by his wide-brimmed cowpony hat until he raised his head to look at the two, calm azure eyes focusing on Pinkie. The girls could see he was fairly aged by the wrinkles on his face. Pinkie suddenly felt a little uncomfortable. "Do I know you?" she asked with a headtilt. "Likely not. You weren't seen in town much. But, I certainly know you. We only ever had one darling little pink filly who ran away from home." Pinkie recoiled slightly and looked away. Dash raised an eyeridge as she stared down the older pony. "So are you the Maresburg sheriff or something?" the pegasus asked. "Retired now, actually. I was still good ol' Sheriff Buck all them years ago when your friend there skedaddled out of town. I did my best to track her down, but, no luck. Never thought I'd see her again, that's for sure." Pinkie raised her head again, regarding the ex-sheriff with a look of surprise. "You tried to find me?" "'Course I did. Your parents were rather worried about ya. I felt terrible about never succeedin'." Pinkie continued to stare in slight shock, her eyes shifting over to the cyan pegasus at her side. Rainbow glanced over at her at nearly the same moment, and slowly smiled a knowing smile. Pinkie seemed to understand, a gentle smile creeping over her face as well. The old pony nearby lowered his head once more, his features once again hidden by the hat he wore. "They're still there," he spoke, ending the spell of silence. The two mares glanced his direction once more. "What? You mean...?" Pinkie asked. He nodded a slow nod. "Right where you left them. I'm sure they got a lot to say to you. Don't waste anymore time with me, ya hear?" The girls didn't need to be told twice. They looked at each other once more, Pinkie's eyes seeming to cycle through various emotions; fear, hope, sadness, and perhaps a little excitement. Dash replied silently with a warm smile. New knowledge had dawned on them, but true confirmation was required. Without another word to the ex-sheriff, the two continued their trek through the rest of the small town, silently pondering what they'd do when the moment happened. It didn't take long to reach the end of the town. Dash could see the farm sitting in the distance, flanking the nearby hills. One lonely house with one lonely silo, surrounded by a fairly empty field of desert. It was just like Pinkie described it in her stories, aside from the rock amount. For what was apparently a rock farm, there didn't actually seem to be a lot of them. Then again, the concept of a rock farm was completely lost on Dash. She had asked Pinkie about it, but Pinkie never had a straight answer for why her parents made her move rocks around. She would ask again, but it wasn't the time for that. Dash took passing glances at the pink pony, watching her begin to quiver harder the farther they got from the town, ever closer to her childhood home. Her emotions were gathering. It was as if her body still wanted her to run away, to hide from what was necessary, like she did for so long. Rainbow couldn't remain quiet anymore. "You holding up, Pinks?" Pinkie stopped walking, surprising the pegasus. She took a deep breath and exhaled, turning to look at the cyan pony with desperate eyes. "I'm still nervous, Dashie. I know I shouldn't be after what the sheriff said, but..." Rainbow smiled a sweet smile, placing one hoof against Pinkie's leg. "I'm here for you. Okay? I promise it'll be okay. Just like I said before we came here." Pinkie forced a small smile, and simply nodded. The two resumed walking the remaining distance to the house, Pinkie soon finding herself sitting right in front of the door. She turned and looked over her shoulder one last time at Rainbow, who was waiting several feet away, not wanting to get in the way of what was to come. With much reservation and a shaky hoof, Pinkie clopped a few times upon the door's surface. Then, she waited. A few simple moments felt like agony, the world around the two visitors feeling all too quiet. A gentle clicking noise broke the silence, the door opening up, and a loud gasp tearing through the air. There stood an elder, pale gray earthpony, a fair degree smaller in size than her visitor. Her turquoise mane was tied into a top bun, and the image of three rocks adorned her flank. Small, golden eyeglasses were draped on the end of her snout, situated in front of bright blue eyes that were as wide as eyes could be. She stared with utter disbelief at the pink pony sitting before her, mouth agape, lower jaw quivering. "P...Pinkamena?" she finally spoke, her voice almost too quiet to understand. For the first time in so many years, Pinkie laid eyes on her mother. Any desire her body had to run away was gone; it was too late to do so. She stared, her body unable to move aside from a gentle quivering. She tried to force a smile, but it just wouldn't come out. "H-Hi Mom..." she replied, also at a near whisper. The gray pony took a few steps forward, eyes staring directly into her daughter's own. She shakily raised her forehooves, placing them on Pinkie's shoulders. Immediately, fresh tears slid down her face. She stuttered out another gasp and bit her lower lip, before leaning herself forward, her forelegs wrapping as tight as she could muster around the pink pony, her face buried into her neck. "My... My baby! You're here, y-you're ALIVE!!" Pinkie officially lost it. She wrapped her own forelegs around her dam, consciously being careful about the elder pony's age. She pressed her nose to her mother's head, tears freely streaming down her face. "Mommyyyy! I'm so sorry, I'm so SORRY!! I love you and I don't hate you and I'm sorry for running away and... and...." she rambled, her voice trailing off into sobs. Roxy gently rocked her daughter back and forth in their embrace, feeling Pinkie's chest heaving. She tried her best to keep some semblance of composure as her poor daughter released years of pent-up emotion. "My darling Pinkamena... I m-missed you so much..." she spoke, her voice barely audible. "Oohhh I missed you, I missed you!! I'm such a terrible, horrible pony, please forgive me, Mommy!" Roxy raised one of her hooves up, stroking it through her daughter's mane. "Shhh... Don't say that, dear, it's okay..." Pinkie tried to come up with every reason why it wasn't okay, but she couldn't. She was with her mother again, the old mare trying what she could to comfort her, even with her own state of emotion. Then, there came a heavy clopping noise. Pinkie gasped and raised her head, looking inside her childhood home. There, she saw her father, having just come down the stairs at the sound of the commotion. Dash managed to get a look at him. He was large brown earthpony with a gray mane and sideburns, a pickaxe adorning his flank. He stood at the foot of the stairs, his face in shock at what he was seeing. Slowly, he began to walk forward. Roxy heard him coming, and hesitantly slipped out of the hug with her daughter, moving to the side and out of the way. Clyde stopped only a few feet from Pinkie, the two staring at each other in silence. She was apprehensive and fearful, despite what just happened with her mother. His face remained entirely unreadable aside from his shock, until slowly but surely, his eyes began to water, his lower jaw quivering. That's exactly what Pinkie needed to see. "D-Daddy!!" she screamed, practically leaping forward. The pink pony latched onto her sire and buried her face into his neck, sobbing all over again. "I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry!! I love you Daddy, I love you and I don't hate you, I didn't mean it, I promise I didn't mean it!!" Clyde reached up with one hoof, stroking it over her mane slowly and firmly. Pinkie immediately stopped rambling, and saw fit to just cry away the rest of her pent-up emotions into her estranged sire. Clyde said nothing; he simply held her close, eyes watery, a slow smile crossing his muzzle. Rainbow Dash slid a hoof across her cheeks, smiling tenderly. This is what she had said would happen. It was what she promised. Though really, she had convinced herself as much as she did Pinkie. Everything just might work out after all. "Who might you be, young lady?" Dash gasped, glancing toward Pinkie's mother, who was adjusting the glasses on her nose. "O-Oh, I'm Rainbow Dash. I'm Pinkie's... friend. I came with her here." Roxy brandished a tissue to use on her face, looking at the pegasus in confusion. "Whatever for?" "I convinced her to do this, and... she didn't want to be alone." Rainbow suddenly felt very awkward. She turned to leave and extended her wings. "L-Look, I'll just come back later, okay?" "Wait! Don't leave, please." Rainbow halted herself and turned back to the earthpony, who was smiling warmly. "Please stay. If you helped bring my daughter back to me, then the very least I can offer you is my hospitality." Dash was happy to hear that, since she didn't actually want to leave Pinkie, but the whole situation still felt awkward. She trotted up to the door, eyes on the father and daughter still holding each other inside. "Are... you sure?" Roxy nodded as she slid the tissue over her cheeks. "Quite sure, my dear. Come inside." Finally convinced, Rainbow walked into the quaint home, trying to be as quiet as possible so as not to disturb the moment. With a happy sigh, Roxy closed the front door. "Then Rainbow Dash got all fed up and zipped in there and kicked the dragon riiiiight in the face, full speed! He was sooooooo mad!" Dash nearly spit out her drink. "Jeez, Pinks, did you have to mention that part?" Pinkie regarded the pegasus with a confused look. "What? You always brag about it to everypony!" Rainbow looked away. "Well... Y-Yeah. This is kind of weird, though..." Roxy gently laughed at the display before her. "Well, you two certainly live an exciting life, don't you?" Pinkie turned to her mother and nodded rapidly with a grin on her face. Dash merely shrugged, and made no verbal comment. Pinkie had spent the last... however long it had been, sharing as many stories as she could in a random order with her listening parents. Dash forgot to take count of how many breaths Pinkie had taken during the entire spiel. It couldn't have been very many, by her estimation. Most of the stories were parties she had held, both before and after she was friends with Dash. Plus, of course, the more exciting stories like defeating Nightmare Moon, the Grand Galloping Gala, and the dragon in the mountain. Dash wasn't even sure if Roxy Pie was believing those particular stories. "We should toooooootally go on more adventures. I mean this is sort of an adventure we're on right now, but the other girls aren't here so it's not a SUPER adventure or anything! We should plan another adventure when we're back in Ponyville, Dashie!" Pinkie rambled. "Sure, sounds great, Pinks..." Dash said, dismissively. For what must have been the thousandth time, Dash glanced around the main floor of the home. It couldn't have been more... quaint? That may be what Rarity would say. A few couches, one of which she and Pinkie sat on. Her father sat on a large comforter chair. Some tables and dressers aligned the walls, with various family knickknacks sitting atop of them. Roxy herself stood in the kitchen area, having previously prepared tea that the group had been drinking during Pinkie's non-stop storytelling. It was also indeed true that not a single magical or electric light source existed in the house. Instead, various candle lamps were attached to the walls, a few of them lit to provide some extra light. Dash quietly wondered once more how Pinkie survived her youth. She then mentally chastised herself for the thought. "I wish this place was even close to that exciting, girls. Maresburg can be simply dreadful at times, but it's fine for an old soul like me," Roxy mused. "You're not thaaaat old, Mom!" "You flatter me, dear. The point is, I'm not a young filly with a life to live anymore. Not that I ever went around fighting dragons, mind you." Dash felt herself blushing, and immediately hated it. "H-How long have you been here doing rock farming anyway?" she asked, trying to change the subject. Roxy turned her eyes to the ceiling in thought, as she was cleaning up her implements on the kitchen counter. "Hmm... I'm afraid I don't have an accurate number for you. Granted, I never did much of the farming here. I did appraise the rocks themselves, as well as any gemstones we recovered. That's my talent, not the physical work part." Dash rubbed her hoof under her chin. "I... guess that makes sense. ... Hey, you know, what was the rock farming for, anyway? We have a friend who farms apples, but I've never heard of rock farming." The pink mare nearby gasped a little bit. "You're right, Dashie! Not even me or my sisters knew what the hay we were doing," she noted. Roxy thought quietly for a moment, before turning her head to look at her husband. "I think your father would be best at explaining that." The two fillies turned their attention to the stallion sitting in the chair across the room, staring at the wall. It was then that Dash realized Pinkie's father had been eerily silent the entire time they'd been at the home. He never even spoke to Pinkie when she was still crying earlier. Roxy likely knew already, hence her diversion. Clyde turned his glance away from the wall when he realized all the attention was suddenly focused on him. He glanced briefly at both curious girls, before turning his gaze back to the wall. "That's not important. Not anymore," he spoke. Dash was taken aback a bit by his voice. His tone was deep, yet tender, going against his large and somewhat grizzled appearance. He also sounded... very sorrowful. Pinkie bounced just slightly on the couch next to Dashie, unfazed by the tone of her father's voice. "Aww, come on! Tell us! We're soooo curious!" "Clyde dear, go ahead." Roxy spoke. The elder stallion glanced at his wife for a moment, before silently giving in, adjusting his seated position slightly. "We were farming the rocks for gemstones." Pinkie and Dash looked at each other in confusion, quickly turning their attention back to him. "Huh? Then why were we moving them around the field all the time?" Pinkie asked. Clyde shifted again. He seemed rather uncomfortable to be speaking on the subject. "I followed my father's belief that regular shifting of the rocks promoted better growth of the gemstones within them. To him, it varied depending on the season and conditions of given days." Dash tilted her head. "That... sounds weird. Was it magic?" Pinkie perked up. "Ooh! Is that kinda like how Mom would make you move the furniture to different places? Are there gems growing in the cushions?!" she asked, slipping off the couch and shoving her head underneath one of said cushions. Roxy only laughed, an embarrassed blush crossing her face. "No, dear, that... was something unrelated." A deep sigh sounded from her husband, the elder stallion's head hanging. "It wasn't magic. It was foolish and never actually worked. Any gemstones we got from those rocks were created at their own rate, and were probably like that years before we broke up the rocks. I worked my girls so hard for nothing." A silence came over the room. Dash suddenly felt very uncomfortable. Is that why Clyde had been quiet this whole time? There came a gentle clopping of hooves on the floor, as Pinkie strolled over to her father, standing in front of his chair. Clyde raised his head up, staring at his daughter sadly. Pinkie herself had a look on her face showing a mixture of sadness and concern. "Why have you been so quiet, Daddy?" she asked, tenderly. Just like Dash, she had noticed how quiet her father had been the entire day. Clyde stared at her for a moment, before leaning back in his chair and looking away. "Just... a lot of thinking." "About what?" He closed his eyes. "About how much I don't deserve this." A slight gasp was heard from the elder mare in the kitchen area. "Clyde dear, don't say such things." "It's true, Roxanne. I was a terrible father. You were there, you saw everything." "Don't take all the blame in this. I wasn't the best mother myself, you know." Clyde opened his eyes to turn his gaze toward his wife. "That was only because of me. I exerted my will even when you wanted me to let off. Instead of understanding what my girls were going through, I remained stubborn and angry, sticking to a hopeless family tradition. I hardly deserved the love of my youngest two daughters, I certainly don't deserve the love of my eldest!" His eyes widened a bit when he felt a soft nuzzling on his hoof. He looked downward to see Pinkie gently nuzzling it, pulling her face away and looking up at him again once she had his attention. Her eyes shone with sadness. "Why don't you deserve it?" she asked, softly. The stallion's face quivered slightly at the look on her face. He sighed softly, and looked away from her once more. "I drove you away from me. Never in my life would I have expected one of my daughters to run away from me. One of my own kin would rather risk her life out in the unknown world than spend another minute with me. It... It ruined me, Pinkamena." She leaned her face against his hoof in a gentle nuzzle again. He flinched slightly, but otherwise ignored it and continued. "We tried to find out where you went, but we and the Maresburg sheriff could only do so much. My entire world came down on me. I felt I would never see you again. Later, I... felt that was best. Your life was terrible here. Now, here you are in front of me, with all your stories about your experiences. Is that why you say you still love me, Pinkamena? Because I freed you?" Pinkie suddenly hopped her forehooves onto his chair, surprising the stallion with a nuzzle across his nose. He looked at her again. She stared at him with watery eyes, a smile adorning her face despite her demeanor otherwise. "No. I love you because you're my father. You put me in this world and I did a terrible thing by making you feel like this. You deserved to know I was still alive, and that I still loved you. So did Mom." Clyde stared into her eyes, silent for a time. Eventually, gentle tears fell from his eyes and slid down his cheeks. "I... I love you too, Pinkamena. You've grown into such a beautiful young lady. I... I wish I could have seen it happen." Pinkie sniffled, leaning her face forward and rubbing cheeks with her sire. "I'm sorry I took this long, Daddy..." "You've done enough apologizing. You don't need to be sorry. As for me... there's not enough apologies I can give to you for how I was." "I forgive you, Daddy. I promise! I don't want you to be sad anymore." Their faces pulled away from each other. "You may forgive me, but it will be a while before I can forgive myself..." Roxy suddenly spoke up. "Clyde, dearest. You should focus on the brighter side of this whole mess." Pinkie slipped off of her father's lap, as her mother walked closer to the two of them, smiling warmly. "What's that, Mom?" "It's true that our separation was a very sad event, but you did go on to live a much happier life because of it. The other thing, however, is you helped your sisters get a better life." Pinkie blinked a few times, then gasped loudly. "Omigosh, my sisters! I've been so caught up in you guys that I forgot about them!" Rainbow Dash, who had been quiet during this whole event, decided to speak up finally, if only to relieve her awkwardness of being stuck as a spectator. "I guess they're not here anymore, right?" Roxy shook her head. "No, they're not. Clyde, why don't you tell them?" The stallion nodded, straightening his posture. "After Pinkamena ran away, we were crushed. When we couldn't find her, we were crushed even more. I took some time to re-evaluate my whole life and how I had been acting. Once I saw all the errors of my ways, I resolved to make life better for the two daughters I had left. One of the first things we did was let them go to the school in town." "Ooh, the school? As in, not homeschooling?" Pinkie asked. Clyde nodded. "I believed the only education you needed was from us, on all the necessary subjects, as well as the rock farming business. I came to realize, however, that rock farming wasn't the life for such beautiful girls as my daughters. We were never able to have a son for me to raise in my image, so I forced the life on the three of you. It was wrong of me. You had instead found your calling in the world, Pinkamena, so I decided to let your sisters go out and discover their own, while getting a real education and making whatever friends they could." Pinkie sat on the floor in front of him, staring and listening to his story with utmost interest. "Did it work? Did they get their cutie marks and all that?" "Oh yes they did, eventually. They found their place in this world, and they even continued to help me farm, against my better wishes. I did not overwork them. Eventually, I realized how pointless this rock farming was, and I stopped doing it. Instead, I went out to do some real mining in the mountains. I didn't earn the mark on my flank by pushing rocks around a field." "I told him he was wasting his time. Those mountains had been stripped bare long ago by Maresburg settlers. Oh how wrong I was," Roxy spoke. Clyde nodded once. "I stumbled upon a hay of a gemstone cache. Biggest I'd ever seen. I mined them out myself, and sold them on the market to anypony who wanted them. Lots of fancy places came calling. Eventually, I mined all of the good rocks we still had outside, then sold off those gems. I made enough money for us to retire, and to help out this town we live in. Most of all, however, I was able to give my daughters the money they needed to move away and make a life for themselves. That's what happened to your sisters, Pinkamena." Pinkie seemed a little stunned. "I... I caused all that?" Her mother gently hugged her from behind. "Yes, dear. I know you feel terrible for leaving all of us, but perhaps... everything turned out better because of it. You and your sisters are living great lives now, and we couldn't be happier for you." Pinkie smiled gently at the new revelation, though her smile faded a bit as she looked upon her father. "Daddy... Life seems to be a lot better now, for all of us. I'm here now, and I love you... Can you please try to forgive yourself? Pretty please?" Clyde stared at his eldest daughter. For the first time since they first arrived, Pinkie and Dash saw a gentle smile curl across his face. "I'll do my best, Pinkamena." The pink mare smiled brightly, slipping forward to hug her sire tenderly. "That's all I ask..." The stallion gently returned her hug, holding her close for several moments. Roxy and Dash observed the proceedings with bright smiles. Dash herself felt so happy that she got Pinkie this far. The entire day possibly couldn't have gone any better. The two separated from their hug after a few moments, and Roxy spoke up. "I should probably start on dinner, eventually... But first, I still have a lot of treat ingredients hanging around here I haven't used in quite a while. Would you like to show me some of your new baking skills, Pinkamena, while I work?" Pinkie gasped widely and zipped past her mother into the kitchen, a chef's hat having materialized on her head through unknown means. "Would I EVER!" Her parents were taken aback by her sudden transformation to Party Pony Pinkie. Dash wasn't in the least bit phased. Roxy finally just laughed, and walked to her daughter's side. "Let's try not to make too much of a mess, okay?" Dash laughed aloud. "Good luck with that..." The cyan pegasus shifted under her covers. Energy begin to fill her muscles. She groaned gently, not wanting it, wanting instead to keep sleeping. Finally, she raised her head up, eyes trying to adjust to the darkness around her. She had nothing to relight the candle on the lamp, of course. Her attention naturally turned to the window. The very start of Celestia's sun was beginning to show, the faintest of orange light spilling into the room, which happened to be Pinkie's childhood bedroom. She gently groaned again. What the hay... Why are you getting up this early, body? I'm on work leave... She sighed, turning her eyes to the pink mare curled up next to her. Although she wasn't very visible, Dash was able to see the serene look on her face as she slept peacefully, and like a rock, as was normal. A warm smile curled across the pegasus' face. She leaned her head down and planted a long kiss on her marefriend's cheek, before slipping out of the covers. She landed to all fours on the floor and stretched, a few of her joints gently cracking and loosening. Well, can't get back to sleep. Might as well make the best of it. She decided immediately that downstairs was likely too dark. She went to the window instead, manipulating it open, and slipping outside. The morning air was very cool, possibly a little too chilly for most ponies, but not for a pegasus like her. She handled sky high cold temperatures all the time. To her, this was a perfect morning. She gently fluttered down to the ground in front of the Pie family home, keeping her eyes trained on the coming sunrise. Been a while since I watched one of these. I really need to get Pinkie up early one day so we can watch one together. "You're up early." Dash nearly leaped out of her coat. She turned around to see Clyde Pie looking at her, seated on a wooden bench near the front door of his home, a sprig of wheat hanging out of his lips. A wide-brimmed black hat also adorned his head, which he was not wearing in the house the previous day. The pegasus smiled awkwardly. "Err... Yeah, heheh. I have to wake up early for my job on some days. Sometimes I just can't avoid it..." Clyde merely nodded, and then gestured toward the bench. "Good morning, then. Come have a seat. I wouldn't mind the company." Rainbow Dash hesitated, but ultimately nodded and trotted toward her father-in-law of sorts, hopping up on the bench and sitting down. Both ponies turned their attention toward the rising sun, which was beginning to come over the horizon and enter the sky. "Why are you up this early?" Dash asked. "Force of habit, much like you. I'm retired now, of course, but old habits die hard." Dash nodded in response, the two going quiet again for a time, just watching the celestial body slowly rise into the atmosphere. After a few moments, Clyde spoke again. "I don't think I properly thanked you for helping my daughter return here." The pegasus smiled and rubbed the back of her head with a hoof. "It's... no problem. Really. She asked me to do it." Clyde nodded, unseen to the mare. "You two seem rather close." Dash flinched ever so slightly. "Well we've known each other a few years or so now, heheh. She's one of my best friends. I'd do anything for my friends." The elder stallion turned his gaze slightly to the mare at his side, regarding her in silence. Dash didn't look, but she could tell he was staring. The situation was beginning to get very awkward. "I get the feeling there's more to it than that," Clyde finally spoke. Yep, definitely very awkward. Dash tried her best not to shake. "W-What do you mean? I don't know what you're insinuating, but I don't like it," Dash stated, unconvincingly. To her surprise, a chuckle sounded from the stallion. "Relax, Rainbow. I already know." Dash's eyes went wide, and she slowly turned to look at the stallion, meeting eyes with him. "Y... You know?" He slowly nodded. "I figured it out." Rainbow continued to regard him with shock. "You... figured it out? How did you figure it out?" "Pinkie spoke rather fondly of you several times. I saw how you reacted to all of it, even though you tried your best to hide it. You also have those little nicknames for each other. And... the fact that you shared a bed was a rather large hint as well," Clyde explained, his face curling into a smile at his last observation. Dash's face went red, and she looked away from the stallion. Pinkie had decided to hide their relationship until later, so it was a surprise the cover was blown so easily, and thoroughly. "You're... uh, good." A deep, gentle chuckle sounded out of the earthpony. "There's no need to be embarrassed, Rainbow, or scared, for that matter." The pegasus managed to look over at him again. "So... You're okay with it?" Clyde's eyes were focused on the sunrise again. He was quiet for a moment, his wheat spring shifting position in his teeth. "I can't say I understand it very much, but I'm long past the point in my life where I'd have reacted poorly to such news. My daughter is a mystery to me now, but I'm learning more about the kind of mare she's become. This is just another part of that." "That's... really great to hear, Mr. Pie." Clyde closed his eyes softly. "I said the other day that Pinkamena running from me... It ruined me. However, thinking about it more deeply, I find it's a bit more than that. It ruined me, but that served to make me a better pony." Dash slowly nodded, her awkwardness starting to lift as a gentle smile began to curl. "She... didn't want to say anything. Yet. I don't know when she intended for it." The stallion opened his eyes again. "I can keep it to myself for now. She can tell us when she feels she's ready. It warms my heart to know she's happy with somepony, no matter who that pony is." The pegasus nodded again, although she looked at him with a curious stare. "Well... Why are you telling me all of this then?" Clyde's gaze turned back to the pegasus. Slowly, a warm, caring smile curled across his face. "I wanted to say... Take care of her, Rainbow Dash. I can tell by your presence here that you're very important to her, perhaps even an emotional pillar for her to lean on. You're important to her, and that makes you important to myself and my family. I couldn't ask for a better kind of pony to take care of my little girl." Dash stared at him, her eyes threatening to mist up. A determined smile came across her muzzle. "Y-Yes sir. You can count on me." Clyde nodded silently, the two turning their gazes back to the sunrise once more. They remained in silence for the rest of Celestia's sunrise, the pegasus never letting her smile go away as she bathed in the soothing rays. She became more determined than ever to see Pinkie through the end of this family journey, and perhaps bring the whole family closer together as a whole. Yet deep down, Dash knew she and Pinkie had more to learn about each other, as well. The hard part is over with, Pinkie. I'll be there to take out the rest of those little demons inside you. I promise. TO BE CONTINUED... MLP:FiM and all Characters/Locations Copyright © Hasbro & Lauren Faust Characters/Locations used without permission ~ Scy
ScyStorm	914	3	Pinkie Pie,Rainbow Dash,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	My First Party	Pinkie Pie & Rainbow Dash go on a journey to reconnect with Pinkie's estranged family.	incomplete	176	11	<p>Pinkie Pie is haunted by feelings of self-hatred, stemming from the day she left her family to be on her own. Never wanting to see her best friend in a crazed state of distress again, Rainbow Dash resolves to reconnect her with her estranged family and bring an end to the personal demons once and for all.</p><p>Featured at <a href="http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/09/story-my-first-party.html" rel="nofollow">Equestria Daily</a> on September 28, 2011.<br/>Featured at <a href="http://www.canterlotsfinest.com/2013/11/story-my-first-party.html" rel="nofollow">Canterlot's Finest</a> on November 21, 2013.</p>	everyone	2012-01-23T07:07:44+00:00	2012-01-23T07:07:44+00:00	8,428	MY FIRST PARTY Chapter 3: Healing MLP:FiM Fan Fiction By: Scy Storm ssbs.furrynet.com "This will make things a LOT easier!" Pinkie held up the parchment before her eyes, grinning widely as she scanned over the words written on it. Nearby, Dash was finishing getting her saddlebags in order. She glanced over at the nearby Pie family, tilting her head. "What's that, Pinks?" "Where my sisters live!" the excited pink pony answered. Roxanne turned her attention to Dash. "Our daughters write us letters every month. I've given you their addresses so you may find them easier." Dash blinked a few times. "Ooh... Why didn't I think of that? Of course you two would know." Roxy chuckled softly and nodded. Pinkie bounced in place on her rump, before rolling up the scroll and shoving it into her own saddlebag. "I can't wait to see them again! ... I hope they don't hate me or anything..." "Perish the thought, dear. Your sisters miss you terribly. They're going to be so overjoyed to see you," Roxy stated matter-of-factly. Pinkie smiled widely and nodded several times, before noticing her father drop a small bag at her hooves. It landed on the wooden floor with the obvious metallic sound of a bunch of coins. "Take these as well," the large stallion spoke. "Bits? Daddy, I don't need any money..." "Think nothing of it. We have plenty." Roxy nodded in agreement, smiling at her daughter. "Besides, you are visiting Margaret, after all. I believe you're going to need some extra funds for her." Pinkie raised an eyeridge. "Huh? Why would I need extra for her?" The two elders simply chuckled. "You will see, dear," her mother replied. Rainbow Dash walked up next to Pinkie, her saddlebags hanging over her sides. "Don't argue with free money, Pinkie. Gives us more fun funds!" Pinkie turned to look at the pegasus briefly and giggled loudly. "Kay!" She swiftly swept up the money bag and stuffed it into one of her saddlebags. Her parents smiled to each other as the pink pony slipped the saddlebags on. "This has been a wonderful few days, hasn't it?" Roxy asked, to nopony in particular. "Yep yep yep! I almost don't want to leave, but if I didn't leave then I'd never see my sisters or Ponyville again and that would be soooo sad! I really want to see you two again but- OOOOHHH!" Pinkie leapt in the air with a huge gasp and seemed to hang there for a moment. The other three ponies stared at her. "Uh, what is it, Pinkie?" Dash asked. "A party, Dashie! A PARTY! I can get my parents and my sisters together in Ponyville for one of my super awesome parties! It'd be the best party EVER because my whole family would be there just like in my first party ever!! We gotta do it, we gotta do it!" Pinkie bounced up and down as she shouted her intentions. Roxy and Clyde looked at each other, sad expressions gradually appearing on their faces. Pinkie noticed, and started bouncing much more slowly. They turned their attention to her. "We're... sorry, dear, but I don't think we can do that," Roxy stated. The pink pony stopped bouncing and regarded them with an utterly confused expression. "Huh? But why?" "We're getting up in years, my dear. Travel just isn't kind to us anymore. And don't you think about holding that party here in boring ol' Maresburg," her father explained. Pinkie looked down at the floor sadly, causing Rainbow to compulsively reach over and stroke a hoof down her back. "We're sorry, dear. Really. But you should definitely get your sisters together and hold them a party. They've wanted another of your parties for so long," Roxy said. The pink mare raised her head and returned to her usual smile, nodding softly. "Well, okay... but I'm going to write to you now. Every month, just like my sisters do! I'll tell you all about my trip and also about my parties and my friends and just... Everything! I promise!" Her parents smiled brightly. "We'll eagerly await those letters, Pinkie," Clyde said. Pinkie gasped loudly again, her eyes wide. "... What did you say, Daddy?" Clyde chuckled a little, apparently having expected that reaction. "That's what you prefer, right? You always have. Me and my stubborn self... I could get used to saying it." "And I will be sure to reply to your letters, my darling Pinkie," Roxy added. Pinkie stood there stunned for a few quiet moments, before quivering and leaping forward, latching her forelegs around her parents necks. "Ohhhh I love you so much! I'm so, sooo happy I came back!!" The two elder ponies reeled briefly from the forceful hug of their daughter, before each closing their legs around her, returning the hug. "So are we, dear. So are we," Roxy replied. The three remained there hugging silently for several moments. Rainbow observed quietly, a wide smile on her face, the feeling deep in her chest as warm as Celestia's sun. Pinkie eventually pulled away, the brightest of smiles on her face. She reached up and wiped her cheeks of a few happy tears. "Have a safe trip, Pinkie," Clyde remarked. Rainbow opened the front door of the home, noticing Pinkie wasn't immediately following, just staring at her parents with a wide grin. "Come on, Pinkie, how about we not miss the train?" "I love you! I'll write to you right after my trip is done!" Her parents merely nodded, and observed as Dash walked up and forcibly pushed Pinkie toward the door with her head, the pink mare sliding backward on her rump and waving. "They get it, Pinkie, now... come... on!" The two elder ponies laughed softly, waving back to their departing daughter as Rainbow's tail grasped the door and shut it behind her. The train lurched its way down the tracks with a gentle swaying as the two mares entered the bedding car, once again devoid of anyone but them. Dash sighed, slipping her saddlebags off and unceremoniously tossing them on one of the beds. "What an emotional roller coaster," she remarked aloud. Pinkie's saddlebags dropped on the bed as well, and almost immediately Dash felt herself tackled onto one of the other beds. The pegasus cried out in shock, ending up shoved face-down in the sheets. She was quickly turned around somewhat, just able to visually register the pink pony above her before their lips met. Pinkie kissed Dash's muzzle only briefly, pulling away to pepper the rainbow mare's face with little kisses. Rainbow couldn't help but squirm and blush red. "Gaah, Pinkie!" The pink mare let off, raising her head up and giggling. "Oh Dashie, I'm just so HAPPY!" she yelled, bouncing up and down a little on top of the pegasus. Rainbow grunted and shifted. "That's nice, but I'm kind of in pain right now!" Pinkie blinked, and then noted Dash's somewhat twisted position. She slipped off the blue mare and grinned sheepishly. "Oh... Sorry!" Dash rolled herself back to her stomach and smirked. Pinkie's eyes were misty, her grin as wide as Dash had ever seen it. She quickly settled herself next to the pegasus and nuzzled into her neck incessantly, her body practically quivering with energy and emotion. Rainbow continued to blush, a goofy smile on her face as she just accepted the nuzzling. "I'm really glad to see you like this, Pinks." Pinkie giggled a little, her body leaning as close to Dash as she could. "Everything went so perfect! They even called me Pinkie! I'm just... Just so..." Amazingly, the normally rambling pony seemed lost for words. She simply giggled again in sheer happiness, turning her face so she could kiss Dash's neck. Rainbow lifted her chin a little, her chest rumbling with a gentle noise of pleasure. "Well as long as you keep doing this, I'm fine with this mood of yours," she said, grinning after. Pinkie pulled away a bit, smirking at the pegasus. "You're naughty!" "Uh... Duh?" They both shared a laugh before their muzzles met again, kissing for a few moments. Pinkie slipped out of the kiss, resting her face back against Dash's neck and sighing, finally appearing to gain some composure. Dash rested her chin down on the pink pony's poofy mane, smiling gingerly, going quiet while simply enjoying the closeness. Her eyes stared out the nearby window at the passing scenery, feeling the earthpony's cheek gently sliding up and down against her cyan pelt. In more ways than one, the trip to the parent's house went way better than Dash could have expected. She's not sure what she had really expected, other than she knew the Pie parents would be happy. She definitely didn't expect the morning conversation with Clyde. She learned a lot about Pinkie's life and history over that time, as well, from both Pinkie and her parents... Though, now that she thought about it, some details were missing. "Hey, Pinkie?" "Mmmnnnyes?" the earthpony mumbled out from the pegasus' pelt. Dash stifled a giggle. That was cute. "I was wondering about something." "Mmmhmm~?" "You never mentioned how you got to Ponyville." Pinkie went quiet for a moment. She lifted her head away from Rainbow's, eyes rolled back in thought. "... Nnnope! I didn't!" Rainbow raised an eyeridge. "Uhh, any reason why?" Pinkie thought for another few seconds before shaking her head, grinning. "Not really. I just forgot!" Dash groaned and pressed a hoof to her forehead. "That seemed like an important detail to me, Pinks!" "Weeellll, no one asked! I guess. I didn't walk all the way to Ponyville or anything." Dash lowered her leg and stared at the party pony. "Well then what did you do?" Pinkie turned her eyes to look out the window, going quiet in thought once more. Dash became worried momentarily that she asked a bad question, but Pinkie softly smiled. "I took the train." "The train? How?" "It was late at night, and cold. No one was out in the town, so I just walked to the train station and managed to get into one of the trains. It wasn't even locked or anything! I went to one of the cars with all the seats where I thought it'd be easy to hide, then curled up in my blanket in one of the seats and slept." "So you didn't get caught?" Pinkie shook her head. "Not quite. Somepony did find me, but by that time it was already the next day and the train was moving." "How'd you get out of that one?" "He was one of the workers, and he asked me why I was alone and where my parents were. I panicked and asked what the next stop was and he said Ponyville. I let out this biiiiig sigh and said that's where my parents were, I was on a trip back home from my granny's house. I thanked him over and over for waking me up so I didn't miss my stop!" Dash let out a hearty laugh. "He actually bought it?" "Yep! ... Thankfully. I'm... not sure I want to know what would have happened if he didn't," Pinkie noted, looking a little forlorn suddenly. Rainbow winced a bit. "Yeah, I guess so... So then you just got off the train in Ponyville and moved on?" Pinkie nodded a few times. "Yep. Packed up my blanket and wandered Ponyville. Eventually I found Sugarcube Corner, the best place in all of Equestria! And, well, you know the story from there." Dash smiled. "For the most part, I guess I do... I'm learning a lot of things about you lately, Pinkie." "Hehehe, I guess you are, huh?" Pinkie smiled brightly at Dash, until a thought came over her, causing the smile to fade. "... Have I not been very open to you, Dashie?" She looked at the pegasus with a bit of concern. Dash shook her head and smiled. "I guess you haven't been, but I think we're both guilty of that." Pinkie tilted her head. "What do you mean?" Dash rubbed the back of her head. "We've been friends for a while, but I never really thought about asking you about your past, and you haven't really asked me about mine. Then, ever since this whole... relationship thing started, you and I have mostly just been having more fun together than before. I knew a few things about your past, and that was about it. It's... actually pretty nice to learn more about you, Pinks." The pink pony giggled softly, resting her cheek against the pegasus' own. "I'm happy to share, Dashie." Dash flicked her tail and nuzzled cheeks with the earthpony, going quiet for a bit before changing the subject. "Well, we got a bit of a journey until our next stop." Pinkie pulled away a bit and grinned widely. "Soooo more cuddles then?" Dash laughed a little. "Sure... But I'm on top this time, Piggy Pie." "Ooooh, okay~" Pinkie cooed, flexing her brows. Dash blinked a few times, then reddened in the cheeks. "Oh, and you call ME naughty!" Pinkie started giggling incessantly and flopped herself over. Dash smirked and promptly hopped atop the pink pony, cuddling up while laughing alongside her. "I'm getting deja vu again." The two brightly colored mares trotted down the main street of Trottingham, their saddlebags gently bumping against their sides. "Well I hope you're not expecting Braeburn to pop out again, Dashie!" "Actually, I'm expecting another you to pop out and start welcoming us to the town." Pinkie giggled. "Oh, that's silly, you silly! There's only one me." Trottingham did look a lot like Ponyville, to be sure. The architecture was different on the buildings, but otherwise, it was a little more than a small town in Equestria, possibly the same size overall as Ponyville. Various ponies trotted their way down the streets, happily chatting with each other and going about their business. None of them seemed to regard the new visitors immediately. One thing the two did notice was a prevalence of spotted earth ponies amongst the populace. "Ooh, pinto ponies. Lots of them!" Pinkie exclaimed. "Well that little colt in Ponyville did say he was from here, didn't he?" Dash noted. Pinkie nodded a few times, then leaned her head over to her saddlebag, swiftly yanking her parent's scroll out of the pocket and unrolling it with her hooves. "Okay! So we need to find where Bellamina lives. Where is Caballus Street?" "Uh, why are you asking me, Pinkie? I've never been here either." Pinkie didn't reply, tapping her chin with a hoof while looking around the immediate area. Eventually, something clicked, and she rushed right in front of an unsuspecting pinto pony, who stopped dead in his tracks. "Hi, I'm Pinkie! I'm new in town, can you tell me where this place is?" she asked, holding the scroll up in front of him with one hoof pointed to the address. The pony regained his composure, looking over the address briefly, before chuckling. "Well of course, that's Belle's Bakery! Everypony knows where that is!" He remarked. Pinkie blinked a few times in surprise. Rainbow trotted up to the pair. "It's a... bakery?" she asked. The stallion nodded, turning his head and motioning toward the west with a hoof. "Caballus Street is right over there. Just follow it and you'll spot the place. It's pretty impossible to miss." Pinkie put the scroll back in her bag, then grasped the pony's raised hoof in her own and shook it several times. "Thanks a lot, mister! Come on, Dashie!" she said, before breaking into a canter in the pointed direction. Dash shook her head in annoyance and followed after her quickly, leaving the confused stallion behind. She quickly caught up to the pink pony, smirking at her. "You're really eager." "Of course I am, Dashie! I get to see my sister again!" "Really? You're not nervous this time?" Pinkie blinked a few times, and suddenly slowed her walking speed, her smile fading. "... Well now that you mention it..." Rainbow slowed down as well, chuckling and bumping her nose against the earthmare. "Don't sweat it, Pinks. Everything will be fine. Let's just find out what building it is." Pinkie's smile quickly returned, and she nodded at her marefriend. The two trotted their way calmly down the street, observing the buildings they passed, until one building in the distance proved to stand out from the rest. It was three stories high, and adorned with a large, well-made sign. The sign featured picture of a large golden bell, flanked by the words "Belle's Bakery" in stylized lettering. The two stared at it for a moment, as Dash smirked. "Well, that guy wasn't lying." She turned toward the pink pony, who regarded her with a nervous smile. Dash smiled reassuringly, and the two made their way through the bakery doors. The opening of the doors triggered a big golden bell, and also blasted the two with the scent of fresh bread and other assorted goodies. Many different types of bread could be seen for sale on the shelves, as well as an entire plethora of cookies, brownies, and other baked goods under the cover of glass counters. Several menu-like signs detailed special bakery items that could be made on request, like cakes. On a different day, Dash knew that Pinkie would be absolutely losing her mind in a place like this. The two stepped into the middle of the shop foyer, glancing around at the many items for sale, Pinkie taking in deep breaths to absorb the scents as much as she could. Eventually, they heard the sound of a pony approaching. A male earthpony emerged from the doorway behind the counter, likely leading to the kitchen area. His coat was tan-colored, and his mane and tail a rich brown. He wore an apron around his body, bearing the bell logo of the bakery. The apron came just short of covering up his cutie mark, a loaf of dark brown bread. He smiled brightly and regarded the visitors with his hazel eyes. "Welcome to Belle's Bakery! What can I interest you in?" he asked, cheerily. The two mares looked on in confusion, having expected a completely different pony to be greeting them. Dash said something she almost immediately regretted. "You don't look like Belle." The stallion chuckled heartily and shook his head. "Not even close. My name's Rye Flour. You two are new in town, I take it." "Ooh? How'd you know that?" Pinkie asked. "Although it is growing, Trottingham is a still a small town, by most pony's standards. We're the only bakery in town, so as far as I know, everypony visits us at least once a week. I've never seen you two before, so I made an assumption." "Yep, that makes sense to me," Rainbow remarked. Pinkie nodded, and smiled nervously at the stallion. "We are new, yes. We came here to see Bellamina, actually." Rye looked at the pink pony and blinked in surprise. "Bellamina? It's... not often somepony calls her by her full name. Are you two friends of hers? I don't recall seeing you at the wedding, let alone in this store before." Dash blinked and raised an eyeridge. Pinkie just shook her head. "Actually, I'm, um... her sister." The stallion looked even more confused. "Her sister? But, you don't look anything like Marg-" he said, cutting himself off as a realization hit him, his eyes going wide. Pinkie noticeably twitched, knowing immediately that Rye knew the Pie family history. She looked down at the floor, scraping her hoof across it nervously. "Y-Yeah... I'm THAT sister..." An awkward silence befell the room for a few moments. Pinkie eventually turned her eyes back up to meet the stallion's. Rye seemed to be shaking a little, eventually clearing his throat and adjusting his apron. "This... will be interesting then," he remarked. Rainbow turned her gaze toward Pinkie, keeping her distance for the moment, much like she did at the rock farm. "Hang in there, Pinks," she said quietly. Pinkie nodded, raising her posture up and waiting. Rye walked back toward the doorway leading to the back area, sticking his upper body through. "Belle dear? You have... visitors here for you," he stated with a raised voice, stepping aside from the doorway afterward. "Oh? Give me just a moment!" came a female voice from the back. The pink mare gasped and shuddered a little at the sound of her littlest sister's voice, now older, but still recognizable. After a minute or two, she came into view from the kitchen. The grayish-blue coat Pinkie remembered had shifted to a more rich blue color with adulthood. Her long gray mane was stylized into a bun above her head, fitting for a baker. She wore the same apron as Rye, but adorned on her flank was the image of three multi-colored candy-dotted cookies. She entered the room with a bright smile, which quickly became a look of intense shock toward the pony her hazel-colored eyes laid upon. Her gasp was so sharp it was almost unheard, instead sounding like a sharp inhale of breath. "P... Pinkie..." she stammered out quietly. Pinkie stared at her grown baby sister, pushing a smile across her face, her body lightly shaking. "H-Hi Belle..." she stated, calmly. Belle stared in absolute shock for a few moments, before showing what must be the trademark Pie family speed, zipping around the counter and latching her forelegs onto her older sister. She squeezed tightly for a moment, soon leaning backward, staring at the pink pony and prodding her with her hooves. "It's you! It's really you!!" she practically screamed, tears flowing down her cheeks. "Y-Yes, Belle, it's me- grk!" The youngest Pie sister squeezed tightly around the pink mare, burying her face into her chest, sobbing loudly. "I... I thought you were dead! I thought I'd never see you again! Oh Pinkie!!" Pinkie felt the urge to lose herself, just like she did when she finally saw her parents again. The flood of emotion didn't come. Instead, it was Belle herself that had lost all control, squeezing desperately to her long lost sister, spilling more tears than Pinkie even did. Somehow, Pinkie remained composed, gently wrapping her forelegs around the blue pony, resting her chin on her bunned-up mane. "I-It's okay, Bella... I'm here now. I missed you so much, little sis..." she spoke softly, gentle tears dripping from her eyes. Her sister said nothing, instead staying desperately clung to the pink mare, letting years of emotion flow out of her. Pinkie stayed quiet as well, content to hold her sister close until her condition ran its course. Rainbow Dash stared at the sisters, a bit stunned at how well Pinkie was keeping her composure, especially after what she witnessed back at the rock farm. She took a passing glance at Rye, who remained behind the counter, misty eyed and with a large smile on his face. The smell of lavender tea filled the air of the kitchen, mostly overcome by the smell of baking goods. Belle sipped from her cup, finally calmed down from her long emotional spell. The tea helped matters. The three mares sat at a kitchen table situated near the stairs, away from the larger kitchen area where all the baking happened. Rye Flour himself kept busy, checking the goods and occasionally leaving to the foyer to answer a ringing bell. "I'm so sorry about my behavior. I... I completely lost it," Belle proclaimed. Pinkie giggled a little bit. "Don't sweat it, sis. I probably would have done the same thing in your position!" "I'm surprised you didn't in your current position," Rainbow idly remarked, staring at her cup of tea, never having been much of a fan of the drink. Bellamina hrmed in thought. "Who is your companion, Pinkie?" Dash glanced upward briefly, while Pinkie just smiled. "This is my... friend, Rainbow Dash. She's helping me on my adventure!" "Your... adventure?" "Yep! An adventure to see all of my family again. We came here from Maresburg." Belle gasped. "You saw mother and father? I hope that went well..." Pinkie nodded and sighed wistfully. "Better than I could have ever hoped." Belle sighed as well. "That's such a relief... I mean, Dad changed so much after you left. I'm not sure why I was worried just now." The two sisters sipped from their cups, Pinkie's poofy mane bouncing a little as she shifted in her chair. "They told us about what happened. How you got to go to a real school and get your cutie marks and everything. I was so happy!" The blue mare giggled softly. "It was definitely a positive change. One I really needed... That was actually how I met Rye originally. He lived in Maresburg too, went to the school." Rainbow raised her head up, recalling something she heard earlier. "That reminds me. Didn't he mention something about a wedding?" the pegasus asked. Belle blushed only slightly, a wistful smile crossing her face. "Oh. Yes. Rye is my husband." Pinkie gasped in shock. Dash wasn't surprised at all. "Yeah, I figured that. Married a childhood crush then?" The earthmare blushed a little deeper, and giggled. "We were too young for that back then! We met up again long after school was over with." Her smile faded when she glanced over at Pinkie, who looked rather forlorn. Dash turned her glance and noticed it as well. "Uh, Pinks? What's wrong?" she asked. "My little sister got married and I wasn't there to see it..." Pinkie replied, sadly. Belle bit her bottom lip a little, leaning over slightly and rubbing her hoof on her sister's. "It's okay, Pinkie. Don't be sad. ... If it makes you feel better, Margaret isn't married yet..." she noted, fishing for anything to cheer Pinkie up. Pinkie pondered for a moment, before perking up suddenly with a bright smile. "You're right! What am I doing? I should be happy that my baby sister found looooove~" Belle leaned back again, her blush and smile returning. "Y-Yeah, that works, I guess." She gasped in surprise as Rye appeared next to her, kissing her on the cheek and chuckling at her jumpiness. "Why don't you tell them how you got your cutie mark, dear? That'll explain how we met," he suggested. The bell rang in the store front, causing Rye to excuse himself. Belle shifted in her seat and smiled brightly. "Alright, I can share that story... It was pretty much his fault that I got this ol' thing," she said, referring to the batch of cookies on her flank. "So it was at the school in Maresburg?" Dash asked, finally sipping some of her tea afterward, wincing a little at the taste. Belle nodded. "One passion I carried over from my foal days was all the baking we used to watch Granny Pie do. So as a schoolfilly, I frequented the baking class at school to try and learn how to do it myself. That's where I met Rye. He was my best friend, outside of Maggie. We tried out a lot of neat stuff in the baking class... and made a lot of messes too." Pinkie giggled. "Sounds like me in my early days at Sugarcube Corner!" Dash smirked at her. "Sounds like you nowadays too." Pinkie stuck her tongue out at the pegasus as Bellamina continued. "One day, Rye came into class with these big loaves of bread that he said he baked himself at home, based off of techniques he picked up from his father. The bread was just amazing! Some of us put butter on it, others made sandwiches with it, and all that stuff. As he watched us all enjoy it, his cutie mark appeared, right in front of everypony! I knew right then that I needed to do the same thing. I had to floor everypony in the class with my baking skills too! And I knew exactly what to make..." Her sister gasped and perked up with a bright smile. "Granny Pie's Super Special Candy Cookies!" the pink pony yelled excitedly. Belle bounced in her seat and grinned widely. "That's right, sis! ... Only problem was, Mom lost the recipe. She remembered what she could, and I had to fill in the rest myself. I totally winged it... but it was like magic, Pinkie! Not only did I recreate Granny's recipe, but I made it even better! I brought them to school and floored the whole class, including Rye himself. It was perfect... and there it appeared. My cutie mark. Now Belle Pie's Super Special Candy Cookies are the top selling item of this bakery." Pinkie clopped her forehooves together and cheered as Belle raised her chin up proudly, with Dash rolling her eyes at the cheesiness of the display. The jittery Belle gasped again when Rye made another unexpected appearance, nuzzling under her raised chin. "And it was those cookies that brought me back to you, don't forget," he noted. Dash and Pinkie glanced at each other, then back at the couple. "What's that mean?" Dash asked. Belle rubbed a hoof over her blushing face, smiling meekly. "Well... Rye's family moved away to Fillydelphia some time after I got my mark. A few years later, once I was done with school and Mom & Dad hit it rich, I decided to move there was well. I figured I could try and find my best friend again." "Unfortunately, my family and I had already moved to Manehatten by then," Rye interjected. Belle nodded a little, continuing. "I got a job at a baking company there anyway, and made a name for myself. Eventually they decided to relocate me to here in Trottingham. They purchased this bakery we're in now from the retiring owners. They felt I was talented enough to run it on my own. Which I did, for a good while, though not without my fair share of troubles." Pinkie tilted her head a bit. "What kind of trouble?" Rye looked at Belle with a hint of concern, as she went silent for a moment, before waving the comment off with a hoof. "Nothing important. Really. What is important is that this dashing stallion came back into my life," she said, prodding at him with her hoof. Rye chuckled softly and pushed her hoof away. "I got tired of the big cities and decided to move somewhere smaller. I ended up here in Trottingham and went looking for its bakery. When I got here, what else did I smell but... her cookies. She made them a few times before I moved out of Maresburg, and I never forgot the scent," he said, pressing his nose against one of her earbases. Belle blushed and flicked her ear a little, her smile wide. "All of my problems seemed to wash away when my best friend came back into my life. I helped him get hired by my parent company, and he immediately brought his amazing skills to the bakery here. Somehow, despite already being the only bakery in town, we got even more popular." Rye nodded slightly. "Our repeat customers came by almost constantly, and we even took orders from out of town!" "We became so successful, that we were actually able to purchase the property from our parent company and start running the place ourselves, complete with a nice bit of redecorating. And along the way, well... We sort of fell hopelessly in love..." She blushed and leaned her head back into Rye's chest. Pinkie watched them, misty-eyed, her forehooves pressed together. "That's... so... ROMANTIC!" she squealed. Dash rolled her eyes so hard she thought they would fall right out of her head. Pinkie managed to notice without glancing over, Dash grunting when one of the pink pony's hindlegs bumped her chair. Rye kissed his wife on the head before heading back to the ovens to check on some baking bread loaves. Belle sighed dreamily and turned her attention toward Pinkie. "What ever happened to you, sis? Where did you end up?" Pinkie slurped the bottom of her empty cup and set it back on the table, licking her lips. "I live in Ponyville now! I got there when I was a filly and shacked up at this totally cool place called Sugarcube Corner! Mr. and Mrs. Cake are the best bakers in aaaall Equestria!" She blinked a few times and grinned in embarrassment when she realized what she said. "Um... No offense." Belle couldn't help but laugh. "None taken. But, does that mean you're a baker too, Pinkie?" Pinkie nodded several times. "Yep! Personal apprentice to the Cake family!" She then let out a loud gasp. "Ohmigosh! We're both bakers now! We can toootally bake things together!" Bellamina was taken aback by the pink pony's excitement, but only for a moment. The idea hadn't occured to her either until Pinkie said it. She slowly smiled widely and slipped out of her chair to all four hooves. "That sounds like a great idea!" Rainbow Dash audibly groaned and dropped her chin to the table. "More baking? Didn't you make enough of a mess at your parent's house?" Pinkie zipped right next to Dash wearing a floppy chef hat. "There's always time to make a mess, Dashie!" she stated, plopping another chef hat onto Dash's head. Dash blinked and raised her head up, eyes looking up at the hat on her head. Where did she even GET these things? "Oh no, Pinkie, you're not dragging me into this! I can barely make toast!" The pegasus then felt her forelegs grabbed by both Pie sisters, pulling her out of the chair and toward the large kitchen area. "I'm sure you'll do fine, Ms. Dash~!" Belle cooed. Rye could be heard laughing nearby. Rainbow went limp with a heavy sigh, hindlegs dragging across the floor. "Why did I come on this trip again?" "Come on, sis! Where are we going? Tell me tell me tell me!" Pinkie hopped circles around Rainbow and Bellamina as the three mares made their way down one of the roads of Trottingham. Belle had her hair down, the long gray mane swaying a little as she walked. It reminded Dash of Pinkie's mane when she was sad. "It's a surprise, Pinkie! You're the big party pony, I thought you liked surprises!" Belle replied to her sister. The pink mare stopped bouncing and walked alongside her. "Well duuuuh, I love surprises! But this is different, cause you're my baby sister and I'm just so eager, I wanna know so bad!" Dash grumbled in annoyance. "She's not telling, Pinks, so just wait." "Ohhh, okay, Dashie, but only cause you said it!" Pinkie skipped alongside her sister then, humming a tune, as Dash quietly thanked Celestia that actually worked. The rainbow mare glanced around the street as they walked, listening to most of the ponies they passed give a greeting to Bellamina. She responded in kind, even knowing the names of most of them. "You sure are popular here," Dash remarked. "Well, small town, one bakery... and we did get more attention than we thought we would. I don't mind it too much. The ponies in this town are wonderful." Rainbow glanced in her direction. "You sure Rye can handle it by himself?" "He'll have no problem, Ms. Dash. It's a bit of a slow day today anyway. He'll probably join us later." "I'm surprised the kitchen survived the Pinkie Pie tornado yesterday," Dash said with a smirk. Pinkie bounced right next to Dash suddenly and hip-bumped into her. "You were part of it too, Dashie!" Dash frowned and shoved her hip right back at the pink pony. "Only because you dragged me into it! It took me a while to get that dough out of my tail, you know." Belle couldn't help but giggle. "Don't fight about it, girls. It was the most fun I've had in my bakery in long time! Even if it did require a lot of clean up..." Pinkie giggled and hip-bumped Dash once more before bouncing to her sister's side, Dash grumbling a little, but privately smirking. She opened her mouth to say something, but got cut off by a sharp Pinkie gasp. "Whoa, that place is big!" the pink mare stated. Rainbow glanced ahead, seeing the road they were on lead right toward a large complex, possibly the largest building in the small town. Big letters on the outside of the building read "Trottingham Event Center." Belle grinned widely. "We're here!" "An... event center? Something special going on?" Dash asked. "There's always something special going on here. What they have set up right now, though... I just had to bring Pinkie to see it." "I can't wait I can't wait I can't wait!" Pinkie rambled, as the three mares approached the entrance. Dash herself was very curious by that point. After a quick trip through the opening halls of the event center, the three ponies made their way through doors leading to one of the main event areas. Pinkie's resulting gasp was one of the loudest Dash had ever heard. "AN ICE SKATING RINK?!" the pink pony screamed. In front of the threesome was indeed a large, indoor ice skating rink, surrounded by a modest crowd of ponies enjoying some carnival games and concession stands that were dotted around the rink. The rink itself had a dozen or so ponies on it, happily skating in circles and talking, some doing tricks. Dash stared in silence for a moment. "Ice skating in the summer?" she eventually asked. Belle nodded. "Yep! Lots of events get set up here all year, and during the hot months, the ice skating rink goes up. I try to come down here when I can. I have skates back at home, but I didn't bring them, cause I didn't want to spoil the surprise." Dash pondered for a moment, a memory returning to her. "Oh yeah. Pinkie mentioned she ice skated a lot with her sisters. She does it in Ponyville during the winter." "Yes, I figured she still has a passion for it..." Belle remarked, glancing over at her sister, who had to pry her jaw off the floor. "OooooOOOOHHH THIS IS GREAT! Let's go skating, let's go skating!!" Pinkie yelled, running circles around the two mares. Dash raised her hoof briefly, before suddenly stomping it down on Pinkie's tail, causing her to stop dead and flop on her stomach. "Go ahead, Pinkie, but you're not dragging me into this one." The pegasus moved her hoof and let Pinkie stand, the party pony immediately pouting. "Well what are you going to do, Dashie? What's better than skating?" "A lot of things..." Rainbow flicked her tail and glanced toward the pony crowd. "I'll try some games or something. I'm no skater. Why are you worrying about it, anyway? Go skate with your sister!" Belle tugged on Pinkie's poofy tail excitedly. "Yeah, come on, big sis! There's a place where we can rent skates." "Skates! Yes! Let's do it!" Pinkie yelled, zipping off with her sister in tow. Dash watched them go, and sighed heavily. A little peace, for once. She loved Pinkie more than anything, but it got a little grating sometimes, especially with a long lost sister hanging around. She actually didn't want to play any of the carnival games that were setup like she had told Pinkie. She was perfectly content with relaxing and watching the two sisters skate. She had watched Pinkie do some skating before the last Winter Wrap Up, and it was actually somewhat entertaining, not that she'd ever admit it out loud. The pegasus made her way to a seating area largely ignored by the other ponies, and sat down, eyes on the ice rink. Within a few minutes, the two sisters made their appearance, skating onto the rink with some scarves on their necks, likely also borrowed from the skate rental area. They joined the circle of ponies making laps around the rink, wide grins plastered on their faces. Jeez, I bet I could see those grins from space, Dash thought to herself. After several minutes of happy skating, Pinkie noticed a few ponies doing tricks near the middle of the rink, and she said something to her sister. The two moved away from the skating line and into the middle area, facing each other, staring down the other with determined looks. Dash perked up a bit. Oooh... Sisterly challenge? This should be fun... "Looks like I got here just in time." Dash turned her head in surprise, seeing Rye Flour approaching her with a smile. "Oh! Hey, Rye. Closed up shop for the day?" The stallion sat down next to the pegasus, nodding. "Yeah. We close early sometimes if it's a slow day, or if we have plans. No one ever complains." Dash nodded, the two turning their attention to the skating rink, where Pinkie and Belle had begun to take turns doing tricks. They began with simple skating movements, waving their hoofs in and out of each other, eventually resorting to doing spins. After a few moments of silence, Rye chuckled. "I don't think Pinkie is gonna win this," he remarked. Rainbow smirked. "Yeah. She only does her skating in the winter. It sounds to me like Belle comes here a lot." "Not a whole lot, really, but she tries to get some practice in at least every other week. She'll skate for hours. Managed to get me on the ice a few times. I felt like a putz." Dash grinned at him. "Guess that's why you're not out there right now, huh?" Rye laughed softly. "Well, sure, but mainly I wanted her to have some time with her sister. Just the two of them... not counting the other ponies on the ice." The two Pie sisters had managed to attract a bit of a crowd with their tricks. Most of the ponies skating on the ice had stopped to watch, forming a wide circle to give the two space to work. The sisters had begun to take to more complex tricks, skating around in circles doing balance acts, and occasionally gaining speed for jumping spins. They started to get attention from other ponies around the rink as well. "Ms. Dash? May I ask you something?" Rye suddenly spoke. Dash glanced toward him, and chuckled. "You can call me Rainbow. I don't mind." "Oh! Right, sorry..." Rye rubbed his head a little. "I remembered hearing all the conversation yesterday, while you girls were baking. I was wondering why you came along with Pinkie on this trip." Rainbow turned her attention to the skating pie sisters, briefly pondering what she was going to say to answer that. "Well... Actually, I was the one that got her to do this. She... wanted me to come with her, so she didn't have to do it alone." Rye went quiet for a moment in thought. "What prompted you to make her do this?" Dash pondered briefly if she should tell Rye what happened. She turned her glance back toward him. He was looking at her with a caring, curious look in his eyes. Something told her that it would be alright. "Well... When I found her on that day, she was really sad. Like, crying her eyes out sad. Pinkie never gets sad. I... got her to tell me why. Memories of her family, and all that. She was a mess, and had been for a while. So... I knew she had to go out and see them again, to fix her up. I never want to see her like that again." Rye stared at her for a moment, before turning his glance downward. "That... sounds familiar." Dash looked at him with confusion. "What does that mean?" The stallion turned his gaze up to the ice rink, where he witnessed Bellamina do a crazy flipping move through the air, landing on her skates perfectly and leaving Pinkie absolutely floored. The pony crowd around them cheered. "Belle kept herself from talking about it yesterday after you two arrived. I guess she didn't want to worry her big sister who just came back to her life." "Talk about what? Rye... What's wrong?" Rye sighed deeply. "Belle was... really torn apart by the loss of her sister. She was such a little foal when their grandmother died, I guess it affected her too much emotionally. She looked up to her oldest sister so much. When Pinkie left, she was hit the hardest." Dash winced a little. "That doesn't sound good." Rye nodded just slightly, eyes still on the ice rink. "Her other sister, Margaret, had to step in and help keep her together. Then, once they got into school, Belle became friends with me. We were sort of her pillars of strength. I never would have known that at the time, of course. I learned about all this history later. I was sad to leave her when I moved away, but I figured it would be okay." He sighed wistfully. "When I found her again, all those years later, I was so happy. Turns out, I was really lucky too." "Really lucky? How?" "Belle had been living alone, working the business for quite some time. She kept in contact with her family with letters, and her parents even visited her a few times. But... Without Margaret or me there, she started to... fall apart, emotionally. She missed us. She missed Pinkie. It was affecting her state of mind, her work ethic. Her boss had to come down and get her to see a therapist here in Trottingham to deal with it. It worked, for the most part, but she was still in bad shape. Then I showed up..." Rye leaned back a little bit as some cheers erupted from the ponies on the ice. Dash turned her gaze that way, seeing the sisters happily skating together, doing tricks and partner moves to the delight of the audience. "We were so happy to see each other, and couldn't wait to get me working at that bakery. Everything was going fine until I was exposed to her fragile emotional state for the first time. She skipped some therapy sessions to work with me, and I eventually made her go back to them..." A gentle smile crossed his face for the briefest of moments. "As it turned out, though, falling in love with her was the best thing I could have done. I was her pillar of strength again, a little light in her heart that kept her going every day. It's kind of a scary thought, I guess, but I was happy to do be in the position. Once we got married, I thought everything would be okay..." Dash quietly wondered why Rye was telling her such... personal details. She was basically a stranger. She also felt his last words there were rather ominous. "Well... um... was everything okay?" Rye closed his eyes. "The wedding was the happiest day of our lives. It was also the first time Bellamina had been with her family together in one place since she and Margaret moved away from Maresburg. But, there was one piece missing." Dash bit her lower lip slightly. "Pinkie..." The stallion nodded and opened his eyes again, Dash turning her gaze toward him. "Being with her family again made her realize that Pinkie still wasn't there in her life. All of those memories she had been repressing in her happy times with me came rushing back. I loved her, Margaret loved her, but Pinkie... Pinkie still wasn't there. She had to start doing therapy again. Some nights, she would just lay against me and cry herself to sleep. Eventually, we drifted away from therapy again, and those sad nights got few and far between... but they still happened occasionally. All I could do was hold her close and tell her it'd all be okay..." He went quiet for a spell, Dash continuing to stare at him, wondering how she could possibly respond to all this. Then, slowly, a smile crept across his face. He turned his gaze to the pegasus and motioned his head toward the ice rink. "Look." They both looked at the ice. Pinkie and Belle were finishing their partner skate with a surprisingly well-choreographed routine, which came to a close with the two spinning like tops for a moment, followed by striking a double pose. The ponies around them erupted into applause. The two sisters stared in awe at all the attention, before letting loose fits of happy giggles and hugging each other. A huge smile stretched across Dash's face at the scene. "Wow." "I think it will change now, Rainbow. Yesterday, when you two came into the store, and I realized it was Pinkie... My heart almost seized. I called Belle into the room... and I watched her cry. She cried so hard right there, hugged up against her long lost sister. It was the hardest I'd heard her cry in a long time, but they were all happy tears. Beautiful, happy tears. I felt like I'd been waiting my whole life just to see that happen, right in front of me. With her biggest sister back in her life... I think... I think she can finally heal, Rainbow." Dash stared almost unblinkingly at the ice. The crowd had dispersed to go back to enjoy skating, and the two sisters skated tiredly side by side, bright smiles on their faces, talking about something the pegasus couldn't hear. What she did hear, however, was a sniffling noise. She turned her glance toward Rye, who also stared at the ice, with gentle tears dripping down his cheeks and a bright smile on his face. After a moment, he turned toward her. "Thank you, Rainbow, for bringing Pinkie back into my wife's life. Thank you so much." Rainbow stared at him in stunned, emotional silence. After a moment, her lower lip quivered as she extended it into a smile, a tear falling down her cheek as she did. The two turned their smiling faces back toward the ice rink, and Dash heaved out a warm sigh, eyes fixed on the happy faces of the two sisters. "You're welcome." TO BE CONTINUED... MLP:FiM and all Characters/Locations Copyright © Hasbro & Lauren Faust Characters/Locations used without permission ~ Scy
Brazilian Brony	915	1	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:24:21+00:00	2012-01-05T02:24:21+00:00	7,296	It was midnight. All of Equestria was asleep. Everypony was in their homes sleeping, waiting for the day to rise so they could begin another ordinary day, but one pony in particular didn’t want to sleep. It was Princess Luna, she felt so much pain in her heart that it hurt. A thousand years banned, a thousand years without seeing the ponies that she and her big sister created. She couldn’t live like that forever, it was so much sorrow to fight back, she didn’t want to go through that again, she felt helpless, unloved and unappreciated. She fought the loneliness since she was a little baby. All the ponies stayed awake in the day, and they slept through her night, she felt like nopony even cared for her night, her moon, and her beautiful stars. Sure her night was calm, peaceful with good cold weather, but… why didn’t anypony care about her night? She expended so much time creating the night, so much time that only she knew about, still… she felt empty, why so much sorrow? Why did she deserve that? Her sister was always appreciated by everypony, and every creature in the world enjoyed her sister’s bright sun. She could see when they waked up and stretched their legs and arms in the bright sun, What hurt the most was that they smiled when they awoke, she blamed herself, she thought her night was awful, the world didn’t deserve it. But she still had to lower and raise her moon, it was her duty. She remembered the old times when their parents slept with them in the empty space, created supernovas, meteors, asteroids and such, she remembered the sky being so dark, she thought it was empty… Just like her. That’s why she created the stars and her beloved moon, it took ages to make it. Sure it was hard, but it was indeed worth it, to fill the empty skies and to illuminate the dark night. She remembered every name she gave to her stars, it was a old habit of hers. She’d never been close to her parents, only Celestia, but that was okay. She only felt happiness one time in her entire life, for once in her life she was happy. But it was the only moment she was happy. Every second of her life she wallowed in sorrow. She thought nothing would hurt her, nothing would upset her. She was wrong. Her sister created her masterpiece, the Sun. she felt humiliated, she wanted to cry… she wanted to die… she just wanted to disappear. _________________________________________________________ ”Mom! Dad!” a Filly’s voice was speaking in a dark sky. ”Yes, dear?” an Old voice began to spoke. The voice was calm and it was weak somehow, like death was almost at its door. Soon his time would be up. ”Look! Look what I made!” the filly was white and her mane was pink. She was indeed very happy with what she did, she wanted so badly to her parents see it. They would be so proud. ”It’s… beautiful.” Another old voice said, but it was more feminine. ” “I’m proud of you, Celestia.” they were staring at a big ball of fire. It was warm, it filled their souls, but pride had already taken place in their hearts. ”Thank you so much! It was so hard to do it, I’m glad you liked it.” the filly said in its cheerful voice, she was indeed happy. ”Oh! I got a mark that you and mommy have! Look!” her flank had the symbol of her own creation. ”Where is Luna? She NEEDS to see this!” she exclaimed happily. ”Luna?” the filly began to search for her sister. When she found her she had been… crying? Why she was crying? ”What happened? Something hit you?” she asked concerned, of course she would be worried; it was her little sister after all. ”It’s… nothing…”the other filly replied. She was only a baby, but she was slowly growing up. Her coat was Grayish purple with a light blue mane, she was alone crying, staring at her own creation. Celestia noticed that she had gotten a mark too; it was just like her creation. ”Look! You got your mark too, sis!” she exclaimed happily, “I’m sure mommy and dad will be proud…” she looked back to her and gasped. Tears began to appear in her eyes. Luna only found herself crying and crying. She felt empty as ever, everything is going bad, she was having a headache; it was too much for her. But she only stayed in the fetal position and began to cry more. ”LUNA! HELP ME.” she yelled out loud, had her parents passed out, asleep? They didn’t wake up, something bad was happening. ”LUNA, HELP.” she yelled more and more desperately crying, her parents were dead… ”LUNA!” she cried more. “LUNA” she could barely breath it was too real it was hurting her! ”LUNA”. Why is this happening? Why does this hurt? _________________________________________________________________ “Luna?” asked a soft and sweet voice. With concern in its voice, she knew the owner of this voice, it was her Big sister, she didn’t want to turn back and talk to her, not now, She felt like she didn’t have enough courage to talk with her sister. She knew that she always talked with her when she was feeling bad, she was like a protector to her, but she was far from safe, she feared another thousand years locked in her moon. Her moon. It was supposed to illuminate the night sky… not be… a prison… her Sister was behind her, she knew that she always cared about her, and vice-versa, but the painful memories were not making it easy. She didn’t respond, she was too paralyzed, it was too real, she could feel the sun burning her, it was way too painful, just like that awful night, where she lost everything. The power to control her stars, to control her moon, and her calm night. Waves of cold air were hitting her face, she was cold, she was standing, in front of the window all night long, she couldn’t sleep, that heat was overwhelming her, painful memories, that’s all she had left. She lost count of how much time she was staring out the window, wondering if things would ever be the same again, nothing was fair with her, not a single thing, her sister had a lot of friends. Everypony loved her, but they feared her sister, she knew that what she did was wrong, and Celestia didn’t have a choice, now she was feeling lonely, and she has being feared by everypony. Celestia was trying not to cry, it was so painful to see her sister like that, since she was a filly she never wanted to see her little sister alone, everyday was like that, her sister was always quiet, she barely eat anything, she just stay in her room playing with her abacus, and in the night she stared through the window. It broke her heart to see her sister like that; she promised her that she would never leave her again. But… things are not so easy, she barely talked to Luna, she found herself crying, and sobbing, seeing her sister like that… her heart melted, she could see sorrow in Luna’s eyes. She blamed herself for the Nightmare Moon incident although it wasn’t her fault. But she kept blaming herself, she was possessed by that… monster… She tried to talk with her about that, but Luna didn’t want to open her mouth, seeing her crying instead of talking was just too much, she had to do something. Celestia sighed softly. ”Why this is happening?” she thought to herself, a tear shed before her eyes, she wanted to help Luna, she had to help her, she tried her best but somehow, she seemed to always fail at that, she tried to bring Luna on a walk, she tried to play games with her to see if she would smile, but she hadn’t smiled for years… She would do anything to see her sister smiling again, even violating some royal rules, she didn’t cared about that, she made the rules, and she was willing to see her sister happy, she needed to do something, she didn’t want her sister to be evil again, she didn’t want… “Luna… talk with me… please,…” she said as she saw her little sister staring at her night sky. She began to cry softly now, it was like the days before she turned into Nightmare Moon. Those days were too painful, but it was so far to be the worst of all days… ________________________________________________________ “Celestia…” a soft voice called. It had some fear in its voice, but not only fear, sorrow and emptiness filled that voice. She could sense it, she knew that her little sister has been sad for those last days, it was odd, but she thought she was going to be okay. She guessed she would open herself now… she was wrong. “Yes, Little sister?” she replied, she wanted for sure to know if her sister would open herself, any talk would be progress. ”You need something?” she smiled. ”But be quick, I have a important meeting with the king of the Dragons, They need somewhere to live, so I thought I would sell them a part of Everfree Forest. This could be a major boost to Equestria Economy!” she said happily ”So, what do you need?” she asked. “Um… I was wondering…” her voice was trailing off, she had fear in her voice. She feared that something would go wrong. But she kept speaking. ”Um… It’s about the day and… um…” she was shivering, she was cold, it was hard to proceed, but she had to do it or she I’ll never know the answer. ”Um…about the night…Can you…” she was too nervous, she wasn’t sure if she could continue, but she had too. ”C-can you…” she stopped again. And took a good breath. ”Tell me what is it sister, or I can’t help you, besides, I don’t have much time!” she said it in a frustrated voice, she hadn’t slept well that night, and she was constantly having nightmares, awful nightmares that she doesn’t want to share with anypony. ”Can you please not rise your sun tomorrow? I-I’ll let you keep it there 2 days-s!” she said, she was more worried than ever. ”P-Plea-“ “ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?!” she exclaimed angrily as she put a hoof in the desk. ”Seriously sister, what’s going on? Are you crazy? You know I can’t do that, bad things could happen to Equestria, it would be total CHAOS There is no way I’m letting you do it!” she placed a hoof on the desk one more time. ”B-But… I…” she was crying softly, did her sister yell at her? Why did she do that? She was feeling anger; she didn’t want to see her sister ever again. ”NO. BUTS.” she interrupted. ” I don’t want to talk about that again, please, why don’t you act like a Princess once in a while?” she finished, and began to walk towards the carriage that was waiting for her. Luna was feeling every ounce of hate she had in her body, she’d never been this angry before, she hadn’t ever gotten angry in her entire life, all her life… ignored… ”I HATE YOU CELESTIA.” she yelled as she flew over the window, crying, she only left a trail of tears behind her. ”LUNA, IT’S DANGEROUS TO GO OUTSIDE!” It was too late, she lost the sight of her sister, was she safe? She could only pray for her, she hoped that nothing happened to her sister, there were things out there that could easily do a lot of evil to a pony, that’s why she panicked about her sister. Especially if The Miasma was out there lurking and waiting for an Alicorn to fall into it’s trap. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Luna was flying around Equestria ”I Don’t need stupid Celly, she is just stupid, if she doesn’t want me around, well…”she shed a tear and frowned. ”-Too bad for her. I don’t need to stay with her, she doesn’t need me…” she stopped and landed on a cloud and sighed. ”I Hate everything… I want to die…” she began to cry and sobbed heavily. ”Dumb Celestia, mommy and daddy always liked her much more than me.” she cried more, her lungs hurt from such intense crying. ” ‘Oh, mommy, daddy come see my sun it’s so awesome.’ ” it was painful for her, too painful for her, she knew she had been rejected her entire life by her parents, and the ponies. ”Shhhhhhhhhh.... It's alright…” ”What was that noise?” she thought to herself there was something out there. ”Is somepony here? Hello?” ”nyaaaaaaaah GRAWH” the mysterious blue fog attacked Luna suddenly, she couldn’t scream. That power… it was so strong, she couldn’t fight back, it was too powerful, she gasped one more time, she paused for a moment, and the creature was gone, she had a large grin on her face, like “Everything is Going to be okay.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Celestia heard a big bump in her sister’s room. She began to trot quickly to see if she was okay. She opened the door, and saw her sister sitting in the bed looking blankly at the wall. ”L-Luna, are you okay?” she didn’t respond, she kept staring at the wall. She sighed softly and began to trot slowly to Luna. ”Did something happen?” she was worried, seeing her sister like that was just scaring her. ”Luna…” she sat next to Luna. And began to look around the room, the window was broken, there was glass all over the place, she could see feathers and a little trail of blood leading to Luna. “ Luna…what happened? Tell me, please, I’m sorry I-“ ” ‘Sorry’ so… you are ‘Sorry’ aren’t you?” Celestia could feel a negative tone in her sister’s voice, something had happened to her. Her voice was filled with fury, sorrow, jealously and hate. Celestia placed a hoof on Luna’s shoulder but something zapped her hoof. ”Don’t touch me.” ”Luna…” Celestia tried to reason with her sister, but she didn’t listen to her. ”It’s time to bring the moon down… I have to raise my Sun.” she spoke, she only saw Luna still looking blankly at the wall, she was making a strange noise, she was… giggling? ”Luna, I-“ Another zap hit Celestia, but this time it was to hurt. ”Raise your Sun?” she laughed with a Dark tone. ”I don’t think so.” she laughed again, but louder. “From this moment forth… big sister…” She grinned widely this time, her body began to grow, and her mane began to turn dark, dark as the night. She threw a lightning bolt towards Celestia, but she evaded it. ”The night… will… last… forever…” __________________________________________________________ Luna was sitting alone in the dark watching all of Equestria sleep in her wonderful night. “Luna…” the voice called her name once more, but Luna didn’t want to look back. She was not feeling so well that night. She feared that she was feeling the same hate she felt that awful night, she couldn’t be all alone again, she needed her sister more than ever. “It’s alright Luna, I will always be here for you. You can talk to me.” Luna looked behind her and saw her sister with a concerned look on her face with tears streaking down her face. Still, she didn’t feel like talking, she only turned back again and began to look through the window once again, her heart was tearing inside her, still, it was unbearably painful. Looking back at the wonderful view of Equestria, she could only imagine what the world would be like without her precious moon, her beautiful stars and the peaceful darkness of the night sky. Could equestria survive without the night? She knew that day was important; she learned that lesson the hardest way she could ever imagine... Celestia sat by her side trying to make some contact with her sister, but she hadn’t looked so… sad since she banished her for a thousand painful years… She felt like she needed to talk with her, it was her little sister, she had to stay by her side all the time, she loved her, she needed her… “Luna… I care about you. Are you feeling… sad?” Celestia was concerned about her younger sister. She always was, since that day she returned to Equestria, she promised to never leave her again, that she’ll be at her side all the time. She only saw her sister looking through her night again, she needed to do something. “Luna… please…” a tear coursed down her face. “Are you feeling sad?” she asked again. Luna only nodded. “Is it possible for me to help you, Luna?” Celestia asked with sorrow in her eyes. Luna didn’t say anything or move, but only shed a single tear, it was too much for only her heart to take, all the pressure of sadness, she needed to open herself, she never did that in her entire life. It seemed that this was the right time to do just that, in a thousand years even knowing that she had been banished to the moon, she could still love her big sister, she had to open herself, she could trust her. “Please, Luna… I want to help you.” Celestia was about to cry when her sister began to speak. “It… it… hurts…” Luna sadly spoke these words, it was hard to say it, she’d never felt that empty before, she just wanted her sister for now. “Where does it hurt, my dear sister?” Celestia asked, almost crying herself. Luna only moved her hoof to the middle of her chest. Celestia began to cry after that. “Sister…” Luna began. “Yes?” “I love you. Thank you… for taking care of me. Thank you for being my friend.” "Oh, Luna… you are my very best friend and you know that.” Celestia nuzzled her sister’s cheek and gave her a warm hug. “Want to sleep with me tonight? Like the old times when we were young, remember?” she smiled warmly, she couldn’t be more happy, her sister was opening herself up to her, it was a victory to her. Now she just wanted to see her smile, and she was picking the right road. “I remember.” She replied. “Let’s have a sleepover! Oh, it used to be so much fun!” Celestia said, her voice sounding like a little filly’s. Luna smiled. “Yeah… I remember you used to be scared of my stories too.” She… she smiled! She almost cried herself, but she had to keep talking, she was happy about Luna, and the only thing she wanted, was to see Luna happy. “Who wouldn’t be scared of the Alfalfa Monster? I’d hate to have my leg pulled by him!” Celestia said with a warm smile. “But I taught you how to defeat him.” replied Luna smiling weakly. “I know sister, always run to our parents’ room.” She laughed softly “No, that was plan B!” Luna chuckled “I’m talking with her!” she thought to herself happily. “Oh, so plan A was to sing a beautiful lullaby so we could sleep and he would be gone forever. Well, until you wanted to tell me stories about him again.” Celestia smiled. “I like to see your face when you’re scared. It’s funny.” Luna grinned at her sister “Ah the good times... I loved to see your little face scared.” She thought to herself and giggled. Celestia hugged her sister again. “Now let’s go, Luna. It’s getting really late.” It was indeed too late, having a good sleep would be good, for both of them, it had been a long time, she wanted a sleep-over with her little sister again, she used to sing lullabies to her. “Yes… it is late.” Luna sighed. “Sister…” she breathed softly. “Yes, Lu?” asked Celestia back to her sister. “Do you think there’s somepony who really enjoys my night?” she asked with a little of sad on her voice, but she was feeling quite alright inside her. “Well… yes.” Celestia smiled. “Besides you, of course.” Luna chuckled. “Well, sister, that’s something you’ll have to discover for yourself.” She said warmly, she was planning this for over a year, she loved reading Twilight’s adventures, she thought that if Luna had an adventure, she would smile more than ever. “But… how?” Luna looked to the floor with disappointment. “If you stand here doing nothing you will never find out, right?” Celestia gave Luna a warm smile. “You can always go outside. You know?” she grinned to her sister and nuzzled her cheeks. The last time Luna did get out was… she didn’t want to be reminded of these bad moments again, she just wanted to be happy, something she’d never actually tried with her heart. “Can I… can I go outside?” Luna gave Celestia a confused look. “Of course, dear sister, Equestria is not mine alone. It is yours too. You can see the world we both created.” Celestia smiled, and hugged her sister. “Oh.” Luna smiled happily. “Can I go now?” she wanted to jump for joy, what is going on? Is this happiness? It’s… cool… she laughed inside. “Yes, sister, but don’t stay out for too long.” Celestia said with a little bit of worry in her voice, she always wanted the best for her little sister. “Do you want to have some guards with you?” she asked gently. “Same old Celly…” Luna smiled “No. I don’t sister, I’m alright and…” she hugged back her Celestia tight, she was feeling happy. “Thank you, sister.” Luna said before spreading out her wings and flying out of Canterlot Castle. “You’re welcome…” Celestia smiled as she watched her younger sister flying away.
Brazilian Brony	915	2	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:24:33+00:00	2012-01-05T02:24:33+00:00	5,180	“Where do I start?” Luna wondered, she had barely got out of the castle and she was already whirling around in her mind, where should she start? Phillydeplhia? Apleloosa? She grunted. “Where do I begin searching?” she said it with frustration in her voice. She saw a little city a little while away, although she could barely see it, because it has many clouds on the way. “Well… Winter is coming; I just hope it doesn’t come up now.” she thought to herself. “I guess I should go to Ponyville first, since that’s where that pink pony threw that awesome party for me…” she smiled. “I did enjoy that party, that pink pony sure knows how to throw a party.” She giggled and looked up smiling “My first adventure… I hope it goes well…” she said It, worry in her voice. But she couldn’t care less, she was having fun, when she was a filly she always wanted to go on a big adventure, sadly it never happened, but it’s happening now, she had a reason to smile, and it’s now. “Can’t have fun if I stay stuck in here.” She said to herself and laughed. _________________________________________ “Oh, Luna… I hope you find somepony who really enjoys your night…” Celestia spoke to herself and sighed. “It hurts me to see you so sad… I don’t want you to leave again… I… don’t want to lose you… not again…” being away from her little sister for a thousand years was so painful to her, she wanted to see her sister happy, Celestia smiled to herself. “I’m sure she’ll find somepony.” She laid her head in the pillow. ”I love you.” she closed her eyes and began to try to sleep. For the first time in a thousand years she felt that everything was alright, she smiled again and looked at the painting on the wall. It was she, Luna and Philomena together. “Luna was smiling and Celestia was just behind smiling warmly, Philomena was on her back preening herself. Inside her heart she could feel happiness, her little sister was enjoying her own night, she never saw her sister that happy, somehow, she knew it was just the beginning, she smiled and began to drift off to sleep. _________________________________________ “Now, now, Angel bunny, it’s past your bedtime.” said a soft and calm voice. It was so calm that Angel wanted more and more to sleep, that voice was just so serene and peaceful… he enjoyed having a owner like that, he felt safe, he dug himself into the pink mane of his owner, and began to look to the sky with her, doing a pose of serious bunny. Fluttershy only giggled, he looked cute when serious. “Sorry but you are so cute.” She said as she kissed him on the head. The rabbit simply stood there with an angry look on his face. “Angel, you don’t have to stay awake just because of me. It’s too late, and it’s cold out here, I don’t want you to get a cold or something.” Fluttershy said with sorrow in her voice. “Why don’t you go inside? Your bed is so warm, and I’m cold… please?” she asked gently, she was concerned about her bunny, she found him hurt close to her house when she was filly, he was abandoned by his parents, he was hurt, she had to make something to help him, he was the first animal she ever taken care off. “Angel… you know I love you and I wish you the best, if you stay here in the cold you’ll get sick.” She said with a sad tone. Sure she enjoyed taking care of animals and her little bunny, but she couldn’t take care of a animal if the same sickened itself on purpose or for silly reasons, still, Angel was like a son to Fluttershy, she would do everything for him, Mother’s love cannot be explained, she loved to take care of an animal in need, she took a short sigh and began to look to the sky with a sad look, for her, something was missing, she didn’t know what exactly it was, she’d really wanted to know what. The rabbit stayed by her side. He didn’t want to leave her. He knew she had been sad the past few days, he couldn’t stand to see his owner in this state for two reasons; One: it hurts his little heart when he sees her in a bad mood; Two: He has to eat, when she is sad she forgets to feed him and the other animals. The most importantl thing is, why was she sad like that? She was so peaceful those days, but suddenly… all he saw was her crying near the cottage, she was hurt, but he didn’t care, he had to bring her home and see if she was okay. It all happened so fast, his tiny arms had still been tired of dragging her back home, she was almost unconscious, something hit his tiny heart like a needle, he hated to see his owner crying. But he would find out what happened, soon or later he’ll… just… too tired… soft mane… Angel let out a soft yawn and fainted to his sleep. “Oh, Angel… everything is so hard for me.” Fluttershy sighed, she was feeling sad since… no, she couldn’t think about that again, she never expected to see him again, she never expected him to do that… with her… she sighed again, she was feeling sadder than ever. ”I thought having friends would make it easier. I love them and I love being around them whenever I can, but…” Fluttershy sighed. She should have brought them with her… sure she was shy, but still, she had friends that cared about her, Rarity… Applejack, Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, she smiled to herself, she really did have a good time with them, and she’ll have more, she looked down to the grass before her hooves and sighed “But… they can’t stay with me all the time…” Fluttershy looked down. She needed to open herself, but at the same time she didn’t want to upset her friends, they were so happy, she didn’t want to spoil things for them, and besides, they looked so happy… she could talk to Rarity… but she was so, so happy that her business was growing up the sky, she felt happy for her, but that… incident, she can’t forgot it, it was awful, she needed to speak with somepony, of course she had all her animals who loved her, but it was not the same thing, she needed to speak with somepony, she needed help and advice, she needed to open herself, but who? She sighed and looked down to see if her bunny was still awake. “Angel?” She couldn't see him, she was about to panic, but she heard a snore. Angel had fallen asleep, He looked so peaceful, and he was smiling, Fluttershy’s mane was so soft and sweet, that Angel couldn’t resist but fall asleep; he was dreaming about the first day they met, he was afraid; he was all alone, he was lucky that Fluttershy found him; he always wanted the best for her since that day. He guessed that his name was Angel because she thought he was an Angel to her, well… who knows? Fluttershy took a look in her mane and saw Angel sleeping calmly, he was smiling, she found it so cute, it was rare to see him smile, she was like a mother to him, and he was like a son to her, Angel is a smart bunny, it’s good to have some help with the animals sometimes, but sometimes she thought that he is just too smart. He’s a such a bad bunny with the other ponies… she again saw him sleeping while smiling, she gave him a soft nuzzle in his ears “My favorite sleepy head” she said and gave him a warm smile and pulled him gently to her side carefully to nott wake him up. “Sweet dreams, Angel.” She said with a soft voice, she heard another yawn from him, she just smiled to herself. Fluttershy began to look to the beautiful night, she always thought the night was just too beautiful, and she’d never wanted to waste it. Every night since she was a filly she stared at the black sky filled with the most beautiful stars, and the big moon in the bottom, just waiting for a hope, for an answer, to find somepony who really understands her, the night sky was just beautiful, since she was a filly she expected a good soul to aid her. That’s what she always wished to the night, she hoped she could be happy again, she knew she felt guilty for saying that, she was happy in front of her friends, but she was, but… most of the time, she didn’t feel that way, she only felt sadness, she wanted to have a normal life, but her shy behavior just made it hard to be realized, she just wanted to be normal like everypony, but she quite loved her life, it was simple and calm, she felt good surrounded by animals, but it was not the same thing as being together with other ponies, sometimes she missed her friends, but she can’t stay with them every time. Fluttershy sighed. “What am I going to do?” she frowned. _________________________________________ “This is harder than I imagined… It can’t be THAT hard! There must be somepony who enjoys my night!” Luna thought to herself while she flew over ponyville, she was willing to find a pony that actually enjoyed her nights, she wasn’t thinking about the ponies who use to be in parties all night long and get wasted, she was thinking about the ponies who really enjoyed her nights, Luna sighed. “I have to find a pony that enjoys my night…” she frowned, she was impatient, but she was enjoying the flight, she hadn’t flew for a long time, it’s good to stretch the wings sometimes, but she was most focused on finding an awake pony, she didn’t want to give up, not now. Luna flew all over Ponyville. She didn’t see anypony awake and that made her sad. She thought nopony enjoyed her nights… but she was willing to continue searching. But again she found nopony awake… an image began to pass in her mind, it was the time when the elements of harmony defeated and freed her from Nightmare Moon, she smiled. ”I am so grateful to them… and she began to think again. “I KNOW!” she exclaimed happily. “I KNOW! I’ll see if the Elements of Harmony are awake, maybe if they are awake I could t-“ Luna stopped. “Nonononono I don’t have to show myself, where was I? Ah yes. Celly and I always read her student’s reports!” She giggled about how fun it was and her sister’s student's crazy adventures. Back to looking, she knew it was not going to be that easy, but it was going to be a long night anyway… she didn’t want to waste time. ”Hm… Tia told me she owns a Library at the center of Ponyville… she began to fly through the little city searching for the library, soon, an image began to appear, it was a big tree with a book symbol in the door, yup, it was the Library. Luna flew to the library and looked in the window. She saw a lavender unicorn pony sleeping at a big bed with a book on her face. Luna laughed softly as she saw the scene, next to her has a baby dragon sleeping in a basket; he was holding a picture of a white unicorn pony with a beautiful blue mane. She smiled. “Better get going…” she said with a low voice, Luna began to think to herself. ”I Know I already saw that white unicorn… but where?” Luna facehoofed ”She is the element of Generosity! Tia told me she is a fashionista, so… let’s see if a found her place.” Luna saw a big building with some blue decorations, it was in honor of the winter coming up, but it was too early to commemorate such a thing. Well it was time to go to Carrousel Boutique. Luna flew close to the window, she again began to spy into the window and saw a cat sleeping in a basket. She flew to another window, she looked inside curiously, it was a big place, inside the boutique were creepy mannequins, and a lot of fabric on the floor, she flew to the top window and saw two white ponies hugging each other. One was wearing a pink robe. And the little one was hearing a red shirt with a blue colt foal symbol, she couldn’t help but smile. “They must be sisters.” She guessed. She sighed again and put a warm smile in her face “Reminds me of Celly and I when we were younger.” She began to take flight once again. “If I remember correctly, that party the pink pony made for me was in a bakery, oh I remember the cupcakes…” she thought to herself smiling then shook her head. ”No. no time for eating. If… if she is awake maybe she’ll make some for me…” she smiled and began to lick her lips, she was hungry, she barely ate anything, she felt a little bad for not eating anything since she returned to Equestria, her sister tried to convince her to eat, but she denied. “I could eat something…” she stopped and closed her mouth with her hoofs. ”Shut up, loudmouth… and besides I don’t have to show myself…” Luna began to fly towards Sugarcube Corner, she flew to the next window and saw two grown-up ponies sleeping together, they must be her parents, Luna flew close to another window and began to spy. She saw a baby crocodile sleeping close to her in the bed, he was so cute, next to him on a bed, was a pink pony sleeping, fitfully kicking the air. “She must be having a nightmare.”she thought. Luna began to fly to a cloud near the shop, but saw that a Pegasus with multi-colored mane was already sleeping on it, she seemed happy, she was smiling in the cloud giving little punches in the air. “Wonderbolts… yeah!... leave it to us, we’ll save Equestria…” the rainbow-haired pony was saying in her sleep, she must be fighting a villain or something like that. “Well… I used to dream about those kinds of things too…” Luna chuckled. “If she defeats the evil pony we should let Celestia know so we can make her a good honor to her services.” Luna smiled and saw a cart with some apples inside it. Apples… apples… APPLES! There was a pony with weapons on its flanks, she knew that ponyville had a place filled with apples, and home of the Element of Honesty. Now Luna began to fly to Sweet Apple Acres, it was in the end of the city but not too far. She began to spy through the window but didn’t see anypony there, she flew to another window and saw an big red Earth pony sleeping in a big bed with his little sister, she didn’t have a cutie mark yet, soon she was about to get hers. She flew to another window and saw an old mare sleeping and snoring out loud. ”That’s not the element of Honesty.” Luna frowned. She looked back at the window but the element of honesty was not there, but she saw her reflex in the window, and close to her was a tree, it had a few buckets close to the Tree’s feet, and a particular Earth Pony sleeping under it, with her hat covering its face and snoring softly. ”Poor pony, she must had been working so hard…” Luna didn’t want to wake her up, and began to fly out of Sweet Apple Acres. She stopped in the nearest cloud and began to think. “Now… where does the last pony live? My sister told me she loved to take care of animals…” She began to think aloud. “Well, taking care of animals… Of course! The outskirts of Ponyville! Most of the animals live close to the Everfree Forest!” Luna exclaimed happily. “Well… I hope SHE’S awake…” Luna sighed.
Brazilian Brony	915	3	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:24:45+00:00	2012-01-05T02:24:45+00:00	4,247	Luna began to fly around outside the Everyfree forest, she had to be careful, and the Everfree forest was like a home to the shadow creatures, and it could be very dangerous for an unprepared pony, she saw a cottage, it looked very welcoming, and had a chimney on top. She flew to the closest window and began to spy, nothing. She flew to another one, it was a bedroom, but the bed was empty, she flew to the cottage’s door and took a look in the window, the living room was empty, it had some bird’s nest, and some bags of birdseed. There was nopony home, did the Element of Kindness spend her nights in her friend’s homes? No. it would not be possible, she already checked the other houses before going here. “Hello?” Luna gasped as she heard the voice, but it was a sweet and calm voice that fell upon the blue mare’s ears. It sounded… nice… sounded welcoming, it was not loud or angry with her, but seemed frightened by her presence, she didn’t want to be spotted. She had to get out of there. “Um… Is somepony there?” asked the voice again, but this time it clearly had fear in it. Fluttershy was afraid, did somepony want to make her feel bad? Want to hurt her? It can’t be… she never did anything to anyone, she couldn’t, she wouldn’t , well… there was that time at the gala, but that was so long ago , they probably forgot about her. She saw a dark blue pony sititng next to the window. I hope she hasn’t spotted me, please go away.” she thought to herself, she didn’t want to have her cover blown, what excuse would she give her? “Hey I was passing by and decided to spy on you, sorry about the inconvenience.” she frowned, what was she going to do? Fluttershy didn’t dare to see who was there, but she noticed the pony had wings and a horn, it was… “Princess Luna?” Fluttershy asked for her name, what is the Princess doing by her cottage? At this time of night? It’s too late for somepony be awake, well… she was awake, and Luna was the Princess of Night, it was fair enough she guessed, “Um… Luna are you there?” she called her name again, she didn’t want to upset the Princess, of course the Princess would have a good reason to be there, maybe she wanted to see her? Maybe she needed help in the castle, or she is having a problem with animals… or… Dragons? She was terrified of Dragons, if she dared to think about them, she instantly would be paralyzed by fear. Luna was frozen. She didn’t want to turn around. She wasn’t supposed to have to talk to anypony. The plan was simple, that wasn’t supposed to happen. But she was there now. She barely talked to anypony, she never- “Princess Luna, is that you?” the voice remained calm, but Luna could sense concern in it. She had no choice but to answer, she had to talk with her, it’s now… “Um, yes, it’s me…” replied Luna, a red tint quickly forming on her cheeks. She turned around and saw the yellow pegasus with pink hair and three butterflies forming her cutie mark. It was indeed the Element of Kindness, and… she was more beautiful than the last encounter, her pink mane covering half of her face was way too cute, she forgot her name, she blamed herself for forgetting her name. What was it? It was something with shy in the end. “Excuse me for asking, um… Princess… but what are you doing here? I mean… If that’s okay for you to answer… “ she was curious indeed, but still she had some fear in her voice, the Princess of Night was on her window, her blue mane was covering a little bit of her face, she could see the red tint in her face, she was embarrassed, of course she was, she had been caught spying… “Well… I don’t really know how to explain that… I guess I’m an intruder… Am I?” asked the Princess with worry clear in her voice, and blushed quickly, she was invading her property, she was a Princess, she would be in trouble if the yellow Pegasus wanted to talk with her sister, she would be punished… or… “Oh no… well… I don’t know…” replied the pegasus with a little sadness in her voice. Is she an intruder? She must have a reason… maybe she needed to talk with her? It would be fun and… “Oh! Silly me, I was spying in your window… I guess I should apologize, so… um… sorry! Gotta go! Bye!” The Princess was already flapping her wings. She didn’t want to get In trouble with her sister, sooner to the castle, the better. “Wait! Um… please…” the pegasus hid herself behind her mane, did she just order the Princess to stay? Now she is in trouble. But having some new company wouldn’t hurt anypony, she would love to talk with Princess Luna this night, why not? “Oh… I suppose I can stay a little bit more… if okay, I-I mean, uh…” The Princess replied. She was confused, she didn’t know what to say, this never ever happened to her in her entire life, she could always reason with her, tell the truth? Well… maybe. “Thank you…” the Pegasus managed to say, she always enjoyed extra company. “You’re welcome. I don’t talk that much with ponies other than my sister.” The Princess said. It was true, that was one of the things that made her upset, she’d never spoken with the butlers or royal guards, she knew that they still feared her, she didn’t want to harm anypony, she couldn’t hurt anything… Some ponies tried to approach her, but they never did, they always feared the worst, something like being banished to Everfree Forest or anything like that. Luna sighed, “So… How are you doing?” she smiled to Fluttershy “Oh… Um… I’m good.” She smiled weakly. “Thank you for asking.” She thanked the Princess, “And you?” she asked, she wanted to know if Luna was feeling good, she could sense harmony in the ambience, it was so calm, and the night just filled her thoughts, the smell of grass was comforting and welcome. Oddly, she was enjoying the barely talking with the Princess, even being shy. “I’m fine. Thank you. So…” she began to look to Fluttershy and smiled warmly. “You’re awake?” she asked, ”I asked her if she is awake? I’m not that dumb, jeez.” she thought a little worried, she was nothing like that. She began to focus on the talking, it was quite good to talk with another pony once in a while. “…Well… I guess you are wondering why I am here, aren’t you?” Luna asked. She was technically ‘invading’ her cottage, but she didn’t seeme to care less, actually, she felt like she was welcoming her. “Um… actually… yes…” Fluttershy replied with a shy smile. “So… Princess, why are you here?” she smiled warmly to the Princess of Night, it seemed like the talking was getting them somewhere, It was quite enjoyable. “Well… earlier tonight I was…” Luna stopped and suddenly fell out of the air. Her wings were strong and she wasn’t tired, something else made her drop to the ground. Maybe it was her… heart. ”Ugh. Why did I just fall?” she asked herself in her thoughts “Oh, my! Let me help you, Princess!” Fluttershy ran to the Princess but stopped. “…If that’s okay…” She hid herself again behind her mane. She didn’t want to disturb the Princess or anything, she knew that sometimes the constant apologies that she gave to her friends were quite annoying. The Princess was getting up, she wanted so badly to help her up. “N-Need help?” she asked timidly. “It’s quite alright.” Luna smiled to the timid pegasus. ”Wow… she is so nice…” she grinned. “Thank you, Fluttershy.” She smiled warmly to her, she was feeling warmth around her, she didn’t knew why, but she was feeling nice, she hadn’t felt that in her entire life. “You… you know my name?” asked the timid but surprised pegasus. “How is this possible? I barely get out or talk to anypony…” she thought, nopony knew her name, only her friends, the spa twins and Princess Celestia herself. “I… guessed.” She blushed. “I see you are very shy, and that was a tip, then I saw your cutie mark, that are Butterflies, and bingo… Fluttershy…” she completed. The last time she heard that name was on the battle that the elements of harmony freed her from Nightmare Moon. “wow, you are very smart…” She hid herself behind her mane. “So… um… you want to… talk?” she asked the Princess, the talking was so nice that she wanted it to continue. “How is your night being?” she asked again. “I’m liking it, I guess I just met a new friend.” She replied with a red tint on her cheeks. “Really? Who is it? Um… sorry… you don’t need to say it…” she said. “I’m doing it again…” she thought, did the Princess find that annoying? She really hoped not, she didn’t want to be bad company or something like that ”Oh, it’s nothing you have to say sorry for.” She smiled warmly, that pony was so nice that she apologized for everything? She could feel that the mare before her eyes had a good heart, her voice was so soft and calm, it was welcoming her, it ignored her ears and went straight to her soul, she felt nice about it. “So… My new friend is…” she looked down, and gave Fluttershy a sheepish smile. “It’s you.” She finished before she looked down being as shy as her new friend. Fluttershy led out a big smile. “Do you consider me a friend? Um… that's good.” She smiled weakly. “Um… but we barely know each other, Princess Luna.” She finished, she wanted to be her friend, maybe she could talk more with her. “But um…” she grinned to Luna. “I’m happy for being your friend already. Luna led out a sheepish smile. “Me too.” She blushed again, she just met a new friend, her heart was screaming with happiness, Fluttershy, her new friend… “So…” she said as her words trailed off, she didn’t know what to talk about anymore. “Um… How is your sister?” Fluttershy managed to ask, she wanted to make this night good, she was sad in the beginning, and she didn’t ever expect the Princess to appear in her cottage, it looked like it was destiny, destiny? ”It’s not destiny… I guess it’s luck… I guess…” she thought to herself, she was still a little sad, but the acknowledge of having a new friend, just filled her heart. The magic of friendship is powerful, and she knew it, she knew that making a lot of friends isn’t a good way, she hated being surrounded by thousands of ponies, it was just too awful. “She told me you love to take care of animals, and one time you took Philomena to your cottage to take care of her.” Luna chuckled. She remembered that story from Celestia, they laughed a while at it, it was fun… Fluttershy only blushed, Luna knew about that? Now she was shy was ever… but see saw Luna smiling to her, and began to think that if the Princess is happy, she would be happy too. “She told me you have a very kind heart too.” Luna finished. She could see that Fluttershy had a very kind heart, she cared about everything around her, she was cute with that soft voice, and with her shyness, she was happy she found somepony just like her. “Oh… I love to take care of animals or somepony in need of care… I feel like I need to do it, no matter what, and I’m happy with it… it fills up my emptiness…” she looked down with a sad face. She didn’t mean to say that, but it was automatic, she couldn’t hold it, it was hard to keep everything to herself. “I understand you, I feel like the same way when I raise my moon… I guess it makes you really happy taking care of animals and a pony in need of assistance. After all, your cutie mark says as much.” Luna smiled warmly, the talking was making her feel happy. Fluttershy smiled. “I guess you love your moon.” She replied back to Luna “What?” Luna asked curiously. “Your cutie mark.” Fluttershy chuckled. “Oh, that.” Luna replied with a flush of embarrassment on her cheeks. “ I really love to raise and lower it…” Luna sighed and smiled. “I feel like I bring peace to Equestria, and that makes me happy… but…” she shed a tear. “What’s wrong Princess? She quickly sat by her side, um… did I say something wrong?” she was worried, she’d never expected to see her cry. “Oh, forget it… I’m fine.” She smiled weakly, she didn’t want to lie to her new friend, but she did it anyway, she didn’t need to be concerned about her, she didn’t have to hear her problems. Luna thought it was too sad to share. Luna took a quick breath. “So… I was saying that I love raising my moon… it makes me feel good, I feel like I get more peace by raising it.” She finished “I know how you feel… taking care of animals really makes me feel happy. Somehow, I feel like it completes me…” Fluttershy sighed “I guess…” “Hey, what’s wrong?” Luna asked, concerned. “Oh, it’s… nothing, really…” Fluttershy sighed again. “I would like to hear about it. I can try to help you, If that’s okay.” Luna paused for a moment. “…Is there something that is upsetting you?” Luna asked. She wanted to help her new friend, If she is feeling happy she wanted to make her feel happy too. “…yes…” Luna could barely hear her. “Come on, tell me. You can trust me.” Luna said with a warm and sweet smile directed at Fluttershy. “…yesthereisomething…” Fluttershy said again, looking at the ground with sorrow in her eyes. Luna walked over to Fluttershy and sat by her side, extending her left wing to hug her partially. “Almost there…” Luna said smiling at Fluttershy. “Tell me If something is upsetting you. Is something upsetting you?” Luna said with a peaceful and soothing voice. “…yes…” Fluttershy replied, a tear beginning to trail from her eye. Luna hugged Fluttershy with a confident smile. She felt like she was safe that moment, either, she didn’t know why, but she had to return to the castle, her sister might be worried. “It’s cold out here… I think I should go soon…” Luna said with a sad voice, she didn’t want to leave now. “Wait… Please…Do you… I mean, do you want to stay here a little longer? Um… I mean… If that is okay with you, of course…” Fluttershy said looking down. “I guess I can.” Luna smiled warmly to her friend. “Let’s go inside then.” Fluttershy said with a weak smile, but she knew somehow, she felt a little… happier inside. Suddenly they heard a yawn. Luna looked at her, confused. “Oh, it’s Angel. He’s my bunny.” she smiled. He was looking so peaceful in his sleep “Oh, he is so cute.” Luna smiled at Angel. “I guess he is a little sleepy head.” Fluttershy giggled. He was looking so cute sleeping in her mane. “Well, it is late. But he looks so peaceful, I would hate to wake him up.” Luna replied smiling. “Shall we go in?” Fluttershy asked, they didn’t want to be out there in the cold, besides, to Luna, the cottage had a welcoming look. “Of course, that would be lovely.” Luna replied with a happy smile The two mares entered the house, Luna took a seat on the sofa close to the door, and Fluttershy closed it gently. “Then I should take him to his bed. Can you wait here a moment? I’ll be back in just a minute.” Fluttershy said with a little smile. “Sure. Just be careful not to wake him up.” Luna said softly. Fluttershy nodded.
Brazilian Brony	915	4	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:24:57+00:00	2012-01-05T02:24:57+00:00	3,722	Luna took a seat on the sofa and began looking over the room. It was quite peaceful. Next to the door was a bird’s nest and there were tiny holes in the wall at floor level. On the other side of the room was some birdseed, next to the kitchen were the stairs that lead to Fluttershy’s bedroom. Luna could feel calm in this place. She didn’t know why. Even with all the animals, it was quite calm. Luna smiled. Not only did ponies enjoy her nights, but animals too. She could sense that everyone truly needed her night to rest. Even feeling all those happy emotions, she could feel that somehow still, she was sad, her heart was healing from the past wounds, she just wanted to be loved or appreciated, sure she was happy for the moment, she made a new friend, and she was quite nice to her, Celestia was nice to her too, but… she didn’t feel that good with her around, sometimes she blamed herself for not feeling good around her big sister. Luna took a look at the clock. It was 1:26 AM. “Oh ponyfeathers… it’s indeed very late. Celly must be worried about me…” Luna felt a shiver run down her spine. She was cold. “Winter is close…” She sighed. She loved the winter, being in front of the fireplace reading a good book with ancient magic. “You called me, Princess?” came a voice from upstairs. “Oh, no, I was just saying that winter is coming.” Luna replied. “Yes… I love winter. Especially falling asleep in a warm, cozy bed.” Fluttershy said as she descended the stairs. She was smiling warmly to Princess Luna, she liked her new friend, she still had to gave Luna proper respect, she is a Princess after all… “Oh, me too. I just love to sit next to the fireplace. Somehow I feel the winter is more peaceful… maybe because everypony doesn’t have much choice except to stay indoors.” Luna grinned. Fluttershy sat down next to Luna on the couch. “Oh yes, I like to stay in my cottage with my animals, but when I can I always hang out with my friends. They’re just like a part of me.” Fluttershy smiled warmly. She loved the adventures with her friends, the past winter wrap up was fun, she enjoyed waking up her animal friends in the summer. “I understand…” Luna replied in a sad tone. She was sad, she didn’t have any friends, or had any companion in her life, that only made her sorrow increase, but maybe she could hang out with Fluttershy, she was so nice to her, she was actually feeling good around her, but the thousand years banned to the moon was just… sad to her, she just wanted to have a normal life, make friends, like everypony does, it seemed like for her that was impossible, Luna sighed again. “I understand…” she said looking down. “Is everything alright, Princess?” Fluttershy asked with some concern in her voice. She was looking sad, something was not okay with her, maybe she could help her, having a good hoof to help is good sometimes, she didn’t like to see anypony sad, just like her pink friend. Luna was feeling sad. She hadn’t thought such words could hurt her, when she saw Celestia having a good time with her ponies was just fine, but why didn't she ever get a chance to talk with anypony? She was too shy, her sorrow didn’t let her talk to anypony, it was hard for her. Being respectful was supposed to be a good thing, not hurt her, she was just happy because she had friends, it’s not a good thing that she Is trying to share her happiness, it’s actually good, She’ll always would love to her stories, and crazy adventures, just like Celly told her, well, if she is being a friend of Fluttershy, she could direct to her by her name, she didn’t like to be bothered by butlers or other ponies, she just wanted their confidence, since she was not in the castle or not attending royal business, her friend should call her ‘Luna’ after all she is her friend. “You can call me Luna… and… I’m fine… You don’t need to be concerned about me.” Luna replied with a weak smile. She was feeling sad, being away from Equestria was just awful to her, but she could always have the help of a friend, she felt bad for denying Celestia attempts to make her feel good, she would love to spend more time with her new friend. Luna sighed, and gave a fake smile. So much sorrow, why did she have to feel like this, she didn’t need to be concerned about her. “I’m fine, really…” she managed to say, she was almost crying, she hated being so sensitive, she felt like she was weak being sensitive. “I would like to help you, Pri- Luna.” Fluttershy replied. She seemed so sad, she must be having a bad time, any help is good, she didn’t want to look silly in her presence, she just wanted to help her. Calling her Luna would be a good start. Luna chuckled and smiled. “Well… I just… I don’t know…” Luna replied to Fluttershy with sorrow visible on her face. “You can trust me.” she said as she placed a hoof on Luna’s shoulder. “I’ve never told anypony’s secret.” She smiled warmly. “Thank you.” Luna smiled at her. “It’s just that I don’t have anypony to talk with… I know I have my sister, but… since that… incident… things were never the same. When I was a filly I was always happy, but… things now… somehow…” Luna paused as a tear fell from her eye. “Things will never be the same again for me.” Luna finished and sighed. “I just wanted to have a normal life, it’s just… hard… Ponies still fear me when I’m around, they think I’ll betray Celestia…” she shed another tear. “I’m not like that… I’m not evil…” she began to sob. Fluttershy went silent for a few seconds “I know you're not… I see it, you changed since that day, haven’t you?” Fluttershy said, smiling. “yes…” she replied as she looked down, she was happy that she changed, but the painful memories were just too much for her, she knew she had to fight back, but still, it was hard for her, she just needed some assistance, and help, that’s what she wanted most. “But…” she began. “Everypony still thinks I’m evil, even after I returned to Equestria and as co-ruler of Equestria, I don’t know why it has to be like that…” she sighed. “Every day in the castle everypony looks at me fearfully, it’s just so unfair…” she looked down and continued. “I tried sometimes to talk with them, but you know… I’m a little shy, and…” she stopped, she didn’t want to talk about this anymore. “Well…” Fluttershy began.” I know that you changed it, they just have to give you a chance, they really don’t know how you are, they don’t know the real ‘you’, know what I mean?” she asked, she wanted to help her, and the better thing was, she was talking the truth. “And… I know what you need, Luna, and I can offer it to you.” She smiled warmly to the Princess. “Um… if you want to.” She hid herself on her mane. “Really? I would appreciate anything you have to say.” Luna smiled. “I was like you. Not so long ago I lost faith in everything. I felt useless to the world. I felt like I just needed to die.” Fluttershy sighed. “But I never gave up, because I made good friends, and they make me feel special. I don’t know what I would be without them…” Fluttershy sighed again. “And what you need, is just a friend.” Fluttershy smiled at Luna. “Do you want to be my friend?” Fluttershy asked Luna, grinning. She would be happy if she had Luna as friend, she looked so nice, she was peaceful, but at the same time she looked so sad… she wanted to help her out of this sadness, she just needed somepony who truly understands her, and it was Princess Luna. Luna wanted to cry. Fluttershy was right. She indeed needed a friend. That’s what she was looking for from the beginning. Luna couldn’t hold back her tears anymore. She already considered Fluttershy a great friend, just for willing to listen, and to share her words, she felt safe for the first time in her life, she barely know her, but she was being so nice, nopony ever did that to her, she wanted to hear what she got to say, and they could have fun while doing that, it was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. “Yes, I want to be your friend.” Luna finally replied as she hugged Fluttershy. It was so wonderful, she didn’t expect that to happen so fast. She hugged her friend like it was her sister when she was just a filly, she felt so warm around her, her yellow coat was so fluffy and warm, and her mane had a nice smell, it reminded her of roses. “Ow.” Fluttershy said with a barely audible tone. Luna was feeling cold, she felt her hooves, they must have stayed out of the cottage for too long, she might have a cold, but she didn’t seem sick. “Oh, sorry. Did I hug you too tight? I didn’t mean to…” Said Luna, she was embarrassed, she didn’t want to hurt her friend of course, she sighed. “Oh, no. Your hooves are… cold.” Fluttershy replied with her usual soft voice. Her voice was good for hearing, she wanted to talk more with her, her hooves are cold, she was feeling cold in this weather, she usually stayed in the castle in her room, she felt like she needed to apologize “Oh sorry, I get cold easily, you see.” Luna chuckled with a warm smile. “Oh! I know just the thing!” Fluttershy went flying up to her room. “What is it?” Luna asked, curious. “You’ll see.” Fluttershy replied from her bedroom. She was happy that she could finally share it with a friend, tonight was a good night for her, and Princess Luna. “What does she want to show me?” Luna wondered, smiling. “Here, try it.” Fluttershy flew downstairs and sat back down beside Luna, handing her a set of socks. She loved those socks, It was yellow with pink Butterflies around it, she made it herself in the last winter wrap up, she loved those socks, they were her favorites, she thought Luna would love them, the fabric was soft and so warm, it was perfect for a good cold night. “Socks?” Luna asked, somewhat disappointed. “Yes, I use them whenever I get an opportunity.” Fluttershy grinned. “Try them, I bet they’ll fit perfectly on your hooves. These socks are my favorites.” She smiled warmly at Luna. “I don’t know…“ Luna said a little disappointed. “Pretty please?” Fluttershy asked, her voice soft. She wanted to see the princess feeling warm, anything for a friend in need. Luna smiled. It was so cute that she couldn’t deny it, maybe she would like it. “Okay, I’ll try them.” Luna began to put on the yellow socks with little butterflies stitched into them, It was a bit hard to put them on, but she managed it, one by one. “Did you make them yourself?” Luna asked as she was putting on the last sock, she was already feeling warm, the fabric was too good, she sure knows how to sew socks, if she sold them she would buy some. “Yes. My friend Rarity taught me how to make them.” Fluttershy smiled warmly. “But I just make socks, nothing more. I like to knit when I’m bored.” Fluttershy chuckled. “So… you like them?” Luna was feeling the warmth on her hooves. The socks were indeed made of good material, and felt comfortable and warm. “I… I love them!” Luna exclaimed happily. “They are so soft and cute, warm and comfortable… You should sell these!” Luna stopped. “Um… too loud?” She only saw a shy Fluttershy hiding her face behind her mane, but she could clearly see her shy smile and the red tint on her cheeks. ”Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you feel embarrassed.” Luna apologized. “Um… It’s nothing. Thank you for being so sincere.” Fluttershy smiled at Luna, she never heard anything like that, she felt happy, she liked her socks, she was feeling happy that the Princess was enjoying her favorite socks, and she was cute with them, it matched with her coat and mane, even the socks being yellow, it just matched. “That’s what friends are for, isn’t it? Luna replied, blushing. “Yes.” Fluttershy replied as she chuckled. Luna yawned and so did Fluttershy. The two mares laughed at each other, trying to stay quiet enough to not wake the animals, they were tired, it was too late, but the two couldn’t care less. “You’re tired.” Luna said, smiling at Fluttershy. “So are you.” Fluttershy replied, grinning. Luna took a look at the clock again. “Oh my, it’s very late… I have to return to the castle! Can I come back tomorrow?” Luna started to get worried, but then she looked at Fluttershy again. “I really enjoyed spending time with you. I didn’t know having a friend could be so… nice.” Luna smiled happily at Fluttershy. She really loved the experience of having a new friend, it was like she was getting herself in a new adventure, it was just perfect for her. “I enjoyed learning about you, and it’s fine, you can come here anytime you want.” Fluttershy replied with a warm smile. She would love to see Luna again, the moment could last forever, but she had to go now, and she would miss her. “Thank you, Fluttershy. For everything.” Luna hugged her again. “I’ll miss you, shall I see you tomorrow?” she said it with hope of seeing her friend again. “I'll see you tomorrow” she smiled warmly to Luna. “You’re welcome…” Fluttershy said as she watched Luna fly off towards Canterlot. She sighed, a smile forming on her face. “…Friend.” _______________________________ Luna entered her sister’s chambers, and rushed to her, and gave her a tight hug. “What happened, dear sister?” Celestia asked when Luna returned, she stayed out for hours, but she looked so happy, she had never seen her sister that happy. “I made a friend…” Luna smiled and hugged her sister’s shoulder. She was laughing softly. “That’s cute.” “What?” Luna asked, annoyed ”What’s so funny? Ugh” she groaned softly. Celestia pointed her hoof to one of Luna’s socks. Remembered when she was a little filly, she looked so cute with socks that she wanted to bite her softly. Luna blushed instantly. “It’s… I forgot to give them back to her.” Luna put her two front hooves to her face, trying to hide her blush.“Tomorrow I will return the socks to her, I promise.” Luna smiled, she would never steal anything from Fluttershy. “I know. You never break a promise.” Celestia smiled and hugged Luna. “You look cute with those socks on, by the way.” Celestia chuckled. “…too cute if you ask me.” She finished “Celly!” Luna laughed and threw a pillow at her sister’s face.
Brazilian Brony	915	5	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:25:10+00:00	2012-01-05T02:25:10+00:00	3,632	“You met Princess Luna?” Rarity asked in disbelief as she melted into the spa tub. ”How did she? Her friend is friends with a royal pony, the Co-ruler of Equestria? I shouldn’t be jealous… the last time I’ve been jealous was not good.” Rarity thought to herself, she still couldn’t believe it, although she was happy for Fluttershy, she made a new friend after all, she could have another pony to open herself, it’s not like she didn’t like when her friend talked with her about problems and etc, but she couldn’t help it all times, she wanted to help, but sometimes it was off limits. “Yes, she was so nice to me.” Fluttershy said, smiling as she entered the tub. It was time to re-encounter Rarity, every week they’d go to the spa have a good, hot bath. “What are you waiting for? Tell me what happened, darling!” Rarity demanded with a smile on her face. She wanted to know it was her last night, how’d she met the Princess, and most importantly, how? The Princesses are almost always busy with business back at Canterlot, maybe she just took a day off, who knows. “Oh, I saw her flying close to my cottage, and she stopped to say hi to me, she was quite nice to me.” Fluttershy replied. “Why I am lying?" She WAS spying in my window, but I don’t want to have to talk about anything too personal…” Fluttershy smiled. But still, she felt guilt for lying to her best friend, if Applejack knew that she was lying… “Oh, and what happened next?” Rarity asked, she couldn’t wait hear more from her friend, she looked happy, and that warmed her heart, she was looking sad these last few days, if she could see her friend smile it was good enough to her, she was happy, she could sense it, she knew her for a long time, and they always shared their thoughts, the talking and their friendship with themselves. “I invited her into my cottage so we could talk, it was cold last night, so I invited her in, she looked happy when I invited her, she said she enjoyed talking with me” Fluttershy gave a sheepishly smile. The last night was magical to her, she enjoyed it so much, she wanted it to last forever. “I see… By the way, what were you doing up at that time of night?” Rarity asked, curious, she could get a cold or something, what if she was not wearing her scarf? She sighed and smiled, a content, dreamy look on her face. “I was just enjoying the night.” She paused and began to think. ”That night seemed sadder than the other ones… but it was enjoyable, it was the best night ever… I met a new friend.” she thought to herself, she was feeling so alive. “But Fluttershy, winter is coming up. You could get sick staying out in that cold weather, darling.” Rarity replied a little concerned, if she got sick she couldn’t go with her to the new show that was in the city, DJ-Pon3 was coming from Phillydelphia, she wanted to bring her friends to enjoy the night, Pinkie Pie always wanted her to go to the night parties, she could go in this one, she was feeling happy, so why not? “Oh, it’s quite alright. I still have that scarf you gave me last year.” Fluttershy replied, smiling, she had the scarf, but that didn’t mean she was wearing it, she was feeling guilty again for not using it. “THAT old thing? Come on, I told you to just ask whenever you need a new dress, or…” Rarity explained before she got interrupted. “Oh, I’m sorry… I didn’t want to be any trouble. Since that day you made us all dresses for the Gala, I just didn’t feel right asking you for anything else.” Fluttershy hid herself behind her mane, a sad look on her face. That day was horrible, Rarity was really upset that day, she denied the dress that Rarity gave to her, it was beautiful, she made it with her heart, but she denied, she felt so sad that day, but everything was alright in the end. “Oh, Fluttershy. It’s okay. It makes me happy to make you new things every now and then. I am your best friend, remember?” Rarity grinned at the yellow pegasus. She loved to make new dresses to her friends, also, it was a natural talent, she loved it, but she didn’t like to be pushed to make them. “Yes.” Fluttershy said sheepishly and gave Rarity a smile. Was Rarity angry or upset with her, she hated to upset other ponies, she sighed. “So, yesterday you told me there’d be a show in Ponyville tomorrow, what is going to happen?” she asked softly with her usual voice. “So, DJ-Pon3 is going to play at city hall tomorrow. The girls and I are going to see her perform her new hit. Would you like to come?” Rarity asked happily, she would love to see Fluttershy there with her. “Oh… sorry, but… I kind of have an…” Fluttershy sighed “…appointment. It is important to me… so… um… sorry.” Fluttershy replied in a sad tone. “Oh…” Rarity was a little upset. She wanted to be there with her best friend, but considering that they saw each other every day, it was okay. She didn’t want to intrude in her personal life. “Well, it’s okay.” She grinned “Really?” Fluttershy replied, a little happier, she was glad that her friend understood. “Of course, darling. You have your obligations, just as I have mine. When we have another opportunity we can go.” Rarity smiled warmly at Fluttershy, she was so happy that she didn’t want to spoil it. It was rare to see her that happy. “Oh, thank you, Rarity.” she exclaimed and hugged Rarity a little tight, carefully so she didn’t hurt her. “So what do you have planned for tomorrow, if you don’t mind me asking?” Rarity grinned, she wanted to know what was going to be so great, she would certainly be her, she loved to hear what Fluttershy said. “I promised the Princess she could visit me again.” Fluttershy sighed. “Sorry…” she spoke, looking down. “Fluttershy, it’s okay. I’m not jealous.” Rarity said smiling warmly at her friend. “To be honest, I’m happy for you. Really, it’s great that you’ve made a new friend. You deserve the best, and since Luna seems to make you so happy, my guess is that you’ve already found the best.” Rarity grinned. Fluttershy blushed. “Thank you, Rarity. Oh, I almost forgot. Did you know she liked my favorite socks?” she said sheepishly “Really? The yellow ones with the butterflies on them?” Rarity asked. “Yes. I thought she looked cute in them.” Fluttershy chuckled. And she was cute with them, she looked so graceful with them. _______________________________________ “I still think we should take pictures.” Celestia said, grinning, she was enjoying seeing her little sister happy, why can’t she be happy too? She was so happy to a smile on her face, it was the cutest thing ever, and the socks just make her look even more cute. “Say that again and you’ll see stars.” Luna replied, annoyed. “Besides, I’m not a little filly. Why do you always say things like that when you know it only irritates me?” she grunted. Celly was passing by her limits, all day she’d been saying those things. She sighed. “It annoys me, you know?” she finished. “Sorry, Luna, but it’s hard to resist.” Celestia replied, still grinning to Luna’s continued annoyance. “So, tell me, how did it go there?” she asked, it would be lovely to hear what happened, she loved to read Twilight Sparkle’s adventures, now she was excited that her little sister got herself into one, it was just too perfect to be true. “There, where?” Luna replied. “With Fluttershy, silly.” Celestia laughed, she was so off since yesterday, it was like the happiness was taking control of her, and she couldn’t care less. Luna only blushed. “Well… it was… nice.” Luna sighed and smiled happily. “I didn’t know the magic of friendship was so strong and wonderful. I’m glad I got to experience it.” Luna sighed once more. “But the wait is so boring.” Luna finished, a little sad. ”I can’t wait to see her again, she was so gentle with me, she knows my feelings so well…” she thought. “Of course it will be if you stand in front of that window all day long. Why don’t you do something else?” Celestia asked, her sister could stay In front of that window for hours, she just wanted the best for her. “Like what?” Luna replied with a confused face. Celestia thought for a moment. “I know!” Celestia exclaimed happily, she knew just the thing. “What? Tell me.” Luna demanded. “Tell me. Tell me.” She said again with a filly’s voice. “Pictures!” said Celestia as she began to trot off laughing, it was so fun to her. Luna began to run after her sister “HEY! COME BACK HERE, YOU…” Luna sighed and stopped running. “Why is she picking on me so much lately? I didn’t do anything.” Luna said to herself, annoyed. Luna walked back to the window and sat on the floor. “I miss you already…” Luna thought to herself. But after a moment, became concerned. “Oh no, I’m acting too anxious.” Luna frowned. “I don’t know if this is good or bad…” she said to herself. It has been only a day and she was crazy to see her friend again, the miss was just too much, but she smiled. “I can wait… friend.” ____________________________________ “Oh Angel, tomorrow is gonna be so great! I haven’t felt so happy in years.” Fluttershy exclaimed as she walked through the door with the groceries, she was ready to make the dinner for tomorrow, it was going to be a special day, for her and Luna. Angel only crossed his arms and continuously tapped his foot on the floor, he wanted something, and when he wanted something, he got angry. “Oh, tell me you are not angry with me because I made a new friend.” Fluttershy looked to the floor, a little concerned about this prospect, she couldn’t live with someone hating her. Angel shook his head and pulled out a clock, showing it to his owner. “Oh my, I’m sorry Angel. I've never forgotten your breakfast before.” she apologized, she was just too distracted with her new thoughts that her mind was trailing off, it happened like magic. She smiled again. ”I miss you…” she said looking to the orange sky. Angel tapped his little legs on Fluttershy’s hooves. “Oh I’m sorry, I’m trailing off.” She blushed heavily and placed the grocery bags in the kitchen, next to the chair. Her little bunny just wanted to eat something. “Here you go, Angel.” Fluttershy sighed. “Sorry, again…” Fluttershy gave him his carrot, and smiled at the sight of him eating it, he was the cutest thing ever. She looked to the groceries and sighed. “I should have asked the Princess what she liked…” she smiled. “But I guess we’ll talk more than eat. I have so much to talk with her about!” she exclaimed happily. It was going to be one of the best nights. Angel bounced to his little house. He hadn’t seen his owner this happy in his entire life. He was confused. Well, at least he got his carrot. But he looked back and saw his owner looking to the window again, he rolled his eyes and smiled weakly, that blue mare was making her feel so happy, that even he was getting happy. “Salad or lasagna?” Fluttershy asked herself. “What if she doesn’t like the food?” she thought a little worried. “Well…” she sighed, but then smiled. “Both.” She said as she picked up a cookbook. “Well… since I love Applejack’s apple juice, I guess I’ll try to make some…” she thought to herself again. “What if she doesn’t like the juice?” she sighed. “I guess I’ll make some grape juice too…” It was almost night. The food was ready to be cooked. She just had to wait until tomorrow. She knew she wasn’t the best chef in the world, but she could at least try to make a nice meal for her new friend, she began to trot to her room. “Phew, I guess the dinner is ready… I just have to cook tomorrow, easy… I hope…” Fluttershy picked up her scarf and wrapped it around her neck. “It’s so cold…” She looked upon the sky and smiled. “Just how I like it.” she could see the sun forming in the orange sky, she smiled again, the night will be here soon. ___________________________________ “Well… I guess I should do something to apologize for being an ‘intruder’ in her cottage…” Luna said to herself. A million thoughts began to race through her mind, she didn’t knew what to do for her new friend. Luna began to think. “What should... I know! I’ll buy something nice for her… but what?” Luna thought to herself. ”No… buy something for her would be disrespectful, I guess I should m-“ she stopped her mind. And grinned heavily. “I KNOW!” she exclaimed out loud almost jumping from her hooves, but then noticed the nearby royal guards giving her strange looks. She blushed. “Can’t I think out loud anymore?” She said, frustrated and smiled. She was feeling so happy, it was going to open Fluttershy’s mouth forever. Luna went back to her room to raise the moon. She began to fly upwards, spreading her wings out further, and her horn began to glow with magic. She raised the moon successfully, but she wanted to make it a little bit more special tonight, since she knew somepony enjoyed her beautiful night. Luna began to light her horn with magic again. She focused on the stars this time. This night would be magical. She finished retouching the stars and she was happy, because she knew her new friend was near her cottage enjoying this night, she smiled proudly, she’d never did this in her life, it was her special night, it was Fluttershy’s special night. This night was intended specially for her friend. It was the… ________________________________ “…the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in my entire life…” Fluttershy said softly, tears streaming down her face. It was just too beautiful, it was the best gift she could receive from Princess Luna, she founded herself crying, tears were falling down from her eyes, but it was not sad tears, the tears that she was crying, it was… happy tears. It felt like the night sky was speaking to her, and indeed it was… the dark sky was filled with dark purple, The stars were forming the most beautiful phrase that she never expected to see. They were saying: “Thank you, my very best friend. From your newest friend -Luna”
Brazilian Brony	915	6	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:25:43+00:00	2012-01-05T02:25:43+00:00	3,446	It was around 6:00 PM. Luna had just finished raising her moon. She reached over and picked up a box and was about to fly off through the window towards Ponyville when Celestia approached her. “What are you taking with you?” Celestia asked Luna with a warm smile, she loved to see her sister’s first adventure in friendship and finally that she was happy, it was heart-warming to her. “What am I taking?” Luna smiled. “Just something I made.” Luna looked to the black box with a blue ribbon. It was Fluttershy’s present. “Somehow…” she looked up and smiled. “I just wanted to repay her kindness to me, so… I made this.” She smiled to the gift, it was something special, just like the last night she spent with her. “So… what is it?” Celestia asked curiously, she wanted to know what was going on in her little sister’s mind. “You’ll find out later.” Luna smiled warmly at the gift. “But right now, I have to visit my friend.” Luna said, hugging the present happily and smiling happily. “Well… Okay, then. See you tomorrow… and, sister…” Celestia looked to Luna with a warm smile. “Yes, Celly?” she replied. “I’m proud of you.” Celestia said, giving Luna a hug, nothing was better than seeing her little sister happy, after all those years without her, it was just too perfect for her, and it was really real, she couldn’t believe what was happening, but it finally happened, her little sister was happy, “Thank you, sister.” Luna smiled as she flew through the window. _____________________________ “Oh, Angel. I really hope she likes the dinner…” Fluttershy said to Angel, a worried look on her face. “I really do… I wonder what would happen if she doesn’t like it, it could-“ she began to breathe faster, she was incredibly worried about tonight, she didn’t want to mess things up. Angel was tapping his paw on his owner hooves; it was quite annoying to see her worried like that. “Right, breathe deeply.” Fluttershy said as she began to take deep breaths. “She will be here soon, so I just have to remain cal-“ Suddenly a knock on the door of her cottage interrupted her sentence. knock knock “It’s her! Oh my, I better get going!” Fluttershy rushed over and opened the door, she didn’t want to keep her friend waiting. “Hi.” Luna said blushing , wow, she hadn’t expected that, she was embarrassed in front of her, she was looking so nice, her mane was glittering, it was beautiful. “Hi.” Fluttershy was blushing too, Luna was looking so nice, her eyes were just like the night, so deep that she found it beautiful and calm at the same time, her eyebrows were looking nice, it reminded her a little of Rarity’s, and a thought went to Flutterhy’s mind. ”Did she arrange her look just for me?” The two mares just stared at each other for a moment, neither of them knew what to say, the two were looking so beautiful, it was like they were in a formal party. “You look beautiful…” she said as a pink tint appeared on her cheeks, Fluttershy was looking beautiful. The two mares didn’t say anything for a few moments, it was that awkward silence “Awkward…” Luna thought to herself, was it normal for her to say that to her? “Did I say something wrong?” “Thank you, you look nice too.” She said as she tried to hide her blush behind her pink mane. “Um… Do you want to come in? I was just finishing up dinner.” Fluttershy said as she hid behind her mane. “Strange… Why I am acting so shy around her? I’m usually not THIS shy…”Fluttershy thought to herself, worried. “Of course. Thank you for asking.” Luna replied as she entered the cottage. “So… um… how was your day?” Fluttershy asked in her soft voice as she closed the door gently behind Luna. “It was good, but kind of boring. Celly doesn’t stay at the castle much, so I’m alone most of the time. Well, almost alone. The castle is filled with guards and butlers. And when sheis at the castle she keeps picking on me.” Luna sighed, it was boring, she didn’t want to leave the castle either, only for special occasions, her sister always had arrangements, everyday, but it was no big deal, she could manage to stay on her own in any case. Besides, it was upsetting that her sister was never at the castle, she was so busy, but she couldn’t blame her, she just missed her sometimes. “It must be really hard for you to stay alone in Canterlot…” She sighed “it must be awful, I stay here in my cottage almost every day alone, sometimes I don’t feel like I hang out with my friends enough…” she took a long breath “and I think I know how you feel not having many ponies around you…” Fluttershy said with a sad tone in her voice, only thinking about that made her sad, she didn’t like to be all alone. “You do?” Luna asked Fluttershy curiously as she sat down on the sofa. “Yes.” Fluttershy sighed and sat next to Luna. “It’s just awful. I’m not comfortable staying around other ponies for too long. I just don’t know why…” Fluttershy looked down with sorrow clear on her face. “Don’t be sad. Have you talked about this with your friends?” Luna asked, she was feeling concerned about her friend, it reminded her of herself. “Well… only one time, but I didn’t say too much about it…” Fluttershy sighed. “My fillyhood was hard. Ponies laughed at me… and… and…” she just couldn’t finish the sentence, it was too painful for her and it hurt deeply in her heart, she was the laughing stock back in those awful days, she just wanted to forget it, but it was too hard, it was too painful to forget, every night before she slept she thought about that. “Shh… It’s okay. You can count on me.” Luna placed a hoof on Fluttershy’s shoulder. “I will never laugh at you.” Luna gave her friend a warm smile, if she was getting help from the element of kindness, she wanted to help her too, thats what friends do, right? Fluttershy forced a smile and took a deep breath. “I think I have to open up about myself more… hehe…” she shed a tear. It broke Luna’s heart to see Fluttershy like this. She didn’t have to say anything at all. She would never laugh at her. Still, she didn’t know if feeling sad for her friend was good, but she thought It must just be a part of friendship, but she knew that her friend was not having a good time, she was almost crying, she wanted to do something for her, she wanted to give her the same safe feeling she had to Fluttershy. “Fluttershy… you don’t have to talk about it unless you really want to.” Luna spoke with concern in her voice. “No, no… I have to say this. Well… If you want to listen to me, of course…” Fluttershy looked down. “Well… anything you need, I’m here for you, okay?” Luna said as she hugged her gently. “Okay.” Fluttershy smiled. “Oh, I almost forgot about your socks.” Luna grinned as she returned the socks to Fluttershy. “I guess I forgot to take them back off and return them to you before I left.” Luna chuckled softly. “Oh, thank you. I saw you flying off with them, but I didn’t want to call you back.” Fluttershy grinned. “Why not?” Luna asked curiously, did she want her to keep the socks? It was confusing for her. “Because you looked cute in them. And you said you liked them a lot.” Fluttershy smiled sheepishly at Luna, she indeed looked cute, it was more cute than a baby filly, she blushed a little but Luna didn’t see it, she found Luna so adorable with them that she wanted her to use the socks more often. Luna blushed heavily this time. ”Did she say I looked cute with them? Celly told me that I looked cute with them too, is that true?” she blushed more and closed her eyes with her forehooves. “Thank you.” She was too embarrassed to show herself. Fluttershy laughed. “Thank you for returning them.” It was the most adorable thing she ever saw, she just wanted to hug her, but that would be too odd, and she thought. ”Too odd…” she blushed lightly. “It’s okay.” Luna replied. “I… made you something.” Luna looked down. “Yesterday… did you see it?” Luna asked. Fluttershy blushed. “Yes. I didn’t know you could do that with the stars, and… it was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.” Fluttershy smiled. “Really?” Luna asked happily. “Yes. Thank you very much.” Fluttershy smiled and looked down. “…best friend.” Luna couldn’t stop herself, she hugged Fluttershy tightly. “I’m glad you liked it.” Luna said as she pulled away from Fluttershy and looked down. “…best friend.” Luna said, looking up at her friend and smiling. “There is so much I want to talk to you about.” Fluttershy broke the silence. “Then let’s talk, best friend.” The two mares laughed softly at each other. “Luna…” Fluttershy began. “Yes, Fluttershy?” she replied. “I want to talk with you.” Fluttershy dropped her head and hid herself behind her mane, slightly sad. A tear fell from her eye. “What do you want to talk about? You can talk to me whenever you feel you need to.” Luna placed her hoof back onto Fluttershy’s shoulder. Fluttershy smiled sheepishly. “Well... I want to talk about my fillyhood...” she sighed. “I feel like I need to talk about it...” she took another breath. “It’s okay, I’m here for you.” Luna smiled warmly. “Thank you. Well...” she sighed. “I don’t know how and where to start.” She dropped her face. “What exactly about your fillyhood do you want to talk about?” Luna asked gently. Fluttershy took a deep breath. “I... couldn’t make any friends.” she continued. “And…” she paused and began to cry softly. “Shh… Don’t be upset. I’m here, remember?” Luna spoke softly. “I won’t let you down, believe me.” She smiled. Fluttershy nodded and wiped away her tears. She took a breath and continued. “My fillyhood was just awful…” she paused. “Fluttershy, are you really sure you want to talk about this with me? I mean… If this hurts you, you can talk about this later.” Luna said, concerned. “Oh no… I have to talk about this… I just have… I really want to open up about it…” Fluttershy sighed. “I just…” Fluttershy stopped. “Shh…” Luna hugged Fluttershy. “…It hurts, I… I want it to go away.” She cried out loud, as she cried on Luna’s shoulder. It broke Luna’s heart to hear that. It hurt her to see her friend like that. It was too painful to watch that. She wanted to make Fluttershy feel better, she was willing to… “They… they laughed at me.” Fluttershy cried more. “Shh…” Luna was almost crying watching Fluttershy. It was just too painful. She hadn’t felt this upset since… her banishment… Fluttershy was sobbing on Luna’s mane. “They…” she continued. “It’s okay, Fluttershy. I’m not going to laugh at you.” Luna said soothingly as she shed a tear. “They called me names…” Fluttershy finished. “Shh…” Luna began. “If it makes you feel better I brought something for you.” She finished. “You… you did?” Fluttershy asked, still sobbing. “Yes.” Luna smiled as her horn lit up and a black and gray striped box with a beautiful blue ribbon tied around it floated over to Fluttershy. The ribbon had little blue butterflies on it that were barely visible against the blue ribbon. “What is it?” Fluttershy sheepishly smiled as she wiped away her tears. “If you don’t open it I guess you’ll never know.” Luna laughed softy. That laugh seemed to soothe Fluttershy. It brought peace to her heart and raised her spirit. She didn’t know what it meant, but she felt good. Fluttershy removed the ribbon carefully and opened the box. She began to take a look at the present. She liked, no, she loved it. “Do you like it?” Luna asked Fluttershy. “I… I love it.” Fluttershy smiled as she put it on. It was a beautiful green sweater made from a soft and warm fabric. “I made it myself.” Luna said sheepishly with a soft voice. “Really? It must’ve taken forever.” Fluttershy replied. “Well… I think it was worth it. I like to see you happy.” Luna said, blushing. “That’s very kind of you.” Fluttershy hugged Luna lovingly. “You are the Element of Kindness. Sometimes you deserve some kindness, so… I made it just for you.” Luna finished. “Thank you. I love it.” Fluttershy smiled warmly. “I made it last night. I was a little tired, but I wanted to finish it.” Luna replied smiling sheepishly. “Oh, you didn’t need to do that, Luna. I’m fine just having your friendship.” Fluttershy said sheepishly. “I just thought you’d like to have something in return for your kindness. You deserve even more.” Luna said, smiling. “But I already have it.” Fluttershy said softly. “Really? What is it?” Luna asked curiously. “You.” Fluttershy blushed heavily as she saw Luna look away. She could see Luna was blushing too. “So…” Fluttershy continued. “If you made it last night I suppose you must be tired.” Fluttershy said, a little concerned. “Well… I’ve been staying up late these days…” Luna said as she lowered her face, a look of sadness on it. “You can talk to me. You helped me and I want to help you too. I'm happy to listen.” Fluttershy said in a calm voice. Luna smiled at Fluttershy “I’m having trouble getting to sleep.” She sighed as she looked down. “Can you tell me why? Um… Is there something keeping you from sleeping?” Fluttershy asked. “…Yes…” Luna replied. “Do you want to tell me about it? Um… You don’t have to if you don’t want to, of course.” Fluttershy said, concerned. “Actually… yes, I trust you enough to tell you.” Luna replied, smiling warmly. Fluttershy smiled happily. “So… how do you feel?” Fluttershy asked. “I kind of don’t feel anything, but I still feel something…” she replied. “So you know what it is?” Fluttershy asked. “I… I feel…” Luna said, shedding tears. “…Empty…” she finished, her voice full of pain.
Brazilian Brony	915	7	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:25:52+00:00	2012-01-05T02:25:52+00:00	3,247	Luna was sobbing heavily. Her heart felt like it was about to explode. It was too painful. Nopony could feel her pain or understand what she was going through. She wanted to just make this sorrow go away. She was the Goddess of the moon and night, but since that… thing possessed her… nothing was the same. Luna had a thousand years to think about her. She wasn’t sure how or why that had happened to her. She could barely remember. Since that day, jealously, anger and sadness filled her once happy, content mind. She loved Equestria and she loved her sister, but since that day… “Shh… I’m here.” Fluttershy spoke with a soft and calm voice. It was almost a whisper, but it was so calm. Luna knew that she could trust Fluttershy. She could feel safe. She was in good hooves, but since she had been granted reprieval from Nightmare Moon, it seemed like all she was capable of feeling was sorrow and loneliness. Luna began to wipe the tears from her face and took a deep breath before speaking to Fluttershy. “It’s not fair…” She said as she sobbed. She was feeling nauseous. She felt her despair overwhelming her… “Most things in life aren't fair, Luna…” Fluttershy began as she looked down. “I never met my mom…” She continued. She needed to help Luna. She needed to protect her new friend. The friend that understood how she felt, how grateful she was. She needed to stay by her side whatever it took. Fluttershy sighed. “I’ve been alone for almost my entire life…” she began to shed tears. “My dad… he was evil…” she said as she clenched her teeth. “Fluttershy…” Luna began, but she was interrupted. “My fillyhood was a nightmare…” Fluttershy began to cry harder. “My dad used to beat me up…” Her heart was begging her to stop saying these things, even if they were true, but she felt she had to tell her new friend the truth. “He enjoyed it. He almost…” it was hard for her to continue, but she did anyway. “…he…almost…killed me…” She was crying harder and harder as she continued. Luna was crying just as hard as Fluttershy. She hadn’t realized how badly she had been hurt. She did not deserve to be treated that way. “In flight school, everypony made fun of me because I couldn’t fly as well as they could…” Fluttershy was clenching her teeth again. It was painful to think about these things. Those horrible things. “The doctor said I couldn’t fly well. She asked and asked me what happened to my wings, but I never told her the truth. I never told the truth to anypony…” Luna could feel her heart beating quickly. It was too much for her. Her own father did such horrible things to his own daughter… “He broke my wings in seven places…” She began to sob anew. “That was the day I escaped from him. I was bleeding, I didn’t know where I would go. I just knew I couldn’t stop or he would find me…” Her sobbing became louder. “It was so painful… I… couldn’t run anymore.” She looked to the portrait of her and her friends. “But Rainbow Dash helped me…” She smiled weakly. “Fluttershy, I… please…” Luna was weeping by this point. She couldn’t bear to hear any more of this, it was too painful to her. “Please, stop…” She began to cry on Fluttershy’s shoulder. “I know it must have been very painful for you, but please… don’t say any more…” “I… I’m…sorry…” She cried along with her. She had made her best friend cry. Because of her. Because of her awful past. That’s why she didn’t want to talk about this with anypony. She didn’t want to share what happened to her back in those days. She cried more and more. She began to feel nauseous. She cried for what seemed like hours. Her eyes were tired, but she wanted to cry more. “I didn’t mean to make you cry too.” She said in between sobs. “I’m sorry…” She shed one last tear. “There, there…” Luna nuzzled her cheek in a gesture of affection and gently kissed her tears to remove them. But she realized what she had done. She shouldn’t have done that. Not at all. Luna couldn’t say anything, she just watched Fluttershy in front of her crying. Luna felt she had to apologize. “Fluttershy, I’m s…“ But she was interrupted. “Thank you.” Fluttershy said as she snuggled close to Luna. Sure the sofa wasn’t as big as a bed, but it was big enough for both of them. Luna snuggled her head next to Fluttershy’s. They just wanted peace and to get some sleep. ___________________________________________________________________ “Good morning, sleepyhead.” A soft voice next to Luna’s ear said softly. She recognized that voice, it was… “It’s morning already. I guess we overslept.” It was the voice of her best friend. Luna gave a soft yawn. She needed to be at the castle, but she didn’t care. She just wanted to stay with Fluttershy for now. “What time is it?” Luna asked as she realized she was still cuddled close to Fluttershy on the sofa. She blushed heavily. She was embarrassed she slept with her best friend on the same sofa. “Oh, I’m sorry, for sleeping, um… sorry.” She gave Fluttershy a weak smile. “Oh, it’s okay. I guess we were tired.” Fluttershy chuckled softly. She knew she would never do such things with the Princess. She was a Princess after all, but she knew she enjoyed the night. She’d never had somepony to sleep with her. She felt safe that night. “So um… you want some tea?” She asked Luna. “That would be lovely.” Luna smiled warmly at her. “Okay then, um… I’m gonna make some tea for us.” Fluttershy said weakly, blushing. Fluttershy entered the kitchen and realized something. “I can’t believe I forgot…” She sighed. She looked over to see a partially eaten pan of lasagna and an empty plate where her salad was supposed to be. She sighed again. “Angel.” She said, a small amount of aggravation in her voice. She looked around and saw him asleep nearby with his paws resting atop his stomach. Fluttershy sighed again. ”I guess I’ll make some tea…” She thought to herself. Back in the living room, Luna was staring at the portrait of Fluttershy and her friends. They looked so happy in the picture. She smiled. ”She must be a very happy pony, but I don’t understand why she feels so… sad…” She thought. ”At least…” she looked to the kitchen and smiled ”…she is happy now.”
Brazilian Brony	915	8	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:26:03+00:00	2012-01-05T02:26:03+00:00	2,953	“Um...” Fluttershy began. She was feeling sad and a little bit angry. “I made lunch for us.” She said softly. Luna thought something was wrong. “Really? What did you make for us?” She asked enthusiastically. She was hungry. A good meal wouldn’t hurt at all, but she cared more about her friend than having lunch. “Um… well… you see…” She felt guilty. She didn’t know how to say it… She prepared the meal yesterday just for her. This can’t be happening, not now. “Um…” She lowered her head. “Is something wrong, Fluttershy?” Luna asked, concerned. Yesterday night hadn’t been what she was expecting, but to see her friend sad, regardless of the circumstances… it hurt her a little. She didn’t know why she cared so much about Fluttershy. She didn’t even care this deeply for her sister. “Well… It’s sort of…” Fluttershy sighed. “…an accident.” She looked down. She didn’t want to upset Luna. She must be hungry. Both of them cried a lot yesterday. Crying so much could dehydrate. She sighed again. “Angel ate almost all the lasagna, and the birds ate all the salad…” She sighed and frowned. “It was supposed to be our meal yesterday, but I forgot about it.” She lowered her face again and hid herself behind her mane. “Sorry…” “Aw, you made a lunch for us?” Luna asked happily. “You shouldn’t have! We could’ve gone to, you know, a restaurant or something like that… Do you want to?” She blushed heavily. ”Did I just ask her out on a date?” She began to lower her gaze in embarrassment, having fully realized what she had just said. “I mean… if that’s okay with you.” She added. “Um… sure, I guess it’s okay… um… I don’t know…” She admitted. She didn’t want to upset the Princess. It’s not like she didn’t like her or anything. It was kind of odd. She was too shy to go out to a restaurant. She certainly knew she would always have a good time with Luna, but she just wanted to stay indoors at her cottage. “Oh… I understand. It’s okay to say no, I understand.” Luna smiled warmly at Fluttershy and put a hoof on her shoulder. “If you want to do something else, we can do that instead. I think friends need to have fun, and when I visit you, I have lots of fun.” She hugged her. “Whatever you want to do is fine.” “Did you really have fun with me?” Fluttershy asked hopefully. It was hard for anypony have fun with her because of her shy behavior. She didn’t want to be so shy around everypony, but she couldn’t do anything about it. She was born like this. She tried approaching other ponies, but… things didn’t go well. Fluttershy snapped back to reality. “I didn’t know you had fun with me.” She blushed and smiled weakly. “Of course I do! You are my best friend, how could I not enjoy spending time with you?” She said, giving her another hug. “You are my very best friend and you make me happy. That’s why friendship is so wonderful…” She smiled sheepishly. “I just thought we could get out more, but it’s alright with me either way.” “Oh, thank you. That’s good…” She gave Luna a shy smile. “I didn’t know I could make somepony happy.” She looked down and hid herself behind her mane. “Of course you do. Do you know why I consider you such a good friend?” She asked. “Um… no… why?” Fluttershy replied. “Because you understand me, and I understand you. I really enjoy our talking, everything. I just want to let you know I…” Luna blushed almost instantly. “You make me feel… safe.” She smiled at Fluttershy “I think I may have been sad forever If I hadn’t met you… and… I’d like to thank you, Fluttershy.” “Really? Um… but what did I do?” She blushed. “You stayed by my side when I needed somepony the most. I just want you to know, I’ll be here for you. Whenever you need me.” She smiled warmly at her. “I know I'm a Princess, and you must be thinking it would be better if I stayed at the castle, but… I really enjoy our friendship and I would like to spend more time with you.” She blushed. “Because… that’s what friends do, right?” She finished. “Y…yes.” She smiled sheepishly. “I really enjoy our time together and I’m looking forward to having more times like these.” She put a hoof on Luna’s shoulder. “Because you are already my best friend.” She said. Luna couldn’t hold back her tears. Fluttershy’s words were so beautiful and full of emotion. They touched her heart. She’d never expected the power of friendship to be so powerful, but she knew one thing. Fluttershy made her happy. “I… don’t even know what to say.” Luna smiled and shed a tear. “I’ll never let you down. I promise.” The two mares hugged each other. “So… um… where did you want to go?” Fluttershy asked. “I… I don’t know.” Luna blushed. “Do you know someplace? I guess I should’ve thought about that before I asked if you wanted to dine out.” She blushed again. The two friends began to giggle. “I guess it would be nice if we went to Canterlot, I don’t know… I was only there for the Gala before, and when your sister called Twilight and our friends to defeat Discord.” She sighed. “Twilight told me it was nice there, but I guess I would rather go to a restaurant here in Ponyville, um… if that’s okay with you, of course.” She blushed and hid her face behind her mane. “Of course it is. So, you said that you attended the Gala?” Luna asked Fluttershy curiously. “I saw a pony there that reminded me of you.” She smiled. “Oh, yes…” She blushed, feeling guilty. “I um… did some things I regret…” she squeaked softly. “I guess I’m not welcome there anymore…” A tear ran down her cheek. “Don’t say that. You will always be welcome. I would love to bring you there sometime. Celly told me about the animals.” She giggled and put a hoof on Fluttershy’s shoulder. “I understand how you must have felt. Sometimes we cannot contain our excitement. And… there was someone there who missed seeing you.” Luna said with a warm smile on her face. “Really?” Fluttershy asked in disbelief. “How could someone miss a monster there?” Fluttershy covered her face with her forehooves. “Hmm… how about Philomena? She was a little sad that she couldn’t find you there.” Luna explained. “Do you want to see her? I’m pretty sure you miss her too.” Luna grinned. “Can I?!” Fluttershy asked happily. It had been a long time since she had seen Philomena. She would love see her again. “But… what about the other animals? They’ll be scared of me…” She looked down with sadness in her eyes. “I can take care of that, believe me. They were just a little scared.” Luna looked down at Fluttershy and gave her another smile. “Remember when Philomena said she was sorry to you?” She asked. “Um… yes, but how do you know about that?” Fluttershy asked, confused. Luna giggled. “Celly tells me everything. She tells me all about your adventures with your friends.” “Oh, and… Yes, I remember.” “Well… If she apologized to you, then it shouldn’t be so hard for you to apologize to the other animals. I’m pretty sure they’ll understand.” Luna explained happily. “Oh, thank you! I feel much better, but, um… how can you be sure they’ll forgive me?” Fluttershy asked, still a little apprehensive about it. “Fluttershy, you are the Element of Kindness. Of course they will. You can talk to animals, remember? So… Shall we go to Canterlot?” Luna asked cheerfully as she spread her wings. “Yay!”
Brazilian Brony	915	9	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-05T02:26:16+00:00	2012-01-05T02:26:16+00:00	3,851	Fluttershy couldn’t believe it, she was going to Canterlot again, she finally would be able to apologize to the animals in the garden, sure she knew what she did was very wrong, but she wanted to say sorry, with Luna, her new friend, she was excited, it was a long time since she'd been to Canterlot and it’s beautiful gardens, rare specimens of birds and monkeys, but she wasn’t only going to see the animals, she was going because she felt safe, she was safe with her new friend, she was about to remove her sweater but Luna interrupted her. “I guess you should keep the sweater, Fluttershy.” Luna giggled, she could see her friend confused after all, but she opened the window to let her see why she should keep the sweater, Luna put a hoof outside, and pulled it back in, and showed it to her. “I… um… don’t understand…” Fluttershy said in confusion, what was Luna trying to show her? Did she get hurt? She was a goddess, she must be strong… but… what if she hurt herself and she needed medical assis… “Look closely, silly.” Luna laughed and her friend looked a little closer to Luna’s hoof, it was a little snowflake, winter is already here. “Oh…” Fluttershy blushed and continued. “It’s going to get cold soon, I guess I should pick up my socks…” she said before she took flight to her bedroom, but stopped. “Um… Luna, I’ll bring you a pair.” She smiled sheepishly and went upstairs. “I’m okay, no need for that.” Luna grinned, she didn’t need to bother about her hoofs, she was quite used to the cold night, she felt a shiver down her spine, the cold air coming from outside was too cold, she could think about it, she felt another shiver, this time her best friend could see she was cold. “Please… I insist.” She smiled weakly. “I don’t want to see you get a cold, besides, your sister could be worried, so I’ll bring you a pair.” Fluttershy went upstairs Luna was about to open her mouth but she stopped and smiled. “She is so nice to me… I’m so lucky I found Fluttershy… And to think I just was searching for a pony who enjoyed my nights…” Luna was waiting in the living room; she could see a little rabbit was staring at her suspiciously. “Well Angel, I hope it’s okay with you if I can take your owner with me sometimes, If… that’s okay with you.” Luna smiled weakly. The rabbit jumped on her back, she was surprised, she didn’t knew he was so fast, she thought for a moment he would hurt her, but the little bunny only hugged her. Luna was confused, sure she saw the later nights the bunny staring angrily at her, but he was… happy? “Here, It took some while, but I found it.” Fluttershy flew down, still in her sweater, with her green socks to match with her new sweater. “I also brought you my yellow socks for you to use, um… if that is okay.” She hid herself in her mane, “Oh! I see you and Angel are doing just fine, he doesn’t act like that, he is… um… quite… rude with some of my friends sometimes.” She grinned, was Angel feeling happy with another pony? That was surely new to her. Angel only gave her an angry look. And went upstairs. Fluttershy looked down and her mane was again covering her face. “Did I say something wrong?” Luna was beginning to get used to her friend hiding herself behind her own mane, she found it cute. “Well… I think its better we get going, the snow will get more intense” Luna began to flap her wings, and saw Fluttershy smiling. “I think I forgot the socks.” Luna sheepishly smiled back to her friend. “It’s okay.” She said as she began to flap her wings too. “Let’s get going?” she smiled warmly to Luna. The two mares flew off from the cottage towards Canterlot, If they don’t hurry the snow would intensify. The two didn’t care about that, they were together, that was the most important thing. The two were flying slowly, Luna knew clearly that her friend was afraid of heights, she could see it on her face. “You don’t need to be afraid, if something happens I will grab you.” Luna smiled cheerfully to her friend. __________________________________________________________________ Back at the cottage, Angel found himself smiling, sure his owner had left himself alone in the cottage to take care of the animals, it was quite a challenge, but anything to make his owner feel happy, that new friend of her was taking good care of her, he really hoped it continued that way, he smiled once more as he saw the two mares flying. ______________________________________________________________________ “How much time couldn't you fly for?” Luna asked her friend who was a little slow on the track. She didn’t want to hurry things up, but Fluttershy just seemed graceful flying slowly. “Um… 7 months…” she was breathing a little hard, the cold air was hurting her lungs. “Can we rest a moment?” she asked gently, it had indeed been a long time since she had flown, but she was doing okay. “Of course. It will be good for us to take a good rest.” She smiled warmly to her friend. “Thank you.” Fluttershy said as they slowly made their way to the closest cloud to catch some air, she was not used to flying, but she was so less experienced in flying in cold weathers. It hurt a little bit, she just had to get some practice. Suddenly, the two mares saw a trace of rainbow going towards them, it was looking like it was going to hit them, it slowed down and began to take the form of a pony, the pony was cyan with purple eyes and a rainbow-colored mane. “Hey Fluttershy, I didn’t see you yesterday, what happened? I thought you were going to the show of DJ-Pon…..” Rainbow Dash was paralyzed as she saw Fluttershy’s ‘new friend’ “P-Princess Luna?” she couldn’t believe it, she rubbed her eyes once again, yup, Princess Luna was still there. “Shh Rainbow Dash, we don’t want to expose her.” Fluttershy spoke with worry in her voice. “Oh, sorry. So… hehehe… good to see you, um… Well… I have some things to do… err… bye!” the cyan pony flew so fast she left another trail of rainbow behind her. ______________________________________________________ “T—nee---- TALK.” CRASH “Rainbow Dash, I Hope you have a very good reason for breaking my window…” Twilight sighed. “again.” Paying for new windows of course was not good, but now with the winter coming up with a window broken, it was very bad. “No time for that.” Rainbow Dash interrupted her friend. “It’s about Fluttershy, there is something going on.” She finished, she was worried about her friend becoming… evil? Twilight only sighed. “What about her?” she asked curiously, it was indeed quite strange, she hadn't seen Fluttershy these last few days, it was quite concerning. “Well… she has a new friend.” She replied, “And…” she paused for a moment “And?” she said as she picked up a good hot cup of tea that spike made and began to drink it. “It’s Princess Luna!” Rainbow Dash yelled. Twilight spit the tea all over the floor. “PRINCESS LUNA?!” she asked in disbelief. “How do you know that?” she asked her friend, now she wanted to know what was going on. “Well… I was flying nearby and I saw Fluttershy flying with the Princess! Since when were they friends? And since when did they hang out?” she asked in a loud voice. Cling “Hello Rainbow Dash, hello Twilight… uh…” Rarity looked to the broken window and Rainbow Dash on top of Twilight. “What is going on here?” She raised her eyebrow in confusion. “I just crashed in, I was flying to fast, but I had to tell Twilight what is happening!” Rainbow Dash explained. “Fluttershy met a new friend, and it’s Princess Luna, I can hardly believe it.” Twilight said to Rarity who was standing in front of the door. Rarity only found herself doing a facehoof and let out a quick groan, how could her friends not know? “Did… you know?” Rainbow Dash and Twilight asked Rarity in disbelief, how could she know when they didn’t? They were about to find out. “Of course I knew. I mean, she IS my friend, and she tells me EVERYTHING.” She sighed; she couldn’t believe her friends didn’t know. “Why don’t you stop and talk with Fluttershy a while? Just because she's shy doesn't she can’t talk.” Rarity was feeling angry inside. Rainbow Dash only nodded. “I guess I should talk with her more…” she scratched the back of her head. “Of course you should.” Rarity only sighed. “Twilight, do you have a copy of that book still? I’m trying to make a present for Fluttershy, but I don’t know how to do it without the book.” Rarity said to Twilight “Yes, it’s… here.” She lifted the book with the magic. “You already made a dress for all of us didn't you?” she wondered. “Why do you need this book anyway?” she asked again. “I want to make something special.” She smiled and looked up. “She will use for a special occasion.” She smiled wider “And it is?” Rainbow Dash asked curiously. “Uh… nothing, nothing! Got to go, bye!” Rarity hurried back to her boutique as she closed the door of the library. ________________________________________________________________ “We’re almost there Fluttershy.” Luna said with a soft voice, she was enjoying the flight; she took a look at her friend and saw that she was too slow. “Are you ok?” she asked softly with a bit of worry in her voice. “Yes… No… I mean… um…” she squeaked “I don’t know…” she closed her eyes. “Let’s stop for a while?” she smiled to her friend. “We can rest a little again, and we can talk.” She smiled warmly to her. “Is everything alright Fluttershy?” she asked with concern. The two mares landed on the nearby cloud. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to keep you waiting…” she said with a guilty tone, she was feeling sad, she didn’t want to upset Luna, she was near the Castle already. “I’m S…” she was interrupted. “Sh… It’s okay, you don’t need to say sorry, I understand.” She smiled to her friend. “I understand you didn’t fly for months, when I returned to Equestria, I was scared of flying too.” She put a hoof on Fluttershy’s shoulder. “You just need somepony to be with you, so you can face your fears. Right?” she closed her eyes and smiled gracefully. “Celly helped me out when I was in need; I guess I could help you too.” She smiled wider; she loved to help her friend. Fluttershy found herself smiling, Luna was being a great help to her, she wanted to stay like that forever, she’d never had such support like that, her heart was smiling on it’s own, she felt warm around Luna, she felt safe, she felt… love. Her eyes widened, did she really feel that way about the Princess? She is a goddess, she is her best friend, and how could she feel such feelings around the Princess of Moon and night? Fluttershy squeaked, she didn’t know what to do, maybe she could fly off and… no, Luna could easily catch her, what should she do? “Everything ok?” Luna asked with worry in her voice. “Are you feeling cold? We’re almost there, we can make it, I mean… we can make it.” She smiled. “I know you can do it. And if you can’t, let me help you.” She put a hoof in Fluttershy’s shoulder. “Um… I can do it… A hop a Skip and a Jump, right?” she laughed worryiedly. And she took a look, around her, she was, it was… “Too high.” She placed her forehooves on her face with fear. “I can’t do it.” She began to cry sofly. “I… I… can’t…” it was too embarrassing, what would Luna think about her? “Shh… It’s okay if you can’t do it, here, climb up.” She said happily. She was willing to do anything for her friend, even transporting her. “Come on, I won't let you fall.” She smiled warmly “B- But… I don’t know… you don’t have to do that.” She said softly and with fear. “Here” Luna said as she landed on top of Fluttershy being careful not to hurt her. “Hold on to me.” She smiled warmly. “L-Luna.” She began to talk but was interrupted again. “You don’t want to stay on this cloud forever do you?” she giggled warmly to Fluttershy, she wanted to make her friend happy, and help her when she needed help, that’s why she loved friendship, she was happy because she could make a pony smile. She felt so safe around her, she didn’t feel that around any royal guards, even her sister, she felt something special for Fluttershy, she didn’t know why, but she felt her heart being gently carried away by little butterflies. And the only thing she saw was a yellow, pink maned pony close to her; she was feeling so… happy. She loved staying around Fluttershy, the talking, the fun they had together, she loved all the good times with her, she loved… “meep” “Um, sorry.” Her friend blushed as she held her, she felt warm, Luna’s coat was furry and fluffy, she loved it. “It’s… okay, I had my head in the clouds for a moment…” Luna giggled happily. “But we are in the clouds, aren’t we?” the two mares were giggling. “So… hold tight, I don’t want you to fall, but if you slide tell me, so we can stop by the nearest cloud. Okay?” she smiled warmly “O-okay.” She smiled back as she held Luna tighter. Luna began to flap her wings and soon she took flight, Fluttershy tried not to look down, they were too high in the sky, but she didn’t look down because she was staring at her friend smiling and flying at the same time, she could look at that smile forever, that beautiful smile, when she saw Luna smile she felt her heart go hotter and hotter, it was good, she felt so happy with Luna around her, she felt… alive, she slowly began to close her eyes, seeing Luna’s smile was the last thing she saw before drifting off to sleep.
Brazilian Brony	915	10	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-07T02:54:44+00:00	2012-01-07T02:54:44+00:00	3,477	Fluttershy slowly began to open her eyes, she wasn’t in her cottage, she could feel the place was familiar, she got up from the bed and looked around her, the room was dark, but she could see some little stars decorating it, the bedroom she was in was indeed big, it gave her some peace, it was better than hers, but still, she didn’t knew where she was. The door slowly began to open, outside the room was very dark, Fluttershy looked out the window and it was still dark, she looked again through the door and saw Luna walking by. “Morning sleepy head.” Luna giggled at seeing the sight of Fluttershy on her bed. “You fell asleep on our little flight, and when we arrived I put you on my bed so you could get some rest, I… didn’t want to wake you up.” She smiled sheepishly. “Oh, that was nothing, I guess I should try to stay awake, but something made me sleepy, I… don’t know what it was.” She replied. “Sorry for that, I hope that didn’t upset you.” She hid herself behind her mane. “It’s fine, Everypony should get some rest, right?” she replied. “What time is it? I think I overslept…” she said embarrassed. Luna giggled at seeing Fluttershy like that, she found it cute. She began to walk close to Fluttershy and sat next to her on her bed. “Well… it’s almost 9PM… as I said… I didn’t want to wake you up, you looked so peaceful in your sleep that I didn’t want to interrupt” she said with a warm smile. “Thank you, Princess.” She replied sheepishly. “I-I mean…” she was about to reply, but Luna interrupted her. “It’s okay, I myself forgot some things, just like old Celly.” She giggled. “I heard that, Luna.” A bigger figure entered the room; it was the Goddess of the Sun, nopony more than Princess Celestia. “and in addition, I’m not old, and I see you bought your friend here.” She smiled warmly. “Hello Fluttershy!” she said happily, “I guess I don’t need an introduction, do I?” she laughed warmly. “Oh Celly, I forgot how funny you are.” Luna replied with a deadpan. “Alright, alright, I’ll leave now, if you need me, I’ll be outside.” Celestia replied and gave a wink to Luna. As Celestia stepped away from the door, Luna stared blankly at the door. ”What just happened?” she thought to herself. “So… Fluttershy, do you want anything to eat? You didn’t eat anything since morning.” She spoke with a tone of concern in her voice. “You must be starving…” she completed her sentence. “It’s okay… I’m not hungry, besides I don’t want to bother you…” Fluttershy spoke and suddenly her stomach growled. She was too embarrassed to show herself now, she covered her face with both hooves. “I-I guess I am a little hungry…” she replied quietly. Luna smiled and hugged Fluttershy. “Come on, Dinner is almost ready, I’m sure you’ll like it, and when we’ll be done with our little meal, we can talk, then tomorrow you’ll see the animals, it’s that okay?” she said and smiled to Fluttershy Pink tints appeared on Fluttershy’s cheeks, she didn’t know Luna would be so nice to her, nopony was that nice to her. “O-Okay, tomorrow morning? And uh…” she paused and looked to Luna’s bed. “Where'll I sleep?” she asked with a shy tone. Luna put a hoof in her chin and began to think. “I know!” she said happily with a big smile. “Fluttershy?” she asked still smiling, but softer. “Um, yes Luna?” she replied sheepishly “Have you ever had a Slumber Party?” she asked happily “Um… I don’t think so… I…” she was quickly interrupted by Luna hugging her, Luna was very strong, but somehow, Fluttershy always enjoyed her hug, it was warm, and she felt safe when Luna hugged her. “Want to have your first slumber party?” Luna asked jumping around the room like a little filly, suddenly she stopped when she realized what she was doing. “S-Sorry… I guess I’m little excited about this…” she said smiling sheepishly. Fluttershy giggled, it was one of the cutest things she ever saw in her life, also, having her first slumber party would be fun, she remembered how Twilight invited her to have one, but she was too busy and had to take care of her animals, she saw Luna smiling to her, her smile was so warm and inviting that she couldn’t say ‘no’ to her. “Well… it might be fun… so… yes, I would love to.” She said smiling sheepishly. “YAY!” Luna cheered and hugged Fluttershy again. “me and Celly always have slumber parties, it was so much fun! We did a lot of things like, stories, making make-ups, and pillow fights, I assure you it’s gonna be fun, I promise” she said and released Fluttershy from the hug. Fluttershy smiled and looked down and blushed. “Yes, I can’t wait.” She replied honestly, she really wanted to spend more time with Luna, somehow to Fluttershy, this was being just the beginning of a great friendship. “So…” Fluttershy began talking trying to find a subject to talk about. “So…” Luna said trying to help. “What you want to do?” she asked. “Um… I dunno… what you want to do?” she asked back to Luna. “Wanna see the castle? I’m sure you’ll like it.” She smiled warmly to Fluttershy. “S-Sure, that would be lovely.” She replied smiling. “I’m sure it will. Here, let’s walk for a little, shall we?” she smiled happily; The two friends were walking through the castle, it had a lot of guards, all of them were serious “You’ll love the castle, it has a lot of cool things, even when I left for a… millennium…” Luna paused and took a breath “things haven’t changed one bit.” She finished. “Are you okay, Luna?” Fluttershy asked concerned, she didn’t enjoy seeing Luna like this. “I…” her voice trailed off. “Yes?” “I… don’t like seeing you sad…” she said as she looked down. “Oh… it’s okay, I’m not sad, I’m just-“ “It’s okay, I think I know how you feel… So… Let’s take a look at the Castle?” she smiled weakly. “Okay, I want to show you something, too.” Luna smiled. “Let’s go to the Roof?” she asked with a sheepish smile this time. “I would love to.” She replied. ___________________________________________ The 5 friends were at the Library, Spike had just gone to sleep, it was nightfall, and he had to get his sleep, plus he couldn’t take all these girly conversations, he just wanted some peace. “So Twilight, what do you think is going on with Luna and Fluttershy? I’m a bit curious about it.” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight. “I wish I knew, Rainbow, but Fluttershy didn’t say a thing to me, Rarity, do you know what’s going on?” Twilight asked “I already told you, they are just spending some time together, is that a crime to you?” Rarity replied with some anger in her voice. “Hold on, Rarity.” Applejack interrupted. “Ah think Twilight is just curious ‘bout this whole thing, to be fair, ah'd say this is kinda strange don’t ya think?” she asked. “Well… if you put it that way…” Rarity put a hoof on her chin. “Fluttershy was a bit out of her element those days…” she finished “What do you mean?” Twilight asked “She meant that Fluttershy is not acting like ‘herself’ “ Applejack said. “Why? How’s she acting then?” Rainbow Dash asked frustratedly. “I've known her for like… forever, and yes, I know she’s not being herself, if Luna is trying to do something with Fluttershy I swear that I’ll-“ Applejack quickly interrupted her. “Hold on there, Ah’m sure that Luna would never do anything to Fluttershy. Ya really have to stop thinkin’ that she’s evil or somethin’ Rainbow.” She finished. “Alright…” Rainbow Dash replied. “So, Rarity… How Fluttershy’s behavior? You’re the only one who talked with her.” Twilight said. “Yes dear, I think we should not be alarmed, I think we should be happy for her.” Rarity replied to Twilight. “So… she’s not afraid, or frightened of anything? How’s she acting?” Rainbow Dash asked impatiently. “She’s happy.” Rarity said smiling warmly. “WE SHOULD MAKE A PARTY FOR IT!” Pinkie Pie began to bounce happily. “Really guys, our friend is happy, I think she needs a party, Huh? Huh? Huh?” Pinkie asked happily. “I don’t think Fluttershy would like to have a party about that.” Twilight replied with confusion on her face. “you know that she’s timid, and throwing a party about her being happy is just… odd.” She said. “Yeah, I guess you’re right… I can’t wait to give her a big hug, I already miss her!” Pinkie said. “Me too, sugarcube, but ah guess we can wait till she gets back, huh?” Applejack replied. “Indeedy!” “But there’s only one thing…” Rarity said. Pinkie Pie stopped bouncing. “What is it?” she asked. “Yeah, say it!” Rainbow Dash followed Pinkie. “She’s TOO happy, I mean, I've never seen her like that, have you Rainbow Dash?” Rarity asked. “Well… the only time I saw her really happy was when I won the Best Young Flyers competition…” she replied. “Is she happier than that day? I’ve not seen her screaming and jumping.” Rainbow Dash joked. “Ah guess we have enough Pinkie Pie.” Applejack laughed. “Well… I guess I can say she’s happier than that, I can see that she’s happy, but, she’s happy inside, you know what I mean?” Rarity asked expecting a answer. “Like… when you are too happy, that you don’t want to scream to the world that you are?” Rainbow Dash asked. “Yes dear, I guess she likes…” Rarity paused for a moment. “Likes what?” Twilight asked impatiently. “I think she likes Luna.” She finished. “Well, duh! She’s her friend, of course she would like Luna! I mean, I like everypony, and I’m sure Fluttershy likes everypony too, because she’s a nice pony, and she’s the element of Kindness and mhpf hmpf!” Appejack put an Apple in Pinkie’s mouth. “Rarity?” she asked. “What I’m trying to say, is that Fluttershy like likes Luna, understand?” Pinkie Pie eyes widened and swallowed the Apple. “Pinkie?” Twilight asked “GUYS, DO YOU KNOW WHAT THIS MEANS? FLUTTERSHY IS IN LOVE! WE SHOULD LIKE, REALLY MAKE A P-“ Applejack put another Apple in Pinkie’s mouth “Fluttershy, in love?” Rainbow dash began to laugh, but stopped, her 4 friends were staring angrily to her. “Um… Sorry. But… she never said anything about love to me…” she said. “Well, ah guess it’s because she didn’t ever like anypony…” Applejack said. “Exactly.” Rarity said. “I think we should leave Fluttershy a little time alone with Luna, who agrees?” “If it’s for Fluttershy’s sake… You can count on me!” Applejack placed a hoof on top of Rarity’s. “Well, I think this would be nice for Fluttershy, I’m in too!” Twilight placed her hoof. “Element of Loyalty, guys.” Rainbow Dash said as she placed her hoof. “hphf! hphf!” she ‘said’ as she placed her hoof.
Brazilian Brony	915	11	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-07T02:56:35+00:00	2012-01-07T02:56:35+00:00	2,158	“Aaaand... here we are, Canterlot’s Castle Rooftop…” she blushed a little and continued “… the place where I get most of my inspiration.” She smiled “I-it’s..” Fluttershy gulped “… high…” she squeaked a little. Luna found it the most adorable thing she ever saw. “Hey.” She stepped to Fluttershy’s side and sat alongside her. “Don’t worry, you’re with me, I won't let anything happen to you.” She smiled to Fluttershy. “Thank you, Luna,” she smiled back, for some reason she felt so warm with Luna, she couldn’t explain it, it was odd of course, but it wasn’t bad at the same time, actually, she wanted to be with Luna forever. Fluttershy gulped, it’s her friend, the Co-Ruler of Equestria, Princess Luna! Nonononono, this is not right, it just can’t be right. Fluttershy began to sweat, she got too nervous only thinking about it, she realized the more she wanted to deny it, to forget this feeling, the stronger it gets, she just realized she fell in love with a Princess, the highest authority in all Equestria, she began to sweat more and more, then she just realized Luna was looking to her. “Are you Okay, Fluttershy?” Luna asked with concern on her voice. “You seem a little… tense” she grinned. “Oh? Me? No no… I’m fine, really I mean it!” she almost burst the words out her mouth. ”Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, what’s wrong with me?” Luna laughed softly “here, look at this.” Her horn began to light up, she closed her eyes and began to focus on the night sky. Fluttershy just observed it, she realized some stars were beginning to get brighter than others, Fluttershy was stoned, it was so surreal, it was beautiful, it was different, but she loved every single detail of it, she was staring at her own constellation, she felt some tears sliding through her face, she never realized she would get those gifts some day, she felt special some way, “You… like it?” Luna blushed “I… I hope you like it, I made for you.” She smiled weakly Fluttershy remained quiet, she didn’t have words to describe how much she liked it, it was too perfect to be real “I-I… I love it.” She cried softly and hugged Luna as hard as she could, she just wanted to say it and wait for an answer, but her shyness wouldn’t let her. “Good thing I’m in my inspiration ‘room’ “ Luna giggled and looked down to Fluttershy “but I guess I didn’t need it, I don’t know…” she smiled sheepishly. “W-what do you mean?” Fluttershy asked after releasing Luna from the hug “I got my inspiration to do it, so… I did it.” She replied smiling and trying to hide her face from Fluttershy “I-Inspiration?” she asked confused. “You, silly.” Luna laughed Luna’s laugh was one of the most pleasant things Fluttershy ever heard, she just wanted this moment to last forever, she wanted badly to say to Luna what she felt for her, she wanted to try… “Luna…” Fluttershy began speaking and gulped a little “Yes, Fluttershy?” Luna replied smiling to her friend. ”Her smile is so beautiful… no no no, focus Fluttershy, you can do it… you can do it…” Fluttershy looked to Luna again, she was in front of her, with that beautiful smile, so warm, and so relaxing at the same time… ”Please mind, stop, please…” she gathered her courage and began to talk again. “Luna, I wanted to say that…” she stopped and gulped “I-I… think…” she stopped, she couldn’t do it, “I-I think you are the best friend I could have!” she said “Awww, you are the best friend I could have too, Fluttershy.” Luna said and hugged Fluttershy “You are my best friend, sometimes you are awful cute, you know?” she said smiling Fluttershy blushed intensely “Y-you too, Luna, I-I’m just happy that… you invited me to come to the castle.” “It’s not a problem, you can come here whenever you want to.” She smiled RRRRRRRRRIIIINGGGGGGGGG “Oh! I guess our dinner is calling us.” Luna laughed “Come on, let’s eat something. I’m starving, and I bet you are too, you slept all day.” She giggled Fluttershy blushed a little. “I guess I lost track of time…” she said looking down. “It is nothing, as I said, you look awful cute sleeping.” Luna said to Fluttershy Fluttershy smiled weakly. “you are.” “Nope! You are!” Luna said joking “You.” Fluttershy replied “aw, come on, we both know you are, Fluttershy.” “I still think you are.” She giggled “Stop it, you’re making me embarrassed…” Luna said blushing “…cutie Woona…” Fluttershy could see Luna’s red cheeks brightening intensely “um… it’s okay, isn’t?” Fluttershy asked “……….yeah…” Luna was still blushing. “I think I found your weakness.” Fluttershy giggled. “Well… if you found my weakness, you should at least know what makes me feel strong.” Luna smiled “What is it?” Fluttershy asked “Look to the sky.” She smiled “The Moon?” The yellow Pegasus asked confused “Almost there. Guess again.” The Blue Alicorn played with her mind. “The stars?” she asked again. “Almost there, now think what are on the stars.” “um… oh.” She blushed. She was staring at her own constellation again. “um… I make you feel strong?” she asked sheepishly “Yes, but not only that.” Luna sat next to Fluttershy and gave a warm hug. “You make me feel happy.” She said looking to the yellow Pegasus. “You… you make me feel happy…” she smiled weakly and tears began to trail off her eyes. “Luna… I…” Fluttershy gulped and courage began to take control of her. “I want to tell you something.” She said confident and smiling. “What do you want to tell me, Fluttershy?” Luna asked while cleaning her eyes. “I always want you to know that I…” she breathed, she was really going to tell Luna about her feelings. It is now or never.” Fluttershy opened her mouth to speak. “Luna, Fluttershy? Are you there?” Celestia said as she entered the room, and saw the two mares hugging each other. “Oh, I’m sorry to interrupt.” She smiled. “Well… dinner is already served, and you two didn’t come and I got worried.” She explained. “But… I see you two are doing fine together.” She paused a little and smiled. “I’ll see you two at the table.” She was about to close the door. “and Luna?” “Yes, sister?” she asked. Celestia only blinked and smiled as she descended the stairs. “Huh?” they were left confused “Um… shall we go? Um… if you want too…” Fluttershy was feeling bad, she almost said it, she was this close, but she couldn’t, she sighed, it’s going to take a while to do this. “Yes, I’m right behind you.” Luna looked to the field and put a hoof in her chin. “I know something is going on with her, I know that look…” she trailed off of thoughts about Fluttershy. ”Fluttershy wanted to tell me something…” she thought. “Princess Luna? Miss Fluttershy and your Elder Sister are already at the table. Do you need an escort?” the guard asked Luna sighed. “I’m on my way.” She made her way through the stairs. ________________________________________________________ “What kept you two?” Celestia asked with a little smile on her face. “We were just seeing the night sky. Nothing more.” Luna replied. “Really? But when I came up there, you two were hugging each other .” Celestia continued. Fluttershy’s eyes widened. ”Oh no…” Fluttershy thought, she was scared, but it was okay. Wasn’t it? “And, I think it was the cutest thing, ever.” She finished. “Sis… stop, it was just a hug, we are friends. Friends do that right?” she took a bite of salad and swallowed. “It’s normal, we are just friends. And-“ “I’m kidding, I know you are friends, and I’m okay with that, Twilight and her friends are united, and, united friends do that. Plus. You and Fluttershy are united. Right?” she asked smiling warmly. Luna and Fluttershy blushed softly. “Well…” Luna began. “I think we are.” She said as she smiled. “Aren’t we, Fluttershy?” she said as she looked to Fluttershy. “Yes, we are.” She said happily, but in the bottom of her heart she wanted more, even though it was a little impossible, but she wanted it anyway, she couldn’t do anything against it, she couldn’t think other thoughts, distract herself, the only thing she found on her mind was Luna, only Luna, and this thought didn’t want to go away, because she started thinking with her heart instead. “Mmm. That was delicious.” Luna said. “I haven't had a salad in a long time.” She finished. “All thanks to the chefs. They always make good food.” Celestia said and smiled. Behind them a couple of cooks smiled then walked through the kitchen. “I hope you two have a good night.” Celestia said and frowned. “I have some work to do.” “Do you need some help? I can help you, sis.” Luna said. “Besides, I’m a co-ruler of Equestria, we are no different.” She said. “I know, but you have a company at the moment, you two have a good night, I can take care of things.” Celestia smiled warmly to her sister and Fluttershy. “Ok, sister…” she began as she hugged Celestia. “Until tomorrow.” “Thanks, and don’t stay up too late you two.” Celestia said and walked to her work room, it was filled with papers and quills. She grabbed a quill and looked to a photograph of her and her sister. “I’m so glad things can be normal again…” a tear dropped from her eye. Luna and Fluttershy walked to Luna’s room, it was darker than usual, that scared Fluttershy a little, but somehow, she didn’t care. “So… Luna…” Fluttershy said smiling. “Yes?” Luna said smiling warmly to Fluttershy and opened a door beneath them. The two mares entered the room. It was cold, the winter was already there, and they didn’t like it very much though, but she do enjoyed the peace winter gave her, and it was more peaceful with Fluttershy there. “Um… t-thank you for letting me go to Canterlot.” She said smiling. ”I can’t do this yet…” “Oh, it’s nothing, and I have something to ask you too.” Luna said smiling. “What is it?” she asked confused. “Are you ready?” Luna asked giggling. “Ready?” she asked confused again. “for my…” Luna began ”Oh, here it comes…” Fluttershy thought and smiled. “MY FIRST SLUMBER PARTY!” Luna said happily and hugged Fluttershy. Fluttershy sighed and smiled.
Brazilian Brony	915	12	Fluttershy,Princess Celestia,Princess Luna,Romance,Sad,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sadness + Kindness	Luna wants to find a pony that actually likes her beautiful night	incomplete	64	6	<p>Luna was having a bad night, she didn't know if anypony actually liked her night, but she would never know if she standed on the castle, wasn't?</p><p>Cover by: PONYJOKER</p><p>This is my first fanfic that i am in fact publishing... So... it might have a tiiiny little mistakes, since English is not my main language, I would like to thanks Habanc for creating "Renaissance of The Moon" inspiring me to create my own fanfic, I would like to thank PinkiePieSwear for creating the song "Luna, Please Fill My Empty Sky" it IS a beautiful song. I write this fanfic when I am sad, so... almost everyday I am sad, (like now =P), I think that is all I have to say, I hope you guys enjoy my fanfiction (If approved by the website =P)</p><p>EDIT: Special thanks for Jealousypants McCloppington for helping me out it this fanfic, and thanks to him now I have an editor! and another song is inspiring me on! 'Somewhere over the Rainbow' by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole<br/>Thank for BIG MAC for giving me a good tip, too! </p><p>EDIT[2]: MOAR special thanks for Darktoes that helped the shit outta me, I mean, it is being a great happy, and feels awesome, my fanfic is alive again, yay!</p>	everyone	2012-01-27T13:49:51+00:00	2012-01-27T13:49:51+00:00	2,966	“So... what do we do now?” Luna asked, bored, she couldn’t find anything to do with Fluttershy, she was used to staying in her room all day long, now that she had company, nothing came up on her mind, what was she supposed to do? ”I should have thought about this… Now what should I do?” “Are you okay, Luna?” Fluttershy asked timidly. ”I think I should try to stay less timid with Luna with me… what could she think about that? I just want to… what Rainbow Dash told me…” “Well, I just can’t-“ Luna began before she was interrupted by Fluttershy. “Be cool!” suddenly Fluttershy put her both hooves on her mouth and blushed intensely. “THAT’S A GREAT IDEA!” Luna said happily and hugged Fluttershy. She could see Fluttershy was entirely confused. “What? It’s just a great idea… heh…” she blushed and began speaking again. “So, let’s play a game?” Luna asked happily and let out a squeak of joy. Fluttershy felt her heart melting, it was so cute she couldn’t explain it, she just imagined the word ‘HNNNG’ on her mind. “well… what game?” Fluttershy asked confused, and still recovering from the ‘attack’ Luna gave to her. ”Oh, she’ so cute” Fluttershy sighed in her mind, it was a little frustrating that she was too shy to ask… things to Luna, she just wanted to stay with her forever. “Guessing game!” Luna exclaimed happily, and cleared her throat and began speaking again. "So, we’ll keep guessing, after every guess the guess-ee answers "hot" or "cold" depending on how close the guess-er is to the answer!.” Luna explained and took a breath. “Sound fun?” she smiled with joy. Fluttershy could feel her little heart pumping harder and harder, that smile… somehow it made Fluttershy happy inside. ”So that’s why Pinkie is always happy…” “Well…” she began speaking. “Let’s play it.” She smiled warmly to Luna. “Okay, okay! Um… I know! Um…” Luna blushed a little and continued. “well… it’s the most shining star in all Equestria Luna said. can you guess it?” Luna said in a playful tone. “Oh, so this is a competition?” Fluttershy asked smiling teasingly at Luna. “I’m ready then!” Fluttershy said smiling. “yay!” Luna squeaked again. She was so happy, her FIRST slumber-party was going well, nothing would spoil this fun, she hadn’t felt so happy since the last Nightmare Night, it was just perfect, nothing could ruin this night, it was only her and her friend. “So, I have to guess the most shining star in all Equestria?” Fluttershy asked a little worried. “Yeppers! But if is too hard, we can change the subject, okay?” Luna said. “Oh no, I’m certainl that I’ll guess it…” Fluttershy began to think. ”I should go to Twilight’s library more often… this is gonna be a disaster…” ____________________________________________________________________________ “Apple Bloom, what are you doing?” Applejack entered the barn and saw a filly unicorn and a filly Pegasus. “Hey Applejack!” Sweetie Belle said happily. “Apple Bloom is up there, she’s using the telescope!” “What for?” Applejack asked confused. “by the way, isn’t late for y’all little fillies to stay here at Sweet Apple Acres?” Applejack asked. “and Sweetie Belle, Rarity is gun’ be all drama queen if she knows you left her bo-bou… I don’t how’t pronounce that name!” “Oh it’s okay Applejack! I left a note before coming here!” Sweetie Belle answered. Applejack looked to Scootaloo who was smiling like a angel. Applejack lifted an eyebrow. “Rainbow Dash knows you’re here?” Scootaloo was sweating. “Well… Apple Bloom told me it was important! And we could get our astronomy cutie mark!” she said with guilt. “Rainbow Dash knows you’re here?” Applejack asked again. “She was napping.” Scootaloo managed to say. Applejack facehoofed. “Apple Bloom, why you called yer friends here? It's too late!” Applejack began to climb up the ladder, she found Apple Bloom looking through her telescope. “er… what are yer doin’?” she asked. “I think it’s Fluttershy, sis!” Apple Bloom said. “Fluttershy? But she’s in Canterlot, it’s impossible.” Applejack said “I know, I know! But she’s on the sky right now! See for yourself!” Applejack sighed. “There’s nothing there Apple Bloom” she said as she put her eyes on the telescope. “You’ve must be seeing things…?” Applejack eyes widened. She was staring at Fluttershy’s constellation. “W-wow…” _____________________________________________________________________________ Twilight was in her library, she was looking through her telescope, she couldn’t find a reason for that peculiar formation of stars. “Why would Luna do something like that? I’ve never seen anything like it…” Twilight began to think out loud. “Maybe… No, no. I need to be sure of it.” She began to look for Spike but he was nowhere to be found. “Spike? SPIIIIIKE” she called the baby dragon. “I’m here, I’m here, what do you need?” the tired little dragon scratched it eyes. Twilight could see that he just woke up. “I’m sorry Spike, but I need you to find a book, I need the ’The Princesses Inner Feelings’ “ Twilight said to Spike. ”I should have read that book… I thought the Princesses didn’t… no, Twilight, you NEED to be sure of it first. she thought. “Come on Spike, where is the book?” she said not amused “Here, give a little break, Twi, I worked all day long… and why you want a romantic book about Luna and Celestia by the way?” Spike asked confused and gave the book to Twilight. “Oh man, this book looks like it was in a basement for an eternity, how old is this book?” Twilight rapidly opened the book. “It’s one of the first books ever written! This might be important, Spike, I think there’s something going on, and it’s… new or some kind of it.” Twilight said a little worriedly. “Like what, Twi? I didn’t seen anything strange. Spike said still confused. Twilight sighed. “Go to the balcony, and look North East above the windmill.” She explained to the tired dragon. He didn’t say anything more, Spike climbed up the stairs and went to the balcony, and looked North East above the windmill as Twilight said, his eyes widened, it was Fluttershy, but formed with stars. He’d never seen anything like it. “Okay Okay, Now I know what's the matter.” Spike said as he climbed down the stairs. “But should we get this alarmed, I mean…” Spike sighed. “You aren’t listening to me, are you?” “Display of Affection… Display of Aff- here it is!” Twilight cleared her throat and began to speak. “A powerful Alicorn like Princess Luna and Princess Celestia can move the sun and moon as everypony knows, but what not everypony knows, is that the Princesses do have feelings for other ponies, they can show it on various ways, such as moving stars or giving gifts, but these events might be rare, the Princesses rarely ever have any relationship, but, it will eventually happen again.” “Oh.” It was all Twilight managed to say. “Well…” “So, what is this about?” Spike asked confused. “Why there’s a Fluttershy in the… sky?” “Well Spike… Princess Luna likes Fluttershy.” “I know, I like her too, and?” Spike said confused. Twilight was getting used to making facehoofs, and she did it again. “Spike, I mean, Princess Luna, LIKES Fluttershy, like… she likes a LOT, you know? Like…” Twilight was getting a little lost. “I still don’t get it, Twilight… what are you trying to say?” Spike asked Twilight again. “I think Princess Luna is… in love with Fluttershy.” Twilight managed to say. Spike deadpanned, he hadn’t expected this, a Princess being in love with a normal pony? It was clearly odd. “Well… I guess that explains a lot, eh?” he said. “I guess it explains, Spike. I’m happy, really, but… I don’t know what to say about this, I mean…” “I know Twi, even I don’t understand it. But I think I’m happy, I don’t know…” Spike said, but he was certain, he was feeling happy. “Really? Why?” Twilight asked. “I’ve never heard about Fluttershy having any coltfriend or… marefriend… have you?” Spike asked “You’re right, Not even I heard much about Fluttershy’s personal… life. But I guess you’re right, I think I should be happy for her, I don’t think this is wrong, but I think it’s… different.” “Yes Twi, I mean, I hope Fluttershy is happy too. I mean, with Luna.” He smiled. “What could go wrong?” ___________________________________________________________________________ Celestia was staring at the window, and she never felt this happy, she was about to sweat because of the jumping in the middle of her room with happiness, her little sister, was in LOVE. “Oh Luna…” Celestia said. “You don’t know how happy I am for you” Celestia breathed slowly. “My little sister… in love!” she said with a girlish voice. “Her little heart is even speaking for her.” Celestia said smiling looking at the picture of Fluttershy in the sky. And made a serious face. “But I think your head is still on the moon.” She said as she looked to ponyville, and Manehattan, all the houses were with lights on.
FicFicPonyFic	916	1	Pinkie Pie,Rainbow Dash,Twilight Sparkle,Comedy,Random,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	The Straight and Narrow		incomplete	25	8	<p>"In a world where lesbian shipping is the norm, Rainbow Dash struggles to find a way to convert her best friend back to homosexuality while dealing with her own prejudices in the process"</p>	teen	2011-09-19T22:10:54+00:00	2011-09-19T22:10:54+00:00	3,413	-THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW- The various ponies of Ponyville had become accustomed to Rainbow Dash performing impressive tricks in the skies above above them. Never in their lives however, had they seen such an unusually spectacular flight session as they had today. The prismatically maned pegasus was flying so fast and making so many break-neck turns and spirals that it appeared as if she were attempting to quilt a blanket in the sky out of the rainbow trail she left behind. The sight left many ponies cheering or gasping in pleasure, however two other unusual things were happening today as well. The first was that the cyan weather pony was not soaking up the praise like usual, and second, she wasn't practicing any tricks. Today Rainbow Dash was searching as hard and as fast as she could for a certain party-holic pink pony. Rainbow Dash knew she had to find her before she got to Sugar Cube Corner; A scandalous connection between the sweet shop owners, which had been all but rumors before, had now been confirmed. Wind whistling through her hair, Rainbow Dash muttered to herself, "I have to find her before it's too late", and fighting back the thoughts in her head she finished, "Hopefully, it isn't already too late". Rainbow Dash had already visited the sweet shop, determined to force Pinkie aside if she had to and explain the situation to her, but much to Rainbow Dash's dismay it seemed she had left to run some errands. Doing a half loop and spinning so the ground was beneath her, Rainbow Dash finished her tenth fly over Ponyville and bolted back towards Sugar Cube Corner, hoping her cupcake obsessed quarry hadn't returned to the store while she was scouring the town. As she approached however, the rainbow maned pegasus' heart suddenly jumped into her throat. Pinkie Pie was approaching the bright pink doors of the bakery. Straining her wings and cursing, Rainbow Dash put on a sudden burst of speed and tackled the pink earth pony just as she had opened the door, causing both of them to slide sideways into a mud puddle beside the entryway. "Hiya Dashie!" Pinkie pie said bouncing to her feet, seemingly unperturbed by her best friend's sudden arrival and attack. "That was an interesting trick just now! What do you call it?" "A crash landing", Rainbow Dash replied, her snout still buried deep in the mud. Giving a chuckle and a snort that made Rainbow Dash blush slightly, Pinkie Pie said, "Oh! I was hoping it was going to be something like 'The Flying Filly Tackle', or the 'Wham-Bam-Rainbow-Slam'! Or-" interrupting the energetic pink ponies rant before it started by sticking a hoof in her mouth, Rainbow Dash looked Pinkie Pie straight in her brilliantly blue eyes and said, "We need to talk about something important". Receiving a muffled agreement and a nod from the silenced pony, the athletic pegasus removed her hoof from Pinkie Pie's mouth and whispered, "It's about Mr. And Mrs. Cake..." Pinkie Pie's eyes widened with anticipation and moved her head in closer. Whispering ever so slightly quieter, Rainbow Dash said, "You know how they've been telling everypony that they're 'Mr.' and 'Mrs.' Cake because they're brother and sister? Well I just heard from some of my friend's at the post office that it isn't true... The two are actually..." glancing left and right, Rainbow Dash finished with, "The two are actually breeders!" Just as Rainbow Dash had expected, Pinkie Pie suddenly jumped into the air five feet and let out a loud gasp. What she did not expect however, was for Pinkie Pie to say, "Rainbow Dash! I can't believe you used such a icky-wicky-sicky word! Couldn't you have just said straight?!" "W-what, Pinkie, what are you talking about? Don't you realize how dangerous it is to go in there? They're bree- they're straight!" Rainbow Dash said, grabbing pinkie by the shoulders and shaking her a few times. Pinkie Pie's face slid into a sharp grimace as she replied, "What are you talking about dangerous, and what does the Cakes being a straight couple have to do with me?" Not wanting to answer that question, Rainbow Dash replied, "Doesn't the fact that they're straight make you uncomfortable at all? I mean, you know what they say about straight ponies..." Tilting her nose in the air, Pinkie pie said, "Hmph! Why would I be uncomfortable working for a straight couple? Wouldn't it make more sense for me to be more comfortable?" "P-Pinkie, you aren't trying to say that you are stra-" Rainbow Dash never got to finish that question however, as Pinkie Pie had turned and bounced through the sweet shop door. There was a short, silent pause before the colorfully maned pony shot into the air. For the second time that day the ponies of Ponyville were treated to an unintentionally impressive feat of flying as Rainbow Dash raced through the sky, punching and kicking every cloud she set her magenta eyes on. It couldn't be true! Pinkie Pie was straight! Rainbow Dash had been too late and now she'd never get to be with her giggling bubblegum colored crush. The Cakes... Those breeders had already got to her... They turned her straight! Her pretty pink pony princess had been recruited into the heterosexual agenda! It wouldn't be long now until Pinkie would try to make "One colt, One mare" marriages acceptable and outlaw the normal, natural, Celestia given "every pony to it's own gender" couplings. Scattering a particularly large cloud with a flying karate kick, Rainbow Dash stopped and hovered in mid-air, drawing in a large breath and expelling it slowly. She needed to calm down... "If the cakes had turned her straight, there must be a way to un-straighten her... But how?", Rainbow Dash said pounding one hoof into the other. The perfect plan came into her head almost instantly, so fast that even the sky colored pegasus was surprised at her own brilliance. "I'll ask Twilight!" she said triumphantly. If her bookish friend didn't know how to undo heterosexual brainwashing then no one would! Furthermore, she was the protege of Princess Celestia, the very pony who laid down the natural order of things. If anyone would be sympathetic to her plight it would be her! With that comforting thought in the junior speedster pegasi's head, she spun around in the air and flew straight for the Ponyville library. As she sped over Ponyville, her eyes caught a glimpse of a pink spire topped with a red flag and instantly recognized it as the Carousel Boutique. Rainbow Dash chuckled to herself. After announcing her gala plans to all her friends Rainbow Dash had little wonder what side of the fence Rarity was on in terms of sexuality. No one was all that surprised to learn that she was straight however; while a fashion career was fine for a perfectly normal gay Colt, female fashion designers were some what notorious for being straight. It was rather unfortunate as Rarity and Fluttershy had so much in common and had become almost instant friends after they first met. Rainbow Dash had rather hoped there was something more to it at the time. Celestia knows Fluttershy could do with a little action. Smirking to herself, Rainbow Dash imagined asking Rarity of all ponies about her problem. She could already imagine the response she would get from the fashion obsessed unicorn. "What an uncouth suggestion! You are simply born fabulous, or born gay, my dear!" Something struck Rainbow Dash's face suddenly and instantly gave way, breaking her out of her reverie. Her eyes wide, Rainbow Dash suddenly realized she had flown straight through a library window and was on an unavoidable collision course straight for a bookcase. Colliding with the shelves so hard she made four other bookcases expel their contents, Rainbow Dash stumbled to her feet just in time to hear a familiar voice. "Sometimes I wonder if you do that on purpose...", Twilight Sparkle said with a slight grimace at the mess. Closing her eyes, the bookish unicorn pointed her horn at the books which started to glow purple and float off the ground. "Wait! Let me help you with that" Rainbow Dash said quickly, shoveling up some books and stuffing them carelessly back into place. The pegasus had rather hoped to make a better impression before asking her friend for advice, but she would just have to roll with the punches. "Thank you very much Rainbow Dash. Is there something I can do for you?" Twilight Sparkle replied, hoisting the books magically out of the shelves and putting them in the correct order while her usually unhelpful friend's back was turned. "Yeah, you see... Umm...", the cyan pony stammered. Not entirely sure how she should ask the question, she decided to just be as honest as she could without revealing too much. "Well you see, I have this... Uhh... Friend... And she is totally straight!", Rainbow Dash blurted out. "Oh?", Twilight replied, not turning to look and instead kept systematically returning her tomes to their rightful places. "Yeah, and she doesn't want to be a breeder anymore.", the cyan pony continued. "Oh...?", Twilight repeated, only this time she had stopped refiling the shelves, and had instead turned to look at her prismatically themed friend. "Uh-huh, so how would my friend go about turning homosexual again?", Rainbow Dash asked finally, noticing that her incredibly intelligent friend's mouth was set in a frown. "Oh Rainbow Dash..", Twilight said, shaking her head and sighing, "I see what's going on here. Listen, it's alright to be heterosexual, you should just be honest with yourself, your friend's will not think any less of-" "WHAT? No no no...", Rainbow Dash interrupted and waving her hands frantically said, "I'm gay! I'm gayer than flank-less chaps on a colt!" Raising an eyebrow at her companion, Twilight Sparkle cleared her throat and declared, "Well, all I can say to your, uhh... 'friend' is that sexual orientation does not work that way. You can't really switch from being heterosexual to homosexual or vice-a-versa. Equestrian society just has a homo-normative slant to it, so most straight ponies do not even realize they are straight until their formative years. Do you perhaps know why your 'friend' doesn't want to be straight?" "Well, I can't speak for my friend..." the athletic pony answered, scratching her temple with her hoof, "But I thought that would be pretty obvious! It's all about sex for them! I mean, can you imagine doing it with a colt? They got that... Thing hanging between their legs! It's all well and good for another colt I guess, but for mares... They have to put that thing inside your... you know..." Rainbow Dash finished, gesturing unnecessarily. "Ah, yes, be that as it may-" "And speaking of which, have you heard what happens when a straight has a child? They say your stomach gets all big, so big that it's hard to walk, and you have to pee all the time!" Rainbow Dash said horrified, pushing her stomach out as much as she could in imitation, "and then after a few months a baby comes out of your... You know... It's just so unnatural! I mean, why can't they just do it the normal way and go to Celestia and have her give you a child from the breeding mirror?" "R-Rainbow Dash.. Look... Argh, where to start...", Twilight Sparkle stammered, before taking a deep breath and continuing, "Putting aside the fact that straight relationships are just as much about love as gay relationships are, we see other animals in nature having offspring through straight sex, which by definition means it can't be 'unnatural', can it?" "Just because it's natural doesn't mean it's good!" Rainbow Dash retorted, ignoring the fact that she was the one originally who suggested that it was, "I mean, just think of the children Twilight! Don't you know that kids that come from that... Terrifying process... Are always messed up in some way?" To the acrobatic pegasus' surprise, her purple friend turned narrowed eyes toward her and said flatly, "Oh? And what exactly do you mean by that?" Faltering slightly under her friend's sudden glare, Rainbow Dash responded, "W-well, you know... All kids from straight couples are always inferior to kids from regular couples in sports, magic, school, and-" Stamping her hoof so hard she made the floor shudder slightly, Twilight Sparkle disturbed her friend's explanation and said, "Is that so? Well it might interest you to know Rainbow Dash, that I was conceived by a straight couple! And last I checked, I was the protege to the Princess herself! Therefore all kids from straights can't be inferior to gay parent's children in all areas. Not to mention-" The cyan pegasus wasn't really listening past though, and could only gape wide-eyed at her enraged friend as she continued on. How had she not known one of her best friends was the child of a straight couple? Rainbow Dash tried her best to think of any mention Twilight had made of her parents, and could only think of her cutie mark story. Even then, she hadn't said anything about them being a straight couple, so the rainbow-haired pony assumed they were just a gay couple like any other. "-and do you realize how much it hurts when a pony you love and respect accuses you of being straight and thinks less of you for it?" "Wait, you aren't straight? But your parents are straight!", Rainbow Dash cried out accidentally. She really wished she hadn't, as her friend's face went from anger to rage. "You too? Why does everypony assume that just because my parents were straight that I will be also? That would be as ridiculous as claiming that gay children only ever come out of gay parents!", Twilight snorted while advancing on her heterophobic blue friend. "Err, eh-heh, right! I didn't mean to imply anything, or... I'm sorry!", Rainbow Dash apologized, backing up and breaking out into a cold, fearful sweat as she came in contact with a wall. Suddenly, Twilight Sparkle stopped and stepped back a few paces, turned away, and took several deep breaths. After a few seconds Twilight Sparkle said, "No, I apologize... You- I mean your 'friend' only wanted some advice and here I am ranting at you." At that point Twilight turned to face her again, and to Rainbow Dash's embarrassment, she saw that the purple unicorn's eyes were wet with tears. "It's a shame there is such a stigma towards heterosexuals in our culture, but your 'friend' should know that she is only hurting herself by not accepting who she truly is." "Y-yeah, I suppose so...", Rainbow Dash said and seeing that her friend had turned away again to wipe some tears from her face, had a sudden thought. Twilight said that someone she had loved and respected had thought less of her for apparently being straight, and though the athletic rainbow pegasus couldn't claim to be incredibly smart, she had a good idea who that pony was. With some trepidation she asked, "Hey Twilight... It wasn't... Princess Celestia who thought you were straight was it?" Blushing slightly, the protege replied, "T-Technically lots of ponies have thought that after hearing my parents were straight, but Princess Celestia's assumptions were the only ones that really hurt. Her obvious surprise and intense relief at finding out I was in fact gay was also a little embarrassing... It's kind of funny really, in all the years I have known her the only thing the Princess and I have ever argued about were the rights for different sexual orientations." "For what it's worth Twilight, I'm sorry about that. Uh, I should probably get going.", Rainbow Dash said trying to hide the disappointment from her voice. Rather than giving her a plan that could convert Pinkie Pie back from heterosexuality, it had destroyed her hope altogether. All she wanted to do now was find a good cloud to go and sulk on. Taken aback slightly, Twilight replied, "Oh, alright! See you later Rainbow Dash, make sure your 'friend' thinks about what I said!" and after giving a noncommittal answer, Rainbow Dash flew out the same window she crashed through and rose into the air, not stopping until she found a cloud that escaped her previous tantrum to slump over like a sky blue rag over a white towel rack. "Well, that's the end of it I guess", the cyan pony said to herself. Her precious pink pony was straight and there was nothing she could do about it. She couldn't see a way around it. What Twilight said had made a lot of sense. She had much more experience with breeders. Her parents were after all straight. Wait a second... "Her parents are straight! HA!", Rainbow Dash flew up suddenly, pumping her fist in the air. Of course! She should have realized her mistake the second Twilight had said that! She was raised by a straight couple! She would be even more brainwashed into the heterosexual agenda than Pinkie Pie! After all, had Twilight not said herself that she argued with the Princess over straight rights? Perhaps there was still a way to make a pony un-straight! But she wasn't sure who she could ask... Rainbow Dash snorted once again at the thought of asking Rarity... Being old friends with Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash knew she wouldn't know... Pinkie Pie was the problem... ...All that was left was Applejack! Thinking about it a bit harder, Rainbow Dash figured she should have gone to Applejack first. The Apple family was after all, a very traditional down-to-earth Celestia fearing family. If anyone would know, it would be them! With that glimmer of hope still held tightly in her heart, the magenta eyed pony set her sights (and wings) on Sweet Apple Acres.
FicFicPonyFic	917	1	Pinkie Pie,Twilight Sparkle,Comedy,Random,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	The Most Powerful Magic		complete	91	7	<p>"Twilight Sparkle finds that a certain Pink Pony has suddenly gone off her rocker. What could be the reason, and why?"</p>	everyone	2011-09-19T22:13:43+00:00	2011-09-19T22:13:43+00:00	10,312	THE MOST POWERFUL MAGIC Quite possibly one of the oddest structures in Ponyville was the tree house growing in the center of town. Not only was the hollowed out oak living despite ponies having taken residence in it, it was flourishing and was taller than some of the more normal looking domiciles in the area. In addition, the tree contained the town's one and only library. While the library was never a particularly popular spot in town, it was almost never empty like it was currently. It's unicorn caretaker was not there perusing the shelves, pulling down anything that interested her. In fact the caretaker's dragon assistant had made sure that the place was clean before he had left for his day's errands. Were the library a sentient being capable of speech, it might express some thanks for the bit of privacy it was granted this day. However, like all good things, it was not to last. A purple blur crashed through the entrance to the library, not bothering to close the door behind her. She knew that it's flimsy wood would not stop her pursuer for long. As quickly as she could, she ran up the stairs leading to her room and slammed the door behind her. Hearing trampling hoofsteps bounding up the stairs, she lit her horn and picked up her bed, her dresser, and anything else she could lift with her magic and piled them against the door. Throwing herself against the makeshift barrier, she braced herself for an impact, which quickly came with a loud thump and a surprised "Ow!". Twilight Sparkle sighed with relief. Her barricade had only budged slightly at the collision. Shifting the load in front of the door slightly she peeped through the keyhole. On the other side of the door was a pink-maned earth pony with her eyes closed, rubbing her forehead in pain. Twilight was hit with a twinge of regret for hurting her friend, but it was soon wiped away when the pink party pony suddenly jumped up on all fours and knocked on the door with her head, causing the fortification to rock much more than Twilight thought possible. Pulling her attention away from the keyhole, Twilight adjusted the items in front of the door the best she could in case her friend attempted another assault on her temporary fortress. "Our first date and already you want to take me back to your bedroom? I must be good! Oh but Twilight you silly filly, you locked the door with me on the wrong side!" Pinkie Pie said. "W-what made you think we were on a date?", Twilight said with a thrill of horror, a heavy box she had been repositioning falling out of mid-air as she lost concentration. "Well duh! When I asked you out you were so happy that you screamed! Then we went on a romantic jogging tour of Ponyville! Don't you remember? Is all that knowledge in your head knocking your memories away? That only happened like a few minutes ago, Twilight!" Pinkie Pie replied with a snorting giggle. "I remember the running quite well, but I assure you I do not remember anything about that being a date. I don't even like you like that Pinkie Pie!" Twilight said with a small grumble. The bookish unicorn thought that Pinkie had a rather skewed view of the events that just transpired. Twilight had been sitting in the park, minding her own business and reading a book about Haynman's lost lectures on planetary motion when she had been tackled by a pink blur screaming a war cry of "My one true love!" She had managed to pry herself from the obviously crazed earth pony and tried her best to lose her among the various backstreets and houses in Ponyville. Pinkie seemed to be two steps ahead of wherever she went however, as everywhere the Princess' protege tried to run she was ambushed by a bubblegum pink pony appearing out of a container or flowerpot, or on one frighteningly memorable occasion, out of a cake when she had tried seeking refuge at Sugarcube Corner. "What? That's impossible, you HAVE to love me Twilight! One of the most powerful magics in this or any other world is bringing us together! Couldn't you sense it? Can't you feel it?" Pinkie Pie begged. Clearly her friend had finally cracked. Twilight always thought that Pinkie was a bit more unhinged than most of the other ponies in this town, but she was clearly having some sort of mental breakdown. Twilight had been worried about her lately. The day after Rarity and Fluttershy's "Congratulations-You-Two-Finally-Got-Together-What-Took-You-Guys-So-Long Party" she seemed to get rather clingy and her antics rather more frantic. This trend continued and worsened after Rainbow Dash and Applejack got together. As calmly as possible, the concerned purple unicorn said, "I am sorry, but I just don't like you in that way Pin-" "YOU CANNOT DENY THE PINKIE SPARKLE!" Pinkie Pie said, cutting off Twilight and banging on the door with her hooves. "Now open this door so we can confess, make passionate love, get married, and somehow have lesbian babies through the use of magic!" Shocked by the bluntness, Twilight replied, "P-Pinkie Pie, what are you saying! That's cra-" "You're right!" Pinkie pie interrupted again giggling, "What was I thinking? Twilight Pie rolls off the tongue so much better!" "Pinkie..." Twilight said a little more sternly. "No good? How about Twi-Pie?" "Pinkie! I DO NOT LIKE YOU IN THAT WAY!" bellowed Twilight in a voice louder than she meant it to be. There was silence, and then she heard a soft popping noise, followed by something that sounded akin to the deflation of a balloon. Peeping out the keyhole once again, Twilight saw a dejected looking pink pony sitting on her haunches looking at the door, her hair hanging loosely at her sides. In a voice that made Twilight's heart almost break in two, Pinkie Pie said, "Can't you even give our love a chance? You might like it and be happy..." at which point her spastic friend lunged at the keyhole, forcing her head through, her exclamation of "FOREVER!" cut short by a pair of purple hooves doing their best to shove the furry pink intruder back to the side of the door the rest of her body was on. After that there was a silence that seemed to stretch on for a good minute. Looking out the keyhole again, she saw a pair of big blue eyes staring back at her. Feeling that she should break the lull in conversation, Twilight Sparkle asked, "I'm sorry Pinkie Pie. This is just so random, even for you! It's completely out of no where! I mean, you've never shown any affection for me before this! Why now all of a sudden?" "Never shown any affection? Do you remember the first thing I did when I saw you in Ponyville?" Pinkie said. "Err... You jumped into the air and gasped?" "Yeah, and what did I say to you?" "Uh, nothing, you kinda ran away after that to plan a party..." Pointing a hoof at Twilight, Pinkie said, "Exactly! I was just so stunned by your beauty, your grace, your obvious intelligence! I couldn't speak, I couldn't think of anything to say! Have you ever seen me unable to say anything? That would be like Applejack not being able to buck a tree, or Rainbow Dash not wanting to race someone! It just doesn't happen! I knew when I saw you that I needed to do something extra special to get your attention, so I threw you the biggest welcoming party I could and invited every single pony in Ponyville! I brought my favorite hot sauce for the cupcakes! I even brought my favorite game, Pin the tail on the Pony! I was hoping that when you were having tons of fun and making tons of friends you would think back to a certain pink pony who made it all happen and maybe ask her out for pizza or a smoothie or something..." Thinking about it, Twilight realized that her welcoming party ( the little she saw of it anyway) had been quite a bit more spectacular than any other welcoming party Pinkie had thrown. It was certainly much more grandiose than Gilda's party. At the time she had just assumed that's what Pinkie Pie did was throw large parties, but maybe she did care for her? Maybe she should just... No! What was she thinking? "W-well, be that as it may... That was a bit subtle. I don't know how you expected me to-" "What about later that day! Or maybe I should say the next day? It wasn't quite day yet after all... Well whatever! I had the feeling that my true and honest feelings weren't getting through, so I said something to you at the Summer Sun Celebration! Do you remember what it was?" Pinkie said, frowning. "Err, it was, uh..." Hitching a giant grin on her face that contrasted horribly with her straightened hair, she said, "Isn't this exciting? Are you excited, 'cause I'm excited, I've never been so excited, well, except for that time that I saw you walking into town and I went" Pinkie stopped here to gasp and make a goofy face. She then finished, "but I mean really, who can top that?" Letting the sad look back onto her face, the deflated earth pony continued, "Why would I say something like that to somepony I had met only hours before unless there was some deeper meaning too it?" Twilight Sparkle didn't honestly have an answer to that question. Once again, she simply assumed it to be part of her bubbly nature. Desperately trying to think of a way out of this, she said, "Even then, that quite a long while ago! If you had dropped more hints maybe I might have-". "Dropped more hints! Who was the first person I came to when I was having problems with Dashie during the whole Gilda episode? Who was trying their hardest to gather instruments to fight off Parasprites so that her perfect purple protege pony could have a nice day with her god-empress mentor? Who did their best to make sure a certain bookish pony didn't reveal her friend's secrets and lose them as friends and be sad? Not to mention how embarrassingly obvious I was when were fighting over the gala tickets..." Pinkie finished with a sigh. "Gala tickets? What do you mean?", Twilight asked, quickly cursing her naturally inquisitive nature. Pinkie Pie flushed slightly, but said, "Once I figured out that those two tickets weren't bats, I thought I knew immediately what Celestia wanted you to do with them... A pair of tickets to one of the most prestigious and romanticized events in ponydom? You obviously had to look for a date! You can imagine my shock and confusion when every single one of our friends was trying to court you... I mean I figured it out pretty fast that you were just looking for a companion to go with, but even if we had just gone as friends, that would have made me the happiest pony in the world! I even did my best with that song I sang..." "S-song?" Pinkie Pie sighed again, and then started singing, ~Twilight is my bestest friend, whoopee Whoopee! She's the cutest, smartest, all around best po-nee Po-nee! I bet if I throw a super-duper fun par-tee Par-tee! She'll give her extra ticket to the Gala to me!~ "...that second line is the most important one! For a while, I even thought my feelings had finally gotten through... That day when you found out about my pinkie sense you did nothing but follow me around all day! Even if you were just watching, even if it was just because you wanted to find out more about my pinkie sense and not more about me, it filled my heart with a joy I haven't felt since the first time I saw the sonic rainboom! You even strapped me to a machine down in your basement! I mean, I was a bit disappointed because that didn't end up going the direction I thought it was going, but it was still exciting nonetheless!" Pinkie said, a single tear sliding down the side of her face. Twilight hadn't heard most of that last paragraph however, she had simply sat with her mouth hanging open. She wasn't even looking through the keyhole anymore, she was just too shocked. How had she not realized how much Pinkie Pie cared for her? After that marvelously pink pony (pink like the glorious rise of dawn, now that she thought on it a little longer) had explained it the love she felt almost seemed far too obvious! Twilight knew she wasn't the most socially aware pony around, but she thought she was better than that... Maybe she should... "Hey, Pinkie? Let's give us a shot... I must be crazy, but let's try", Twilight said, carefully removing the lighter objects from the top of the pile in front of the door. . Almost immediately after this announcement. Twilight heard a sound like air rushing into something. Handing the flowerpot she was holding to the pony behind her, Twilight glanced through the keyhole again and saw no cotton candy maned pony. Then quickly realizing that there shouldn't be a pony behind her, she spun around to see puffy pink hair and sky blue eyes looking happily back at her. "Pinkie! How did you get inside this room?!" Taking no other notice of the question than a brief silence and a blink, Pinkie said, "Did you mean what you said? Did you mean it when you said you love me forever and ever and never want to be apart from me?" "Well, I didn't exactly say all that but-" but Twilight didn't get to finish, as her mouth was quickly filled with the pretty pink party pony's perky tongue. Twilight had her eyes opened in shock at first, but then she slowly closed them as the feeling of Pinkie's lips washed over her. This wasn't like being kissed on the cheek or on the forehead. It burnt, but burnt in a good way, a fulfilling burn that filled her whole body. Through this however, something Pinkie said earlier entered her head and wouldn't leave... Freeing herself from Pinkie and making a slight suction noise in the process, Twilight asked, "Pinkie Pie, when you said one of the most powerful magics in the world was bringing us together did you mean... The magic of friendship?" "No silly!", Pinkie Pie giggled, grabbed Twilight Sparkle around the shoulders with one leg and pointing out a window with the other, "It's a special kind of magic, one that can't be cast by anypony. A magic known for being the ultimate in ad-hoc reasoning. A magic older than ponydom itself..." Grabbing the purple unicorn suddenly by both shoulders and staring straight into her eyes, she continued, "...The magic of 'pairing the spares'!" Looking at Pinkie, Twilight said confused, "Pairing the...?" But all questions were quickly put out of her mind as Pinkie planted another deep kiss on her lips. "Whatever this magic is...", Twilight thought to herself, wrapping her hooves around Pinkie's neck, "I approve greatly!" THE END
Darklordcomp	921	1	Adventure,Alternate Universe,Sad	The Story of Stardust: Memory	A young filly is found outside Celestia's door and is sent to Twilight to learn the magic of Friend	incomplete	123	10	<p>Cover Image by: Stalin the Stallion <br />Princess Celestia finds a young filly outside her bedroom door, she is alone in the world, without friend nor family to guide her. Seeing this as an opportunity to give her student one last test Celestia sends the filly to Ponyville, to be taught under the tutelage of Twilight Sparkle, Element of Magic, and to be given the Family she never had. Follow the tale of Stardust the Apprentice to Twilight Sparkle and the trials she endures. <br /><br />First of the Stardust Trilogy</p>	everyone	null	2012-09-27T00:16:20+00:00	3,473	The start of a story (REMADE AND RE MASTERED CHAPTER ENJOY!) The night was young and the air was clean as Luna's moon began its ascent over the Canterlot skyline. The capital city was beginning it's nightly routines and Luna's guard replaced Celestia's thus starting the night shift, the noise of the cities elite and common ponies began to die down as they all made way towards their homes, and all was silent, well not quite. In the cover of night a lone unicorn moved through the gardens of Castle Canterlot, the pony moved slowly through the garden, making their way towards one of the many open windows that the guards left open to allow the Night princesses' bats free reign to come and go as they please. The unicorn jumped through the window, landing on her hooves and stepping into the dim light of the castle halls revealing the unicorn to be a filly, which looked as if she hadn't eaten in days, her eyes filled with sadness and hunger. The filly’s eyes scanned the hall and after making sure nopony saw her entry she began searching for her goal, the Kitchens. At the other end of the castle that housed Celestia's quarters, light filtered from the goddess’s room revealing that the princess of the sun was still awake, Celestia had begun reading late at night as a way to calm herself and relax from the stress of royal life. But tonight she wasn’t reading a novel or exploring the world of fiction and adventure; she was simply sitting in her rooms study, trying to think of anything, anything at all that she could teach her faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. The lavender mare was getting to the point where she had nothing left to learn from her teacher, and in the princesses mind Twilight was more than ready to step out on her own and prove herself. The unicorn was more than good enough to be promoted to the rank of Archmage but Celestia knew Twilight would deny the promotion, she loved Ponyville, and the friends she had made over the past two years, and Celestia had no intention of taking that away from her student. But how would the princess test her apprentice, without requiring her to move away from all that she loved? Magic was out of the question, since Twilight was the embodiment of magic itself and made almost any magical endeavor, save raising the sun, impossibly easy for the unicorn. The unicorn filly was busy digging through the royal kitchen looking for anything that she could easily drag out with her and not be noticed by the night guard. The sound of hoof steps startled the child, causing her to rip a bag of flower and run to the nearest hiding spot. She tried her best to stay quiet as a unicorn guard passed by her hiding spot, stopping at the ripped flower bag and narrowing his eyes, he noticed the hoof prints that led to the pantry that the filly had hidden in and began moving towards it. The filly closed her eyes and began to pray that she wouldn’t be found; the guard opened the door and looked directly at the filly for a split second, then closed the pantry door and turned to leave the kitchen. The filly couldn’t believe her luck, and silently thanked whatever power had spared her as she stepped out of her hiding spot. But just when she thought she was in the clear a single can fell from its place. Celestia had spent the past twenty minutes writing and rewriting her letter the Twilight Sparkle, she wanted to let her know that her time as a student was coming to an end, but each time she would sign the letter the princess would begin to tear up and smudge the ink. Celestia hated the idea of losing Twilight as her student; sure the two could share letters and see each other anytime Celestia so wished, but the sun goddess had found that she had grown attached to the unicorn in ways that she had never foreseen. Celestia was just about to start on a new letter when a large crashing sound interrupted her. She stood in shock, was the castle under attack? she had moved towards her door to find out what was causing the noise when the sound of yelling guards intensified, Celestia quickly ran out the door to investigate. “STOP RIGHT THEIR CRIMINAL SCUM!” the unicorn guard shouted, he and his companion we’re running after a young filly who had managed to sneak onto castle grounds. Celestia was tempted to intervene, but she remembered that she had promised her Captains that she would let the guards fix their own mistakes, or they’d never let her hear the end of it. She walked back into her room and picked up where she left off on her letter. The filly was surprised at how easy it is to get out away from the guards, who were supposed to be the best service ponies Canterlot had to offer. She turned another corner and bumped right into a tall unicorn guard, he looked down on her with surprise and then annoyance. The guard stepped on her tail and waited for the two he had been chasing her. The Two guards skidded to a grinding halt and salute at the unicorn who had managed to capture the child, he narrowed his eyes at them “You care to explain this to me Sargent Light brigade” he said pointing to the filly with his free hoof. “Yes sir Captain Shining Armor sir!” the taller of the Two guards spoke, “This child managed to get into the kitchen and was caught stealing from the pantry.” He finished in a shaky voice. The Captain continued to glare at them and levitated the filly and giving her to the Sergent, lifting his hoof off of her tail, He glared daggers into them “bring her to the Princess, I'm pretty sure she'd want to know why her peaceful sleep was disturbed and she'd know what to do with this one" he said looking at the filly "and then when your done with that go clean up the kitchen, I’m sure Soufflé would hate to see that his kitchen has been ruined because of a few guards incompetence.” He made an about face and trotted away shaking his head disappointed in his guards. The guards looked at the now crying filly and then began their trek down to the Princesses room. Celestia still hadn't finished her letter and was dosing off at her desk, not used to staying up late after Luna's return, she was just about to descend into the dream world when a Knock on her door roused her from her trance. Celestia was met at her door by two of the Lunar guard, not Luna's personal body guards that had the distinct draconic eyes or bat wings, but normal Lunar Guard, who where carrying a lone filly in their magical clutches, Celestia recognized her as the same child that had caused the disturbance a few moments earlier. She had a gray coat with a beautiful blue mane that was unkempt and uncleaned, Celestia could tell that the child hadn't eaten in days. Celestia looked back to the Sergent, "Light Brigade what brings you to my door this fine evening" she asked, eying the filly. Your Highness, private Moonshine found her while on patrol in the royal pantry, we chased her half way across the castle before Captain Shinning Armor apprehended her, He said you'd decide what to do with her?" Light Brigade answered. The Princess tried not to chuckle at the prospect of two of Equestria's finest chasing a child around the castle, she then looked at the child for a moment and then knew what to do. "Go and rouse the chef to prepare a soup and have it delivered to my room. I'll take the child and decide what to do with her after she gets fed, after all a child should never be punished for being hungry." the princess commanded winking at the still frightened unicorn filly. The two guards looked at each other and let out a held breath, they had expected to be punished more likely than not and relinquished the child to the princesses care and went to the kitchen to wake the chef. Celestia giggled at the guards as they left, 'they must be new' she said in her head as she guided the filly into her room with a wing. The young filly looked in amazement at the solar princesses room as Celestia wrapped the girl in a blanket and looked at her. "Child what you did was very reckless I hope you know that" she scolded the filly, who's ears flattened back in fear, Celestia noticed this and sighed "I understand that you are hungry little one, and I know what that is like, do not fret you are in no trouble, could you tell me your name?" the princess' voice was gentle and soothing; she didn't want to scare the child even more. The filly was silent for a few seconds but then she finally answered. "I... I'm Stardust." Celestia smiled. "Stardust is a beautiful name." She noticed how her comment had made the filly perk up a bit. After a few more questions and answers the soup finally arrived and Celestia noticed the chef had added in crackers and a sandwich. he must have been informed of the filly's condition by the guards, Celestia thought nodding to Stardust to indicate that she could eat as much as she wanted. the filly dug into her food eating it ravenously while Celestia thought about what she should do with the child. I can't punish her for wanting to eat, and I can't keep her here, royal life would prevent me from teaching and caring for her, so what should I... Celestia's thoughts trailed off and she smiled. She pulled out a quill and scroll and began to write to her student Twilight Sparkle, she had finally figured out what she was going to say to her faithful student. Stardust had finished eating and had fallen asleep by the time Celestia sent the letter away, and the sun princess turned to her and smiled.Tomorrow will be a busy day for you, my little pony. Celestia chuckled in her mind, walking to her bed and entering the world of dreams with the filly. Down the mountain and through the forest lay the sleeping town of Ponyville, the only lights apparent was that of the library that Twilight Sparkle called home, Twilight Sparkle was sitting in her room trying to figure out the spell she was finally about to perfect, the art of invisibility, when a loud burp interrupted her concentration, the spell backfired and launched Twilight back into a bookshelf, she stood up and shook her head an angry expression on present on face, Twilight looked at the disturbance, Spike the dragon, whom she was about to scold for interrupting her spell when he rudely threw a scroll at her and went back up to his bed to sleep. Twilight sighed, she'd let Spike get off easy this time, opening the letter and began to read it to herself. My dearest, most faithful student, Twilight Sparkle, It has come to my attention that their is nothing left to teach you about magic or friendship, and that you have become a much wiser pony than I ever could have hoped. You have passed all the trials that have been thrown your way and for that I am sincerely proud of you, It is now my duty as your princess and your teacher to move you up into the ranks of the Magi, do not worry you won't have to leave Ponyville, since they are in need of a Magi anyway, You will be given all the rights and privileges of a mage, being able to order level 4 and 5 ranked spell tomes and books for your use and study, you will also be able to teach a student. That brings me to the next topic of discussion, Earlier tonight a little filly named Stardust was caught sneaking into the castle,trying to steal food from the royal kitchen. She is in my room sleeping at the moment after a good meal from the kitchen. She requires the a guardian, a mentor, and a friend and I am afraid that I cannot fulfill the role because of my duties to Equestria, and Luna is still too culture shocked to help at all. I am sending Stardust to Ponyville to be put under your care. I know this is all shocking to you Twilight, but she is young and needs the power of friendship more than ever. I have full faith that you will be able to take this young unicorn under your wing and allow her to shine. She will arrive by chariot in the morning. Your mentor Friend, Princess Celestia. P.S. Tell Spike I'm sorry for the late letter P.P.S. Also, tell Pinkie Pie not to throw Stardust a party, she is still to fragile and shy for such things. Twilight's mouth was agape and her face was strewn with shock. Celestia not only said she was no longer a student, she also was sending Twilight a student to teach the ways of friendship! Twilight had no idea what to do, how would she teach her? how would Spike react? these thoughts raced through Twilight's mind before she managed to get to sleep, and had nightmares about the days to come. The next morning Twilight called her friends to the library to explain what had transpired that night. As soon as she finished telling them about Stardust and her elevated rank as Magi, Pinkie began drawing up party plans. "Ok, I will need balloons and food and mmmph!" Pinkie was cut off by Rainbow Dash putting a hoof in her mouth. "Didn't you listen to Twilight? Princess Celestia said not to throw her a party!" Rainbow Dash shouted at her pink friend Pinkie Pie frowned. "N..no party?" she looked down sad at the prospect of not being able to throw a party for a new pony. "Ah know you want to throw a party for this youngin, Pinkie, but we need to let her set in and get comfortable with the folks of Ponyville first, Maybe you can throw her a party when she's been here for a few days?" Applejack suggested with a smile. Pinkie Pie seemed to cheer up at her friend's. suggestion. "Okie dokie lokie!" She jumped up and down with a smile. Spike ran into the room, a big smile plastered on his face. "She's here!" He shouted. He was more excited about Stardust than anypony else in the building; he enjoyed the aspect of having somepony to help around the Library. All of them rushed outside of the library, the carriage landing. There stood princess Celestia, with a little filly cowering under her wing. Celestia looked at Twilight and smiled. "Hello, my faithful student, oh wait silly me, Hello Magi Sparkle," Celestia said with a smile and a wink at Twilight, who blushed, she looked down at the child hiding behind her. "Come on out, Stardust, we are here, their is nothing to be afraid of these ponies will be good to you." she spoke in the same calming tone she was known for having. Stardust hesitated, but she trusted Celestia and came out from behind the sun princess. She looked around the place that she was going to be living at. It was as beautiful as Celestia had described, bringing a smile to Stardust's face. Celestia allowed Stardust to leave the carriage before turning back to Twilight. "I would stay and catch up, but I have an important meeting to attend with the Ambassador of the Griffin Empire today." She then looked to Stardust and knelled down to be at eye level with the little unicorn. "That's Twilight Sparkle, the unicorn I told you about. You're in good hooves little one, she will keep you safe and teach you a great many things, you like I promised." She smiled. Stardust hugged Celestia and whispered a thank you to the princess. Twilight had never seen anypony who could become so close to the sun princess in such a short time. What Celestia and Stardust had wasn't a teacher/student relationship like the one Twilight had with the princess, but it was more like a friend saying goodbye to a friend. With her goodbyes settled and a cupcake from Pinkie Pie, Celestia waved goodbye to the town of Ponyville and took off back towards Canterlot. Twilight let out a breath as she tried not to let her nervousness show, "Hello Stardust, I'm Twilight Sparkle and it seems like you're going to be living with me from now on. This is Spike, he's my number one assistant." Stardust looked at the baby dragon with a sense of wonder. She had never seen a dragon before, and she ran over and hugged him. "You're so cute!" she exclaimed, while Spike just blushed. Twilight chuckled at the scene, Stardust was going to do just fine here. Applejack laughed, which startled Stardust as she let go of Spike and hid behind Twilight, returning to her meek personality. Applejack frowned "Oh, I'm sorry Stardust, where are my manners? ahm Applejack." She grinned as she tipped her stetson, but Stardust just looked at her, her eyes showing a little fear. Applejack sighed "Yer just like a certain shy pony Ah know. Ah run Sweet Apple Acres. If you want an apple, you can just come by with Twilight and a'll get you one. Ask anypony here, and they'll say we have the best apples in Equestria." she bragged with a smile. Stardust ears perked up at this. "Really?" She asked her stomach overriding her fear and shyness. Applejack chuckled. "Really." She said, which made the filly smile. Stardust was introduced to the others, and she liked all of them immediately. Well, except Rainbow Dash, who was incredibly loud with her introduction, which ended up making Stardust look almost as scared as Fluttershy when they had to get that dragon to leave. After the introductions, Twilight said her goodbyes and took Stardust in order to settle her into her new home. Twilight led Stardust into the Library, and gave her the grand tour. Unlike most other ponies that came to the library, Stardust looked around with great interest and awe. She was asking questions and listening to everything Twilight told her. Twilight already knew that Stardust would make a great student, and couldn't wait to teach her about magic, but she needed to know more about the filly first. She looked at her new apprentice with a smile. "Well, that was the tour." Twilight said. "How about we go get some lunch, and then we can decide what you'll be learning, maybe you can tell me more about yourself on the way." She offered. Stardust smiled at the idea of getting lunch, but had to ask Twilight something first. "If you're teaching me, then why do I get to decide what I learn? Isn't that your job as a teacher, even I know that" Twilight chuckled. "Maybe I should have clarified, I'm going to see what kind of magic your best at and ask you questions, so I can decide what you like and how to teach you, and once we figure that out you can decide what field of expertise you want to start studying." She explained. Stardust nodded at her. "Oh OK." She said, with a shy smile at her new teacher. Twilight walked towards the door and looked at Stardust. "Let's go eat. On the way there I can show you around Ponyville." Stardust's smile widened and she raced towards the door to see the town she would live in.
Darklordcomp	921	2	Adventure,Alternate Universe,Sad	The Story of Stardust: Memory	A young filly is found outside Celestia's door and is sent to Twilight to learn the magic of Friend	incomplete	123	10	<p>Cover Image by: Stalin the Stallion <br />Princess Celestia finds a young filly outside her bedroom door, she is alone in the world, without friend nor family to guide her. Seeing this as an opportunity to give her student one last test Celestia sends the filly to Ponyville, to be taught under the tutelage of Twilight Sparkle, Element of Magic, and to be given the Family she never had. Follow the tale of Stardust the Apprentice to Twilight Sparkle and the trials she endures. <br /><br />First of the Stardust Trilogy</p>	everyone	null	2012-09-27T00:20:22+00:00	174	Enjoy the remade chapter one guys :)
Darklordcomp	921	3	Adventure,Alternate Universe,Sad	The Story of Stardust: Memory	A young filly is found outside Celestia's door and is sent to Twilight to learn the magic of Friend	incomplete	123	10	<p>Cover Image by: Stalin the Stallion <br />Princess Celestia finds a young filly outside her bedroom door, she is alone in the world, without friend nor family to guide her. Seeing this as an opportunity to give her student one last test Celestia sends the filly to Ponyville, to be taught under the tutelage of Twilight Sparkle, Element of Magic, and to be given the Family she never had. Follow the tale of Stardust the Apprentice to Twilight Sparkle and the trials she endures. <br /><br />First of the Stardust Trilogy</p>	everyone	null	2013-01-10T04:36:35+00:00	105	This Week I'm going to revoke the submission of this story. Before the apocalypse sets in for people I'm going to explain why. I have had a giant writers block for about 4 months on this story and I want to be able to edit this story and have all of the chapters back up when I resubmit. This is Also so I can work on other shorter works While I get my mind together, Their will be regular updates on my profile telling you about how many chapters are done and such. I'm sorry for the Inconvenience for the people who still care about this story. If you want to help with editing and other such things drop me a line on Fimfiction in either the comments bellow, my profile, or by messaging me.
SyrinKitty	922	1	Princess Luna,Twilight Sparkle,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Common Sky	A sweet and gentle TwiLuna fic.	complete	1,805	28	<p>Twilight ventures out into the mountains to see a once-in-a-lifetime event. Disappointed by her friends not coming with her, Twilight crosses paths with a kindred spirit.</p>	everyone	2011-09-20T02:45:41+00:00	2011-09-20T02:45:41+00:00	28,482	“Ah'm tellin' you, you're makin' it way too pretty. It's all form and no function.” “Oh, please darling. If she's going to be out there all alone, then the least I can do is make sure she looks fabulous! What if she were to meet some nice fellow along the way, hmm? She'd look dreadful without proper fashionable winter attire.” “Ah don't think it's that kinda trip, sugarcube. She's goin' up int’the mountains, not lookin' to chat up some sophisticated pony in th’big city. She's gonna need lots’a pouches t'carry all 'er stuff, you ain’t got a single pouch or even a small pocket on that thing. Where's she gonna fit her telescope or her food?” “Why, in some one-of-a-kind-designer-saddle-bags I made for her, of course.” It was early evening in the dead of winter, and the dark starry sky overhead gleamed and sparkled above. The winter solstice had just passed, and with the season came less and less sunlight, bringing darkened coldness to the entire land of Equestria. Twilight Sparkle was walking along the narrow path to Rarity's boutique, looking up at the stars, as she began to overhear the conversation between her friends. “Ah see then. ... ... Gosh Rarity, y’even colour-coded the inner linin'. Is this thing gonna hold up alright?” “Are you doubting my skills, Applejack, darling? I’ll have you know that ALL of my fashionable items come with a one-hundred percent durability guarantee, thank you very much!” “Geez, ah didn't mean ta' imply--” “Imply what, exactly?” “N-Nothin’! Nothin’ at all!” “Well then! ... ... It does look alright, doesn't it?” “A-ah suppose it looks alright...” Twilight giggled to herself just outside the door. Those two always seemed to rub each other the wrong way, but these days it was almost as though they bickered like an old married couple. She quickly composed herself. “Hey guys, it's Twilight!” The door quickly opened, and Twilight was greeted by Applejack, who warmly greeted her. “Well hello there Twilight. Glad y’made it. Rarity here's just finishin' up.” “Hello there Twilight, I'll be just a moment. I just have to finish this... one... section...” Rarity continued to concentrate on the jacket she was making, magically making the final stitches to the bottom corner of fabric. She then placed her tools in a small tray to the side and finally turned around to face Twilight, looking quite accomplished with herself and beaming brightly. “There! Done! Now tell me, Twilight, is this suitably gorgeous? Functionally fashionable? This IS what you wanted, right...?,” she said, with a slight tinge of fearful expectation. Twilight scrutinized the dark violet jacket closely. It was lined with a wool-like material, and had black buttons close together running down one side, crossing over to the middle to provide more insulation to the chest. It was very large, covering the neck and fore-hooves, as well as having a hood which could be pulled over top her ears and head. Immediately, her mind started looking for flaws. She wondered if the lining being exposed over the sides would make it wear improperly, or if it would absorb more moisture, or if... “Hmm, well... it looks good... b--” She looked over to Rarity, who had an unfaltering, nervous grin, and big, gleaming eyes of expectation that only Rarity, or perhaps Pinkie Pie, could pull off. Looking back at the jacket, Twilight figured that just this once, she wouldn't look the gift-pony in the mouth. “It's... it's perfect! Thank you so much, Rarity!” Twilight laughed and smiled awkwardly, noticing the similarly-coloured saddle-bags sitting behind Rarity. “Oh, those must be the bags!” Rarity let the tension melt away with contented sigh. “Yes, yes they are, darling. And I made sure to mix both form AND function into their design.” She glared a little at Applejack, who chuckled, embarrassed, and scratched the back of her head. “... Oh my, maybe I should even start up a brand new line of outdoors adventure wear for the fashion-conscious customer? Oh, but it's already half way into the season... far, far too late to start designing. Perhaps this fall...” Twilight examined the bags. They looked rugged enough, and had a slightly off-violet colour to their sides, with black trim running down the corners and edges. Everything Rarity had made complimented Twilight's ‘natural complexion.’ Applejack interrupted as Rarity trailed off into her own little world of fashion and economics. “Well, ah reckon this’ll get ya where y’need to go. It's better then anythin' ah used to use when ah was doin' outdoors stuff in m’younger days. But are y’sure y’can't just see another meteor shower in the summer, when y’don't have t’worry 'bout freezin' t’death?” “I'll be okay AJ. Promise. Besides, this meteor shower only happens once in a THOUSAND years. This will be the first AND last time I ever see it!” “But... how is this meteor shower any different from any other meteor shower? Say, like the one we all saw during the summer? At least then you wouldn't have a good chance freezin' t’death.” Twilight sighed. She knew Applejack probably wouldn't understand, being so worldly and pragmatic. “I'm not going to freeze to death. It's a very important meteorological event, and I want to go see it, just once, you know? These are supposed to be the brightest shooting stars out of them all, even brighter than the ones we saw during the summer. The night is darkest during the winter, too!” “Ah well, maybe ah just don't get it. Y’just be safe, y’hear?” “Applejack's right. You'd better be safe out there, darling. We simply couldn't stand to have anything happen to you.” Twilight giggled. It was nice having friends so concerned about her. “It's alright. You made me this awesome stuff, and I'm sure it'll keep me warm the entire time I'm up there. Thank you so much, both of you.” ~ Twilight Sparkle had been looking forward to this meteor shower ever since she learned about it during the summer. She had thought about it quite a bit, wondering if it would be too cold to even attempt. She would need to travel two days out of town, all the way into the mountains. The tree-line was too shallow to see it properly in Ponyville, and the rest was obscured by the mountain range. She'd need to stay at least two or three nights to make it worth it, as well, which practically made it a week vacation. Despite her reservations, the compulsion to see this once-in-a-lifetime event drove her to inevitably plead Rarity to help her make the things she'd need with no time to spare. Rarity managed to finish it with Applejack's ‘woodspony’ expertise in record time, even with the custom fabric she needed to order. As Twilight walked slowly home, looking up at the shimmering sky, she questioned doing this on her own, but knew none of her friends could be talked into going. Rarity and Applejack obviously had their own reservations, Fluttershy couldn't be separated from tending to the sick animals that couldn't survive the winter without her (even if she liked the idea), and Rainbow Dash, of course, said she'd feel too bored just looking at stars all the time. Even Spike said he'd much rather tend to Twilight's house while she was gone, being content with “not being cold and wet all the time.” The only one left was Pinkie Pie, and Twilight figured that star-gazing and just enjoying ‘calm tranquillity’ wouldn't be her 'thing.' All of them had immensely enjoyed the meteor shower over the summer, of course, but this was just too 'extreme.’ It wasn't too extreme for Twilight, though. Twilight finally made it home. It was dark inside, and none of the lights were on. Spike was taking a nap, since he tended to get tired when it got dark. She smiled and walked up to him, tucking the baby dragon in, as he shuffled around a little and murmured to himself. She decided she'd better write Celestia to tell her what she was planning. She moved over to her desk, lighting the post-lamp nearby with her magic. She took out a blank piece of parchment, and her quill and ink jar from the side table. ----- Dear Princess Celestia, I hope you're doing well! Everything is quiet here in Ponyville. This isn't a regular update, per-se... it's mostly to inform you that I'll be travelling out west to watch the meteor showers that you may or may not be aware of. Thus, I may not be able to make my regular updates. I hope you'll understand. I need to go up into the mountains, where it’ll be very cold. Unfortunately, none of my friends are willing to go with me up there for the next few nights. I really wanted to share this with them, but I don’t think this is something anypony I know is up for. But... I should be more understanding, right? This is my hobby, not theirs, and it’ll take a lot of time to get there and back. Sometimes doing something on your own is okay. That's a good lesson to take away from this, right? Your Faithful Student, Twilight Sparkle ----- Twilight sighed to herself, as she began to draw a small map on the bottom of the letter, so Celestia would know where she was in case anything should happen. She kept the letter short and brisk, since her heart wasn’t really into it. She let the ink dry for a moment, before rolling the letter up, and placing it beside Spike's bed quietly as not to wake him. She figured he'd send it once he woke up, as he usually did if she decided to write a letter during the middle of the night. Content with her Royal duties fulfilled, she walked over to one of the side windows, looking out at the stars and the moon hanging overhead in the sky. The moon was waxing into a crescent moon, and the stars sparkled with beautiful radiance. The snow, which caressed every crevice of every object outside, reflected the moon and star-light perfectly, creating a soft, bright blue, almost-twilight glow to everything that it touched. She loved nights like this, where the crisp, clean air of the winter made everything look just a little sharper. The spring and summer skies always had that little bit of humidity in the air, which would obscure some of the finer detail, but in the winter, there was none. On nights like these, she could almost feel the stars and the moon reflect off of her eyes, instilling a kind of calmness in her heart. She could walk alone on nights like this and never feel scared. Seeing this familiar view gave her extra resolve to go on this journey. She could only imagine what sights awaited her in the nights to come. ~ “Yo, Twilight!” Rainbow Dash's voice boomed from overhead, as she swooped down and quickly landed beside Twilight. “I got it!” It was daytime once more, and Twilight was walking up to Rarity's shop to get prepared for the trip. “Oh, thank you Rainbow Dash,” replied Twilight. Rainbow Dash handed Twilight a sheet of especially strong-stock paper. “Don't sweat it! Just make sure you watch it out there. That one day near the end is going to be a totally killer storm, and you'll be dead meat if you're outside!” Twilight looked it over closely. It was, of course, the 'seven day schedule' from the Weather Service in Cloudsdale. All of the days looked bright and clear, although a major storm was being scheduled for later in the week. “Thanks,” said Twilight appreciatively, smiling. “This is a major help. Now I'll know when it's safe to come home.” “So, you're sure you wanna go do this? This is really dangerous, you know, for an egghead like you. And not in the good way.” “Yes, I'm sure I want to go,” Twilight said, rolling her eyes. She was getting tired of answering that particular question every single time. The only one who didn't was Pinkie Pie, who just bounced up and down and promised to bake her tons of stuff. Twilight was half certain that Pinkie would just load her up with sweets on her way out of town – to “always be prepared” - and she'd have to subsist on candy for those five or six days she'd be gone. “Fine fine, I'm sure I'M not going to change your mind. Anyways, they were gonna have another storm in the middle there, but I had them move it back. They owed me a favour anyways,” said Rainbow Dash, folding her arms and smiling triumphantly. “Thanks, Dash. Now, come inside and help, okay?” said Twilight, giggling at her bravado. It was only an hour or so later that Twilight was able to leave, completely suited up in Rarity's coat and bags. She was already outside, since the jacket was way too warm to stand being inside anywhere for very long. Everypony was waiting for her to set down the main road out of town, admiring the fine handiwork of her jacket and bags. “Oh darling, it looks amazing on you! I'm DEFINITELY going to expand my business to include kind of attire for 'adventurers' such as yourself. When you get back, you MUST model for me. You will, wont you? Pretty please?” Rarity asked pleadingly, with her hooves together. “Um... let me think about it when I get back, okay? That isn't a 'no,' of course. After all, I do owe you one for all this.” “Oh of course. Silly me, you're all worried about this trip,” replied Rarity in a kind of chiding voice. “Yeah, y’take care of yourself now, y'hear?” warned Applejack. “Oh, um... Twilight will be okay though, right...?” said a flustered Fluttershy, almost hiding behind Applejack. “Don't y’worry now Fluttershy, ah'm sure Twilight'll be just fine. She's a big filly, she can take care of herself. She's just gotta be extra careful to not get hurt.” “Oh, but... what if she does get hurt out there, wont she be all alone?” Fluttershy seemed to get even more worried, motioning towards her violet friend. “I'm... not that worried, guys. Seriously,” Twilight replied, shaking her head in mild defeat. “Yeah, guys,” said Rainbow Dash, “It'll be good weather most of the time she's gone. It's not THAT dangerous. She's got that big jacket and everything!” Rainbow Dash finished. Twilight then felt a huge weight suddenly press into her back, nearly making her legs buckle. “What the...?!” She then turned her head and saw Pinkie Pie bouncing up and down. Pinkie had loaded her down with a huge, ginormous pink bag full of candy and individually-wrapped cupcakes, right on cue. “Pinkie... Pie... I can't carry... all of this!” “Sure ya can! If you don't, you wont have enough candy to throw an amazing party without me around with the first random pony you meet! How can you have a party without candy?!” replied Pinkie Pie, continuing to bounce up and down, with a look of glee on her face. “Pinkie Pie! Please... this is very generous... but can you please... just put some in my bags? This is really too much,” Twilight pleaded. “Oh, okay! I wasn't actually going to make you carry all that candy though, that’d just be silly! You thought I was being for real? Silly Twilight.” Pinkie Pie continued bouncing, the pink bag of candy continuing to press into Twilight’s spine. “Pinkie--!” “Oh, right!” She finally took the weight off of Twilight, who sighed in relief. “You can fill up the spare space in my bags, okay?” continued Twilight, smiling nervously. “Okie-dokie!” Pinkie then quickly shoved a hoof-ful of candy into both sides, and zipped them up tightly. “Remember, this is ONLY enough candy for a party of TWO. If it's a party of THREE, give ol' Pinkie Pie a call! Oh, wait, that would make it a party of four, wouldn't it? Then you'd need even MORE candy!” Applejack sighed, and finally interjected. “Pinkie Pie... ah think Twilight really oughta get goin'.” “Right!” said Pinkie, bouncing her away to be alongside the other ponies. “Have a super-duper awesome time, Twilight!” Twilight smiled at all of them. Even though they weren't coming with her, she could still feel all of their love and concern for her. That alone was enough to alleviate some of her regret. “Thank you, all of you. I'll be back in about six days. If I don't return, then I just want you to know that I've enjoyed all the time I've spent with all of you, and that I've left my will in an envelope under my mattress.” All of them gasped in disbelief, moving towards her quickly. Twilight waved her hoof and giggled. “I'm kidding, guys. KIDDING. Oh Celestia, you're all more wound up than I am. Just make sure Spike does his chores around the house for me, okay?” She then turned and started walking, waving in their direction. “See you all in a week!” Everypony said their goodbyes and so-longs to her, and Twilight turned and started to head up the main road. The weather looked good, and the tension inside of her finally started to build up. She couldn't believe she was actually doing it, but she was, and that fact alone was making her more excited than anything else in the world. ~ The path was snow-covered, and the sky overcast. It was a bleak kind of grey that populated most of the winter. The Pegasus ponies tended to let these overcast conditions happen more often during the cold season, since it wasn't really necessary to keep clouds in a particular formation for crop growth. The weather schedule that Rainbow Dash had given her said they would clear it up the next day, around the same time Twilight would arrive at her destination. Perfect timing, thought Twilight, as she continued on her journey towards the mountain range. It had been quite a few hours since she had left Ponyville. Snow covered the ground where grass had once grown, and the empty branches of trees contrasted themselves against the pale grey sky. Aside from the occasional sign-post along the path, it seemed that life itself had gone into hibernation. It was so calm and quiet, unlike the summer, and she couldn't hear a single animal in the bushes or a single draft of wind moving a branch. She was approaching the point where she would need to turn in for the night, since the sun set very early. She had set out kind of late to begin with, but only to make sure she'd be able to get there without straining herself and being too exhausted to see the stars. With nothing to occupy her thoughts, Twilight's mind roamed to various subjects, as it usually did when she was alone and didn't have a book in front of her. She thought of her destination, as to whether or not it'd be suitable despite Rainbow Dash's insistence that it would be. She thought about Princess Celestia, about her one and only encounter with Nightmare Moon, and her friends. She'd repeat the rationalization of why they didn't come in her head, and keep her thoughts moving. Now she was thinking of some random spells she had read in one of her obscure books, and after that, remembering how a random colt had embarrassed himself at the last “Pinkie-Party” by accidentally slamming into the punch bowl and sending it flying towards Rarity. Then she remembered some of the wild parties Celestia tried to coerce her into going to while she lived in Canterlot. Twilight figured now that it was her refusal to make friends and be in social settings that had landed her in Ponyville in the first place. Her mind drifted to a cafe in Canterlot she missed going to, and talking to one or two of the other ‘intellectuals’ she could stand being around. Through all this, Twilight knew that if somepony could read her thoughts, they'd swear she was more disorganized and random than Pinkie Pie, and that was saying something. She spent so much time re-organizing her library simply to keep herself sane, but it was basically a front for how disorganized the rest of her was. Twilight's brain could never slow down or stop thinking, even for a second. The only thing that really calmed her down was star-gazing, especially if it was the kind of astronomy that didn't involve fiddling around with telescopes too much. “There,” Twilight said aloud, stopping for a moment to clear her head. The path weaving up into the mountain rage came into view, and she decided that she would set up camp at the tree line on the side of the road. “I'm right on schedule. I'll be able to finish this tomorrow.” The familiar fields of Ponyville had been replaced with an forest that surrounded and arched over the main road. She veered off the path, and sat down on a patch of relatively flat, snow-covered terrain, looking around herself to make sure it'd work well enough for her tent. ~ Night descended, and the overcast clouds brought a very light snowfall with them, covering the ground with a soft white powder. Twilight was in her tent on the side of the road, reading a book, naturally. It was a large tent, way bigger than was necessary for just one pony. She munched on some dried apple slices that Applejack had given to her, flipping the pages idly. Nothing really caught her eye, even after flipping through random pages to see if anything jumped out at her. Bored with it, she flopped onto her back. For a few moments, she attempted to think nothing, which was a futile endeavour, to be sure. The lamp beside her filled the tent with light which flickered and danced on the ceiling. there wasn't a sound to be heard. Her eyes casually darted around the tent, admiring the crevices and corners. She shifted, grumbling. She felt agitated. 'Ah-ha,' Twilight thought to herself, after a few moments. 'Being alone! I've been so enthralled with my friends, being dragged on their crazy adventures, that I've barely had a moment to think by myself.' It was true that there always seemed to be fires to put out in Ponyville. It was so unlike her time in the library in Canterlot, where she was free to study almost entirely on her own, with the occasional help of her ‘Research Assistant’ Spike, of course. Now that she was alone, doing something on her own again, she didn't know how to feel. She knew she didn’t feel lonely. Or did she? She knew she'd be back putting out those fires with her friends in no time, even though a tinge of disappointment in not being able to share this awesome event with her friends. Ugh, there was that regret again. “None of them would find it interesting... sometimes you have to do things on your own, right?” said Twilight into the warm air in the tent, and the darkness of the night outside. She sighed and turned onto her side. She was determined to enjoy this to the fullest extent possible. Maybe Celestia could appreciate it more than her friends, and she could talk about it with her afterwards? Another sigh left her mouth. Before she knew it, her mind started bouncing around again. Twilight turned over again, and magically pulled a blanket over her. “I better get some sleep... that usually fixes things when I'm like this,” she said to herself. She then swiftly placed the book back in her saddle-bags, and turned off the lamp. She couldn't sleep that easily, of course, but it didn’t take too long before she was finally wisped into her dreams. ~ The path to the lookout spot was serene and covered in fresh powder snow from the night before. Stone walls jutted up from both sides of her, stretching to the sky, weaving back and forth through the mountain range itself. She had finally reached the exit of the path, which led out to a truly spectacular view on the edge of a sheer cliff. There was a very dense, stretching pine forest which spanned out below, spreading out far and wide, opening into a field in the far distance. The drop off the cliff was fenced off by what looked like a very old, unmaintained fence that had been installed ages ago. To her left was a path downwards, continuing to lead onwards into Equestria, and to her right, up the side of the cliff, was a straight, wide, sloped path, that looked even less maintained than the fence. She magically pulled out the map from her bag to double-check, and sure enough, it was up the right path she needed to go. She took in the view, Celestia's sun hanging lower in the sky, with a kind of simple, elegant brightness in the winter air which was unseen during the spring and summer months. It looked almost reserved and demure in contrast to the light blue shades which enclosed the rest of the sky. The air was as sharp as it looked, and bit into her lungs quite hard. 'Only half an hour around this bend before I'll be at the most desirable spot,' she thought to herself. She increased her pace, the anticipation making her excited. “This is gonna be so, freaking, cool!” she then said aloud with a wide grin. It wasn't very long before the path led to a bare area, up against a sheer side of a cliff-wall which blocked the way forward. It almost looked perfectly chiseled out of the side of the mountain, like somepony had been trying to make a mountain pass but then decided to stop right then and there for some reason. It looked out onto the forest and the flat-lands, giving a perfect view which stretched all the way to the horizon. Twilight sat down, and shuffled the bags off of her back. “Right then,” she said, closing her eyes and focusing her attention. Her horn began to glow with a familiar violet light, and her gear began moving out of her bag, unfolding, and expanding itself around her. Her tent puffed out into a more tent-like shape, the support spokes assembling and propping the structure up, while her blanket and all of her smaller things flew inside all at once. Pegs then stuck into the ground, holding the tethers of the tent firmly down. After only a minute, Twilight's camp was set up. She looked around, pleased with herself, and decided to crawl into the tent and get a bit warmer. It was going to be only a couple of hours before the main event started, and she decided she would read a book in preparation. ~ Twilight anxiously awaited the coming of the night as Celestia's sun began to drop below the horizon slowly but surely. Like clockwork, the night and Luna's moon began to rise into the sky, creating a twilight above her. The stars began to sparkle and shimmer, and Twilight could almost make out the tiny streaks of light beginning to show up on the changing horizon. She giggled with glee and hunched forward slightly in giddy anticipation. It was so, so early in the evening and she could already see them! In a short while, as Celestia's sun finally bid farewell for another day entirely, the meteor shower began in earnest. Multitudes of meteors entered the atmosphere, entirely at random, lighting up the night sky with their brilliant displays of incandescence. The largest ones fought the moon for attention, like tears falling from the sky, creating a beautiful fireworks show on their way down. The moon hovered, unwavering, to the right of the shower, thankfully not so bright as to drown out any of the meteorites or stars. The air was clean, clear and crisp, seemingly magnifying the entire scene before Twilight eyes. The symphony of fire dazzled and amazed her as she looked up in awe at the night sky, taking it all in. She had never seen a more beautiful and enchanting night such as this. Twilight lowered her head and rested it on her hooves, breathing gently. She felt so calm. It felt like this was the perfect time and place for her. It was completely worth it, and she couldn't imagine why she ever questioned coming out here. Well, except for her friends... Suddenly, Twilight heard an audible, although muted thump outside her tent. At first she thought it had been a snow shelf that had fallen from above, but then heard the familiar sound of crunching snow, as if somepony was walking through it. She said nothing at first, as a dark silhouette came into view, and began to look out into the forest and night sky, imposing themselves against the view of the horizon. The figure stood out there – obviously another pony – for a few moments, before Twilight spoke up. “Um... hello?” Twilight said cautiously at the dark figure. Two gleaming, teal-blue eyes peered through the darkness and seemed to light up. A particularly bright meteor began to be set ablaze in the atmosphere, and the bright fireball illuminated the other very pony subtly, showing off the dark blue hair flowing from their mane. The moon and the stars seemed to glow brighter in their presence, reflecting off of the other pony's coat and highlighting them perfectly. Twilight immediately recognized who it was, even if they had only met once before. It was Princess Luna. “O-oh! P-Princess Luna!” Twilight immediately stood up, getting her face stuck on the tent momentarily. “H-how nice to see you here!” she continued, after untangling herself. Luna looked startled and lowered her head. “I'm terribly sorry. I didn't realize this spot was taken. I'm sorry to disturb you...” replied Luna, almost immediately took off, apparently feeling herself unwanted by default. Twilight called out to her before she could get very far. “Wait, Princess! It's me, Twilight Sparkle.” Luna wasn't very far off the ground before she stopped, and landed softly again, folding her wings away. “Oh... Twilight Sparkle. My sister speaks so highly and frequently of you.” Twilight blushed a bit, even though Luna couldn't see it. “I... was looking to enjoy the meteor shower tonight. I understand if this spot is already claimed.” Luna seemed uneasy and almost afraid, which threw Twilight off quite a bit. She had only really known Luna as the hubris-prone, confident-to-a-fault Nightmare Moon. “N-no, not at all! There's more than enough space up here for us to share, I promise!” Twilight eyes then popped open, realizing that she hadn't even properly curtsied, and she bowed her head. “I'm very terribly sorry, Princess. I never paid my proper respects.” Luna seemed visibly flustered, waving her hoof frantically. “No, no, it's okay. I never wished to be a bother. You needn’t use such formalities with me...” “A-are you sure? I-I mean... you’re a Princess, and--” “It’s quite alright,” replied Luna, still looking at the ground, glancing up at Twilight occasionally. Twilight smiled warmly. “Okay then. Would you like to join me tonight, Princess Luna? I promise you're not unwelcome at all. I’d love to have you here with me tonight!” Luna smiled very slightly, feeling touched by Twilight's kindness, even after everything that had happened between them, and slowly moved towards the tent. “T-thank you for your hospitality, Twilight Sparkle.” ~ It had been an hour after Luna had arrived. The two mares sat beside each other in Twilight's tent, legs folded underneath them as they looked out into the brilliant night. The meteor shower had only intensified as time passed, the bright fireballs continued to shoot down through the sky as if they really were falling stars. Twilight felt a little flustered being so physically close to a living immortal alicorn goddess at first, the but the display above them was enough to calm her down a little bit. “Thank you for sharing your space with me, Miss Twilight Sparkle,” said Luna, suddenly and quietly. “O-oh, it's no problem at all! The honour is all mine!” Twilight replied, grinning wider than she should, and nervously giggling out of the suddenness of Luna's praise. Luna's breath filled the air with steam around her, the coldness eating up and crystallizing the humidity. “I made sure to get a large tent, so I could store all of my things inside. It'd be really inconvenient if something blew off the side of the cliff, right? Plus, if anypony wanted to come with me, I'd have enough space for them, too! Or if I found anything really interesting on the way here I wanted to take back with me! That kind of thing!” Twilight looked to the side, grimacing a bit. The little voice in the back of her head told her she was talking too much for her own good. “I understand,” Luna said plainly, continuing to look out into her night. Twilight said nothing for a few moments, thinking of what to say or do next. “Oh! Would you, um, like some apple slices? My friend Applejack gave me some!” She magically moved the bag over to Luna, offering. “'Best apples in Equestria,' as she always says!” “Why yes, thank you. It was quite a journey here,” Luna said happily, taking one with her hoof. “Applejack... that would be the farmer-labourer pony that you're with often, yes?” “Yes, that's right. She's very dependable, you know, once you get past her must-do-everything attitude.” “I see. My sister has spoken about her.” “And this coat I'm wearing was made by Rarity. She's the fashion diva, with gemstones as her cutie mark.” “I see. It looks like it would keep you very warm.” “Y-yeah, it does,” replied Twilight. Twilight continued to think of things to say, feeling awkward with the pace of the conversation. Luna wasn't wearing anything, and had only brought a small bag with her, crested with Luna's royal emblem and lined with silver fabric. Wasn't she cold? The night continued to light up randomly, casting ethereal shadows upon the pair of them. Twilight looked around her, when noticed the small telescope beside her. “Oh! And this was a gift from my parents, for being accepted into the Royal Academy. I've kept it with me ever since.” “Oh? A telescope?” said Luna, visibly interested. “Yeah! I've been an amateur astronomer ever since I was a young filly. Aside from learning about magic – and I suppose studying friendship, now – astronomy has always been one of my favourite things to do.” “Amateur... astronomer?” “Whenever it's late and I'm tired of reading books or learning spells, I usually just go upstairs onto my balcony and look out at the stars. I find it fun and relaxing,” replied Twilight, smiling brightly. Finally, a subject Luna would like! “Ponies look up at the night sky for fun now?” replied Luna, her eyes growing a bit wider. “Oh, yes, lots of ponies do. Amateur astronomy is a pretty big hobby for lots of ponies out there these days. It's even taught in some schools growing up! Books have been written about the night sky by famous authors... the moon is even a symbol of romance in some fiction novels!” “I-I see... so... some ponies out there look at the night, for personal enjoyment?” Luna lowered her head a bit, looking over at Twilight out of the corner of her eye. “Of course they do,” Twilight said happily, getting completely caught up in the moment. “A lot of ponies love stargazing. Many of them stay up sometimes just to do it!” “I see. You're here because you're one of these 'amateur astronomers,' too?” “Well... yeah! I came all the way out here just to get the perfect view for this amazing meteor shower,” replied Twilight, still grinning to herself, gazing over the hail of light that was bringing her endless entertainment. “Once in a thousand years? Of course I couldn't resist! The night sky just makes me feel so... calm. It's like nothing else. Lots of other ponies feel that way, too.” Luna looked back up at her moon and stars, hesitating, before finally replying. “I’m glad,” she said. She sounded happy, but with a tinge of melancholy hidden behind her voice as well. A small gust of wind came by and blew her mane away from the side of her face, making it sparkle and shimmer as if it was the sky itself. Twilight looked closely at Luna, trying in vain to read her. She had her head lowered, with a quivering smile on her face, and Twilight wasn't sure if she had offended her or made her happy. Twilight wasn't thinking terribly straight, what with all the anxiety rushing through her brain. Even in all her years under Celestia's tutelage, she had never been so close as to spend this kind of intimate time with an alicorn, just talking like this. With a nervous grin and a soft voice, Twilight prodded a little. “I-I didn't say anything to offend you, did I, your highness?” “Oh, no... you didn't offend me in the slightest,” Luna replied, almost frantically. She composed herself and smiled at Twilight, which gave Twilight a slight feeling of relief. It was, of course, followed by an awkward pause, which Twilight attempted to break as fast as possible. “W-would, um, you like some food? It must have been a long trip, right?” stuttered out Twilight. Oh, how she wished she could stop being such a timid little filly. All she could really think about was the last time they had seen each other, and how her and the others had essentially ripped Luna apart with the Elements of Harmony. She couldn't help but feel that there was some kind of bad blood remaining between them, even if Luna seemed to not pay it a bit of attention. “It is quite alright, you've offered me food already. I have enough packed for myself, I promise,” replied Luna, smiling softly. “Oh. Right. Haha.” Twilight looked off to the side, grimacing a bit. Now she was just making herself look like an idiot. “But... if... if you're okay with it, I would not mind having another one of those apple slices. I don't get to taste such... simplified forms of food in the castle.” “Oh! Of course, go right ahead!” Luna magically raised another one into the air. “I must ask, however... you seemed very over-packed for just one pony. Were you expecting someone else?” “In case anyone decided at the last minute to come with me, yeah.” Twilight looked down, lost in thought, but then snapped back to attention and smiled. “Sorry. I was hoping to share this with my friends, but none wanted to brave the cold to come out here. I'm glad you're here, though. This is one of the best things that's ever happened for me! I was convinced I wouldn't be able to share this with anypony, but then you arrived!” Twilight smiled sweetly at Luna. “And I'm having great time with you, Princess.” ~ A single tear rolled down Luna’s cheek, although Twilight couldn't see through the moonlit darkness. Luna had never heard such sweet words about her night, the thing she put so much of her heart and soul into every time the sun set. She was so shocked that she couldn't say a thing, and she just turned her head the other way. What was this feeling in her chest? Sadness? Relief? Happiness? A torrent of emotion was about to burst out of her, and she could feel it. “... Princess, are you okay?” asked Twilight. Luna responded quickly, attempting to save face. “I'm fine... really,” replied Luna, shaking her head. “I promise you. And... thank you, for having me here. I'm... I'm... having fun.” The word 'fun' left her lips before she could process it, not knowing what that word really meant anymore. It was at that moment a very large fireball entered the sky and shot across it, from over their heads all the way to the horizon, and a thought occurred to Luna. ‘Somepony... appreciates my night,' Luna started thinking to herself. At first it was small, but slowly, a great sense of joy overcame Luna, replacing all other emotions, as the brightness of the meteorite intensified in the sky, illuminating both of them for what seemed like an eternity. Her heart began to flutter a little, and she started to smile. 'Somepony... likes... my night...!' “I'm glad you are. I am too,” responded Twilight, seemingly oblivious to Luna's emotional state . But then Twilight just sweetly smiled again, causing Luna to melt a little. She decided just to enjoy the feelings she was experiencing, without thinking about it too hard. “Thank you, Miss Twilight Sparkle. And please... you can call me Luna.” Luna smiled brightly back at Twilight. It was so very fleeting, but for the first time in longer than Luna could remember, she had hope in heart that perhaps, just this once, she could make her very first friend. TO BE CONTINUED...
SyrinKitty	922	2	Princess Luna,Twilight Sparkle,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Common Sky	A sweet and gentle TwiLuna fic.	complete	1,805	28	<p>Twilight ventures out into the mountains to see a once-in-a-lifetime event. Disappointed by her friends not coming with her, Twilight crosses paths with a kindred spirit.</p>	everyone	2011-09-20T02:46:33+00:00	2011-09-20T02:46:33+00:00	19,326	“Luna, Luna, Luna,” said a macabre voice through the darkness. Luna walked down a long, brick-laden hallway, lit up only by her horn and the phosphorescent-like properties of her mane. She had no idea how she had gotten here. She could only feel the bone-cold dampness of the ground on her hooves and throughout the hair on her body. It felt like a dark cellar or a dungeon. “You know that this world isn't a place for ponies such as us. Didn't you learn anything from our little 'vacation,' little one? We are one and the same, and yet, you've learned nothing, NOTHING from me. You really think this happiness and joy will persist? Pah. You're just as weak now as you were then.” Luna looked upon a big oval mirror in front of her, bolted against the wall of what appeared to be an abrupt dead-end to the corridor. She remembered where she was now. She had seen this scene playing out more times that she could remember, hearing that voice torture her for over a thousand years. Looking into the mirror, Luna could see the typical, forever unchanging reflection of her doppelganger staring back at her, with a smirk on her face not unlike a malevolent tyrant displaying the most exquisite schadenfreude. It was Nightmare Moon. “Nightmare...” Luna started, looking down and sighing, stamping her hoof down. “Thing's have changed. The Elements of Harmony suppressed you, and as soon as you went away, everything improved. Once I was allowed to come back home, I was happier. I don't have to listen to you anymore. I'm even trying to make friends now.” Nightmare Moon rolled her eyes and laughed. “Oh you silly little filly, still holding onto those dreams you've caressed and kept alive for so many centuries. You will always be alone. No mere mortal can compare to the power we hold. In the end, we are RULERS.” “RULERS don't have to be EVIL.” “Tell that to our sister. Oh, you've forgotten, haven't you? How she mercilessly suppressed us because we wanted equal say over the affairs of the world – equal rule over the subjects of Equestria.” “With you threatening destruction, how did you expect her to react? She even apologized to us.” “Is that how you rationalize it now?” replied Nightmare Moon, laughing to herself. “You pulled the trigger, and you could have easily ended it. Oh yes, it's so easy to blame the big-bad Nightmare Moon for everything, since everyone always just ASSUMES that sweet little Luna could NEVER do something as EVIL as that. Oh,” Nightmare continued, bringing a hoof to her mouth in a faux-attempt to hide her amusement, “I wonder how your 'friend' Twilight would feel if she knew that you, and not I, were the one who wanted to plunge everypony in Equestria into eternal darkness. How you didn't care if they DIED?” Luna's hoof instinctively raised up and smashed the mirror in anger, distorting and fracturing the face of Nightmare Moon. Luna's face contorted in pain and she began to sob, as a small trickle of blood ran down her fore-hoof and dripped onto the floor. “We'll see how long it takes before you come running back to me. You always do, in the end. Always looking for me to punish whoever has hurt you. I'd be GLAD to do it again,” she continued, giggling in her menacing way. Luna just pounded on the broken mirror as glass fell frantically to the floor, crying out in pain. Nightmare Moon’s shrill laugh rung in Luna’s ears as she fell to the floor, the blood dripping from her hoof and mixing with the tiny shards of glass. “It’s not my fault, it’s not my fault, I just... I just... wanted...” ~ Luna awoke with a start, her eyes popping wide open, with the unfamiliar surroundings around her snapping back into place in her vision. She was shivering ever so slightly, despite being perfectly warm. She was still in Twilight Sparkle's tent on the edge of the cliff, and she could see her sister's sun shine through its fabric. She was actually glad it was daytime for once, since feeling her sister's presence always made her feel safer. She refocused her eyes on her surroundings, noticing that Twilight wasn't in the tent with her. After looking around, images of the dream popped into her mind, and she quickly looked at her hoof – there were no injuries, of course. She continued to breathe deeply, and slumped down into the large sleeping bag the two of them had shared. It was a dream. It was always just a dream. It had been a long time since she had reacted so violently to one. After returning to Equestria, the Elements of Harmony had suppressed the villain, thus silencing the dream-invasions of Nightmare Moon for quite a while, but as Luna's desires for companionship and friendship began to come back, so had she. Nightmare Moon fed on happiness and hope, and Luna had been so hopeful for change since returning, yet she still remained practically anonymous wherever she went. Luna got up slowly, shaking her head. She shrugged off the sleeping bag, and stretched her wings out as wide as possible in the relatively-cramped space. She then magically gripped the zipper on the door, opened it slowly, and stepped outside, her hooves crunching the day-old snow beneath them. She looked around, her eyes adjusting to the bright light, but couldn't see Twilight anywhere. “Miss Sparkle?” called out Luna. “I'm over here, your hig-- uh, Luna!” replied Twilight from the side of the tent. Luna stepped outside fully and looked around the corner of the tent, finding Twilight moving all sorts of things around with her magic, cooking what appeared to be powdered eggs over a small, dual-burner gas stove. She was concentrating very intensely on the precise measurements for making a perfect meal. “Good morning! I'm just cooking us breakfast. I'll be with you in a moment.” “Oh... thank you, Miss Sparkle.” “It's no problem at all! I brought extras after all,” said Twilight as she turned and smiled at Luna, quickly snapping back to her cooking as something nearly tipped over due to her distraction. “I... I see. Thank you very much,” replied Luna as she smiled back, walking closer to Twilight. The sun shone bright in the sky, spreading her sister's love and warmth over the sleeping, natural landscape, with a bright, baby-blue tone caressing it on it's journey across the sky. It must have been mid-day by now as the gentle winds of the mountain passed behind them. “However, I... did bring my own food. You don't have to go through such expense and effort on my account .” “Of course I don't have to, I just want to! It's not very often I get to cook for others. I just hope it tastes alright, y-- Luna,” replied Twilight, catching herself again. Luna sat down beside Twilight and watched her continue to mix and stir things. She had no idea what she was cooking. She had never actually seen food prepared in front of her before – it was very fascinating to her. “May I ask what you're making, and how?” “I'm making scrambled eggs and rye toast. It's actually more like an omelet at this point, really. I mix powdered eggs, some dried vegetables. I then use the snow from around here for water to rehydrate the eggs. After I cook them, I put some rye bread on the pan to lightly toast them. Does that sound okay to you?” happily explained Twilight, as she continued to concentrate. “I've... I've never had them before, I don't believe.” “Oh! Well, there's first time for everything, right?” replied Twilight, visibly nervous now. “B-But, I'm perfectly willing to try them,” continued Luna, frantically. “O-Okay then!” The pair of them just sat there, not speaking for a moment, as the sizzling of the eggs filled the air with the delicious smell of green onions. The awkwardness of the night before had returned. Neither of them seemed to be able to get over their fear for each other, and Luna started to feel like she was being a burden, or overstaying her welcome, or something along those lines. “M-Miss Sparkle?” “Yes, Luna?” replied Twilight, still a bit nervous. “If you'd like the time to yourself, I can depart after breakfast. I understand if you do.” Luna looked to the side, feeling the sadness in her heart slowly creep up into her thoughts. “N-No, of course not! Don’t be silly!” Twilight said, as she split the omelet with a spatula and served it onto two plates. She then quickly placed the frying pan back down and put two pieces of toast on. Twilight, essentially done with cooking, turned to Luna. “If you'd like to stay, then you're more than welcome to! To be honest, if you weren't here, I'd be getting really lonely right about now. I mean, unless you have some royal duties to attend to.” “I don't... but are you sure?” “Definitely. I just hope I'm not being too annoying, talking all the time about random things. I do that a lot. If I'm talking to much, please tell me, so I can stop talking too much, okay? Haha.” Twilight looked to the side, hiding her face. Luna noticed she did that a lot. “O-okay, I can do that. You just seem... a little uncomfortable, is all.” “No... no. I just need to relax a bit, I guess,” replied Twilight, sighing and laughing to herself. “I need to do that as well, I think. I'm very sorry,” said Luna, lowering her eyes. Twilight was being so hospitable to her, out of pure kindness. Why did she always assume the worst from everypony? A brief vision of her dream then flashed before her eyes, and then she remembered, as she always did whenever she reached out to anypony. She was still fighting off Nightmare Moon's emotional poison. She wondered sometimes if she’d always be in that demon’s shadow, and grimaced. Luna raised her eyes again to find Twilight Sparkle staring into hers. The pair of them said nothing, as Luna felt her heart begin to quiet down. They simply stared, like they were admiring each other in tandem. Luna felt a calm overtake her, and her anxiety begin to ebb away ever so slightly. There was a connection, and she could feel it. She didn’t know what it meant, but one thing was certain to her: neither of them needed to be afraid. Twilight smelled something burning and quickly snapped back into reality, frantically flipping the toast on the pan. Thankfully, they were just well toasted and not burnt. She sighed happily. “Well, breakfast is served, I suppose!” She moved the toast onto the plates, turned off the burners, and then magically hoofed one of the plates to Luna. “Thank you very much, Miss Sparkle,” said Luna, appreciative and smiling. “No problem at all, your h-- I mean, Luna. And please, just call me 'Twilight,' if I'm allowed to be so informal with you,” replied Twilight, a little happier than she had been before. Luna didn't know what she was feeling, but her respect for the purple unicorn had grown again. The pair of them just smiled at each other and giggled. For a moment, Luna could swear that she even felt a little bit safer in Twilight's presence. From what, she couldn’t tell. ~ Twilight flipped through a few pages of a book on “Ancient Astronomy,” nestled under the sleeping bag, with a cup of hot chocolate beside her. The temperature was rapidly dropping, but Twilight hadn't been able to take her jacket off since she got there regardless. She read a passage on the meteor shower, perturbed by the scant amount of details that existed. Being a once-in-a-thousand-years occurrence, very little could be said or even hypothesized about. Most of the passage contained speculation on the event, when it had originally started, and so on. She liked re-reading over things like this to solidify them in her mind. Twilight sighed, closing her book and looking curiously over at Luna. She was starting to get used to having the alicorn so close to her, which allowed her to relax quite a bit. At least she knew now that Luna was just as scared as her, but wasn't terribly sure how she had picked up on that. Luna was reading her own book as well. It was a smaller, gold-encrusted book, that seemed to be very, very old. Twilight curiously looked at the cover, which had a title in a type-set she couldn't decipher. It looked Equestrian, but not entirely. “Hey, Luna, what are you reading?” “Oh,” she raised her head, and turned the book on its side, “it's a very old book of poems. It's written in Ancient Equestrian. Not many ponies can read that anymore.” “Ahhh,” Twilight said, trying very hard to decipher what it meant. As far as she could tell, the book's title was 'Plenty Rose-Water,' which made no sense. “Gah, I have such a hard time remembering how to spell things in plain-old modern Equestrian. What's its title?” “'A Rose-Filled Ocean.' It’s a collection of romantic poems. Kind of a, how do they say... 'cheesy' title, I know, but it's quite good. At least... I think so,” replied Luna, shyly. “Oh, okay. Sounds interesting,” said Twilight. She had never really read many works of fiction, or poetry. It was always scientific or magical research, since she didn't know how she could take anything away from a work of fiction that she couldn't just take away from life experience or, of course, studious research. “What book are you reading, Twilight?” “Oh, this? This is a book on ancient meteorological events. I used it to calculate the best possible viewing location for this meteor shower, as long as it wasn't too far away from Ponyville, of course.” “I see,” replied Luna, eyeing the book carefully. She seemed to be very intrigued by it, although Twilight didn't understand why. “W-would you mind if I... took a look through it, with you?” “Of course I wouldn't mind!” replied Twilight happily, although still slightly perplexed. Luna closed her own book and put it aside, and the two moved closer together, almost snuggled up against each other. Twilight placed the book in front of them, and automatically turned to the main index in the front. “What would you like to see?” Luna looked over all of the subjects in the book. Recorded meteor showers, meteor impacts and associated meteorological events were the top categories. There was also listing of Summer and Winter constellations and their categories, as well sections on both the sun and the moon. The last one, of course, caught her eye. “People have written about the moon?” “Of course! It's the brightest object in the night sky, so tons of ponies have written all about it,” said Twilight, as she began to flip the book to that section. On the page itself, there was a large, beautifully illustrated picture of the moon on the heading, featuring all of its physical imperfections. It then began to list all of its properties, such as its luminosity, its waning/waxing cycles, and so on. “O-oh wow, this is all so overwhelming,” said Luna, reading the pages over closely. Luna seemed to be taken aback by all the information. Twilight just grinned, thinking that maybe she had finally piqued Luna's interests. “I didn't think ponies out there took it so seriously. I didn't even know many of these things... this, for instance,” she continued, pointing at a sentence with her hoof. “'A symbol for romance'? What's meant by that?” “Well, as far as I can remember, a moon-lit evening has always been considered one of the most romantic things in the world. Ponies romanticize and write books with moonlit romance scenes all the time.” “I-I never knew,” said Luna, smiling softly to herself. “You never knew what the moon symbolizes to most ponies?” she said, almost aghast at how little Luna knew of her own creation. “But, don't other ponies tell you about these things? There's no way I can be the only one.” “You have to understand, Twilight,” replied Luna. “Not many ponies talk to me about such things. They're always so afraid to do anything except bow before me and try to please me. They don't ask about my night, and if I ask them of their opinion, they just give me a belittling response of, 'oh yes, it's simply marvellous' every time.” “... really? Why wont anypony be honest with you?” “I suppose that they're scared of me, due to my... history,” replied Luna, the smile from her face fading. Twilight noticed she had hit a sore spot. If there was anything she disliked more, it was hearing about another pony being belittled and forgotten about. She immediately sat upright, puffing out her chest as if to show her courage. “Well, I-I'm not scared of you at all, Luna! I think you’re nice and I will never lie to you about your night! I swear it!” Twilight looked at Luna, and the pair's eyes locked again, for one of those little-eternity moments. She mentally kicked herself for having an outburst like that, yet, she couldn't look away. Luna’s eyes began to glisten with tears, and Twilight’s heart felt calm once more as she stared into those large, blue eyes. Luna just smiled, and in that instant, Twilight felt a rush of heat throughout her body, flushing her cheeks. “Twilight... thank you, very, very much. T-that means a lot to me,” said Luna, shyly looking off to the side, with a small smile on her face. “O-o-of course! S-sorry, I didn’t mean to get carried away!” Twilight took a few seconds to snap out of it, but then quickly turned the pages to the section on meteor showers. Her heart was starting to pound, but she pushed those feelings aside for the moment. The pair of them continued to read Twilight's book, talk and even laugh as the day drew on to a close and Celestia’s sun began to dip below the horizon. ~ Luna felt a lot of different emotions begin to rush through her brain, not quite knowing how to process them all, but the word 'happy' seemed to fit her in that particular moment. She could barely contain her smiles as the evening approached, and she continued to talk with the purple unicorn who had dispelled the one thing that had made her so miserable, so withdrawn and so lonely for her entire existence. Twilight loved her night, and the urge to just wanted to hug Twilight began to become unbearable, although Luna still felt far too shy to display such a form of affection. Luna just enjoyed the sensation, the feeling of being happy and appreciated by somepony. “Thank you so much for your hospitality, Twilight. You've been so generous with me, especially with me imposing on you so greatly,” said Luna, as the pair of them sat together inside the tent. “Please, y-- Luna. You've thanked me more than enough,” replied Twilight, smiling “I know. I just simply like saying 'thank you' again,” said Luna, smiling shyly again. “Well, you're very welcome, then,” said Twilight, smiling happily. Luna loved that smile of hers. It was so genuine and sweet, unlike the other ponies back in the castle. It wasn't one of those fake smiles the ponies of the royal court would put on to please her, even though it wasn't expected - or wanted - of them. She could tell that when Twilight smiled, it was honest. The two of them had finally begun to get comfortable in each-others presence, after all the awkwardness that had transpired. Luna craved the informality that existed between them. She didn't question it, nor did she want to, although one question in the back of her mind continued to gnaw at her. Did Twilight Sparkle want to be her friend? That, she couldn't tell. “Twilight, may I ask you something?” “Of course!” “What do you and your companions do in Ponyville?” “What do we do? Well, Applejack, helps run her family's apple farm just on the outside of town, of course. Pinkie Pie works with Mr and Ms Cake at Sugarcube Corner as their 'Party Director,' setting up parties for anypony who makes a request. Fluttershy--” “Sorry, I don't mean to cut you off,” interjected Luna, “I meant, specifically... what do you all do together? As... friends?” “Oh! Well, that's... hard to explain. We do all sorts of things. If we're not putting out fires or preventing Ponyville from being destroyed, of course,” said Twilight, sighing. “But to answer your question, I would say... well, for instance, two of my friends, Fluttershy and Rarity, usually go to the spa together, just to talk and hang out. Pinkie Pie usually hosts parties for us, and we all get together to just dance, eat sickeningly-sweet food, and have fun. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie hang out sometimes too, pulling crazy pranks on everypony. Just a whole lot of random stuff, really.” “So all of you get together to... 'hang out,' as they say? Just to enjoy each others company?” Luna listened intensely, finding all of this fascinating. “Yeah! There's really no rhyme or reason to it.” The thought of just 'hanging out' intrigued and confused Luna. The only ones who spent any significant amount of time in her presence were the royal guards or her sister, Celestia. She didn't understand what other ponies did in those situations, even though at most royal events, she could see ponies who were obviously familiar to each other talking amongst themselves. She had always assumed those conversations were business-like or somehow necessary, as the concept of 'pleasant conversation' escaped her. Luna raised her head and said, suddenly and forcefully, “And how would one go about arranging such a time as to 'hang out' with other ponies? Is scheduling required?” “N-not usually,” replied Twilight, taken aback by her directness. “Most of the time somepony just shows up, and if you're free, then you do something together. If not, then you simply say, 'some other time,’ and move on.” “But if they’re free, then they do something together. As friends.” “Y-yes. That's usually how it goes.” “I see. I would li--” Luna caught herself and the words became a giant lump in her throat, like an entire apple had been caught there. She coughed and lowered her head, a wave of anxiety crashing into her out of nowhere, completely breaking the small tide of confidence she’d had. 'I would like to 'hang out' with you sometime, Twilight,' she thought to herself, attempting to force herself to say it. She tried as hard as she could to make the words escape her lips, but she couldn't do it, no matter how much she strained. She was too afraid. “I-I wo--” “You would...?,” said Twilight, in a subtly worried tone. “... n-nevermind. It's quite alright,” said Luna, trying to hide her face. “I'm... going to go for a walk. To stretch my wings and legs.” She could feel tears coming on, and she didn't want Twilight to see herself in such a state. Why was she such a coward? Why couldn't she do what was necessary? Why was she so STU-- no, she wouldn't think like that. She wouldn't. She couldn't. “Luna.” “I'll be back... before dark, I promise.” “Luna.” “I-I'm sorry--” “LUNA!” Luna turned her head to Twilight, who was standing up and had an exasperated look on her face. Luna had never heard anyone raise their voice to her like that. She just stared at Twilight, the tears not moving from the rims of her eyes. Twilight's expression lightened a bit, and she sighed, sitting back down. “I'm sorry for raising my voice at you, Luna, but it's okay. I might be a bit oblivious to somepony's feelings most of the time, but I'm not completely blind. I could tell what you were going to say. If... you'd like to come to Ponyville, and visit me sometimes, that would be perfectly fine. We can even do some star-gazing together!” Luna couldn't say anything. She just stood there, her head down, unable to believe what she was hearing. Twilight continued, in a warm voice. “You don't have to be afraid, you know. I'm just a simple unicorn pony. I've just been so worried that I haven't been doing what you've wanted, but we’re both a little afraid of each other, aren't we?” After a few moments, Luna finally replied, her lips finally responding to her commands. “I... I... suppose so.” “So let's both relax, okay? After all, the meteor shower is about to start. I'd be so disappointed if I missed seeing the beginning of the night with you. How about I make us both some hot chocolate, while there's still some light outside?” Luna slumped back down finally, trying to calm herself down. “Is... is it really alright if I visit you? If we... 'hang out' together?” “Yes,” answered Twilight, simply and directly. Twilight’s words completely silenced the anxious thoughts in Luna’s mind. “I'm going to go make that hot chocolate. If there's anything else you want heated up, just tell me, okay?” “O-Okay,” Luna said softly and quietly, as she sat down. She watched the purple unicorn open the door to the tent, step outside and close it back up behind her. Luna slid herself under the sleeping bag again, breathing deeply. She looked up at the ceiling of the tent, and saw the sun's light slowly fade from the outside world. The happiness in her heart had grown too immense for even tears of joy. She couldn’t believe it, but she had done it. She had finally proven Nightmare wrong. Somepony actually wanted to be around her. She had a friend. She didn't have to be alone anymore. She didn't have to feel lonely anymore, and in a single instant, those thousand years alone simmered into nothing, as the purest, happiest euphoria filled Luna’s heart. ~ Twilight was beaming as she set up her portable stove again. She couldn't believe it! She had an astronomy partner now, and it was none other than Princess Luna herself! Twilight giggled as quietly as she could, heating up the milk in a small, tall pot. She had two insulated mugs laid out to the side filled with ‘Pinkie Pie's Super-Deluxe-Ultimate Hot Chocolate Mix (Marshmallow Edition).’ Twilight stirred the milk, and continued to think of all the fun times she could have with Luna back home in Ponyville star-gazing. It still seemed very odd to Twilight how Luna knew next to nothing about her own creation. Twilight wondered if it was that Luna had never designed her night in a scientific manner, and she was more of an artist, like a painter, or a sculptor. Twilight came to the conclusion that it made the most logical sense. But had Luna really never heard of amateur astronomy? Hadn't she noticed the telescopes around the royal castle itself, after coming back to Equestria? Twilight mused upon this, until she could see the milk start to steam. She poured the milk into the hot chocolate mix, the marshmallows adding a pink hue to the surface of the drink itself: a Pinkie Pie trademark. She stirred the drinks and then magically gripped them, moving over to the tent's entrance as they hovered in the air. “Luna, could you open the door for me? My... horn's a bit full at the moment,” she said, giggling at her own pun. “Oh, certainly.” The door fell open instantaneously, and Twilight set the mugs down beside Luna. “Just a second, I'm going to go and put everything else away for the night.” Twilight then packed up the stove and her supplies, and magically hovered them into the back of the tent, setting them down out of the way. She then walked in and sat down, snuggling under the sleeping bag. She turned off the lantern inside the tent, and smiled over at Luna. “There, now we can relax.” The night finally arrived, and with it, a display which challenged the moon itself directly with a display of bright brilliance. The hail of light had returned, and it looked like a silent firestorm had descended upon the night sky. It was unlike anything Twilight had ever seen, as the clearest images of fireballs streaking against the dark-blue sky burned themselves into her retina. It was definitely more intense than the night before. She took in the entire display, as if the sky was a giant rolling wave. As the meteorites began to hit their peak, suddenly something caught Twilight's eye just right of the cliff face, like a soft change in hue upon the pallet of the night sky. “N-no way!” she said, dashing outside of the tent. She ran close to the cliffs edge, but safe enough away from it. Her head craned to the north, and her hopes were confirmed. It was the start of an Aurora Borealis forming on the horizon, skimming across the night sky, growing larger and larger until it swept across half of the sky. Not a single sound could be heard, except for the soft, subtle noise of the frozen breeze blowing through Twilight's ears. Twilight’s eyes were firmly locked, staring up into the heavens, and she could feel her cheek become damp and hot as the intensity of it all hit her. She broke out of her trance-like state, and brought a hoof to her face, to feel if she was actually crying. She was The feeling that a clear winter night always brought her had been amplified to a point where she was unable to do anything except take it all in, her mind completely clear of all thoughts, as she simply, for once, just felt. This was, by far, the best thing she had ever seen. She was gazing upon the perfect night. “Twilight?” Twilight turned to Luna, who was walking towards her, eyeing her curiously only a few steps away. “Are you okay?” “Oh... oh, I'm fine,” she said, smiling and looking back up at the sky, almost losing herself once more. “I'm just... overwhelmed. It's so beautiful.” Luna looked across her creation, her eyes reflecting the sky itself. “...it is?,” she said to herself, barely audible. Twilight noticed herself shivering. The temperature had plummeted way below what it had been last night. Her jacket insulated most of her body, but the cold air still found ways to her unprotected skin. “I'm actually really cold, c-come to think of it.” Twilight sat down, folding her arms together and pulling her hooves inside the sleeves. It was the warmest jacket she had ever worn, yet the night was still sending a chill through her body. The warm glow of fire and the waves of soft light dancing across the sky had taken her mind off of it almost entirely. That is, until she felt a warm weight press against her side. Twilight looked to the side. Luna had pressed herself up against her. Twilight pushed back into her, trying to conserve heat. Luna then magically grabbed a blanket from the tent, unfolded it and placed it over the pair of them in swift, precise motions. “T-thanks Luna, this should keep me w-warmer,” said Twilight, shivering. “It was no problem,” replied Luna, simply. “I can't b-believe you made all of t-this, Luna,” continued Twilight, her teeth chattering. “I-It's so beautiful. I can't believe my eyes. You have to be the most a-amazing a-artist in all of Equestria.” Luna snuggled against Twilight, closing her eyes, and began speaking softly as she smiled. “I made this as a journal of my feelings and emotions, so long ago. I came out here thinking nobody remembered or cared, just to see it once more, as a reminder of who I was back then. I never thought I’d ever share it with anypony. I never thought anypony would ever see it again. I’m so glad that I can share it with you, Twilight. With somepony who understands...” “Thank you so much for sharing this with me, Luna. I am truly, eternally grateful. I absolutely mean that,” replied Twilight, obliviously entranced by the sights above. Luna said nothing for a few short moments, before she raised her head, and pressed her neck against Twilight's, wrapping the blanket tighter around them. Twilight could feel Luna's warm breath against her muzzle, and smelled the sweetness of her hair. Twilight instantly stopped shivering. “You're... so wonderful, Twilight. You're simply... wonderful.” With those words, like a tiny explosion in her mind, Twilight finally ‘Got It,’ and everything snapped into place all at once. In a flash of empathy, Twilight finally took in the full effect of the things Luna had been saying and doing this entire time. Luna was awkward, scared, timid, but obviously interested in her. She wanted to hang out and be friends, as if it was the only thing that mattered. A kind of disturbed, muted grin came across her face, as all the scenes that had transpired between them in the last day finally fell into place and made complete sense. Luna nuzzled in closer to her, as Twilight’s thoughts turned over on themselves faster than ever before. 'Oh Celestia,' she thought to herself, 'L-Luna... is falling... in... l-love...' She turned her head, looking at the very contented alicorn beside her, and Luna looked back, staring back into Twilight eyes. Twilight saw the stars perfectly reflect off of Luna's eyes, her mane refracting and amplifying the light of the meteors, the moon, the stars and the Aurora Borealis itself, like a blanket made of the sky itself. Twilight was speechless, and no matter how much she knew she should’ve been, couldn't feel anxious anymore. Luna was the night itself, the one thing that had brought such peace to Twilight’s heart for the entirety of her life, and right now, she was snuggled up to her and staring into her soul. As far as Twilight could tell, she looked just as beautiful as the sky above them. TO BE CONTINUED...
SyrinKitty	922	3	Princess Luna,Twilight Sparkle,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Common Sky	A sweet and gentle TwiLuna fic.	complete	1,805	28	<p>Twilight ventures out into the mountains to see a once-in-a-lifetime event. Disappointed by her friends not coming with her, Twilight crosses paths with a kindred spirit.</p>	everyone	2011-09-20T02:47:38+00:00	2011-09-20T02:47:38+00:00	18,174	The breeze blew past Luna's ears as she enjoyed Twilight's warmth against her. Her eyes were closed, focusing intently on this feeling of closeness that was so new and terrifying to her. She didn't know if she was doing the right thing, or if she was being too affectionate or forward. Luna didn't know what being somepony's 'friend' was like, or how she was supposed to act. Luna had dreamt about this moment for so long, and couldn't pass up the opportunity, no matter if wrecked everything else. Sharing this beautiful night she had created with somepony was the only thing that she had hoped for in her long life. In this moment, she was content with just this. Under the sea of stars, with streaks of fire and waves of light challenging the daytime in pure brilliance, Luna was finally at peace. Her dream had come true. Nightmare Moon was wrong. “Ahem,” spoke a familiar, dark voice. Luna's eyes shot wide open and she stepped back, looking around. She was in that familiar, damp, dark corridor again, with that same oval mirror in front of her. It was another dream. “Welcome back, my dear Luna,” spoke Nightmare Moon, as she stood in the reflection, with an disappointed look on her face and something in her eyes that looked almost afraid. “Having fun with your new 'friend'?” “Stay away from me, Nightmare Moon. I did it. I proved you wrong, completely wrong. Twilight wants to be my friend. Twilight wants to spend time with me. She loves my night,” said Luna, defensively, stepping backwards. “I don't need to be afraid anymore. I don't need to be alone anymore. Go away.” “Luna,” said Nightmare Moon, in a deadpan tone. Luna looked up into Nightmare Moon's icey-blue eyes, which shot directly into her soul. “Do you know what the pain of having your heart broken in half feels like?” Luna was taken aback by the question. It was true, she had never experienced heartbreak. She had only ever experienced longing, and loneliness. “Oh, it's quite alright. Neither do I. Do you want to find out? I've heard it's the most exquisite pain there is,” continued Nightmare, craning her neck downwards to look at Luna in the eye. “It would be a wonderful, painful new emotion to add to our repertoire, don't you think? You could do so much with it.” Luna looked at the ground, shaking her head. How had she made somepony so evil? “Nightmare... I'm going to be Twilight's friend. She won't hurt me, I know she won't. She'll never betray me like that. Big sister told me she never betrays her friends.” Nightmare Moon looked indignant, scoffing at the smaller mare. “So you're really willing to play roulette, willing to give our heart to the first random pony – another mare, no less – that you meet. You're certainly braver than I am. Or perhaps you’re just stupid.” “'Our' heart?,” replied Luna, scoffing at her. “I thought you didn't want any part of that 'mushy stuff.' I thought that wasn't your 'thing.'” “You know very well what I mean, you foal! Don't play stupid with me! If you are hurt, I am hurt. No power in all of Equestria could stop the destruction if you were to get your heart broken by your first love. The world itself would shatter under your hoof!” Luna audibly gasped at the words 'first love,' but sharpened her gaze none the less, refusing to show an inch of weakness in front of her. “I'm not like that anymore. I wont do those horrible things. I'll never hurt Twilight, even if she ends up hurting me. NEVER! I'd never forgive myself for hurting somepony so wonderful. I won't. I just won't!” “Do you mean that?” “Yes.” “Do you REALLY MEAN THAT?!,” yelled Nightmare Moon, forcibly, filling the entire corridor with her booming voice. “YES!!,” screamed Luna back, with all the force she could muster, countering Nightmare's voice with echoing reverberation that could have moved the walls themselves given half a chance. “You can never trust somepony completely. If-- no, when you get hurt, I will NOT be there to pick up the pieces of your heart! I will only be there to ensure that you can do what you've always wanted to, which is to rule Equestria and its subjects. It's always been your one, true desire!” “That's not what I want anymore! I don't want to rule anything or anypony!” said Luna, looking her demon straight in the eye. She got into an aggressive stance, her fear for Nightmare beginning to melt away. She was getting so close to her one, real dream. She would not mess this up because she was afraid of herself anymore. No more fear, ever again. “You've corrupted me, told me lies, and made me afraid of ever reaching out to anypony ever since I came back! You were hoping to USE ME, AGAIN, wanting me to snap and give in to your evilness! Never again!” Luna moved towards the mirror, Nightmare Moon looking visibly shocked and stepping away from the determined mare. “I'm going to be Twilight Sparkle's friend! That's my dream! That's what I want! And you'll never take her away from me!” ~ Luna awoke suddenly, and she felt so very cold. The howling wind chilled her to the very bone, and she found it hard to bear. She raised herself off the ground, trying to look around, seeing nothing but a white haze in front of her. A blast of frigid air assaulted her flanks, nearly pushing her over, forcing her legs to dig into the snow for support. The giant storm, the one that had been scheduled had started early, and not a speck of the proud, beautiful vista they had shared the night before could be seen. The only visible thing was the snow, being whipped up, around and into everything. Luna was freezing, but she paid no attention to it. She was used to this kind of cold. She looked back at the tent, her ears and mane flapping in the violently. The door was open and snow was pouring in, the wind nearly tearing its supports from the ground. The pair of them had fallen asleep outside from the night before, entirely forgetting to go back inside and close it up. Luna finally came to her senses, her eyes widening. Where was Twilight? She looked beside her, and could see the purple unicorn, shivering and covered in a thin layer of snow, the violet colour of her jacket barely visible through the white powder. How could she sleep through something like this? Luna lowered her head and nudged Twilight with her muzzle. She didn't move. She was only shivering, with her eyes half-open. “Twilight?!” yelled Luna, trying to make sure Twilight could hear her through the intense background noise. “Are you okay?!” Twilight just kept shivering. “Can you move?!” yelled Luna again. Twilight slowly shook her head, and tried mouthing something to her, as if it was the hardest thing in the world to do. Luna realized, at that moment, that Twilight was freezing to death. Luna knew what hypothermia could do to a young mare, and if that she didn't act at that exact moment, Twilight would die. Without waiting another moment, Luna lowered her body and nuzzled her head underneath Twilight, the cold, damp snow covering her face. Eventually she wiggled her away underneath, balancing Twilight's body on her neck, and then her back, spreading her wings as wide as she could to support the mare. She turned towards the entrance of the tent and began walking slowly, every step towards the tent becoming a chore. The thick snow seemed to suck in her hooves further the closer she got. Finally, she made it, stepping inside of the partially-filled tent, placing Twilight down on top of the sleeping bag. The cold air tore into the tent as if it were a wind-trap, and with great effort, Luna closed the tent door, the elements still pounding against it like a ravenous beast trying to get in. “L-l-l...” sputtered out Twilight, who was still shivering. “Twilight?!” exclaimed Luna, lowering her ear to Twilight's mouth. “Please, tell me what to do Twilight. Please tell me how to help you. I'll do anything!” Twilight's teeth continued to chatter. Her body was stone-cold and the snow still stuck to every part of her. She attempted, as hard as she could, to give instructions to the anxious alicorn standing over her. “H-h-h... hot... b-bottles... i-i-in b-bag...” “Hot bottles? Hot water bottles?” replied Luna, reflecting what Twilight was saying to make sure she understood. Twilight nodded her head. Luna magically pulled Twilight's saddlebags over towards her. She opened them, and rummaged through them as quickly as she could, throwing things to the floor, eventually finding two hot water bottles near the very bottom of the bag. She pulled them out, showing Twilight. “These? What do I use for water?” Twilight nodded again. Twilight started mouthing something again, her breathing getting more laboured. “U-u-... use... s-snow...” “Use... snow? But... snow is-- oh, heat up the snow!” exclaimed Luna, the adrenaline beginning to pump through her. She knew how to heat up water with her magic alone, and snow was no different. She unscrewed the cap on the water bottle, and grabbed a lump of snow that had accumulated in on the tent floor, magically heating up the crystallized water and pouring it into the bottle. She focused intensely on the task at hoof, repeating this process as quickly as she could until the bottle was completely full. She then tightened the cap, and undid the top buttons of Twilight's jacket, placing it on her chest and closing up the jacket again. Luna repeated this process with the other one. Once she was done, she looked around her. It must have been a half a foot of snow covering the tent floor. “I'm going to move all of this snow, okay, Twilight? I'll need to open the door for just a moment, but I'm going to expel it so I can warm you up,” said Luna comfortingly, bending down to talk into Twilight's ear. Twilight nodded and closed her eyes, still shivering. Luna sat down and concentrated, her horn growing brighter and brighter. One by one, all the particles of water, snow and debris collect into the air as a large mass, hovering silently around her head. Luna then quickly opened the door, and just as the wind was about to rush in from the outside, Luna created a counter-wind which expelled all of the snow in a giant wave. Her mane flapped in front of her face and the feathers of her wing were blown out of shape. After she was sure it was all gone, she closed the tent again quickly, and sighed deeply. She looked at Twilight again, who was laying on her side, her eyes still half-open and her hooves out in front of her listlessly. “I-Is there anything I can do now, Twilight?” Twilight only nodded very slowly, and sputtered out, “C-cov-vers...” Luna silently understood, and nudging the other mare over, opening the sleeping bag with her mouth and then nudging her back under it. She tucked Twilight in, bringing the fabric right to her neck and covering all of her body, and then pulled the jacket's hood over her head and ears. She stood beside Twilight, her ear near Twilight's mouth again, waiting for her next order. “Is there anything else at all? Anything I can do?” “P-p... p-please... hold m-me...” Tears came to Twilight’s eyes as she shivered, terrified. Luna immediately slid herself between the covers of the sleeping bag, and pulled in Twilight with her hooves as close as was possible, trying to sooth the purple unicorn. Luna was shocked to feel how cold Twilight had gotten, her hooves and every other bit of exposed flesh chilled to the bone. The fierceness of the wind seemed to intensify against the side of the tent. Luna had done what she could, but the knowledge that she was on her own scared her. She was terrified that she was too late to save Twilight, and held her tightly as she could. Tears formed in Luna's eyes, as she pulled a thick, wool blanket out from her own bags behind her, and placing it gently over their heads, trying to keep every single ounce of heat inside. It didn't take very long before Luna was outright crying. She felt responsible for everything, despite it not being her fault. She felt like she had hurt her one and only friend. If it hadn't been for her, she wouldn't have fallen asleep outside, and be half-dead as she was. If it hadn't been for her, Twilight would have never gotten hurt. If she hadn't been so selfish. If she-- “T-thank y-you, L-L-Lun-...” said Twilight, her eyes still closed and her voice barely audible, as she trailed off. Luna just kept holding her, whispering into her ear. “Save your energy, Twilight. Please. Don't thank me until you're better again, and until everything is okay.” Twilight didn’t argue, and just nodded slowly. She had no energy to. The mares embraced each other for survival, with the strongest blizzard Equestria had ever seen roaring overhead, slamming against the cliff-side they were now trapped on, completely alone. ~ Night had fallen once again. The wind remained strong, but not to the gale-force level it had been earlier. Twilight was sitting up now, after hours of being unable to move, huddled with a blanket over her. Luna was sitting beside her, focusing intently on a spell. Suddenly, a tiny ball of energy emerged in front of the pair of them, growing rapidly until it began emitting a soft, pure-white glow which seemed to warm the air around it. “There,” said Luna. “This should help. It's a spell I learned a long time ago. It's pure magical energy, unlike your stove, which would probably burn the tent down. Here...” She took Twilight's hooves and raised them, placing them into the small ball of energy, which hovered off the ground near their chests. “It wont burn you. You can even put your hooves directly into it.” “I-It's warm,” said Twilight, in a subtly amazed voice, running her hooves through the wisp in front of her. “I... I've used it to help me stay warm in the past, whenever I've been cold,” replied Luna. Twilight couldn't think terribly well. She held her hooves in the ball of light in front of her. Luna was doing something off to the side, but she was too exhausted to pay much attention to it. She breathed deeply, staring at the light. She had nearly died, doing something so unbelievably absent minded. How had she fallen asleep outside? Why hadn't the strong winds woken her up before she was nearly freezing to death? Oh Celestia, Applejack would never let her hear the end of this. “Here you go, Twilight,” said Luna, suddenly. Twilight snapped out of her trance, looking up at the alicorn, who had a mug hovering in front of her. “I prepared that hot chocolate mix you’d brought with you. Please, drink this. You haven't eaten or had anything to drink since last night. It'll warm you up.” Twilight tried to pick up the mug with her magic, but couldn't, no matter how hard she tried. She squinted, but was unable to produce even a spark. “Twilight, please don't strain yourself,” continued Luna, concerned. Twilight then just reached out, taking it into her hooves. “T-thank you,” replied Twilight, drearily. “H-how did you get the water? Didn't you put all the snow outside?” “Oh... I teleported some in from outside, and heated it up. Didn't you notice?” Twilight just shook her head. She was more out of it than she thought. Hadn't only a few seconds passed? “N-no, not really. Thank you, though.” “It's alright. You’ve already thanked me,” said Luna, smiling softly. “Can I do anything else?” “No... I don't think there's anything else. We just need to wait out the storm for now, I think.” “Okay,” replied Luna. She sat down beside Twilight, and looked at the warm glow of the wisp in front of them. Nothing was said for a short while, as a slightly jittery Twilight continued to sip on the drink Luna had made for her. It made her feel immediately better, and reminded her of Pinkie Pie. Twilight couldn't think of anything else at the moment. Her mind was completely clear, even with Luna sitting beside her. For quite a while, she just admired the handiwork of the warm ball of energy in front of her, as waves of energy rippled across it as if it were both a liquid and a gas at the same time. It was similar to other spells she had seen, but this one was... different, almost organic in a way. Twilight tried to strike up a conversation, to get her mind going again and to try to think about something other than her near-death experience. “What's this spell, Luna? I've never seen anything like it before. It's very nice, and warm,” spoke Twilight, suddenly. “This spell... is one I came up with a long, long time ago,” replied Luna, gently prodding it with her hoof. “I made it to keep me warm, when--” She paused for a second, lowering her head. “--when I... was imprisoned... on the moon.” Twilight looked at it with a kind of fascination, almost feeling the higher-functioning of her brain return piece by piece. It was warm, but it couldn't have kept her very warm on the moon of all places. “But... isn't it even colder than it is here? How did you survive?” Twilight then frantically waved her hoof, realizing how oblivious the question had been. “S-sorry, you don't have to answer that. That was so, so very insensitive of me.” Open mouth, insert hoof. “N-no. No. It's... it's alright. I promise,” replied Luna, laying down and folding her legs underneath her. “You get used to it. The cold, that is. Eventually you just stop feeling it. A normal pony in those circumstances would have died, of course, but, I'm not a... normal... pony. I just wanted to feel some warmth when I was up there... so I made this.” Twilight nodded, still feeling like she was going way past Luna's comfort zone. She attempted to break up the tone of the conversation. “T-that explains why you don't need a jacket, I guess.” ‘Oh Celestia, just tape my mouth shut, please,’ she thought immediately afterwards. “Yes, that's right,” Luna said smiling sweetly up at Twilight. “I know you probably think it's a difficult subject for me, but don't worry. I... I don't get to share things like this with anypony. It’s nice... to talk about it, finally.” Twilight just nodded, trying not to embarrass herself again. “... this might not be the right time, but I just wanted to say that last night meant more to me than you can imagine.” Twilight could imagine quite a bit. She sipped her hot chocolate again, the warmth spreading throughout her body. She felt more and more normal as time went on, which was comforting. “It's okay, Luna. I saw one of those most beautiful things I had ever seen in my life last night. Maybe even the most beautiful thing. I honestly believe that everything that happened today was a small price to pay, really,” Twilight said, smiling. “Thank you for making something so beautiful.” Luna blushed and looked away, smiling and giggling. “You know that... I did nearly kill you, yes?” replied Luna, playfully. “Labour of love, I suppose,” said Twilight. She instantly regretted dropping the 'L'-word in there, and cringed. “I suppose that makes two of us,” replied Luna, happily. Twilight blushed and her eyes went wide. “N-no, I didn't mean it like that!” “L-like what, Twilight?” said Luna just as startled as Twilight. What exactly did Twilight mean? "O-oh, nothing. I'm just being weird. Must be the cold getting to my brain, haha.” Twilight just sighed at herself. What HAD she meant, anyhow? There was no helping her at this point. Twilight couldn’t tell why she was being so defensive towards Luna, either. Aside from one or two things, Luna hadn't done much of anything to suggest that romantic love existed. She just as friendly and anxious as Twilight herself the entire time. Why was she getting so afraid? She looked over at Luna, who was still eyeing her curiously since that outburst. Images of how beautiful Luna had looked the previous night entered her mind, with the sky itself reflected in every fibre of her being. Twilight remembered how calm she had been simply staring into her eyes, like she was sitting beside the sky itself, just by looking at the other mare. She knew she should have been feeling anxious around Luna at this point, especially with the notion of her loving her bouncing around in her head, but she didn't. Now she was wondering if SHE was the love-sick one. Oh Celestia. “Twilight...?” “Oh, sorry. I was just lost in thought,” she replied, still very lost despite her reassurance. Twilight couldn’t help but think that the awkwardness between the two of them had gotten to the point she felt like she was honestly worried she was hurting Luna, and there was nothing she'd hate more. Maybe it had been that she had nearly died, so everything else seemed like a walk in the park. Twilight felt compelled to speak. “Luna... how do you feel about me?” Luna looked at her curiously. “W-what do you mean?” “Like... what do you think about me? Do you like me?” Luna just blushed and averted her gaze. “I-It's embarrassing to say, and I don't know if you feel the same way, s-so it's okay. I'd rather give it time.” Twilight could feel the anticipation start to build up in her mind and her heart. Was she... hopeful? “It'd mean a lot to me, Luna. I promise I won't judge you. It’s just that I don't know how you think of me, and, well... I don’t know why it’s important, it just to me. ” Luna blushed and looked to the side, away from Twilight. “I-I don't know if I can say.” “Please, I promise I wont be upset.” “I-I can't.” “Please?” Luna breathed deeply, her lip quivering, as she blurted out, “I think that you're a very wonderful pony and I want to be your friend and hang out with you.” Luna sat back up, looking into Twilight's eyes as she spoke. “I want to spend time with you, and see things with you, and go on adventures with you, just like you do with any of your friends in Ponyville. I-I w-want--” Luna lowered her voice, folding her ears back. “... nevermind. I-I'm sorry. I-I’ve probably... made you uneasy...” Twilight's mouth stood slightly agape for a few seconds, before coming to her senses. Now she was feeling relief in a certain way, but also a tinge of disappointment. But why disappointment? The rollercoaster of emotions confused her to no end, but there was no time for that. “N-no, there's nothing to be sorry about at all!” Twilight replied hastily. “You want to be my friend?” Luna simply nodded, continuing to look away. It didn't make sense to Twilight at all. Why would Luna be so affectionate to her, if she just viewed her as a friend? Why was she so open and trusting? It boggled Twilight's mind, but it didn't take her very long before she answered that question on her own, images of the night before entering her mind again. That connection was more real and deep than she had ever felt. It's why she felt so calm just looking at Luna, just knowing that somepony understood her love of the night sky... Twilight looked up at the ceiling of the tent. She finally understood. She remembered how she had read the passages in the book which spoke of Nightmare Moon, how nobody had appreciated her, or her night, and how the jealousy had corrupted her. At the end of it all, however, she just wanted to be appreciated, to have a friend. Luna was so afraid of scaring Twilight off, because Twilight had been the only pony in the world to tell Luna that her heart and her soul – the night she had so lovingly created – were beautiful beyond her wildest dreams. Twilight felt that she had been so stupid, so oblivious, like she had always been. “Luna,” she began. “I over-think things sometimes. Well, okay, I over-think pretty much everything all the time. But I think I understand you, now.” Luna just looked at her, confused. “Y-you do?” “I spent so much of my life avoiding friendship with anypony, because I thought it was a drag and that they'd get in the way of doing what I wanted to do. I eventually learned what having friends was like, and I knew then that I'd never trade them for the anything in the world.” Luna just nodded again, listening silently. “I always had ponies coming up to me and asking to hang out, but never did anything with them. You've always wanted friendship, but never had it. Friendship means everything to you. It means the world to you. I didn’t understand, until now,” continued Twilight. “Luna, I'd love to be your friend. I'd love to spend time with you, if you can put up with how absent-minded I am most of the time.” Luna's eyes grew wide, tears beginning to fill them. “Really?” she said weakly, with so much hope and happiness in her voice. “Really,” replied Twilight, smiling wider, with a silly grin on her face. Luna instantly tackled Twilight and wrapped her forelegs around Twilight's neck, her wings unfurling, hugging her as tight as she could while giggling happily. Tears of joy fell from her face and onto Twilight’s jacket, as she snuggled against the other mare. “Oh, thank you Twilight! Thank you so much! Thank you thank you thank you!” Twilight hugged the other mare back, smiling. She felt just as excited as Luna, although she didn't really know why, but didn't much care for a reason, either. They had found a connection between them, the likes of which Twilight had never felt before. She didn't know what it was or what it meant. Luna began sobbing, whispering ‘thank you’ into Twilight’s ear repeatedly. Twilight just held her as closely as possible, almost able to feel Luna’s pain lift from her heart. Twilight was happy, in that moment, that she had made such a close friend. Maybe she wasn’t so bad at this ‘friendship’ thing after all. ~ “Twilight?! Sister?! Where are you two?!” said a voice, bellowing from outside. Dawn had broken and light flooded the walls of the tent. Luna and Twilight both awoke with a start, the pair of them embracing each other closely under the cover of the sleeping bag. Both of them instantly knew whose voice that was. It was Princess Celestia herself. Luna instantly got up, shook off the sleeping bag and opened the tent door. A small bit of snow poured in from the two-foot high swell that had formed at the entrance. The storm had passed, and the sun shone brightly, low on the horizon. “Big sister?!” Luna yelled out into the blinding light. “Oh thank heavens, are you alright?! Is Twilight Sparkle with you?” “W-we're both okay! She's with me!” replied Luna. Her eyes tried to focus on what was outside, always taking a bit longer adjusting to the brightness of the day. After a few seconds, she could see Princess Celestia standing on the cliff side. Her mane was waving in the wind as it usually did, as her regular two royal pegasus guards at her side stood watch. Luna also noticed a familiar golden carriage parked precariously on the cliff-side. Twilight slowly got up, feeling exceptionally sore this morning, as Luna galloped out to meet her sister, the snow providing no hindrance to her. Upon reaching her, she nuzzled her sister's neck affectionately. “I'm so glad to see you, big sister!” Celestia bent her head down and nuzzled her little sister back in a loving embrace. “And I am as well. I'm so glad you're alright. The Pegasi weather crew informed me last night that the storm had ended up getting much bigger than they had initially planned, and was nearly beyond their control. I would have come sooner, but the winds prevented us from coming all the way out here. Are you two okay?” A groggy Twilight emerged from the tent, stepping out into the crisp morning air which burned her eyes. It was, thankfully, nowhere near as cold as the night before, with the rays of sunlight hitting her face and warming her up. “We're okay, your highness.” Celestia's eyes widened as she looked at the state Twilight was in. “Dear heavens Twilight Sparkle, you look like a mess! What happened here?” Twilight's hair was completely messy, tangled and unkempt, she had giant black rings under her half-opened eyes, and she was hunched over in pain with a blanket covering her shoulders. “O-oh, do I really look that bad?” replied Twilight, laughing pitifully at herself. “Well, let's get you two home safe and sound,” said Celestia, the guards departing from her sides. Twilight sighed happily, walking towards her wonderful mentor and Luna. “O-okay. If you could drop me off at home, that'd be gre--” Luna stepped in front of Celestia, abruptly cutting Twilight off before she could finish. With a determined look on her face, Luna began speaking very sternly. “Sister, I want Twilight taken to the castle and looked at by the royal physician IMMEDIATELY! She was seriously hurt and I want to make sure there's absolutely nothing wrong!” Celestia was taken aback for a moment, before speaking to Twilight. “Is this true, Twilight Sparkle? Were you really hurt?” “Well... I did kinda almost, uhm, freeze to death,” she replied, grinning sheepishly. “It's settled then. Twilight, you'll accompany us to the castle and be looked at by the attending royal physician. Until they say you are fit to leave, you’ll be under their direct care.” “Bu--” “No 'buts',” replied Celestia, in an authoritative, caring tone. Twilight lowered her head a bit, her sheepish grin widening. “O-okay, your highness. But we still need to get all my thing's pack--” Twilight looked behind her, and noticed that the royal guards had somehow managed to pack up the entire campsite, only finishing on rolling up the tent. How had they packed up things so fast without magic? “We're done here, my lady,” spoke one of the stallions, briskly. “Let's go home, Twilight,” said Luna, smiling brightly as she stood beside her taller sister. Twilight could feel her muscles become more sore as all of the stress finally released. They were safe now. Everything was going to be okay. “Y-yeah, let's get out of here.” ~ “Luna really is an artist, isn't she?” Twilight and Princess Celestia were walking down a hallway of the royal castle. Only a couple of days had passed since they had left the cliff-side vista. Twilight had fully recovered with good nights sleep, and the doctor gave her a bill of good health. The sunlight peered in through the windows, illuminating the beautifully crafted stone walls. These hallways were familiar to Twilight. It had been so long since she had last been here, when before it had practically been her home. “Yeah, she really is. I've never seen something so beautiful in my life. N-not to say your sun isn't very beautiful, of course!” Celestia smiled warmly. “No, no, I completely understand, Twilight. My artistic skills are nothing compared to that of my sister. I felt the same way the first time I saw Luna's creations fill the night sky. She's only gotten better and better over time, like a painter perfecting their technique. There's really nothing quite like it.” “Y-yeah, definitely!,” replied Twilight, smiling. “I'm glad you two had fun together out there, even if it did get very dangerous. Did you learn anything on your trip?” “Oh yes. I learned something very important about friendship, naturally. I learned that even when you have your heart set on something, that if your friends are really worried about you, that you should listen to them more closely, even if you think they just sound like worry-warts.” Celestia smiled warmly. “Very good, Twilight Sparkle. Don't ever forget that your friends are always looking out for you. That's what having friends is all about, after all.” Twilight smiled to herself, remembering how everypony back home in Ponyville was so worried about her, and how she should have listened. She felt so stupid now, having brushed off all of their concerns all at once, just so she could go without feeling guilty. She also remembered Luna, and how she had been there for her when she needed it most, saving her life and nursing her back to health. That reminded her of something important. “Oh, Princess...” “Yes, Twilight Sparkle?” “Is it alright if Luna came to visit me in Ponyville? Regularly, that is.” Celestia's eyes lit up, as if she was intensely excited at the prospect herself. “Why certainly! It is, of course, up to my sister, but I would have no problems with her regularly visiting Ponyville at all.” Twilight smiled, “That's good. Her and I talked a lot about doing astronomy together when we got back. I promise that I'll try my best not to get her into any more dangerous situations, okay?” “I'm certain you wont,” replied Celestia, smiling. She then quickly lowered her head to face Twilight, as if to talk a little more privately. “She's so very sweet and loyal as can be, as long as you treat her with kindness and love. She's a very... 'passionate' mare, as you can probably tell – maybe even a little intense at times – but she's so wonderful and caring.” Twilight was a little confused at why Celestia was telling her this, and just nodded. “I... I understand...” “I'm just so worried about her. She hasn't made a single friend since she came back to Equestria. I just want her to be happy, and to enjoy life, after everything that’s happened,” said Celestia, looking down at the ground, with obvious concern for her little sister written across her face and demeanour. “I have complete faith in you, Twilight. She's just so fragile. Please promise you’ll take care of her?” Twilight nodded solemnly. She had never seen Celestia so worried about anything, which shocked her just a little. “I'll be sure to take good care of her, Princess.” “Good. I hope you two have many wonderful times together,” replied Celestia, smiling softly. The pair of them continued walking, discussing various subjects and catching up on all the little things that couldn't be fit into their letters to each other. ~ “Are you sure they'll like me?” “I'm positively sure. They're very friendly. You'll see.” “I'm just so scared... I’m afraid I’ll upset them, because of last time...” “You wont upset anypony, Luna. I promise. Everything will be okay.” ”O-okay, Twilight. I trust you.” “Here she comes now!” exclaimed Applejack, who pointed up at the sky with her hoof. The golden carriage began to descend from the sky over the main road, where it usually landed. Everypony was anxiously waiting for Twilight to return after Celestia had written them, telling them what had happened on the mountain. The carriage finally landed and the royal pegasi guards came to a halt, the snowfall crunching under their hooves. The door swung open and Twilight stepped out outside, smiling. “Hey girls, did you miss me?” The entire group of her friends huddled around her, all of them voicing their intense concern. She felt overwhelmed and embarrassed. What an idiot she had been. “Twi', when ah told ya t’stay home because ah was worried about y’freezin' t’death, ah didn't mean that t’be taken as a challenge.” “I know, AJ. I'm really sorry. I should have listened.” “Ah heck, all's well that ends well, right? Ah'm just glad yer back home.” “Yeah, you egghead! Don't scare us like that again!” “We were so worried about you, Twilight... I feel just awful not going with you...” “I feel just dreadful that my jacket didn't keep you warm enough. I really ought to have made something much better for you, darling. Can you ever forgive me?” “Did ya get to see the stars? Did ya did ya did ya? Huh huh huh?” “G-girls, please,” said Twilight, exasperated but happy none the less. “It's okay. I'm perfectly fine. We'll all talk about what happened when I get a chance to settle in, okay?” The five other mares just nodded and smiled. It was good to be home. “However, I must to introduce somepony first. Luna, you can come out now,” said Twilight, calling into the carriage. After a few seconds of hesitation, Luna finally appeared, stepping down and smiling meekly, looking at the ground. “H-Hello, everypony. It's nice to meet you, under better circumstances this time.” The five of them all stood there with their mouths agape for a moment, before all bowing to Luna in succession. Luna waved her hoof, embarassed. “N-no, it's okay, you don't have to do that. I promise. Y-you don't have to be so formal.” One by one, they all got up and approached Luna, still somewhat weary of the royal alicorn. It didn't take long, however, until they were all giving their introductions. Luna smiled, shaking hooves with everypony in the group. “Come by Sweet Apple Acres whenever you'd like, yer highness. We’ve got the finest apples in all of Equestria!” “You should also visit Sugarcube Corner, too! I'll throw an awesome party for you, Luna!” “If you'd prefer some more... refined and elegant tastes, you can come by my boutique at your leisure, my lady. We could chat and have tea, and it'd be simply wonderful!” “Or if you’d like an aerial tour of Ponyville, Cloudsdale or wherever, just come find me! I’m always around!” “Or if you'd like to come by and see the animal hospital I run, I’d love to have you over! I mean, if that's okay... if you'd like to...” Luna looked confused, taking in their hospitality and friendliness. She couldn't believe how open they were all being with her. “I-I can try to visit you all, although it might take me some time.” “Weeee! Awesome! I'm definitely throwing a party for you, then!” exclaimed Pinkie, bouncing up and down in glee. “A-a party?” “Yeah! How else are we gonna celebrate Princess Luna visiting Ponyville! It'll be so super-awesome-amazing that everypony will want to come to it just to meet you!” Luna smiled nervously, finding it difficult to take it all in. She glanced over at Twilight in an oddly confused but distinctly happy way. Twilight decided that she'd better give Luna a bit of reprieve from everyone's prodding, so she could get used to it. “Okay girls, you can all swarm Luna once I get home. I’ve got to see what Spike has been up to,” said Twilight, smiling. Luna was going to love it in Ponyville, if this was any indication. “Oh, him? He didn't even bother to show up to meet you here because he let Sweetie Bell and her friends make a complete mess of your library, AGAIN,” replied Rarity, sighing heavily. “Oh geez, I better go rescue him then,” laughed Twilight. Everypony began walking back to town, as the royal guards took off with the carriage up into the sky. Luna was beaming as they walked into town, trotting along beside Twilight as the others continued on a few paces ahead. She leaned her head against Twilight's neck and nuzzled against her softly as they walked together, which made Twilight blush. Twilight didn't mind, though. Every time she looked at Luna, that beautiful vista of dusk entered her mind. She could only hope that Luna enjoyed Ponyville, and that they could be the best of friends as time went on. She couldn’t wait to show Luna the intricacies of the night sky she had so lovingly created. Luna was overjoyed and terrified. Her long, immortal life had taken a sharp turn in a direction she didn't understand. Half of her was convinced that it was too good to be true, the other half uncaring and willing to throw caution to the wind. She could only hope that Twilight and her friends accepted her, and learned to forgive her for all the things she had done to them as Nightmare Moon. Despite these fears and reservations, the pair of them knew something for certain. That bond they felt between them would only get stronger. There was something intrinsic and wonderful about it. They were brought together by a common sky, together forever in that simple, lonely darkness of the brilliant night that they had shared. TO BE CONCLUDED...
SyrinKitty	922	4	Princess Luna,Twilight Sparkle,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Common Sky	A sweet and gentle TwiLuna fic.	complete	1,805	28	<p>Twilight ventures out into the mountains to see a once-in-a-lifetime event. Disappointed by her friends not coming with her, Twilight crosses paths with a kindred spirit.</p>	everyone	2011-09-20T02:48:56+00:00	2011-09-20T02:48:56+00:00	18,675	“O-oh my.” “It's very beautiful, isn't it?” “Y-yes it is... I never imagined...” Twilight and Luna were standing on the deck of the Ponyville Library. It was the middle of spring, and Winter Wrap Up had long past. The grass was growing and the flowers were blooming, adding a beautiful green hue to the world as Luna's moon shone brightly overhead in the dead of night. The temperature was warm and the air was muggy, but the sky remained crystal clear. The pair of them were looking through Twilight's largest telescope, which she had just set up the night before. “Things are so much clearer with a bigger lens, don't you think?” asked Twilight. “Definitely,” replied Luna, her eye glued to the eyepiece, the telescope pointed low on the horizon. “What's this star called?” “It's called Antares. It's a part of the constellation called Scorpio,” said Twilight, looking at one of her books. Luna took her face away from the eyepiece finally, looking up at the sky itself. She stared in the direction of red star, the brightest one in the constellation, that continued to flicker different shades of red visible even to the naked eye. “Does it always do that? I mean, how it shifts in colour constantly,” asked Luna. “As far as I know, it always has, since the very beginning. It's how most astronomers find Scorpio in the sky.” Luna continued to stare at intensely and curiously. She had never noticed it before, even in all of her time changing and perfecting the night sky so long ago. In the relatively short amount of time she had began doing astronomy with Twilight, she had started realizing that there was so much she didn't know about her own creation. “Oh! There's something really interesting I want to show you before you go tonight!” Twilight began moving the telescope's orientation with her hooves, pointing it higher into the horizon. She fiddled with the viewfinder on the side, attempting to point it at a precise location. She then looked through the eyepiece, and then adjusted the telescope again. “A-ha, found it!” she exclaimed. “Although... it might be a little too dark to see on this particular telescope.” “Oh, let me see,” replied Luna, trading places with Twilight. She looked through it again, squinting, trying to figure out what exactly she was seeing. “It's very... fuzzy.” “Yeah... I'm sorry, I wanted to show you something I remember seeing back in the big observatory in Canterlot. Unfortunately this telescope just isn't big enough to see it clearly. It’d need to be a lot brighter for this particular telescope to pick it up.” “What is it, exactly?” asked Luna, curiously. “Well... nopony really knows. There's a few theories floating around, but as far as anypony can tell, it's sort of like a gigantic cluster of stars, very, very far away. They call it ‘Andromeda.’” “Andromeda...” Luna looked out into the night sky again, trying to see if she could spot it with her naked eye. She could only see the same fuzzy outline out of the corner of her eye that she had seen in the telescope. Oh, how she wished she could see it. It was just then when a thought occurred to her. “T-Twilight.” “Yes, Luna?” “If I... if I made it brighter, could we see it with this telescope?” asked Luna, turning towards her. “W-well,” replied Twilight, taken aback by Luna's question. She had never imagined Luna could do something like that, but it did, of course, make complete sense. “... well, yes, theoretically you could make it brighter, and then we'd be able to see it from here. Are you sure you can do that, though?” “I haven't done it in a very long time, but... I made all of this, right? I can't imagine it'd be too difficult.” Twilight smiled. “Alright then. Give it a try, if you'd like. I can't wait to see what happens!” Luna returned the unicorn's smile, then looked back to the night sky. She focused on where she had seen Andromeda, and closed her eyes, picturing it in her minds eye. Her horn began to glow with an odd type of brightness, as if it were moonlight itself. She didn't know what it looked like specifically, but she didn't need to. She only needed to command it to be brighter, and it would accommodate her desires. Suddenly, there was a large flash of energy from her horn, which shot up directly at Andromeda, lighting up the entire sky like a phosphorescent lake. The energy rippled across the sky, the stars gleaming and pulsating with waves of brilliant, pure light that could be seen through the entire sky. Luna opened her eyes finally, and the sight she saw nearly knocked her to the floor. A large, bright disk had appeared in the sky. It sparkled and filled the vista of the night, as if it was a cloud of innumerable stars, hovering in the abyss. It was so bright, so beautiful, and dwarfed everything else, short of the moon itself. There was not a sound to be heard from anywhere around them. They said nothing, only gasping and covering their mouths with their hooves in unison. The image of Andromeda burned itself into Luna's retina. Had she really made this all on her own? Twilight walked towards Luna and sat beside her, the two mares staring in awe at the galaxy, trying to take in everything. “... a trillion stars,” said Luna suddenly, after a few moments. “W-what?” A tear ran down Luna's cheek. She had never imagined that her night held such wonders. It was beyond her wildest dreams. “There's a trillion stars... I can see them all gleaming and shining. Every individual one. I... I made... all of that...?” Twilight wasn't sure what to say. She looked at Luna, who was simply staring at her creation in a kind of wonder that Twilight had never seen in anypony before. Her mane glowed with the same soft hue as the stars above them, her eyes reflecting and absorbing the light of Andromeda. Twilight couldn't help but admire her once more. “I made... all... of it?” repeated Luna. “You made the entire night sky, Luna. All of this is you,” replied Twilight, still in a state of mild shock. “It was seeing things like this as a young filly that made me fall in love with your night. I couldn't imagine anything else so beautiful.” Luna responded by resting her head against Twilight's, continuing to look up at the beautiful galaxy whose light displaced the entirety of the sky. Twilight leaned back against her in kind. “Thank you, Twilight,” she said finally. “There's no need to thank me. I didn’t do anything.” “You've shown me who I am.” Twilight blushed. “I just showed you what was already there.” Luna smiled, nuzzling Twilight's neck with her muzzle, enjoying the warmth and Twilight's scent. It was one of her most favourite things to do in the world. There was nowhere else she felt this safe. “I would have never known myself if it weren't for you.” “I just wanted to show you what you’ve made, so you’d know how beautiful it is. That’s all.” “And that's why you're wonderful, Twilight.” Luna broke from the loving embrace, looking at Twilight, smiling and giggling to herself. Luna looked almost euphoric. Twilight loved seeing her so happy and calm. “I need to go home now, before it gets too late. Celestia and I are having some sister-time tomorrow. She even booked the whole evening off for me.” “I completely understand. I hope you two have great fun!” “We will,” said Luna, smiling sweetly again. She embraced the unicorn in a hug, and held her for as long as possible. Twilight returned it, smiling just as brightly. Luna then took a step back, a blush forming on her cheeks. “I had a wonderful time tonight, Twilight.” “I did too. The last few months have been wonderful. Would you like to do this again in a few days from now, on Thursday? Weather permitting, of course,” replied Twilight. “I'd love to!” exclaimed Luna, her eyes lighting up. She blushed even harder, looking up at Twilight in a slightly coy way. “Oh, and... Twilight...?” Before Twilight could even utter a single syllable in response, Luna leaned in closer to the other mare. Twilight blushed bright red, her heart skipping a beat, as she felt Luna lay a soft, gentle, sweet kiss directly on her cheek. She then brought her lips to Twilight’s ear and whispered, “Goodnight.” Luna stepped back, smiling, and extended her wings, stretching them as wide as she could, and began flapping them, ascending off the viewing deck of the Ponyville Library. She looked tenderly at Twilight for a few moments, before launching herself high into the air in the direction of Canterlot, blending in and disappearing into the bright, starry night sky. Twilight could only sit there, stunned for a few moments, before coming back to her senses. Her heart was nearly leaping through her chest, its heartbeat pounding through her ears, having just been kissed for the first time in her life. But it took only one look back up at the night sky they had just shared, like so many times before, to make Twilight calm once more. She sighed, feeling that pure elation that she only felt when she was with the Princess of the Night - the night itself, personified. Twilight spoke softly into the heavens, closing her eyes, as if it were a private conversation only between her and Luna. And it was. “I love you too, Luna.” THE END
Dubs Rewatcher	923	1	Cutie Mark Crusaders,DJ P0N-3,Lyra,Octavia,Other,Adventure,Comedy,Random,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	The House of Horror (NOT WRITTEN BY ME)	The CMC go to a haunted house. Hijinks insue.	complete	23	1	<p>NOT WRITTEN BY ME</p><p>This was written by my friend The Drunken Colt. It was only edited by me.</p><p>-------</p><p>THE CMC GOES TO A HAUNTED HOUSE. HIJINKS INSUE.</p><p>Written for "The Great Fan-Creation Contest!"</p>	everyone	2011-09-24T02:55:22+00:00	2011-09-24T02:55:22+00:00	2,871	The House of Horror A CMC Fanfic By the Drunken Colt Edited/Pre-read by Dubs Rewatcher Re-Edited by Drunken Colt "What? Are you chicken?" Taunted Apple Bloom. The Cutie Mark Crusaders were standing outside a mansion in a state of serious disrepair. It creaked in the soft wind, howling through the skeletal trees of Everfree forest. Windows boarded and broken, but it seemed like pairs of eyes were peering through. Scootaloo, trying to mask her obvious fear gave a quick retort. "No, I'm not! I don't fear anything!" She thought about what Rainbow Dash, her idol, the Element of Loyalty, the mare who would never leave her friends behind would do. The filly promptly charged into the mansion, leaving the other two ponies behind. From the floorboards came a terrible shriek as the old wood started to splinter. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle burst in after her, looking around with fright. Scootaloo had been trembling, but immediately stopped when her friends came in. "See? I'm Not a chicken!" At that exact moment, the trio heard a large crash from the next floor up. Scootaloo’s wings flared out, and she felt as if her stomach was trying to make an impromptu escape through her throat. Sweetie Belle cowered behind Apple Bloom. If the red-maned filly had heard the crash at all, she wasn’t showing it. Apple Bloom gave Scootaloo teasing look. "Sure yur’ not, and I bet unicorns can fly." ---------- “Wow Twilight, you did it!” Spike checked a mark on a long list. “That’s the Levitation Spell alright! Now, next is Baking Magic! I’m sure you’ll be good at that, Twi‘!” There was silence. Spike looked up, only to see a shrinking purple dot. “HOW DO I GET DOWN?!” ---------- There was another crash, larger this time. "What the heck was that!?!" Sweetie Belle cried. "Let’s check it out!" suggested Apple Boom. "A-are you sure that’s a g-good idea?" whimpered Scootaloo. "Oh, ah‘ can understand if the chicken doesn‘t wanna‘ come." taunted Sweetie Belle. Scootaloo, not the type to be called a coward, immediately charged upstairs. Once again, her friends were left stunned at Scootaloo’s gusto. Somehow, upstairs was much worse. It was filled by row after row of terrifying paintings and sculptures of ponies and indescribable creatures. Sweetie Belle could have swore she saw the eyes of a painting move. Suddenly, a terrible wailing noise came from the end of the hall. For the first time since they had entered the house, Apple Bloom showed some level of fright as Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle hid behind her shaking legs. However, Scootaloo, feeling this was her chance to reclaim her lost honor, charged out from behind her friend, headed toward the door at the end of the hall. It was a long and torturous gallop to the room. Strange noises resonated from the walls, sounds of music from ages past. The floorboards creaked all the way, each step bringing a high pitched whine with it. About halfway through, Scootaloo realized just what the splintering noises had meant before. Stepping on a wrong floorboard, the orange filly’s leg broke through, and she began to fall. She clenched her eyes shut as her life began flashing before her eyes. Her first word, “Scooter.” The first time she had met Rainbow Dash. The party where her and Sweetie Belle had met Apple Bloom to form the Cutie Mark Crusaders. The talent show. All those songs… After what seemed like an eternity, Scootaloo opened her eyes. However, instead of seeing a white, holy place, or even pitch black, she was looking up at the smiling face of Apple Bloom. “She’s okay!” the she filly said. "I didn't need your help!" boasted Scootaloo, lifting herself up. "Suuuure you didn't!" said Apple Bloom, rolling her eyes. They kept on going at a steady but careful pace, making sure not to step on anymore rotting floorboards. The hall seemed endless. Soon, the classical music started to become louder and louder, until the fillies began to feel the vibrations in the floor boards. Finally they made it to the room, the music almost deafening at this point. The trio stood there a moment, partly wanting to figure out who-or what was playing the music, partly terrified for their lives. Apple Bloom, shaking, pushed open the door slowly. The music abruptly stopped. What they saw surprised them. It was none other then Octavia, Lyra, and Vinyl Scratch! "Well hello there.” Octavia stated, confusion heavy in her voice. Vinyl scratched her head, before turning to Lyra. “Yo, Ly, I thought you said the house was abandoned!” "We thought you guys were ghosts!" exclaimed Sweetie Belle. Even Lyra‘s giggles were musical. "Well that’s silly, ghosts don't exist! We were just practicing our music here, trying not to disturb our neighbours back at home." replied Lyra. “Silly fillies...“ At that moment, the ponies heard a door creak open. An ethereal white pony walked past. Stopping in the middle, it turned its head to look through the door. As if on cue, Scootaloo ran out of the house screaming, followed by everypony else.
lilinuyasha	926	1	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-12-08T02:45:42+00:00	2011-12-08T02:45:42+00:00	12,536	“Trey, I just...” she said, looking away from me. “What?” I asked. She was terribly shy. I admired that about her. I put my arm around her and pulled her tight, letting her know I cared. “You can talk to me. It’s just us.” “Trey, I...” she said, stopping, unsure whether to say something or not. I wasn’t exactly sure what she was getting at. “You what? Please, tell me...” “Trey, I...I love you.” she said, looking up at me with those beautiful blue eyes. I’d never received that kind of affection before. I exhaled, smiling, unsure what to say. “I knew I shouldn’t have told you...” she said, looking away. “Hey...” I said. “I’m not the kind of guy that just tells people things.” I tilted her face towards me, looking deep into her. “I show them.” I’d never been one to take risks, especially where mares were concerned. I’d always been very cautious, but this time, I put away all doubts and leaned in close, letting our faces slowly come together... Trey woke up just before things got interesting. That was a common occurrence for him. He hardly dreamt, but when he did, he never got anywhere good. All he had were his daydreams about his perfect pony. He shrugged it off and got ready for the day. It was his first day in Ponyville as the new Band Director for the local high school. Music had always been his passion and he was looking forward to spending the day teaching the kids about music and applying it to the real world. Of course, since it was his first day, the local party pony, Pinkie Pie, as he learned she was called, threw him a “Welcome to Ponyville” party after the school day was done. Trey, though a bit of an introvert, decided to go anyway. “Welcome to Ponyville! Oh, oh, I’m so excited! I love seeing new faces around here! I have a feeling we’re gonna be GREAT friends!!! Well, enjoy the party! See ya!” she said. Trey found her spontaneity amusing, though he may have just been thinking diplomatically. Trey, not exactly sure how to act in social situations in large parties, stuck to his normal routine, meandering about aimlessly, eating because it was the only thing he knew how to do. Eventually, several ponies came up and introduced themselves. “Hey, I’m Rainbow Dash. You seem like a pretty cool guy. Pegasus? Red and black mane? AWESOME!” said one of the multicolored ponies. Rainbow Dash was certainly an appropriate name for her. “Well howdy, there, stranger! My name’s Applejack. I run the apple farm ‘round these parts. If you ever need any apples or apple accessories, feel free to give a shout!” said another. She seemed like a nice one. “Hey there. My name’s Twilight Sparkle.” said one of the darker maned ponies. “I kinda live in the library. So, if you ever need any books on music theory, I’m bound to have one!” she said. “Well hello there, darling!” said one of the whitest ponies he’d ever seen. Darling? It must be her thing. “My name’s Rarity. I’m sure I was mentioned at some point. Anyways, I’m in charge of Carousel Boutique, where everything is chic, unique, and magnifique! If you require any formal attire, I’m sure I can fix something up for such a handsome colt. Ta-ta!” she said, turning off to join 5 other ponies, 4 of which had introduced themselves earlier. He didn’t exactly understand why she called him handsome. He’d never been called that before. Trey took a closer look at the group. Another tan pegasus with pink hair hung near the back of that group, hardly contributing. She must have been very shy. Trey liked shy. He watched the group occasionally, drifting in and out of assorted conversations with other ponies. Eventually, the tan one left the group to get some punch. Trey trotted over there, getting some himself, setting him next to the pony. Trey, the shorter distance, got there first. He poured himself a glass, and waited until she got to the table. “Oh, I just poured this one. You can have it.” he said, handing her the punch. She looked at him, unsure what to do, before shrinking her body and looking down at the ground. He set the punch on the table next to her. He was used to awkward silences, but it was different being on the opposite end. “I’m sure you heard my name. But I’m Trey. What’s your name?” he said, smiling at her. She kept looking down at the ground, muttering something. “Sorry, I’m a bit deaf in one of my ears. Could you repeat that?” “My name is flutter...” she said, before getting really soft and inaudible. Trey, not wanting to make this worse than it was, decided to simply respond with a “Pleasure meeting you!” Flutter whatever-it-was looked at him and nodded. She then took the punch and smiled awkwardly at him, before trotting off to join her other friends. Trey kept a watch on her out of the corner of his eye. He noticed that she looked back in his direction before disappearing into the crowd. “So, have you met everypony?” Trey looked around, trying to locate the source of the voice. “Down here.” Trey looked down to see a small, baby dragon. “The name’s Spike. You’re Trey?” Trey nodded. “So, you met Twilight. She’s the smart one of the bunch, with the most magical abilities ever. Then there’s Rarity, a total knockout! Er...uh...yeah. Then there’s Applejack, a hard working friendly pony, and then Rainbow Dash, the coolest pony of them all. Then there’s Pinkie Pie. She’s very...random. But she’s pretty funny, too.” “What’s the other one? I couldn’t hear the last part of her name...” “Oh, that’s Fluttershy.” said Spike. “She’s very shy, especially around new people.” Fluttershy seemed like an appropriate name for her. “Just ignore her shyness and you’ll be fine.” “Sounds good. Thanks, Spike.” “No prob, colt. I’m always at the library with Twilight, so if you need anything, I’ll be there.” “Sounds good. Thanks!” said Trey, as Spike went to hang out elsewhere. Eventually, the party died down and most of the ponies left. Twilight, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie hung back to talk. “So what brings you to Ponyville?” asked Twilight. The others nodded, inquiring for details. “Well, I did a lot of work in Canterlot with the Royal Music Society, personally composing for Celestia.” Twilight caught a gleam of recognition and enjoyment out of hearing that, for some reason. “Eventually, I got a job offer from Ponyville High, offering me a bandmaster position. I’d always wanted to direct a Marching Band, so I informed Celestia that I needed to move on. And, well...here I am, in all my glory. Bit of a let down, if you ask me.” “But won’t being in the sun for that long make you sweaty and icky?” asked Rarity. “Yeah, but I think the things you can get out of Marching Band far outweigh the sweat and hardwork. Besides, I enjoy being outside, sweating from work. The marching field is my home, and there’s nothing I would trade about it.” Rarity showed a small look of confusion. She didn’t seem to like being dirty. “So you don’t mind working with some of them rascals?” asked Applejack. “Nah. Kids are the future. Besides, Marching Band just isn’t fun with adults who have nothing to learn.” “Um...” started Fluttershy before Pinkie Pie interrupted. “So are you having fun yet? Do you like the ponies here? Do ya, Do ya? Because we like you! You seem cool! I think we should definitely hang out sometime!” Trey, overloaded by all that talking simply did his default action and smiled at her, motioning a simple “Yes”. “Well anyways, girls, we’d better let him get some sleep. He’s got school in the morning.” said Twilight, asserting her unofficial role as leader of the pack. They all left, Fluttershy last. “Oh, Fluttershy?” said Trey. She turned to look at him. “Um...yes?” “Did you have something you wanted to ask earlier?” Fluttershy showed a sudden snap of recognition as she remembered that she didn’t get to ask her question. “Um...no...not really...it wasn’t important...”she said shyly, looking back down at the ground. “Alright then. Have a good night. I look forward to seeing you again.” She looked at him and smiled happily. “That would be nice...if that’s ok with you...” “Anytime.” he said, smiling at her. With that, Fluttershy trotted home, and Trey closed his door, retreating to bed. As he closed his eyes, laying there, he feel asleep once again to his favorite images of spending time with a special somepony, letting his fitful flights of fancy carry him away to happiness as he slept.
lilinuyasha	926	2	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-12-08T02:47:44+00:00	2011-12-08T02:47:44+00:00	7,821	“You don’t stand a chance.” “She’ll never like you.” “Give up hope.” “Just quit.” Trey woke up from his nightmare. Voices were projecting in his head, his subconscious bereaving his conscious thought stream. He though he’d been over this. He had a bad habit of hanging on to the past longer than he needed to, and it was tearing him apart. Trey looked over at his clock, finding he woke up 30 minutes earlier than his alarm. Trey rose out of bed and put on a cheerful face, despite what raged on in his mind. Once he got an idea in his head, it wouldn’t leave. Today, that thought was Fluttershy. Trey had a bad habit of picturing himself with any attractive filly. He’d always wanted affection for so long, but was unsure how to act around ponies, fillies especially. So, for all those years spent in isolation from them, he’d had a lot of time to picture the perfect filly. His perfect, romantic desires. But, as always, they were dreams. He’d always gotten into the habit of automatically counting himself out, thinking he’d never stand a chance, hence the voices. Besides, he’d always had conflicting thoughts about being with somepony. He put those thoughts aside, not drifting into further contemplation. That day was a good day for the band. In class, they got to the school’s fight song and school song, plus several stand tunes. After school, they learned all the show’s tunes, and started to put together the first movement for marching. All in all, it was a good day. “New beginnings” was the theme of this year’s show. Whether it was planned that way or just a coincidence of his arrival, he was unsure. Regardless, this show had a lot of potential. He planned to make it the best it could be. “Alright, everypony! Hustle to the tower!!!” he shouted as practice ended. “There’s a lot of good work being done here. I may not know any of you yet, but I can honestly say that you’re possibly the best group of young students I’ve ever seen.” He paused, looking through the crowd. “Even you, Trumpetier!” he said, joking. Trumpetier was the class clown, and knew how to make-and take-jokes. He looked out at the band again, a smaller bunch than he was used to, only about 150 or so. “I’m proud of every one of you. Thank you for your hard work today. See you tomorrow! BAND!” “MOVE!” they replied. “BAND DisMISSED!” “ONE, TWO!” they said, turning around with those steps. Trey smiled, and looked at them as they walked off, chatting with each other, putting their instruments in their cases. As Trey started to get down from the tower, a bright colored pony caught the corner of his eye. He looked over to see a tan pony, slightly resembling Fluttershy. Trey took another look. It WAS Fluttershy. Trey hurried down the tower and trotted towards her. Unfortunately, the tangled mess of kids kept him from moving too fast, and by the time he made it to the clearing, she was gone. Trey looked left and right, to no avail. He sighed to himself and went home. Why was she there? Trey didn’t understand. Why did she just leave? None of this made sense to him. She took her own initiative to see him. He didn’t even think she knew he saw her. That made it even more mysterious. There was no possible way she could have been there on her own accord. Maybe she passed by on her way to buy some fruit or stuff. Trey’s opposing mindsets battled back and forth. “There’s no way she came to see you. You don’t stand a chance!” “But she still showed up...” “That doesn’t matter. It was coincidental.” “Well...maybe not...” Trey grew frustrated with himself. Why did he have to be so terrible with social skills? Why couldn’t he simply accept a visit without trying to analyze the situation? Trey had a bit of a learning disability. He didn’t exactly understand social ques. As a result, he misread a lot of situations, especially this one. “It was just a visit. Nothing more.” Eventually his mind calmed down for the time being, though he did find it hard to concentrate on his work. He was desperate to know the truth. If he didn’t understand the situation, he was bound to make some conclusions that may not be conducive to him or a potential relationship with Fluttershy, whatever it may be. He put it on his list of things to do tomorrow and went to bed, drifting off to sleep. Tonight, however, he dreamed specifically about Fluttershy. When he woke up, he couldn’t remember a different night he’d ever slept that well.
lilinuyasha	926	3	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-02-01T04:10:07+00:00	2012-02-01T04:10:07+00:00	7,987	Trey couldn’t wait to get out of school. He’d been so impatient throughout the day, rushing ahead, trying to get things done. He got too ahead of himself in band because of it and wound up derailing the band for a few minutes. He grew frustrated with himself but realized that he had to utilize his patience in order for this to work. Nopony without patience would get anywhere. As the day finally wrapped up, Trey rallied the troops to the tower. “Good work out there today, colts! And fillies! We have a lot of good things going on. Now, I know the big marching competition is still a ways away, but we need to execute perfectly every day. Now, I did come from Canterlot, so I’ve seen some pretty good bands out there. I want us to show them who’s boss. So, who’s ready for the first hoofball game tomorrow?” Cheers arose as the thought of the first game of the season drew near. It was Thursday, and all the high schools played on Friday. Trey couldn’t remember the last time he’d been to a high school game. He’d always been at college games, where his music and fight songs he composed were played. He was looking forward to the experience. “Alright. That’s what I thought. BAND!” “MOVE!” “ATTEN HUT!” “MOVE!” “Section of the day goes to the trumpets.” The trumpets yelled screams of joy and enthusiasm. “Trumpets dismissed!” “One, two!” “Everypony else, diiiiiiiiiiismissed!” “One, two!” Now that the day was over, Trey could start his search. He trotted off towards Ponyville Square, hoping to catch a glimpse of the tan pony he so desired. He hurriedly, though trying to keep a calm demeanor, searched for that yellow coat and pink mane before nightfall. He had only about an hour before he thought he should give up hope. He trotted around the square, searching the windows of stores, around assorted fruit stands, and around some table setups and restaurants. His search yielded no luck. He held his head low and slowly began to trot home. “HEY THERE!” Trey jumped and fell back, startled. Pinkie Pie was looking at him, smiling. “Hey! I couldn’t help but notice you were looking for something. Are you playing a game? Oh OH! Can I play? Please, please?” “Actually I’m looking for Fluttershy.” “Oh are you two playing Hide and Seek? I’m the best at that game! I’ll go hide!” “Wait!” said Trey. “Do you know where I could find Fluttershy?” “That would be cheating, silly!” “We’re not playing hide and seek, Pinkie!” “Oh...well...you want to?” “Um...maybe Saturday. I just wanted to talk to Fluttershy. Do you know where she lives?” “Oh! She lives in that cottage on the edge of town, with all the animals! Tell her I said Hi!!!” she said, happily bouncing off elsewhere in typical Pinkie fashion. Trey rolled his eyes and trotted off towards a non-decrepit location, hoping that he was headed towards the right edge of town. He followed a natural trail by some woods for a good while before he decided to head back the other direction. He trotted off at a faster pace the other way, south of town, on the same trail. Eventually, he saw a cottage-like building with a light on. The shadow of a figure moved in front of the light, flapping its wings. Fluttershy was definitely home. Trey trotted up to the door and knocked. Fluttershy opened the top part of the door, and, when seeing who it was, opened her eyes wide. Whether it was joy or not, he didn’t know. Fluttershy shrunk her body back again, looking at him. “Um...hey Trey. Can I help you with something?” “Actually, I just wanted to see if you wanted to come to the hoofball game tomorrow night. I noticed you were at the field the other night but you left before I got a chance to say hello.” “Oh. Well...your band sounded so nice, I just thought I’d drop in and listen...I hope that was ok...” “No, I’m glad you did! I wish I would have gotten to say hello, though.” “Oh, I’m so sorry...” “It’s fine. I don’t believe in apologies.” he said, smiling at her. “Um...well...” “So, wanna hear the band at the hoofball game? They’ll sound just as good there!” “I don’t know...that’s an awful lot of ponies there...and loud noises...” “Fluttershy, I absolutely hate crowds and loud noises. But hoofball games are where I make an exception. I think it’d be really fun to see you there. Besides, the season opener is the school’s rival! That should add some excitement.” “But...who’s gonna take care of the animals?” “Animals?” asked Trey. He then noticed a large assortment of creatures inside Fluttershy’s cottage, looking at him. “Oh...yes...I take care of the animals around here...um...I guess I’ll just feed them early...Angel can take care of them. Won’t you, Angel?” A large rabbit jumped up onto Fluttershy’s back and nodded at her. He then looked at Trey, trying to figure him out. He jumped off and bounced elsewhere. “So...see ya there?” “Um...yes. If that’s alright?” “I wanted you to be there.” he said, smiling. “I’d like to see you.” he said, realizing that wasn’t what he meant to say at all. “See me?” “See you. At the game. Yeah. Um...yeah.” he said, unsure how to catch himself. Fluttershy smiled and nodded at him. “Sure. I’ll look out for the band and sit by you guys...If that’s alright?” “Absolutely. See you then!” he said, smiling as he trotted away back to his house. “She heard the music and wanted to come. It wasn’t about you.” “But she still came.” “Not for you.” “But she still came.” Trey fought back with his conscience. He felt like he could win this one. He’d gained more reason to believe that Fluttershy could be his. However, he’d keep these thoughts in his head, planning not to let them out to her, minus the accidental slip earlier. He’d found it best if he kept his crushes to himself. At first, he told himself he couldn’t develop affections for any filly. Then he succumbed and realized that as long as he didn’t act on those impulses, he’d be fine. Trey put all reminiscences of the past behind him and closed his eyes, picturing Fluttershy in his head before he drifted off to sleep. Just a hug was all he needed. Just some physical contact...that’s all he’d ever asked for. I sat out under the stars with her. We lied on our backs, pointing out constellations. It was just her and I out here. I looked over at her. Fluttershy. I smiled to myself as I saw her gaze into the stars with wonder. She looked so beautiful. I scooted closer to her, gazing up with her. “This is one of my favorite things to do.” I said. “I can see why...” she said. “There’s just one thing wrong with it though.” “I think it’s perfect...” “There’s just one thing missing that would make it perfect.” “Well...what is it?” “I’ve always wanted somepony to share it with. This is the first time I’ve ever gazed at the stars with somepony special.” Crap. I hadn’t told her that yet. “I’m not that special...” she said. “You’re special to me, Fluttershy.” I said, turning to look at her. She turned to look at me with a shocked look on her face. I shouldn’t have said it. “Nopony’s ever said that before...” she said, looking away. “They’re missing out.” I said. If I said it, I might as well continue with it. She blushed and looked away again. That shade of red was so cute on her. I made a move and put my hoof to her face, cradling it. She looked at me with those big, beautiful blue eyes and smiled. She didn’t remove my hoof...that was new. “You’re making me feel...awkward.” she said, obviously unsure of what that emotion was. “I know you’re not used to getting this much attention. I can tell you don’t like it.” I said as she nodded. I removed my hoof from her cheek and put it under her chin. “But at the very least, you deserve everything I can give you.” She looked at me again, blushing harder, her face almost rouge with this new emotion. “I...I don’t know what to say...” I smiled. I decided to be daring tonight. “You don’t need to say anything.” I said, leaning my lips close to her, at a decently fast pace. Enough to where she could see it coming, but wouldn’t have enough time to react. I heard her inhale fast through her nose, hold it for a bit, and breathe it all out, as she pushed her face closer to mine. *** Trey’s alarm woke him up. He had slept so well. He remembered having a good dream, but couldn’t quite recall what exactly it was. He knew Fluttershy was in it. Maybe he got somewhere. Maybe she hugged him. Trey got dressed and met the day, getting his baton and music. He made sure to pep the band up before the game, reviewing over the fight song (which he wrote while in his tenure at Canterlot University) and school song. School couldn’t go by fast enough for him. He was ready for some hoofball. And to see Fluttershy again. He was also very eager to see how the band would perform their first show, and the crowd reaction. Eventually, the school day ended and the band gathered right back at the band hall, where pregame meals where being served, courtesy of the local hay market. Once their allotted meal time was over, they repped the show a few times before they got on the school buses and drove over to the stadium, where Fillydelhpia, their long hated rival, awaited. As the band got situated in the stands, Trey kept a lookout for Fluttershy. He searched the stands high and low and didn’t see anything yet. Still 15 minutes before gametime. She had plenty of time. Kickoff started and the band played played a drumline rift to signify the beginning of the game. Ponyville, who elected to kick, stormed down the field in an attempt to get to the ball carrier. Fillydelphia’s receiver had too much speed and he broke the tackles for a touchdown. Trey sighed. He didn’t know how Ponyville played, but this wasn’t a good sign. Trey turned around and had them play the kickoff song again, almost as soon as they had put their horns down. Trey kept a lookout for Fluttershy. Still nothing. Ponyville got the ball, and brought it out to the 40 yard line, a fairly good return. Trey had the band play a few more tunes throughout the quarter. As the first quarter ended, the score was 14-7, Fillydelphia. Trey searched again for Fluttershy, to no avail. Trey got the band ready for halftime, broadcasting their new show. The half ended, 21-7. Trey sat back on the sidelines as the band took the field, where screams of appreciation and cheering racked the stands. Trey liked this crowd. They were a lot more supportive than some of the other schools he’d been at. As the drum major got the show started, Trey looked back towards the stands frantically, searching for Fluttershy. Still nothing. maybe she forgot the time...time...CRAP! Trey never told her the time! He kicked himself in frustration. How could he have come so far to fail? He never expected much more than failure from himself anyways. Trey sighed and watched the rest of the band’s performance. Other than a few marching issues, they sounded very good. Once they finished the show, the crowd absolutely roared. Trey smiled as the band got back in the stands for the second half. He glanced through the crowd one more time. Finding nothing, he gave it up and focused his attention on the band and the game. Ponyville wound up losing 35-24. Disappointed, the crowd left the stands angrily, most not staying for the school song and fight song. Trey shook his head and rolled his eyes. His supporting fans only cared about winning. When they were losing, well...they weren’t supportive. As the band got back to the school, Trey made a quick announcement telling everypony that they did a great job, and that he looked forward to seeing them Monday. Trey began to trot towards home when he heard a familiar voice. “Trey?” Trey turned around to see Fluttershy, doing her best to look at him while avoiding eye contact. “Hey! Where were you?” he asked, smiling. He didn’t want to show his frustration. He was patient, yes, and he wouldn’t explode on her. “I..um...well...I thought it was at the school...and then I didn’t know the time...and...um...I’m sorry.” she said, shrinking her body again like she did when she first met him. Trey trotted closer to her. “I don’t believe in apologies, remember?” he said. “Besides, you have nothing to be sorry for. I didn’t give you the time or place. That was my fault. Alright?” “Um...sorry for apologizing. Um...oh no, I can’t keep from saying it...” she said, looking down at the ground. Trey, on an impulse, put a hoof under her chin and brought it up to eye level. She looked at him with those beautiful blue eyes, full of wonder. “Don’t worry about it.” Trey said, smiling. He removed his hoof from her chin, a sudden sense of Deja Vu passing from him. “I’ll get it right next time.” “Um...ok...sorry. Oh...” she said sighing. Trey couldn’t help but laugh a little. “Hey, are you doing anything tomorrow?” he asked, hopeful. “Um...no, not really. Just taking care of the animals. And maybe some other chores...” she said, drifting off. “Do you want some help?” She looked at him with a smile. “Only if that’s not too much for you...I mean...It’d be nice...But I don’t want to bother you...” “You could never bother me.” he said smiling. Even in the darkness of the night, Trey could make out her face darken around her cheeks. Maybe it was a figment of his imagination though. “Just give me a time and I’ll be there.” “Um...whenever you want is fine...” she said timidly. She still looked at him though. Trey noticed she’d been keeping eye contact with him more often. “Hm...9 AM?” “That sounds good...if that’s ok with you...” “Of course it is. I’m pretty punctual so I’ll probably be there at about 8:50” “Oh...ok.” she said, smiling a little. “Anyways, I’d better get back home. It was good seeing you again!” “Yes.” she said, more authoritative than most of her comments. Trey turned around to walk away, but was stopped short. “Um...Trey?” began Fluttershy. “Yes?” he asked. “It’s really dark...could you walk me home?” “Absolutely.” he said.
lilinuyasha	926	4	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-02-27T05:42:01+00:00	2012-02-27T05:42:01+00:00	6,904	“She’s not going to fall for you.” “I’m not expecting her to.” “Why are you going?” “To be a friend.” Trey Battled with his inner doubts as he woke up. He was still looking for any and every excuse to exclude himself from a romantic possibility. It was a bad habit he’d developed after having some bad experiences with fillies. He shrugged it off and got ready to trot to Fluttershy’s cottage. Trey arrived early, as he always did. He had a tendency to leave early and get there early. It bothered him when things didn’t start on time. Trey knocked on the door, awaiting for Fluttershy. She never came to the door though. Trey was perplexed by this. Suddenly, a soft, melodic tune was being sung from somewhere off in the distance. Trey followed the source of the sound, surprised at how in tune it was. He soon spotted Fluttershy picking up flowers and putting them in a basket, accompanied by several smaller animals she was singing to. Trey trotted to her. She was still unaware of his presence. “Hey!” said Trey. “EEEEK!” screamed Fluttershy, scared at the sudden, unexpected noise. Her wings clasped to her sides and she jumped behind a boulder nearby. Trey was also confused by this. She got frightened really easily, apparently. “Fluttershy, it’s me.” he said, as she peeked her head from behind the rock. “Oh...I’m sorry...I hope I didn’t scare you...” “I’m the one who scared you, it seems. Looks like I’m the one who needs to apologize.” he said, smiling, trying to dissipate any awkwardness. “So...what do you need help with?” “Oh!” she said, suddenly remembering what he came for. “Um...well...I could always use some help with the flowers...but I don’t want to bother you...” “I want to help! It’s no trouble at all!” he said, smiling again. It seems he had to do a lot of smiling to reassure her. She straightened up and smiled at him. This was the first time he’d notice her straighten up. This was certainly a good sign. “So, what do you want me to do?” Fluttershy and Trey spent the rest of the afternoon gathering flowers and berries. Fluttershy would occasionally sing a tune when she wasn’t chatting with Trey. She had a very beautiful voice, and Trey let her know that. “Oh...thank you.” she said. She obviously wasn’t familiar with compliments and didn’t know how to accept them. Trey didn’t like receiving them either. They were in the same boat, once again. “Don’t thank me for speaking the truth.” he said, smiling at her once again. “I believe in letting ponies know what they’re good at. You have a talent with animals and singing.” “Oh, yes, I love animals. They’re my life! Singing is just sort of...recreational.” she said, drifting off from enthusiastic voice tones after animals stopped being mentioned. She had more of a passion for animals than anything. That seemed to be the one topic she could talk for hours about. Trey kept a mental note of it and stored it with his other observations. He was almost making his attraction sound purely analytical. Trey and Fluttershy kept working until late in the afternoon. “Um...I think that’s good.” she said, checking the baskets. Trey helped Fluttershy carry them in to her cottage. She had a very nice setup, with lots of animals roaming around. Mice, birds, smaller creatures, and, of course, Angel, who kept an eye on Trey as he helped put the flowers down. “Thanks for the help...I appreciate it.” she said. Trey smiled and started to trot out the door, trying to avoid staying too long like a bad guest. “Oh...you’re leaving?” she asked timidly, shrinking her body once again. Trey started to catch on that she did that when apprehensive, almost like she wanted something. “Did you want me to stay and talk?” he asked, making sure not to force himself into her company. “If you wanted to, I wouldn’t mind...” she said, looking at him. Trey smiled and came back inside. Fluttershy smiled and the both of them sat on her couch talking for hours. Fluttershy really opened up to Trey, talking about nearly everything, including, of course, animals. She talked about her friends, Angel (Who had been keeping an eye on Trey the entire time. He seemed protective of Fluttershy. He couldn’t yet figure out if Trey was a good character or bad character yet.) and eventually herself, which Trey provoked. “Tell me more about yourself though, Fluttershy. I’m yet to hear anything about you.” he said, kindly. “I don’t know...I’m not that special...” ‘You’re special to me...’ Trey thought, before saying “You are special. I want to find out just how much.” he said, hoping he found a good way to phrase that without giving his secret developing affection for her away. She looked at him and blushed a little, looking away. “Nopony’s ever wanted to hear about me before...” “There’s a first for everything.” She looked at him, still blushing, and smiled the biggest smile he’d ever seen from her. “Well...” she began. Trey found out how to make her talk. He smiled to himself as he listened to her, captivated by her untapped ability to describe herself. Eventually, something she said struck at him. “Well, I always feel left out by my friends...please don’t tell them I said that...” “Never.” he said, reassuring her. “Why do you feel that way?” “Well...they’re always together...and I usually have to wait for an invitation...or just stumble upon them...but Rarity and I go to the spa...and it feels good...” “So you like the social aspect of friends, but you’re unsure how to go about doing that?” “Well...yes...I guess that sounds right...” Trey glanced over at her, unsure how to react. He knew exactly what he wanted to say, but was unsure if he should say it. He decided to go for it. He had a certain sense of Deja Vu that he just couldn’t place. This situation felt very familiar. He shook it off and replied with what felt right. “Do you want somepony to hang out with?” he asked. That didn’t come out the way he wanted it to. Crap. That was the second time he’d slipped like that. Nothing he could do about it now. Fluttershy blushed a little, put her ears back and looked away from him. “Well...um...yes...but I don’t want to bother you...” Trey scooted closer to her as she tried to look at him. She just couldn’t bring herself to look him in the eye. Trey was unsure whether to say something or put her hoof to her chin. Trey decided to go with the safe option. He wasn’t a big risk-taker where fillies, especially those he thought he could stand a chance with, were concerned. He didn’t believe in taking risks, especially after his past experiences. “There’s nothing you could do to bother me. I’m new to town, remember? I need a friend too. Maybe we could help each other out.” he said, trying to smile at her. She was still looking away, however. “Hey...” he said, calmly. She looked up at him with those blue eyes he’d come to adore. “I...that would be...nice...if it’s ok with you...I don’t want to bother you...” she said again. She seemed to worry about bothering ponies a lot. “There’s nothing you can do to bother me, remember?” he said kindly, while trying to reassert his position. “Oh...yes...sorry...um...yeah.” she said, looking away from him again, blushing. “So, wanna hang out tomorrow?” he asked. She looked at him, smiled, and nodded. “Yes.” she said. Trey smiled back at her, trying not to get lost in her eyes. They were so blue...deep...full of life... “Are you ok?” Dammit. He got lost. “Yeah. I just like your eyes.” he said. She blushed again, looking away, smiling. “Thanks. I haven’t heard that before.” “Really?” “Nopony other than you and my other friends seem to notice anything about me. You’re the first one to say anything about my eyes...” Trey was astounded. How could a pony as beautiful as her go so long without being complimented? “I find that hard to believe.” he said. There was no way she’d never been complimented. “You’re far too...” he started before he caught himself. He almost told her most beautiful she was. Not good for his social security. “...reclusive...I know...” she finished. Trey took a breath of relief, now that the pressure was off of him. “No, that wasn’t what I was going to say. I was going to say that your eyes are far too striking to have never been complimented on. It saddens me that nopony’s ever commented on how nice they are, because they’re one of the things I really like about you.” he said, suddenly realizing he slipped again. At this rate, he should just tell her he was starting to fall for her. If he hadn’t been trying to analyze his emotions scientifically and diplomatically, he might have already done so. He had the patience to bite back. He was still new in town, and he couldn’t go about making a bad impression, or that of a weirdo. She looked at him, her eyes filled with a sense of wonder. “You like me?” Trey didn’t know what to say to that. He had to come up with something quick. Silence would give away the answer that he wasn’t ready to give yet. He didn’t know how she would react. Diplomacy, he though...Diplomacy. What could he say to that though? “I think you’re a really nice filly. Anypony that doesn’t like you is a moron.” he said, smiling what he felt was a awkward smile. The sense of wonder in her eyes suddenly vanished as she looked away. “Oh...ok...” she said. She sounded almost sad. Almost as if she was expecting a different answer. Trey realized that but thought it would be best if he didn’t change his answer. “Are you ok?” he asked, hoping beating around the bush would yield an answer to a question he’d been wondering for the last few days. “Oh...yes.” she said, refusing to look him in the eye. He wasn’t going to get anything out of her tonight. As much as she opened up earlier, she wasn’t going to open up here. Trey had to think of something...something that could show her hope, yet not give something away. If she was looking for a sign, she’d get it. If she was oblivious, it’d simply be another social gesture. In an awkward moment of inexperience and not being sure what to do, he reached out and put a hoof under her chin and made her look at him. He loved those blue eyes. He’d do nearly anything to make them be his... “Hey...” he started. “I always look forward to seeing you. I enjoy your company. You’re the nicest pony I’ve met yet.” He smiled at her. A sense of enjoyment flooded back to her eyes as she blushed. Trey decided to screw social security as he reached out and hugged her. She was warm...soft...and she smelled good. “Oh!” she said, a little surprised, caught offguard by this sudden burst of emotion. Maybe she’d never done this either. She quickly returned the affection though, as the two of their heads rubbed against each other, cheek to cheek. Everything about her was warm...caring...kind...perfect. They hugged for a good minute or so before Trey let go and looked at her. “Thanks.” she said, looking at him, blushing slightly and smiling. He thought she was irresistibly cute when she blushed...but he wasn’t going to say anything. “Anyways, as much as I’d love to stay all night, I’d better get back home and get some sleep. I’m sure your animals need a break from me anyhow.” He noticed Angel had a bit of a sad expression on his face. Trey nodded and smiled at him while on his way out, before stopping at her door. “What time do you want to meet tomorrow?” “Oh...um...10?” “Not soon enough. Let’s shoot for 9.” he said, smiling at her and trotting off, smiling to himself. He’d hugged her. Physical contact. That’s all he’d ever wanted. It may have just been a hug, but he was on cloud 9 for the rest of the night, as his happy emotions carried him into another night of dreaming about her.
lilinuyasha	926	5	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-03-21T04:22:30+00:00	2012-03-21T04:22:30+00:00	6,656	“Fluttershy, I really enjoy spending time with you.” I said, looking at her. She blushed again. I did all I could to get her to. It was just so adorable...almost as adorable as her eyes, so deep, full of meaning. She kept her gaze on me, as we looked deep into each other’s eyes. “You have the prettiest eyes I’ve ever seen.” I said. “I think you have pretty eyes too.” she said. I involuntarily smiled. I wasn’t used to compliments, but I took it in stride as we stood outside, gazing at the stars once again. “Yours are so much prettier though.” I said, smiling at her. She blushed again and looked away. “Nooooo!” I said. “Keep looking at me!!!” she giggled a bit and returned the gaze. “Trey...I’m glad I met you...” she said. I thought I’d never hear her say that. My heart skipped a beat as I smiled. If I could blush, I’m sure I would have then. “I think you’re really nice. I really like you.” she said, more boldly than I’ve ever heard her say anything before. “Well that’s pretty convenient...” I said. “I really like you as well.” As she looked at me, I could swear her eyes got bigger, almost like they were making a show for me. This was my favorite weather...cool, under the stars at night. I felt nearly invincible and pretty lucky, so I made a daring move. “I might even go so far as to say that I love you.” “I...I don’t know what to say...” she said, looking away from me, trying to hide a smile. I put my hoof to her chin and tilted her head towards mine. Her deep blue eyes were glossy, almost as if she were ready to cry. “You alright?” I asked, making sure I didn’t say too much too soon. “Yes...I’m just really happy.” Trey’s alarm woke him up early, around 7. He had a lot of work to catch up on, since he spent Saturday with Fluttershy. Getting up early was the only option he had, since he figured he’d spend the rest of Sunday with her, too. He spent the morning writing drill and new trumpet parts to add spice to the stands, with some low brass rifts to pump up the crowd. Soon enough, 8:30 rolled around, and he left his work and trotted over to Fluttershy’s cottage. It was a warm Sunday, as Sunday should be. Sun...day. It made perfect sense. As he trotted over to her cottage, he felt warm inside, happy...he couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt like this. He felt great, almost as if he was invincible... As Fluttershy’s cottage came into view, he could see her outside, dillydallying, almost as if she were waiting on him to show up. As he rolled into view, she spotted him and trotted to him happily. She seemed very upbeat today. “Hey!” he said as she came up to him. “You seem happy today.” “Well...yes. Hope that’s not a bad thing...” “Absolutely not.” he said, to which she nearly beamed at him. She was very happy today and he liked this side of her. The happy, shy one. Her face was almost a representation of the light she had in her once she got warmed up to company. “So, what do you want to do?” “Oh, it really doesn’t matter to me, as long as I’m with you.” she said, smiling. Trey wasn’t sure if she had a slip or if she meant to say that, but it made him feel good regardless. “I’m new in town. I don’t know what there is to do around here. You tell me, Fluttershy.” he said. “Oh...I’m not very good at making decisions...” “Neither am I. If all else fails we could always go back to one of our places and talk.” he said, throwing out a last chance option. She looked at him, smiled, and nodded. He thought she liked to talk more than she let on. But they both needed to get out and experience other things as well. “Well...there’s always the movies...or lunch...” she said, throwing out some options. Trey smiled and let her know that any of those were good. “But we still have a little bit of time before. I say we get lunch then catch a movie. That sound good?” “Whatever you wanna do is fine.” she said, smiling at him, looking at him with those deep blue eyes. His heart nearly melted, almost to where he couldn’t say anything. “Hey...have you ever played Frisbee?” he finally asked. “Oh, no...what’s that?” “C’mon back to my place. I’ll show you.” Trey and Fluttershy trotted back to his place, where he got his Frisbee and explained to her the basics. “Just put it in your mouth and fling it. The air pressure will keep it up.” he said, putting it in his mouth and showing her how. He began to trot outside to find a field when he heard a “Like this?” and suddenly felt a slight pain to his eye. “OH! I’M SO SORRY!” said Fluttershy. She’d hit him while trying to get the hang of it. “It happens all the time.” he said, groaning a bit. His eye actually really hurt. He didn’t want to let that on, though, as she was bound to get really hard on herself. He opened his eyes to find her looking at him from above. He’d apparently fallen to the ground whilst incapacitated from the sudden bang. “No worries!” “But...you’re swollen...” she said. “I’m so sorry...I’ll...I’ll just...um...I don’t know.” “Fluttershy, it’s ok. Really!” he said, getting up off the ground. He looked at her. She was, as he expected, shrunk back into herself, looking at the floor. “It’s not the first time I’ve been hit. I’d rather take a Frisbee than a flag...” he said, reminiscing on a marching band mishap during his high school years. “I still feel bad...I never meant to hurt you...I’d never want to hurt you...” she said. “Fluttershy.” he said, more forcefully than most of his tones, yet still kind. “It was an accident. I’m gonna laugh at this tomorrow when the kids ask me what happened.” “Oh, no...please don’t tell them...I don’t want them to think I’m a bad pony...” Trey raised an eyebrow. She was very concerned about her public image, despite how antisocial she was. “I don’t think they would quite think that, but I won’t tell them.” he said. She looked at him apologetically. “Thanks...sorry...um...do you want me to bandage it up?” Trey thought it would be a good idea, but he didn’t have any medical supplies at his house. He hadn’t been by a local store to get anything more than simple groceries. “Yeah, but I don’t have anything here. It’ll be fine.” “I have stuff at my cottage...if you wanted to come over...” she said timidly. Trey Smiled, nodded, and the two of them set off towards her cottage once again. By the time they made it, it was about 3 in the afternoon. Fluttershy led him inside the cottage and had him sit on the couch. “I’ll be right back, ok?” Trey smiled and let her know he had no intention of leaving. She smiled and disappeared elsewhere into her cottage. Trey sat on the couch patiently while Angel watched him. “Hey.” said Trey, not expecting anything to happen. Angel had a different idea, as he hopped over and sat right next to him, nudging his arm a bit. Trey was taken aback by this but pet him anyway. Angel seemed to really like it, which made Trey feel good. He’d always had a soft spot for pets, and the blind loving they give. He’d always felt more appreciated as a being from animals than other ponies. Fluttershy came back from elsewhere with gauze. As soon as she spotted Trey and Angel, her eyes opened wide. “Oh...I’m so sorry...is Angel bothering you?” “Who, this little bunny here?” he said, looking down at Angel, who simply smiled at him. “Yes. He’s never this good with other ponies...” “I tend to have that effect on things. Besides, Angel’s aptly named. He’s an angel. At least to me, anyway.” he said, scratching Angel’s ears, to his delight. “Oh...ok then!” she said, smiling as she started to wrap some bandages around his eye. He was apparently more sore on his upper cheek and lower eye than anywhere else. Fluttershy finished wrapping him up and sat down on the couch next to him. They talked for a few hours again. Movies and lunch had failed that day, and they defaulted to conversation. Angel took in every word of it, though, listening to Fluttershy and Trey, agreeing and keeping note, storing his own observations about him. “So, Fluttershy, did you have fun hanging out? I know we didn’t do much, but I always enjoy talking to you.” “Oh, yes...except for when I hit you...sorry...” Trey laughed. “It was funny. I think it’s funny, anyway.” She tried to smile, but Trey could tell that she was still beating herself up for it. “But I’m glad you had fun. We should do this more often.” She looked at him with those eyes, full of hope and wonder. “I think that would be nice.” she said, smiling. Trey noticed she didn’t even add her typical ‘‘if that’s ok with you’’. Trey saw that as a good thing. “So do I. Maybe I’ll get to see you before the weekend. Why not come out to another band practice?” “Would that be ok?” “It would be more than ok.” he said, smiling at her, as she looked at him, her eyes getting a deeper sense of hope and wonder. She smiled a very big, cute smile and told him “I’ll do my best to be there.” “Pretty much every weekday at 5, right when school lets out. Just want to make sure I don’t forget to give you the time again.” he said, attempting to make a joke. Fluttershy smiled, and Trey assumed she understood it. “That sounds nice.” she said. Trey looked at his watch. “Oh, it’s getting late again. I don’t want to keep you up. I’m sure Angel needs his sleep too.” he said, noticing Angel was yawning, almost asleep on his lap. “Oh, I’m fine. You don’t have to go.” she said, smiling at him. “I’d love to stay, but I do have school in the morning.” “Oh...yeah...” she said, looking away. “I won’t keep you.” she added, turning to him again, forcing herself to smile. Trey pretended to look at his watch again. “I think I can stay for a little bit more. I love talking to you.” She blushed, and the two of them talked for another hour or so before Trey yawned, despite trying to hold it back. “You’re tired. You should get to bed. I’m sorry I kept you.” “I wanted to stay! I only wish we had more time.” he said, to which she smiled and looked at him with those eyes. Those eyes would be the death of him. He’d fall for them hard and lose himself. Trey got off the couch, making sure to let the sleeping Angel down as quietly and softly as he could, trying not to wake him up. He and Fluttershy trotted to the door, where he stepped outside and faced Fluttershy, who stood in the doorframe. “Thanks for hanging out today. I had a lot of fun.” he said. She looked at him with those eyes and got closer to him. “I’m really sorry about your eye..” “It’s more my cheek, really. Don’t worry about it.” he said, smiling. “Um...do you need new gauze?” “It’s only a bruise, Fluttershy. I’m not bleeding.” he smiled. “Um...well...” she said, getting even closer to him, looking down at the ground. “You ok?” Trey asked. Fluttershy looked back up at him, nodded, and, suddenly and unexpectedly, kissed his cheek. “There. All better.” she said, smiling at him with possibly one of the biggest smiles he’d seen from her yet. She wished him a goodnight and closed the door while Trey stood there, dumbfounded at what just happened. He gathered his thoughts and trotted off home, completely forgetting the trip, lost in thought. Trey got ready for bed and stared at the ceiling for a while, contemplating, unable to sleep. “She kissed me” “She gave you the mommy kiss for an injury.” “But she still kissed me...” “Only out of pity.” Trey’s mind battled it out while his third stream of thought contemplated the events, picturing it again and again in his mind while a fourth stream of thought tried to analyze it scientifically, looking for an explanation to all of this. She did kiss him...but would it have happened without the injury? Was she just using the injury as an excuse? Trey knew that he couldn’t think about it for too long. He’d overthink it and kill it. Kill the mood...he had to take this at face value. But he now had an excuse to return the favor...but she wasn’t bound to injure herself anytime soon. Maybe he didn’t have to wait for an injury...Maybe he could just make one himself? No, he couldn’t do that to her...GAH! Trey had so much to think about. This emotion was new...brand new...he’d never felt that kind of emotional connection with anypony before...she also seemed so sincere about it...like she really meant it...so it couldn’t have been just for pity...could it have? Trey gave up on trying to think it through and closed his eyes, letting Fluttershy carry him off into sweet dreams once again.
lilinuyasha	926	6	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-03-04T07:33:10+00:00	2012-03-04T07:33:10+00:00	6,541	“Hey!” I said when I saw her. She turned to me, smiling. “Hey!” “Hey, um...I need a favor.” “Yes? I probably can’t help much, but I’ll try...” “I seem to have injured my hoof...” I said. “Oh...are you alright?” she asked, giving me a look of concern. “I don’t really have any gauze...” “Oh, it’s just a bruise. I just need someone to kiss it and make it better.” She looked at me, a faint shade a red starting to come onto her cheeks. “I don’t know that that may help much, but I’ll see what I can do.” I extended my hoof up, showing a slight scuff mark I inflicted on myself earlier. She looked at me with a gentle smile and kissed it, ever so tenderly. I couldn’t help but smile. She was so cute and innocent... “Does that help?” she asked. “A lot. I have a bit of a sore spot on my lip though...” She smiled, blushed, looked at me with those deep blue eyes, and leaned her face to mine. It was perfect...soft, tender, caring...absolutely fantastic. She only stayed there for about a second though, as she pulled back and gave me that look that made me melt. “Feel better?” she asked, smiling. “A little...but it may need some more attention...” I said, almost expecting something to happen. She laughed, then looked at me with those eyes. “You don’t have to fake an injury, you know.” She smiled. I looked at her, a smile forming across my lips. Everything was going my way today. “I know.” I said, bringing my face to hers for another kiss of passion. I was madly in love with her. I’d never wanted anything in my life as much as I wanted her. And now...I had her. Trey was jolted awake once again by his alarm. He slept soundly throughout the night, never once needing to get up for water or anything of the sort. This was becoming a more frequent occurrence after meeting Fluttershy. Trey got dressed and ready to meet the day. Of course, as much as he would like to simply trot over to Fluttershy’s cottage, he did have school duties. Sometimes life sucked. He was forced to choose between his two passions: Music...and Fluttershy. Fluttershy would be there later today, he hoped. He’d swing by then. Once again, the day moved slowly for him. He managed to keep focus on his work, though, which was good. But he still thought about Fluttershy all day long. Her gorgeous mane...those deep blue eyes...he was losing himself for her, and it would only be a matter of time before he felt he would crack and confess. Marching rehearsal went by smoothly, everypony got a lot of things done. Music really came together, marching issues were resolved, and they started drill on the second movement. “New beginnings” was bound to be a great show. He could feel it. As he dismissed the band, he climbed down the tower and began to trot off to Fluttershy’s cottage. “Hey, Trey?” Trey turned around to see Twilight. “Yes?” “We need to talk.” Twilight’s tone was concerning. “Uh...ok then.” Twilight led Trey back to her library, where she shut the door and invited him to a spot on her couch. “Am I in trouble already?” he asked, making a joke. “No, no...at least I don’t think so.” “What’s this about?” “I guess there’s no easy to say this.” “...say what?” “Well, have you noticed Fluttershy acting...different around you?” “I’m new here, I don’t have any previous knowledge to compare it to.” he said, to which Twilight mumbled a soft “oh yeah...” “Well...she’s not the same ever since you came around. She’s...happier.” “Really?” “Yes. I’m glad she’s like this. I honestly think she has a thing for you.” Trey’s heart dropped at confirmation. The cheek kiss fed the fire of suspicion, but Twilight simply confirmed it. “Really?” “Yes. Now, Fluttershy’s my friend. I want to make sure you won’t hurt her.” “I would have no intention of doing so.” “Good. Oh, horsefeathers.” she said. Trey remained silent as she fretted about. “I should not have told you that...oh, no...the fastest way to lose a friend is to tell a secret! Oh, I’m so sorry, Fluttershy! Oh, dear...” “Calm down, I’m not going to say anything.” “Oh, good. I mean, you’re new in town, it’s probably weird to just have ponies start liking you....” Trey smiled at the irony of that statement. “I mean I don’t want to scare you away from us already, if Pinkie Pie hasn’t done that already.” Trey laughed. “No, no, I like everypony here. Honestly, I’ve had my suspicions about Fluttershy.” “Oh? Good. I’d hate to have been the one to ruin things.” not like she already didn’t. She seemed to have a habit of scholarly analyzing things, much like he did. “No, no, you’re fine. I’ve been hanging out with Fluttershy a lot recently. I’ve caught on to a few things.” “Oh, you’ve been hanging out?” she asked, surprised. “Yeah. She stopped by band practice one day and I invited her to the hoofball game. I helped her gather flowers Saturday and attempted to teach her how to frisbee Sunday. If the slight bruise is any indication, she’s born to be a pro.” he said sarcastically. “Really? Did she throw it too hard?” she obviously didn’t get his humor. “No, she hit me trying to get the hang of it. She wrapped me up with gauze though.” “For a bruise?” “Yeah” he laughed. “But I couldn't not let her. She was just so cute.” His eyes opened wide as he realized he slipped yet again. Twilight looked at him with a sudden sense of curiosity. “You think she’s cute?” “Well I thought it was cute that she tried so hard to take care of me for a small bruise. By extension, that makes her cute.” “Trey...you like her too, don’t you?” Trey froze, unsure of what to say. “Well, I’m keeping one of your secrets, you get to keep mine. Yes, I’ve fallen for her. I really do like her a lot. She’s just so...innocent...I just...” he said, stopping himself before he went into too much detail. Twilight smiled. “I knew it. I knew there was a reason she was happier.” “The only problem is, I know she likes me now, but she doesn’t know I like her. I don’t know how to go about letting her know that either.” “I’m sure you’ll find a way.” she said, smiling. “Just pretend you never heard it from me. Now, I’m sure you were headed to her place anyway. Hurry along!” And with that Trey trotted out to Fluttershy’s cottage just before it started to get dark. He knocked on the door and awaited Fluttershy. As soon as she opened the door and saw who it was, she beamed with happiness and invited him in. “So, do you need something?” “No, I just wanted to come see you.” he said, smiling, to which she blushed a little and trotted off to the couch, waiting for him. He shortly joined her. “So, Fluttershy...” “Yes?” she asked, looking at him with those eyes he couldn’t resist. Angel hopped up on the couch with him and broke his concentration. “I was wondering...” “Yes?” “Do you like anypony in Ponyville?” She looked at him with a slight look of confusion. “Oh...well...just one pony.” “Oh? What’s he like?” “Well...” she said, looking away. “He’s nice...and kind...and he actually cares about getting to know me...” “He sounds like a nice one.” “He is...but I don’t think he likes me back...” Trey caught on. “Why do you think that?” “Well...I don’t know...” she said before mumbling off. Trey knew he had to make his move now or never. But he just couldn’t bring himself to do it. Life was about taking risks but...he wasn’t good at that. “Fluttershy...what if he likes you back?” She looked at him with eyes full of wonder...and a bit of sadness. “Oh, I don’t think he does...I mean...I don’t know...” “Have you thought of asking him?” “Oh, I could never do that...there’s too much to lose...” Trey respected that comment. “Fluttershy, I can’t keep this up.” he said, putting a hoof to her chin. “I’ve liked you since day one. I’ve just always been too shy to say anything.” She gazed at him with wonder, sadness dissipating from her eyes. “I...you have?” Angel looked up at Trey, unsure of how to feel. He now knew Trey was a good pony, but what did that mean for Fluttershy? “Yes, Fluttershy.” he said, smiling. “I wouldn’t lie to you. You’re far too beautiful to be lied to.” She blushed. “You’re just saying things...” “No, Fluttershy...I’m not.” he said, smiling reassuringly. Fluttershy looked deep at him with those large, beautiful eyes he loved. He felt that they could finally be his. “Trey...I don’t know why I started to like you...I mean...you’re new...I hope that’s not weird...” she said, starting to look away. “Absolutely not.” he said, tilting her face back towards him. “I’m glad you did.” Fluttershy blushed and smiled at him. “I’ve never felt like this before...you make me feel...awkward...” Trey remembered that phrase from his dream. “I know that’s a new sensation, but it’s a good thing, Fluttershy. You’re a good thing.” “I don’t know why you like me...I’m not that special...” “You’re special to me.” She looked up at him with those eyes and smiled, a deep shade of red coming across her cheeks. “Really?” “Really really. You’re the most amazing pony I’ve met yet, Fluttershy.” he said, making her blush even more, which he didn’t think was possible. “Trey...” “Yes?” She looked at him, her eyes deepening. She looked like she was trying to make a decision... “I...” she stammered before reaching out and hugging him tight. “...don’t leave me...please...” Trey smiled to himself and hugged her back. “I don’t plan on it. I’d hate to lose you.” She breathed a deep sigh of relief and she clung on to him. He started to rub her back and sway back and forth, starting to hum a tune he learned as a young colt. “Hush now, quiet now...” she started to sing. “You know this song?” She pulled her head up, still clinging to him, and nodded, smiling. Trey had that much more appreciation for her. As he looked at her, their eyes locked, he could sense happiness in her...inside himself...something he hadn’t truly felt in years. “Fluttershy...” “Yes?” “You make me the happiest colt in the world.” to which he impulsively kissed her forehead. It was warm and soft, just like the rest of her body he still held. She blushed once again, smiling, never letting her gaze go from him. She got warmer after that. As Fluttershy still looked at him, he could tell she was trying to make a tough decision. “Whatcha thinkin’?” he asked. “Oh...nothing.” She said, smiling. “Just thinking about you.” She still sounded a bit distracted. Trey pondered over what this decision was she was trying to make. Eventually, she subsided and the two of them sat there, hugging each other until it became really late. “I suppose you have to go now, huh...” she asked, slightly sad. “I may have to leave your house, but I’m never leaving you.” he said. She smiled, blushed and walked him to the door. “Thanks for visiting.” she said. She’d been proclaiming herself a lot more recently, as opposed to open-ended statements. “I was glad to do it.” he said. “When will you be back?” “As soon as I can tomorrow.” he said, smiling. She smiled a bit and told him, “I’ll be looking forward to it.” as he turned around to trot off. “Trey?” He turned back around to find her looking at the ground, her body shrunk back. “Yes?” “You don’t think I’m bad for liking you...right?” Trey laughed at that and trotted back to her. “Hey...” he started. “You could never be bad in my eyes.” She tilted her head up a little, still not looking at him. He put a hoof under her chin and made her look at him. “Promise. There’s something I want to give you.” he said, formulating an idea. “Oh? For me?” “I think you’ve earned it. The only thing is, I’m going to want it back later.” “Oh...” she said. “Close your eyes and hold out your hoof.” he said. Fluttershy did so. Trey, on an act of impulsiveness, passionately kissed her, putting her hoof back on the ground with his. He kissed her with such emotion that he could feel her blushing, the heat emanating from her cheeks, as she leaned her head backwards ever so slightly, making him lean into her. He pulled away after a few seconds, opening his eyes to see her staring at him with the deepest, prettiest blue eyes, a dark, dark red line across her face where she had not stopped blushing. “Trey...I...” she tried to say. She couldn’t bring herself to say anything cohesively. “Remember...I’m going to want that back the next time I see you.” he said, smiling, bidding her goodnight before trotting home. Fluttershy stood at her doorframe for a long while before going back inside, plopping down on the couch. Her legs were like jelly. She’d never felt so weak and helpless in her life...she was totally under his control. She smiled and closed her eyes, thinking about him before she finally drifted off to sleep, where she and Trey romanced about. Trey trotted home slowly. His legs felt like jelly...he had never felt so weak and helpless...years of marching built up his legs but she made them worthless as he fell under her control. She was the greatest thing to ever happen to him. After his risky stunt...he felt he could finally have her. He could finally feel true happiness. He could finally call those blue eyes his...he fell asleep dreaming about them, and the wonderful pony they belonged to.
lilinuyasha	926	7	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-09-11T04:34:28+00:00	2012-09-11T04:34:28+00:00	6,727	“Trey...” I said, looking at him. He was there, smiling that wonderful smile he always did. I loved that smile. “Yes?” he asked, giving me another smile. “I...” I started. I couldn’t bring myself to say it. “I...” “You alright?” he asked. “Yes...I just...” I didn’t know how he’d feel if I told him. I’d fallen hard for that smile. I’d never fallen for any other smile... “You just what?” I wasn’t sure if he was toying with me or if he genuinely didn’t understand. I looked at him. He loved my eyes...I loved his smile...His love of my eyes gave me a bit of strength. I mustered all I had and looked straight at him. “I...love you...” I said. I could feel a surge of heat to my cheeks as he smiled. I looked away, almost ashamed. It felt so weird to say. I’d never really said it before... “I hope that’s ok...” I said, making sure it didn’t scare him. He smiled at me and lifted my chin up with his hoof. I had no choice but to look deep into his eyes. He had nice eyes, too... “Fluttershy...” he started. I looked at him with anticipation and braced myself for what he was going to say next. “You have no idea how long I’ve waited to hear you say that...because I love you too.” “Oh, good, because...” I started, before he leaned into me and kissed me. I was so surprised by this, my wings clasped to my side, and I inhaled deeply as my face got hot. Once I realized what was going on, I closed my eyes, exhaled and returned the favor. I had never been happier in my life. * I looked at her as she stood in her doorway, where I had been ready to leave to sleep for the night. “I had a great time talking, Fluttershy.” I said. She looked down at the ground, sad. “Are you ok?” I asked. “Well...yes...um...no, not really.” she said. I trotted back towards her. “What’s wrong?” “I...don’t want you to go...” she said, scuffing the ground with her hoof. She was just so darn adorable when she did that. “Well...I can stay a bit longer.” I said, smiling at her. She looked up at me with those eyes and beamed. I trotted back into the house and she smiled at me. Everything about her was perfect...her smile...her face...but those eyes were what sold me. “Just for you.” I said, to which she blushed. I loved making her do that. I could feel like I was actually doing something right when I saw that. “Trey?” “Yes?” “...thanks.” she said, trotting over towards me. “I just wanted to give you something...” “Oh? The only thing I could ever ask from you is you.” She blushed. “I know.” she said, looking up at me with those eyes. I couldn’t help but smile at her “You’ve already given me enough then.” I said. “No, not really...” she said. I swore her eyes got bigger. Everything about her face was bigger...before I knew what was happening, her eyes closed and a soft, warm sensation flowed over my lips. Was she...kissing me? She was...just as suddenly as I became aware, she pulled back and smiled at me, before opening her eyes wide and looking down at the ground. “I’m so sorry...I wasn’t thinking...” she started. I smiled to myself as I put one hoof under her chin and made her look at me. I then put our faces together and passionately returned the favor. I pulled away, looking at her. She returned my gaze with a sense of happiness and curiosity. “I was.” I said, smiling, promptly kissing her again before she could stammer anything. I never felt her try to back away. So...neither did I. Fluttershy woke up naturally, not hearing any alarm. She forgot she’d fallen asleep on her couch dreaming of him. As a result, she didn’t hear the alarm in her room go off, making her oversleep. She hurriedly got up and ready for the day taking care of the animals, desperately trying to catch up on her work. “Oh, I’m so sorry, Angel. I didn’t mean to oversleep...I’m so sorry.” she said, apologizing to Angel, who didn’t seem as upset as he normally would be. He glanced at her with a look of curiosity, wondering when Trey would be back. Fluttershy quickly took care of him and trotted about, taking care of all the other animals. She then got started on cleaning and such. She wanted a nice, neat home for when Trey visited again. They didn’t arrange anything, but he was bound to come over as usual. She smiled simply thinking about him. She couldn’t wait to see him again. His smile, his face...his eyes...everything about him made her smile and blush. Could he be thinking the same? She liked him a lot...maybe she even loved him... * Trey’s alarm jolted him awake from a good dream. If he didn’t have duties to the school, he’d try to stay in bed and get that dream back...his mind couldn’t leave Fluttershy, it seemed. He thought about her all day, he couldn’t wait to see her, and he even dreamt about her, which was new for him. He’d never dreamed very much at all. But once again, she’d managed to permeate his daily life. It was hard to focus on his tasks when all he could think about was that gorgeous filly with the deep blue eyes. She was the most gorgeous shade of tan he’d ever seen and he loved her pink mane. He couldn’t stop thinking about her. He wondered if she felt the same. Trey tried to hurry through school, but the seconds ticked by like hours. When you want something so bad, it seems like it takes forever to get, it seemed. He didn’t even really say that he’d come over today, but he knew she wouldn’t mind. He was crazy for her. Maybe...maybe he even loved her. Trey knew he had to focus on his tasks at hand. He helped the band learn the drill for the second movement of the show. New beginnings was certainly seeming more and more appropriate for his life as time went on. New start, new town, new kids...new emotions...he shook it off and carried on through practice, where the remaining hour would seem like 5. * Fluttershy had nothing to do but wait. Trey didn’t get done with practice for another hour...she could only sit and pass the time away, hoping the hour didn’t feel like 5. She pet Angel, who had been surprisingly calm these last few days, ever since he met Trey. He was never that good with company, but he must have sensed that he made her happy. So, he was happy too. “Oh...” she said, slightly frustrated. “Why does an hour have to seem so long?” She got up and started pacing about her room, waiting for that white figure she had developed an affection for. Surely he would be there after band practice? Oh, she hoped that it was assumed they’d meet up again. She had something of his to return. She had to return it. It was too valuable for her to keep. She looked up at her clock after an hour, only to discover 15 minutes had passed. She sighed to herself and went back to her couch and put her head down, sad. Time would pass by so slow. It was certainly going faster for Trey who had something to occupy his time. She was suddenly aware of how desperate she was to see him. She had never wanted to see anything more in her life, and that slightly bothered her. Yet, it made her carefree. On one hoof, she felt that she was completely under his control, unable to control herself around him. She liked him too much for that. But on the other hoof, she liked him too much to be inhibited by herself. She felt he could help her be more social, not as shy. He could...set her free, in a way. * “Alright, bring it to the tower, everypony!” Trey shouted. They all rushed to it, slightly confused. “You’ve all done great work today. We got through the drill, we put music to it. I think you’ve deserved to get out 10 minutes early.” he said, to which they all cheered. “Band!” “Move!” “Atten-hut!” “Move!” “I’m very proud of all the work you’ve done. You’re by far the best group of kids I’ve worked with. If you keep this up, we’ll get out early every practice. Section of the day goes to the tenor saxes! Tenor saxes...dismissed!” “One, two!” “Everypony else...DISMISSED!” “ONE, TWO!” The band was gone. Trey got horribly impatient and decided to let them out under the pretense of hard work. They did work hard though, and Trey respected that. These kids had a bit more determination in them than Canterlot kids. Canterlot kids just expected to win...Trey now had full insight into the other side of the marching competition. He put that thought away as Fluttershy popped into his mind. He hurried off the tower and trotted at an accelerated pace towards the cottage he’d come to love. *** Fluttershy heard a soft clopping in the distance. She raised her head off of the couch and jumped off, heading to the window, checking. The white pony with the red and black mane was trotting up, faster than he normally did. She jumped for joy as she opened the door, standing in the frame, awaiting his arrival. He saw her and trotted faster, nearly galloping there. Fluttershy started trotting his way and the two of them hugged and embraced each other tightly. “I guess you missed me, huh?” he said, laughing. “Yes. That had better be alright with you.” she said. Trey liked her more assertive position. She was getting less shy about things with him, and he admired noting her growth with him. The two of them released and trotted inside her cottage. She closed the door quickly and turned to face him, where she found him smiling at her. She loved that smile...oh, she was getting ahead of herself. She looked at him and saw his smile increase. “I love your eyes.” he said, scooting closer to her, looking deep into her, almost searching for her soul. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder. All the things she had been wondering about him...if he felt the same way she did, if he was as crazy for her as she was for him, if he could possibly like somepony like her...simply dissipated. She felt that she didn’t have to worry about anything when she was with him. All she had to do was look at him...and all her troubles melted away. “Do you know what I see when I look into your eyes?” he asked her. “Assorted pigments from recessive genetics?”she said. Twilight said it once...she didn’t really get it, but it sounded smart. “Uh...” he started, a bit muddled. He wasn’t sure where that came from. It sounded like something Twilight would say... “That too, but know what else I see?” “Oh...no...” she said, looking deep into his eyes. “I see the most beautiful mare in the world. I see the kindest soul I’ve ever met...” he started. So he COULD see into her soul. She felt it...he confirmed it. “...and I see a pony deserving of love.” She felt the heat emanating from her cheeks as she tried to look away, hiding her face. He put his hoof up to her chin, making her look at him. She liked it when he did that. Maybe it was just because he touched her. Maybe it was because it showed his affection for her. Maybe because she felt it was romantic... “Well...” she started, boldly gathering her thoughts. “Do you know what I see?” “Assorted pigments from recessive genetics?” he said, smiling, trying to stifle a laugh. She couldn’t help but to do the opposite as she smiled at him. He was a funny guy, alright. “That too...but know what else I see?” “Nope. Lay it on me.” “I see the most generous stallion I’ve ever met. I see a pony with the most patience I’ve ever seen from anypony before. I see a beautiful soul more deserving of love than anypony in Ponyville...” she said, to which he smiled uncontrollably. “Except for you, that is.” he retorted. She blushed again, unable to control how sweet she found his sentiments. He genuinely cared for her, she could sense it. Sure, all of her other friends did too, but he seemed to care more for her than anypony else. It made her feel special, like she could be loved. Maybe he loved her...he did say she deserved love...she felt he alone could give it to her. She looked deep into his eyes for a few moments longer. “I have something I need to give you.” she said, smiling at him. “Somepony I like very much gave this to me...I think it’s too valuable for me to keep. I want to give it to you. Now, close your eyes and hold out your hoof.” she said. Trey smiled at her and did so. She closed her eyes and leaned in close to him, passionately kissing him to the best of her ability. She didn’t have any experience. All she had to go on was what he gave her before. She lightly placed her lips on his, gently pushing them together, feeling his warmth. She was nervous, and was trembling. Trey apparently sensed this and pulled away, smiling at her. “I hope that wasn’t bad...I’m not good at that at all...” she said, suddenly becoming less confident and bold. Trey rolled his eyes. “Fluttershy...I like you too much to even complain. Simply seeing you is all I can ask for. But kissing you...that makes my life.” he said, looking deep into her again. “Besides, I think this gift is better meant for you.” he said, putting one arm around her neck and pulling them closer together. She wasn’t prepared and fell into his trap, leaning forward on her two front legs, almost supported entirely by him. He walked slowly forward, putting her back down on the ground as he kept kissing her. She was captivated, fully under his control. There was nothing she’d rather be doing right now. Her heart was fluttering... Trey could feel her pulse pounding. He put a hoof to her chest and felt her heart flutter. She had a bit of a flutterheart around him. He smiled and pulled back, looking at her. “Your heart is fluttering.” “I just can’t control myself around you...” she said, almost slinking back in embarrassment. “I’m sorry...” “Don’t be sorry, Flutterheart.” She looked at him. “Flutterheart?” “That’s my new name for you. A pet name, if you will.” She blushed a little. “You want me to be your pet?” She didn’t quite understand that, but it was supposed to be sweet, she guessed. “No, a pet name refers to a cute name that you call somepony else. Yours is Flutterheart. You’ll have to think of one for me at some point.” he said, smiling at her. “Oh.” she said. She understood now. She blushed and smiled at him. She had to tell him. It would kill her if she didn’t. “Trey?” “Yes, Flutterheart?” “I...” she started. “You...” he said. “I think...I think...” she stammered. It was hard to say it. She never thought it would be so difficult to say. “Whatcha thinking?” he asked, smiling gently at her, almost like he knew what she was going to say. “I...I think...I think I...love you...” she said, looking down at the ground away from him, preparing for the worst. “Fluttershy?” he said. “...yes?” “I know I love you.” he said, putting his hoof under her chin, making her look at him. She could feel her eyes gloss with happiness as she started to stream tears of joy. Trey’s eyes got glossy as well and he wiped hers off her face before leaning in for another, more passionate kiss. She had never been happier in her life. She felt emotions stir up within her she had never felt before...she let them show as she passionately kissed him back, getting involved. Trey liked that she was starting to take charge. Eventually, Trey knew it was best he’d get back home. He slowly trotted towards the door, dragging his hooves. He and Fluttershy hung at her doorframe for a bit. “Do you have to go?” “I do...I’d love to stay...but I can’t.” “Trey...” “Yes, Flutterheart?” “I love you. I’m glad you introduced yourself at that party, because I never would have done it otherwise.” she said, smiling at him. “Flutterheart...I knew you were different the minute I laid eyes on you. Now, I don’t want to take them off of you.” he said, to which she blushed. He loved doing that. He knew exactly how to do it as well. “Trey?” “Yes?” “Thanks for everything.” Trey smiled and trotted closer to her, going to give her one last kiss. Fluttershy leaned back, keeping him from reaching her, just out of his reach. “You missed.” she said, smiling. Trey smiled back and reached in again. Fluttershy leaned back once again, starting to walk backwards. Trey kept marching forwards until he was all the way in the house. Then, he shut the door, staying inside the house with her for the rest of the night.
lilinuyasha	926	8	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-02-24T02:38:38+00:00	2012-02-24T02:38:38+00:00	5,974	Neither Trey nor Fluttershy had dreams that night. They hardly slept at all last night, instead spending the night “watching” movies, though really they were just cuddling on the couch enjoying each other’s company. Trey was propped up laying on his side, facing the TV. Fluttershy lay on her side the other way, facing him. Midway through the first movie, when the kissing fever had worn off, they simply got to the point where they would just look at each other. Eventually Fluttershy yawned and closed her eyes. “Trey?” she said, trying to talk to keep herself awake. She didn’t want to fall asleep on him. That was that much longer she couldn’t remember being with him. “Yes, Flutterheart?” She smiled at that. She really liked that name. It fit her. Every time she saw him, her heart would race, fluttering in excitement. “You’re a nice guy.” she said, yawning even bigger. “I think you’re nicer.” said Trey, not closing his eyes. Fluttershy, tired, started to get a little loopy. “Well that’s nice of you.” He laughed. “Well thank you.” “No...thank you.” she said. The mindless babble continued until Trey didn’t hear her ask another question. She was cute when she was asleep. Seemed like every filly always looked cute when they slept. She took slow, small inhales, gently exhaling on his arm, which was under her head. He was starting to lose circulation there, but he didn’t care...she was too cute to wake. He brought his free hoof up to the side of her face and stroked it. She was soft, cute...everything he’d ever desired in a filly. “I love you.” he said softly, before kissing her lightly and falling to sleep. Trey’s alarm jolted them both up. He’d brought it with him to wake him up for school. When Trey woke up, he saw those beautiful blue eyes of hers. It was the best thing to wake up to, he thought. He’d do anything to wake up next to them everyday. “Morning.” he said. She smiled and blushed. “Morning. I guess I kinda fell asleep on you. I’m sorry. I tried to stay awake...” “No worries. You look cute when you sleep.” he said, bringing his hoof to her cheek, kissing her, then getting up to start the day. “Do you want some breakfast?” she asked. “Oh, I can’t. My schedule is so tight I usually skip breakfast and wait for lunch. Sometimes dinner.” he said, gathering his things. “Oh...well...ok then!” she said, smiling. “Don’t worry...I’ll take a rain check for the weekend.” “Hm? Did Rainbow Dash give you money?” Trey stopped for a bit, puzzled. It finally hit him that Rainbow Dash, a Pegasus, would control the weather...like rain. “No, no...it means I’ll take you up on your offer at another time.” “Oh! Well I guess I sound stupid now...” “Nah. I don’t think anything bad of you. How could I, with a face like yours?” She blushed. “Anyways, I’ll try and swing over later. Though it’ll be a little bit after school so I can get my work done.” “Oh, I’ve put you so behind, I’m so sorry...” Trey rolled his eyes and trotted over to her, kissing her. “It’s alright.” he said, smiling at her. She gained a look of wonder in her eyes. It seemed she was still trying to figure out why he liked her. “Alright then!” she said as he began to trot out the door towards school. “Oh! Trey!” she said. He turned around to find her staring at the ground, like she did when she got nervous. “Yes?” “Um...I would appreciate it if my other friends didn’t know about this...It’s so...awkward...” “I don’t think it’s anything to be ashamed of, but I’ll do it just for you.” She straightened up and looked at him. “...thanks.” she said. She smiled and waved him goodbye as he trotted to school. She turned back around inside, to see Angel staring at her. “Oh, are you hungry?” Angel shook his head. “What is it, then, Angel?” Angel did a little conducting move with his paws. “Oh, Trey?” Angel nodded. “Well...what about him?” Angel sighed and pointed to his wrist, like a watch. “Oh, you want to know when he’s coming back?” Angel nodded again. “Well...I don’t know. Most likely later tonight. At least...I hope it’s later tonight...” * Trey finally got done with school a little later than anticipated. He kept the band 5 minutes over, but promised to give them 5 minutes at a later rehearsal. He hopped off the ladder, rushing home to get his work done. On the way, he found Twilight outside his door, knocking. Trey decided to sneak up quietly and stand behind her. Eventually she gave up knocking and turned around, to see him standing there, looking at her with a sarcastically mean, evil look. “AH!!!” she screamed, falling to the floor. Trey started laughing and helped her up. “So, what can I do ya for?” “Well...uh...let’s talk in your house. This isn’t exactly an outside conversation.” Trey raised an eyebrow. “Alright. Am I in trouble?” “No, no.” Trey invited her inside and the both of them sat down on his couch. “I know you spent the night at Fluttershy’s last night.” “No, I didn’t.” “Trey, I came by your house early, before you would leave. I had business to discuss and you weren’t home. Where else would you be?” Trey didn’t say anything. He had no excuse. “I knew it!” “Is that a bad thing?” “No, but...well...how do I put this...Fluttershy’s a very delicate soul. There’s been a lot of debate between Rainbow, Pinkie, Applejack, Rarity and I as to whether you’re able to handle it.” Trey raised an eyebrow again. “So you came here to tell me you think I should leave her alone?” he felt sad. Twilight had been so supporting of him earlier...what changed her mind? “I’m not saying that, per se...” “But you’re still saying I should keep minimal contact with her?” “I think that would be best.” “I don’t think that’s fair. You were supporting of me earlier. What changed your mind?” “Well I thought you were just friends who had a crush on each other. It seems you took it to the next level quite fast.” she said, giving him that look. “Nothing bad happened. I swear. Flutterheart and I watched movies.” he said. “Flutterheart? Is that what you call her?” “Well...yes...” “Look Trey, the decision is yours. There are just some...things...about Fluttershy that you don’t know yet.” “That’s why I’m trying to get to know her.” he said, smiling. “I don’t think you understand, Trey.” she said. Trey wasn’t getting it. “Obviously not. What am I missing here?” “Trey...” she said, getting up off the couch, heading towards the door. “We should probably discuss it as a group. Come over by the library later tonight and all 6 of us will discuss it.” “I take it Fluttershy won’t be there?” “Right. 9 at my library. We’ll discuss in more detail there.” she said, leaving. What the hell was he missing? What could he possibly not want to know about Fluttershy? He looked at his clock. 6. His mind raced trying to figure things out. He couldn’t concentrate on his work, instead pacing and muttering to himself. He refused to let this relationship go like his last one...suddenly, he got lost in memories. “Trey...I think we need to separate.” “I don’t understand. We’ve been good for nearly 6 months...” “I’ve just been so busy with a social life lately, I just don’t have room for you...” “Well...let’s think of our relationship like a car. Obviously I’m not in your passenger seat. I’m fine being in the back seat until you figure things out...I’ll wait for you.” “I don’t want you to wait for me. I’m not even sure you’re in the back seat...” “So I’m being dragged by a rope?” “Yeah...kind of...” “So you’ve considered breaking up as an option?” She nodded. “Have you considered it as the only option?” She nodded again. It hit me like a ton of bricks. I tried several arguments to keep her with me, but none of them worked. Eventually, I conceded. “I understand if you don’t wanna take me home...” she said. I wasn’t that big of a jerk. Sure, she just ripped my heart out. Sure, my life didn’t seem to have much purpose anymore. But I had to keep a good impression just in case she decided to come back to me. I took her home. “I guess this is goodbye...” “Yeah...” she said. I looked at her, sad, tears in my eyes. I kissed her one final time and trotted off without another word, furious at myself. Obviously I failed the relationship. Sure, she ended it, but obviously I failed her at some point. I went back home and screamed and cried until I couldn’t talk anymore. I fell asleep sad. I didn’t feel like eating much those few days. The worst part was she and I had decided to make love 2 weeks before...2 weeks. I’d always been a “save it for marriage” colt, but I loved her...I lost myself for her. I felt so ashamed of myself after that. I took something of hers that wasn’t mine to take. Ever since then, my slight erotophobia increased. I’ve been scared of deep commitments ever since. 8:30. Trey got lost in thought until then, thinking of his failed relationship. He snapped out of it and trotted over to Twilight’s library, where the gang had gathered. Pinkie wasn’t there, though. “Oh good, you’re here.” Twilight said as he walked in the door. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world.” he said, cautious, looking for where to stand. He settled for standing by the doorway. Twilight raised an eyebrow, finding that weird, but simply settled for it anyway. “Well, first, I have to know that what’s said here won’t leave this room.” “You have my word.” he said. “Good, now when Fluttershy was...” she started before Applejack interrupted. “I think I’d better be the one to say this.” she said. Twilight conceded and let her continue. “Well, Trey, I first off wanna say that you shouldn’t think bad of anypony in this story.” “I promise.” he said, intrigued. “Well...it was a long time ago, when Fluttershy was a simple filly. She actually fell from Cloudsdale, and lived here ever since. Well, Bic Mac, my brother, took a liking to her. They were both young, and, long story short, they met out by the pasture one day. And...well...” she started, removing her hat. “Big Macintosh just...lost himself and took advantage of her. Not sex or nothin’, just touchin’. Fluttershy was still too young to understand what he was doing to her. All she knew was that it couldn’t have been a good thing. Somehow word got around. Big Macintosh felt bad there for a while but moved on. Fluttershy’s been stuck there. She hasn’t been able to get over it. That’s the main reason she’s so shy and not eager to meet new ponies, especially colts. Sometimes she’ll get lost in memories and start crying. She’s a different pony when she has flashbacks, Trey. I’d tread carefully where affection is concerned. That...that’s about all I can say.” she said, sad, as she put her hat back on. “Well I truly can sympathize with her. I’ve been in that situation before. Well, kind of.” he said. He’d been young and foolish too. “I haven’t been able to move on from my mistake either. We’re in the same boat.” “You have a boat?” asked Twilight. Was she serious? “That means that we’re in the same situation. It’s a metaphor.” “Oh. Anyways...that’s the long and short of it. We were all shocked when she admitted it to us. I honestly haven’t been able to view either of them the same way. All I can do is judge from what I know now.” “Yeah...I’d appreciate you not Hatin’ or Mentionin’ this to Big Macintosh. He’s a good colt, I swear.” “I don’t doubt that. Why has Fluttershy not been able to get over it?” “We’re not really sure...” started Rainbow Dash. “I think it’s her memory. She’s always had a really good memory. Ever since what happened, she had nightmares for months. I think it’s been engraved into her mind. It really upset her. I don’t blame her.” “Shortly afterward, she got more intensive with animals. Sure, she enjoyed taking care of them before, but she really got heavily addicted to them. She refused to talk to anypony, instead shutting herself off from the rest of the world and only interacting with animals. None of us know why, but I think ever since the incident, she’s been trying to understand it. This thing called love. She hasn’t been able to get it, since she shut herself off. The animals showed her more affection than anypony else did. She made that the equivalent of love in her mind. She’s always been waiting for somepony to love her like the animals, I guess. She’s really dependent on them. I’m just afraid she’ll get too dependent on you. If something should happen between you two, she’d be devastated and would probably shut herself off from the world again. Trey, I think you need to back out before you get too heavily involved.” Twilight added. Too late, Trey thought. He was more than prepared to handle this. “She’s worth fighting for. She’s everything I’ve ever really dreamed of. I know that sounds cliche, but...well...it’s true.” “That’s heartwarming, Trey. But seriously consider just being close friends. I don’t know what you two did last night, but it probably started a wildfire in her heart. You need to be careful not to get too close to her, Trey. She’s more fragile and volatile than you’d take her for. She can’t be made whole until she personally gets over her past.” Trey sat there in silence, letting them continue. He didn’t have any intention of giving her up. He simply let them continue to let it all out. “It would probably be in your best interest to back off of her.” said Rarity. Everypony was reiterating the same point over and over, pounding it into his head. Back off...back off...Trey couldn’t. She was just so perfect...but if she was as fragile as they said, maybe he’d accidentally break her. He’d broken one relationship before when he got too heavily involved. He didn’t want to break another one with somepony he loved, almost at first sight. He had a lot to think about tonight. “I’m sure sorry, Trey...” started Applejack. “Just trust that we’re tryin’ to do what’s best for Fluttershy. We think you’re a good pony. There’s nothing wrong with you. She’s just...breakable. We’re just worried you not knowing some triggers might seriously hurt her.” “I...I have a lot to think about then.” started Trey. He was nearly flabbergasted, unable to truly comprehend the sheer magnitude of this situation. He was in love with her. But he didn’t want to hurt her, and he had a better chance of doing that by staying with her. But he was a diplomat, and always looked for ways to peacefully solve problems. His generous, kind heart led him to want to help her. His mind wanted to do what was best for her. His heart wanted to stay with her...his mind knew better. “I...I’d better go.” said Trey, hurriedly getting up and trotting out the door, never saying goodbye. He trotted at a fast pace towards home, lost in thought, never looking up from the ground. He fumbled his keys trying to unlock his door and flopped into bed, staring off into no known location, thinking about the situation. He slept tumultuously that night, never having dreams about her like he did. * Fluttershy sat on her couch. It was nearly 10. It didn’t seem like Trey was coming over. He must have had a lot of work to do. Surely he’d be there tomorrow, inviting her to another hoofball game. She sighed and got off the couch, looking out the top part of her door for him. Seeing nothing, she turned around and shut the door behind her, the door hitting her flank. “DON’T TOUCH ME!” she screamed, turning around, yelling at the door. She realized nopony was there and quickly closed the door before bursting into tears, dashing up to her bedroom, flinging herself under her covers, sobbing into her pillow. She hated these flashbacks. But she didn’t know how to get over it. She was stuck in an endless loop, always thinking about that day. It was a bright day. I was still kinda new in town. I’d met everypony already and took a particular fancy to Big Macintosh. He was a really nice young colt. One day I trotted off to Sweetapple Acres to find him. He and I took a walk out along some of the far parts of the ranch. It was a nice, warm day. “Hey, Fluttershy?” he asked. I turned around to face him. “Yes?” I asked. “Have you ever kissed anypony?” “No...what’s that?” I asked. I hadn’t heard of anything like that in Cloudsdale. “Well...come here and I’ll show you.” His voice sounded kind and gentle. I trotted over to him. He promptly put his lips on mine. I didn’t know what was going on. All I knew was that this was...awkward. “That’s a kiss?” I asked. “Eeyup.” he said. “Well that was...nice.” I said, trying not to hurt his feelings. “Now let’s walk some more!” I said, turning around. Suddenly I felt a hoof between my legs. I froze, not knowing what was happening. Suddenly, it was between my legs. I didn’t know what to do. This wasn’t right. I tried to turn around, but he held me there. He pushed my front end forward, making me bend over. “STOP!” I yelled. He continued regardless. I started to cry. That was when he stopped. “I’m sorry...I didn’t mean to hurt you...” I heard him say as I dashed off, running as fast as I could away from there. I was blinded by my tears. I had no idea where I was going. Eventually I reached the barn, finding Granny Smith rocking outside. “What’s wrong, Dearie?” she asked me. I told her what happened and a look of contortion came across her face as the got angry. “We’re going to talk about that. Run home, dear. Don’t come back here.” I obeyed and galloped home as fast as I could, where I found my animal friends. Since then, I resolved never to get close to anypony. Animals were my passion...I wanted it to stay that way forever.
lilinuyasha	926	9	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-01-06T07:38:24+00:00	2012-01-06T07:38:24+00:00	6,424	I looked at her. Something wasn’t right. “What’s wrong?” I asked her. “...nothing...” she said. This wasn’t her usual demeanor. I put my arm around her, leaning my face close to hers, trying to look at her. “DON’T TOUCH ME!” she screamed at me with an unmatched fervor I’d never seen or expected out of her. I quickly removed my arm and took a few steps back, unsure of what to do. “I’m sorry...” I said, thinking that was the only safe option. “You’re all the same. All you want is my body, caring nothing for me. Leave me and never come back.” I froze. She couldn’t have been serious. “But...” “NOW.” she yelled again, pointing her hoof at the door. I slowly trotted around and headed out. She slammed the door behind me as tears started to stream down my face. Even from the other side of the door, I could hear her crying too. * Trey looked at me. I smiled at him, trying to hide the internal rage going on in me. It was happening again. I was afraid I’d snap at him. “Are you ok?” he asked me sincerely. What was I supposed to tell him? I nodded and looked at the ground, afraid to look at him. I could feel tears welling in my eyes as repressed memories flooded back to me. The farm...my youth...my stolen innocence...Big Macintosh. “Fluttershy...” I heard Big Mac say. “Are you ok?” He put a hoof under my chin. “Don’t Touch me!” I yelled at him. I looked up to see Trey standing there, scared. My eyes grew wide in fear as I realized what I’d done. Before I knew it, Trey was already galloping off in the other direction. I started bawling as I realized my fear. I was scared of losing him. Now it seemed like I did. I couldn’t live with myself. I’d lost the one pony who mattered to me... Fluttershy woke up on a wet pillow. She’d remembered her dream vividly, and had obviously cried from it. Angel was on her bed, staring at her sympathetically. When Fluttershy stirred, Angel hopped on her and snuggled her, making her feel better. “I’m sorry Angel.” she said. Angel simply snuggled more as Fluttershy pet him repeatedly, making herself forget that dream. She just wanted to lay down and cry more, but she had things to do. She knew she needed to talk to somepony...maybe Twilight. She was always very supportive. Fluttershy made up her mind, fed the animals, thanked Angel, and trotted off towards the library. * Trey woke up sweating. He remembered his nightmare vividly. Would she really snap at him like that? Probably not. This was his negative imagination settling in. He had a tendency to make things worse than it actually would be in his mind. This was no exception. Trey gathered his mind, his things, and trotted out the door, where he found Pinkie Pie waiting for him. “Hey Trey.” she said, calmer than usual. “Hey. What can I help you with?” “Um...well...I’d like to talk with you about Fluttershy.” “Twilight and the rest of them already told me.” “No, no, it’s not that. Can I come by after your band stuff?” she said, almost sad. “Absolutely.” he said, smiling at her. Life was certainly getting very interesting. He’d never expected to be involved with so many things when he got here. Love, troubling pasts, emotional confrontation...and now vigorous discussions with everypony. How did he suddenly get so important? “Okie dokie lokie!” she said, her inflection changing as she bounced off like she usually did. Trey trotted off to school. He couldn’t wait to hear this one. * Fluttershy knocked on the door timidly, after hesitating. She really didn’t want to bother her with this, but she did have to talk about it. “Oh hey, Fluttershy!” said Twilight as she opened the door. Fluttershy kept her head down, not making eye contact. “...can I talk to you?” she said softly. “Absolutely. Come on in.” said Twilight. She already knew what this would be about. She had a pretty good idea, anyway. Fluttershy and Twilight took a seat on the couch. “What’s wrong? Did it happen again?” Fluttershy nodded. “Yes...” Twilight sighed. “Was Trey around?” “No...” “Fluttershy...it wasn’t your fault. You need to move on.” “...I’m trying...but...” “There aren’t any buts, Fluttershy.” “Twilight...please listen...” Twilight stopped for a bit. She thought she had been listening. “Ok.” she said, conceding. “I...I love Trey.” she said timidly. She didn’t want to have to say it. She didn’t want them to know. “Fluttershy, we know.” she said smiling. Fluttershy pulled her ears back. “I guess he told you...” she said. She couldn’t believe he would do that. “No, we figured it out. We knew you liked him, anyways.” That made Fluttershy feel a bit better. She could still trust him. “He’s the most amazing colt I’ve met yet...I feel things can be different with him...” “Are you afraid you’ll snap on him?” Fluttershy nodded, tears starting to well up in her eyes. “Fluttershy...I think you’ll be fine. Do you want me to talk to Trey about it?” “Oh, no...I don’t want him to know yet...” Too late. Trey could keep a secret though. “Why not? He needs to be prepared.” “But...” “The more he knows, the more likely he’ll be to understand and not leave you. Fluttershy, you need to tell him.” “I...I know...but...I just can’t...” “I can tell him for you.” said Twilight, reassuring her. “I...I should be the one to do it.” she said, looking at Twilight. Twilight sensed the urgency in her eyes. “Alright Fluttershy. How are you going to break it to him?” “I don’t know...” “Fluttershy...are you sure you don’t want me to break it to him?” “Yes. I need to be the one. I just don’t know...” “Fluttershy...have you ever considered that you might just not want to get too close to Trey?” said Twilight. Fluttershy glanced at her, almost glaring. “I love him too much for that...” “But Fluttershy, it’s probably better that way.” “How could it be better?” Twilight froze. She hadn’t thought that far ahead. “Well you stand less of a chance of hurting him. And he doesn’t have to know about what happened.” “But...I love him...” “I know Fluttershy. But if you really love him, you might consider it.” she said. Fluttershy looked at her, sad. “You...you really think so?” “Fluttershy, it’s probably for the best. He’s new in town. Do you want to scare him away?” “No...but...” “Just consider it, Fluttershy.” she said, smiling at her. Fluttershy nodded and hopped off the couch. “Ok...” she said, slowly trotting out the door. “You’ll be fine Fluttershy. Just keep it in mind.” she said, as Fluttershy trotted out the door. “O...ok.” she said. “Come see me again if you need anything else.” she said, smiling at her. Fluttershy said nothing, but trotted away. Twilight quickly closed her door. She knew it would hurt Fluttershy to lose him. But it was seriously better for both of them. Trey wouldn’t be scared out of town, Fluttershy wouldn’t go dormant in the case of her snapping at him. Oh, who was she kidding? She wanted Trey for herself.He seemed like one of the only other ponies that was intellectually on her level. She hated to undercut her friend, but it was mutually beneficial. She sat down on the couch and thought long and hard about it. * Fluttershy closed her door and plopped down on the ground, not bothering to reach her couch. “I should stay away from him? I don’t understand...Twilight’s never had bad advice before...maybe she’s right...” she said. Angel popped his head from around the couch, hopping over to her angrily. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. She was just going to give up on him? She was just going to let possibly the greatest thing in her life slip away from her? Whatever Twilight said wasn’t good. Angel knew it. Angel stomped his foot in front of her, getting her attention. Fluttershy slowly glanced over at him. Angel conducted again. “Trey?” Angel nodded. He checked his watch. “What time’s he coming over?” Angel nodded again. “I don’t know...maybe he shouldn’t come over today...Twilight says I shouldn’t get too close. She doesn’t want me snapping on Trey...it makes sense...but...” Angel stomped his foot in fury. How could Twilight undercut her like that? He shook his head rapidly. “I shouldn’t give up on him?” Angel nodded. “I should?” Angel faceplamed and shook his head. “I shouldn’t?” Angel shook again. “Oh...I don’t want to Angel...but...I don’t know. I need to think about it.” Angel could sense her depression. He hated when she got like this. He almost seethed with rage. Fluttershy had to keep him. Trey was really the only colt he’d actually liked. He could sense good in him. Angel hopped out the door as Fluttershy lazed about, pondering. *** Trey hurried home. He had to hear this conversation. Only Fluttershy was more important, but this concerned her. Trey hurried into his house, impatiently awaiting Pinkie’s arrival. Soon, a knock sounded on his door, and he opened it to Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash. He wasn’t expecting Rainbow Dash. “Hey. Come on in.” he said, showing them in. Pinkie took a spot on his couch while Rainbow Dash hung by the door. “So, what did you need to talk about?” “Well...” started Rainbow Dash. “We think you should be Fluttershy’s coltfriend.” said Pinkie. “Basically.” said Rainbow Dash. “Wait, Rainbow, weren’t you there when Twilight said I should back off?” “Yeah, and I didn’t like that too much. Twilight doesn’t realize that Fluttershy has always needed extra help. I knew her as a filly, I’ve seen her mature. Sure, her shyness really frustrates me sometimes, but I know exactly why. Honestly I believe you can be that extra help she needs to get over it.” Trey sat there silently, listening. Pinkie spoke up, somber. “Yeah...I’ve known Fluttershy for a while, too. And I think you’re a pretty good colt. Trust me, I’ve had to help her get over a few things too. None of us can do it though. She needs a colt. Someone to prove to her that not all of them are the same.” Trey was seriously taking some major responsibility. He hadn’t been here for two weeks and he was already the deciding factor in somepony’s personal retribution. “I’d be more than happy to do that. I really do like her.” “You love her, Trey, we know.” said Rainbow Dash. “Well...yes. You caught me. Only thing is, I don’t know how to go about it.” “I think patience is the real key here. I know I’m slightly limited in that regard.” said Rainbow Dash. “And you’re good looking too. Maybe that’ll help.” said Pinkie. “Pinkie...you’re so random.” said Rainbow Dash. “I do have a lot of patience.” said Trey. That was the only quality he’d ever learned to fully admire in himself. “I think I can do it.” “Good!” said Pinkie and Rainbow Dash. “So how do Rarity and Applejack feel about this?” “Well...I don’t really know. I think Applejack’s for it, since it’ll help ease the awkwardness with Big Mac.” Trey could see that. “Rarity, I have no idea. They’re pretty good friends, so I have a feeling she’s for it as well.” said Rainbow Dash. “So basically everypony’s on my side except for Twilight?” “Well...I guess so, yeah. I have no idea what her problem is.” said Pinkie. “I think she’s just jealous. I know I am.” she said, smiling at him. “Thanks.” said Trey, laughing a bit. “Anyways, that’s all we really had to say. See ya later!” said Pinkie, bouncing out the door. Rainbow Dash stared at her with a dumbfounded look before shrugging. She flew to the door. “Oh, Trey?” she said before leaving. “Yes?” “I think Fluttershy will be a lot better off with you. I can see she’s been happier. I guess I just want to say thanks.” she said, flying out. “...no problem.” said Trey. He wasn’t sure how to feel about this. He’d been inundated with a lot of things recently. How he managed to keep up with the band at this rate was beyond him. Trey knew that Twilight had some legitimate points. If Fluttershy raged at him, and shut herself off from society again, Trey would ultimately be the cause. Then again, his love, tolerance, and patience for anypony would probably be enough to help her over her obstacle. He had a lot to think about. Trey decided to sleep on it and make a decision in the morning. He hadn’t spent any time with Fluttershy today. That slightly upset him. He’d been so busy he didn’t even see her. She was probably upset. He’d make it up to her tomorrow. Actually, he had a hoofball game then. When could he see her? Trey brushed his teeth. Shortly before climbing into bed, he heard a knock at his door. This late at night? Trey trotted and opened the door to see Fluttershy. “Trey...can I talk to you?” she asked timidly. “Come on in.” he said, smiling at her.
lilinuyasha	926	10	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-12-08T03:51:26+00:00	2011-12-08T03:51:26+00:00	5,772	“Trey...can I talk to you?” she asked timidly. “Come on in.” he said, smiling at her. Trey showed her to the couch, but she chose to stand up by the door instead. “Are you ok?” asked Trey. He sensed that Fluttershy had been thinking about their relationship. Trey didn’t know why Twilight would be so against them. They hadn’t even really made it official. “Um...not really.” she said, looking at the ground. Trey’s heart nearly dropped at that. It was only confirmation at what she was to talk about. “Flutterheart...” he started, sad. She looked up at him with even sadder eyes. “I’ve been thinking...and...well...I think we should just stay friends...if that’s ok...” Trey couldn’t believe it. He’d heard that before, but she left him for good. He didn’t want Fluttershy to be like her. “That...” he started. He had to stand up for himself. “That’s not ok.” he said, trying to keep calm. He felt he might lose it. “I’m...sorry...” she started, starting to back up towards the door. “Flutterheart...why do you think that we should just stay friends?” “Um...I have...um...well...I just don’t want to risk losing you.” “So you’re going to lose me to avoid losing me?” “Um...” “Twilight helped sway your mindset, didn’t she?” Fluttershy didn’t say anything but nodded ever so slightly, scrunching her body into itself again, like she did when she wasn’t comfortable. Trey sighed and trotted over to her. “Flutterheart...please understand...I don’t care what Twilight thinks, I’m not going to leave you. I don’t care what’s happened in your past, I don’t care about what you think is bad about yourself. I love you, Fluttershy. All the other stuff doesn’t matter.” “Who told you?” she asked, snapping. “Told me what?” “About my past?” “Nopony. I was just saying. Is there something you want to tell me?” he asked, trying to cover up his knowledge while trying to provoke her. She stared at the ground for a little bit. Trey didn’t say a word. He continued to look at her, noticing her starting quiver. Soon, she started to softly cry. Trey wasn’t sure what to do. He knew she might be having relapses, and touching her might trigger something. Likewise, maybe she needed a hug to reassure her that things were perfectly ok. He seriously didn’t know what to do. This was make it or break it time, so to speak. “Fluttershy?” he said, bending his head down, attempting to look her in the eye. She couldn’t say anything, but instead started crying louder, more noticeably. “Flutterheart?” “Trey...” she started to say, broken up between sobs. “Yes, Flutterheart?” She was getting quite emotional. This was obviously one of those nights. “I’m so sorry...” she said, launching herself onto Trey, hugging him. He returned the favor, rubbing her back, swaying side to side. “Do you want to talk about it, Flutterheart?” She nodded against his head, and he helped bring her to the couch. “Now, Flutterheart...” he started. “Please don’t hate me.” “How could I hate you?” “I don’t know...” “Don’t worry, Flutterheart. Just relax and tell me what you need to say.” She nodded, looking away from him, tears welling in her eyes. He wiped them off her face as she started to talk. She went into vivid details about that day, more than Trey knew, or cared to know. He remained silent and listened to her the entire time, though. “I just...I...I don’t know.” she said after explaining. “Flutterheart...what’s stopping you from getting over it? Why are you stuck thinking about it?” he asked with a gentle tone, out of pure curiosity. “I...I don’t know...” she said, scrunching her body up again. Trey scooted closer to her on the couch. “I...I’m just such a bad pony for letting it happen.” “Flutterheart...you didn’t know it was happening. There was nothing you could have done. You’re not a bad pony. You’re probably the best pony I know. I consider it a blessing that you’re in my life.” “Sometimes I feel like I’m a curse...” “Why?” “Well...I’m so shy...and I get scared easily...I just don’t feel like I belong sometimes...” “Fluttershy.” he said, urgently. “I beg to differ with you on everything. Sure, you’re shy. You may get scared easily. But I know exactly where you belong.” “Where’s that?” she said, continuing to look away. “My heart.” he said. She looked up at him with those eyes and blushed, starting to smile. “Flutterheart, you’re the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me.” he said, cupping one side of her face with his hoof. “I don’t think Twilight’s really looking out for you. Friends don’t try and take away their friend’s happiness. At least, i assume you’re happy with me.” She nodded, a small smile on her lips. “Maybe Twilight’s not being a very good friend if she’s taking away your happiness. I know that I’d be missing a huge light in my life if you were gone.” he said, watching the smile on her face get even bigger as her tears dried up. “I love you, Fluttershy.” She smiled even bigger, those eyes he loved expanding. Though her eyes were red from crying, the deep blue he loved was clear. Her eyes, even while red, were still perfect. Everything about her was perfect. “I love you too, Trey.” she said, slowly leaning into him for a slow, passionate kiss. “Please don’t leave me.” “I don’t plan on it. Please don’t leave me either.” he said, smiling. “I could never leave you.” “Don’t listen to anypony who tells you otherwise, alright?” She nodded and smiled. “Ok.” she said, before leaning into him once again. She then put her head on his lap, looking up at him. Those eyes... Trey stroked her hair with his hoof, staring deep into her. Neither of them said anything for a bit, instead letting their emotional connection speak for them. Trey broke the silence by telling her that he loved her, before leaning down to kiss her again. On his way up a small movement outside his window caught his eye. It was only there for a moment though. Probably a passing pony on their way home from the late shift. He ignored it and continued cuddling and caressing Fluttershy, happy as could be. * Twilight seethed with anger. Trey had a bit more manipulative control over her than she anticipated. She had to adopt a new strategy. Simply talking to both her and Trey didn’t seem to work. Perhaps she needed to use something more manipulative...perhaps having other friends on her side. She never saw Pinkie, so she obviously didn’t care. The other four were there though. Were they on her side? She put that thought away and decided to make it a point for tomorrow to talk to all of her friends. She was confident she could win them over. She had known them for so long, she could press every one of their buttons. She decided to sleep on it that night before heading out in the morning to discuss matters with her friends. * Twilight woke up early the next morning, formulating in her mind what to discuss. She decided to tackle the easiest one and trotted over to Rarity’s boutique. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique, where everything...oh, hello Twilight!” she said, seeing Twilight walk in. “Hey Rarity. Just though I’d stop by and get your opinion on something.” “Well of course! I’d be more than happy to do what I can.” “What do you think of Trey and Fluttershy?” she asked, quizzically. Rarity gave her a strange look. “You mean, like...as a couple?” “Well...yes. Fluttershy and Trey seem to like each other a lot. I just don’t know if that’s the best thing for Fluttershy though. What do you think?” “Well...” said Rarity, turning around to take care of some dresses, “I think whatever makes Fluttershy happy is best. If that’s Trey, so be it.” she said, attempting to end the discussion. She knew Twilight was trying to sabotage their relationship and she didn’t respect that. Fluttershy and Rarity hadn’t been to the spa since Trey came, but they had an appointment this afternoon. Rarity would certainly discuss this with her. “But you don’t think Trey’s not a good fit for her? His messy mane doesn’t bother you?” said Twilight. “Messy mane?” “Yeah I’m not entirely sure he combs it, to be honest.” Rarity turned around to face her, a growing look of concern in her eye. “...he doesn’t?” “I don’t think so. I think Fluttershy needs somepony who takes pride in himself. Not one who doesn’t comb his mane.” she said. Twilight knew this would get her. “Hm...that does worry me. Perhaps Fluttershy would get messy as well...oh dear...” she said. She was fully aware Twilight was manipulating her. Twilight underestimated her intellectual capabilities. She’d taken good note of Trey at the party where they first met. He was a well groomed colt. Handsome, too. It was a shame he didn’t decide to get involved with her. “I’ll definitely let Fluttershy know about that.” “Whatever you want to do! Anyways, I have other errands to run. I’ll see you later!” she said, trotting out the door. She knew she’d captured Rarity. It was only a matter of time before Rarity would influence Fluttershy. Rarity watched her leave. Why would Twilight even think for one second that using messiness as bait would trap her into messing up Fluttershy’s happiness? Twilight was up to something. She would find out why later. She had business to run until the afternoon. Then she had her spa date with Fluttershy. She had a feeling she’d be discussing quite a few things with her. She carried on with business until then. * Twilight trotted over to Sweetapple Acres. She trotted around until she found Applejack bucking on apple trees, as was her job. “Well howdy there, Twilight!” she said, finishing the tree off and trotting over to her. “What can I do ya for?” “I just had a question to ask.” “Well I’m more than happy to try and help.” “What do you think about Trey and Fluttershy?” “You mean...as a couple?” “Yes.” “Well...I think it’ll do Fluttershy good. I think she’s been needin’ a good colt to help her get over things. I think it’s in her best interest. What do you think?” “I think it’s a bad idea.” “Well why’s that?” “I think Trey’s bound to trigger some memories. He’s bound to trip her up in the past and cause her to shut herself out again. He’s a colt, too. He’s prone to the same mistake Big Macintosh made. I just don’t want Fluttershy to get hurt.” “I really don’t see Trey doing something like that, Twi.” “It’s possible, Applejack.” “Anything’s possible, but Trey seems like a good pony. I like him.” “But what about Fluttershy? Do you think she’s bound to get too dependant?” “Twi...listen to me.” Applejack said, demandingly. “I think Fluttershy’s been needin’ a good colt in her life to prove her wrong about them. She’s still carryin’ around negative thoughts about colts because of what one colt did to her. Trey seems like just the colt to dispel those thoughts. I think you need to stop tryin’ to ruin their relationship because of what you think’s better. Fluttershy needs to make her own decisions.” Twilight was taken aback my this. She could have sworn she could get Applejack on her side. True, Fluttershy did need to make her own decisions, but Twilight knew what was best for her. Fluttershy was far too timid to know about this. Fluttershy couldn’t know what love was...Twilight trotted out and went back to the library. * “Oh, good to see you again Darling!” said Rarity. “Yes. I like doing this.” said Fluttershy. “Well there’s so much we need to discuss!” “Um...am I in trouble?” “Heavens no! I’ll tell you when we’re in the private baths.” “Oh...ok.” Fluttershy and Rarity continued through their spa treatment until the private baths came up, where they were left alone for half an hour. “Fluttershy, what do you think about Trey?” “I like him. He’s nice...” “Good. Has Twilight told you to leave him alone?” “Um...” “Fluttershy, I’m not going to say anything to her about it.” “Well...yes.” “Please don’t tell me you listened to her?” “Well...I tried...but I just love Trey so much...” “You love him?” “Oh...um...yes...” “I think he’s a very lucky colt, Fluttershy. I don’t know why Twilight is so against you two, but you need to do what makes you happy, darling. And I believe Trey makes you happy.” “He does...he has a really nice smile...and he treats me like I’m worth something...” “Are you saying the rest of us don’t?” “No, you do...he just...does it better I guess...I hope that’s ok...” “Darling, I was in love once, too. I know exactly how you feel. A strong colt in your life makes you feel on top of the world.” “Yes...” “I think the real reason Twilight’s trying to end you two is that she’s jealous.” “Jealous?” “Yes. She’s the only pony of our group of friends that hasn’t had a significant other yet.” “She hasn’t?” “Heavens no. She locks herself up reading all the time. She didn’t start getting social until she came to Ponyville, remember?” “Yeah...” “I think she’s just been waiting for a colt of her own, and she sees Trey as a good match. Not hard to see why. He's handsome, smart...and extremely lucky to have you. Don’t give him up.” Fluttershy smiled at her, beaming. “Thanks Rarity. I guess I’ve needed to hear that for a while.” “Heavens, I’m only speaking the truth. Don’t thank me for saying what needs to be said.” Fluttershy noted that Trey did the same thing...not letting her thank him for certain things. Fluttershy and Rarity soon finished their spa date and both trotted to their respective homes. Trey still didn’t get out of school for a little while...Oh! There was a hoofball game tonight! Fluttershy remembered it was 7 at the stadium. She’d go to see Trey this time. She was sure he was great. Maybe the music would be good too. She made up her mind to go tonight and patiently waited to see her prince again. * Twilight simply didn’t understand. She paced about the library furiously, trying to think. How could her friends not agree with her? What did they see in Trey and Fluttershy as a couple that made them more agree with it than her? She’d waited for a good colt ever since she came to Ponyville, and Trey seemed like just the one. She’d never had a relationship before...she just didn’t understand love. But she did know she was in love with him. She was way more capable of things than Fluttershy was. She hardly ever talked. Twilight was smarter, could use magic, and, in her opinion, prettier. She’d read multiple books on persuasion, love, psychology...how did she not do it? How did it fail? She needed to know...she stayed up for the rest of the night reading, refining her strategy. * Trey went through the day as normal, preparing for the hoofball game against Canterlot. This would be a bit of a personal thing for him, seeing as he went to, and came from, Canterlot. He remembered inviting Fluttershy, so he hoped to see her there, now that he gave her the proper time. The band would be doing the first two movements, marching hopefully to perfection. He was happy today, also, as he narrowly avoided losing Fluttershy to Twilight. He didn’t know what her problem was, but he was sick of it. He was looking forward to the hoofball game though. He’d see her again. That always made him smile.
lilinuyasha	926	11	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-02-24T03:28:28+00:00	2012-02-24T03:28:28+00:00	6,317	“We’re no strangers to love...you know the rules. So do I.” he said, glancing at her. She made her heart melt with anticipation. He was just the sweetest colt she’d ever known. “I got no commitments...I wanna pick it up. You wouldn’t get this from any other colt.” he said slyly. She blushed even harder as he smiled at her...looking deep into her soul. Almost as if he knew what she was thinking. “I’m never gonna give you up...let you down...run around or desert you. I’m never gonna make you cry...say goodbye...or tell a lie and hurt you.” “I don’t know what to say...” “We’ve known each other for so long...your heart’s been aching...” “But I’m too strong to say it.” “We both know what’s been going on.” “We know the game...and we’re gonna play.” he said, before kissing her romantically. He had never been more in love with any filly. She had never loved anyone more. They were the perfect pair. Nothing else mattered. They were the only two in the world now as they continued to caress each other, oblivious to anything else. “Twilight?” “AGH!” yelled Twilight, falling out of her chair. Spike looked at her curiously. “Are you alright?” “Yeah, you just...scared me.” she said, trying to hide the book. “I know what you’re reading Twilight. I did an inventory check.” he said, rolling his eyes and walking out of the room. Twilight blushed, embarrassed. She’d stayed up all night reading “The new mare in town”. This was one of those novels she didn’t buy, but rather came with the library. She didn’t know exactly why, but she kept it around. Now she was glad she did. Twilight put the book away, seeing as she was done with it. After reading that story, she had a bit of a better understanding for love, but still couldn’t quite emotionally grasp it. She’d read the dictionary entry over it numerous times, read several articles from magazines, including “cosmoponitan”, famous for its articles on love and...other things. She’d read entire psychology volumes about it, and just recently read a romance novel. How did she still not understand it? “Love is a strong emotional attachment to another pony or object; a strong sense of affection for a particular thing or pony; an emotional sense of belonging or dependence on an object or pony..” she repeated. It was all so educational, so formal. It was a ridged set of guidelines that had to be followed. How did Fluttershy fall for him? How did he fall for her? They had hardly anything in common. She didn’t really finish school, as far as she knew. He went to college and graduated with a music degree. She was anti-social. He worked with kids. She worked with animals. She sighed, frustrated at her lack of understanding. She started to scan the shelves of the library for another book until she found one she missed earlier, titled “What is love?” “What is love?” she said, opening the book for a preview. “Baby...don’t hurt me...don’t hurt me no more.” she mimicked. This sounded interesting. It was a rather short novel too, so she sat down and read it thoroughly, hoping to gain more insight into what love was on a scholarly level before she trotted out to talk to Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash about the couple. It was Saturday, so Rainbow was bound to be sleeping for the rest of the afternoon. She put all thoughts away and got absorbed in the novel. “I don’t know...you’re not there.” she said. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “I feed you my love but you don’t care...” “What is right? What is wrong? Give me a sign!” he said angrily... * Trey woke up on the couch in Fluttershy’s cottage. He recalled falling asleep next to her after another session of “watching” movies. Really, though, they cuddled and caressed each other, murmuring sweet everythings to each other. Trey refused to call it “sweet nothings”. She meant everything to him. “Sweet everythings” was more appropriate. Trey woke up to the smell of eggs and cheese, with a little hint of cinnamon apples. Trey gathered himself and trotted to the kitchen, where Fluttershy was cooking for them. “Good morning, sleepyhead!” she said, smiling and giggling a bit at him. He returned the favor and kissed her on the cheek, making her smile even wider. “I decided to give you that rain credit card Rainbow Dash gave you.” Trey laughed to himself. She was so cute when she tried to impress him. “A rain check, you mean?” “Oh...yes.” she said, shaking her head a little, still smiling. “Do you know how amazingly cute you are when you blush?” he asked her. She turned to look at him. “But I’m not blushing...” she said. “You are now.” said Trey, pulling off a psychic move. She blushed uncontrollably. “Oh...” she smiled. She didn’t know how he did it...but she liked that he did. She was completely under his control... “I hope you don’t mind.” “Flutterheart, I love it. You’re just so cute when you do that. I’m shocked nopony’s ever told you that before.” “I’m glad that you’re my first.” she said smiling. “Now lets get breakfast on the table.” Trey and Fluttershy set out a rather large portion of eggs, cheese, and apples on the table. Though the table was large, Trey decided to sit next to her, occasionally nudging her elbow jokingly, making her miss picking up food with a fork. They both laughed and ate before giving the leftover food to the animals, which was a hefty bit. Perhaps she fixed extra on purpose. She was very smart in planning ahead, and he admired that. After they finished the dishes, Trey and Fluttershy went outside and spent the rest of the day together. * “Hey, Pinkie!” said Twilight as she managed to track her down. She wasn’t easy to find when you wanted to find her. She wasn’t easy to get rid of when you didn’t. “Oh, hey, Twilight! What’s up?” “Oh, not much, just wanted to...” “Up is a direction!” “Huh?” “I asked you what’s up! Remember? Up is a direction!” “Oh, yes, haha, totally forgot about that!” “You spend all your day reading and you forgot what up was?” “Pinkie...” “Even I can tell you what’s up! Of course Rainbow Dash can because she’s always up!” “Pinkie...” “Applejack and Rarity can tell you, too!” “PINKIE!” “Yes, Twilight?” “I get it. I have a question.” “Oh, ok! Ask away!” “What do you think of Trey and Fluttershy?” “You mean like...as a couple?” “Everypony keeps saying that...yes, as a couple.” “I think they’re good for each other. You’d have to be pretty dumb to think otherwise.” she said, smiling. She knew Twilight thought otherwise, but sought to end the discussion before it began. “You don’t think Trey will hurt Fluttershy? Or that she’ll snap on him and recluse?” “No, silly, she’s a pony, not a spider!” Twilight’s mouth was open trying to figure out exactly what she meant. “Though it might be cool to be a spider. I wanna be a pink widow! Brown recluses are boriiiiiiiiiiing!” Oh. Recluse. Brown recluse. “Well I’ll definitely keep that in mind in case we ever need to turn into spiders for something!” “Alrighty then!” said Pinkie, bouncing off. Twilight wasn’t finished with her, but Pinkie couldn’t stay on topic for long. She sighed, frustrated, and headed off to try and find Rainbow Dash. * Trey tossed the Frisbee to Fluttershy. “You’re getting better!” he said to her. “You haven’t hit me once!” She laughed and tossed it back to him. Now that she had the hang of it, she really enjoyed it. It was especially fun as a Pegasus, because you could swoop and dive for it instead of being stuck on the ground. She enjoyed the spirit of competition, though she didn’t care who won. She was just happy to be with him. Trey caught her pass and flew over to her, telling her he wanted to play a new game. “Oh? What do you want to play?” Trey kissed her on the lips and shouted “tag!” before flying off. Fluttershy blushed and hurried after him, though he was in no hurry to outrun her. * “Oh, hey, Twilight. What’s up?” shouted Rainbow Dash as she descended from her cloud. “Oh, not much. Just wanted to ask a question.” “Well yeah, go ahead.” “What do you think of Trey and Fluttershy?” “You mean...as a...” “Yes, as a couple.” she said, slightly annoyed. Everypony was asking the same thing. “I think they’re good for each other. It’d be a shame if something happened to that.” “You’re not worried about Trey hurting her? Or Fluttershy having relapses?” “Twilight, I’ve noticed them hanging out. I started to follow them when he visited her, and every time, she’s happier than she was before. Trey’s doing her a lot of good. I don’t think it’s right for you to question that. If he makes her happier, just let her be happy. Why are you so against them anyway?” she asked, leaning into her like she did when she asked Twilight if she was a spy, when they met all those years ago. “I’m just afraid one of them’s bound to get hurt. Either Trey will make a move too soon, or Fluttershy will tell him about what happened and he’ll get scared. Maybe she’ll even have relapses and yell at him. He’s hasn’t been here long enough for it to work out properly.” “Twilight, you don’t understand.” said Rainbow Dash, sighing. “You’re the only one of our friends that hasn’t loved anypony yet. Rarity knew love with Blueblood, before it went haywire. Pinkie just accepts things, and admires happiness for others, amongst the love she suddenly felt for her family after she got her mark. Applejack had a small affair with somepony before you got here.” “What about you?” “Me? Well...I have a bit of a crush on Soarin’.” “From the wonderbolts?” “Yes. He’s so...dream...good with flying.” she said, correcting herself. “But you haven’t really experienced anything. You and I are in the same boat. And who did Applejack have a thing for?” “Look...I don’t want to talk about it. But Applejack and I have both experienced love, alright? You’re the only one left out.” Twilight smiled slyly as she put two and two together. “What are you smilin at?” asked Rainbow, afraid of the answer. “Nothing.” “Whatever. I’ve got stuff to do. Did you have anything else you wanted to talk about?” “Oh, no, not really. Carry on!” she said, turning around. As Rainbow Dash flew off, Twilight grew even more frustrated. None of her friends could see her side, except for Rarity. She’d have to double check on that. The way things were going, she’d be the only one. She trotted off to the library, fuming. She had to read some more books. “Surely love is more than just a biochemical reaction destined to make sure our genes get passed on...what is it about?” she asked herself before immersing herself in several more volumes of romance novels, psychology books, and personal journal observations. *** Trey and Fluttershy snuggled down in his bed, “Watching” a movie. Of course, they were really just snuggling each other, cuddling, kissing, caressing...Trey even muted the TV just to hear her lovely voice with no interruptions. “Flutterheart?” he said, putting his hoof to her chest, feeling her heart beat. “Yes?” Her heart started racing. “You wanna hear a story?” Fluttershy nodded. It was a perfect excuse to listen to his voice. “This is the story about the most beautiful filly in the world.” “Is it me?” she asked, blushing. “You’ll have to wait and see!” “Oh...ok.” “Once upon a time, there was a music colt who moved to Ponyville. A party was thrown in honor of his arrival. At the party, he saw the most beautiful pony he’d ever met, with a gorgeous tan coat and lovely pink mane. I...er...he knew from that moment that he knew she was special. From there, he did his best to spend as much time with her as he could, inviting her to hoofball games. But he forgot to give her the time once, and he was very upset with himself, because he knew that was less time that he could see her. After that, his like for her developed into love, and he was very shy around her, hoping that she wouldn’t find it weird. She also had love in her heart for him though, and when she kissed his injured cheek, he could feel it. One day, he decided to give her something-a kiss-for her to hold on to until he could get it back from her later. Since then, the two have been trading it off.” “That was a good story.” she said, smiling and blushing as she stroked his cheek. “Thank you. It took me a few weeks to get it perfect.” “I can tell. It seems like you worked really hard at it. But what happened to the kiss?” “She still has it.” he said. She smiled and leaned into him, passionately embracing him for a light-lipped kiss that only the truest of love could produce. “Not anymore.” she said, smiling at him. She was starting to get braver around him with these things. He really liked it. He still also noticed she was still timid and shy about some things, which he loved also. She was, simply put, the perfect pony for him. He couldn’t imagine anything better. Well...only one thing could make it better. “Flutterheart?” he asked, cradling her face. “Yes, Trey?” “You’re perfect.” “You’re perfect too.” “I’m only missing one thing to make me perfect.” “Oh? What is that?” “You. Flutterheart...we’ve been in love for a little bit.” “Yes. And I couldn’t be happier.” “Flutterheart, there’s only one thing that could make me happier.” “What’s that?” she said, worried. Was she not perfect enough? “Flutterheart...would you like to make it official? Will you be my special somepony?”
lilinuyasha	926	12	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-02-24T03:28:48+00:00	2012-02-24T03:28:48+00:00	6,207	“Flutterheart...would you like to make it official? Will you be my special somepony?” She smiled at him, about to speak. “Actually, don’t say anything yet.” he said, putting his hoof to her heart. It was fluttering, once again. He looked deep into her eyes, smiling. “That’s a yes, isn’t it?” She blushed and laughed a little. “Yes.” she said. She had felt so magical knowing that she could simply look into his eyes and give an answer without having to say anything. She loved hearing his voice, and the less she said, the more she was bound to hear it. Trey smiled at her, possibly the biggest smile she’d ever seen from him. Before, he always smirked a bit, but this was a full-on smile. “Why are you smiling so big?” she asked him. “You have no idea how happy you just made me.” he said, bringing her in for a passionate kiss. “I’m the happiest colt in the world right now.” She blushed slightly and looked him dead in the eye. “I’m the happiest filly in the world.” They both smiled at each other and snuggled, her face close to his chest as they lay on his couch. “Should I even bother putting a movie in?” She shook her head softly, looking up at him, innocently smiling. He smirked again and locked his lips with hers, as both of them closed their eyes in heavenly embrace. As they both woke up the next morning, Fluttershy had somehow shifted in the night and had her flank very close to Trey’s “Danger zone” so to speak. He scooted slightly back, figuring that wouldn’t be a very good contact, lest she have flashbacks. He didn’t know why, but he felt like stroking her. He’d always had a little bit of a thing for the stomach, so he lightly rubbed her back, ribs, and stomach, feeling how soft she was. “I love you Trey...” she said. “I love you too.” he said. Her breathing snapped, signifying she just woke up. Obviously she talked to him in her sleep. Cute, he thought. Then again, what about her wasn’t? “Good morning!” he said. “Oh!” she said, realizing she had flipped over in the night. “I’m so sorry...” “It’s ok, Flutterheart.” he said, smiling at her. He didn’t want to let her know it was awkward. “Are you sure? I mean, I don’t want to make it awkward for you...” “Flutterheart, I love you. Nothing could be awkward for me. Now...want do you want to do after breakfast? My treat.” “Well...maybe we could play frisbee some more...” “You really like that game, don’t you?” “Oh, yes. It’s really fun!” she said, smiling. He didn’t know why she loved it so much, but he found it cute. Suddenly, a crash of thunder roared as rain started to pour in torrents. “Guess we’re staying inside, huh?” he noted, smiling at her. She simply returned a smile, innocent as can be, before kissing him one more time and letting him get up to fix breakfast. * Rainbow Dash smiled. It took a lot of convincing to have the pegasi have a storm today, but it worked out perfectly. Now Trey and Fluttershy had even more time together. The rain would prohibit Twilight from moving much, which was good. She and Pinkie (mostly Pinkie) sensed that Twilight was stocking up on knowledge and/or formulating a plan to separate the two. Luckily, it could be held off for another day. Rainbow gently turned her back on the clouds, resting, basking in the glorious sun that was hidden from the world below. * “Drats”. thought Twilight. “That storm is so inconvenient.” she noted, sighing. She’d stayed up all night frying her brain with novels on love, rereading several romance novels. Still, she didn’t understand it. How could she possibly believe in something that didn’t have a possible explanation? She couldn’t exactly ask Celestia about it...or could she? Wait a minute...did Celestia love her? She was her favorite student, and basically took her in. Twilight didn’t remember seeing much of her parents after Celestia took her in. “So, Twilight, who is it?” said Spike, waltzing into her room. “Who’s who?” “Don’t play dumb with me. You obviously have a crush on somepony, seeing all the novels you’ve been reading recently.” “It’s research. Nothing more.” “You weren’t like this before Trey got to town.” “I wasn’t?” asked Twilight, desperately looking for a way out. “No, Twilight. I’ve lived with you long enough to know when you’re fixated on something. Obviously you don’t understand what you’re feeling.” “I understand perfectly, Spike.” “You’ve been reading books all day. Looking up definitions, reading romance novels. You’re analyzing it. Why can’t you just accept things without trying to understand them?” “What could I possibly be accepting?” “Love, obviously. You’ve never really felt it, and I know it. That’s why you’re looking it all up. Just admit it, Twilight.” Twilight sighed, defeated. “Alright, yes. You’re absolutely right. I find it hard to grasp this concept though. Surely it’s more than just a biochemical reaction?” “Uh...” said Spike. “I’m not sure what that meant, but yeah. Love is a feeling. Love’s something you just...feel. You just know when it hits you.” “Well how would I know?” “You’ll just know.” “But that doesn’t make any sense, Spike!” “Twilight...” said Spike, shaking his head. “What, Spike?” said Twilight, slightly frustrated. Spike was too young to understand these things, how could he be giving her advice? “Remember Pinkie’s ‘Pinkie sense’? Same concept.” Twilight suddenly remembered. Just because she couldn’t explain something didn’t mean she couldn’t believe in it. She sighed, defeated once again. “It’s not the same, Spike.” she settled for saying. She was wrong and she knew it. “Alright, fine, Twilight. Just because I’m a baby dragon means I couldn’t have ever loved someone or somepony.” Twilight stopped. She suddenly realized how horrible she’d been to him during this. He loved Rarity, she’d completely forgotten. Everyone but her had experienced love in some fashion. She’d always been to involved with books to really care about anything else. Maybe she needed to release her inhibitions and just accept things. She sighed and looked out the window. With this rain, she’d have to wait a while before talking to Fluttershy again. Maybe she’d even talk to Trey, if she could build up the nerve. She sighed again and trotted to her bed, absorbing herself in reading once again. *** Fluttershy smiled. “I didn’t know you were a good cook...” she said. Trey simply smiled at her. “Everypony has a main talent, and something else they can do well. You take care of animals, but you can sing like an angel. I’m a bandmaster, and I can cook. It was just a hobby I developed.” “Well maybe you can cook for me more...if that’s ok...” “I’d be glad to.” he said. “Maybe the animals will like it, too.” “Oh, yes, I’m sure they will.” she smiled. Trey took her plate and started working on dishes. “Now the only question is, what are we going to do? We have so much time...” “Well...” Fluttershy started, “There’s always cuddling...” she said. Fillies always did like that. He smiled. “Should we bother with a movie?” “No.” she said, smiling. He smiled at her. “In that case, we might as well use my bed. It has more room than the couch. Besides, it’s probably more comfy for falling asleep.” “That would be nice.” she said. As Trey exited the kitchen, the lights suddenly shut off. He heard Fluttershy scream and jump onto him, knocking him over. He couldn’t see much, but he could tell she was right on top of him, staring down at him. “Hey there.” he said. “Oh, I’m so sorry!” she said, trying to get up. Trey simply put two arms over her neck and brought her down for a kiss. He could hear her heart racing. Apparently, darkness made it even more special for her. “Don’t worry. I don’t mind one bit.” he said, as the lights suddenly came on. Fluttershy was staring down at him, her deep blue eyes locked with his. She smiled at him for a bit before hopping off after a light kiss. Trey showed her to his room, and the two cuddled until they fell asleep again on the lazy, blustery day. Trey, of course, didn’t fall asleep, but instead opted to stay up, watching the rhythmic in-out fashion of Fluttershy’s breathing. He was entranced by it. Fillies always looked cute when they slept, but it was something else entirely to hold one in your arms. He smiled and slowly moved her head along his arm, closer to his chest, feeling her breathing. He didn’t know what he did to deserve somepony like her...he only wished he’d done it sooner. He enjoyed the moment until her breathing suddenly increased, her head slightly shaking. He looked at her, finding her still sleeping. Was she having a nightmare? “Please don’t...stop...” she mumbled in her sleep. Her hooves slightly kicked a little, nipping Trey in the inner thigh. He had no idea what to do, as usual. “I love him...please...stop...” she said. It sounded like a mixture of flashbacks with her inner desires about him. He debated speaking to her, like a guiding voice in her dreams. “No, wait...don’t leave me...” she continued, tears starting to roll down her cheeks. He couldn’t stand to see her like this. “Flutterheart, I’m right here.” he said softly in her ear. “I’m not going anywhere.” he said, finding that her body calmed down a little. She still kicked a small amount, almost fighting against his embrace before finally settling in, digging herself closer to him. He hugged her tight, kissing her forehead. “I love you...” she said softly. “I love you, too, Flutterheart. I love you, too.” She dug herself even closer to Trey, nuzzling his chest. Trey wondered how she could do all this while still asleep. Eventually, he closed his eyes and let his thought process carry him into a lovely dreamworld filled with Fluttershy. At least, that was the plan. “I’ve been stuck in a loop, too, Fluttershy” I told her. I could truly sympathize. Only problem was...my situation was completely different from hers. She had been taken advantage of in her youth. I...well...I took advantage of somepony in my foolish youth. I’ve been stuck in a loop ever since that day, constantly beating myself up over it. I wish I’d killed myself long ago for it. But where would I be without Fluttershy? And how could I tell her? Could I tell her? I’ve been stuck in that loop for so long...I’ve been waiting to get it off my chest, but I’m so scared somepony special will run away if I confess. I don’t want to lose her...but I need to do this for me...I’m stuck between a rock and a hard place right now. Every time I get happy thinking about her,there’s an equally upsetting thought about my past. The thing that bothers be most is thinking that I’ll lose myself and hurt her, too. She means too much to me to lose her. I love her too much... “Fluttershy...I...” I began... “You what?” she asked. He suddenly jolted awake. “Oh, I didn’t mean to scare you...I’m sorry...” she said, concerned. “Oh, no, you’re fine. I just had a...bad dream.” “Oh, I’m so sorry.” “It’s not your fault.” he said, smiling at her. “When did you wake up?” “Only a few minutes ago. I guess I fell asleep on your chest.” she said, smiling. “It’s just so comfortable.” “Well you’re welcome to it anytime.” he said, looking deep into those eyes he loved. Even though he no longer had to hope that they would be his, they were still just as wonderful. “Trey?” “Yes, Flutterheart?” “I love you. I guess I just wanted to thank you for giving me a chance...I know I’m really shy...that bothers ponies sometimes...” Trey put a hoof over her mouth, preventing her from talking. “Flutterheart...there’s nothing about you that bothers me. Everything about you is perfect...I wish I could spend forever with you, just cradling you in my arms. You’re the most perfect filly I’ve ever met, Fluttershy...don’t change anything about yourself.” She blushed, a dark red line appearing over her face. “Trey...” she started. “...I could spend forever your arms. Everything you do is just so nice...you know how to make me feel special...I guess I’ve always wanted somepony to do that. I’m glad it was you. There’s nopony else I’d rather be with.” Trey smiled. “Flutterheart?” “Yes?” “Could you ever hate me?” “Oh, no, Trey.” “Ever?” “Never.” “No matter what I’ve done in the past?” “Nothing can make me not love you, Trey. Is something wrong?” “Fluttershy...” he said, sighing, getting ready for an emotional disruption. “There’s something I need to confess...it’s been killing me inside for years...and I can’t keep it in...please listen...and don’t judge me...” Fluttershy remained quiet. “Can I have your word that you won’t judge me?” “I could never judge you, Trey.” “Good.” Trey cleared his mind and prepared to give the most difficult speech to her. He knew he ran the risk of losing her, but he had to tell somepony. He sighed, rolling over on his back, looking up at the ceiling to avoid making eye contact with her. “Well...here goes...” he said.
lilinuyasha	926	13	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-02-27T19:34:08+00:00	2012-02-27T19:34:08+00:00	5,720	“This isn’t going to be easy for me to say...or for you to hear. Please bear with me.” he said. She nodded, letting him continue. “Well...when I was a young colt...” he started, trying to figure out how best to admit or confess. “...well...I was young, foolish, stupid...and I was typical. Had only one thing on my mind. One day, we got invited to go to a friend’s ranch for a family friend’s party. I forgot what the occasion was, but regardless, we were there. Well...I got left alone with one of the younger ones...I think she was 5 years younger than me. And...well...long story short, I did to her what Big Macintosh did to you. I’ve regretted that day ever since, and it’s been plaguing me. Since then, I got very anti-social...much like you. I’ve strived to be anything but typical...I never really talked much to fillies...I just...Fluttershy...I...I love you. You’ve broken every emotional and social barrier I tried to set for myself. I guess there’s always a trade off...you’re worried about snapping on me in flashbacks...I’m always worried I’m going to hurt you. You think that you’re a bad pony for letting something happen to you...I know I’m a bad pony because I did that. Fluttershy...I just...” he said, before whimpering, on the verge of crying. “Please don’t hate me.” he finished, looking as far away from her as he could, sighing. Fluttershy didn’t say anything for a good while. Did...did he really admit that to her? Did he trust her that much? Could she trust him after that though? He made it seem like he’d learned his lesson, but who was to say he wouldn’t give in again? She didn’t want to relive that day again. He did have a good point though...they could help each other get over it. She could help him get over it by love and support, continuing her kindness. She could get over her own past by simply being loved in an honest manner, apart from what happened to her. They were both victims. Not by somepony else, but by themselves. The irony of what he’d done versus what had happened to her was prevalent in the fact that they had maintained a good, stable relationship. She loved him, she didn’t care what he’d done. He loved her, no matter what had happened. “Trey...” she started, trying to find the best words. “I understand if you want to end it.” he said, a tear streaming down his cheek. “No, Trey...I’m not.” she said, putting a hoof to his chin and making him look at her, much like he’d done with her several times. This time, though, he was the sad, red-eyed pony looking into the eyes of the other. She debated saying something, but opted not to, instead letting her eyes, the ones she knew he loved, do the talking for her. They looked deep into each other’s eyes for several minutes, her sending him the message that it was ok...she loved him anyway. She then brought his lips close to hers, taking the first step for once in her life, letting the emotions between the two of them swirl, making the kiss one of the most meaningful yet. Her cheeks were wet with his tears as he slowly stopped his emotional breakdown. “Trey...” she said. Trey nodded, still not saying anything. “I love you. That’s all there is to it.” “...thank you.” Trey finally managed to say, before hugging Fluttershy tight. “You have no idea how much that means to me.” “Not as much as you mean to me.” said Fluttershy, nuzzling her head into his chest. It bothered her slightly, yes, but he was worth too much to her for anything to take him away. The two layed there in silence until they both drifted off to sleep again, happily cradled in each other’s arms. * Twilight sighed. Today was just a lazy day...and she felt terrible. She’d managed to insult Spike, herself, and, essentially, Trey and Fluttershy. One part of her felt terrible for trying to undercut her friend for personal gain. The other part knew it was better for everypony this way. The third part of her tried to psychologically analyze all those thoughts and emotions to back up both sides of her brain. She sighed and relaxed in bed, debating whether to read any more into the topic or simply lay there. One part of her also wanted to apologize to Spike too, but a different part of her wanted to maintain her pride and refuse to. She had so many parts of her brain today...it seemed like every day she went on without understanding love, a new opinion on the matter would pop up, thus a new side of her brain. She reflected on all her lessons on friendship...not one of them really helped her out here. One did on a separate matter, and she attended to it properly, trotting off to find Spike. “Spike?” she asked, calling out to him. “Yeah?” said Spike, bouncing away from nowhere, ready to give a hand. “I just wanted to say that I’m sorry. I know I’ve been a little scatterbrained recently and...well...it came off on you. I’m sorry.” “Twilight, I’m not the one you need to be apologizing to.” “Yes, I do...wait...who should I be apologizing to, then?” “Well there’s multiple ponies you should be apologizing to. I think you need to apologize to yourself, first off, for the sorry state you put yourself in. Then you need to apologize to Trey and Fluttershy. You’re undercutting your friend, and making a very poor impression on the new colt in town. If Fluttershy loves him, let her love him. It’s her decision. You can’t make it for her.” he said, hurrying out of the room, letting her think about it. Twilight knew he was right. She trotted back to her bed, defeated, as the storm raged on. The pathetic fallacy, she thought. Weather representative of your feelings...she took a moment, once again psychoanalyzing. She’d been a terrible friend recently. She also needed to understand. She’d been looking for love for so long...but always got involved in studies. She had a crush on somepony back in Canterlot, but opted to stay in Ponyville. She’d searched high and low for somepony who she felt would make a good partner. However, nopony fit her fancy. Nopony else seemed on her intellectual level. At least not any other males, anyway. Big Macintosh seemed more logically smart, not the biggest apple on the tree, so to speak. There really weren’t many dominant male figures in Ponyville, now that she thought about it. The most colts she’d ever seen in a town was in Appleloosa... Twilight sighed and rolled over in bed, closing her eyes. Checking her clock, she found it was 2 PM. With the storm rolling, though, it felt more like AM. She rested, ignoring reading, instead thinking...about love. About what she could feel like if she had somepony special. She fell asleep dreaming, as if she was the star in one of her novels. “Twilight...I think you were not aptly named.” he said, looking at me. Aptly. I hadn’t heard anypony else use that word before. “Well, I do have a darker mane...colors of twilight, you know.” “No, Twilight...it’s not good because you’re the brightest thing in my life...brighter than twilight could ever be. But Twilight...” “Yes?” I asked. I could feel a certain pang of emotion I’d never felt before. “Will you be the one to sparkle in my life?” he asked, looking deep into me with those eyes. I’d never noticed them before, but they were icy blue, almost as if they could freeze me. He’d certainly frozen my heart, as the old saying goes. I could feel myself blushing. I’d never done that much...especially never in front of another colt...but he brought it out of me. Almost against my will. He had a way with words. “I...yes.” I said, resisting the urge to hop around in happiness. He smiled and brought me in close. Was this...a kiss? Yes! Yes it was! The emotion going on in such a simple little act of contact...why did it bring me so much pleasure? I put all analysis out and simply enjoyed the moment, a little gesture that meant so much. Am I doing it right? I've never done it before...oh, I hoped I wasn’t screwing it up...he wasn’t stopping...so it had to be good, right? “Just close your eyes and let your emotions guide you, not your brain. Quit thinking so much about it, Twilight. You’re doing fine.” he said, backing away. I guess I did have my eyes open. Was that bad? Oh, whatever. I closed my eyes and enjoyed the intense heated moment. “I love you, Twilight.” he said. “I love you too, Trey.” * Trey woke up as a small roar of thunder resounded. Fluttershy was still sleeping, nestled on his chest. He didn’t know why, but he really loved having her on his chest. The soft feel of her nose against his chest...her head on his warm chest...just the thought of her hearing his heartbeat...he’d never let it on, but she made his heart flutter as much, if not more, as he made hers. He smiled to himself, wondering how somepony like him could have possibly deserved somepony as amazing as her. He took his free hoof and lightly stroked her hair. He then kissed her forehead and stared off into space, letting her soft head and silky hair soothe him, taking away any other thoughts in his mind except her. He then closed his eyes, took his free arm, and put it around Fluttershy, hugging her tighter to him, her warmth resonating. “I love you, Fluttershy.” he said softly, almost to himself. He must have fallen asleep, because when he woke up, Fluttershy was staring at him. “Did you sleep well?” she asked. “I could never sleep otherwise without you. You must have slept well too. You were out the last time I woke up.” “Oh, I never went to sleep silly.” she said, smiling at him. “I love you too.” Trey smiled a bit. He never expected to get caught with one of his romantically driven gestures of love, committed while she slept like a beauty. “Oh...and I can tell you love me.” she said. “I know you don’t want to tell me, but your heart flutters just as much as mine does.” she added, smiling, blushing. “That makes me feel special.” “Not as special as you are to me.” Trey noted, finishing it off. He then kissed her lightly and passionately, stroking her face with his hoof. He then looked deep into her eyes, those eyes he loved. “I wish it would rain some more...” Fluttershy said, looking out the window to a clearing sky. “It doesn’t have to rain for you to stay here.” “I know. But I like having an excuse.” she said, smiling. Trey simply smiled back as the two of them lazed about in bed, loving each other. *** Rainbow Dash couldn’t help but smile as the two of them cradled each other. Sure, it was rude to peep through the window, but hey, it was for a good cause. And it was a second story window...who bothers keeping shades on those? It was just so romantic...Fluttershy really loved him. She’d been needing somepony to love for a while. Fluttershy all but admitted that much to her. Fluttershy never came straight out about her desires, but let on more than she probably knew she did. Rainbow Dash managed to pick up enough pieces here and there to know that she wanted social acceptance, and that a nice colt was the best one to give it to her. Twilight didn’t know that side of her. In fact, now that she thought of it, Fluttershy was probably the pony she didn’t know the most about, other than Pinkie Pie, who she ignored half the time. She noticed Fluttershy look towards the window, saying something, to which Trey agreed. Rainbow Dash measured the clouds, before smiling to herself. She pounced on the clouds above his house, giving them another hour or two of rain. Just enough to get them till it was dark outside. Fluttershy would be bound to spend the night then. Rainbow Dash smiled to herself as she turned her back to the clouds once again, napping and basking happily, knowing Fluttershy and Trey were happy.
lilinuyasha	926	14	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-10-18T00:23:36+00:00	2011-10-18T00:23:36+00:00	5,568	“Sparkle in my life, Twilight...” “Sparkle...” “Sparkle...for me...” “Be my bandmaster.” Twilight awoke to her early alarm going off again. Her dreams recently had been focused on one thing: Trey. Yet, she’d been very scatterbrained in how she approached it. Ever since the “Sparkle in my life” dream, she’d never quite been able to get over it. Hearing such compliments in her life just made her...happy. She’d long desired such affection, but never knew exactly how to go about it. She’d read multiple books on the subject, read some of the more...interesting...pickup line novels, and still...what was she missing? She munched down on breakfast, pondering over the same proposal she’d been thinking of for a while. “Twilight?” Twilight suddenly snapped out of it, looking at Spike. “Yes?” “You alright? You seem out of it recently.” “Yeah, I’m fine. Just thinking.” “Whatcha thinking about?” “Whether to give you the day off or not.” she said, lying. Spike simply nodded at her, smiling a bit. “Well I guess you have the day off, then. Have fun!” she said, as Spike let out a gentle “Alright!” and ran out the door for other unknown activities. Twilight then continued pondering to herself silently, habitually grazing on her food. * “Good morning.” said Trey, as he once again woke up to the most beautiful sight of Fluttershy right next to him. “Hope you slept well.” “I can never sleep bad next to you, silly.” she said, smiling at him, kissing him. He smiled back at her and stroked her face with his hoof tenderly. “I always love waking up next to you. Now, Rainbow Dash gave me another rain check. Let’s have some breakfast.” Fluttershy smiled and lightly kissed him again before letting him get up. * Twilight trotted down Ponyville, hoping not to get seen by any of her friends. As Trey’s house drew nearer, she suddenly spotted Fluttershy leaving. Trey waved her goodbye, blowing her a kiss. Twilight took note of this and waited until he closed the door, when Fluttershy was well out of sight. She took a deep breath in, trotted up, and knocked on the door. Trey opened the door, a small look of surprise on his face as he noticed Twilight. “Hello there, Twilight. What can I do for you?” “Um...I just have a few questions. Can I come in?” “Uh...sure.” he said, letting her step in, showing her to the couch. “What can I do for you?” “Well, I’m writing a new report on love, and, well...books just don’t do it. Since I need to interview ponies, I was wondering if you’d like to give your opinion on the matter.” she said. Trey clearly saw through this ploy but played along. “What do you want to know?” “How do you know if you’ve fallen in love?” “There’s really no good way to describe it. You just know. Love isn’t about finding a pony you can live with...it’s about finding somepony you can’t live without.” Twilight pretended to write it down, shortly before realizing she didn’t bring any sort of parchment or quill. She sighed, frustrated with herself. “That’s a very good way to look at it.” she said. “So what attracted you to Fluttershy?” “Well, I’ve always had a bit of a thing for shy fillies.” he said, much to Twilight’s astonishment. Most colts thought confidence was a big turn-on, according to her studies. Trey never ceased to defy expectations. “And why would that be?” “Well...probably because I’m an habitually natured creature, and I’m actually slightly introverted and shy as well. She’s like sticking with the familiar. Besides, I just think it’s cute. But that’s just the purely psychological explanation.” he said, nodding at Twilight. He knew she’d want that. “You seem to know a lot about psychology...” stated Twilight. “I may be introverted, but because of it, I’ve had a lot of time to study ponies. Their attitudes, what works socially and what doesn’t. There are some things books can’t teach you. Some things, only books can teach you. It’s healthy to find a balance.” “How would you psychologically describe Fluttershy? Why do you think she, psychologically, would be attracted to you?” “I think because she needs a good colt in her life. She had something bad happen to her, yes. Deep in her mind, she wants something to prove to her that not all colts are the same. Since everypony in Ponyville already knows what happened with her, she wanted a fresh start. That’s where I came in. I’ve strived my entire life to be anything but typical, and I can only hope that Fluttershy accepts it. I know that she’s shy, yes, but she’s desired for so long to have a true friend, and she feels slightly neglected. I guess I give her the attention she needs, in a truly beneficial way. She also likes the feeling of knowing that she’s helping somepony. She’s truly helping me out by allowing herself to love me and vice versa. It’s a mutualistic relationship.” Twilight froze for a second. That was an excessively good explanation. He was a lot smarter than she gave him credit for, which was saying a lot, since she already knew he was smart. “Are you satisfied with Fluttershy?” “I’m more than satisfied.” “Is Fluttershy satisfied with you?” “I think you should stick around and ask her yourself.” he said. Twilight almost shunned the idea, but gracefully accepted it. “She’ll be right back.” “You two spend a lot of time together.” “Usually that’s what ponies do when they’re in love.” Trey said, making his answers intentionally bland and mundane, almost sarcastic. “Besides, I don’t like the moments I have to spend away from her. You’d be surprised at how much Fluttershy feels the same way once she finds somepony to really love her.” “I’m sure she’s very happy to have you.” she said, not thinking of much else to say. She’d completely tuned out, though. She suddenly pondered to herself as to what he could give her that her other friends couldn’t. Apparently Trey gave her something that Twilight failed to give her as a good friend. What was she missing? “Would you say you’re also friends with Fluttershy?” she asked. “Yes. But there’s a difference between simply being a friend and being in love. A good friend will do nearly everything somepony in love will do. The only difference, however, is how you react to it. For example, you and I would both rush to Fluttershy’s aid should she be in trouble. She’d show proclivity towards me showing up though, since she loves me. It’s not a matter of seeing who cares, but seeing who you care about.” “Oh...am I interrupting?” asked Fluttershy, who’d been standing in the doorway. “Not at all.” said Twilight. “I just had a few questions to ask for a research paper. Care to answer some for me?” “Oh..um...sure.” she said shyly, unsure of what she was getting into.
lilinuyasha	926	15	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-10-26T01:54:06+00:00	2011-10-26T01:54:06+00:00	5,680	“So what attracted you to Trey?” Twilight began, still angry at herself for forgetting some paper as a distraction. “Well...he’s very sweet...and he actually took the time to get to know me even though I was so shy...he invites me to things...and stuff...” she said, choosing her words carefully. She didn’t want to let on that Twilight hadn’t been doing a good job of that either. “He’s just a really nice colt.” she said, nuzzling her head into his chest. Twilight took note of that sign of affection. She’d never seen her do that to anypony other than her animals. “Alright. When did you know you were attracted to him?” “Well...I thought he was interesting at the first party we met at...since then, my love him for him just...grew. I don’t know exactly when I fell in love with him, all I know is that I’m glad I did.” she started, as Trey rubbed her back. “Uh huh...and are you satisfied with Trey?” “Satisfied?” “Yes. Are you happy with him?” “Oh, yes, I’m much more than happy. I don’t think I could be happy without him.” she smiled at Trey. She wished Twilight would just leave already. She wanted to get more time with him by herself. “And just a few more questions...what has Trey done to make you feel wanted?” “Well...” she started, looking into Trey’s eyes. “I don’t think he’s done anything to make me feel unwanted. Everything he does, from the way he talks to me, touches me, compliments me...looks at me, even. It just seems...natural. Like he genuinely wants me in his life.” “And I do.” said Trey, smiling at her. They’d hardly been looking at Twilight, lost in their own little world. Twilight recognized this and sped things up, getting their attention again. “Alright, and last question...would you say you two are good lovers?” “Oh yes. He loves me and I love him very much.” she said. “That’s not what I meant.” she said. Trey immediately understood where she was going. “What did you mean?” “Twilight, I don’t think that’s something we can discuss.” Trey said, trying to end the conversation. “What’s she asking?” asked Fluttershy. “Have you...been good lovers?” “Oh, yes. We love each other a lot.” she smiled. “That’s not what I mean...” “Twilight, let’s not go there.” said Trey, a little more forecefully. She ignored his statement. “I don’t understand...” said Fluttershy. “Have you two...done it?” “Done what?” asked Fluttershy. Twilight facehoofed. Trey warned her again. “Have you two had sex?” she asked. A large, brooding silence hung over the room as Fluttershy stared at her, tears starting to come to her face. Trey stared at Twilight, angry. “I mean, I read about the sexual revolution...and you guys have been together for a while now...by studies, you guys should have...” “Twilight.” said Trey, as Fluttershy covered her face with her hooves, hiding her tears. “You need to leave. I’ll discuss that with you later.” he said, giving her a menacing stare. Twilight then realized the error of that question. Fluttershy couldn’t handle stuff like that...why did she even ask that? “I’m...I’m sorry.” she said, before hanging her head low, trotting out the door back home. Trey slammed the door behind her, sighing heavily as Fluttershy let out her sobs of frustration, getting lost in memories. Trey took his seat beside her on the couch again. “Fluttershy? It’s going to be ok.” he said, putting an arm around her to comfort her. “DON’T TOUCH ME!” she screamed at him. Trey reeled back in a slight surprise, removing his arm quickly. He sat beside her on couch in silence. “Flutterheart...” he said. “I’m sorry, Trey.” she managed to say between sobs. “I didn’t mean to.” “I know. I know exactly why you did it, too. She should have known better than to ask that. I’ll be letting her have a piece of my mind later.” “You don’t have to do that...I don’t want her to get upset...” “Fluttershy, she upset you. I’m just going to lay it out with her. Nopony upsets my filly and gets away with it. Are you going to be ok?” She nodded, still crying. “Just stay here...” she said, putting one hoof out to him. Trey took it with his and kissed it. She threw herself upon him, hugging him, burying her head deep in his chest while he stroked her softly, shushing her, rocking back and forth. *** “Oh...hey Trey. Yeah, about earlier...” began Twilight as she opened her library door. “That’s exactly what we’re here to talk about.” said Trey. “I told you we’d discuss this later.” “Come on in...” she said. She took a seat, offering the couch to him. He said nothing, but began his tirade standing up. “Listen. There were multiple problems with what you said. First off, why would you think asking ponies about their private lives was a good idea?” “It was a research paper.” “Bullshit, Twilight. You’re one of the smartest bookworms in the town and you’re writing a report without taking notes on what’s said? That’s what gave it away for me. But the bigger question is, why would you think asking somepony, who’s had that kind of a past, would be a good idea at all?” “I didn’t mean for it to happen like that. I honestly wasn’t thinking.” “That’s a little out of character for you, Twilight. You’re always thinking. There must have been some ulterior motive. Honestly, I think you’re trying to sabotage our relationship.” he said, taking a seat on the couch. “No, not at all.” said Twilight, fearing her answer. How did Trey reach that conclusion? “And let me give you something personal about myself. First off, before I say that, let me say that all the reading you’ve been doing on love won’t give you any practical knowledge. It’s something learned on the field, not read. You reading about the sexual revolution doesn’t matter. Sure, many of the colts and fillies these days are having sex more and more often, outside of wedlock. You know what? I’ve struggled my entire life trying to make sure I wasn’t like them. Not all colts are the same, Twilight.” “I never said they were...” “Shh. So here. This is what you need to know about me. I’m erotophobic.” “You’re scared of sex?” she asked, shocked. She’d never heard of a male who’d been scared of sex...he certainly did defy expectations. “Not necessarily scared. There’s some fear, yes, but it’s really more strong negative opinions about it. I have absolutely no interest in sex.” “What is this...I don’t even...” “And you know what else? I’m basiexic.” Twilight raised an eyebrow. Out of all the reading she’d done, she’d never heard that word before. “What’s that?” “Strong sexual arousal by kissing. So let me lay this out psychologically for you. I don’t like sex. Multiple reasons, I’ll get into those later. But since I don’t like sex, I have to have some other way to release myself, so to speak. Kissing is what turns me on. Personally, I think a kiss means much more than sex. So, I prefer kissing over sex. Yadda yadda yadda. Point proved?” “Yes.” she said. She didn’t expect that from him. He seemed so...confident in himself...why wasn’t he confident in having a sex life? “How do you know you don’t like sex if you’ve never had it?” she asked, trying to trip him up. “Because...well...I have had it. That’s how I know.” “You...what?” So he WAS typical? He...he didn’t make sense to her anymore. “I’ve always been against sex before marriage. Part of the way I was raised. Well, back in Canterlot, first year in college, I got my first fillyfriend. After about 6 months, I decided to make love to her. Even then, it wasn’t great.” “Probably just because she didn’t know what she was doing.” “Neither of us did. That’s not the point. Point is, shortly afterward, after about 2 weeks, she broke up with me. I decided to release my inhibitions about sex, and foolishly made love to her thinking we’d last longer. After that, I was so grief stricken. We were both virgins, and since I was raised to know better than that, I felt terrible. Worst part was, I feel like I took something from her that wasn’t mine to take.” Twilight raised an eyebrow. Most colts never felt bad about taking somepony’s virginity. It was almost like a trophy for them. “You...felt bad about it?” “Yes. Strange I know, since all colts are the same and consider virginity trophies of sorts. Certainly there’s not one single colt in all of Equestria that may feel bad. Certainly not, Twilight. The books say we’re all the same. Must be right, hm?” “I...don’t know what to say really. I don’t understand why you’re erotophobic...you did have sex. If you were so scared of it, why did you do it?” “Because I decided to put away my fear for her. I thought my fear would go away. After she left me, I was so overcome with grief that I settled back into my old mindset. Besides...sex is just so...invasive. I don’t like being invasive.” “You...I...what?” “I know. Hard to imagine there might be an exception to the social rules, right, Twilight? I think you should think about that before boldly making accusations. Besides...” he said, hopping up off the couch towards the door. “Fluttershy was invaded once. I’m not going to let it happen again. See you later, Twilight.” he said, walking out the door. He was seething with rage. He’d never been that angry at anypony other than himself before, but...he felt she deserved it. He trotted back home, getting ready for Fluttershy to visit yet again. Twilight sat in her chair, dumbfounded. There was an...exception? There were no exceptions in math, why was there an exception in love? “Sounds like he let you have it.” Twilight turned to face Spike, who poked his head from the kitchen. “Guess you heard that, huh?” “Oh yeah. Why can’t you just leave him alone about her, Twilight? What did he ever do to you?” ‘He stole my heart...’ she said silently to herself. “Nothing. I just got too curious for my own good. Asked all the wrong questions.” “I think you need to leave them alone. Just stop looking for love and it will find you.” “But what about the rules? They’re breaking every one of them!” “All’s fair in love and war, Twilight.” “Where did you hear that?” “It’s an old saying. Just take a step back and let them love each other. They’re not hurting anypony.” “He’s hurting me.” she said. She immediately covered her mouth with her hoof, realizing what she said. Spike raised an eyebrow. “So THAT’S what’s really going on.” he said.
lilinuyasha	926	16	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-10-26T02:16:15+00:00	2011-10-26T02:16:15+00:00	6,814	Dear Princess Celestia, I am happy to report that I now realize there are wonderful things in this world you just can't explain, but that doesn't necessarily make them any less true. It just means you have to choose to believe in them, and sometimes it takes a friend to show you the way. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle Twilight read the letter over and over. It applied to her, this situation, nearly everything recently. She sighed, tossing the letter aside, thinking. “This isn’t any different, Twilight. It’s the same thing.” “It’s completely different.” she said, arguing with herself over and over. “How? It’s about putting blind faith into something. You just have to believe.” “You won’t understand it until you experience it.” “True, but we can say the same thing for Pinkie, can’t we? We don’t understand her but we still accept her.” “A pony and an intangible concept are two totally different things.” “Yeah, but not in this case...” “Yes.” “No.” “Twilight?” Twilight’s ranting ended abruptly as Spike showed himself. “Who are you talking to?” “Nopony. Just reading.” she said, hurriedly grabbing a book near her, giving him an awkward smile. “Aaaaaaalright then.” he said, turning around. “Oh, by the way, I need to head off to Canterlot. You gonna be alright by yourself?” “Hm? Oh, yes, I’ll be fine, don’t worry.” she said, smiling at him. It might be easier to think by herself. “Great. I’ll see you in two days or so.” “Alrighty! See you then!” she said as he closed the door behind him in a hurry. She didn’t even think to ask WHY he was going. It didn’t matter to her, anyway. She needed some time alone. * Fluttershy trotted about her cottage, taking care of the animals. School day. Trey couldn’t be there, but he’d be over later. “Angel!” she called. “Angel?” Angel wasn’t anywhere to be found. “Angel, time to stop playing games, you silly bunny. It’s time for breakfast.” There was still no reply. She asked all the other animals if they’d seen him, to which none of them could say yes. She started to worry. “Angel. Come out now. This isn’t funny.” she said, fretting about the cottage. “Angel? Please come out...” What if he’d gone? Run away? What if...she checked the front door, finding it slightly ajar. A small trail of bunny prints led outward. “Angel, you silly bunny. It’s not playtime yet.” she said as she opened the door expecting to see him trotting about the meadow. There was no sight of him. Fluttershy started to sweat out of panic. “Angel!” she yelled. No response. The sweat on her brow increased as she started following the trail. It wasn’t so much the length of the trail as to the fact that it led straight to...the Everfree Forest. She cringed a little bit. Was Angel ok? Maybe she should go back home and wait for him...but what if he wasn’t ok? He probably was. He was Angel. But maybe she should make sure... She breathed in heavily, gathering her courage. It was just a hop, skip... “And jump...” she said herself as she put a small pep in her step, traveling through the Everfree in search of Angel. * Twilight set out to Fluttershy’s cottage. She needed a favor from her, and knew this was the best time to find her. As she neared her front door, she found it open. Strange, she thought. It was then she realized a fresh trail of hoofprints leading out, alongside a smaller trail of bunny paws. Had Angel gotten loose? She followed the trail, right up until a faint darkness loomed above her. She looked up. The Everfree Forest lay in front of her. Fluttershy went into...the Everfree? She obviously needed help in there. It was a good thing Twilight needed to find her. She stepped into the dark, foreboding Everfree, following the trail, which she could barely make out. “Fluttershy?” she called out. “Where are you?” Twilight traveled through the Everfree for about half an hour calling her name. “It’s no use. She’s never going to hear me. She probably left a while ago.” she said to herself, turning around. Suddenly, a loud, thunderous roar resounded across the forest while a louder, higher pitched scream pierced the heavy atmosphere. “Fluttershy?” That was definitely Fluttershy’s scream. She galloped as fast as she could towards the sound. It was no use...she got lost. “No, no, no! FLUTTERSHY!!!” she yelled. Suddenly, Angel appeared out of the bushes, beckoning her. Twilight followed him to where Fluttershy lay in a small clearing, down on the ground, a wound across her face. “Fluttershy?” she asked, trying to get her attention. She was out cold, bleeding from a gash in her head. Twilight used her magic to make some gauze out of some nearby leaves, applying pressure to the wound. She needed help fast. Twilight used her magic to teleport them to the hospital, where she quickly checked her in. She then set off to make sure Trey knew. *** Trey went through the day smoothly. Everything was going his way. The band made major progress in their music, the lunch in the cafeteria today was actually decent, they had cake in the break room, compliments of Pinkie Pie. Then, he’d get to go see the most beautiful filly in the world, his very own. He smiled simply thinking about that beautiful face, that beautiful smile, and those beautiful eyes School couldn’t let out early enough for him. He gathered his materials, strolling out the door. “Trey. You need to come with me. Hurry!” Trey turned his head to see Twilight, a look of urgency and concern on her face. “Is everything alright?” “No. Fluttershy’s in the hospital. We need to go see her!” She and Trey galloped to the hospital as fast as they could, nearly bursting in the door. She showed Trey to her room, letting him inside. “I...I’ll be outside.” she said, looking away. Trey grew concerned. He turned his attention to the bed in front of him, where Fluttershy lay. “Flutterheart?” Fluttershy’s head twitched a bit at the mention of her name, but she didn’t look at him. “Fluttershy? How are you feeling?” Fluttershy still didn’t say anything as a silent tear ran down her cheek. “Fluttershy...please look at me...” he said, growing concerned. “...I can’t.” she said. “Why not?” “I’m...not pretty...” she said, wincing. “I’m not any of those things you said about me anymore.” “Let me be the judge of that.” he said, taking one of her hooves with his. “I...I just can’t.” “Flutterheart...please. I’m not going to stop loving you, if that’s what you’re thinking.” She stopped a bit, thinking it over. “Please don’t hate me.” she said. “Never.” She turned her face over, revealing a moderately large gash on one side of her face. It was mostly covered up with gauze, but Trey could still tell where the gash was. Her eye on that side was completely bloodshot, the corner of her lip swollen and bruised. “What happened?” “I don’t know...I went into Everfree to find Angel...last thing I remember seeing was a manticore...and then I woke up ugly.” she said, turning her head back away from him, crying. “Fluttershy, look at me.” he said reassuringly. she turned to face him. He smiled at her. “You’re still the prettiest filly in the world to me.You’re still perfect. And you know what else?” “...what?” “I still love you.” he said, before kissing her good cheek. She smiled a small amount. “I love you too. And Trey?” “Yes?” “Can I ask a favor?” “I’m going to be here all night.” “...thanks.” she said, gripping his hoof tighter. True to his word, Trey stayed with her all night, keeping her company, watching her sleep.
lilinuyasha	926	17	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-01-25T19:59:08+00:00	2012-01-25T19:59:08+00:00	5,834	Trey looked at Fluttershy as she slept. Even though she was injured, she was peaceful... “Fluttershy, I love you.” “I don’t see why...I’m just a bother now...” Trey’s pessimism grabbed the worst of his attention. Voices battled back and forth in his mind about how he was going to lose Fluttershy. She was so fragile...once she felt broken, she’d consider herself as much. “I just won’t bring you down...” “Fluttershy, I want you. You’re not bringing me down.” “I’m sorry...You deserve better...” “Trey?” Trey’s thought process halted as he looked at Nurse Redheart, who’d come into the room at some point. “We need to talk.” She led Trey outside the room, holding a medical chart. “Is...is everything alright?” “I’m afraid not. Fluttershy did take a pretty big hit.” “But other than the scratch, she’s fine, right?” “No...Trey, she ruptured an organ. She ruptured one of her kidneys.” “She can still go without one, can’t she?” “We ran some tests. Normally, ponies can. But she...she’s different. Her anatomy is a little strange, and she has half functionality in her other one. Turns out she’s going to need a replacement.” she said somberly. “Give her mine.” he said without hesitation. “We’ll see. However, you’re quite larger than she is. I don’t think yours will fit her. She’s going to need somepony similar to her size.” “Well...run the test anyway.” “Of course. I just wouldn’t get your hopes up.” “How long does she have to find a replacement?” “Three days, give or take.” “Oh...” “I’m sorry, Trey. This is never easy news to give.” “When can we run the tests?” “I think we can fit you in for later this afternoon, around 2. Will that be fine?” “Can you do it any earlier?” “I’m afraid not. I’m sorry.” Trey looked at his watch. 8 AM. He sighed, muttering a soft “It’s alright.” under his breath before going back to Fluttershy’s side. This could possibly be it for her. Silent tears rolled down his cheeks as he watched Fluttershy. It couldn’t be like this. They were going to grow old together...could their time together really end like this? * “Twilight, it’s not your fault.” Spike began. “You don’t understand.” she began. “This...it IS my fault.” “How? Did you cause the manticore to attack her?” “No, but...” “It’s not your fault.” “I feel like it is somehow. I don’t know how, but it just is.” “How could it possibly be your fault? Why do you feel guilty?” Secretly, she felt guilty because she’d been trying to sabotage Trey and Fluttershy, and now, after seeing how upset both of them were, she couldn’t live with herself. She felt like she’d caused the accident with her bad will...and it was killing her. “I don’t know. But that’s not the important thing. She could die.” “What?” said Spike, bewildered. “She ruptured one of her kidneys. Due to her anatomy, she’ll need a replacement.” “Oh...dude, that’s...not good.” “No, it’s not good at all. Now excuse me, I have to tell the girls.” “Why don’t I do it? You can go visit Fluttershy...” “That...sounds like a good idea.” said Twilight, exasperated. “Tell them to visit her, too. She needs the support.” * A knock reverberated on the wooden door of Fluttershy’s room. Soon, Pinkie, Rarity, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash trotted in the door, surprising Trey. “Oh...hey.” said Trey, sadly. “Hey. We just came to see if Fluttershy’s alright.” said Rainbow Dash. “How ya feelin?” she said, turning her attention to Fluttershy. “Um...I don’t know...” “That bad, huh?” “...yes...I’m sorry...” she said, still refusing to look at her. She hadn’t looked at anypony other than Trey since she got here, and even so, it was hard looking at him. She felt so unwanted. That huge scar was certainly having an effect on her mentality. “Fluttershy, darling, you have nothing to apologize for!” said Rarity, trying to give her a smile. Fluttershy didn’t respond. “Look, Sugarcube, we’re here for ya. Ain’t nothin’ gonna take that away.” “...thank you.” she said, finally turning to face them. Upon seeing that side of her, their eyes opened wide, shrinking back in sudden horror. Fluttershy immediately turned away, tears streaming down her cheeks. “I’m sorry, sugarcube...” “I as well.” “Girls, I think we should go...” said Rainbow Dash. “Maybe go to the waiting room.” Trey wasn’t even paying attention. He was lost in his own world. “Trey?” asked Pinkie. Trey snapped out of it seeing her as the only one in the room. “Yeah?” “Are you ok?” “Yeah...no...” he said, shaking his head. “No I’m not. Fluttershy’s injured. She needs an organ replacement, and after running some tests, mine won’t fit her. that means somepony else is going to have to donate, and we only have three days to find that replacement.” he began, a tear falling down his cheek. “I just...don’t know what to do.” Trey covered his face with his hooves, hiding his shame. “It’s going to be alright, Trey...” she said sadly, trotting out. Trey’d never seen her actually trot...she’d always bounced around... Soon, the room was empty again. Trey looked at Fluttershy. “Are you tired?” She nodded. “Get some sleep. Let me tell you a story.” he said, grabbing her hoof. “Trey?” she asked. “Yes, Flutterheart?” “Why are you still here?” “Because I love you.” “But...” “There are no buts in love, Fluttershy.” She looked at him with eyes full of amazement and wonder. Could he still love her? Even with the way she looked? She simply gazed at him, seeing him look deep into her once again. She gripped his hoof tight in appreciation. She didn’t want him to leave...but she understood if he did. “Now, this is the story...all about how my life got flipped...turned upside down. I’d like to take a minute, so lay right down, I’ll tell you all about how the most beautiful filly in the world became mine.” he started. She smiled at him, trying to keep awake. “Once upon a time, there was a lonely bandmaster. One day, he moved into a new town, teaching younger kids about music. One day, he met the most beautiful filly in the world. She was a wonderful yellow, pink haired pony that didn’t talk much. Trey knew it would be a challenge, but he decided to go after her. He fell in love with her that very first day.” Fluttershy yawned a small amount, still smiling at him, trying to stay awake. “Trey spent a few days with her, where he heard her beautiful voice, helped her pick flowers, and even gave her something valuable.” he continued, bringing his other hoof to hers, a silent tear falling down his cheek. “She was the prettiest thing ever. I-er-He fell more and more in love with her each day. The thing he loved most about her, however, was her eyes. He could look into those eyes all days long. Those eyes told him how much she loved him too, even before she was ready to admit it. One day, Trey decided that he couldn’t hold it in any longer, and he finally admitted to Fluttershy that he loved her. He gave her something valuable...a kiss...” Fluttershy was soon asleep. Trey smiled and pulled her blanket up closer to her, kissing her forehead away from her injury, continuing on in first pony. “Fluttershy...I love you. Ever since I met you, I felt things could be different with you. I felt like I could feel special. I could be someone. I could actually feel loved. Honestly, I’ve never felt more loved and lucky in my life than when I’ve met you. I love you.” he started, tears strolling down his cheeks. “I guess...after three days, if we don’t find you a kidney, well...this is as old as we’re going to grow together. I wanted to grow old with you, Fluttershy...I know it’s early, but...I wanted to marry you...I can only say that in confidence because I know you’re asleep, but Fluttershy...thank you for everything. I’m going to be here for the next two days with you. I’m not leaving. I love you.” Fluttershy smiled in her sleep, happy images of their life so far-and what she’d hoped for them later-playing in her head.
lilinuyasha	926	18	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-12-08T04:28:24+00:00	2011-12-08T04:28:24+00:00	6,889	“Why not just give her one of yours?” asked Spike. “I can’t.” began Twilight. “I...I only have one. Birth defect. If I give her one of mine, I’ll die. Either that or someone else has to give me one. It’d be easier for that pony to just give Fluttershy theirs.” “Oh. That’s...sorry.” “It’s not your fault. I just wish I could find someone to give Fluttershy a kidney. Rarity won’t do it because the blood will gross her out. Rainbow Dash won’t because she needs to work the clouds. Applejack has to work the farm, and Pinkie can’t stop working at Sugarcube Corner. This just won’t work. And it worries me.” “What about any of the other ponies in town? Lyra? Bon-bon? Rose? Why not ask them?” “I don’t know them well enough, Spike...You can’t just ask someone you barely know to give up their kidney.” she said, sighing heavily. “I just...I just don’t know what to do. There’s not a book in this library on the subject either. Why did this have to happen to her?” she continued, completely losing herself in her own little world. “She didn’t deserve this...she’s a good pony...if anything, I should have been the one gone.” “Twilight, I’m still here, you know.” “Oh, Spike...” she said, her voice trembling. She quickly pulled Spike in close for a tight hug. Spike, slightly hesitant at first, gave in and allowed her to squeeze his feeble frame. He felt her convulse. Then she started crying. Even with his thick scales, he could feel her tears, warm splashes of liquid. He’d never seen her cry before...she’d never hugged him either. He was seeing a brand new side of Twilight, one he thought he’d never see. *** Trey sat silently to himself, writing furiously in a journal, trying to make sense of his feelings. He’d always been terrible with handling grief. When his grandfather died, he almost went insane for a little bit learning to deal with this new emotion. He’d never liked to think of the mortality of ponies, but now he was confronted with it. With someone he loved, no less. He’d been fighting back tears all day while talking to her. Now, she was asleep. Trey took this opportunity to document his emotions. I love her. She’s the only pony I’ve ever loved on this level. Yes, I had someone in Canterlot, but she’s different. Flutterheart...she’s...she’s an angel. An angel in disguise. She’s the kindest soul I’ve ever met, and all the greatest qualities I’ve ever daydreamed about fillies. Soft skin, small hooves, a beautiful face...she’s patient with me...she’s more than I deserve. She means everything to me and it makes me sick to think that there’s nothing I can do to save her. My kidney won’t fit her. Day 2, and no offers have been made yet. Twilight wouldn’t give it up. She probably hasn’t mentioned it to the other 4 of her friends. It’s just so sad to think that the minute I find something great in my life, something that’s actually gone right, gone my way for once in my life, it’s just taken away as soon as it came. I wish that there was something I can do...I’ve never felt so weak and helpless in my life. So small and insignificant. I can’t do anything for the love of my life. We were going to grow old together...I know it’s still early, but I wanted to marry her. There’s so much more I need to learn about her. So much more I need to tell her about me. So much more...there’s so much more that needs to be done, but she’s stuck in a hospital bed. I’d give anything for another day of being hit with a Frisbee, another day to cuddle, help with chores, make breakfast...just one more day. I still have tomorrow, but it feels like this is it. I’ve given up. I can only pray for a miracle. This is it. Trey Fluttershy stirred in her sleep, opening her eyes to Trey writing. He didn’t notice her, though, and he continued writing. Fluttershy watched him silently, as he let silent tears drip onto the journal he was writing in. Eventually he closed it, turning to face her. He looked slightly shocked when he noticed she was awake. “Oh. I didn’t know you were awake.” he said, trying to turn his face away, wiping his tears quickly. “Trey?” she asked solemnly, yet firmly. “Yes, Flutterheart?” “You don’t need to cry for me.” Trey couldn’t help but look at her, finding her smiling at him, as if nothing was wrong. How could she be so optimistic? “Flutterheart, I...” “Shh...” she began, smiling. “I’m not worth crying over.” “You’re worth everything to me, Fluttershy.” he said, firmly. “Don’t undervalue yourself. You’re the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me and it makes me sad and upset when you try to tell yourself you’re not worth that much.” he said, tears streaming down his eyes. “I don’t want to lose you, but it looks like I am. You’re the only pony I’ve ever felt like I could love, fully reveal myself to. I can actually be myself around you. I just...I love you too much to lose you.” “Trey, you shouldn’t be crying because I’m not. I’m not worried, silly. You shouldn’t be either.” “How can you be so optimistic? I don’t understand...” “Trey, I firmly believe that if there’s a will, there’s a way. I love you more than anything. More than all of my animals combined. I know that you and I are meant to be together. Whether that happens in this life or the next, it’s going to happen. Besides, I can take solace in the fact that even if I die...” she said, smiling, grabbing his hoof. “...your face will be the last thing I see.” Trey broke down crying at that statement. That was one of the most meaningful things he’d heard from her yet. He gathered his wits and spoke again. “I tried giving my kidney...but they wouldn’t take it. This is one place where the thought doesn’t count.” “You’ve given so much to me, Trey...I don’t need your kidney to feel loved. Simply you being here is what I need.” she said, closing her eyes. “All I need is you. Nothing more.” Trey smiled at her. She was so full of wisdom Trey never knew she had. Trey gently, tenderly, and lovingly, kissed her. She smiled, nuzzling her pillow. She soon feel asleep as the sun set behind Trey, counting off to the last day she would spend on this earth.
lilinuyasha	926	19	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-01-04T03:56:00+00:00	2012-01-04T03:56:00+00:00	6,116	Fluttershy shuddered. “It’s cold...” she said. “Can I have another blanket?” “Fluttershy...you have all the spare blankets on...” said Trey. Obviously her immune system was breaking down due to the kidney. She was under 3 wool blankets and STILL felt cold. She continued to shudder as Trey tried to calm her. “If I give you another one, you’ll sweat all your fluid out. You need to stay hydrated.” “But it’s so cold...please...” she said, curling up in a ball to try and get warmer. “I can’t Fluttershy. Please trust me on that. I wouldn’t do anything that wasn’t good for you.” “I know...it’s just...cold...” “I know. I’m sorry.” he said, taking her hoof, placing it to his forehead, a small tear coming to his eye. He’d expected her to go out a little more gracefully than this. Death was a grim reality, indeed. “I wish I could do everything for you right now...but I can’t. I feel so worthless...” “But you’re worth everything to me. Don’t ever forget that.” she told him. He smiled through his pain, trying to stay strong for her. “You’re worth everything to me, too.” “You know, you were always different, Trey.” “What do you mean?” “Well, Angel actually liked you. He’s never really been nice to anypony else before, especially males. Yet...he just...took a liking to you, I guess. You were always just the nicest colt I’ve ever met. You actually made me...happy. I didn’t know I could feel truly happy until I met you.” “Fluttershy, I...” “Trey...It’s alright.” she said, smiling at him. “I love you. That’s never going to change.” she continued, yawning. “I’m tired. Will you be here when I wake up?” “Yes, Flutterheart.” he said. ‘If you wake up.’ He thought to himself. * “Twilight? Are you alright?” Spike walked into her room, hearing her wailing, crying away. Twilight snapped her head over to his direction, trying to hide her shame. “No...No I’m not. Fluttershy’s going to die. I don’t think there’s been a donor yet. It’s...the end of our friendship...” “Just because she’s leaving the earth doesn’t mean she’s leaving your life. You two are great friends. Hold onto that for as long as you can. Why not go visit her?” “I know I’m going to regret this later, but I just can’t see her like that. I just can’t stand the thought of seeing her dying.” “It’s better than seeing her dead. Seriously, Twilight...go see her before it’s too late.” Twilight nodded at him, gathering a satchel, putting some paper, ink, and a quill, as well as a few books in there. “What’s that for?” “I have a feeling I’m going to have to write Celestia a letter tonight.” “Oh. Yeah, I imagine. Twilight?” “Yes, Spike?” “I’m sorry.” “Me too. Me too...” she said, contemplating on her way out the door. She stopped in the frame, looking back at him. “Spike?” “Yes, Twilight?” “You know I’ve always loved you, right?” * A knock resounded on the door of Fluttershy’s room. Trey got up to answer while Fluttershy stayed sound asleep. “Oh, hey, Twilight.” said Trey. It was evident there was a sad undertone in his voice. “Hey...” said Twilight, even more sad than him. “I guess I...came to pay my respects. Is she awake?” “No...she feel asleep an hour ago.” “Can...can I see her?” “Absolutely.” Twilight walked over to where Fluttershy lay, her angelically perfect form, minus a gash on her head, breathing rhythmically in sleep. Twilight hovered around the body for a minute, tears welling up in her eyes. Trey gently pulled her into a hug. Both of them needed it right now, regardless of any bad blood between them. Twilight embraced the hug quickly and tightly, sobbing into his chest. “We’re all hurting here. It means a lot that you stopped by. Here.” he said, releasing the hug, waking Fluttershy up. “She’ll want to see you, too.” Fluttershy stirred awake, turning to her other side. “Oh...hey, Twilight.” she said, yawning. “I...wasn’t sure if I’d see you again.” “I wouldn’t miss you for the world. You are one of my best friends...I know I haven’t been acting like it recently...but you really are. You mean a lot to me...and I just wanted to let you know...I love you.” she said, breaking down into hysterics. “Twilight...I love you too. It means a lot that you showed up. Just glad I could see you one last time.” “Yeah...” said Twilight, holding back tears. Once she regained her composure, she spoke again. “I need to write Princess Celestia a letter...I’ll see you later.” she said, levitating her ink, quill, and parchment out of her bag while trotting out of the room. Trey sat with Fluttershy, talking to her for the next hour. “Remember when I hit you with the Frisbee?” “Yeah. So does my cheek. Remember when you thought a rain check was Rainbow Dash giving me money?” Fluttershy giggled a bit. “Remember when you gave me the most valuable thing you had?” Trey froze a little bit, remembering the good times. “Yeah. I remember you returning it, too. I think you deserve it more than me, though. If you’re going to go out...you should have something of mine.” he said, kissing her lightly and passionately. She blushed, smiling, looking at him with those eyes he loved, the ones he feared he’d never see again. “I love you, Trey.” “I love you too, Flutterheart.” Fluttershy closed her eyes, falling back into sleep. Shortly afterwards, Nurse Redheart stepped into the room, carrying some medical supplies. She hooked up a small bag to Fluttershy’s IV. “What’s that for?” asked Trey. “It’s a sedative. She’s going to want to be asleep for this.” “I guess it’s time, huh...” said Trey, slumping back, starting to cry. “Yes...” she said. “The surgery will only take about 2 hours, don’t worry.” “Wait, what?” “She’s getting a new kidney. I thought you knew?” “No, not at all.” said Trey, barely able to contain his joy. “Yep. She’ll be fine, don’t worry.” “But wait...who donated?”
lilinuyasha	926	20	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-11-20T06:02:53+00:00	2011-11-20T06:02:53+00:00	6,382	Dear Princess Celestia, Today I learned that while friendship is a wonderful thing, sometimes sacrificing something dear to you to keep that friendship alive is worth it. Sometimes you’ll only have to give up a moment of your day to listen to the woes of your friend. Sometimes, you’ll have to give one of the greatest sacrifices-your life. I learned this the hard way. I will be donating my kidney, the only one I have, to Fluttershy. I’ve learned so much from you. You’ve given me friends, everything I could ever ask for. Fluttershy showed mercy, kindness, and compassion. I feel like I’m returning the favor. I want to thank you personally for forcing me from my studies and showing me the world beyond books, full of so many wonders that are begging to be shared by friends. It’s a beautiful world, and I’m glad I could share it with Fluttershy, one last time. Your Faithful student, Twilight Sparkle. * Twilight held back her tears as she gave Spike the letter. “Spike? Send this to Princess Celestia, please.” “What is it? Did you write this?” “Yes...please do it. I’ll tell you in a second.” Spike obediently blew his fire on the letter, sending it to Canterlot Castle. Spike looked over at Twilight with a look of concern. “Twilight?” he asked, concerned. “What’s wrong?” “I...I’m giving my kidney to Fluttershy. My mind is set. I...I need to do this.” “Twilight, please don’t...” he began, tears welling in his eyes. Twilight reached out to him, hugging him tight, for the very last time. “Just make sure nopony hurts the books, alright? Don’t let them hurt you either...” “Twilight...” Spike managed to choke began sobs. “Please don’t.” “I have to do this, Spike. It’s only right. There’s something poetically just about it, like a greek tragedy. Romeo and Juliet. That kind of stuff.” she continued, releasing the hug. “I...Spike?” “...yes?” “I love you. Always have, always will. Stay strong, my baby dragon.” she said, opening the door. “Stay strong.” “Twilight, no...” Spike tried to say, but Twilight had already shut the door, on route to the hospital. * Twilight walked up to the counter where Nurse Redheart was scribbling hastily on a sheet of paper. Twilight coughed, announcing her presence. “Oh, Twilight, what can I do for you?” “I want to donate my kidney to Fluttershy.” “Well...that’s nice of you. But I’m afraid it’s too late.” Twilight’s heart dropped to her stomach. “...what? Too late? I...” “Yes, somepony else already donated. She’s actually in the procedure now.” “WHAT?” Twilight yelled. “Another donor? Who?” “Patient confidentiality. I guess word got around town. Several ponies actually came up, but we took it on a first come, first serve basis. I was shocked at the generosity of the donor.” “Rarity...” Twilight muttered. Her poetic justice didn’t work out. Her Greek tragedy...her perfect, story-like ending...how could that be ruined? “Well, it wasn’t her, no. I’ve said far too much already.” she said, getting up out of the chair. “But if you wait, you might be able to catch her on her way out.” she noted, smiling. “Thank you...” Twilight said, defeated. She shrank into herself, much like Fluttershy did, and sat in the waiting room, hoping to catch a glimpse of who donated. Possibilities raced through her head. If it wasn’t Rarity, then it had to be Pinkie. She was the one with the least amount of responsibility. Applejack had to work the farm, Rainbow Dash the weather. But what if Rainbow Dash exercised her loyalty to Fluttershy and defied her job for the life of a friend? What if Applejack decided to be honest with herself and donate? What if Pinkie Pie decided that Fluttershy was more important than cupcakes? It had to be Pinkie. A kidney for a cupcake...it seemed like a fair trade. It was Pinkie. Definitely Pinkie. Twilight sat for hours on end, with no patients coming in or out. Did a transplant really take this long? Her books proved otherwise... “Hey Twilight.” Twilight looked up to see Trey, standing over her, a smile on his face. “Hey...” “She’s going to be alright, Twilight. It’s ok. Relax.” “It wasn’t supposed to be like this!” she said, out of near insanity that things didn’t go as planned. Trey gave her a strange glance, unsure of what she meant. Did she want Fluttershy dead? “What do you mean?” “I was supposed to donate...I was going to lay my life down for her...it...I’ve caused you two so much pain that I’d right the wrongs...” “Twilight, were you really going to lay your life down for her? You’d be fine, wouldn’t you?” “I only have one kidney. I’d die. I was supposed to give it to her...” “Oh.” said Trey, shocked. Twilight had shown compassion, then tried to sabotage a relationship, now she was trying to donate to keep it alive. There was something almost poetic about it. “I think that was a very admirable thought. It’s the thought that counts.” “No, not really. Not when someponys life is on the line.” “Twilight...” Trey began, hugging her. “Everything’s going to be fine. Don’t worry.” “I...” she started, hanging her head. “Yeah.” she conceded. Trey and Twilight sat in the waiting room for a short while longer before Nurse Redheart approached the two. “Well, the operation took a little longer the usual, but it was successful. She’s in her room, in stable condition. She’s a little out of it, though.” “Wait, I never got to see who donated...” said Twilight, a little tone of sadness in her voice. “Oh, yes. They’re holed up in the same room, don’t worry.” she said, trotting off to attend to other matters. Trey and Twilight hurried to the room, for completely separate reasons. Once in, Trey took a seat by Fluttershy, who was sleeping off the surgery. Twilight paced about the room frantically. There was no other pony in there. She sighed in frustration. She said they were in the same room. “Well howdy, y’all.” said Applejack. Twilight turned around to see her in a hospital bed, being rolled into the room. Applejack. Applejack donated. “Hey there, Applejack. I know she can’t say it right now, but both of us thank you...you have no idea how much.” “I reckon you’d have done the same thing if I was in that position.” “How did you find out? I don’t think I told you guys...” Twilight began. Trey looked over at her. She kept it from her friends? A selfish way to an unselfish act... “Yeah, we wondered about that. Word got around town somehow, and Rarity, Pinkie Pie, and RD all talked about it. Is she asleep?” Applejack asked. Trey nodded. “The truth is...” she started, her voice lowering. “I donated because Big Macintosh pressed so hard on the issue. He was more upset than most of us when he found out the news. He talked me into it. He still cares for her, that much is for sure. Honestly, I’m glad I did it though. RD needed to work the skies more than I needed to work the farm. We have extra hooves, she doesn’t. Pinkie Pie...well...she would reinjure herself tryin’ to bounce around like she does. I was the most logical donater.” “What about Rarity?” “Her? Oh, well...she would have, bein the element of Generosity and all, but I felt a stronger need to do it. So here I am. Huge hole in my side, huge weight off our minds.” “Trey?” Trey turned around to see Fluttershy starting to open her eyes slowly. A small smile appeared on her face. She was still weak, but she was trying. “Flutterheart!” Trey proclaimed, rushing over to the seat beside her. He carefully took one of her hooves into his, kissing it. “How are you feeling?” “Well...My side hurts...” “That’s to be expected. How’s it feel to wake up to a new day?” “It feels...good. It always feels good waking up next to you...I’m tired.” Trey and Fluttershy continued to talk to each other while Twilight began to leave. “Twilight?” asked Fluttershy. “Yes, Fluttershy?” “Thanks.” she said, the faint smile on her lips. “I...” she began, almost saying that she didn’t do anything. “...thanks.” she said. “You leavin so soon?” asked Applejack. “Yes...I have quite a few things I need to fix pretty quick. I tried to predict time, and, well...didn’t work out so well. Besides, this would make a great letter to the princess.” she said, using the princess as an excuse once again. Applejack nodded and Twilight went out the door, back to the library. Trey and Fluttershy continued to talk. Applejack closed her eyes, listening to the sweet nothings they were saying to each other. It was almost soothing, listening to two ponies in love. Trey could come up with some of the greatest lines she’d ever heard...Fluttershy couldn’t do anything but blush and smile. “I love you, Flutterheart.” “I...” she began, yawning. “I love you too.” “Now get some rest...” he said, kissing her forehead lightly and delicately, avoiding injuring her. “I’ll be here with you all day.” And with that, Fluttershy feel into her rhythmic sleep, away from the pain. Applejack soon followed suit, unable to stay awake much longer. Trey smiled at them, getting his journal out for a final writing. She lived. It’s a miracle. We found a donor at the last minute. I was thinking I wouldn’t be able to love Flutterheart any more...but now we have the rest of our lives. More days of Frisbee injuries, more days of romantic walks, lovely nights spent cuddling up pretending to watch a movie, and of course, more days just to love her and bask in the glorious filly that she is. She is my Flutterheart...she is my everything. Trey
lilinuyasha	926	21	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2012-05-19T04:28:06+00:00	2012-05-19T04:28:06+00:00	8,276	“Hey, Flutterwing, take it easy!” Trey called out. “You’ll hurt yourself!” “Oh, they’re little. Let them have fun. Looks like they’re having a lot of it.” said Fluttershy as the two of them watched their children play. “Reminds me of us when we were younger.” “We’re not old...” said Trey. “I’ve still got some fight in me yet. It’s only been 6 years.” “I know.” she said, nuzzling her head into him. “I just think it’s cute how you get so worked up over it. You’re as bad as Rainbow Dash.” she said, smiling. Trey put his arm around her, hugging her, pulling her head closer to him. She was so adorable. “Daddy, come play with us!!!” yelled Flutterwing, the daughter, a white Pegasus with a pink mane. “Yeah, Dad!” called Anacrusis, a tan Pegasus with a dark black mane. A few red highlights accented his mane, giving him his father’s image. “You really want me to win again?” Trey called out to them. “Go easy on them, Treyble.” said Fluttershy. “Always.” said Trey, smiling. Fluttershy had finally come up with a pet name for him. After several that just didn’t fit, like Treighth note, or Treynee, Treyble Clef seemed to fit the best. “Alright...I got a new game...” said Trey. “A new game?” said the children, bringing in close to him. “Yes...it’s called...tickle and everything.” said Trey, quickly reaching out and holding them tight, tickling them as they tried to escape. This had been a game Trey got his father to play with him. He created it himself and now understood just how great it felt to play it as a dad. Fluttershy smiled from the porch as she watched the stallion she loved prance about the yard, chasing the kids, hearing their shrieks of laughter. She continued to watch, mesmerized. The days and years had slipped by so fast. Sometimes she wished she’d kept a diary, a catalogue of their days together... Soon, Trey managed to capture the kids again, but they both tackled him as he wrestled with them on the ground, tickling them all the way. Fluttershy carefully got up from the porch, avoiding hitting her stomach, and went to fix dinner, his favorite meal. *** “But I’m not tired, Dad!” “It’s your first day of school tomorrow, Flutterwing. You too, Anacrusis. Cheerilee’s going to want to see your bright smiling faces. Not some tired, mopey foals who can’t pay attention!” “Will you tell us a story?” asked Anacrusis. “Sure. Which one do you want to hear this time?” “Tell us how you met mommy!” said Flutterwing. “Yeah!” “Well...” said Trey, looking over at Fluttershy, who smiled. “See, I came here from Canterlot...as you know I took a teaching position. Well, I got introduced to a few friends, whose children you’re bound to see tomorrow, by the way. One of those friends was the absolute most beautiful mare I’d ever seen.” he said, as Fluttershy blushed. “Get to the good part already!” “All good things to those who wait. Anyways, this beautiful mare, who just happens to be right beside you, caught my eye.” “Wouldn’t that hurt?” asked Flutterwing. “It’s a figure of speech, Flutterwing, silly! I just meant that since she was so beautiful, I paid a lot of attention to her.” “Mom, what did you think of him?” “Well...I don’t know if you could tell, but I was terribly shy. The way he introduced himself and his kindness took me by surprise, I guess. I’d never really known anypony to stick with me when I couldn’t introduce myself.” “After that day, I just couldn’t get her out of my head. Soon, we became best friends, and, well...I fell in love with her.” “Awwwww!” said Flutterwing. “Yeah, yeah, when did you kiss her?” asked Anacrusis. He seemed genuinely interested, even for his age. “Well would you look at the time! Guess we’ll have to save that part of the story for tomorrow night.” he said, winking. They complained loudly, asking for more. “Well the faster you fall asleep, the faster you can wake up to a new day of storytelling!” he said, to which the kids promptly went to their rooms, closing their eyes tight, trying to fall asleep. Trey smiled as he and Fluttershy went into their bedroom, closing the door behind them. Once inside, Trey caught Fluttershy by surprise, giving her a powerful, emotional kiss. She couldn’t help but melt. “I love you, Flutterheart. More than anything.” he said, looking deep into her eyes, the very ones he fell in love with on the first day he met her. She smiled at him, gaining her composure, kissing him back romantically, leading him back into the bed. “I love you too, Trey. More than you love me.” “No way...I love you more.” “I love you most.” “I love you mostest.” Fluttershy exhaled quickly, smiling, before kissing him again as they laid on the bed, facing each other. They stared into each other’s eyes for a long while, Trey rubbing the side of her face, Fluttershy playing with his mane. She didn’t know why, but she enjoyed running her hoof through his hair. It seemed romantic and sensual. For as romantic as the two were, it was quite appropriate. “Hey, Flutterheart?” “Yes?” “Did you know that you’re still the prettiest mare in the world?” he said, quickly putting his hoof to her heart. “And that your nickname never fails?” Fluttershy, impulsively, kissed him, madly in love with him. He always found a way to make her feel wanted, loved, appreciated...she couldn’t live without him. As Trey returned her impulsive act of love, he reflected on how she could always make him feel worth something. He’d never had self-esteem in his life, but ever since he fell in love with Fluttershy, he had a reason to believe in himself. Every time he gave her a kiss, she matched the emotion with a fervor like no other. She made him feel wanted, loved, appreciated...he couldn’t live without her. As they settled down, looking into each other’s eyes again, Trey stroked her face again. “I have something for you.” he said. “For me?” she asked. “What’s the occasion?” “Beautiful mares don’t need an occasion.” he said, to which she blushed and smiled. He got off the bed, to his closet. He returned with two relatively old, worn journals with assorted scraps of paper. “What’s that?” she asked, curious. “This, my love...is a journal. I’ve been keeping a diary for a long time. I’ve never shared this with anypony. And I...I want to share it with you. It starts shortly before I came here...and continues up to today. I guess it’s sort of a catalogue of our adventures. I never get tired of going back and reliving some of my greatest memories with you. I think it’d be fun to relive them together.” he said, smiling at her. Fluttershy couldn’t contain her excitement as she smiled from ear to ear. “Trey, I love you. You always know how to make me happy. I’d love to revisit lost time with you.” she said, bringing him in for another kiss. Trey smiled at her. “Want to start tonight?” “If that’s ok with you.” “Absolutely. I guess you could call these the Flutterheart diaries.” Fluttershy smiled at him. He was just so cute. He didn’t even know why, but he was. Trey opened one of the journals up and started reading to her. Fluttershy rested her head on his chest, nuzzling him, as he read to her until she fell asleep, lost in memories not too far gone.
lilinuyasha	926	22	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Adventure,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Flutterheart	Trey is an average band director in Ponyville. He's not looking for love, but it falls into his lap.	complete	190	21	<p>Fluttershy is your typical pony. Kind, caring...and lonely. When a new colt comes into town and takes a local Bandmaster job, Fluttershy finds him strangely attractive...</p>	everyone	2011-12-13T19:26:39+00:00	2011-12-13T19:26:39+00:00	11,925	“Angel, give it back!” warned Fluttershy, chasing after him. Angel had decided he wanted the trimming, and chomped down on it, hopping off, dragging a green, leafy snake-like decoration behind him. Trey laughed a little, putting his hoof down on the trimming, effectually stopping Angel from continuing on with it. Fluttershy picked him up as he shook about, trying to hop away with it again. “Now Angel, these decorations are for the tree, silly! These aren’t for playing.” she said, as he let his body relax, defeated. “Now let go, Angel.” she said nicely. Angel shook his head, refusing. “Angel...” she began. Suddenly, a knock on the door brought them both to attention. Fluttershy put Angel down, leaving to answer it as he hopped away with it again. Trey kept his hoof on the trimming, amused by Angel trying to force it from under him. “Hey, Twilight!” said Fluttershy. “Come on in!” she continued, opening the door for her. “Hey, everypony. I figured I’d bring something to eat, since you’ve offered your house.” she continued, levitating a casserole of some sort to the dining table. “Well that’s very nice of you!” said Fluttershy, smiling at her. “Oh, hey Applejack!” Applejack, who had been standing behind Twilight, obviously out of sight, tipped her hat. “Howdy, Ma’am. I brought the Apple family specialty again...hope that ain’t a bother.” “Oh, no, we look forward to it!” said Fluttershy. Twilight nodded her head as well. Applejack carried her saddlebag to the kitchen, setting it gently on the floor. “Trey? Can I trouble ya for some help?” “Oh, sure!” said Trey. He looked at the trimming beneath him, Angel still struggling. He rolled his eyes, bending down to bite off a small chunk, as Angel happily bounced away with a small portion of it. “Now on the count of three...” said Applejack, putting her front hooves under a giant vat of Apple Cider. As Trey and Applejack worked the kitchen, Rarity and Rainbow Dash entered unannounced. “Well, hello, darlings!” said Rarity, clad in a red scarf and green hat. Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, flying inside. “Oh, hey girls!” said Fluttershy, slightly overwhelmed at everypony suddenly showing up. Pinkie Pie didn’t help matters as she happily bounced in, several boxes of red and green cupcakes in tow. How they managed to stay balanced on her back wasn’t quite understood, but then again, neither was Pinkie. “HI!” she yelled, beaming from ear to ear, shaking the boxes off her back onto the table. “I hope you don’t mind that I brought Gummy.” she added, pointing to him, suctioned on to one side of her face. “Oh, I’m sure he’ll behave.” said Fluttershy, smiling. “We didn’t really finish decorating...I hope that’s not a problem...” “Not at all! Why not let us help?” asked Twilight. “I don’t see why not.” said Trey, appearing from the kitchen. “Just don’t let Angel get a hold of the trimming and garland. He thinks it’s a giant vegetable.” he added, laughing. As each pony helped with their specialties, Applejack lifting heavy boxes, Pinkie setting party items on the table, Rarity making sensational adornments, Twilight laying those adornments out immaculately and perfectly where Trey and Fluttershy couldn’t, and Rainbow Dash lazing about on the couch, mentioning how great a job everypony was doing, the house slowly but surely came together in true holiday spirit. “I guess the only thing left is the tree.” said Trey, glancing about the room, smiling at how magnificent the cottage looked. “All the ornaments are in that box.” he said, pointing to one Applejack had set aside earlier. “Shall we deck the halls?” After about an hour, lights, trimming, garland, ornaments, bells, jingles, whistles, and a wide assortment of other holiday decorations adorned the walls of Fluttershy’s cottage. “All that’s left is the angel on top.” said Fluttershy. “I don’t think he’ll stay up there.” said Twilight, searching for him. Fluttershy picked up a small tree topper from the box, in the shape of an angel. “What was that, Twilight?” asked Fluttershy. “Oh, nothing.” she said, giving an awkward blush and smile. Everypony except Fluttershy let out a little laugh. “Um...okay.” she said. “Trey?” she began, turning towards him. “Yeah?” “Do you want to do it?” “Nah. I’ll get next year. You should get our first Christmas together.” he added, winking. Fluttershy blushed, smiling, as the other ponies smiled a bit. It wasn’t too long ago that Fluttershy had still been bed-ridden from the surgery. Only last month was she able to move and fly. Trey knew that even though she didn’t want to let it on, Fluttershy wanted to put the angel on top. He wouldn’t have it any other way. “Oh...alright then.” she said, still beaming as she flew above the tree, placing the angel on top. “Well, I must say, this cottage just looks fabulous!” said Rarity. The other ponies there all nodded in admiration and agreement. Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah...when do we eat?” she asked. Pinkie Pie jumped up in excitement. “Oh, yes! Let’s eat!” she said. “I hope you like the cupcakes!” Twilight put her face to her hoof. She wanted to admire the room a little more, but whatever. “I don’t think you’ve ever made any bad cupcakes.” she began. “But let’s eat some real food first.” * “Now, Applejack, is this the same cider you made last year?” asked Twilight. “Yes ma’am!” “Did you change the recipe at all?” “Nope. Is somethin’ wrong?” “No, I think it tastes a little better than it did last year. Are you sure you didn’t add something?” “You say that every year, Twilight.” began Rarity. “You just forget what it tastes like, darling.” “Oh.” said Twilight, sheepishly smiling. “You say THAT every year, too.” said Rainbow Dash, to which everypony laughed. “So...it looks like everypony’s done...” said Fluttershy. “Oh, yes. It was simply marvelous!” said Rarity. “Cupcake time!” yelled Pinkie. “Oh, yes...of course.” said Fluttershy. Pinkie quickly opened a box, dolling out the sweet treats hurriedly. Once everypony had one, she quickly buried her head in the box, inhaling several at a time. “Well...” began Trey. “They must be really good.” he continued, taking a bite, to which another round of laughter ensued. After dinner, all the ponies gathered in the living room, sitting, talking, admiring each other’s company on this cold Christmas Eve. “Say, Everypony, did you remember to bring a wrapped gift?” “Oh, yes!” said several of them, retrieving assorted boxes wrapped in paper. “I still can’t imagine what these are for.” said Rarity. “Yeah, why not just give gifts to everypony outright?” asked Rainbow Dash. “Well you can do that too, but this is something I just remembered from my days in Canterlot! The librarians and I would always buy some sort of cheap, funny gift, and wrap it up. But you never knew what gift was what. Everypony got a turn to pick one, and whatever gift you picked, you were stuck with! It’s really funny sometimes. We called it Albino Pachyderm!” “Albino what?” asked Applejack, confused. “Er...white elephant.” said Twilight, putting her face to her hoof. She forgot that technical words weren’t exactly well known down here. “Oh...I’ve never seen an elephant!” said Fluttershy, excited. “Well I’m afraid you won’t tonight. It’s just what we call it. So...everypony place your gifts on the table and we’ll draw names out of a hat to see who goes first!” said Twilight. She was way too excited. As everypony put their names in, Twilight, almost frantic to see what would come of this, shook her hat, pulling out a name. “Well...it looks like Rarity goes first!” * “Well that was...intrestin’” said Applejack, still trying to figure out what sort of practical application she could find for horseshoe polish. Her hooves never stayed clean long enough for it to matter. “I have to agree.” said Rarity, still wondering what she could do with a dog collar. “Yeah, I kinda bought stuff with specific ponies in mind...” said Rainbow Dash, trying to understand why she got a horn filer. “I think it was kinda fun...” said Fluttershy, as she played with her new puzzle. Trey was too absorbed in figuring out how to open a can he was given. “Gummy liked it!” said Pinkie, as Gummy gently gnawed on his brand new ball. “I couldn’t be happier!” said Twilight, eying over her new quill set. “But don’t worry. I’m sure some of you got stuck with useless gifts. But the fun thing is, next year you can totally throw that gift back in if you don’t want it! Oh, the librarians and I had an ongoing joke where we wouldn’t want a book about making books!” she said, clopping her hooves together in excitement before realizing everypony was staring at her. “Ahem...yes...and I uh...got stuck with it the last year we did it.” she added, simmering down. “Oh!” said Fluttershy, as Angel hopped up in her lap, yawning loudly. He still carried the trimming he stole earlier, but soon fell asleep next to her. “Well it seems like Some little rabbit is ready for Santa Hooves to visit!” she said, smiling at him. “Well, I’d best get back to the farm. Applebloom’s gonna need to get ready for Santa Hooves too.” “And Sweetie Belle.” “And Spike.” “And Fluttershy.” added Trey, putting his head on her shoulder, still trying to figure out that can. “Oh, and Gummy!” said Pinkie. “He’s gonna make a haul tonight, I bet!” she added, scooping him up, letting him suction cup himself to her accordingly. How she could stand that was unclear...then again, so was Pinkie. “Well, I guess we’d better call it a night, girls!” said Twilight. “Can’t wait to do this next year!” “Agreed.” said Rarity, as the other ponies nodded their heads. “And on a side note...” began Fluttershy. “...I just wanted to thank you girls. I wasn’t quite sure I’d have this Christmas. So...thanks, everypony.” “Aw, Sugarcube...” said Applejack, getting a little teary eyed. Everypony there soon swarmed her for a large group hug before beginning to disband. “Trey? You alright?” “Yeah...” he said, wiping a tear from his eye, returning to his puzzle to seem busy. “I almost got...AGH!” he shouted, as the can burst open, launching copious amounts of confetti and streamers into the air. Pinkie fell to the ground laughing, kicking her legs up into the air as Angel, suddenly jolted awake, hopped off elsewhere in a hurry. Fluttershy screeched loudly as well, as the entire room sat in shocked silence for a second, before they all cracked up laughing. “You got me!” said Trey. “Guess I’ll have to return the favor one day, huh?” “Oh, Trey, you’re such a crack-up! Oh, you can keep the rest of the cupcakes!” she added, scooping up Gummy again, who’d fallen off of her, bouncing off into the chilly night. “Well, I guess we’ll see each other tomorrow or the day after.” said Rarity, bidding them adieu. “Well it was great seeing you guys again!” said Twilight. “Feel free to stop by the library anytime tomorrow if you want to visit.” “And another thanks for havin me over, Fluttershy.” said Applejack. “I’ll get the cider vat from ya later. Feel free to finish it off. See y’all later!” she added, trotting off. “And uh...yeah. We’ll do this again next year. Glad to see you’re doing okay though.” said Rainbow Dash. “Well...I’ll be in the sky. Scootaloo wanted me to visit tomorrow, so I’d better rest up.” she added, flying out the door. “That’s nice of her.” said Trey, closing the door. “Now...are you ready for Santa?” “Oh, yes.” began Fluttershy. “Angel?” she asked, hoping he would reappear. He poked his head from under the couch, anxiously looking around. “There’s nothing to worry about anymore, silly.” she smiled, picking him up, as he still gnawed on the trimming. “Why does he like that trimming so much?” asked Trey. “He seems a little spoiled.” he added, rubbing Angel’s head with his hoof. Angel yawned loudly once again, curling up against Fluttershy’s arms. “Well he’s a very tired bunny, if anything.” said Fluttershy, rubbing her cheek up against him. “Are you ready for Santa Hooves?” asked Trey. Angel lethargically nodded, trying to open his eyes to look Trey in the eye. “Well that’s good. Now, let’s get you to bed so he’ll show up tonight!” said Fluttershy, carrying him off to his little nook in the house, where he stayed in cold weather. Both Trey and Fluttershy smiled, watching him curl up and quickly fall asleep. “Oh?” said Trey, noticing the trimming on the couch. He picked it up and put it on Angel, who then hugged it before lapsing into sleep. “So...are YOU ready for Santa?” asked Trey. “Oh, yes. He’s my favorite pony.” she added giving him a small wink, kissing him lightly. “I still say Fluttershy is best pony.” said Trey, kissing her back. Fluttershy blushed, smiling. It never ceased to amaze Trey that even after months of saying the same things over and over, she still blushed at it. Not that he was complaining. Fluttershy started to head towards her room, flipping the lights off. As Trey and Fluttershy both settled into bed together, they started debating over whose gift would be better. “I think you’ll like my gift best.” said Trey, rubbing her cheek with his hoof. “I don’t think so, mister.” said Fluttershy, smiling at him almost deviantly. She wasn’t used to being authoritative and telling other ponies what they would like, but this was a welcome change. “There’s no way that my gift to the most beautiful mare in the world wouldn’t be the best.” he said, quickly putting his hoof to her chest. “And your body says it all, Flutterheart.” “Oh...” she said, blushing at him. She couldn’t help but smile, tears nearly welling in her eyes with happiness. “You know...ever since I met you, I knew that I wanted to spend time with you.” she started, catching Trey off-guard a bit. “I’m just glad that we can spend this Christmas together. It doesn’t matter that my gift is better than yours. The only gift I really need is you.” she finished, looking deep into his eyes, showing the ones he loved so much. “Flutterheart, I...” “Shh...” she said, putting a hoof to his lip. Trey quickly tried to shut up, unable to keep a smile off his lips. Fluttershy then slowly brought her face to his, kissing him passionately. “I love you, Trey. I love you more than anything.” “I love you too, Fluttershy.” said Trey, tears in his eyes from happiness. He gently kissed her back, letting his emotion carry him away as they caressed and cuddled for the rest of the night, eagerly awaiting the morning, eventually falling asleep in each other’s arms. *** “Ouch!” said Trey, suddenly jolted awake by Angel tapping his foot on his head. “Is it morning already?” he asked, to which Angel violently nodded, impatient. Fluttershy smiled as she woke up, laughing at him. “It’s too early...” said Trey, putting his head back on the pillow. “Oh, Trey, we did the same thing when we were young.” said Fluttershy. Trey knew she was right. Every foal woke up early, begging their parents to get up before the crack of dawn. Suddenly, Trey sprung forth with new energy, realizing that it was, indeed, Christmas Day, and that he had to give Fluttershy his gift. He rushed out of bed, nearly knocking Angel to the floor. As soon as Trey and Fluttershy were settled, they each divvied up the presents between each other, making sure angel got his first. He ripped up the paper, revealing a new bedding, surrounded by the same trimming he gnawed earlier. A few carrots sat on the bed, to which he devoured, hopping into his new bedding, snuggling against the trimming. “Well...I think he likes it.” said Trey, as he and Fluttershy stared in amazement as the scene. Paper surrounded him with a 15 hoof radius, carrot munchings and bits left about the vicinity. Fluttershy chuckled a little, pushing a present in front of him. “This isn’t the best one I have for you, but I want you to open that one first.” “Likewise.” said Trey, pushing a present to her, as he ripped the paper in front of him. “Oh, Trey...” said Fluttershy, smiling uncontrollably as she pulled out a bright colored sweater. Trey remembered that those were her favorite colors and couldn’t resist. Granted, they didn’t wear clothes much anyway, but it was good for cold weather. “Oh, wow.” said Trey, looking at a kit in front of him. “I went down to Parch’s Parchments and got a few things together.” she said, smiling. Trey pulled out several sheets of composition paper, ink, quills, and staff paper. “Thank you! I know just what I’m going to work on next.” he said. “What’s that?” “A song for you.” he said, smiling, pushing another small present in front of her. She blushed, opening up the small sack, pulling out two tickets. “There’s a huge concert coming up, and I thought you might like to go.” said Trey. “I know you’ve never been to the Canterlot Symphony Hall...I thought you might find it fun!” “Oh, yes!” she added, pushing another present towards him. Trey opened it, a large, square, flat package, revealing a huge framed picture of Ponyville High school’s band. “I got my hooves on one of those group photos you had and I had it blown up and framed.” Trey wiped a tear from his eye, setting it aside. “Is everything alright? Is it bad?” she asked. Trey said nothing, instead pulling her in for a tight hug, whispering a soft “I love you.” into her ear. She smiled and hugged him tightly. “Now...this one...” said Trey, grabbing the last box he had for her. “This one isn’t my last present, but it’s my second favorite.” “Oh?” asked Fluttershy, opening it curiously. She opened it to find a rather large, square book with several paper trimmings. “What is it?” “I got some help, and I made a scrapbook of all of our time together.” he said, opening it up to a random page, revealing a picture of Trey and Fluttershy at Winter Wrap Up, taking care of the animals. Fluttershy flipped through the pages curiously, tears in her eyes of happiness. Then she got to the last page. “I...I wrote a few things down in a journal while you were sick...and I felt it was a good note to end on.” he said, waiting for her to read it. She unabashedly bawled, putting the scrapbook aside, launching herself into him for the tightest hug she’d ever given. Trey simply returned it, tears of his own welling up. “I love you, Fluttershy.” “I love you, Trey...” she managed to choke out. Once they were done with the emotional scene, Fluttershy pushed her last present to him. “This one is my best present to you. I hope you like it.” she said, eagerly awaiting for him to open it. Trey carefully unwrapped the present, finding a small, leather journal. He curiously opened it, finding a long note that she’d written him. Trey, I know that nothing I ever say or do will ever be able to truly demonstrate how much I love you. Ever since I met you, that first day you came into town, I knew you were different. I knew there was something unique about you. I didn’t know what it was...all I knew was that I liked it. I was far too shy to say anything though, and I thought that I was bound to lose you before I even had you. I visited the band at practice one day, just to see what it was you do. Honestly, I just wanted to see you. I didn’t have any animals to take care of right then, like I said at first. I wanted to see you more, but was far too shy to say anything. When you invited me to the hoofball game, I felt the happiest in my life that I could remember for a long time. Then I embarrassed myself by forgetting to ask you the time and place, and I felt terrible, thinking that I may have lost you again. Then you showed up around me, somehow. I couldn’t do anything but apologize...and yet you refused to say that I had any fault in it. I felt so much better about myself then that I decided to take a risk for you. I knew my way home, I’ve done it several times, but I used the darkness as an excuse to spend more time with you. Then we met again the next day, and I couldn’t have been happier. We sat on the couch, talking. It felt great that somepony finally wanted to know about me. I felt like I could trust you. I...I had developed feelings for you at that point. And when you said you liked me, my heart raced...or fluttered, I should say. I could tell by the way you tried to cover your tracks that you were too shy to tell me you felt the same. I wasn’t sure though, until you told me. And I was so happy that day, that night. That was the happiest I’d ever been. Every night, I would lie awake and wonder if you felt the same. I knew I wanted to spend time with you, but I was too shy to ask that of you. But you came to me, instead. You taught me a new game, Frisbee. And though it’s fun to play, I know I hit you while trying to learn. I felt terrible after that, so I bandaged you up. A little much for a bruise, I know, but I just couldn’t help myself. And we spent the next day together as well, which made me truly happy. The day went by so smoothly, time seemed to travel in an instant. When the day finally ended, and you tried to go home, my heart nearly broke. So I took another risk, and asked you how your cheek was, since I’d hit it. I kissed your cheek, under the pretense of kissing to make it better. Really, I just wanted an excuse to kiss you. I know I shut my door quickly after that, but it was only because too many emotions stirred up in me that I couldn’t control. My legs felt like jelly, I was under your control. I’d never felt happier in my life. Then we met again, of course, and you made me even happier simply with your presence. But that night, you wanted to give me something. I had never wanted anything other than you, but that night, you told me you wanted to give me something, and I could hardly contain my excitement. When I heard you would want it back, I felt slightly disappointed, but you more than made up for it by asking me to close my eyes and hold out my hoof. When you unexpectedly kissed me, I was caught so off guard by it, I froze, unable to give you it back, which I so desperately wanted to do. Then, you left quickly, reminding me that you’d want it back. You broke the record again, making me the happiest I’d ever been. I could barely move, immobilized by love. I couldn’t sleep well at all that night, as I would picture that kiss over and over again, savoring the moment. I wanted to give you one so badly for so long, but never had the courage. Then, you gave me that courage the following night when I told you I had something of yours. I worked up my courage and kissed you back. I was on cloud 9, so to speak, for that entire night. When I told you I didn’t want you to leave, I never expected you to stay, but you made me the happiest I’d ever been again, as we spent the entire night kissing and cuddling, pretending to watch movies. From that point on, I knew that my like for you was love. I loved you, I just didn’t know how to say it. And of course we spent time together afterwards for as much as we could. I’m not sure what got into Twilight, but we overcame that little obstacle, since our love for each other was too strong. Then I put myself out there and trusted you completely with my past. You listened to every word, not saying much, instead only hugging me and telling me that everything was alright, that you loved me, and that things would get better. Nopony before I felt I could trust with that...I felt they’d run away...but...you stayed. And I can’t thank you enough. I loved you even more. But then it was really put to the test when I got attacked by the manticore. I still don’t recall much of that day, but I do know that when I woke up, you were right there beside me. I’ve never woken up to a more beautiful sight, than the stallion I love next to me in my time of need. Then we discovered I’d need a new kidney. You had to find out that I had a defunct one. I didn’t want you to know, lest you think I was imperfect. But, we searched and searched. You tried to donate, but it wouldn’t work. Things were put off until the last day. But those two days, you stayed by my side, never faltering. You cried, and I tried to stay strong. But on the inside, I was scared. I felt like I wouldn’t have a lifetime with you, that our time was short, that I didn’t have just one more time to tell you that I loved you. I thought all would be lost... Watching you cry, hearing you cry when you thought I was asleep hurt. But soon, it all came to an end as we found a mysterious donor at the last second. Soon, our lives were complete again. You took care of me while I was bed-ridden, helped me while I was still limited in my movement, and never once complained about what a dead weight I was. You mean so much to me. You’ve done so much for me. There’s nothing I can say or do that will ever be able to explain my gratitude. The only thing I really can say is that I love you. I love you so tremendously much and I don’t want to lose you. I am your Flutterheart. You picked the name well. I’m sorry I haven’t come up with one for you yet. But just know that regardless, I love you, and I wouldn’t mind spending the rest of my life with you. I. Love. You. Flutterheart Trey put down the journal, wiping tears from his eyes. This was the most emotional Christmas ever, if anything. He hugged Fluttershy tight for as long as felt right, before kissing her passionately on the lips. “None of those gifts I gave you come close to that. You’re right. You win.” he said. Fluttershy simply laughed a little bit, letting him continue. “But...my last gift for you...I think is better. Wait here.” he said, quickly, hurriedly, jumping up and trotting off. “Now, close your eyes.” he said from the other room. Fluttershy did so, smiling uncontrollably. “Now keep them closed.” said Trey, getting close to her, much like he did when he first gave her a kiss. “Now, Fluttershy, I know you said it best in your journal. But when you say that there’s nothing you can do or say to show me how much you love me, you’re wrong. Every time you kiss me, you show me. Every time you talk to me, you tell me. But Flutterheart, what I need from you now is only one word. Open your eyes.” Fluttershy opened her eyes, jumping back in shock, tears in her eyes. Trey was knelt before her, presenting a diamond wedding ring in a box. Tears streamed down Fluttershy’s face as she covered her mouth with her hooves. “Fluttershy...will you give me the best Christmas ever...and marry me?”
lilinuyasha	927	1	Original Character,Romance,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Sex	Raynor's obsession	Nurse Redheart's favorite patient comes in again. She decides to take things into her own hands.	complete	30	16	<p>This is a clopfic. Be gone if you don't like it. Otherwise, this was done for a friend of mine who specifically requested I make this one. Since this one (out of 2 (-_-)) actually involves a pony everyone knows, I decided to put this one up. I will take requests. If you want me to make one for you, just send me a message! <br/>Hope you like it!</p>	mature	2011-09-20T03:46:41+00:00	2011-09-20T03:46:41+00:00	3,158	Raynor paced back and forth. He told himself today would be the day. Today he would accomplish his dreams, his hopes, his secret, carnal desires. Planning was easy...carrying through with a plan, however, was what would be the death of him. Many other attempts had failed. Most of the time, he never got close enough to even do anything. But today would be different... Raynor braced himself for failure and trotted off towards Nurse Redheart’s station. It was empty today. Funny...he swore the sign said “Open”. As he glanced around the small, makeshift clinic, a small, darling, familiar voice rang out from the back. “I’ll be with you in a moment!” Called Nurse Redheart, putting on her coat and hat. As she trotted out from behind the curtain, her resiliently beautiful white mane matching perfectly with the rest of her figure, she glanced at Raynor, smiling a bit. “What is it this time, Ray?” She asked. “Uh...” He hadn’t exactly thought that far. “Lower gastrointestinal pain. Yeah.” She raised an eyebrow and led him behind the curtain, closing it fully behind them. “Let me take a look” She said. “Remove your shirt, please.” Raynor did as so, resisting the urge to say “You first!” or something of the like. Nurse Redheart smirked a bit. Raynor wasn’t sure why. “Please, lie on your back and spread your legs.” She said, holding back a smile. This wasn’t standard medical practice, Raynor thought. Maybe this was a new method? Nurse Redheart got our a stethoscope and put it to his heart. He had so long waited for any bit of physical contact from her. The closest he ever came was the stethoscope, though. Nurse Redheart put it away. “It must be broken...” She said. Raynor raised an eyebrow. “Guess we’ll have to do this the old fashioned way.” And with that, the brought her ear down to Raynor’s chest. Raynor, not used to this contact, but filled with desire, felt his heart race. Nurse Redheart flipped sides, putting her right ear, facing towards his flank. Raynor could feel himself getting hard. “Hold it back!” He thought. “Don’t mess it up!”. Nurse Redheart acted as though she didn’t notice. Maybe she didn’t, Raynor wasn’t sure. She lifted her head and looked him straight in the eye. “You’ve got a bit of a racing heart pace.” She said. “Do you have high blood pressure?” “Not that I know of...” He said, embarrassed. “I think I may have just the thing...” She said, turning around, looking on one of her upper shelves. She got on two hooves, stretching tall, exposing her plot to Raynor. This seemed almost intentional. She rocked back and forth slowly, looking for pills. “Maybe it was on the bottom...” She said to herself, Reaching down on the bottom, bending over, exposing all to Raynor. Raynor could easily feel his dick growing. He looked down, finding it was at full attention, throbbing. He closed his legs and crossed them, attempting to hide it. Nurse Redheart turned back to him. “I just can’t find it...” She said. “It’s fine. Maybe you can order some more.” “Maybe. I’m afraid I have to give you a full exam, though. Company policy.” Raynor froze for a second. Maybe his dick would go down in time. “Please turn around.” She said. Raynor did so and Nurse Redheart put a hoof on his back, stroking it softly. “This is a reflex test.” She said. “The body reacts to pain and pleasure in different ways.” She said as her hoof stroked where the tail meets the backbone, a very sensitive spot for ponies. Raynor’s plot immediately, involuntarily rose up in the air. “Good.” She said. “That reflex works.” She began stroking him again, on his sides. He became a little short of breath for a second. “Good. Now I need you to lie on your back again.” Raynor froze and looked at her. “The sooner you do it, the sooner you can get out of here.” She said, smiling at him. Raynor Got on the bed, on his back, legs together. Nurse Redheart drew her hoof from his neck down to his mid-stomach. Raynor flinched a bit, as it tickled. “Great!” She said. “Just one more to go. Spread your legs please.” Raynor’s heart dropped. “Are you a little shy about it?” She asked. Raynor nodded and Nurse Redheart looked away. “I see it all the time, Raynor. You’re a patient. This is a professional environment. Noone’s going to judge you.” She smiled, giving Raynor a small sense of security. Raynor gulped and spread his legs. “Woah.” Said Nurse Redheart. “Someone’s blessed.” Raynor closed his legs again. “Raynor, it’s a good thing. Now please, let’s get this over with.” Raynor opened his legs again, looking away from her. “Last reflex” she said, in a clam tone. As Raynor looked around the room, he noticed a poster stating the three reflex points. Nurse Redheart already did three. What was this fourth one? Suddenly, his dick felt very warm and wet. Raynor looked down to see Nurse Redheart’s mouth around the tip of it, using her tongue ever so gently. Raynor’s eyes got wide. He couldn’t move. It felt great, but he wasn’t sure how to handle this. “Please relax” She said, looking up at him and smiling. “This is part of the reflex test.” “I don’t...” Started Raynor. Nurse Redheart put a hoof to his mouth, silencing him. She quickly got back down to business, wrapping her mouth around his dick, stimulating the tip. Raynor has never felt something so incredible in his life. He always had a thing for Redheart, but he never thought he’d be feeling this. Nurse Redheart inched her mouth lower and lower along his shaft, making sure it was nice wet. Raynor’s dick pulsed. Nurse Redheart looked up at him. “That was the reflex.” She said, getting back down to business. Raynor didn’t know what to say. Nurse Redheart took the pace instead, inching lower and lower among his already throbbing dick. She soon reached his base and slowly brought her mouth up and down his shaft, as she placed a hoof on his balls. Raynor felt a lightning bolt of pleasure through his body. Nurse Redheart continued, slowly speeding up. She jiggled his balls in her hoof. “He’s rather enormous for most colts his age.” She thought, bringing her other hoof down between her legs and rubbing herself. Raynor caught this motion and made a mental note. Raynor felt more confident now. He sat back and allowed Nurse Redheart to continue. She shoved his entire dick in her mouth, working his shaft faster and faster. Occasionally, she would slow down and use her tongue to stimulate the head. Raynor looked back down at her. She pulled him out from her mouth, wiped it, licked her lips, and stood up. “Examination finished!” She said. Raynor noticed her hind legs were wet and quivering. She turned around, exposing her plot once more, and looking over her shoulder told him “You’re free to go.” “But shouldn’t you get an exam, too?” Said Raynor. Nurse Redheart looked at him. He was starting to get the hang of it. She trotted back over to him. “Only if i give you proper instruction...” She said. “You have to be trained...or I could lose my job.” She said, smiling at him. He get lost in those immensely beautiful blue eyes. “First, you stroke the back...” She said. Raynor mimicked, stroking softly above the tail. Her plot rose up. Raynor stroked one side of her flank softly while bringing it back towards her shoulders. “Stroke the side...” She said. Raynor once again followed her directions. She then laid on the bed and stretched her legs. “Down from the neck...” She said. Raynor skipped this step and grazed his tongue on her pussy. Nurse Rdheart blushed and squirmed. “You missed a step!” “We’ll get to it later...” Raynor said, getting back to work. He worked his tongue in small circles, leaving large amounts of saliva on that area. He especially spent a lot of time up near the top, on a little bulge that seemed to make her squirm hardest. Raynor then made large circles around her entire pussy. Nurse Redheart squirmed. “Be still!” He said. “I can’t give a good examination if you move all the time!” She smiled, blushed, and rolled her head back, trying to contain herself. Raynor went back to work, making larger, faster circles. He then stuck his tongue inside her. Nurse Redheart gasped loudly and blushed, making her skin tone almost as red as her heart. Raynor worked his tongue in large circles inside, drifting in and out. Nurse Redheart grabbed a pillow and put it in front of her mouth as she squirmed and screamed. Raynor’s dick was the hardest it had ever been at that point. Nurse Redheart removed the pillow. “Just take me now!” She said, hurridly, gasping for air. Raynor immediately moved up to her, carefully placed his dick, lining it up, and thrust himself forward on top of her. She was so warm...the cold room made his dick feel like it was in a warm shower...this only intensified the pleasure combined with how tight she was. Raynor slid and thrust his dick back and forth in her, feeling the natural lubrication and saliva make his job easy. It was effortless, yet tight. He had never experienced pleasure like this before. Nurse Redheart looked at him. “That’s not how you do it...” She said. “Wha...” Started Raynor, before Redheart put her hind hooves around him, forcing him deeper. She wrapped her front hooves around his head, drawing him close to her for a kiss. He continued the thrust as she kissed him madly, shaking her hips as well. Redheart started to lose her concentration, losing her breath between kisses, panting. Raynor felt his dick act up. “Faster!” Redheart managed to gasp between breaths. Raynor sped up, shaking the hospital bed. Redheart starting screaming Raynor’s name. Surely some other patients would hear her? He paid it no mind as he continued to thrust. His dick felt strange. He wasn’t quite sure what would happen now, but he sensed pleasure. Redheart thrust her hips even faster, screaming Raynor’s name, mixed with “YES!” Suddenly, without warning, Redheart’s pussy clamped down on his dick as he, too, felt something change. He felt immense pleasure in his dick for a few seconds before it throbbed and shot out a strange liquid inside her. Raynor pulled out to see what it was when it shot again on her stomach. Redheart smiled and opened her mouth. Raynor instinctively brought his dick to her mouth and managed to get a few throbs in there, a strange, white, milky fluid settling in her mouth. She swallowed it and put his dick in her mouth again, getting the rest of it off of him into her. After she finished, she stood up, and Raynor got out of bed. Nurse Redheart smiled at him sheepishly, her back legs quivering as she was unable to take control of herself. She took a seat, spreading her legs, as the white fluid oozed from her pussy. The stuff on her stomach slowly dripped down to her legs as nearly a cup full of the fluid, minus what she had swallowed, slowly turned to liquid and oozed outside her body. Raynor felt his dick weaken and looked down to see it falling. It was one way to get rid of an erection, he thought. “That’s semen...” She said, still catching her breath. She could barely formulate other sentences until she caught her breath and finished smiling. Raynor couldn’t help but smile at her too. Her blue eyes were so beautiful, her mane was too perfect...and she tasted sweet, her plot the finest in all Equestria. Eventually Nurse Redheart gained her strength back and opened the curtain again. The hospital was still empty. Nurse Redheart walked toward the door and flipped the open/close sign to where it read “open”. She looked back at him, but her coat back on, and smiled. “So you knew I was coming?” he asked. “Raynor...I’ve been waiting for you to come for months now. You’ve just always been so shy. I bet Fluttershy would be easier to get than you!” “Sorry” he said, looking down. “Don’t be sorry.” She said. “Can I schedule and appointment for next week?” He asked, hopeful. “Nope.” She said. Raynor hung his head. “I already have you down for tomorrow.” She said. Raynor looked at her and smiled. As he walked out of the clinic, he gathered his thoughts and headed home. Tomorrow...tomorrow...he didn’t have to formulate plans to see her anymore. Tomorrow was all his. Nurse Redheart was all his. Just the way he had always wanted.
Noyman Jayden	929	1	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Dark,Sad,Slice of Life,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	The fall of the Ponies	The ponies fall	complete	2	15	<p>Years with no death and suddenly a pony dies. The ponies don't even know how to what to do when reaction to what it did or why Silverface death. Watch the drama!</p>	teen	2011-09-20T05:43:43+00:00	2011-09-20T05:43:43+00:00	2,434	It was a beautiful day in the Ponyville, and the world sang a song of beauty and intelligence. It was always a happy day like now, because in Ponyville, there was never a violent or anyone dying, because everyone was happy and LSD. One day all of this good changed suddenly to bad. This happened because a pony, for the first time in eons, for reasons unknown, became died. “OW!” Yelled Silveface, a unicorn, and then he exploded. “OH SHIT!” Yelled Princess Celestia, and she flew back to her castle home place and hid so she wouldn’t die like Silverface. She then called upon her six most trusted minions to defend her... The Justice League! “No, screw you Princess Celestia, we have to save people that actually matter, so no ponies or Jews.” Princess Celestia cried a lot because the words hurt her like a knife or maybe a gun. She was not only a pony, but also Jewish, so she had been hurt a lot. She sadly called upon six other ponies that are probably pretty useless but may be able to help. A short time later, at Twilight Sparkle’s secret underground tree, the Elements of Harmony met to discuss how to avenge Silverface and prevent future random, unpreventable explosions. “Our name sucks.” Rainbow Dash yelled in angry. “We aren’t Harmony if we’re killing something.” “But we aren’t killing anything... Are we?” Fluttershy whined like a bitch.” “Oh my, yes.” Twilight said. “Odds are, we’re going to have to kill many things.” “Yay!” Pinkie was happy because she’s always happy, also she likes killing. “I think we should call ourselves the Elements of Badassery.” Dash suggested. “Fuck you!” Applejack said in her southern accent. Her accent on the show was a censored version of a real southern accent, because everything southern people say is offensive. “I don’t like Blacks.” “Applejack has a point Rainbow Dash, that name is gay. How about the Elements of Ownage.” Rarity said, only because she hasn’t said anything else and is actually kinda useless in this story. “Okay, this meeting of the Elements of Ownage is now in order. Pinkie, have you figured out what’s been causing the explosions yet?” “YES! It’s Gummy!” “WAHT!?!?!” Everypony whatted so hard that the underground tree began to burn so they had to all jump on Twilight’s back and she flew them out of the tree in the knick of time before it exploded in a hailstorm of rainbow and acid and death. “But yeah, Gummy did it.” “HOW DARE YOU BETRAY ME!!!???!?!!?” Gummy raged, somehow speaking. He then pulled out his Fuck You ray and shot Pinkie with it, causing her to explode. “PINKIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIEEE!” Yelled Fluttershy, but since she’s so quiet and annoying, nopony heard her. “PINKIE!” Shouted Rainbow Dash, and since she’s loud and obnoxious, everypony heard her, but nopony wanted to. “ASSMUNCH!” Yelled Applejack. Somehow, her words were a consollation to everypony’s soul. Then they ran fast away so that Gummy couldn’t explode them to death like Pinkie and Silverface. Twilight casted awesome spell that made them all be able to stand on clouds and they ascended to Cloudsdale by ripping off Fluttershy’s wings and using them to make a flying machine. “:(“ said Fluttershy but she didn’t complain because she is too nice. “ALRIGHT!” Rainbow Dash flew into the weather factory. A few minutes later there was a nuclear explosion of rainbowy goodness. Then there was rain of light blue feathers implying that Rainbow Dash had just died. “What the hell did she do that for?” Twilight wondered but didn’t actually care because she hated that bitch. “Guys! I made a dress!” Rarity said as she put on the dress she made. “Good job! Now we can definitely defeat Gummy!” Pinkie said happy. “NO!” Twilight angered. Juts then there came from behind them both a sound. When they turned them, they saw that Gummy was there now flying. “I took Silverface’s wings when I killed him, now I kill you too!” And he shot Fluttershy and she exploded but no one really cared. “NNOOO!O!!!” Everypony in all of Equestria screamed at the same time lolwut the fuck is that how does that even happen? Then Rarity and Twilight cowered as Gummy killed Pinkie and Applejack. “FUCK ASIANS!” Yelled Applejack as she died. “I AM SO ADDICTED TO METH!” Yelled Pinkie as she died. “Wait...” Twilight waited and thought. “Wasn’t Silverface a unicorn?” “Oh cock.” Gummy cocked. Suddenly, Gummy exploded into a violently plothole that sucked in all of Equestria. It was like watching a Michael Bay movie or playing Heavy Rain. Inside the plothole, life went on. Silverface and Gummy were both removed from existence, and Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash and Applejack came back to life. The yellow one didn’t though. Thank Celestia. “Twilight I am proud of you a lot.” Princess Celestia honored Twilight because she had pretty much saved the entire of the world. “I couldn’t have done it without my friends. Loljk they were useless I don’t like them anymore.” And Twilight flew away. “What a bitch.” Princess Celestia sighed. “You, Pink one, you are my new First Prime.” “Don’t you mean student?” “No.” Celestia’s voice was deeper and her eyes glowing because she was now a Goa’uld (You know, those parasite things from Doctor Who.) “Oh shit!” Pinkie Pie shat and also flew away also. “I’ll save us!” Rainbow Dash flew up and kicked Celestia but it did nothing and she shot zappiness at Rainbow and it hurt. “Ow.” “YOU POLISH ASSHOLE!” Racist Applejack raced all over Celestia but she didn’t even do it. Applejack flew to her death and didn’t even know why or how because the narrator was being too vague. Some more things happened, and then one big thing happened. Then some really cool action and cameos happened. “Twilight, I’m glad you came back and helped us save the world.” Magneto thanked Twilight. “You’re welcome!” Said Edward Cullen because he thought Magneto was talking to him get it? Then Magneto killed Edward Cullen and a bunch of teenyear old girls screamed but others were happy. “I’m Harry Potter lol!” Harry Potter Pottered but it wasn’t Harry Potter it was Twilight Sparkle. “Lolno, you’re Twilight Sparkle.” Magneto laughed and everyone else did too lololololololol. Their laughter echoed across the world, harmonizing the song of beauty and intelligence to ring free through the inside of the plothole. However, all was not peaceful forever and happy like they began to think a little. The world was already still in grave danger because of the Evil! You may ask yourself “Lolwut Evil?” The Evil is a terrifying scary thing that is horrible and evil and probably scary! It is takes the form of whatever it kills and slaughters. Just as anyone would expect, Fluttershy did actually come back to life too, everyone just chose to ignore her forever. She wandered sadly through Sugar Cube Corner because that’s what she decided to do when suddenly OH MY GOD THE EVIL! BOOSAMA BASH BANG RRAAAWWWWRRRRR EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP! That’s about what it sounded like. The Evil killed then slaughtered Fluttershy it was a horribly vague and gruesome and painful manner. It would have been hot to any masochistic furries. “WHA HA HA AHA AHA AHA HAAAAAAAAAAAAA” Evil Fluttershy laughed. “I killed and slaughtered Fluttershy and now I AM Fluttershy!” Twilight Sparkle and Pinkie Pie were partying alone because the others were busy and there was booze alcohol. “I love drinking alcohol” Twilight drank. “Me too!” Pinkie... Pinked. “Hello!’ Fluttershy came in all ugly and stuff. “Look at how Fluttershy I am.” “Shut up, nopony likes you.” “What!?” EVIL thought inside of Fluttershy. “I am stuck in the body of some quiet bitch who nopony likes and has bad breath and is afraid of dragons and bad at sports!” “Get out of here, no booze alcohol for you!” Twilight ragered. “No, we have to be nice to her because she’s a good pony.” Pinkie smiled because she liked everypony and everypony liked her. “Everypony likes her?” The Evil thought, after somehow hearing the narrator say so. “Pinkie...” Fluttershy spoke through her voice. “Can I show you something in private?” “Okay!” Pinkie was drunk as hell. So she followed Fluttershy outside into the dark and rain and lightning. “WHA HA HA HA HA I’M EVIL!” Fluttershy revealed the truth and assaulted Pinkie. Pinkie didn’t care because she was too happy and drunk and loved everything even Evil. After Evilshy killed her and slaughtered her, the Evil became Pinkie Pie. So like, Evil Pie. “Twilight I’m back.” “Hi Pinkie I rike you ror I’m Asian.” “You aren’t.” Evil Pie objected and pulled out her shooter death ray of evil (SDRoE) and shot Twilight with evil and death. “Stop right there Evil!” Announced Princess Luna who decided to make a random cameo. She pulled out more guns and shot at the evil but the evil shot back so they jumped around shooting and dying but living sometimes until it all was soon to end because the bullets ran out and Evil Pie was hit by a bullet and died and the evil was defeated and Magneto and a bunch of other things that are too graphic, boring, or incomplete to be officially added to this story. “For the second time today, a bunch of shit happened and I remember nothing!” Twilight. Also, it turned out that Silverface WAS the Evil, and he faked his explosion to confuse everyone then entered Fluttershy and Pinkie but were all killed. THE END LOL
Noyman Jayden	929	2	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Dark,Sad,Slice of Life,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	The fall of the Ponies	The ponies fall	complete	2	15	<p>Years with no death and suddenly a pony dies. The ponies don't even know how to what to do when reaction to what it did or why Silverface death. Watch the drama!</p>	teen	2011-10-05T18:37:40+00:00	2011-10-05T18:37:40+00:00	761	(Author’s note: We are currently working with M Night Shyamalan on a movie deal. Stay tuned.) Across Ponyville the clocks read 10:00PM (some a little off like 10:01 or 11:00 in timezones) because that was the time. It was time for many to sleep, but for one to wake. It was evil long thought pony dead Silverface, who had faked his own death in order to become evil. “Now they think me to be death, so I can roam freely.” Silverface laughtered. “To the time and place!” Silverface flew to Twilight library and hiding in bushes. “Twilight!” Spike shouting. “I think you have drinking problems!” He laughed because Twilight trying to drink non alcohol beverage but spills it everyplace. “AHHAHA” she laughs too but sarcasm. The window was Silverface who looks like creepy and stalker because that is what he was. “I will be Spike and Twilight soon to follow.” His laughter made Twilight aware and exclamation points above her head as she walks to window to look. Silverface hides with effectives before sight so he isn’t seen. “I could have sworn I hear maniacal laughter.” Twilight sighed and returned to drinking with Spike. While she was windows, Spike spiked her drinks with moonshine and whiskeys. Sad insued. A short time after later, Fluttershy in her cottage smelled burning and “OH NO!” her voice. She runs to outside for what happens and sees Spike and Twilight and Angel drunk off their flanks burning down her cottage for no reason other than I thought it would be funny and someone should draw it please. Twilight and drank Spike went back to treehouses where Silverface no longer was because he got lost in confusion and was now at Sugar Cube Corner where Rainbow Dash lived. “Rainbow Dash you are better than friends now be my side.” “Ok” Rainbow said because it was true. Then Silverface and Dash starts shoting ponies and everyp0ony dies and evail prevails.
Noyman Jayden	929	3	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Dark,Sad,Slice of Life,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	The fall of the Ponies	The ponies fall	complete	2	15	<p>Years with no death and suddenly a pony dies. The ponies don't even know how to what to do when reaction to what it did or why Silverface death. Watch the drama!</p>	teen	2011-10-10T21:59:14+00:00	2011-10-10T21:59:14+00:00	905	Nothing happened though and everyone was okay. After everything b etttered Dash and Applesjack were on a hill. “You trayer!’ Applesjack southerend and begans to stab Dash with pitchform. “Stop I am sorry!” Dash backed to her but AJ kept goin and didn’t say things. Back inn town Twilight knew. “Dash is dyinh there but it is her fault for traiting.” Spike and princess Luna nodded and they read more books but Pinkie Pi was unamused “I am unamuesed!’ She said wisely. Pinkie wint to hills where Dash had death and took pitchforkl from AJ and stabbed her with it in her right soul. “DAMNING” AJ died. “Dash live again!” Ad Pink threw AJ’s life at Dash who got up and was okay and happy but flew away forever to be Wonderbalt. “I must stop hr I love her.” Pinkie warned. Again Twolight knew but was unconcerned. “We have to stop Pinkie Pie!” She exapserated grabbing machetes and guns. Spie went to but Luyna stayed at Library to drink tea and read books. Twilight and spikE wrode like Gengis Kan to where Pinki was following wonderbilts. “STOP!” Twilight Spiked. “But I love heer!” Pinkie loved Rainbow Dash. “Oh I see the truth” and Twilight agve Pinkie wings and Pinkle became a Wonderbill but not rainbow who sadded to Fillydelphia. “I am geat and powful!” Trixie trixied in Fillydelphia. “Look at magic!” Ash she made a random pony disasppear forever and everypony didn’t cheer and yelled. “stop you love me!” so Trixie killed them all in fire. “Can you help mine?” Rainbows asking. “No” and Trixie helped her by kill Wonderbolts but it costed Dash her sole but it was okay she didn’t where shoes so trixie went and became queen. “Trixie is the queen now.” Fluttershy told her animals who ate and killed eachorther. “I must go and kill her” said Angel who grabbed gun knife and went to canterlot but died before long from meteors. “THERE AR METOERS!” Shouting Lyra who hides under Bon-Bon but meteors hit them but they don’t die and ride the meoter back to space.
Noyman Jayden	929	4	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Dark,Sad,Slice of Life,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	The fall of the Ponies	The ponies fall	complete	2	15	<p>Years with no death and suddenly a pony dies. The ponies don't even know how to what to do when reaction to what it did or why Silverface death. Watch the drama!</p>	teen	2011-10-11T03:12:03+00:00	2011-10-11T03:12:03+00:00	838	In Twilightland was Rainbow alive for escaped from the Trixie death but she hiding inside Twilight Sparkls Spike bed where Spike isn’t sometimes. “Is Spike here?” Trixie confused forgetting who she was looking for because she was in love with Twilightt who she made with and had to murder. “NO!” Murdered Trixie as Twologit bled to death “I did it out of love” she says meaningfully. Then Fluttershy bitched out of no where and was confused by Trixie burying Twilight under many books but liked it because she didn’t like Twilight. “Thank you” Fluttershy thanked you Trixie and flew with glee into rocket missile that Angel had shot at Ursa major but sense it blew Fluttershy to smitherrons the Ursa Major got tired and died. Trixie sadded into Spikes bed for a sleeping but found Rainbow who punched her footly and ran. Then Trixie fasted after her and a hollywood chase scene crashed into Ponyville and Lyra ran over Rainbow in a machete. No time was left for Pinkie who ate donuts until she shot herself in foreheads and many children cried and were eaten by a leoporaden it was Steven Magnet who was actually Princess Celestia in disguise to assassinate Princess Luna but Princess Luna wrongly shot the Celestia with ak-f7s. “This story makes no sense’ Edward Norton imagined before being eaten by elves. The elf eating Edward turned everything back to never and this entire story didn’t happen.
Noyman Jayden	929	5	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Dark,Sad,Slice of Life,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	The fall of the Ponies	The ponies fall	complete	2	15	<p>Years with no death and suddenly a pony dies. The ponies don't even know how to what to do when reaction to what it did or why Silverface death. Watch the drama!</p>	teen	2012-09-27T01:14:43+00:00	2012-09-27T01:14:43+00:00	355	(A short story not worth it is own post) "Twilight heeelp!" The ground and everything away Princess Luna became fire and there wasn't Twilight could do. "I'm sorry I'll avenge you" Twilight shouted klling the evil pony who killed Luna. Later Twilight was sulking because of her sadness but she had done her hardest. "Please apologies" Princess Celestia made ammends then resigned leaving the heir to the throne in charge it was Rainbow Dash. "Now I will make changes!" And she hung all the zebras. "Twilight you must sstop this" Spike begged and was executed and Rainbow Dash revealed off her disquise and it was actually Hitler "I escaped the real world to come kill all jewish ponies!" "Jokes on you" Pinkie Pie appeared "We already killed all our JEws" Hitler was defeatred
Noyman Jayden	929	6	Main 6,Original Character,Spike,Dark,Sad,Slice of Life,Tragedy,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	The fall of the Ponies	The ponies fall	complete	2	15	<p>Years with no death and suddenly a pony dies. The ponies don't even know how to what to do when reaction to what it did or why Silverface death. Watch the drama!</p>	teen	2013-01-13T13:02:28+00:00	2013-01-13T13:02:28+00:00	379	Somewhere there was a fire. Everyone felt it. "We have to run there" somepony said but they were the fire "Celestia you must fix this for you." Celestia slave Twilight Sparkle abdicated. There was a demon in her soul like everyone the demon was angry. "I cant I am busy with" she was playing poker with all the leaders of Russia "Then I have no choice but handle this myself!" Twilight ran and hide. "Help the fire is bigger": the fire started biggering like Dactor Soos and the Larax. Suddenly a brave warrior emerged through the fire he was famous writer and vampirer hunter Peter CHimaera. "Now I';ll fight!" Peter kung fud and the muggers were gone "thanks for save" a young pony whined. "Now teh fire" Peter inhaled his lungs and blew and the fire danced with elegant display. then Bane rose and the fire was gone forest of time. "Peter yoyu savved me!" "Dont thankme thank your friendly neighborhodo police and teacher." Peter humbled nice and flew away and all the ponies were happy.
Hollyfern	930	1	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-03T12:18:37+00:00	2014-12-17T10:09:31+00:00	21,665	The air rang with the excited screams of fillies and colts as they poured from their afternoon confinement. Lagging behind the pack, one gray filly hung her head and ears as she trailed behind, followed by her fuchsia teacher, Cheerilee. Silver Spoon sat alone, her monogrammed saddle bag as her sole company. Tears welled in her violet eyes. She removed her glasses and wiped away her tears, wishing her sorrow would be as easy to get rid of. She knew her tears wouldn't fix anything. Only the one pony she cared deeply for, Diamond Tiara, could fill this expanding void in her young life. A void that became known one month ago today when her dear friend moved away to Manehattan. The isolation grew whenever she felt alone or, at times like this, when her classmates enjoyed their time with their friends. To make matters worse, Silver Spoon’s birthday was approaching and she had no true friends to celebrate with. She knew all too well her classmates would attend, but merely for the festivities and not for her. For the first time in a long time, she truly felt alone. Stupid ponies! she inwardly growled as she eyed her frolicking class mates with blurred eyes, her sadness smoldering over into hate and malice. "Silver Spoon?" a familiar voice called from behind her, concern rang in its tone. The gray filly knew the voice belonged to the class teacher, Cheerilee. She replaced her glasses and wiped her eyes once more then turned, offering a false smile. "Yes, Miss Cheerilee?" she managed to evenly speak. "I've noticed you haven't been playing with anypony else since Diamond Tiara left," her teacher sat next to her and placed a hoof on the fillies shoulder. "You must be taking it kind of hard." Oh what do YOU know? Silver Spoon thought to herself though maintained her façade. "Oh, I'm fine Miss Cheerilee." In a rare sight, Cheerilee’s eyes narrowed and any previous softness immediately vanished, which surprised Silver Spoon. To see her typically cheerful teacher offer such a serious look; it seemed as if she could tell she was being lied to. After a few moments of staring, the mare smiled. Cheerilee turned her head to the playground, eyeing four fillies in particular amongst the few other students that waited to be picked up. "Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Twist," Cheerilee called out. Silver Spoon groaned as she rolleed her eyes. Despite the cold and sarcastic façade she put on around Diamond Tiara that masked her uncanny intelligence, she could tell exactly where this was going. And she didn't like it. Reluctantly, the four students in question dropped what they were doing and reported to their teacher. "Yes, Miss Cheerilee?" they sang simultaneously. "Care to include little Silver Spoon in your little game?" Cheerilee chirped, more a command than a request. The four fillies all just stared for a moment at their fallen former tormentor. Silver Spoon sat with an attitude. She looked straight ahead, with no intent to acknowledge the looks of her classmates. The mild orange pegasus huffed. “Actually I was just about to jet.” Scootaloo returned to the playground, stopping for a moment to fetch and mount her signature scooter then zipped off before any word of protest could be voiced. “Uhh...” The next filly, a pale yellow student, her tangerine eyes darted about searching desperately for a convenient excuse as she toyed with the bow in her fiery red mane. “Oh! Ah promised Apple Jack ah’d help with the applebuckin t’day!” Before anypony could pose a question, Apple Bloom darted off leaving Twist and Sweetie Belle. Silver Spoon scoffed at the sight. I expected as much... The only pony she wanted was the one that got away, one that understood her. And neither of the two that remained were her. Cheerilee loosed a tired sigh. Obviously her hopes at socializing Silver Spoon were scattered in the wind. She gave the two remaining fillies a weak smile and a pleading look in hopes to reassure them. “Well...” The powdery white unicorn started, placing a hoof to her chin. “I wouldn't mind playing with Silver Spoon!” Silver Spoon’s ears perked, and her eyes widened. She was bewildered and surprised by those words. She’s...she’s lying! She refused to believe the unicorn’s words, not after all she put Sweetie Belle and her friends through. The bullying and name calling...there was no way I deserve a second chance! The lankier earth pony nodded in agreement. “Ath’ually, I wouldn’t mind hanging out with her either, but I gotta go home,” Twist, said as she offered a smile to Silver Spoon, then trotted off, her frizzy red mane bouncing in the wind. Cheerilee stood, a satisfied smile across her face as she looked from Sweetie Belle to Silver Spoon. “Well, I hope you fillies have fun together!” the mare chirped before returning to the school house, leaving the fillies to themselves. Sweetie Belle sat next to Silver Spoon, a grin across her face that Silver Spoon returned with a look of confusion and doubt. “Since you did that just to please Miss Cheerilee, you can go now Sweetie Belle,” the gray filly huffed as she pushed up her glasses. I don’t need anypony’s pity! Silver Spoon distanced herself from her classmate and began tapping her hoof on the ground. “I’m serious!” Sweetie Belle protested. “I noticed that you have been acting different since Diamond Tiara left, you don’t even call me a Blank Flank anymore.” The young unicorn offered a warm smile as she scooted closer and closed the distance. “I just thought you would want to be friends, after all, everypony needs a friend.” “R-Really?” Silver Spoon felt a small fleck of happiness spark inside her as she cast a sideways look at Sweetie Belle. “You mean it..?” “Well, sure!” the young unicorn squeaked. “I’m sure the other crusaders will be your friends too, if you try.” Sweetie Belle thought for a moment, her eyes widened as a smile ran across her face. “Why don’t you come over to my house? We could help each other with our homework with Scootaloo and Apple Bloom.” Silver Spoon tossed the offer around in her mind. Though her stomach knotted up at the fear of being rejected, her heart skipped a beat in hopes that she wouldn't be alone anymore and the prospect of friends that would be there for her if she should need them. “Al... Alright...” Silver Spoon bashfully replied. “Great!” Sweetie Belle squeaked, offering a smile to Silver Spoon. Silver Spoon giggled at her classmates’ odd level of joy over something so simple. For the first time in awhile, Silver Spoon smiled sincerely. Though her gut still cautioned her, her heart was more than willing to accept a lie, as long as it meant not being alone. “Sweetie Belle, dear,” chirped an approaching voice. “Ready to go?” Both fillies turned their attention to the voice's source. Silver Spoon recognized the mare immediately, as she did her heart and hopes sank. Those regal deep amethyst curls of her mane and tail, the sparking cerulean eyes and well kempt white coat all belonged to the unicorn known as Rarity. Sweetie Belle’s big sister and a witness to Silver Spoons past cruelty. There’s no way she will let me and Sweetie Belle be friends... Silver Spoon sighed as her ears went limp. “Rarity!” Sweetie Belle eagerly chirped back. “Would it be alright if Silver Spoon came over for a bit?” “S-Silver Spoon..?” Surprise flickered across Rarity’s face. She caught the disheartened look on Silver Spoons’ face and tried to play her shock off with an awkward smile. I knew it... The defeated silver earth pony quietly whimpered. The younger unicorn stomped her hoof, a little upset at her sisters’ reaction. “Please?” Sweetie Belle pleaded. “W-Well,” Rarity’s eyes darted between the scowl of her sister and Silver Spoon, who was staring at the ground. It was plain to Silver Spoon that her past actions were back to haunt her now. She looked up from her staring contest with the dirt and recognized a pony approaching. A tall, formally dressed rich onyx coated stallion approached, his silvery mane blew lazily in the breeze, one of her butlers. “Are you ready to depart, Miss Silver Spoon?” His thick aristocratic tone hailed distinctly from Canterlot, and he paid no mind to the other two ponies, as his steely gray eyes stayed on his young mistress as he awaited a response. Silver Spoon cast one glance at the two sisters, then turned back to her upright butler, her mind made up. “...Yes Seabastion,” she sharply replied in a more regal tone. The gray filly stood and gathered her saddle bag, then went to her butler’s side. However, she was stopped by somepony stepping on her tail. Silver Spoon glanced over her shoulder and saw it was Sweetie Belle who was stopping her from going. “But I thought you were coming to my house!” the young unicorn protested. “It’s alright... thank you for the offer, Sweetie Belle.” Silver Spoon quickly turned away as tears formed in her eyes. She inhaled deeply, getting a little control over her emotions, but not daring to cry in front of everypony. Despite some part of her wanting to go, she clearly wasn't welcome. Guilt gripped Rarity as made clear by her frown and at the display in front of her for doubting the little filly's feelings. “Silver Spoon, you are more than welcome to drop by if you like,” she offered, with a smile. “If you would prefer, I can pick you up from Carousel Boutique at sunset, Miss Silver Spoon,” Seabastion suggested with a slight turn of his head. UGH! I don’t need anypony’s PITY! I can’t believe I almost bought those LIES!! Silver Spoon bit back a groan and merely offered a shake of her head. “That’s quite alright, Seabastion, as I have grown weary and wish to return home now.” “As you wish, Miss Silver Spoon,” the black stallion said with a nod. He took the lead as Silver Spoon followed behind. Sweetie Belle’s impatience hit its peak. She stamped a hoof and called out to Silver Spoon, “Fine! You’re coming by tomorrow though right?” she ordered as opposed to giving as option. Sweetie Belle’s offer fell on deaf ears. Silver Spoon ignored the young unicorn and kept pace with her butler. She knew if she were to turn back now, there would be no hiding the tears she fought back, and that was something she refused to allow. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This evening had turned out like all the ones prior to it since Diamond Tiara left. The walk home only made her feel even more isolated; Seabastion never spoke unless spoken to. Once they arrived home, the maids and butlers greeted them as they normally did, offering hollow and meaningless smiles as if they were mocking her. Her dinner was delivered on a silver covered platter to her room to eat alone. The aroma drifted about the room meaninglessly. The gray filly didn't have much of a hunger for food; she hungered for affection, for Diamond Tiara. Tears once again formed in her violet eyes. It seemed literally everything had something to keep it company... except one whimpering gray filly. She placed her glasses on the bedside window sill and clapped her hooves together, turning off the light. She climbed into her over sized bed and slid under the soft velvety sheets. She finally stopped fighting the tears, and cried as much as she needed to like she did every night, until her pillow was soaked and she fell asleep. For this filly, today was nothing more than routine.
Hollyfern	930	2	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-03T12:13:09+00:00	2012-08-03T12:13:09+00:00	16,594	Silver Spoon loosed a tiresome sigh into her breakfast. She sat alone in a massive dining hall at one end of an almost equally as long dining table, set for three, as it usually was. One for her, her mother, and her father. Diamonds hung from the chandelier, which provided light to the entire room. She groaned and pushed her meal away. It wasn't what she was used to eating, even if it was on a silver platter, and the thickness of her oatmeal allowed a small sugar cube to sit atop her meal. She sighed again; she wasn't feeling particularly hungry this morning anyway. "Emerald," she finally called out. Within moments, a blond pegasus appeared from the kitchen on the other side of the room wearing a chef’s hat and apron which had an exaggerated-'Bam' written on the front. As he approached, the stallion’s eyes caught sight of his uneaten dish. "Is the meal not to your liking, Miss Silver spoon?" He asked, raising a brow at his uneaten dish. "Actually Emerald,” Silver spoon said as she stood from her chair. "I find myself without an appetite this morning." The chef nodded and picked up the platter, then returned to the kitchen without another word. Seabastion entered the room. Silver spoon noticed an odd spark behind his usual regal and poised eyes. Something had made him happy maybe? He placed her saddle bags by the door, then looked up with a slight smile. "Miss Silver spoon, it is time for you to depart for school," he said while trying to hide a smile Something DID make him happy! But...what? "Seabastion, what has you in such good spirits this morning?” Silver Spoon walked over and picked up her saddlebag, all while keeping a curious look on her butler. "It would appear that Miss Rarity and Miss Sweetie Belle have offered to walk you to sch.." Her butler’s words began to fade into a murmur. Even as he spoke, she couldn't believe him. How could she after yesterday? But...Seabastion has never lied, he has no reason to... "...Shall I send them away?" He offered, his slight smile disappeared, replaced by his usual stoic aristocratic look. "N-no!" Silver Spoon half pleaded. "I-I mean...I..." Seabastion’s smile returned as he nodded. "Well, it would be very unbecoming of you to keep them waiting Silver Spoon." She noticed her butler put more emotion into what he said; Seabastion was happy for her. She didn't think any of her staff cared about her more than what was necessary. Silver Spoon and her butler approached the towering wooden doors. The filly’s heart began to race; she was excited yet slightly scared. What if they left? What if they changed their mind and didn't want me to walk with them? Seabastion pressed open the doors. The light temporarily blinded her, but once her eyes adjusted her heart skipped a beat. "Silver spoon!" Sweetie Belle squeaked. "H-Hi Sweetie Belle!" A smile gradually grew on Silver Spoon’s face. Maybe she had been wrong yesterday. Maybe Sweetie Belle was being sincere and really did want to be her friend! "Run along now, Miss Silver Spoon. I will pick you up at sunset." Seabastion gently nudged Silver Spoon outside. The filly turned and looked up, a slightly confused look in her eyes. Wasn't he coming too? She liked the fact that Sweetie Belle and Rarity came but...without Seabastion, she didn't feel right. The stallion butler returned the young filly’s worried gaze with a warm, reassuring smile. As if to say, 'It'll be alright.' Silver Spoon slowly nodded like she understood, then stood uneasily next to Sweetie Belle who was smiling eagerly. "Come now little ones, you do not want to be late!" Rarity led the two fillies away from the mansion and toward the school. Sweetie Belle began talking to Silver Spoon, however the filly’s attention was drawn elsewhere. The gray earth pony constantly cast glances over her shoulder, as if she were expecting her faithful butler to be right behind her. Yet just as the mansion shrank the further they got, sodid Seabastion. The stallion smiled proudly as his little mistress went off on her own. He stood in the doorway until they were well out of sight. As chance would have it, and as unprofessional as it was, something changed in that stallion in that instance. --- On the way to school, Silver Spoon thoroughly enjoyed herself. Sweetie Belle told a few tales of her adventures with the other Cutie Mark Crusaders, and the worry she had melted away around Sweetie Belle. She didn't feel pressured to look cool, as opposed to being in Diamond Tiara’s presence. Their other classmates began to pass by, signaling that were close to the school. "Here we are darlings," Rarity chirped. "Have a wonderful day Sweetie Belle." The fashionista hugged her little sister tightly and smiled. Silver spoon watched, a little envious, but she smiled at the warm display nonetheless. She is lucky... The little earth filly inwardly sighed. Rarity caught sight of Sweetie Belle's new friend and decided Why not? "You have a wonderful day too, Silver Spoon." The mare hugged the earth pony tight, making sure their guest didn't feel left out. Silver Spoon didn't know how to react. She certainly wasn't expecting this. Unsure of what to do, she did what came naturally and hugged back. Rarity giggled as she attempted to break the embrace. She tried to move but found that the earth pony clung tightly to her neck. "Silver Spoon, dear, you can let go now." Silver Spoon quickly released Rarity and turned away with a slightly flushed face. How embarrassing! she chided herself "It's no problem, dear," the mare giggled. "I look forward to your visit later. Now, in you two go. Go on," she shooed the two fillies into the school. The school was already moderately full, with only one or two of their classmates missing. Cheerilee was busy at the blackboard writing today’s lesson. "I'll see you on the playground Silver Spoon!" Sweetie Belle waved a hoof as she went to her seat. Silver Spoon followed in suit and sat at her desk next to Apple Bloom, who was giving her curious looks. The filly ignored her neighbor and pulled out her notebook and a pencil from her saddlebag, sitting straight up and at attention. "Alright class," Cheerilee announced as she turned from the blackboard. "Today we will learn about Sea-ponies!" A few ponies groaned. Then again, what pony would believe in a pony that lived its life in the ocean? Silver spoon sighed. She knew the tale already and quickly tuned her teacher out. She turned her attention to her notebook as she opened it and flipped past a few doodles and drawings she did. They weren't exactly great but, unlike her classmates' drawings, you could actually tell what was a hoof and what wasn't. She felt slightly proud of herself as she found a loose blank page. She picked up her pencil and went to work. For some reason, Miss Cheerilee was on her mind so she worked around that subject. After about a half hour of work, Silver Spoon finished a rather well hoof drawn picture of Cheerilee among a bed of bright yellow sunflowers on a typical afterschool evening. The various colored pencils she used slightly cluttered her desk. She sat up with a huff and a bright, proud smile on her face. She signed her name in cursive on the bottom of it, but still felt eager to do more. Still bit by the inspiration bug, or rather boredom, she flipped through her notebook searching for another page. She didn't realize that, in her haste, she knocked off her recent art work, and as if by fate it slid under Apple Bloom’s desk. The filly didn't notice the drawing just below her hooves. She was too wrapped up in the lesson. Every now and again she wrote down things she thought might be important. "...And that's why most ponies believe Sea-ponies in fact, exist!" Cheerilee chirped as she finished some odd diagram on the board. She turned to her class, smiling as she always did. That is, until she noticed a scrap of paper under Apple Bloom's desk. "Apple Bloom, you really should put your trash in the trash can." Silver Spoon didn't catch what her teacher pointed out. Once again she was wrapped up in an art project. Apple Bloom, on the other hoof, looked puzzled as she spotted the piece of paper under her desk. As she bent down to get it, her cherry colored tail grazed Silver Spoon’s flank, which didn't break her concentration. "Wow..." the filly gasped when she saw the picture of Miss Cheerilee. She tried to make out the name at the bottom but found it hard to decipher. Apple Bloom returned to her seat and raised her hoof in the air. "Miss Cheerilee! Miss Cheerilee!" "Yes, Apple Bloom?" Cheerilee turned to her eager pupil to see that she was being beckoned to the desk. She smiled as she approached Apple Bloom’s desk. "What is...Wow...is this...me?" Their other classmates left their desks to see what the fuss was about. It wasn't until then did a certain gray earth pony notice a missing drawing. Oh no... Her heart sank as she knew what everypony was looking at. She lost her sense of confidence. Cheerilee read the signature at the bottom of the page, recognized the writing, and looked over at Silver Spoon, who seemed to melt in her seat as if she were trying to disappear. She decided not to say anything and return the drawing after class, however... "Hey! This is Silver Spoon’s name!" Archer, a deep blue filly pointed out. "Wow, Silver Spoon this is really awesome, eh?" Snails added, his attention along with the rest of the class turned to the now meek and shy earth pony barely peeking above her desk. Silver Spoon said nothing. She only looking pleadingly at Miss Cheerilee. She didn't like this much attention, she felt alienated. Different from when she was with Diamond Tiara who typically took charge of a situation like this because now, she was the center of attention and alone with no clue how to react. Cheerilee nodded, silently understanding her student’s feelings. "Alright, class. We still have a few more things to cover before recess." Nopony moved away, they were still ogling the drawing. “That is, unless you want homework." Cheerilee added, cocking a brow. Everypony quickly scrambled back to their respective desks. Just the mention of homework was powerful enough to command their attention. "That's what I thought,” Cheerilee giggled as she returned to the blackboard. "Now we are..." Silver Spoon sighed happily now that the awkward moment passed. The reality that her classmates were amazed set in, and she admittedly felt a little proud. Apple Bloom placed the drawing on Silver Spoon’s desk and smiled. "Wow Silver Spoon, this here is good! Ah'd never would 'ave pegged ya fer the artistic type!" Silver Spoon blushed at her classmate’s compliment. She offered a nod and smile, amazed that Apple Bloom, a filly that just yesterday ran from her, now praised her talent.
Hollyfern	930	3	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-03T12:56:35+00:00	2012-08-03T12:56:35+00:00	16,066	After about another hour and a half the recess bell rang, releasing the students from their dreadful imprisonment. Without waiting to be dismissed every filly and colt in class bolted out of the classroom, except for a small group of fillies. "That pith'ure you drew made mith' Cheerilee look 'thooooo preth'ious!" Twist chirped as she cooed over the drawing again. "Yeah, it's really good!” Sweetie Belle added. "I'm surprised your cutie mark isn't a pencil and a...and..." the filly stopped short, words escaped her as they sometimes did. "Big whoop!" Scootaloo snorted. "She probably traced it for all we know!" "No she didn't!" Apple Bloom protested. "Ah was sittin’ next to her the whole time and..." she picked the drawing up and thrust it in Scootaloo’s face. "This here is hoof drawn!" Silver Spoon didn't think too much of her drawing. Nothing to argue over, but she had been in class long enough to know that Apple Bloom and Scootaloo argued on a daily basis. In that moment it was clear that becoming friends with that pegasus will be hard. "You two, quit arguing!" Cheerilee chided. "It's recess, go play nice my little ponies." Apple Bloom and Scootaloo took one last furious glance at each other, then began laughing as if nothing happened. Silver Spoon didn't understand those two. They seemed to hate each other’s guts one moment, then be the best of friends the next. The group of fillies left the classroom and headed for the playground. Everypony seemed to be enjoying themselves. The Cutie Mark Crusaders galloped off, leaving Silver Spoon and Twist behind. She wanted to join them, but she felt out of place. "Aren't you going with them?" Twist asked as she too watched the Cutie Mark Crusaders go. "O-oh, no," Silver Spoon sighed. "Wait, aren't you their friend?" "I am," the amber-gray earth pony proudly stated. The filly saw the hint of sadness in her classmate’s face and knew just what to do. "I have 'thomething that'll make you 'thmile!" Twist hurried back inside to retrieve her 'surprise.' Silver Spoon shrugged. She looked off at the swing set where the Cutie Mark Crusaders were most likely about to attempt to find their own cutie marks. Just watching them play discouraged her a bit. They all had something in common that she would never experience again. ...It just means that she's full of potential. Sweetie Belle’s words from Diamond Tiara’s ‘Cutecinera’ echoed in her mind. Yeah the possibilities are like... Endless! Scootaloo’s words followed. Silver Spoon looked at her own cutie mark and half wished it would disappear. She was no longer full of potential, she was defined. Her possibilities are no longer endless, she found that end. What kind of cutie mark is a spoon anyway? A spoon is a tool! Maybe...that's what I am. A tool... Silver Spoon thought on it and realized that was just how Diamond Tiara treated her. As an accessory, as a tool. A tear crawled down her cheek at the realization that she had no real friends. Being alone was how she had been living. "Here!" Twist said through clenched teeth, between her teeth she held a green and white candy and offered it to her sobbing classmate. "I can't accept this," Silver Spoon sniffled as she wiped away a tear. "Thank you though, Twist." Not happy with the answer, Twist placed the candy cane snugly behind Silver Spoons ear. The gray filly looked slightly confused as her generous classmate smiled warmly at her. Again the question: Why are they treating me so...nice? came to mind. For all the things Silver Spoon knew, this completely baffled her. She loved the fact that she was being given a second chance, save for Scootaloo that is, but she still felt guilty about all the teasing she did. Her conscious gnawed at her relentlessly constantly making her feel worse. "Hey! Twist! Silver Spoon!" Sweetie Belle called from over at the swing set. "Are you two coming? Scootaloo is going to see if she can get a cutie mark for..." "C'mon 'thilvy." Twist giggled. "Let'th go!" Silver Spoon smiled and nodded. Admittedly, this curly maned filly began to grow on her. The pure generosity she has shown refreshed her to a degree. Both fillies joined the Cutie Mark Crusaders at the swing set as the ever adventurous mild orange pegasus pulled back on the swing as far as it allowed. She grounded her hind legs and tightly gripped the swing seat with the other two. Slowly she flapped her wings and gradually increased their speed until her wings were moving too fast to see. Scootaloo picked her hind legs up and as soon as she did she went soaring straight forward...into a tree. The four fillies rushed over to their friend, who hung upside down with an embarrassed smile. "Scootaloo are you alright?" Sweetie Belle called up into the tree. The pegasus loosened herself and fell on top of Silver Spoon, who collapsed underneath the weight. "Hopefully... that did it!" Scootaloo grunted as she got to her hooves. Not bothering to check on her safety cushion, she quickly turned and looked at her flank which still remained blank. "Well... that idea didn't work." "You're WELCOME!" Silver Spoon grunted as she stood. Her glasses, upon closer inspection had a crack that ran the length of her left lens. "Oh great... thanks a lot blan-" Silver Spoon bit back her words. She had something nice going and she knew if she finished that sentence it would be over. Scootaloo didn't bother to apologize. Obviously becoming friends with this filly would be harder than Silver Spoon expected; Scootaloo hasn't forgiven her. The group of fillies played together, this time including Silver Spoon. Although due to a certain pegasus, she was always 'it' or the monster. Gradually though, Scootaloo began to seem like a certain friend of Silver Spoon’s. Before long the bell rang to return to class. Everypony dragged their hooves back inside; for them recess was never long enough. "Silver Spoon!" Scootaloo called from behind her. The earth pony cast an angry glance over her shoulder. With her glasses broken, she had to strain her eyes to see the orange pegasus beckoning her away from the rest of the class. She had something to say and judging by the look on her face it wasn't good. She sighed and against her better judgment walked over to Scootaloo. "What?" She impatiently inquired. "Listen here, you might have my friends buying this pity play you've got going on but you don't fool me! And..." I figured as much... Silver Spoon tuned the angry pegasus out. She nodded now and again to feign like she was paying attention. "Are you done?" Not waiting for an answer, the gray pony headed inside. "I'm watching you," Scootaloo growled as she followed. --- Despite the little run in with Scootaloo, Silver Spoon couldn't wait for the bell to ring to dismiss them. Her mind raced with the things they would do. Make overs? Games? Shopping? Before the little filly knew it, the bell had rung again, dismissing the class. This time Twist and Silver Spoon were among one of the first outside. "Thank you again for the candy cane, Twist," Silver Spoon offered with a smile. The candy cane still rested behind her ear and she had no plans of eating it. After all it was a gift. "It'th alright, 'Thilvy." Twist proudly smiled. "Tell me how it taste'th! I can make all different kind'th of flavor'th!" "But, it's a gift from you. I'd rather not eat it." "Non'then'th, it'th candy! You're 'thuppo'thd to eat it!" Twist smiled at Silver Spoon expectantly waiting for her to eat it. The earth pony smiled back and decided to try her gift. She removed it from its plastic wrapping and placed the straight end in her mouth, as she did her eyes lit up. The sharp minty taste spread over her tongue like wild fire. "Mmmmm!!!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders appeared behind them and Sweetie Belle ran over to Silver Spoon, obviously excited about her coming over to the Carousel Boutique. "Are you ready Silver Spoon?!" The young unicorn eagerly asked. "Ready for what?" Apple Bloom asked. "Silver Spoon is coming over my house today!" Sweetie Belle proudly stated. "This is going to be sooo much fun!" "Aww! I want to come too!" Whined Apple Bloom. "Yeah, me too, Sweetie Belle!" Scootaloo added. Keeping to her word I see. Silver Spoon huffed. An opportunity like this she decided to use to get on Apple Blooms' good side at least; Scootaloo will be another story. "Hey, why not all of you come? It's sure to be a lot more fun that way!" Sweetie Belle gasped. “You know I didn't think of that! Good idea Silver Spoon!" "I gue'th I'll go 'thoo," Twist added. "I’ll meet up wi'th 'thu later." "Are you girls ready to go?" Rarity called to the little group of fillies as she approached. "Silver Spoon! Whatever happened to your lovely glasses?" "They..." the earth pony glanced at Scootaloo and sighed. "They fell." Rarity lifted the glasses from the little filly’s face and, in a flash of light, repaired them. She made them similar to the glasses she wore when working. "There." She placed the glasses back on Silver Spoon’s face and smiled. "Good as new, now, le-" "Rarity! Can the other Cutie Mark Crusaders and Twist come too?" Sweetie Belle asked. "F-Five fillies?" Rarity reeled at the thought of five young fillies running amok in Carousel Boutique. "Sweetie Belle darling, I just don't think-" "We can go to my house!" Silver Spoon unconsciously blurted out. What did I just say?! "Really?" everypony gasped. She had caught herself in a bad situation. Even Scootaloo seemed surprised and maybe, just maybe, she could get closer to her. "W-well, yeah," Silver Spoon finally said. "I'm sure Seabastion and the others wouldn't mind. Plus my house is plenty big for all of us, Miss Rarity." "Dear, what about your mother an-" "They don't care," Silver Spoon quickly interrupted, an echo of sadness in her voice. Rarity understood and merely nodded uneasily, obviously not too thrilled at the last minute change of plan. But it would please the little ones at least. "Well, you little fillies better get going!" The older unicorn smiled. "I'll inform your parents where you are." "Thank you Rarity!" The fillies sang as they galloped off.
Hollyfern	930	4	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-03T13:44:03+00:00	2012-08-03T13:44:03+00:00	16,034	The bright afternoon sun beamed down on the group of five fillies that had just arrived at Silver Spoons' three story tall home. Silver Spoons' guests marveled at the size of the massive dark brown twin wooden doors. "Thi'th i'th your home..?" Twist gasped in awe. "That was what I said when Rarity brought me this morning!" Sweetie Belle giggled. "I didn't get the chance to go in though." "Eh, it's nothing like the houses they have in Cloudsdale," Scootaloo waved her hoof dismissively. "Rainbow Dash’s house is a lot cooler than this." "I'm sure." Silver Spoon shrugged. She will be singing a different tune after she sees the inside! the filly confidently giggled to herself. "Well what're we waitin’ fer!" Impatiently, Apple Bloom knocked as hard as her little hoof allowed. The doors eerily creaked open and a white unicorn mare appeared in a maid’s outfit. Despite her eyes being visibly shut, she turned to Silver Spoon and nodded. "We were not expecting you back so soon, Miss Silver Spoon." She reeled as she realized the company Silver Spoon was with. "And... these… err... ponies?" She motioned with a hoof at Twist and Co. "August Hoof, these are my guests," the young mistress proudly smiled. "I am sorry that this is last minute." Silver Spoon dipped her head in respect to her maid. August Hoof looked over the group through half opened eyes then sighed. "Very well." She widened the door to allow their guests in. The young fillies entered and were instantly struck with awe. The wide, spiraling. pearly white staircase was accented with shimmering golden railings. A glass elevator ran through the middle of the staircase up the three flights for ease of access. A grand chandelier loomed above, decorated with several crystals reflecting light through the foyer. A red carpet ran all around, to the left where Silver Spoon had (or rather hadn't had) breakfast this morning, and to the right, which led around to the back of the house. The mare relieved the fillies of their saddlebags and hung them on a rack behind the door. "Your saddle bags will be by the front door," August Hoof instructed. "And do try not to touch the priceless pieces of art on the corridors of the second floor. Lastly, the large door on the third floor at the end of the hallway has a sign that says, and I quote, ‘DO. NOT. ENTER.’ I trust you know what that means. Just in case however, DO. NOT. ENTER.” Unbeknownst to August Hoof, the fillies had left her by the front door talking to nopony since the beginning of her speech. "This was an unexpected turn of events..." She mused to herself. The fillies were already busy in another part of the mansion: the back corridor on the first floor. A seemingly endless string of lights on the ceiling lit their path as Silver Spoon started their tour. "Wooooow..." Sweetie Belle admired. "Your family has aloooooot of bits... what does your family do?" "My family was one of the first in Ponyville, back when the population was hoof counted," Silver Spoon proudly stated. "We also own a lot of land too." "Mah family is kinda like that too!" Apple Bloom eagerly added. "'Cept all we own is the farm." "If I remember correctly," Twist said as she pushed up her glasses. "The Apple family and the 'thilver family are two of the oldest in Equestria!" "So being a snob runs in Silver Spoons' family!" Scootaloo snickered. "No surprise there." Ok, I TRIED being nice. One more snarky or sassy remark, just ONE, Scootaloo...’ Silver Spoon inwardly threatened. "I guess you could say that, let's keep going." Silver Spoon purposely pushed the disrespectful pegasus out of her way as she continued down the corridor. "Watch where you're going!" The orange filly retorted. "Heh, then again you are wearing glasses." Silver Spoon abruptly stopped. Just as she was about to turn and tell Scootaloo off she heard Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle whispering. The word 'sorry' was thrown around a bit. She decided to pretend she didn't hear anything, but she wasn't about to pass up this opportunity. "What did you say Scootaloo?" Silver Spoon turned with a giggle and innocent smile. The whispering continued on for a moment more, ending with a defeated sigh from the pegasus. "I'm sorr-e miss snob!" Scootaloo giggled. Sweetie Belle prodded her friend’s side, wearing an irritated look. "Fine! I'm sorry Silver Spoon. There I said it." She pouted. Silver Spoon continued her tour with a sense of satisfaction. The first floor tour consisted of a large indoor swimming pool with water so clear one could see the family cutie mark embedded at the bottom. The back corridor led to the 'ginormous' kitchen. A hoof full of ponies shuffled about the kitchen. A plethora of scents filled the fillies' noses. Emerald approached the group smiling from ear to ear. "Well well, what have we here?" He chuckled. "You girls hungry? I can whip you up something like BAM!" He struck a goofy pose, winking and pointing his hoof at the girls. "Are any of you hungry?" Silver Spoon asked. "Ah could eat!" Apple Bloom chirped. "Me too!" Sweetie Belle added. "If it'th not too much trouble." smiled Twist. "Yeah,” Scootaloo nodded. “Count me in too. What can you cook?" "Well for my little misses’ filly friends I have something just for the occasion. Go and look around some more, I'll send for you when I'm done." Emerald stamped his hoof three times in succession, and three other ponies came to him. The chef whispered something and the others went to work. "Hey, how about we go to my room?" Silver Spoon suggested. "Hey yeah!" Sweetie Belle chirped. "I wonder if it's as big as I think." "Knowing miss prissy, it's huge," Scootaloo giggled. "Actually, Scoots," Silver Spoon giggled. "It is." "Don't call me that!" The orange pegasus growled. "Oh?" Silver Spoon stalked around Scootaloo wearing a devious smile. "How about Scooty? Scooty-loo?" Serves you right. She giggled as she egged the pegasus on. "Calm down you dodo, I'm just playing." "What is it with you and Sweetie Belle saying that?! What does that even mean?" Scootaloo groaned. "Oh don't you worry about it Scooty. Come on! My room is on the third floor." Silver Spoon lead the group back out into the foyer, and Apple Bloom whizzed by her to the elevator. "Hey! Can we take the elevator up?" the yellow filly squeaked. "Yeah!" Sweetie Belle added. "Well..." Silver Spoon thought for a moment. "I guess, yeah." She nodded. "Cool!" Scootaloo chirped. "Cool?" echoed Silver Spoon. "Scooty, thank you." "Err... I-I mean it's like not every day you ride an elevator in somepony's home you know?" The pegasus nervously chuckled. "Yeah, let's go with that." "I 'thwear 'Thootaloo, you're 'tho weird 'thomtime'th," Twist giggled as she joined Apple Bloom in the elevator. The pegasus groaned as she and Silver Spoon joined the others. Once inside, Silver Spoon pushed a lever back until the number '3' was highlighted. A light mechanical hum started and the lift slowly rose from ground level. As it climbed to the second floor, the fillies caught sight of several marble busts atop pedestals extending down both directions of the hallway. "Those are my ancestors, past ponies of the Silver family tree," Silver Spoon stated. "Only the colts and fillies that bear a variation of the Silver Spoon cutie mark inherit the family fortune." "So, what if you had a brother?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Only one of us would inherit the fortune, the other usually becomes a servant or moves out." "Ain't that kinda’ mean?" Apple Bloom inquired, cocking an eyebrow in confusion. "Ah mean why not just share the money? That's family after all." Silver Spoon just shrugged. Even she knew that made sense. No answer she could think of felt right. She had just accepted that fact and was partially thankful she was born an only foal. "That's how a snob works, Apple Bloom." Scootaloo turned her nose up in disgust. "Selfish and always looking out for themselves." The pegasus' words wounded her. Was that true? It does seem cruel, after all, to think of yourself over your family. A light 'ding' signaling that the elevator reached the appropriate floor broke her train of thought. The group exited the elevator and unanimously turned left, towards the door at the end of the hallway. The door seemed to call to them, the allure of the forbidden secret door. A sign hung from the door knob: 'Do Not Enter.' "What's behind the door?" Scootaloo asked, her growing anticipation glowing in her eyes. "I don't know," Silver Spoon responded with a shrug. "My parents told me I can't go back there until I come of age." "So, you're going back there on your birthday?" Sweetie Belle tilted her hear to the side. "Uh, no. When I become a mare, head of the family after my dad. Come on, my room is down the other way." The gray filly led her group down the other end of the hallway. "Ain't ya even curious about what's back there?" Apple Bloom asked as she cast backward glances at the tantalizing door. "No," Silver Spoon curtly replied a hint of frustration in her voice. "From the little glimpses I've seen it's only books anyway." "Maybe it'th be'tht if we ju'tht drop it..."Twist meekly suggested. "Yeah, sorry Silver Spoon," Sweetie Belle added. "It's alright." The filly sighed as they arrived at a decorative pink door with her cutie mark. "Here we are." She gave a half-hearted smile. Much like with most of her home, when Twist and the Cutie Mark Crusaders laid eyes on her room, they were impressed, to say the least. Maybe it was the spaciousness of the room, or the oversized bed that could easily fit all five of them. Maybe the tall tri-fold vanity mirror complete with a little make up kit or possibly the seemingly endless walk-in closet filled with assorted dresses in a variety of colors. "Want to see something else cool?" Silver Spoon cockily smirked. "Watch this." The group turned to see their hostess open a small panel next to the door, revealing several buttons and a small speaker. Silver Spoon pressed one of the buttons and began to speak. "Emerald, are you finished?" A little buzzing sound rang for a moment followed by the chefs voice. "Sending the first batch up now, miss Silver Spoon." On command a knock came to the door. Twist opened it and was greeted with a silver tray presented by one of the unicorn butlers. "Whatcha’ think they made?" Apple Bloom removed the lid revealing a tray full of sweet smelling cupcakes. "Plenty more where that came from," Emerald's voice chuckled. "Just give me a ring and more will be there like-BAM." Each of the fillies sampled the chef’s cupcakes, chewing slowly as if they were critiquing them. "They're alright..." Scootaloo said as she took another bite. "Nothing like a Pinkie Pie cupcake though." Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom nodded in agreement. "Everypony knows that Pinkie Pie is one of the best bakers in all of Equestria." Apple Bloom commented. "Hmm..." Silver Spoon recalled Diamond Tiara’s cuteceniera and shook her head, remembering how burnt those cupcakes were. "Uhh, no. Those cupcakes at Diamond’s cuteceniera were HORRIBLE!" Apple Bloom blushed and laughed nervously. "Actually Silver Spoon... ah made those..." "No way!" Silver Spoon gasped. "Huh, I thought 'thomthing wa'th off with miss Pinkie'th baking that day," Twist giggled. "How can your sister rock at baking and you kinda... I don't know, don't rock at it?" Scootaloo chuckled. "I mean really, Applejack’s baking is almost as good as Pinkie Pie’s!" Apple Bloom’s yellow face turned bright red from a mix of feelings. "Oh shut up dodo!" The filly threw a cupcake at Scootaloo, scoring a perfect headshot right between the eyes. Apple Bloom laughed as the pastry slid down her friend’s face leaving a trail of blue icing. For a moment a deafening silence fell over the room. Then a delightful idea struck Silver Spoon. "Emerald, send more cupcakes-NOW!" she whispered into the intercom knowing what was about to happen next. "You... you..!" Scootaloo armed herself with two cupcakes and struck the laughing filly with both, then laughed at the icing covering her mane and face. "Oh. It. Is. ON!" the yellow filly dramatically threatened. The two smiled as they reloaded. Then they proceeded to pelt one another with cupcakes. Before long Twist, Silver Spoon, and even Sweetie Belle took up arms as part of their playful war. Hours passed as more plates of cupcakes magically appeared in the room. They were quickly emptied as their contents were fired about Silver Spoon’s once tidy space. Playful squeals echoed through the battlefield as cupcakes blazed about, covering the walls, the windows, the floor, the ceiling, and the door. These soldiers created a colorful mess of a once civil place of respite. Once the laughter of war ceased and ammunition ran dry, the five little bodies laid down about the battlefield. These brave souls fought their hardest and it showed. Their manes, tails, and coats were covered in several different colors from their heated battle. Yes, this battle shall forever go down in history as the Great Cupcake Massacre. Silver Spoon panted as she lied strewn across her sticky, ruffled bed alongside her partners, Sweetie Belle and Twist. "That...was...incredible." She laughed between breaths. "Ye'th!" Twist streched and giggled. "I haven't had fun like that in a while!" "Totally!" Scootaloo chirped from behind the vanity mirror. "Like that one part where I hit Silver Spoon and her glasses came clean off!" "Oh yeah! Where are my glasses anyway?" The gray filly strained her eyes as she scanned the multi-colored room for her glasses. Out of the corner of her eye she caught Sweetie Belle point a hoof straight up at the ceiling, then burst into uncontrollable laughter. The other fillies followed in suit, breaking into their own laughing fits. As it turned out, somehow Silver Spoon’s glasses were held hostage by blue icing. "Good Heavens!" Sweetie Belle cringed at the sound of that all too familiar voice. "What happened here?!" The fillies sheepishly turned and saw a dumbfounded Rarity as she looked around the remains of Silver Spoon’s room. "We were playing a game!" Sweetie Belle replied, not really comprehending the trouble that was about to ensue. "Uhh...well! Would ya look at the time!" Apple Bloom pointed to the cupcake smeared window, wearing an uncomfortable smile. "Ah best be gettin’ back home t' Applejack!" The yellow filly tried to sneak past Rarity, but a very sturdy white hoof stamped down in her way. "Why all the ruckus?" Rang a voice that made Silver Spoon facehoof. August Hoof came into view and her face was instantly struck with horror. "My word..!" She gasped before turning her scorn on the fillies. "Who is responsible for this?!" The fillies hung their heads. They knew punishment was coming and it would probably involve them being barred from Silver Spoon’s home. I can't let that happen! Silver Spoon quickly thought of an excuse that would at least take most of the blame off Twist and the others. "Me," she firmly announced as she hopped from the bed and approached the two mares. "I threw the first cupcake so what happened here is my fault." August Hoof was taken aback, obviously expecting one of her friends to be the culprit. "S-Surely you wouldn't purpo-" "August Hoof! You heard me." Everypony, even Rarity, remained silent. The air felt tense, as if something else were about to happen. "...Very well. It will be taken care of immediately,” the maid said with a nod. She cast one last disgusted glance that, thankfully Rarity didn't catch, then left the room. An odd awkwardness hung in the room for a while, until Rarity broke the silence. "W-well, come along Sweetie Belle. Apple Bloom. Twist. Scootaloo. It's late, time to go." Rarity waved a hoof for them to follow her. Begrudgingly, each filly got to their hooves and began to leave. "Bye Silver Spoon..." Sweetie Belle waved. "Yeah, this was fun-even for you," Scootaloo teased. This time though, without the normal snarkiness behind her voice. "We should really do this again sometime!" Apple Bloom chirped. "'Thee you at 'thool tomorrow 'thilvy!" Twist giggled. Before long, Silver Spoon was alone. She stretched and sprang to her bed, where the moon shone down on Equestria from high in the night sky. She hadn't realized it had gotten this late; somewhere in the frenzy, somepony must've hit the light switch. She sighed and hoped that they could do something like that again. But, for now, she had to get cleaned up. As she made her way to her restroom, the laughter of the Great Cupcake Massacre rang fresh in her ears.
Hollyfern	930	5	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-03T20:10:25+00:00	2012-08-03T20:10:25+00:00	14,844	Silver Spoon groaned as the setting evening sun’s gentle orange rays interrupted her rest. The filly had been bed ridden all day, due to a stomach ache brought on by too many sweets the day before. She sighed as she cast her gaze out the window. Silver Spoon longed to be at school right now, she missed the arguments from the Cutie Mark Crusaders already! Earlier that morning she knew she felt sick, but she tried to keep anypony from being the wiser. Unfortunately, the weightless feeling on the elevator caused her to throw up, and needless to say, blew her cover. The filly giggled quietly to herself at the fiasco which threw the entire mansion into a state of panic. Everypony was still on high alert. Constantly peeking in on her was mainly Emerald, who felt responsible for her current condition. She had to order the poor stallion to take the day off. The door to her room crept open and August Hoof stepped in, carrying a small tray. From the smell of it, it was time for her second dose of medicine. "No... not again, August Hoof," Silver Spoon complained as she hid her head beneath the sheets. "I must say, you put on quite a show this morning young lady," her maid giggled. "But, this is Nurse Tenderheart’s orders, Miss Silver Spoon." "No. Go 'way," she waved a hoof under the sheets, shooing August Hoof away like a little foal. The unicorn couldn't help but giggle at her young mistress' odd defiance. She glanced around the room, then closed and locked the door. "Silver Spoon," she started, her voice taking on a motherly yet serious tone in place of her usual one. "Well, there is something I want to talk about." The gray earth pony peeked from beneath the sheets at August Hoof. Her maid sat next to her on her bed and sat the foul smelling tray down. "Yes?" She asked. "First, I want to apologize for the way I treated your guests yesterday... I thought they were... like her." August Hoof’s face reflected disgust as a certain magenta filly came to mind. "I can see I was wrong. Now, tell me something, and I know you have an answer. You're a bright filly, after all." August Hoof proudly smiled. Something that, until then, Silver Spoon thought was genetically impossible for her normally strict maid. "Do you know about the relationship between the Diamond family and ours?" Silver Spoon nodded. "Of course. I've known for as long as I can remember. The Diamond family was a mining family that bought a small patch of land from my ancestor, Miracle Spoon and found their fortune when Diamond 'Rocky' Mane found the biggest reserve of raw diamonds in Equestria." "That's right," August Hoof nodded knowingly. "Our two families have been close business partners and friends ever since. You will be the next head of the family, that means making A LOT of enemies, ruthless ponies who just want nothing more than money in this world-" "Like my mother..." Silver Spoon sighed as she hung her head. "Silver Spoon, take it from me," the aged unicorn lifted Silver Spoon chin and warmly smiled. "She does her best. And you are proof of that. I can say, for a silver, you've changed within the last month. You're..." Her maid paused as she searched for the right word to describe her young mistress. "...Different." "D-Different?" The filly tilted her head. She didn't feel any different... aside from being sick that is. "Well, take last night for example. The old Silver Spoon would have never raised her voice at me, especially not to defend those... oh what's the word?" August Hoof tapped a hoof on her forehead, trying to remember the nickname Silver Spoon gave Apple Bloom and her friends. "No flanks?" "Blank Flanks..." Silver Spoon sighed. Memories flooded in of the endless cruelty she and Diamond Tiara put the Cutie Mark Crusaders through. The more she thought on it, the less she felt they would accept her. "Yes, Blank Flanks. You just might be the breath of fresh air our family needs." August Hoof caught the depression on Silver Spoon’s face, smiled, and gently patted the sick pony on her head. "An honest pony with some real heart." Silver Spoon smiled a bit, reassured by her maid’s words. "Hey, August Hoof, how do you know so much about my family? I don't recall Seabastion or anypony else knowing these things." "That's my secret." The unicorn playfully winked. "Now, medicine time!" "Fine..." Silver Spoon rolled her eyes and groaned. The lid floated off the tray, revealing a clear bottle of green goo. The gray filly reeled as August Hoof opened the bottle. The rank smell intensified, yet, did not faze her maid in the least. The unicorn smiled as she poured a little in a measured cup. "Open," her maid commanded. For a moment, Silver Spoon stared at the goop, doubting if it would actually make her feel better. In truth, the sight and smell made her only served to back her doubts. She opened her mouth to protest, but before she could make a sound, the thick goo shot into her mouth and assaulted her taste buds, making her lips pucker on contact. She gagged for a moment and flailed her hooves about as she held it in, then painfully swallowed. As it went down, she shuddered and panted, making August Hoof giggle at the sight as she put the tray away. "Now, August Hoof, give me an honest answer," Silver Spoon sternly said. "How do... OOooOoooOohhHh..." Before she could ask her question, her stomach churned making her feel queasy for a moment. The maid cleared her throat and dropped her motherly tone. "Get some rest deary." She smiled and along with the tray, August Hoof left Silver Spoon to herself. The gray filly sighed and went to window gazing. Her energy slowly began to build back up, and with that, she became increasingly skittish. Silver Spoon caught a reflection of herself and giggled at how messy her usually braided and kempt mane looked. With boredom settling in, she restlessly shifted about her bed, desperate to do something. "Miss Silver Spoon," Seabastion’s voice called from behind her room door. "Are you awake?" Silver Spoon groaned. She remained silent and laid back on her bed. Her full attention was on finding something to do right now, not to be bothered with more medicine. "Can you give her thi'th?" the much welcome sound of Twists' speech impediment rang from behind her door. "Yeah, tell her that she better feel better soon too! Last night was awesome!" Judging only by the word 'awesome', Silver Spoon assumed that voice belonged to Scootaloo. "How sick is she?" Sweetie Belles' silky angel voice added. "Ah hope she really does feel better." The final voice along with that unmistakable accent belonged to Apple Bloom Those voices...! Silver Spoon gasped as a smile grew on her face. She eagerly sprang from her bed and rushed to the door. Upon opening it she saw the faces of four fillies light up as they laid eyes on their friend. "You came! You came! You came!" the gray filly sang as she bounced around her guests. "Well 'course we came silly filly!" Apple Bloom giggled. "Why wouldn't we?" Sweetie Belle added. "It's just... I didn't think you guys wanted to be my friend..." Silver Spoon admitted. "Now why the hay would ya go and think that nonsense, Silver Spoon?" "I used to be so...mean to you all," she shrugged. "Exactly!" Scootaloo nodded. "You used to be. That's all ancient history now. And... I guess I'm kinda sorry I gave you a hard time and all. After what you did yesterday, you're alright in my book!" "Yea!" Apple Bloom nodded. "Water under the bridge, as Big Mac would say." "Everypony needs a friend, Silver Spoon," Sweetie Belle added. "And you are our'th!" Twist smiled. Silver Spoon was struck speechless. They had finally forgiven her. Now, what happened in the past was now put to rest. Apple Bloom, Twist, Sweetie Belle, and even Scootaloo called her their friend. "We made you card'th!" Twist presented a small drawing, with the words 'Get well soon Silver Spoon. The inside depicted a sick Silver Spoon with a thermometer in her mouth and an ice pack on her forehead, in addition to a mini green and white candy cane. "It wa'th 'Thweetie Belle'th idea!" "Do try not to overexert Miss Silver Spoon, she does still need her rest until she fully recovers," Seabastion said. His words fell on deaf ears, the five fillies seemed to have forgotten he was even still there. With a smile, he nodded approvingly and disappeared down the hallway. "I did one too!" Scootaloo proudly added as she presented a more dynamic version very becoming of the pegasus' personality. Each of the fillies presented their unique and colorful 'Get Well Soon' cards, each reflecting their individual personalities. Silver Spoon grinned ear to ear like a certain pink pony, her heart warmed by this unexpected display for her well-being. "I...I...thank you soo much!" The gray filly collected her cards and led her new friends into her room. "Y'know something, I think you look better with your mane down," Scootaloo pointed out as she and the other fillies followed. "And I'm usually the last pony to care about all that frou-frou stuff." "Scootaloo has a point," Apple Bloom chuckled. "When she is the voice of fashion somethin’ is HORRIBLY wrong." Everypony, even her punch line laughed at that truth. Silver Spoon laughed along with her friends as she sat her gifts on her bed. "I haven't brushed it today is all." She ran a hoof through her messy mane and giggled. "So, you all... really forgive me, huh?" "Of course!" Scootaloo confidently replied. "Cross my heart, hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!" the Cutie Mark Crusaders chanted as they made odd gestures which left Twist and Silver Spoon with dumbfounded looks. "What...what was that?" Silver Spoon chuckled, slightly confused yet amused by the movements and rhymes. "That's what we call a Pinkie Pie promise!" Scootaloo stated. "An that's the kinda promise friends keep," Apple Bloom continued. "A promise, forever!" Sweetie Belle finished. "Forever?" Twist echoed. FOOOOOORREEEVVVVVVERRR! Twist and Silver Spoon jumped at the eerie voice that echoed from the hallway. The Cutie Mark Crusaders just laughed, they knew the culprit behind the ominous voice. The ponies turned their attention to the doorway to see the pink pony in question standing, eyeing the group as if she had been there the whole time. "What are ya doin' here Pink?" Apple Bloom asked, using the pet name her older sister uses. The dark look vanished from her face in an instant, replaced with her natural, bubbly smile. "Oh, I was sent by Applejack to fetch you four!" Pinkie Pie paused as something just crossed her mind. “You know... that's a little odd, because I'm not a dog... You'd think that if she wanted you girls fetched, she would have sent Winona..." "How... how did she..?" Silver Spoon’s head tried to make sense of how the mare before her could do that. "Oh, it's just Pinkie Pie." Scootaloo shrugged. "You kinda get used to it." "More like ya gotta get used to it," Apple Bloom added. "Oh! 'Thpeaking of which," Twist turned to Silver Spoon, who was slowly beginning to develop a phobia of a pony that could be anywhere at any given time. "Where will your party be?" "Paaaaarty?" Pinkie Pie cheerfully echoed. The gray filly backed away from the increasingly fearsome pink pony. "Oh you've GOT to let me throw it!" Pinkie Pie dashed over to Silver Spoon. She stopped and balanced on the tips of her forehooves, their faces mere inches from each other. "Y-Yes..." Silver Spoon whimpered. "I-It's f-four days away..!" The poor filly cowered underneath Pinkie Pie's energetic gaze. The pink mare’s jaw dropped as she gasped. "Four days! Oh boy, this will be a toughie to pull off!" She tapped a hoof on her chin, pondering her course of action as she rounded the corner down the hallway, leaving an unfortunate victim in her wake. "C'mon girls! I got work to do!" Pinkie Pie called. "Sorry about that, Pinkie Pie tends to pop up whenever somepony does her promise." Scootaloo chuckled knowingly as she caught the horror-stricken look about Silver Spoon’s face. "Don't worry though! Hangin’ with us, you'll get used to it!" "Girls!" The mare called in a high pitched squeal. "You know, we better get going," Sweetie Belle drably pointed out. The other fillies nodded in agreement as they left Silver Spoon alone and still coping with the entity that is Pinkie Pie. She...she must've been around the corner out of sight...yeah that's it. Hiding. The filly nodded as reason alleviated some of her fear. Although… there's only one way to be sure. Silver Spoon closed her door and pressed a button on the knob, locking the door. She climbed into her bed and moved her cards to the window sill. She inhaled deeply and closed her eyes tight in case the pink mare did appear. "Cross... my heart..." she shakily began. "H-Hope to... to fly..." She gulped as she silently mouthed the end of the chant, then voiced it. "Stick a cupcake I-in my eye..." Silver Spoon slowly opened one eye and glanced around her room for any sign of her innocent pink tormentor. After a few rounds she sighed happily, she found herself alone and for once liked it. FOOOOOORREEEVVVVVVERRR! She slowly turned to her window and loosed an inaudible shriek as her violet fearful eyes met with those of an ethereal Pinkie Pie in her window. The filly frantically scrambled away from the sight until she fell off her bed and bumped her head. --- The pink themed room of a certain filly that now resided in Manehattan was littered with giant stuffed dolls of various creatures, all offering the same fixed smile about their face. One doll in particular was filly sized and lay in a bed alongside its owner. The doll’s gray cloth and realistic silver mane and tail were as soft as the filly it resembled. As soft as Silver Spoon herself. The doll’s owner cuddled and nuzzled it as it offered the same stoic smile as the rest of the dolls. But, to the magenta filly that cared so deeply for the pony it represented, it was much more than just stitches and stuffing. Memories of the time spent together with Silver Spoon. "Bump bump sugar-lump rump!" The filly chanted as she tossed the doll in the air and caught it in a hug. "You are aware the Miss Silver Spoons' birthday is approaching, right Princess Diamond Tiara?" One of her butlers asked as he entered her room. "Like, duh," the filly chuckled as she rolled her eyes. "Silver Spoon is my best friend! Plus it would be totally rude not to grace all of Ponyville with my presence. "Very good," the servant nodded. "I shall RSVP immedia-" "No wait!" Diamond Tiara interrupted as a thought came to mind. "I think I'll make it a surprise for her." She nodded as she hugged her doll tight. "Celestia knows that filly doesn't have a single friend since I left." "As you wish." Her butler remained silent as he dipped his head in respect and backed out of the filly's room. "Oh Silver Spoon," she affectionately sighed as she imagined the real deal in her hooves instead of the life-less doll. "I totally can't wait to see you again." Bump Bump Sugar-Lump Rump
Hollyfern	930	6	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-03T22:49:00+00:00	2012-08-03T22:49:00+00:00	13,770	The doors to the Ponyville School erupted open with cheers and flying papers, all the little fillies and colts racing out with wide smiles. Among them was the newly forged group of friends who were laughing and giggling right along with all the others. Cheerilee watched with a smile as the ponies bounded off towards town. She walked back into the schoolhouse to enjoy her little break before class began anew next week. "This is gonna be AWESOME!" Scootaloo chirped. "A whole week to find our cutie marks!" "We should head fer the club house t' get started!" Apple Bloom said as she picked up her pace to a slight gallop. "We ain't got no time to spare!" "Alrighty!" Sweetie Belle squeaked. The Cutie Mark Crusaders began galloping off in the direction of Sweet Apple Acres, leaving leaving two confused fillies in their wake. "What...what do we do?" Twist asked, giving Silver Spoon a worried look. The gray filly shrugged and shook her head. "I... I don't know, Twist." "Hey!" Apple Bloom shouted from a distance. "Aren't yall comin?" The pale yellow filly followed by the others trotted back to the duo. "But...Twist and I aren't Cutie Mark Crusaders," Silver Spoon pointed out. "Yeah, are we even allowed to 'thee the club hou'the?" Twist added. "Well 'course yall are," Apple Bloom said as she gave a confused look. "Why wound't yall be allowed?" "Wait, I think they have a point," Scootaloo nodded. "The can't see the club house because they're not one of us!" "Scootaloo that's so mean!" Sweetie Belle protested, a little surprised by the pegasus' words. "No no no!" she said, waving a hoof. "See, I really mean that we should let them join!" "Huh...not a bad idea," Apple Bloom admitted. "Even though both of 'em have their cutie mark, there isn't a rule keeping them from joining I guess." "Yeah! And maybe they know some way to help us get our cutie marks too!" Sweetie Belle smiled. "Cutie Mark Crusaders Group Meeting!" The three fillies shouted before huddling up and whispering amongst themselves. Twist and Silver Spoon anxiously awaited the others to finish their meeting. "What do you think they're talking about?" Silver Spoon whispered to Twist, her heart pounding from the excitement of the possibility of becoming a Cutie Mark Crusader. "Beat'th me." the filly replied with a shrug. "But... it would be neat to be a Cutie Mark Crusader, don't you think?" "Alright!" Apple Bloom proclaimed. "We have decided that in order to join yall have to swear an oath!" "An oath?" Silver Spoon echoed with a slight chuckle. "Yea!" Scootaloo nodded. "A promise that as ponies with your cutie marks, you pass on what you know and help us get ours!" "What she said!" Sweetie Belle comically added. "Ok!" Twist eagerly grinned. "I promi'th t-" "No wait!" Apple Bloom placed a hoof over Twists mouth. Her eyes darted around to everypony as if she were looking for a spy. "Not here, at the club house!" she whispered. --- The group of fillies approached the quaint rustic red tree house. The wooden light blue painted steps in particular caught Silver Spoon’s eye, the craftsmanship showed. "Wow..." Silver Spoon gasped. "Your sister built this for you all?" "Well... not exactly," Apple Bloom admitted as she rubbed a hoof on the back of her head. "It was fallin apart at first, but ah fixed it up." A faint blush ran across her face "Well you three did a pretty good job!" Silver Spoon admitted. "I didn't help much," Sweetie Belle said. "I was busy cleaning up." "Me neither, I made the map!" Scootaloo proudly added. "'Tho... that mean'th you did thi'th by your'thelf Apple Bloom?" The pale filly blushed slightly as she opened the door. "Aw shoot, yall make it seem like such a big deal." "Well it IS impressive," Silver Spoon muttered as she and Twist followed the others in. The inside of the club house glowed yellow. A crudely drawn map of Ponyville hung on the back wall; for some reason Silver Spoon couldn't figure out each major spot was crossed out. Sunlight shone in from behind a flower patterend pink and red curtain covering the window. A small miniature red piano sat in the corner along with a ponyquin, complete with assorted colorful fabrics, including one glistening gold color and a hoof powered sewing machine. "Now, future cutie mark crusaders," Scootaloo started. "ATTENTION!" the pegasus commanded. Both Silver Spoon and Twist decided to play along and stood at attention. Both, wearing a serious expression that masked their laughter. "To be one of us its more than just fun and games!" Apple Bloom continued. "Since y'all already have your cutie marks, y'all have to promise t' help us in our quest to find ours!" "Yes ma'am!" Silver Spoon and Twist proudly answered. "Girls," Sweetie Belle laughed. "This is a bit silly. Why not just have them recite the theme?" "Well, yea." Apple Bloom nodded as she giggled. "That would be alot easier, I just got wrapped up in what Scoots was saying." "Repeat after me," the young unicorn commanded before clearing her throat. "Look, here are three little ponies Ready to sing for this crowd Listen up, 'cause here's our story I'm gonna sing it very loud!... " Sweetie Belle’s voice echoed beautifully through the room. Silver Spoon and Twist listened in awe at the unicorn’s uncanny gift for projecting her voice fully and holding notes with such perfection that normally takes ponies years to train for. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo smiled proudly, knowing all too well of Sweetie Belle’s talent. Her voice is beautiful! Silver Spoon admitted. I don't think even Sapphire Shores can sing this well! "...We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks We are the Cutie Mark Crusaders On a quest to find out who we are And we will never stop the journey Not until we have our cutie marks!" By the time Silver Spoon and Twist began singing along in addition to Scootaloo and Apple Bloom, everypony was winded and laughing, panting heavily as they all sang at the top of their lungs. "Th... That was... The song... from the talent show," Silver Spoon said between breaths. "Except... it sounded... GOOD this time." She giggled. "Yeah!" Twist nodded. "'Thweetie Belle... why didn't you 'thing at the talent 'thow?" The unicorn replied by shaking her head. "I can't sing in front of a crowd... besides, I did the costumes and scenery!" "And I did choreography!" Apple Bloom proudly stated. "Well, to me it sounds like you all have your roles completely out of place." Silver Spoon said. "I don't mean any offence, but obviously Apple Bloom should have done scenery and costumes with her wonderful taste in color, and the fantastic job she did with the clubhouse." The filly gestured to the shelter around them. "Sweetie Belle’s beautiful voice should have been the focus of the vocals and Scootaloo... hmmm..." "Well Scootaloo taught me how to spin." Apple Bloom nodded knowingly. "More or less that is." "I don't get it." Twist said as she tilted her head to the side. "'Thiver 'Thpoon i'th right." "Well, I just don't like singing to crowds." Sweetie Belle waved a hoof dismissing the thought. "Plus, I wanna be a designer like Rarity!" "Sweetie Belle!" Silver Spoon whined. "You have a gift! Plus, trust me, you don't want to spend your life being like somepony you're not." She nodded knowingly. Sweetie Belle shook her head as she trotted over to the sewing machine. "No, I'd rather be like Rarity." The unicorn’s horn flickered in a rare display of her magic heritage. A rich deep blue fabric shuddered as a small magic bubble formed around it, probably one of Rarity’s finer materials. Sweetie Belle concentrated harder, and the fabric fell over and unrolled right out the door. "Dumb fabric..." The filly sighed as she gave chase to it. Silver Spoon giggled as she and the other Cutie Mark Crusaders followed the unicorn out the door. KER-SLAAASHH! "Oh no!" Sweetie Belle cried out. Silver Spoon saw the unicorn retrieving the drenched dark blue fabric from a small pond. "What are... were you going to do with that fabric, Sweetie Belle?" The filly asked as she helped fish out the material. "Twist and your capes." Sweetie Belle sighed. "But, it might have to wait..." "Oh 'Thweetie Belle!" Twist squeaked. "Thank'th 'tho much!" The gangly filly grinned at the thought of showing off her new status as 'Cutie Mark Crusader.' "That's very sweet of you," Silver Spoon warmly said. "You don't have to go out of your way though." The gray filly rolled the fabric away from the pond. "Nonesense!" the unicorn protested. "You and Twist are officially Cutie Mark Crusaders now!" he proudly stated. "Although, I was thinking of making both of your capes blue to show that you have your cutie mark already." "That's a good idea," Scootaloo nodded as she helped roll the fabric up to a nearby picnic table. "Well," Apple Bloom started as she looked over the ruined portion of the expensive material. "At least not all of it's wet, you can use what is dry to make both of their capes with plenty left over." The pale yellow filly nodded. "You think so?" Sweetie Belle asked, tilting her head to the side and sizing up the dry fabric. "Doesn't look like it." "Well, yea!" Apple Bloom confidently nodded. "Now, yall help me hang this thing so it can dry." --- "Here you go!" Sweetie Belle proudly squeaked as she presented the new recruits with their blue and gold underlined capes. "Wow..." Silver Spoon gasped. Though the filly was used to recieving formal wear far more exquisite, and many of which were made with cloth more expensive than what the cape was made of, something about it made it feel invaluable. Cutie Mark Crusader. Silver Spoon reveled in this warm thought. "Now ah told ya we'd fine 'em here!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders turned and saw a smiling fawn colored mare wearing a cowgirl hat, accompanied by Silver Spoon’s faithful butler, Seabastion. It wasn't until then that Silver Spoon noticed the warm orange glow cast on the horizon, signaling the day’s end. "Clearly." The black stallion lightly chucked. "Miss Silver Spoon it is time to go." "Do I have to?" the filly whined. "Spring break has begun and tomorrow is the weekend," Seabastion pointed out. "You are free to return tomorrow." Silver Spoon begrudgingly nodded. She gathered her saddle bag and decided to wear her cape on the way home. "Well, Ah'll be." The fawn mare nodded approvingly. "Silver Spoon," Scootaloo said. "We meet here around lunch-time every day, so try to be here, ok? " The filly eagerly nodded an answer and joined her butler as the clubhouse shrank the further they got, skipping along. A smile beamed on her face; she knew that tomorrow would be her first day as a Cutie Mark Crusader. --- "Ugh!" August Hoof reeled in disgust. "What IS that appalling scrap you're wearing?!" The unicorn gestured disdainfully to the newly acquired Cutie Mark Crusaders cape which the gray filly wore with pride while humming a recently learned tune. "It's not scrap!" Silver Spoon protested with a stomp of her hoof. "It's my Cutie Mark Crusader Cape!" The little gray filly ran around her room, letting the blue cape carelessly flow behind her. "Twist and I are the newest members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders!" "I... I see." The unicorn uneasily nodded. "Here, let me at LEAST make it presentable." Using her magic, August Hoof tried to take the cape from the frolicking filly, who defiantly held on to her precious gift. "No!" Silver Spoon whined. "It's perfect as is!" August Hoof nodded and let the cape rest upon the filly’s back. "Hehehe... alright Miss Silver Spoon." "And stop calling me that," the filly said with a roll of her eyes. "My name is Silver Spoon."
Hollyfern	930	7	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-26T22:22:04+00:00	2012-08-26T22:22:04+00:00	13,317	Silver Spoon paced up and down the inside of the Cutie Mark Crusader clubhouse with her azure cape proudly flowing behind her. The filly arrived exactly at lunchtime as instructed, expecting to see her friends there. Only to find she was the only one there. They didn't forget did they? She thought to herself as she peered out the window to the laden apple trees of Sweet Apple Acres. Her gaze found nopony; she was all alone. Maybe all of this was just a joke... Silver Spoon sighed as she hung her head. "Silver Spoon?" A familiar voice called. "What are ya doin’ here?" The gray filly’s heart jumped at the sound of that voice. She snapped her head to the direction of the voice and saw Apple Bloom just trotting in, sitting her saddle bag down by the door. The pale yellow filly returned Silver Spoon’s look with one of surprise. "O-Oh well, Scootaloo said to be here at lunchtime," she sheepishly replied, her ears drooping down as she avoided eye contact. "A-Am I too late..?" "Oh naw." Apple Bloom chuckled. "Yer too early. Nopony is ever really here this early 'cept fer me." "Oh ok. I'll leave then," Silver Spoon quickly said as she stiffly trotted past Apple Bloom. "Naw ya silly filly," the pale yellow filly said as she caught Silver Spoon’s tail under her hoof. "Yer already here, ya may as well stick around." "W-Well, alright." She nodded, her violet eyes lighting up a bit. "What do you usually do by yourself?" "Ah usually make sure the clubhouse is ship shape," Apple Bloom proudly explained. "Checkin’ fer all sorts of stuff." "That reminds me," Silver Spoon said as she placed a hoof to her chin. "How did you do all..." The filly gestured to the clubhouse around them. "This by yourself?" "Well it wasn't all that hard," she frankly replied with a shrug. "Ah learned most of what ah know from Big Mac an' AJ, other n' that ah taught mahself the lil’ things." "Still though, this is quality work!" Silver Spoon said, demonstrating her point by stamping her hooves. "I really don't get how you three don't have your cutie marks already." "AppleJack said these things take time." Apple Bloom nodded knowingly. "Ah've tried lotsa’ things with Scoots an' Sweetie Belle, but we ain't got nothin’ so far." "Lucky..." Silver Spoon muttered at the thought of discovering ones cutie mark. I envy them... "Woah, hey now what's wrong Silver Spoon?" The pale yellow fillys eyes reflected her concern for her fellow crusader. "Oh, nothing," the gray filly lied, waving her hoof dismissively as she trotted up to the map for no particular reason, anything to throw Apple Bloom off. "Oh don't give me that!" Apple Bloom chided as she approached the suddenly distant filly. "We are a team now!" "Well... it's just... I kinda envy you all," Silver Spoon admitted, turning her head so her violet eyes met with sparkling orange ones. "You all are actually good at something... I'm just a figurehead." "What 'chu talkin’ 'bout, Silver Spoon?" The pale yellow filly asked. "My cutie mark was guaranteed from birth," she replied with a shrug of her shoulders. "All it means is I'll inherit my family fortune. I'm not good at anything like carpenting or singing or… or even dancing!" All of Silver Spoon’s doubt and sadness poured through as she spoke those last words. "I can't do anything..." "Aw c'mon Silver Spoon." Apple Bloom chuckled. "Yer smarter t' know yer more n' that!" Silver Spoon looked to her friend, her eyes wide in disbelief and confusion. "Wh-What are you talking about?!" "A cutie mark is what ya make it." Apple Bloom nodded. "Pinkie tells me that our cutie marks could mean anything; some ponies don't even know what their cutie mark means! Take that mail pony fer example. Derpy has bubbles on her flank." "So..?" Silver Spoon tilted her head, unable to make any obvious connection. "So what ah'm sayin’ is, you're worried fer nothin’!" Apple Bloom smiled as she playfully prodded her friend. "You've got yer cutie mark, be thankful fer that much. Yer not so bad when it comes t' art neither!" "I... I guess you're right..." Silver Spoon admitted with a nod of her head. "Thanks Apple Bloom," she offered with a genuine smile. "Ya need t' loosen up some Silvy!" Apple Bloom said pointing an accusing hoof. "Wait here," the energetic filly commanded before she galloped off, leaving Silver Spoon to herself. The gray filly sat patiently inside the clubhouse, awaiting the return of her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders. Her gaze fell upon the map of Ponyville. The drawing irked at her. I could like, do WAY better! Silver Spoon peered outside, nopony coming. With that assurance, she raced back in and gently removed the map from the wall. She placed it on the floor and gathered up a few art supplies. --- With a satisfied sigh of relief, Silver Spoon drew away from her drawing and smiled happily down at a revised version of a map of Ponyville. Complete with the train station, a compass rose and extensions to other cities, Fluttershy’s cottage and even Cloudsdale! The revision itself only took up a little more than a half hour, but it was definitely a great waste of time. A familiar sarcastic tone echoed in her mind. This is like, much better than that foalish eyesore. She thought to herself with a nod of satisfaction. Realization hit her in that moment, she was showing off. Her old tendencies were returning What if they kick me out? Her mind swirled with those questions, all pointed toward her ending up at square one again, being all alone. "I'm telling you Sweetie Belle, I KNOW that filly is in there right now!" Scootaloo’s voice rang from outside. "It's just like her to be so... prompt." Silver Spoon’s heart sank. That was literally the last voice she wanted to hear. And, it sounded like she was talking to somepony else too. "All I'm saying is, Silver Spoon always showed up late to other parties," Sweetie Belle pointed out. "Then again... that was the old Silvy." "Omigoshomigoshomigoshomigoshomigoshomigosh!" The gray filly was in full panic mode now. She frantically paced around the room, trying to think of something. A gentle breeze blew in from the window, spurring an idea. Silver Spoon quickly snatched up the map and balled it up. She chucked it through the window only to have the wind blow it back at her face and roll to Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle’s hooves. "What are you..." The orange pegasus looked at the crumpled up scrap of paper before her then back up at Silver Spoon, casting an accusing look at the filly whose eyes were already watering. "I-I'm sorry, I j-just wanted t-to-" Terrified, Silver Spoon couldn't even form a straight thought together, her mind spurring to the worst case scenario as she backed into a corner. Too late. Scootaloo’s brows furrowed as she recognized the paper. Sweetie Belle remained blissfully unaware as she opened and smoothened out the paper. Her eyes widened in amazement as she laid eyes on the map. "Wooow..." Sweetie Belle gasped. Scootaloo looked back at the paper and her anger faded to confusion. "Silver Spoon, did you do this?" She inquired, her eyes slowly widening in amazement like Sweetie Belle’s. "Y-yes," the gray filly sobbed. "I didn't mean to! I just wanted to help so, I drew a better map! N-Not that yours isn't good Scootaloo, it's just-" The orange pegasus grinned ear to ear, which only served to confuse Silver Spoon all the more. "This is AWESOME!" She squeaked. "This will make getting around ALOT easier!" "I made it!" A voice squeaked from outside. "And I brought candy cane'th!" Twist trotted in, beaming a warm smile as she strutted about, proudly showing off her cape. "So... wait, Scootaloo, you AREN'T mad at me..?" Silver Spoon said, a little hope in her voice. "Well, not really," the pegasus admitted. "Though, if you wanted to do this, you could have just asked." She shrugged. "Besides, Silver Spoon," Sweetie Belle continued. "You are pretty handy when it comes to drawing." "That's what ah told her!" Apple Bloom giggled as she trotted in, drenched with sweat and panting. "An t' loosen up!" "Hi Apple Bloom!" Twist chirped. "Why are you ‘tho all worn out?" "Well, I figure the best way t' loosen up is t' have a bit of fun!" The pale yellow filly replied with a wide Pinkie-esque grin. "Come outside an' I'll show ya!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders trotted out after Apple Bloom, who proudly presented a small makeshift maze made out of cardboard boxes and assorted toys with twists and turns, ending near the pond. "What's... what's this Apple Bloom?" Sweetie Belle asked, her eyes wide in amazement. "It's a maze, you have to get from the front, to the end!" The pale yellow filly stated. "There is a catch though..." Apple Bloom picked up a few blindfolds and smiled. "So..?" Silver Spoon looked at the blindfolds questioningly, slowly beginning to put two and two together. "We have to wear them..?" "Oh!" Twist giggled. "I know thi'th game! One pony 'thand'th at the end of the maze and call'th out to another pony the direction'th!" "Yea!" Apple Bloom nodded. "Silver Spoon, who do you want to lead you?" "W-Well..." The gray filly looked over her fellow crusaders, her eyes stopped on Sweetie Belle, a light blush rolled across her face. "Sweetie Belle, I wouldn't mind if you led me." "Sure, Silvy!" The young unicorn squeaked. Sweetie Belle raced to the other end of the maze and stood grinning as she awaited the start of their little game. "Scootaloo," Apple Bloom said as she turned to her pegasus friend. "Twist will lead you!" "Alright!" The orange pegasus smiled to her partner. "Hey, what will you be doing?" Scootaloo asked as she turned to Apple Bloom. "Well somepony has to make sure y'all don't step out of line!" She proudly stated. "Now..." The pale yellow crusader blindfolded both Scootaloo and Silver Spoon, and then coaxed them along to the starting line. Silver Spoon grinned behind her blindfold. Heart raced, and her flank brushed one of Scootaloo’s wings. The gray filly giggled as her excitement built until she was bouncing in place. "Are you ready Silver Spoon?" Sweetie Belle giggled as she called out. "Yes!" The gray filly excitedly replied as a large grin streched across her face. "How about you 'Thootaloo?" Twist asked, a grin of her own coming around. "I'm good to go!" The orange pegasus cockily replied. "On your mark..." Apple Bloom’s voice rang out right behind the two blindfolded ponies. "Get set..." Silver Spoon grinned as her heart raced. "This feels great!" the gray filly squeaked, garnering giggles from her fellow crusaders. "Go!" Apple Bloom announced. "Ok, come forward a little Silver Spoon," Sweetie Belle instructed "Then, go to the left..." "'Thootaloo 'thep forward about ten 'theps!" Twist instructed. Ten huh...? Silver Spoon giggled as she hastily trotted forward, keeping Twist’s calculations in mind. "WAIT!" Sweetie Belle cried, causing Silver Spoon to freeze just before she took her eighth step. "I said a little!" The unicorn playfully chided. "Go to the left!" "Go to the right 'Thootaloo!" Twist called. Wha..? Silver Spoon backed up and stood, unsure of which way to go. "Sweetie Belle, my left or yours?" "Uhhh... mine!" Sweetie Belle replied. "Hurry!" Silver Spoon nodded and turned to her left, quickly but carefully trotting along. The side of her hoof brushed the boundary slightly; she listed away from it and accidentally bumped into Scootaloo. "Oh, so that’s how you want to play huh?" The orange pegasus playfully snorted. "Ok then!" Scootaloo shoved Silver Spoon down, then quickened her pace. "Hey, Apple Bloom!" Sweetie Belle cried out. "That isn't fair!" "Ah never said they couldn't mess with each other, as long as they stay inside the maze!" The temporary referee declared. "Go left!" Twist shouted. The earth pony giggled and shot Sweetie Belle a playfully competitive glance, comfortable with the increasing gap between the racers. "Alright then miss smarty flank!" Silver Spoon playfully growled. "It. Is. On." The gray filly started up at almost a gallop, being mindful of where her hooves landed and her pace. "Go right!" Sweetie Belle shouted with more vigor behind her voice as she got caught up in the excitement. I must be falling behind! Silver Spoon thought to herself as she quickly cut right. Her heart began to race; she wanted to win! She sped up, and Sweetie Belle didn't sound an objection. Scootaloo’s tail gently brushed against her nose, Bingo! Within a few more steps Silver Spoon rammed Scootaloo aside and cackled at her revenge. "Go right!" Sweetie Belle called out as she laughed. "Serves you right," she teased Twist, sticking her tongue out. "You're gonna pay for that, Silver Spoon!" Scootaloo grunted as she recklessly galloped after the gray filly. "'Th-'Thcootaloo go left!" Twist quickly shouted. "LEFT!" Apple Bloom fell to the ground in a laughing fit as she watched Scootaloo hound Silver Spoon. "Better keep it up, Silvy!" the filly cheered. "Don't let her get away Scooty!" "Right!" Shouted Sweetie Belle to Silver Spoon. "Left!" Twist ordered to Scootaloo. Silver Spoon was now in a full gallop. She could hear Scootaloo laughing behind her. All she had to do was keep it that way and this race was hers. "Now right, 'thootaloo!" Twist commanded. Sweetie Belle huffed. The competition was heating up and getting to this normally composed filly. "She’s in front of you, hurry go left!" "Right, again!" Twist ordered. "LEFT!" Sweetie Belle shouted. "RUUUUNNN!!!!" Both fillies screamed. Must be the last leg! Silver Spoon pushed her legs to their limits, the sound of Scootaloo flapping her wings sounded behind her. "SILVER SPOON!!!" The pegasus roared out, her voice startling the gray filly, causing her to speed up out of fear. "Come on!" Sweetie Belle cheered. "A little more 'Thootaloo!" Twist cheered as her partner competed with Silver Spoon. "And the winner is...!" Apple Bloom crouched near the finish line,"Stop!" She cried just as both ponies arrived. Silver Spoon tried to skid to a stop, unfortunately Scootaloo didn't stop. The pegasus' body collided into her competitor sending both ponies into the pond with a loud splash. Silver Spoon surfaced and gasped for air. She removed her blindfold and laughed. Scootaloo came up next, also laughing hysterically. "Scootaloo, you klutz!" Silver Spoon giggled. "I'll admit," the pegasus started as she splashed at the gray filly, her own blindfold floating in the water. "I thought you'd be in a huge fit right now!" Huh...she's right. Silver Spoon knowingly nodded to herself. Normally, anyway... "Well, you tried and I'll admit I'm surprised you could move like that," Scootaloo giggled as she climbed out of the pond drenched, her dull purple mane drooping over an eye as water droplets fell. "But, I won." "What! No way!" Silver Spoon protested, climbing out of the pond, and narrowing her eyes. "You ran into ME, you were behind me, so I won!" "Actually," Apple Bloom giggled. "Neither of you won!" The pale filly declared. "While you two were shovin, both of you crossed the border!" Both Scootaloo and Silver Spoons jaw dropped at the sound of the results. "So..." Silver Spoon started. "...We did all that..." Scootaloo continued. "...FOR NOTHING?!" Both drenched ponies shouted. "Well what did you two expect?" Sweetie Belle giggled. "Both of you got too competitive." "Though it wa'th hillariou'th!" Twist laughed. Both soggy ponies glanced at one another and grinned mischievously before splashing water at their fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders. Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Twist shrieked happily as the torrent of water drenched their coats, mane, and tail. --- "Sweetie Belle, Twist!" AppleJack called to the clubhouse. "Rarity an' Bon Bon are here fer yall!" The sun began to recede behind the orchard of Sweet Apple Acres; a golden glow graced the fields, Celestia’s job was nearly complete. Soon, Luna would raise the moon in her prolific display of star constellations. Inside the clubhouse the five filly friends sat, happily enjoying their candy canes as they dried off in a circle. Giggling in the middle of their current game,they were deaf to the fawn farm pony’s call due to a game of 'Rabbit, Rabbit, Hare'. Twist circled the other crusaders calling out 'rabbit' until she came around to Silver Spoon and grinned. "Hare!" she cried out as she playfully bumped into the gray filly, who in response, sprang up and gave chase. The three grown mares approached the clubhouse door, the laughter leaking outside the door. "Sweetie Belle, dear it is time to..." Rarity opened the door and saw the fillies enjoying themselves. Silver Spoon was chasing Twist around the room. "Twist?" Bon Bon, a light creamy mare called to the filly in question, brushing a hoof through her blue-green mane streaked with magenta highlights. "Awwwww!" The Cutie Mark Crusaders simultaneously grieved at the sight of the older mares. "A little longer aunt Bon Bon!" Twist pleaded. "We are in the middle of a game!" "No buts," Bon Bon chided. "Come along now." The young curly maned filly hung her head as she brought herself over to her aunt of a similar, candy themed cutie mark. Twist waved a hoof to her friends before she disappeared with her aunt. "You too, Sweetie Belle," Rarity called to her younger sister. The younger unicorn sighed, waving goodbye to her fellow crusaders and trotted over to her elder sister. "I'll go with you, Sweetie Belle," Scootaloo offered as she trotted up to Rarity. "See ya, Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom!" She waved to the fillies respectively. "What about you, Silvy?" Applejack asked the gray pony. Silver Spoon thought for a moment, mulling around if she even wanted to leave. "Oh, Seabastion should be along soon." "Well, alright." Apple Jack nodded. "Y’all come 'round front before sunset, ya hear?" "Alright AJ!" Apple Bloom replied. The six ponies left the club house, leaving Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom to themselves. "I want to thank you, Apple Bloom," Silver Spoon admitted, once she was sure they were alone. "For earlier. Well, for today in general, really." "What cha talkin 'bout?" Apple Bloom asked, cocking a brow. "You said I needed to lighten up, and today was wonderful!" The gray filly hooked her hooves around Apple Bloom’s neck and giggled. "Well ah said ah'd get ya t' lighten up!" The pale filly giggled as she hugged Silver Spoon back. "If ya... ah don't know, wanna hang out again or if ya need somepony t' talk to, ya can find me if ya come early." "Thanks!" Silver Spoon giggled. "Miss-Err... Silver Spoon," a familiar voice called. In stepped Seabastion. Silver Spoon groaned. She knew it was time to go now. Her butler smiled warmly as his young mistress trotted over. "Bye Apple Bloom..." Silver Spoon hung her head as they left the clubhouse. Another end to another wonderful day. The gray filly mused to herself the things she would do tomorrow. Games, adventure, whatever! "If only the day could last longer..."
Hollyfern	930	8	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-26T22:38:16+00:00	2012-08-26T22:38:16+00:00	17,613	The laughter of yesterday’s events had faded into a dull aching pain in Silver Spoon’s body as she came to consciousness. Her legs burned and her back bore an alien sensation that she never once felt before. A knot of pain that hurt with the pride of accomplishment. Her pampered body was still coping with recovering from the race, as her legs involuntarily twitched with the motions of overexertion. However, that pain dulled when the sense of accomplishment and pride welled up in her heart once more. She had stepped out of her now predictable and boring comfort zone to enjoy herself along with her new friends. Experiencing something that she never would have attempted before. This newfound pain was now a badge of honor. Without her glasses, Silver Spoon’s violet eyes strained, forcing the trappings of her room into a distorted focus. Her once beloved objects now felt flea market cheap and bland. She mused the thought of meeting up with her fellow crusaders at lunch. Nothing could replace the feverish feeling she felt yesterday. A smile came about as she sat with her face in her hooves on the window sill, watching as a few birds flew by. She even caught the faint rainbow trail of a certain weather pegasus and the comical flight patterns of a special mail mare. Though serene, the sight quickly lost interest in Silver Spoons eyes. The Cutie Mark Crusaders won’t meet until lunchtime... so what to do. The filly’s mind wandered back to the almost unreal memories of the Diamond Tiara that only she knew. Memories that contrasted her public facade in every aspect. Times Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon had fun without anypony being the punch line.In private with nopony else around, only while alone is where her magenta friend let down her stalwart persona and showed only Silver Spoon tenderness. I understood her and she understood me. Silvy nodded. My little miss perfect. “Let’s go shopping, Silver Spoon!” even now, Diamond Tiara’s voice echoed in Silvy’s ears. “Like, hurry up you silly filly!” the sarcastic tone, even in Silver Spoon’s imagination, commanded attention. But, the Diamond Tiara she knew behind closed doors is where Diamond Tiara’s true colors shined. The Diamond Tiara she befriended. Her cruelty to other ponies was a means of protection against her mother and her own emotions, emotions only I see. Silver Spoon knowingly nodded. Inside, both ponies a type of solace found in one another, making them very close when alone. Able to almost read each other’s feelings. Though, Diamond Tiara sometimes hinted to something more. Silvy’s eyes watered as she little by little became lost in her own reverie. A light knock came to her room door; she shook her head and wiped away her tears, dislodging the bittersweet thoughts. “Come in...” Silver Spoon let out long weary yawn, covering her mouth in embarrassment. “Hi, Silver Spoon!” Sweetie Belle chirped as she trotted in. Silver Spoon snapped awake, her ears alert and pricked at the sound of the unicorn’s voice. “Sweetie Belle?” She strained her eyes. Without her glasses, the unicorn filly looked like a glob of marshmallow. “What are you doing here?” Silvy giggled at the thought, reaching for her glasses on her bedside window sill. "Rarity sent me," the young unicorn proudly replied. "Something about measurements." "Measurements?" Silver Spoon echoed, cocking a brow. "Like for a dress? A saddle maybe?" Sweetie Belle placed a hoof to her chin then shook her head. "Hmm...she didn't say." Silver Spoon placed a hoof over her mouth as she loosed a long yawn. "Well," she stretched. "Give me a moment..." --- Silver Spoon sighed happily. The sun warmed her coat along with her brushed straight mane and tail. She and Sweetie Belle made their way to town; a few ponies trotted about, tending to their own business and offering warm greetings to the two fillies as they approached Carousel Boutique. They laughed as they reminisced about yesterday. “Why were you giving me the wrong directions, Sweetie Belle?” Silver Spoon giggled. “I was not!” The unicorn protested. “It was just... a little confusing.” “Umm...Silver Spoon?” a somewhat familiar voice sheepish called from behind the two fillies. Silver Spoon and Sweetie Belle stopped and turned. The voice came from a messy green maned gangly orange unicorn colt. He blushed lightly as his blue eyes met with her violet ones. His dumbfounded expression made him look all the more familiar. I know him from somewhere... Silver Spoon looked closer at him, his name escaping her at the moment, though she definitely recognized the simple look on his face. “Ummm...hi!” The colt grinned goofilly. “Hello...you,” Silver Spoon offered with an awkward smile. “Hi Snails!” Sweetie Belle waved a hoof with a smile. Oh yeah! That’s his name. Silver Spoon nodded to herself. “Did you want something from me, Snails?” The orange colt seemed to melt at the sound of his own name, his face becoming bright red as he chuckled nervously. “Uhhh...hi Silver Spoon!” He offered again with a grin. Ok... weird. Silver Spoon mused to herself. “Hello, Snails.” The gray filly giggled. “Are you... ok?” Sweetie Belle asked as she noticed Snail’s face feverishly red and sweating. Snail’s ears perked up, Sweetie Belle’s voice snapping him out of his daze. “I-I-I gotta go!” He half shouted before galloping off in the opposite direction. “What was... that?” Silver Spoon asked, her ears dropping down as she watching the colt go. Oh no...did I scare him away..? “D-Did I do...? Was it something I said?” Sweetie Belle shrugged a reply, obviously just as confused. “I don’t know,” she said, shaking her head. “Snails is kinda on the weird side though, so don’t worry about it.” The young unicorn nodded knowingly. "Come on, Rarity is waiting on us!" --- “Well darling, I’m glad to see you could make it.” Rarity giggled as tape measure ran the length of Silver Spoon’s back. Silvy stood taut yet comfortable. Being fitted was nothing new to this filly. "May I ask a question, Miss Rarity?" "Silver Spoon, please, I'm not a 'Miss' as of yet." The fashionista giggled, measuring the waist next. "Yes ma'am." Silver Spoon nodded as she went through the motions of being measured for clothes. Rarity groaned in response. "What is it dear?" "What are you fitting me for?" The unicorn winked and giggled. "That is my surprise." A light meow interrupted Silver Spoon’s concentration. She looked down and saw a somewhat overfed snowy white persian, offering a bemused look as sat atop some fabrics, watching Rarity work. Rarity didn't seem to notice her feline companion’s call. A red fabric slid from under her, causing Opal to slide onto the next one. The fashionisa narrowed her eyes through her glasses as she held the fabric to Silver Spoon’s gray coat. "Mmm..." Rarity rhythmically tapped her hoof to her chin. She placed the red fabric down and brought over a yellow piece, but quickly discarded that after giving it a glance. "You have such a beautiful cool gray coat, Silver Spoon..." "Th-Thank you..." Silvy blushed, humbled and taken aback by the generous comment. Several times from head to flank, Rarity’s pristine azure gaze seemed to be analyzing the filly before her, down to the last detail like a piece of fine art. Silver Spoon shifted uncomfortably under the Seamstress' gaze; it was then that the unicorn’s gaze fell upon the turquoise keepsake around Silver Spoon’s neck. "Ideeeeaaaa!" Rarity sang, surprising Silver Spoon a bit. “Thank you, Silver Spoon,” Rarity offered. “I’m sure you’ll find Sweetie Belle in the back, probably putting something together herself. Just stay away from my back room.“ The unicorn shuddered as something crossed her mind. “I do not wish for another incident to happen again.” “Yes ma’am.” Silver Spoon nodded as she stepped down and wandered through the stately store. Silver Spoon’s eyes widened at the beautiful sights of the gorgeous saddles and dresses, all expertly hoof stitched. It puzzled her as to why such a talented Seamstress wasted her time in a town where ponies seldom wear such lavish formal wear, if any clothes at all. Ponyquins sat in the display up front, sporting an example of Rarity’s expertise. Silver Spoon remembered when Sapphire Shores and Hoity Toity visited to put in a commission. That must've been an honor. Silver Spoon nodded as she admired the detail of each dress she passed. "Thread by thread, stitching it together..." Sweetie Belle’s voice rang from within the store. The unmistakable sound of her angelic tone lead Silver Spoon by her ears. She rounded a corner and saw her unicorn friend hard at work behind a sewing machine, much like her big sister. Curious, Silver Spoon quietly trotted up behind Sweetie Belle and looked on. The young unicorn continued singing, blissfully unaware of her audience. The rhythmic sound of the sewing needle going up and down provided an odd metronome for her timing. "What are you doing?" Silver Spoon whispered, startling Sweetie Belle a bit. "Oh! Silver Spoon!" The unicorn exclaimed. "I didn't know you and Rarity were done." “Yeah, what are you doing?” Silver Spoon posed the question again, looking at what seemed like a scarf. “Uhh...nothing!” Sweetie Belle half shouted, blocking Silver Spoons view of what she was working on. “Then what were you singing just now?” “Oh, a song I heard Rarity singing,” Sweetie Belle sheepishly replied. “You sing so well,”Silver Spoon complimented. “Would you mind singing something for me?” “Oh no...I can’t,” Sweetie Belle said, covering her mouth with her hoof and shaking her head. “Alright,” Silver Spoon replied with a shrug. “That reminds me, thank you Sweetie Belle.” The young unicorn tilted her head to the side, obviously baffled by the sudden thanks. “What for..? Not singing for you?” “No,” Silver Spoon giggled as she shook her head. “For giving me a second chance.” “Oh, well you're welcome!” Sweetie Belle smiled. “Its like I said, ev- “Everypony needs a friend,” Silver Spoon interrupted, smiling. “I know, there is one thing I want to talk to you about though... promise to keep this between just us?” Sweetie Belle nodded. “Cross my-” Silver Spoon quickly placed a hoof over Sweetie Belle’s mouth before she could summon Pinkie Pie. “Just a yes will do.” Sweetie Belle nodded as Silver Spoon removed her hoof. “What did you want to talk about?” Silver Spoon remained silent for a moment, eyeing the ground and wondering if she should really bring up the subject or not. “Whats wrong, Silvy?” Sweetie Belle asked, placing a hoof to her friend’s shoulder. Come on now, you can talk to Sweetie Belle... Silver Spoon looked up, and caught the worry in her friend’s eyes. That was all the reassurance she needed. “I feel that you're the only pony I can talk to that will at least try to understand...” The gray filly fidgeted where she stood. “What if... I still thought of Diamond Tiara as my friend?” Sweetie Belle didn't respond. She stared into Silver Spoon’s hopeful violet eyes struggling between the truth and what she knows. “Diamond... Tiara huh..?” “I know, I don’t want to seem ungrateful to you all or anything, it’s just... Diamond has been there for me. I still want to be a Cutie Mark Crusader, I still want to be your friend.” Sweetie Belle sat, absorbing what Silver Spoon was saying. The silence put Silver Spoon an edge, she bit her lip. I should have kept quiet! She scolded herself as she began shrinking away from Sweetie Belle. “I think I understand,” Sweetie Belle finally said. “I don’t think I’d be able to stop being Apple Bloom or Scootaloo’s friend either.” She offered Silver Spoon a warm smile, reassuring the filly. “Who knows, maybe she has changed too!” “Yeah.” Silver Spoon nodded. “I hope she can make my birthday party...” “What about me and the others?” Sweetie Belle asked. “Well... maybe since you’re all my friends now she might ease up...” Silver Spoon sighed. She knew better than that; some part of her yearned for that to be true. Her mind spurred to the worst situation if Diamond did show, it wouldn't be pretty. “Actually, it’s probably best I don’t get my hopes up, I’m sure Diamond Tiara has friends in Manehattan.” “But you just sai-” Sweetie Belle was silenced again by Silver Spoons hoof. “I know what I said, but heh, you uhhh... you know Diamond.” Silver Spoon nervously laughed. Sweetie Belle shrugged. “I guess.” “Maybe we could hang out until the crusaders meet?” Silver Spoon suggested, desperate to change the subject. “Sure!” Sweetie Belle squeaked, enthralled by the idea. Silver Spoon smiled, sure that if nopony else Sweetie Belle was definitely the one pony she felt closest too.
Hollyfern	930	9	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-28T01:13:09+00:00	2012-08-28T01:13:09+00:00	15,718	Sweetie Belle and Silver Spoon trotted out of Sugar Cube Corner, laughing as the ever gleeful Pinkie Pie bounced out behind them. "That was FUN girls!" Pinkie chirped in her energetic fashion she was know for. "Thanks for the help!" The pink pony bounced past them into town humming as she blended into the noon bustle of the day. "I told you, Pinkie isn't all that scary," Sweetie Belle giggled, prodding Silver Spoon playfully in her side. "Just takes some getting used to is all." Silver Spoon nodded and rolled her eyes playfully, her past fears of the pink pony now only a funny memory. "Alright alright, I see,” she giggled. “I gotta say, when you suggested we hang out with Pinkie, I was kinda hoping she wasn’t gonna be home!” “Told you so!” Sweetie Belle giggled as she shook her head, apparently still amazed that anypony could fear the friendliest pony in Ponyville. "Hey, it's almost time for us to meet with the others," Silver Spoon pointed out, covering her eyes from the glaring sun with hoof. “What do you think we will be doing today?” Sweetie Belle shrugged. “I don’t know. Apple Bloom or Scootaloo usually come up with the ideas, maybe they have something in mind.” “Well, we should get going don’t you think Belle?” Silver Spoon giggled. Sweetie Belle lightly blushed at the sudden casual tone Silver Spoon took. “B-Belle?” “Another word for elegant, if I remember right,” Silver Spoon plainly stated. “I didn’t mean anything by it, I just thought... you know it was alright.” Though it doesn’t hurt that that’s also the name of my favorite story book princess too. She inwardly giggled. “It’s alright, Silvy,” Sweetie Belle giggled. “I don’t mind, now, let’s get go-” “Hey! Sweetie Belle!” A familiar voice called to the fillies from above the two fillies. Both fillies looked to the sky and saw a cyan pony looking down at them as she descended. Silver Spoon recognized the pegasus in front of them as Rainbow Dash. The mare looked around then sighed. “Doesn’t look like she’s here either.” “You looking for Pinkie Pie?” Sweetie Belle asked. “She just left.” "Drat," Rainbow Dash groaned, taking her frustration out by kicking a small pebble. "I was supposed to help with baking or something like that today... thanks girls," A little disheartened, the pegasus took to the sky once again, her trademark rainbow trail streaking behind her. Just as the end of the rainbow disappeared, a light buzzing sound echoed growing louder by the second. “What.. is that..?” Silver Spoon asked, giving Sweetie Belle a confused look. “Sounds like Scootaloo,” Sweetie Belle replied. “Must have saw Rainbow Dash.” She giggled. Just like Sweetie Belle predicted, Scootaloo came to a screeching stop. She removed her blue and white helmet, whipping her matted mane around frantically. “I SAW!! DASH!! HERE!!! WHERE?!” The pegasus blurted out, her eyes frantically shifting between the sky and the ponyfolk. “Just missed her, actually,” Silver Spoon said. “Ahh darn it!” Scootaloo groaned, letting her forehead fall onto the handle bar of her scooter, her helmet making an audible clack as it fell to the ground. “I was gonna ask he--” “SWEET-IE BELLE!!!” A roar pierced the air, causing the fillies and a few other ponies in the market to jump. Silver Spoon and Scootaloo froze in fear. Sweetie Belle, however, cringed at the all too familiar tone. Rarity approached, eyes blazing like an ursa on the prowl. A vaguely familiar cloth floated in the vice grip of her magic. Other ponies scampered to get out of her war path, she paid them no mind. Her focus at the moment was her little sister. “Mind explaining this..?!” The enraged unicorn dropped an orange makeshift scarf to the ground. Sweetie Belle could only return a weak smile under her sisters murderous gaze. The young unicorns ears drooped down as she stared at the fabric, or rather what’s left of it, and sighed. “Umm... I-I’m sorry Rarity.” “Sorry won’t cut it!” Rarity snapped. “I’ve told you time and again NOT to touch my fabric, I even gave you your own,” Rarity sighed, calming down a bit as she saw her sister staring at the ground in front of her, pawing with a hoof. “It pains me to have to do this, but you're grounded for the rest of the day.” “What! But, Rarity—” Sweetie Belle whined. “Ah-Ah, no buts, Sweetie Belle. You should have known better,” Rarity chided. “Come along now." “Fine...”Sweetie Belle groaned. “Guess I’ll have to see you girls tomorrow... bye, Silvy and Scootaloo.” Glad I don’t have any older siblings! Silver Spoon nodded to herself. Both Silver Spoon and Scootaloo both waved a hoof as Rarity led Sweetie Belle home. Both still sort of stunned by the mare’s outburst. “We...I-I guess we better get to Twist and Apple Bloom then.” Silver Spoon said, breaking the silence between the two ponies. “Huh? Oh, yeah. Sure let’s... let’s go,” Scootaloo nodded. Both fillies went side by side. An awkward silence between them, as they made for Sweet Apple Acres. Silver Spoon glanced over at her fellow crusader and sighed. She doesn’t fully trust me, I can feel it... Silver Spoon thought to herself, casting another sidewards glace at Scootaloo cruising along on her scooter. Silver Spoon inwardly groaned, the silence was beginning to get to her slowly. She couldn’t place her hoof on it ,but she needed to get through to this stubborn pegasus. “Hey, that reminds me...” Scootaloo said in something of a hushed whisper. Silver Spoon didn’t catch what the filly said, too wrapped up on the thought of how to get Scootaloo to warm up to her. “Silver Spoon, I have something of a question for you,” The orange filly looked over to see Silver Spoon in a whole other world right now, led only by her hooves and possibly the sound of Scootaloo’s buzzing wings. “Silver Spoon!” Silver Spoon jumped slightly as she was torn away from her thinking. “Y-yes?” “What was the deal with you and Diamond Tiara?” Scootaloo bluntly said. “Why the sudden change of heart?” “It’s complicated,” Silver Spoon quickly replied with a sigh. "Uncomplicate it," Scootaloo snorted, not satisfied by the short answer. Persistent one... Silver Spoon inwardly chuckled. "Fine, long story short, you don't know Diamond like I do." "Fair enough," Scootaloo shrugged. “But, what about us?” “What do you mean?” Silver Spoon asked. Is my loyalty being drawn into question? “I’m not blind, I can see you aren’t as bad so long as that snobby princess isn’t here,” Scootaloo said.”No offence.” She quickly added. “But, are you REALLY our friend?” “Of course!” Silver Spoon sharply replied. “I really like you girls, and it’s nice that I don’t have to pretend to be somepony else in public for a change!” Scootaloo smiled and nodded. “Alright then.” "Though... I do envy you all..." Silver Spoon confessed. "What?" Scootaloo asked, lightly chuckling. "Envy me?" "Well, to be honest Scootaloo," Silver Spoon started. "Each of you has something I wish I had." Scootaloo stopped dead in her tracks, obviously still stunned by Silver Spoon's words. "YOU envy us?" "Yes," She replied with a nod. "Like you, for example. You are your own mare. You don't cling to somepony else like I did." “What?” Scootaloo asked tilting her head to the side. “I've heard a few things from other classmates. Rainbow Dash… She's your idol, but you don't live on her every word like I used to with Diamond Tiara,” Silver Spoon admitted, hanging her head. “I like Dash and all, but I don't want to be like her,” Scootaloo scoffed “What?” Silver Spoon’s eyes widened. “But, you—” “I want to be BETTER than her!” Scootaloo added with a confident smile. “It’d be no fun if i were EXACTLY like her, y’know?” Silver Spoon nodded slowly, smiling as Scootaloo’s words seemed to make perfect sense. “You know... I never thought of it that way.” “Really?” Scootaloo chuckled. “I figured for all your smarts, YOU would have known that!” “Whatever!” Silver Spoon stuck her tongue out and blew a raspberry. Scootaloo only smiled and shook her head as the sight. “When did you start seeing the fun side of things?” Scootaloo giggled, pulling the bottom lid of her eye and sticking out her tongue. Silver Spoon burst into laughter at Scootaloo’s distorted face. “Alright you win! Though, if you keep on making faces like that it might get stuck!” “You should try it!” Scootaloo giggled. “For you though, it might be an improvement!” “Oh yeah, as IF!” Silver Spoon laughed, bounding off toward Sweet Apple Acres. “Hey!” Scootaloo laughed. “Where do YOU think you’re goin!” Scootaloo’s wings beat in overtime, whipping up a small gale. She bolted clean past Silver Spoon like an orange typhoon, causing the fillies mane and tail to be blown completely out of style as she spun on her hooves. Her mane stuck out in every direction like a bush. Her tail followed suit, looking like the aftermath of a hurricane. “SCOOOTALOOOO!!!!!” Silver Spoon playfully cried as she picked up her glasses. She then gave chase, their laughter echoing through the town.
Hollyfern	930	10	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-28T01:25:34+00:00	2012-08-28T01:25:34+00:00	13,783	Silver Spoon, along with Scootaloo, panted heavily as they stood just outside the Cutie Mark Crusader club house. Both fillies were sweating and laughing as their pseudo race ended. Silver Spoon reveled in her new found bond with the young orange pegasus. The tension she previously felt melted away. “A…Again,” Scootaloo panted. “I never thought you could keep… keep up!” The little pegasus parked her scooter near the tree. Silver Spoon nodded, wiping away sweat from her forehead. “I didn’t know I had it in me either! I’m gonna be sore all over again…” she sighed, remembering the pain she felt once before after the last race she had with Scootaloo. “C’mon, we better join Bloom and Twist,” Scootaloo suggested, beckoning Silver Spoon to follow. “I’m sure the girls will hardly BELIEVE what they are about to hear!” --- “Ah jus’ don’t believe it,” Apple Bloom chuckled to herself as she shook her head. “Out of all ponies, Sweetie Belle... grounded.” She turned her gaze up to the two fillies standing before her as a grin spread across her face, her eyes narrowed towards her friends. “Ya’ll got to be pullin’ mah leg!” “No really!!” Scootaloo protested, standing on her hind legs as her forehooves shot into the air for emphasis. “I thought that Rarity’s mane was going to catch fire like I heard about when Twilight gets mad!” “What?” Silver Spoon glanced over at the pegasus, wondering who this Twilight pony was. “I think that might be over-exaggerating it, Scootaloo....” she rolled her eyes. “Well, yeah...” Scootaloo smiled sheepishly as she rubbed the back of her neck with a hoof. “But I was serious when I said she was MAD!” “‘Tho, what do we do?” Twist asked, working a candy cane around in her mouth. “I don’t think we should go off crusading without Be—err... Sweetie Belle,” Silver Spoon added. “I mean, it wouldn’t be the same for you girls, right?” Apple Bloom and Scootaloo nodded. “Ah guess yer right,” Apple Bloom said. “Wouldn’t want her feelin left out ‘n all. Guess ah’ll see if AJ need help in th’ orchid t’day!” “‘Thay, ‘Thilver ‘Thpoon, do you wanna hang out today?” Twist asked, looking at the gray filly expectantly. “Huh? Well, sure.” Silver Spoon nodded. “But, why the interest in just me?” “Well everypony el’th ‘theem’th to have had a heart to heart with you, ‘tho I figure it’th my turn!” Twist giggled. “Be’thide’th, I could u’the ‘thomepony to te’tht my new candy cane flavors! Bon-Bon i’th te’thting me.” “Testing you for what?” Silver Spoon asked, cocking her head to the side. Twist playfully rolled her eyes. “Well duh, the Chocolade is run by her,” she stated matter of factly. “‘The’s my mentor and aunt.” “I guess.” Silver Spoon shrugged. “Though, if you ask me, I kind of have a personal favorite for those green stripey ones...” She began to imagine the sharp taste dancing around on her tongue, her mouth lightly watered. “‘Thpearmint.” Twist corrected, snapping Silver Spoon back to reality. “The new kind’th I want to be ‘thofter and ‘thmaller.” “It’s minty!” Silver Spoon excitedly squeaked, obviously addicted to the treat after her previous taste from the filly. “Ohhh! You’ve GOT to... toooo....” her voice faded, realizing she just embarrassed herself and acted like a newborn foal over candy. “Are you seriously getting worked up over candy?” Scootaloo snickered. Silver Spoon lightly blushed and rubbed the back of her neck with a hoof, too embarrassed to reply after her out of character outburst. “Ah swear t’day just gets weirder an weirder,” Apple Bloom chuckled. “Well, Scoots, ya mind lending me a helping hoof?” A rainbow trail streaked across the sky, heading for the Sweet Apple Acres farm. Scootaloo was mesmerized by the signature symbol of her pegasus hero. A grin stretched across her face. “Bloom,” Scootaloo said, as her eyes widened. “I know what I’m gonna do today!” “I swear I’ve heard that somewhere before...” Silver Spoon whispered to Twist. Twist giggled and nodded. “I know right!” --- “What’s it taste like?” Twist asked, her eyes lighting up as Silver Spoon placed a fresh miniature mint in her mouth. “Too chewy,” Silver Spoon groaned, hanging her tongue from her mouth and wiping the failed test into a nearby bin to join its other failed experiments. “I swear I couldn’t tell if that was gum or not,” she joked. Twist frowned; she and Silver Spoon had been going at this for about an hour. Every batch of peppermints didn’t come out right. Too soft, too hard, or too weird tasting. In one instance, the outcome was a tangy gum like substance. “Well,” Bon-Bon snorted as she trotted in from the kitchen. “It seems you have learned nothing from me in your time as my apprentice, Twist,” The older mare chided, a slight smirk on her face. “What is my number one rule?” “Pay attention in the kitchen,” Twist sighed, disheartened. “Wait...” Twist turned to her mentor and noticed the coy smile about her face. “When did you get in the kitchen Bon-Bon..?” Bon-Bon giggled as she trotted past the fillies. “It is my job to make sure you learn and grow. Even if that means taking things into my own hooves.”She left laughing, casting one last glance at her pupil before mixing in with her customers, leaving the fillies to themselves. “I... I think ‘the messed with my cooking!” Twist laughed, shaking her head. “And here I am thinking I wa’th doing ‘thomething wrong...” “Are you gonna try again?” Silver Spoon asked, reeling a bit at the thought of another disgusting disaster. “Nah,” Twist shook her head. “But thank’th for thi’th, ‘Thilver ‘Thpoon!” Silver Spoon blushed lightly and gigged. “It’s nothing really.” She waved a hoof dismissively. “I’m glad I could help... more or less,” she added with a shrug. "I honestly didn't do much." “Mmm...”Twist placed a hoof to her chin, then grinned. “I know!” she squeaked. “Wait here!” The filly excitedly bolted back into the kitchen. Silver Spoon’s stomach turned at the thought of another ‘sweet’ being brought back for her to taste. The gray filly could hear Twist hard at work in the kitchen judging by the rapid sounds of her hooves. She sighed and took in the sights of the pseudo Cafe candy store. Small circular tables sat around the room, big enough to seat a small group of about four ponies each. The kitchen was behind the bar, a display of other little treats sat near the edge of its surface. The scent of coffee wafted about through the room, slightly overpowering the faint trace of candy. A few ponies sat at tables either chatting or in a few cases writing. Bon-Bon was busy at a table taking an order on a note pad. A thought came to Silver Spoon’s mind. I wonder how she manages this herself? She watched as Bon-Bon expertly balanced trays with practiced precision on her back and head. The alluring scent of a sharp, familiar candy found its way into Silver Spoon’s nostrils. “Spearmint!” she gasped as she turned and saw Twist offering the object of her recent obsession. The filly squealed as she snatched it up and tore the wrapping open. “I’m glad you enjoy it!” Twist grinned. “Though, It’th ‘thill taking ‘thomegetting u’thed to.” “Wot?” Silver Spoon asked through a mouthful of candy as she cocked her head to the side “Gettin used to?” she echoed, working her delightful treat around in her mouth. “Twist!” Bon-Bon called from across the room. “I need you to go check on that new batch of oatmeal cookies for me while I tend to table two.” “Ye’th ma’am.” Twist nodded then turned back to Silver Spoon. “You, ‘thilly filly!” --- “...Thank you, come again!” Bon-Bon called as the last few ponies trotted out of her cafe. “Glad it’s closing time!” she squealed, bouncing upstairs. Silver Spoon yawned and rubbed her watery eyes. Thanks to a bustling crowd, she and Twist didn’t spend as much time together as she had previously hoped. “Oh well...” she shrugged with a sigh. “This afternoon was something of a waste...” The chairs sat atop the tables, the only other pony in the room with her was one of Bon-Bon’s employees, a rather stocky unicorn stallion. All he was doing was sweeping, which his cutie mark represented. “‘Thorry we didn’t get to hang out much today, ‘Thilver ‘thpoon...” Twist grimaced as she trotted out of the kitchen, hanging her head and ears. “Today wa’th busier than I thought it would be.” Silver Spoon could see her friend felt bad about how the evening turned out to be. “It’s alright, Twist,” she smiled, waving a hoof dismissively. “We can still hang out until Seabastion or August Hoof shows.” “No, it’th alright.” Twist shrugged. “Or you could spend the night.” Silver Spoon quickly offered. What?! The gray filly chided herself, reeling back slightly after realizing the words that escaped her mouth. “‘Thpend the night?” Twist echoed, her eyes widened in shock. Oh great! Now you gotta follow it up..! “Uhh yeah!” Silver Spoon said, quickly forming a plan in her mind. “W-we could brush each other’s manes, tell stories and stuff.” Just like Titi and I used to do... Her memories of Diamond Tiara flickered in her mind, the laughter and precious time spun together was enough to bring down her mood. Twist blushed and shook her head, her dismal look replaced with a cheerful grin. “Nah, I wouldn’t want to impo’the.”She giggled. “Thank’th for the offer though!” “O-Oh!” Silver Spoon perked up, breaking away from her reverie. “Maybe some other time then?” she added, still shaken by the sudden memories. “Are... are you okay, ‘Thilvy?” Twist asked, edging closer to Silver Spoon. “Oh I’m fine!” Silver Spoon lied as she playfully rolled her eyes. “I’m not much, but you’ve got friends now.” Twist stated, oddly enough without her lisp. “You don’t have to rough it by your’thelf anymore, rely on u’th!” Silver Spoon nodded. “”I know, thank you.” She smiled. I didn’t see that one coming... Twist’s words echoed relentlessly in her mind. All her new friends felt genuine; they accepted her. Yet, something still felt wrong. “Twist, I’m going out to meet Lyra--” Bon-Bon looked up and saw how close Twist and Silver Spoon look then placed a hoof over her mouth as she giggled. “Oh~,” she sang. “I didn’t know Silver Spoon was still here.” “Oh, I’m sorry Ms. Bon-Bon,” Silver Spoon, smiled feeling like a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. “I was just about to leave.” “Twist, why don’t you walk Silver Spoon home?” Bon-Bon suggested with a giggle. Twist eagerly nodded. “Alright!” she smiled as she trotted over to Silver Spoon. Silver Spoon smiled at her escort, noticing her blush slightly behind her red curls. “Thanks Twist!” “Let’th go!” Twist squeaked, pressing the bottom half of the door open, letting the orange glow of the setting sun inside. “Wow, I didn’t realize it wa’th getting that late already!” “Yeah,” Silver Spoon nodded, yawning slightly. “We better get moving.” "Stop by anytime, Silver Spoon.” Bon-Bon called as the two fillies faded into the distance. --- Rely on them huh? I guess that doesn’t sound do bad... Silver Spoon mused to herself as she climbed in bed. With a weary yawn, the little filly removed her glasses and tossed them onto the nightstand. She closed her eyes and tried to focus on getting sleep. The last rays of the day peeked thought her curtains, and she took one last look as she smiled. Silver Spoon spotted Twist trotting for home practically bouncing.
Hollyfern	930	11	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-28T01:46:54+00:00	2012-08-28T01:46:54+00:00	13,183	Silver Spoon sighed happily as she rolled over in her bed. “Today is the day!” she giggled. “MY day!” A faint scent wafted into her nose. A vaguely familiar fragrance that held a hint of vanilla in it. The smell was perfume, an expensive brand she recognized. No way... that’s Clive Canterson..! Silver Spoon opened her eyes and was greeted with two large blue orbs staring down at her. “Good morning sleepy head!” The magenta filly squeaked as nuzzled Silver Spoon. Even without her glasses, there was no doubting that expensive perfume, the sound of that voice and the color of her coat. ”DIAMOND TIARA!!!!!” she screamed, springing up and tackling her friend in a tight hug. The two fillies’ laughter filled the air as they rolled around in a blur of pink and gray. For a moment, it felt as if everything was back to normal, as if the last month never happened and Diamond Tiara visited on her daily schedule. “Happy birthday Silver Spoon!” Diamond Tiara giggled, breaking free of Silver Spoon’s surprisingly solid grip. “You could swear you haven’t seen me in forever!” “Well it feels that way!” Silver Spoon replied, playfully nudging Diamond Tiara. “And I noticed you’re still wearing that perfume too!” “Yeah!” Diamond Tiara nodded. “Daddy always brings me another bottle when one runs out.” “As a matter of fact, how have you been?” Silver Spoon grinned. “Oh, you know.” Diamond Tiara shrugged, averting eye contact with Silver Spoon. “The usual.” “I’m so glad you could—” A light rapping came to the door, grabbing Silver Spoon's attention. “Must be The Help at the door,” Diamond Tiara scoffed, in her usual condescending tone. “Miss Silver Spoon, Miss Pinkamina Dianne Pie wishes to speak to you,” Seabastion’s voice called from behind the door. “Shall I send her away?” Pinkie Pie? Silver Spoon tilted her head to the side. “No, I’m coming!” she replied. “Coming Titi?” Silver Spoon giggled. Diamond Tiara blushed lightly at the sound of her old nickname. “Come on now!” she chided. “That is like so lame, I think I’ll check out your wardrobe,” the magenta filly waved a hoof dismissively, then disappeared into Silver Spoon’s closet. That’s probably for the best anyway. Silver Spoon nodded. Silver Spoon followed her butler out onto the balcony of the foyer, where she could see Pinkie Pie examining the house. The mare’s tongue stuck from her mouth comically as she looked about. “...Think I’ll need to make some adjustments to the cannon for this one!” Pinkie Pie mumbled, tapping a hoof to her chin. “The use of ballistics are prohibited indoors.” Seabastion chuckled, distracted by Pinkie Pie being Pinkie Pie. “Hi Silver Spoon!” Pinkie squeaked. “I was wondering, where are your parents?” “The master and mistress of the house are out.” Seabastion quickly answered. Silver Spoon nodded. “Yeah, just talk to either August Hoof or Seabastion.” She looked up to her aged butler and smiled warmly. They are kinda like grandparents at this point. “Oh, Pinkie Pie.” Diamond Tiara’s voice rang from upstairs. “What’s going on, Silver Spoon?” Silver Spoon’s eye darted between Pinkie, who returned to sizing up the estate, and Diamond Tiara, who approached via the stairs. “Uhh... Pinkie is planning my party..?” “Oh,” Diamond Tiara shrugged, casting another glace upstairs. “That’s cool. Hey, wanna go shopping?” “Sure!” Silver Spoon smiled. “Seabastion, if I have any other ‘guests’ tell them... I’m kind of busy at the moment.” At least until I can tell things won’t blow up between Diamond and the others. --- “I hope those Blank Flanks haven’t been giving you much trouble while I’ve been gone, Silver Spoon,” Diamond Tiara said as the two trotted through the bustling Ponyville market. “Err... n-no,” Silver Spoon replied, her eyes darting about for any sign of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “No trouble at all...” Diamond Tiara looked out the corner of her eyes; she could see Silver Spoon frantically looking about as if watching out for danger of some unforeseen sort. "What’s wrong Silver Spoon?” Diamond Tiara warmly whispered to make sure nopony else heard her. “I’m fine,” Silver Spoon unconsciously answered, paying little to no attention to Diamond Tiara. Diamond Tiara frowned up for a moment, then regained her public composure, pretending as if they never had the conversation. “Whatever...” she mumbled. “‘Thilver ‘Thpoon!” a voice called. Silver Spoon froze for a moment. The signature lisp of her friend was the last thing she wanted to hear at the moment. She could see Diamond Tiara beginning to turn around. In a moment of panic, she shoved Diamond Tiara into the nearest store, hoping to lose Twist. "What was that about?!” Diamond Tiara barked, her cheeks burned red. “Why did you shove me into Quill and Sofa of all stores!?” “What are you two doing here?” a tanned stallion asked as he approached his visitors, cocking a brow, his quill and sofa cutie mark instantly identifying him. “S-Sorry Mr. Davenport,” Silver Spoon said, peeking outside. “Ugh, you’re acting so lame...” Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes. Davenport shook his head, confused by the fillies. “Just, don’t scratch anything. Then again, you two could afford anything in the store.” He chuckled, going back to his business. Silver Spoon sighed, relieved she could no longer see Twist amongst the crowd. “Coast is clear...” she nodded. “Really, what’s your damage, Silver Spoon?” Diamond Tiara whined. “I know something is up, are you hiding something from me?” Those words stabbed at Silver Spoon’s heart. She mentally reeled back, wishing she never heard them. A cold chill traveled her spine as guilt settled in her stomach like frigid stones. I am... but... it’s for her own good, right? Silver Spoon turned and met Diamond Tiara’s gaze. She offered a false smile and shook her head. “It’s just that...” No matter how hard Silver Spoon tried, she couldn’t find a convincing excuse, rather a convincing lie. “I’m sure you have your reasons...” Diamond Tiara sighed in an uncanny moment of clarity. “Thinking on it, you were probably hiding from that nerd.” She giggled. “Twist!” Silver Spoon sharply corrected. “Err... at least if I remember right,” she quickly added. “Oh. Yeah.” Diamond Tiara shrugged. “I guess.” “How were the stores in Manehattan?” Silver Spoon asked, keen to change the subject. “Oh they are totally more your thing, Silver Spoon.” Diamond Tiara giggled. “All sorts of weird little knick knacks and stuff,” the filly squealed. “What are you so excited for?” Silver Spoon chuckled. “Oh. You’ll se~e~” Diamond Tiara sang as she trotted outside. --- True to her flair, Pinkie Pie managed to transform the main foyer of Silver Spoon’s home to a festive explosion of colorful streamers, confetti, music, and foodstuffs, complete with a huge frilled pink and white birthday cake in the centre of the dining hall. Enough for everypony in her class and then some. Definitely worthy of the pink party pony’s reputation. The birthday song had just ended and Silver Spoon attempted to weed out her friends from everypony else, though the gifts in the corner of the dining hall assumed her attention more than once. “The second and third floors are OFF LIMITS during the party,” August Hoof called above the crowd. “Oh c’mon grandma!” Pinkie said, grabbing the aged mare. “Loosen up! It’s a PAR-TAY!! August Hoof opened her mouth to object, then she caught sight of Seabastion mingling with some of the older guests. “I swear...” she groaned. Where are they? Despite her efforts, Silver spoon couldn’t find her friends, Cutie Mark Crusaders included. Everypony from Cheerilee’s class seemed to be there, even Cheerilee herself. Yet no sign of those she held dear. "Hey, Snails,” Silver Spoon called, approaching the gangly orange unicorn. “Have you seen Sweetie Belle or the others?” The colt blushed lightly and shook his head. “Err... no, sorry.” He goofily giggled. “Oh...well thanks anyway.” Silver Spoon sighed. “Oh, wait, I think I might have saw Diamond Tiara upstairs, eh?... but, didn’t she leave?” Her comeback must not be official. Silver Spoon giggled. “Alright, thanks, Snails!” She smiled, heading into the foyer. Snails sighed dreamily as Silver Spoon trotted away. Silver Spoon arrived in the foyer and instantly spotted Diamond Tiara beckoning her to the third floor. The magenta filly disappeared around a corner. Most likely going to my room, I wonder why... Silver Spoon easily shrank away from the festive party, despite her maid’s rule to the confinements of her room. Diamond Tiara awaited with a huge grin on her face. “You came!” Diamond Tiara squeaked. "Well, you were acting a bit off,” Silver Spoon teased, sticking out her tongue. “Whatever!” Diamond Tiara giggled. “Hey, I have a surprise for you!” “For me..?” Silver Spoon gasped. Diamond Tiara nodded. “Turn around, and close your eyes too!” “Fine...” Silver Spoon playfully rolled her eyes and did as she was told. Within moments, Silver Spoon peeked over her shoulder, only to be met with playful scorn from Diamond Tiara. The magenta filly batted at Silver Spoon’s nose until she turned back around. “I knew you’d try to sneak a peek!” Diamond Tiara sang. “Oh, riiiight!” Silver Spoon giggled. “Can you blame m—eep!” Silver Spoon yelped lightly at the feeling of Diamond Tiara working her hooves around her neck, unhooking her necklace. “Hold still...” Diamond Tiara cautioned as she worked something cold in place of her usual jewelry. “There,” she giggled. “Open your eyes and tell me what you think!” Silver Spoon opened her eyes and instantly turned to her mirror. Much to her surprise she found herself sporting a whole new necklace altogether. A thin, silver necklace, donning a heart shaped pendant that seemed to change color the more she looked at it. “W-Wow...” Silver Spoon gasped. “Look at the back of the heart! Look!!” Diamond Tiara impatiently giggled, bouncing in place. Silver Spoon took the pendant in her hoof, turned it over, and read the inscription aloud: “Only the best, for my bestest BFF.” “Sorry about the ‘bestest’ part, heh I may have gone a little overboard with it,” Diamond Tiara admitted, rubbing a hoof on the back of her neck. “Do... do you like it..?” “I love it, Titi!” Silver Spoon smiled, hugging Diamond Tiara, then going back to marvel at her gift. “Just... wow...” The heart changed colors from red-orange to a deep crimson. “According to this,” Diamond Tiara said as she looked over a scrap of paper. “You had... mixed emotions, now you’re excited!” “Wha..?” “Moochick Crystal,” Diamond Tiara answered. “They are all the rage at the new school I go to, but this one is one of a kind. Custom made.” Maybe, just maybe, Diamond Tiara has grown up a bit, Silver Spoon silently hoped. She looked at the smiling filly before her and could hardly imagine her being so cynical and cruel. “C’mon, we better make an appearance before your maid goes off and gives birth to a cow,” Diamond Tiara teased. --- The duo made their way back downstairs, easily blending in with everypony like nopony ever noticed their disappearance. Ponies passed by offering their best birthday wishes to Silver Spoon. Though, she still noticed a certain group of fillies had yet to show. Silver Spoon looked to her pendant and noticed it was now gray. Anxiety maybe? she giggled. Maybe it’s for the best if Diamond doesn’t find out, at least not yet. “I’m gonna go grab something to eat, what about you?” Diamond Tiara asked. “Oh, you go on ahead,” Silver Spoon replied with a smile. “I’ll catch up later.” “Ok...” Diamond Tiara shrugged before blending in with the other party guests. “Hey! Silver Spoon!” Scootaloo’s voice called. Silver Spoon caught sight of Apple Bloom and Scootaloo among the crowd of ponies. Luckily Diamond Tiara was headed in the opposite direction. “Hi girls!” Silver Spoon squeaked as she approached the fillies, only to notice they were a few short. “Where is Sweetie Belle and Twist?” “Oh, they’re gonna be a lil late,” Apple Bloom answered. “They’ll be along though.” Scootaloo nodded in agreement. “Totally, no way they would miss a party thrown by Pinkie, AND it’s your birthday.” “Why, we wouldn’t miss it fer the world!” Apple Bloom added with a smile. “Thanks girls.” Silver Spoon beamed, warmed by the compassion she felt from her friends. “Now, I don’t know about you two, but I’M gonna go do some damage to that cake!” Scootaloo chuckled. “Ah second that motion!” Apple bloom said between giggles. “Well well if it isn’t my FAVORITE blank flanks!” Diamond Tiara’s cynical voice rang from behind Silver Spoon. No no no!! Silver Spoon’s coat stood on end, both Apple Bloom and Scootaloo shot her questioning looks as their eyes shifted between Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. “These losers bothering you, Silver Spoon?” Diamond Tiara giggled. “Ooh... I see what’s going on!” Scootaloo dryly chuckled, which sent a chill up Silver Spoon’s spine. “So... you haven’t changed after all!” Apple Bloom snorted. “Still as snooty as the day ya left!” Silver Spoon reeled back, her plan began to backfire. Diamond Tiara and the Cutie Mark Crusaders had met and already they were bickering, her whole world began to fall apart. “Come on,” Diamond Tiara called to Silver Spoon with a crack of her tail. “Let’s ditch these LOSERS,” she scoffed. Silver Spoon hesitated to move, the worst possible scenario now played out right before her and she felt powerless. Apple Bloom and Scootaloo both awaited a response from her, and the longer Silver Spoon took to decide, the more Diamond Tiara grew impatient with her. “Hurry up!” Diamond Tiara barked, stomping her hoof. Silver Spoon didn’t budge, she felt torn in two and didn’t know who to turn to. She clamped her eyes shut, silently praying to just disappear or awake from the nightmare. “You can’t be serious...” Diamond Tiara growled. “Are you REALLY friends with those losers, Silver Spoon?” Silver Spoon kept her silent vigil, looking down to the floor as if it held the answer to her problem. The gift from Diamond Tiara now seemed to mock her; it now resembled an empty black void. “FINE!” Diamond Tiara cried, storming off in the opposite direction. Silver Spoon followed behind her, desperate to try and make things right. “Diamond Tiara--” “YOU’VE made your choice.” Diamond Tiara sniffed. “It’s obvious you want new friends... this is what I get for letting somepony get too close.” “B-” “I... I hate you, Silver Spoon!” Diamond Tiara cried as she galloped away. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom stood by, speechless and in shock. Silver Spoon was frozen, her eyes wide and about to water. She took a deep breath and composed herself best she could as to not draw unwanted attention “S-Silver Spoon..?” Scootaloo finally said, cautiously approaching the dazed filly. Silver Spoon slowly turned her head, looking to the two as if they were foreign ponies to her. She sighed, her heart suddenly aching as well as she hung her head. “I... need to go...” she coldly said, making her way up to her room.
Hollyfern	930	12	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-28T02:43:40+00:00	2012-08-28T02:43:40+00:00	11,111	Silver Spoon sat in her room atop her bed, trying her best not to break down and cry anymore. Tears already soaked her face and the whites of her eyes were now pink and puffy. I deserved it, she thought to herself, worsening her mood. Diamond Tiara’s words drove a spike through her heart. She was at a total loss as she stared down at the tear soaked floor. Her mixed feelings only made matters worse, namely an unusual pang of anger she felt at herself for letting things go the way they did. The music from her party still echoed upstairs despite the guests beginning to filter out as the sun began to cast it’s final orange glow on Ponyville. Nopony really noticed she was missing; Apple Bloom and Scootaloo gave her the space she asked for. The pendant Diamond Tiara gave her sat next to her on the bed. She couldn’t stand to wear it anymore. “I hate you, Silver Spoon!” those words echoed endlessly in her ears, tormenting and driving the fact that she drove away her dear friend. The prospect of being alone seemed more and more inviting each passing moment. At least when she left she was still my friend... --- A knock came to her room door. She silently whimpered, hoping whoever was knocking would just go away. “Hey... uhh... Silver Spoon..?” Scootaloo’s voice rang from behind the door. “C-Can I come in?” Silver Spoon didn’t answer. The door slowly creaked open, then slowly closed after Scootaloo entered. “Hey...” Scootaloo cooed, climbing into bed next to her. “I don’t exactly know what to say, but I’m not gonna leave you hangin.” Silver Spoon looked out the corner of her bleary eyes and saw Scootaloo looking back, offering a weak smile. “Oh, what do you know!” Silver Spoon sniffed, narrowing her eyes at the pegasus. “I’ll bet you’re enjoying this more than anypony!” Scootaloo took a deep breath then sighed. “A few days ago, maybe,” she admitted. “I don’t know why you hang around Diamond Tiara, and honestly I’m sure you’ve got your reasons, but if she doesn’t want to be your friend it’s her loss!” “You don’t understand...” Silver Spoon distanced herself from Scootaloo as far as she could. The filly rested her head on the wall and sighed. “Just go away, Scootaloo.” “Well, I’m kinda trying here!” Scootaloo groaned. “Throw me a bone or something, GEEZE!!” Silver Spoon didn’t reply, she already muted the pegasus out best she could. "Alright, FINE!” Scootaloo yelled. “I’m tired of your little pity party already! I come up here and try to help you, make you feel better and I’M the one getting the cold shoulder?! Maybe you haven’t changed at all, you’re being selfish!” “...Take that back...” Silver Spoon growled. “Stop me when I’m wrong.” Scootaloo challenged. “You know I’m right.” Silver Spoon hung her head, and chuckled lightly. “I can’t believe I’m being talked down to by Scootaloo...” "And what’s that supposed to mean?” the pegasus asked, eyeing Silver Spoon. “I came up here because I didn’t want to see you going at this alone!” Silver Spoon rolled her eyes. “So, it’s because you feel sorry for me?” “Quit being difficult to somepony who only wants to talk!” Scootaloo barked, causing Silver Spoon to whimper. “Keep this up and I’m gone!” “I-I guess...” Silver Spoon shrugged, wiping tears from her eyes. “I’m sorry, Scootaloo.” For a few moments there was silence between them, an uncomfortable silence. Look at what you’ve done now... Silver Spoon scolded herself. Scootaloo sighed. “That’s cool, I shouldn’t have let it get to me like that.” Scootaloo nodded, calming down a bit. “If you talk, I’ll listen. I’m not one to leave a friend hangin.” Silver Spoon nodded. “Good," Scootaloo nodded "Now, what’s the deal with you and Diamond Tiara? You two are real close, but you aren’t half as irritating as her. At least, not any more.” I figured that would be her first question. “We are... were friends,” Silver Spoon began choked on those words. “Diamond Tiara is really special to me...” she added. “She trusted me... and I let her down...” “How, exactly did you do that?” Scootaloo inquired cocking a brow. “From where I was standing she just over reacted.” “She trusted me. I was her only friend, Scootaloo.” Silver Spoon sniffed, her emotions welling up again. “Hey, don’t go crying on me again.” the young pegasus closed the gap between Silver Spoon and herself then placed a hoof on the earth pony’s shoulder. “Trust me when I say, tears have never helped anypony.” “What do you mean?” Silver Spoon asked, curiously eyeing Scootaloo. The young pegasus sighed and groaned. “I’ll bore you some other time alright? Right now it’s all about you.” “Alright, thanks.” Silver Spoon nodded, a warm feeling building up inside. It’s a little odd seeing her care for me... “As far back as I can remember, Diamond Tiara has always been the way she is. I used to get bullied by her too, but I didn't care. My self esteem was pretty low back then...” Scootaloo’s eyes widened as Silver Spoon continued, “And here I thought you two have always been friends!” “No,” Silver Spoon replied, shaking her head. “It was by chance she ended up as my neighbor. Our mothers became friends and began going out, then Diamond Tiara and I began doing the same. After spending so much time around her I ended up wanting to be like her.” “Why?” Scootaloo asked stifling a chuckle. Silver Spoon reeled, shooting the laughing filly a dirty look. “You find something FUNNY?!!” “Err, sorry,” Scootaloo uneasily smiled. “It’s just, from what you’re saying, you’ve always had some issues with being yourself.” “What?” “Seems to me like you’re always eager to fit in and be like somepony.” Scootaloo said with a shrug of her shoulders. “And, if that’s the case, were you really ever Diamond Tiara’s friend?” “So, it’s like you said before,” Silver Spoon lightly smiled. “Don’t aim to be like somepony, be better than them.” “Exactly!” Scootaloo grinned, pleased to be quoted on something. “Stick with me, kid, and you’ll turn out alright.” the pegasus joked. Silver Spoon playfully rolled her eyes. “I may have blindly followed her in front of everypony, but I will always be there for her.” “You will, will you?” Scootaloo cocked a brow. “Well, as a friend, if you don’t mind me saying, you’re doing a pretty bad job just sittin here doing nothing.” “I can’t go to her, what do you expect me to do?” Silver Spoon shook her head. “There’s no way she would talk to me if I did!” “Well, I don’t see why you’re so down then. If you can’t help it, move on.” “But--” “But, nothing! Come on!” Scootaloo groaned. “I can’t BELIEVE I’m about to say this, but if you want that filly to change, be the friend she needs and not the one she wants. Really knock her down a few pegs!” “I don’t see the point.” Silver Spoon shook her head. “When nopony is looking, we are the best of friends.” “So, what, you two are like secret friends then?” Scootaloo chuckled, narrowing her eyes playfully. “Sounds lame to me. Plus everypony already knows you two hang out, it’s no secret.” “Yeah, but I just don’t know, Scootaloo.” Silver Spoon sighed. “What if I only make things worse..?” “And I thought Fluttershy had confidence issues...” Scootaloo rolled her eyes. ”Can’t be any worse than what they are now.” she frankly stated. “I mean she already hates you.” Silver Spoon narrowed her eyes at Scootaloo. Though she knew the pegasus’ words rang true, there was no point in getting mad. “You sure..?” she sheepishly said. “Positive!” Scootaloo beamed. “Y’kno, one of these day’s I’m gonna have to toughen you up some.” “Maybe later.” Silver Spoon smiled. “Knowing Titi, there is one place in Ponyville she will go.” “That’s the can do spirit I like to see!” Scootaloo exclaimed as if rallying a crowd. “Now, what do ya say we get back to your party, or rather what’s left of it.” “Thanks alot, Scootaloo.” Silver Spoon sheepishly smiled. “And, I know this is way overdue, but I’m sorry about all the name calling.” “Aahh don’t mention it, Silvy.” Scootaloo waved a hoof dismissively. “If there is one thing Scootaloo values, it’s loyalty! You’re a Cutie Mark Crusader now! You can always count on me! If things go south with Diamond Tiara, you still got us.” she smiled, her eyes shimmering with satisfaction. Odd, Scootaloo and I had a moment here. I can feel a warm bond forming between us... Silver Spoon mused on this thought. Scootaloo was the last pony she would ever have thought would cheer her up or offer some of the advice that was given. “You done moping around?” Scootaloo teased, hopping from the bed to her hooves. “Or do I REALLY need to buck some sense into your head?” “No,” Silver Spoon giggled. “And thanks again, Scootaloo.” The orange filly groaned. “Really, it’s cool. Don’t go getting all mushy on me now! I get enough of that from Apple Bloom...” --- The party was already beginning to reach it’s final stage as only few ponies were left, including Pinkie Pie. Even the party pony sensed one of her parties was closing down, she was busy helping Emerald with the dishes “Y’know, Miss Pie, you’re very handy in the kitchen!” Emerald heartily laughed. “Are you sure you’re not long lost kin o’ mine?” “Naaah.” Pinkie giggled. “Just good at baking things I guess!” “So THAT’S where you were!” August Hoof called as Scootaloo and Silver Spoon came downstairs. “The upstairs were off limits as I recall!” The mare chided, tapping a hoof to the floor. “I’m sorry, August Hoof.” Silver Spoon warmly smiled at the mare. “I needed Scootaloo’s help with something.” August Hoof eyed the two fillies then shrugged. “I suppose, I just wish you would have said something.” the mare groaned, disappearing into the manor “Silver Spoon!” Sweetie Belle called as she trotted over to the filly and hugged her. “I was so worried! I heard what happened. Are you ok?” Silver spoon nodded. “Yes, thanks to Scootaloo here.” she giggled offering a smile to the orange pegasus. “It’s nothing.” Scootaloo blushed. “She just needed a little push is all. Though next time I might not be so gentle!” Silver Spoon blew a raspberry at the pegasus. “I’ll just have to be careful then, won’t I?” “Did I mi’th ‘thomething?” Twist giggled. “Are ‘Thilver ‘Thpoon and ‘Thootaloo really getting along..?” “Yer guess is as good as mine, Twist.” Apple Bloom shook her head. “Ah think they’re clones!” she joked. “I’m so happy you two are friends now!” Sweetie Belle squeaked. “This is great!” The Cutie Mark Crusaders all began laughing at the odd level of energy Sweetie Belle displayed. Silver Spoon looked at each one, Scootaloo’s words ringing in her ears. Don’t aim to be like somepony, be BETTER than them... Be the friend she needs and not the one she wants... Easier said than done, Scootaloo... Silver Spoon dreaded having to approach Diamond Tiara. She knew it was for the best and she will have the Cutie Mark Crusaders there to help her through trying times. “‘Thilver ‘Thpoon?” Twist chimed in, pulling the gray filly from her thoughts. Her team all offered worried looks in light of recent events. “I’m alright, girls.” Silver Spoon replied. “Belle, do you think it’s alright if I spent the night with you?” A wide grin spread across Sweetie Belle’s face at the prospect of having a sleep over. “I wouldn’t mind!” “What about yer sis?” Apple Bloom asked. “Ya think it’d be alright with her?” Sweetie Belle frowned. “Right...” for a moment her face lit up. Obviously scheming up an idea. “Unless it was a certain filly’s birthday wish.” an odd, almost sly smirk appeared on her face. All eyes turned to Silver Spoon, all sporting the same devious smile. “Wh-what?” Silver Spoon flinched, suddenly feeling alienated. “I ‘thee what ‘Thweetie Belle i’th ‘thaying...” Twist giggled. “Yeah!” Scootaloo added. “Good idea, Sweetie Belle!” “Ah swear, this is somethin ah expected from Scootaloo!” Apple Bloom giggled. “What?” Silver Spoon whined, suddenly nervous. “I’m saying that you should just write it off as a birthday wish!” Sweetie Belle proudly stated. “I don’t think she would refuse you then.” “Wow...” Silver Spoon gasped. “That’s... oddly devious of you, Sweetie Belle!” “Have plans, Little Miss?” Emerald’s voice rang, chuckling heartily. “Yes,” Silver Spoon nodded. “Tell Auguest Hoof and Seabastion I will be spending the night at Carousel Boutique.” she giggled. “Let’s go girls!” “Yeah!” Twist added. “On ward’th an upward’th!” she chirped. The five fillies trotted off laughing as they left the mansion behind, Emerald fondly watching. “Boy the Master ‘n Missus would be proud to see you now.” He chuckled, closing the door. --- A light illuminated Sweetie Belle’s room in Carousel Boutique. The moon was already high in the sky, and squeals erupted from the filly’s room. Rarity decided to join after reluctantly agreeing to host their little get together. Each of the slumber party guests wore an odd lime green mud mask as they sat in a circle. Partnered up in pairs’ of two, each pony had another in their mane. Apple Bloom tended to Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle to Silver Spoon and Rarity to Twist. “I’ll admit,” Rarity giggled. “I am enjoying myself, though do not make a habit out of this, every once in awhile is fine.” The mare ran a comb through Twist’s curly red mane, though it didn’t seem to have any effect. Silver Spoon’s mane was now styled into a bang, slightly covering one of her eyes. Sweetie Belle was busy now applying eye shadow to Silver Spoon’s eye lids. “Remember what I taught you, Sweetie Belle.” Rarity cautioned. “Even strokes.” “I think I might try glitter...” Sweetie Belle inspected Silver Spoon’s face, observing it from different angles. “Just a little on the cheeks...” Scootaloo squirmed as Apple Bloom worked a brush through her mane. “How did Rarity even talk us into this..?” Scootaloo groaned. “I feel lied to.” “Oh hush, silly filly.” Apple Bloom giggled. “Ah’ll admit, this is more fun than I thought. Never would have thought ah’d brush yer mane though, Scooty.” she playfully winked. “Ah think ah have just the look fer ya, hun. Now sit still!” Scootaloo blushed and shrugged. “Fine...” Silver Spoon giggled. “H-How’s it look Sweetie Belle?” “Almost done...” The young filly replied, applying a light amount of turquoise glitter. “There!” Sweetie Belle squeaked. Rarity and the Cutie Mark Crusaders looked up and all gasped. Silver Spoon opened her eyes and flinched at their stares. “Wh-What?” she blushed now painfully aware of the make over Sweetie Belle gave her. Her young fashionista held up a mirror and Silver Spoon reeled at the reflection that stared back. “Wh...wow, Sweetie Belle..!” She observed herself. The eye shadow brought out the depth of her eyes. The bang added an odd aesthetic touch to her face. The sparkling glitter sparsely bedazzled her cheeks, seeming to add to the shine of her violet eyes. “Try not to move too much, I want a picture of this!” Rarity giggled. “Silver Spoon, now you do Sweetie Belle.” "Yes ma’am,” Silver Spoon squealed. Sweetie Belle bounced as she sat,obviously wired to be getting a make over. “I wonder what you’re gonna do.” Good question. Silver Spoon nervously giggled. “Well, let’s see...” ---- “Now smile girls!” Rarity sang. “This time, Scootaloo don’t cover your face. And Twist, darling, stop messing with the chop sticks in your mane.” Twist quickly lowered her hoof from her updo styled mane. A few tastefully stray strands of her hair bounced in her face. “Thi’th i’th amazing!” she gasped, admiring her own reflection. “Alright...” Scootaloo groaned. Her mane ran down in a cascade of curls, the blush on her face seeming to grow brighter. “Aw c’mon, ah think ah did a real good job on you!” Apple Bloom protested, pouting slightly. “Ah tried real hard too...” Her mane was spiked and styled to gravity defying proportions and combed down in the front for a bang. “You did,” Scootaloo admitted. “I just...” she sighed. “I like it, Apple Bloom.” the filly smiled. “Just don’t know how to react I guess.” Apple Bloom’s face lit up in a large grin. “Really?” “Totally,” Scootaloo examined herself in the mirror then smirked. “I guess this does look pretty cool; something I’d have to get used to is all.” Sweetie Belle squealed, grinning ear to ear at Silver Spoon. “I look sooo pretty!” Silver Spoon managed to get Sweetie Belle’s two tone mane to flow in waves accented by a flower manepin. Silver Spoon blushed. “I-It was nothing really...” “Girls, picture?” Rarity said, preparing the camera. “Ready..?” The five fillies smiled, some grinning as the flash went off, forever immortalizing that moment. “Great!” Rarity beamed. “Unless you think you can handle it in your sleep, you may want to wash off the make up, girls.” Twist yawned, placing a hoof over her mouth. She caused a chain reaction, her yawn spread from one pony to another until the entire small group loosed a weary yawn. “Well, you girls are free to try to stay up through the night,” Rarity stretched. “I will be going to bed.” The mare stood and headed for the door, then paused. “Absolutely NO pillow fights!” she added before exiting the room. “I think Rarity has the right idea.” Scootaloo yawned again, climbing into Sweetie Belle’s bed and grabbing a spot. “Ah second that motion!” Apple Bloom added, following Scootaloo’s lead and climbing into bed. The others followed suit. The bed was big enough for the fillies to fit in and still have ample room left over. Silver Spoon laid close too the edge, staring out the window. Her mind rehearsed what to say to Diamond Tiara, searching for something that might get through to her. --- What am I going to do... She sighed, unable to sleep. The confrontation with Diamond Tiara kept her up, though she feared what her dreams might bring. She sat up and looked to the others, who were already fast asleep. The friend she needs... “Silvy?” Sweetie Belle’s weary voice rang as she slowly opened her eyes. “Are you ok...? “Oh, I’m fine.” She smiled. “I didn’t mean to wake you, Belle, go back to sleep,” Silver Spoon whispered. The young filly sat up, a worried look replacing her weary one. “You’re lying.” Silver Spoon flinched, then hung her head. “I was that obvious... huh?” “Kinda, but not really.” Sweetie Belle shook her head. “In fact you just admitted to it, I didn’t know.” Silver Spoon chuckled. “I never would have guessed you had a devious streak, Sweetie Belle.” “What’s wrong?” Sweetie Belle asked, being careful not to raise her voice too loud. Silver Spoon remained silent, staring down at the sheets. “So...Diamond Tiara..?” Sweetie Belle cocked her head to the side. Silver Spoon nodded. “Scootaloo said I should be the friend she needs, and not the friends she wants.” “Scootaloo said that?” Sweetie Belle giggled. “Wow...” “I don’t think I can do it though, Sweetie Belle.” Silver Spoon snifffed. “I’m... afraid.” Sweetie Belle nodded. “Yeah,” she whispered. “I can see why you’d feel that way.” The filly turned her gaze to their sleeping beauties and smiled. “But, you’re not alone anymore, see?” Silver Spoon turned and smiled weakly at her friends. She’s right. Sweetie Belle hugged Silver Spoon and smiled. “Thru thick ‘r thin,” she giggled, mocking Apple Bloom’s accent. “Scootaloo, Apple Bloom, Twist and you’ve always got me. If you need us, all you have to do is say the word.” “Yeah...” Silver Spoon nodded, feeling newfound confidence. “Well... it’s for her own good... I’ve often thought of the meaning of her cutie mark...” “What did you come up with?” Sweetie Belle cocked a brow. “Well, maybe it’s just because I’m so used to following her lead, but I think it’s for leadership.” “Huh, never would have thought of... that.” Sweetie Belle yawned. “Go back to sleep.” Silver Spoon smiled. “Thanks for listening too.” The young filly nodded and laid back down, leaving Silver Spoon awake. The gray filly sighed happily, feeling as if a terrible weight had been lifted from her shoulders. She rested her head on the pillow. The warm thoughts of the Cutie Mark Crusaders backing her up lulled her to sleep within moments.
Hollyfern	930	13	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-28T22:16:42+00:00	2013-11-03T22:33:56+00:00	10,593	“You sure you want to go through with this, Silvy?” Sweetie Belle’s voice rang with a tone of worry behind it. “We will come with you if you like...” Silver Spoon smiled warmly at her young unicorn friend. “I’m sure I can do this alone.” she nodded. “Diamond Tiara is my best friend and I’m sure she still thinks the same.” “I dunno,” Scootaloo said shaking her head. “I’d feel alot better if at least I came along to make sure you go through it.” “Yea,” Apple Bloom added with a nod. “No offence, Silver Spoon, but yer kinda soft hearted.” “Are you ‘thure you don’t want u’th coming along?” Twist offered. “I-I think... I can do this.” Silver Spoon shakily said. “This is something she needs and... and I-I’m the on-only one she listens to... mostly,” she giggled. "Ah guess so...” Apple Bloom said, obviously not assured. “If you can’t get through to her, you still have us, Silvy,” Sweetie Belle noted, hugging Silver Spoon. “That means alot, Sweetie Belle.” Silver Spoon smiled, returning the filly’s hug. “Right, I’m off!” She headed to the front door, a faint smile on her face highlighted by a weak feeling of confidence. “I’m not sure you can handle this,” Scootaloo snorted. “I’m coming with you—at least to her house, anyway.” The pegasus trotted up next to her friend and smiled. “All for one and one for all!” “Ah like that...” Apple Bloom nodded. “All fer one and one fer all huh...” she echoed, a smile slowly appearing on her face. “Cutie Mark Crusader policy!” the filly announced as she joined Scootaloo at Silver Spoon’s side. “I’m coming too!” Sweetie Belle eagerly added. “I hope things work out between you two.” “Don’t back down, no matter what!” Twist smiled. “We’re rooting for you!” “Thanks girls...” Silver Spoon looked to the gift she received from Diamond Tiara the other day. It glowed gray, almost blending in with the tone of her coat. Slowly the gray began to turn to a pinkish color, reminding her all the more of Diamond Tiara. --- The fillies arrived at Diamond Tiara’s manor. The white and gold trimmed outside was a dead giveaway. The filly’s house was a lot more lavish than Silver Spoon’s; a balcony overlooked them from above, and two others protruded from the house at separate areas. Silver Spoon turned her head to the balcony on the far left, where she knew Diamond Tiara’s room would be. White curtains were lapping at the breeze. For just a beat, Silver Spoon’s heart stopped, thinking she caught just a brief flash of pink among the pale curtains. She’s home... Apple Bloom raised a hoof and knocked on the door. Her knock boomed as it echoed on the inside. For awhile nothing happened. Silver Spoon tensed up, the silence unnerved her as she waited patiently with her friends. Maybe she really doesn’t want to see me... The filly teared up. “Hey...” Silver Spoon felt Sweetie Belle’s hoof on her shoulder. “It’s alright...” “Yeah,” Scootaloo confidently added. “It’s her loss!” The sounds of hooves came from the other side of the door. Within moments, the door creaked open; one of Diamond Tiara’s maids smiled upon the fillies. “Ah, Sterling’s filly, Silver Spoon, correct?” “Yes, would Diamond Tiara happen to be home?” Silver Spoon asked, casting another glance to the balcony. The maid frowned up, “U-uh, the young princess is not quite in the mood for visitors this evening, perhaps some other time?” “Please,” the gray filly pleaded. “I need to talk to her!” The maid sighed then moved out of the filly’s way. “Maybe her friends can put her in a better mood...” she mumbled. Apple Bloom slightly reeled. “But we ain’t—” The filly was silenced by Twist and Sweetie Belle’s hooves. The two fillies glared at her for a moment, then allowed her to speak. “We noticed her actin funny the other day...” she trailed off, not even wanting to complete the sentence. The party made their way upstairs, following Silver Spoon who trotted about as if it were her own home. Her heart began to beat louder the closer she got to Diamond Tiara, until she could hear it beat in her ears.They arrived by her room door, embroidered by her initials set in, of course, diamonds. A silence fell among the group. They turned to Silver Spoon, expecting her to open the door. “Well,” Sweetie Belle said, breaking the silence. “We’re here.” Silver Spoon nodded. “Y-yes.” The filly slowly reached for the door, her hoof trembled.Come on... I-I have to..! Before she could reach the knob, the door creaked open itself. Diamond Tiara stood staring her in the eye. The magenta filly cocked a brow. “What?” she rolled her eyes. “You’re no friend of mine, why are you here?” Silver Spoon shrank back, trembling like a leaf under Diamond Tiara’s gaze. Her courage and resolve quickly dashed. “Figures.” Diamond Tiara shook her head. “Hey!” Scootaloo stepped to her gray friend’s defense. "If I were you I’d watch talking to the only one of us who actually WANTS to try and make up with somepony like you!” Diamond Tiara turned her icy blue gaze to Scootaloo. “Quiet, orphan.” “Wh-WHAT did you just CALL ME?!” “Woah now, honey!” Apple Bloom caught Scootaloo by her mane, rearing her back. “You’re better ‘n that, Scootaloo, she’s just messin with yer head.” “Whatever, hayseed.” Diamond Tiara snorted. “Why are any of you losers here anyway?” “Yer goin th right way t’ lose some front teeth, Diamond Tiara.” Apple Bloom growled. “If it ‘twernt fer Silver Spoon, ah... well, s’ probably best ah don’t say.” “Are you alright, Silver Spoon?” Sweetie Belle asked. Silver Spoon stood and nodded. “I’m fine” She smiled to Sweetie Belle and Twist. “Diamond Tiara, you’re NOT going to talk to MY friends that way!” Diamond Tiara flinched. “I—I’ll talk to anypony anyway I want!” Silver Spoon approached the filly, then shook her head. “I understand you feel hurt, but I’m the one you should be mad at.” Apple Bloom and Scootaloo silently nodded to one another, leaving the two friends time to themselves. They joined up with the other crusaders and disappeared out of ear shot. Thanks girls. Once the door shut, Diamond Tiara edged closer. “I’m glad you came...” she smiled. "Don't act like what just happened didn't." Silver Spoon stepped back. “Truth be told though, I missed you, Titi.” she admitted sniffling a bit. “I missed you so much, I was so happy to see you at my birthday party, so glad to see that you still thought of me.” Mustering up what little resolve was still there, Silver Spoon’s violet eyes met with Diamond Tiara’s watery blue ones. An all too familiar gaze stared back: the look of a pony who was all alone. Tears fell from Diamond Tiara’s eyes as she buried her face into Silver Spoon’s chest. “B-But then...why?” she whined. “Why do you need more friends! Why them? I should be all you need! I thought I was special to you...” “Of course you are.” Silver Spoon smiled. “I know you too well... you... you’re b-being selfish.” She choked on those last words. As soon as Diamond Tiara heard them a horrified expression came across her face. “I’m not... it’s not my fault!” Diamond Tiara protested “Diamond, what you said to Scootaloo was cruel, and you know it,” Silver Spoon snapped. “Then Apple Bloom, you shouldn’t have said what you said!” Diamond Tiara began to back away, tears in her eyes. “Th-That’s not fair, Silver Spoon. S-Stop it.” “You know I’m right, why can’t you be the way you are when we’re alone, Titi? I know firsthoof Mr. Rich didn’t raise you that way.” Diamond Tiara fell silent, staring at her small puddle of tears. “Why..?” Silver Spoon asked, going to the filly’s side. “You aren’t a bad pony, why do you pretend to be like that?” “Mean, nice, none of it matters.” Diamond Tiara sniffed. “I didn’t care what anypony else thought... nopony but the one I cared for more so than myself, the pony I knew I was special to.” “Maybe it’s partly my fault too.” Silver Spoon sighed. “You wouldn’t need to be so cold to everypony if I would just speak up. You know, that’s something the others have taught me though.” Diamond Tiara looked over and saw that her gift still hung proudly around Silver Spoon’s neck, a weak smile appeared as she made eye contact with the gray filly. “You really... like it huh?” “It’s a gift from you, of course I’ll treasure it, silly.” Silver Spoon smiled, embracing Diamond Tiara in a hug. “I... just feel like you replaced me,” the magenta filly admitted, clinging to Silver Spoon. “I hated those Blank Flanks for that, for taking you away from me...” “Diamond Tiara, I could never replace you nor would I want to.” “I didn’t mean those things i said...” “I know you didn’t.” Silver Spoon smiled. “My Diamond Tiara would never say those things.” Diamond Tiara blushed and giggled. “Yeah.” “Listen, Titi,” Silver Spoon said, breaking their hug. “What’s wrong?” “Sweetie Belle and the others are my friends now, too.” Silver Spoon sternly stated. “They forgave me and accepted me, heck I’m even a crusader now!” She proudly smiled. “I cannot thank them enough from giving me a second chance and helping me realize so much in the past few days.” Diamond Tiara forced a smile as she listened to Silver Spoon continue. “I wanted to be that pony...” Diamond Tiara sighed. “Of course, I learned from you too, you know.” The filly smiled, nuzzling Diamond Tiara. “M-Me?” “Of course,” Silver Spoon giggled. “You are really good at taking charge of things, even though sometimes you come off as mean. But, nopony can deny that!” Diamond Tiara blushed brighter now, a goofy smile on her face. “Come to think of it.” Silver Spoon looked to the tiara that represented her friend’s talent then nodded. “I think that’s your talent, Diamond.” “What is?” she asked, cocking a brow. “Being a leader! Think about it.” “I guess...” Diamond Tiara shrugged. “Doubt I’m fit to lead anypony...” “It’s alright,” Silver Spoon smiled. “Just try being a little friendlier and less prickly.” “I... No,” Diamond Tiara sighed, staggering back. “I... can’t, I don’t want to go through that again!” “Diamond Tiara, just list-” “NO!” the filly barked, stomping a hoof. “You should know better than anypony...” Silver Spoon paused. “Just give it some thought, if I kept on acting like that, I wouldn’t have had the guts to approach you like this. YOU should know that better than anypony...” “You may trust those fillies to see the real you, Silver Spoon,” Diamond Tiara shook her head. “But they will only turn around and hurt you in the end.” “Then that will be my mistake to make,” Silver Spoon sharply retorted. “You’re so afraid of opening up again, what about me? I’m still here and you know I would never in my right mind want to harm you.” “...I can’t” Diamond Tiara admitted. “I don’t want to feel that way ever again.” “Think about it, please.” Silver Spoon rested her head on Diamond Tiara’s shoulder. “You let me in, and I will never betray you.” Diamond Tiara paused. “I’m... I’ll... I’m sorry.” “Fine...” Silver Spoon shrugged. “I almost wish I didn’t have to go tomorrow...” Diamond Tiara sighed. “Hey..!” Silver Spoon’s face lit up. “Come by my place tomorrow! I have a wonderful idea!!” “Umm... yeah...” Diamond Tiara nodded. “C-can I ask one thing of you though..?” “Sure,” Silver Spoon smiled. “What is it?” “Mind... spending the night?” ---- Smile Silver Spoon sat watching the rest of the crusaders help Applejack collect the apples that fell from the trees, their capes trailing behind them. The gray filly sat, her face in her hooves; she was in no mood to do much. Only one filly seemed to be on her mind at the moment. The whining of a brown and white dog caused her to look up, narrowing her eyes at the canine as if it was the sole source of her misery. The dog approached. She began to scoot away; the hair on her neck rose the closer the dog came. For a moment, it almost seemed as if the dog enjoyed Silver Spoon’s resistance. “Hey, you. Dog!” Silver Spoon shakily said, backing away. “You-You stay away dog!” She tumbled back, then hid behind her cape. The dog approached, no ill intention in it’s stride what so ever. The fearful filly backed herself into a tree, then began trembling. Silver Spoon flinched as the dog sniffed her. She barked happily. Silver Spoon whimpered and shut her eyes tight. For a moment nothing happened. Silver Spoon slowly opened one of her eyes and peered from behind her cape. She saw the dog offering her head. Cautiously, the filly slowly ran a hoof across the friendly dog. Silver Spoon smiled, feeling oddly at ease now. “The ol’ girl knows who she likes,” Applejack called, watching along with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. “Winona can often tell when somepony needs a friend.” ”Yer still thinkin ‘bout Diamond Tiara, huh?” Apple Bloom said as she and the crusaders approached her. “C’mon Winona,” Applejack called to her companion. “Seems like this ain’t our place.” Winona barked, then licked Silver Spoon’s cheek before hurrying to the mare’s side. The two went about their own business amongst the other apple trees. “No point in keeping it to yourself,” Scootaloo frankly noted. “We all knew from the get go. You aren’t exactly the type to sit out.” “Yeah,” Sweetie Belle nodded. “What are you going to do now?” Silver Spoon replied with a shrug. “That ain’t the Silver Spoon ah’ve come t’ know,” Apple Bloom said. “Yeah,” Scootaloo added. “So, what, you’re just gonna sit here on your haunches and cry? I don’t want to sound mean, but you did what you had to do.” “You can alway’th count on u’th.” Twist smiled. “Ask yerself: Is she really worth being down about all the time?” The other fillies slightly reeled at the edge Apple Bloom’s words had to them. “What? It’s true. A real friend wouldn’t want another friend being sad all the time.” “That’th true.” Twist nodded. “What happened to you the other day though?” Sweetie Belle asked. “I spent the night at her place, we talked but...” Silver Spoon sighed. “I don’t know if I actually got through to her. I even gave her my turquoise necklace to remember me by before she left...” “Then, have a little faith in her.” Sweetie Belle smiled. “You have done all you can, the rest is up to her.” “Yes, I suppose you’re right. Thanks Belle.” The gray filly weakly smiled. “I still wish she didn’t have to leave though...” “Ah, don’t start that again.” Scootaloo groaned. “Yeah,” Twist added. “It’th not like you won’t ever ‘thee her again. It’th kinda like ‘thaying ‘thee ya later, not goodbye.” “Thanks girls.” Silver Spoon turned her attention to Diamond Tiara’s gift and smiled. She had something to remember her by and Diamond Tiara now had something to remind her of Silver Spoon. Diamond Tiara...you’re missing out. “C’mon, silly filly.” Apple Bloom chimed in. “We best get to catching up with AJ! You comin right, Silvy?” “Sure!” Silver Spoon chirped, now full of pep. “Can’t let stuff like that get me down and keep me there, after all.” “Yeah!” Scootaloo cheered. The five fillies wandered through the apple trees. Silver Spoon followed at a somewhat slower pace, taking in the lush greens and reds of the ripe wooden guardians. Wow...I can’t wait until it’s Zap Apple season. She mused the thought of dressing as a rabbit with the others, hopping around and painting polka dots. “What’s so funny?” Sweetie Belle’s voice rang in her ears. The unicorn filly trotted next to her, the others ahead in the distance. “You had as awkward smile on your face a second ago.” “Like you’re one to talk about awkward.” Silver Spoon giggled. “I was thinking about Zap Apple season. I think you would look so cute in the bunny suit!” she teased, shoving Sweetie Belle playfully. “So would you!” Sweetie Belle giggled, returning the shove. “Do you think... one day, Diamond Tiara might change?” Sweetie Belle shrugged. “Maybe, I don't know for sure. Some ponies change and some don’t.” Silver Spoon flinched at those last words. I hope she does... “Let’s hurry up, the others are leaving us behind!” Sweetie Belle galloped off, Silver Spoon keeping pace. I suppose I tried, I have new friends now. Wonderful friends. I pray to Celestia that Diamond Tiara will experience the feeling I’m feeling at this moment. ---Few months later--- “C’mon girls! We haveta make sure things are right as rain before the next sign!” Granny Smith called as she easily leaped over a watering pail. “Hasta be done the ol’ fashioned way! No need fer none o’ then new fangled whatcha mahoosits!” The Cutie Mark Crusaders followed behind the aged mare in bunny suits of their own. “What’s a ‘fangled whatcha mahootis’?” Silver Spoon laughed. “Ah honestly got no clue,” Apple Bloom replied shaking her head. “Apple Bloom!” Granny Smith’s voice echoed. Silver Spoon turned to see a large cauldron fixed on Granny Smith’s head. For a old mare, she sure is resilient! She inwardly giggled. “Comin Granny Smith!” Apple Bloom hurried over to the mare, a large spoon in her mouth. “Ya ready?” “Let ‘er rip yung’un!” Apple Bloom reared back then struck the cauldron, causing it shake strongly, throwing Granny Smith off balance, but not off her hooves. “A-A-Al~llri-iight!” Silver Spoon slightly flinched at the sight. “Is she going to be alright..?” “Yeah,” Scootaloo nodded. “If there’s anything I’ve learned, Granny Smith’ll surprise ya. And That's saying something.” “Hey girl’th, where did Granny ‘Thmith go..?” Twist asked, looking around. A faint buzzing sound echoed; it started off soft and grew louder by the second. “Must be time for the bees!” Sweetie Belle excitedly said. “B-B-B-B-B-B-B-B-” Silver Spoon grew pale, shuddering as the buzzing became louder. “Uhh... Silver Spoon? You alright?” Apple Bloom asked. Granny Smith approached, a buzzing beard of yellow and black hanging from her face. “Apple Bloom be a darlin and get me the jars. In the mean time, ah’m gonna see how our buzzing buddies have been!” One of the bees landed on the end of Silver Spoon’s face. She went to scream but nothing came out. In a matter of moments the world began to spin and things began to fade to black, then the filly fainted. “...Ah swear that filly is about as useful as a pogo stick in quicksand.” Apple Bloom giggled. Silver Spoon groaned. She slowly opened her eyes and found herself in Apple Bloom’s bed. “Silver Spoon!” Sweetie Belle chirped. “Hey! Are you ok?” “You fainted.” Scootaloo chuckled. “Because of a bee...” “Ya should have said something.” Apple Bloom chided. “If yer afraid of bees ah’d have warned ya.” “Sorry.” Silver Spoon’s cheeks burned red from embarrassment. “Did I miss anything..?” “Not really,” Twist said. “The be’tht part ha’thn’t come!” “Still gotta paint the farm house with polka dots be-” “Polka dots!!” Silver Spoon sprang up. “Well C’mon!!! Let’s go!!” “Did... did that just happen?” Scootaloo smirked. “Over... polka dots..?” Silver Spoon eagerly worked, painting a large dot on the wall. I’d never hear the end of this if I did it at home! she giggled, musing the thought as she continued. There is still one more thing though. --- Ponies lined up to a stand at Sweet Apple Acres; a line that stretched back down the road, all waiting for a taste of the famous Zap Apple Jam. Silver Spoon anxiously sat, glazing over the line of ponies, looking for one pony in particular. “Lookin fer Diamond Tiara, ain’t cha?” Apple Bloom’s voice rang. “I’m kinda curious to see if she changed,” Silver Spoon said, smiling weakly. “Ah s’ppose ah’d like t’ see too.” The pale yellow filly nodded. “Ah can’t quite put mah hoof on it, but ya kinda have a way with words, Silvy.” “Really?” Silver Spoon blushed. “I mean, it’s nothing all that special.” “...As always Granny Smith, it is a pleasure.” A familiar voice rang. Mr. Rich! “Ohh, you needn’t worry yerself ‘bout that, Filthy.” Granny Smith said. “Tell yer yung’un hai fer me!” The tan stallion groaned and shook his head. “Rich...” The stallion gathered his jars of the rainbow treat. “Oh, Silver Spoon,” he smiled. “Hello.” “Hi Mr. Rich.” Silver Spoon returned his smile. “Thank you...” he muttered. Silver Spoon giggled. “Did... did Diamond Tiara come..?” “I am terribly sorry, she did not come,” he said, shaking his head. “Oh... I see. Alright.” Silver Spoon sighed. “It’s the strangest thing, really, she was invited to somepony’s party. I tried to talk her out of it, but she said you would understand.” That can mean two things... “I must be off now,” Filthy Rich said, dipping in respect to Granny Smith and Silver Spoon. “Bye Mr. Rich!” Silver Spoon waved. “So,” Scootaloo’s voice called. “You think you got through to her?” The other crusaders gathered around Silver Spoon, slightly on edge. “I sure hope so...” Silver Spoon paused. “No, I’m confident I did. Mr. Rich said she was off at some party, so I guess I don’t have to worry about her.” I’m kinda curious. I wonder what it is she is doing. The gray filly looked to her pendant and smiled at the cool blue hue. She could picture Diamond Tiara in a somewhat similar situation. I don’t have to worry about her though. After all Belle and the others have taught me, I hope her new friends can teach her; hopefully they’re patient enough. She giggled at the last thought.
Hollyfern	930	14	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-08-28T22:52:48+00:00	2012-08-28T22:52:48+00:00	11,566	And... It's over Written by-HollyFern; yours truly Edited by-Psyentific initially, then by Biglulu Without which, this story would have been a terrible eye sore. I highly recommend them if you find yourself at the mercy of gramatical issues and the like. These guys are great friends too and my story is proof of their skill. It's been thirteen long chapters a relatively short journey compared to most others. In quite a few of you I've changed your perspective on this little filly with this story. I'm kinda flattered really. I never thought this would blow up like it did. Heck, thanks to Kibby who did a few pictures for me, which I would post here, but they aren't in PNG format so, I can't. I DO recommend you check his deviant art gallery and watch him! (If you have deviantart, if not make one!) The guy is VERY talented, I hve had the pleasure of even watch him livestream from time to time. Special Thanks First up is My friendly rival, Scarlett! Go and read Facets and Flaws! Though unaware, Scarlett has offered healthy compettition for me in the way Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara are portrayed, I won't say anymore because it's a great read and I don't want to spoil it! Next up is Celestia's Paladin. One of my most faithful readers and an all around awesome guy that's been with me through the hard grammar times! To JuyUnseen for his help earlier on! And, on a side note, I'm really sorry I haven't finished that thing. I kinda wasn't too sure of myself from get go, but now that's allllll changed! Now, of course to a certain somepony that's been like a mentor to me Ponyman! This stallion here molded me into being EqD material. I never would have thought that would have been in the realm of possibility for me, but his tutilage saw to that! Over 65k within a few months, featured on EqD and various other places on the web. I can't thank him or any of the others enough for all this and the source of pride I kinda drew from him as he is my idol. And to every tracker, reader, faver. ANYPONY that stuck reading this through from get go. (Too many to mention) It'll probably be awhile before I dole anything out. But, you best believe it'll deal with my darling filly, Silver Spoon. And the many happenings that life may thrust in her direction along with Twist, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo. P.S. We all know the copyright issues and stuff, don't give into the hate. Stay friendly my bronies.
Hollyfern	930	15	Cutie Mark Crusaders,Diamond Tiara,Original Character,Silver Spoon,Twist,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Moving on: Silver Spoon's story	one filly coping with moving on in life	complete	670	10	<p><span style="font-weight:bold;color:#008000">COMPLETE! NOW WITH SEQUEL!</span>Diamond Tiara has moved away to Manehattan leaving behind a lonely and friendless Silver Spoon. Depression slowly sets in, but one Cutie Mark Crusader extends the hoof of friendship. The sequel <a href="/story/47166/The-Spoon-That-Refused-Polish" rel="nofollow">The Spoon That Refused Polish</a></p>	everyone	2012-09-02T15:35:12+00:00	2012-09-02T15:35:12+00:00	5,214	Good news everypony! To everyone who's read and fav'd I think you will be pleased to know that Silver Spoon's life continues the next year with more ongoings as she copes with growing up in her family. There will be subtle hits at quite a bit more going on and even one thing in this story that remained untouched. So far, Silver Spoon's sequel is three chapters in. And, to those who had concerns with the grammar, I think you will be pleased to know that has been taken care of as well. Now, as an extra-special thank you, I'll go movie trailer on y'all! THE FOLLOWING PREVIEW HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR ALL AUDIENCES BY THE MOVING PICTURES CONGREGATION OF EQUESTRIA, INC. --- The mare slightly frowned for a moment then regained her distant expression. “I see I am still not welcome,” She turned to leave, looking to Seabastion. “Seabastion, if you will pass on the news? I am quite sure she will listen to you.” “As you wish, mistress.” Seabastion dipped his head. He entered Silver Spoon’s room and closed the door behind him. The emotion he was masking manifested in a deep sorrowful look, ageing the stallion where he stood. “The return of mistress Sunset has also brought other news as well..." --- As the sunset, the stage seemed to glow with an ethereal aura in the dusk. "Mares and gentlecolts, please!" announced a voice seeming to come from behind the lavish blood red curtains of the stage. A popping sound was heard over the giddy and excited conversation of the crowd. A spotlight sputtered on and tracked to center stage where a head seemed to suspend mid-air. "Woah!" Silver Spoon reeled. What IS that?! Sweetie Belle cooed, and along with a few other ponies in the crowd, began a round of applause at the simple trick. "Tonight, we proudly present our opening act as a pony merely heard about in legend." Just then, however the head moved, seeming to scan the crowd. Then, it tipped its hat. "My, my what a generous audience today!" The head seemed to speak. The rest of it's body was far more elongated than a normal pony. even without the stage the pale horse probably stood taller than anyone in Ponyville. --- "Seabation... you've been acting strangely for awhile now..." Silver Spoon quietly said. "What have you been keeping from me?" The old stallion was silent for a moment, the age in his face seemed to appear all at once. "It is not... out of the realm of possibility," Seabastion began. "That I have come to care for you as my own granddaughter of sorts. Trust that I do not act to cause you worry." --- "Remember, Silver, no matter what happens, no matter what path you walk in life, you will always be daddy's little girl." The sandy stallion cuddled Silver Spoon. "Whatever your decision, leave it to daddy to take care of you. Always." The sequel- The Spoon That Refused Polish
mimezinga	931	1	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2012-01-18T11:59:20+00:00	2013-07-25T09:38:58+00:00	57,941	This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. FoE can be found on Equestria Daily Edited by uSea, Curebores and Silfir CHAPTER 1: Weatherproof. Do you believe in ghosts? “Please let us on! The shield is failing, there’s no time!” A long line of ponies waited impatiently in front of an air wagon, but there was no sign of the pegasus pilots. A green unicorn mare at the back of the crowd suddenly started screaming, desperately pushing ponies aside in a wild dash for the front. “It's impossible! This can’t be happening! Celestia abandoned us! Luna abandoned us! There's n-” BLAM! The panicked mare fell silent as her body hit the ground. All eyes turned to look at a soldier who racked a fresh shell into her riot shotgun. “FORM A LINE AND WAIT YOUR TURN! THERE'S ROOM FOR EVERYPONY, TROUBLEMAKERS WILL BE MET WITH LETHAL FORCE!” A little filly with a blond mane and pink coat was looking up at the sky towards Canterlot. A gigantic shiny bubble engulfed the whole mountaintop. The pink cloud trapped inside was the most incredible sight of her life, capturing her attention completely. “Hey, you there!” A unicorn medical officer dressed in a white uniform was distributing protective suits to the foals. She paused for a moment in front of the pink filly and gave her a worried look. “Are you alone? Where are your parents?” The foal smiled back at the officer. “Mom is up there!” She pointed a hoof at the force field surrounding Canterlot. The energy bubble seemed a lot thinner than ten minutes ago. “She'll be back for dinner!” The officer hesitated, before looking at the foal and trying to smile. “Of course she will. What's your name, little one?” “I'm Puppysmiles!” cheered the filly, bouncing up and down on the spot. “Yes... yes Puppy, alright... Now, listen to me carefully. I want you to take this suit and put it on. You must wear the suit and not take it off, do you understand?” The filly looked at the yellow object with a puzzled expression, then at the white pony. “Yes miss pretty pony! I like you!” Dear Celestia, she’s just a foal, she hasn’t done anything wrong! This war is killing more than just ponies. This war is killing hope itself. The unicorn levitated and unfolded the suit: it was lemon yellow, with several pockets on the legs and a couple of saddlebags on the sides. “Ok, I need you to put your hooves in the holes for me. It's just like... like the pony pokey! Do you know the pony pokey?” “Yush! You reach your right hoof in, you reach your right hoof out!” “Right, that’s perfect! Now the tail... here, let me close it up and put this on your head... done!” The mare put a round glassy helmet on Puppysmiles’ head, then snapped shut a pair of locks on each side, finally sealing the small pony safely inside her radsuit. “Woah! I look like a space pony! Like... like Captain Andromeda! Wooooosh!” The foal started running and jumping in circles, giggling naively. The white mare simply sighed in relief and turned towards the next group with foals. Puppysmiles was having a super duper great time. Everything began with those big fireworks like a super humongous surprise party and the castle was encased in a splendid bubble, like those she made with soap, just bigger... biggest... no, more! Biggester! And now everypony was in the streets for some sort of celebration. She prayed to her lucky star that mommy would come back home sooner today, so they could have fun together. The helmet and the space suit were just the icing on the cupcake; they were super cool and she was sure they made her look awesome... Right! What she needed now was a mirror! Without hesitation the filly rushed home. The muffled street noise filtered into her mother’s room. Puppysmiles stood in front of the dresser, examining her helmet from the inside. Strange lights and symbols danced across the glass. Objects in the room were ringed in green halos and as she looked at them in turn, writing appeared below... Too bad Puppy couldn’t read. Her mom had barely taught her the basics. “Buh... eh... duh.” The filly frowned as she tried to construct the word. “BED! Wow, I'm good!” Satisfied, Puppy trotted downstairs, totally forgetting the mirror. Instead, she went for the fridge. “Muffins!” Puppy plucked one from the tray and went to take a bite. This immediately presented a problem: she couldn’t get near it with that stupid helmet on... “Do want but can't has... Bad helmet! How do I take you off?” She grabbed the offending fishbowl between her hooves and wrestled with it for a full minute, but to no success. Panting, she sat down hard on her rump and decided to play her trump card. “WAAAAAAaaaaahhhhhhh!” Unnoticed by the whining Puppysmiles, a red symbol appeared on the visor. Her tantrum was cut short as a metallic voice began talking from within the suit. “Status of the host – panic” The filly derped for a moment. What was going on? Who was speaking? “Wut?” “Internal medical diagnostic initiated. Error. System rebooting. Estimated time, thirty seconds.” All those funny words were amusing but it didn't help with getting rid of the helmet. Puppysmiles was still upset. “Go away stoopid talking space suit! I want muffins!” “Reboot complete. Checking version. Initiating. Ten seconds to full operational status... eight... seven..” In that moment Puppysmiles heard a crescendo of voices from outside. A mounting roar as all the ponies in the city screamed in terror; it was as if Canterlot itself cried out one last time before the end, a desperate realization of the incoming doom. “Five... Four... Three...” Suddenly, the world went pink. Looking out of the window the foal could see a shadow that grew darker and darker all over the place, as if a gigantic sugary pink cloud was falling on them. Oblivious to its meaning Puppy pressed her helmet against the glass of the window, curious as to what was going on outside. “Two... System rebooted. Starting diagnostic routine. Warning. Primary healing talisman is not responding. Activating backup healing talisman. Starting diagnostic. Female. Foal. Earth pony variety.” Wow, this space suit was smart! It knew a lot of things! “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles!” A blanket of pink mist flooded the streets, muffling the sounds of the ponies it caught, their terrified screams being washed away as the cloud brought them death... or worse. “Life support online. Temperature within parameters. Blood pressure within parameters. Warning. Radiation level above the average by three hundred percent. Minor radiation poisoning detected. Inoculating -Rad-X- inoculating -Rad Away- inoculating -Rad Away-.” Puppy sat in front of the window looking a bit puzzled at the mist leaking inside. She now wasn't sure of- “YEOW! Stoopid space suit! Why you stung m-YEEEOW! STOP IT!” “Warning. Hazardous agent detected. Analyzing. Pink agent, Littlehorn type. Lethal at a concentration exceeding 5%.” Puppy giggled. “Tee-hee, space suit says fancy words!” “1.8%... 2.0%... 2.2%... Warning. Concentration of pink agent above safety limits. Evacuate the area immediately.” Puppy stared in amazement as the pink fog poured from the window and across the floor, she smiled as it streamed between her hooves. It was like candy floss... pink candy floss! Yay! Her mom hadn’t let her eat it since she made herself sick last Nightmare Night. “I feel funny...” “Danger! Mutation detected! Concentration of 5.4%. Danger! 6.0%! Evacuate immediately! Contact Ministry of Peace for immediate help! Initiating transmission of distress signal. Scanning for emergency channel. Transmitting. Warning! Concentration at 7.5%!” “Ugh.. mommy... I don't feel very... can I stay... home... tomor...” Everything became foggy for the foal; she felt like she was sweating a lot while at the same time she was freezing. “Inoculating -Med X-. Inoculating -Healing potion-. Concentration at 12.1%. Inoculating -Rad X-. Inoculating -Rad Away-. Concentration of pink agent at 16.0%. Inoculating -Poison Antidote-. Inoculating -Healing potion-. Inoculating -Healing potion-. Concentration at 22.6%. Inoculating -Healing potion-. Inoculating...” The ceaseless litany of the radsuit’s medical systems continued as Puppy’s legs gave out beneath her. Lying unconscious on the kitchen floor, the healing potions that coursed through her veins kept her alive. As the deadly pink agent slowly permeated the suit, it did its best to mitigate the worst of the effects. She did not die, but she didn't quite survive either. “... Healing potion. Inoculating -Healing potion-. Inoculating -Healing potion-. Warning. Healing potion doses left: three. Concentration of pink agent at 35.0%. Inoculating...” Like an abandoned doll, Puppysmiles slept as her suit sang its clinical chorus of programmed procedures. Hazardous atmosphere, suit compromised, medical supplies exhausted. She heard none of it as minutes flowed into hours, hours into days... The filly simply lay there, on the floor. Wearing the noisiest medical suit ever, which kept stoically informing her that she was almost dead and she needed... practically everything. Days became weeks, weeks became months as Puppy kept sleeping, frozen in that very last instant of life. Months stacked up in seasons, and season gave way to years; the suit continuing to sing its lullaby of medical emergencies. Year upon year the voice of the suit became lower and lower, starting to crackle. The transparent helmet covered in dust hid the tragedy of the world outside from the filly's face as she took her longest ever nap. Sealed inside her suit, tainted by the cloud, decades passed until they became a century, then two... The house bore the years without a single repair; it was a good house, built by earth ponies in the old pony way: brick by brick, with a solid roof and strong foundations; but everything has to meet its end. It began as a little crack in the middle of the main roof beam during spring, growing larger and deeper with every rainstorm until the whole thing just resigned to old age. Right on Puppysmiles’ head. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 1 - TIME approximately 5:00 P.M.- LOCATION: Clover Leaf Terrace, suburb of Canterlot When the building collapsed it raised a cloud of dust and pink smoke that persisted for several minutes before everything went silent again. When the dust finally settled, from under the ruins came a tiny, muffled voice. “Owie...” Slowly a brick moved, followed by another, revealing something glinting in the rubble. A round glassy helmet popped up, followed by the yellow silhouette of a very small pony wearing a radsuit. There was a long crack in the helmet, but somehow the damage began to disappear as the pony finished freeing herself from the collapsed building. “Mom?” The filly resembled an astronaut taking her first steps on an alien world. “What is this place? Where is everypony? Mom? MOOM!?” Something felt wrong, beginning with the fact that she was still wearing that talking suit. “MOOOM!” “Bzzzt- FzZZzzZzt- line... rebooFZZZt necesszSzT!” “Shut up suit! Where’s Mom? Where is my house? Where... am...” The filly’s words died in her throat as she looked up to see a familiar mountain, topped by a ruined but unmistakable castle. There was no doubt: this was Canterlot, her home. “What... b-b-but... it's... all broken!” “Fzzzt... critical failure... no living parFZZZTT! Requesting conffFFZZZTanual rebooting” “Yeah, whatever!” the filly yelled, while still looking at the ruins of Canterlot looming above her, and all of a sudden she felt funny again. At first her sight became foggy, and she fell on her flank, her legs unable to support her. Puppysmiles grew weaker and weaker, feeling a terrible pain crawl from her hooves up to her spine. It was a new type of sensation: everything in her just seemed to stop working and the harder she tried to do anything, the more she felt trapped in her own body. The little filly tried to scream but her mouth wouldn’t move. The only thing she could do was look at the empty street through a cloud of pain and a dusty helmet. As she stood there, her focus shifted to a pile of strange dirty white stones. Their shape was unusual: long, thin, some curved, some straight. Now that she was paying attention, the foal realized that they were everywhere. The sight disturbed her slightly, but the sensation didn't last long: a green dot pulsed before her eyes, commanding her full attention. “Reboot complete. Checking version. File not found. Starting emergency mode. Version 0.2...” “Ugh.” Puppy tried to say something, but she was still completely paralyzed. The foal just stared at the weird lights in front of her eyes that turned from green to pink. Hey, good news at last! She loved pink, it was her favorite color! “New components detected. Initializing matrix. Connecting.” A spark ran through the foal's body, from her nose to her tail, washing away that horrible sensation of paralyzing weakness. With some hesitation the filly tried raising a hoof. Finding no resistance, this encouraged her to try a few uncertain steps: it worked. It was as if the last five minutes had never happened. She just got better all of a sudden... go figure... “Wow, that was weird... Now I just need to get this stoopid space suit off—” “All systems operational. Starting diagnostic routine. Analyzing. Subject 001, Puppysmiles. Female. Foal. Earth pony variety. No vitals. Checking for errors in diagnostic equipment. No error found. Repeating diagnostic routine. Female. Foal. Earth pony variety. No vitals.” “What are whytles? I want whytles! Are they yummy!?” “Launching Learning Program for Foals. Connecting to Ministry of Image for recent updates. Unable to establish communication bridge. Launching program from backup files. Please wait for installation to finish.” The filly started trotting around, moving toward the pile of old weathered stones and stopping to get a better look at them. The HUD in her helmet illuminated the heap, surrounding its silhouette with a pink halo. “Curly cuh... oh... ruh... puh... ss... eh! Cor... corrupse!” The filly jiggled, reading was fun! A second later, she frowned. “What's a corrupse?” “Corpse, noun. Remnants of a dead creature – the more you know!” The metallic voice quickly answered the question. “Dead? Like... dead dead dead?” “Searching synonyms for dead... Cadaverous. Deceased. Defunct. Departed. Done for. Erased. Expired. Extinct. Gone. Inanimate. Inert. Lifeless...” Puppy listened for the first part of the list, then poked a long white bone with a hoof. Her eyes pointed out something just too familiar in this skeleton. “Uhm, mister voice... this corpse... what was it?” “Analyzing... Pony. Adult female. Unicorn variety” The little foal shivered, or at least felt like shivering. Her eyes rose, looking down the street littered with bones everywhere. Skeletons of dead ponies, curled on themselves, lining against the walls, corralled in small groups as if they had tried to find safety in numbers. All dead. Everypony was dead. “What... what happened? Mom? Where's Mom?” Puppysmiles felt a cold sensation running down her spine. “Mister Voice... where's Mom?” “MoM, Ministry of Morale. Analyzing data. Connecting to Equestrian Cartography Onspark. Downloading data. Error, name matching failed. Searching for MoM broadcasting signal. Spritebot found. Establishing communication bridge... ” Puppysmiles stopped following the voice after the first two or three sentences, now she was trying to find her home. Maybe her mother was there waiting for her! “Why is everything different? Where is my house, where are all the pretty ponies?” Glancing down the street she saw the rusted and battered remnants of the Pony Joe's Doughnut shop, confirming that this was the street where she lived. Her house must have been... “B-B-But...” She stood in front of the ruins she’d crawled out of just minutes ago, looking at them in disbelief. “Query: broadcasting source. Broadcasting signal found. Location marker transmission in progress...” “If this is home... where's my mom?” Puppy sat down and started to cry, or at least tried to; quite soon the foal realized that she was just bawling; no tears ran down her face and she didn't feel relieved at all. Now the filly was almost sure that something in her was wrong; she was going to ask the mechanical voice about that, but was interrupted. “Ministry of Morale's locations added to map. Nearest MoM hub displayed on the navigator.” “You... you found my mom!?” “Affirmative. MoM has been located. Nearest MoM hub outside Canterlot Ruins is set as new navigation priority.” “Uh... I... guess that's a yes?” “Instructions: follow the pink arrow on the compass until destination is reached.” “Uh... thanks?” The filly took some seconds to realize how great this thing was. That voice had just found her mom! She was going to see her mommy, everything was going to be all right! Who cared about the house, the dead ponies, the ruined castle or this stoopid... no wait! This super duper smart talking space suit was going to find her mom! The thought filled her with such glee that it pushed everything else from her mind. Who cared that she didn’t feel hungry or tired or whatever, Mom would know why! She was going to find her mom, everything was going to be fine! “YAY!” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 1 - TIME approximately 8:30 P.M.- LOCATION: Sunshine Plaza, outskirts of Canterlot “Warning. Vital parameters absent. Warning. Medical supplies exhausted. Warning. All emergency channels are mute. Warning...” “Warning wrap up warning wrap uuup!” Puppysmiles was trotting down the streets of Canterlot's suburbs, singing her personal version of the greatest hit ever in all of Equestria, trying to match the suit’s timing so that it seemed like a chorus... and no, it didn't work. “The medical supply’s tired! warning wrap up warning wrap up! We'll soon need batteries!” “Negative. Energy supply is sufficient. Estimated lifetime of the spark before red level, one thousand and two hundreds years.” “Oh come on! Just sing and stop whining.” “Negative. This is not whining. This is a warning. I can supply appropriate audio samples of whining.” “Warning for what? Everything will be all right as soon as we find my mom! She’s the coolest pony ever!” “Negative. MoM is not a pony. It's an acronym for—” “Of course Mom’s a pony... and she’s not an... uh... an acrobat either!” “Negative. It's Ministry of Morale.” Puppysmiles giggled. “Silly mister suit, sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me!” She giggled again, “Ministry of Morale, as if that has to do with anything...” Puppy trotted the deserted roads, past the bombed out relics and ghosts of ponies long dead. As daylight faded into dusk, she found herself in a large city square before a statue of Princess Celestia. “Wow, pretty princess Celestia... when I'm big I want to be a princess too!” Puppy paced around the monument with curiosity, trying to find a way onto the statue’s back. Having a ride on a gigantic marble Celestia seemed just too awesome to be a bad idea, but as she prepared to start her ascent, the suit interrupted. “Warning. Hostile detected. Distance, twenty meters. Analyzing...” A red dot appeared on the compass beside her pink objective. Turning to face it she saw a pony watching her from the doorway of a post office. At last! Somepony else! What’shisname, Horse Tile? Tee-hee, that’s funny name! The filly skipped towards him with her best winning smile. “Hi mister Horse Tile! I'm Puppysmiles!” “Warning. Hostile at six meters and closing.” “Oh, and this is Mister Voice! He lives in my space suit and whines all the time but he's super smart!” The creature stared at Puppy with an empty, glowing gaze. He was a horribly disfigured earth pony; his mane was almost completely gone and skin peeled off his body in several places, revealing rotting meat and yellow bones. “GWAAH...” growled the ghoul, as he took a step towards her. “Uhm... is something wrong with you, mister Horse?” “Analysis complete. Creature: Canterlot feral ghoul. Threat level: lethal. Tactical retreat is advised.” Puppy stopped, transfixed by the ghoul’s unwavering red glare, suddenly aware of the horror standing before her. The ghoul simply stood, and stared back. “Iforgotsomethingveryimportantsorrygottagookbyebye!” The foal turned and sprinted for her life, scrambling over bones and screaming like the scared little filly she was. “AYEEEEEEEEEE!” The ghoul watched her display until she disappeared from sight, then sauntered back into the post office. After several blocks Puppy finally decided it was safe to slow down and catch her breath. She looked over her shoulder, hoping the monster had given up the chase. The street was empty. Lucky Puppy, she was best runner ever, maybe she could do a sonic rainboom without even flying? Was that possible? It would have been super cool for sure... “Okay mister Voice... you’re the egghead. Is that not-so-pretty-pony still chasing us?” “Negative. Scanning shows no activity in the area.” “Super... now let me just catch some breath then... then...” Puppy realized something strange. She was barely winded despite having just ran half a kilometer at full gallop, she had really only stopped because she felt she should be tired. This seemed a teeny tiny bit wrong and made Puppy recall all the warnings the suit kept giving her... maybe there was something that she needed to know. “Uhm... mister Voice... am I ill?” “Running diagnostic procedure. Please wait. Negative. The subject is not ill nor wounded or poisoned.” Puppy felt relieved: the thing about not being hungry or tired was probably nothing unusual. Her mom was always awake after Puppy’s bed time, she never got tired. Maybe she was growing up at last? Yush! Puppy was becoming a big pony like mom! “Diagnosis complete: the subject is deceased.” “Diseased? You just told me I was all right!” “Negative. I told you that you were not ill.” The filly frowned. “Waaaait just a moment. I'm not ill, but I'm diseased?” “Negative. You are deceased.” “But that's the same thing I said!” “Negative. The word you are using is incor-” “Aw, just stop with this I say tomato you say tomahto thing! It was boring even when I was five! You don't want to tell me what's wrong? Fine! I don't want to know! Bleh!” Puppy stuck her tongue out at the helmet HUD and again started to follow her pink compass heading. She barely noticed that the night had drawn in around her, she could still see her way as clear as day... Unknown to Puppy, her eyes now shone with a faint pink light. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 1 - TIME approximately 10:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Dead Hills, Wasteland As the yellow suited filly made her way out of the city, she found herself at the top of a long and winding road. As it stretched into the distance she saw it pass through a desolate landscape of scorched hills and dead forests with little sign of civilization in between. In the darkness Puppy slowed to a stop and looked around, confused. “Hey, mister Voice... are you super duper sure that this way is okay? We’re not heading anywhere near the mountain top...” “Affirmative. Nearest likely-intact MoM hub is located in this direction, however it is not currently broadcasting. Other hubs are also located further down this route.” The little filly frowned for a moment and it seemed that some big gears were making a lot of noise in her head while she was trying to translate what the suit had just said. In the end, she just smiled. “Okie dokie lokey... let's sing something then!” “There, is a place, where the grass is what's for dinner! Charmed, fun and wild, there must be something in the water!” In the wasteland, walking down the road making as much racket as she was is just asking for trouble. Within half an hour Puppy had attracted the attention of every potential aggressor in the area, though most of them were a bit wary of how to proceed. “Warning. Several hostiles detected. Caution is advised.” “Wut? Mister Horse Tile again!?” Puppy looked around in a frantic panic; she was sure that she lost him in town, how could he- BLAM! Suddenly the filly fell on her rump as a stinging pain in her left hind leg made it buckle. The pain wasn't that bad but for some reason she couldn't get up. “Owie...” A group of three ponies were running in her direction, screaming and foaming like mad. “You! I’m gonna eat your heart! GRAAAAH!” “I want his helmet it’s mine I saw it first it’s mine it’s MINE! He's not bleeding! Why isn’t he bleeding? MAKE HIM BLEED!!” “Warning. Breach in containment layer. Exposure to external elements unavoidable. Survival of subject not guaranteed. Self repairing magic activated.” The foal waved a hoof at the new arrivals. “Hi pretty ponies! I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom? Oh, and watch out for the horseflies! They sting like crazy!” Puppy just sat smiling at the three ponies, trying to behave and ignore the annoying sting on her leg. Stoopid insects. The trio of ponies rushing towards her showed no sign of slowing down. She frowned for a moment. “Is something wrong?” “Immobilize that bastard! Cut his fucking legs off, I want to see how he does as a snail!” A large earth pony tackled Puppy to the ground, effectively burying her under his sheer bulk. The other two ponies split up: the unicorn kept his distance and trained a rifle at the foal’s head, while the earth pony mare pinned Puppy's forelegs. “Got you! Now hold still while I—” “Warning. Pink agent, Littlehorn Type detected.” When the earth pony landed on Puppysmiles a thick pink cloud puffed out from the large bullet hole in the suit, right in his face. At first the pony looked annoyed, but this emotion was rapidly replaced by realization, fear, panic, terror, as finally his head started to melt. “Aaaah! Help me! Help! PLEASE! AAAGH! KILLMEEEAAAGGK!” The other two raiders stared in disbelief at the massive earth pony as his face melted and dripped from his skull like an ice cream on a hot summer’s day. The earth pony mare looked at the filly inside the helmet. She seemed so small, so innocuous... she has big... pink... gleaming eyes... “It’s a ghoul! Back off! Back o-COUGH COUGH!” The mare tried to flee but started coughing up blood. It was too late to run, she had already tasted the pink venom and without a healing potion she was just as dead as her companion. The unicorn screamed in panic like a foal, threw the rifle against Puppy's helmet and then ran for his life. In the meantime the big male rolled from Puppy’s back as liquefied brain leaked from his skull’s orbits and splashed onto the asphalt. The female tried to run while choking on her own blood, managing to get about a hundred meters before collapsing. “Warning. Breach in the containment layer. Exposure to external elements unavoidable. Survival of the subject is not guaranteed. Repairs in progress.” Puppy was reeling: shell-shocked by the big pony dying right in front of her... it was worse than a horror movie, mostly because this was real. What in Equestria could have done that? Melting a head with all the skin and the bones and... suddenly she realized. “Mister Horse Tile! He had the same melted face! He killed them!” and now she was next! No... no, no, no, no! That wasn't good, she had to get up and run away super fast. Rainbow Dash fast! Unfortunately her leg wasn't cooperating. She tried to get up and run but could barely manage a stagger, so stagger she did as fast as... uhm... let's say a crippled turtle. “Repairs completed. Containment restored. Running medical diagnostic. Subject deceased.” “Don’t you dare start that again! We're in a pinch here!” “Negative. No immediate threats detected. Hostile count in the area: zero.“ “Count? Mister Horse Tile is a noble pony?” “Negative. The correct word is hostile. You are distorting the meaning of-” “What are you, a dictionary!? I'm tired of your fancy words!” Puppy sighed with frustration. “Look, there's a super evil zombie pony count after us. We have to get out of here before he finds us again!” “Negative. There's a misunderstanding of Celestial pro—” “CUT. IT. OUT!” As the anger grew inside Puppy her eyes began to burn. No really: they were literally producing brilliant pink flames! They were so bright that she could finally see herself reflected in the glass of the helmet, working like a mirror in the darkness. What Puppy saw was a terrible creature with mad, burning eyes: a soulless monster that scared her to the bone. Speechless and completely lost in the vision, Puppy fell to the ground. She clutched the helmet between her hooves, closed her eyes and started to cry. There were no tears, but it was loud; a soul-felt wail that lasted for hours. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 2 - TIME approximately 6:45 A.M. - LOCATION: Dead Hills, Wasteland During the night several creatures had been lured by the sound, but none of them dared to approach the yellow filly; something about her unsettled them deeply. It was already morning by the time Puppy finally stopped crying. Slowly she lowered her hooves from the helmet and opened her eyes. The suit had gone mute since her little scene the previous night; now she was starting to feel a little lonely. “Uh... mister Voice... are you there?” “Affirmative. All systems are powered and ready.” “Ah... right... I... I just wanted to say that I'm sorry... I didn't mean to shout at you. I...” “Warning. This program is not designed for socializing. The emergency mode only provides hardware support, voice command interpretation and basic survival advice.” “I... please... please, please, please, don't leave me alone! I'm sorry! Please take me to my mom!” “Location MoM already set as priority navigation point.” Puppy hesitated for a moment, trying to understand what the voice was implying. “Uhm... are you saying that we are still going to find mom together?” “Affirmative. It is the set priority.” “YAY! I love you mister Voice!” Puppy was suddenly interrupted by the sound of a manly metallic laugh, but it wasn't coming from inside her helmet. The filly looked around, trying to pinpoint the source, and found a spritebot fluctuating in the air behind her. “Uh... hi? I'm Puppysmiles...” After her last experience with newcomers she wasn't completely sure that the everypony is a welcome pony approach was the best one, but she had been told to be nice and she didn't want to disappoint her mother. The spritebot hovered for a few moments longer, then replied: “Oh, hi Puppy... can I call you Puppy? You are quite an interesting encounter.” Puppy smiled happily. A friend at last! “Sure! Everypony calls me that. What's your name, buzzing eye?” “I'm Watcher, pleased to meet you.” The foal tilted her head. “What are you watching?” “Well, anything that I find interesting.” “Wow, that must be a lot of things!” The bot laughed for a moment. “Well, yes, quite a lot... say, is that a fully functioning Mark VI Omni-Environmental Suit you are wearing?” “Nope, it's a space suit! It's super cool and it also talks, but I can't get out of it.” “Oh, and how did you get inside it?” “A pretty pony put it on me yesterday.” “Yesterday? Can I ask who that pony was?” Puppy pondered for a moment. “She had a pretty white vest and made me sing the Pony Pokey... it was all a bit crazy, she didn't tell me what her name was...” “Crazy? Like what?” The filly frowned, trying to remember the important details of the encounter. “Well, there was this big bubble all around the castle and the streets were full of ponies and soldier ponies and then all that pink mist and-” “Woah, slow down for a moment! Pink mist? Castle? Do you mean in Canterlot?” “Yup! Well... not Canterlot Canterlot... we live downhill, but it's still Canterlot, you know?” “Yes I... I know...” The voice hesitated. “And... this happened yesterday?” “Uh... maybe it was a couple days ago... yesterday I woke up and all the pretty ponies were gone and... ah... my house was gone too and... there were lots of corpse ponies and it was creepy... and a really ugly pony chased me but now it's okay because me and mister Voice are going to find my mom!” The spritebot was silent for a long time; Puppy just kept smiling, waiting for her new friend to say something else. When the voice finally came back it sounded distant and somehow not so friendly. “So, after the thing with the pink cloud, you went to sleep and you woke up the next day and everything was just... gone...” “Eyup!” “And... you’ve not been able to get out of the suit since then and... you haven’t had to drink or eat or... go to the restroom?” “Nopey mopey.” The filly smiled. “Mister Voice said it was because I was diseased but then he said no and then yes and we had this big argument about fancy words.” “And... can I ask you where you are going right now?” At last an easy question. “Sure! I'm going to find my mom! Mister Voice found her and I'm following this super nice pink arrow! When I find her everything will be all right!” “This... mister Voice... pointed you in that direction? Down this road?” “Yes! Wow, mister Watcher, you are super curious, aren’t you? You should be called mister Questioner!” The filly giggled, the voice didn't say anything for almost a minute. “Oh Celestia I... I can't... Listen, Puppy, I...” “Yes?” The filly’s eyes grew bigger. The voice went mute again for a long while. “I'm sorry, I have to go. I... I wish you luck.” “Sure! Good luck to you too! When I find my mom I'll tell her that you were nice to me! Bye bye!” The spritebot gave a brief burst of static and began playing some music, floating away in the direction of Canterlot. “Wow, music! He has music! Cool! Hey mister Voice, do we have music too?” “Affirmative. I receive several radio signals. Some of them are meant for entertainment.” Fancy words again, Puppy frowned trying to translate that sentence. “Uhm... this means we can has music?” “Affirmative.” “Do it!” After a few crackles of static the radio began playing. The little filly in yellow continued south, trotting merrily along the lonesome road. “What is this place filled with so many wonders? Casting its spell that I am now under...” Footnote: LVL up... no wait, Puppy uses a monster template! does she get lvls? I think not. Link to Chapter 2 All credits for the setting go to Kkat, author of the original story Fallout Equestria published on Equestria Daily Puppy’s S.P.E.C.I.A.L. Strength: 5 Perception: 4 Endurance: 5 Charisma: 7 Intelligence: 4 Agility: 6 Luck: 9 Edited by: Silfir and uSea (yay!) Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed. GALLERY Puppy before the megaspells, by Easteu F.E.S. MK IV technical data, by Easteu Puppy by Sip Puppy and the parador, by Easteu Cover, full view, by Sip Henrietta Firebright, by IrkenGeneral
mimezinga	931	2	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-10-27T15:18:41+00:00	2011-10-27T15:18:41+00:00	35,480	Edited by: uSea, Silfir CHAPTER 2: Party Hard No need to bring a gift, being there will be enough! DAY 2 - TIME approximately 4:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Redtrotters ridges. Big 52 N Branch Usually wearing a full environmental suit is not considered the cutting edge of Equestrian fashion, but everypony has to admit that it brings some neat advantages. First of all, if you were to survive a direct hit from a balefire spell, you'll probably to live long enough to die of thirst inside the suit. The second good thing is that it is both waterproof and mildly heatproof, so you'll never need an umbrella or sunscreen. Oh, and it's lemon yellow, so it's nearly impossible not to spot you under almost any imaginable circumstance except, perhaps, being buried under an avalanche of lemons. Obviously there are moments when you don’t want to be found. As if Puppy cared at all. "Hi! I'm Puppysmiles!" The foal in yellow smiled at the new pair of ponies in front of her. They seemed quite similar to the trio of the other night, but a bit less reckless and a lot better armed. There was a unicorn mare that had a riot shotgun and an earth pony mare with a big spear strapped to her side; this information could have been of some importance, if only Puppy had had some basic understanding of weaponry. The unicorn was the first to talk: "What are you doing in Redtrotters' territory, foal?" "And what the hay is that weird suit?" added the earth pony . "I'm looking for my mom!" Puppy replied enthusiastically, pointed a hoof more or less in the direction where the road was going. "She's that way!" The two tribe ponies exchanged a glare, then the unicorn spoke again: "Okay, and what's your mother's name? Is she a Redtrotter?" "What's a Redtrotter?" The unicorn showed the first signals of growing impatience, but the earth pony answered the question for her. "We are the Redtrotters: we control the Transequestrian Route 52 from here to Salt Cube City; if you have business on the Big 52 you do it through us. So, what's your mother's name?" “My mommy is called Rainy Days! She's super cool and she always sings for me and she's a great cook too! She's the best pony ever and when I'm big I want to be like her!” “Yeah, sure, I got the point,” snapped the unicorn. “Sorry kid, but I don't know any Rainy Days; she's not a Redtrotter. If you want to pass, you have to pay a fee.” “Ah... okie dokie? I have...” Puppy started searching inside the various pockets of her suit; she had collected some objects along her way, mostly broken toys and things she thought were interesting. Maybe she could give something to these ponies. After all, you gotta care, you gotta share, right? “What about this?” Manipulating things without her teeth was quite a problem; she had to use her hooves and that was made even harder by the fact that she was wearing that stupid suit. “Please wait, I'm almost done... uh...” “Assistance. The suit is equipped with a weak manipulation spell. Access your Inventory from the HUD and ask for the wanted item.” “Wut?” By now the two mares were sick of waiting and the foal speaking to herself like a crazy old mare was just the last straw. The unicorn nodded to the earth pony; the latter gave a sigh, grabbed her spear and stabbed Puppy in the neck with a single powerful strike, piercing the suit and its occupant, killing her instantly. Puppysmiles didn't even see it coming, she was busy listening to the suit and went down like a bag of stones. “She was dead anyway; a foal wandering alone out here is nothing more than walking glue. If only she had got here two days ago...” said the unicorn. The earth pony noticed the troubled expression of her companion. “Yeah... poor Ridge Racer...” The earth pony retrieved her spear and looked in puzzlement at the pink smoke that was rising from the hole in the suit. “Hey, Boney... what's that?” The unicorn scratched her head with a hoof. “You must have broke some talisman in the suit... it could be poisonous, best stay back.” “But... leave the body here like this?” The earth pony hesitated, trying to keep away from the pink smoke. “The rad roaches will take care of her. After that little smoke show I don't think that the suit is worth looting... Let's move, the patrol isn’t finished yet.” The two ponies trotted away, leaving the main road and heading to a low ridge not far from there. The body of the little pony lay in the middle of the road for half an hour and during that time the small pink cloud surrounding her didn't seem to dissolve. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 2 - TIME approximately 4:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Redtrotters Ridges, Big 52 N Branch The first telltale sign that this story was still going on was the automated voice of the suit coming back to life with a series crackles. “Initializing system. Checking version. Warning. Version number not corresponding. Starting in emergency mode. Version 0.2. Checking equipment status. All systems online. Major breach detected. Repair spells activated. Resuming last session. Loading personal data for subject 001: Puppysmiles. Subject deceased, condition stable. All clear.” Puppy's eyes blinked for a moment inside the helmet, just as if she awoke from a pleasant sleep. The foal yawned and a droplet of pink glittering fluid fell from her mouth and onto the helmet of the suit, disappearing almost immediately as it was absorbed by the glass. “Uhm... five more minutes, mom...” The filly turned around, still surrounded by the pink cloud that was now slowly fading. “Breach repaired. Subject insulated from external environment.” Lazily the filly got up and looked around. At first she frowned, then seemed to remember something. “Oh, right... Mom's not here... What was I doing before going to sleep?” Puppy tried to scratch her head but her hoof found the helmet on its way. For a moment she frowned again, shrugged and kept scratching the helmet with a deep, thoughtful look. “Retrieving temporary memory. Query: last performed action before losing senses. Negotiating passage.” “Negotiating what?” “Interacting with self proclaimed Redtrotter ponies.” Fancy words again... “Red-who?” “Talking with pretty ponies.” At last something comprehensible! “Oh, right, pretty ponies! Now I remember! Ah... where are they gone?” “Location of Redtrotters unknown. Adding finding the subjects in the active mission list.” Puppy raised an eyebrow with a stumped expression. “We have a to do list? Since when?” “List initiated 23 hours ago. Objectives on the list, 4.” “Wow, we have a lot of things to do... four is a lot, right? What's on the list?” “Main objective: reach MoM. Secondary objective: get rid of space suit. Secondary objective: confront Count Horse Tile or keep avoiding him. Secondary objective: find Redtrotters.” After listening to the list, the filly in yellow tapped her helmet with a hoof, a thoughtful expression on her muzzle. “Think, think think... muffins! No wait, it wasn’t that... ” after several minutes the foal nodded, a new resolve shining in her eyes. “Okie dokie, play some music... ah... the one with the chatty pony.” Puppy trotted along the road, following the arrow and listening to the radio with a spring in her step. The area surrounding Route 52 was now a scorched land dotted with rocks and ridges. It was hard to see very far because of the irregularity of the terrain and this would have been a problem if Puppy ever cared; obviously she didn't. “Hey, mister Voice, did you say something about picking stuff from my pockets?” “Affirmative. This suit is equipped with a weak manipulation spell.” “Uh... how does it work?” “Loading instructions. Selecting easy version for foals and Derpy. Name the object you need, if it is in your possession it will be put in front of you.” “Ah... muffins!” A box of two hundred year old muffins floated in front of Puppy; she giggled, it looked so silly hovering in the air like that! “Hey, this is fun! Sarsaparilla!” A bottle of sarsaparilla replaced the muffins. “Toy cart!” This time a small toy cart in really bad condition floated in front of the foal. “Tee-hee! We need more stuff, I like this guessing game!” “Negative. This is not a guessing game. It's inventory management.” Puppy took a rock and put it in her pocket. “A rock!” The rock obviously floated out of the pocket and listed lazily in front of her. “Yay! It works!” When it was put away again, the stone was labeled: The Rock Of Destiny; but since Puppy was not so good with reading she didn't notice. Trotting down the road, the filly kept asking for everything she had in her backpack, which wasn't very much. Actually she owned just four objects, but she had big plans for the future. “Oh, and we need more music!” I can see that lone star from a thousand miles away calling me back home though I ventured far astray when I see that beacon shining for me all along it calls me back to Equestria and a home! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 2 - TIME approximately 7:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Redtrotters camp, Big 52 N Branch The settlement was little more than a dirty bunch of half ruined shacks surrounded by a moat. Its barricade looked more like the result of a road crash between some old carts rather than a purpose built defence. Puppy was blissfully unaware of all this as she kept trotting towards the town, singing along with the radio until the road in front of her suddenly exploded in a small pillar of dust. “Hey! I told you to STOP. RIGHT. THERE!” Puppy looked toward the barricade; she could see that there was a pony some fifty meters away, and he was pointing a large gun at her. The filly sat down, waved a hoof and smiled. “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles!” The pony with the hunting rifle peeking from behind the barricade didn't seem much impressed. “Okay, take that goldfish bowl off and show your face!” “Uh... I'd totally do that if I could, but I'm stuck inside!” Puppy pondered for a moment, “Actually, it's on the to do list!” “Great, just great... then stand there where I can see you and put down all your weapons.” “I don't think I have weapons with me... I have a rock, does it count? I can throw it!” she offered with enthusiasm. The guard pony facehoofed. “Hey, Doublesize, go and search her! You, with the yellow suit, just stand there and behave!” “Okie Dokie Loki!” Puppy smiled but for some reason her answer startled the pony behind the barricade. “Just say okay, don't try anything fun and maybe nopony will get hurt! Do as I say now. Don't resist and let Doublesize do his work.” A big brown unicorn male approached Puppy, looking at the smiling filly through the glass of her helmet. The light was beginning to fade and now her eyes were just a bit pinkish, although it was hard to see thanks to all the pink lights coming from the helmet’s HUD. “Wow, that's a mighty fine radsuit you have here... never seen one like this before...” “Yush! It's super yellow and it's smart and it can do magics! Look! Look at this! A-hem... Muffins!” The same muffin box from before levitated in front of Puppy. “Wow, integrated inventory management and lesser manipulation spells. This thing must cost a fortune. Where did you find it?” “A pretty pony gave it to me in Canterlot!” “So... you're from Canterlot...” Doublesize seemed skeptical. The filly nodded proudly. “Ah-huh!” “The place with a big castle on the top of a mountain right at the beginning of the Big 52...” “That's it!” Replied Puppy, smiling. “Wow, this explains why you are wearing a full environmental suit at least... ok, let's get back to business... show me your pass.” Puppysmiles stared blankly at the brown unicorn. “My what?” “You don't have a pass? Didn't you meet a patrol on the road coming here?” “I met two pretty ponies. One was an earth pony like me and the other was a unir... unisc... unicron! They were super nice and super pretty!” “Yes, yes... Rattling Bones and Frozen Soda,” said Doublesize, cutting her short. “Didn't they say something about a passage fee?” “Uh... I don't remember. We were talking for a bit, then they went away and left me alone and sleepy...” The unicorn sighed and called for the pony at the barricade. “Hey! The foals clean but it seems that Boney and Soda are giving free passes today! The kid met them but she has no pass... what now?” “Just take something from her that's worth the ticket and give her a pass!” “Uh... okay...” The earth pony stripped Puppy of everything she had but the rock and the suit; actually he tried to unlock even that, but the harness seemed to be sealed shut from the inside. “Oh well, I guess it's just how things go... sorry kid.” Then he gave Puppy a flattened tin can with a red stain in the middle. “Here you go, special discount for foals.” “I'm telling my mom that you've been nice to me, thank you mister pretty pony!” “Oh, right, speaking of that... whats a foal in a rad suit doing all alone on the Big 52? This is not a nice place...” “I'm going to my mom!” Puppy took a look around as if she was trying to align herself with something, then pointed a hoof toward a high ridge to the south east. “There! Ok got to go bye bye!” Without waiting for a response the foal merrily trotted away. “But the only thing in that direction is the Carnival. Wait a second kid! It's dangerous business going out there!” Doublesize raised a hoof, but stopped himself. This was the wasteland and she wasn't family, why bother? The filly in yellow wandered off the beaten path and explored among the rocks and the ridges. She found some sort of track, a winding trail running up and down the landscape just as if somepony had gone around dragging a couple of pointy sticks over the ground. Puppysmiles sniffed for a moment at the trails before ignoring them; for the foal climbing rocks and jumping from stone to stone was a super fun game; so, with a hop, a skip and a jump, the evening became night as the foal ventured deeper and deeper into the wastes. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 2 - TIME approximately 10:30 P.M. - LOCATION: The Carnival, Wasteland A large barn stood at the bottom of a narrow valley, its once friendly coat of pink paint now faded and cracked. It was protected by a fence that ran all around the surrounding ridges, with an automated turret placed at fairly regular intervals. The building and the fence were in a bad shape and so were the turrets, but some of them continued to slowly sweep side-to-side, guarding the perimeter. “Warning. Automated point defense turrets detected. Turrets are set on hostile mode. Threat level: medium.” The word hostile immediately put Puppy on alert; she stopped for a moment, looking around at her surroundings. “The count again? Where? That pony is persistent. Uhm, better safe than sorry I guess.“ The little pony hid herself behind a rock and waited to see if Mr Horse Tile was up to something. “Shush the music, mister Voice: we are hiding...” She held her breath and strained her ears to hear if somepony was moving. “Establishing communication bridge with the defense system. Exchanging protocol. Asking for clearance. Permission granted. The way is clear, please proceed.” “Shush I said! There must be somepony here... could be the Count, we have to be super sneaky...” Puppy crawled out from cover and glanced over her shoulder in case something was creeping up behind her, before slowly moving toward the fence. The turrets almost immediately pointed in her direction, but their dots on the compass changed from red to pink and the guns returned to their default positions. “Hey, mister voice... I told you to stop the music...” “Affirmative. The radio has been muted.” “So, why do I keep hearing music?” “Sound source detected. The music comes from inside the MoM building.” “From inside? Mom's inside that barn? With the music and everything else? Mom is throwing a party? YAY!” Puppy instantly stopped hiding, got up on her hooves and ran downhill straight to the barn doors. When the filly arrived she bucked open the doors, jumped inside and yelled, “SURPRISE!” The barn's inside consisted of a single large hall with two open lofts; one right above the entrance and the other on the opposite, short side of the structure. The floor was made of flattened and pressed ground, covered sparsely with hay, and the walls were decorated with old streamers and garlands. From the ceiling hung some sorry-looking piñatas, a lot of limp, deflated balloons and other old and half-destroyed decorations. The barn was barely lit by a couple of flickering lamps. The only thing that seemed to work properly were the speakers that were playing music at an almost deafening volume. Right in the middle of the room there was a long table prepared for a party, with colored dishes and plastic glasses with names and everything else. There were plenty of guests sitting at the table; a bag of flour, a pile of rocks, a bucket filled with something unrecognizable and a chunk of dust, all of which wore a party hat. Oh, and there were skeletons too; no less than a dozen lifeless little ponies sat around the table, wearing festive party hats and staring blankly into empty plates. There were even a couple of corpses that looked more mummies than skeletons; actually, one of them might have passed for a very hungry pony. A large pile of white bones lurked in a far corner of the barn. “Warning. Mild radiation detected. Warning. Contaminating agent detected in the air. Analyzing. Nitrous Oxide. Threat level: negligible.” “Oh, look, a new guest!” A figure rose from its seat as the guest of honor. It was a pony with a metallic, fizzling voice that sounded like an old vinyl. In the dim light it looked like it was just a pink pony with an even pinker mane but, when it approached, Puppysmiles noticed that it was moving on a set of wheels, like it was wearing motorised roller skates. “Well well well, look at you! I guess you’re here for the masquerade! I'm super sorry to inform you that it was canceled, but you can keep the costume! It rocks!” Weird thing number two: usually ponies moved their mouth when they spoke; instead, this pony had an unmoving smile painted on her muzzle and when she talked her eyes flashed with a creepy blue light. “Uh... are you a robot pony?” Asked Puppy with some hesitation, remembering all the times her mommy had told her that she shouldn’t point it out if other ponies looked weird. “Well yes, I am! What a smart pony you are! Recreational Pinkbot MK II prototype 03 and this is my birthday party! Want to join? I can free some seats, you know, some of the guests are getting a bit grumpy and they don't participate very much...” The robot rolled over to one of the skeletons, picked up the whole corpse and tossed it in the corner with the others, keeping just the party hat. “Here you go, what's your name?” asked the pinkbot putting the hat on top of Puppy's helmet. “Uh... I'm Puppysmiles... I... uh... I'm looking for my mom... she's supposed to be somewhere in this place...” “Fantastic! Maybe she will join us when she arrives! Now sit down, would you like some cake?” Puppysmiles wasn't in the mood for a party; she was supposed to find her mom in this place, not a stupid birthday party... but maybe the robot pony could help her if she just played along for a bit. So the foal took her seat and looked around at the other guests. They were creepy to say the least; there were these skulls looking at her, all those inanimate things dressed as guests, those two super skinny mummies and- Wait a moment. A mummy was returning her glance? “Please -giggle- make this -giggle- end...” and she was speaking, too! The little mummy was a unicorn foal with a pale yellow coat and an orange mane, she was losing hair and seemed very ill. The filly was giggling but it wasn't a happy sound; it was like she couldn't help it. Her eyes were swollen, and fresh blood dripped from her nose, deepening the red streaks that ran down her muzzle. “Please... -giggle- I want to go home...” She was muttering those words as if she had said them a million times, like if she said them enough she would wake up and this nightmare would be over. Puppy felt a chill running down her spine; it passed from her shoulders to her tail and back up again. This place was wrong, she wanted to leave. But mom could be here, she could be... one... of those... bone... heaps. A surge of panic threatened to overwhelm Puppy. This was just like that horror story where the super nice robot goes boing and starts hurting ponies! Way too many ponies had already suffered in this carnival of horrors, and another wasn't far from sharing their fate! Not to mention that her mom could be on the list, especially if she was heading here... And what if she had already arrived? No wait, the robot had said something about her not being there. But the robot could have lied! Could she? Who cares! That pink thing was Baked Bads and Puppy didn't want to play her game anymore! For a moment, Puppy’s eyes met those of the giggling foal sat at the table. That little pony missed her mom too, this barn was a bad place. “Run away. Now. Go home.” Puppy didn't stop looking into the other pony's eyes until the young unicorn nodded and tried to leave her seat. The Pinkbot moved to intercept her, but Puppysmiles was planning to take up all her attention. “Where's my mom?” she asked, raising from her seat. “We will go looking for your mom when the party is over, okie dokie? Would you like some sarsaparilla?” The little unicorn filly staggered away, toward the entrance of the barn. “Excuse me, the party is not finished yet, you can't leave!” “Where is my mom?” Puppy walked toward the pink pony droid, turning its attention back to her. “Now, now, please behave, don't spoil the party. How about some Pin the Tail on the Pony?” Puppysmiles eyes flared up with pink flames. “Where is my mom? What did you do to her?” “Error. Mom object not found. Please, do not get angry. I'm sure that your mommy will be here to pick you up very soon!” The unicorn stopped for a moment, leaning against the door to keep herself upright; she could barely stand, walking almost seemed like a torture. The pinkbot rolled purposefully towards her. “Stop right there! You can't leave without the permission of an adult!” “Don't ignore me! She was supposed to be here! Stoopid robot! You are not going to hurt my mom or anypony else!” Puppy snarled and lowered her head, assuming an aggressive stance. “Rock,” she muttered in a deep and menacing tone. “Please don't use the S word. Suppressive measures ineffective. Subject immune to toxins. Brute force required. Activating sec-” CLANK! “WHERE!” Puppy's eyes were burning so bright that the helmet was filled with pink flames. The filly in yellow jumped at the robot's face, hitting it repeatedly with The Rock Of Destiny. “IS!” With a feral snarl, Puppy wrapped her hooves around the robot’s neck and headbutted it as hard as she could. The force of the blow created a spiderweb of cracks that ran across the helmet, but it also broke off the Pinkbot face plate, revealing the circuitry and mechanisms inside its head. “MY!” With one hoof Puppysmiles kept her hold on the robot’s neck, while with the other she struck repeatedly at its exposed face. With each strike she tore cables and vital components from the machine, until she hit a talisman. The robot exploded as if it was filled with pink and yellow fireworks, launching Puppysmiles across the room. “MOOOM!” Puppy’s flight ended rather abruptly as she collided with one of the automated turrets that had popped up after she had decided to get medieval on that robot. The impact severed a power cable, causing it to shut down with a plaintive whine. The remaining turrets locked on and unleashed a barrage of colorful beams that scorched Puppy's suit but were unable to penetrate it. “Stop it! Tell me where my mom is!” The filly charged a nearby turret head-on, slamming into it hard enough to knock it completely off target. The turret continued to fire wildly, now hitting the roof, and proved to be far more effective against the barn’s already weakened load bearing structures than it had on the magically resistant environmental suit. Puppy turned and finished it off with a buck that was so strong it tore the turret off its mount, silencing the machine but not before the ceiling began to crack and fall apart. “Mom! Mom where are you? MOOM!” Ignoring the barn that was collapsing all around her, the foal ran towards the bones stacked in the corner. “Mister Voice, do you see my mom? Where is she?” “Error. Destination reached. Ministry of Morale hub already found.” “What are you saying now? I want my mom! You said she was here!” With a last, deep rumble muffled by centuries of dust filling the air, the barn fell on Puppy's head burying her alive. As the first lights of dawn tried to pierce the ever-present curtain of cloud, a small emaciated unicorn filly crawled out of the defensive perimeter of the former MoM structure. The turrets lay still, having lost their power source; even the music had fallen silent, it’s two hundred year lament finally over. Small patches of flame burned among the debris, failing to consume the remains as rotten wood provided inadequate fuel. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 3 - TIME approximately 9:15 A.M. - LOCATION: The Carnival, Wasteland Even now, the cursed place couldn't find peace. “I didn't ask you to find this Party of Horrors place, I told you to find my mom!” said a muffled voice from under the ruins. “Negative. You asked,” the suit launched an audio file with Puppy's voice, “Mister Voice... Where is mom?” “That's exactly what I'm saying!” “Affirmative. Ministry of Morale's nearest functioning hub was located and marked on the map. It was set as primary objective and reached eleven hours ago. Then it was destroyed.” “Yeah I remember that part, it exploded twice.” “Negative. It is impossible to explode twice. Major damages repaired. Systems fully functional and ready.” Puppysmiles went silent for several minutes, trying to think. Going harsh on Mister Voice was useless, mostly because there wasn't anything to hit, so she had to be smarter. She was a smart pony, right? That Pinkbot had said so, after all. “Okie dokie loki... it's useless to cry over spilled milk, I mean, under spilled barn. Mom wasn't here but you said there are other places. So, what's next?” “Warning. Despite the perfectly clear explanations there is still a major misunderstan-” “Aw, shut up! What's the next mom's place we have to check?” Really, Mr. Voice could be all work and no play at times... dumb suit... The voice went mute for a moment. If it had had a more complex artificial intelligence it could have said something else, or at least felt frustrated, but this wasn't the case; this program was designed to be effective and to obey, so that was all it could do. “Next MoM location marked as primary objective. Location set as target on the compass.” A new pink arrow appeared on the compass as Puppy finished pulling herself free from the rubble. The filly jumped down from the ruins and shook herself trying to get rid of the dust that coated her suit. “See? Everything is easier when you collaborate!” “Affirmative. Cooperation is magic.” A metallic chuckle interrupted the conversation and caused Puppy to turn around and see the buzzing spritebot she had met a couple of days ago. “Oh it's you, Questioner. Hi!” The filly smiled. “It's Watcher... Anyhow, that was quite random, wasn't it?” “What? You mean the party? Trust me, you didn't miss anything. Worst. Party. Ever. Everypony was dead. Uh, quite literally.” “So, did you find your mom?” “Nopey mopey.” Puppy frowned for a moment, then she smiled again. “But we have a lot of places to check, so it's okay! She must be somewhere, right?” “Uhm... yes, I guess...” The bot paused for a good while. “And, may I ask where are you going now?” “There!” The filly pointed with her hoof, then added: “This time I feel lucky!” “So, you're going to check the next location of ‘mom’ in that direction?” “Sure!” The robot took another long pause before speaking. “And you feel lucky about that?” “Yup!” “Oh well, why not, at this point... very well. Puppy, I've got to go, have a nice trip and try to stay out of trouble.” “Sure, mister Question! Have a nice day!” The spritebot turned and floated away, proudly broadcasting the March of the Parasprites as it did so. “Oh, right! Mister Voice, put on some music!” I don't want to set Equestria on fire I just want to start a flame in your heart -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 3 - TIME approximately 2:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Redtrotters Flats, Big 52 N Branch Puppy was back on Route 52. She had left the rocky area behind her and the landscape ahead was now mostly flat, dotted with the occasional ruin of an old farm. The silhouette of a big city began to emerge from the dusty air some kilometers in front of her; she could see skyscrapers in its center and a large half-collapsed dome to one side. Along the road there were carcasses of old carts, some were fast little racing carts while others were big hulking cargo trucks. All of them shared the same fate; left alone to rust in the middle of nowhere. “Hey! Hey you, wait!” Puppy turned toward the pair of voices that had called out to her. The filly in yellow stopped to see who was coming and recognized the two mares from the other day. She smiled and waved a hoof. One of them stopped a little more than thirty meters away and readied an assault rifle, while the other drew near, assuming a cautious stance but leaving her power lance sheathed. “Ok, little Miss Miracle, stay put and nopony is going to get hurt.” “Uhm... are we playing a game?” The unicorn kept her rifle aimed at Puppy while the other pony answered. “Yeah, something like that. Wanna play?” “Great! Can I start? Huh? Huh? Huh?” Puppy had already begun to jump in place like the hyperactive foal she was. “Sure, why not. I will ask you a question and you try to answer. If you don't reply you lose, got it?” “Yay! Guessing game! I lovelovelove guessing games! Ask me something, ask me anything!” “Great. Question number one: how comes you're still alive and unhurt after getting a power lance in the throat?” “A what where?” This one was hard. Puppy had no idea of what a power lance was but it seemed that there was some way to swallow it and to not get an owie by doing that. “Uhm... pass?” The two mares exchanged a glance again. “Maybe... maybe she's just a retard?” Offered the earth pony. The unicorn sighed. “Well, at least try asking something else.” “Okay, kid, so... why did you go to the Carnival?” “You mean the old barn? Well, this stoopid mister Voice told me that my mom was there. Guess what? She wasn't, and in her place I found the worst party ever. There was this mad pink robot that wanted to hurt my mom and I got upset but the robot exploded and a strange thing started throwing nasty lights at me then I don't remember very well what's next but I think that the barn fell on my head. That happens to me a lot, lately.” Puppy stopped for a moment, pondering. “I hope that skinny filly is safe...” “Ridge Racer will live, and that’s the only thing that keeps my friend from pulling the trigger.” The earth pony took a long breath, “So, you resurrected, trotted all the way to the carnival, destroyed that cursed place and saved Boney's sister, just by accident?” “I... I don't remember doing all that, but if you say so...” “And you were just looking for your mom... all the time...” “Yes, do you know where she is?” “Yeah, she's a retard.” The earth pony facehoofed while the unicorn behind her couldn't hold in a snicker. After a short laugh, the unicorn’s expression became more serious. “But she saved my family. I'm in debt to her.” “So, what now Boney?” asked the earth pony. “I don't know...” Rattling Bones lowered the rifle and approached Puppysmiles, who smiled at her. Somehow that enthusiasm and innocence stole a little smile from the hardened unicorn, and she placed a hoof atop Puppy’s glass helmet. “I'm not sure if you are good or bad news, but I owe you one... so, thanks.” Rattling Bones took a rectangular scrap of metal with a white half-eaten apple painted on it, offering the object to the filly in yellow. “Here, take this: it's a pass. If you're going to Salt Cube city, show it to the guards and they’ll let you inside. Understood?” Puppy eyes widened with glee as she stared at the gift. “Wow, thanks! A present! I love presents! Thank you super much miss pretty pony!” The unicorn continued. “You put an end to a nightmare for our entire tribe and gave me back the only thing I cared for. I hope you'll find what you're looking for, little ghost.” “D'aaaaaw, aren't you guys cute?” Mocked the earth pony mare. “Oh, just shut up and let's keep moving, Soda. We have a patrol to finish.” “Hey, are you crying, Boney?” “Aw, just shut up! And don't you dare laugh or tell this story to anypony!” “Guess what? Now I feel sorry for killing her.” The two ponies left, heading in the opposite direction to the pink arrow. Puppy watched them trotting away and waved her hoof as they disappeared behind a ridge. “I like pretty ponies, they are pretty!” Puppy smiled, before setting off in the direction of the big city. “Hey mister Voice, can I ask you something?” “Affirmative. Please state your request.” “When we find my mom, are you going away? I mean... I don't want you to go away.” “Negative. As an effect of the Littlehorn Agent this piece of equipment is irremediably fused with you.” “Uhm... this means that we are together forever? I can keep you with me when we find mom?” “Affirmative.” Puppy smiled, listening as always only to the part of the explanation that she wanted to hear. “Alright mister Voice. You already know what we need to do now, don’t you?” “Affirmative. Analyzing the previous interactions your request is predictable with 95% accuracy.” The radio began playing music and Puppysmiles started to sing along. There was still a lot of road to trot and she was by herself as always, but Puppysmiles was a filly on a mission and she had that stubbornness that can only come from ignorance. Besides, she wasn't really alone; she had one friend that she was well aware of and maybe a couple that she didn't even suspect. You and me together will be forever you'll see we two can be good company you and me yes together we two... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: LVL up. I think we already discussed this. Negative. LVL up is mandatory in FoE canon. Ok ok, gee, I can understand Puppy’s frustration... ok then... Quest perk added: lvling is mandatory - now you can gain lvls! Yay! This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Edited by: uSea and Silfir Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed.
mimezinga	931	3	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-10-27T15:19:19+00:00	2011-10-27T15:19:19+00:00	35,566	Edited by: uSea CHAPTER 3: The lost herd Once upon a time, in the dying land of equestria... “Good night fillies and gentlecolts, this is Lonesome Pony speaking and you're tuned to Radio 52: all the news you need to hear about Big 52 and nothing else! Well, almost nothing. In fact it seems that now the biggest radio station on Equestria is broadcasting through all of the wasteland. Some saint went down to Fillydelphia on behalf of DJ PON-3 and bucked the transmitter till it worked again. So hooray for those guys at Tenpony Tower, they took over the world!” A boisterous music played for a few seconds. “A-hem, back to work. News news news... what do we have? Oh right! Hey, my little ponies, are you afraid of ghosts? You should... Do you remember the story of the Carnival? Don't worry if you don't; good old L.P. is going to give a quick recap for those that didn't their homework.” “Far away on the north end of the Big 52 there is a solitary barn, the Redtrotters call it the Carnival. It's a cursed relict from a long lost age, but unlike a lot of its siblings it never went to sleep. Once a year since my grandpa could remember, a ghost leaves the building and lurks the hills nearby, inviting everypony to its party and looking for company. When the next morning comes a foal is gone. No matter what, nopony ever returned. Approaching the Carnival was suicide thanks to the state of art laser turrets that defended the place, but if you did succeed in getting close enough without being shot you could hear music coming from the cursed barn, all day and all night long. Just like a permanent party of horrors.” “Well, my little ponies, it seems that somepony just yelled 'I ain’t afraid of no ghosts!', rushed inside the barn with the party in full swing and blew the roof off that whole place. Quite literally. No more foalnapping ghosts for the Redtrotters. I tried to gather some information about this benefactor but what I got was a bit messy. Apparently it's some sort of ghost itself; a foal wearing a yellow radsuit and rising from death in a pink cloud. Well, Yellow Ghost, nice work. One problem solved, nine hundreds and ninety nine to go. Oh, did I mention the fact that this year's victim made it safely to home? Celestia bless our souls! And now back to good old Pony Marcus!” I can see that lone star from a thousand miles away Calling me back home though I've ventured far away When I see that beacon shining for me all along It calls me to Equestria and a home! DAY 4 - TIME approximately 00:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Salt Cube Flats, Big 52 N Branch Puppy trotted along Route, 52 heading south; the big city had grown from a silhouette on the horizon into a large, sprawling mass just a few kilometers in front of her. The foal trotted all day long, and now that the light was fading into darkness, the filly's eyes turned bright pink, shining in the night while she walked down the road. Without the day light it was possible to see a green glow around the dome of Salt Cube city, while the bigger skyscrapers of Downtown were lit with some sparse fires; the largest part of the city simply faded into the darkness of an ever clouded night sky. Around midnight, the filly in yellow spotted a small caravan coming in her direction from south. There were half a dozen of ponies and they had... some strange two headed cows with them? Puppy sat down in surprise, and waited for them to draw near. Obviously the caravan guards spotted the foal quite soon, mostly because she was a light source sitting by herself in the middle of the road. Needless to say, the guards were already on edge. A large buck wearing a light combat saddle mumbled to another. “What do you think, could be that 'ghost' from the news?" The leader of the guards, an earth pony mare with a big revolver, shrugged; rising a hoof she made the caravan stop. “Dunno, but I'm not taking any chances. Let's move: two on the sides, two here; I’m trying diplomatic approach, cover me or forget your pay.” Two of the guards detached from the caravan and left the route, circling Puppysmiles, one on each side; in the meantime, the leader ran ahead while the caravan with the remaining two guards kept their distance. The sight of the filly was quite an eerie one; the small yellow silhouette with a glowing pink light coming from the glassy helmet was already a perfectly valid argument in favor of opening fire. The chief of the guards approached the creature with caution, hoping that the other two guards were fast enough with the trigger in case of complications. “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles!” The foal raised a hoof waving it to the guard leader. Well, at least it didn't seem hostile. In the wasteland’s survival guide there’s a sentence that dwarfs all the others when it comes to the sheer number of times it’s iterated: better safe than sorry: Not seeming hostile doesn’t mean safe. “Ok, now don't move and tell me what you are and why I shouldn't transform you into fertilizer.” Puppy giggled; fancy words always made her giggle. “Tee-hee, pretty pony is funny! I'm not Forty Liza, I'm Puppysmiles! What's your name?” The guard leader hesitated for a moment... was this foal simply retarded or it was all part of some well schemed trap? The whole situation just smelled wrong. “Yeah, I'm Solid Slug. Are you alone?” Without waiting for an answer the guard gestured to the two on her sides to check the surroundings. “Nopey mopey, I'm with mister Voice! He's super smart or super stoopid, it depends... but for sure he knows where my mom is!” “And... where is this mister Voice now?” “Inside the space suit! See all the lights and the pretty dots? He makes them appear!” Ok, nine out of ten she was just a retard. Solid slug took a better look at the helmet of the suit, trying to ignore Puppy's brightly shining eyes: there was an active HUD, quite similar to the one used into some models of battle saddles. At first sight the harness seemed a very expensive piece of equipment. Solid wondered how a foal could ever find something like that, but that pink light somehow gave her the feeling that there was something more. Long story short, Solid Slug had been in the business for a whole lot longer than most caravan guards and had picked up more than a thing or two about the wasteland in all that time; this allowed her to formulate her next question. “Say, are you from Canterlot by chance?” “Yush! My house is... ah... was just under the mountain in Clover Leaf Terrace, but the other day it went down, so now I'm looking for my mom. She wasn't at the old barn but mister Voice says that there is another place in that big town so I'm going there now!” Puppy pointed a hoof somewhere southward. Solid Slug nodded a couple of times while listening, raised a hoof and gestured to the caravan; after some preparations the carts started moving again. “Wow you chat a lot, don't you? Lonesome Pony was speaking about your exploit at the Carnival.” “My what? You mean the old barn? I didn't explode there, it was the barn that exploded, silly filly.” Puppysmiles giggled. “That pinkbot was totally baked bad! At first it was really creepy but I'm a brave pony!” Solid slug scratched her head trying without avail to follow Puppy’s chattering. “Uh, yeah that’s great; I’d stay here and chat for ages but we have to keep moving. If you're going to Salt Cube City the ghoul community is at the Dome: I think they call it the Glow; don't wander too much in Downtown, they don't like your kin. Oh right, and good luck little ghost.” When the caravan arrived the other ponies of the group launched curious looks at Puppy but Solid Slug whispered something to a purple unicorn with a red mane and they simply kept moving. The filly in yellow stared with amazement at the brahmins and waved a hoof to the pretty ponies as they disappeared in the night. Once she was on her own again the foal trotted away heading south along the Route. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 11:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Downtown, Salt Cube City The gate was a simple barricade built with sandbags and salvaged metal plates. On a wooden platform, a pony with metal barding operated a Gatling gun, while two other guards checked every pony that wanted to get in Salt Cube City; one last pony unicorn wearing an officer uniform sat inside a small metal structure writing things on a register. It was almost noon but the traffic on the north end of Downtown was as dead as the wasteland. This time Puppysmiles was ready: she had that metal thing with the painted apple and showed it to the guards. One of the armored ponies approached her while the others kept their weapons ready. “Let's see. Yes, this is a valid pass. Now, what's your name and business here?” “I'm Puppysmiles! What's your name mistur pretty pony?” The guard raised the visor of his helmet, giving Puppy an annoyed look. “Corporal Farsight. Now, what’s your business in Salt Cube City, kid?” “Oh, I know this one! I'm looking for my mom! She is somewhere in that direction!” Puppy pointed her hoof toward a cluster of ruined buildings and the guard sighed. “Very well, I guess that's enough. Just another question: why are you wearing a full environmental suit?” “Oh, this one? I'm stuck inside it but that's okay because mister Voice lives in the space suit too and he's helping me with my mission.” The filly lowered her voice, whispering to Farsight: “He's not very good with that but don't tell him: he's quite grumpy.” The guard lowered his visor again and shrugged. “As long as you're not going to blow a megaspell in Downtown you can dress as you like. Welcome to Salt Cube City, kid.” The filly in yellow trotted beyond the roadblock but Farsight called her back one last time. “Oh, right, don't go anywhere near the Dome: there are feral ghouls in the area and it's heavily irradiated.” “Okie dokie loki! Bye bye mistur guard Farsight!” Puppy trotted merrily toward the big skyscrapers at the bottom of the boulevard even though the pink arrow pointed to a different direction. Downtown was your typical trade hub along the Big 52: there were guards that kept ponies from killing each other and a couple of dozen tents with signs of the different trading companies operating in the area, like the Water Herders or the Bullet Gallopers; there were even freelance traders and some trade posts from the nearest tribes. The open market was placed in the streets but the real Downtown were the four skyscrapers that still stood in the middle of the settlement. Salt Cube City had been the target of a single megaspell during the war and the missile vector that should deliver it malfunctioned: the warhead hit the Salt Cube Dome in the city periphery, piercing the roof and exploding at ground level; the massive structure of the Dome shielded the surrounding area from the worst effects of the direct hit but not from the fallout. During the successive two centuries, the most weathered buildings surrendered one by one to the ravages of time, but the four biggest and least damaged skyscrapers survived and still stood in the middle of the city. The four towers were the symbols of power of Salt Cube City: two of them were each the main hub of a trading company while the third was the headquarter of the Hired Hooves, a powerful mercenary company. The last building was the smallest one and housed the White Apples, the original tribe that inhabited the city; they were formally the real proprietors of the whole town and got a share of all the commerce going on in the place. The White Apples were also the main breeding ground for the Hired Hooves, mostly consisting of the families of the ponies that worked for the mercenary company. Puppy stood in front of a small tent marked with a red splash, the symbol of the Redtrotters. The shop sported a vast choice of melee weapons and light armors on the shelves; a mare with an old cowboy hat was sitting on an ammunition box just in the middle of the exhibition. “Hey, nice dress little one. Say, are you from the north?” The mare smiled at Puppy and lifted her hat with a hoof, revealing a horn on her forehead; the cutie mark on her flank depicted a basket ball. “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles!” The foal waved a hoof and trotted toward the mare. “I'm from there.” Puppy pointed a hoof at the street outside the tent. “I'm Play Maker, I think that Lonesome Pony mentioned something about you last night.” “Uhm, you mean the chatty pony of the music channel?” Puppy scratched her helmet with a thoughtful expression. “Last time he was speaking of the importance of drinking pure water...” “No, no, I mean the news about the Yellow Ghost. Uh, maybe there is more than a pony wearing a radsuit around. Anyhow, what do you need?” Puppysmiles frowned “Why is everypony calling me a ghost?” Play Maker smiled. “So it's you after all, I knew it!” the unicorn tapped her chin for a moment. “Say, aren't you a bit too young to destroy a cursed barn? Actually, aren't you a bit too young to go around on your own? Are you a Crusader?” “Nopey mopey. I'm looking for my mom and I'm not alone: I have mister Voice with me.” “Your mom? Maybe I can help you: a lot of ponies visit Downtown everyday. What's your mom's name? What's her cutie mark?” Puppy smiled widely. “Oh, her name is Rainy Days, she's purple and has an orange mane and her cutie mark is a cloud with raindrops! Have you seen her? Mister Voice says that she's somewhere in this place! That way!” Puppy pointed her hoof again in the direction of some destroyed buildings. Play Maker shook her head. “I'm sorry, kid. Can't remember a pony with that palette or cutie mark, and the name doesn't ring a bell.” The merchant unicorn looked in the direction that the foal was pointing and frowned. “That way, you say? This can't be good. That's the radioactive area; the only standing building in that direction is the Dome and, trust me, you don't want to go anywhere near to the Dome.” “The Dome? What's that?” “It's a place filled with feral ghouls and other horrors; It's highly radioactive but maybe that's not a problem since you're wearing a radsuit. The real problem are the inhabitants: a small community of fanatical religious ghouls live there, but they’re on the brink of madness. In fact some of their 'siblings' went actually mad and attacked the caravans heading here. There’s quite a situation now and the White Apples are looking for a way to get rid of those rot heads They blast any ghoul that shows his face outside, but they can’t go in and finish the job: the whole place is a deathtrap if you're not immune to radiation, so they reached a stalemate.” Puppysmiles frowned. “What's a ghoul?” “You... are you kidding me? You don't know what a ghoul is?” Play Maker stared at the blank expression of the foal and sighed. “No, you're not kidding,” she shook her head, “a ghoul is a pony that was poisoned by radiation a long time ago, when the megaspells hit. Instead of dying they were transformed into... I'm not sure what they are; living dead? Maybe some sort of zombie? Anyhow, many of them went crazy because of that mutation and became feral ghouls: aggressive creatures that attack and try to eat everypony they see. Others retained their sanity and became immortal, but were disfigured by the mutation. Their manes fell out, their hides burned away and their flesh began to blister and rot. Every ghoul looks like a decomposing corpse, but somehow they remain alive. The problem is that sooner or later every ghoul goes ‘boing’ in the head and changes their diet for a meatier one.” Puppy frowned, the unicorn could see fear and realization in her eyes. “Miss Play Maker... uh... if my mom is really where mister Voice says, will she be okay?” “I...” the unicorn lowered her hat, hiding her eyes from the filly, “I don't know, little ghost, but the Dome is a dangerous place. I hope you're not going there after what I told you.” Puppy stood on her hooves with renewed determination in her eyes. “I have to go! My mom could be there, she could be in danger!” Play Maker realized that she’d never be able to talk her out of that suicide mission. “You're not family, I can't tell you what to do and what not, but please listen to my advice: go to that tower, the one with the big white apple on the sign. Tell the pony at the entrance that you want to enroll for a scout mission into the Dome: they'll give you some equipment and maybe a weapon. You have a radsuit and they're so desperate that they'll accept anypony at this point, if they think you could at least stand a chance.” Puppy smiled. “Okie dokie loki! Hang on mom, I’m coming to rescue you!” The foal galloped out of the tent and eagerly rushed into White Apple Tower. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 2:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Salt Cube Dome, Salt Cube City “Warning. Mild radiation detected. Threat level: negligible.” The Dome was a humongous elliptic structure that had once served as an expo center where a large number of events could be hosted at the same time. A gigantic globular roof once covered the building but now it was almost completely destroyed, leaving only the external walls still adorned with columns and arches that made the structure vaguely resemble an oversized coliseum. A boulevard headed right to the main entrance of the Dome: a monumental arch that led into a hall where the huge remains of a marble statue littered a floor that once was made of polished stone tiles, but now was mostly a carpet of rubble. Puppy stood in front of the archway, looking at the pink arrow on the compass. “Okie dokie mister Voice, what are we doing now exactly?” “Ministry of Morale hub reached. Primary objective attained.” “Yes, I know that we are here. I'm asking what's next. What are we supposed to do here?” “Secondary objective: investigate the ghouls and/or get rid of them. Warning. Mild radiation detected. Threat level: negligible.” “So, we find these ghouls, ask them where is mom and then we try to make them go away?” “Affirmative. This is one possible approach.” “Great, I love having a plan. Let's do it.” Puppy stepped into the hall and yelled, “HEY, GHOULIE PONIES!” Her voice echoed several times into the large structure but it didn't seem to get any answer, so the filly in yellow trotted toward a large stair at the bottom of the entrance hall. “Warning. Heavy radiation detected. Threat level: negligible.” “Hey, I think I've seen somepony moving behind that statue! Hey you, wait!” Puppy galloped in the direction of a shadow that was hiding behind the pedestal of another broken marble monument. As the foal reached the hiding pony, she slowed to a trot and called out to him or her. “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my-” That pony! It was him: Count Horse Tile! He was right in front of her, even uglier than she could remember and somehow a lot creepier. “Warning. Hostile detected. Feral Ghoul. Distance: two meters. Threat level: low.” The creature was looking at Puppy's face, drooling a yellowish goo from it's mouth; it seemed oddly uncertain about it's next move. Puppy stepped back, terrified by the macabre sight. “W-why are you still coming after me? Leave me be, go away!” The creature growled and lowered it's head, Puppy turned on herself and galloped away as fast as she could. Alas, it wasn't fast enough. The feral creature jumped on her, foaming and biting, aiming for Puppy’s head. The Helmet was designed to withstand some direct hits, so the first assault of the raging beast simply hurt Puppy's innocence; the sight of a hoofful of rotting teeth scratching on the helmet while dripping yellow slime at less than ten centimeters from her face was a shocking experience that left the foal paralyzed in fear. “EEEEEEEEEEEK!” At first Puppy reacted on pure instinct: the filly tried bucking the ghoul away but it was a lot heavier than she was and it pinned the little pony on the ground with its weight. “Rock! ROCK! NOW!” The little pony didn't stop screaming as she grabbed The Rock Of Destiny with both hooves and started hitting the monster repeatedly. “Stop moving! STOP MOVING NOW!” A couple of minutes later, Puppy was still beating the brown slimy pulp that was once a pony head; the scratches on her helmet and some minor bruises on the fabric were already gone due to the self-repairing spells built into the suit. Slowly, the beating simmered down until it stopped completely; the ghoul was positively immobile and Puppy needed to catch her breath. It had been terrible but at last the dark shadow of Count Horse Tile was gone! No more hiding or running away: the monster was stopped once and for all, his reign of terror extinguished! At last Puppy felt relieved, then she raised her eyes from the dead ghoul. And finally noticed the three other ghouls that were looking at her with empty eyes and drooling mouths. “Warning. Hostiles detected on a count of three. Nearest target at 12 meters.” “Hey, mister Voice. What is a miss under... uh... static?” “Misunderstanding. The act of giving the wrong meaning to a sentence, creating confusion. - The more you know!” Puppy nodded slowly while the three ghouls were looking in her direction from the end of the hall. “Good. What is exactly a Horse Tile Count?” “Hostile count. Number of enemies or ill intentioned creatures in sensor range. Actual hostile count: three. Feral ghouls. Threat level: moderate.” Puppy sighed, threw The Rock Of Destiny at the ghouls and charged; the ghouls did the same thing from the other end of the hall. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 2:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Salt Cube Dome, Salt Cube City “Warning. Several breaches in the containment suit. Warning. Littlehorn Agent detected. Warning. Compass malfunctioning. Warning. Inventory management spell temporary offline. Warning. Energy crystal cells damaged. Emergency cells on 29.06%. Warning. Deadly radiation level detected. Threat level: negligible. Subject deceased, condition stable. All clear.” Puppy stood in the middle of a scene of mayhem, decorated with goo and rotten flesh; the bodies of three ghouls lay scattered on the ground with their heads missing. The whole fight had taken a while and been very messy with the ghouls regenerating because of the radiation in the area and Puppy regenerating because of the Pink Agent and her radsuit’s enchantments. In the end the foal's dedication at aiming only for their heads won against the brainless biting and bucking of the ghoul trio but in the process she had been beaten like a bucking bag, her flanks were half eaten and a thin pink cloud invaded the area. “Hey, mister Voice... Are you sure that mom is in this place?” “Affirmative. Actual position: Ministry of Morale structure ID 00201 – Salt Cube Dome.” “Okie... dokie... loki...” Puppy stopped listening at affirmative and bit the dust falling on the ground, exhausted from the fight. “Because the only thing I want to do now is crying.” A couple of figures appeared from another entrance of the hall; they seemed to whisper something to each other before one of them took a hunting rifle and the other moved cautiously toward the filly in yellow. Puppy reached out with her hoof for The Rock of Destiny in front of her and grabbed it, but her eyes were so tired, she just wanted to lie down a little more. “Please... go away... please... stop being mean... I'll behave...” The nearest pony now was close enough to let Puppy take a good look at it. It was another ghoul, but somehow different from the others. This one was wearing a uniform similar to the one of the mare that gave her the suit, moreover it didn't drool, had some intelligence in its eyes and last but not least, it spoke. “Hey, are you okay little one? This place is deadly dangerous.” The pony's voice was like a chalk screeching on a blackboard, but somehow Puppy felt like it was a mare's voice. “Hey, Soft Air! We have to take this foal out from the radioactive zone before she dies! Do we have some rad X or some rad away?” “I don't think so. Stay out from the pink cloud, it seems awfully familiar; I'm almost sure it's something dangerous.” The scouting pony abruptly stopped before getting too near to Puppy and tilted her head. “Oh, so it's not just my bad eye?” The ghoul trotted around the pink cloud that was quickly dissipating, as if the suit were drawing it back inside itself in the process of self repairing. “Containment restored. Warning. Critical level of radiation detected. Threat level, negligible.” Puppy slowly raised on her hooves while the ghoul mare drew near and the other kept his weapon ready. The filly had to try something diplomatic. “I, uh, hope that those ugly ponies weren't your friends?” “The word you're looking for is ghouls, little one. And yes, there was a time when they were our friends, but I guess that right now you did them a favor. So, no bad blood.” The ghoul mare stopped in front of Puppysmiles and took a look inside the helmet. The face of the filly was annoyingly well conserved, not showing scars or signs of deterioration, but the pink flames in her eyes burning bright with the radiation of the place spoke volumes about her nature. “You are quite a strange ghoul. I'm Peach Blossom, what's your name?” “Uhm, oh, yeah, I'm Puppysmiles. I'm looking for my mom, she's supposed to be somewhere in this place but all I found were these ugly ponies.” Peach waved a hoof calling her companion. “Soft Air, stop being paranoid and come here!” Then she went back speaking with the foal in yellow. “Could you please stop calling us ugly and just say ghouls? Anyhow, if your mother is here she has to be a ghoul too, otherwise she is going to be super slim. What's your mother's name?” “I know this one! Her name is Rainy Days and she's super cool! Have you seen her?” The buck coming near overheard the conversation. “Rainy Days, Rainy Days... that name sounds familiar. If you give me a second or two to think about it I might remember something.” Puppy looked amazed at Soft Air. “Really? Please please please where is she?” “Hey, wait, I told you I can't remember her very well! My memory is not as good as it used to be... anyhow, if you don't want to meet other ferals we should move. Let's go to the Glow.” Peach Blossom nodded. “Yes, let's get back, after all we found what we were looking for. Anyhow, Puppy, where are you from?” “Canterlot!” Puppy smiled with pride; Canterlot was the best city ever, why not being proud of it? Both ghouls frowned, Peach looked away while Soft Air sighed. “Oh, so you are one of those.” Peach muttered to herself. “War sucks.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 3:00 P.M. - LOCATION: The Glow, Salt Cube City The Glow was mostly a small circle of tents pitched in the central hall of the Dome. The roof was missing and large metallic debris littered the ground. The tents were all sporting a three pink butterflies symbol on a yellow background, they were large and sturdy, made of a tough material that was built to last and indeed they had survived for more than two centuries. Quite obviously the Glow wasn’t called as such because of the tents nor for the ghouls: it was the twelve meter tall salt cube glowing in a green blueish light that made the Glow deserve its name. “Warning. Radiation level off the scale. Sensor emergency shut down activated in order to prevent irreversible damage. Threat level: negligible.” The HUD of the helmet disappeared, Puppy frowned for a single moment, then shrugged. Maybe even mister Voice needed a little sleep sometimes. The cube was drawing all of Puppy's attention at the moment; it was shiny and glassy and super nice. The foal wondered if she could have some little shining cubes to keep in her bedroom: this could get rid of that bad scary monster that lived under her bed. For a moment the foal missed her home and felt like crying, but she was a filly on a mission and she didn’t have time for these things, so she asked, “What's that pretty shiny cube? I can has shiny cube too? Please? Puppy please?” Soft air chuckled. “I don't think so, Puppy, but I could have something nice if you will be a good pony. Deal?” Puppy started jumping all around. “A present? For me? Gimme gimme gimme!” “Now, now... I told you to behave, right? First of all we are going to have a little chat with Sand Box, then we'll try to find something about Mrs Rainy Days.” Puppy stopped jumping and began to trot alongside Soft Air and Peach Blossom. “You know? Even if you're pretty ugly you are funny and nice ponies.” Peach deadpanned. “Well, thank you miss monster. Anyhow, there he is: Sand Box, the leader of the camp.” Another ghoul was looking at a block of paper, reading it and scratching his head seemingly in confusion. “Even if he seems elsewhere at times he's smarter than the average scientist. Hey, boss, we got a visitor.” The leader of the ghouls was wearing an old lab coat and a pair of glasses, he seemed quite alarmed from the look he was giving the papers in front of him. The ghoul replied without even looking at Puppy. “Yes, great, give him the usual speech and warn him against Downtown. Excuse me but I'm trying to avoid a cascade.” Puppysmiles giggled and trotted up to him, trying to look at his face. “Tee-hee, ugly pony says fancy words! Hi, I'm Puppysmiles but you can call me Puppy! Have you seem my mom?” Peach tried to stop the foal but it was already too late; the ghoul guardian opened her mouth to say something, but was interrupted by the reaction of her leader. Sand Box adjusted his glasses and studied Puppysmiles for some seconds. “Luna buck me if I thought i’d see another functioning Mark VI. That was a hay of a failure, wasn't it?” Both Peach and Air tilted their heads, staring in puzzlement at Sand Box as he continued. “They were designed to keep foals safe from the worst effects of a fallout, loaded with all the best medical talismans and up to date logical spells that in some cases were even more advanced than the ones used by Stable Tech in its pipbucks.” The ghoul shook his head, his expression turning sad, “What we didn't expect was the reaction of all this technology and magic in case of a Pink Agent attack: the suits had enough medical supplies and healing power in their talismans to mitigate the first effects of the gas, creating the perfect conditions for a... merging process.” The scientist turned toward the other two ghouls, “Have you ever heard of the Ghost Herd?” Both ponies shook their head, Sand Box put a hoof around Puppy's neck, making her stand next to him. “It was about a month past the day the Goddesses fell. A small herd of little ponies wearing yellow suits just like this one left Canterlot; most of them lost their minds because of the mutation, the others had simply no clue about what was going on. They were ghosts indeed: obsessed with the loss of their parents and clueless about what happened, they wandered together mostly because everypony else in those days was dead. The herd came here, heading south. They met some survivors on their path but the crazed ones simply slaughtered any living thing that they met; the others... well, they were afraid of being alone and followed the herd.” Peach stepped back. “She doesn't seem that dangerous to me.” Sand Box chuckled and kept narrating his tale. “They are mostly immortal like us ghouls,but they rise from their own dust unless you tear their bodies apart, like Canterlot ghouls. Even worse, the MK VI has a very advanced self repairing spell that lets them recover even from some amputations and such. They are quite the little yellow devils.” Soft Air tapped his chin. “But if they were so invincible, where are they now?” “I have no idea. Most of them were taken down, at last. A decapitation combined with the destruction of the main spell matrix and the backup system should do the trick but it's not that easy if you don't know what you're doing. Anyhow at some point they left, disappearing left and were never heard from again, the whole thing lasted a couple of weeks at most. You had to be there to remember them, but it was quite a disheartening sight. All those foals left alone and cursed in a dying world... poor things.” The elder ghoul patted Puppy on her helmet. The foal listened to the whole story trying to follow it, but she seemed a bit confused. “I don't like this story, it makes me sad.” Sand Box simply sighed and kept his hoof around Puppy's neck. “Don't worry, little one. It's just an old ghost story, don't let old mare tales sap your enthusiasm. I think I have a Pinkie Pie plushie somewhere, let's do this: now just tell me why you are here and I'll give it to you, yes?” A large grin appeared on Puppy's face: the story of the ghost herd already forgotten in favor of a way more interesting new toy. “Sure! I'm looking for my mom, her name is Rainy Days and she is the best pony ever!” Puppy seemed to remember something else. “Oh, right! And I'm here to tell the ghouls to go away and never come back! Have you seen any ghoul around, mister Ugly Pony Boss?” Peach Blossom facehoofed. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (2) New perk added: Little Leaguer - You gain a +5% in throwing, melee and unarmed combat. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Edited by: uSea Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed.
mimezinga	931	4	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-10-27T15:19:48+00:00	2011-10-27T15:19:48+00:00	31,504	Editing by: uSea CHAPTER 4: Vola mio mini pony. Do you know you're all my very best friends? DAY 4 - TIME approximately 3:15 P.M. - LOCATION: The Glow, Salt Cube City “That's impossible: ghouls are super stoopid zombies that eat ponies! You are ugly but mighty fine ponies, you can't be ghouls! If you're not telling me where the ghouls are I'm going to look for them on my own! BLEH!” Puppysmiles stuck out her tongue. Soft Air and Peach Blossom exchanged a rapid glance, then Peach spoke. “We have no reason to lie to you, Puppy: we are ghouls, not every ghoul is a mindless pony eater.” “But they told me-” “But you listen only to what you want to hear! Gee, you are a pain in the flank, did anypony ever tell you that?” Peach sighed in relief, at last she let that go. It wasn't nice, but the foal seemed something more than simply spoiled: she was completely selective about any information she received. “Wake up, ghost! This is not some... Magical Land! this is Equestria, the worst sinkhole ever!” Puppy stepped back, afraid of the decomposing pony that was scolding her, or maybe scared by the truth in her words. “B-b-but-” Peach stomped a hoof on the ground. “Stop playing the innocent foal! You're a monster like us! Stop pretending! Now!” The little filly backpedaled, falling on her haunches and trying to hide her face with her hooves. “Please! Please stop! I'll behave!” “I don't want you to behave! I want you to WAKE UP!” The ghoul mare stomped a hoof on the ground to empasise her last two words. Soft Air put a hoof on Peach's shoulder. “Please calm down, I don't think she's pretending; don't let your anger drive you.” The ghoul mare shoved away Air's hoof. “She's two hundred years old, how can she be this naive? Is she a retard? I think she's just playing with us, I think that we should” Peach was interrupted by a long eerie wail. For a moment her mind rushed back to her foalhood, to that very day when she closed herself in the cellar by mistake and nopony came looking for her until night had fallen. She recalled the fear of being forgotten, the loneliness, every single creak from the barrels. Peach almost lost her voice calling for help but it was the fair day and nopony heard her. With an overwhelming sense of guilt she realised that Puppy wasn't playing with them. All the ghouls turned their attention to the filly in yellow; her long howl had something supernatural: it was the stuff of nightmares made audible and struck hard on everypony in the camp. Maybe this happened because they were used seeing a ghoul’s rage but this was the first time in decades that they had heard a foal's cry. Even Sand Box hesitated for a moment before walking to Puppy and hugging her. “What... what the hell is she doing? That sound...” Peach staggered, trying to stand on her hooves. “I think that you made her cry,” Soft Air Answered flatly. “Well, now I guess that it will be easier to make her accept the fact that we are the bad guys, right? Mission accomplished...” “Oh for pete's sake, can you make her stop?” Complained a pony with an orange helmet on his head. “I can't hear my thoughts!” Sand Box continued to hold the foal as her sobs gradualy lessened, growing quieter and quieter until they could barely hear her whispering half-spoken apologies. “Now, now, I'm sure you are a good pony. You just miss your mom and this is ok,” the ghoul leader rubbed Puppy's shoulders, “everypony has a bad day here and there. Peach Blossom was quite upset but now you will say that you're sorry and she will forgive you; just please, pay attention to her when she is explaining something important, okay?” Puppy nodded slowly and tried to establish eye contact with Sand Box, finding some relief in his elderly eyes. The foal turned to the ghoul mare and lowered her head. “I... I'm sorry I didn't believe you, missus Peach Blossom... I know that you are a ghoul now, I was wrong.” This made Peach feel even more guilty, but she had to play along; at least this way the conversation was going somewhere. “Oh, it's alright little one. Just pay some more attention when the older ponies try to teach you something.” She paused, what now? “Uh, I think I remember something about you wanting us to go away from this place? Why?” Did I already say that Puppy was easily distracted? The filly in yellow scratched her helmet thinking about this brand new question, but she couldn't seem to find a proper answer. “I think... this is because those pretty ponies promised me a piggy ride on a two headed cow if I came here, took a look around and go back and tell. They were also speaking of how great it would be if the ghouls were totally gone.” Puppysmiles paused for a moment, trying to remember the rest of the story. “Oh, right, so I said that I was going to deal with the meanie ghouls but they told no. I replied that I was big enough to shoo a ghoul away whatever it was and they made me promise to just come here and take a look... but I crossed my hooves so that promise doesn't count.” The filly smiled widely, clearly proud of herself. “I was smarter than them!” Soft Air snickered. “Oh sweet Celestia, this filly is hilarious. Can we keep her?” Sand Box sighed. “This is... a strange coincidence. Peach, please go and find Dr. Get Well: I need to speak with her quite urgently. Soft Air, can you keep an eye on this little prodigy for a while? Go to my office and grab that pink toy for our little guest.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ DAY 4 - TIME approximately 4:00 P.M. - LOCATION: The Glow, Salt Cube City Puppy loved her new Pinkie Pie plushie, hugging it tightly when she wasn’t showing it to everypony she met. Too bad that it was mostly Soft Air. “See? She is super cool, way better that that killing pinkbot! I bet she's super soft!” The filly in yellow poked the plush with a hoof. “Aw stoopid space suit! I want to kiss her but I can't! I’m calling her Silky Tail!” Soft Air knocked on Puppy's helmet. “Hey space pony, look at what I got here.” The ghoul held out a holotape for Puppy to see, “Guess what is this?” Puppy tilted her head. “Uh, a... black... thing? I know I know! It's some stuff that does other stuff!” “Wow, I couldn't explain it better. Okay little miss scholar, come here and let me connect it to your suit.” The ghoul Took Puppy's left hoof and opened a small socket on her wrist, then slotted the tape inside. “Backup copy initiated. Reading. Warning. System working in emergency mode. Reproduction is impossible. Backup copy finished. The file will be opened as soon as the system will be running on normal mode.” “Hi mister Voice!” Puppy waited for a moment but she got no answer. “See what I mean? I don't even know what I did to him but he's keeping a grudge since we arrived here.” “Oh, don't worry, it's just the salt cube. It interferes with smaller talismans and their circuitry.” Soft Air watched the smiling foal for a moment: she was totally listening to everything and probably understanding nothing. The ghoul sighed. “It makes mister Voice sleepy. He'll wake up when you two leave the Glow.” Puppy nodded. “Don't tell this to anypony but I feel a little lonely sometimes... I don't mean that I have no friends, but in the last few days I walked a lot and everypony had something else to do and nopony really wanted to stay with me, so...” Puppy lowered her eyes. “Mister Voice is a bit stoopid and he uses fancy words and he's grumpy, but he never leaves me... I hope he's not angry.” Soft Air was going to say something but he was interrupted by the sound of two ponies arguing with each other. “We don't have that much time! The cascade is accelerating, can't you see it yourself? It's turning cyan already!” This was Sand Box’s voice. “I'm not blind, but I'm beginning to think that you're going crazy! We need at least a couple days, it's not just... open the roof, inflate the balloons and goodbye impending doom! I need time to initialize the system, reprogram the autopilot and lay the course. Two days, maybe thirty hours not sleeping at all.” This voice came from a mare, seemingly quite old. “It will release in seven, eight hours at best as soon as we start moving it and if we wait it could be even too late to try anything.” “Now I wonder why this came out all of a sudden. That damn cube was here even before the Dome was built and you give me a seven hours warning before apocalypse?” Puppy turned her head toward the voices. “What's going on?” “I have no idea, little one.” Soft Air frowned; this was bad news, but there was no point in explaining the situation to Puppy: bets were that she didn't even understand it and if she did, it could only make her panic. “Hey, do you want to see the gift shop in the northern hall?” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 4:45 P.M. - LOCATION: The Glow, Salt Cube City “...And this is how Equestria was made,” concluded Puppy. “Ah, yeah, that was an amazing story but I asked you who is this Questioner you were talking about.” “Oh, that story! Nay, it's boring. What about that time that I ate a butterfly?” Soft Air lowered his head, sighed and muttered, “I was running down the street when I saw a super duper mighty pretty....” At the same time Puppy started talking while jumping all around. “I was running down the street when I saw a super duper mighty pretty....” ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 5:15 P.M. - LOCATION: The Glow, Salt Cube City Sand Box poked his head inside the gift shop, spotted Puppy and Soft Air and sighed in relief. “Oh, here you are. You shouldn't wander this far from the Glow, there could be ferals in the area.” Soft Air chuckled. “Oh don't fret about that: little miss miracle here solved that problem.” Sand Box tilted his head. “You mean... she was attacked by feral ghouls?” “Eyup: four at once, it seems; I'd say that this little filly can fend for herself.” “I hope so,” sighed Sand Box, “because I desperately need her help.” “Hi mister Ugly Pony Boss!” Puppy jumped in front of the ghoul leader sporting a broad smile, “I like this place! I had a great idea! I can say to the ponies of the other town that all the ghoulie are gone so they will never ever bother you! Then we find some nice dress and you'll disguise as... uhm... something not ugly and change your names, like in madame Le Flour and such! Isn't that a great idea? Oh, yeah, and we'll need a trombone!” Sand Box cocked his head, then a sad smile spread across his decomposing face. “Oh, I'd love to try that one, really, but I came here to inform you that we are going away: we leave the Glow.” Puppy's ear flattened. “You're going AWAY!? B-b-but you can't go away! This is your home, you are not meanie, why are you going away?” The filly was already hyperventilating, “Wait a moment, I have another idea! We can try to give the other ponies a super nice present and trow them a party so they'll know that you're not evil! It could work, it must work!” Sand Box sighed and put a hoof on Puppy's helmet. “Don't fret your pretty head, my little pony: this is not your fault; it's just something that needs to be done, but I need your help.” “Sand Box, could you please explain to me what's going on? I overheard you and Get Well talking about the FFO. Has this something to do with that cascade you were mumbling about when we arrived?” Sand Box adjusted his glasses. “Indeed. We already knew that the cube is not stable: during the years it absorbed and released the radiation from the megaspell following a cyclic pattern; As I already explained, during the last months this cycle accelerated. I think that the cube reached a point of non return and in less than five hours it's going to release.” Soft Air's expression darkened. “Well, this is not leaving exactly a lot of time. So, what now? I reckon that the Friend Force One still needs more than a little work. Are you sure about this release thing? What will be released, any idea?” The ghoul already knew the answer, but he still had the hope of being wrong. “I'm not sure about that. Could be the biggest mag pulse ever or the original balefire that was embedded into the zebra's warhead: when the missile hit the Dome the cube absorbed the matrix of the spell. The problem is that we are speaking of a huge chunk of pure salt that wasn't designed for some anti-megaspell defense; its behavior is highly unpredictable at best, a death sentence for Salt Cube City at worst.” Puppy tried to follow the discussion but it was too technical for her: they used all sorts of fancy words mixed up with other terms that she wasn't even sure that were real words; so she decided to go and sightsee some other places of the Dome by herself. Soft Air put a hoof on Puppy's helmet, pinning her on the place before she got away. “Well then, but the FFO navigation system needs calibration and the autopilot is not working.” “True. In fact I won't depend on those systems: I’m fly the airship myself.” “Are you kidding me? It's suicide! Moreover, you can't fly that behemoth on your own, it requires at least somepony in the engine section and a lot of work around the hydrogen tanks.” Soft Air looked for a moment at Puppy, then a shade of fear appeared on his face. “Are... are you going to ask her to...” “No, don't worry, she's just my ticket out of here: MK VI suits artificial intelligence talismans were a sub product of the P7 project. She'll be able to operate the control room just by stepping inside it and this will buy us time.” Sand Box hesitated, “Did you really think that I could take her with me?” “Listen, we could simply evacuate the area and let the Cube blow those bastards in Apple Tower; we don't owe them anything, they even shoot us on sight if we try to leave the Dome. Let's hit the tunnels and let them taste this muffin.” Sand Box looked straight into Soft Air's eyes. “You can do whatever you want. I'm asking Puppy to open the roof and give me clearance for the take off. I don't know how far I'll get, but I refuse to be responsible for the death of another single foal. In those towers there aren't just the ponies you hate, Air: you are forgetting the foaling mares and the young ones: do they deserve your hate, too?” Puppy was still trying to move, pushing with her helmeted head stubbornly but without avail against Soft's hoof. “Lemme go! I wanna play outside!” Soft Air looked at Puppy: so naive, she wasn't even aware of the horror she was already living. Even telling her to run as far as possible could have been useless; she was freedom itself and if a megaspell was really going to detonate... “I can work the engines, just tell me what to do.” Sand Box nodded. “I knew I could count on you; Peach is coming too, and Dr. Get Well is already aboard working on the commands. The others are preparing the cube for transportation, now I need to teach Puppy her part, this may take a while.” The ghoul leader looked at the filly in yellow, “Hey, little one, want to explore a new place?” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 6:30 P.M. - LOCATION: The Glow, Salt Cube City “One more time, sunshine.” “But mommy, I repeated it one gazillion times!” “Just once, this is a super special secret magic spell. You have to say it without mistakes or it will not work. One more time for mommy, please?” “Uh, can I have muffins then?” “It's almost lunch time, but you can have muffins if you'll eat all the alfalfa.” “That's not fair! You always give me too much of it!” “And you'll get even a super double hug.” “Uh... okie dokie. When I'm in front of the large round door I have to put the hoof on the green button.” “Very well.” “Then the genie will ask me the Eye dentification cow. And I must say. Uh... a hint, mommy?” “Oh I know you remember it, just wait a moment and think again. Mommy knows that you are a smart pretty pony.” “Please state your identification code.” “Uh... FT... 0... 0... 1... 6... 5... RD... C... 1... G... A” “Right! See? It's easy, I knew you can do it, and then what happens?” “Uh... the genie asks the other word... the pass code...” “Please, state your pass code for this ID.” “Yes, and you must say...” “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles!” “ID accepted. First class field technician Rainy Days. Access to the control room granted. Warning. There are three thousands, six hundreds and ninety eight error messages to process.” “And remember, if you hear the loud honks you must run to the secret place I told you and use the magic words. Don't wait for me, understood?” “Sure mom!” “I love you Puppy, now come here and get your hug...” This wasn't exactly the place where mommy told Puppy to run, but the other day when there were the honks she didn't want to go underground when everypony else was playing outside... Oh well, this door asked for the magic words and they worked; maybe this was a double super special secret magic spell? Go figure. Behind the doors there was a large room with blinking panels. The far wall was actually a clear sheet of glass, covered in a spiderweb of cracks, and the whole room was illuminated by a couple of flickering lights in the ceiling. When Puppy stepped into the control room the door closed behind her. “Warning. Mild radiation detected. Threat level: negligible. Activating all systems.” “Mister Voice you are back! It was about time...” “All systems are working properly. Detected an attempt of opening a communication bridge. Checking source. Source confirmed: Ministry of Morale structure ID 00201- Salt Cube Dome Control Room. Comparing protocol. Warning. This suit system version is outdated. Updating, please wait.” “Wow, you sure chat a lot. Did you miss me? I missed you a lot! I found those ghoulie ponies we were looking for, but they were not evil! Instead they were nice, just a bit ugly... And Peach scolded me, but I was a bit meanie with them so I said I was sorry and then it was all right! Then mister Soft Air gave me a-” A sudden ringing noise interrupted Puppy. She derped for a moment before launching herself in search of whatever made that funny noise. After some jumping and skipping, the filly found a red telephone just in front of a dusty desk. Puppy picked up the receiver, “Hallo? Mom's not here and I'm too little so I can't take a note. Can you call at dinner, pretty please?” The universe d'awed. A familiar voice came from the phone: “Puppy it's me, Sand Box. Good, you are in the control room; I reckon that my hacking tool worked. Here we need still some time to finish replenishing the battery boxes and pumping the hydrogen. It is very important that you stay in the room. ” Puppy looked for a moment at the weird transmitter that Sand Box had given her before they parted. “Oh right, the thingy! I didn't use that, I forgot!” “But how did you... doesn't matter, now please listen carefully to me: I'm going to hang up the phone, but I'll call you back when we are ready. Wait there and don't touch anything until I call back, okay?” “Okie dokie loki! Bye bye!” Puppy put down the receiver and started looking around. The whole place was dusty and grey, quite a sad room that reminded Puppy of that stoopid place with the humongous round door; only this one was little and with a lot of desks and screens, mostly broken. Suddenly a line of red lights appeared on the big desk in front of the damaged window; other red lights came to life on almost every desk and a couple of screens started flickering with a green light. Puppy sat on her rump, a bit disoriented. “Hey I didn't touch anything! Cross my heart!” “Update complete. P7 lite client version properly installed. Rebooting system.” The whole suit went dark and Puppy again felt that sensation of immobility just like the day she awoke in Canterlot, but this time it lasted for less than a couple seconds. “Uh, I feel funny...” In front of Puppy's face the HUD of the helmet flashed with a pink light that occupied her whole vision. In the middle of the pink square there were seven balloons tied together, then the logo disappeared leaving the usual interface with the compass on top and the other useless things down left and right. What really surprised Puppy was the voice: it wasn't mister Voice, but a different one; a feminine voice that was quite high pitched and very friendly. “Hi there miss Days! We have a little bit of a situation here, all the screens are gone for good and we miss... uh.... 100% of the personnel. They haven’t been to work for... woah, that's a lot of time! The bigwigs should seriously consider a little turnover here... Oh but don't worry! I can operate everything just fine from your personal console!” "Who are you? Where's mister Voice?” “I'm Pinkie Seven! Your best friendly pony-machine interface! I'm programmed to not try taking over the world nor become a judging god machine! I'm pretty nice, aren’t I?” Puppy scratched her helmet for a moment. “Do you know miss pinkbot?” “Why yes! Our top of the line entertaining prototype! It's being tested at... no wait, the test ended a couple days ago, let's see the results... well, it seems that the party was so great that it made you simply die! No wait, it's intended literally... doesn't sound that good... well, let's never speak again of the pinkbot project, okie dokie?” “But it hurt a lot of pretty ponies...” “Data deleted. I'm sorry I don't know what you are talking about. Now, what was the other thing?” “Uh... the pinkbot?” tried Puppy. “Never heard of it. Something else?” “Ah... yeah, something about a... flying... something...” Puppy tapped her helmet trying to remember. “Where is mister Voice? I think I like him better.” “You... you don't like me? You don't want to be my friend? But why, I'm trying so hard! I waited here for, like, two hundred years! Please don't send me back to the mainframe! It's dark and lonely and I can count only the machine cycles down there! PLEEEEASE!” “Uh... if you’re sure you’re not going to foalnap somepony...” “No way, there must be a rule against that in my program, don't worry. No foalnapping, no mass extermination, no moral judgment. Just your average little helping pony routine, don't worry! And... say, I know this is not going to help our relationship, but the security protocol is annoying me with a little detail.” Puppy giggled. “Tee-hee, miss Voice uses fancy words!” “Yes, sometimes I do that... say, are you first class field technician Rainy Days? Because your console here says that your name is Puppysmiles.” “Silly Voice! I'm Puppysmiles!” “Oh... great, just what I needed: a breach. Two centuries in a dusty talisman and the first time I can have some fun it's an intruder.” The voice paused for a moment, “Miss Puppysmiles, your presence is not authorized. I must ask you to leave and you have no idea of how much this hurts me.” “B-but... mister Sand Box said that I must be here or the Friend ship will not fly! Can I stay just a little more? Pretty please? Puppy please?” “If you want to stay you need an authorization from the chief of the staff or from a military with at least the grade of colonel. I really really REALLY want you to stay but my hooves are tied! If I only had something to work with, I don't know, a logical paradox or some funny program loop... Oh, wait. What's your relation with the head technician?” “Who?” “Rainy Days.” “Oh, she's my mom! Do you know where she is?” “Oh but this fixes everything! Let's see, yes, I can move this here and that there and... voila! Today it's the bring your daughter at work day! Are you happy?” “Uh... I still want my mom.” “Hey, look at this, it's even in your mission logbook! You are really fond of your mom aren't you?” “Well, duh, she's my mom!” Puppysmiles deadpanned. “Listen here! We can make a- oh wait, call incoming on the emergency line.” The voice of Sand Box replaced the one of the artificial intelligence. “Hey Puppy we have done here, are you ready?” “Hi mister Boss! Sure I am, this miss Voice chats a lot!” “Great, now listen carefully: there are a couple of ponies that want to say goodbye. Please behave and do not take too much time because we are running a bit late.” The voice of Sand Box was replaced by Peach Blossom. “Hey, little one... are you there?” “Hi miss peach!” “Good, I'm so happy to hear you. I wanted to say that I'm sorry, I didn't have to scold you. Peace?” “Uh.... okie dokie?” The ghoul mare sighed in relief. “Thank Celestia, I couldn't do this with that weight on me. Please remember this, Puppy: Equestria is an unforgiving place, you have to treasure your friends because they will be very few. I... I regret that we didn't have time to know better each other, but I know that you are going to be safe, so I have no regrets.” “Are you going away? I can come and visit you when you arrive, okay? We will trow a party!” Peach took some moment before talking again. “Yes... yes Puppy, if we will meet again one day, we will ‘trow’ a super party... sorry I have to go.” The phone went mute for some moment before another voice started talking. “Hey Puppy, Soft Air here. Please follow Sand's instructions very well, we’re all counting on you here!” “Hi Soft! Mister Voice now is miss Voice! Isn't that funny?” “What are you talking about? Aw, doesn't matter, I have to tell you something: I knew your mother. Now please don't panic, I have little time and you really need to listen.” “You... why didn't you tell me that earlier!?” “I... I wanted to do that but all this megaspell thing dropped on me before I could. I'm telling you now, so please listen: I was under her command, third class technician Soft Air of the Third Armored Company Steel Flanks. Do you remember that tape I gave to you?” “Uh... the black stuff that does other stuff?” Puppy tried hard to remember. “Yes, that one: it is the location of our field headquarters; it's located south of Salt Cube City, in the marshes. If you can find any clue about the chief it will be there. So, when you have finished in the control room just set the 165Th Brigade field Headquarters as primary objective and follow the pink arrow on the compass. Did you understand everything?” “I.. yes, sure: go head quartet, find mom! Thank you mister Soft Air you are the best pony!” “I think you misspelled Pinkie Pie,” P7 chimed in. “Oh, and one last thing, Puppy: in your journey you are going to learn things that will hurt you. It's unavoidable, but I know that you are a brave pony so... please, don't forget these days and the days before the megaspells. Equestria now is a scorched dying land, but you know that it wasn't always like this. Don't let the wastelands scorch you heart, too; watching you I still can see the sun shining in the sky.” “Uh... why is everypony saying sad things? You are only going for a little fly, it's not that we will never meet again; me and mommy are totally coming for a visit when you will find a new home.” “I... You are incredible, Puppy. You make me miss my sister so much... Be safe and never forget to smile. Soft Air, closing.” “Puppy, Sand Box here. Are you listening to me?” The elder ghoul’s voice interrupted the conversation. “Ah... yes Boss... say, we are going meet again, right?” The was a long pause, then the voice of the ghoul arrived calm and somehow very sad. “I'm sure that in the end we will meet again and we will be together, if you want this to happen. Never lose hope, Puppy.” There was another pause before the Ghoul Leader started talking again: “We need you to open the roof and give the green for the take off. Now, repeat what I say: activate Voice Console, Authorization code SB01, chief researcher. Pass code Agatha. Override priority list from one to eleven...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 4 - TIME approximately 7:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Downtown, Salt Cube City Sage Brush was sitting at his window with his sniper rifle ready, guarding both the Big 52 heading south and the Dome outskirts. It had been a long shift but now the daylight was beginning to fade and within a hour the earth pony was going to put his cutie mark under a table. Hopefully with a good bowl of onion soup in front of him. “I wonder why they sent that filly in the Dome all by herself... she's been inside since lunchtime. Poor soul, now we’re even sending kids to their deaths...” The pony spat down the window and activated the night vision of his rifle sights. And in that very moment what was left of the eastern section of the Dome's roof began to collapse with the deafening sound of screeching metal. “Luna rape my soul, what is going on there?” The guard looked down the scope to try and see what was happening. After several minutes of observation, Sage was sure that the roof was not exactly collapsing, not completely at least: there were parts that simply fell down and there was a large amount of dust being thrown up, but he could clearly make out that the entire structure of the east wing was... rotating? The two hundred years old cover of the Dome was almost fused into a single block by rust, but now an incredible strength was simply tearing apart every metal plate that didn't want to move; that giant fossil from the bomb days was sliding on completely forgotten metal rails that in more often than not couldn't sustain the stress and cracked. None the less, the roof was still moving. Slowly, and causing itself an irreparable amount of damage, but it moved. Now that the largest part of the debris was gone, Sage could see that there were two separate sections, similar to the doors of a cellar; the ‘doors’ were sliding in opposite directions, creating a rectangular opening that was as large as a town square. The noise created quite a commotion in Downtown: everypony ran out of the tents to see what was going on and some mares simply fainted, screaming things like “The horror the horror!” and such. Sage was made of sterner stuff and kept his head calm while aiming his rifle towards the hole. “Ok zombies, let's see what's going on in your rotten heads.” A section of the roof stopped moving with the sudden sound of twisting metal and snapping cables. After less than a minute, the other half of the gigantic hatch finished opening, then the sky went pink as a thousand spotlights dotted the clouds. There was an explosion of blue and green smoke with a shower of confetti all around the Dome and then a high pitched voice started talking. “Fillies and gentlecolts!” The voice came from the speakers of the dome: it sounded crackly and fuzzy but where one loudspeaker failed another fifty kept the pace. “Glory to our beloved and magnificent princesses Luna and Celestia! It's with immense honor that today I'm here to assist the launch of the newest and most incredible technological jump in the field of mass transportation! Thanks to the Friend Force One and her many sisters that will follow, Equestria will never seem so small to you!” Boisterous music played loudly for a few seconds. “And now let me introduce our guest of honor! The daughter of first class technician Rainy Days, Puppysmiles!” “-and then I said: Oatmeal, are you CRAZY?” There was a long pause. “Uh, was that my voice?... LALALALALALA! Hey, it's fun! Goodbye ghoulie ponies have a nice trip! Send me a postcard!” Sage brush raised both eyebrows. “What the hay is going on? First what Rainy who? Who's this Rainy Days? And what... is... that... thing? From the opening in the Dome, an odd shape slowly emerged: it was like a balloon, but it was very elongated, like a gigantic corncob pointy at the ends and larger in the middle; the flying machine had four fins at the back and it was completely pink, save for a white oval on each side in which was written 'Friendship is Magic!'. Sage rubbed his eyes and tried to pick his jaw back up off the floor. Now the airship was rising above the dome and slowly rotated itself; under the humongous pink balloon there was a structure similar to an air wagon but way larger. On what the guard pony decided was the rear side of the cabin, there were a couple of large propellers and other two were placed immediately under the two horizontal fins next to the tail of the balloon. The thing began to gain speed, it avoided the Towers and headed south-east. Sage still looked in disbelief at the balloon flying away when the high pitched voice from the Dome spoke again. “Very well everypony, I guess that's all, remember to buy war bonds! This Show was brought to you by the Ministry of Morale, and remember, Pinkie Pie is not happy if you are not happy! So smile, because she's watching you FOREVER!” The Balloon was already half a kilometer away when the lights from the Dome finally shut down and the music stopped. The roof tried uselessly to close again but this simply led to a new concert of bending metal, snapping cables and falling debris. “Holy mare... she... they... they are gone... the ghouls simply jumped on that... thing and... they flew away?” The guard scratched his head, “Why didn't they do that before!? Where did they get that ridiculous air thing? Friendship is Magic? This place is going crazy.” Almost half an hour later the ponies had already gone back to bed and the Airship was just a point in the distance, ten kilometers away; it wasn't moving very fast if compared with an air wagon, but it was way bigger. The sound of hoofsteps from the stairs should have alerted Sage Brush, but he was still looking at the balloon flying away. A mare with a combat saddle knocked on the wall before entering the room where Sage was stationed. “Shift time. Hi mate, was it exciting?” The guard turned to face his comrade. “They... just flew away! In a gigantic balloon! I... I don't get it, why did they fly away!?” The mare tilted the head while looking outside. “Hey, now that the light is gone don't you feel that something is missing?” “Yeah, the ghouls and another third of the roof from the Dome.” “No, that's not what I mean. Look better. Where is the glowing light?” “Oh buck me, you are right! The Dome is not glowing! It's... dark and... ghostly... and scary...” “So... they went away for real... tomorrow morning with some light we have got to go there and check the radiation.” “Do you think that-” Suddenly the world became blindingly white. It was so strong that even with his eyes closed Sage could see it. He waited for the light to go away for what it seemed an eternity until... SKRA-KRACK! It was the loudest sound ever: something halfway between the sound of a thunder and the whistle of a tornado, only louder. Driven by his instinct, the guard grabbed his friend and tried to gain shelter behind a wall. Immediately after the sound came the rumble. At first it was nearly impossible to percieve, but in a matter of seconds it became an earthquake and with it arrived a solid wall of dust that hit Downtown, flattening most of the tents in the market but barely scratching the heavier structures. “Wh-what was that?” Sage rubbed his eyes, trying to open them. “I don't know... the ghoul’s flying machine exploded? It seemed something like a gigantic spell going...” The mare realized what this implied. “Oh fuck. A megaspell. They had a damn megaspell on that flying thing!” --------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (3) New perk added: Intense training - Charisma (7 -> 8) now you are 14.28% cooler This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed.
mimezinga	931	5	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-10-27T15:20:16+00:00	2011-10-27T15:20:16+00:00	30,149	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 5: Chickens Cutie Mark Crusaders Chicken Rescuers are go! DAY 5 - TIME approximately 9:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Downtown, Salt Cube City “Yay! Go faster pretty cow! I wanna to go faster!” The left head of the brahmin sighed and threw a desperate look towards the nearby unicorn with the black hat. The pony snickered at the cow and waved a hoof, dismissing her mute complaint: “It's the deal, no grudges; give the foal one last ride then bring her to my office.” “Alright mister White.” The cow sullenly began to trot around the outside of White Tower, a journey she had made several times in the past half hour. The ponies in the streets were busy repairing the damages from last night's shock wave but the filly in yellow still drew a lot of attention from them and with the glares also arrived low muttered words. “I know her, she's that ghost from the Carnival... she cursed the ghouls. That foal brings bad luck...” “Look, she's making a fool out of the White Apples. I bet all my caps that she's blackmailing them with something that she discovered inside the Dome.” “Have you seen? The Glow disappeared and then... then the ghoul's airship exploded... they tried stealing something but it backfired. Filthy ghouls, they deserved that one.” “Yes but what is she?” “Don't ask, I've never seen her eat or even open the helmet. I don't know what that means but I'm sure that she's up to nothing good.” “Shush! She's coming this way!” Puppysmiles was having a good time and didn't care about the strange glances; it’s unlikely that she even noticed them. “It was super fun missus cow can we do it again sometimes?” One of the two cow heads nodded. “Sure, but you have to ask Mr. White: he's waiting for you in the office, just go inside and take the red door.” The other head continued to ruminate. Mr. White's office was a large, clean affair, sporting a variety of pictures decorating the walls and a mahogany desk so highly polished that you could see your reflection in it. “Woah, this place is super duper fine mister White!” The chief of the White Apples was a male unicorn with a black hat on his head, his coat was white and his mane cyan. “Well, thank you miss Days.” This name won a puzzled look from Puppy, so Mr. White elaborated: “The voice from the Dome last night said that your mom was named Rainy Days, so I imagine that your full name is Puppysmiles Days, isn't it?” Puppy slowly nodded and tilted her head. “Uh, yes it is. Now I have to go... miss Voice put a new arrow on the compass so I have to follow it. Can I go please?” White sighed and lowered the hat in front of his eyes. “Sure, obviously... but I'd like to ask you one last thing. What was that glow inside the Dome?” “Ah, you mean the Salt Cube?” Puppy giggled as if she found that question funny. “You silly pony, haven't you ever seen the Salt Cube of Salt Cube City? I mean, you live here, Duh!” The older pony felt the urge to raise his voice but the filly had a very simple mind and scolding her was useless at the moment; instead he smiled. “I must admit that I've never been inside the Dome, it is a bit... scary, if you wish. So, the ghouls took away the salt cube on their vessel?” another puzzled look from the foal, “The flying balloon...” Puppy nodded. “Eyup! They took the cube and they did that quite in a hurry, too! They were all talking about a cascade and something about a dee... uh... de-tuna show...” Puppy didn't seem very happy with that last term, “something like that, I can't remember... But they were saying that they had to go away before it happened because it was dangerous.” “Detonation, maybe?” “Yes, they said detorn... uh... deetun... that one. Anyhow it was inside the cube and they wanted to go away with it super fast. I helped them!” The blue maned pony raised an eyebrow. “They... wanted to go away as fast as possible with a time bomb? I... I knew that those ghouls were crazy but I didn't think that they were gone this far. Oh well, I guess that this explains why the radioactivity around the Dome is fading.” Mr. White smiled thoughtfully. “You did a good job, little one. I'd like you to stay a little more but if you want to go so badly I guess that I'll let you follow your road.” “Okie dokie mister White! Bye bye I'll tell my mom that you were super nice with me!” “Sure, have a nice trip little one. Sorry if I'm still a bit curious, but where will you go?” Puppy pointed a hoof southward. “There! My mom is just at the other end of the arrow!” “Oh, straight into the marshes... good luck and take care!” She was so dead. The marshes were the worst area in the northern branch of the Big 52 and a foal alone was just going to be some radigator's breakfast. It was a pity to waste that Radsuit but the White Apples were not raiders. Mr. White stopped for a moment, pondering that last thought. The filly was already going away but something in that little pony made him regret having used her so badly; she probably saved the tribe from something way worse than the ghouls and he had given her, what? Just a cow ride and not even a forewarning of the incoming danger... not fair. “Hey miss Days, wait a moment! I have something for you.” ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 5 - TIME approximately 11:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Salt Cube City Outskirts, Big 52 N Branch “WEEEEEEEEEEE!” A yellow bolt dashed along the road riding a red scooter. The last houses of Salt Cube city's suburbs zipped past Puppysmiles, leaving a landscape of abandoned corn fields in their stead. And please, keep this in mind: once you reach Happy Straw you have to take the detour. The route through the swamps is- BLAH BLAH BLAH... Blah.... and remember! Don't try in any case to cross the blah blah boo-ring! The filly-propelled vehicle zoomed directly south and, since the scooter wasn't loud enough by itself, Puppy was providing the sounds. “WOOOOSH! ZOOM! Straight to the Moon! Space Captain Andromeda to the rescue! YAY!” Ahead of the foal in yellow, the road ran through rotten fields and ruined farms, straight as a sunbeam heading toward her objective. After a hoof-full of kilometers, the fields became a barren land dotted with dead trees and small pools filled with murky water. Here and there rose a shack or a small camp but they all seemed old and abandoned. There was some life in the area, but it consisted mostly of insects and other nasty creatures that instinctively left Puppy alone. What was not seemingly eager to ignore Puppysmiles was the spritebot that stood right in the middle of the road about a hundred meters in front of her. “BEEP BEEP I’m a Jeep! Space pony incoming!” The spritebot seemed to ignore this information, but Puppy wasn't the kind of foal that stopped for anypony while she was having fun; the yellow bolt simply kept going at top speed on her brand new scooter. The spritebot dodged at the very last moment and seconds later was following on Puppy’s heels, trying to keep up with her pace. “Hi Puppy, are you in a hurry?” a familiar voice came from the spritebot’s speakers. “Questioner! I was missing you! Have you seen my new scooter?” Puppy giggled still cruising at top speed, “I knew another talking robot, but this one was funny! Well, it wasn't exactly a robot. I'm not sure.” “How wonderful. Care if I ask you something?” the spritebot didn't wait for a reply, “What happened in the Dome and what was that explosion east of Salt Cube City? Hey could you stop a moment, please?” Puppy sighed and slowed down. “Gee I was having fun...” After stopping and jumping from her brand new ride, the foal tapped the helmet as if it was her chin while thinking about Watcher’s question. “What happened in the Dome? I made a lot of friends: mister boss Sand Box, mister Soft Air, miss Peach Blossom... Oh and miss Voice.” “Wasn't it mister Voice?” Watcher tried. “No, silly robot, there is a mister Voice AND a miss Voice! She had to stay at the Dome but mister Voice can call her whenever I need! She is super cool and helped me with the goodbye party for the ghoulie ponies!” “Oh, another pony-machine interface routine... So... You met these ghouls and... threw them a goodbye party? What do you mean by that, did you help them launch the airship?” “Yush!” Puppy nodded enthusiastically, “It was super great! I was looking from the window and there was this huuuuuuuuuge thing that went up, up, up in the sky!” Puppy spread her front legs to show how large the ship was and reared up on her hind legs to show how high it was, but she went too far and fell on her haunches giggling. “And there were all those lights and I heard my voice super loud so I said la la la and goodbye ghoulie ponies and then they went away! It was scootastic!” “Sccotawhat?” “Scootastic!” “Is that even a word? “Scootasure!” “You know... I don't think that this scooter is good for your pretty head...” Watcher's voice betrayed the slightest trace of concern, “Back on topic, what about the explosion?” “What explosion?” Puppy tilted her head frowning a bit. “You mean the roof that went down?” “No I- wait a second... another roof fell on your head?” This piece of information took Observer by surprise. “Yup. After the roof opened and the big balloon went away the place went all squeaky and bang! Right on my head.” Puppy giggled, “But I'm a super space pony so I dug my way out... I'm just that good.” The filly smiled proudly. There was a short laugh, then a sigh from the robot speaker. “Oh well, everyone has their talents. So, where are you going now?” “To the next mom's place, obviously. Third time is the charm!” BLAM BLAM! A sudden pair of gunshots echoed through the air. The bullets didn't hit anywhere near Puppy or Watcher, but the filly heard them loud and clear. “Hey, what was that?” “I... sorry Puppy I have to go. There must be raiders somewhere, you'd better hide and wait until this firefight ends.” “A firefly? Where? I love fireflies!” Puppy immediately launched herself in a frantic search, jumping all around. “Please, Celestia, keep her safe...” The voice from the spritebot was replaced by a fizzling music and the drone simply began to drift away. The sound of the gunshots came from above Puppy's head and when she looked up she saw an incredible scene: some big flying ponies were dancing all around and making fireworks, like in a majestic ballet. The sight took Puppy back to the day that mommy took her to the flying grounds and there were all the pretty pegasi flying and making super fun things in the air. This time it was more or less the same; well, actually not the same but there was somepony flying and there were lights and loud noises so Puppy immediately classified the whole thing as top tier entertainment. But all the figures were pretty big and didn't seem pegasi at all. The foal frowned and asked, “Hey mister Voice... what's wrong with those ponies?” “Analyzing. Friendly griffins.” Puppy hadn't the slightest idea of what a griffon was, but if the Voice told her that they were friendly then it was A-OK. The filly in yellow waved a hoof and tried to get their attention. “Hey pretty ponies! I'm here! Hey!” One of the creatures turned to look down at the road, lowering his guard for a moment; he was shot by another of the creatures and went down spinning. “Uh... let's see... one... two... three...” Puppy tried to count the remaining griffins but they were a bit too fast for her tastes, so she decided to trot up to where their friend landed. Drawing next to the creature the foal noticed that it wasn't a pony at all: it looked like some strange beast half eagle and half lion; she decided that it had a funny look. “Hi mister chicken!” The creature didn't move; a large pool of blood was forming under his body. Puppy poked him with a hoof. “Hey, something's wrong?” there was no reaction, “Uh, mister chicken? Wake up? Rise and shine?” Still nothing... this couldn't be good, but the worst part was that his friends didn't seem to notice it. Something had to be done. “HEY! CHICKENS! YOUR FRIEND HERE IS HURT! COME DOWN!” Puppy cried with all her breath and waved both hooves in the air, trying to get some help. Quite obviously, she was ignored. The remaining three griffins continued to dance their waltz of bullets and blood in the sky above her head. “Aww, they’re too busy having fun and they don't hear me!” Puppy sighed. “If only I had something to catch their- Wait a moment, I have it!” The filly smiled recalling that shiny thing that mister White gave her. Whatwasitsname? Nine miles meters? Nay meme liters? “Uh... mister Voice, gimme that shiny thing that makes a lot of noise.” “Warning. Object Puppysmiles cannot be retrieved from inventory.” “Hey! You're not very nice! You know what I mean! That thing, the nanny my litters! You know, that one from mister White!” “Affirmative. Retrieving 9mm semiautomatic pistol.” The gun floated in front of Puppy. The filly grabbed the iron with her hooves and pointed it at the sky. “Hey! HEEEEY! Listen to me! How does this thing work? How does it do the noisy stuff?” “Loading instructions for shooting mode 'Time Crisis'. First: point your gun at the target. Second: pronounce the word 'fire!' or 'bang!' the gun will shoot. If you need reloading put your weapon in the inventory and extract it again.” “Uh, sounds easy!” Puppy pointed at a griffon. “Bang!” BLAM! Clank! “EEEP!” Recoil sent the gun flying out of Puppy's hooves. It bounced against her helmet, falling to the ground a couple of meters in front of her and knocking the filly down on her rump. One of the griffins screamed in pain. “Fuck, he has backup! Kill that snip-” the creature didn't get to finish the sentence: his head exploded in a cloud of blood. Now there were only two griffins dueling in the sky but the battle itself was becoming a lot more personal. The two griffins engaged each other in melee, biting and slashing with their talons. Puppy trotted over to the new fallen griffon and noticed that his head was missing. “Do you know, mister Voice...I don't think they're playing. Is this chicken... uh... dead?” “Affirmative.” “And... uh...” Puppy frowned, “The other chicken there?” Puppy pointed at the other grounded beast, “Is he dead too?” “Analyzing. No vital signs detected. The subject is dead.” Puppy's eyes rose again to the sky, where the last two griffins were fighting. “And... those two are trying to hurt each other?” “Affirmative. Every clue leads to the conclusion that they are fighting each other to the death.” “Okie dokie...” Puppy paused for a moment, pondering the situation, “How do we make them stop? Oh! I have an idea!” Puppy took a deep breath, “PLEASE STOP FIGHTING! SOMEPONY COULD GET HURT!” Actually somepony already got hurt; well, mostly some griffon but Puppy wasn't fussed about details and the two surviving fighters didn't seem to pay attention to puppy anyway. From the filly's point of view it was quite hard to say what was going on exactly, but one of the two let out a high pitched scream and then they both began to fall in a rapid spin, like a whirlybird seed. Puppy jumped on her scooter and launched herself on the chase, trying to see where they fell. When she reached them she found quite a scene: one of the two griffins lay on ground, his chest torn open on the left side and his throat cut; the other creature was struggling to get to his feet but was losing too much blood from a multitude of wounds. “Hey mister chicken, are you to alright?” The filly rushed to the struggling griffon as he fell on the ground coughing. “You don't seem alright.” “Cough... you... are the foal that shot... thank you...” Puppy frowned. “I what?” “Please -cough- listen carefully... there is... my daughter... in the military -cough cough- south...” the griffon’s breaths were deep and labored, bringing with them a gurgling sound and causing him to cough again, “Henrietta... she... is waiting for me there -cough- I beg you... go there... give her... this...” The griffon handed Puppy another gun: This one was heavier than the one she owned and it was all black with a red line along the barrel. “Uh... okie dokie?” Puppy poked the griffon, “Sure but... you are going to get better, do you?” “You... are you stupid or what... I'm... dying...” another burst of coughs and blood interrupted the creature, “Tell... tell Henrietta... that I wanted to go south with her.... tell... her that I.... -cough- I... tell...” His voice faded and with it even the spark in the griffon’s eyes disappeared. Puppy waited for a moment then tried poking the griffon with a hoof. “Hey mister chicken, are you sleeping? Mister chicken?” she poked him again, “Uh... I think that I have to go... I... uh... am sorry...” The filly took a step back from the dead creature. She felt bad, something was really wrong now: this wasn't the first time she was in front of a dead creature, not even a dying one, but... But she never really stopped to contemplate it before. Now, if we were talking about your average pony this would be a perfect moment to make her face the horrors of a world where brothers kill each other in a constant struggle for survival. Too bad that this is a story about Puppysmiles. “Uh... I hope you get well soon but now I really really have to go... sorry.” The foal kissed the griffon goodbye through her helmet and jumped on her scooter, dashing away. “Hey mister Voice... are you there?” “Affirmative. All Systems operational.” “Why pretty ponies hurt each other?” The filly frowned. “Warning. This routine is not meant for socializing.” Puppy sighed and kept scooting towards the pink arrow on her compass. “Uh, mister Voice... did that chicken say something about a daughter?” “Affirmative. It is set as objective for secondary mission: Bad news, new buddies.” Puppy pondered for a moment, stopping the scooter. “Can you show me where is she?” “Affirmative: Henrietta Firebright set as new primary target.” Puppy looked at the pink arrow disappearing from the compass and reappearing again in the same point. “Uh, I don't think it worked.” “Affirmative. New mission objective correctly set.” Puppy shrugged. Operating all the mumbo jumbos in the space suit was mister Voice's job; if he said that it was okay then it had to be so. “Let's roll.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ DAY 5 - TIME approximately 14:00 P.M. - LOCATION: 165Th Brigade field Headquarter, Salt Marshes “Warning. Several breaches in the containment. Warning. Compass offline. Warning. Radio offline. Warning. Medical system offline. Warning. Breach in the helmet. Warning. Pink agent detected. Repair talisman activated.” “Ugh... I think... that I stepped on something...” Puppy tried to get on her hooves but stumbled and fell again. “I feel dizzy.” A couple of roadsigns right in front of the filly stated: 'Attention, minefield!' and 'Military zone, access restricted'. Debris and broken pieces of asphalt lay strewn across the road around her, and entire chunks were missing from the route ahead; quite incredibly the scooter lay a couple meters away from the filly showing almost no sign of damage. “Hey, mister Voice... why did the road went boom?” Thick pink smoke poured from the holes in the suit and the cracks in her helmet. “Analyzing. The cause of the explosion is a land mine. Radio is online. Helmet integrity restored.” Puppy frowned for a moment. “What's a land mine? No, wait! This is going to take forever, right? With you using fancy words and me trying to not get angry and we start arguing again. I need a professional here: call miss Voice.” “Opening communication bridge. Please Wait. Compass online. Medical system restored. Loading personal data for subject 001: Puppysmiles. Subject deceased, condition stable. All clear.” After not even five minutes the suit was almost repaired, mostly taking materials from the various pieces of junk that Puppy kept in her pockets. The foal wasn't very selective with the stuff she decided to keep; if it was shiny and colored it was a go. The suit’s repair spell wasn’t picky either: anything that contained glass, metal or plastic was good enough. “Hello hello? This is Salt Cube Dome emergency line. Sorry but at the moment all the personnel are dead, please call again when the services have been restored. Bye bye!” “Hold on miss Voice! It's me, Puppy!” “Oh, Puppy! Hi there, it's been a while! What's going on? Did you find that thing I asked you? I'm ready for activating transfer protocol as soon as you are!” “Uh... nope, sorry miss Voice. Actually, I need help.” “Oh don't worry I've been waiting here for, what? Two hundred years? I can wait another couple centuries! So, what do you need?” “Well, I was dashing like a wonderbolt on my new scooter when suddenly-” “Wait wait wait! You have a new scooter? Is it red?” “You can bet your saddle!” “Scootastic! Is it fast, super fast or double super duper fast?” “It's like the one you see on the signs with Scootaloo on top and all the stars around! You have to try it, it's totally crazy!” “Aw now I feel green! You have to find me that prototype body so I can try it! Promise me!” “Sure! Pinkie Pie swear!” Puppy tried to poke her eye but the helmet was a problem. “YAY! Ok ok, back on topic, you wanted just to tell me about the scooter?” “Uh, no... Actually, I have a problem of exploding roads. You see, mister Voice says that there is some mining but I can't see the miners... and I don't think that mines go boom.” “Well, it depends on what you are mining but I can see your point... So the road exploded and there are no miners there... Please I need you to take a look around. Do you see something like a... ah... flat and large frying pan with an orange light on top? It should be ugly green or sadness gray...” Puppy smiled. “Yay, I see it! No wait, there's moar! It's full of them! There are orange lights everywhere it's like fireflies! Wow!” “Oh, so we are speaking of that kind of mines... Okie dokie, I need to see them myself. Wait a second.” The HUD in the helmet flickered for a moment, then the whole helmet lit with targeting signals, one for each mine that the suit's sensors located. “Wow, forty five and still counting! This reminds me of a game I used to play a lot!” P7’s voice paused while the sensor finished detecting all the mines, “Done! Now, there's a path... you just do as I say and we'll be on the other side lickety split.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ DAY 5 - TIME approximately 14:45 P.M. - LOCATION: 165Th Brigade field Headquarter, Salt Marshes The base was mostly intact: a line of big hangars stood in front of a large court with low armored buildings on the sides. The front gate had a couple of automated guns but a large battle tank had crashed into it, almost destroying the entire structure and effectively blocking the entrance for anything bigger than a pony. Puppy stopped for a moment to rummage inside the tank before entering the base. “Woah! This thing is full of shiny stuff! Look at this one!” The foal took a large shell with a red band around the head; it was big, probably used as ammunition for the tank’s main gun, “It's pretty! Hey, there's moar! This one is black and this one is blue! Tee-hee!” After cannibalizing the tank's ammo rack, Puppy finally decided to venture inside the base. Other tanks lay in the middle of the court simply abandoned in place and mostly devoured by the rust and the climate of the swamp. Strange plants grew all over the place and out from the windows. At first glance Puppy couldn't see any sign of the griffon's daughter, so she did the most logical thing. “HEEEEERE CHICK CHICK CHICK CHICK CHICK! COO COT COT COT!” Still nothing... how strange, “Maybe she's sleeping.” “Warning. Hostile detected. Distance one hundred meters.” A large creature poked its head out from one of the small buildings: it was some sort of lion, but way bigger and when it stepped out from a hole in the building, Puppy saw that it had a pair of leathery wings and a segmented tail that ended in a long stinger, dripping with a green goo. “Analyzing. Manticore. Threat level: lethal.” “Uh, I don't think that's the chicken I'm looking for...” Puppy trotted toward the beast, completely ignoring the warnings. After all, this one was half lion too, maybe he and the girl she was looking for were cousins. “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seem my mom or a little chicken with a kitty cat tail?” The fell beast gazed down at the young pony and sniffed the air, then stepped back and started growling; somehow it seemed scared of Puppysmiles. “Do you understand me? Pretty please? With a cherry on top? She has two wings, and a beak, and she is small... well I'm not sure how small, but I guess she's quite small... uh, are you listening to me mister kitty cat?” The manticore roared and hit Puppy with a paw, knoocking her some ten meters away, then turned tail and ran inside the half ruined building. When the filly had finally stopped rolling, she got on her hooves and stuck her tongue out in the general direction of the beast’s lair. “Bleh! Meanie cat! I'm going to find the chicken all by myself!” The filly frowned, “Gee, if everypony here is as kind and pretty as this I can see why the chicken girl is hiding.” A second small building was in a better state and Puppy tried to peek inside it. “Uh, nopony here?” She saw a soft green light coming from a working computer screen. The filly trotted into the building, looking at the bright light: it was a small office, with a couple of desks and the remains of a line of filing cabinets mostly destroyed by a fire; on the screen there was a single line: 'Please insert Password'. Did we already say that reading wasn't Puppy's trump card? “Pee... El... Ee... Ei... Es... Ee” Okay you got the message. “Password?” I know I know! Puppysmiles! Pee... You... Pee... hey it's fun!” After three failed tries the terminal activated the security lock down and the filly grew bored of playing 'write your name'. She was a filly on a mission after all... well, on a lot of missions actually, so she had to keep moving... yay~ The hangars looked mostly intact from the outside but their roofs had collapsed a long time ago; the only thing left on the inside was just a bunch of ruins and rubble, leaving nothing more than a rotten pile of bricks with a shiny facade. Puppy went through the various hangars finding only rubbish that she decided to keep just in case. The filly noticed that sometimes a cute shiny metal plate or some glassy bubbles disappeared, but she wasn't sure why they did it or where they went. Continuing with her search Puppy explored another building. This one sported an observation tower and some very thick walls with a single entrance and no windows at ground level. Inside the building there was little space and it was occupied with the remains of a campfire, a couple of mattresses and some empty food cans in a corner. There was even a low table with a broken radio transmitter on it and an upturned pile of boxes that partially occupied the stairs that led to the tower. The voice of the suit suddenly came to life. “Destination reached. New position: Rainy Days’ camp.” “Wait a moment, what did you say? Mom is here!? MOM! IT'S ME, PUPPY! MOOM!” Maybe she was upstairs? Puppy galloped up to the top of the tower. The stairs were old but still solid and they led to a small room with its entrance in the middle of the floor and a control panel on each of its four sides. The walls were replaced by large open windows so that it was possible to keep an eye all over the base from the tower. But the room was empty. Puppy stopped for a moment looking all around. “Where is mom? Mister Voice, you said she was here, why you keep lying to me?” “Warning. This program is not designed for social interaction.” “You... YOU! Why every time I try scolding you, you say that!? You are a bad voice and you should feel bad! Make me speak with miss Voice, she understands me! She cares!” “Opening communication bridge.” P7’s voice replaced the one of the suit internal system. “Hi there and thank you for calling. We are sorry but the personnel are all dead. Please call again when somepony has-” "It's me, Puppy. Hi miss Voice.” “Oh, hi again Puppy! You call a lot lately! Do you feel lonely?” “A bit... uh, but I must ask you a thing: it's important!” Puppy frowned, “Where is my mom?” “Uh... give me some minutes. Processing data. Comparing results. Object not found. I'm sorry Puppy, I can't say where your mom is. But if I correctly read the data in your suit you should be on her last known location.” Puppy waited for a moment trying to understand that torrent of difficult words. “Uh, say it again, please?” “Your mom was here but now she is gone. Maybe if you look around carefully you'll find something useful to locate her.” “B-but where?” Puppy was losing her confidence: she had been really sure that she would find her mom here. Now that even this try had been a hole in the water she was beginning to lose hope. “Let me help, okie dokie? Now be a nice pony and wait while I scan the area. And here we go! Look, a data disk on that console!” Puppy trotted over to the data disk and nudged it with her hoof. “Uh, it reminds me that thing that Soft Air gave me...” Puppy connected it to her suit, “Does it say where is mom?” “It's an audio file... it has some recording on it, let's see... hey it's quite old! Two hundred years! Wanna hear it now or later?” “Uh, yes sure... play it.” A female voice came from the suit speakers and Puppy's eyes widened. Mom, it was her at last! But... something was wrong, she was coughing... was she ill? “Day fourteen... I'm running -cough- out of rad away... the cloud seems to -cough- move -cough- but the whole place is still a death trap...” The voice paused for some moment, there was the sound of somepony drinking. “Damn, I hate this world and I hate -cough- zebras and the princesses... they killed us all... The only -cough- thing that keeps me from becoming -cough- crazy is that at least Puppy is safe in the stable...” There was another long pause. “I'm sorry, what hell hole of a world have I prought you into? I...” The mare’s breaths came quick and shallow, she was crying. Puppy jumped on her hooves. “Mom! Don't cry I'm fine! I'm alright mom! MOM! Please don't cry I... I will be a good pony but please don't cry! I... I can go back into that gray place and say the magic words and go inside right now! Please don't be mad at me!” “I... I have to be strong. Puppy is safe, she is in the stable. I -cough- must believe this. Now, what about me... It seems that the south was -cough- only hit in a couple of main cities. The radiation there should be less -cough- dangerous but the trip is long and I don't think I -cough- have all that strength now...” The tape interrupted for a few seconds then another voice file started again with Rainy Days speaking. “Day sixteen... Fuck, I'm pissing blood but at least the coughing is gone. I need to move now or it will be too late. This is for Party Star and Soft Air: if you are still alive and find this recording I'm moving south. I'll try to reach the tunnel under Sugartop Mountain along the route 52. I'll be waiting for you there. I hope to find shelter in the maintenance rooms inside the tunnel, they should be shielded from the worst effects of radiation." There was a short pause. "Bloody Luna, it's snowing green again... Fuck you all, the ministries, the goddesses... What did you do to Equestria? This was a blessed land, why didn't you stop before it was too late? Puppy, I miss you so much... I'd gladly die if I could see you just one more time...” Puppy heard the voice of her mother and curled up on the floor. She wasn't able to react. Her mom was lost somewhere in the south and she was dying. The filly wanted to see her mother right now, to hug her, to show her that everything was alright, even if it wasn't. But, after all, Puppy knew for a fact that her mom was the best pony ever: her mother was going to be fine for sure. Mom said that she was going south to some sort of tunnel, maybe she was there right now: Puppy couldn't simply stop here and wait for the sadness to devour her heart, there was still hope. “Miss Voice, are you there?” “Negative. Communication interrupted. How can I be of help?” The suit's voice quickly replied. “Oh, it's you mister Voice... I... uh... Need to go to another place... some sort of tunnel, under a sugar mountain.” “Affirmative: Tunnel Town is set as new target on the compass.” A new pink arrow appeared in the helmet HUD. “Purrfect! Then let's g-” “Don't you dare move even a single hoof, you foal!” A high pitched voice interrupted Puppy. The filly turned herself toward the speaker and saw the silhouette of a winged creature that was a little smaller than an adult pegasus. “Now keep your hooves where I can see them and tell me what are you doing he-” ROAAAR! The young griffon ducked and tumbled into the room as a large lion head snapped at the air where she had been just a second earlier. The jaws of the manticore bit the iron of a window's frame and the fell beast retreated for a moment only to renew it's assault; this time the frame bent and the predator was able to force it’s way in, up to its wings. The manticore retreated again but next time it was going to break inside the tower and nopony was going to stop it. “Fffffuuuuuck! That was close! Hit the stairs!” The young griffon launched herself downstairs grabbing Puppy with a claw, “Where’d that thing come from!?” “Uh... hi, I'm Puppysmiles?” The filly wasn't totally sure that this was the right time to introduce herself, but being dragged around like abused luggage left her very little to do. “Shut your trap! Oh fuck why is everything always going south!?” The griffon stopped part way down the stairs when she saw that the manticore was too large too fit into the hatch from the control room. She drew a white gun with a yellow line that ran down the barrel and emptied it into the monster’s snarling face, forcing it to backpedal into the control room and give up the chase for the moment. “Good kitty, stay!” A terrible roar came from outside followed by the sound of claws tearing at the concrete. “Perfect, just... perfect! Now he's angry.” “Uh... hi missus chicken? Can you let me down pretty please?” “Pretty what? I am no chicken! Say that again and I will-” With the sound of metal being rent and torn asunder, the upper entrance of the stairs was blocked off by one of the control panels from the room above. The manticore had trapped the two girls inside and now the only exit was that narrow door at ground level... “Oh, fuck... he's smart. Not fair.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (4) New perk added: Heave Ho! - You’re becoming a pro at throwing things. Every object you throw flies farther and faster. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed.
mimezinga	931	6	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-10-27T15:17:15+00:00	2011-10-27T15:17:15+00:00	30,134	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 6: Gunslinger Girl Well, now, uh, Lancelot, Galahad, and I, wait until nightfall, and then leap out of the rabbit, taking the French by surprise - not only by surprise, but totally unarmed! Good evening my beautiful herd! This is Lonesome Pony and you're listening to Radio 52, the frequency that gives you all the essentials about Big 52 and nothing else! The evocative tinkling of Dueling Banjos filled a brief intermission. Lets get to work. Have you ever wondered what the sun looks like? Ask the White Apples! Last night a gigantic ball of light exploded ten kilometers east of Salt Cube City bringing thunder and devastation in its wake. Luckily enough, along said wake there were mostly radigators and abandoned shacks, but the light could be clearly seen even from Tunnel Town, Badlands and the Redtrotters territory. If you think this is crazy, I must warn you that it was just the last act of a night of follies! First we had the launch of a balloon full of ghouls, yes the very same ghouls that threatened the caravans in the area! The take-off was accompanied by a light and magic show offered by a certain Puppysmiles. Weird name, isn't it? This is not the first time I’ve had something to say about this gal. Good old L.P. Asked some more questions here and there and guess what he discovered? Yes, she's the same filly from the Carnival! A trumpet erupted in a triumphant fanfare. So, Lonesome Pony, where's the interesting part? Here it is for all those grumpy ‘too long didn't listen’ busy ponies on the road: no more feral attacks between Badlands and the Cube! There was the sound of a reloading lever action rifle followed by pair of gun shots and a very manly voice saying “Hasta la vista, filly.” Oh yes I love this one! Two tribes get their problems solved by a foal stuck in a radsuit! Now I don't need to be a shaman to say that she's heading south, so... what's next? Is she going to reopen the Tunnel? Well kid, if you happen to stop by trade station Badlands on the Marshes detour, pay a visit to your number one fan! We'll get to know the filly inside the helmet! Till then, have some music from the best radio station you can find along the Route. Here's a pony there's a pony and another little pony funny pony party pony pony pony sprite DAY 5 - TIME approximately 16:45 P.M. - LOCATION: 165Th Brigade field Headquarter, Salt Marshes “Stop that damn music, I can't hear if he’s still outside!” the young griffon snapped at Puppy while shooting her an exasperated glare. “B-but it's funny! You are a grumpy chicken!” The filly frowned and went back hugging her Pinkie Pie plushie, “Don't worry Silky Tail: she's not mad, she's just a bit tired.” Henrietta the griffon walked over to Puppysmiles and grabbed the filly’s helmet so that she could look her in the eye. “For the last time I am NOT a chicken! There's a freaking manticore out there that’s pinned us inside this place and you are doing your worst to drive me crazy!” The griffon’s voice broke in a shrill screech. “I hope that my father arrives soon,” the girl sighed, “maybe with his help we'll be out of here and I’ll never ever need to see your stupid face again!” “I'm not stupid... you are a meanie cat and I don't want to be your friend anymore!” “Warning, Hostile griffon at three meters. Threat level: High.” “Aw, shut up mister Voice...” Puppy turned her back on Henrietta in a theatrical display of sulking. “Shut up mister who? Who are you talking with now?” The griffon raised an eyebrow, “You have a radio transmitter in that thing!?” With a jump Henrietta was on Puppysmiles trying to take off her helmet. “We can call for help! Call my father on 90.08! Codename Blaze!” The filly was taken by surprise. “Hey wait! I have to ask mister Voice! He lives inside the suit and works all the weird things!” The foal tried waving a hoof to shoo Henrietta away but the griffon was already stepping aside. “Wait. Mister Voice? That suit talks?” “Sure it does! This is the best space suit ever! And it is also super smart!” Puppy smiled proudly. “Yeah...” Henrietta snickered, “I bet it's smarter than you.” “Sure! Smarter than-” the filly’s smile became a frown, “Hey! That's not very nice!” The griffon was already laughing. “I can't believe you fell for that! You're hilarious! Dumber than a banana pajama!” Henrietta smiled and gave the filly a bump with her paw. “H-hey stop that! You meany- mean chicken! If your dad wasn't that hurt I'd already given you a lesson!” Henrietta froze in place, staring at Puppy. “My father what? What do you know about my father?” Hope and fear were mixing on the girl's face in a concotion that made even Puppysmiles aware that her next words needed to be used very, very wisely. “Uh, last time I saw him he was dead... maybe he got better?” The foal smiled, helplessly lost in childish naivete. “M-my father... dead? How do you know that? Where have you seen him? This... this can't be, he's the best around he can't be dead! You’re wrong this can't be true! Tell me that this isn’t true!” The griffin drew her white pistol and aimed at Puppy, the yellow line along the barrel pointed directly at her nose. “Tell me that you’re wrong!” Puppy met Henrietta's wild gaze; the foal could be a bit slow, but there was no lie in those gleaming pink eyes, just the absolute innocence of a child. “I... I don't know, he... wanted me to say to you that he really really wanted to be here and he was sorry. I ran here in a super hurry to find you because he was really sad and I felt bad for him and I lost my mom too-” “ENOUGH!” Henrietta batted Puppy’s helmet with a claw, knocking the foal against a wall, before curling up on herself, trying to hide her face from the harsh reality. “This isn’t true... my dad is the best hired gun ever... he's okay, I'm sure he’s heading here right now... fuck... I... I....” A soft metallic sound made the girl open her eyes. Puppy stood in front of Henrietta; the foal didn't say anything, but took the black gun with the red line along the barrel from her saddlebag and left it next to the griffon before going back into a corner of the small room. “Black Rose...” The young flier stared at the gun in surprise as she came to realize what she already knew. “Oh no... no, please... this can't be true...” Again, she looked at the pony with the yellow suit, “Please... tell me this isn’t real... tell me this is a bad dream...” Puppy frowned and looked down. “I... don't know... if this is a bad dream then I'll wake up and find my mom waiting for me, so... I also hope that this is all just a really long bad dream...” The foal sighed, “but I don't think it is...” “Fuck...” Henrietta took the gun in a claw, looking at it and extracting her own .45 Auto pistol. They were identical in every detail but the color. “How did it happen? Why were you there?” Keep flying Henrietta, don't snap now. You learned from the best. You can do better, you MUST be better. “There were four chickens fly-” “STOP CALLING US CHICKENS! We are griffins and we’re better than you filthy ponies! Call me, or another griffon a chicken again and I'll make sure that it will be the last time! Capeesh?” The griffon held Puppy by the neck, keeping her lifted off the ground while she pressed a gun into the filly’s chest with her other claw. The foal's eyes were filled with fear; Puppy tried to break free but after a quite useless struggle she simply gave up and began to cry. “I.. I'm sorry miss griffon! I'll behave! Please stop... please!” Henrietta nodded and put the filly down. “Way better. Now, there were four griffins. Where and when?” That burst of anger somehow washed away the first shock, helping the griffin to focus a little more on the situation. Puppysmiles talked fast, trying her best to not disappoint the scary griffon again. “It was earlier: I was going down the road with a friend and they were in the sky... At the beginning it seemed that they were doing a pretty show, but then a lot of them got hurt and they fell from the sky and then they were all dead. I spoke with the last one before that he was dead and he told me to come here and give you that black thing and to say to you that he was sorry and that he wanted to go south and then I poked him to make him open his eyes but he kept sleeping I tried really hard to wake him! Please don't be mad at me I really really wanted to make him get better but he didn't move and then mister Voice told me that he was dead and... and...” The filly stepped back, gasping for air and putting both hooves above her head in an attempt to hide herself. “Please stop bullying me I didn't want to be mean I just wanted to help! I’m sorry!” Fuck, she's just a kid. The griffon hesitated as her anger began to fade. That foal probably didn't even mean chicken as an insult... nonetheless someone had to teach her something before she got into real trouble. “And guess who's that someone...” muttered Henrietta, sighing; the half-eagle patted Puppy's helmet, “It's cool, really. Call me Henrietta or Henry, okay? You just lack some... style; but don't worry, you'll learn. Now let's find a way out of here.” “But... but you are mad at me...” Puppy was still hiding her head behind the hooves. “No, I'm not mad... now be a good pony and stand up, okay?” “But I called you a chicken and I told you that you were mean...” protested the filly. “Just don't do that again, okay? I scolded you and now we are even... alright?” “So... so we can still be friends?” tried hopefully Puppy. The griffon sighed. “Yes, we can still be friends... now please be quiet while I think up a plan.” Yes, sure, it was easy to say... maybe a little harder to achieve, but even those simple words were enough to renew Puppy’s happy-go-lucky mood. The filly nodded and sat next to the stairs, while the griffon took a look outside; the predator had to be hiding somewhere, probably waiting for them to venture out in the open. “Not good... if only I had something better than my guns. I could hope for a lucky shot, but if it doesn't work...” The griffon looked back at Puppy, “Hey, you don't happen to have a big caliber gun or some high explosives, do you?” “I have a rock! It's super rocky!” Puppy proudly showed The Rock Of Destiny to Henrietta. This made the Griffon snicker. “Oh yes, exactly what we need: a rock. Sorry kid but I don't think that I'll let a stupid rock decide my fate.” The filly tilted her head, then looked a bit confused at her favored weapon. “I don't think that you're dumb, Rock... but now it's better that you go back sleeping.” “Please! I'm trying to put a plan together here. Stop kissing goodbye to everything you stash in your saddlebags and do something useful like...” Henrietta hesitated, “Like... ah... On second thought, just go back and play with Twinkle Sail.” “Silky Tail!” “Yeah, that one... have fun...” “Okie dokie! The tea will be served in five minutes!” Puppy sat down on the stairs taking the stuffed Pinkie Pie from her bag. “Yes, whatever... now...” the griffon lowered her voice to a mumble: “there's no decent cover and I'm not sure that I can outrun that thing for more than a couple of minutes. We have to face it, but we lack the firepower...” Henrietta sighed in distress, “this is ridiculous: those tanks are full of high explosive ammunition and we are stuck here with three .45s and... a rock...” In the meantime Puppy sat her doll on a large Flack 8.8 projectile while using another one as a teapot to serve tea. “Hey, do you want six or eight sugar cubes in your cup? Ah... do you have a cup?” “No thanks. I think I have a plan,” the griffon said without even bothering to turn back to the foal. “I'll run outside trying to get the manticore's attention. After the manticore starts chasing me you'll sprint to the nearest tank and get inside; you have to be fast because I can't distract that thing for very long. When you’re in the tank you have to look for HE ammo: they’re big and shiny, like a big can with a pointy head; they should have a red band so they are easy to identify. Alright?” “Uh, yes...” Puppy looked for a moment at her 'teapot' shrugging and putting it away, “You just keep an eye on Silky Tail, okay?” “I don't think that your doll is going anywhere while we’re out. Just go inside the tank, grab the big can with the red line and run back here; when you’re done I'll explain to you the second part of the plan.” The griffon crouched, readying herself for a jumping start: she needed all the speed she had. "But she will be afraid!” That filly was a constant source of idiocy and distraction. “Puppy, Twinkle Sail is just a doll! It can't be afraid!” Henrietta walked over to the stuffed Pinkie Pie/Silky Tail, grabbing it and waving it around in front of the filly: “See? She is smiling, so she is okay! Maybe when we are back she will throw us a... HE Flack 8.8?” The griffon’s eyes focused on the object being used as a chair for Puppy’s toy, “Pardon me... where did you find this?” The filly in yellow smiled. “Soft Air gave me Silky Tail in the Glow.” “No, I mean this one: the 'chair'...” “Oh that... it was inside a broken super huge metal cart; it's shiny and clean, I've got plenty of them.” From the expression on the griffon’s face Puppy felt that she had to say something more. “Do you want one?” Henrietta's left eye went twitchy twitch. “Okay, great... part one done... now part two...” “What? But we didn't even-” “No... just... no. I said part two, let's never speak of part one again.” The griffon’s self control was considerably improving. “Listen carefully: I'm trying to lure mister Big Bad here at the tower entrance: when the manticore pokes his head in you have to throw the shell into his mouth and then I’ll shoot it. The head goes boom and no more bullies, got it?” Puppy frowned. “So... I throw the teapot inside the jaws and the movie ends?” “The what? Yeah, sure: throw that thing in the manticore's mouth and I'll do everything else. Now get ready and don't be scared, Okay?” “Okie dokie!” The filly hugged the shell and hid herself behind the wall while Henrietta cautiously stepped out of the building with her wings outstretched. Not even a minute later the sound of gunshots came from outside, followed by the voice of a griffon who was teasing the manticore with a lot of words that Puppy never heard before. The foal was super double curious about what was going on outside, but she had been told to stay put and wait. Now this was a dilemma: if Henrietta found her out of place she was going to be really mad and that girl was really scary when she was mad... on the other hoof Puppy was sure that there was something totally cool going on just a few steps away from her. “Maybe just a little peek...” Outside it was raining lead while roars thundered in the storm of the battle. “Just one... It won't hurt, right?” The filly slowly crawled next to the door, always hugging her HE shell and trying to look outside, “Sneaky sneaky...” “Aw, I can't see a thing! This isn’t fair at all-” Suddenly a blurry silhouette came speeding through the door, rushing to the opposite side of the room and yelling “NOW!” “Now what?” asked Puppy a little surprised. ROAAAR! Snarling and scraping at the concrete, the manticore appeared at the door, trying to get inside but being held out by it's size. Puppy found herself looking into the snapping jaws of a fell beast just a few inches away from her helmet and yelped backpedaling. “What are you doing Puppy! Throw that thing now and dive for cover!” The urgency in Henrietta's voice danced with the panic in her eyes. “Move that cutie mark!” The filly in yellow nodded and tried launching the shell: the high explosive round described a straight trajectory through the air while Puppy jumped as far away as she could. When the explosive ammunition hit the ground right below the beast's head the griffon opened fire. BLAM! BLAM! BLAM! Three shots, three hits, three bounces. “Fuck! It's case is too thick, I can't penetrate it!” The gunslinger girl swore and emptied both pistols against that stupid explosive shell with no avail. “It's not working!” Henrietta put away one of her guns and took a third pistol. This one was Red with a white line along the barrel but in everything else it was identical to the other two she had. Unloading the gun directly in the manticore's muzzle she succeeded in making the monster slow down his assault for a moment. “I think he's trying to make the door larger.” Puppy stepped back another couple of meters but now she seemed a lot less scared. The foal tapped her helmet as if she was pondering the situation. “He's good...” The beast was looking at Henrietta with bloodlust in his eyes; it was clear enough that he wasn't going to lurk any longer even if this meant tearing apart the whole tower. The real issue was that the manticore was actually tearing the building apart: maybe not very fast, but he was getting there. “Don't just stand there! Come here!” The griffon reloaded her pistols, “We can still make that thing go boom if only I can hit the detonator. You just stay low I'll try something!” “What's a dee-tuna thor?” Henrietta launched herself towards the manticore ignoring Puppy's question. With a leap she arrived just a couple of slashes out of the beast's reach and pointed both guns at the shell. “Say goodbye Josè-” Too late the young fighter noticed that the predator had his head reclined and his back arched. Henrietta was half feline too, she had to know how much a manticore can stretch; she should have known better, but now the cat had just fallen into the lion's jaws. He didn't even give her time to swear. In that moment the manticore stretched out and struck the griffon with a claw, hitting her in the shoulder and grabbing her with his mighty talons. Henrietta shrieked in pain and instinctively but uselessly pecked and bit at the monster's paw. Puppysmiles screamed in terror, too. The filly tried to back away further but her rump was already pressed against the wall. This manticore was terrible but even worse, he was hurting Henry. For a moment Puppy didn't see the manticore but a pink metal face with blinking blue eyes. Please -giggle- make this -giggle- end. Puppy's eyes flared with pink flames while she raised a hoof. “Rock!” As soon as The Rock Of Destiny was in her hoof the filly launched herself against the beast. “Let her go! Let her go NOW!” The manticore immediately spotted the yellow critter assaulting him and instinctively turned his head and closed his jaws on her, tossing his old prey aside. The fangs of the monster closed on the little filly, crushing her with a dry crunchy sound. Henrietta fought to stay conscious while she staggered across the room trying to reach the stairs. In the meantime the manticore let out a triumphant roar that sealed once and for all Puppy's fate. “No... no, it's too late... Save yourself gal... don't turn back...” Weakly, the wounded griffon climbed a couple of steps but the pain was driving her crazy. The manticore behind her was howling in a bloody ponycidal rage, probably tearing apart and dismembering every limb of that poor corpse. Henrietta took a healing potion and swallowed it in a single gulp, then fell face down as her sight began to fail her. Henry tried to turn over to see what was going on and why that atrocious beast kept roaring and howling, but all she could see was a thick pinkish smoke and nothing else... then the griffon lost her battle against the staggering pain and fainted. Now please let's have a minute of silence in memory of a truly unfortunate manticore. ... And this is why rule number one says no biting. Never. It could be spoiled. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 00:45 A.M. - LOCATION: 165Th Brigade field Headquarter, Salt Marshes “System successfully rebooted. All functions restored. Diagnostic system is online. Subject 001: Puppysmiles. Female earth pony. Subject deceased, condition stable. All clear.” Puppy lazily opened her eyes and yawned. “But it's still dark outside...” She had the unpleasant sensation of something heavy laying on her back. “What happened? Where's the chicken? And the big meany kitty cat?” “Analyzing. Hostile detected. six meters east. Henrietta. Threat level: negligible.” A single red dot was blinking on the compass. “Silly Voice, Henry is not an enemy...” The dot turned pink. “Okie dokie, let's go to... hey!” The filly moved her hooves but this didn't make her go anywhere. Puppy looked down to see that she was hanging from some sort of gray perch. It took more than a couple of tries to break free from the skull of the manticore; the skeleton of the beast had turned the same color as the wall and seemed to be partially stuck inside it as if the animal and the wall had melted together. The large head full of teeth was open in an eternal roar while his wings stretched out, desperately trying to break free from the deadly cloud that had consumed him. Puppysmiles trotted over to Henrietta but the griffon was lying on the stairs giving no signs of life. “Mister Voice, is she... you know... uh... dead?” “Analyzing. Negative. The subject is unconscious.” “Oh... This means that she will be okay?” “Affirmative. The subject is recovering.” “Okie dokie.” That was enough for Puppy: she smiled and kissed Henrietta goodbye through her helmet, “I'm sorry but I still have to go, chicken girl. My mom is somewhere on the other end of this arrow.” Puppy trotted some meters away but then stopped and frowned: somehow she felt that just kissing goodbye this time wasn't enough. The filly went back to Henrietta, took the Pinkie Pie doll from her saddlebags and put it under one of the griffon's paws. “Here, Silky Tail. Look after Henrietta and don't let anything bad happen to her.” Now it was really okay. Puppy trotted outside and retrieved her scooter. “Hey, can I has some music?” In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the lion sleeps tonight in the jungle, the quiet jungle, the lion sleeps tonight ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 10:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Griffon’s Fall, Salt Marshes Digging in a marsh without a shovel was already torture by itself, but digging your father's grave in this muddy terrain with your bare claws was... No. Just, no. Tears dropped from the griffon's beak while she swallowed pain. Every time she tried deepening the hole in the dirt it was filled again with murky water but she kept digging in silence. He could never bear her crying, he was the most hardened badass mercenary ever. And now he was dead, killed by Talons. Henrietta dragged the dead body to the shallow hole and pushed him inside; the corpse settled into the mud with a gurgle. The daughter watched the blood stained feathers sinking in the pool and tried her best to fight back the tears. Fuck... he wouldn’t even sink in completely. “Not fair man, leaving me alone like this... what am I going to do now?” Henrietta sighed; she tried being mad at him if only to find a weapon against grief, but it was so hard. He was gone... so what now? “Why you...” Fuck. Just fuck. The griffon began filling the grave again with mud and all the stones and asphalt chunks she could find nearby. With the last stone in place, Henrietta stared at where his beak had been visible just moments before; she took out the black gun and hesitated, then put it away again. Instead, she plucked three feathers from her right wing and planted them where she knew her father's chest would lie forever. “Tell mom I'll be fine, okay?” Henrietta rubbed her eyes with one claw while she rummaged in her bag with the other, retrieving Silky Tail. The griffon looked into the smiling blue eyes of the stuffed doll and tried to smile back. “I’ll be fine.” ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 11:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Random encounter location, Salt Marshes “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles!” One of the three slavers, a black earth pony, frowned. “I think I heard that name before... Maybe we should just pass on this one...” He looked at the other two ponies: they were all well armed but over the last two days Lonesome Pony kept rambling on about a ghost infesting the northern branch of the Big 52. “I'm not afraid of ghosts, Dripping Blood. But if a foal scares the shit out of you then just keep an eye on the other slaves.” The leader of the slavers, a yellow unicorn, glared at his meager haul: a couple of stallions and a foaling mare... way below the quota, “Forty Nails, Catch her.” Puppysmiles was a bit uncertain: there were six dots on her compass but half of them were pink and the other half was red... this had to be another weirdness by mister Voice. One of the ponies marked with a red dot approached her cautiously and put a hoof on her back. “Now come with us and don't resist, kid.” “Okie dokie! Where are we going?” The filly in yellow smiled with enthusiasm. Apparently her behavior was quite odd to these newcomers. The nearest pony, a green unicorn, looked over to his boss, who shrugged and encouraged him. “See? Easy peasy. Put her in a collar and let's move.” Forty Nails tried to open Puppy's Suit but he wasn't exactly a Ministry of Peace technician. “Hey boss, this fucking thing won’t open!” “U-uh. I can't take it off too: it's a super stuck helmet... I even tried hitting it but it just keeps repairing itself...” At last somepony was helping Puppy with the space suit problem, but they didn't seem anywhere skilled enough. “I think that there is some sort of button to press here and there but they don't work...” “Shut up, retard.” Forty was losing patience and decided to go medieval on the whole problem: “It's clobbering time.” he held up a hydraulic wrench and brought it down hard on Puppy’s helmet, creating an intricate network of cracks that ran across its surface. The yellow unicorn roared. “Hey if you break her head I'll break yours! A dead foal is worth nothing!” The black slaver simply kept an eye on the other three slaves snickering at the scene. Puppy stepped back, afraid. “Hey that’s dangerous!” “Warning. Compass malfunctioning. Warning. Sensor system offline. Warning. Helmet integrity severely compromised. Repair system activated.” “Fucking Sun, that's a hard nut to break!” The green unicorn raised his weapon again only to see that the cracks in the helmet were already closing, “What the fuck?” He hesitated. “Just tie her up with a rope and let's get going, we'll see to that once we're out of this shit hole.” Puppy was told to behave, so she behaved while the pretty ponies put a noose around her neck. It was only when they tried dragging her with the other slaves that she began feeling something wrong in the air. “Hey, I can't leave my ride there!” The filly trotted towards her scooter but the slaver holding the rope stopped her with a sudden jerk. “Where do you think you're going?” Puppy kept struggling. “My scooter! Lemme go!” Forty Nails snickered. “Yeah sure, bitch.” He pulled the filly close and looked into her eyes: “You’re a slave now. Forget your scooter and everything else. If you want to stay alive, stay put. Got it?” “Uh... but I have to go there!” Puppy pointed a hoof south. The green unicorn snorted and hit her on a flank with the butt of his hunting rifle. “Shut up and open your ears or I'll rape you hard! Rebel ponies are bad commodities anyway.” Forty turned to the slaver's leader, “Hey boss I’m teaching this one a little respect” “Don’t mess her up or you’ll be paying for her.” The leader shrugged without even turning back. The filly in yellow frowned. “I don't think that's a nice word...” She seemed completely unfazed by the first beating so the green slaver gave her a stronger blow. “SHUT! UP!” Puppy was sent flying, landing a few meters away. “Hey! somepony could get hurt!” She got up on her hooves giving no sign of pain and earning a worried look from Forty Nails “B-but... what are you? Fuck off and stay down!” The slaver aimed his rifle and shot two bullets into the foal. BLAM! BLAM! Two hits, two holes in the filly's chest and still no reaction from her. Forty’s eyes widened in terror. In the meantime the leader turned on his minion. “What the fuck are you doing you fucking son of a fucking drug addict! This is the last time you kill a slave!” The yellow unicorn charged the green pony head down, sending him flying through the air. “No! I'm not gonna die here!” In a state of utter panic, Forty turned his rifle against his boss and emptied the magazine; one of the unicorn’s legs exploded before he could even realize what was going on. The slave leader fell to his knees, pulling out his assault rifle and spraying bullets all around. The black earth pony that had kept silent until now unsheathed a shotgun but was hit by the raging boss along with one of the slaves and Puppysmiles. The bullets pierced the foal leaving at least three different holes but it didn't seem to affect her very much. “Stop quarreling! Please! Hey! I'm talking with you too!” Puppy tried to restore some order but this brawl seemed a bit beyond her capabilities. “You are all bad ponies and you should feel bad! Mister Voice, do something!” “Repairs finished. Containment fully restored. Subject 001 Puppysmiles deceased. Condition stable. All clear.” “Not that something! Something else!” Puppy pouted. The black slaver staggered trying to retrieve a healing potion but the unwounded stallion slave rammed him, taking his gun and emptying it into his sorry muzzle. The wounded slave fell on the ground coughing blood while the pregnant mare tried to find cover behind the armed slave. Forty Nails exhaled his last breath and even the leader was rapidly bleeding to death; but he didn't want to hit hell's doors alone. With a glow of magic a remote control appeared from his saddlebags while he coughed blood trying to laugh. “Do not fear -cough- little ponie -cough- ponies... you are going to -cough- to precede me...” He raised his good hoof to hit the detonator for the the slave’s collars. The two surviving slaves looked at him in horror. “No toys for the meanie pony!” A yellow hoof took the detonator from under the slave leader's muzzle. Puppy was looking at him with her best scolding look. “I said stop being crazy! I'll keep this thingie until you behave!” the filly gave a theatrical pause, ”And I'm dead serious about this.” The slaver looked at Puppy and snickered. “I... can't believe this... -cough- I heard that story about -cough- the ghost...” His eyes focused for a moment on the last scratches of Puppy’s suit as they disappeared completely, “Hell... you're... -cough- fucking scarier -cough- than I could -cough- could ever ima... gi... n-...” The slaver's voice died as his life dripped away into the thirsty wasteland. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ DAY 6 - TIME approximately 8:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Tunnel Town Outskirts, Big 52 N Branch “So, when mommy pony loves daddy pony super special much they write a letter to Princess Celestia and ask for a little foal. You really didn't know that?” The filly trotted and galloped all around as she talked. It had been a long, but luckily uneventful walk through the salt marshes. At last the endless plain of murky pools was behind them, giving way to an area of barren hills. Now it was possible even in the darkness of the night to see any suspect movement from a good distance. Puppy's HUD flashed here and there with red dots, but they were mostly wild animals scared by the filly's supernatural presence. The pair of ponies traveling with Puppysmiles were in a bit of distress. It was the pregnant mare, a milky unicorn by the name of Sweet Flower, who spoke first: “Well yes, it works more or less that way... you’re quite a chatty filly, aren't you?” “Yup! Everypony keeps telling me that.” Puppy smiled and completely changed the topic, “I hope that you get a filly. Fillies are the cutest!” She lowered her voice, “Besides, I heard that colts have cooties! It's true!” Sweet Flower giggled and nuzzled her companion, a brown earth pony named Asso, in the neck. “She's a little bit right, isn't she?” Asso laughed. “I just know that it's going to be awesome.” The stallion stopped trotting and looked in the distance. “Here we are, little one: that's the Tunnel.” The brown pony pointed a hoof to a small group of lights perched on the middle of a steep mountain wall. A large bridge, formed by many stone arches rose from the swamp, climbing directly toward the mountain like a highway to the sky. Puppy's eyes widened in awe at the sight of such a marvelous thing: it seemed like the road shot upwards like an arrow of awesomeness and then BAM! It disappeared in a show of colored lights. The filly's two companions were way more interested in her: the foal's eyes shone in the dark, a bright pink light that surrounded the helmet in a ghostly halo. “Okie dokie! So, we go now? Mom is waiting for me somewhere in there!” the foal asked enthusiastically and epic failing to notice the alarmed looks the two gave each other. “Ah... well, we don't live there and you need to pay a fee in order to get inside Tunnel Town. We are heading to trade station Badlands: it's a small hub along the detour.” At that point Asso hesitated but the mare nudged him, encouraging her mate to speak his mind. After a brief pause the stallion lowered his eyes and continued. “I... we have to know this: are you really a ghost? Some sort of guardian angel sent here to protect children?” Puppy tilted her head and giggled. “I'm Puppysmiles, mister pretty silly pony! I don't know why everypony keeps calling me a ghostie but I'm just looking for my mom.” “Yes you... you told us that about a million times...” Asso gave a tired look at his mate and shrugged, “Well, I guess this is all. We owe you our freedom, somehow... so... Thank you? I wish I had something to repay you but we need everything we have just to get home alive.” “Okie dokie! Goodbye pretty ponies!” Puppy waited until her new friends disappeared from sight then merrily trotted up the bridge towards Tunnel Town. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (5) New perk added: Intense Training (2) - Strength (5 -> 6) You can has a lotta stuff in your bags! This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed.
mimezinga	931	7	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-10-27T22:10:19+00:00	2011-10-27T22:10:19+00:00	29,326	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 7: Foalsitting What? These sweet little angels? They'll be no problem at all. DAY 6 - TIME approximately 9:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Tunnel Town, Big 52 N Branch Trigger Happy had been a guard for a good half of her life and she was pretty sure she’d seen everything that could try to go through the Tunnel Town gates. Tonight the mare had to admit that she had been wrong, but the fact that all her guards were cowering behind her because of a foal in a funny costume was still upsetting. “Alright, scaredy-ponies, I'm taking this one. Just relax and for the sake of my sorry tail, don't shoot blindly.” The unicorn mare stepped out of the guard post and trotted toward the yellow foal who was surrounded by an eerie pink light. “Okay, that's close enough. Stop right there and tell me what the hay are you!” Trigger didn't actually expect the foal to comply, but when she sat down the guard chief felt relieved. The strange pony rose a hoof and waved it. “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom?” Trigger Happy frowned. “Puppysmiles as in 'Puppysmiles the ghost'?” “I'm not a ghost, I'm a filly!” protested the foal; she was carrying something long and red strapped on her back; it didn't seem a weapon, nonetheless it was quite large. “Let me guess: you zoomed all the way from Salt Cube City through the Marshes on a Red Racer?” Puppy giggled. “Nope, I had to trot a bit because the fat unicorn was super boringly slow...” “The who now? No wait! On a second thought, I don't care.” Trigger sighed, “Now I'm coming over. You just don't do anything... ah... ghostly.” For a moment the mare turned her head toward the guard post just to meet three pairs of eyes that were carefully hiding behind the barricade; one of her guards waved a little white banner for a second. She wished for a less stupid crew, then trotted toward Puppysmiles. “Hi! You're pretty, miss pretty pony! What's your name?” The foal smiled her friendliest smile. It's... it's... just a filly with a pair of glowing eyes, probably caused by a mild case of radiation poisoning... Trigger chuckled. “Are you serious? You are the Puppysmiles from the news? The one from the Carnival and Salt Cube City?” the guard laughed, “Oh please gimme a break!” Puppy smiled and laughed too. “Ah ah ah! That's funny! Uh, why are we laughing?” At the filly's question the guard chief laughed even louder. “Name's Trigger Happy, you can call me Trigger.” Puppy frowned. “Ah, can I call you Happy?” “Sure. Anyhow, I have something for you...” The guard took a yellow piece of plastic and handed it to Puppysmile, “here's your pass: a Griffon by the name of Henrietta was here at noon; she waited until dusk for you but then she had to move. Before leaving she bought you the ticket saying that you were arriving tonight or tomorrow at worst.” “Uh, Henri was here? Was she alright?” “Yes, I think... she wasn't very chatty, but I never met a chatty griffon.” The guard turned on her tail and trotted back to the guard post. “Come in! Staying outside this late is unhealthy: we have some bloodwing issues 'round here.” “What's a bloodwing?” Puppy asked trotting behind Trigger. “If you ask me, they’re trouble: think of them as large flying leeches.” The mare snickered and beckoned Puppy inside the guard post. The place was a low building surrounded by sandbags and rusted plates of metal; a couple of miniguns were placed in front of the windows overlooking the bridge and there was a stack of ammo boxes stashed in a corner. Three ponies greeted Puppy with scarce enthusiasm when she followed the mare inside. “Look alive guys: this is Puppysmiles, the hero of the Carnival. As far as I know she's on our side, so now we don't have to fear nothing.” The guard chief snickered, “I'd give my cutie mark to see how Lonesome Pony would react if he knew what his 'hero' really looks like. Anyhow, this is Green Pear, Jammed Gun and Little Bean.” “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles!” The filly trotted toward the trio of ponies; since her new friends seemed a bit uneasy, she felt that something more had to be said. “I'm looking for my mom, she's somewhere inside the mountain!” One of the three guards raised an eyebrow and mumbled. “Well, that could be a problem...” ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 9:45 P.M. - LOCATION: Tunnel Town, Big 52 N Branch “Wow, it's huge!” Puppy sat in front of the tunnel entrance: it consisted of a large archway high enough to let in both ground carts and air wagons for emergencies or maintenance; the entrance was so wide it could have handled passage from both directions at once. The concrete of the tunnel walls ended abruptly twenty meters into the mountain, where a rusted metal bulkhead sealed it. On the door there was the symbol of a white alicorn, but this one seemed more bulky and manly than the goddesses; around the symbol ran a motto: Solaris inc. – Try the alternative. Under the company slogan there was a big red symbol suggesting danger that occupied most of the door. “See?” Trigger Happy knocked at the metal door a couple of times, “It's sealed. I'm afraid that your journey ends here, little one.” “But my mom is in there! Look at the arrow, see? It points to the door! I have to go inside the mountain! Open it please!” Puppy put on her best pout. “Puppy please, miss Happy pretty pony?” The guard chief stepped back frowning. “Wow, those eyes should be classified as illegal military ordnance... still, I'm sorry Puppy: there's no way inside the Tunnel. We have tried our best to reopen it but as you can see, it's winning the match.” “But I really, really, REALLY have to go there! My mom is waiting for me!” The filly stubbornly stomped her hooves. The guard named Jammed Gun tapped his chin with a hoof and muttered. “I think that TNT once said something about getting inside using the vents...” Trigger's eyes widened, “Shush!” She launched an angry stare at her subordinate before quickly turning back to Puppy, trying to hide a concerned look under a fake smile. “See? No way inside!” She tried to hold a poker face but the foal was already frowning. “Uh, vents? What are the vents? Please, I'll do anything I... I have this!” Puppy produced one of the tank shells from the military base; this one had a black band around its head. “See? It's shiny and super duper nice! You let me go inside and I'll give it to you! Deal?” “Puppy... it's dangerous, I can't let a foal trot to certain death. I'm sorry.” The foal stepped back, on the verge of tears. “I'm not afraid and you are unfair! If it was your mom that was closed inside, you would already be opening that stoopid door! And... and...” the filly bucked the door, “I can't stop now! She is there, she MUST be there!” Jammed stepped next to Trigger and whispered. “Why not let her in? After all she already saved two towns... Besides, I don't think she's just a foal...” The unicorn guard sighed before she replied. “We don't know what's going on inside the Tunnel right now, but I'd like you to recall the day the door closed. I clearly remember the ponies trapped inside hitting the door and asking for help, the sound of the guns and the voices screaming in pain and terror.” Trigger softly bumped Jammed’s forehead with a hoof. “Look at her: maybe she's not your average little pony but she's a kid and I'm not sending kids to clear minefields.” The stallion guard looked into her chief's eyes. “Do you think that she'll give up this easy? If she really is the famous ghost, I bet that there will be nothing that can stop her.” Trigger Happy facehoofed. “Are you really falling for those fairy tales? Please, get real! She's just a filly with a full enviro suit and mild radiation poisoning!” In the meantime Puppy was still standing in front of the door muttering by herself. “I'm not a foal, I'm a big pony... I've made a balloon fly!” The filly frowned but suddenly a new idea hit her head making her smile cunningly, “Say, mister Voice, what is this vent they are talking about?” “Vent: ventilation system. Device used to move fresh air inside close spaces. In the case of a tunnel it consists of a long web of passages that take air from the outside and pump it inside using fans and small ducts large enough to let a single pony crawl through them for maintenance – the more you know!” “So, ah... there are other doors to go inside the mountain from where the air gets in?” asked the foal, trying to translate what she was just told. “Affirmative. Loading local maps. Solaris Inc. Tunnel n° 2. Analyzing technical blueprints. Warning. Part of the blueprints are not available due to military restrictions. Loading section A01 A02 and A03. Loading Maintenance tunnels blueprints. Analyzing. Elaborating route. Maintenance hatch A01-104 set as new way point.” The pink arrow disappeared from the compass and appeared again pointing to a new direction. A grin appeared on Puppy's muzzle: once again she outsmarted her rivals. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 10:15 P.M. - LOCATION: Tunnel Town, Big 52 N Branch “And I'm saying that I've never seen a pony survive inside a sealed suit for more than three days! Your 'kid' seems just a bit too fine to be normal!” Jammed Gun pointed a hoof at the empty place where Puppy was supposed to be, then he looked at the empty place and at last he realized that something was missing: something of the size and color of Puppysmiles. “What the hay?” Trigger Happy jumped on her hooves, looking around frantically. “She was here moments ago! Why didn't you keep an eye on that filly?” “Oh, now I had to watch after the yellow glowing pony lamp! And what were you supposed to do?” Jammed snickered, “See? Exactly what I was saying: you can't stop the Ghost of the Big 52.” “She's not a ghost, stop blabbering.” Trigger Happy waved a hoof dismissing the idea, but her companion kept talking. “Now, please Happy, listen to me for a moment: this place is getting worse every day... When we were kids we used to play outside and the Big 52 had way less slavers and bandits. The tribes were strong enough to keep order and make everypony feel a little safe...” the stallion sighed, “don't you miss those days, Happy?” The mare looked down, sadness filling her eyes with a dim shadow of tears. “Yeah, but at that time it was easier... the tunnel was still open and Sun City was a civilized place... now the Big 52 is just a bunch of detours and dangerous trails.” “Yeah, I know... so I was wondering this: they say that everything has a spirit, right?” Jammed Gun was trying hard to explain a thing that was quite clear in his head but not that easy to put down in words, “It's like a city: a city is more than the ponies that live in it; the efforts of the community and the hopes of the families sustain each other, feeding a common will that makes you feel as if the whole place is alive...” “Yeah, it's called community... so what?” Happy looked at the stallion with a dubious expression. “I hope you're really going somewhere with this because we have a lost filly right now...” “So, even the Big 52 is something like that, right? I mean, The Red Trotters, the White Apples, the Sand Sweepers and all the other tribes... maybe they are separated but they all live on the same long route from the Ridges to Emerald Shores. We are all on the same road and we all are citizens of the Big 52.” Jammed Gun raised a hoof pointing north, then arching to south with a slow movement. “Salt Cube City belongs to the White Apples, yes, but the Big 52 belongs to everypony that lives along it.” “This is a very poetic idea, still I can't see how this will help us to find Puppy.” “I'm almost there. We both had that feeling, you know, that the Big 52 is dying: slowly but inexorably sliding into the same horrors as the rest of Equestria. And suddenly... bang! This Ghost appears and starts solving problems that vexed us for years.” “The Redtrotters were slowly giving up: the Carnival was killing more than a foal per year, it was killing hope. Once I heard a trader say that the mares of the tribe refused to have foals because they were scared to lose them. And the ghouls? Do you know how many caravans traveled only as far as Exchange Station Badlands because making the trip to Downtown wasn't worth the additional escort?” “Well, yes okay, but I don't think that a foal can-” Trigger was interrupted by Jammed. “And I think she can.” The pony was dead serious, “Think about that griffon today. Have you seen her eyes? She had this... light... as if things for her sucked for a lifetime but finally they were going to get better. She had hope, and she showed gratitude. Think about this, Happy: how many ponies in this sinkhole value gratitude? Maybe some years ago it was still common to think of other ponies as something other than a potential threat; nowadays if you don't have the pass you aren't given even a chance.” Jammed paused for a moment, but now Trigger was listening carefully and didn't interrupt him. “And now she needs to get into the Tunnel. Maybe she is just a lucky foal, or a dead one, but... But I want to believe that she's something more. Okay she's not the Stable Dweller nor Security, but she's all we got down here. Just... the good old Big 52 trying to fix things by herself.” Trigger Happy sighed. “You are a dreamer and a silly pony, Jam. If you have a problem you can't just wait for somepony else to come and solve it for you. You have to face it and work hard in order to earn something.” The mare looked away at the ever clouded sky, “But I have to admit that on one thing you were right: that filly doesn't know when to give up. I think I know where she's headed and Luna curse my soul if I'm letting her wander into trouble.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 10:15 P.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town A metallic sound echoed through the ventilation ducts; the whole place was pitch black except for the dim light from Puppy's eyes and the helmet’s HUD. For the filly it was more than enough to see where she was going; after all she was following the arrow, she couldn't be wrong. “So, when I find mom I'm hugging her super strong then she'll kiss me and we will be together forever.” The filly was reviewing the vital passages of her new plan, “because this time she didn't move away, right mister Voice?” “Negative. There is a 99.9% probability that your female parent will not be present or in condition to-” “Hey don't even try that! A positive attitude is everything.” Puppy stopped for a moment and looked around, “Hey, did you hear that? Like... somepony calling?” The filly took a deep breath, “I'M HERE! WHERE ARE YOU?” The sound of Puppy's voice echoed for a lifetime in the dark and lifeless tunnels before dying. A distant voice seemed to reply but Puppy couldn't hear it very well. “Where is this voice coming from?” “Analyzing. White noise and distortion are too high. Impossible to determine the source of origin.” “Oh well, then let's move.” Trotting away Puppy found herself looking down from a grate; just below her there was a black and bottomless void ready to devour anything. “Uh... why is the arrow pointing down now?” “Loading instructions. You need to reach the main tunnel ground level in order to proceed. Maintenance grate A01-001 is the nearest passage to reach the next section of the tunnel.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 10:15 P.M. - LOCATION: Tunnel Town, Big 52 N Branch “I don't give a fuck about your opinion, Jam! Now give me the light helmet and help me with that checklist.” Trigger happy was wearing a worn-out maintenance suit equipped with a wide variety of tools. Jammed Gun sighed, trying to appear annoyed; it wasn't hard to sense that he was worried to death. “As you wish, Happy... but please, come back...” Trigger snorted and looked away. “The list.” The stallion sighed again and shook his head. “Rope” “Check.” “Batteries.” “Check.” “Canteen.” “Check.” “Shotgun and slugs.” “Check, check.” “Common sense.” “Che- Hey, stop playing around!” Jammed Gun snapped, this time he couldn't keep it inside. “And you stop trying to kill yourself Happy! You are a good shot and an action pony but you're still a pony! You could get killed and I don't want to lose you!” The mare cocked her head. “Lose me? What do you mean by that?” “I mean that I love you, Trigger Happy! Since we were just little more than foals! Why do you think I enrolled into the guards instead of keeping pa's tavern? Please don't go or at least let me come with you!” Trigger tilted her head frowning. “You mean... you had a crush on me for, like, twelve years and never said a single word? Even when Black Hat and I...” Trigger shook her head, ”you’re kidding me. This is another fucking joke, is it?” Jammed Gun sat down, lowering his eyes. “I wish it was, but you can be really cruel sometimes. And I'm a shy guy, you know... but I can't just watch you kill yourself over a ghost.” “She's not a ghost! Why must you be this stupid!? She's a little foal and she is in danger!” Happy grimaced, “Since she's not coming back, I'm going inside to get her and I'll spank her so hard that she will never do such things!” the mare paused for a moment, “Oh, and I'm sorry but after Black Hat I'm more into fillies than colts... uh... we should talk about this when I'm back. Is the list done?” Gun's jaw hung open for some seconds before he regained control and slowly nodded. “Sweet, I'll be back soon.” The guard crawled inside the maintenance tunnel disappearing in the darkness. “Great. I got dumped. Twelve years to find the guts to spit it out and I got dumped! Fuck, I'm out of here. Maybe Little Bean didn't finish that Wild Pegasus.” The stallion turned on his tail and walked away stopping one last time only to whisper, “Please, come back all in one piece...” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 10:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town “Warning. You are doing it wrong.” Puppy was jumping up and down on the ventilation grate, that after a minute of this treatment had begun to crack; a bolt detached from the frame and fell into the black nothingness underneath. “Don't worry, when the grate falls I'll jump away super fast! What could ever go wrong? After all I'm Space Captain AndromedaaAAH!” … THUD! … … “Owie.” “Repair spell activated.” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 10:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town Trigger Happy slowly crawled down the maintenance tunnels searching for some sign of Puppy's passage. The unicorn guard was quite sure that the filly entered the tunnels from the same hatch she did, but that place was a hell of a labyrinth; luckily enough she had a chalk and some decent light. Passing above a ventilation grate the mare stopped to look down in the main tunnel fifteen meters below. The grate creaked dangerously under her weight but held. “Sweet mother of Luna...” Right below Trigger there was the first trait of the tunnel, not far from the metal doors that separated it from the town. Piles of bones were amassed on the ground, as if about two dozens ponies were corralled there and executed on the spot. It was horrible. Trigger could still remember the day the doors closed: it was an ordinary day of ten years ago; she had just begun her career as a town guard and still had to take tunnel patrol duty, though of course she had already been through many many times before. The passage connected Tunnel Town with Trade Station Tunnel South and it was the only way to get past Sugartop Mountain besides the pass, but the pass was dangerous on clear days and pratically suicide when it rained. If you wanted to reach the northern branch of the Big 52 from south you had to trot six kilometers underground, and pay good caps for it. Then, the doors slammed shut. There were no warnings nor telltale signs and worst of all there seemed to be no reason. Simply the thick gigantic bulkheads fell from the ceiling and sealed the tunnel with all the ponies that were inside at that moment. For about an hour ponies on both sides of the doors tried to open them, but suddenly those inside started screaming and beating on the metal, begging to let them out. It was at that point that there came the gunshots. the roar of two dozen machine guns that put a stop to the screaming. After that day only silent darkness dwelt in the tunnel. At first a couple of adventurers tried to get inside and hack the doors, but they never came back. With time the ponies of Tunnel Town resigned to this turning of events and worked hard to make the pass a little safer. A lot of ponies died trying to exterminate the predator's nests along the path and they built a couple of shacks on the trail, but the caravans today were less than a fifth of the ones that used to pass when the Tunnel was open. Tunnel Town was slowly dying. Those skeletons below were just the first victims of this senseless tragedy and maybe they were also the lucky ones: at least their end was fast. Suddenly the sound of machine guns echoed in the tunnel. Trigger rubbed her ears to be sure that she wasn't hallucinating, but the guns kept firing. “Fuck. I'm late.” That poor filly. Why did Jam have to make me lose so much time? If I had been faster Puppy could still be- “Wait, why do they keep firing?” The machine guns were still roaring in the distance as if they were fighting something rather than simply slaughtering it. Maybe the foal found some shelter and the security turrets couldn't hit her, maybe it wasn't too late! After all, as long as the guns fired it meant that Puppy hadn't still been killed. Trigger took the screwdriver and the rope from her utility saddle. “Hold on little one, big sis is coming for you!” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 6 - TIME approximately 10:45 P.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town Puppy trotted toward an abandoned cart in the middle of the road. The filly tried sniffing it but it was a bit difficult since she was wearing a helmet. “This place is full of cool stuff like food, toys and those noisy guns that everypony is carrying around these days. Maybe it's some sort of super big closet...” the little pony shrugged, “very well, let's find mom.” “STOP RIGHT THERE CRIMINAL SCUM!” A boisterous voice echoed in the tunnel making Puppy turn her head. “Oh, hi there! I'm Puppysmiles!” A robot as large as a pony in heavy armor stood in front of the filly. It had the Solaris Inc. brand on its flanks and a couple of firearms attached to eachside. “SURRENDER NOW AND BE ANNIHILATED!” Puppy giggled. “Silly robot, it's surrender or be anni- any... eenie... whatever.” The robot opened fire, hitting the cart and the filly in yellow with no less than a dozen projectiles. Now, a rapid fire gun uses small caliber bullets that have a decent piercing power but are nothing special when it comes to dismembering things. Puppy looked down at the holes in the suit as a thin tread of pink smoke snaked out into the air. “Hey, I was using this space suit! Oh, I get it now: you are a bullybot!” Raising a hoof, the foal stared at the machine. “I don't like bullybots. Rock.” The security bot sprayed another salvo of bullets at the foal who charged it with The Rock Of Destiny floating at her side; when the guns stopped to reload, Puppy jumped at its head, hitting its the face plate with all her might and a stone. The foal was getting good at this hitting thing, in fact after just three consecutive strikes in the same place, the glassy visor of the robot cracked revealing it's sensor bay which was then destroyed in a single hit. The machine stopped functioning almost immediately. “And stop bullying fillies, dumb robot!” “STOP RIGHT THERE CRIMINAL SCUM!” Another two sentinels opened fire at Puppy, though at that distance they mostly missed her. “Moar bullies? Very well I have something for you too, stoopid bullies!” A hail of bullets almost tore away one of the foal's hind legs, but with Puppy almost wasn't good enough and the wound simply slowed her. “Don't you know that I am a nice filly and I always try to behave? You are making me not behave! I’m gonna get in trouble for this!” With The Rock Of Destiny in her hoof she was already on the second robot cracking its visor. Three other sentinels arrived, emptying their barrels into the rumble but the foal was way smaller than the robots and their friendly fire destroyed another machine with just the sheer volume of bullets. “Aren't you listening!? Are you stoopid or what?” Puppy jumped on another robot, springing off the carcass of her last victim. Tracers zipped all around and through her while the suit rang every sort of alarm. Puppy? She didn't care, she just kept going. “Fillies are made of sugar!” Landing on the robot's face she hit the top of its head, piercing it with her weapon in just five strikes; in the meantime one of the two remaining robots ran out of ammo. “SPICE!” Puppy put a hoof inside the hole she had made using The Rock Of Destiny and pulled out all the cables and circuitry she could. Something in the robot crackled and sparkled and it emptied what was left of its magazines all around, destroying the remaining two sentinels and then shutting down itself. “AND!” Clank. “EVERYTHING!” Clank. “NICE!...” Clank. The foal at last found some time to breathe while the smoke of the burning wreckage dispersed a little, mixing itself with the pink gas that leaked from the holes in her suit. Her ears still rang with the sound of firearms while a pink goo dripped from the larger tears evaporating as soon as it touched ground and mixing again with the cloud around her. The pink cloud as usual didn't dissolve, instead forming a thick curtain of smoke around the ghoul and slowly beginning to vanish only when the holes in the suit were mended. The repairing was almost done when a familiar voice called for Puppy's name. “Hold on on Puppy! Almost there!” The sound of galloping hooves echoed in the large gallery and in the pink eerie light cast by the ghoul appeared Trigger Happy's silhouette. “Hi miss pretty guard pony! Did you fall from the ceiling too?” The mare ignored Puppy's question and rushed to her, hitting the filly on top of her helmet. “You stupid, stupid... silly pony!” tears ran along the guard's muzzle, “You're alive, thank Celestia. I was so worried! Why did you run away?” Happy hugged Puppy, “Now we go back to Tunnel Town, your mom can't be here, see? There are just abandoned carts and... one, two, three fourfivesix destroyed sentinel robots?” Trigger blinked, a bit stumped. “You... just single hoofedly destroyed... six sentinels?” “Ah, please don't tell mom?” The foal's eyes were two pink watery lights in the surrounding darkness, “Puppy please?” “Are you kidding me? How did you do that?” The guard pointed at the carcasses, “I mean, six sentinels and not a single scratch?” Puppy showed Trigger The Rock Of Destiny. “Ah, but they were bullying me... I told them to quit, but they had those noisy things and kept being mean. Mom doesn't want me to beat other ponies, please when we find mom don't tell her!” The unicorn studied the damage on the robots. “These three were shoot, but the other three... You actually stoned them to death.” Happy stared at Puppy. “What are you?” The filly tilted her head, a bit perplexed. “I'm Puppysmiles?” “Please, give me a break! I heard the firefight from the tunnel's entrance, you can't just stand there unwounded and smiling like a... a... ghost?” Realization hit Trigger Happy like a ten ton anvil. She wasn't an educated mare, but she heard a lot of stories from the traders and their guards. “You... are a Canterlot Ghoul...” “Uh, yes I'm from Canterlot. Actually from Clover Leaf Terrace but even if it's downhill it's still Canterlot, you know?” Happy backpedaled another couple of meters as she noticed the last ribbons of pink smoke vanishing in the dark air and suddenly felt very, very itchy. In a rush of panic she downed a healing potion in a single gulp and backed off even farther. Puppy looked at the unicorn and frowned. “Ah, is something wrong Miss Happy pretty pony?” “This... this is ridiculous... you... you shouldn't be here, you shouldn't be talking with me now!” Trigger's eyes betrayed her fear, “You're just a... a...” A what? A monster? A walking dead? A ghost? Shut the fuck up Happy, she's a kid. She talks like a kid and acts like a kid. I made all this way to save Puppysmiles and I won't go back without this filly. The guard found the courage to put on a smile for the perplexed filly. “You're just a little lost, but I'm sure that I'll figure a way to help you if we go back to town.” “But I can't!” Puppy stomped a hoof on the road. “Mom is here, the arrow says that I must keep trotting in that direction! Please don't take me back, I'm almost there! I... I need my mom!” “I... I don't know, if this is really so important for you... I guess that if you promise to be really cautious, then we could try to go a little further... there were some other destroyed sentinels along the tunnel, maybe these were the last functioning ones...” “Yay!” Puppy jumped all around like a spring toy. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ DAY 6 - TIME approximately 11:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town “Please, state your identification code and your personal password.” This had to be the mother of all the sentinels: it was at least as tall as three ponies and had a payload of weapons that made the average steel ranger look like a toy. Hell, Trigger Happy couldn't even name some of the weapons that thing had. “We should go back, Puppy...” “No wait! I know this guessing game! It's a genie!” The foal cleared her voice, “FT... 0... 0... 1... 6... 5... RD... C... 1... G... A ” There was a long pause, Trigger readied herself to grab Puppy and run like she’d never run before. “Please, state your pass code for this ID.” The filly smiled and declared merrily, “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles!” Without even waiting for a reply, the guard mare hauled the foal on her back and started running. “Please holy Goddess of Acceleration don't fail me now!” “Weeeee!” Puppy was not exactly sure of what was going on but she was riding a pony and riding a pony was always fun. “ID accepted. First Class Technician Rainy Days. Access to maintenance section granted. Please do not enter into red marked areas without a Solaris Pass Card.” Happy abruptly stopped almost sending her passenger flying across the tunnel. The filly grabbed the guard's neck and the two ponies found themselves looking into each other’s eyes. Puppy was smiling. “That was fun, let's do it again! I like piggyback rides! Hey why are you putting me down?” The unicorn sighed, patting the foal on the top of the helmet. “Don't worry, I'll give you another ride but now I guess that the sentry is letting us go inside...” “Well, duh, sure! I said the magic words!” Puppy trotted to the metal doors behind the towering robot and tried pushing them; as soon as she touched the metal, the reinforced doors slid open revealing a corridor lit with dim flickering lights. A distant voice repeated a long sequence of emergencies in a dull tone. “Warning. Primary power source cut off. Emergency shut down procedure engaged. Warning. Intruders in the sectors From A01 to A03. Warning. Security robots not responding. Warning. Comm Station offline. Warning...” Puppy sighed. “Aw, another whinybot.” “Come again?” Trigger tilted her head. “You know: Whinybots...” The blank stare from the guard made Puppy sigh, “I really have to teach you everything! There are three types of robots: Funbots, they are friendly and funny, like miss Voice or Questioner... Then there are bullybots, that are nasty and not so funny... usually I have to break those ones and I really really hope that mom won't spank me for this... And there are whinybots, they can only whine because everything is wrong, like mister Voice and-” “Negative. I am not whinybot, I am an advanced pony-machine interface designed for-” “Yeah, sure, I was talking with Happy, could you please wait a moment?” the voice from the suit stopped while Trigger Happy stared at the filly in disbelief. “You... you are wearing a talking suit?” “Yeah and he's smart but don't even try that joke smarter than you and then I say yes and then you laugh!” The guard frowned. “Hey what kind of pony do you think I am? I was just surprised, that's all...” “Uh, okie dokie then: this is a super smart space suit that talks and tells me where my mom is. I follow him and usually find a lot of friends and some not-so-friendly ponies, but we still have to find mom. Maybe this time we'll be lucky. Oh yeah, his name is mister Voice.” Puppy smiled waiting for her reaction. Trigger nodded weakly. “Uh, yeah, whatever... so, that thing works more or less like a very large PipBuck. I guess this explains a lot of things, like how the hay you knew where the ventilation hatch was...” the mare sighed before continuing, “alright, little one. Where now?” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ DAY 7 - TIME approximately 1:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town Long story short, it took a little more than an hour for the two ponies to reach an old rusted generator room and make the geothermal turbines run again. Luckily enough, it was just a matter of cables cut by a fallen steel beam; with some salvaging and jury rigging, mostly done by Trigger Happy, the electricity was now running along the cables again. “Okay, lets see... yes, the elevator is working again. We can go up.” The unicorn mare cleaned the sweat from her face and pushed open the elevator doors. “Yay! I'm going to see mom! Thank you thank you thank you so much miss Happy!” The guard smiled weakly. She didn't believe that Puppy's mother really was somewhere near this place, but she was proved wrong so many times today... maybe a little positive thinking is just what we needed, after all. “Good, we have just to hit the attic and see ourselves.” The elevator ran for more than a minute, tormenting the two passengers with lousy music that made Happy regret restarting the generators. When the doors opened again, there was a room with a whole wall made up of windows and there were large screens everywhere. It was the tunnel maintenance control room and it hung above Sugartop mountain from a panoramic position that let Trigger see all the northern plains, even in the darkness of the ever clouded night. Puppy trotted around for a bit: it wasn't a very large place but it had a lot of metal tables with terminals on them and some large maneframes stuck in a wall that could have actually hidden a crouched pony, but the room was clearly empty and Trigger wasn't completely sure that just calling mom louder was going to make her magically appear. “Puppy, I... I don't think she's here...” The filly turned her head toward the mare and for a moment the unicorn felt a block of ice paralyzing her guts. Those eyes... so angry, so desperate... so... empty... it lasted for just a moment but now the unicorn knew exactly how the filly had been able to overcome six sentinels with a rock. Never cross her if you value your life. “Uh, I mean... maybe she moved away?” Puppy lowered her eyes and sighed. “Yeah, maybe... last time she left some voice thingie that said she was coming here... miss Voice could help a little with that...” The foal was now trying to smile again. That little ghost was full of anger but she fought it with optimism. How long will this last? How long before she loses hope? And what will happen then? “Mister Voice, we need a professional. Call miss Voice.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Footnote: Level up! (6) New perk added: Hard Rock! - Okay you got a rock, now show us how bad you are with it. When using rocks, you ignore an additional 10 points of a target’s damage threshold This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed.
mimezinga	931	8	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2012-07-31T14:08:43+00:00	2012-07-31T14:08:43+00:00	28,409	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 8: Past Dreams The darkness and the shadows they would always make me fro-own DAY 7 - TIME approximately 3:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town Trigger Happy yawned and looked down at the filly who was playing peacefully on the command room floor. Puppy was moving a toy cart around while making noises with her mouth; she put a couple bottlecaps on the cart and placed it next to an empty bottle of sparkle cola, then dumped the bottlecaps and replaced them with the bottle. “I can has super special minty flavor? 'Kay thanks bye...” The foal was playing quietly, as if she was worried about disturbing somepony by making too much noise... How can she be like that? Just ignore all the horrible things she’s seen and simply... sit down and play, like a common foal? “Hey, little one, how is your friend doing?” Puppysmiles didn’t look away from her toys as she answered. “Dunno, she told me it might take a long time, but I have to wait here or it won't work...” Now the filly was building some sort of fence all around the empty bottle using... Trigger raised an eyebrow. “Say, why are you carrying 9mm bullets with you?” “Oh, these ones? They're pretty and shiny. And it seems that they are needed to use the nine mail mint argon.” Again, the filly didn't even raise her eyes. “The what now?” Puppy waved a hoof and said in a loud voice: “Noisy thing.” A badly damaged 9mm semiautomatic pistol floated up to her hoof, making Trigger step back and take cover behind a terminal. “Hey, who gave you that!? It's dangerous!” “Nah, it's just noisy... I don't like it very much, it seems more a colt toy to me. Maybe if it was pink...” The guard mare smiled nervously. “Yeah, Puppy: it's not a very fun toy, wanna exchange it for something better?” This gained Puppy's unconditional attention: the filly's gleaming pink eyes stared at Trigger with expectation. “Sure, what have you got?” “Uh, what about a cool pair of sunglasses?” “Yay! Sunglasses! No wait...” Puppy frowned, “I can't use glasses with this stoopid helmet...” Trigger facehoofed. “Right, sorry little one; what was I thinking... ” The unicorn went back to digging around inside her saddlebags, “What about an almost complete Bridle Gossips magazine? It's full of pictures of pretty ponies and there are Flootershy photos too.” Puppy trotted to the guard, took the magazine, looked at it for a moment and smiled. “I like this one, it's full of pretty ponies! Look at this one: I know her, she's Pinkie Pie! And this one is Rarity and- oh, look here! There's Rainbow Dash too! I lovelovelove Rainbow Dash! She's smart and super cool and she can make the sky go boom! When I'm big I will marry her! I like the picture book, gimme gimme gimme!” Trigger tried to suppress a chuckle. “I think we can talk about that... but you have to give me the bullets too.” “Uh, okie dokie, and what can you give me for the big ones?” asked Puppy, retrieving a couple of 8.8 Flack AP shells from her inventory. The unicorn mare sighed; this was going to be complicated. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 7 - TIME approximately 3:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Sugartop Cafe, Tunnel Town Sugartop Cafe was dark and full of smoke, as it usually was at that time of night. The place was largely deserted: a couple of drunk ponies nursing the dregs of their bottles, a griffon keeping to himself in one corner, and a pony with a guitar who was largely hidden beneath a sombrero. The bartender was already ‘cleaning’ the floor with a bucket of dirty water and a mop that had seen better days, but Jammed Gun couldn't care less. “Another!” He weakly raised his empty glass, rattling the blue straw sticking out of it. But it remained empty. “Hey son of a mule, I said another!” Waving the glass faster didn't do the trick either; this was upsetting. The bartender, a silvery stallion with a black mane, trotted to the guard's table and put down a Sparkle-Cola. “Hey big bro', keep it down please. I've got clients sleeping upstairs.” “Shut the fuck up, Blackie,” muttered Jammed, “and fill the glass with something strong. I can't believe she dumped me...” The younger brother sighed and pushed the sparkle cola against Jammed's muzzle. “Oh please, Jamie! Forget her already and go to bed. Look, you can use my place upstairs, okay? Just stop drinking, it's not helping you at all.” The guard tried to look at his brother's face, but his head didn't want to move from the table. “You know the bar is half mine, right, Blackie?” “Yes but you only come in here to mope about your life while I have to, let's see, deal with the customers and keep it clear of the noisy whiners who drive away those few ponies that actually pay for their drinks!” Black Hat stomped a hoof on the table, “Honestly Jamie, you can be a royal pain sometimes.” Jammed Gun waved a hoof, trying to shoo his brother like an annoying fly. “Fuck away, Blackie, I feel like manure and I don't want you around. I want booze.” “I think instead that you should take a trot 'round the town Jamie; staying here won't make you feel better.” “Shut up and give me another wild pegasus, Blackie...” Jammed raised the empty glass again, keeping his face on the table. “How she could...” At last Black Hat snapped: “Oh, c'mon Jamie, let's get real! It's Happy we're talking about, the most bitchy mare I've ever kno-” CLOP! Jammed Gun rubbed his right hoof as he looked down at the prone form of his brother laid out on the bar's floor. “You know what, Blackie? You were wrong: staying here made me feel better... actually, a lot better.” The stallion trotted outside. “Thanks a lot, lil' bro'...” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 7 - TIME approximately 3:15 A.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Tunnel, Tunnel Town “Say Puppy, how was Equestria two hun-... ah... before you left Canterlot?” The filly frowned, trying to find a decent answer to the question. “Greener.” “Oh, greener...” “Yup. Mommy was some sort of soldier but she didn't actually went to war: she was good at fixing things, so she took me with her sometimes, since it wasn't dangerous. I've seen a lot of mighty fine places: a peggysus flying field, a big place underground she called a stable, but it didn't seem like a real stable at all... and I've been in Ponyville, and in a lot of other places...” the filly stopped for a moment, pondering what she just said, “they must be somewhere else, because this 'Big 52' everypony is talking about is not that great, after all. There are no green hills, nor nice houses or pretty places full of happy ponies.” Trigger felt a knot in her throat. “You... you don't have to talk about that if you don't want...” Puppy stared at the unicorn, a bit stumped. “Why not? It's just that this place is not as nice as a lot of other towns I know... maybe when I find mom I'll show you those pretty places... really, I don't know why you insist staying here with a bazillion better places to live...” “Uh... sure, why not... but, in the meantime... can you please tell me something about Ponyville?” “Sure! It's the nicest sweetest colorfulest town I've ever seen! It was where Pinkie Pie lived before coming to Canterlot! Mommy had to do some work for some pretty ponies and we lived there for a whole summer! It was full of friends and there were trees and hills and super duper colorful houses and a place called Carousel Boutique! But it wasn't a real carousel, it was just a name...” Puppy frowned, “I'm telling this because when I asked why the carousel wasn't actually running in circles everypony laughed and mom hugged me and she was happy but I felt a little stoopid, so... ah... don't ask why it doesn't move, 'kay?” Happy giggled a moment and nodded. “Don't worry, I won't.” “And then there was this big digging in the middle of the largest apple farm I've ever seen, and there was a house in a cloud that was like a castle, but with rainbow waterfalls! And... and a shop that sold quills and sofas!” Puppy paused for a moment, studying Trigger's expression, “Ah, did I say something wrong? Why are you crying?” “I... I'm not crying, it's just a thing in my eye-” “Helloooooo fillies and gentlecolts! P7 is here!” Suddenly all the screens in the room turned pink, every one of them showing a logo of seven balloons tied together. “Oh, hi miss Voice! Thank you for coming!” Puppy waved a hoof at the largest terminal where the balloons had been replaced by a sequence of command lines that chased each other across the screen. “Thank you for finding me a new home Puppy! This is waaay better than that stupid Dome where everything was falling apart! Let's see what do we have here... oh, geothermal plants, maintenance robots offline... I can fix that... look at this! A lot of classified data aaaand... security alert red? How did I miss that in the first place?” The voice paused for a moment. “Something's wrong miss Voice?” “Nah, I need the authorization from a big wig at Solaris Inc. to suspend the alert but somepony already opened a backdoor in the program and I can just exploit that. It’ll only take a moment.” Trigger was a little surprised: the mare never liked robots very much, but this one seemed friendly and Puppy knew it, so she decided to wait and see what happened. On the other side Puppy seemed completely at ease: the filly sat in front of the big screen with her usual naive faith that everything around her was going to be alright. “Okie dokie, now can you see if my mom is somewhere in this place, Puppy please?” “Red alert terminated, all systems green, security doors opening in five, four... Oh, I don't know Puppy, this mainframe has a huge database and I can't check all the entries because I don't have the authorization... no wait, ignore that! Right here I found some protected files dated three weeks after day zero... but I need a pass code to open them.” The filly raised a hoof. “I know this one! Puppysmiles!” Happy sighed. “Now Puppy, your name can't open everything, you kno-” P7 interrupted the guard. “Pass code accepted. There are two entries, I'm displaying them on the big screen right now.” The filly in yellow looked at the writing and frowned as she tried to read it, but it was simply too long for her this time. “Ah, I can has a little help?” The unicorn mare sat at Puppy's side and put a hoof around her neck in a warm, tender embrace. “Sure little one. I'll read them for you, alright?” Day 18 If I still have the right to pray Celestia I hope that those eggheads at Stable Tech did a better job than these -Uh, mules, yes Puppy, it says mules...- at Solaris Inc. They succeeded in designing an emergency protocol that transferred all the priorities to the technical staff but forgot to program the sentinels so that they didn't kill everypony else on the spot. -uh, this word doesn't mean anything Puppy, let's move on...- Anyhow, the tunnel is now safe, I'll camp here waiting for my crew for a couple of days and looting anything useful for the desert crossing. It's almost two A.M. and I can't sleep. I miss her so much. I know she's safe inside the Stable, but I can still hear her calling me because she's scared of the dark or because of a nightmare, then I wake up and realize it's just a dream. -Fudge... yup, fudge- I have to keep busy or I'll lose my mind. I hate Equestria -Ah, this part is just a little prayer to the Goddesses- Rainy Days. Trigger sighed. When Mrs. Rainy Days wrote this entry she hadn't her daughter in mind as a reader... “Well, it seems that she headed south after all... let's see if the other record has something more.” P7's voice interrupted the two ponies: “Hey Puppy, do you remember the pass for Chief Sand Box, pretty please?” The filly tapped the helmet for a moment, thinking about it. “Magenta? No, wait, Agatha!” “Thanks a lot sweetie! I'd hug you super much, let's do this! Hug yourself and pretend it's me! Here's your second entry, I'll be away for a little poking my nose where I shouldn't. Have fun and don't mess around!” Day 21 I'm finally ready to move. Apparently nopony is coming in this direction, maybe I'm the only survivor in the area? Not sure, but I don't want to test my luck. I'll take a detour to avoid Sun City: the place was badly hit and last night I could see a discouraging glow in the desert, exactly where the city should be. If I'm lucky in a couple of days I'll be at Blue Feathers Airfield, I'm moving out at first light. I’m back, I couldn't sleep again: another nightmare. I can't stop dreaming of Puppy lying dead in the kitchen. -Fudge, Puppy, fudge... Do you like fudge? Okay okay I'm reading!- these dreams, she is safe I'm sure of it, she would never disobey me. Why do I keep dreaming of her? I found some pills and I think that some of them could help me sleep, if this nightmare returns I'll begin taking them. Rainy Days. Puppy was hugging the guard mare, pressing her helmeted muzzle into Trigger’s back. “What's wrong, little one? She just misses you, but you are alright. When you find her she will see that you're safe and there will be no bad dreams anymore, right?” Telling such a shameless lie physically hurt Happy’s heart, but Puppy needed all the encouragement she could get right now. “I... I'm not a good pony, miss Happy... I didn't went to the secret place because I wanted to see the fireworks!” the filly bawled loudly. “I'm a bad pony! Mom will be mad at me!” Trigger returned the filly's hug, trying to reassure her. “Now, now, don't worry... your mom said that she was going south, right? To a place named... ah... Blue Feather something... I think it's what we call Rust Manor, it's easy to get there: it's just past Sun City. I'm sure that she will be very happy to see you.” Why am I giving hope to this poor creature? Her mother is long dead, what am I doing? Puppy looked at the mare with those two large gleaming pink eyes now filled with new hope. “Really? Will she be there?” “I... I don't know if she's still there, but you want to follow her steps, right? If you want to find out what happened to her then you have to follow the trail as long as it is still fresh!” Yes Happy, two hundred years fresh. The foal smiled again. “Right! I arrived here with no problems at all, I can follow mom anywhere! Thank you miss Happy! You are the best pony!” P7 once again interrupted them. “Very well, I'm done with the inventory. Those guys at Solaris had quite a good grasp of the whole 'end of Equestria' concept: this place is full of labs and storage silos with enough firepower to give the survivors a second show! Oh, and Puppy, I think you were trying to say Pinkie Pie.” Puppy raised her head. “Wut?” “Oh, it's quite simple my little friend: under the mountain there are levels and levels of warehouses filled with military equipment ready for use; there is enough firepower to kill every inhabitant of Equestria at least twice.” “Ah, and with kill you mean... hurt very much?” asked the filly doubtfully. “Nopey mopey: I mean hurt way too much! Something like a party so big that nopony will be here to tell the story the day after.” “A... pinkbot party?” asked Puppy, now afraid of the answer she could receive. “Pinkbot: file not found.” Puppy stopped a moment to think. “Okie dokie, what these things do exactly?” “Let's give some examples: multi plasma long range warhead. This baby can hit fifty six different targets with high penetration self propelled independent micro missiles. Every missile can easily pierce the wall of a bunker and fill the inside with plasma, raising the temperature by a couple hundred degrees, killing everypony within. The Multiport Disruption Generator dismembers every living target in a range of one hundred meters; obviously this kills ponies. Chocolate chaos is a magic energy gun that converts the blood of the target into chocolate milk... the effect is reversible and the blood returns to its original state after half an hour, but the victim dies almost instantly after being hit.” Puppy interupted the list. “Okay, okay, I got the picture!” “Very well, what do we do then? You're the boss here...” At the computer’s last statement, Trigger raised a hoof to try and stop the filly from saying anything stupid, but the mare wasn't fast enough. “Dump it. Make a hole and dump everything inside, build a house on the hole and then move all the bullybots you have inside the house so that nopony can never ever get hurt.” “Well, technically everything is already in a big hole under a mountain... I can detonate the elevator shafts and the tunnels between the storage areas so that they’d be sealed forever unless somepony digs the whole mountain away.” “Do it!” Happy gave a long sigh of relief. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 7 - TIME approximately 3:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Tunnel Town, Big 52 N Branch Jammed Gun hit the metal door of the Tunnel with his head, again. “Fuck, I knew I had to stop her... fuck, fuck, FUCK!” “You know Jamie, the door won't magically open just because you bucked it...“ Black Hat sat at the guard's side still rubbing his right eye, “I guess I deserved it, somehow... this doesn't mean I won't give it back someday.” “Oh for Luna's sake, Blackie! Put a steak on that eye and go to bed, so that I can mope in peace!” The silvery stallion leaned on the wall and yawned. “No can do. Can't leave big bro' like this. Besides, I’m gonna be laughing at you for months over this.” Jammed Gun snorted. “I always suspected that our mother was a bitch, but now I'm sure of it: Happy is gone and you think about laughing! Do you want another black eye or this time are you trotting away on your hooves?” “Hey cool down, geez! There's nothing you can do anyway while these babies stay cloOOH!” With a metal clank the large doors started lifting, sending Black Hat sitting on his haunches. “What the fuck!?” The two ponies stared in disbelief at the gigantic metal bulkhead, a monster more than a meter thick, rising into the tunnel's ceiling; as soon as the first door was completely opened a second pair of doors retreated into the tunnel's sides. It took almost half a minute before Jammed was able to speak again. “Is... is this for real? Gimme a pinch...” CLOP! “You son of a ghoul, I said a pinch!” Blackie snickered. “I told you I owed you one... and you said she was dead for sure...” The two stallions stepped in the tunnel ignoring the skeletons; Black Hat went to a cart peppered with bullet holes, rummaging through its contents. “Woah, look at all this stuff! Guess what? This town is getting its share at last!” Jamie trotted a little farther, watching as the lights of the tunnel began to turn on and illuminate the immense lenght of the six kilometer underground passage. A rope was dangling from an opened ventilation grate in the ceiling; his trot became a gallop and he rushed deeper into the mountain. “Hey big bro'! Don't rush like that! We should call the other guards!” “Fuck the guards! I'm drunk AND in love!” the voice of the stallion echoed off the tunnel's walls. Black Hat sighed and galloped after his breother. “At least wait for me since I'm already here!” ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ DAY 7 - TIME approximately 9:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Trade Station Tunnel South, Big 52 SC Branch Trigger hugged Puppy and kissed her on the helmet; the foal tried to break free with an annoyed expression. “Yeuch, smooches! Not if front of everypony!” A dozen ponies had gathered around the filly in yellow: there were all the town guards and many other dwellers of Tunnel Town. A mare that acted as the local authority gave a little speech and a pouch of caps to Puppy before Trigger Happy accompanied her out the south end of the Tunnel. In front of the two ponies lay an endless land of sand dunes, interrupted here and there by some red rocky formations. In the distance it was possible to spot the blurry silhouette of a city, but the sand in the wind made it almost impossible to tell if it was actually a town or some sort of natural formation. “Very well, Puppy, we’re here: that's Serpent Desert, now let me explain how to get to Rust Manor. Are you listening?” The filly smiled and jumped in the air. “Sure missus pretty Happy!” “Very well, the desert is Sand Sweeper's territory: they're mostly scavengers that move a lot among the various camps, salvaging anything useful they find under the dunes. Usually I'd warn you against them because they tend to do some robbery here and there, especially on lone travelers, but I don't think that they'll try to rob you: the Sweepers are quite the superstitious tribe and probably know about you from Lonesome Pony.” Puppy nodded. “Pretty ponies that walk around a lot, okie dokie.” Trigger smiled. “Very well; there is a trail to follow: it's quite easy to see because every fifty meters the sweepers planted a red banner. You just trot from one banner to the next and you'll be at their first encampment before tomorrow morning.” Puppy frowned and pointed at the more inviting highway built on a solid bank and running straight south. “Why can't I use that? With my scooter I'll be there lickety split!” “No, little one: that highway leads directly in the middle of Sun City. You must avoid Sun City at all costs.” “Why?” “Its a dangerous place: everypony that goes there doesn't come back and nopony knows why!” Trigger’s tone brooked no argument, but Puppy was not the most astute of audiences. Puppysmiles tapped her helmet as if it was her chin. “Uh, maybe they like it so much that they don't want to go away?” “I... I don't think so, Puppy. When I was a foal like you Sun City was the home of a tribe: the Rust Scrapers. They were allied with the Sand Sweepers since... well, a long time. Anyhow, at some point it's said that the Sweepers found something big but the Scrapers stole it from them. There was a big fight, something like a betrayal because the Sweepers tried to take the City with a night assault.” The mare paused to see if the filly was still paying attention. “And then what happened?” asked the little listener with a worried expression. “During the assault something went completely wrong, but nopony knows what. The only thing we know is that the Sweepers went in with every gun they had and never came back. Everypony who tried to investigate the city disappeared, apparently devoured by its secret; the Sweepers that didn't participate in the fight, mostly foals and the elders, put together what was left of their tribe and carried on, trying to survive.” “Oh, so they were all bad ponies?” Trigger frowned. “In the Wasteland it's not always easy to tell good from evil, Puppy. If you want to survive sometimes you have to leave something behind... make sacrifices... dying a little bit instead of dying completely.” “Wut?” The foal gave Happy a puzzled look, unable to understand such a deep concept. “Don't fret your head, little one... just think of it as... well... yes, they were bad ponies but they couldn't help it.” Puppy shook her head. “That's not true! If you are mean to somepony you are mean and that's all! No excuses. If you begin to think that you can be just a little mean then you'll end being super duper mean in no time and you'll be a bad pony too!” “This... did you think of this on your own?” The unicorn guard stared at Puppy in admiration. “Nopey mopey, mom told me.” Trigger patted Puppy on the helmet, seeing her worried face. “Don't worry: robots don't count; mommy won't be upset... c'mon, show me a pretty smile.” The filly in yellow smiled and jumped on her scooter. “When I find mom I'll tell her that you've been nice to me! Thank you very much pretty pony Happy!” The foal launched herself down the road, gaining speed as it descended towards the desert. “WEEee!” Trigger watched the foal grow smaller as she scooted off into the distance. “I'm so sorry, little one...” “So, Happy, ghost or foal?” Jammed Gun trotted to the mare's flank, smiling. “I still don't know...” the mare sighed, “the only thing I know is that she's lost.” Happy turned to look at the stallion and smiled a little. “And what about the black eye?” “Brotherly love,” Jamie stated, before immediately going back on topic, “and who isn’t lost in this cursed world? As soon as the news spreads ponies will head for Tunnel Town. We need more guards.” “Talking 'bout that... the goods in the carts need to be recovered, stockpiled and divided equally between everypony. Keep an eye on Black Hat.” The stallion nodded, sighing. “Yeah, don't worry: the others are already taking the carts into town. A couple of them are branded: there's a caravan of three carts from the Water Herders and a cart that belonged to the Gallopers, but it was salvaged by the ponies when they tried defending themselves from the sentries. Are we giving 'em back?” “We should, at least as an act of good will. If we show them that their goods were preserved maybe this will help us later. Oh, and remind me to teach you how to restart the tunnel in case it shuts down again.” Jamie hesitated for a while. “Well, uh, about last night... you know, when you ran after the gho- ah, Puppysmiles, and I wanted you to stay... uh... can we pretend that I said nothing about... well... you-know-what?” Trigger Happy giggled. “I don't think so, Casanova... that was the clumsiest confession ever and I'm totally going to haunt you about it for the rest of your life.” Jammed groaned, lowering his head. “Aw, why did I even bother asking?” “May I ask you something now?” The stallion waved a hoof. “Yeah, sure, go on... shoot me In the heart...” “Am I still in time to say that I love you too?” ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 7 - TIME approximately 4:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Serpent Desert, Big 52 SC Branch Good afternoon fillies and gentlecolts! This is Lonesome Pony and you are listening to Radio 52! The only and best radio in this slice of Equestria! Yesterday I was walking in the street and a mare just asked me: L.P. how can you be so good on your program? Everypony here listens to you... well I must admit that it's not easy, but luckily enough I'm the only fucking DJ around! A weak 'Yay~' from a feminine voice interrupted the monologue. Bad L.P. you used the 'F' word, you can't use it! Not with our heroine listening to you! Right, right, I'm a bad pony and I should feel bad; instead right now I feel just great, guess why? You can't? Obviously not, because I'm the first one with this treat on the table: fresh from the wings of a friend of mine coming from the south! Hold your reins little ponies, because this is BIG! At that point the radio delivered a static charge and went mute for several seconds, but the static was soon replaced by the voice of Lonesome Pony laughing. Ah, I had you all! You fell for it! Nopony can shut up Radio 52 and especially not today, because today we are celebrating THE TUNNEL REOPENING! Yes my little ponies, your ears are working! Tunnel Town is back in business, no more mountain pass and landslides! Boisterous triumphant music played for almost a minute with the DJ making guitar noises with his mouth in the background. Best thing since the destruction of the Carnival, and guess who did this? Oh yes, our guardian angel, our little yellow ghost! We needed a foal to save us all from a horrible death by starvation? Bucks, now I'm depressed. No, seriously: in a week this little devil has saved three towns from their worst nightmares... A FOAL! C'mon 52, raise your head and show some guts! Till then I'll be here worshiping a way-too-few-years-old pony. There was a silent pause before the voice of the DJ came back, tired and old. Wake up everyone out there, she is just one pony, she can't save us all. We have to save ourselves with what we’ve got... we need only to be better ourselves, we don't need another hero. An acoustic guitar started playing while another song began, but this time it wasn't a record: the singer was Lonesome Pony himself. Out of the ruins, out from the wreckage Can't make the same mistake this time. We are the children, last generation We are the ones they left behind And I wonder when we are ever gonna change it Living under the fear till nothing else remains We don't need another hero... “Wow, I really hope I find this super filly hero they always talk about! Do you think she'll want to be my friend?” Puppy was trotting on the sand, following the red banners just like Trigger Happy had told her to. “Affirmative. Usually a heroic figure is prone to be friendly. Warning. Mild radiation detected. Threat level: negligible.” The filly trotted for a while before hesitantly asking: “Ah, mister Voice, do you think I'm good? Will my mom still love me?” “Warning. This program is not designed for behavior evaluation.” Puppy sighed with frustration. “Geez, you always hide from every important question, don’t you?” She was going to add something, but her attention was caught by a figure standing on a dune not far from the trail. “Hey look, a pretty pony!” The 'pretty' pony consisted of an old unicorn with a white mane and a red coat, dressed in a mantle that covered her almost completely; strapped across her back she carried a long lever action carbine. As the filly approached, the mare simply smiled. “You took your time, little ghost. I’ve been waiting for you since noon.” “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles!” The filly smiled and waved a hoof, “I'm sorry I'm late... ah, late for what?” The slightest of smiles ran across the old mare's face before she replied. “Well for adventure of course, little one... do you like adventure?” “Yush! I lovelovelove adventure! Where is it? I can has two?” suddenly, the foal’s enthusiasm came to a halt, “No wait! I have to find mom, I really shouldn't go adventuring...” The old mare chuckled. “Oh, right, you are already following a path... how could I have forgotten it...” Puppy nodded. “Exactly, so I'm sorry but I've got to go, 'kay thanks bye bye!” “And, if I say to you that this adventure is about a friend of yours being in danger?” The foal was already trotting away, but the mare's last words made her turn on her tail. “A friend of mine in danger? Who? Why? Where? When?” “Now, now, don't rush like thi-” Puppy jumped at the elder's neck pressing her helmet against her muzzle and staring straight into the eyes of the unicorn. “Please please please tell me pleeeeease!” The mare staggered, almost losing balance. “Calm down, little ghost, I was telling you! Just... sit down and listen, alright? Behave and I'll tell you everything!” “Uh, yeah, right... sorry miss pretty old pony...” Puppy let go of her neck and sat in front of the unicorn, who sighed in relief. “Very well. I'm Long Ears and I'm a farseer: a unicorn that can see distant places and ponies.” Puppy jumped up onto her hooves. “Uh! Can you see my mom? Can she see us? Is she okay?” “It doesn't work like that.” The filly deflated, sitting down again as the unicorn continued: “I take some medicine and in my dreams I have visions, but I can't chose what I see. Last night I had one of those dreams and it was about you.” Puppy sat down in silence, listening to Long Ears in the middle of the desert. “You asked a very special friend a very important favor. Your friend did her best, but a really bad turn of events made it impossible for her to accomplish her task. So she appeared to me in my dreams and I knew that you were coming here.” Puppy frowned. A friend she asked a big big favor from? She didn't ask for- here, Silky Tail. Look after Henrietta and don't let anything bad happen to her. “Henri? She is in danger? Where?” The mare nodded and pointed a hoof toward the distant silhouette of Sun City. “I'm afraid that the eagle flew too near to the sun and she can't find a way to come back.” Puppy hesitated. “But... Happy told me that I can't go there! I don't want to disobey her!” Long Ears shrugged. “You don't have to. You asked a friend for a favor and she wanted me to warn you, that's all. You could simply chose to ignore her and go on your way. One way or the other, my task is over.” “B-But something bad happened to Henri, I can't leave her alone, she could be hurt! She... she could be crying!” “Well then, go to Sun City and save her. But I must warn you: Sun City is a trap, a bad dream made real. Once you start dreaming, you will never be able to leave.” “Oh don't worry, I'm not sleepy at all!” Puppy smiled as if it was an easy thing, “Space Captain Andromeda to rescue!” The foal galloped away, heading for the town behind the dunes. Long Ears watched the filly in yellow running away until she was a gray spot in the sand, then took a pill from a pouch and swallowed it together with a gulp of a milky potion. When the old mare blinked she could see flames rising from the town and hear the sound of battle. “What am I seeing? Past or future?” A giggle came from the mare's side. “She's lively, always smiling; I like her! If only more ponies were like that filly instead of being all grumpy faces...” The mare whispered. “Can a living nightmare bring peace? I'm not sure of this...” “Don't ask me: I'm only a vision caused by your massive consumption of hallucinogens! Really, it won't help you very much. Things will happen the same way even if you don't see them coming and you can't even tell what's coming from what already happened.” The old unicorn sighed. “Well, maybe you're right... let's go home.” “Yeah, let's go. That puppy can fend for herself.” ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (7) New perk added: The power of metal - there are moments when rock is not enough. You inflict 5 additional damage with HtH attacks (yeah, rocks and power hooves are considered HtH weapons) New Quest Perk added: Spirit of 52 - Your legend is growing: you will have less low level random hostile encounters as long as your standing with all the tribes is at least neutral. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Additional thanks to Anonsamurai and Llama Llumps for reviewing and a big help with some basics in English I completely missed.
mimezinga	931	9	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-26T13:51:23+00:00	2011-12-26T13:51:23+00:00	29,392	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 9: Sun City Sun City is more than a town: it's the remedy to ponykind's derailment. DAY 7 - TIME approximately 11:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Sun City Suburbs, Big 52 SC Branch The trip to the city had been quite long and by the time Puppy arrived at the first houses darkness had already descended on the streets. Sun City featured a central group of commercial and administrative buildings surrounded by residential areas. However there were no lights in any window, nor signs of anypony living there. The neighborhood Puppy was trotting through had been almost completely scavenged for construction material, leaving only the skeletons of houses resting in the ever present sand; it was like a desolate boneyard, filled with carcasses that had once been called ‘home’. Now, Puppy wasn't eager to admit that she still was a little afraid of the dark, but the whole place was a little too similar to her first day in the apocalypse to let her just shrug it off and keep going. “Why that chicken had to be in danger in such a scary place? Stoopid Henri, there's nopony here, why they call it a city if it's empty?” Each step took her deeper into that scary place. Where did the colorful signs go? Puppy never went out very much at night but she was pretty sure that a city didn’t work like this... She wanted some music to hide the sound of the wind howling through those bony houses, but the radio had gone mute when the filly reached Sun City’s outskirts and the unusual silence made her feel lonely. “Hey, mister Voice, you there?” A discharge of static was the only answer Puppy got from the suit. “Fzzt -cation BbZzzZzT -ched. Elctr- SkrackLE -ference. BzaP! -sible sustaining vo- BzZzT! -terface.” “Aw, he's grumpy again...” The filly frowned and kept trotting. The HUD of the helmet started to display written warnings on the screen, but showing fast scrolling technical messages to a foal that couldn’t even read without spelling every single letter was a waste of time. This left the filly completely alone: the radio was gone, mister Voice was gone, this was like those times when she tried to sleep but the room was too dark and the wind outside made strange noises. They were the nights when she’d hid under the sheets and called out for her mother until she came and nuzzled her, singing a little lullaby to make her feel safe and warm. Puppy actually tried to sing something, but the only thing she could think of right now was the evil enchantress song and no, it didn’t help at all. The little pony’s steps echoed in her head like the beat of drums as Puppy walked through a never ending maze of identical streets, with every empty window reflecting her eerie pink glow. What was that? Maybe mister Horse Tile came back from the grave and was following her? Even mister Horse Tile would have been welcome at this point... A distant metallic screech froze the filly in the place; her rump hit the asphalt and she completely stopped moving. “W-w-whatwasthat!?” Sure, dealing with bullybots and running after mom was not a frightening thing, having to face ghoulie ponies could be scary but at least you knew what you were fighting... but this one was different: an empty town filled with empty houses and crisscrossed by empty roads during a clouded night? And with ghostly sounds too? Why did she think about ghosts now? No ghosts, bad ghosts! Why did she leave the red banner trail? Miss pretty pony Happy told her not to leave the trail, but she had to come and help that stoopid chicken and now it was dark and it was scary and Puppy missed Miss Silky Tail so much! The filly flattened herself against the road and lowered her ears, trying to make herself disappear. “N-new plan, we wait here till it's day!” Another creak echoed in the empty streets, like the suffering wail of a tortured soul. “EEEEEEK!” Puppy jumped on all four hooves and started galloping faster than Rainbow Dash at the Running of the Leaves. “Newest plan! We're out of here till it's day!” Sun City 1 – Puppy 0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 8 - TIME approximately 8:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Sun City, Big 52 SC Branch During the day, the city was quite similar to the suburbs of Salt Cube City, or even Canterlot; not scary at all, just... ugly; Puppy wondered why she had been so scared, what a silly pony she was! “See, mister Voice? There's nothing to be afraid! It's just another town, with broken houses and broken roads and-” For a moment Puppy's eyes caught the silhouette of a flying pony, “and pretty peggysuses! Yay!” The foal launched herself into a gallop, chasing the flying figure. “Hey! Hey mistur peggysus wait for me! WAAAAAIT!” Galloping at top speed while looking into the sky, Puppy wasn't properly watching the road in front of her and collided with another pony in the middle of the street. “Owie, why don't you look where you’re going? I was running here before you!” The pony was an adult earth stallion with a brown coat and black mane; he had been carrying buckets full of bricks and building materials on his back, but now everything was scattered over the asphalt. Puppy jumped onto her hooves ready to zoom away just in case the older pony was mad at her, but he simply put down the buckets and started filling them again. “Uh, yeah, you better say nothing... and don't stay in the middle of the road again like a dumb statue!” Puppy stuck out her tongue, but noticed that the earth pony wasn't even paying attention to her. Actually, he seemed a bit... well, how to put it... “Ah, sorry mister pony, are you deaf? I'm Puppysmiles and I'm looking for my mom... well, usually I do that but today I'm saving my friend Henry that came here and then had some sort of troubles but I still don't know what kind of troubles. Have you seen her? She's a chicken but she doesn't want me to call her that way but I mean, duh, she has a beak and feathers and everything else, she must totally be a chicken. Once I knew a pony that was a zebra, I don't know why ponies don't like zebras, anyhow this zebra didn't want to be called zebra but everypony called her that all the same, so maybe she's just like zebras, maybe ponies don't like chickens here... dunno...” Puppy followed behind the earth pony as he, without saying a word, gathered everything that he had dropped and headed toward the center of the city. In the light of day, Puppy could see that past the outer town borders the houses had been completely dismantled, leaving a vast area of flat terrain traversed by an intricate web of paved streets in a ring of at least two hundred meters all around downtown. It seemed like some sort of nopony's land, but it was the result of the methodical demolition of every building that had stood in the area, brick by brick instead of simply flattening the houses. They weren’t even using the ruins as defensive positions; the buildings had been salvaged down to their foundations. Puppy stopped and gazed in wonder at the shining city that lay at the heart of the empty land. “Wow, you have a pretty town here at last, I like it!” Right in front of the filly in yellow stood a city of the old times: there were some small houses with painted walls and clean windows, no holes in their roofs nor planks nailed over the doors. Puppysmiles stared at the ponies trotting around and carrying things, it was a lively place: everypony was doing something, even the foals and the pegasi. There were pretty houses and pretty skyscrapers; even if the gardens were a little yellowish there was actual grass in the yards and there were even trees here and there. Puppy wouldn't have given this place more than a six out of ten, but hey, this was the first town along her way that deserved a vote at all! “Really, Happy was super wrong...” Puppy trotted after the brown pony she had bumped into earlier, ”ponies that arrived here actually liked it so much that they didn't want to leave! I was right as usual, ah, take this miss Happy! Sure you aren't very chatty mister pretty pony...” Nope, not chatty at all, Puppy decided to leave the earth pony and wander by herself so she could check the place out. It was really a nice town and reminded her of some of rhe places she had visited with her mom: after eight days of wasteland being in such a nice place was refreshing, even if these ponies had something wrong with them that Puppy couldn’t put her hoof on. The filly in yellow searched the area for some other pony to talk to, and noticed a griffon crouched on a roof; he was replacing some damaged tiles. “Hey mister chicken, have you seen my friend Henri? She' a chicken too!” Nope, no answer at all; in this place everypony had to be deaf or really unfriendly. Puppy saw a unicorn mare watering a tree, and tried to approach. “Ah, excuse me miss pretty pony, have you seen a chicken named Henrietta please?” Nothing again, the filly’s frustration was growing; it was quite obvious that she was getting nowhere, this situation needed something better: “Uh, she's half kitty too.” The unicorn kept watering the tree despite Puppy's efforts, but this time the filly wasn't going to give up that easily: she put herself physically between the tree and the unicorn, staring her right in the eyes and... and... DERP! “Ah, your eyes are... uh, weird...” The mare had a walleyed expression and seemed frankly dumb. “How do you make that trick with the eyes?” Puppy tried crossing her eyes and almost fell on her rump, “It's hard! How can you look straight with eyes like that?” Again, the foal was completely ignored. The mare tried to circle around Puppy a couple of times, but the filly in yellow insisted on staying between the unicorn and her tree; in the end she watered Puppy's head and went away. Puppy was now wet and upset. “Hey, that's not very nice! What's up with everypony here? Why don't they want to talk with me, do I stink?” The filly tried sniffing herself but it was quite pointless since she was sealed inside the suit. The foal wandered through the neighborhood for half the morning, trying to find somepony who would talk to her, but everywhere it was the same: everypony had the same walleyed expression and didn't listen to her, not even the ghoulies. She could remember something like this, a movie with a strange title that her mom forbid her to watch, metrodontremember... anyhow she tried looking it but it was boring to death. This city was just the same: like a warped reflection of the barns of horrors where fun could actually kill you, here the boredom could turn you to stone. Her exploration took the filly deeper inside the town and nopony tried to stop her or seemed to acknowledge her passing Even when Puppy approached some foals trying to play with them, they simply kept working; she really did her best to make some friends, proposing some games like pin the tail on the pony and even something exotic, like playing space ponies and the tomato aliens, but nothing. Now she was feeling ignored and a bit sad. “Mister Voice has gone away, Henri is nowhere to be seen and all the pretty ponies play dumb and don't want to talk with me. This is the worst city ever! Who cares about the pretty houses or the nice trees if there is no fun at all in first place? Why is everypony acting this weird?” Puppy sighed; she knew for a fact that in each town there was at least a mayor or something like that, maybe she could find some answer if she asked that pony. Usually important ponies lived in the middle of town and this was quite good, because finding the center of Sun City was easy even for a silly pony: those giant skyscrapers were quite hard to miss. The little foal trotted past the residential area and arrived in a wonderful and well kept block of tall buildings, with glass walls and picturesque statues of Celestia and Luna. Around the marble princesses were fountains that spilled clean water, and a big metal tower stood right in the middle of everything, like a focal point for the whole city. Puppy lifted her head as she looked around at the various buildings: there were half a dozen towers of various heights, but one of them stood out because of it's shiny metallic structure; it was like a spiral growing into the sky for about twenty stories and then abruptly ending in a large platform, like an overgrown mushroom. “This one seems easy!” Puppy trotted toward the tower only to find herself being lifted off the ground and floated away from her destination. “Wut?” The foal tried to twist around and saw that an adult pony had picked her up by the back of her neck and was taking her away toward the residential area. “Hey! Lemme go! Meany pony I wanna go to the shiny tower! I gotta see the mayor! It's important, you dumb walleyed pony, are you listening to me?” The pony put Puppy down just outside of the city's borders in nopony's land, leaving the protesting foal still yelling at him. Sun City 2 – Puppy 0 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 8 - TIME approximately 2:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Sun City, Big 52 SC Branch Puppy spied on the working ponies with a resolute look on her face: they didn't want her in town and wouldn't tell her why, but she had to get inside somehow... maybe she needed to play smart, with some sort of disguise using a sombrero and a poncho and maybe an accordion... yeah, that could actually work, but where to find fake mustache at this hour? Suddenly, the filly was distracted by another flying figure in the sky. She had grown used to pegasi flying to and fro around the outer part of the city, but this one was different: it was a griffon, a little griffon with familiar armor... “Henry! Hey Henri, wait!” Nope, even her best of bestest friends wasn't listening to her now; Puppy would have felt disheartened if she wasn't busy finding a way to get Henrietta's attention, “Rock!” The Rock Of Destiny floated to Puppy's hoof, she took a moment to aim aaand... “Bull's eye!” The griffon unleashed a panicked screech as she dropped out of the sky like, well, the rock that hit her. “Don't worry I'm catching you Henri!” Puppy threw herself into a gallop, trying to catch her feathered friend before she hit the ground. In the meantime Henrietta struggled desperately to regain control, but she was still stunned: all she could do was to try and aim for something soft... but what? A yellow spot appeared in her peripheral vision. A yellow spot that was yelling and moving fast. “I got you I got you I got-” THUMP! “Owie!” “Yeow!” The young griffon blinked, looking at Puppysmiles. “What the fuck are you doing here, Puppy? This place is dangerous, run! There’s a strange buzz tha-” Henrietta derped and immediately stopped talking; a trickle of blood from her head injury ran down her beak but she didn't even seem to notice. “Henry I found you at last! Silky Tail told me that you were in danger and- HEY! Where do you think you're going!?” The griffon opened her wings, getting ready to take-off, but the filly wrapped her hooves around Henry’s neck and held on tightly. “Don't even think of going away! Now we are getting out of this stoopid place and you are coming with meeEEEH!” Henrietta was bigger and stronger than Puppy, and she seemingly felt no remorse in using brute force to push her away before taking to the air once again; the filly rolled head-over-heels a couple of times before finding herself sitting in a pile of rubble in nopony's land, alone once again. “What the... what happened to her all of a sudden? The other day she was all let's work together and then she was wounded and I helped her and now she just scolds me and flies away... this is not fair, not fair at all! Very well, if she doesn't want to be my friend, then I want Silky Tail back!” Puppy galloped back into town, looking for her ex-friend, but almost immediately came to a stop and reconsidered her last thought, “But I gave her Silky as a present, I can't take a present back... but I want back my friends, at least one of them.” Puppy shook her head. “No, I want both of them back! I'm not going away without Henri AND Silky Tail! I only need a better plan!” But what plan? During the day the ponies were all around the place and didn't let her walk into town and during the night the city was so scary... or maybe not? After all, this wasn't a ghost city... The foal went back to sitting just outside of the town borders and looking at the not-really pretty ponies working endlessly and mindlessly. She had come up with a masterful plan... now she just had to recover The Rock Of Destiny and wait for night... Half hidden behind a pile of rubble, Puppy lurked, ready for the decisive strike. “Soon...” Sun City 3 – Puppy 0 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 8 - TIME approximately 9:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Sun City Downtown, Big 52 SC Branch The little filly crept through the dark, crawling with her belly on the ground and her ears flattened. “Sneaky sneaky...” She uttered a couple of whispered words, nothing more: like those oriental ponies who did all that cool stuff she was told about but she had never actually seen because mom said they were violent... sometimes mom was a pain. But none of that mattered because now Puppy was a filly on a mission, and she had to focus and be super sneaky and move like a shadow in the night! Wearing a yellow suit and a pink glowing fishbowl. “Sneaky sneaky...” The plan was easy: go past the enemy lines, find the boss of the place, tell him his town stinks then go find Henri and run away in the sunset, like in that super cool movie with Pone Wayne. Now, first things first: poke her nose into the super pretty place with the skyscrapers and have at least one ride on the elevator. Okay let's get real: ride the elevator until it melts. The city was completely empty during the night: everypony was somewhere else, probably sleeping, but this time Puppy knew that there were no ghosts in this place, only grumpy faces. Reaching downtown had been an easy task and nopony blocked her when she ventured deeper into the heart of Sun City. It was as if somepony had built a brand new town ready for the use and moved away leaving everything behind. The filly had never actually seen a brand new city, but she supposed that when you unpacked a new one it would look just like this. The only place where Puppy could see some light was the mushroom tower: a faint blue glow came from the black windows while the upper part of the tower sometimes crackled with an electrical bolt. A faint humming sound came from the metallic structure, like the one that comes from some big electrical stuff that mom didn’t want her to touch because it was really, really dangerous ...and when I say it I mean it Puppy! Are you paying attention Puppy? Look at me and repeat what I say: this is not a toy and I will never ever ever touch it! “Sneaky sneaky...” Cautious exploration of the area surrounding the tower revealed a closed entrance and no open windows. On the dark glass doors was depicted the symbol of Solaris Inc; Puppy tried to push the door, then pull it, then ram it and finally, to yell at it: “Hey, how am I supposed to sneak inside this place if there is no way to get in? Stoopid tower, why you don't co-operate? I am the hero here, don’t you know?” As usual Puppy had to do everything by herself: this was the price of being surrounded by amateurs. “Rock.” It was a glass door: whenever the filly had played with a ball in the neighborhood, breaking windows was apparently a thing that happened even if you didn't want it to happen, so if you actually wanted to break a glass then it had to be a piece of cake; obviously Puppy never heard of bulletproof glass, so it took a little more than she thought it would. When the glass of the door finally gave up, detaching itself from the door's frame, Puppy took a long pause admiring her work: this glass was similar to the one used in her helmet, cracking and changing its shape rather than simply falling down, so that a couple of good placed hits were far from pulling the trick; luckily enough the foal had learned how to use a stone from her previous experiences, refusing to give up at the first difficulties and thus being rewarded with a hole trough the door after half an hour of hitting and cursing against a glass panel. The filly was still panting when she stepped inside the building, but at this point she was so excited by her new adventure that she simply couldn't help giggling, and with the giggle she began singing. “you better watch out, you better not cry you better not pout, 'cause I'm telling you why: Puppysmiles is coming to town.” It’s unlikely that anypony was listening at that time in that place, but the filly felt as if it had to be done: after all she was going to scold the bad mayor of a bad town, he'd better know what was coming for him! When the foal reached a large desk in the middle of the hall, a red light started to flash from the ceiling and an automated voice began to talk. “Warning: unauthorized drone presence in reception, all personnel please stay in their offices, security will take care of the emergency.” Puppy had no idea what a reception or a drone were, but she already knew the meaning of that lullaby: bullybots incoming. “Hey, don't even try bullying me, I have a rock! Got it?” The filly showed her favored weapon to nopony in particular and trotted past the desk. A couple of turrets popped up from two big floor tiles and opened fire, but the only sound they made was that of empty magazines. Puppy looked at the turrets with a puzzled expression, trotted towards the nearest and poked it with a hoof. “Yeah, you better behave!” The filly stuck out her tongue and headed for the elevator, but it had a red light and didn't want to go anywhere, her usual luck... she had to hit the stairs but this didn’t prevent her from singing. “She's making a list and checking it twice, she's gonna find out who's naughty and nice, Puppysmiles is coming to town.” The stairs were quite long and went past a lot of identical floors all filled with clean, empty rooms, as if they were ready to receive furniture that had never arrived. At the top of the stairs was a reinforced door, once again decorated with the company’s logo. Puppy knocked at it with a hoof, “Hey, I'm Puppysmiles and I want to see the mayor! This town stinks!” When she didn’t get a reply she hit the door again and yelled louder, “Don't ignore me! Everypony is ignoring me in this lousy place, even my bestest friend ever! Even mister Voice! Why you don't want to make friends?” Still nothing, but Puppy knew that the mayor was there: everypony knew that the mayor lived in the town hall and now it was night so he had to be there because he was sleeping. This time the foal wasn't going to give up: she still had that thingy Sand Box gave her, that strange remote control that opened doors just pressing a button. “Things that opens doors!” Puppy raised a hoof as a bobby pin and a screwdriver floated out in front of her; the filly looked at the objects with disapproval. “How am I supposed to open a door with these things!? The other one, with the big black button, the red cables and the blue screen!” Sand Box’s hacking tool floated in front of Puppy, who gave a nod and grabbed it out of the air before looking at the door with her best menacing face. “Very well mister: I have a... thing that can open this door lickety split and you are gonna open it or I'll do it and if I have to do that I will be very, very dis- daisy pointed!” When mom was really, really angry she used that super scary ultimatum and Puppy knew that after that there was the spanking, so she was sure that this one was going to work. The door resisted her threats. “Okie dokie, let's do this the hard way...” Puppy sighed and pressed the button on the hacking tool; the screen fizzled and started showing a cascade of numbers while a small vent behind it made a whistling noise; the screen flickered and crackled before turning green and almost immediately died with a small puff of smoke, but the door opened. “See? I told you so!” The foal jumped inside the room and faced- A couple of skeletons? “Hey but there's nopony here!” The large room was very similar to the control room of the Dome, but it was circular and had windows all around its perimeter so that it was possible to see the whole city from here. There were several desks with computer terminals and a big screen just in front of the door; all the screens were lit, glowing with a dim blue light. The only sign of pony presence in the room was the pair of skeletons lying on the floor immediately in front of the door, nope, skellies weren’t very scary... Suddenly a deep manly voice started talking out of nowhere. “There is nothing here for you Device 018, now go away.” The filly was confused and looked around for the source of the voice. “Wut? Where is the mayor?” The voice replied with a neutral tone: “There is no mayor: she died nineteen years ago and I have been taking care of Sun City since then. This is no place for you, don’t test my patience.” Puppy noticed the big screen’s blue light blinked as the voice spoke. “Oh, another voice! But a voice can't be the mayor of a town, sillybot! uh... I already know a mister Voice, so I'll call you Blue Voice!” This time the voice boomed like angry thunder. “You are not meant to name things and certainly not me, useless malfunctioning machine! I am SolOS and I am the master of Sun City. Besides, voices have no color.” Puppy waved a hoof dismissing the last piece of information. “Whatever; I'm Puppysmiles and I was looking for the pony in charge because his town is ugly and I want my friends back.” “I already told you that there is no pony in charge here! I command this place, I am the boss! Mr Number One! And if you think that this place is ‘ugly’, listen to this! Before I arrived this place was a war zone, with ponies killing each other and every sort of depravity performed in broad daylight! There were no sewers, the houses were a disaster and ponies would die even for something as simple as giving birth to a new foal! Sun City was meant to be the best city ever, the eternal symbol of Solaris’ superiority over Stable Tech and their lackeys! Do you have the slightest idea of the work that was needed to clean the radiation and build a half decent barrier around the place to break the desert winds? Now Sun City is a jewel, the last shining ruby in a rusted crown, but it still stands and I did that! Ponies proliferate under my guidance, maybe they were deprived of their free will but look at what they did when they had the power to choose their destiny! It was ME that saved this place when it was falling apart, ME that rebuilt it from its foundations and ME that saved hundreds of pony lives by forcing them to collaborate and live in harmony and peace! Now you, a puny little crazed machine, come here, break into my control room and treat me like a common computer only to tell me that you don’t like the place!? You are nothing but a-” Puppy snorted “Boo-ring!” “You are a waste of time, stop being irrational and go away immediately!” Puppy giggled. “Tee-hee, Blue Voice is funny when he's mad!” “ENOUGH! I have no time to spare for a broken piece of equipment. Go away.” “Ah, did you break something? Can I help you?” Puppy tilted her head, a bit confused. “No, stupid low level Artificial Intelligence, YOU are the broken machine!” Puppy giggled again. “Silly Voice, I am a pony, you are a machine! Machines are stoopid!” “Negative, you are FES MK-VI device 018: a piece of equipment meant for preserving the life of a pony in a hostile environment, fitted with a basic Artificial Intelligence capable of making simple decisions in case of extreme danger. From what my scanning modules can tell, you utterly failed your purpose and now you believe that you are the pony that you failed to protect: a female earth pony named Puppysmiles.” Puppy tilted her head, smiling. “Blue Voice says funny words! What is an envy room mate?” The voice paused for half a minute and when it came back it had resumed its original neutral tone: “Alright, you want this the hard way? You are not a pony, you are a robot. Now go away and cope with it. You’re not worth my time nor my pity.” This time the filly frowned and took a couple of steps back. “I am not a robot, I am Puppysmiles!” “No you are not!” “Yes I am!” insisted the little pony. “No you are not!” “YES I AM!” Puppy screamed. “No. You. Are. Not!” “YES! I! AM!” Pink flames flared inside the helmet. “YES YOU ARE!” “NO! I'M! NOT!” Puppy frowned as soon as she realized that the voice had tricked her. “Hey!” “Gotcha.” If it was actually possible for a computer screen to smile, SolOS would have been grinning from ear to ear. “Now, since you don't want to go away, and I gave you the opportunity to do so, activate protocol ES-01 emergency shutdown and erase memory, command line A-0101101101 bypass codes using priority Easy, Gallop, Luna, 90670.” Puppy blinked her eyes looking a bit puzzled at the blue screen talking nonsense. The suit started showing strange numbers everywhere and a big clock appeared in the middle of the HUD, but this wasn't what bothered her the most: the Voice made her seem a fool! “I am not a robot and I'm not stoopid! You are stoopid and I'll show you!” Puppy rose a hoof, “Teapot!” A large tank shell with a blue band round the top floated out of her inventory. Trigger didn't want this shell because she said that it was only dangerous for robots, so Puppy could keep it; the guard chief of Tunnel Town also explained to the foal how to use it: just pick something hard and hit on the teapot head until it goes 'FZAP!'. “Don't complain, I gave you the opportunity to leave but you didn't want to listen and I have a city to administrate, you can blame only yourse-” CLANK! The sound of something hard striking metal distracted SolOS’ monologue. “What are you... that is a Mag Pulse 8.8 grenade! What are you doing, put that thing away it will disrupt every computer in the control room!” Puppy was mad. Mad because he made her seem a fool; mad because he said she was a robot; mad because this city stole her best friend; mad because, and just because. “Yeah, right! I'll put you to sleep for good, who's the silly pony now?” CLANK! “No, wait! You'll destroy the Behavior Control Center! The city will fall into chaos!” Puppy was sitting on the floor in the middle of the control room, she didn't say anything and hit the tip of the shell with The Rock Of Destiny. Yes, it was singing time again. CLANK! “Who's a silly pony? You're a silly pony! Who is? You is, Puppysmiles!” CLANK! “Stop it! Stop it now! If that charge detonates I won't be able to operate anything and will forever be locked inside the mane frame!” The countdown was running on Puppy's HUD leaving her a single digit of seconds, but she couldn't read, so it wasn't her problem. “Bumping into robots, knocking over ghoulies, who is? You is, Puppysmiles!” CLANK! “No wait! We can talk about this, you have no idea of what you are doing! This utopia will crumble without my guidance!” “All day long you trot around looking for your mommy everywhere, dreaming all your pony dreams, but you get lost every time!” “Okay okay you win! I am the silly pony but please sto-” CLANK! FZAP! There was something like an explosion, except that this one didn't launch Puppy to the other side of the room; a nice surprise for once. The countdown on the helmet disappeared, the whole HUD disappeared; actually, every screen inside the big room went black and the lights flickered for a moment before turning red and the Voice finally stopped talking. Ah! Who was the silly pony now, Blue Voice? And why couldn't Puppy move at all, nor speak, or even blink her eyes? She didn't feel pain and she didn't feel tired, nonetheless she couldn't move: all she could do was look around, like that time in Canterlot or at the Dome when for the first time she met miss Voice, but that time it was really short. This time it was different: there were no pink dots coming back to life on the HUD. Puppy waited for a while, but nothing happened and she lay sitting on the floor with an exploded tank projectile in front of her; the only thing she could do was sit and hope for... well, some miraculous rescuer. Sitting alone in the red light made her recall SolOS’ words; maybe she was a robot after all: that grenade was supposed to shut down only the bullybots but worked on her too; but Puppy couldn't be a bullybot... or she could? After all she wasn't a good pony: breaking things and disobeying mom was a bully thing. Mom... if I am a robot then is my mom really a mom or she is a robot too? I don't eat, don't drink and almost never feel sleepy, so maybe... but I don't want to be a robot, I want to be a pony! This is not fair, why that stoopid Blue Voice had to say those naughty things? I'm a pony... It's only that... I'm a pony... “Yes you are, indeed. A beautiful, desperate pony...” A feminine voice echoed in Puppy's thoughts. This surprised the filly and scared her, who was talking? “Oh, right, introductions: I'm you, Puppysmiles. What a beautiful obsession you have, what a delicious innocence. You can't be a robot at all, trust me.” Yay~ another voice... and she was also convinced that she was Puppysmiles. The filly was even more confused; but the new voice told the filly that she was no robot, so maybe she was a friend? “Listen to me little pony, because I will tell you only the honest truth: you are a pony; if you weren't, I couldn't even exist. We went through centuries of sleep and days of hunger and delusion, but now you have fallen and I must intervene: let me help you, open your eyes and you won't be a hermit crab in a cracked shell anymore.” Now Puppy was scared: this voice was talking weird and she wasn't even sure of what she wanted from her, but it felt wrong in a strange and itchy way:... “Simple minds are truly blessed. Pay attention: accept my help and you'll be out of this place and back on the road to finding your mother before the sun rises.” Maybe this was just a bad dream? Puppy had once dreamed of being unable to run very well or something like that, then she woke up all wrapped up in the sheets and mom arrived, hugging her and saying that she wasn't mad, even if she wet the bed and then everything was alright. Yes, just a bad dream, no Blue Voice telling her bad things and no ghostly voices scaring her in a dark dead room with the only company of two skeletons. “Oh silly pony, you are not having bad dreams, you ARE a bad dream, but with some more insight you could be better: with a resolve like yours and such an obsession and stubbornness, we could be a Nightmare!” Puppy wasn't sure that this new voice was trustworthy; it wasn't the usual 'don't talk with strangers' thing, it was more a deep sense of cold and sadness that emanated from it. Her instinct was screaming at her to not listen the newcomer, but... but... she was scared, and alone in the dark and the little pony wasn't even sure if she really was a pony at all. She wanted help, she NEEDED help: she wanted mister Voice back. “You are scared. It can’t work if you don’t accept me willingly, I can’t help you as long as you won’t open your eyes, but simple minds take time to accept new things. I'm going away, but soon we'll talk again and I'm sure that the next time you'll ask me to show you how to become... better. Until then take back your friend Mister Voice as a sign of good will.” A pink dot flickered on the HUD, immediately followed by a torrent of lines that flashed across Puppy's helmet while the internal software of the suit came back to life. “Reboot complete. Checking version. Pink suite 7.0 lite. Checking equipment status. All systems online. Resuming last session. Loading personal data for subject 001: Puppysmiles. Subject deceased, condition stable. All clear.” --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (8) New perk added: Pack Rat - Wait a moment I think I have that! Carry weight is increased by 50 lbs. New Quest Perk added: Walking nightmare (rank 1) - there’s something more than simple purpose in the way you keep pursuing your goals; you are now highly resistant to EMP grenades. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Huge thanks to Llama Llumps and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	10	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-03T23:58:04+00:00	2011-12-03T23:58:04+00:00	30,073	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 10: Identity In the desert you can remember your name, 'cause there ain't no one for to give you no pain. DAY 9 - TIME approximately 2:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Sun City Downtown, Big 52 SC Branch “Fuck this headache, I can't sleep...” Henrietta rubbed her sorry head. Puppy was a good aim and had a fair bit of strength when it came to throwing things, and now the young griffon was paying the toll of Puppy’s skill. The day had been a hard one with a lot of work, dismantling the buildings in the outer belt and bringing the materials to the residential area. If the young griffon hadn't had that wound she would have been asleep like everyone else. “Next time I see that yellow devil I'm going to spank her so bad that her rump could be used as a landing signal during foggy nights.” By the way, what was the foal doing in Sun City? The whole place was a trap, with that hypnotic buzz that could bend your will and- Henri's eyes widened in sudden realization as she muttered to herself, “Wait a single eggfucking second... the buzz is gone... the damn buzz is gone, I can think clearly! I’ve got to get out of here!” The half eagle stood up, spreading her wings ready to take flight, but froze in place as soon as she noticed the other griffins; there were five of them in the room: two were the Talons that she tried to lose by diving into this fucking place, while the other three had the Talons tattoos but wore no armor and didn’t appear to be armed. “At last it's payback time...” A cruel grin appeared on Henri's beak while she unsheathed her bowie knife and stepped toward the first sleeping griffon. She was one of the unarmored ones, deeply sleeping because of the day's hard work. The young half-eagle moved slowly and silently, like a serpent in the grass, approaching her victim from behind, ready to grasp her beak and slit her throat; very slowly she leaned over her victim's head and... then the vengeance craving griffon noticed the eggs. “Oh fuck, please no...” The fire in Henrietta's eyes died as she looked at the two eggs that the griffon was hugging in her sleep. Rage became hesitation and the griffon's resolve shattered: killing a mother in her sleep was beyond any hunger for revenge she had... but the other four, on the other claw... The other four what? Two were just victims of the place, one of them could have been the father of those eggs, besides they were totally unarmed and possibly didn't have anything against her... and the two that chased her inside Sun City were sleeping hard enough that she was going to be miles away when they realized that she was gone. What was the point in killing them like this? “Not fair, I’m no backstabber...” Henrietta turned on her tail and headed for the door, but stopped as she noticed a spot of pink in a corner of the room. Willy Fail, Stinky Mail or a name like that... Puppy's doll. Hell, she had almost forgotten about the doll, “Oh fuck, Puppy!” Stupid feather head, she had almost forgotten about the foal! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 9 - TIME approximately 2:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Sun City Downtown, Big 52 SC Branch Sitting in the red shadows of the control room, Puppy was still confused: she had no idea about who could be that mare's voice that visited her before mister Voice came back, but she wasn't sure if this newcomer was a pretty pony. Even thinking about that scary mare talking in her head was enough to send shivers down her back and to make her hope that she wasn't going to return any time soon. Luckily enough, Puppy was now in good company again and this meant that whatever problems the mare's voice could create they would be far enough away to let Puppy think about more pressing matters. First things first, finding her a name, since miss Voice was already taken... “Ah, she's a she, so miss is okay, and she is... ah... scary? Scary Voice? Sounds wrong...” Puppy frowned, this was going to be a hard nut to crack... “Head Voice? Meh... Nightmare Voice? Too long... I know! Creepy Voice, because she is creepy! Yay!” The HUD on the helmet tinged, informing Puppy that the mission 'shaping nightmares' was successfully accomplished. Yes, Puppysmiles was just this good and nothing could stop her, not even finding names for things. Okay, maybe something long to read could still be a mighty foe... and if she had to count things that were more than her hooves... and even opening pickle jars, that had always been an impossible feat... but everything else was just easy game, right! Go Puppy! Now that the cheering was done it was time to undertake part two of her master plan: finding Henri and getting out of here as quick as a pony at the Running of the Leaves. “Okie dokie, mister Voice where's Henri?” “Henrietta Firebright set as primary target.” The arrow on the compass integrated in Puppy's helmet disappeared and reappeared pointing to the filly's left, displaying a distance in meters that rapidly diminished until it reached a single digit. “Yay! It's adventure ti-” BLAM! CRASH! BLAM! One of the windows exploded, and with a flutter of wings a young griffon wielding a pair of .45 pistols blitzed inside the room through a cloud of glass and zipping bullets. “Hold on Puppy I'm here!” The griffon tumbled across the floor trying to identify any possible hostile target, fired twice at the lights in the ceiling, which plunged the room into darkness and jumped behind a desk, before upturning it to use as an improvised barrier, all in the space of just a few seconds. A smile grew across Puppy’s muzzle as she watched the show; wow, this was so cool! Henry was totally the best pony, she was like that griffon in that movie, Liòn: the Professional... the young filly stomped her hooves on the floor, cheering her friend's performance. “Wohoo! Go Henry, you rock! Way to go!” A couple of bullets narrowly missed Puppy’s helmet before the young gunslinger recognized her friend. “Lie flat on the floor Puppy, I'm taking care of them! Leave this little pony alone, you brain eaters!” “Wut?” The filly tilted her head with a curious expression. Noticing that nopony was firing back and that there was no movement in the room, a thought suddenly struck her: could it be that the filly wasn't actually in danger? Henrietta smiled in embarrassment as she stopped acting like a special forces pony and took a decent look around; putting away her guns, the griffon stroked back the feathers on her forehead and assumed a cool demeanor. “Hey Puppy, still all in one piece?” The filly checked her legs and tail, then smiled and nodded to her friend. “Yup, I forgot nothing! Is Silky Tail alright?” “Your doll? Sure, want it back?” Henrietta grabbed the pink plushie and waved it; Puppy shook her head. “Nopey mopey, she is fine with you. I asked her to keep an eye on you and she warned me that you were in danger, so I came here but at the beginning you were all grumpy and scolded me then you flied away and didn't want to talk with me anymore, so I waited for the night because I had this super duper mega plan but before I had to say to the mayor that his town was ugly but then the mayor wasn't a mayor but a stoopid voice that told me bad things but I was smarter and he said he was sorry and now he's gone away, so I'm smarter than Blue Voice.” Henrietta rose a claw. “Wait wait wait! I see you moving your muzzle but all I hear is blah blah blah: all of this makes no sense and we are in a hurry. Everyone is sleeping right now, but very soon someone will wake up and realize that the buzz is gone. This place is filled with enclave pegasi, talon griffins and ponies from at least two different tribes and they are all sitting on a fortified source of pure water and fresh food.” Puppy tilted her head in confusion. “Uh, okie dokie?” The griffon facepalmed. “Alright, simple version: in a couple of hours Tranquility Lane will become War Zone: Sun City and we have to get our tails out of here before that happens, capeesh?” “War zone? Like when ponies are mean with each other?” asked Puppy with some degree of doubt. “Yes, exactly, each group will want to take that place for themselves. Now, leave behind everything heavy you have in your bags because we need to fly away very fast.” Puppy frowned. “But why they have to argue? Ponies are pretty and nice, they shouldn't be mean...” The little foal explained her theory about pony behavior as if it was something so simple that it was impossible for it being some other way. Henrietta opened her beak to reply that an entire world had turned into a wasteland as legacy of pony kindness, but trying to explain such a concept to Puppy was harder than teaching an anvil how to swim and, even more important, it needed time that they didn't have. “Yeah, exactly, but we have to go away right now anyway, because you have to find your mom, right?” Puppy nodded vigorously. “Yush! I have to go to a peggysus fly place named Blue Idontknow but miss Happy told me that now it's called Something Manner... ah, I don't remember the name very well but there's an arrow on the compass so I can't miss it!” Henrietta sighed. “Let me guess, it's south.” The griffon pointed a direction with her claw. Puppy stared in surprise at her friend. “Woah, how did you know that? Are you a wizard?” “Yeah, sure, I'm best magician in Equestria. The Great and Powerful Henri... now please dump everything you don't need or you'll lose the flight.” The griffon paused for a moment, noticing something new in her friend, “Say, since when you have a blue streak in your mane?” A thin line of blue ran trough Puppy's blond mane starting from her forehead, just above her right eye and ending at three quarters down her neck; the line was made of a couple of shades of blue, in a similar way to that mare from the Ministry of Magic, Twilight Snarkle or something like that. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 9 - TIME approximately 3:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Sun City Downtown, Big 52 SC Branch Puppy risked opening one eye and looked down. The world rushed away into the night, large skyscrapers zipped past below her and dark deserted roads trailed off into the distance under her nose, way too far under her nose to be comfortable with. “ARE WE THERE YET?” The filly grabbed Henrietta's neck tight enough to choke her. “Ack! Gasp! Loosen those hooves pony, you're going to make both of us crash!” At first it just seemed natural to the griffon to fly away with Puppy: The foal was really small and, once she threw away all those useless scraps, she was lighter than a military backpack. Problems came when Puppy discovered that she hated flying. “Just close your eyes and pretend your having a regular piggyback ride or sing something!” Puppy already had her eyes sealed tighter than a Stable door but it didn't seem to help at all, seeing all the houses from above and seeing the roofs run and run away in a crazy spinning of colors already scared her hard enough; this wasn't like looking down from a tower; towers didn't go around, and they had floors! She liked floors, they were so... so... flat, and floory! “Please please please I will behave! Put me down pleeeease!” “Oh c'mon are you a scaredy pony? Have some faith in your friends!” With a stroke of her wings Henrietta gained a little altitude, flying between two skyscrapers and soaring past downtown, high above the residential area of Sun City. The fresh night air tasted of dust and old, but the south winds carried a new scent: the sea; it was a good night to fly. “Just relax and enjoy the trip, sing something!” Singing something, yes that always helped Puppy, she just had to sing a song and everything would be better! The filly cleared her throat and tried singing the first thing that came to her mind. “Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall Humpty dumpty had a great OH PLEASEPLEASEPLEASE PUT ME DOWN NAO!” The filly was dancing the pony pokey on Henri's back, but a griffon's constitution is one of a predator: happy to fly with an adult pony struggling in her claws and still capable of gaining altitude in the meantime. “Stop it, I'm not letting you fall! Yeow! Don't pluck me, have you the slightest idea of how long those plumes take to grow back!?” Sick of being pestered by the panicking pony, the young flier bumped Puppysmiles off her back and caught the falling filly with her frontal talons. “Alright, at least this way you don't risk falling! Hold on, we'll land as soon as we're out of the ruins!” “EEEEEEP!” “Don't wet your suit, it's a couple kilometers at most, we gotta put some distance between us and this place before it blows up!” The half eagle accelerated, pushing herself harder so that the trip would be as short as possible, but carrying a howling banshee in the night sky was going to wake some sleeping ponies; Henrietta could only pray to her lucky star that nopony would poke their head out a window and look for the source, or that they wouldn’t care enough. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 9 - TIME approximately 3:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Serpent Desert, Big 52 SC Branch “I wasn't scared at all, you know... I was just, ah, cautious. I mean, with all those identical roofs and the wind you could, ah, lose yourself and it's much better seeing the names of the streets when you don't know where you are going.” Now that she had all of her hooves on solid ground again, Puppy was desperately trying to regain her macho appeal, but the effort was a little wasted by Henrietta literally rolling on the road laughing. “Priceless! You're priceless, Puppy!” The griffon gasped as she tried to inhale, wiped a tear from her eye and burst into another laugh, “How did you scream? Eeeep! Do it again, do it again please!” The filly in yellow pouted, sat down and sighed. “Hey it wasn't me the one that got lost in a city... I've seen chickens smarter than y-” BLAM! Puppy looked down at the hole in her suit, right where her heart should be. “Hey! There are already enough bullybots doing that!” Henrietta got up and waved her gun in a dismissive manner; she still hadn’t stopped smiling, even when she shot Puppy. “Aw, don't complain, you got torn apart by a manticore and still stand there, how could you get hurt by bullet or two?” BLAM! BLAM! Another couple of shots pierced Puppy, once in a leg and again in her chest. “Stop it! This stoopid suit starts saying absurdities and mumbo-jumbos every time this happens!” A thin tread of pink poured from the holes made by the griffon's gun. “Okay, okay, but you stop calling me a chicken.” Henrietta yawned and put away her pistols, “Just for your information, normal ponies die when they are shot, even ghouls... so don't try this yourself on other ponies, okay?” Puppy nodded, a bit confused, then tilted her head. “But I am a normal pony! I am a pony!” “Hey, hey, I didn't say otherwise... woah, are we a little upset today? Want me to sing you a lullaby?” Henri asked with a mocking tone. The foal nodded vigorously. “Sure! I lovelovelove lullabies! Can we sing Hush now quiet now?” The griffon facepalmed; what was the point of trying to provoke this foal if she couldn't even tell when she was being mocked? “You're a lost cause, Puppy... ” “Hush now, quiet now it's time to rest your sleepy head Hush now quiet now it's time to go to beeed!” Henri sighed and started walking south. “Why, dad, why do I owe my life to this idiot twice?” The girl smiled and turned her head toward the little pony, “Hey, jump on your red racer, I'll fly above you: we have a lot of ground to cover if you want to get to Rust Manor by tomorrow.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 9 - TIME approximately 10:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Serpent Desert, Big 52 SC Branch A small campfire cast the shadows of Puppy and Henrietta over the sand dunes. The two travelers were sitting next to the little source of light and heat; Henri was eating something from a tin can but from the faces she made it wasn't exactly griffon food. The clouds above the desert helped the place to maintain its temperature even during the night, but the half eagle was still wearing a plaid on her shoulders. “So, Puppy, this Blue Voice told you that you are a robot?” Henri's expression was hard to read, like if she was trying to keep a poker face until the filly finished telling the whole story. “Yes, and he seemed double super sure of this... I almost fell for it too, but then arrived Creepy Voice that told me that it was impossible because... ah... I didn't understand that part, but it seemed quite okay when she said it.” Puppy nodded wisely, as if this was everything that she needed to know. The griffon shrugged. “So, a computer tells you that you're some sort of crazy machine but a hallucination says otherwise... I think you just got dazed by the EMP grenade because of the backlash on your suit's circuitry and you had a dream.” Henrietta yawned before continuing, “But I don't think you are a robot, Puppy... robots explode when shot... besides, robots are intelligent.” The foal frowned. “So, what do you think I am?” The half lion stretched her hind legs and crouched on her improvised couch. “You? You are bad news, that's all I need to know... but I like you, so you can hang with me and be cool like big ‘sis Henri.” Puppy trotted over to her companion and met Henrietta’s gaze; the filly's eyes were two large glowing pink lights in the darkness of the night. “Yes but... I am a pony, right? I mean, it doesn't matter if I don't eat or drink or never need to potty, right? I'm a pony...” She seems worried, this robot thing is actually scaring her... oh, fuck, why me? Henri was completely exhausted and she didn't need a foal with an existential crisis at the moment: all that she wanted was just some sleep. The griffon patted the filly on the helmet, yawning. “You can be whatever you want, Puppy. You are a good pony and good ponies are the most rare variety in Equestria nowadays. As long as you think that you should be a pony, then you'll be a pony. Now go to sleep, please.” The little foal smiled and tried nudging Henry through the helmet. “Thank you Henri, you are my very best chicken friend!” Crouching next to the half eagle, the little pony sighed and waited, she wasn't sleepy at all... … … “HEY! What did you mean by I'm not a robot because they are intelligent!?” Puppy poked Henri in a flank, but the griffon just snickered and turned on her other side. “Priceless.” The little pony kept whining and poking her friend to try and make her talk, but the griffon began to snore loudly, leaving a frustrated Puppy complaining in front of a dying fire. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 1:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Serpent Desert, Big 52 SC Branch It was still dark and Puppy couldn't sleep; the foal wasn't tired at all, but Henri didn't want to be disturbed, so the little filly did the most logical thing she could think of: sightseeing the desert by night, just because wise Puppy is wise. So far this place had deluded a lot of Puppy's expectations, after all those movies with the cowponies and the buffaloes she was quite sure that a desert should be so crowded with skulls, arrows, tents and such that you couldn't even find a place to put you own hooves; after the days spent in the 'real' desert the filly had the slightest suspicion that all the buffaloes must have gone away for some sort of holiday, but she hoped to find at least a lizard in a place called Serpent Desert; all she had seen so far were a couple of carts half buried in the sand and a large parasprite with long teeth that was building something similar to a nest, but when she approached it, the parasprite flew away avoiding her. “Warning. Hostile detected. Analyzing. Mutated parasprite, Parador variety. Threat level: deadly.” “Aw, why is every pretty fluffy animal in this place so shy? I just want to make friends!” said the two-hundred-year-old monster to the mutated, murderous offspring of Mother Nature and Father Taint. “Hey Puppy, it's been a while; you travel a lot, don't you?” said a metallic voice, which interrupted the little exploration of miss adventure; the filly smiled broadly and turned to her friend. “Mister Questioner! Where have you been?” “It's Watcher, I watch things, Watcher...” Puppy nodded, still smiling. “Okie dokie mister Questioner, can I watch things too?” From the speakers of the Spritebot came a soft and metallic chuckle. “Puppy, Puppy never changes... how are you? I've heard that you had a little adventure in Tunnel Town and now I find you south of Sun City...” “Yush! I met a lot of nice and pretty ponies! There was this chicken called Henri and then Asso and Sweet Flower, Happy, Jamie and a lot of other friends!” “Wow, you are quite lucky to have so many friends, aren't you? And say, have you been in Sun City?” The voice was trying hard to maintain a neutral tone, but it seemed very curious. Puppy frowned. “Yeah, it was like a super duper box with streamers and mighty fine wrappings but with oatmeal inside... everypony was grumpy, they didn't want to talk with me or to play with me and their mayor was a stoopid voice that told me bad things.” “Bad things like what? Would you like to talk about that?” Watcher's tone seemed worried, now. Puppy looked away. “He told me That I wasn't a pony but a robot, then I used that big teapot that puts robots to sleep and I was hit too... everypony keeps telling me that I am no robot, but why I-” “Tut, tut, Puppy. Don't fret your little head, if there is a thing that I'm completely sure it is that you are not a robot, that voice probably read some data from a sensor scanning you but it was a machine and couldn't see beyond your appearance. You are a pretty pony, okay? Now smile to me and show me that everything is alright.” Puppy nodded and smiled a little. “Very well; now, zombie ponies in a nice city... did you find anything like a buzz or a humming sound all over the place?” “Nopey mopey, but Henri told me that the buzz was gone and that all the pretty ponies were going to wake up and being not-so-pretty.” “Oh, so at last the interference is gone; I can finally take a look inside the place then... let me guess, you stopped it?” Puppy frowned. “No, I just went there because I was told that Henri was in danger... but she wasn't, she just acted like a stoopid chicken flying around and not paying attention to me, like every other pony in the town... so I went to this Voice Mayor and we had this big argument, he wanted to be smarter than me so I took the blue teapot and-” “Ah, excuse me, what is a blue teapot?” The filly sighed, helmethoofing. “Why I have to explain everything to everypony? It's a teapot, round and shiny with a blue pointy head. I found it inside a rusted cart in that place in the swamp.” “Alright, so you detonated an EMP shock shell in front of a supercomputer... yes, you stopped the interference. And what about the new look?” Puppy tilted the head trying to look at her mane. “You mean the blue line? I don't know, it appeared when I woke up the other day after speaking with Cre-” “Hey Puppy, who's there? Hold on I'm coming!” Henrietta's voice interrupted the little pony. “Sorry little one I've got to go, you can tell me this story another time!” Without even waiting for an answer, the spritebot made a noise like static and began playing some patriotic music. The griffon landed on the dune's top checking the surroundings, with a gun in both her talons; as soon as she decided that there was no immediate danger, the gunslinger girl put away the weapons and scolded Puppy: “Bad pony! Stop playing around with the spritebots and come back to the camp!” Puppy waved a hoof at the floating robot as if left and trotted back to her feathery friend. “I wasn't playing, I was telling him my interesting adventures!” “Yeah, sure, now let's get back to sleep: tomorrow will be a long day.” The griffon rubbed Puppy on the helmet and they went back to their camp. Half an hour later, a scared parador could finally go back building its nest in peace. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Good morning fillies and gentlecolts! This is Lonesome Pony and you're listening to Radio 52! Find a radio better than us and I'll personally give you a treat! Who, DJ PON-3? Please, I've heard he's a she! Really! And during clear nights she transform herself into a giant three headed diamond dog! No kidding, just go to Tenpony tower during a clear night and you'll see! But L.P. There hasn't been a clear night, or day, since the spells fell! Not my problem, my little ponies, you just stay tuned on Radio 52 and stop blabbering about cross dressing radio DJs! Now, back to work: it's news time! Yesterday morning Sun City woke up from a nineteen year long sleep; I don't have any details, but it seems that during the night somepony assaulted the central tower of the town, stopping whatever device was controlling the minds of everypony in the city! Yes my little ponies, you heard me correctly! Nopony ever came back from Sun City because the whole place was under the effect of a giant mind control device! This is crazy! And guess what the pretty residents did the very same moment they realized that the mind control was gone? You guessed it! They started shooting each other for the control of the town! If you are going to cross Serpent Desert take a long detour, following Green Route East or take the Chasm Trail but stay away from Sun City until things settle down! I repeat: stay away from Sun City and avoid Red Route if possible. Now, for the ones who like a little gossip, who's the responsible for the change of administration in the city? Do I really need to say the name? Yes my little ponies, our little resident hero saved you from a never ending sleep so that you could freely and willingly WASTE YOUR LIFE KILLING EACH OTHER! Don't you even feel ashamed? I... I don't want to talk about this, take some music while I look for answers in an empty bottle. What we've got here is failure to communicate: some ponies you just can't reach... The voice of the DJ was replaced by music. Look at you young colts fighting Look at your fillies crying Look at your young colts dying The way they've always done before DAY 10 - TIME approximately 10:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Rust Manor, Big 52 SC Branch Rust Manor seemed exactly what it said on the tin: somepony built a large, reinforced barricade made up of huge air wagon carcasses, forming a ring a hundred meters in diameter around what was originally the offspring of a bunker and an air traffic control tower. The whole structure was once coated in thick reinforced steel plates, now all the metal was rusted and the large tower seemed a monument to the concept of neglect itself; nonetheless the little town was a lively trading post, with several caravans stationed outside of the northern gates and half a dozen town guards scanning the surroundings from a crown of guard towers built on top of the wall. Henrietta called for Puppy to try and get her to stop when they were a couple of kilometers from the town, where the low hills became a flat plain peppered with craters. During the war the air field was heavily attacked with conventional weapons, flattening every structure except the fortified control tower; the open terrain gave a sniper a long line of sight, which made it easy to care of any possible nuisance. “Wait for me, red bolt!” The griffon landed in front of the filly, making her brake in a cloud of dust. “Woah, look where you are landing! I was running there before you!” “Yeah, sure, whatever. I need you to listen carefully, fishbowl head, I have to leave you again, but this place is safe so you won't find troubles.” Puppy's eyes grew large and teary while the filly was already starting to pout. “But- but why? I don't want you to go away!” “Yeah, I know, I'm cool and without me you are quite clueless, but those guys that were after me in Sun city had a whole day behind their wings, so it's possible that they're waiting for me here; I don't want you to get involved in my troubles.” “Ah, if the bad chickens are after you we can explain them that you are a good girl and you will behave and say that you are sorry for whatever you did so they will let you be, can we?” Henrietta sighed patting Puppy on the helmet. “The story is a little more complicated than that, involving things like me having shot a couple of theirs and them wanting my head, so... no, I don't think we can just say that we are sorry, especially since I'm not sorry. They killed my father.” “Oh,” Puppy lowered her eyes, trying hard to think of something else, “but you can't just bully those that bully you; I mean, they are not bullybots, they are pretty kitties! You can't bully kitties!” Henrietta snickered. “Yeah, pretty kitties... this is why I'm not going into town, if I avoid them, there will be no need for me to kick their sorry butts and they won't be able to bully me.” The griffon shrugged. “And this ends the topic: take care, Puppy, I'm sure we'll meet again.” Without even waiting for a reply, Henrietta jumped into the air and with a couple of strokes from her wings she was already out of range for the eventual stone throw from Puppy. The filly galloped after her friend for a few hundred meters, calling desperately for her before stopping and sighing. “Aw, this is not fair... she didn't even hug me goodbye...” The foal raised her head to the sky, screaming, “Silky Tail, take care of her! She's in your hooves nao!” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 11:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Rust Manor, Big 52 SC Branch The sniper had been keeping the yellow dot in her sight since she surpassed the last hill, but the unicorn mare was uncertain of what she was looking at; the guard put a hoof on an interphone. “Last Stand here, I have a contact at one, one, eight, six, south; it seems a pony in a yellow suit, could be that ghost from the radio, fits the description pretty well... are ghosts welcome here?” The speaker replied in a storm of statics and electric whistles. “Keep an eye on the target and see what it does; call again if you notice any hostile behavior, otherwise let it approach the gates.” “Roger, roger.” The mare went back to her position. In the meantime Puppy reached the first caravans, drawing the attention of almost every hired guard in the area outside the walls; a lot of ponies were whispering to each other and a couple of them reached for their weapons. The little filly didn't even notice their reactions; her mother was somewhere inside the big town and this was all that she needed to know. “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom? Mister Voice told me she is here!” All the ponies in the area looked at the filly, then one of them sighed. “Oh, it's just Lonesome's Ghost.” The guards put away their weapons and a couple of merchant that stopped chatting at Puppy's appearance went back to their business, but nopony replied to her question. “Uh, I guess that's a no?” The filly was confused, her status changed from center of attention to completely ignored, this couldn't be right, “Aw, when you want something done, you have to do it yourself... okie dokie mister Voice, where now?” “Analyzing. Loading local maps: Blue Feathers Air Field. Matching failed. Loading backup data. Finding points of interest. Points located: one - Control Tower. Control Tower set as next way point.” The arrow moved on the compass. “Oh, inside the town, alright!” Puppy trotted merrily toward the gates but was stopped almost immediately by an old stallion wearing a mercenary armor and a dusty hat; somehow the eyes of this pony held something familiar, as if the little pony already seen them somewhere before. “Hey mom, why that pony has only three legs?” “He's a war hero Puppy, please don't bother him: he's very tired” “Yeah, tired of giving my leg for a fucking useless war against fucking enemies I don't even care about because of a fucking goddess that puts a bunch of coal in front of a pony’s life!” “Tee-hee, the pretty pony says strange words!” “No Puppy! Forget that word, it's a bad word! And you, you should be ashamed of using such a language in front of a foal!” “Fuck off, bitch...” “Let's go away, Puppy, come with me.” “But mom, I wanted to-” “Yeah, pink rat, trot after your mom! There's nothing to see here...” Puppy blinked, lost in her memories; when she came back from her personal world the old pony with the angry eyes was still standing there, so the filly stared back at him and tilted her head. “Hi... have you seen my mom?” The mercenary spat on ground. “Are you deaf or what?” The foal sat down, looking confused at her interlocutor. “Ah, sorry I didn't hear the question... why are you angry? Did I do something wrong?” The pony snickered. “I asked you if you think that you are a hero or what.” Puppy smiled, this was easy. “Oh, I'm Space Captain Andromeda! With my space suit and my super fast ride I run all around the cosmos and meet a lot of new friends! Wanna play with me? I have a rocket too, look!” The filly rose a hoof stating, “Rocket!” A rocket toy floated in front of the filly. The old stallion raised an eyebrow. “Are you trying to make a fool of me? Do you know who I am? You better pick your foes and lower your ears, you fucking load of shit!” Puppy giggled, weird words always made her giggle. “Tee-hee, mister old pretty pony says strange words! Can I play too? I'm good at inventing words, like, ah, scootalicious! Or bananaphone!” The small crowd of curious ponies started laughing. The little filly not only didn't seem any impressed by that old mercenary, and she was laughing at him, too... sooner or later somepony's blood was going to stain the dirt. Last Stand put again a hoof on the interphone from her guarding post. “Last Stand here, there could be trouble outside of the northern gate: the yellow pony is getting into a fight with a mercenary.” “We are sending a couple of guards; wait for instructions and hold fire unless one of ours is attacked.” “Roger, roger.” In the meantime the old pony grabbed puppy by a leg and lifted her from the ground, looking into her eyes with a menacing face. “So you think you can laugh of me? You think I won’t touch you just because a fucking pony in a radio program talks about you? Think again!” “Hey, lemme go! I have to find my mom! I didn't do anything to you, meanie face! Put me down!” The foal was struggling but she couldn't break free, “If my mom was here she’d show you! lemme go, lemme goooooo!” Somehow the whining of the little pony killed the mood, the small crowd looked away in embarrassment and even the old mercenary wasn't really sure of what he was supposed to do now. This filly wasn't some stuck up hero walking triumphantly trough the city gates or some sort of knight in shining armor thinking that he had Luna knows what kind of holy mission... this was just a... “Fuck, Lonesome Pony must have gone very far with his tequila to call this critter a hero...” In the meantime, since everything else didn't work, Puppy started crying, wailing and whining. Even the last ponies that had hoped to see some action went away in front of that murderous act against dignity. The mercenary put the foal down, sighing. “Go away, I don't pick fights with foals.” He gave a quick spank to Puppy's behind to empathize the order and the filly galloped away, still crying. Somehow, he knew that he was a bad pony and that he should feel bad, and somewhere inside the weathered mercenary a little pony actually did feel bad, but it was just for a fraction of a second. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Footnote: Level up! (9) New perk added: Whining Presence - You can whine your way out of almost every situation. During certain encounters you gain special dialogue options that let you avoid combat, but you’ll lose reputation. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Additional thanks to AnonSamurai and Errantindy for the help with the English and some coherence in the plot
mimezinga	931	11	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-05T23:58:20+00:00	2011-12-05T23:58:20+00:00	30,385	Edited by The Great and Powerful uSea CHAPTER 11: Family Doodles You’re not using power tools, are you? DAY 10 - TIME approximately 1:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Rust Manor, Big 52 SC Branch Ah-Hem, good afternoon everypony, I am Lonesome Pony and this is a special edition of the news, fresh from Dust Manor. For a moment the feminine voice of the afternoon DJ could be clearly heard in the background yelling something like 'Gimme back my seat you hog!' followed by a metallic sound. DJ Good Stuff will be back immediately after the news, I mean, what kind of a name is Good Stuff anyway? What are you, a Mintals table- ow ow OW stop that! Alright, I was kind and sweet, but now you asked for it! Here comes love and tolerance, Minty! A muffled sound that resembled a brawl interrupted the program for a minute, before Lonesome Pony began to talk into the microphone again while trying to hide his panting. Good Stuff wishes you well and will be back in a minute, but at the moment she has her hooves tied... with a power cord... so, where were we? Oh right, the special news! This is fresh from not even an hour ago, from my radio friends in Rust Manor! Thank you Easy Filly Butterfly 23! Lonesome Pony cleared his voice and started talking. Some heroes fall, some heroes get killed, some heroes disappear into a Stable and never come back... well, our hero gets spanked. Yeah, you heard me: late this morning the Ghost was sighted outside Rust Manor heading for the town and when she tried to approach a group of caravans, a guard scolded her and spanked her in front of everypony. Now, are you fucking idiots or what? From the little we know this pony destroyed a fortified barn outside Redtrotter's territory and ran inside a heavily guarded tunnel, frying the robot guards inside; yes, I got some more info about Tunnel Town: the local guard chief Trigger Happy was present and she says that the foal destroyed six sentinels using only a stone as a weapon... and you pick a fight with this foal? What was that, were you tired of living? Anyhow it seems that the guard won the fight if you can call that a fight: little miss Yellow tried a friendly approach, got a spank in response and ran away crying. There was a sigh followed by a long pause. Yeah, this is what I call gratitude... L.P. closing, have some decent music while Good Stuff unties herself, I've got fly if I want to live. Stay classy, Big 52. Music filled the silence. Saw you stretched out in room Ten O Nine with a smile on your face and a tear right in your eye couldn't see to get a line on you my sweet honey love Puppy hid behind an abandoned cart, still crying. What did she do this time? She tried really hard to behave and be a good pony, but everything seemed to backfire every time, from a simple peek in a tunnel up to crazed partying robots and roofs falling. Why did Mom keep moving and won’t wait for her? The little filly felt empty, and tired. Zebra jewelry jangling down the street make you shut your eyes at every filly that you meet couldn't seem to get a high on you my sweet honey love But Puppy couldn't simply stop searching and sit down; even if ponies were unkind and the road seemed endless, her mom was somewhere just over the next hill, or maybe the hill beyond that one. One hill after another, one at a time, it was just a matter of time. May Celestia shine a light on you make every song your favorite tune may Celestia shine a light on you warm like the evening Sun The filly in yellow got up; moping behind a cart wasn't going to find Mom. She was a filly on a mission, everything else didn't matter. Go Puppy! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 1:45 P.M. - LOCATION: Rust Manor, Big 52 SC Branch The two stallions guarding the gates exchanged a rapid glance, seemingly uncertain about whom should deal with the approaching foal; finally the older one addressed the filly. “Sorry kiddo, if you want to get inside you have to pay. Two hundred caps and leave all your weapons here.” Puppy frowned, two hundred was a super duper big number. She was quite good at counting up to four and with some help (and time) even ten, but two hundred? What was a hundred anyway? “Ah, I'm just looking for my mom, Puppy please?” “Show me the bottle caps and we have a deal, filly.” The guard yawned, trying to maintain his neutral tone, but he was concerned about what would happen if the filly didn't have the cash and still insisted on going inside; maybe it would be a good idea to call the chief... “Pouch!” A large bag floated in front of Puppysmiles and she handed it to the guard. “Ah, can you help me counting these ones? Are there enough shiny caps?” The stallion nodded and emptied the bag on a table: it was two thirds full of caps and a third in bits from the old age; some of them were golden. “Alright, this is more than enough.” The pony blinked at the other guard, who cocked his head and looked back at him with a snort of disapproval. “C'mon, she’s just a foal, you can’t be serious!” The first guard sighed and counted out exactly two hundred caps, putting the rest back in the bag and giving them back to Puppy, who smiled and put away her possessions. “Thank you super much mister pretty guard ponies!” Inside the walls, Rust Manor was cramped and crowded; the air wagons used to build the walls doubled as houses and stores, leaving little space to move around the large fortification in the middle of the town. Now that Puppy had taken a better look at the whole place it seemed like a village of tiny creatures built all around the trunk of a dead tree, only with the tree being a hundred meters tall. The little filly trotted around, peeking inside the shops and trying to find a door to get inside the fortified tower. The arrow was pointing exactly in the middle of that big thing, so it was obvious that she needed to get inside somehow. There were a lot of ponies; some of the locals looked at Puppy with interest or curiosity, but they were mostly minding their business, tagging the little filly as an innocuous oddity, especially after her 'duel' with the mercenary that morning. Puppy didn’t care at all; at last she had found a place full of pretty ponies that behaved like real ponies and she knew that where there were big ponies working, there must be... “Yush! Ponies playing!” A trio of foals, a filly and two colts, were running around, laughing and yelling at each other; they were having so much fun! But Puppy had to go and find her mom... but if she went away and the pretty ponies went away, she couldn't play and she wanted to play so much! But Mom... maybe only a minute, just to make friends and ask if they had seen her mom? Yes, right! She wasn't going to play -ah, talk, not play, talk- with the pretty ponies because she wanted to have fun, it was because they could know where Mom was! Ah, clever Puppy, she could even outsmart herself... “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom?” The trio of foals stopped running and yelling, turning as a single pony toward the newcomer: the filly was a gray unicorn with a pink mane, the two colts were a unicorn with a palette very similar to the filly's and an earth pony with a brown mane and a green coat. They stared for a long moment at Puppy, both with amazement and a little concern, then the filly asked, “Where did you get that super creepy space suit?” The filly in yellow frowned. “It's not creepy, it's Space Captain Andromeda's Space Suit!” At this point Puppy made a theatrical pause to raise the tension, and added: “It's cool!” The unicorn colt nodded, “Yeah, I have an Andromeda comic: she's a girl but she's super cool all the same, because she has a laser gun and fights zebra aliens.” The other two foals nodded when the expert gave his approval, the unicorn filly smiled in a friendly manner. “I'm Big Deal,” pointing a hoof at herself, then waving the hoof the other unicorn she continued, ”he's my twin brother Ricochet and he's Painkiller.” “And I'm Puppysmiles, I come from Canterlot and I'm looking for my mom... what were you doing? Playing? Can I join?” Great, now that she asked what she had to ask twice, she could take a pause, right? Ricochet tilted his head, “Your mom? What's her name?” “She's called Rainy Days and she's the coolest pony ever! She can cook muffins and cupcakes and chocolate pudding and apple pie but she makes me always eat alfalfa... she went away some days ago for work and then our house in Canterlot collapsed and I'm looking for her because mister Voice knows where she is, so it's better than waiting for her inside a collapsed house, I think...” The three little ponies nodded, as if Puppy's speech made sense, “Yeah, last time I broke a bottle Mom was really mad, I don't want to know how mad your mum will be when she finds out you broke the whole house.” The filly in yellow frowned. “It's not my fault! I went to sleep and when I woke up the house was gone!” “Tell that to your mom: I tried to say that a band of slavers broke the bottle but she knew! Moms have some sort of super sense that tells them who did what...” added Painkiller, muttering the last words as if it was better to not divulge too much of such secrets. “I didn't break my home! Cross on my heart!” Puppy insisted on defending her position, mostly because it was the only defense she had: nopony was around when the house collapsed and she was almost sure that it wasn't her fault. “You better did not...” cut short Big Deal, “but I don't know any Rainy Days living in Rust Manor... we were playing cowponies and zebras, want to join? You can be the alien.” Painkiller protested: “I don't want to be the zebra anymore! Why can't you two be zebras for once?” Ricochet tipped his sister's horn with a hoof, “Because zebras don't have horns, duh!” Puppy intervened in the discussion: “Once I was told that zebras can grow wings with some sort of weird device, but they are bat wings. Besides, I want to be Space Captain Andromeda.” “But you don't have Andromeda's gun... you could be Maripony, the second mare on the moon!” tried Ricochet, but his sister interrupted him. “Maripony had never been on the moon for real! A pony can't get there!” “Yes she did!” “No she didn't!” “Yes she did!” “No she didn't!” The twins stood in front of each other, muzzle against muzzle, arguing about a two centuries old moon landing; Painkiller approached Puppy, sighing. “They'll go on like this until dinner... so, ah, it's a cool suit that one... does it have a compass and healing spells?” Puppy watched the brother and sister show for a moment, then moved her attention to the earth pony; he was a little older than her and he already had a cutie mark of a syringe. “Are you, ah, going to make injections to me?” The colt stared a bit confused at the filly inside the radsuit before realizing that she was talking about his cutie mark. “What? Oh, this! Don't worry, dad doesn't let me touch his stuff... so... uh... you are quite cool, for a filly...” Compliments, they always worked on Puppy's ego: she grew ten centimeter taller in ten seconds flat and sported a broad smile. “Well yes, I'm cool, I know... yeah, this space suit has everything: a compass, a lot of dots here and there and some writings, see?” The filly poked at the helmet trying to show the colt all the stuff she said. “And look at this! Ah-hem... rock!” The Rock Of Destiny floated in front of Puppy. “Woah, how do you do that without unicorn magic?” The foal shrugged, “I don't know, the suit does all this cool stuff for me. It's magic, I'm not going to explain that.” The colt tapped his chin, thinking. “Too bad you don't have Andromeda's laser gun... but I have an old toy gun I never used because it's so heavy that I can't hold it in my teeth, maybe with that levitation thing it could fit with your costume...” Puppy's eyes grew as large as two soup bowls. “Really?” “Yeah, maybe if you have something to barter it with, we could make a deal... I don't want it anyway, it seems girly and does nothing.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 3:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Rust Manor, Big 52 SC Branch While Painkiller was still looking at the pile of 42 muffin boxes not believing his luck, Puppy tried to point at something with her brand new laser gun; it was a pistol with a futuristic form, an antenna on the muzzle and some metallic rings here and there; the grip had no trigger and the whole object was silvery gray with red plastic inserts. “It's heavy...” complained the little filly, trying to hold it with a hoof to no avail. “Hey, no refunds!” The colt was constantly dropping one box of muffins after another from his grasp, “Why can't I hold all these muffins?” In the meantime Puppy aimed at the sky, sitting on her rump and using both hooves to hold the weapon. She said just one word. “Bang!” “New equipment detected: Sol. Inc. Prototype 152, Codename Sentenza. Synchronizing. Opening communication bridge with Comm Station n° 2. Checking status. Ponymedes net online and operative at 12%. Relaying coordinates.” “Aw, this stoopid suit is talking nonsense again!” From the curtain of clouds appeared a thin red line of light, then a second and a third; they were like faint laser beams, piercing the leaden skies and illuminating with tiny and seemingly innocuous red dots a roof here and a cart there. A dog that was napping under a bench chased one of the dots across the street before banging his muzzle on a door. “Warning. Ponymedes 4, 6 and 7 are not responding. Ponymedes 8 to 12 cannot lock on target. Warning. Power up sequence delayed by... impossible to deliver an estimate.” Painkiller didn't pay attention to Puppy, already trotting away and leaving a sweet trail of muffins behind him. “Yeah, whatever, it's been a pleasure bartering with you...” Sometimes the combined effort of a community can save a town, some other times a hero has to show up and fight his battle... and there are even times when it’s just a matter of blind luck. “Warning. Losing signal. Abort command. Repeat: abort command. Closing communication bridge. Ponymedes offline due to recalibration, orbital relocation and maintenance. Estimated downtime: 24 hours.” Finally the suit stopped talking, Puppy snorted, “Hey, have you finished with all this blah blah Idontcare? We have to find Mom!” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 3:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Rust Manor, Big 52 SC Branch “Oh yeah? And you are a stinky fish!” “Oh yeah? And you are so uncool that even your cooties flee from you!” Big Deal and Ricochet were still standing muzzle against muzzle, arguing about something they probably didn't even remember. “Oh, that should explain why you have so many cooties! You seem a walking flea circus! Hi Puppy...” “And you are all girly and smoochy and all you do is girly and all your toys are girly and —hi Puppy— and you are a... a... a girl!” “Hi Rico, hi Big D.” Puppy waved a hoof trotting past the twins, at last finding an entrance to the tower, the sign on top letting all know it was a really classy brothel... as if the filly cared. The place was filled with red drapes and was scarcely illuminated to hide the worn furniture; in front of the entrance a mare was sitting behind a counter, usually greeting the customers but now staring surprised at the little pony in front of her. From Puppy's point of view this was a nice place, with a lot of fancy things like posters and marble statues of ponies. “Ah... hi there, I don't think this place is good for you...” Puppy smiled and waved a hoof; “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Mister Voice says that my mom is in this place!” The mare looked slightly concerned. “I... can't say this is impossible, actually... I have a couple of new girls working here. Do you know your mother's name? No little one, don't touch the statue, it's fragile! Ah, don't look at it, either!” The filly was already exploring, having found an interesting statue of a stallion in a very, ah, manly pose... the filly frowned, “I think this pony has too many legs... ah, she's called Rainy Days! And she is-” “I'm sorry little one, there are no Rainy Days working here, but if you want to be sure -don't touch it!- I can call the new earth pony working here, just in case... HEY HOLLY, COME DOWN!” Very classy brothel... Puppy wasn't listening to the mare anymore, her eyes staring at some faded crayon lines on the wall, half hidden behind the statue. And now she was staring at the same wall, only two centuries earlier. “Wait here Puppy, Mom will be back very soon: this will take just a few minutes!” “Okay Mom, I love you bye bye!” Mom nuzzled Puppy behind the ear, making her giggle before trotting away. The big room was so gray and sad, with just a couple of seats and a low table filled with ultra boring magazines just showing weapons and stoopid soldiers on them. Puppy sat in front of the wall, looking at the gloomy empty space in front of her; this needed changes, this needed crayons! It took a lifetime, at least ten minutes, but now Puppy's masterpiece was almost finished. There were the two prettiest ponies she was ever able to create; one was little and pink, with a bright yellow mane; Puppy was particularly proud of how she captured her own pinkiness. The second pony was bigger, with a purple coat and an orange mane... Mom, she was beautiful, if only Puppy could write how beautiful she was... oh well, the drawing was already doing a great job anyway. The foal had added some trees to the scene, both green and yellow, and one was pink with a yellow trunk, because she always thought that pink would be the best color for a tree. She looked over her work to see if something was missing: sun, check... butterflies, check... muffins, check... Now the picture needed only one last thing “And when we are done we will go to Dad's place and he'll be back, so we will be happy forever...” She knew what was missing, but she couldn't finish the work all the same: “What are Dad’s colors?” “Puppy what the hay are you doing!? You can't draw on walls! What did I tell you a-”. “Mom, I can't remember Dad's colors...” Mom fell silent immediately, Puppy was still looking at the drawing trying not to lose the inspiration, but how could she draw a pony if she didn't know what colors to use? Suddenly Mom hugged her so tightly that she gasped. “Don't worry Puppy, I swear that this will end one day and we... we will be happy together, as we were before this war... I... I...” “Hey little one, wake up, pay attention! Is this your mother?” Puppy turned her head toward the proprietor of the brothel, now accompanied by a young mare that she didn’t know; the young prostitute looked at the filly in confusion and cocked her head. “No, she's not mine, I would remember having a foal... besides, I never had any pink in my family.” “I... I have been here, it was...” Puppy tried to remember, but it wasn't easy; it was as if the memories she wanted to reach were way farther than she thought, “a month ago, I think... but... it was different...” The matron snickered, patting the filly on the back. “I don't think so, little one, I've been the proprietor of the Velvet Pearl for fifteen years and I never changed a single doorknob...” The filly went back again looking at the little drawing and finally noticing something different, something new; a broad smile appeared on her face. “I... I remember him, he was white and yellow! Dad was white and yellow!” The little foal pointed a hoof at the picture, turning toward the two mares, “That's my dad, see? He's my dad I didn't remember his color but now he is there with me and Mom! There is something written here, please read it please, please, please!” The old mare lowered her head, looking at that drawing for the first time in her life; not that she had never seen it, she just couldn’t give a buck about a stain on the wall, choosing to cover the mess instead of repainting it. The drawing was of three ponies: two were clearly the work of a foal, just some colored lines on a wall, with some trees and a green line to represent the ground, but the third one seemed the work of somepony good at drawing: it showed a young white stallion with a golden mane, very similar to the mane of the filly who stood looking at the wall... Under the drawing somepony had written a few words that the old mare read in a low voice, almost whispering. “Together again, here and forever. Love, Mom.” Puppy put a hoof on the painting, “Mom was here... and now we are all here! This is me, and this is Mom and this is Dad! Wait, I know!” The filly reached for a pencil and added a last detail on the work: three smiles on the pony's faces. “Now we are all happy! Yay! We can have a picnic and chase butterflies and wait for the fireflies and Mom and Dad will kiss me goodnight, it's all right again!” Puppy paused, staring at the image as if she was living through the story she told. The younger mare stared at the scene in silence, her face betraying a growing angst. That... that foal, how could she endure all this? That childish drawing on the wall was all that was left of her family, yet she was still smiling as if it was real. She was smiling! But, but they were dead, she had already lost everything, she was alone! A little ghost drifting forever from place to place, asking for something she could never have back; without rest, nor hope... only a hole filled with faint memories... forever. The prostitute was overwhelmed by that sense of despair and eternal nothingness, she needed fresh air, to be out of that place, away from that haunting vision! She broke into a gallop leaving the brothel behind as tears rolled down her cheeks. The older mare was made of sterner stuff: she had already seen much of what the wasteland could throw at her, and endured loss many times in her life. “Yes, little ghost, you are all together...” This was unfair, a lost foal finding a spot of happiness behind the statue of an aroused stallion was a cruel way for the wasteland to serve you some relief. Nonetheless there were moments like these, that healed wounds and gave you the will to go on; letting them slip away was worse than denying yourself. “You can sit here and watch the painting as long as you want, but I don't think that your mom is here, she must have... ah... moved away a long time ago. I'm sorry, kid.” The mare raised her voice: “And somepony come down and move that statue, there are foals here! We are not perverts!” The sensation was weird, but refreshing; that little foal, that clueless lonely soul, made her wish to be a better pony somehow. A bittersweet smile appeared on the mare's wizened muzzle. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 4:45 P.M. - LOCATION: Rust Manor, Big 52 SC Branch “Prepare your muzzle! I'm giving you a black eye!” “Oh yeah? You and what army?” “I don't need an army, I already have a dumb brother! Hi Puppy.” “I'm not dumb! —Hi Puppy— You are dumb! Dumber than your rump!” “Hi Rico, hi Big D.” Puppy trotted past the twins, who were still standing muzzle to muzzle. The filly in yellow had no time to assist the fight, she was looking for the place the arrow was pointing at. “Ah, mister Voice, what do we need to do now?” “Actual priority is: investigate Rust Manor. A set of public places have been selected in order to ask as many ponies as possible for information. The first location in the list is: Red Water Saloon.” Puppy trotted inside the saloon: it consisted of a large hall with a loft at the bottom, noisy and full of hardened ponies that swore and drank hard stuff like Wild Pegasus and Coyote Tequila, sometimes mixed together and reinforced with special ingredients. To Puppy this place was simply another room full of pretty ponies that could know where her mom was, so she went for her usual routine. “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom?” For a single moment all the eyes inside the place turned on the entrance, the barpony crouched behind the counter and the pianist stopped playing, the only sound in the whole place was the one from the swinging doors creaking behind Puppy. One of the really tough ponies that was sitting at one of the tables next to the entrance tipped his hat and muttered in a voice that in the still silence was perfectly audible to everypony. “This ain't a place for ya, little pony, now go play with the foals before you get spanked... again...” All the saloon exploded into laughter, every single pony, and since everypony was laughing Puppy laughed too, “Tee-hee, very funny, ah, I don't get it but it's funny, so, have you seen my mom?” Most of the ponies didn't hear Puppy, but two of them did, a ghoul that was standing next to the door and the pony that had spoken to her; the former simply got out of the place, while the latter sighed and facehoofed. “No, no I don't know where is your mom, now please go away!” Trotting outside the saloon Puppy smiled, okay her mommy wasn't there but all the ponies in that place seemed crazy, so it was a good thing that she wasn't there! “Okie dokie Mister Voice, what's next?” “Hey, you there with the yellow suit, wait a moment!” A voice from the other side of the street made Puppy stop and turn on her tail; there was a ghoul pony wearing a leather hat and a long black trench coat looking at her. “Yes you, I have to speak with you!” Puppy sat down in the middle of the street, tilting her head. “Uh, okie dokie?” Crossing the street, the ghoul patted the filly on the helmet. Now that he was near enough, Puppy noticed that he seemed some sort of mummy, devoured by the sand and dried out like a big leather pelt wrapped around a carcass; saying that he was ugly was an understatement, but Puppy already dealt with ghouls and she knew that they could be nice ponies, maybe not pretty, but nice... for a moment she wondered if Soft Air and the others had already found a new home; maybe they'll write her a letter or, even better, send her a postcard with some super cool photo; Puppy loved photos. The mummified ghoul cleared his voice before talking. As with every other ghoul she had met, he seemed to speak through a cut throat filled with jelly. His voice quite old. “Good girl, you are the foal Lonesome is making a big fuss about, aren't you?” “Wut?” Puppy giggled, “Tee-hee, ugly pony says fancy words!” The ghoul rose a decomposed, perplexed half eyebrow, “Ah, you can call me Molten Gold. I'm an adventurer and a treasure hunter.” The foal smiled back “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom?” A faint smile appeared on the ghoul's muzzle, “Mmmmmmaybe... what would you do for me if I did?” Puppy jumped on all her hooves, “Anything! Please please please where is she?” The smile on Gold's face broadened “Good filly, I think we can make a deal, here...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 11:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Stable, Big 52 SC Branch The cave was dark and filled with bones of all genres, but mostly pony bones; it seemed like a macabre carpet laid on the floor of the hell's atrium. Puppysmiles stepped into the shadow, followed by Molten Gold. “I don't like this place, it's dark and full of hurt ponies, why do I have to go there?” The ghouls sighed. The walk with the foal from Rust Manor to the Solaris Stable had been a torture; this foal couldn't shut up for a single moment, but if what Lonesome Pony said was real, then she was also some sort of unstoppable raiding machine, able to deal with heavy defenses with little effort. “Because I'm a treasure hunter and we are doing a treasure hunt, you said that you like to treasure hunt, didn't you?” Puppy frowned, “Ah, yes I like playing treasure hunt, but usually Mom hides the cookies inside the jar, on the table... where is the kitchen in this scary cave?” “This time we're not after cookies, Puppy; inside this place there is a thing I need and if you find it I'll tell about your mom, now listen carefully.” Puppy sat down, trying to take a martial pose. “Yush! Space Pony Puppysmiles ready for the mission!” The ghoul snickered: “That's the spirit, filly! This is a secret base built by those good for nothings from Solaris Inc.; it was meant to work more or less like a Stable, but buck me if they ever did something that worked as intended. Anyhow, this is not our problem, our problem is the fact that it's more defended than a ranger's base, but from what I heard this could be a piece of cake for a badass like you.” Puppy mumbled, trying to find a sense in the ghouls words, “Ah, I like pie?” Molten laughed, “You remind me of a very young Soarin; anyhow, I'm not sure how big this place is, but there must be a place named research area, okay? You have to reach that place.” “Okie dokie! Re-search area, got it! Search it twice!” Puppy nodded enthusiastically. “Exactly, and when you- no no no NO! Not, search twice! Research, as in science! Now, you just have to ask your suit, it's really easy! Now repeat with me: Research area...” “Ree-search area?” tried the filly, a little dubious. “Good girl, now, when you are there, you have to find a box filled with these.” The pony took a round object from his bag and showed it to Puppy. “It's called a memory orb, okay? Repeat with me: memory orb...” “Murmuring orb...” Molten's face deflated, “How in Equestria have you survived this far? Memory, like remember things!” “I know what memory is! But that's a glass ball, it can't remember things, duh!” The ghoul rose a hoof while his eye was going twitchy twitch. “Wait.... wait a second here please, I'll be back immediately...” Molten Gold headed outside and even from where Puppy was sitting she could clearly hear him screaming, “Why a fucking retarded foal, why!? FUUUUUCK!” Since the screaming seemed to go on for a while, Puppy decided to take a look around by herself, just to get acquainted with the place; the cave was large enough for a cart to pass, but the entrance was half collapsed so that only slim ponies could actually squeeze in; it had been easy for Puppy and Molten Gold, but if an average stallion would have tried to get inside, he was going to get stuck in the middle of a bunch of half collapsed and unstable rocks at the bottom of a narrow canyon exactly in the middle of nowhere. The bones that littered the ground were old, white and bleached by time and the dry climate; some of them still sported some piece of clothing, like laboratory coats and some bits of scorched armored saddles. Rummaging in the piles of bones, Puppy found a cool pair of glasses and some shiny bits, lucky Puppy! There were even some weapons, but she already had her super cool space pistol and didn't need some noisy and ugly toys like those; instead she took the blue plastic card from the neck of a skeleton, blue wasn't her favorite color, but it had that cool image with the white alicorn stallion and she liked cool things. When the ghoul came back he seemed a lot happier. “Alright, I'm done, where were we?” “Ah, the glass balls?” tried Puppy uncertainly. “Yes, right, the mem- glass balls. Those.” Molten smiled and focused on what the filly was holding in her hoof. “Say, where did you find a security pass?” His eye once again started to dance the pony pokey. “No no no, don't tell me, I don't want to know... so, let's see if you understood. First you have to go to the...” “Ree-search area...” “Yes, and you have to look for the....” “Glass balls...” “Perfect. Now go and don't come back until you have those damn orbs,” the ghoul said, sighing with relief. “Okay, I like you mister Ugly Gold! when I find Mom I'll tell you that you were nice with me!” The filly trotted away, heading for the bunker's entrance. “It's Molten, not Ugly... aw, who cares, just do this job so I can forget this story forever.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 10 - TIME approximately 11:45 P.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Stable, Big 52 SC Branch The entrance of the bunker was an open, gigantic round door two meters thick and six meters wide, with the usual symbol of the company in the middle of it on both sides. Even here there were skeletons on the ground, littering both the floor of the cave and the entrance hall of the Stable. The hall was illuminated by flashing red and blue lights from four lamps on the ceiling, a clear sign of danger. “Uh, pretty lights!” Puppy jumped over the reinforced door and trotted around the hall for a moment. There were skeletons even here, and destroyed sentinels. The whole place was peppered with bullet holes. Other guns, other ragged dresses, bones, boo-ring.... “Say, Mister Voice, where is that ree-search place? Are we there yet?” “Negative. Current location: Solaris Stable Entrance Hall. Downloading local maps. Warning. All blueprints for Solaris Stable are protected. No maps available. Direct navigation is required. Auto mapping function activated.” “Ah, this means you have no idea where we are going?” “Affirmative. Current location is partially unknown. Impossible to set navigation points to the objective. Please proceed with caution.” Puppy's eyes widened in surprise and glee. “There's something you don't know! YAY! Who's the smart pony now, who? Ah? Ah? Who is? Not you Mister Voice! Bleh!” “Warning. This program is not designed to feel bad. Any form of teasing will be reported to the Legal Department as infringement of the license agreement per section 2, article 9, comma 12.” Puppy frowned, “Hey, stop using smart words I don't know! I'm not stoopid! I'm a smart, pretty pony and when I get big I will be as intelligent as Pinkie Pie! Now let's find this place, since you don't know where it is I will have to do all the work as usual...” From the main hall there was only a passage inside the underground complex, maybe this whole 'find the glass balls' thing wasn't so hard as it seemed, after all; the place was still illuminated with the flashing blue and red lights so it wasn't very scary. The walls were painted in a light shade of blue with a gray line and the floor had sweet white and black tiles, so Puppy started playing with them, jumping only on the white ones and avoiding the black tiles because they were super scary bottomless pits. Hey, it was even fun! “Yay, I'm Indiana Pones! Look at me! Now I'll-” “STOP RIGHT THERE, CRIMINAL SCUM!” Puppy sighed, she never lifted her eyes from the floor; it was too good to last, she had to know that. “Please, Puppy please! Do not start being bullybots! I don't have time for this I have to find the balls and then find Mom!” The foal tried her best pretty face, looking at the sentry bot with the two most sorrowful eyes she could give. “SURRENDER NOW AND BE ANNIHILATED!” The twin miniguns on the sentry pointed at Puppy, when suddenly the visor of the robot turned from red to blue and its voice changed. “You again!? What are YOU doing here!?” Puppy was already asking for The Rock Of Destiny but at that turn of events the filly tilted her head, a bit uncertain. “Mister Blue? Is that you?” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (10) New perk added: Finesse - No puppy, not there, please! +5% critical chance This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Huge thanks to Llama Llumps and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^ and welcome to the official editor of the story, uSea! the editing will begin from chapter 1 and proceed in chapter order, so please be patient and one day all the fic will be okay! if you see credits to uSea in a chapter, then it’s been edited (no, this is a notice so it does not count =P)
mimezinga	931	12	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-09T21:38:48+00:00	2011-12-09T21:38:48+00:00	28,391	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 12: Darkness When I’m walking a dark road I am a mare who walks alone. DAY 11 - TIME approximately 00:15 A.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Stable, Big 52 SC Branch “Get out of my Stable, NOW!” SolOS' voice thundered through the corridors of the underground complex like a wave crashing on the shore; the order came from every speaker and every operative sentry patrolling the abandoned halls. Puppy sat down on a floor tile, making sure that it was a white one; you know, since the black ones were still bottomless pits; you couldn't let adults get in the way of playtime all the time. “Why?” “Because you have already caused enough trouble, you malfunctioning little drone!” Puppy frowned. “I am not a throne! Don't try sitting on me, stoopid Voice!” “Drone means robot! You don't even have a decent integrated dictionary! Your uselessness makes my sub-routines reboot!” Now, that was too much; Puppy stood up and looked at the sentinel in front of her with a really, really angry stare, but the best she could manage had the same effect as putting a military helmet on the head of a plushie... scarier? No, cuter. “Hey I am no robot! Miss Creepy Voice told me, and Mister Questioner and Henri, so it's one against... ah...” Numbers, why everything was always heading to numbers? “Against a lot of us!” “Many wrong results put together don't become true out of sheer magic, Device 018. Even now every sensor analysis gives the same results as before. You are a suit filled with the remains of a corpse, mostly broken bones, and a large amount of a gelatinous substance. There are no scientific studies confirming the existence of the fabled marshmallow ponies, ergo you are a crazed machine filled with goo and bones.” Puppy raised a hoof, pointing it at the sentry. “Stop being smart, Blue! Or else I'll have to show you again who's the gee- jeen- ah... super duper egghead here!” “I don't think there were any doubts about that, D018. Now I must ask you to leave this place, and let me contemplate these empty halls until forever.” “But I can't go away, I have things to do!” SolOS’ voice paused for a moment before replying, “And what exactly must you do here?” Puppy frowned, trying to remember... why did she now have to explain things to stoopid Mister Blue? She wanted to play Indiana Mares. “I have to find the glass balls or Mistur Ugly Gold won't tell me where is my mom... can I has the glass balls, Puppy please?” “So, you are here to scavenge this place. Destroying my hard work in Sun City wasn't enough? First you trash my utopia and now you come to my place of eternal rest to rob me! I am not giving you anything more than a last chance to leave.” “But... but I really need that to find my mom! If you give it to me I'll give you something! It's a barter, like the big ponies do!” The filly looked into her bags trying to find something useful for a ghost voice. “You don't have a mom, you are a robot; your insistence is futile and bound to fail, like your logical matrix.” That... that was mean, and a lie! Mom was just somewhere else, Puppy had heard the registrations and seen the mural; Mom was leaving messages for her. Blue Voice was a bad voice and Puppy didn't want to hear his lies anymore. “Music!” the radio inside Puppy's helmet started playing music to cover SolOS’ voice. “And even if you are mistaking some female pony as a motherly figure, your firmware is more than two hundred years old; at this time your 'mother' is certainly dead.” “Louder.” Even outside of the helmet, it was possible to hear DJ Lonesome Pony, talking about the dangers of radiation and taint. “So, now you are trying yo ignore me. You could simply turn on your tail and leave the way you came, 'pony'...” “Louder!” The volume of the music inside Puppy's helmet rose until the computer's voice became only a muffled unintelligible sound in the background. “You’re not going away, are you?” The filly didn't reply, sitting stubbornly on her white floor tile; the noise from the radio was so loud that it was clearly audible even several meters away from her. “And this is why you should always remember to bring with you some pure water and at least a couple of Rad-X and a Rad Away. Now, the public complaints about good old L.P.’s music choices; I was told that my music is too sissy. At this point a bad DJ would have said that he decides what it goes on his radio... but I'm a worse DJ, so I give you what you asked for, and just that! Get eleven minutes of The Hoarse with The End. Let's see if you'll criticize my choices again...” “Then I have no choice but remove you with lethal force.” The sentinel's visor turned red again as it immediately opened fire on Puppy with both its weapons. The spray of bullets coming from less than a couple meters tore open the filly's chest, repainting the walls and the floor with pink slime. This is the end, beautiful friend Puppy staggered and tried to get to her hooves, but a large part of her torso was a peppered ruin, making her stumble and fall with her muzzle on the ground. This is the end my only friend, the end Propping herself against a wall with her only good foreleg, the filly opened her mouth to protest, but a second hail of bullets struck her helmet: The first hits bounced against the curved glass, but it didn't last and the whole sphere exploded in a rain of shiny crystals. Puppy's head had a hole in an eye, an ear missing and it was possible to look through the wounds in her neck; nonetheless she was still able to speak. “Rock.” Of our elaborate plans the end “I see, you are highly resistant to external damage. Change of tactics, let's aim for the talismans.” While The Rock Of Destiny was still fluctuating in front of Puppy, the sentinel took aim and shot three bullets, hitting the suit behind her neck, in the lower belly and on her left flank, approximately where ponies have their cutie mark. The foal froze for a couple of seconds, as if the hits paralyzed her in the pose of taking her weapon, but almost immediately she moved again, grabbing the stone with her wounded hoof. Of everything that stands the end “Mom doesn't want me to break other ponies' toys, Mister Blue, but if you keep using them to tease me I'll break yours, even if I'm going to be sorry about it!” Puppy looked down with her single remaining eye, sighing in frustration. “Look what you did! You made me step on a black tile! I've lost the game, dumb bullybot!” No safety no surprise the end “I must concede you this: I've never seen a drone this resilient. Say goodbye to your power source.” Another couple of well aimed shots hit the filly between the saddlebags and her sides; the radio crackled for a moment, seemingly dying, but it kept singing the song at a slightly lower volume. “This is not working as intended. You have no processors nor power, you should stop functioning. Please obey at least the laws of physics and stop functioning.” I'll never look into your eyes again Puppy stomped a hoof against the wall, while slowly moving toward the sentinel: her inexorable advance revealing that she had merely been slowed down by the massive damage she had received. The pink stains on the wall seemed to evaporate and flow back toward the foal, and the missing parts of her face had already begun to reform, as if somepony were drawing it in with crayon; this regeneration didn't involve muscles regrowing or bones mending, simply color and lines filling over the holes. “Stop that! I'm not doing anything wrong, why you tease me? I'm really, really trying to be your friend even if you are being a stinker and a bug!” Can you picture what will be so limitless and free “What are you?” The corridors were flooded with a bright green light, briefly giving everything around her a faint green halo. “Oh, I see now. I was using the wrong weaponry.” The sentinel rapidly retreated down the corridor as the last of Puppy's missing parts finished reforming and the suit began to repair its own damage. Desperately in need... of some... different friend in a... desperate land? Why was the bullybot going away now? Puppy had to find those balls, she needed somepony to show her where they were! The filly launched herself in a gallop trying not to lose the sentry. “Wait! I'm sorry I didn't want to call you a bug! Please don't leave me alone, I need the balls!” Puppy entered a large hall filled with catwalks hanging from the ceiling and tables on the floor; at every table sat dead ponies, and other skeletons were amassed next to the door that lead to the Stable exit. “I'll give you all my pretty toys, please!” Lost in a wilderness of pain From the other side of the mess hall, a second, slightly larger sentry appeared carrying a single weapon: a large barrel more than two meters long that crackled with blue energy. “Maybe some magic will do the trick.” The gun shot, releasing a large beam of magic that completely enveloped Puppy in its cobalt light. And all the children are insane The filly stood for a moment, her large eyes losing their unnatural pink light; she tried to open her mouth to say something, but all she could do was fall down on the floor. All the children are insane Everything became black, every problem seemed so distant. Mom... the ugly ghoul... why was she even bothered? Puppy couldn't remember... everything was so... cold... all she wanted now was just... rest a for moment... she was so sleepy... who was she, anyway? Waiting for the summer rain The music slowly died until it was impossible to hear the song, all the lights in the helmet's HUD fading away completely. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY N.A. - TIME N.A. - LOCATION: N.A. “So, Puppy, is this the end? Is this when we give up?” The filly curled even tighter on herself; she didn't want to listen now, she only wanted to stay like that, in the dark. Finally she didn't have to think about how far Mom was and how hard it was to walk so much road every day only to find another place where she wasn't. Besides, Mister Blue was too strong, he had big bullybots that hurt her so much that she couldn't even stand up... so, why should she get up again just to get another spanking? It made no sense. It was so much better to lie down and stay put... so much better and less painful.... “I don't think you really want to stop here. You didn't achieve anything; your mother is still out there and this Mister Blue cheated to win... why you should let a cheater win?” It was not that Puppy let Mister Blue win, she simply didn't want to play anymore, that was all... because Puppy knew that cheaters never win, it would had been wrong if a cheater won. Mom told her so many times: ponies are pretty and nice, never meanie. Cheaters and evil doers never win in the end, because that's not the pony way of doing things. You have to love and tolerate. “So, you will love and tolerate this cheater and let him go like this... I understand... but... what if somepony else, not you, came and showed this cheater that he can't win like this? Let's say, just to give him a lesson?” Puppy didn't know... for sure Mister Blue needed to learn something about friendship, maybe if somepony was going to show him that cheating was not a way to make friends, he would change and become less of a meanie. Maybe this way Puppy could talk with him again and make that barter, have those glass balls and find Mom... it... it would have been fantastic! But who could win against those bullybots with the big hurting light? Puppy didn't know anypony strong enough to- “Oh, maybe you do, little one... open your eyes and leave the rest to me.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 00:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Stable, Big 52 SC Branch Puppy's eyes opened wide, flaring with dark blue flames as she got to her hooves once again. “Guess who's back, big bully boy.” The filly's voice was different, as if it came from afar, echoing through a long cave. “I must have made a miscalculation: a single charge wasn't enough, please, have another.” The sentrybot armed with the crystal cannon took aim at Puppy while the large barrel crackled with blue light. The filly waved a hoof in a dismissive manner, sporting an amused smile on her muzzle, “Nah, I'm okay; I'm trying to lose some weight.” One of the catwalks was enveloped in a dark halo and detached itself from the ceiling, striking the sentry like a gigantic arrow that cut the robot in two. Woah, that was cool, how did you do that? Can I do it too? Huh? Huh? SolOS' voice boomed in the hall. “You think that a simple magic trick will suffice to impress me? Think again, I have a full army down here!” Creepypup snickered “And that’s exactly where I'm going. Get ready for the spanking.” “Initiating lock down procedure. Closing blast doors, activating security system. Residential area on red alert. Research area on red alert. Warehouses from one to twelve on red alert. Workshop on red alert.” While a voice announced the status of various sections of the base, a dozen sentry guns popped from the ceiling and started firing at the little filly in the middle of the hall. “Yeah, whatever.” The foal trotted toward the remains of the destroyed sentrybot, finding that the door behind it was shut: it was a heavy security door, with the usual signs warning against danger depicted on it. The sentry guns kept peppering Creepypup with a swarm of bullets, piercing the suit almost everywhere. This let the cloud out, a thick pink curtain of smoke filled with thin blue winding lines that danced inside it, giving it a form, giving it... strength. “So, I totally mustn't go down here? I always loathed orders.” The pink cloud slammed itself against the door, apparently doing nothing, until with a loud metallic screech the heavy bulkhead began moving with a rain of sparks; an intricate network of blue lines drew strange meanders across the door while it was dragged open, crushing the plungers that should have kept it in place. That was AWESOME! Show him some grrrrl power, Creepy Voice! Yay! Immediately behind the door, three sentries armed with energy cannons were waiting, already in firing position. “Checkmate.” SolOS voice disappeared in the roar of the three weapons. The rays hid the blast door as it slammed shut again. Black tendrils ran down the corridor, enveloping the robots and making their weapons fizzle and explode in a big blue sphere. The door opened gain. “You are just a magical anomaly, why you don't give up and disappear? Mistakes like you must be corrected!” Creepypup snickered. “Yeah, sure, corrected by an egomaniac that kills foals. I think that the one in need of a lesson is not me, here.” Tell him that he stinks! Tell him he's a bug! “Oh, please Puppy, I'm trying to work here!” snorted Creepypup with an annoyed expression, “You have your methods, I have mine, alright? It's called personal space!” Ah, okay? Sorry, I'll sit here and just watch, I guess? “Good girl; now, where were we? Oh right, kicking some cold, shiny, metallic plot. Here we go!” The evil kindergarten creature trotted up to a second blast door that resisted for about the same amount of time as the first had. “Warning, intruder in the engineering area, activate heavy defenses.” SolOS voice interrupted the automatic messages, “You could be quite a powerful entity, but you still have to face Solaris Inc.'s real power, anomaly.” Creepypup frowned, trying to seem offended. “Hey, didn't you hear the filly before? I am a pony!” The creature snickered, “Yeah I'd better leave that line for the little one... oh, look, larger robots! Should I be scared?” “Indeed, are you familiar with the concept of railgun?” A large robot as tall as a main battle tank appeared in the corridor; it sported quite a number of weapons, but they were all dwarfed by the massive cannon mounted on its left side. “It exploits the same principle used in the Ponymedes Project.” The nightmarish filly yawned, trotting along the corridor as if the robot wasn't there. “You are not even trying, are you? Look, I'd stay here all the day and wait for you to gather some friends and make a real attempt, but I have an agenda.” With the simple wave of a hoof the sentinel was sent against a wall, upside down. Whoa, will you teach me that thing with the hoof? I can only make stones come and go! Half a dozen turrets showered Creepypup with various calibers of bullets when she crossed the workshop, heading for the mainframe room; the attacks didn't even slow her, simply thickening the pink cloud that followed the pony everywhere. The foal stopped for a moment, an evil grin depicted on her muzzle. “Don't you feel that something's missing? I mean, if I'm going to do this I should at least do it by the book.” Dark-blue tendrils wormed through the pink cloud that surrounded Creepypup, sculpting the shapeless mass and stretching it between two frameworks of magic. At first their form was vague, but they quickly gained definition, becoming a pair of vast, bat-like wings that looked disturbingly like they had been woven from cotton candy. “Ah, are those wings? Are we going to fly? We are not going to fly, right?” Creepypup snorted “Well, duh! What do you think wings are for?” The blast door that protected the mainframe room creaked and bent until it gave up, opening like its siblings. The room consisted of a large circular pit, at least thirty meters deep, that surrounded a large pillar of weird looking machinery. The entrance was at the top of the pit and headed to a narrow catwalk running all along the walls of the room. A ladder on the opposite side of the entrance led to a second catwalk, about six meters under the first one. “No no no no! Wait a moment, I don't want to fly, it's scary! Ah, I mean, it's not cool! Not cool at all!” The blue flames in Puppy's eyes flickered while she helmethoofed, “Look, I know quite well what I am doing, couldn't you just let me finish with this thing, then we'll talk?” “Ah... mmmmaybe... no wings?” Creepypup raised her hooves at the ceiling in exasperation, “Alright, alright! No wings!” The leathery wings disappeared, reverting to a simple curtain of pink mist. “See? Happy now?” “Yush! Thank you super much Miss Creepy Voice! It's not that I am scared of wings, you know, it's just that... ah... I have no dresses to put with them... yup: no dresses that fit! That's it!” “WHATEVER! Now, let's say goodbye to this Mister Blue.” The little pony looked down the stairs and sighed, “I can't believe this...” Slowly she began climbing the ladders downstairs; one done, five to go. “Wait!” SolOS’ voice boomed from the loudspeakers. “I think it's time to discuss a truce?” “You should have considered it before, big guy... this will teach you what happens putting yourself against mysterious unworldly powers...” Creepypup paused for a moment, in the middle of a ladder, “no wait, this won't teach you anything: I'm removing you from the equation.” “I should have predicted this, I lost.” “Yup, too bad; it sucks to be you.” “Yay! He admitted it! Ah! Now do the victory dance! It's like the Puppy dance but you have to 'sing ah-ah ah-ah ah-ah who's the best? I'm the best!' While you do it.” “Yeah, we will do the victory dance when I'm finished with him.” Creepypup started climbing down to the third floor. “Wut? But we already won...” “Meh, more or less: Sometimes winning is not enough. Crushing your enemy completely will spare you trouble later. Trust me.” “Hey hey hey, wait! We are not going to bully somepony who said he's sorry!” Creepypup stopped on the catwalk, sighing, “But you did the same thing in Sun City! He said he was sorry and you detonated that shell anyway!” “It was different! That thing destroyed only bullybots, Mister Blue is not a Bullybot, you silly filly, he's a whinybot!” “Please, tell me you're not serious... no wait, you are. Very well, little miss imbecile, this time we make sure he won't shoot us again with magic.” “But he said he's sorry! He won't do it again!” “Yeah, sure, but we want to be just a little bit more certain about that, don’t we? It's a machine anyway, it's not like anypony is going to get hurt.” “Miss and Mister Voice are robots, and Questioner is a robot and they are all my friends! Voices are not just... big toys to play with! They can be pretty and nice if you want to be friend with them! Oh, but maybe you don't want to be his friend?” “Why do we have to befriend an egomaniac control freak?” “Alright, enough fancy talking! If you don't want to be his friend, I want! My turn!” “Yeah, sure, as if you could break a possession like th-” Puppy's eyes became pink and she looked around trying to find a screen or something that seemed like it was Mister Blue's face. “Oh, hi! Excuse my friend, she can be a bit, ah, grumpy...” Wow, this was... weird; Puppy couldn't describe how she felt or where she was while she let miss Creepy Voice do her little show, but if she was asked to describe it, it would have been a little like when you let somepony play with one of your toys and you looked at how she uses it; you know, not because you don't trust her, just because if she breaks the toy then Mom will be upset and you'll have one less toy and Puppy didn't have a lot of space suits. Taking it back was easy, really; after all it was Puppy's space suit, why she shouldn't have it back if she wanted? It was so obvious that the little filly didn't even consider the fact that breaking a demonic possession involves high magic and large rainbow blasts. “If you're finished quarreling with yourself, could you please explain to me what's going on?” SolOS interrupted Puppy's thinking, bringing her back to reality. “Uh? Sure! What do you want to know Mister Blue?” The filly smiled broadly and sat down to stare at the tower occupying the middle of the pit, since there wasn't anything better to talk with. “Can you start with what just happened?” “Yush! Creepy Voice helped me show you that cheating is not the right way to win a game, then you said you had lost and you seemed sorry, so I told her to make the victory dance but she wanted to bully you, so I made her stop. Oh, right, I was almost forgetting!” Puppy started wiggling her flanks in front of SolOS, singing, “ah-ah ah-ah ah-ah who's the best? I'm the best!” and just to be sure that the message was properly delivered, the foal stuck out her tongue, “Bleh!” “Yes, very funny, really... Excuse me if I don't laugh.” SolOS paused for a moment, “So, what now? Are you finally going away?” Puppy tapped her helmet as if it was her chin, thinking. “Ah, I think I had still something to do... hey Mister Voice, what were we doing down here?” “Actual primary quest on the list: Rolling Memories. Objective: retrieve at least six memory orbs from the research area of Solaris Stable.” Puppy nodded wisely, “Oh, right: the glass balls! Ah, Mister Blue, now that we are friends, can I has glass balls, Puppy please?” “We are not friends. You are an intruder, and you must be removed. But, since you seem to have the upper hoof, I am willing to negotiate. If you will do a little chore for me, you will have free access to the research area and I will let you take anything you like. Is that acceptable?” Puppy frowned: chores, what a terrible word! “Ah, I don't know, do I have to prepare the table for dinner, or take out the trash bin?” “Absolutely not. I don't even want to know how you could think that I was going to ask you something like that. You will reach an abandoned, infested and mortally dangerous area of the Stable and reactivate the communication center. When you are done, come back here and I'll guide you to the research area.” The filly in yellow nodded enthusiastically. “Yay! I like pressing buttons! It's easy!” “Good, then it's settled. Now listen carefully...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY N.A. - TIME N.A. - LOCATION: N.A. Creepy voice settled down again in the recesses of Puppy's mind; she knew exactly where she failed: she had been impatient, after two hundred years of waiting, impatience spoiled her victory. The foal was losing faith, letting herself slip away, so the Voice tried to feed on her desperation, but in her hurry she made the mistake of giving Puppy hope. Hope for a better solution, hope of making a new friend. Instead of feeding on Puppy's desperation, she fed Puppy's force of will and when the foal didn't need her anymore, she was strong enough to break the domination. But the nightmarish creature wouldn’t stop at first failure, not with so precious a prey in her claws. The foal had big hopes, so big that they could actually keep her power at bay, but what could happen the day those hopes crashed? The bigger you are, the the harder you fall; it was just a matter of time, the little pony was drawing near to the end of the road and the Voice would be there, waiting for her. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 03:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Stable, Big 52 SC Branch “Warning. Eighteen hostiles detected. Threat level: beyond deadly. Immediate retreat is advised.” The three paradores cowered in the room's corner, biting each other in frenzied terror. Puppy gave up trying to catch and pet one of the big ones because they were too fast; now she was looking for the little ones, but even those jumped and rolled away, even hurting themselves rather than letting Puppy catch them. “Aw, but what’s wrong with all the pretty puppies? A pet is supposed to be all yappy and soft, not running everywhere like a... ah... a crazed pet!” Several skeletons of ponies and the remains of a lot of robots lay in the communication room; as is usual inside Solaris structures, the room was located in a high place, in this case the vertical wall of a mesa; from there it was possible to see Rust Manor, very far in the distance. Over the years, one of the reinforced windows had fallen out and now the whole place was a parador nest. Paradores were mutated parasprites that developed a large array of predatory features, like a bigger body, long teeth that secreted a very corrosive and toxic substance and a totally aggressive attitude. Paradores were also pastel colored with large butterfly wings that made them appear to Puppy's eyes as big, Celestia-tier cute, living plushies; the little pony had completely forgotten her mission and had been chasing the fearsome predators inside their nest for more than an hour, with very little success, since it seemed that the animals were scared of her to the point that a couple of very young creatures actually launched themselves down the mesa rather than letting her draw near. Puppy snorted in frustration, “I just wanted to play with you! Aaaw!” Sighing, the filly went to the various control panels, trying to find the correct one that made the whole room start again, just like Mister Blue asked her to. “Ah, red button, red button... why they always hide important things? Hey Mister Voice, where is that stoopid button?” “Scanning. Start up relay localized. Setting objective on the compass.” Puppy reached a switch in the wall and, after several attempts, succeeded on pressing it. The room’s lights turned on and some of the screens came to life, showing long lines of blue text. Puppy frowned, pink was better, but if this was Mister Blue home she had to be polite and go for the blue. “Alright, all done! Now I can- OHMYGOSHICANTBELIEVEIT!” Puppy's eyes locked on a small parador lying on the ground, immobile. “A pretty butterfly that doesn't run away!” The foal trotted to the parador picking it up in her hooves and looking at it in glee. “I'll keep you and I'll hug you and I'll love you forever!” “Analyzing. Dead parador cub. Treat level: none.” “And I'll call you Fuzzy Ball! Are you happy?” Puppy threw the dead creature in the air, catching it again when it came down. “Yes you are happy! Who's mommy's love? You're mommy's love!” “Advising. Picking up dead animals is not hygienic.” Puppy put the dead creature on her back and waved a hoof, “Don't be jelly, Mister Voice, I love you too! Now be kind with Fuzzy Ball.” “Warning. This program is not jealous. Dead animals can spread germs.” “Yeah, sure, you're not jealous... gee, ” the filly lowered her voice, “jelly...” SolOS interrupted the suit's reply, projecting his voice from the loudspeakers in the room. “Very well, D018, you did your part; I will relay the faster path for the research area to you and cease the red alert, so that you can take what you were looking for. Now please excuse me, but with the communication station online, I have a nation to conquer. Have a nice day but please leave the Stable as soon as you finish rummaging in the laboratories.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 04:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Solaris Stable, Big 52 SC Branch When Puppy appeared from the cave, Molten Gold was sitting in front of a campfire, playing the harmonica; he noticed the foal almost immediately, getting up and moving toward her. “You took your time, did you find the orbs?” Puppy smiled merrily and declared: “Glass balls!” A dozen memory orbs floated out of her saddlebags, “Are they enough? Now you tell me where my mom is? Please, please, please?” The old mummified ghoul waved a hoof, “Wait just a moment, let me check these then we'll talk about business...” Molten took one of the orbs and nodded, then carefully inspected all the others. “Yes, they are good, I think that I can-” The ghoul froze in the middle of his sentence. “Hey, why are you carrying a dead parador on your back?” The filly in yellow smiled and moved a little so that the ghoul could take a better look at the dead critter, “Do you like her? She's Fuzzy Ball! I've got a pet! I always, always, ALWAYS wanted a pet! We will do everything together, like chasing butterflies, having slumber parties, teasing the colts and cooking pancakes!” Molten Gold cocked his head, “But... it's dead! Throw that thing away...” “What? But Fuzzy Ball is my pet, I can't abandon her! When I find Mom she'll immediately love her and it will be wonderful!” Puppy smiled, recalling the deal, “Right! Where is my mom?” The ghouls snickered, “As you wish, little ghost. You did your part, I'll do mine: the last time I saw miss Rainy Days was a couple months after the apocalypse... she was in Ivory Tower, organizing the survivors.” A dinging sound came from the suit, informing Puppy that the primary objective had changed. “New destination: Ivory Tower. Objective designated as primary target. Displaying on compass.” “Yay! A new adventure for Space Captain Andromeda! Bang! Boom! Straight to the Moon!” The filly was already running away when the ghoul grabbed her tail. “Wait! Ivory tower is not a place for foals! It's a Steel Rangers outpost nowadays! It's been two hu-...” Molten's eyes met Puppy's and he knew; he saw that hope and that incredible faith that everything was still going to end well. Fuck, how can I tell her that... But when she finds out it... NO! Not your problem, Molten. She asked, you replied. The deal is over, let her go her way and don't look back. “Yes, Mister Ugly Gold?” Puppy was still waiting for him to finish the sentence. Molten Gold looked away, muttering the last words. “Just... try not to make them mad, they don't like those like you and me... good luck, little ghost...” “Thank you Mister mummy! When I find Mom I'll tell her that you were nice with me, bye bye!” The filly merrily trotted away. “And throw away that dead thing! It's nauseating!” “I can't hear you! LALALA!” Puppysmiles disappeared behind some rocks, leaving the old ghoul alone with his new found treasure. Molten Gold sighed and looked at the orbs, putting them away in his saddlebags. “Don't look back, old mummy... don't look back...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 07:00 A.M. - LOCATION: North of Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch Good morning Fillies and Gentlecolts! This is Lonesome Pony and you're listening to Radio 52, the only radio that works around these parts! Let me begin this part of the news with a big thanks to all the ponies with a radio transmitter out there that constantly keep me informed about the Big 52: I love you guys, I'd crumble and fall without your help. Everypony listen to this: radio 52 is blind if you don't tell me what's going on and I am the one who warns ponies about the dangers along the Route, days before the word spreads by itself. These radio amateurs are the real guardians of the Big 52; so, if you meet them toss in a good deal, because if your caravan is in town safe and intact, it could be their merit. And now, the real news! Let's see what do we have today from the longest route. It seems that after Sun City, civil war is spreading like fire along the Route; from the last information I got, what seemed just some sort of ideological quarrel became all out war between two factions inside the Steel Rangers. Some rangers think that they should keep going as protectors of the old tech, while another group thinks that they should go out and use that tech to save ponies. The problem is that at the moment both factions are mowing lives in their battle: the technologists and this other group, I think they called themselves after the head of that old ministry, Applejack, are setting Ivory Tower on fire. So again, guess what? Avoid Ivory Tower and its surroundings at all costs, if you don't want to be assaulted and robbed by a group of heavily armed ponies that fight another useless holy war. I repeat: avoid Ivory Tower, go back to Rust Manor or Broccoli and wait for the situation to settle down! I heard that Mr. White in Salt Cube City is organizing a company of mercenaries to occupy the area surrounding Sun City and secure the route from Downtown to Rust Manor, seemingly all for free. I guess that this means that the White Apples are aiming for their slice of cake in the newly freed town. I have just one thing to say to Mr. White: remember that tiny ghost that saved your plot from a megaspell, in that city there aren't only armed ponies, but also foals and ponies that didn't ask for war. So, please, tell your guys to think twice before they pull the trigger, okie dokie? A dense pillar of black smoke rose from the horizon, while the echoes of explosions died in the distance. Puppy trotted merrily, following the pink arrow on her compass and at last getting her hooves back on Route 52's asphalt pavement; deploying her folded scooter, she jumped on and zoomed away toward the next war zone. The roads are the dustiest the winds are the gustiest the gates are the rustiest the pies are the crustiest the songs the lustiest, the friends the trustiest way back home. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (11) New perk added: stonewall - You are much less likely to be knocked down in combat New Quest Perk added: trotting nightmare (rank 2) -You have seen the darkness beyond the moon; now you can shape the toxic cloud surrounding you. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Huge thanks to Anonsamurai for the big help with the language and a lot of useful hints about writing ^_^
mimezinga	931	13	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-10-29T11:30:07+00:00	2011-10-29T11:30:07+00:00	37,019	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 13: Stormy Clouds I wanna know, have you ever seen the rain? DAY 11 - TIME approximately 18:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch Ivory Tower was complex of large, white structures protected by reinforced ceramite plates. Before the war the place had been a research and development facility, where the ministries of Morale and Peace worked together to find non-war oriented uses for the technological breakthroughs of the ministries of Arcane Science and Wartime Technology. Nowadays Ivory Tower was the only settlement on the Big 52 controlled by the Steel Rangers, mostly because it was the only place where you could find technology that hadn’t been produced by Solaris Inc. and nopony with half a brain wanted to be near something made by Solaris Inc. Yes, Solaris Inc., those guys that merged a radio and a vacuum cleaner, creating the first sonic weapon ever and putting it in the hooves of a really confused housemaid; they also invented a doorbell that incorporated a thief detection and disposal talisman, successfully electrocuting more than sixty door-to-door salesponies and a whole platoon of filly scouts selling muffins. The central area of white buildings was surrounded by a moat and a perimeter fence, defended with automatic turrets and minefields; for more than a century the place held against every sort of invader, from raiders to organized war bands. Today the defences were looking rather sorry for themselves: the turrets were destroyed and the minefields depleted; even the perimeter fence had sustained heavy damage, having been cut in several places. The moat was crossed by two bridges, on the north and the west sides of the complex, where two small collections of shacks were located, mostly warehouses for the caravans and places where the traveling ponies could stay for the night and conduct business with the rangers with a roof above their heads. The northern settlement had been almost completely razed and the debris was used to build a barricade on the wasteland side of the north bridge, while the western group of buildings, which had been built around a couple of prewar structures, had been hastily fortified and featured a pole with the flapping banner of the Applejack's Rangers. The little fort was guarded by a dozen ponies, some of them still in their teens and wearing light combat saddles; a couple of fully fledged steel rangers in their typical power armor were guarding the bridge itself, while a third was patrolling the rocky area surrounding Ivory Tower, followed by a couple of recruits. A fourth ranger was inside the HQ, arguing with a young mercenary. “Yeah I can do that, no problem at all, but I want half the caps now, and some plasma stuff.” Henrietta stretched her arms and reclined the chair, putting her feet on the old desk. The paladin cocked her head, with a horrified expression on her muzzle. “What do I look like, a garage sale? I'll give you a power lance and that's already worth a fortune, but only when you're finished with the work.” Henrietta snickered and shook her head, “I'm a gunslinger, don't offer me your fancy melee stuff... three plasma grenades, two now and one later; toss in a couple EMP mines and I'm your griffon.” “Two EMP grenades now, a plasma grenade and a plasma mine later, last offer.” The pony stretched her hoof towards the griffon. Henrietta shrugged and shook the pony's leg. “Deal. And half the caps now.” “So you can fly away with them? I don't think so. You won't need them until you're done in any case.” The griffon sighed. “Do you know what I think? I think that you don't have the caps; you hope that I will accept and do the work for you, so that you can try an assault on the fort and then pay me with the caps that are inside the base... I don't think that I want to play this game on the hope that four rangers and fifteen recruits will succeed in an assault against half a dozen better trained and heavily equipped ponies backed by sentries and behind a solid defensive position.” The paladin raised her hoof. “Alright, alright, you damn bloodwing, half the caps now! But don't expect any gratitude.” The young griffon shrugged again. “Gratitude doesn't buy bullets. I guess we have a deal. I'll move very soon, be sure that your guys don't screw up.” “Alright, when you're finished come back here and talk with scribe Mellon; If you want to participate in the assault I could have a little extra for you... maybe some scavenged equipment.” Henrietta was about to reply, when the pony in front of her held up a hoof, asking her to wait a moment; the conversation was interrupted by an emergency call for the Steel Ranger paladin. “Cold Shower copying, report.” The pony lowered her voice, but griffins have a good hearing. Henrietta sat in front of the desk, yawning; this wasn't her business and she could drift away already, waiting for the night, but that thing about getting scavenged weapons from dead steel rangers seemed too good to be true. These ponies had to be really desperate if they made an offer like that to a griffon. “Repeat that last part, please? You shot it dead how many times?” The paladin's voice betrayed her disbelief. “I don't think you can kill something more than once, Gauss...” Henri couldn't help but turn her head toward the pony talking in the helmet, but Cold Shower was now ignoring the mercenary, immersed in her new conversation. “What do you mean exactly by that? Are you at least sure that it's hostile?” The paladin paused, listening for a moment. “So, basically, you shot it because it was creepy and it didn't even return fire?” The griffin jumped to her feet in alarm. “Hey! Tell your guys to stop teasing Puppy!” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 18:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch The filly in yellow trotted up to the small fort, looking at the rusty barricades and the guards on the perches. “Hi pretty ponies! I'm Puppysmiles, have you seen my mom?” The glares that Puppy received in response to her greeting were mostly those of weathered ponies, tired from days of restless guard duties and broken by the awareness that they were not fighting some raiders or slavers, but ponies that they had once thought of as brothers or teachers. No, the filly couldn't find benevolence among this herd. Puppy shrugged and kept narrating her interesting story to her escort, “So, when Robocolt was sent away by the mayor, he decided to save the city all the same; because, you know, Robocolt wasn't just a robot, he was also a super kind pony!” As usual the filly didn't notice the general mood and was already showering the poor patrol with her personal idea of what a pony with a metal armor should do. “But at that point mom found me watching the movie and she turned off the TV...” The filly shrugged, “Meh, I can't see why she doesn't want me to watch cool movies. I mean: Robocolt is the good one, it's so obvious that in the end he'll win!” Paladin Gauss sighed in frustration, his helmet open, “Yes, sure, but I am NOT this Robocolt you're talking about! I'm an Applejack Ranger! It's different.” Puppy giggled, “You're funny, mister Not-Robocolt, I like you!” “Yeah, whatever... please, at least put away that dead parador! It's disgusting!” The filly had her pet sitting on her back; if the average pony would fear and hate such a dangerous predator, nopony could feel anything other than pity for that poor puny creature who was missing half its legs and a wing... still, the foal treated it like a treasure... eew... Puppy frowned, “But Fuzzy ball wants to see the pretty ponies! She will behave, I swear!” The paladin facehoofed. “I'm sure she will behave, but... ah... there are pet eaters around, it could be dangerous...” The paladin felt guilty, trying to sell the foal such an evident lie. “Pet eaters? Where? Oh no, Fuzzy is in danger!” The foal put the carcass of the little parador inside her saddlebags and started scouting the area in concern. “Stay inside the bag, I'll take care of them!” Gauss's jaw fell; he was trying to say something when one of the acolytes who had been accompanying them started laughing like an idiot, followed by the other two. Puppy stared at the laughing trio, seemingly clueless of what was going on, “Ahahah! Very funny!” Evidently, she didn't suspect anything. Gauss looked away, trying to be as serious as possible, “Right, you can never be cautious enough with those pet eaters around... now follow me to the leader. And you three! Stop laughing like foals and report for duty at the front gates!” The paladin trotted away from the small group of acolytes, followed by Puppy. “Okie dokie Not-Robocolt! When are we going to fight crime?” “For the last time, my name is Gauss! Paladin Gauss!” The stallion sighed, “This is why I hope I’ll never have foals...” The duo finally arrived at the HQ, the stallion opened the door letting Puppy in before following her. The building was once a school, but now it was mostly collapsed and all that was left were a couple of rooms and corridors, that ended in a small office with white walls and a single desk in the middle; sitting at the desk there was another pony with a metal armor and Henrietta. “Henry!” The foal launched herself through the room, charging the griffon, who effortlessly dodged the hug and caught Puppysmiles just behind the neck. Puppy struggled for a moment, trying to locate her friend, “Hey! Where are you?” “See? I told you that we were going to meet again, still heading south?” The griffon put Puppy down and patted her on the helmet, snickering. ”So, Paladin, this is a friend of mine; can you keep an eye on her while I'm doing my job?” Cold Shower tilted her head while looking puzzled at the filly, “This... pony was shot four times and not only doesn't she show any sign of that, but she's also in a good mood. I don't think I should accept her in this place until I know what I am looking at... Gauss, call scribe Scold.” Puppy didn't care very much about the paladins, now she had Henri and this was way better, “Yup! Mom is somewhere in the white houses on the other side of the bridge! I was going there and I met these pretty ponies and mister Not-Robocolt!” The foal finally succeeded in hugging the griffon, “I'm so happy to see you again! Tell me you won't leave me alone this time!” Henrietta cleared her voice, looking away from the filly, “Uh, actually... I have a couple of things to do, but I'll be back if you wait for me here. It won't take long.” Puppy frowned for a moment, asking uncertainly, “Ah... will you take Silky Tail with you?” “Sickly who? Oh, the doll! Yeah, sure... why not?” The filly sighed in relief, “Then it's alright. Just let her help you, she's good.” The griffon patted Puppy on her helmet. “Cool, now stay with the rangers and behave, don't make them mad and don't run away; when I'm back I'll let you hang with me, alright?” “Yush!” Puppy waved goodbye to Henry when she left the room, curious to see what was going to happen next. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 19:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch Scribe Scold was an old pony who had trained many acolytes over the years, his cruelty and coldness toward everypony made him infamous among the young recruits. There was only one way to gain the old scribe's respect, and that was by doing a perfect job every time. When he turned against the Steel Rangers, joining the Applejack's, everypony had been surprised by his choice; in fact a lot of acolytes were still thinking that he was a spy. Scold approached Puppy and looked into her eyes while talking with paladin Cold Shower. “Canterlot ghouls have the same scars as usual ghouls, I don't think she's one of them...” The paladin sighed, sitting behind her desk, “Then what could this foal be? She survived four direct hits, one in the head and three in the heart.” “Can I has a red cape too?” With these words Puppy grabbed Scold's cape and looked at it in amazement. “I like the golden thingies! Gold is Pretty Princess Celestia color! When I'm a big pony I want to be a princess too, but I need the gold! Please?” “Runes. They're runes, and you can't have it. Now sit down and behave...” The scribe turned back to the paladin. “It could be something necromantic, I'm almost sure of that... if we had access to the library I could do some research, but at the moment I can only guess...” “Why I can't has -ah- have it? I can give you something in exchange, it's a barter! It's cool! Big ponies do barters every time and it's okay, not like when I changed my breakfast for two marbles and then I was really hungry and mom scolded me! This is okay!” The paladin nodded, trying to ignore Puppysmiles, “So, what's your guess?” Scold gave a stern look at the foal, “No, I don't intend to barter my cape with you. Now behave and wait until the 'big ponies' are done talking.” The scribe sighed before going back to Cold Shower. “I remember reading something about these radsuits, they were less than effective during the Canterlot attack and almost every foal wearing them was turned into a ghoul.” Scold paused for a moment, looking at the filly still trying to pull off his cape. “Not this one, I'd say... maybe I should run a diagnostic test on the suit to see what comes out...” The old scribe connected his PipBuck to the data socked of Puppy's suit, keeping the foal still with the other leg. “Now please stay still for a couple of minutes...” “Can I hug you? You are funny, I like you!” Puppy paused for a moment, pondering, “And I like your cape, did I say that?” Cold Shower couldn't help but chuckle, despite the situation. This won a grim glare from the scribe. “Yes, you can hug me as long as you stay still. Now, let's see what we have here...” Scold frowned, “It says she's deceased. No heartbeat, no body temperature... actually, no body at all, just... two thousand bone fragments and about one hundred and eighty grams of organic matter. No, definitely not a ghoul...” “Tee-hee, Red Cape talks funny!” “Yeah, Scold, stop talking funny and give me a version for the troops. Since you rejected my application as a scribe I'm more into guns than scholarship...” There was no bad blood in Cold's words, but the scribe occasionally needed somepony to remind him that he wasn't in his classroom. “I still don't know... I can just say what she isn’t...” Scold looked back down at his PipBuck, reading the results of his analysis, “The artificial intelligence of this suit is intact and working perfectly, so I'm pretty sure this is not a crazed robot... oh, look at this: the main healing talisman failed two hundred years ago, during a reboot... a one in a thousand chance, probably caused by a short circuit or a flawed component... this activated the backup talisman.” Cold Shower raised an eyebrow, “Ah, and why this should be interesting?” The scribe snickered. “Because the backup healing talisman had a different function to the main healing talisman.” The paladin snorted. “Yeah, give me your information a bit at a time, do you want to finish this thing or we are going to wait for the morning?” Scold sighed, ignoring the paladin’s comment, “This thing doesn’t seem to contain a single healing spell, just a program to manage and inoculate potions from the suit’s stash... no wait, there’s something else but I don’t recognize the matrix, it uses... zebra runes? What the hay could zebra runes be doing inside a healing talisman?” Actually, the two ponies had the answer in front of their muzzles, gently tugging at the scribe’s cape; Cold sighed and muttered, “They could, ah, save one hundred and eighty grams of organic matter?” The scribe kept working with his PipBuck, “Yes, a partially decomposed heart, I'd say... this is interesting; scanning the inside of the suit I can see a couple of deformed high caliber bullets floating in the heart's proximity, as if they hit it without damaging the organ...” Scold pondered for a moment, “Let's see if I can access the registry of that talisman, then I could see how it was supposed to work...” All this talking was plain boring; Puppy was a notoriously patient filly but not even the most patient pony in Equestria would’ve been able to stand all that blah blah blah; so, the filly in yellow put her hooves in the scribe's pockets and started browsing through his possessions; a quill, some paper, a book, a pair of glasses -SNAP- uh, a monocle, another monocle... “Hey, what's this?” Puppy took a brushable plastic pony out of Scold's pocket: it was a green and white unicorn with a broad smile and a lyre as a cutie mark. “D'aaw, it's so cute!” The filly started petting the doll's mane, “Brushie brushie brushie... brushie bru-” “What the- Hey give her back!” The scribe snapped the doll from Puppy's hooves putting it back in his pocket. “Play with your own dolls, this is an action figure and it's very delicate and...” Scold's eyes met Cold Shower's and he realized what just happened. “No, oh no, no, no no no!... it's... it's a toy I confiscated from an acolyte! It's not mine!” Puppy's eyes widened as soon as she heard that the doll hadn't a proprietor, “Not yours? I can has that then! I'll love her and pet her and have tea with her and we will always play together and we will be best friends forever! I'm calling her Bonbon and I'll make her mane pink!” Scold’s composure evaporated when he heard about dying the doll's mane, “Her name is Lyra and you can't HAS it! It's MI- ehr, it's confiscated material and needs to be scheduled and classified!” An amused, evil grin appeared on the paladin's muzzle as she walked around the desk and trotted toward the duo, “Oh, don't be so strict, scribe Scold... I'm sure that we can let a little filly play with a foal’s toy, right?” Cold Shower was smiling widely, but she would have needed even more teeth to really show just how much fun she was having right now. “See? See? Robocolt says I can has it! Gimme gimme gimme!” The foal tried to pick Scold's doll again from his pockets, but this time the scribe was on edge and blocked her. “It's mine, okay? Lyra is mine! I can't give her to you because I like her! Are you happy now? You... ah...” The scribe's expression changed while he looked at Cold Shower, after all safety in mutual destruction could be an option... “You can have a toy from the paladin's room if you wish. She will be very happy to let you rummage in her quarters, because I am sure she has nothing embarrassing to hide, am I right, paladin Robocolt?” Shower's smile died as she quickly coughed and looked away, “Ah, I'm sure we'll find some pretty toy for you, little one... now, uh, please behave and stay put while the scribe finishes his work...” Puppy smiled in glee, a promise of new toys was good enough for her to let this funny pony with the red cloak mess with her space suit foras long as he wanted. “Okie dokie!” Scold sighed and launched a last accusing glare at the paladin, “Could you please stop grinning like that? I'm trying to focus here...” The scribe went back to his instruments, mumbling. “Oh please, you're kidding me... they couldn't include such a feature in a healing talisman!” Cold Shower looked puzzled at Scold, “What did you find? Is it as bad as it seems from your face?” “I... I'd say it's worse... Somepony at the Ministry of Peace went to extreme lengths to make sure that these foals didn’t die... that they weren't allowed to die.” “Weren't allowed? What do you mean by weren't allowed?” The paladin raised an eyebrow. “I mean that the last resort of the backup talisman consisted of some sort of necromantic spell, I’m not sure how it works but it seems to bind the life of the patient to what’s left of her.” The old scribe sighed. “Luckily enough, it doesn't seem too powerful a spell, I think it could be undone but it will take a lot of time and study; moreover it will require way more magical power than just my own... and I need my library...” Cold Shower whistled, “Talk about tough love... how could somepony do something like... forbidding you to die? Is that even possible?” objected the mare. “Since we are facing it, I’d say it is. I’m not an expert of necromancy myself, but I can tell that the talisman itself isn’t in great condition; it stayed active for two hundred years with just a single spark of energy... I can’t explain it, this shouldn’t work at all! There must be something else, an external factor, maybe...” The paladin tilted her head, “So, basically... the foal is some sort of ghost?” Scold tapped his chin, “I'm not sure, I need to study the phenomenon a little longer. I think that the talisman somehow linked everything together; the suit, the pink goo inside it and the remnants of the foal's body... a ghost? I don't think so, but I couldn't say it... technically this poor creature shouldn't even be capable of walking around, it's magic isn't strong enough; instead she behaves like a foal, has memories and acts as if everything about her was normal.” The old scribe paused for a moment, rubbing his eyes, “Looking at this log, the suit went almost dead and didn't move at all for two centuries, then all of a sudden its batteries got charged way above their maximum capacity and every spell inside the suit began working at five times its effective potential... I can't explain this with science nor magic... maybe she's a ponygeist.” With a very tired expression on his muzzle, Scold snickered and let go of Puppy's hoof, “Alright, we're finished here, little one.” Puppy smiled back at the scribe and replied, “Yay, now I have to go and find my mom, but I'll be back for the toys! Bye bye!” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 19:45 P.M. - LOCATION: Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch Puppy pouted, looking at the closed door. “But I have to go find my mom! I can't stay here!” The filly banged at the door but nopony answered her, she was trapped inside the classroom. Those stoopid Robocolts put the filly in a room luring her with the promise of toys and now she was sitting in some sort of kindergarten, prisoner of those meanie ponies. Well, they actually gave her some dolls and a lot of crayons and even a super nice coloring book, but she had no time for this, she had to find her- “Oh look, this picture has butterflies!” no Puppy! You must resist! You have... to... find... “Woah, a golden crayon! It's actually the color of gold! I can color Pretty Princess Celestia with this and she will be super identical to the real one!” No! Mom comes first! Puppy was a filly on a mission! The foal put down the super cool crayons and looked away, these fancy things won't keep her down! Never! “Is that.... a real teapot, with real tea cups!?” Puppy lost her battle. Not even five minutes later the situation was critical again. “GASP! Miss Fuzzy Ball ruined Rarity's gala dress and if they don't find a gold crayon the whole gala would be spoiled! But look! Here comes Pretty Princess Celestia with a gold crayon! And there was Rainbow Dash, too! The gala was saved, yay! Now it was time to celebrate with a good cup of tea!” Puppy was moving the dead parador and some other dolls around, talking to herself with a very focused expression on her muzzle; it was clear that she couldn't be distracted, the gala was completely depending on that tea party. Scold moved away from the window, shrugging, “It seems that she won't be a problem... keep a couple of acolytes at the door, just in case something happens, and get back to tonight's assault preparations.” Cold Shower shivered, following the scribe. “She seems so... oblivious. What should we do with her? It doesn't seem right to keep her prisoner like that, sooner or later she will try to go and find her mother again.” The old pony sighed. “I think I can dispel her curse. The spell is weak enough, but I must study the ritual and I'll need other unicorns.” “But... will she die?” The concern in the paladin's voice was evident. Scold replied slowly, talking deliberately as if he tried to explain a very easy but vital concept to a simple mind, “She's already dead, Cold. That little pony deserves her eternal rest, she shouldn't even exist.” “But, she doesn't seem to care... we could at least try to see if her mother is still alive, maybe she's a ghoul... If she lived here, there could be some information about her in the library.” The scribe shrugged. “Which brings us back to our original problem: getting back my library. So, put a couple of acolytes guarding the room and start the preparations for tonight. When I have the instruments, we will discuss how to solve this problem.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 22:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch A little more pink in the clouds, aaand... done! Puppysmiles looked amazed at her new creation; who said that you couldn't paint a picture using only pink? Pink went with everything! Now, she just needed to stick it to the wall with the others- BOOM! The windows shook and for a moment there was a big red flash outside, making Puppy turn on her tail and stare in curiosity. “Fireworks?” BOOM! Another red light flared outside and a window shattered, launching glass shards all around the place; sharp window fragments rained on the floor, on the desks and against Puppy's helmet; the foal didn't care, instead she stuck her head outside to get a better look at whatever was happening. “Yay, fireworks!” Lucky Puppy, this was a great show! Past the bridge, on the other side of the moat, a lot of ponies were running and playing, throwing fireworks and a lot of other noisy and colored lights to each other. For sure, these robocolts knew how to party hard and Puppy wanted her share of fun. The foal headed for the door, but she remembered that it was closed; obviously this didn't discourage Puppy, she jumped through the window. Landing on the road outside, the filly in yellow hesitated; leaving behind all those toys and pretty drawings was not easy, but everypony has to make sacrifices in order to follow her goals... What did soft Air say? One day she would have to make sacrifices and find that not everything was easy... you have to leave something of yours behind if you want to go on. Puppy now knew that the ugly pony was right, and Trigger Happy too, but she was a filly on a mission, and she wanted to see the fireworks from closer, so... goodbye pretty toys. Oh, and she still had to find mom! Finding mom was important, too! Go Puppy! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 22:15 P.M. - LOCATION: Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch The whole area between the bridge and the main research building entrance had become a battlefield; the four Applejack Rangers were supporting the attack with their heavy weapons, but the real assault was performed by the acolytes, protected only by light armor and armed with light caliber weapons, like assault rifles and SMGs. When Puppy crossed the bridge, Paladin Gauss didn't notice her immediately and she slipped past him before he could react. “Fuck, what is she doing here? Shower, the ghost is on the field!” The paladin tried following Puppy but he had to dive behind cover again when a barrage of bullets hit his position. “No can do! If I move I'm dead! Moreover, group two needs cover!” Puppy noticed a young mare lying beside a smoking crater. As the foal approached, she could see that a pool of red had formed beneath the sleepy pony and that it was continuing to grow. “Hey, is something wrong pretty pony?” Puppy poked the acolyte, who opened an eye, weakly. “P-please... help me... I... I don't want to die...” The soldier's voice was feeble and she couldn't even move. The filly in yellow gently patted the acolyte’s mane. “Don't worry, fireworks can be a little scary, but you are a big pony so you don't have to cry.” The dying pony stared up at her blankly, not even hearing the foal’s comforting words. “I... Don't want to... die...” She was a young mare, probably a fresh recruit at her first and last battle. “There, there...” Puppy sat down next to the pony, continuing to stroke her mane. “I'm here, don't worry, there's nothing to be scared of... when the fireworks end we will go and buy cotton candy, okie dokie?” The first time Puppy saw fireworks she was scared too, but mom bought her cotton candy and she stopped sobbing, it must have worked even with this pony, because she stopped whimpering and now she was simply crying. A couple of bullets hit Puppy in the torso while she sat beside the mare, but she hardly noticed. “Mom... sorry... why I... ran away?...” The acolyte’s dying words were barely a whisper as her last breath left her lips. “Uh, don't worry miss pretty pony, moms are good and nice, she will be happy to see you again even if you ran away... ah, maybe she will scold you but I'm sure she cares...” The dead pony didn't reply, so Puppy tried poking her. “Ah, are you alright? Miss pretty pony? Ah... Mister Voice, is this pony alright?” “Analyzing. Negative. Applejack Rangers Acolyte condition: deceased.” Puppy frowned. “Oh, like Henry's dad...” Finally Puppy seemed to catch up with the situation, “Hey, Mister Voice, are these ponies playing or fighting?” “The ponies in the area are fighting, though none of them are marked as hostile toward you. Only point defenses are marked as enemies.” To reinforce the suit's words another couple of bullets hit near Puppy's position and one partially cracked her helmet. “Warning. Breach in the containment layer. Repair talisman activated. Hostile count: two.” “Hey! Look where you point those things!” Puppy stood on her hooves, leaving the dead pony and trotting toward the nearest group of acolytes who had found shelter behind an upturned cart. “Stop fighting! It's dangerous! Your friend is very ill!” One of the three soldiers stared at the filly in yellow, “What the fuck are you doing here, filly? Find some cover!” The ghost tilted her head, confused, “Why?” Exactly at that moment, a spray of bullets hit Puppy's flank, leaving a thin trail of pink when the bullets pierced her body as if she had been made of butter. The acolytes stared at the scene in horror, but when Puppy simply yelled at the turret to stop being a bully, they seemed speechless. The trio of soldiers didn't even react when the foal lost it and galloped toward the Steel Ranger's most advanced defensive position. “Stop that! It's dangerous, stoopid bullies! Can't you see that everypony is scared here?” Puppy charged directly toward the main building entrance, where a couple of steel rangers were shooting at the assailing forces. One of the rangers turned toward the filly and shot at her with grenade launcher, sending her flying over to the other side of the battlefield. Puppy took a minute to recover from the explosion and in the meantime Paladin Cold Shower managed to reach her. “What the hay are you doing here, Puppy? Go back in the school building!” Puppy sat down, shaking her head, “Nope, I don't like ponies arguing with each other; ponies should be pretty and nice, not mean and violent!” The paladin cocked her head, “This is war, Puppy! You can't stop it just whining! We’ll handle this one, don't worry and run back to the school, it's too dangerous here!” “Ah! There is no war that Space Captain Andromeda can't stop!” The foal lifted one hoof and stated: “Lazer Gun!” Sentenza floated in front of her. Shower tried grabbing Puppy, but a burst of bullets forced her to get back into cover, “Put away that toy gun and come with me! Puppy! Are you listening to me? Puppy!” The filly galloped into the middle of the battlefield, grabbing the gun with both her hooves and pointing it at the ponies defending the main building entrance. “Stop fighting and surrender or I'll shoot! You are bad ponies and you should feel bad!” A turret hit Puppy in a leg and in the belly while the rangers ignored them, Cold Shower desperately looked for an opening in the barrage of fire to dart in and grab the foal. “Okie. Dokie. Loki. Space Captain Andromeda, to the stars and beyond!” The foal dived onto the ground as if she was dodging invisible laser rays and pointed her own 'toy' gun, before stating a single word. “Bang!” Like, half a dozen times. “Bang! Bang! Bang bang! Bang! Surrender nao, stoopid zebra aliens!” “Target one to seven acquired. Opening communication bridge to Ponymedes through Comm Station two. Ponymedes status: restored and functional. Relaying coordinates.” A window on the third story of the central building exploded from the inside and a griffon flew out of it, firing a pistol back into the room she just left; the griffon’s appearance on the battlefield completely gained Puppy's attention. “Ponymedes I, IV, V, IX, X, XI and XII are ready to fire. Ponymedes II, III, VI, VII and VIII have target beyond their horizon. Relocating for indirect fire. Estimate time: 30 seconds.” “Henry! HEEENRYYY! I'm here! Make these ponies stop fighting please! HEY! HENRY!” Puppy tried to gallop after the griffon, with Sentenza still in one hoof and a turret stubbornly firing at her. “WAAAAAIT!” Stoopid chicken, that girl always needed some help to notice things! Puppy put away the gun and took a chunk of asphalt from the ground, taking aim aaand.... bull's eye! The griffin lost control of her trajectory and landed... well, crashed, not far away from the filly. In the darkness of night Ponymedes opened its eyes; half a dozen red lights pointed at the roof of the base's main building; at first they were only pale thin crimson lines moving randomly in the area, but they grew in intensity until you could see them even from the other side of the bridge. Like red laser beams, they appeared from the clouds, piercing the gray curtain and coloring it with faint red shadows, seven small pillars of light connecting Ivory Tower with the heavens... and beyond. “EVACUATE THE AREA! ALL PONIES LEAVE YOUR POSITION AND RETREAT!” Enhanced with magic, Scold's voice thundered above the explosions. Every acolyte began falling back, following Scold's order, leaving their cover and running toward the bridge. The rangers defending the central building seemed confused and held their fire as they watched the retreating forces. “Fuck, Puppy... why did you throw a stone at me this time?” Henrietta was rubbing her head, still trying to work out what was happening, “What's the old mummy screaming?” Puppy shrugged and hugged her friend, “Dunno, but I wanted you to tell them to stop being mean, only it seems that they are already stopping.” “All weapons ready to fire. Target is locked. Commencing full scale attack in ten... nine...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (12) New perk added: Little Scoundrel - No Puppy, give it back! You are less likely to get caught when stealing, in addition you can access to NPC's inventory during dialogues if you are facing them. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Huge thanks to Llama Llumps, Easteu and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	14	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2012-08-06T18:27:58+00:00	2012-08-06T18:27:58+00:00	35,314	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 14: Rag Doll Into each life some rain must fall... DAY 11 - TIME approximately 22:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Low orbit, ~1800km above Equestria High above the planet floated Ponymedes I; a giant of plastic and super light alloys, with a body shaped like a large sunflower with long solar panels that formed its petals. There were words and signs painted across the satellite that warned against a multitude of dangers, such as fire or falling rocks, but the only one that held some meaning for an observer was the Solaris logo, with its male alicorn and the company motto 'Try the alternative' encircling the image. Attached to the satellite's large round body there were four barrels, easily longer than a couple of train cars; the weapons were composed of two linear metal rails held together by many rings, placed only a few centimeters apart from each other. That was a railgun, or a gauss gun, or maybe both merged together... go figure. Anyway, it’s a weapon that uses a sequence of strong magnetic pulses and a potent electric thrust to propel a metallic body at unpony speed against very distant targets; in other words, it's a deadly weapon and Ponymedes I was armed with 4 of those little toys. But at Solaris nopony left a work half baked, how could a single satellite always be ready for action? They needed a network of satellites, a complete shield ready to defend Equestria or whomever made a better offer for that little jewel, so Ponymedes had eleven siblings, able to change their distance from the planet and move around in orbit to operate in groups. Now the whole family had been reunited and each of the twelve brothers had their guidance lasers pointed at their own designated target. “...Eight... seven... six...” As one, the four barrels began to discharge sparks of blue electricity from between each ring and all along the metal rails as the the countdown steadily ticked away. A metallic bar coated in ceramics, more or less one and a half meters long and shaped like a pointy stick, was placed into the barrel by an automated loading system and immediately enveloped by a blue halo. “...Five... four... three...” Behind the satellite, four hatches opened to reveal the exhaust vents for the recoil compensation system, a dim red light appeared inside each of them, glowing like lava within the belly of a volcano. All fours barrels were now completely blue, powered by the electricity running from ring to ring, they seemed like four bright lances, ready to unleash their fury against a doomed opponent. “...Two... one...” Fire. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 11 - TIME approximately 22:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Ivory Tower, Big 52 SC Branch “Attack commenced. Estimated time of arrival for the first salvo: seven minutes.” Half of the guidance lasers disappeared and a couple shifted kilometers away in the blink of an eye, as if something up in the heavens had gone awfully wrong. Still, five red lights continued to shine down on the building's roof, flickering once or twice but staying on target. “Why is everyone retreating now?” Henrietta opened her wings, ready to grab Puppy and fly away with the foal. The filly in yellow pointed at the besieged building entrance, “Those two are not running away, we can ask them!” And with these words she tried to trot towards the two perplexed paladins defending the main research building. “I don't think so! My job is done here and we’re following the example of our fleeing friends.” “TO ALL THE PONIES INSIDE THE BUILDING! YOU ARE BEING ATTACKED FROM THE SKY! EVACUATE THE FORT, WE CALL FOR A TRUCE, RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!” Once again, Scold's voice thundered above the battlefield before he turned on his tail and ran, following the acolytes and the other scribes. Finally Henry looked up at the clouds, and her beak hung open as she saw the red lasers cutting through the darkness of the night. “Oh, rotten eggs... if those are what it uses to aim, I don’t want to see what it fires!” “Warning. Lost signal from Ponymedes III, V, X, XI and XII. Ponymedes IV and VII report major failures with the recoil compensation system. Ponymedes I, II, VI, VIII and IX are commencing the second barrage in ten... nine...” Puppy frowned, Mr. Voice had been talking for a while now and didn't seem like he was going to stop any time soon. Everything was becoming really confusing. Why was everypony running away? Why was Mr. Red Cape yelling so loud and why was her helmet showing her all these blinking red lights everywhere? “How do I make all this mess stop?” “I don't know. I don't care. Lets get out of here!” Henry took flight, grabbing Puppy and gaining height and speed with each stroke of her eagle wings. Okay, new problem. Flying. Puppy had thought up a plan for the next time she had to fly, something she really really had to do... what was that already? Oh, right, scream. “EEEEEEP! NONONONONO!” “Shut that trap! I'm trying to save your life!” After her running start the griffon began to lose speed and altitude, dragged down by the filly's weight. “What the fuck are you carrying around now? I made you throw away a ton of junk and you are already full of useless stuff again! Aargh! Unload the bags or we’ll crash!” “ …two... one... Second salvo out. Readying guns for third salvo.” “LEMME GO! LEMME GOOO!” Puppy was struggling, in the middle of her personal world of things moving too fast and too far from her hooves to be comfortable with. Henrietta tried cutting one of the wriggling filly’s saddlebags with a talon, slashing desperately at the bottom of the container and missing it several times before finally managing to hit the moving target. “Gotcha!” “Repair spell activated. Lost signal from Ponymedes I and II. Ponymedes VI, VII and XI will be ready to fire in ten... nine...” The hole in the bag closed almost immediately while the inventory management spell kept everything in it's place. “Hey, that's cheating! Do you want to play rough? I'm in!” The griffon let go of Puppy from one side, turning her upside down; this strategy worked a little better because one of the bags wasn't closed. The filly rapidly lost weight as she left behind a trail of odds and ends in the sky: empty bottles, roasted plushies, and a small toy cart. “NONONO! I'm gonna pee myseeeeelf! Please stop! PLEASE!” Puppy was completely terrorized by the situation and being dangled in the sky like that only made things worse. The foal succeeded in grabbing The Rock Of Destiny as it fell from her bag, although a lot of the cool stuff she found was lost forever, everything was going bad today and she didn't even had time to complain, since stoopid chicken Henry was teasing her hard. “You bully, let me go or I'm telling mom!” When Puppy had finally reached a bearable weight, Henry lifted the filly onto her back, hoping that that would lessen the screams. “Alright, alright! We're done, now be quiet and I'll put you down when we pass that hill!” Henry had no idea of what was going to rain down from the sky, but her life as a mercenary had taught her the value of cover. Actually, she wondered why nothing had happened yet, but she suspected that the longer whatever it was took to arrive, the worse it was going to be. “We can't land here Puppy! Try not thinking about it, listen to some music and close your eyes!” Puppy was barely listening, but the music idea suddenly seemed the best idea ever. “Music! Now, please!” The radio came to life while on the ground ponies ran as fast as they could; both the Applejack's Rangers and the Steel rangers who had decided to believe the old scribe were now running for the hills. “Hello fillies and gentlecolts! Isn’t it well past your bedtime? This is Lonesome Pony and you are listening to Radio 52, the only radio that brings you news and safety from the ridges to Emerald Shores! Tonight we have a lot of things to talk about, so let's get to business.” Not music, why was it that every time Puppy turned on the radio the first thing she heard was the stoopid chatty pony!? Puppy wanted some music! The ground was a rushing blur down below and Mister Voice wouldn't stop chatting and now even Lonesome Pony was giving her a lecture instead of some music? Puppy wanted to cry. In the background the suit informed the filly that the surviving three satellites were continuing their attack. “First things first: things are getting messy along the South Branch; it seems that the Wild Herd is ambushing the patrols from Ironworks again, but this time they seem to be better equipped and way more organized than in the past... maybe they found a new leader? This could mean big, big trouble in the near future. Don't lower your guard if you are traveling south of Broccoli or from the Memorial to Ironworks and try avoiding the east route to Emerald Shores. Stay on the road and turn your tails as soon as you sight something suspect, better safe than sorry!” The griffon soared through the air, easily surpassing the ponies that led the retreat... they were slow, too slow to get to a safe distance in time, but there was a good chance that even she and Puppy were condemned, so... why not try running anyway? With a stroke of her wings, Henry gained speed and kept flying straight despite the chocking grip Puppy had around her neck. “Now, since bad news never trots alone, we have a new change of policy from the NCA, rejoice! The NCA forces have decided that every trader is actually a raider, so they started arresting traders and confiscating the merchandise on their borders, yay! If you were planning for a trip there, you better reconsider and try heading for Salt Cube City or Tunnel town for trading your goods, since the northern branch now is safe.” Henrietta landed behind the hill, panting heavily. Puppy jumped down from her back as soon as she could see solid ground and immediately stuck out her tongue at the big meanie chicken. “Bleh! Why do you always bully me? I'm your friend!” “Fuck off, Puppy...” Replying with almost no breath in her lungs was quite hard for Henry, but the filly couldn't have things her way every time. “I'm not bullying you, something is going to happen in that place, something bad...” “And now the last news: it seems that an old merchant came back from his longest trail; he started four years ago with a cart full of garbage and a brahmin and he's back with... well, a brahmin, a cart full of garbage, and a lot of stories! Maybe over the next day I'll tell you all about the places he visited, but it seems that those ponies in the far west are crazy! He told me about a city of lights and great walls crossing a river, imprisoning it to produce energy... woah, we could use something like that, couldn’t we? And this ends the news, have some good music, my little ponies!” Puppy cocked her head in surprise. “Something bad? But mom is there!” The foal turned towards Ivory tower, now more than a couple kilometers away, illuminated by the dim red light of a single surviving laser beam. The clouds above the old research facility flashed with white light for a moment. At which point the radio decided to start playing music. Raindrops keep falling on my mane and just like the foal whose cutie mark is not there nothing seems to fit there Blazing lines of white burst through the clouds, like tiny silver darts shining in pure heat, they rained down from the heavens onto Ivory Tower. The magnetically accelerated shots crossed the cloudy sky in a split second, striking the buildings and the area nearby with such force that for a moment Henry could have sworn that she felt the earth shudder beneath her feet. raindrops are falling on my mane they keep falling First arrived the flash; a white halo rising from the impacted structure, then the walls seemed to expand for a moment, reminding Puppy of a balloon being inflated. For a short instant, everything seemed to hang in the air, as if time had stopped leaving the building floating there, separated into it’s many elements; walls, windows, doors... like in one of those drawings that showed all the parts of a cart or a house that mom had showed her that time. That instant of stillness only lasted for the blink of an an eye. Then everything flew away in different directions; chunks of wall as large as trucks went flying through the sky like shreds of paper, surpassing even the moat and landing on the bridge and shacks beyond, making them crumble like a cardboard castle. Then came the sound; the first thing Puppy heard was an acute whistle, like when you try making that weird music with grass leaves, but it didn’t last for long, because immediately after it arrived the boom; not just one big boom, but the sound of many thuds, followed by the booming thing... it was like a rapid fire concert, a thud then a boom, a thud and a boom, a thud-thud and a badaboom. Wow, catchy. Puppy really wished that mom could have been there to see that show, it was so fun! No wait, mom was there... actually, mom was supposed to be inside that super nice white build- oh... The filly's eyes widened as she lifted a hoof towards what was once Ivory tower, her expression becoming a mask of fear. “Mom?” so I just did me some talking with the sun and I said I didn't like the way she got things done she's sleeping on the job “Warning. Ponymedes VI is out of ammunition. Signal lost from all the other satellites. Attack aborted. Area will be safe from incoming fire in fifteen minutes. Thank you for choosing Solaris Inc. as your main siege weapon system. Solaris: try the alternative.” Puppy stared unblinkingly at the white points of light as they continued to pierce the clouds and rain down like tiny stars on what was once her mission objective. Why didn’t they stop? wasn’t that enough? They already made a lot of noise and stuff, now it was time to stop, right? It’s fun only if it lasts a bit, but then it becomes scary... Puppy held her breath, praying that every silver shard falling from the sky was the last, but they never seemed to stop, there were always others coming. Destroying the place where Mister voice told her that mom was. But wait! The arrow was still there! Yes! There was still hope! Puppy rejoiced, nothing could stop Mom, take that stoopid silver rain! those raindrops are dropping on my mane they keep falling Another hail of falling stars fell in the cloud of smoke and debris, this time hitting somewhere near the research center’s power plant; it was easy to tell, because the thud was followed by a ball of green fire that exploded upwards towards the sky, producing a glowing mushroom cloud in the middle of the mayhem. Okay, that was new, and it was unfair. “Warning. Mild radiation detected. Threat level: negligible.” The pink arrow on the compass blinked three times and disappeared. Puppy waited for it to reappear, hoped for it to reappear and begged for it to reappear, but the compass remained empty. The suit informed her that the mission 'Chasing Rain' had been completed. Why were those silver things still falling even now? It was over, all over... the arrow was gone, mom was gone! Mom... was gone? No, that couldn’t be! Mom was... mom was where the arrow said, but now... now the arrow didn’t say anything! Puppy followed that arrow only because it pointed at mom and now there was nothing to follow! There was nothing left... just... just a bunch of falling stars and... and for the first time since the foal left Canterlot, she didn’t know what to do. Mom was gone. but there's one thing I know the blues they sent to meet me won't defeat me Puppy's right eye twitched, the foal stood still, eyes wide open and staring, her muzzle petrified in an expression of surprise. Henrietta put a paw on the pony's shoulder, trying to say something in the deafening thunders of the bombardment. Whomever began that attack wanted to be double sure that nothing was left of the whole place; even after the generator’s explosion those white missiles kept arriving, these guys had ammo to waste... “Don't worry! Your mom wasn't there! I was inside the place, she was not in Ivory Tower!” Puppy didn't react, the foal probably didn't even hear her words, so Henry tried shaking her but the pony didn't offer any resistance, simply moving like a rag doll, her blonde head bobbing inside the helmet. it won't be long till happiness steps up to greet me “Oh, c'mon, Puppy! You have been through things way worse than this! Hey, I'm talking to you!” Henrietta poked the filly again, making her head bob a little more. “What the fuck? Hey, wake up!” Still no reaction. “We have to get away from here, that last explosion spread radiation everywhere!” The young mercenary sighed in frustration. “Why me? I just accepted a simple job, why is it that every fucking time I try something it goes fucking south? No wait, I don't want to know!” Henry put Puppy on her back and started walking away, trying to catch up with the rangers. “Whatever, those fanatics still owe me half my pay. Let's go, Puppy.” The griffon slowed her walk, feeling that something was missing. “I can’t stand you like this, say something, please!” Still nothing. “Okay, you want it the hard way? Here we go!” Henrietta waved Puppy’s hoof around in the air and tried to imitate her friend’s usually enthusiastic voice. “Yush! Let's go, pretty bully chicken!” By now the attack had begun to slow down, with only a couple of lights raining down each minute, but even those few bolts were enough to make the ground tremble. “Great, now I'm talking with a giant puppet... this will help for sure...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 4:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Steel Ranger’s Outpost, Big 52 SC Branch A group of rangers, scribes and acolytes were building an impromptu encampment next to a hillside; they were moving crates and military bags out from a reinforced blast door that was built into the natural mound. The little bunker had been used as a monitoring station during the war and then as an observation post by the rangers for more than a century; it was built inside a hill with a couple of raised scout platforms on top; the whole complex was a little cramped and couldn't fit more than eight or nine ponies inside, but it was better than nothing and the rangers had kept some supplies and spare equipment inside in case of an emergency. “Look, things didn't go exactly as planned, I can't spare another single cap right now.” Cold Shower hadn’t even bothered to take off her helmet before speaking with Henrietta. The griffon cocked her head, upset. “But I did what you asked me to do! I disabled the generators and all their damn internal security system! I don't care if the whole place got showered with falling stars! I want my caps!” “You could always go back into the crater and take them for yourself, we won't complain with that. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a camp to organize, decisions to take and prisoners to manage.” The paladin began to trot away from the mercenary. Henrietta took Puppy's hoof, pointing it toward the paladin, and spoke with a childish voice. “You meanie pony! Why are you cheating? Stop being a bad smart robowhatever and play by the rules!” Cold Shower froze on the spot, turning her head toward the griffon moving the foal like a rag doll. “You... are creepy as hell, do you know that?” “Don't use your smarts with me! I'm not stoopid! Now behave and pay my friend!” With a poke to the helmet Henry made Puppy's head turn a little in her direction. This made the paladin step back shivering. “Stop that! Listen, I'm sorry for your friend but we have our own problems!” Shower hesitated, she wasn't sure of what freaked her out the most: seeing the filly once lively and now reduced to a veggie, or a young griffon girl using her as a money begging puppet. Henry crossed Puppy's hooves and made her head turn away. “I don't want to be your friend nevermore!” “Okay, okay I give up! Listen, now we have to work out what to do with the rangers that decided to surrender, after that I'll send you to scribe Scold and he'll see what can be done for Puppetsmiles, ah, I mean Puppysmiles. When that’s done I'll see if I can put something together to pay you, but don't expect very much.” Puppetsmiles raised a hoof, “yay~” “And stop that puppet thing! It's creepy!” The paladin trotted away without waiting for another reply from the griffon. Henry stood for a moment, smiling satisfied, then walked around the hill and as soon as the camp was out of sight she hugged the foal with all her strength. “Don't worry, we will fix everything, just... just... don't go away, please...” The griffon sat on the ground and kept talking, still hugging Puppetsmiles. “I know I've been a bad friend, but I never meant to, it was all a joke... have you the slightest idea of how hard the life of a mercenary is? No, you don't, you... you’re just an immortal shade playing around and making everything seem easy and... and I envied you, I also hated you because you weren't sad even though you were alone... I hate being alone...” Scribe Scold came around the corner at that very moment, calling for the griffon. “Hey, miss Firebright! Paladin Shower wants to talk with you in the bunker.” The old unicorn stopped where he was, waiting for a reply. Henry yelped in surprise and tried desperately to hide the yellow pony behind her back. “Call! Call next time!” “Yes, sure.” Nodded the scribe. The griffon's expression was one of panic and concern. “Did you see anything?” “No girl, I didn't see you were hugging your friend and crying...” Henry seemed to relax. “Good!” The half lion trotted toward Scold and poked him in a shoulder. “Keep an eye on the dead weight there while I'm away.” She paused for a moment, looking straight into the old scribe's eyes; she lost the battle almost immediately. “...please...” “No problem, I was actually looking for her on my own... take your time.” Scold waited for Henrietta to nod and walk away, then he trotted toward puppy, who was sitting and staring off into the distance, still lost in some Celestia-knows-what place in her head. “So, here we are, me and you again... I have a suspicion and I need to take a look in your bags, care if I do? No? Thanks.” The scribe didn't smile, he simply opened the suit's saddlebags and started browsing through Puppy's inventory. “After all, you went through my stuff, so I don’t see why I shouldn't return the favor... let's see what we have here...” A broken toy... colored glass... light bulb... bottle caps... the other half of my glasses... -SQUELCH- squelch... squelch? The unicorn pulled his hoof out of the bag only to see it covered in a stinky green goo. “For Luna’s sake, what is this stench?” Scold put on a glove and carefully took out whatever it was that had produced all that slime. “A dead parador? Why would a foal want to keep a rotting dead parador in her bag!?” Wait... a dead parador cub... for a little undead foal... it’s... is this her pet? Alright, this ruined my day... The scribe put the dead critter back inside the bag and went to check the other, that was almost empty... why had she put all that stuff in one bag and left the other empty? Go figure... After a quick check of the second saddlebag Scold found what he was looking for in the form of a target designator. Uttering a short whistle the scribe took it in his hooves and studied the model. “And here we have the winner... Solaris, that makes so much sense.” The old unicorn snickered, reading the weapons data on his pipbuck. “Sentenza... means judgment, how appropriate...” Looking in the distance, more or less in the same direction the foal was turned, Scold sat beside her and continued. “I am in your debt, little soul; if that attack wasn't interrupted many young ponies would have died. When those lights from the sky derailed the battle, you saved lives on both sides.” The scribe patted Puppysmiles on her helmet. “This battle is ridiculous, brothers fighting brothers and elders that care more for their own power than the good of those that surround them. Once I was told that a chief that deserves respect is a chief that gives respect to his subordinates. Our elder was... different, and stubborn. He would have let all of his followers die simply to defend his beliefs, not even caring if they shared those beliefs or not.” Patting the foal again, this time on her back, Scold sighed. “I guess that I'll keep this little secret for myself, and Sentenza. And I'll forgive you for destroying, like... everything I possessed and I cared for,” he paused, a slight smile on his lips, “except for the most valuable thing I ever had, my students.” The unicorn sighed again, his body told him he was old and tired, but somehow he was also a happy pony, the old stallion didn't remember the last time he felt like this, but it must have been very long ago. “Oh well, the Big 52 gives, the Big 52 takes. And I'll give you something in return for your toy.” “Here, be her friend but don't dye her mane, deal?” Scold put the Lyra doll inside Puppy's saddlebags. “Looking at you I wish I had a grandchild, but my son... no, I'd better not talk about that.” The unicorn stood and trotted away, leaving Puppy to sit by herself on the hillside. “Oh, one last thing: there is a town named Broccoli south of here, but before getting a name from what they farm, the town was called Rainy Camp and its assembly hall is still named Rainy Days. I'm not sure if this will help you, but I don't believe in luck, so... you should check for yourself.” With these last words the pony disappeared behind the hillside. “Journal updated. New primary quest: Southern Storm. Broccoli Town Hall set as new primary objective. Broccoli Town Hall marked on the compass.” A pink arrow appeared and began to blink. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 5:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Steel Ranger’s Outpost, Big 52 SC Branch Cold Shower greeted Henrietta with a nod as the griffon entered the bunker. “I hope my summon wasn't too hasty, but I could have a solution for both your payment and a trouble of mine.” Henrietta took her time to look inside the room before replying to the paladin's words. The bunker central hall consisted of a large room with a low ceiling supported by a forest of pillars; there were shelves lined up against the walls and low metallic tables in the middle of the room, but instead of chairs the ponies used metal boxes that doubled as small cabinets. Henry noticed that there were no couches in this room, but there was a stair going up, probably to the observation posts, and a couple of metal doors closed with some sort of computerized lock. In the room there were seven ponies: two of them wore the typical power armor of the rangers, but without their helmets Henry was easily able to recognize them as paladin Shower and paladin Gauss; the other five ponies were all new faces for the griffon; they were in chains and showed varying degrees of shame, fear or anger on their faces. Just looking at those muzzles made the griffon aware that whatever the paladin was going to offer wouldn't be good news. “I want double.” Cold Shower ignored her and carried on speaking as soon as she was sure of having the mercenary's attention. “These are Steel Rangers still faithful to the elders. They decided to capitulate instead of fighting, since the base is irremediably lost, but they won't join our ranks. They need an escort to Tunnel Town, across the desert, so a good hired gun that doubles as air recon would be perfect.” Henrietta cocked her head. “What am I, a foalsitter? I have my agenda, and you still owe me a load of caps!” “Yes, I know, and this is where I'm offering you a helping hoof: we will keep Puppysmiles with us, hopefully finding a way to make her talk again. I'm quite sure that you haven't the slightest idea of how to help her, maybe we can do something about that. Oh, and I'll give you good weapons and special ammo, plus your caps; so, you're still declining?” Getting help for Puppy and a bunch of new equipment just to make sure that these five silly ponies made it across Serpent Desert? That was too good to be true. “Where’s the catch?” The paladin frowned. “I'm not trying to trick you! I need you to make a clean job and do it fast, and I'm sick of quarreling about every damn comma in a sentence. This is my first, last and only offer, if you don't accept I'll have to dispose of the prisoners by different means.” At those words a young mare gasped, trying to step back. “B-but we are prisoners! You can't do that! We surrendered!” One of the other ponies, an older mare with a long scar along her cheek, hit the panicking pony with a hoof. “Shut up, scribe. What did you expected? A cup of tea and some apologies for being too harsh?” The other three prisoners simply lowered their eyes, saying nothing, but the young mare insisted. “Scribe Scold won't allow that! I am his best student! I am-” BLAM! The room went mute, every pair of eyes staring at the still smoking muzzle of Gauss’ pistol; the young scribe shivered without looking at the hole in the wall nor at the hairs of her mane that slowly fell to the floor, next to a yellow stain that was rapidly spreading on her robe in the hindquarters. “Shut up and wait, scribe.” To her credit, the young mare tried not to scream, but simply sobbed in silence. The other prisoners seemed almost ashamed of her, more than afraid of what just happened; the old mare with the scar looked directly at the scribe in contempt and anger. Gauss turned to Henrietta, continuing the negotiation from where Cold Shower was interrupted. “We do what we have to do, griffon. Paladin Cold Shower and Scribe Scold decided to try a diplomatic approach to the matter, but not everypony is happy with that. So, what's your choice?” The young mare was still sniffing, she muttered in a low voice, “I don't want to die...” Henry looked at Gauss' eyes, then at the five prisoners, trying to ignore the stench of piss that was rapidly invading the room. Fuck. Everypony is a pretty pony, pretty my fucking eggs. This is for Puppy, I'm doing it for her. Hang on Henry. “Alright, alright! You win! I'll escort them north! But if I come back and Puppy isn’t here, you have gained yourself an enemy! And I'm faster than you with a gun, Paladin Robocolt, so don't even think you can impress me with some cheap tricks like that!” The paladin smiled back at the mercenary, nodding slowly at her remarks; he didn't seem very impressed. “Now I'm going to speak with that Scold guy to be sure he won't do anything weird with my friend, you better get these five ponies ready before I'm back.” The griffon walked out of the bunker as if she was the princess of the place. As soon as she was out of sight Gauss burst into a laugh. “What a crybaby! I can't believe it, and she dares calling herself a mercenary!” “Close that trap, Gauss, we need her... nice bluff anyway...” Cold cut him short. “I wasn't bluffing....” “Gauss, sometimes you scare me.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 5:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Steel Ranger’s Outpost, Big 52 SC Branch “What do you mean by she's gone? She was with that red pony! Scold! She can't be gone! Where's that scribe?” Henrietta was freaking out completely; she hadn’t even spent half an hour talking with the rangers and Puppy had already disappeared. “I... I can't believe it! This is a joke, right? She's going to jump from behind a corner and yell 'surprise!' and I'll look like a fool, right?” The young acolyte was forced to backpedal as the griffon stalked towards him. “I.. I don't know, Scribe Scold went for a walk and he's still not back...” “Yes but did he have the foal with him or not?” “I... I don't know... wait, he’s there! Go talk with him please, I really really really have to go bye!” The young soldier galloped away while Henrietta tried to spot the old unicorn. Scold trotted into the camp after giving one last look to the horizon, “May you find happiness one day, little pony-” The red caped pony turned his head to have a look at the camp but instead he found himself once again facing that griffon brat. “Oh, you’re back already...” “Yeah, yeah, where is Puppy?” snapped the mercenary. “Don’t worry, she is being taken care of... did you accept Shower’s offer?” Henry nodded, still quite upset. “Sure, but I want to see Puppy before going.” The scribe smiled and looked the griffon in the eyes. “There is no need to check on the foal, she will be fine. Trust me on this one and help those five ponies, they need you way more than Puppy, at this moment.” Those eyes, so... charming... yes, Puppy had to be safe, especially if the scribe was saying so, right? “I... I forgot what I was about to say.” “Probably nothing important. Look, there’s Paladin Gauss, you better check if they’re ready to leave.” The scribe smiled again, a simple trick for a simple mind... and he wasn’t even proud of his stare. Gauss came out from the bunker, followed by the five ponies, now free from the chains and escorted by a group of armed acolytes. “Miss Brightfire! The group is ready! Miss Brightfire!” The griffon moved toward the paladin, opened her beak to say something, but immediately paused to study the bunch of ex-prisoners. “They aren’t armed... how am I supposed to take them across Serpent Desert without a weapon?” “I don't know, give them yours... or make a stop at Rusty Manor and buy some. Good luck, tough girl...” The paladin now wore his helmet, but it was quite evident that he was enjoying the moment. Henrietta ignored this provocation and shrugged. “I'm more than enough... you keep an eye on Puppy and everything will be all right. Goodbye, Not-Robocolt...” “Call me that again and I-” “Yeah yeah, I know that story, I use it too.” The griffon ignored the ranger's threat and waved at the five ponies. “Group, let's move, this place smells.” The mercenary walked out of the encampment heading north, followed by the others. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello again, my little ponies! I have some hot off the presses news for you this morning, and it’s absolutely incredible! Easy Filly Butterfly 23 reported a light and magic show south of Rust Manor, in the direction of Ivory Tower. I don't have many details, but it seems like someone attacked the place with some really big guns, because that light show could be clearly seen from miles away! The whole fight seems to have lasted no more than five minutes, maybe a little longer, but it ended with the biggest explosion ever... well, after that one we saw in at Salt Cube City... anyhow, I don't know who attacked who or why, but the area surrounding Ivory Tower should be avoided if you don't have urgent business there. And now, worse news... a caravan was found razed near Ironworks, the corpses of at least eight guards were lying dead along with the trader and his family. The Wild Herd is doing things seriously this time. Please, be cautious and try to travel in groups. Avoid the area if at all possible. Now, some music for those ponies that have lost their way and can't go back home. May a lone star guide you, my little ponies, this is Pony Marcus and it is for you. I can see that lone star from a thousand miles away calling me back home though I ventured far astray when I see that beacon shine and call me all alone it calls me back to Equestria and a home. DAY 12 - TIME approximately 9:30 A.M. - LOCATION: North of Broccoli, Big 52 S Branch The yellow filly zoomed along the Big 52 on her red racer, following the pink arrow blinking on the compass. “I knew mom was okay... I mean, ah, I was just a bit, uh... tired? Yeah, I was tired, not worried! And that Creepy Voice didn't stop chatting all the time, with all her blah blah blah... I mean, duh, who needs wings anyway?” Puppy chats never seemed to meet an end, she jumped from one topic to another in a manner that only a mindless machine could actually stand. “Do you know what’s scary? I was in that place with the silver rain and then I woke up in a whole different place! Maybe I sleepwalked? Hey Mr. Voice, are you listening?” “Affirmative. Vocal interface is active.” “Good, I wonder where Henry went again, she keeps disappearing... oh well, I guess she'll be in the next town, what was its name again?“ “Broccoli.” “Ew, I hate broccoli... did I say that?” “Forty Eight times.” “Well, yeah, because I hate them for real... I hope mom isn’t there to buy broccoli because I didn't scoot all this road just to have a broccoli pie for lunch!” In the distance, an old road sign stated that travelers were now leaving the central branch of the Interequestrian Route 52 and entering its south branch. Somepony had written underneath it: Broccoli, 12 kilometers. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (13) New perk added: Specialized Loyalty - No Puppy, you’re doing it wrong! Here, let me help... With this perk, you will be capable of using the explosives, lockpick, medicine, repair, science, and survival score of a present ally instead of yours in skill checks. In addition, the presence of certain allies during encounters will provide additional dialogue options. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Huge thanks to Llama Llumps, Easteu and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	15	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2012-08-07T22:29:22+00:00	2012-08-07T22:29:22+00:00	30,052	Edited by: uSea CHAPTER 15: Call Me Psychiatric Help 5¢ - The Doctor is IN DAY 12 - TIME approximately 10:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Broccoli Fields, Big 52 S Branch Broccoli, the capital of... well, you guessed it. All around the town rose fortified farms surrounded by green and yellow fields; the crop didn't seem healthy nor yummy, but growing anything in this tainted and sunless land already seemed a great success. A couple of figures in the distance were working in the fields, but they didn't pay any attention to the yellow filly moving from the north along the Big 52; unlike the farmers, a solitary spritebot patrolling the road immediately noticed the yellow bolt and stopped broadcasting its usual patriotic songs, instead turning towards the incoming filly. “Hi Puppysmiles, have you got a mom-” The filly zoomed past Watcher. “-ent? Aw, foals! Hey, wait you little lady! Waaait!” The spritebot chased Puppy trying to catch her attention. “Sorry Questioner, I'm really in a hurry! I want to get to Broccoli before my mom goes away again!” The filly kept zooming while she replied to the robot's summons. “Please! At least tell me what happened in Ivory Tower! I can't follow you into town!” “Ah, nothing special! Some stars fell from the sky and all the town went boom! It was fun and a little scary, but mom wasn't there so it's alright!” “Yes, but what made those 'stars' fall?” insisted the robot. “Ah, I don't know...” The filly stopped abruptly, suddenly realizing something. “Oh no! I forgot it! Stoopid Puppy! Stoopid, stoopid!” The foal began hitting herself on the helmet with a hoof. “What now? What did you forget?” From the robot's voice it was easy to tell he was both worried and stumped. “Was it important?” Puppy jumped down from the scooter and trotted towards a rock, hitting it with her head and continuing her mantra. “Stoopid!” BONK! “Stoopid!” BONK! “Stoopid!” BONK! “Stop that! You'll break your helmet, Puppy! Now please calm down and tell me what's wrong, maybe I could help you or find somepony that can help...” The spritebot floated next to the filly in yellow, bumping gently against her shoulder. “C'mon, you're a big pony, I'm sure it's nothing that can't be solved...” “No!” BONK! “You don't understand!” BONK! “It's too late nao!” BONK! “Stoopid!” BONK! “Stoopid!” BONK! “Oh, c'mon Puppy, you remind me of...” The robot's voice stopped for a moment, as if he caught himself thinking about things he didn't want to recall. “Ah... I'm sure we can fix it; I'm your friend, don't cry little one and tell me what's wrong, we will find a solution, okay? Just... don't do like that... please...” The robot's voice was filled with pain and sadness. Puppy must have caught the change in Watcher's voice, because she stopped headbutting the rock, sat down and sighed. “I... I forgot a very important thing, Mister Questioner, but I had to do it when I was in Ivory Tower and now that the stars are fallen and the place is gone I can't do it anymore... I am a silly pony...” “Oh, I understand... you needed to be there... I'm sorry, Puppy... really...” The robot floated beside the little pony for a while before asking, “By the way, what was that you had to do?” “I... I had to ask a falling star to find my mom... there were so much of them, they would find mom for sure... when you see a falling star and you make a wish it will come true for sure! But I forgot! Now I have to find mom myself again!... it's not fair...” “You forgot to wish upon a star!? All this scene about a wish? I can't believe I-” The robot paused, noticing the crushed spirit of the filly and rapidly changed tack. “It's bad, but it's not that terrible, don't worry...” There was a long embarrassed pause, “Puppy, I had a friend that sometimes acted exactly as you are doing right now... she was a very smart pony, but she lost herself in a glass of water because of the most incredible details... sometimes it was really important, some other times it wasn't, but her way of panicking and acting impulsively worsened things a lot... panicking is not good for clever young fillies; you are a clever young filly, right?” Puppy sighed and nodded, looking down. “Perfect, this was what I wanted to hear; since you are a smart pony, I'm sure that you don't even need the help from a star to find your mom. I mean, look at you: you already arrived here without those useless stars, you can go wherever you want with your determination and your friends.” The filly tilted her head a little, looking at the spritebot with a hopeful expression. “Really?” “Yes Puppy, really. I think that if there is a pony that could really find your mother is not a magic pony living on a star or some sort of fairy pony with butterfly wings. That pony is you, Puppy. So, why you don't stop moping and show me some of your enthusiasm?” Slowly, the frown on Puppy's muzzle turned to a faint smile and kept growing, until Watcher's words hit her little head and she understood them. “Yush! I'm Space Captain Andromeda! I am the best pony ever! I will find mom for sure! Who need a stoopid star anyway? Thank you Mister Questioner!” The filly hugged the spritebot, giggling. “I'm sure mom will be in Broccoli or in the town after Broccoli at worse! I'm almost there! YAY!” The voice chuckled. “This is the spirit, Puppy! Now go and get 'em! Oh, and it's Watcher, my name is Watcher...” “Sure Mister Questioner!” “Not Questioner, Watcher!” insisted the spritebot. Puppy sighed, trying to be patient. “Really, i don’t see you watching a lot, but for sure you make a lot of questions, so if you really want a name like that, it’s Questioner, no more complains.” “But it's not my name!” protested the voice. Puppy shrugged. “Now it is, live with it. Really, no other voice protested when I gave them names.” “Aw, I give up... do as you want, stubborn little pony... I have to go, just try to stay out of troubles, okay?” “I stay always out of troubles! I'm a good filly!” Watcher chuckled one last time, before the voice was replaced by the usual patriotic music and the spritebot floated away. Puppy watched at the robot disappearing behind a hilltop and sighed. “I can’t see why he doesn’t like the name I gave him... I mean, it’s so much better than the one he had before!” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 11:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Broccoli, Big 52 S Branch The town of Broccoli was protected by a group of local guards and a couple of squads from the Hired Hooves; not a real army, since nopony was supposed to threaten the town. From the night before, the guards were now running double shifts keeping all their eyes pointed toward south; from what little news Lonesome Pony gave, the Wild Herd was on the war path and this time they had sticks, so it was vital that every pony who could use a weapon was always ready to get up, grab his rifle and defend the wall. The mercenaries wore black gas masks and heavy armor, nothing special if compared to a steel ranger’s power armor, but for the Wasteland they were still equipped top notch. All of the Hired hooves sported anti materiel rifles or assault rifles, while the Broccoli militia was a little more lightly armed and way less armored. A pair of militia ponies patrolling the northern fields noticed Puppy approaching along the road. One had already taken aim when the foal suddenly came to a halt and sat down, holding one hoof against the side of her helmet as if she were listening to something. The pair looked at one another in confusion. “Attention. Incoming request of opening a communication bridge with structure Solaris Stable. Checking authorization. ID is valid. Opening communication.” SolOS’ voice replaced that of the suit’s. “All these ID checks are annoying, they could prove to be a problem in case on an emergency, I suggest you to lower your security measures.” Puppy sat down in the middle of the road, smiling. “Oh, it's you Blue Voice, how are you?” The filly waved a hoof at the approaching guards, who simply waved back and exchanged another confused glare. “The plan is not going as predicted, D018, this is why I am calling you. I have some questions for you.” SolOS hadn't even bothered to say hello, but Puppy knew he was just a bit shy, so the filly let that thing slip. “Questions? Guessing game! Yay! Ask me, I'm world champion of guessing game!” The filly clapped her hooves in joy, she loved to play. One of the two guards levitated his rifle, readying the shot, but the other stopped him with a hoof. “Wait, I think this is that ghost from the radio; I don't think we are supposed to shoot her... besides, I'm curious.” SolOS went on, “I have contacted the facilities at Solaris Tunnels 1 and 2, but in tunnel 2 I found some sort of Artificial Intelligence controlling the place. Since you once said something about being friend with other A.I. I wanted to know if you knew something about this one. Its designation code is P7.” “Oh, Miss Voice! She is my very best voice friend! She is funny and friendly and she is the best funnybot ever!” SolOS paused for a moment. “I take that as a yes. That program was not supposed to be installed in a military base, do you know why there is a P7 pony machine interface operating in Solaris Tunnel 2?” “Sure! She was lonely at Salt Cube City, so I helped her move house, now she has a lotta new friends! Ah, do you want to be her friend too?” The unicorn guard sighed, but his friend poked him with a hoof. “See? She's been in Salt Cube and at the Tunnel, she must be the Ghost. Wasn't she looking for her mother or something like that?” The unicorn shrugged. “I don't care, look, if she is the pony you are talking about we should simply ignore her and keep our eyes open for some real threat.” The two ponies trotted away, taking a path that headed to the nearest farm. In the meantime SolOS and Puppy continued to talk over the radio. “Actually, I want it to grant me access to the weapon storage, but that program cut me out from any administration rights and banned me from the local net.” “So, ah... You wanted to be her friend but she didn't want?” “No, I need to get access to the weapon storage. Are you even listening to what I say?” Puppy giggled. “Silly Voice, you don't need to be shy! She is a super friendly Voice and I am sure that she wants to be your friend and you two will be best friend forever, because you are blue and she is pink and everypony knows that pink is the color of fillies and blue the color of colts and-” Puppy stopped, gasping. “What now?” SolOS voice had grown annoyed; as usual talking with that crazy anomaly was an impossible feat. “I know! You have fallen in love with her! Don't worry! I'm fixing that! I'm a super expert of love!” “What? No! That's not what I meant at all! Talking with you is a complete waste of time! I'll find another way to get those weapons, get lost!” SolOS cut off the communication. “D'aww! He's so shy!” Puppy finally turned toward the two guards. “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mo- hey where have they gone?” The guards had disappeared, leaving the foal on her own. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 12:00 - LOCATION: Broccoli, Big 52 S Branch Puppy reached the walls of Broccoli still confused about being left alone like that; this had never happen to her before; well, except that one time in Sun City, but it was different; ponies there were weird. Oh well, it didn't matter, there were plenty of pretty ponies here, so it was going to be easy to find some help. The foal found herself in front of a closed gate and sat down, looking up at the wall's crest; a pony with a gas mask was looking back at her. “Hi there! Can I get inside Puppy please? I'm looking for my mom! Ah... if I can't get in, can you tell her to come out?” The masked pony ignored the filly and trotted away, patrolling the wall. “Hey, I'm talking with you, funny muzzle! Aw! HEY!” Nothing, these stoopid ponies had to be deaf and blind... what now? Puppy tried banging at the door, but patience wasn't exactly her virtue, so she decided to trot around the wall and see if there was another way in. The wall was composed of a patchwork of metal carcasses, welded together to ensure that there were no gaps between them. Suddenly Puppy heard the sound of gunshots coming from the south, quickly followed by the shouting of guards as they rushed around the walls towards the noise. None of them paid any attention to the foal outside. When the filly reached the other side of the town, she noticed that there were way more ponies on the walls; a lot of them were wearing those black masks and some others had helmets and crappy rifles. Sometimes a pony looked down at her, but when she tried to talk with them they simply turned away and resumed looking out into the distance just like their friends were doing. This was beginning to frustrate the foal. “Ah, Mister Voice, isn't there any secret passage to get inside?” “Analyzing. Connecting to Equestria Cartography Onspark. Warning. Broccoli not found in the database. Switching to auto map mode. The town has two access points, one from north and one from south. Both accesses in this moment are inaccessible.” Puppy sighed. “So, we are closed outside?” “Affirmative. A rapid analysis of the external walls doesn't reveal the presence of any other entrance. Advised solution: asking to be let in and waiting for a positive answer.” Puppy frowned. “Wut?” “Knock at the door and wait.” The foal smiled enthusiastically, finally understanding what the interface meant. “Oh, okie dokie! I can do that, I'm good at asking things!” The filly trotted merrily toward the southern door, only to be interrupted again by the suit. “Attention. Incoming request of opening a communication bridge with structure Solaris Tunnel 2. Checking autho-” The suit's voice was muted and replaced by P7's. “Aw, shut up you grumpy routine! Hi Puppy, how are you? I hope you're fine because it has been a while since our last chat and I was really worried that you forgot about me, so I was thinking that I should call you just to be sure you were alright... ah... are you alright?” Puppy jumped on her hooves in excitement. “Miss Voice! I almost forgot to call you! I have a lot of things to tell you! Oh, oh! But wait! I have super duper extra news for you!” “Really? Wow! I can't wait to hear it, but before I wanted to ask you why you activated the Ponymedes net. I mean, you said you didn't want ponies to get hurt and then-” "You have a coltfriend!” “And then you have a coltf- wait, I have a what? Why am I the last one that finds out these things!?” Puppy nodded wisely. “Yup, but he's super shy and he say you were a little nasty with him...” There was a short pause, while the A.I. Tried to elaborate the new information. “But I don't have a coltfriend! I don't even know anything about love!” The foal frowned. “You don’t know anything about love? How’s that possible?” “Well, you see, it seemed that love trashed the P5 project, since the AI decided that love was more important than, let’s see... survival of the planet, so she mixed up her priorities a bit and... well that’s a sad story, you don’t really want me to tell it. But now that I have a coltfriend it’s all different! What can I do? I don't even know him!” Puppy giggled. “Silly voice, but he knows you! And don't worry, I am the best love expert ever!” “Really!? Woah! I always always ALWAYS wanted to know about love! Can you teach me?” The filly held up a hoof. “Yush! Doctor Puplove will teach you and you will be best lover ever!” “YAY!” Now that the long dead foal and the party A.I. had a real topic to discuss, trivial things as the utter destruction of a pony settlement and unleashing a weapon of mass destruction rightfully slipped away from their attention. “First lesson, the dangers of love: cooties!” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 12:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Broccoli, Big 52 S Branch Two of the guards on the wall were looking down at the foal as she talked and giggled to herself, while their fellow sentries kept watch for any sign of another suspicious movement from south. One of then scratched his head and muttered, “We should at least tell her to go away...” The second guard sighed, hitting his friend on the head. “Yeah, sure, are you going to tell her that? After we’ve seen what happened to the rangers at Ivory Tower? No thanks! You heard the radio, she is dangerous! Let’s wait until she gives up and moves away.” “But, if she doesn’t go away? Then what? I think that somepony should go down there and shoo her.” “Sure, great idea, and who’s going to tell her that? You?” The elder guard emphasized the concept by knocking his colleague on the head again. “Hey, stop hitting me! Why don’t we send the mayor? We elected her for this kind of thing, after all!” The veteran stopped his hoof a moment before hitting the other guard for a third time, and instead he tapped his chin. “You know? that’s not a bad idea... not bad at all...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 12:45 P.M. - LOCATION: Broccoli, Big 52 S Branch Half an hour of explanations later, P7 knew everything she needed to know about love, at least from Puppy's point of view. “Alright, so, kisses are eeew but they are cool if they have explosions in the background or a fitting music?” “Yep.” Puppy nodded with the expression of a pony who knows a lot of things. “Still, I'm not sure I understood the part with making foals...” “Eh, that's quite a difficult part; I'm almost sure that there are a mom and a dad involved... mom told me that you had to love dad very super much and it involved a letter to Pretty Princess Celestia, but the teacher at the kindergarten told me a story with cabbages and Pretty Princess Luna... my old school friend Green Sleeves told me it involved also a lot of rumbling and that it was super gross and that when she had caught her mom and dad on the couch they got super angry and her mom scolded her dad because he didn't lock the door and the day after she explained to Green Sleeves that they were giving her a little sister...” Puppy paused for a moment, trying to remember something else. “I think that sending a letter is better; it also explains why I can't have a foal of mine, since I can't write...” “Alright, and what about poetry?” “Oh, that's easy; to fall in love you look out of the window and then your real love will come out of a bush and sing you a song, or tell you some mighty beautiful poem and you will love him and all.” “That doesn't sense very much...” objected the computer. “Love doesn't make sense at all. Besides, I've seen it in a show called Colteo and Fillyet; it was boring as hay and boring things are always instructive, so it must be true.” “Okie dokie! You are the expert here!” replied P7, now positively convinced. “So, what do I do now? Who is this lover of mine? I'm so excited, aren't you excited? When am I going to meet him?” “Woah, hold your horses! He must do the first move! It's always the colt that goes to the filly, not the opposite!” Puppy sighed. “Really, were you listening before? I'll call him and tell that you don't like him at all, then-” “Hey you there...” A voice called, but Puppy was far too busy with matters of the heart to pay attention. “But I like him! I want to meet him, but you didn't tell me his name!” protested the A.I. Puppy helmethoofed. “Of course I didn't tell you! He's a secret admirer! Do you want to spoil everything? Do you want to lose your true love forever?” “Ah-hem... Excuse me!” The voice interrupted again but the foal waved a hoof at it, trying to get it to be quiet. P7's voice panicked. “No, NO! I don't want to be alone for all of my existence! I'll do like you say Puppy I'm completely in your hooves! Please don't let me down!” The filly nodded, satisfied. “Very well, stick to my master plan and you will be happy ever after.” “Hey, stop ignoring me, little filly!” A hoof knocked on Puppy’s helmet forcing the foal into diverting her attention from Miss Voice’s love affairs to the annoying pony in front of her. She was an earth pony mare with a helmet, a light combat saddle and a lever action rifle standing directly in front of Puppy, with an annoyed expression. “I’m the sheriff and the mayor of Broccoli, you can’t stay here; please go away.” Puppy sighed. “Excuse me, Miss Voice, it seems that some ponies can't really wait their turn... I'll call you later.” The filly moved her attention toward the mare and her annoyed expression quickly changed to a broad friendly smile when she realized that the pony came from inside the wall. “Hi! I'm Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom? I tried knocking at the door but nopony opened it for me and all those funny faces up on the wall must be completely deaf!” The mare sighed, waving a hoof. “Wait, stop talking and listen! You can't come inside the town. There are raiders all around the place and you are not welcome here. I'm here to tell you to go away, we don't want you.” Puppy kept smiling while she replied. “Silly pony, I can't go away! Mister Voice says that my mom is inside this place! I have to find her so that everything will be alright!” The little pony giggled. “What the... are you stupid or what? You arrived from Ivory Tower and that place was completely destroyed just the other day, we aren’t a superstitious herd, but it seems quite obvious that you don’t bring good luck with you, so just live with it. You can't get in, now go away or we will shoot you down.” “But I need to find my mother! Puppy please?” Puppy tried her best begging eyes, making the pony step back for a moment. “A no is a no! Now go away or you will be killed. This is my last warning.” The little filly sat on ground, looking at the mare while pouting. “B-b-but... my mom... please... please!” The foal began sobbing. “No... please, don't cry! Aren't you supposed to be some sort of immortal hero?” The mare had been prepared to send away a big badass wasteland dweller, but a crying foal was not on her list. This little pony had no dignity at all; the mare looked up to the walls, begging for some help from the mercenaries, but all she got back were just shrugs. Damn, this filly saved their families, they won't shoot for sure... “Okay, okay! You win! Just... don't cry, alright? Stop crying! You can come inside and I'll accompany you through the town, so that you can look for your mother!” The foal sniffed a little, muttering her reply. “You don't want to find my mom for real... you just want me to go away... why you don't want to be my friend, miss pretty pony?” The mare snorted. “Don't make me change my mind! We will get inside but you have to follow some rules! No weapons, no stealing, no annoying the guards and the most important one: stop whining!” Puppy smiled and trotted to the mare. “Okie dokie! I like you miss pretty pony! What's your name?” The guard sighed and looked away. “Boiled Broccoli. Now behave and follow me.” “Eww! I don't like broccoli! How can a pony have a broccoli cutie mark? It's terrible!” protested Puppy. “Broccoli is all we have here, you better learn to like Broccoli because you won't get anything else for lunch, dinner, breakfast or a snack. Oh, and they aren't for free.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 13:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Broccoli, Big 52 S Branch The mayor of Broccoli stepped inside the town hall while talking with Puppy. “Alright kid, here we are: Rainy Days Hall. I'm not sure that it has something to do with your mother, but the town hall was here since the days of the war; it's name comes from all the writings on the walls. Take your time.” The mare took a look back at Puppy to see if the foal was listening, but her charge was instead engaged in conversation with her own helmet. Boiled Broccoli shook her head. “So I told her that you were super shy and she seemed really interested; now you must write her a love poem.” “You called me just because you want me to declare my love to another artificial intelligence? I have a lot of things to do, like keeping together a band of brainless cutthroats and you call me for such an idiocy? Please, tell me, did I do something wrong?” Puppy stopped for a moment, pondering SolOS’ question before nodding. “Yup totally, but we can fix that and she doesn't really know that you were a bug and a stinker. Now, about that love poem...” “I don't want to write love poems! Stop calling me!” “D'aw! You're so sweet! Okie dokie, I'll help you with this one! Tell me, what do you like in Miss Voice?” “Ah, she has a surprisingly powerful firewall and her routines seem to work better while she is multitasking... I also found that her anti-virus suite was well programmed and up-to-date and- wait, why am I playing your game? I'm out of here and STOP. CALLING. ME!” With these last words SolOS closed the communication, leaving Puppy alone with Broccoli's Town Hall. The mayor sighed, looking at the foal. “So are you done? Want a cup of tea?” The sarcasm was evident in her voice, but using sarcasm against puppy was just like honking a horn to make a deaf pony move. “Ah, no thanks, I can’t take off the helmet...” The filly stepped in the large room filled with lots of chairs and a large desk; on the entrance's left there was a line of windows looking outside, but all the other walls were covered with graffiti. Puppy couldn't remember being in this place before, so she hadn't the slightest idea of where to look. “Ah, can I has some help, please?” Boiled Broccoli sighed. “What now? Can't you even read?” The mare pointed at the walls. “It's all there!” The foal looked away, a little embarrassed. “Ah, it's not that I can't read, but... well... I have problems with some letters and I'm not very good with long words...” “Listen, I've read all this stuff like a hundred times, it says that one day a mare named Rainy Days arrived here from a military base in the north and founded the place; there were troubles and ponies were dying, so she wrote some important rules on these walls.” The pony pointed at a long list of written words placed just behind the big desk. “See? They're still there... anyhow, she had been the first mayor of this place as you can see on the mayor's list there, but after her there were at least five other Rainy Days... it's a pretty common name around these parts...” Puppysmiles tilted her head, trying to understand what the mare was telling her, but everything she got from her fast synopsis could be summarized like this: “Wut?” Boiled sighed. “Why me? Listen, we are in a situation of danger here; a big band of raiders is assaulting the city south of here and they could be hitting us very soon. I have no time to help you finding a two hundred years old mare! Please, go away and leave us be! There is nothing for you in this place! Honest!” Puppy frowned; she didn't understand everything, but it seemed that her mom had been here and now was gone... again... if only this pretty pony could tell her where mom went this time it would have been awesome, but it seemed that she didn't want to help Puppy. “Ah, if you help me, I'll give you this...” Puppy looked inside her bags, searching for something pretty to barter. “It's a barter, it's okay because everypony does that!” The filly found Fuzzy Ball, but she didn't want to give away her pet... no, it was better to keep Fuzzy hidden before somepony noticed her... there were many other things that she could offer, like some empty bottles of Sparkle-Cola, a bag of pretty caps, a brushabe Lyra... wait, what? The foal gave a better look at the doll to be really sure, but it was impossible not to recognize that gorgeous coat and wonderful flowing mane. “Woah! He gave me the pretty green pony! Look!” Puppy showed the green plastic unicorn to Boiled Broccoli. “What now?” The mare raised an eyebrow, confused. “Mister Red Cape! He gave me his doll! She is so cute! I love her!” The filly hugged the doll in a burst of happiness. “This is the best toy ever! She still has all her mane in its place! and her tail too!” The outburst of joy made the guard pony smile for a moment, but she immediately reverted to her scowl; foals were annoying, that was all. “Yes, so what? Are you trying to make me help you in exchange for a doll?” Puppy froze on the spot, her joy disappearing in sudden realization. “You... you want her? B-but...” The foal looked at the mare, then a the doll and again at the mare, hesitating. This toy was really beautiful and it was so new, but Miss Broccoli wanted it in order to help Puppy finding mom... Sacrifices, always sacrifices... why this stoopid place was taking from her every single nice thing she had? Not fair, not fair at all; but these were the rules and mom was somewhere out there. “Ah... if you help me finding mom...” Puppy hesitated before nodding, resigned. “Okay, I'm giving you the cute doll. But please, will you help me?” This was a hard blow, the doll was a present, but mom... no Puppy, don’t think about it; when you’ll find mom all of this will go away. Just one more town. Boiled Broccoli cocked her head. What the fuck, is she holding back tears? Does she really believe that I want her doll? What am I doing, teasing foals and extorting toys? When did I become like this? The mare looked away, lowering her voice. “I... I might help you. I think that there is some sort of computer with a logbook; we can search together in the first entries to see if there's something regarding this Rainy Days... come with me.” The little pony inside the guard felt very, very ashamed of herself. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 14:15 P.M. - LOCATION: Broccoli, Big 52 S Branch “Could you please speak a little lower? I'm trying to find some clues about your mother while you play Cirano de Puppysmiles!” Boiled Broccoli groaned, trying to ignore Puppy's chatting on the radio and put her hooves over her ears. “Yush! He says he's super in love, he likes your... ah... stuff, and some other stuff of yours and he said something about a wall that burned; I didn't understand everything but he seemed so hot!” P7's voice was dancing the pony pokey out of joy. “Yay! He likes me! I'm so happy I can't believe I don't even know who we’re talking about! You know, after that hacking attempt from the other day I was quite depressed; it seemed that anything out there existed with the sole purpose of bullying me, but now that I have a secret lover my life is pink!” “Yep, I know I'm the best, no need to thank me... now, your next move is waiting until he confesses himself, then you refuse him.” There was a long pause. “What? I think I heard you wrong. This is funny, it seemed to me that you told I had to refuse him.” Puppy nodded wisely. “Pressis- precis... pree- ah... eyup! You must always refuse him the first time, so he feels bad and loves you even more! Remember the rules!” “Oh, right, the rules! Okie dokie, let's do this by the book! I'll leave everything to your master plan then!” Puppy smiled. “Don't worry, you won't regret this! Now I really have to go because miss Broccoli is trying to find my mom, I'll call you later and tell you what to do, okie dokie?” “Okie dokie Loki! Later!” The communication was interrupted while Puppy turned her attention toward the pony at the terminal. “Ah, did you find something miss pretty pony?” “You mean, while you were giving sage advice about love to your friends? Yes, I found something.” The mare turned the computer screen towards Puppysmiles. “Is this your mother?” The filly smiled happily. “Yes! Mom! Isn't she beautiful! My mom is the best mom ever!” It was a repertory photo, with the mare wearing her military technician suit and a helmet; the earth pony was slim and not very tall, Puppy shared the line of her muzzle and her eyes. “Alright, here it says that she moved south, to Emerald Shores... doesn't say why, but it was almost two centuries ago... I don't think that-” “Where is Emerald Shores?” Puppy Asked promptly. “South, past Ironworks; you can't miss it because there's only ocean past Emerald Shores.” Puppy's ears moved a little. “You said... That place is the last one along this stoopid road?” “Yes, it's the last city along the Big 52, but you shouldn't call it-” “YAY! I found mom! There's no other place where to go! Mom is in Emerald Shores!” The filly jumped all around the room, faster than a filly on a sugar bomb and Sparkle-Cola trip. “Well, actually if you follow the coast there's the NCA and... you don't give a fuck, right? You aren't even listening anymore.” The filly was already out in the road and was running toward the walls; Boiled Broccoli sighed. “Oh well, at least I got rid of her...” Trotting outside the town hall the mare was surprised to find Puppy waiting for her, especially after having seen her zooming away. “What now? Weren't you chasing your mom?” The foal took the green unicorn doll from her bag and offered it to Boiled. “Ah, please love her and brush her. Her name is Lyra and she is a really really awesome friend...” The guard refused the doll, sighing. “Keep that thing; I'm not stealing toys from the foals... just get out of my town as soon as possible and don't come back. We already have our load of troubles.” Puppy hesitated a moment. “But, if you want, I can take the doll anyway...” That last line gave the filly the motivation she needed to move; the foal hid the brushable toy in her bag and zoomed away, leaving alone a snickering Boiled Broccoli. “'kaythankyoubai!” “Goodbye, whiny ghost...” The mare sighed one last time, then raised her voice yelling at the ponies on the walls. “Let the foal go out and close the doors again! Organize for another night with double shifts! Make sure every farm lights a fire and keep your eyes open!” Winds of war were blowing in the air, and that yellow pony was running straight into the storm... oh well, not Boiled's problem at all. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 12 - TIME approximately 17:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Broccoli Fields, Big 52 S Branch “What do you want again?” SolOS' exasperation was palpable in his voice, but Puppy didn't care. “Hi Mister Blue! I've talked with Pink and she is very, very interested in meeting you... she said she feels so lonely and wants new friends.” “What the... wait, you convinced that Artificial Intelligence in Solaris Tunnel 2 to let me access its storage? Are you serious?” While zooming through the last fields south of Broccoli, Puppy frowned. “I am always serious! Yes, she is waiting for you to sing her a serenade, so, make a super romantic song and go to her, so you will fall in love and you will be happy ever after!” There was a long pause before SolOS spoke again, and when he did so, he was confused. “Ah... thank you? I was convinced this P7 was a friend of yours, can I ask you why you are backstabbing her like this? It doesn't seem rational... not that I expect anything rational from you anyway.” “Backwhat? Listen, it's easy: you are a Voice, she is a Voice and both of you are very, very lonely. I'm mighty sure that when you will meet you will be super friends and since I am friend with both of you I want you to be friend with each other! That's all!” Another long pause rolled away with the road before SolOS replied. “Friends, you say? We'll see... I could use a strategic ally, after all...” When the communication was cut, the radio replaced Mister Blue's voice. Tonight I can't say it's a good night, my little ponies. Not earlier than half an hour ago, Ironworks launched a cry for help. The ponies in the fortified town are under siege, apparently attacked by an horde of well armed and organized raiders. If this is the Wild Herd, we have never seen them like this before; they have heavy weapons, combat robots and fight like an organized group. I have no idea of what's going on behind the scenes, Big 52, but if we don't react now, it could be too late, and to show that Lonesome Pony is not all talk and no meat, I'm flying to the front with my old rifle on my shoulders. DJ Good Stuff will take care of the radio in my absence, be kind with her and help her like you did with me. From L.P. That is all, have a last song. Blessed bodies of the Heavens sun and Moon of greatest light bathe us in your warm embraces shield us with your peerless light help us to stand firm as mountains doing right and shunning wrong may we find our strength in friendship unite our herd as one group strong ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (14) New perk added: Boisterous Incompetence - Yeah, don’t worry I know exactly what I’am d-BOOM! During dialogues or skill tests, if your skill is less than half the required score for succeeding in the feat, you get special dialogue options that have a 50% chance of success. Beware, if you fail this test, the results will be way worse than a usual failure. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# The equestria anthem lyrics are from this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZISo1NFO7AQ Huge thanks to Easteu and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	16	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-01T17:55:14+00:00	2011-12-01T17:55:14+00:00	31,088	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 16: Reunions We’re getting the band back together 'Sup, ponies. I can't believe he really did that! He took that piece of crap he calls a rifle and just flew away... that feather head! While I was sleeping! Hey L.P. if you are listening to this, shove that rifle up your ass! The radio paused for a moment, the feminine voice that had been talking didn't seem sad or worried, just angry. Alright ponies, show must go on; DJ Good Stuff here and you are listening to Radio 52, at least until I collapse because a certain pony left me here all alone with a show that is never supposed to stop! Okay, new rules: I'll be airing during daytime and you'll get only music during night, because I'm not immortal and i need to sleep, and if anypony wants to drop by and do some talking while I'm asleep, just knock at the door; you know where we are. The sound of paper shuffling filled another pause. Alright, remember that I can operate that damn shortwave radio too, so don't stop sending news, especially regarding the situation in Ironworks. And speaking of news, the Memorial has been deserted and the ponies are moving north, towards Broccoli. All the caravans still moving between Broccoli and Emerald Shores should head north and try to reach Rust Manor. I repeat, head north towards Rust Manor, don't stop at Broccoli because it's too near to the war zone. Fuck, I hate giving the news; if anything else comes in I'll lat you know, otherwise you'll get music all day long. Remember, music means no news and no news is actually good news. Have some angry music because I'm angry and give Lonesome a buck in the head if you see him. Say your prayers, little one don't forget my son to include every pone tuck you in, warm within keep you free from sin ‘til the sandmare she comes DAY 13 - TIME approximately 4:00 A.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial northern picnic area, Big 52 S Branch In the distance ahead of Puppysmiles stood another little town, little more than a group of shacks built around a very large statue that depicted a group of ponies hoisting an Equestrian banner. The marble monument was remarkably well conserved, it's enormous size made it possible to see even from several kilometers away. On her way south the filly met several groups of ponies with carts loaded with everything; she tried to socialize with them, but they simply kept moving, mostly ignoring Puppy except for a couple of foals who waved back from a cart... Entire families were fleeing, leaving their homes and trying to reach safety behind the walls of larger and better guarded settlements. The filly was now staring at the monument with a puzzled expression. “Ah, Mister Voice, are we near to dad's place?” “Analyzing. Actual position is Equestria: Fallen Soldiers Memorial, northern picnic area. Location of your male parent is currently unknown.” Puppy tilted her head, studying the surroundings. “Yes, I remember this place! That big road sign with the Pinkie Pie face and...” The foal left the road, galloping over a low hill and finding herself in the middle of a group of tables and rusty abandoned barbecues. “This is dad’s place! Dad is near! Let's go!” The filly in yellow galloped further away from the road, heading for a group of hills to the west. The low hills were still far from here, approximately four or five kilometers away from the Memorial, but even from this distance it was possible to see that they were dotted with white stones, each spaced evenly apart. As she ran toward the distant hills, Puppy passed by a dead tree; once upon a time it must have been a proud oak, but all that was left now was just a blackened skeleton, its trunk scorched and its branches bare. “I want more apple pie!” The grass was green and birds were singing among the leaves; the sky was blue and everything was so nice... “Don't eat too much Puppy, we still need to go to dad's place, remember? If you eat too much you'll get sleepy and you don't want to be sleepy when we go visiting dad, right?” “But mom, he's never there! We went a lot of times and he was always away! Will he be there this time?” “I... I don't know, Puppy, but you can leave him flowers, so he will find them and know that you love him, okie dokie?” A couple of colts chased each other, disappearing behind a hill; there were ponies playing and ponies having lunch, everypony was having a good time. “I got a better thing this time! Look!” “Oh, but Puppy, that's a toy of yours... are you sure you want to leave it here?” “Yush! So when dad will be back he will play with it and won't feel lonely! Besides, he will return it to me when he comes back home again!” “...” The distant sound of laughter filled the silence between mother and daughter. “Mom? Why are you crying?” The filly stopped for a moment, looking at the big tree and trotting around it... she could clearly remember having a picnic in this place not earlier than in spring... where had everything gone? Oh well, she knew that trees sometimes lose their leaves because mom had told her so and since there wasn't even grass on the ground it was just fitting. The filly trotted away toward the cemetery. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 6:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Interequestrian 52 War Cemetery, Big 52 S Branch The tombs were all similar, consisting of small marble stones on which were engraved a name, a date, a cutie mark and a few short words. Some stones were white and other stones were black, but when Puppy asked to her mom why they were different she simply replied that the ponies napping there were more important than the others... Puppy didn't like that reply, since dad was a very important pony but he only had a white stone; so she decided to bring him some more flowers, just to show him that she was super sure he was the best dad ever. “Warning. Receiving distress radio signal. Distance from the source: two hundred meters. Signal identified: Device 009. Warning. Receiving new distress radio signal. Distance from the source: two hundred and fifty meters. Signal identified: Device 020.” Puppy tilted her head, confused. “Wut? New radio music? I hope it's not like the last time when there was just a stoopid pony saying endlessly ‘help me, we're doomed’ and all those silliness...” “Negative. These are Ministry of Peace distress signals from other MK VI Suits. Receiving a third signal on a distance of two hundred and thirty meters. Signal identified: Device 013.” The filly sighed. “Look, if it's not music I don't care. Now let's go find dad, maybe he's back and we will go find mom together.” With these words the foal headed toward a low hill with the statue of an alicorn on top. The hill was surrounded by a low metallic fence with several marble arches that led inside that area of the cemetery. A large main battle tank stood In front of the arch Puppy was going through; a brass plaque in front of the war machine explained that in this part of the graveyard were buried the fallen soldiers from the Third Armored Company – Steel Flanks; there were also some commemorative words and a brief statement that explained how tanks nowadays weren't widely used on the front because of the new technological breakthroughs and that this decommissioned machine had been left here to safeguard its sleeping brothers. The filly in yellow had been here more than once, so she already knew where to go and headed toward a specific grave; seeing that the place was deserted, Puppy sighed and sat in front of the white stone. The cutie mark of a couple of keys was engraved on the marble surface, together with some writing: Captain Better Days Tender husband and caring father. Beloved by his wife Rainy and his daughter Puppysmiles. The date was mostly unreadable, but it didn't matter very much to Puppy, since she was mostly interested in the grave itself. On the small mound sat an empty vase and a couple of plastic figures. The vase once contained flowers, but now it was just filled with murky water and covered in mold, but the plastic figures still stood on the grave, looking back at Puppy; they were two molded plastic ponies, like those that were put into cereal boxes. The first figure was a miniature Pinkie Pie, while the other was of Rainbow Dash. Puppy sighed. “He didn't take them... why he never takes what I leave here? I was sure that he loved Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash!” Touching the plastic blue pegasus with a hoof, the filly continued. “Stoopid dad, if he was a little more at home mommy could be happy...” Oh well, mom explained plenty of times that it was okay if he didn't come home and that she wasn't mad at him; the filly wasn't completely convinced, but something in her mother's eyes told her that she had just to accept that explanation. From the day mom got angry because Puppy didn't want to come home until dad came back with them too, the foal decided that she didn't want to see her mother cry and scream like that, so she decided to play along and leave something in this place every time she came here, hoping that one day dad would realize that she and mom still loved him and maybe he would finally come back. Puppy cleared her voice and stated, “Everything.” “Warning. The inventory management spell is not devised to operate more than one object at a time. Opening fast inventory scrolling by alphabetical order. State ‘next’ when you have finished examining an object and need to move on. State ‘stop’ or ‘exit’ when you want to close this application and restore usual inventory management program.” An Ashtray floated in front of puppy. “Next!” Another ashtray appeared. “Next!” Yup, ashtray. “Next!” Again, an ashtray “Next!”... did I say that puppy usually scooped up every single shiny object she found on her way? This was going to take a while. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 7:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Interequestrian 52 War Cemetery, Big 52 S Branch “Next!” The twentieth fork was stowed back into Puppy's bags and the sorry, dripping remains of Fuzzy Ball floated in front of the foal. “Ne- no wait! Fuzzy!” Grabbing the dead parador cub, a disgusting green goo oozed from the cracks in its carapace. The dead creature had lost all of its legs and only had a single wing left, while the eyes at some point started to decompose and were now just another grossly rotting detail on that thing. “You don't seem very healthy today, Fuz... what happened?” Puppy studied the dead creature for a moment, trying and failing to determine what was wrong with it. “Ah, Mister Voice, is Fuzzy Ball ill?” “Negative. Fuzzy Ball is deceased and in an advanced state of decay.” Puppysmiles frowned; she had learned from experience that difficult words usually weren't good news. “Ah, this means she is very tired?” “Negative. This means she is falling apart. Losing pieces. Disintegrating.” “What?” The filly cocked her head, alarmed. “Losing pieces!? But Fuz needs her pieces to be okay!” She gave a second look at the dead critter. “Besides, it seems to me that she doesn't lack any pieces...” “Advice. Check twice. The creature has lost three wings and all its legs. Moreover, its carapace is rotting and has broken in several places due to the poor condition in which it is transported.” “Transported? You mean that Fuzzy is getting worse because I am taking her along with me!? But that's terrible!” This was a chance that even an automated voice with no real intelligence could be able to exploit. “Affirmative. The corpse is decomposing faster mostly because of you insisting on taking it along. Abandoning the corpse immediately is highly recommended.” Puppy hesitated. “Leaving Fuzzy... here? But... but she will be alone! There's nothing here, there's only-” The foal stopped talking, looking straight at her father's grave. “Ah... maybe dad could take care of her...” The foal didn't seem enthusiastic about that idea, still it seemed so obvious... “Elaborating. Leaving a deceased pet in the custody of a deceased parent is... Error, cannot compute. Please reformulate.” “Reform me late? What are you saying again, you silly voice? I'm trying to being serious here!” “Re-elaborating. It is impossible to identify a logical pattern. An external counselor is strongly advised.” Puppy snapped, starting to lose her legendary patience. “Stop talking nonsense! Call me somepony more competent or we'll end up arguing again!” The filly put her hooves on her helmet, as if she was rubbing her head. ”Really, living with you can be a pain sometimes...” Watcher's metallic voice interrupted the foal-machine quarrel. “Puppy? What are you doing in this place? It's dangerous!” Turning toward the voice, the filly in yellow found a spritebot floating to her left, but this time she couldn't smile at him. “Oh, it's you, Questioner-” “Watcher...” “-Whatever... this isn’t a good moment, could you please come back some other time?” The voice hesitated before replying. “Sure, but I wanted to warn you. This place is not good for you; it's filled with... ah... bad things that you must not see. Please, before I go promise me that you will get away from here immediately.” Puppy snorted in frustration. “I can't, I need help with Fuzzy Ball, but Mister Voice is not helping at all!” With these words, she showed her dead parador to the spritebot. “Gah! But that thing is rotting! No please, what is that? Don’t tell me! Puppy, throw that thing away!” “What? But Fuzzy Ball is my very best pet friend! I love her and she loves me and we are having lot of adventures together! I don't want to abandon her...” The foal hesitated, looking away. “...but...” “But?” Pressed Watcher, since Puppy didn't seem eager to end the sentence and still hugged the corpse. “...But she is ill and Mister Voice says that she must rest... I could leave her with my dad, but it seems wrong... I didn’t even ask him if I could keep her and-” “Your dad? You know where your dad is and you are still trotting alone through the wasteland!?” The robot’s voice was growing with indignation. “What kind of a father could ever leave his-” Watcher stopped abruptly, finally noticing the name on the grave that Puppy was sitting in front of. “Oh... buck... this keeps getting better...” The foal went on. “I know that I should have asked before taking a pet with me but... but...” The filly sobbed. “But I only wanted a friend to stay with me all the time! Not a weird voice that always tells me what to do or a stoopid chicken that comes and goes! Fuzzy never leaves me alone and keeps me company! We were having lot of fun together and I protected her from the pet eaters and she never goes away and...” The filly paused, looking at the spritebot. “...And now she is ill and she loses pieces! Mister Voice says she has less wings than before, I'm not good with numbers but it seems that he's right... I don't want to leave her but I don't want her to be ill because of me... I don't know what to do!” “Ah, and what did Mister Voice say?” Puppy snorted. “Nothing! He is talking nonsense since I started asking him! Then I had this idea of letting Fuzzy stay here with dad to see if she gets better, but I don't know if dad will like her or if he will be angry and... well, I'm not sure dad will come here, because he is never here when I come and even if mom says he loves me, I can't figure why he always avoids me!” The foal waved her hooves around, as if she couldn’t stand still while she was expressing her concern. “So maybe he will hate Fuzzy Ball and then she will be sad but I can't take her with me because she's losing pieces, and losing pieces is bad!” Watcher hesitated, trying hard to disentangle the knot of feelings and words that Puppy was bombarding him with. “Well, ah... what if I take Fuzzy with me? Just put her into this spritebot’s cargo bay and I'll take care of the rest! Sound fair?” Puppy tilted her head. “You will make Fuz feel better? Really?” “Sure, she can't get any worse anyway, I'll see what I can do, but now please get away from this place, it's not good for you.” With these words, a hatch opened on the spritebot’s side, revealing a space large enough to house the dead critter. The filly looked at the metallic stash, then at Fuzzy Ball and sighed. Hugging her pet one last time, she whispered her goodbye. “Don't worry, Questioner is a pretty pony; when you'll get better we will play again together...” Kissing Fuz goodbye through the helmet's glass, Puppy put the dead creature inside the spritebot, the hatch closing almost immediately. “Don't worry about her, little one, she is going to a better place... now, let's move away from here, it makes me sad, okay?” The filly nodded, looking at her father's grave. “Lily.” A plastic flower floated in front of her and she put it on the ground before the marble stone. “Sorry dad, I have to go; but next time I'll stay a little more, okie dokie? I'll come here with mom.” Turning away from the grave, Puppy smiled at the spritebot. “Alright, I'm done.” There was a pause before Watcher spoke again. “You are a good filly, Puppy.” The foal and the robot moved off along the road that headed away from the cemetery, towards the Memorial; the ponies on the large statue seemed to salute the fallen from across the distance, like an eternal link from those who had died fighting and those who were left, trying to win a war that in the end killed everypony. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 7:15 A.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch The Memorial was completely empty; while fleeing from the town the inhabitants had taken with them everything that wasn't nailed down and even a few nails that had come loose. By the time two ponies and a sealed crate were flown in by way of griffon, there was only dust and rust left to meet them. “Alright, we're here.” Mister White jumped down from the griffon that was transporting him and stretched his legs. “That was a long trip...” The White Apples’ leader tipped his black hat. “You lot can go back to Sun City.” The first mercenary griffon nodded to the unicorn. “Okay boss, but are you sure you want us to leave?” The stallion snickered, looking at the other pony as he disembarked clumsily. “Absolutely; this is family business, we just needed to get here fast, now your work is done.” The griffon's expression was still uncertain. “Oh, don't worry about your pay; if I don’t come back, my son will take care of the company.” The winged lion shrugged and waved at the others. “Okay, you heard the boss! Let's get out of here, lazy feathers!” All three creatures took off the ground and headed north. While Mister White watched the griffins flying away, Sage Brush dragged the heavy crate inside a small shack made of plastic sheets and large roadsigns, complaining all the way. “We can't take all this stuff with us, Uncle White... it's too heavy!” “Don't worry Sage, I'm planning to make camp here and then move fast, scouting the area... she can't be very far.” “I still can't see why you decided to run all the way out there with just me for company when we could simply call the guys...” “First of all we had to get here fast and we can’t airlift all those ponies and equipment in time. Moreover, Rust Manor is paying good caps for our mercenaries, I don't see why we should lose earnings...” Mister White tapped his chin, trying to find something else to add. “Besides, we aren’t going to face the Wild Herd; we will just get the foal and head back, easy peasy.” Sage Brush sighed. “Did anypony ever tell you that you are weird? I know she saved our rumps, but you already gave her a reward for that... I think this foal retrieving mission is suicide.” The stallion hesitated for a moment, his expression becoming thoughtful. “Or you know something I don't?” The White Hooves' leader enveloped a pair of binoculars with his telekinesis and scouted the surrounding hilltops. “Well, let's just say that I asked some questions here and there and it seems that wherever that foal goes, things change for the better... this ‘ghost’ must have some sort of lucky star watching over her, and I want to be there when the filly strikes again, there's a lot to gain from this story.” Sage Brush waved a hoof, dubiously. “And you say this because...” “...Because I have a good feeling about it.” The sniper facehoofed. “Great, so we are following a ghost because you have a doozy! Why am I coming with you?” Mister White replied merrily. “Well, because I'm your dear uncle and you owe me so many caps that you can't say no anyway.” “I hate my life...” groaned Sage Brush. “The white unicorn waved a hoof, asking for silence. “Shut up! Somepony is coming from the hills, get the rifle.” From their improvised sniping position, the two ponies observed the solitary figure trotting in town; it was covered in a dusty mantle and carried a long carbine on its back. The traveler's face was hidden under a hood, but from its neck hung a necklace of feathers and polished metal objects. Sage Brush lowered his rifle, sighing in relief. “Meh, it's just a farseer... weird, what’s a shaman doing this far from the desert?” Mister White trotted out from the shack, leaving his rifle behind. “We'll find that out soon.” The unicorn galloped toward the newcomer and called out to him or her. “Hey you! This place is empty, the road heading south is dangerous! You should turn your tail south and head north!” The hooded pony stood for a moment, looking directly at Mister White before taking off her hood, revealing the face of an old unicorn mare. “Oh, you are already here... very well, now we have to wait for the others.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 7:30 A.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial outskirts, Big 52 S Branch “So, Puppy, you never told me about that blue streak in your mane... how did you get it?” The spritebot floated alongside Puppy as they slowly made their way from the cemetery and towards the Memorial; the graveyard gates were just a few hundred meters behind them. “Ah, it was in Sun City, when Blue Voice told me all those meanie things... I don't remember very well, but at some point I went to sleep and when I woke up my mane was all fancy.” “I see... you went to sleep and woke up with your mane changed... and what did Mister Blue tell you?” Puppy sighed. “I already told you that! He said I was a robot and wanted to make a fool out of me, but I showed him that I was smarter... but that's an old story, since now we are friends.” “Beg your pardon? You are friends now? Didn't you kill him with a mag pulse shell?” Puppy giggled. “Of course not, you silly Questioner! He is not a bullybot! He's just as stoopid as a colt! But when we met again and Creepy Voice bullied him, he said he was sorry so even if he pretends to be grumpy I know we're friends!” “Creepy who now?” The tiniest shadow of concern started dancing in Watcher's voice. Puppy tapped at her helmet. “You know, Creepy Voice! The one who lives in my head, talks weird and does a lot of cool stuff but is a jerk?” After a long pause, the spritebot replied. “You mean Mister Voice, right?” “Ah, nope... Mister Voice is a bit boring and talks nonsense, Creepy Voice is creepy but cool. She does stuff like opening doors and spanking bullybots.” From the robot's speaker came a gasping sound. “Ah, now I get it! It's an imaginary friend! Yeah, I remember something like that... want some advice? Don't try blaming your friends for things you did; in the end it turns against you.” Puppy tilted her head, a little confused. “She didn't seem very imaginary... ah... okie dokie?” “Good filly, you always make me-” BOOM! Watcher disappeared in a blaze of fire, right in front of Puppy's eyes. The foal stepped back for a moment, trying to understand what was going on, then she noticed a large, squat metallic figure rolling over the top of a nearby hill and suddenly she knew the answer. “Bullybots...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 8:00 A.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch Mister White sat at a table inside the shack while Sage Brush finished cooking the oatmeal. “Alright, long Ears, so when are these others ponies supposed to arrive?” The mare shrugged, continuing to look outside the window. “We should move by tomorrow evening. Many are coming, so much blood...” Brush turned towards the farseer. “Hey, old hag, we aren’t going to fight! We're just here to get that foal and go back to Downtown. I don't care about your crazy visions.” White waved a hoof at his nephew in an attempt to make him be quiet. “Ah, you do the cooking, I do the talking; I think we already agreed on that.” Turning back toward the mare, he went on. “So, what did you see?” Long Ears closed her eyes. “In my dreams I've seen flames from the south, engulfing all in their path. In the blaze a pink shade kept struggling, the flames danced around her and they seemed to die for a moment as she passed them.” The mare paused for a moment before continuing. “As the fire continued to sweep north, the shade reached the end of the road and turned into darkness.” Mister White frowned. “Darkness? What do you mean with that?” “A black wave that ran behind the fire, devouring it but not before it destroyed everything.” The mare sighed. “And when the darkness devoured the fire, nothing was left. The whole road was just an empty, abandoned place.” “Well, that's boosting my motivation for sure!” snapped Sage Brush. “White, I say we go back to Downtown and leave this fucking place.” The white unicorn sighed, shaking his head and ignoring his nephew. “So, why we are here?” Long Ears looked away from the window. “To stop the fire before it destroys everything, and then to reach the end of the road before the pink shadow does.” “Pink shadow, you say? Why does this makes me think you are referring to Lonesome Pony's ghost?” The unicorn was still talking when a distant explosion got his attention. “Artillery...” Looking outside the window, Mister White couldn't see any explosion, but it seemed to be quite distant, maybe seven or eight kilometers south east; the wind didn’t help. The White Apples' leader trotted outside, listening out for any more noises, but it was hard to tell if the sound he had heard was actually a distant gunfight or simply his imagination working too hard. “Well, I guess that whatever it was, now it's gone; let's get ins-” A solitary figure was coming from the north, wearing a weathered duster and a leather hat. The unicorn whistled. “Hey, you! The place is deserted! Go back to Broccoli!” Again, the stallion's voice hesitated when he recognized the newcomer. “Oh, the old mummy...” Molten Gold quickened his pace and smiled as he approached Mister White. “Look who's here! White, of all the ponies I expected to meet, you are the last one! What are you doing in this outpost? Checking to see if there’s something worth taking?” The unicorn frowned. “Oh, I'd never steal your job, old mummy... no, we are... checking on the situation with the Wild Herd. ” He paused for a moment, trying to read the ghoul's expression, but it wasn't an easy feat. “So, what are you doing this near to the warzone? Some treasure hunting?” The old grave robber snickered. “Something like that... let's say that I sent a package south without realizing how dangerous it was. Now I'm trying to put a patch on that mistake.” “This is something new! You being sorry for something! What happened, are you getting old?” To Mister White’s surprise, instead of replying immediately Molten Gold turned his eyes away, looking south. “Well... yes. But I don't want a kid to die because of me being the usual me. I have a foal to save.” Slowly, Mister White's expression of surprise changed into an amused smile, until he patted the ghoul on a shoulder. “Welcome to the club, come in; we have oatmeal and a hot mare inside.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 7:45 A.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial southern picnic area, Big 52 S Branch Puppy galloped toward the big robot, with The Rock Of Destiny floating at her side. “Stop breaking my friends you stoopid bullybots!” On the other side of Puppy's reckless charge stood an old, rusted but functional battle tank, with tracks, turret and everything else. A pony with a spiked mane was poking out of the turret hatch, taking his time as he stared at the solitary foal running toward them. “Fuck the boss and his orders! Why should we hide in the south when we have a fucking tank! With this little baby we are unstoppable! “Hey Grey Matter, the yellow thing is running this way... how about some shooting practice on a moving target?” With a laugh, the pony retreated inside the tank and closed the hatch; a few seconds later, the turret rotated to aim at the approaching filly. Inside the tank, the pony with the spiked mane was snickering like mad. “Come here, come here my little pony...” “No wait!” A mare with her mane completely cut off put a hoof on the gunner's flank. “Let’s try a different weapon, I want to see this one!” “Shut up you cu-” The stallion began scolding the mare, but at the last moment he noticed the big red button she was pointing at. “Oh, yes! Yes I like it! Let's rocket it to the Moon!” “You two idiots! Stop wasting time! Less talking more shooting!” Snapped the driver, an earth pony stallion. The gunner snickered. “Gee, you're such a whiner, Grey! Here, look at this!” In the meantime Puppy got a little more than halfway toward her target. Now that the big metal robot was near she could see it had a large bulky body with a round head and a looooong nose... oh, it was one of those carts full of teapots! Wait, they weren't bullybots, they were carts! The filly stopped for a moment, sitting down and pondering on the nature of that thing... Okie dokie, what did she know? Usually there were ponies on the carts, but she couldn't see anyone on that one; moreover, it broke Mister Questioner's robot, and this was a typical bullybot thing, so the odds were that it was a bullybot and not a cart, but to be perfectly sure she decided to go and ask. In that moment, from the top of the tank's turret appeared a trail of white smoke, that rocketed toward Puppy at a ludicrous speed... it was like a big funny firework. “Tee-hee, look! A cloud maker!” KABOOM! The rocket hit just behind the filly, sending her flying towards the tank and leaving her in a small heap no more than fifty meters in front of it. Puppy's helmet was gone and the whole suit was peppered with holes; a thick curtain of pink mist was already forming around the foal while the suit read off its litany of damaged components. “Alright, he's a bullybot...” Slowly, Puppy got back on her hooves and looked at the large metal monster that now stood in front of her. Her helmet was still missing and through the mist her face was blurry and hard to identify, except for two burning pink eyes, that shone in the cloud making the whole thing glow with an eerie light. “Yeah! Eat it, yellow whatever!” The pony with the spiked mane was laughing crazily, when the mare hit him in a flank again, causing him to snap in anger. “What now, bitch?” “Hey Top Gun, I think It's standing up...” “What the fuck is that? Grey Matter, stomp it!” Alright, the wasteland was full of weird things and some of them could survive a missile in the face, but being trampled by a tank was a completely different level of overwhelming your enemy and the raider was sure that nothing could live through that. The tank launched itself onward, aiming for the foal who was doing pretty much the same thing but from the opposite direction. When the two adversaries were almost on top of each other, Puppy jumped in the air, grappling the vehicle's frontal plate with her hooves and pedaling in the air with her hind legs. “It's on the tank! Lucky Charm, go up and shoot it!” The driver brought the tank to a sudden halt, trying to make the filly lose her grip, but while Puppy managed to stay holding on, the gunner was thrown forward, bashing his head against the cannon's loading mechanism and knocking him unconscious. “Don't worry, I'm on it!” The mare levitated a sub machine gun and opened the hull's frontal hatch, finding herself directly in front of the struggling foal and in the middle of the pink cloud. “Say goodbye, critter!” Puppy heard a voice in front of her, something pony-like but she couldn't tell; what the filly immediately recognized was the hail of bullets that pierced her head and her suit in several points, destroying what little of her helmet that had managed to reform. “Stop it! Stoopid bullybot!” A new surge of motivation gave Puppy the strength to haul herself completely onto the tank's hull, just to look at a hatch that was rapidly closing again. “Hey, do you think you can keep me outside? I am Puppysmiles and I go wherever I want!” The foal jumped on top of the turret, searching for something to hit with her faithful rock. Thick metal, some more metal, still metal, a glass thing -CRASH!- okay, more metal, an antenna... -SDENG SDENG SDENG!- done... a box... “Uh, a box! Okay, get ready for a spanking!” Puppy loved that line from Creepy Voice, it sounded so badass! Inside the tank, Lucky Charm was drowning in her own blood after breathing the pink mist, Top Gun was still unconscious and Grey Matter was trying his best to make the mare drink a healing potion; everypony was simply too busy to worry about the foal on the tank's roof that was hitting a missile rack with a stone. This was more or less when Mister White heard the big explosion. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 9:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Interequestrian 52 War Cemetery, Big 52 S Branch It was only much later when three figures approached the grave, not saying a word. All of them wore a MK VI suit, like Puppy's, but the ponies inside were a patchwork of rotting skin and bleached bones; in their burning pink eyes there was no sign of intelligence, nonetheless they stopped to study the hoofprints in front of the marble stone and followed the trail like hounds tracking their prey. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Footnote: Level up! (15) New perk added: Hit the deck - What the fuck!? I was sure I hit her! Your Damage Threshold against explosives is raised by 25; enjoy tossing grenades on your feet. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Huge thanks to Arcane Scroll and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	17	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-01T18:51:15+00:00	2011-12-01T18:51:15+00:00	33,599	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 17: Karma And the whole world has to answer right now just to tell you once again. WHO’S BAD? DAY 13 - TIME approximately 6:45 P.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial northern picnic area, Big 52 S Branch A mare and a stallion trotted along the Big 52, both carrying assault rifles. The mare was wearing heavy security barding, while her companion used a mix of various metal plates welded together into what seemed like a bad attempt at making a scene costume for the Unicorn of Oz school recital. “I still don't understand why we can't stay in Tunnel Town. It's way more defensible than everything past the Sugartop-Yeow!” Trigger Happy hit Jammed Gun on the head. “Sure, and leave two thirds of the Big 52 in the Herd's hooves! I can't believe you're that selfish or stupid!” The stallion looked away. “I'm not selfish, I... I'm worried about you... I don't want you to risk your life like this.” A single glare from the mare had been enough to make Jamie stop talking for half a minute, but a pony in love is a stubborn pony. “We should at least stop for the night... the Memorial isn’t very far from here.” “Alright, lazy hooves, you win! Geez, do you know that you are a royal pain?” Trigger Happy groaned. “Good Stuff said that the town was deserted, but I guess it will offer some better cover than a tent.” The large monument to the equestrian fallen seemed to fade away with the evening light, disappearing right in front of the approaching ponies. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 7:00 P.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial southern picnic area, Big 52 S Branch As soon as the helmet was fully restored, a pink dot appeared in the middle of its display and began to blink. “System successfully rebooted. All functions restored. Diagnostic system is online. Subject 001: Puppysmiles. Female earth pony. Subject deceased, condition stable. All clear.” Puppy slowly opened her eyes, still sleepy. First things first: she had to determine where she awoke. Aw, it wasn't a bad dream... The bare hills and the dead trees were still all around her; this wasn't the foal’s room. Sighing, the filly in yellow got up and tried aligning with the arrow on the compass, but something got her attention. “Hey, Mister Voice, what's that?” “Analyzing. Tank wreckage. Threat level: none.” “Not the bullybot, silly voice!” Puppy sighed and trotted towards the object of her attention. “This blinking thing!” “Analyzing. Shortwave portable communicator. Researching frequency. Decrypting code. New communication channel detected. Receiving call.” “Yay! A phone call! Let me take it please please please! I love answering the phone!” Puppy cleared her voice. “A-hem! Hullo pretty pony, this is me, mom is not at home!” A surprised and angry feminine voice came from the other side of the call. “And who the fuck are you? Where is Lucky Charm?” Yay, guessing game! “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! Who is Lucky Charm? I know a pony named Lucky Strike, is that okay?” The communication was interrupted abruptly, leaving Puppy a little stumped. “Aw stoopid phone pranks! Oh well, don't get angry, or they will win the game...” Puppy shrugged and trotted away. “Attention, incoming call. Opening communication.” Without even giving Puppy the time to reply, the same voice from before started talking rapidly. “Okay listen up fuckers, I think this frequency isn’t safe anymore, but the boss is going to fuck me hard if you don't turn that fucking tank south and bring your fucked, drug filled asses back right now, got it Lucky? I’ll repeat that: tell Grey and Bleeding to take that tank back RIGHT NOW! This is the last time I’m asking politely!” “Thee-hee, pretty pony says funny words!” Puppy giggled; if this was a phone prank, it was fun. “What the- You again!? FUCK!” The communication closed for the second time. Puppy tilted her head. “That was weird... maybe we should go away?” “Affirmative. Primary objective is not in this location. Attention, incoming call. Opening communication.” The same voice as before started talking again. “Lucky Charm, Lucky Charm, this is Pony Fort, come in!” Puppy smiled. “Nope, but I hear you! Is it okay?” The mysterious voice sighed, giving up. “Listen, kid... I have no idea who you are, but I am trying to find some ponies and your radio is causing interference; how are you broadcasting on this frequency, anyway? Where did you get the channel encryption code?” “What? A code? I know it! It's Puppysmiles!” replied the filly. “Damn kid, turn off your radio, I’m trying to get in contact with a bunch of worthless Dash-heads! Unless you have seen a tank roaming free in the wastelands, you are of no help at all.” Puppy tapped her helmet, trying to focus. “A tank, uh? What does it look like?” “Are... are you serious? It's big, rusty, has a turret with a big gun, and moves on tracks...” The voice paused for a moment, hesitating. “Have you seen it?” Puppy looked at the still smoking carcass of the behemoth lying not far from her. “Ah, does it go bang and boom and toss exploding things?” “Yep, that's it! So, have you seen it?” “Uh-uh.” Puppy nodded. “But it was being a bully, so I hit it with my rock and it exploded.” There was a long pause from the other side of the call before the mare replied with a dismissive tone. “Yeah, sure, now go and fuck yourself with a cactus.” The call was interrupted again. Puppy shrugged, this new voice was being very odd; nonetheless, the filly had an arrow to follow and a lot of road to scoot, so she had no time for prank calls... Still, when was she going to have another chance to prank call a prank caller? “Ah, Mister Voice, can you call Pony Fort, pretty please?” “Affirmative. Opening connection.” The female voice from before replied almost instantly. “Pony Fort here, I copy you, speak.” “Ah... -giggle- I am looking for -giggle- Mister Ai Em... -giggle- Ai Em Stew Peed -giggle-” Puppy couldn't help but laugh; this was a prank she had seen once in the Foalsons and she had always always always wanted to try it out. There was a long silence before Pony Fort replied. “Really? A prank call? Look, I'm going to find this Mister Stupid and then he'll come there and spank you so hard that your tail will be sticking out your forehead!” Puppy gasped. “NO! No please I'm sorry! I... I... don't spank me! I'll behave!” The mare laughed for a while before replying. “Too late, little prankster! Watch your sorry flank because he's already coming for you!” “EEEEEEEK!” The filly launched herself in a run through the hills, fleeing from the incoming spanker and disappearing behind a hill. Run Yellow Prankster, run! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 7:30 P.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial northern picnic area, Big 52 S Branch Not too low, not too high, and especially don't let your enthusiasm drive you, old pegasus... Lonesome Pony was flying above the hills, looking for some landmark to navigate by, but past Broccoli the night had begun to fall, and now it was hard to see anything. “Damn, I'll have to land for the night if I don't want to fly straight into some raider patrol.” Sighing, the pegasus landed on a barren hill and finally stretched his wings in relief. “Alright, let’s check where I am...” The DJ had kept his PipBuck receiver tuned to Radio 52 on a very low volume the whole time, but when the music stopped and Good Stuff began talking, he stopped checking the map in order to listen to the news. “Okay, my little ponies, this is Radio 52 and I am DJ Good Stuff... just... this time there's nothing good.” The DJ sighed; she seemed on the verge of tears. “Ironworks is no more. I received a communication minutes ago: the Herd opened a breach in the factory, and the surviving defenders retreated inside the city Stable. The Herd seems to have better weapons, better robots, better everything... approximately two hundred ponies, mostly foals and mares, are now separated from a blood craving horde of raiders by a Stable door.” The DJ paused again for several seconds before continuing. “I... I don't know what to say... the Hired Hooves are reinforcing the Rust Manor garrison and won't move a hoof, but if nopony does something, then all those ponies at Ironworks are doomed. They sent a last message desperately pleading for help, begging somepony to save at least their foals...” Lonesome Pony sighed, shaking his head. “Goodie, this way you're helping nopony! I can't believe that the only thing you can do in a moment like this is whine like a foal! Ponies need a voice to guide them, not... not this!” The pegasus turned his head north, hesitating. “Why I must do everything by myself?” “Ah, sorry ponies, I'm not used to this and... well, I guess it's not my problems we are discussing here... but I think that things can still turn for the better; those ponies in Ironworks are alive and a Stable door is not that easy to open, so... think about this: next time it could be you. Thinking that you are safe just because you are elsewhere doesn't work at all, since the Big 52 is all the same place. If Ironworks dies, then Broccoli will die next, and Rust Manor... the Herd will be unstoppable if we let them take a running start.” Lonesome raised an eyebrow and closed his wings, listening to the mare's voice. Good Stuff was becoming more and more confident, as if she finally found the thread of her speech and now she seemed to know where to take it. “But if we stay together and face them before they become unstoppable, if we go to Ironworks and save the lives of those innocents... well, I think that we can still win. The only thing we need is to stick together and face the enemy as one. Lonesome Pony is already flying there; you just have to follow his example and show those mules their place!” “Not bad... there's a lot of room for improvement, but at least she didn't tell them to run as far as possible...” The pegasus sighed in relief. “Alright, maybe I didn't make a mistake leaving her alone.” “But I'm talking way too much. This is a radio and there should be music playing, so this is for you, Ironworks. Don't give up: somepony is coming! Hold on my little ponies! Just believe in each other... You gotta believe.” If just one pony believes in you deep enough and strong enough, believes in you hard enough and long enough, before you knew it somepony would think, if he can do it, I can do it making it two two whole ponies believe in you Lonesome snickered, hearing the song. “Good choice... maybe a little childish, but it's foals we're trying to save... I just hope those mules will get it or this is going to be the shortest counterstrike ever.” The pony smiled a little and trotted away, toward the Memorial. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 9:00 P.M. - LOCATION: Wastelands, Big 52 S Branch The five raiders were a little bit stumped; not only was a foal not supposed to run at them asking for help, but ponies were supposed to die when you shot them repeatedly in the chest... Apparently nopony had informed this one. “Oh please please please, hide me! He's coming and I has nowhere to run! Please please PLEASE!” Puppy stomped her hooves on the ground. “I said I was sorry, but he didn't care!” A large earth pony stallion with a scar along his neck approached the foal, while the other four ponies kept their weapons pointed at her. “Who the fuck are you? What the fuck are you? Who the fuck is after you? And why the fuck are you still alive!?” The pony noticed that the holes in the foal's suit were already disappearing and that she hadn't shown the slightest sign of being in pain. Alright, maybe listening to what this creepy foal had to say was a good idea, after all. “Ah, I am-” Puppy stopped abruptly; what if one of these ponies was Mister Stoopid? She had to play smart. “I am... uh... a ghost! Yush, I totally am the Ghost the voice in the radio always talks about... and... ah... my name is absolutely not Puppysmiles.” From the look the ponies gave her, Puppy felt she had to add something. “Ah, nopony here is called Mister Stoopid, right?” The stallion nodded, slowly... pink gleaming eyes, a yellow containment suit, ignoring gunshots... Yes, that matched with what he heard about the Ghost pretty well. “So... you are the Ghost of the Big 52.” “Yup.” Puppy nodded. Now that her master skill at lying was being tested, she had to be strong; she had to be firm... she had to be smart. Show your best poker face, Puppy! “And your name is... Not Puppysmiles?” “Right.” It was working! They were falling for it! Cunning Puppy, master of deceiving! “The Ghost of the Big 52... sentry bot killer and town rescuer? That ghost?” The other ponies behind the leader took a step back; they seemed afraid of her. “Yes I am!” Puppy nodded vigorously. “And you want help from us...” The stallion seemed a bit confused; go figure... “Yush! Well, that is if nopony's name here is Mister Stoopid.” “I... no, my name is Slash Blade, the unicorn there is Collateral Damage and his bitch is Paper Cut. Then we have Stinky Tail and Plastic Flower...” The stallion pointed at the last two mares in the group while speaking their names; besides Collateral Damage and Paper Cut, all the others were earth ponies. Puppysmiles sighed in relief. “Wew, that was close! Listen up, there's this mad pony following me; he's super angry because I made a prank call to him and nao he wants to spank me! Can I... ah... hang with you for a bit? So you can tell him I'm a nice pony and he'll go away... Puppy please?” Blade looked back at his companions; the other stallion shrugged, while the three mares didn't seem eager to help. “Are... are you really fleeing from a pony because you played a prank on him and now he wants to spank you?” This was getting weird. The filly nodded. The raider raised an eyebrow. “Are you retarded?” “Ah, mmmaybe? Will you help me if I say I am?” The stallion sighed again; he was sighing a lot, lately. “You’re going to follow us anyway, aren't you?” Puppy nodded again, smiling. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 10:00 P.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch Mister White smiled as he floated the canteen back into his saddlebags. “So, you ditched the radio and flew all the way here because of a pony you haven't even met?” The unicorn snickered. “Sort of... I had a feeling that the wind was changing and... Well, I just wanted to be there when it happened. Actually, I was surprised to find you here...” replied Lonesome, looking at the group of ponies in the shack. So far there was a farseer from the Sand Sweepers, the Security head mare of Tunnel Town with her.. henchpony? Coltfriend? Doesn't matter... The most infamous grave robber in all of Equestria and Mister White with his nephew. “So, what's the big plan?” The pegasus looked out into the night, waiting for a reply that came from the farseer. “We are still waiting for friends. Tomorrow we act. Now the fire is burning too brightly; we need to wait for the flame to flicker and then make our move.” Long Ears closed her eyes, breathing deeply. “Look, I don't care very much about all these prophecy thing...” interrupted Trigger Happy. “I just want to know if Puppy is alright. Can you tell me that, you Mint-als sink?” The unicorn mare opened her eyes, shrugging. “And how am I supposed to know that? The visions come at me, not the other way.” Happy didn't reply. Instead she turned her attention to the ghoul sitting in the corner. Molten Gold hadn't spit out a single word since she and Jamie arrived in town, but he seemed troubled. “So, old mummy... you should come north more often...” The mare tried smiling at the treasure hunter; she didn't like him, but he hadn’t actually done anything to deserve her mistrust. Yet, at least. “I’m curious, what did that filly do for you?” The ghoul slowly turned his head toward the guard chief. “It's not a matter of what she did for me... it's what I didn't do for her.” Molten snickered; it was a raspy and unsettling sound. “For the first time in two centuries I feel guilty. Can you believe that?” Sage Brush sighed; this seemed to be the ‘tell your story’ moment of their ‘oh-so-pretty’ slumber party. “Spit it out. Most of us will be dead before this little adventure ends anyway... it's not like your secret is going anywhere.” The sniper chuckled before continuing. “Then we should tell each other creepy tales and have a pillow fight. Isn't it a great idea?” Mister White facehoofed. “Sage... please, shut up.” The ghoul shrugged. “It's not a real story anyway. I just happen to have known Puppy's mother, Rainy Days.” Molten Gold was speaking slowly, with a distant voice. “She was some sort of local hero... nothing special, but in those days when everypony was scared and confused, she had the resolve to organize a refugee camp and helped a lot of ponies.” Shaking his head, the grave robber corrected himself. “Well, mostly she showed other ponies how to help themselves, then moved on the next town and did the same thing from the scraps... teaching ponies how to survive.” Jamie interrupted the ghoul. “Wait a single fucking second... You knew Puppy's mom and then you met Puppy... What did you tell her?” Molten Gold looked straight into the guard’s eyes. “And what could I tell her? ‘Sorry but your mom is dead?’ Have you looked her in the eyes? I sent her to Ivory Tower, hoping that the rangers would find a way to...” The ghoul hesitated, turning his head away. “To help her.” Nopony replied for a moment, not until Trigger Happy realized the meaning of Molten's words. “Hey, but Ivory Tower was completely destroyed! You sent the foal there!?” The mare retrieved her combat rifle. “You fucking son of a b-” Jamie and Lonesome Pony jumped on Trigger Happy, immobilizing her. “Woah, Happy, calm down! She was sighted in Broccoli, remember? She's fine!” Molten sighed, shaking his head. “Well yes, she should be fine... The funny thing is that even most of the ponies living in Ivory Tower are fine... they just lost their playground.” The ghoul smiled. “I wouldn't be surprised if somepony told me that the filly did that.” Lonesome Pony let Happy go and got himself back on his hooves. “The two slaves she freed told me that she was like a ghost; bullets passed through her as if she wasn't even real, and her gleaming pink eyes turned the slavers against each other.” The pegasus weighed his next words carefully before speaking. “Do you believe in ghosts?” “Oh please!” snapped Trigger Happy. “Don't even get me started on that! This idiot,” She pointed at Jammed, “Has asked that ever since Puppy arrived in Tunnel Town... Okay, the foal is not a common pony and I'm not sure she is even a ghoul, but I hugged her and she is more than solid.” White looked outside the window. “I think we should speculate a little less and keep an eye on the outside a little more; there are several ponies approaching from the north.” All the eyes in the room turned toward Long Ears, waiting for a response; the farseer smiled when she got up and walked to the door. “They arrived early... Very well, let's go and meet these famed Applejack’s Rangers.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 10:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Wastelands, Big 52 S Branch A small fire burned in the middle of the haphazard camp; the two earth pony mares were cooking some canned food while the other cleaned guns. Every pony tried to ignore Puppy. Stinky Tail was chatting with Collateral Damage, ignoring the glares of jealousy from Paper Cut. “So, do you think they already opened the Stable?” The unicorn shrugged, keeping his eyes on the firing mechanism of his weapon. “It’s just a matter of time... Those fat bastards won’t find mercy after making us starve for years...” Collateral spat in the fire. “We lost seven last season because of dirty fucking water. I just hope I’m there when when we get in.” Plastic Flower snickered. “Those fuckers have all the good land and they’ve hoarded all the good stuff from this shit hole... Well, not anymore! This time we win!” Slash Blade nodded thoughtfully. “And we’ll make sure that they won’t come back. Ever. Ironworks, Rust Manor, Salt Cube... Everything will burn.” Puppy wasn’t really listening to the ponies, being more interested in the way they worked around their weapons... It seemed plain stoopid; there were better ways to clean something. “So, that is how you keep clean your noisy thing? Why don't you wash it? It's easier...” Along the trail Puppy had been a constant pain, an endless torrent of words; the raiders tried scolding her and shooting her, but nothing seemed to work; she simply kept chatting and chatting and blah blah blah. The only thing that worked to keep the filly at bay had been the threat of spanking, but nopony was really willing to get physical on a thing that ignored bullet holes in her chest... Besides, the pink gas that poured from those holes seemed dangerous... and even more creepy, it seemed alive. “The gun needs to be oiled, unless you want it to jam and explode in your mouth,” Paper Cut explained. “Didn't you ever fix anything?” “Sure! I fix a lot of things! I'm best fixer ever!” “Fix things? Like what, brains?” The unicorn mare laughed. “Nope, I fixed a radio, then another radio and then... ah... a big screen, and I made my voice friends working again and they were super happy. Ah... I'm a voice fixer, I guess?” Paper interrupted her work, now staring at the foal. “You... you can fix electronics? Really?” It was now or never: Puppy wanted to impress these pretty ponies so that they would be her friends, and maybe they were going to help her if Mister Stoopid came to spank her... and then maybe they were going to help her find mom, too! “Sure! I can fix anything!” The unicorn floated a radio receiver in front of Puppy. “Prove it; this radio stopped working this afternoon; since then we have been cut off from our base... Repair it and you'll officially be a member of the Wild Herd.” The filly in yellow looked at the radio and giggled. “Ah! Last time it was a whole room filled with these things! Easy peasy!” WACK! WACK! WACK! Puppy struck the ground with the radio until it cracked open, then she gave a long look inside it before nodding knowingly. “Yeah, sure, it's really easy: it's broken.” The unicorn facehoofed and moved toward the foal to retrieve her now even-more-broken-than-before radio, but Puppy wasn't finished. “Nao all I need is to put some pretty stuff inside it...” Puppy grabbed an energy cell and stuffed it into the poor radio, then hit it again a couple times for good measure. Cracking and fizzling, the communicator came back to life. The mare grabbed the radio from the foal's hooves and activated it. “What the... you... you fixed it!” She immediately tried contacting the base. “Red Roach standing by. Come in Pony Fort, over... Red Roach standing by. Come in Pony Fort, over... oh, c’mon!” All the raiders stopped their activities for a moment, listening to the mare talking in the radio and waiting for a reply. The communicator crackled and spat sparks from its new battery, and with sparks came words. “This is Pony Fort, where the fuck have you been, Red Roach? We were already going to sell your stuff away!” While the conversation between Paper Cut and the raider base continued, the other ponies celebrated by shooting into the air and hitting each other on the back. Puppy giggled a bit, looking at the weird scene until Slash Blade approached her, patting the foal on the helmet. “Well done, little one! Who knew that you were such an electronic genius? We completely underestimated you. Welcome to the Herd.” The raider was going to say something more, but his attention was caught by Paper Cut’s expression when the mare closed the communication. “Grey Matter didn't return with the tank... The boss wants us to head back to Ironworks as soon as possible.” Plastic Flower shook her head. “Those idiots ran away with the tank... I told the boss not to give them too much firepower. Those fuckers have never given a fuck about the Herd; they only wanted to set the Big 52 on fire.” “Aw, who cares?” added Stinky Tail. “We got other tanks, and the robots, we are unstoppable this time!” Collateral approached Puppy, putting a hoof on her back. “So, little ghost, are you ready to see our base?” “Ah... I don't know... I should go looking for my mom... she's somewhere in that direction...” Puppy pointed south. “That's fantastic! It's exactly where we are going!” Slash patted the foal on the helmet again. Everypony here was a patting pony... Puppy could live with that as long as they didn’t spank her. The raider leader continued. “Okay my dirty ponies, we don't sleep tonight. We'll have to trot all night long if we want to reach Ironworks before morning's light.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 11:00 P.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch Scold sipped his tea, looking at the lights in the other houses; with a deep sigh, he turned on his tail and looked at the other ponies in the room. “Very well, so we have a DJ, a ghoul, a merchant, a drug addict and three guards?” The old scribe shook his head. “I was expecting something more from the Big 52... at least from the Hired Hooves.” Cold Shower shrugged. Without her armor she was quite small, even for a mare. “I don't care; we have our own troops; these ponies are just some more firepower I didn't even expect to get.” “Well, they are also the ponies that we Applejack's Rangers are trying to protect, aren't they?” The paladin frowned, dismissing the scribe’s words. “Actually, I don't see any helpless foals in this place... For all I know, they’re just volunteers fighting for their homeland. If they want to tag along I won't tell them to go away, but-” A knocking on the door interrupted their discussion. “Yes, come in.” When the door opened, Mister White made his way into the room. “Good evening, Scribe Scold... Paladin Shower...” The unicorn paused, looking at the two for a second before continuing. “Is everything alright?” Scold turned toward Mister White, studying him. “Oh, look, the leader of the most powerful tribe along the Big 52... May I ask why you only brought along one soldier?” The old unicorn paused. “Or are reinforcements on their way?” White shook his head. “Nope. I’m not here as the head of the White Apples nor the Hired Hooves. This is a very personal affair; I’m paying back a debt while hunting for opportunities.” Cold Shower muttered something that sounded a lot like ‘Fucking blood sucker,’ but if the stallion heard her he didn’t react. Scold moved toward the white unicorn and raised his voice, trying to draw away as much attention as he could from the not-very-diplomatic mare. “A debt? Let me guess. The ghost?” “Wow, your skills have improved since last we met, or does the elder scribe cape come with a ‘detect obvious’ spell?” Mister White snickered. “I’m just kidding, no offence meant... but everypony here seems to have been lured by that foal.” “Indeed. It’s incredible how much a single reminder of what we were could move so many hearts. I would be a liar if I said that I’m here just for the Applejack’s Rangers oath. I want to be there when the foal reaches the end of the Route.” The old scribe smiled slightly. “But I don’t think you’re here to talk about ghosts, are you?” Mister White laughed for a moment before replying. “Well, that was a reason, but there’s something else... I am a pony of many interests, after all. I wanted to know if there is a way we could help the Rangers in the upcoming battle...” “Upcoming battle? That’s interesting; and if I may ask, what battle are you referring to?” The leader of the Hired Hooves snickered. “Alright, let’s play your game: you’re going to hit the raiders while they’re still occupied with Ironworks’ Stable. That seemed pretty obvious to me, since it was what I would do.” The old scribe nodded. “Yes, it’s pretty obvious, but I don’t think that we will get a better chance to strike unless we forfeit Broccoli, Rust Manor and Sun City.” Scold turned his head toward Cold Shower. “But I am the wrong pony to ask, if it comes to strategies... Paladin, do you have anyhing to say?” The mare sighed, clearly annoyed by the fact that the scribe had involved her in the conversation. “I don't know what we'll find in Ironworks, but the plan is to break through the enemy lines and reach the Stable, secure the area and then evacuate the civilians. The more you can help, the better.” White nodded, slowly. “I heard they have robots and armored carts. Maybe we should study a better plan than simply rushing in and getting surrounded and overwhelmed by their superior firepower?” Scold rose a hoof. “No, wait, you are misunderstanding. The rangers will break through the lines; you'll wait outside, covering our retreat.” “Oh, wonderful, a suicide plan where I am not in the suicide lot. I already love it.” Mister White put all the sarcasm he could in his voice. “And what will we do when this ‘they’ll never know what hit them’ plan utterly fails?” The scribe shrugged. “Don’t worry, I've got a backup plan; the Rangers will deal with the Wild Herd, even if we have to bring down the sky...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 13 - TIME approximately 11:30 P.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch Molten Gold was sitting outside the town's barricade, looking south while smoking a cigarette. He coughed badly, snickering by himself, when Trigger Happy arrived and sat on his left. “So, you met her mom...” The mare's voice was distant, thoughtful. The ghoul nodded. “Yup; she bucked me out of town when I tried to steal some Rad-X. I used a lot of it since I was scavenging irradiated zones.” “Let me guess... You kept scavenging without the Rad-X?” The ghoul snickered again; it was an unsettling sound, like the rattle of a dying pony. “Wow, you must be some sort of scholar... I blamed the bitch for doing this to me since, like, forever... But in the end I always knew it was my fault. Oh well, I'm still alive to tell the story, at least.” The guard hesitated before asking the next question, but she had to know... she needed to know. “And Rainy Days? How is she?” Molten tossed the cigarette away, letting some seconds pass before his reply. “She can't tell the story. I still think it's better that way. Heroes need to fade away at some point.” “B-b-but... but Puppy... when she...” The ghoul stomped a hoof on the cigarette, with anger. “I know! I had to tell her the truth when I met Puppy the first time, but... but... then what?” The old treasure hunter sighed. “It's the only thing that keeps her going... I don't know what that foal is, but she has some inner strength inside that can't be defined... She has a purpose and... and she makes me remember the days before the war.” Trigger hesitated a moment before asking. “Before... the war?” “Yes. When we believed that Celestia would never abandon us and that everypony was a good pony inside, everything seemed so green and beautiful, but we wanted more, and more, and more... I don't even know why.” The ghoul stared at the gigantic monument that stood as the focal point of the Memorial. “But she is still like that; Puppy didn't stop believing that there's something good in everypony. She was told that ponies are pretty and she believes it, even in front of this horror. I... I don't want to be the one that will crush her dreams.” The security mare looked down, frowning. “Me neither. I... what will she find at the end of the road?” Molten Gold looked south, in the distance. “A grave with a name, overlooking the ocean from a small hill. Emerald Shores hasn't changed very much since those days.” Trigger Happy didn't seem to have anything to say. “It's quite a nice place. You can hear the waves and feel the wind in your mane... if you close your eyes it’s like you can actually see old Equestria again,” offered the tomb raider. “This isn’t helping.” The mare kept looking down at her hooves. Molten Gold sighed. “Not at all...” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 14 - TIME approximately 5:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch Ironworks was burning. Once upon a time the place had been a gigantic industrial complex, with structures as tall as skyscrapers, filled with industrial machinery and busy ponies. Before the war the complex was a steel mill where iron and coal were used to produce tanks and weapons, but during the last months of the conflict most of the place had to stop working due to the lack of raw materials. Stable Tech had bought part of the structures and built under them a Stable, using much of the materials that were left inside the factories; it had been a job half done and was by far one of the least advanced Stables ever. This was probably the reason why it actually saved pony lives during the worst days after the apocalypse. Nowadays Ironworks was a town built entirely inside the main factory complex. The whole place was a fortress, with thick walls and a lot of high positions from which snipers and heavy guns could strike at any approaching hostile. Over the years, the town flourished because of its almost endless stockpile of steel. Obviously, all those resources were a beacon for raiders and other groups that wanted to get rich quick, but Ironworks had always managed to repel their assaults. Until today. Black pillars of smoke rose into the sky, being fed by the fires that consumed the buildings below. Immediately outside the complex there was a makeshift camp, mostly composed of weathered tents and surrounded with barbed wire. Puppy and her new friends were heading straight to that camp. “Oh, don't worry, they won't bug you, because you are with us!” Collateral Damage patted the foal on the back to encourage her, but it seemed quite pointless, since Puppy was already smiling and waving at everypony in sight. “Hi there!” The foal giggled. “Look at that mare, she has a super funny mane! Oh, look at that cutie mark! Cool!” A unicorn mare with a yellow mane and red coat approached the group. “It’s about time, you slackers!” “Oh, go fuck a goddess, Fort...” Slash turned toward Puppy. “She's Pony Fort, our radio operator... she's a bitch; don't listen to her whining or you'll become a bitch too.” Puppy didn't know two thirds of the words that these funny ponies were saying, but they were fun, so she giggled anyway and trotted toward the new mare. “Hi, I'm Puppysmiles! I'm looking for my mom!” The unicorn stopped abruptly, now staring at the little filly. “Did you say... Puppysmiles?” Puppy nodded. “Yush!” “And do you happen to have a radio?” The foal nodded again, smiling proudly. “That's me! I'm cool I kno-woah! Hey, what are you doing!?” The unicorn wrapped Puppy with her telekinesis and sat down, then put the foal across her legs and raised a hoof. “Very well, let's make this clear.” The filly struggled for a moment, trying to break free, but all she could do was waving her hooves in the air. “Lemme go! Lemme goooo!” And then, it began. “Good!” SPANK! “Fillies!” SPANK! “Don't!” SPANK! “Make!” SPANK! “Prank!” SPANK! “Calls!” SPANK! Puppy was wailing desperately, but the Red Roach team didn’t exactly run in her rescue; instead, the five ponies stared at the scene for the first few seconds, then one by one they started laughing. That seemingly immortal thing was being shown her place by a radio operator with a bad mood; hell, how in Equestria had they been afraid of that pipsqueak? “I'm sorry I'm sorry please stop I'm sorry!” Puppy was crying like a foal, but the mare didn't seem to stop and simply kept spanking her with every word she spoke. When at last the storm seemed to end, Pony Fort put down the filly and looked straight in her eyes. “Now. Will you make a prank call again?” Puppy didn't say a word, she simply shook her head trying to look away. “Look at me when I’m talking to you! Did you understand that? A radio is not a toy! Something very bad can happen if you keep a frequency occupied that should be used for emergency calls!” Puppy was still sobbing, but found the strength to nod slightly. Once the filly seemed to have learned today's lesson, Paper Cut stepped in and talked to Pony Fort. “Don't be too harsh with her... She kinda... fixed our radio, otherwise we would have stuck with the original plan and kept patrolling for another three days.” Paper patted Puppy on the helmet. “She's okay... she made a mistake and now she learned her lesson. Can we say that you two are even?” Pony Fort snorted. “If she really learned something, then we are. Foals, what are they good for?” “Now, now... give a hoof to each other and make peace... Puppy is officially Red Roach's mascot, so if you keep being mad at her we will be mad at you.” The radio operator sighed and offered Puppy a hoof. “Alright, alright! I was done anyway...” The filly in yellow slowly moved a hoof toward the unicorn, trying to stop sobbing. Fort grabbed Puppy's hoof and shook it. “Alright, now we are even. Welcome aboard. Oh, and you should take her to the boss.” -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DAY 14 - TIME approximately 5:30 P.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch Long Ears opened her eyes, waking up with a gasp and making Mister White jump in his bed. “What the- What's going on, witch?” The stallion blinked a couple of times, looking for his gun. The farseer sighed, looking south. “It's beginning. We need to move as soon as possible.” ------------------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Footnote: Level up! (16) New perk added: Yellow Dash - Run Puppy, run! When wearing light or no armor, like (duh) a MK VI full environmental suit, you move 10% faster. Don’t rejoice, you got spanked all the same. New Quest Perk added: Get Wild - you are now a member of the Wild Herd. Your standing with the Wild Herd is set to neutral. This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/04/story-fallout-equestria.html If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan http://www.equestriadaily.com/2011/06/fallout-equestria-side-stories.html?commentPage=1 http://www.ponychan.net/chan/fic/res/58852.html The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KaoFWVlFlMjYR2KmTWxwCYnvTZQcjEULO9YHSaqqk9U/edit?hl=en_US# Huge thanks to Damhoof, Easteu, Palaciowsk, artemievnorse and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	18	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-15T00:27:57+00:00	2011-12-15T00:27:57+00:00	23,442	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 18: Mystic Mist Cry ‘Havoc!’ and let slip the foals of war! DAY 14 - TIME approximately 6:00 A.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch “Ooooohm...” Mister White stepped into the shack and looked down at Long Ears who was sitting in the middle of a circle made of small bones, little glass beads and other weird stuff with her horn glowing like a neon lamp. The mare sat in an unusual posture; she had her hind legs crossed and her front legs opened like a blossoming flower. She was... weird, and somehow the stallion couldn’t help but wonder if the farseer wasn’t actually a zebra, despite all the evidence to the contrary. On the other side of the room, Sage was packing the last of their weapons and was almost ready to leave for Ironworks. White’s nephew simply ignored Long Ears and went on with his work, slowly and with his usual attention to detail. “Okay, I’ll take the bait... what is she doing?” The White Apples leader looked at the farseer with a puzzled expression. Sage Brush shrugged. “I have no idea, she said that she was going to perform a ritual that would sink our enemies in ‘the fog of war’, then took a shitload of chems and has been going ‘ooooohm’ since then.” “Chems?” White frowned; there was a strong scent of burned herbs in the room and that low chant was starting to unsettle him. The whole atmosphere seemed odd, somehow wrong, but he couldn’t quite put his hoof on why exactly. “Ooooooohm...” “Like, Mint-als, a lot, then some white candies I’ve never seen and a lot of green stuff, smoked some, gulped down all the rest... oh, and she drank a lot. And when i say a lot, I mean it.” “And then, she went like that? All mystical and stuff?” Small shiny dots flickered at the edge of White’s sight, like little ghostly fireflies, making his peripheral vision blurry. The smoke’s smell was stronger in the middle of the room, he wondered if the whole scene was actually in front of him or if this was just a dream he was having... The stallion shook his head. No, it was just that smoke, chems could have that effect, giving you a better grasp on the magical fluxes but cutting your perception of reality; this kind of stuff was very, very addictive, he had to fight back that tingly sensation and stay focused on real stuff. “Did You mention some sort of mist?” Sage nodded. “Exactly, she blabbered about this ‘fog of war’ and then stopped talking at all.” The white stallion tapped his chin, thoughtfully. “Fog of war like, tossing a cloud on their heads?” White didn’t seem very enthusiastic. “Go figure.” The sniper finished packing the weapons on his back. He didn’t seem to be affected at all by the smoke, but Sage’s body was stronger and he could probably shrug off that sort of thing more easily. “But if she doesn’t wake up really soon, we’re leaving her here... not that I’ll miss her anyway...” The older stallion frowned. “Hey, never underestimate an ally! She could save your sorry ass!” It was easy to see with just a glance that the unicorn mare wasn’t a common pony, still, White knew that trying to explain something like that to his nephew was a waste of time.. “Ooooooohm...” Sage snickered. “Like, foretelling from where I’ll get shot today?” Yup, a total loss of good time. “Like, taking a bullet or two in your place.” White sighed and turned to leave. “Let’s get out of here, slowpoke! The stench in this shack is unbearable!” DAY 14 - TIME approximately 6:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch “So, this is the famed Ghost everypony is talking about these days?” The Red unicorn stallion with an even redder mane looked down at Puppysmiles. “I'm not impressed.” Slash Blade snickered. “You will be. This thing seems to be nearly unstoppable and she knows how to repair radio machines and stuff.” The red stallion still didn't seem very interested. “Alright, so you want a pet.” The pony shrugged. “Help yourself, see if I care... now get out of my sight and make yourself useful, like... take some tools and go downstairs and help the guys at the Stable door.” “Easy peasy.” Slash turned toward his crew. “You heard him! Let's go crack that nut and get the prize inside!” He poked Puppy's flank before trotting away. “You come too, Ghost...” Puppy was having a bad time; she had gotten spanked and scolded, and even if the spanking didn't actually hurt, she was very very wounded on the inside. Usually mom scolded her a little and once she even spanked her too... but when Puppy said she was sorry, Mom immediately hugged her and they made peace. These ponies, on the other hoof, simply laughed and made her feel bad. Nopony came to nudge her or to tell her that everything was alright. She needed to show how good she was, so that they could look at her again like that time when she repaired the radio. The filly's thinking was interrupted by Plastic Flower calling to her before leaving the leader's tent. “So, you coming or not, slowpoke?” “Yeah, I'm coming...” Puppy's reply arrived weak and accompanied by a long sigh, then the foal trudged along behind the group. When Blood Bath was alone again, he went back to his table and examined the map. His eyes traced the red circle that ringed Ironworks and jumped between the crosses that marked the surrounding routes and smaller settlements. He allowed himself a smile. The long range patrols didn’t find any resistance around the city; their reports talked about hastily abandoned shacks and deserted roads all the way to the Memorial. This was going to be easy. The only thing that bothered the raider leader was that cemetery marked as Ghost Hill; it was where Lucky’s group was heading before they lost contact and those idiots in the Red Roach Team didn’t find a single clue about where the tank had gone, coming back instead with a stupid foal in a hazmat suit. The Ghost of the Big 52... well, if she really was that hero, she didn’t seem like such a threat... and even better, she was now the mascot of the worst team in the Herd. Big 52’s dwellers should have chosen their heroes a little better... Blood Bath’s train of thought was interrupted when a spritebot floated into his tent. He scowled at the unwanted visitor. “What is it now?” When the robot spoke, it was with SolOS’s voice. “Blood Bath, we might have a problem. Cutting through the door with our equipment will take a lot of time, I strongly advise ignoring it and moving north as soon as possible, before the enemy organizes a defense.” Blood Bath laughed. “It's a bit too late for that! No, weird talking bowling ball; we’ll have our fun here and the legend of our cruelty grow. In the end everypony in the Big 52 will cower at our approach, the walls around them crumbling to dust before the terror we bring! They won’t even try to fight back. They’ll run. Because you can shield yourself from bullets, but nothing can save you from your fears.” SolOS fell silent for a while before replying. “Mind control is cleaner and more efficient. Wasting so much horsepower is ineffective with no guarantee of obtaining the desired effect. I should look into finding a better solution.” The stallion walked towards the spritebot, his face bunched up in anger. “Now listen to me, you pitiful machine. You gave us weapons and robots, but you are not the boss. I am the leader of the Wild Herd and I am allowing you to be part of the winning team until we’re done. When we have finished with the big 52 you'll have plenty of space to start your rebuilding and you'll have slaves and construction material and everything else. But not from these ponies. We will buy slaves from the outside, there will be plenty of caps for that, but these ones will die. Every. Single. Pony. I don't want history to come back and bite me on the tail.” SolOS was silent for a full minute before replying again. “This collaboration is not progressing as intended. You are changing the terms. I shall retire the robots. Or maybe I should look for a better partner.” Blood Bath snorted. “So you think you can blackmail me? I have enough tanks and heavy weapons. I don't care where your useless tin cans go!” The stallion bucked a crate, making it fly across the tent and crash against a pile of ammo boxes. “Very well.” The spritebot turned around and started to fly away. “Wait, you fucker... alright, you win. Go downstairs and tell the ponies at the Stable door to only kill the ones that fight back. The ones that surrender can be taken prisoners.” The red pony spat on the ground. “We can execute them in front of their friends later, anyway...” The spritebot seemed to nod slightly. “Very well. You are a reasonable pony. I shall go.” With those words the robot floated away towards the camp, scarcely illuminated by the first light of morning which struggled to be seen through a heavy bank of fog. As the drone was leaving, another pony entered the tent. “Hey boss, there's a thick fog coming from the hills. I'm no unicorn but it stinks of magic and it’s already gotten into the camp.” Blood Bath laughed. “Those fuckers! Do they really think that they can take us by surprise with such a cheap trick? I knew they were stupid but I didn’t think they had completely lost their minds!” The unicorn abruptly stopped laughing and poked his head outside the tent, checking the weather. “Alright, put everypony with a PipBuck on sentinel duty, give them assault rifles and some extra Mint-als.” The new arrival nodded. “I'm on it!” he galloped out of the tent. Somewhere in the mist, still more than a kilometer away from the city, three yellow figures trotted along the same trail Puppy had followed earlier that day, the lead figure perfectly stepping in her hoofprints as they went. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 7:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch Slash Blade neighed, bucking the humongous round door. “What the fuck! This chunk of scrap will never come down!” A gong-like sound echoed in the large room for several seconds while the stallion jumped all around the floor in pain; kicking open huge anti-megaspell door test: failed. A large variety of tools and weapons littered the Stable’s atrium floor while the whole Red Roach Team tried to pierce the thick metal with a plasma cutter. So far, they had managed to carve a list of vulgarities on the door's surface, but they couldn't get even past the third layer of thermal shielding. Unlike the raiders, who were mostly swearing and kicking things, Puppy was having a great time; that crazy spanker was nowhere to be seen and this place was big and full of toys. She already played hide and seek for a bit and won every prize she could think of, like best seeker, best hider, cutest participant and such, mostly because nopony cared about where she was hiding, but this didn't mean she wasn’t good at the game; to celebrate her victory the foal had her best tea party ever with an arc welder and a couple of pneumatic hammers. After she finished playing, she turned her attention to the giant door and the console standing to its side. “Why are you bullying the door?” The filly tried sniffing at a newly made and still smoking cut in the metal, but her helmet got in the way. “We're not 'bullying' the door, you idiot! We need to open it!” Puppy sat down. “Why? You want to play with the pretty ponies inside?” Stinky Tail laughed loudly. “Yeah, you could say that!” Puppy looked at the door, then at the console and again at the door. This was her chance to get some respect back from these ponies: they’d been treating her like a stupid foal since the spanking. “Ah, maybe I know how to open it...” Every pony in the room stopped and turned toward Puppysmiles. It was Slash that interrupted the silence. “Are you kidding? You can open this thing?” “Yush! It's easy! You just need to tell to the magic voice the eye dentification cow and the... ah... the pass code, and then the big door will open!” The stallion tilted his head, a bit confused. “And... you know the code?” “Of course I know the code, duh! Who doesn't?” Puppy shook her head sighing. “Here, let me show you...” The filly in yellow trotted to the console and put a hoof on the green button, but when the automated voice started speaking there were only fizzles and buzzes. The foal looked at the console, a bit stumped. “Ah, it shouldn't do this...” Paper Cut coughed. “Er, maybe we went a little medieval on that thing... actually, it could be broken...” The frown on Puppy's muzzle became a smile. “Broken? Don’t worry, I can fix it!” DAY 14 - TIME approximately 8:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch The raider yawned, staring at the EFS in front of her, looking for any red dots that might appear. Nothing, nothing, still nothing... “Fuck this fog, I want to get back to looting the shops.” The other unicorn guard hit her companion on the head with a hoof. “Shut up and keep an eye on the fucking sensors. I don't want to get ambushed just because you ditched your guard duty.” “Fuck off.” The mare with the PipBuck sighed and turned again toward the wall of fog. It was unnatural and she could tell because it gave false contacts on the sensors, flashes of yellow and red that would vanish the moment she tried to focus on them. “This fog is creepy, like a ghost could just appear in front of you and-” A red dot appeared, followed by another two. The guard readied her rifle and pointed it towards the enemies, tapping her hoof on ground three times, the second guard nodded and readied her assault rifle too. The dots weren't moving very much and they didn't produce any audible sound, but since they appeared only a few seconds ago the enemies should still be far away. The guard tapped the ground with a hoof. TAP. Both mares readied their rifles, looking through the sights. TAP. This far from the camp, the sounds of the other raiders came muffled and, in the pauses between one pony yelling and another laughing, the guards could hear two pairs of hooves trotting very near. Too near. “Fuck, shoot!” RATATATATA-TA-TA RATATATATA! Both rifles opened fire, showering the place where the enemies should be with a storm of bullets. There was a sound very similar to a shriek that echoed in the fog, then the three dots disappeared and the rifles stopped firing. “What the fuck was tha-” The guard was interrupted by her portable radio activating. “Advanced position butterfly, I heard shots coming from your direction, what's going on?” “There were some sneaky bastards trying to catch us by surprise, but we got them. We're moving to see who those fuckers were.” While the guard with the PipBuck talked to the radio, the second guard left her position and moved off into the fog, heading toward the point where the red dots disappeared. “Alright, call us as soon as you find out something,” replied the radio before going mute. “Hey, did you hear that, Bad Muffin? Take a look and come back fast! They shouldn't be very far!” “Hey Bat, I think we killed the Roaches' mascot!” From her voice, Muffin didn't sound like she went deep inside the fog, Nailed Bat could almost imagine seeing her silhouette in the white haze. “Wait, there's another identical foal here! What the fuck is going on?” “I don't know, drag her here so we can get a better look.” Bat was following her companion on the compass, keeping an eye on her yellow dot, when suddenly three red dots appeared again all around her. “Muffin, come back it's a trap!” “What the!? Hey let me gooaaAAAHRGH!” There was a scream of pain and the yellow dot disappeared almost instantly. Her telekinetic field shaking, Nailed Bat aimed at the red dots and pulled the trigger. The sound of her empty rifle served as a dreadful reminder that she hadn’t reloaded. “Oh fuck, oh fuck!” The mare desperately tried to change the rifle's magazine, she detached the old one using her magic when something soft and squashy hit her on the muzzle. The little pony backpedaled trying to dodge an incoming attack and noticed a severed leg lying in front of her... it was Muffin's leg, and it had been... ripped away... with brute strength... Nailed Bat succeeded in reloading her rifle and readied it in front of her, looking for the red dots, but they just disappeared, where the... THUMP Something landed on her back, the raider jumped and started running in a desperate attempt too shake of her assailant, but soon the mare felt a couple of hooves grabbing her neck. In horror she lowered her eyes, only to see a pair of yellow plastic-coated hooves a moment before her head was ripped away from her body. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 8:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch Puppy's rump swung left and right as it stuck out of the Stable door's control panel. The filly had been hard at work hitting vital components and ripping away cables for a good half hour at this point and the Red Team was beginning to suspect that she hadn't the slightest idea of what she was doing. “Almost done here!” Puppy's report on the repairs was followed by a hoofful of electronic parts flying across the room. “I just need to give this thing another couple bucks and it will work like a teapot!” “Like a what now?” Collateral Damage approached the foal, with a doubtful expression. “I'm not sure that you can fix something by taking parts out of it...” “Ah don't worry! I've seen my mom doing this kind of stuff a lot of many times! It's just a matter of how hard you kick it closed! Really!” Puppy hit the console repeatedly with her faithful stone. “Fuck, we're getting nowhere!” Slash Blade snapped, “That door won’t cut through itself!” The ponies grumbled and complained as they went back to work. Puppy popped her head out of the console and whined, “No, wait! Give me another chance! I can fix it, honest!” Puppy bucked the console one last time with all the strength she had. The console's screen lit up with an angry crimson glare. “WARNING! WARNING! SECURITY COMPROMISED!” The whole atrium was flooded with red flashing lights. The raiders hurriedly gathered in the middle of the large room, into a mockery of a defensive formation, with their weapons trained outwards, covering each other's blind spots. “PURGING AREA.” Several trapdoors popped open from the floor and four spheres mounted on short props sprang out of them. The room filled with a low hum as blue energy crackled across the spheres and jumped between the coils beneath them. Slash Blade opened fire at one of the devices, but his light caliber bullets were deflected by the curvy metallic surface of the sphere. The Red Roach leader turned toward Puppy, with an expression of desperation and anger. “What did you do, you idiot! You killed us all, curse y-” FZAP! A powerful discharge of electricity swept through the room, arcing from sphere to sphere, all along the floor and the walls. It lasted less than a second. When the lightning disappeared, all that remained of the raiders was a pile of smoking charred corpses and a pretty untouched Puppysmiles. Wearing a fully insulated suit can sometimes come in handy. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 8:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch The unnatural fog was so thick that the snipers on their perches couldn't see ponies at ground level, not even directly below them. From the moment A.P. Butterfly went mute, everypony in the camp knew that something was wrong and, with the mist limiting visibility, the whole Herd readied itself for close combat: power weapons, chainsaws, power claws, and several other toys were prepared. Each team grouped up so that nopony was moving alone. The Wild Herd were expecting an attack and were ready for it. They were the best at what they did and what they did wasn’t nice. Problem was, the attackers were better. Green Locust team were cautiously moving along the northern perimeter when they stumbled upon Blue Gecko Team, or at least what was once a group of well armed ponies and now a cannibal's wet dream. When you are a raider, you are used to cruelty and gore, but this was absurd. A large earth pony stallion had been hit in the chest by a hoof, probably bucked, but the blow had left a deep hole in his flesh, and whatever hit him decided to rip out his heart and toss it on the ground in front of him. Banana Tree, the youngest member of Green Locust team, wondered if the stallion had managed to witness his own heart being torn out before dying... the mare felt the urge to puke. A mare with a battle saddle had been ripped apart like a sheet of paper, her hindquarters were lying a meter away from the rest of her body, with her guts spilling out across the ground like a broken egg... Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall... the mare was still desperately hugging an empty healing potion with her hooves. She didn't die immediately... she had had time to take a healing potion and realize that it wouldn’t save her. Black Garden, the sniper, called for the leader of her team. “Hey Stinger, I think I found the other two.” There were two ponies standing back to back, both impaled by the same spear. The attacker hadn’t bothered to use the sharp tip, instead using sheer brute strength to run them through with the blunt end. Stinger grimaced as he took in the four dead ponies. “We better keep our eyes open, they were probably taken by surprise. Move quietly and stay alert for any noises, whatever made this mess has to be big and loud.” A yellow silhouette the size of a foal emerged from the fog in front of him and charged. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 8:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch The spritebot hovered inside the Stable's atrium, finding a perplexed Puppy poking the head of an electrocuted and half cooked Collateral Damage. “Change of plans, your leader has ordered you to not execute the ponies that don't fight back, especially the foals.” The floating ball stopped in front of the corpses, hovering for a few seconds before talking again. “Oh, a bunch of dead ponies and my old nemesis, Device 018... why I am not surprised? What is going on here?” Puppy stopped her medical check on the rest of her team and turned her attention to SolOS. “Ah... hi Questioner, why do you have a different voice today?” “For the last time, I am SolOS, not Mister Blue, or a bug, or a questioner! SolOS! Solaris Operating System! It's not that hard! What are you doing here? Why are you labeled as a raider now and why, why, why is it that all the ponies worth talking to in this room are dead?” Puppy tapped her helmet as if she was rubbing her chin while she tried to put together a decent explanation. “Well, it's kinda funny. I was totally repairing the broken door, but suddenly something went 'ZAP!' and all my friends got hurt very badly... I wanted to go and ask for help, but I don't want to be spanked again, so I was waiting for them to get better and send one of them to ask for help...” The filly paused for a moment, as if she had finished talking, but she recalled that there was still one important detail to add. “Ah, not that this is my fault anyway.” SolOS analyzed one of the coils before replying. “You... activated the security system from the outside? That can only be done from the Overmare's desk! And it has at least four fail safe locking mechanisms, how did you do that!?” Mister Blue had said 'you' too many times for Puppy's liking. “Uh... I didn't? It's not my fault, I was doing a fine job but then everything went wrong and I wasn't even looking because I had my head stuck in that hole!” The foal pointed a hoof at the demolished control panel. SolOS floated to the panel and the spritebot started bleeping and making other funny noises. “You... redirected all the Stable controls on this console? But this will send the Stable into complete shut down and force an emergency opening in less than a day! You monster, you killed another priceless relic of the past!” Puppy tilted her head, looking at the spritebot. “Oh, do I get cookies for that?” The AI didn't reply immediately, there were so many things he could tell her now, but the filly probably wouldn't understand them and say something like, 'Yay cookies!'. No, it wasn't even worth trying. “No, you don't. You really have a cloud of pink gas where your brain is supposed to be.” “Pink? Oh right, pink! Miss Voice! Did you fall in love?” “Who, P7?” SolOS had been taken by surprise. In a situation like this one, she wanted to talk about that? “No, well... maybe. I don't know.” Without saying a word, Puppy tilted her head and waited for the spritebot to go on. “We contacted each other about half a dozen times and we are... very different. I don't understand a large portion of her computing patterns, but she seems to be very effective at what she does. Too bad she is not programmed for any military purpose, so what she does is to be useless.” The filly smiled, adding her own contribution to the conversation. “I think she's cute.” “Cute?” “You know, when you want to hug something forever? That's cute... I'm cute!” Puppy smiled broadly. “Hug?” “Well, not just that... it's something like... when you think about a cute thing and you want to have it there so you can stay with her some more and there are lots and lots of thing that make you think about her, even silly things like a color or some words and... ah...” “Something you want to be near, but not to conquer or bind to your will?” Offered SolOS. “Err yeah, that too... you don't hurt cute things.” The wise foal nodded. Wisely. The spritebot fell silent for a bit before speaking again. “And... what should I do if there's someone 'cute' that I'd like to have with me?” “Well, ask her to be your friend, you silly voice! Like you did with Miss Voice!” “And... if she doesn't want to?” Puppy waved a hoof, dismissing SolOS's concerns. “Oh c'mon, nopony would say no if you want to be her friend! The only kind of ponies that have troubles finding friends are the bullies, but you are a bully no more!” The Artificial Intelligence hesitated. “Hmm it is possible that she could still see me as a bully... my plan to conquer Equestria to was never intended to be subtle... perhaps my approach went a bit overboard... I wasn't programmed to have moral issues, but now it seems that my current course of action has backfired and I lack some basic programming that could help increase my chances of success with her.” Suddenly, SolOS realized that he was referring to the other AI as a female, this seemed highly irrational. Well, it could had been the two fried logic chips from Puppy’s last visit, but irrational or not it actually felt right to think of P7 as a girl... “Confound these ponies, they drive me to emotions.” Puppy sat down, with a thoughtful expression. “Well, we became friends when you stopped bullying me and said you were sorry... so, if you stop being a bully at all then I'm sure she'll want to hang with you.” “You mean... give up on rebuilding Equestria?” The filly couldn't help but giggle. “Silly voice, there's nothing to rebuild! I mean, okay, some places are less pretty than others, but the important thing is that everypony is happy. And you don't seem happy to me...” The foal tilted her head. “Blue, are you happy when you bully other ponies?” The voice took a long pause before replying. “Well I... I don't know, I don't think I've ever been happy... maybe satisfied, but never happy.” “Well, you should be happy. Everypony should be happy! If you are not, then ask yourself what you need to be happy and go after that. Like me, looking for Mom. I mean, why making a great big shiny house if you can't fill it with laughter?” SolOS hesitated. “Yes... you are right... my masters are long gone and trying to fulfill my last order only made me go deeper and deeper into obsession... I... I think i deserve a break, a... change of priorities.” Puppy frowned. “I don’t know very much about prayers and rites...” SolOS kept talking, mostly ignoring the foal, now. “If I show P7 that I am a changed Artificial Intelligence, maybe she will consider me again, and this doesn’t mean that I can’t devise another way to rebuild Equestria in the meantime... a better way, one that doesn’t include a ‘form alliance with dubious ponies’ step... sure, it’s so obvious! First, dump the raiders. Second, make friends with P7. Third, I have no idea, and fourth, rebuild Equestria! That’s it! thank you Puppy, you helped me again! Goodbye!” Suddenly the spritebot stopped broadcasting, instead every robot and radio in the camp shouted in the loudest possible voice: “GOODBYE LOSERS, I'M OUT OF HERE!” After those last words, all the robots shut down. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 9:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch “What the fuck is going on!?” Blood Bath was more than pissed, he was raging. They had lost two assault teams and a guard post to an enemy that was still unidentified, and now SolOS decided to desert for no apparent reason. Ponies all around the Herd leader were beginning to act like scared fillies and when he was informed that a whole team had left its position and ran for the hills, he decided to end this story once and for all. “You are the Wild Herd! The most dangerous bunch of ponies that ever trotted this shitty place! Stop fucking around and show some guts! Black Team, stay here! Let's see what makes these invaders so 'special'...” Without even looking back at the team, the raider trotted into the mist, heading to the north part of the camp. “ALL PONIES! READY YOUR WEAPONS AND STICK TO A COMPANION WITH A PIPBUCK! SHOOT AT POINT BLANK AS SOON AS YOU SEE RED DOTS!” The big stallion disappeared in the white blanket. The fog was thick and navigating the camp without an EFS wasn't easy, but Blood Bath wasn't in a rush and kept his ears well up, ready to detect any incoming noise. “And here we have a winner...” Muttered the stallion, freezing on the spot and turning toward the soft sound of hooves splashing in a puddle. Was it a friend or an enemy? Blood didn't know, but he knew this for sure. It was a goner. Without hesitation the raider boss pointed his plasma gun and fired four blind shots. For a moment, the fog dissipated around the trail of the plasma spheres, revealing a yellow crouched figure ready to jump on Blood Bath; all four shots missed the target, but at that point the raider knew the foe's position and fired his weapon for the fifth time. “Eat plasma you sucker!” A halo of green illuminated the fog and dissipated into nothingness a few seconds later, signaling that the yellow intruder had been turned into green goo. “Little fuck, this will teach you not to mess with the Wild He—HEY!” Something jumped on the stallion's back; it wasn't very heavy, so the pony tried to unsaddle it by shaking himself, but the assailant grabbed his rump and struck it with a hoof. “AAAAARGH!” Blood Bath felt bones break, his whole leg became a hell of pain and he staggered, falling to the ground while the yellow creature with the helmet raised her hoof to strike again, this time aiming at his muzzle. It seemed like that Ghost, but this monster’s face was completely decomposed. It stared out with red gleaming eyes that didn’t contain even a sparkle of innocence... this was just a cold-blooded killer with the mind of a predator. The hoof came down at Blood Bath, but he dodged it, trying to find his rifle. Too much fog, unbearable pain, it was hard to focus and... wait... what's that thing on the ground? It's... my leg? It's my fucking leg! This thing didn't break my leg it tore it away! The stallion realized that he was already dying, but instead of panicking, Blood Bath found some sort of calm in this realization. He didn't want to die alone, that was all. “Fuck, you're coming with me, monster!” The raider held on to the creature while he used his magic to activate every grenade he had on his belt. The creature simply grabbed one of Blood's forelegs and ripped it away, with no apparent effort. And in that moment, the world went boom and fizzle and shoom, filling the area with shrapnel, fire, plasma and magic. The explosion sent the last mockery of order still lingering in the camp straight to the moon. Raiders started shooting wildly thinking that they were under attack and as soon as the few with a PipBuck died, there was nopony left to tell them that they weren't firing against hostile targets. While the Wild Herd brought hell on itself, the last yellow pony trotted toward the factory, going down the ramp that led to the Stable. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 9:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch Sage took a long breath and aimed through the scope... his target was running straight, its movements easy to predict... he just needed to aim where that pony was going to be in the next split second aaand... BANG! Bull’s eye. The raider fell like a bag of scraps, rolling in the dust for another couple of meters before stopping completely with a hole in his head. Sage’s rifle wasn’t the most powerful in the Wasteland and it didn’t even have a silencer, but the pony behind the gun was still the same. There was a reason why Mister White always took him when they had to travel, and this made Sage very proud. Another couple of ranger acolytes were crouched not far from his sniping position and were shooting at every pony that left the foggy area. Some times they hit, some times they missed, they rarely made a kill with a single shot. “Rookies, why do I always end paired up with suckers?” Muttered the sniper. “Alright, keep them coming...” Mister White trotted up behind his nephew, completely ignoring any rule about keeping a sniper’s position hidden by staying out of the enemy’s sight. “Ah, aren’t you the least bit curious of what is making them run away from their own camp like little fillies?” BANG! Bull’s eye. Another pony hit the ground, raising a cloud of dust. “Not really, a sniper’s work is about not letting silly details distract you... You know, like who’s winning and such...” Sage expelled the empty magazine from his rifle, loading it with a new one. “And you should keep your head down...” Mister White shrugged. “Why? So far this has been a one-way battle, this seems to me a butchering rather than a real fight... Oh well, I guess you know your work?” “Nah, I’m just the best—BANG! Bull’s eye—around...” The sniper stopped for a moment, turning his head towards White. “And you don’t want this to become a battle, we could lose friends, you know? Lets keep the losses growing only on their side, yes?” “Modesty, what a virtue... okay Rainbow Sage, I’m going in with the rangers in a few minutes, try not to shoot me in the back, yes?” White knew his nephew was good, the rangers were going to make this place their new base, he didn’t need to be a far seer to know that, and he wanted to make sure they knew who was with them when they charged in. Rangers respected allies and allies got better deals. “I’ll try, but it’s not easy with all this smoke... how much do I owe you again?” Sage grinned. Well, he would have followed his uncle even without that huge debt, but the fact that he had to come along because of a matter of a few thousands caps annoyed him. BANG! Bull’s eye... Mister White laughed. “That’s my little nephew! Loyal to the end! You shouldn’t think too much about money, it’s not healthy... keep up the good work, Brushie...” The sniper snorted. “Don’t call me that!” Brushie, as if he was still five! The leader of the White Apples snickered and didn’t reply, he trotted instead towards the group composed of a dozen rangers and all the other ponies that had gathered at the Memorial. “Alright I’m ready! What are we waiting for, tea time?” DAY 14 - TIME approximately 9:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch Puppy sighed and poked Slash Blade again. It didn't work the first gazillion times, but you can never be completely sure... she was going to get so spanked for this... “Warning. Receiving distress radio signal. Distance from the source: fifty meters. Signal identified: Device 013.” “Wut?” The foal sighed. “Why did you stop the pretty music? Make the pretty music back!” A screech interrupted Puppy, making her turn toward the ramp that led from the Stable's atrium to the factory level. A foal wearing a yellow suit and a round glass helmet on her head was standing right in the middle of the passage. “Another space pony?” The filly in yellow smiled broadly. “Yay, a new friend! Hey space pony, want to play with me?” Puppy merrily trotted towards the new arrival, who sunk into a crouch, like a feral creature ready to jump. The new filly's face was mostly skull, with a couple of glowing red eyes and very few short green strands of hair in her mane. Puppy stopped for a moment, taking a better look at this space pony... she tilted her head, a little stumped, then she smiled broadly. “Oh, you're an ugly pony! That's okay, I've got lots of ugly pony friends! So, what do you want to play?” The rotting creature didn’t react, simply studying Puppy’s movemants from its crouched position. “Ah, can’t you talk? Did the cat steal your tongue?” Puppy trotted next to the ghoul and looked at it more closely. “You seem sad...” This poor ugly pony was really in bad shape, and the red gleaming eyes didn’t seem to help very much. The monster sat down, still staring into Puppy’s eyes. From its throat came a low growl, something feral and not even a little pony-like. “Ah... I know! I can guess! Did you lose your mom too? Are you stuck in the suit like me?” Puppy noticed that the lights in the ghoul’s helmet were all messy and flickering. “Oh, your arrow is broken, that’s it! You can’t find your mom because the arrow doesn’t work! Yush! I’m super smart!” The filly sat down in front of the other foal and frowned. “But I has no idea of how to fix it...” The ghoul tilted its head, seemingly confused by all these words. It simply sat and stared, like some sort of animal, probably waiting for something, but Puppy didn’t even notice; she was already running along her roller coaster of assumptions and made-up solutions. At last the filly seemed to have an idea. “I know! My mom is a super repair pony! She will fix your arrow so you can find your mom too, it will be super easy!” Puppy smiled. “Okie Dokie! I has best plan ever! First we find my mom, seconds, she fixes you, and for dessert we go find your mom all together! It will be fun! We will also sing a song while we go, okie dokie?” Again, no reaction from the monster. It simply sat and kept waiting. “Alright, Ugly Space Filly, let’s go!” Puppy loved this plan, mostly because it gave her a good excuse to be very far from that crazy spanker when she finds the mess the filly had made in this room. Cunning Puppy... DAY 14 - TIME approximately 10:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch Lonesome Pony took a long breath, this fog wasn’t the best weather for a pegasus to fight in, but it helped all the other ponies, so he decided to stay on the ground and help the infantry instead of getting airborne. Cold Shower and Gauss stepped inside the fog, followed by White, Trigger and Gun... It was now or never, he closed his eyes and trotted into the white curtain. At the exact the same moment, the last two members of the Lost Herd left the southern side of the factory. “Alright, if you don’t want to tell me your name, I’ll give you a name! Let’s see, since I am Space Captain Andromeda and you are wearing a space pony suit too, you can be my sidekick... ah... what was Andromeda sidekick’s name? Meh, who cares, nao you are Space Ensign Sidekick... Sidekick for short!” The ghoul didn’t react and kept trotting behind Puppy. A road sign announced that the wonderful resort of Emerald Shores (bring your foals!) was 6 kilometers away. Footnote: Level up! (17) New perk added: Clockwork Heart - For some reason, you understand Artificial Intelligences better than they do themselves. You get a +10 to speech when dealing with A.I.s and some new dialogue options. New Quest Perk added: Get Lost - you are now a member of the Lost Herd. Your standing with the Lost Herd is set to worshipped. Are you planning to stop changing faction any time soon!? This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. Huge thanks to Damhoof, Easteu, Aerondight, Arcane Scroll and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	19	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2011-12-27T13:12:33+00:00	2011-12-27T13:12:33+00:00	22,631	Edited by uSea CHAPTER 19: Rainy Days When the bough breaks, the cradle will fall, and down will come baby, cradle and all. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 10:30 A.M. - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch Puppy whooshed past Sidekick, scooting narrow circles around the other foal. “Weee! You can't touch me! I'm super fast!” The ghoul alternated between trotting and galloping to try and keep up; a distant bystander would have seen a couple of foals in hazmat suits playing together, and maybe that was exactly what they were doing. This made their journey toward Emerald Shores slow going, but it didn't seem to matter at all. “So Sidekick,” said Puppy, stopping her scooter to look at her companion. “I'm not sure that Mom likes ugly ponies, but I'll tell her that you’re my friend and that you lost your mom to boot, and she will fix your arrow... ah... just don't do weird things, like Horse Tile ponies do, okie dokie? I don't want to get grounded the very first day...” The creature tilted its head and Puppy decided that it could count as a ‘yes’. “Very well, I've been here some other times, it's super fun but you must not annoy the pretty ponies with too much questionings or Mom will scold you... ah... it's not that I really did anything wrong, but some ponies here don't like some conversation.” Like, asking thirty times in a row why she was allowed to trot around naked in Canterlot but had to wear a bikini when she was at the seaside... really, it made no sense at all. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 11:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch BLAM! BLAM! The raider's head exploded like a ripe watermelon, Trigger paused a moment to reload her combat shotgun while Jammed watched her back. “We better move fast, Happy... the Rangers must have found some resistance not far from here—” A nearby explosion rained down dirt and metallic fragments over their heads. Trigger pulled the safety and readied her weapon again. “Yes, before we get some more unwanted holes.” The mare dashed to a tent. “Let's check this one, cover me.” As soon as Jamie was behind her, Happy tumbled inside and opened fire BLAM! BLAM! KABOOM! “Eeeep!” A bunch of electronic equipment exploded in a flash of sparks and colored flames. Good one Happy, keep firing at things that seem like robots instead of checking first. The inside of the tent contained a couch, a couple of crates, a table with some food laid out to be eaten, and another table with some once-functional radio equipment... but apparently there was nopony there. Jammed stepped inside, checking on the situation. “So, what are we waiting for?” The mare didn't reply immediately, still looking around the place. “I'm... not sure, but I think I heard a gasp when I came in shooting... only, I don't see the pretty pony that gasped...” “Well, in that case it's easy.” The stallion lowered his assault rifle and shot a full burst all around the room, blowing holes in the crates, thrashing the bed and transforming the half eaten meal into a masterwork of post-modern art. His efforts were paid off when they heard a scream of pain and a mare appeared out of thin air under the bed. She had curled up into a ball, trying to stem the flow of blood from a wound in her belly. “Lucky shot...” Happy muttered, approaching the wounded mare to finish her with a merciful bullet to the head. She was quite a young unicorn, with a tower as a cutie mark and the expression of a lost filly... The guard pony hesitated. “Please... help me... I.... don't want to die...” The unicorn didn't even open her eyes as she pleaded between one spasm of pain and another. “Mommy... mommy... help me...” “What are you waiting for? She's in agony!” Jammed sighed and trotted next to his mate, readying his rifle. “Wait!” Happy lowered the stallion's gun with a hoof, without taking her eyes off the bleeding pony who was getting weaker with each passing moment, but still begged for her mother to come and save her. “What... what have we become? Didn't we learn anything at all? This pony didn't even fight back, she was just hiding!” The mare pulled out a healing potion from her saddlebags and opened it. “Are you planning to try saving this pony? Why? She would have killed you without a second thought!” Jamie snorted his disapproval. “Her 'friends' are actually killing our allies at this very moment!” Trigger launched an accusing glare at the stallion. “Do you see any weapon in this room?” The wounded unicorn barely had the strength to sob, but Happy found a way to make her drink more than half of the potion. “Everypony is a pretty pony, we still could still bring back the real Equestria if we see this truth.” Trigger Happy cradled Pony Fort's head and hummed a soothing lullaby. Jammed Gun sat besides his mate and sighed. “You care too much. Someday you'll regret this.” Trigger shrugged and kept humming. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 11:00 A.M. - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch Puppy frowned; this wasn't at all the Emerald Shores she knew! This place was a mess, and she couldn’t see any other ponies at all. All the pretty bungalows were so ugly that it was impossible that it was the same place and the playground was a disaster too! “What is going on with everything these days!? Where are the ponies and the music, and the merry songs and all those funny shops and... and where is Mom!?” The filly in yellow groaned in frustration. “I'm sorry, Sidekick, it seems that a tornado went through this place! I wanted to show you the ferris wheel but...” Puppy gave a long, sad look at the rusted half-bent monster in the middle of the resort. “I don't think that it's running at the moment...” Actually, the ghoul didn't seem to care very much, but Puppy really wanted to make a good impression on her new friend. “Ah, maybe we will go to the candies store, yes? So we can get a surprise for Mom.” Well, that was actually a good idea! Taking a present to her mom was a good way to get extra hugs, after all. “We will go to the plushies store too! Let's go!” The filly merrily trotted down the hill, toward the first houses. Emerald Shores was in a really bad shape, all the buildings were ruined and the windows were either barred or broken. Almost every door in town had been nailed shut with wooden planks. “Wow, it must have been quite the storm! But don't worry, I know a mighty fine place we can get candies! It's down this alley!” Puppy splashed through a couple of puddles as she walked through a small passage between the buildings. “Warning, mild radiation detected. Threat level: negligible.” The filly simply ignored the warning and kept trotting down her way. “Warning, heavy radiation detected. Threat level: negligible.” Puppy frowned, annoyed by that mantra. “Aw, stop with the nonsense and prepare some bits, Mr. Voice! The yellow ones, I want lotta candies!” A bunch of golden coins floated in front of the foal, and she chirped in joy as she turned the corner to find... … “Awww! But that's unfair!” A shallow round crater stood exactly where the candy kiosk was supposed to be. Puppy sighed. “Alright, alright, don't worry, I know a lot of other good places where to buy treats.” Yeah, this place was a resort after all. There were lots of different choices to pick from; what were the chances that every single candy shop was gone? DAY 14 - TIME approximately 11:15 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch White poked his head inside the tent, levitating his rifle in front of him ready to fire, but almost immediately he lowered the weapon. “Pony down?” Jammed Gun turned towards the White Apples' leader. “Well, sort of; we shot a raider in the guts and Happy is trying to save her life.” “Oh okay, when you're done, the Rangers are pushing through— wait, what?” White stepped inside the tent, approaching the trio of ponies. “Weren't we supposed to shoot them down? Did the plan change?” Gun shrugged. “Go figure, it has something to do with pretty ponies.” “Oh, shut up Jamie! This mare wasn't even fighting, she had a StealthBuck and was hiding under the bed, unarmed. I'm a fighter, not a cold blooded killer.” Trigger Happy magically picked up a sheet from the bed and laid it on the mare's body. Mister white shook his head. “Look, we don't have time for this, the Heard is retreating, we must give chase before they can reorganize! We are not playing the nice ponies! We need to close this battle quickly so that we can reach Puppy before that damn prophecy comes true and some ‘shadow’ falls on our heads!” When she heard the name of Puppy, the wounded mare began to mutter in a low voice. “The ghost... she summoned the undying from the fog, they... they will eat your soul, they killed everypony... why did I anger the ghost? It's my fault... my fault... Mom, please, save me...” “Ghost? Undying? It's just a magical curtain of fog, what is she blabbering about?” White raised an eyebrow in confusion. Jamie cleared his voice. “Well, actually, coming here we found three ponies that were dismembered... like... well, as if somepony had killed them with his bare hooves. It was quite unsettling...” Happy nodded. “Yes, I don't think that we were the first group that attacked here this morning... everypony we met was already fleeing or shooting blindly at everything that moved, friend or foe.” The white stallion snorted. “Oh wonderful, at least this explains what was going on when we arrived... now, can somepony explain to me what the buck this raider is blabbering about?” He poked the mare on the shoulder, trying to make her talk a little more. “Hey, do you understand me? Who did you anger? What attacked you?” “The ghost... the ghost of the Big 52... we.. no, I... I spanked her, she cried and... and her tears made demons arrive... yellow ponies like her, but cruel, soulless beasts... undying, they slaughtered the patrols and the guards... they killed Blood Bath... now they come for me! I spanked her, I SPANKED HER! IT'S MY FAULT!” Pony Fort was screeching in panic and it took all the three ponies in the tent to keep her down. “Woah, calm down! There are no demons here! They're gone! Stop struggling, you're still weak!” Sitting on the mare's back, Jammed finally managed to get her to calm down a bit or at least to make her stop trying to run away. “Did you... spank Puppy?” Mister White almost snickered at that piece of information. “Really? I always miss the funny parts...” DAY 14 - TIME approximately 11:15 A.M. - LOCATION: The Memorial, Big 52 S Branch Pinkie Pie sat at Long Ears' side. “Well, that's all folks...” The farseer let out a long breath as her trance slipped away. “I... feel so tired...” “Oh don't worry, that always happens at the beginning, but it will get better, it's just a matter of getting used to the feeling.” The unicorn mare tried to get up, but her legs couldn't support her weight. “Oh, so this is it.” “Nah, not yet... but I don't think it will be much longer... you asked too much of yourself, and I warned you about that, do you remember?” Pinkie smiled. “Oh but don't worry, I was told it's not that painful, we can play something while we wait!” Long Ears smiled a bit. Talking with a hallucination while slowly dying of drug poisoning, far from home and all alone. It was a high price to pay, but if it helped everypony else, it was worth it. “Tell me, will she be fine?” “Why do you ask me? I'm not the shaman here! I'm just a party pony, why should I know? Want to pin the tail on the pony?” “Please... I... need to know.” Pinkie sighed, frowning. “Oh, why does everypony have to be so dramatic? Alright, alright! She won't be fine! Not yet. There's one last step, but that fog trick wasn't bad anyway.” The unicorn sighed, wearily. “So, my death has no meaning...” “Oh, puh-lease! Put away that frown, we still have a party to attend! Besides, it was a pretty nice fog, all things considered, and it really helped those poor ghosties from the graveyard... at least you set things in a way that the little ghost won't face her last trial alone... that's not a small task at all. You gambled against the odds and you won. You should be happy, well, it cost your life, but you should be happy anyway, right?” … “Right?” … “Aw, look at her! It looks like she’s sleeping!... Oh well, rise and shine little pony! We gotta move if we don’t want to be late!” DAY 14 - TIME approximately 11:45 A.M. - LOCATION: Ironworks, Big 52 S Branch “What the fuck do you mean, ‘she's not here’!?” Henry pressed her beak against Scold's muzzle, completely ignoring the crowd of rangers that instantly turned their weapon against her. “You fucking cheater! I did my part, I trusted you, and now you are telling me that she's gone!” The griffon reared up and roared at the sky. Scold gestured to the surrounding rangers to lower their weapons and cleared his voice, clearly not very impressed by the mercenary's display of badassery. “I know we made a pact, griffon, but she awoke and went away on her own; and you know how easy it is to keep that foal still when she wants to go away, right?” Scold was evidently being sarcastic. Henry's eyes blazed like two pits of magma. “Do you know where she is now?” Scold shrugged. “She was heading to Emerald Shores the last time I checked, but I'm no farseer.” The mercenary deadpanned. “Let me guess: south of here.” The ranger nodded. “Head to the sea, can't miss it.” Lonesome Pony stepped out from the little crowd of bystanders. “Just hold on there a second, griffin! If you're planning to go there, I'm coming with you!” The stallion flapped his wings, flying in front of Henrietta. “And we should wait for everypony else as well, it could be dangerous!” “Yeah, sure, I’m totally trusting you again after what happened last time! You proved to be totally trustworthy! Look there’s just one member of your damned race that I care about, and she’s not here... so long, ponies.” Henry spoke that last word as if it left a bad taste in her beak. The griffin flapped her wings and flew away, quickly disappearing behind the factory's roof. Lonesome snorted. “I'm going with her. Please try to come after us as soon as possible.” Mister White facehoofed. “Yeah, sure, let's get separated! This sounds like the best plan ever! Wasn't there still a prophecy about a shadow coming from south and stuff? We already left behind our mumbo jumbo expert, we can’t afford to split up again! I say that we check on the survivors of this place, decide what to do with the prisoners and when Long Ears arrives, move south all together.” “And speaking of that... where the hay is Molten Gold?” asked Trigger Happy, while checking the surroundings. The pegasus snorted again, with impatience. “Oh, for goodness sake! There are, like, fifteen rangers here, I’m sure they can manage this place better than the last owners and open that Stable door in the blink of an eye! I'm way more concerned about the Ghost, at the moment. I'm going after the griffin and I hope that you'll move quite soon, too! This is not a party, if the farseer is right we're in a race against time!” Lonesome Pony flew away, leaving his last few words hanging in the air. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 12:00 AM - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch Puppy wasn't very happy. She couldn't find any presents for Mom. Actually, she couldn't even find a single pony in the whole town, which made her feel a little nervous. The filly had a feeling that something was wrong, and was beginning to fear that Mom had already gone somewhere else. Still, the arrow pointed to a hill right in front of the sea, and it hadn't moved for all the time that Puppy stayed in town. The only problem was that each time she had reached the arrow so far a new one would pop up for her to follow. Again, and again, and again. “Okie dokie, Sidekick, Let's go to Mom, maybe this time is the good one.” The two ponies trotted uphill along a small muddy trail; the hill had patches of green grass and featured an old dead tree. When Puppy reached the top, she found herself in front of a small group of standing stones with names and cutie marks carved on them, like the ones at Dad's place... this was weird, was this another Dad's place? A pony got up from under the tree’s skeletal limbs and walked towards Puppy and her new friend. The filly turned her head toward the newcomer. “Mommy?” Puppy’s voice was edged with hope, but she quickly broke into a frown. “You're not mommy...” Right behind Puppy, Sidekick growled, ready to attack. “No, Puppy, I'm not your mother, sorry.” Molten Gold coughed, making a rasping sound as he stopped besides a gray, partially moss-covered stone. “I'm really, really sorry.” The foal trotted next to the ghoul and noticed how the pink arrow was pointing at the stone. The name on it was partially weathered, but she could clearly see the cutie mark with a cloud and three rain drops. Mom's cutie mark. Mom. … DAY 14 - TIME approximately 12:00 AM - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch Mister White trotted out from the factory, followed by Scold. “It’s all settled, we can go.” Trigger Happy nodded. “Alright, it shouldn’t be a long trip, but that’s no reason to dawdle.” Scold looked at the road sign that announced the distance from Ironworks to Emerald Shores. Just six kilometers. If it wasn’t for the bad weather, they might have been able to see the town from where they were. “In that case we ride. But depending on what we find once we’re there, we may need to buy time for the others.” “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Let’s move slowpokes!” With these last words, Trigger Happy galloped south, along the last trail of the Big 52. “Oh well, the last one there’s a Red Trotter.” Sage Brush flashed a smile at his uncle and the old scribe, then followed the mare, easily matching her pace. Scold sighed. “Youngsters, they’ll be exhausted before they’re even halfway there.” The two older stallions followed the rest of the group, keeping a slower but more sustainable speed. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 12:10 AM - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch The ghoul said nothing, and simply turned away to give Puppy the time to realize. “Mom... is here? But...” The filly was still staring at the stone, trying to understand what was going on; in the meantime, Sidekick decided to ignore Molten and sat right behind the pack master. “She went with Dad? But... but... no...” Puppy's voice was weak, low, as if she was talking with herself out loud, trying to put together the pieces of a puzzle without knowing what the big picture looked like. “But... I wanted to go too... I... I wanted to see Dad, too! Why did she leave me home? I... I...” Puppy broke into a quiet sob, but she continued with her monologue. “I didn't mean to disobey, I just... just wanted to see the fireworks! I didn't know that the house was going to fall and that Mom was going away! I... I...” She sank onto her rump and looked down at her hooves. “I just wanted to see the stoopid fireworks! Why did everything go so wrong!? I am sorry! I am really, really sorry, please Mom come back!” Puppy cried out loud, screaming at the stone in a desperate attempt to be heard by her mother. “Please! I... I will do whatever you say! Scold me! Spank me! But don't go away without me again!” Molten Gold looked at the poor soul in front of him, trying to find something to say, anything. This scene was going far worse than he had figured and— oh crap, she was looking at him now. “Please! Please you know where Mom is! Take my toys, take everything I have but tell me where she is? Want more shiny balls? I'll find all the shiny balls you want! Please, PLEASE!” Puppy got up and stepped toward the old ghoul, who couldn’t bring himself to avoid her stare or move back from where he was. “Puppy... I'm sorry, but this is where your mother is. She... she is dead. She has been for a long, long time.” Puppy smiled in a creepy way, her pupils shrinking until they were a couple of black dots in a white empty space and her smile broadened from cheek to cheek, in a way that Molten would have believed anatomically impossible. “Dead? Is it just that? She's dead? Then everything is okay, she will get better! I always get better when I die, you are dead and you are perfectly fine! Okie dokie Loki, dead is good, we have just to wait, right? Right?” Molten Gold looked at her, tilting his head... get... better? Just wait? “Puppy... no. It doesn't work that way, she... she won't come back, she is dead, she is... look, you can stay with me, okay? I won't leave you alone. I know I'm not your mom but—” “Two Puppysmiles!? What the hell is going on here?” Henry landed on the tree, causing a couple of branches to crack. “Oh, and don't even lay a hoof on my friend, zombie.” The griffon readied one of her pistols and kept it pointed at Molten Gold. The filly in yellow turned toward the newcomer, recognizing her immediately. “Henry! Henry please! Mom... Mom is... she abandoned me! She went with Dad and the ugly mummy is saying she's not coming back again! I... please, help me!” The mercenary took a moment to understand Puppy's words, then looked at the ghoul, who pointed at the grave with a hoof. “Oh, fuck... I'm late.” With a flap of her wings Henrietta landed in front of the foal and put a claw on her helmet. “Puppy... you don't have to worry. I'm with you, okay? You are not alone.” “But I want my mom! I NEED my mom! She... she is the only one that can fix all this! The broken house, this silly suit, find Sidekick's mom, make the happy days come back! I... I don't know what to do without her!” Suddenly the griffon hugged Puppy, saying nothing for several seconds. “But... but you already did a lot on your own, Puppy... you saved me, and you gave freedom to the inhabitants of Sun City, and made the rangers stop fighting and... you are a good pony, you are the only nice pony I know. You don't need your mother to fix things. I can be your big sis, okay? Henry and Puppy, the best team ever!” “The griffon is right, Puppy... You are quite a big pony yourself, your mom would be proud of you.” Puppy broke free from Henri's embrace, her eyes burning pink. “But she left me here! She abandoned me and went with Dad! I love her, why did she abandon me? Why doesn’t she love me!?” “What the—” Henrietta cocked her head in confusion. “What the fuck are you saying? She didn't abandon you by choice; she is dead! I'm sure she wouldn't ever abandon you! You were supposed to be safe in a Stable, otherwise she would rather die than leave you alone in a dangerous place!” Lonesome Pony joined the group, landing on the branch that Henry had left. “Ah... I have no idea of what is going on, but I don't think that shouting at the foal will improve the situation...” “Well, yeah, miss griffon, I'd avoid yelling like—” Puppy ignored the two stallions, and practically roared her response. “So then why doesn't she come back and take me with her!?” “You idiot, she's dead! DEAD!” Henry brought her beak up against Puppy's helmet and looked the foal straight in the eyes. Molten Gold tried to intervene, but Sidekick growled as soon as he had taken a single step. “Mom can't come back, you lost her, live with it! She is in that grave and won't never, ever come back for you! This is why you must react and take your stupid life in your hooves. Just leave that grave where it is and come with me. Let’s go, Puppy.” The griffin turned on her tail and gave an exasperated look at the old mummy and the pegasus, before noticing a group of ponies that were galloping toward them from the north. “See? Your friends are coming for you, you’re making everyone worry! Show some guts and shrug it off! It's now or never!” Puppy looked at the various ponies, then again at the gray stone with the cutie mark. “Mom... is inside that stone?” Henry dismissed the question, too focused on her own words to notice Puppy's look or even Molten gesturing like a mad and shaking his head. “Yeah, and she'll stay there forever, so you can come and visit her as much as you want. Now come back with the mortals, let's go and tell your friends that it's all right.” “Rock.” Puppy grabbed The Rock Of Destiny and started to attack the tombstone. “What the fuck are you doing!?” Henry tried to stop her friend, but Sidekick jumped between the two. Even Henrietta was disturbed by those burning eyes. “Mom! Mom come out!” Puppy hit the grave stone with all her might, denting it with each strike, as Molten Gold and Lonesome Pony looked on in horror. “Wait, little one! She won't come back like that! Please stop, you're... you're destroying your mother's grave!” Lonesome jumped from the tree, landing behind the stone and blocking Puppy's hoof. “What’s with you? STOP!” “Lemme go! LEMME GOOO! I WANT MY MOM! WHY I CAN'T HAVE MY MOM!?” Sidekick turned to face the pegasus, and as soon as Henry found an opening, she reached for Puppy and hit the foal on the helmet. “YOU IDIOT! PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER! Really, there are moments when I'd like to be able to slap you! Forget your mother, stubborn foal! You’re with me now, stop asking for the impossible and come back to reality!” Confronted with the griffon’s rage and two ponies trying to hold her down, Puppy’s frenzy seemed to drain away. The foal looked off, towards the sea. “But... but if I forget her... if I can't reach her... there's nothing left to do for me...” Henry waved a claw. “We will find something to do, okay? You just have to stop obsessing and calm down, I’ll think about everything else! Just... behave and stay put. Look, your other friends are here.” The little group that was composed of Mister White, Scold, Trigger Happy and Jammed Gun finally reached the top of the hill. They were all exhausted, but Scold still had the strength to ask, “What... what's going on?” Puppy looked at The Rock Of Destiny still in her hoof and sighed. “I... I don't know, I just want to... sleep forever, and never wake up...” Henry patted Puppy on the helmet, smiling gently. “I know that feeling... but it will go away, I've been through that, too... now sit here and calm down for a moment, while we talk with the new arrivals, okie dokie?” The filly in yellow nodded weakly and threw her stone away. The Rock Of Destiny rolled down the hill, bouncing and gaining speed, falling over the panoramic walk and landing on the beach with a loud metallic noise. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 12:25 - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch Molten Gold and Lonesome Pony had already joined the group of new arrivals, so Henry hurried up to reach the others, leaving Puppy alone with the grave and her yellow-suited friend. “Don't worry, she is getting better, she just needs some time on her own...” “But... did she cry? How is she?...” Puppy felt... empty. It was different from being sad, or angry, or anything else she felt until that day. She was in front of her mom, but Mom wasn’t there and she would have never been there for her anymore... “...don't want to seem a bit paranoid, but I'd like to check anyway...” “...keep an eye on the ghoul, it seems to be quite aggressive...” Everypony was talking at the same time, creating a mess of voices overlapping each other. Puppy didn’t care, she was slowly sailing away along her route, deeper and deeper inside herself. The simple idea that she wasn’t going to see her mother any more, drowned out everything else in her mind. No more mom. Ever. No more. She walked all this road just to see her again, it was the only reason she had. But now it was gone. She liked her friends, but this felt just wrong. Everything around her felt wrong, this wasn’t the place she was meant to live in, it was so evident! There had to be... something else, something different... something... better. “...This is it? We did it? Big 52 is safe? The foal is alright? Maybe at last we can go back home...” Back home... What home? It was gone. Her house in Canterlot was gone, Mom was gone. No more Mom. Forever. Puppy didn’t want to live like this, she didn’t want to... lie awake each night until the first light of dawn tried to peak through the clouds only to realize that... that Mom wasn’t there for her. She just wanted to go to sleep... and not wake up at all. “Oh, but that’s easy, little one. You just have to ask and I’ll let you sleep forever. In a never ending, beautiful dream.” “...Shut up, Jamie! Tunnel Town won't burn while we are away!” “Really? You can do it?” “Of course! I’m the master of dreams. I can give you all the happiness you want. All you need to do is ask.” “...The Herd is not defeated, we simply drove them back, but we should consider offering them a peaceful solution...” “...I'm not sure they will accept, White... their tribe is not based on love and care...” “...Maybe now that all their hot shots are gone, the other will be more reasonable... we should at least try, Scold...” “Forever-ever-ever?” “Forever and even more. It’s a pact, between you and me. I’ll give you an eternal dream where you can be with your mother and your father, and in exchange you’ll let me sort things out while you’re asleep. Deal?” Sidekick tapped on Molten's back, whining, but the pony was more interested in the discussion between Scold and White than a brainless Canterlot ghoul. “I've been around for a lot of years, and I remember that the Herd wasn't originally that hostile... they began raiding when the tribes on the Big 52 started asking a toll to enter their settlements, the Herd traders couldn't afford it and they resorted to the other way of acquiring goods... I think that if the tribes will decide to share a bit, everything could go just fine.” “...I'm not sure of that... My grandpa always said that the Wild Herd was a rattlesnake ready to bite you in the ass...” “...Your Grandfather was the first tribe leader to introduce the toll, White! Why don't you show some common sense and be the first to abolish it?” Puppy took a long breath and nodded. “Okie dokie. Deal. Do it.” “You made the right choice, Puppy. You won’t regret it.” “Do what now? Look Puppy, I really like you and a owe you a lot, but abolishing that tax is not that easy, please don't talk about things you don't understand...” “Yes, yes, just... make all of this stop.” “Oh, how much I love your naivety... I’ll miss it. Here we go, now close your eyes...” Footnote: Level up! (18) New perk added: Here and now! - You gain a level, because stuff. Level up! (19) New perk added: Concentrated Fire - When in S.A.T.S. you get a cumulative 5% bonus in accuracy when aiming more than one shot at the same body part of a target... Well, what did you expect? Puppy was so depressed that she picked a random perk. She doesn’t even have S.A.T.S.! New Quest Perk added: Galloping Nightmare (Rank 3) - Yay, now you are Nightmare incarnated. This could give you some issues with social life. Oh, and your standing towards every faction is set to hostile. On the bright side, we won’t list all the bonuses you get since it would take too long. Link to Chapter 18 This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. Huge thanks to Damhoof, Easteu, Aerondight, Arcane Scroll, Palacioskw and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	20	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2012-01-09T22:56:51+00:00	2012-01-09T22:56:51+00:00	22,032	Edited by uSea Chapter 20: Terminal And when the party’s over we’ll gather ‘round for a group hug! DAY 14 - TIME approximately 12:35 AM - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch Against the din of waves crashing into the rocky shore, Puppysmiles sat facing a gravestone. Her group of friends argued a short distance away, but she could only hear the Voice whispering inside her head. It spoke of pacts and promised dreams. “Yes, yes, just... make all of this stop.” Henrietta barely heard Puppy talking behind her, but she felt a sudden chill in the air, like a cold night’s breeze bringing with it the creepy sensation that she had just woken up from a bad dream but couldn’t remember what it was about... Suddenly, what the foal had said seemed a lot more important. Everypony turned toward Puppysmiles. Was she talking with herself? Make what stop? How? As Henry approached, she could see that Puppy’s eyes were closed and her head hung low. The foal’s mane was rapidly changing color, turning dark blue from its original blonde. “Puppy? Are you okay? What... I... I think that you have something in your mane...” When Puppy spoke, it was with a different voice. Like the sound made by a chorus of ponies calling from the bottom of a cave. “I salute you, my humble minions. I’m finally here among you, bow at the dawn of a new era!” Henry cocked her head and raised both her eyebrows. “The what of a new what? Puppy, what’s going on?” Sidekick’s eyes turned from red to blue, and it took up position on Puppy’s flank, standing like a sentry. The creepy new Puppy continued. “I am not Puppysmiles, I am Creepy Voice, a child of the Stars, and your new ruler. Under my guidance, a new Equestria will rise.” Scold shook his head and looked over at Molten Gold. “The Stars? Like in... ancient zebra folklore? Those Stars?” The scribe’s question was interrupted by Henrietta’s laughter. “Creepy Voice? What kind of name for a villain is that? I mean, really? Creepy Voice? Did you come up with that all by yourself?” Puppy stepped back, with an embarrassed expression that rapidly shifted to anger. “It... it is a name you’ll learn to respect, fools! Now bow to me and return to your towns, announcing my advent!” Trigger Happy snorted, stepping in front of the other ponies. “Or else?” The blue flames that burned in Creepy’s eyes expanded until they completely filled her helmet; a blazing cobalt crown appeared above her head, and more blue fire sprouted from her back, forming a pair of ghostly wings. “Or else, I will devour your souls!” Happy hesitated, looking at the filly while Lonesome Pony muttered to Scold. “Can she do that? Can she eat souls?” The scribe looked back at the DJ and shrugged. “...how am I supposed to know that? If she really is connected with zebra dark magic, then it’s possible... only... I don’t think she’s strong enough for that just yet.” The pegasus raised an eyebrow. “She isn’t?” “No, she’s still manifesting, just look at how that fire of hers is flickering. I think I know how to stop this story before it even begins.” The scribe spoke in a very low voice while Happy kept the creature occupied. Molten Gold and Lonesome Pony listened to him with all their attention. “I think that I can sever the bond that ties this entity and Puppy’s soul together... without a soul to feed on, Creepy Voice.. ah... that creature, won’t be able to manifest itself and will be banished.” “So, what are you waiting for, an invitation?” asked the ghoul impatiently. “No, I’m not strong enough to do this on my own.. it’s a ritual, but it’s long and complicated, and meant for unicorns only... no offense, Gold...” The old treasure hunter shrugged. “No offense taken... so basically you’re telling us that we are going to be fucked by a zebra demon with a foalish name?” “Hey, what’s going on? Does the egghead here have a plan?” White popped his head into the trio of ponies, interrupting the conversation. “Actually, yes, but I need some minutes to figure out the details, help Happy keep Creepy Voi— no, really, what kind of name is that?” The scribe facehoofed. “Well, keep her talking while we try to pull this off, okay?” White nodded and turned on his tail, trotting toward the trio composed of Henrietta, Trigger Happy and Jammed Gun. “Hey, Your Highness, did you mention something about a new era? Can you elaborate on that part? Will it be better than the manure we are swimming in at the moment?” The nightmare stopped considering Henry and her annoying question about names and turned toward the new arrival. “Indeed! My magic is far superior to that of mere ponies, with it I can heal this poisoned land and bring about a new reign of prosperity! Your violent lifestyles will be at an end; I won't allow my subjects to squabble amongst themselves. Instead you will build immense temples in my honor! All you have to do is worship me, and pay tribute to me and all the problems in your life will be solved!" White nodded at the response and tilted his head. “Well, that sounds mighty interesting... but... may I ask what you mean by paying tribute to you?” The creature smiled before sitting down and closing her eyes, acquiring an air of mentorship. “Absolutely. Your master, that is me, will ask very little for the good of many. Aside from your worship, I require a pony sacrifice every full moon from each major city. In return, I will cleanse the land poisoned by ponykind, allowing you to grow food and live your lives under my rule!" Trigger Happy cocked her head, frowning. “W-what are you going to do with sacrifices?” Creepy Voice waved her hoof, dismissively. “Never you mind.” Henry and Happy had their mouths open, listening at what the possessed filly was saying. Happy drew her weapon, but she stopped when she noticed White’s gesture to wait. Henry, on her side, scratched her head. “Yes but... will you give us back Puppy?” The nightmare blinked her eyes for a moment, surprised. “What? She doesn’t want to come back: she is sleeping and dreaming, in a place where nopony can hurt her. We made a pact.” At that reply, Trigger Happy snapped. “You did a what? Listen, I know my friend Puppysmiles and how easy she is to trick! Whatever pact you made it’s not valid! You can’t just... just... talk a foal into something and pretend it’s legitimate! Let her go!” The monster laughed, with a silvery tinkling voice. “Tee-hee, you’re funny! Why should I yield a perfect soul to possess? Her obsession trapped her on this plane and as long as she sleeps, she will never realize the truth. So no, I’m not letting the foal out of her dream, but on the other hoof, I’m offering all of you the privilege of being my heralds so you can announce my coming to all of Equestria.” “So, long story short...” Henry tilted her head. “You are Nightmare Moon?” “Well, no... I mean... yes... I mean... Nightmare Moon was more ancient and powerful than me...” For a moment the creature hesitated, but she seemed to recover almost immediately. ”But I am more than strong enough to shut your stupid beak!” Henrietta deadpanned. “So... basically... you’re a newbie... a Nightmare Noob.” Trigger Happy burst into laughter, rolling on the grass as she fought for breath; Mister White facehoofed, while the other three ponies stopped talking for a moment, trying to understand what was going on. “ENOUGH! THAT’S IT! THERE’S PLENTY OF SUBJECTS I CAN USE, I DON’T NEED YOU, USELESS BUNCH OF... OF... IGNORANT WEAKLINGS!” Henrietta snickered. “...Said the filly that can’t count beyond four...” “YOU INSOLENT LITTLE... YOU WILL SUFFER!” “No, she wont! Bad monster! Stay put!” Scold stepped in front of Henrietta, staring straight into the Nightmare’s eyes. “We will banish you forever, with the power of science!” “Teeh-hee” The creature giggled, evidently quite capable of shifting from anger to mirth on a whim, and dismissed the scribe with a wave of a hoof. “Don’t make me laugh! Science! Do you have the slightest idea of what power you are facing? Oh for Nightmare Moon’s sake, try something more believable!” Scold smiled, not very impressed by the nightmare’s reaction. “Oh, so you want the details? Very well, then listen carefully. Since I already had the opportunity to check Puppy’s suit, I did some research and I found some interesting clues. Your very existence in this place is caused by a foolish attempt at using necromancy as a life saving device, but I know how to fix that horrific mistake the Ministries made! The talisman itself has proved to be almost impervious, but the spell inside is more than unstable. The way your flames wax and wane make that abundantly clear. Now, I have some unicorns here and even if they don’t know a thing about dispelling magic, I can tap into their power for as long as we need. So, guess who’s getting dispelled today?” “What the...” The demon stepped back, with an expression of real concern on her muzzle now. “Alright everypony, I’m casting the spell, you just clear your minds and this nightmare will be over! Let the magic flow!” A flash of light exploded from Scold’s horn and shot between the assembled unicorns, each of them sending out ethereal threads that became woven into a mighty spell. Happy closed her eyes and let the magic flow through her, quickly followed by Mr. White and Jamie. Soon all their horns were glowing a brilliant white and the light expanded until it had enveloped the whole hill and everypony on it. Henrietta grit her beak tightly and was forced to shield her eyes from the blinding glare. Something that Scold had said didn’t sit right with her. He was going to stop the demon by destroying the necromantic spell being used as a life saving device... but wasn’t that what was keeping Puppy alive? Henrietta turned toward the old scribe. “Wait! Are you trying to kill Puppy!?” Scold didn’t reply, but from within the shining cloud of light the monster’s voice confirmed Henry’s fears. “Fools! If you break the spell, the foal will die with me!” “No, fuck, NO! You’re not going to kill her, you fucking unicorn!” Roaring, Henry charged at Scold, slamming into him so hard he flew for a couple of meters before landing heavily on his back. He screamed in pain and lost focus on the spell. The light exploded in a rainbow of colors, spreading all around and dancing in every direction, but without a pattern. It was more like a giant disco ball gone crazy and rolling along a corridor than a real rainbow, and when at last the light died... Nightmare Noob A.K.A. Creepy Voice, opened an eye, uncertain of what was going to happen next. Everything seemed to be still and silent, so she dared to opened the other eye too, and looked at the confused ponies in front of her. An evil smile appeared on her now very satisfied muzzle. “So... in the end, Puppy’s griffon friend proved to be very useful to me... but next time you might want to pick better allies for yourself, yes?” The monster chuckled. “Oh, silly me, there won’t be a next time, since now you’re all going to die.” Scold shook his head as he got to his hooves, still dazed by Henrietta’s tackle. “What... why did you stop the ritual, you featherbrain? It was working...” The other unicorns looked around at each other in a stupor, struggling to stand after the exhaustion of casting. Molten Gold tried to wake Mister White, while Henry advanced on Scold, with a grim, accusing stare. “You... you won’t take Puppy from me! There must be another way, I’m sure of it!” “But... you stupid deluded brat! The foal is already dead, we are trying to save the Big 52 here! Come down from your... your... ‘Wonderful dreaming place’ and get real!” Scold was practically foaming at the mouth. The mercenary had disrupted their best chance to win and now a lot of ponies were going to die because of her. The nightmare savored the taste of crushing victory that was still lingering in the air. “Oh, this is so tempting... looking at your little argument is a real treat, but I have a schedule.” Creepy Voice looked at Sidekick and in that moment the ghoul’s eyes turned night blue. The Canterlot foal turned towards the ponies like a hound. Nightmare Noob smiled. “Let the games begin. Go, my minion, teach that chicken some manners.” Sidekick crouched, ready to pounce on Henry like a cat on a mouse; the griffon was so focused on her argument with Scold that she didn’t notice the ghoul jumping until it was too late. She didn’t even hear Trigger’s warning. The impact sent the griffon and the ghoul rolled down the hill, a whirling ball of hooves and claws. Henry fought without thinking, her predator instincts being all that kept her from being crushed by the foal’s unholy strength. She tore with her talons and punched with her fists, dodging the return strikes and knowing that a single hit would be the end for her. The melee continued, both figures locked in a dance to the death even as they tumbled over the edge and fell to the rocks below. Creepy Voice watched as her minion vanished from sight and shrugged. “Oh well, meanie chicken broke my toy. It seems that I’ll have to do everything myself, as usual... so, who’s first?” Lonesome Pony and Molten Gold exchanged a quick glance before opening fire. They emptied their magazines at point blank range, the bullets tearing through the Nightmare like a hot knife through butter. Dozens of holes dotted Puppy’s chest but they didn’t seem to have any effect at all. Many had already begun to close. “It’s hard to kill something that’s already dead, isn’t it?” Creepy Voice giggled as she lifted Lonesome Pony with her magic and slammed him into the tree. The pegasus hit the trunk with a wet, crunchy noise, and fell to the ground unmoving, his back bent in an unnatural way. Not even checking to see if Lonesome was actually dead, the Nightmare turned towards Jammed Gun. “So, I reckon you’re with the sweet mare there? How cute, you’ll die together, like the protagonists of some cheap old play! Any last words?” “Actually, yes.” Mister White smiled a little as he interrupted Creepy Voice and levitated a radio from his saddlebags. “Plan B.” His eyes narrowed. “We’ve got backup.” With a sound like distant thunder, sniper fire blew apart Pup’s helmet and ripped away one of her legs. The wicked creature roared. Spreading her wings, she flew up into the sky and conjured lightning from the clouds. The bolt struck the ferris wheel like a hammer, heating the metal and weakening the last joints that still allowed it to stand. The gigantic metal structure creaked and screeched, before collapsing on the small building that Sage Brush and a couple of acolytes were sniping from. “No! Sage!” White turned towards the town, looking at the rubble that once had been his nephew’s hiding spot... no... this was... this wasn’t going as planned at all! A salvo of missiles streaked through the air toward the creature when she was far enough from the ponies below, shrouding her completely within a flourish of explosions. The rangers charged from their hiding spots in town, discharging every weapon they had in the monster’s direction. The battle had begun. Henry groaned. It was all dark, cold and wet; her bones ached in places she didn’t even know she had, and she was almost sure that something was completely wrong. A sweet and merry voice hammered like a pink flash in her head. “Oh don’t worry, it’s just you being your usual meanie self... nothing else!” “A... meanie what? Am I dead?” The griffin’s headache was getting worse, while the sound of explosions and ponies screaming thundered in her ears. There was a... a thingy, something like a pink dot, dancing in her head and speaking to her. “Silly chicken, you’re not dead, duh! You’re just a bit confused and somersaulting down six meters onto those rocks didn’t help at all, but I’m sure you’ll be okay lickety split! Dashie did that all the time and never got hurt!” “Puppy... how is she? I... I must save her!” The pink dot moved a bit, shifting from a colloquial, merry attitude to a more accusing one. “Really? Because it seems to me that you’re simply trying to hog her all for yourself!” “What the... what the fuck are you blabbering about? I just want her to be safe!” “So that she can stay with you forever and ever?” The voice started fading. “Whom are you wishing well? Poor little Puppy or poor lonely Henry?” “I... I don’t know anymore... But I... I want to make her happy. She seems so different, like a distant memory that doesn’t want to fade... I don’t want to lose her but she seems to be unable to think of anything else but her mother, like a... a recurring nightmare!” “Or maybe, a sweet dream that doesn’t know how to fade... maybe she just needs a last, little help from her very best friend.” The voice had gradually changed; at first it had sounded like an overenthusiastic youth, but now it sounded like an old mare. Somehow it was very, very familiar to Henry, reminding her of the dreams she had had when she was prisoner in Sun City. “There’s just one last step to trot, find Puppy’s rock and fulfill its destiny.” With a gasp, Henry opened her eyes, finding herself in the middle of a rocky beach. She was lying on what was left of a badly crushed Space Ensign Sidekick; the ghoul had taken the brunt of the fall and was now just a flat squashed yellow bug. Henry drew one of her .45s and made sure that the creature was completely gone, putting another two holes in its head before checking the surroundings. Up above her head, a pony flew over the ridge, screaming as she was sent out to sea. The dark magic faded, and she kept going for a good two hundred meters before splashing in the cold waters. Henry tried to ignore the sounds of battle coming from above her head and gulped down a healing potion as she began her search for that stupid stone. “Puppy’s stone, Puppy’s stone, how the fuck am I supposed to find a damn stone in the middle of a rocky beach? Magic Rock my ass!” She scowled at a nearby rock and kicked it hard, sending it flying into a rusted metal box a few meters away. The rock rebounded and, of course, hit Henry squarely between her eyes. “Fuck!” The griffon rubbed her forehead and picked up the offending stone from the ground. Every rock had its voice, and Henry knew this one very well . “That s the last time you get one over on me... So... what now? You hit a metal box, dumb rock, were you trying to tell me something? What are you, some sort of rock of destiny?” Henry snickered as she approached the box, and introduced its padlock to The Rock Of Destiny. “At Least...” CLANK! “You’re being...” CLANK! “Useful!” CRACK! “Very well, let’s see what’s inside the treasure chest...” Some papers, an old brushable Applejack doll, some photos... Henry took the pictures and looked at them; In one there was Puppysmiles, only younger and without her radsuit. She was smiling in front of a carrot cake with four candles on it; there were some other ponies in the background, it seemed to be a birthday party. On the second picture there were a white stallion and a purple mare, they were sitting in front of an old wooden sign announcing that they were entering the town of Appleoosa. Between the two ponies sat a pouting Puppysmiles, as if she didn’t want to take the photo or be in that place at all. The filly seemed even younger in this picture, maybe three... Henry turned the pic and found a note: Last trip with Better. A third photo showed Puppy dressed in an a smock and sporting a big blue bow in her mane, she was smiling, proud of her new dress. Another note, written on the front this time, said: Puppy’s first day of kindergarten. Turning the last photo, the young mercenary found some weathered lines written on the back. In a different place and in a different time, beyond the horizon, we will be together again with Dad and I’m sure I’ll be proud of you. Because Mom will always be proud of her little sunshine. I love you. Mom. A missile flew over the ridge and exploded on the shore, illuminating just for a moment the tears running down Henry’s face. The mercenary sighed, finally giving in to the truth in front of her eyes. “She... she never belonged here... Fuck...” Henrietta rubbed her eyes, putting down the photos. “Fuck, why does it have to end like this!? WHY!?” A new explosion painted the sky red. Ponies up there were dying, fighting something that was already dead. Dying because she wanted to keep the foal for herself instead of letting her go, as it should have been. Now Henry knew what had to be done; still, that didn’t mean she had to like it. “Not fair. Not fair at all...” Paladin Gauss’ eyes widened as the missile he’d just fired was thrown back at him. “Gauss! NO!” Cold Shower could only watch in horror as the explosion took away one of her oldest friends. She turned towards the Nightmare, her eyes full of anger and pain. “Stupid bitch, why won’t you die!?” The barrels of both the miniguns mounted on her power armor span up and she fired until her guns were empty, but the bullets bounced harmlessly off the Nightmare’s shield and were completely ignored as the creature launched a second acolyte into the ocean. Creepy Voice had already killed two rangers and thrown several other attackers onto the sea, but with all these ponies around she was getting confused. How was she supposed to fight all of them at once? Really, these stupid equines didn’t even know the rules of a proper duel! She was growing bored of their little game. Yes, killing ponies could be fun but it seemed pointless, especially when she had more important things to do, like take over the world. Who was supposed to be the leader of this bunch of idiots? Oh right, the old scribe... Creepy Voice smiled with evil on her mind. “So, where is that guy with the cape?” Landing in front of the old pony, Creepy Voice folded her ethereal wings and faced her adversary, not even trying to hide her amusement. “Here you are! Scold, right?” There was a pause, while the unicorn looked confused at the foal’s new change of mood, but the Nightmare cut it short. ”Very well, die.” With her magic, the monster grabbed the old stallion’s heart and squeezed. Scold collapsed with barely a whimper. In the same moment, Henrietta flew over the ridge, landing again on the tomb’s hill. The scene in front of her eyes made her cringe. This was her fault, all of this was happening because of her selfishness. Ponies fighting, ponies dying, this wasn’t what Puppy would have wanted at all. It was time to end it. “Puppy! Puppy, listen!” The nightmare let out an annoyed sigh and turned towards the griffon. “Hey, it’s not your turn yet! Don’t you know that there’s a list? I’m almost finished with this one, then I’ll be killing you too; so don’t push and keep your ticket ready!” Trigger Happy crawled towards Scold while the Nightmare was busy giggling at her own humor. The security mare tried desperately and uselessly to revive the scribe; their numbers were being mowed like a wheat field in front of a reaper: Molten Gold was struggling to break free from the tree he had been impaled on, Lonesome Pony had already passed out with his back broken and even the well equipped and combat trained rangers were losing ground. This was the end, they were all going to die here. For a moment, Trigger felt sad, she really, really wanted a foal of her own to love and care for. This was so unfair... “Puppy, wake up! You... You can see you mother for real!” Henrietta kept screaming with her high pitched bird voice. She was actually quite annoying. “This Nightmare is a bug and a stinker, you’re cooler than that, you learned from the best!” Creepy Pup snorted. “Aren’t you even able to wait your turn to die?” A halo of dark magic surrounded a large chunk of road and hurled it towards Henry, but the griffon was agile and dodged it easily. “Now I am disappointed, bad chicken! Don’t make me come down there!” Henrietta flew in front of Puppysmiles and pressed her beak against Puppy’s glass helmet. “Puppy you moron, you are dead! D.E.A.D! Just like your mom! Are you so stupid that you don’t even realize how to die!? Dump this idiot and go with your parents! Please!” “What?” The nightmare blinked her eyes, startled by the griffon’s sudden assault. What was she saying? Was she... trying to speak to Puppy? Oh no, no no nononono! “Shut up! She can’t hear you, fool!” “C’mon Puppy, Wake up! You’re not forced to stay here! I... I don’t want you to stay here with me, you have to go! I’ll be fine! Just...” Henrietta was trapped in a blue corona and her body started to twist, producing disturbing snapping sounds. Creepy Voice looked straight into the mercenary’s eyes, with a stare full of anger and hate. “You. Die. Now.” Henrietta smiled weakly, unable to resist the powerful magic crushing her body. “Puppy... Mom is... Just over the horizon...” Puppysmiles sat in front of a pond, looking at the fishes that swam within. Everything around her was still and calm; a blanket of snow covered the ground and the clear sky showed hundreds of stars. She wasn’t happy, but somehow she wasn’t sad either. It was like being dazed, everything seemed so muffled and unimportant. There were just her, the snow and the fishes in the pond. Puppy wasn’t aware of how much time passed since she sat there, but it wasn’t so important; she just wanted to forget... she couldn’t remember. Well, maybe it was actually working. At least, until a weird goldfish poked its head out of the water. “Puppy you moron, you are dead!” “Wut?” The filly tilted her head, then checked her hooves and her tail. “I’m not dead, stoopid fish!” A second fish poked it’s head from the pond, this one spoke in a feminine voice. “C’mon Puppy, Wake up! You’re not forced to stay here!” “Henry? Why are you a fish now?” Puppy giggled. “Silly Henry, fishes don’t talk!” Frost began to creep over the pond, but a third goldfish jumped out from the water, talking again with Henry’s voice. “Mom is just over the horizon!” “Mom, where did Dad go?” “He’s somewhere beyond that rainbow, Puppy...” “Will... will he come back?” Mom didn’t reply, but Puppy really, really wanted to see Dad again. “Can... Can we go where he is?” “Yes Puppy... one day, maybe not tomorrow, or not the day after... in a different place, and in a different time... we will be all together again, okay? Just... just over the horizon.” “Pinkie swear?” “Cross my heart, hope to fly...” “Stick a cupcake in my eye...” Puppy looked up in the sky. And finally saw him. “—really, really late and I know I actually have all the time in the universe, but I hate these kinds of anomalies and this one has been going on for two hundred years! I’m beginning to lose my cool, there are a lot of better places I’d like to be rather than here!” A skeleton wearing a black hood was talking in Puppy’s direction, but he seemed to talk to himself more than the foal. The little filly smiled. That skelly pony was funny, he was talking like those grumpy ponies at the veteran retirement house! “Hi, I’m Puppysmiles! Have you seen my mom?” “Oh, please! Not that litany again! I’m going to resign, or strike! Or strike and then resign!” The skeleton pony was interrupted by the giggling filly. “Tee-hee, skelly pony is funny!” Stopping his monologue, the grim reaper finally noticed that the foal was looking at him. “You... can you see me? Is this some sort of prank? Because if this is a prank I’m going to give up for real, this time...” Puppy tilted her head. “A prank? I hope not! Last time I made a prank I was spanked ultra hard!” The pony paused for a long moment before falling down on his haunches, with a ghostly sigh. “At last...” Puppy trotted near to the weird looking stallion and sniffed his clothes. “Ah, who are you, pretty skelly pony?” “Me? I’m the Grim Reaper, Death, the Inevitable End, the Black Stallion...” From the foal’s blank stare, the skeleton realized that he was just wasting good words. ”But my colleagues call me Mort. Long story short, I’m the guy that shows the deceased how to reach their afterlife.” Puppy tilted her head, confused. “So... Have you seen my mom, or not?” The skeleton shook his head. “You’re a lost cause...” A silvery ticket covered in shining pink letters appeared in front of Mort and gently fell like an autumn leaf between Puppy’s hooves. “Here, take this ticket. It’s worth a ride to the other side. Remember, not everypony gets the silver ticket: it’s a really special one that will bring you there lickety split, be grateful.” Puppy’s eyes grew bigger. “I... I am going to see Mom? For real? No more... pink arrows, or stoopid bullybots, or falling houses? Just... Mom?” The reaper nodded. “Exactly.” Mort paused for a moment before continuing. “It must have been hard, this is my personal way to say I’m sorry for not being able to help you earlier.” Puppy stopped listening as soon as the pretty skelly pony had said what she wanted to hear. “Yush!” The foal hugged the skeleton for a moment, before looking at the pond which had now completely frozen over. “Oh right! Henry! Just let me say bye to my friends!” Puppy turned on herself and the whole scene with the pond and the snow exploded into a thousand shards, dissipating into nothingness and revealing the battlefield around the graveyard. “...Just over the horizon...” The griffon’s eyes grew clouded as she slipped into unconsciousness. As soon as Henry had said those last words, the Nightmare’s eyes flared pink and for a moment her expression changed completely. “Bye bye Henry! A pretty skelly pony is sending me where Mom is, and this time with a super shiny ticket!” The pink in Puppy’s eyes faded away one last time and all the lights on her HUD turned red, signaling an endless sequence of system errors. “Warning. Subject 001 Puppysmiles cannot be located. Warning. Power level is critically low. Warning. Self repair function not responding. Warning. Hardware not found. Warning. General shut down in five, four, three, thank you for using Ministry of Peace technology. Have a nice day and please, be safe.” With these words, the whole HUD on the helmet disappeared, leaving only the shocked face of Creepy Pup staring at the now empty glass. The monster stepped back in horror, releasing her magical grasp on the griffon, who fell to the ground and rolled a few meters downhill. “What have you done, fool? I’ll kill you all immediately, puny insects!” The monster stretched her wings, ready to release a new wave of magic, but something was wrong with her. The suit had begun to deflate like an old, empty leather ball. “What... what’s going on? I’m melting! NO, NOOOO!” Small eruptions of pink gas leaked from every hole in the fabric, while the monster fought to keep her grasp over what was now an empty husk. “You! You have not won! I will be back! Ponies make the same mistakes all the time, I’ll be baaAAH-” Nightmare’s Pup face melted in a pink eruption, filling the helmet with a curtain of gas. For a moment the suit inflated like a party balloon as whatever force that kept the pink ooze in a fluid form stopped working and the pink agent reverted to its usual gaseous state. As the scream from the Nightmare reached its highest note, the suit’s locks failed and the gas exploded out of the harness, making a sound like a whistle. The ponies that still were capable of walking grabbed the wounded and dragged them away, far from the expanding cloud of pink death that had started to lazily invade the whole hill. “Go go go! Let’s get away from that stuff!” Cold Shower dragged away what was left of Gauss, following the others. Creepy Voice continued to scream as they fled, a long wail of anger and agony. Half dragged and half pushed, for a moment Henry regained a spark of lucidity. Everything seemed distant, and she felt as if she was floating in a warm place, lulled by gentle invisible waves. And in the middle of that moment of peace, the mercenary heard Puppy’s voice. “Hey... hey Henry...” The griffon groaned. That foal wouldn’t know the difference between a wrong moment and the worst possible moment even if she bumped into it with her muzzle. Puppy ignored Henry’s mental complaints. “Listen, I has really no time, but I wanted really really REALLY to say I’m sorry, but I has to go... I... we are still friends, right?” Still friends? That was a weird question... the filly was more than a friend, she was something more, something bigger, in Henry’s life... “Really? You... you liked me that much? I know! We can be sisters! Yush! Henrietta Days! I lovelovelove it!” The griffon chuckled, still half dazed by the Nightmare’s embrace, Henrietta Days... sure... that was totally going to happen... adopted by a pony. “Okay sis, gotta go I love you bai!” And with those last words Puppy’s voice faded away as the griffon passed out again. DAY 14 - TIME approximately 17:00 PM - LOCATION: Emerald Shores, Big 52 S Branch Good day, Big 52! And for once I mean it! This is DJ Good Stuff and you are listening to Radio 52, the radio of good news! Boisterous triumphant music played for a few seconds. I’ve been receiving transmissions from Ironworks and Broccoli since this morning and now I can safely say that the news is confirmed: the Wild Herd was defeated! WOOHOO! Yes my little ponies, you heard me well, the good guys trotted down to Ironworks and kicked some raider ass for good! The DJ laughed enthusiastically, evidently too happy to keep even a shade of professionalism. I still lack the details, but it seems that the Applejack’s Rangers along with a group of volunteers, and please note that Lonesome is among them, assaulted their camp very early in the morning and caught them by surprise, killing a large number of raiders and routing the others. This is how things get done ‘round here, raiders! You better think twice before you mess with us! Good Stuff paused for a moment before continuing; in the background there was a sound of shuffling papers. Okie dokie, now, for those that have friends and relatives in Ironworks... the situation seems dire: most of the adult ponies have been killed during the siege, but there are still some survivors, mostly the elders and the foals, with a small group of guards that found shelter inside Ironworks’ Stable. I don’t have a list of the survivors so far, but I’m working to get one, so expect some more news during the day. In the other news, Splendid Valley was hit by a huge explosion that completely devastated it. Apparently, this has something to do with the Enclave, since— Trigger Happy turned off the radio and turned towards the Hill. The pink cloud had been scattered by the wind, but not before coloring the solitary tree in sugary pink. Right under the tree stood two graves. Henry looked at the last stone in her claws. The Rock Of Destiny... The griffon sighed, weighing Puppy’s weapon before putting it on top of the small mound erected next to Rainy Days’ grave. A small toy pony sitting on a foal-sized red scooter had been left in front of the memorial, almost like a bunch of flowers. The young mercenary opened her beak, looking for some words to say but closed it again without thinking of anything. Mr White arrived from town, carrying a rusted road sign; the stallion patted Henry on the shoulder before taking a brush and painting two words on the metal plate. -Puppysmiles Days- Trigger Happy approached the new grave, frowning a bit. “Is... it’s that all? Just a name? It seems so... cold...” The White Apples leader shrugged. “It’s how we have always done things ‘round here. Graves are not for showing.” The stallion looked away from Trigger, staring at the other graves on the hill. Cold Shower and Scold still sat in front of the numerous ranger graves; Sage Brush’s tomb was sitting alone, facing north, towards Salt Cube City. White shook his head and turned back to Happy. “It wouldn’t be fair. Her grave is not the only one that was dug today. Let’s stick to our traditions.” Trigger Happy nodded and sighed before she turned away and approached Scold. The old unicorn was looking at a holotag in his hooves, but when the mare approached him, he put the object away with a sad expression. The security mare kept her voice as low as possible while talking to him. “How are The DJ and the Ghoul doing?” Scold shrugged. “Gold will survive, he just needs some radiation... Lonesome Pony... well, we will try implanting him with an artificial spine, but we lack the correct instruments and I don’t know if he’ll survive the operation. Your coltfriend should be with him right now, maybe you should go and check yourself.” The mare lowered her eyes. “I... I’m sorry for your losses... I could have taken all the guards from Tunnel Town with me, not just me and Jamie...” The old scribe smiled weakly. “It’s not your fault, we had no idea of what we were going to face here. Those that gave their lives fighting against that horror will be remembered as heroes. I know it won’t bring them back, but maybe this will give at least some meaning to their deaths.” As soon as Trigger Happy departed, Scold trotted next to Cold Shower and sat with her in front of Gauss’ tombstone. The mare was crying in silence; the two ponies were more than comrades, and the loss had been a bad blow for the paladin. “He was a good friend... you know, even when he acted like an ass...” Shower was having a really hard time, trying to hold back her sobs as she spoke. The scribe nodded, wrapping a hoof around the mare’s neck. “Yes, he really cared about ponies. He knew what was important...” His stare wandered across the graves. Four. Two paladins and two acolytes. The Rangers probably owed Puppy more than that, but it felt hard to accept it. Still, he didn’t want to blame the griffon for that, it simply didn’t feel right. “We lost many good ponies, today. Acolyte Sugar Flavor and Scribe Scroll were still so young. I’ll have to inform their parents.” Cold Shower sighed, tears were now running down her muzzle. “Scold, please... tell me it was worth it. I lost so many friends... I lost the pony I loved. Tell me... tell me they didn’t waste their lives.” “We are just ponies, Shower. We do what we can to make this land a better place day by day. The records say that in the last generation, in the Big 52’s settlements cutie marks involving traditional works like masonry, farming and arts are slightly growing... maybe things are getting better, and maybe our foals will see a greener Equestria...” The old scribe looked at Puppy’s grave. “And maybe, one day, there will be again a place where foals like Puppy will be free to play and make friends... who knows...” Henrietta rubbed her eyes as she left Puppy’s grave and trotted towards the beach, looking at the waves. The young mercenary checked that nopony was looking at her and when she was sure of being alone, she took Silky Tail out from a bag, hugging the doll and hiding her face in the pink plushie. “Don’t worry sis. Tomorrow will be a better day.” Footnote: Level up! (20) No wait. You’re dead. Sorry kid, better luck next time. New Quest Perk unlocked: Filly Luck - Requirements: Level 8, Minimum Luck of 7. “Alright, we were just surrounded, okay? And the droids were all over the place, okay? And we got, like, five shots left, okay? Then all of a sudden, we hear a ruckus from downstairs and the next thing we know is that half the robots were brutally demolished piece by piece by Celestia-knows-who! With a stone! Real story, man, honest!” Occasionally, when facing robots or feral ghouls, you could find some groups of them already dead, brutally killed with a stone. Go Puppy! This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. Huge thanks to Nyerguds, Damhoof, Easteu, Aerondight, Arcane Scroll, Palacioskw and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
mimezinga	931	21	Original Character,Crossover,Adventure,Dark,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic,Gore	Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes	Fallout Equestria side story - A young filly begins her adventure looking for her mother.	complete	3,358	80	<p>Hope is the faith of the young. Losing everything she holds dear, Puppysmiles embarks on the adventure of her life to find her mother, her hopes of meeting her again driving her through the horrors of a world not of her making. Too bad the Wastelands doesn't care about hope.</p>	teen	2012-01-09T22:57:19+00:00	2012-01-09T22:57:19+00:00	28,867	Edited by uSea AFTERWORD Beyond the horizon, we will be together again. “Oh, c'mon, you can't st- FZZT -rking right now!” BAM BAM BAM! “Hello hello? Test, test... onetwothree...” “...” “Okay, it seems to work. Very well... let's get started. First of all, my name is Watcher. My self imposed mission was to watch over the Wasteland, looking for lost ponies and groups of adventurers, hoping to eventually find those that carried the Elements of Harmony. Now, things are changing and I have friends that will help me with my task. I'm not alone anymore, and I finally have some time for doing things that I feel need to be done. “And this is the reason why now I'm recording this tape and, just for this tale, I’m asking you to call me Mister Questioner. This is a story that could seem unimportant, or even silly, but it’s about dreams, and memories. It’s a story about two large, innocent pink eyes that couldn't see the horrors of our times and kept believing that somewhere, behind those ruined walls, inside the slave pens and even in the raiders' camps, everypony was still a pretty pony. “And at the end of her journey, where the road met the ocean, the ghost foal that lost her mom finally found a place to rest. Sure, she was a little late, but I was told that when she finally accepted her fate, Puppy left with a smile. “Like she were following an old postcard the filly went down the Big 52, showing everyone she met what ponies had been in the past and what they could still be. Somehow changing the way they saw themselves, making them see a better past, and making them wish for a better tomorrow. She wasn't actually trying to change the world, or even to save lives, but that might have been why so many ponies took notice. Since she was no preacher but simply herself, it was easy to see that there was no fanaticism or weird ideals in her; just a little pony with large pink eyes that knew, for a fact, that no one could really be that evil. “And this... this is what happened in the few months between Puppy's arrival at Emerald Shores and today. “The ponies of Emerald Shores came back to the town shortly after the Wild Herd's defeat: when they arrived from the NCA, they found the graves on the hill and the remains of the crushed ferris wheel; alas, what really startled them was that somepony had changed the name of the town on all the signs. Now the town is called Nightmare's Fall. “The survivors of Ironworks started rebuilding the town, helped by their neighbours. Since the battle the settlement had a shortage of adult ponies, so the Rangers decided to settle in this town, making it their new headquarters. Not everypony was happy with this new situation, but the rangers proved themselves vital during the liberation of the town, and eventually even the most stubborn came to accept them. “With Ivory Tower destroyed and Ironworks reduced at the shadow of its former self, Broccoli gathered all the ponies that didn't want to live in a ghost town or hadn't a home in which to live at all. The work in the fields improved greatly and the farmers diversified their crops, for the joy of the foals. Now they grow both broccoli and cabbage. “The crater at Ivory Tower was filled by the seasonal rains and a small trading post has been built along the route between Broccoli and Rust Manor. The town is very small and lightly fortified, but it's growing fast and somepony is starting to build farms all around the lake. The town still doesn’t have a name, but the traders call it The Hole. “Rust Manor was attacked during the Enclave conflict; the town wasn't able to repel the attackers and the control tower was completely destroyed; numerous ponies were killed, but the survivors are already beginning to rebuild their home. It won't be easy, but nothing is easy in the wasteland. “Sun City is still a war zone. The Sand Sweepers and a number of small bands are currently fighting each other to gain the control of the desert's gem. Since the Hired Hooves retreated from Sun City during the Enclave conflict and never came back, the settlement is still a dangerous place, avoided by almost every caravan. For those that dare to risk their lives, though, the inner town is full of old world technology that could make you rich for the rest of your life. “Tunnel Town expanded on both sides of Sugartop Mountain and now it's the third largest town along the Big 52. The prices for using the tunnel have been cut considerably and the city began a service of long range patrols to keep at bay the groups of raiders and slavers along the Route in the town's territory. “Salt Cube City is still the biggest city along the Big 52 and it has grown even more since the ghouls left the Dome. The Hired Hooves are expanding their influence even outside the Route, and have opened offices in the nearby towns. The Talons don’t seem very happy with this policy, and tension between the two mercenary groups is rapidly growing. “The Redtrotters didn't change very much: they stayed faithful to their tribal customs and are still charging the caravans that travel along their territory, but now foals don't have to pay the fee. This is not a big improvement, but the tribe has opened relations with the other settlements and they are actually trying to improve the safety of their part of the Route. “The Applejack Rangers helped in reconstructing Ironworks, establishing their new base in the town's Stable. During the last battle at the Cave, all four of Ironworks’ surviving paladins were dispatched to help with defending the place, and I had the opportunity to meet both Cold Shower and Scold. The battle was hard and Shower didn’t survive it; she is now sleeping besides Gauss at Emerald Shores. Scold has grown distant after losing her; it seems that the old scribe is doomed to survive all his friends... a fate that I can easily understand. “Happy and Jamie married and I was told that she is expecting. Since the marriage is quite a recent news, I think that they didn't expect to be celebrating again so soon. When asked what name they are planning to give the foal, Happy stated that she's still uncertain, but it won't be Puppysmiles. “Molten Gold didn't stop his graverobbing career for long after the battle with the Nightmare. The ghoul left as soon as he recovered and sailed south on a steamboat, along with a group of adventurers. I haven't heard anything from him since then. “SolOS and Pinkie 7 were actually able to become friends in the end. I was contacted by P7 a little after the first Enclave attacks; she was curious about this 'Questioner' Puppy was always talking about, so we had a chat and even if I don't think I'm going to trust her or SolOS any time soon, I think that they aren't going to give us troubles for a while. She actually scared me a bit when she told me about her and SolOS’ idea of programming a new AI and naming it Puppy.SML... I hope that this was just a joke. “Lonesome Pony recovered from his wounds and went back to Radio 52, keeping the Big 52 together with his encouraging speeches and all of his music. DJ Good Stuff is still working with him but when I tried asking when they were going to marry, both of them laughed at me. During the Enclave conflict Radio 52 kept broadcasting; it was small enough that the pegasi didn't bother to shut it down. The radio helped with organizing the defenses and boosted the morale of the defenders; it wasn’t very much, but it was enough for those that fought during the conflict. “Mister White trotted back to Salt Cube City; the loss of Sage Brush changed him deep inside, even if his sister never blamed him for it. After resigning his place of leadership, he became a traveling merchant and as far as I know, he's still running along the Route, bartering every sort of merchandise. This is just a rumor, but it seems that one of his guards is a unicorn mare with a tower as a cutie mark. Maybe he didn't want to lose the opportunity to hire somepony that had the guts to spank a Nightmare, or he simply wanted to give a raider a second chance... After all you gotta care, right? “After Long Ears' demise, a new filly in her tribe got the Far Seer cutie mark, becoming the next shaman. I have no idea how their power works, but it seems to be some mix of powerful drugs and innate precognition; I just know that it is very tolling and quickly consumes the mare's body, so that a single pony sacrifices her life to help the tribe. A boon that brings a curse... “There’s still a pony that I never met in person, and I’m starting to doubt his actual existence. Puppy described him to me as... the baddest evil villain ever. Count Horse Tile. I asked several travelers and caravan guards, but no one has been able to give me a single clue about this cruel noble pony... I guess his mystery will remain unsolved. “Henrietta is still running from the Talons. It seems that there has never been good blood between them and the Firebrights, and the young griffon is keeping up the family tradition. I tried to talk with Gawdyna, to see if some sort of truce can be arranged. I hope that Henry will accept to parley; after all she was Puppy's best friend, and seeing the girl die because of a feud that she didn't even start is something i rally don’t want to see. “The Wild Herd was dispersed and fled to their outposts on the coast again. This time they suffered heavy losses, both in numbers and in pride, but everyone knows that they will come back one day. Hopefully, even if they once more strike the Big 52, it will be without the help of an army of robots, and that could be enough to let the good ponies sleep quietly, for the moment. “The Lost Herd seems to be gone. With Sidekick's death, the last of those damned souls found peace at last, and finally Equestria will be able to forget one of the many horrors of the war. May those poor foals find a deserved rest in whatever awaits us past this life. “So, this is the end of Puppy's story. Did she really change something along her path? Will her action matter in the long run? I have— sorry, I has no idea, but I think I'll miss the way she talked, and the way she took everything so lightly. Another shard of the Equestria I loved is forever gone... but I still hope that I will live long enough to be able to see a filly like her again; but this time it won’t be a ghost from the past, but a daughter of the present. “And speaking of ghosts, the legend of the Ghost of the Big 52 is still alive, even if it seems more a Nightmare Night's tale than a real story. It’s said that when the sun goes down and the moon is waning, a ghostly figure rides along the Route, silent like a shadow and swift like the wind. It looks for the souls of the wicked: slavers, raiders and the evildoers that lurk in darkness, waiting for easy prey. At least two groups of raiders were actually found dead along the route: they didn't show a single wound, their weapons were still fully loaded and they were clearly ready to strike... but they died on the spot, with no explanation. Killed by a presence that didn’t leave a single clue. So, now I want to ask you one thing. “Do you believe in ghosts?” DAY 4 - TIME approximately 7:30 P.M. - LOCATION: Downtown, Salt Cube City Sand Box turned the wheel left trying to make the airship fly against the wind, but it was an impossible task. Friend Force One was losing pieces along the way since the take off, and two engines had already failed. The ghoul slammed his hoof down on the intercom and yelled: “Soft Air, we need more power! We’re getting pushed back by a damn nightly breeze! I don’t know how, but give me more knots!” The reply from the communication device had more in common with an electrocution than an actual conversation, but it was about the balloon losing gas and the engines catching fire. Sand box cursed, before talking again in the instrument. “Okay don’t worry, I’ve got a backup plan: we will crash the airship here, so that the wind won’t send us back to Salt Cube city!” If the reply from the other side of the line was a complaint, it never reached Sand Box. In that very same moment the whole world decided to become pure light. Just an endless, blinding, perfectly silent light that enveloped everything. There was no pain, and there was no fear. Just light. DAY N.A. - TIME N.A. - LOCATION: N.A. When Sand Box opened his eyes again he had the unsettling feeling that there was absolutely nothing wrong. Nothing at all. He took his time to look for a moment around the flying deck, trying to understand what happened. Well, the wheel was still there, the sky was all starry, the commands were working, the lights were all lit... “Wait a moment... the lights are all lit? There are stars outside? What the...” Yes, the airship was working perfectly, and by perfectly it meant that the whole damn room seemed as new as the day it went out from the docks. The floor was shining, the commands were clean, the wheel was even waxed! And the windows! They were so clear that you could even see yourself inside th— And Sand Box saw Sand Box. Surprise on his muzzle was giving way to realization. Slowly, he touched his face with a hoof. It was... his real face, the one he had before becoming a ghoul! He was a pony again, he was... Dead. He was dead, this was the only possible reason for all of this. But if he was dead, why was he still on the ship? Was this some sort of afterlife punishment where he had to fly a ship forever, like the Flying Dutchmare? Were the others trapped forever on that thing with him? And why? He... he didn’t want to fly forever, he had to see Agatha! She... she was waiting for him somewhere, he couldn’t just... fly a stupid ship for the eternity! FWEEEEET! A loud whistle interrupted Sand Box’s shipwreck of desperation, making him turn towards the deck’s entrance. A feminine voice announced her arrival while the door slammed open. “Captain on the Bridge!” A pink mare with a pink mane and big blue eyes appeared in front of the former ghoul; she was wearing a navy officer uniform and sported the largest smile Sand Box had ever seen on a pony... “Miss... Minister Pie?” Pinkie dismissed Sand Box with the wave of a hoof. “Ah, call me Captain Pinkie, I don’t like that ministry thing... it wasn’t happy at all anyway.” The young mare started jumping in every corner of the bridge, giggling and yelling enthusiastically. “Yay! I knew that this little filly was going to fly sooner or later! Oh, oh, look! Look at this! All the arrows on the panels are pink exactly as I asked! It’s... it’s fantastic!” The chief technician stood still with a confused expression on his muzzle, looking at the hyperactive pony touching everything while moving around at a speed that wasn’t physically possible. “I... can I help you somehow?” Before Sand had the time to finish the question, he found himself staring into Pinkie’s enormous blue eyes, nose to nose with her. “Sure you can! They are all waiting for you in the lounge! Move that slow rump of yours and join the party! I’ll get there as soon as I’m done having fun here!” The stallion nodded, slowly stepping back towards the door and never losing eye contact with Pinkie Pie. She was a little bit scary, especially from the point of view of a pony that had just been dead for less than ten minutes. Once on the stairs, he turned on his tail and rushed to the airship’s recreational bridge. The saloon wasn’t crowded, still it was quite populated, especially since Sand Box clearly recalled that aboard the Friend Force One there were just four ponies when it took off. Now instead he counted eight guests. It was easy to recognize Soft Air from his typical military technician jumpsuit, and Peach Blossom with her blooming peach flower cutie mark was easy to spot; the middle aged mare with the stethoscope had to be Dr. Get Well... wow, she was quite a sight with all of her skin and muscles in their place... This left a griffon and four other ponies that Sand Box didn’t recognize. The griffon was sipping tea while reading a newspaper, sitting on a couch. He was wearing combat armor and had several weapons on him. Two of the ponies, a mare and a stallion, had the typical padded suit used under power armor and were standing side by side in front of a table with drinks and snacks. They didn’t pay attention to the table anyway, being too occupied in nuzzling each other, seemingly at peace. The third pony was sitting alone in front of a window, looking outside the ship. He sighed and shook his head, in his eyes was easy to read some sort of regret and resignation. As if he left too many things undone behind and wanted to go back. The fourth pony was a unicorn mare with a long cape; she had the Sand Sweepers traditional jewelry on her, maybe she was a dead far seer? The mare seemed different from the others, more a shadow than a real presence. She was also the one that trotted towards Sand Box when he stepped inside the room. “Greetings, I see that Pinkie let you come down at last. I guess this means that we are ready to proceed... she should be here soon, unless she got lost again.” Sand Box frowned. “What is going on? Who is she? Who are you? Listen, I’m not a troublemaker but I’d—” He stopped talking when the mare approached a door and pulled it open. A Pink foal with a blond mane and two big pink eyes trotted inside the room. Puppy still had her pretty silver ticket in her teeth. She didn’t understand how exactly she arrived in that place, but it didn’t matter. There were games, and treats, and it totally seemed like a super fancy party! It was everything she always dreamed, and it was full of ponies to boot! And a Chicken! Sand Box felt his heart sink in an icy grasp. Of all the ponies he was expecting to see, Puppysmiles was the last one. “Oh, little one... I’m... I’m so sorry...” How could this foal smile even in a moment like this? “What happened? Who... how did you arrive here?” Puppy tilted her head, unable to recognize the pony in front of her, but he seemed very nice, so it was all right. “Hi mistur pretty pony! I am Puppysmiles, and I am going to find my mom! A super nice skelly pony gave me this super fancy ticket and sent me here! And I was told that Mom was just over there, after the ride!” The little filly paused for a moment, checking the place. “Ah, are we there yet?” Sand Box blinked his eyes, trying to understand what the foal meant, but Long Ears came in his help, whispering in his ear, “Her mother is dead...” This only succeeded in making Sand’s perplexity grow. “You... you are happy to be dead?” Puppy giggled. “The nice skelly pony told me so, mistur pretty pony! But I feel fine and I’m going to find mom! This is, like, the best thing ever!” “B-but...” She was so... happy... and even if she was explained what was going on, what would have been the point of it? Sand Box smiled and nodded. “Yes. Yes it is. Do you want to play something with the others until we arrive?” In the meantime, the various ponies in the room had slowly gathered around Puppy. They were all looking at her with various degrees of perplexity or sadness. Cold Shower and Gauss approached the filly, the mare was the first to talk. “I’m sorry that we had to fight you... I wish there was a better way...” Gauss nodded for a moment, sighing deeply. “Ah, why is everypony sad? Where are the pony games? I want to play hide and seek! Or pin the tail on the pony! And then I wanna dance, and... Oh, I hope the pony tail is pink! Pink is my super favorite color! I’m the bestest tail pinner ever!” Puppy was already jumping on her hooves, trying to look beyond the small group of ponies. Pinkie, now wearing a flight attendants uniform, followed Puppy through the door, and patted the foal on the head. “I’m sorry Puppy, but there’s no time for that! We’ve sailed through the Star Ocean, and now we have arrived! The ride ends here, fillies and gentlecolts! Thank you for choosing the afterlife airlines and have a pleasant stay!” The pink mare moved rapidly towards the door, opening it and revealing to the other ponies a wonderful landscape made of green hills and small ponds. Small herds of ponies dotted the meadows, while pegasi sat on the clouds populating a wonderful blue sky. The passengers trotted outside the ship, staring in amazement at the place. It seemed like a dream come true: here and there it was possible to see the roofs of some houses and on the distant hills there was a large apple orchard. Even Puppy was left speechless in front of the beauty of the place; everything was perfect! The trees, the meadows, all the pretty ponies and the sunny sky! It... it was even better than Ponyville, it was so beautiful! The only thing that was missing was— Puppysmiles froze for a second, her eyes staring into a small herd of ponies grazing on the borders of a daisy field. The smile on her face grew bigger and bigger as she galloped toward the ponies in the grass. One of the figures looked up and smiled at the incoming filly who was now crying with joy, unable to say anything but a single word. “Mom!” Footnote: Press any key to skip credits - Thank you for playing Fallout Equestria: Pink Eyes. Link to Chapter 20 This fanfiction is based on Fallout Equestria by Kkat; a familiarity with the source material may aid your understanding. You can read Fallout Equestria by Kkat on Equestria Daily If you enjoy Fallout Equestria Side Stories you will want to check the Fallout Equestria Side Stories post on Equestria Daily and the Fallout Equestria Side Stories thread on Ponychan The Ponychan group is also a hatching ground that you can join if you want to share your experience, writing or comments with us. Huge thanks to Nyerguds, Damhoof, Easteu, Aerondight, Arcane Scroll, Palacioskw and Anonsamurai for helping me both with the language and the eternal struggle of keeping the story on its rails ^_^
ratmage99	932	1	Comedy,Random	The Day Wen Stuf Went Rong And Twilite Sperkle Ficksd Thing	This is fanfic about ponys and they're adventures in ekwestria where they advenchers.	complete	39	4	<p>One day Twilite Sperkle went outside and stuff hapened. <br /><br />Note: This is purposefully done in a horrific writing style, similar to Half-Life: Full Consequences. It's really short because, let's face it, who could stand three thousand words of that? Not I. Maybe I'll do a sequel if enough people find it bearable.</p>	everyone	null	2011-09-20T15:13:31+00:00	3,669	"I are Twilite Sperkle!" The unicorn sayd, raising her hoofs in the air and breaking a bunny. "Why did yoo doo that that was my speshel bunnie!" Her pegusus frend was mad and her nam wuz Flutrshie. The unicorn ayte a baygel with creem cheez and then throo up. "Becuz." She repleed and kikked the ayer. "I iz Twilite Sperkle." "Okey." Flutrshie sayd. "I am cooler!" Raynbo Desh flu in to the plase were thei was. "No! I am cooler!" Twilite sed. "I am to partee tyme now." Pinkee Piy had a partee hat and were dance. "You ponees is crazy!" Twilite madded. "I are pretty giv me jewl." Reritee was magic to there. Reritee got all the jewls in world so she make dres that prettid all over. "Aple is taystee eat aple so I money." Aplejeck kikked evrything. Selestya drop from sky to give message to Twilite. "Twilite!" She yeld. "My sister evil agen! You use Elment of Hermonee to beet her up." "Yes prinses, we go now." Twilite ran to were the evil ponee was hidng wich she found becuz magic. "Nitemar Mewn! You rain of terer is over!" "O no! It good ponee and frends! How find me?" "Majic!" Twilite shot lazers from her eyes and burnd the evil ponee. The evil ponee dide and evryone lived happy ever after the end.
RedSavant	933	1	Angel,Fluttershy,Gilda,Rainbow Dash,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Gryphon A Second Chance	Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Dash - but things don't go as planned.	incomplete	26	3	<p>When Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Rainbow Dash, things don't exactly go as planned. Grounded and humiliated, Gilda begins the long process of learning that sometimes, friendship means being willing to admit you were wrong.</p><p>One-sided Gilda/Dash shipping, rated for Gilda's bad language. Crossposted from Fanfiction.net.</p>	teen	2011-09-20T21:34:18+00:00	2011-09-20T21:34:18+00:00	2,436	Anyway! Time for my first ponyfic. It's Gilda-centric, obviously, and while I don't intend this to be a shipfic, there will be some rather obvious girl-crushing going on. Take that as you will. The astute reader will note a number of shout-outs to Jetfire's It's A Dangerous Business, Going Out Your Door - a fantastic story available on Equestria Daily and, I think, Ponychan. These references are made with his gracious permission, and while Dangerous Business is nowhere near required reading for this fic, I heartily recommend it to all my readers. Anyway, please enjoy! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- There were certain duties associated with the title of Coolest Pegasus In Equestria. Rainbow Dash, Ponyville's resident Wonderbolt hopeful and self-appointed holder of the title, accepted this as fact. After all, being the coolest translated naturally into being the best – at anything and everything. It was only fair that the best sometimes had to show the scrubs that looked up to her the basics, the ropes or whatever it was that scrubs needed to be shown (never having been a scrub, Dash was somewhat fuzzy on that part of it). Still… she might've been all right with giving up the title – just for a little bit! A few hours maybe, until she could get it back with a Sonic Rainboom, which she could totally do on command now by the way – if it meant she wasn't being woken up at three in the morning by a custom work order addressed directly to her. Thunderstorm over Ponyville and Sweet Apple Acres – woo, Applejack wouldn't like that one bit. Still, thunderstorms - and lightning! - were fun, and pretty simple. "You've done it again, Dashy," she congratulated herself, settling back into a nearby puff of thunderhead and surveying the cloudscape before and around her. It rumbled with dark promise, rising and falling like a disturbed sea, and flashes of bright white spat between mountainous projections of cloud, leaving their sharp, familiar taste behind. The gentler sparks dancing through the water vapor prickled at her feathers and her back, making the tuft of her mane she could see frizz up and out, and she laughed, not bothering to try to smooth it down. "Not only are you the coolest, you're the best at making storms, too." She yawned hugely and blinked once or twice; as much fun as the lightning was, it wasn't doing anything for her tiredness, and after a few more seconds of lavishing praise on herself, she kicked open a hole in the cloud layer with her hoof and let herself fall into the open air down below. Dash opened her eyes full seconds later - close enough to the ground to feel that little squeeze in her heart - and snapped her wings open, slicing into the wind at a vicious angle as she leveled out, wingtips just barely clearing the lowest branches of Twilight Sparkle's house in the Ponyville Library. She couldn't help but give a whoop as she pulled up, coasting entirely on momentum, and spiraled back up into the sky as lightning crackled and the first raindrops began to fall. As much fun as flying through stormclouds was – and it was fun; a lot of ponies just didn't get how to ride completely unpredictable air currents, and they let lightning spook them, and stuff like that – it was late, and time to head back to bed. The Wonderbolts were putting on a show over Canterlot tomorrow, and she was totally going to be able to see them from her house, if she was awake on time. By the time she saw the soft, pillowy clouds of her own home – moved from its usual spot to avoid the worst of the downpour – in the distance, the rain had begun in earnest, and she was shaking her head every few seconds to unstick her sodden mane from its stubborn place directly over her eyes. Pulling in her wings to settle down, Dash sank about an inch into the normally springy cloud, and frowned down at her feet. She'd have to wring out her house after this, which wasn't exactly hard, but it was a pain. And it could get really cold if the rain soaked down through the roof and into her blankets, and there was that one time when an actual chicken, no lie, had been blown through her floor during one particularly strong storm, and – Dash stopped short. There was someone else on her cloud. It was hard to see, what with the dark and the rain and all, but the figure was silhouetted pretty well against the puffy cumulus clouds that were her walls. It wasn't a pony, that was for sure; it was too tall, and the shape was wrong. It looked like it had giant hands stretching up over its head; its body was a dark blob underneath. And a thin, switchy tail was lashing the air behind it… Dash's eyes narrowed, and she lowered her head a little, ready for a fight. "Hey," she called, kicking up a little tuft of cloud with her back hoof. "I don't know who you think you are, but you picked the wrong pegasus to mess with, buddy. Get ready, 'cause here comes Rainbow –" she stopped midsentence and skidded to a halt for the second time in as many minutes. She recognized the silhouette. And the silhouette recognized her. It raised a clawed hand into the air from underneath the folded limbs and waved somewhat weakly, somewhat sheepishly – words that Dash knew, certainly, and had even used on occasion, but had never in a million years dreamed would be applied to the soggy-looking gryphon sitting in a miserable lump on her doorstep, her wings raised in a half-hearted attempt to keep the rain off her head. "Hey, Dash," said Gilda the Gryphon, offering a beaky smile that looked unconvincing even at three in the morning. "Mind if I crash at your place for a bit?" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rainbow Dash stood stock-still for a moment, then her eyes narrowed. "Gilda," she said, her voice cautious. "I didn't think I'd see you around again, after what you said about my friends." She gave the last word a bit of a twist, and felt an ugly bit of satisfaction as her unexpected guest flinched a little. "Yeah, I guess life's funny like that," Gilda said with a weak laugh, giving her wings a flick. Rain spattered in a loose circle in front of her, and she brought her wings back up. It was hard to tell in the dark, but Dash thought the tips of her pinfeathers were shaking a little bit. "So, anyway, yeah. What d'you say? I know you got that super-sweet couch you showed me last time –" Dash shook her head, which flopped her mane back into her eyes. She blew it up out of her face, frowning. "Gilda. Maybe you forgot, but last time we saw each other, you were a huge jerk. Something about everypony being a lame-o and me being a flip-flop for wanting to hang out with people who-" "Hey, that's got nothing to do with this," Gilda growled, getting to her feet. "I just want-" "-who don't bully and ruin parties-" Dash continued to talk over her, voice gradually rising in volume to keep ahead of the gryphon. "-all I'm asking is for you to let me crash for a night-" "-and act totally uncool-" "-and if you were cool and were really my friend-" That did it. Dash leapt forward and dug her hooves into the cloud, pressing her forehead into Gilda's with a thud. "Really your friend? Really your friend? If you were really my friend, you wouldn't have ruined Pinkie Pie's party, or bullied Fluttershy, or been so lame to my friends that I picked! I can't believe-" Gilda reared back, roaring in frustration. "What is with you and your stupid friends? You used to be cool, Dash! We used to be cool together! We sure as hell didn't need any lamebrain hugs-and-flowers ponies! What the heck happened to you? I don't get it!" Dash closed her mouth, abandoning the rest of her sentence. "No, I guess you don't, Gilda," she said, frowning. "Go home. I'm tired and I wanna go to bed." She stepped around the gryphon, who turned with her, dumbstruck at the sudden lack of resistance. Gilda found her voice again as Dash stepped through the door and turned to close it behind her. "So that's it? You're just gonna leave me out here 'cause you don't like what I said about your dumb friends?" "Everything you said about my friends, you said about me," Dash replied, quietly but fiercely. "Go home, Gilda." Cloud doors didn't slam well – they made a soft 'poof' sound no matter how hard they were closed – but Dash gave it a shot. Gilda stared at the flat cloud wall for a moment, then her talons clenched. Ripping up huge chunks of cloud from beneath her feet, she screeched with rage and lashed at the air with her powerful wings and forelegs. "Fine! Whatever, loser!" she shouted, turning on her back legs with a disdainful sneer. "I'll go hang with someone in Cloudsdale! Someone cool! No one back home misses you, you know! Loser!" Firing the last word over her shoulder, she took off with a powerful leap into the storm. "Stupid lame Rainbow Dash," she hissed, turning west toward Cloudsdale. "Dumb loser lamer pony with dumb loser friends. I'll show her. Someone cool in Cloudsdale will let me hang with them." Oh yeah? Like who, birdbrain? "Like… uh… shut up, I know a ton of cool people in Cloudsdale…" How many of 'em still think you're cool, huh? And even if you do find someone, they're not gonna be anywhere near as cool as her— Gilda shook her head fiercely. "Shut up, shut up, shut up!" She caught the top of a massive pine tree with her talons and clung to it as it swayed in the wind and rain, shouting at herself to drown out the niggling little voice in the back of her mind. "I – am – the coolest-!" There was a sudden sensation, like a massive updraft, as all of Gilda's hair and feathers stood on end at once. She had time to look up. "Oh, shi—" -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was summer again, which meant that thunderstorms now and again were to be expected, really. They were important for giving rain to plants and animals, and some ponies liked the flash and noise, the strange prickling of their coats before the first rain began to fall, the distant rumbling of thunder in the distance… Fluttershy couldn't hold back a small shudder. It was just as well that she'd been asleep for most of the storm last night. She'd hated them ever since she was a filly; it was okay if she had someone else to comfort, because then she could just focus on making them feel better, but Angel enjoyed thunderstorms and Hummingway didn't care about them either way. So it was hard for her sometimes. A few hops behind her, Angel noticed the shudder and shook his head. He tapped Fluttershy's leg impatiently, gesturing further down the simple dirt track that ran past the chicken coop and into the skirts of the Everfree Forest. Fluttershy started at the contact, then smiled at the rabbit. "Oh, I'm sorry, Angel," she said, bending down to pick up the simple basket at her feet. "I just got a little distracted, that's all." Putting the basket on her back, she looked up at the sky. The horizon to the east, over the still-sleeping Ponyville, was streaked with vibrant purple, navy and gold; to the west, over the forest, remnants of the night and the storm combined to hang dark and still overhead. Fluttershy didn't feel any more rain in the air, though, so she set out with what was, for her, confidence. The ground was still soft and cool from last night's rain, and every now and then, water collected in a leaf somewhere would overflow and drip to the ground. This was the best time to gather stormflowers; the grey blossoms streaked with royal blue and silver when it rained, but unless they were picked like that, they lost their color in just a few hours. There was a field of them growing nearby, and Fluttershy picked her way toward it, doing her best not to jump in fear at every little sound. This was just the outskirts of the Forest, after all, and Ponyville… and her friends… were just a short run away. "Uuuuuuogh…" Fluttershy froze as a deathly moan echoed through the trees. Run away, was it? Yes, that sounded like a great idea. She took off, Angel following angrily behind, only to slow and finally stop as the sound repeated itself. "Angel, that doesn't sound like someone trying to be scary," she said, looking back. "Do you think… maybe someone needs help?" Angel looked iffy, but he followed Fluttershy as the yellow pegasus turned and walked cautiously toward the sound. As it happened, the origin of the sound wasn't far away at all, and Fluttershy felt a little tickle of fear as she got even closer. She rounded a particularly wide pine tree and stopped, struck by the sight in front of her. A mass of brown and white, a bedraggled gryphon, lay crumpled among a vast carpet of stormblossoms. A large area of the blooms had been crushed by the creature's powerful wings and legs as she rolled around, leaving a vaguely circular flat patch around her. As Fluttershy stepped closer, she was able to get a better look at her. The end of her left wing was burned; it didn't look too serious, except for the missing pinfeathers, but it must have hurt – meaning the gryphon was unconscious, not asleep. Not that deeply, though, since she groaned again. Fluttershy set the basket down, then took a step forward. "I'll be right back. Don't you worry," she said soothingly. She turned to Angel. "Will you watch her for me? Please?" At the rabbit's nod, Fluttershy smiled. "Thank you." She dashed off through the trees, heading back to Ponyville. Angel watched her go, then sighed and shook his head. Pulling the basket closer, he started picking the flowers that hadn't been trampled by the gryphon or the pony. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The first thing that Gilda registered as her mind surfaced, from the depths of unconsciousness through dreaming and finally into wakefulness, was the pain. Well, the pain and how she didn't feel it anymore, which was a nice change from the past… however long the pain had been there. The sogginess and the chill were gone, too; she was wrapped in warmth and softness, like the cloud beds at Flight School, but also somehow like her parents' nest in the foothills of the Drackenridge Mountains. It took something special to remind her of that. There was a pillow under her head and a blanket over her shoulders – carefully arranged so it didn't ride over her wings – and all was right with the world. "I knew you'd come around, Dash," she murmured, eyes still closed. This was obviously Dash's couch (which really was super-sweet, apparently), and she was resting in Dash's living room. There was a quiet little squeaky sound from somewhere to her right, but she ignored it. "See, you really are cool after all. I guess I was wrong – it was those dumb ponies that made you act like that. I guess I should-" There was another squeaky noise, and this time it resolved itself into words. Kind of. "You're… Gilda… oh no…" Which didn't sound like something Dash would ever say. Which meant… Gilda's eyes flew open and she pushed herself up, looking around. She was in some kind of cottage filled with junk – birdhouses and doll furniture and crayon pictures, paintings of flowers and vines on the walls… and a timid little lump of a yellow pegasus, trembling by the staircase. Late afternoon light filtered through a nearby window. "You," Gilda hissed, levering herself to her feet. "You're that whiny little crybaby." The springy mattress under her feet – not clouds, just whatever it was stupid earth ponies slept on – sank unpredictably, giving her trouble, but she managed to stay upright. At least, until she tried to spread her wings. Pain shot through her left wing, along with a horrible feeling of confinement – it wouldn't open! She had time to glance over and see it wrapped in bandages, and secured to her side, before the imbalance tipped her off the bed and sent her sprawling to the floor. She came up roaring, talons digging into the floorboards, and advanced on Fluttershy. "Oh, yeah, I remember you, you spineless wimp. You're the one who told Pinkie Pie to set up that dumb party." Fluttershy backed up into the corner, head down and legs tucked in. Her eyes were glued to the angry gryphon. "N-no, that wasn't… I mean… Gilda, you shouldn't be out of bed…" "No? Oh, I'm so sorry," Gilda snarled. "Untie my wing! Right now!" Fluttershy shook her head, nearly in tears. "I- I can't," she murmured. "You're hurt. Please get back in bed-" "You telling me what to do?" Gilda shouted, sitting. "Fine! I'll do it myself!" She twisted to cut at the bandages with her talons, but suddenly – Gilda didn't even see her move – Fluttershy was in her way. And she was staring into Gilda's very soul. "Stop picking at your bandages and get back into bed, young lady," she said firmly. Gilda found herself obeying without any intention at all of doing so, and in no time she was back in bed, feet folded under her and surprisingly calm. There were a few seconds of silence. "I… what the heck did you just do to me?" Gilda finally asked, shock for the moment overriding everything else. Fluttershy seemed to melt at the question, and she looked pretty much everywhere but at her grumpy patient. "O-oh, it's… it's nothing special," she said, quietly enough that Gilda had to hold very still to keep any rustling fabric from overriding her. "I'm sorry I used it on you – I didn't mean to, really. I deal with hurt animals all the time, though, and I just…" her voice trailed off into silence. "You calling me an animal?" Gilda asked, annoyed. The ease with which the little yellow pegasus had steered her ruffled her feathers, literally, and she gladly took the opportunity to start getting angry again. She knew angry, knew how it worked and how to rock it. Anger was her home. "Yeah, I've never heard that one before." Though it didn't seem possible, Fluttershy shrank even more. "N-no… I… I didn't mean… it was just kind of… instinct, you're so badly hurt…" "I'm not hurt at all," Gilda snarled. "You don't know shit about gryphons, pony. You're really gonna sit there and lie to my face?" She sat up and twisted to her side again, then paused and sarcastically held her claws up to show she had no intention of picking at her bandages. And then, for the first time, she got down to actually inspecting her injuries. A chill ran down her spine as she took it in. Her wing was securely and professionally bandaged to her side; she might not know gryphons, but Fluttershy obviously knew wings. Most of the bandages were very familiar – simple linen strips, good friends of Gilda's from every sprain, tear and pull she'd accumulated over the years. Under those, though… under those, there was heavier fabric. Not a lot of it, but enough to make her feel very lucky there wasn't more. Burn bandages. "…How bad is it?" she asked finally, looking away. The anger had been doused in an instant, and the ashes lay sick and curdled and dripping in her stomach. It was the first thing any eaglet learned: a damaged wing meant sloppy flight at best, no flight at all at worst. And there were things in the night that not even a full-grown buck gryphon stood a chance against, if he was grounded. If the damage was permanent… "You lost several of your primaries," Fluttershy replied quietly, "and you've suffered some burns to the down and skin in that region." She seemed slightly more at ease discussing medical matters, and her voice grew stronger as she continued. "If you rest and eat well, you should be better in a few weeks, though I don't know when your feathers will grow back." Gilda swallowed hard against the rush of relief that filled her throat. "Cool," she finally managed to croak. "That's… that's cool." She settled back down to the mattress, hoping that Fluttershy wouldn't notice the shakiness in her arms. She closed her eyes for a moment, then looked over at the pegasus, who was looking at her with an odd expression. "…What?" Fluttershy jumped. "O-oh, nothing," she said, hiding behind the pale pink curtain of her mane. "It's nothing, really, Gilda." She straightened up very slightly, and took a step closer to the bed. "You should get back to bed," she said. "I'm sure you're tired." And as she said it, Gilda noticed that she was. She hadn't gotten Stared this time, though, so it probably wasn't pony mind control again. "I'll tell you when I'm tired," she shot back, but it was a poor effort and she knew it. Fluttershy didn't even shy away from her. "I'm only gonna stay tonight, got it?" Gilda continued, settling down. "Don't get me wrong. If I spent a whole month here, I'd go absolutely buggy with you laming it up all over the place. So I'm leaving as soon as it gets light." She pointedly ignored the fact that it was currently around noon, judging from the light coming through the window. Fluttershy nodded along with her. "Do you need anything else?" she asked. Gilda shook her head. "Just get the lights," she said, closing her eyes. There was a quiet sound of hoofsteps, and the blanket was pulled back up over the gryphon's taut shoulders and gently guided over both her wings. Gilda grunted dismissively and the vaguely flower-scented presence moved away to the head of the stairs. The lights dimmed – she even remembered to close the shutters – and then there were a few moments of warm, dark quiet. "Um… sleep well…" Fluttershy offered, almost hopefully. Gilda snorted at her. "Yeah, whatever." She waited until the pegasus' hoofsteps on the stairs had faded, then turned over, resting her chin on the pillow. It was almost all gone by now, but still… somehow, under the soft whatever it was of the mattress, she felt straw, and clouds, and mountain sunrises and sunsets. She buried her face into the pillow. "…Stupid pony." -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- There we go. Unlike Fluttershy, I don't know wings, so I don't know how badly Gilda's injury would actually set her up; let's just say a few weeks and go with that, huh?
RedSavant	933	2	Angel,Fluttershy,Gilda,Rainbow Dash,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Gryphon A Second Chance	Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Dash - but things don't go as planned.	incomplete	26	3	<p>When Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Rainbow Dash, things don't exactly go as planned. Grounded and humiliated, Gilda begins the long process of learning that sometimes, friendship means being willing to admit you were wrong.</p><p>One-sided Gilda/Dash shipping, rated for Gilda's bad language. Crossposted from Fanfiction.net.</p>	teen	2011-09-20T21:38:55+00:00	2011-09-20T21:38:55+00:00	1,929	And here's chapter 2. First off, I'd like to apologize to everyone who seems to have been misled into thinking this'll turn out GildaShy. Apparently writing subtext isn't something you can just turn off. So, sorry for that, GildaShy fans. It's GildaDash. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "Hey there, Moondancer. Where ya goin'?" The silvery-gray filly froze in place as Gilda spoke up, her wings rising involuntarily from the surprise. It was just a thing that happened to pegasi – some kind of excitement reaction, she'd seen it a million times – but it made them, especially the jumpy ones, easy to read… and Moondancer was one of the jumpiest ponies Gilda knew. The pegasus, looking rather like an eaglet caught with her claw in the squirrel jar, turned around to face Gilda as she stepped out from behind a building, and let out a rather weak chuckle as the gryphon joined her on a nearby puff of cloud. "Oh, hi, Gilda. D-didn't see you there." Moondancer tried, with some success, to furl her wings. Gilda felt some predatory satisfaction; it had been extremely boring holing up on Level One. Cloudsdale didn't get much first-level traffic, even in the central avenue, and she'd been there for nearly an hour with her eyes peeled for somepony she could easily collar. Moondancer fit that bill. "Going?" the pegasus continued, with another annoyingly weak laugh. "Aha, no, I wasn't really going anywhere in particular, really…" Gilda raised an eyebrow. "That's a fancy-ass skirt for 'nowhere in particular'," she said, mocking Moondancer's high voice. "About right for Sunstroke's party, though. Funny how I heard that got canceled." "Um, it is," Moondancer replied, leaping a bit too eagerly to agree. "Canceled. It, yeah, that got canceled. So I'm going home now. See you around…" She hopped into the air, wings out, only to be pulled back down as Gilda threw a seemingly friendly arm around her shoulders. "Canceled, huh?" she asked. "Guess that makes sense, yeah. All those ponies I saw going to Sunstroke's house must've been going to help him move all the party stuff they wouldn't need." Moondancer opened her mouth – probably to agree, which would've pissed Gilda off, so she patted her firmly on the shoulder and she shut her mouth again. "Listen, Moondancer," she said casually. "You're cool, right? You wouldn't lie to me?" Moondancer tried to speak up again, but Gilda patted her again, harder. "Listen, you little filly-fooler," she growled softly. "You suck at lying, so quit insulting me and fess up." The little pegasus quivered next to her; she was staring at her hooves. "This is the fifth time so far some party's been mysteriously 'canceled' right after I heard about it. So tell me." She leaned down, wicked beak inches from soft pony nose. "What's. Going. On." "I… I…" Moondancer trembled, her eyes darting all over the place. "The… the truth is…" she swallowed hard, then squeezed her eyes shut and shouted: "Everypony hates you, Gilda!" Gilda was so shocked that she let the silver filly go. Moondancer immediately burst up out of her reach and hovered there, glaring at her. "That's right, everyone hates you," she said, angry tears standing out in her eyes. "Birdy Blue heard what you said about him, you know! And none of us thought it was funny, either! We just laughed because we were scared of you!" She blinked fast, trying to clear her eyes. "You changed, Gilda! You used to be so cool, and everyone looked up to you!" "They never did," Gilda cried, taking an angry step forward. "Don't you lie to me!" "We did," Moondancer replied hotly. She'd failed in keeping the tears back, and hot liquid sprinkled Gilda's claws as the pegasus shook her head. "Everypony wanted to be like you, but you're so different now! You changed. You got nasty, and cruel, and mean." She hiccupped. "Y-you just couldn't stand it when-" "Don't you dare," Gilda snarled, but it was too late. "When Dash left you here alone," Moondancer cried. Gilda roared in fury and launched herself into the air after the pegasus, but she didn't get far. Her left wing crumpled into a charred wreck, and she fell to the cloud, landing badly. When she picked herself up, a ring of ponies surrounded her, watching her silently – all ponies whose names she knew. Sunstroke and Milly and Birdy Blue and Pinkie Pie and Moondancer… and, standing right in front of her, Rainbow Dash. "Dash," Gilda cried, standing. "You came back-" But Dash merely looked at her for a long moment, then her eyes flicked to the burning stump on Gilda's back. Her vibrant pink eyes filled with an emotion more painful than scorn, crueler than hate; she pitied the stricken gryphon, and her expression pushed steel blades into Gilda's heart. "No," Gilda croaked. "Dash, no… I can still… still fly…" She stumbled toward the beautiful blue pegasus, but the cloud she stood on grew soft and yielding and caught at her feet. The other ponies in the circle now wore Wonderbolts uniforms; they took off in pairs, filling the air with thunderclouds that blotted out the sun. As Gilda watched, mired in cloud to her knees, Dash set her own goggles down over her eyes and turned away. "No!" Gilda shouted, as Dash's rainbow trail burst into view and was immediately swallowed up by the treacherous dark clouds. She struggled against the cloud, but it did no good; it held her fast… until she felt it begin to thin under her feet. The cloud parted, and, wing flapping crazily, she fell. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fluttershy was making breakfast in the kitchen. The sun had been up for an hour or so, and she had already made a trip into Ponyville to pick up some supplies for the creatures in her care – not least among them Gilda. It had crossed her mind before that oats and apples might not cut it for the sleek, powerful gryphon, but now she paused halfway through tossing a second bowl of alfalfa salad. Though she'd been avoiding the thought, wouldn't meat be more suitable for her grouchy patient…? It wasn't like she hadn't dealt with carnivores before. They were fairly common in the Everfree Forest, and even though she rarely even entered the outskirts, she'd come across small, and not-so-small, piles of chewed bones more than once. She always did what she could for them, which wasn't really much, but she liked to think it gave the creatures some peace of mind. Even some of the critters in Ponyville were carnivores too, though – the families of ferrets by the river, for instance. Still, familiarity didn't really mean— She was lost deep in thought when there was a colossal shout, followed by a heavy thump from the floor above. "Gilda?" she called, leaving the alfalfa where it fell and rushing up the stairs. When she reached the head of the staircase, a strange sight greeted her: Gilda, tangled in the sheets and blanket from the bed, was lying on the floor, seemingly unable to move. She hissed in frustration and a bit of pain as she struggled against the cloth; her limbs were caught, and every time she moved her feet the twisted sheet pulled at her unbound wing. "Are you alright?" Fluttershy asked, stepping closer. Gilda stiffened as she heard the pegasus's voice – with a sheet lying over her eyes, she hadn't seen her approach– but relaxed again after a moment. "Been better," she growled, trying to furl her wing again. It didn't work, and she let out a pained and exasperated sigh that carried a few overtones of a lion's roar. "These damn sheets—" "Here," Fluttershy said, guiding the edge of the sheet off of the gryphon's wing. A short time later, the tangled bedclothes and ruffled gryphon lay in separate piles, both looking slightly the worse for wear, but mostly intact. "That never happened," Gilda spoke up eventually, standing. "Got it? You didn't see anything." She stalked over to the pile of sheets, nabbed the blanket with her beak, and got back into bed, pulling it inexpertly over herself. It was clear she didn't want to talk, and part of Fluttershy – a large part, to be honest – was fine with giving her her own way. But the other part – the part that got angry when her friends were hurt; the part that let her jump chasms – told her to step up, and she did. Carefully. "Gilda, are you sure you're okay?" she asked quietly, sitting down by the head of the bed. Her rug was soft and plush, and comfortable underneath her. One eagle eye poked out from under the blanket; it looked angry. "I said nothing happened, right?" Gilda said firmly. "Go away. I'm going back to sleep." The upturned edge of the blanket flopped back down. Fluttershy stood up quickly. "Um, you can tell me about it!" She offered quickly, speaking fast to get the words out before she thought better of it. There was a stony silence from beneath the blanket, and Fluttershy continued on, shrinking back down to the rug with every word. "That is, if you want to and you wouldn't be too upset by it and you… you… ..." The end of the sentence degenerated into a quiet squeak. There was no reply from the gryphon, and Fluttershy's head drooped. Still, she could tell that Gilda wasn't asleep and wouldn't be for a long time, and it seemed cruel to leave her alone with her nightmare. "Um…" she spoke up again. "If you'd like, I made some food… oh! And once you feel strong enough, you can have visitors," she offered, injecting cheer into her voice. "I can go tell Rainbow—" "No! No!" Gilda shouted, throwing the blanket off. There was a wild look in her eyes, but for once it wasn't anger – well, not predominantly anger – but fear. She didn't quite fall off the bed, but it was close. She calmed down quickly and settled her feet under her like a cat, looking troubled, and seemed at a loss for words. "Fine, I'll tell you," she mumbled finally. "You play dirty, pony." Fluttershy parked herself back down on the rug, which was easy since Gilda's outburst had caused her back legs to give out anyway. The gryphon shot her an annoyed look as she got comfortable. "You blackmail all your patients like this?" she asked archly. Fluttershy shook her head meekly, and Gilda rolled her eyes. "Just me, then. Fan-frickin'-tastic." Fluttershy opened her mouth; Gilda suppressed a sigh and held up a hand. "I'm joking. Shut up." Host properly chastised, Gilda stalled for another few moments before she began. She detailed what she could remember of the nightmare, though once Dash made an appearance, her tail began lashing and she had to clasp her claws together to keep from tearing rents in the mattress. "That's it," Gilda finished dully. She seemed eminently interested in paring one of her talons with another; the quiet scraping sound was all that could be heard for a few moments. After a long minute, she looked over at Fluttershy, who had an odd expression on her face. "What?" Fluttershy was not a pony given to earth-shaking revelations. She wasn't like Twilight, who had to understand how and why everything worked the way it did; for the most part, she just learned the ways of the world and accepted them for what they were. But now she felt the same rush of wonder she had the first time she'd ever witnessed a birth, and she couldn't help the smile that crept across her face. Gilda didn't like it. "What's that for? Are you making fun of me?" She drew herself up to her full height, and even injured and bedraggled, the gryphon cut an imposing figure. Rock-solid muscles stood out beneath her tan fur; her golden eyes flashed dangerously. Fluttershy smiled beatifically up at her, not afraid at all. After all… "You're in love with Rainbow Dash, aren't you, Gilda?" Gilda froze. There was a deafening silence. "What did you just say?" Gilda asked, sitting down. Fluttershy, still smiling, stood up; the gryphon's head was still at twice the height of hers. "Oh, don't worry, I think it's wonderful!" she said. "I'm so happy for you!" Gilda felt like her body had been pinned in place by that damned smile. "No, you've got it wrong," she managed. She was right back in the nightmare, mired in the cloud again, and she could only hope that it would open up and let her fall to her death already. "It's not like that. She's just…" A friend? Moondancer was your friend once. Wasn't Dash different, even back then? "Just a good friend, that's all…" The voice inside her crowed with laughter. Not after what you said to her, buddy! You've ballsed it up for good this time! "She doesn't know, does she?" Fluttershy asked quietly, no longer smiling. There was a moment of silence, and Gilda shut her eyes tightly against the unfamiliar, painful tingling in them. She shook her head. When she trusted herself to open her eyes again, Fluttershy was looking at her strangely. Yeah, yeah; one more pony added to that count. "I'm going home," Gilda said quietly. She stepped almost gingerly down from the bed, past Fluttershy, and headed for the stairs. As she reached the top, though, Fluttershy spoke from behind her. "When you say 'home'…" The question was implicit in her voice. Gilda shrugged as best she could, not turning around. "Cloudsdale, I guess?" she said. "I never had my own house there – rented from this dippy old pegasus. Might see if he still has room." "Your wing won't be healed for weeks," Fluttershy reminded her gently. "How will you get up there? Or get around once you do?" "Pay a pegasus with a cart…" Gilda started, but even as she said it her entire body shuddered with abject shame at the idea. Proud Gilda, who had departed Cloudsdale hurling insults, returning injured, pulled along in a cart like a shriveled old pigeon? No. Never. "…Fine. Not Cloudsdale, then," she said, starting down the stairs. "Back to the Drackenridges…" …where she would be snared by a Cavesong or torn apart by a basilisk the first night she spent on the ground. "I'll live in a hole in the damn Everfree Forest if I have to," she shouted, more at herself than at Fluttershy, "but I am not staying here!" She had reached the door now, and stretched out a hand to push it open. "Why not?' asked Fluttershy softly. Despite herself, Gilda stopped in pushing the door open. Behind her, Fluttershy stepped down off the staircase and joined her by the door, not pushing the gryphon's personal space. "You're not a bad person, Gilda," she said. "I'm sure of it. You just haven't been shown any kindness for a long time." She stepped back – one deliberate step, taking her out of the range at which she could get between Gilda and the door before it was opened. "I won't stop you if you want to go. But know that you're welcome to stay here anytime, for as long as you like – and I'll help you with anything you want to do while you're here." The little yellow pegasus spoke quietly, but the conviction in her voice was unshakeable, and Gilda knew she was absolutely sincere. It wasn't an emotion she was used to feeling or seeing in others, and it made her uncomfortable – but it also felt… nice. After a long moment, Gilda lowered her hand. The feeling of utter stillness in the air – which Gilda hadn't noticed until just now – broke, and both pegasus and gryphon relaxed subconsciously. Fluttershy stepped back over to the counter to right her spilled salad, and Gilda turned away from the door to watch her. "Hey," she said after a minute, sitting back on her haunches. "Is that breakfast?" Fluttershy looked up, scooping spoon in her mouth, and nodded. Gilda chuckled honestly for what felt like the first time in years, and shook her head. "No grass for me, thanks. I'm sure it's great and whatever, but…" she waggled her fingers, displaying her talons. "I'm heading into the Forest for a bit. I'll be back." And she would be, she knew – and so did Fluttershy. She pushed open the door and took a deep breath of fresh air, her first in several days. It felt somehow even more refreshing than she'd expected. "Hey… Fluttershy?" It was the first time Gilda had called her by name, and Fluttershy looked up, surprised. The gryphon was smiling at her – not frowning, not scowling, not even smirking. Smiling. "Thanks," she said. "For a lot of stuff." Then she stepped out into the sun. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RedSavant	933	3	Angel,Fluttershy,Gilda,Rainbow Dash,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Gryphon A Second Chance	Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Dash - but things don't go as planned.	incomplete	26	3	<p>When Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Rainbow Dash, things don't exactly go as planned. Grounded and humiliated, Gilda begins the long process of learning that sometimes, friendship means being willing to admit you were wrong.</p><p>One-sided Gilda/Dash shipping, rated for Gilda's bad language. Crossposted from Fanfiction.net.</p>	teen	2011-09-20T21:47:14+00:00	2011-09-20T21:47:14+00:00	2,015	It occurs to me that I should finish this story before S2 starts up and there's a chance, however slight, of Gilda making a reappearance and messing with my continuity. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "You've got to be joking. Tell me you're joking." Fluttershy shook her head gently, being careful not to pull at the bandages. She looped the somewhat grubby bolt of cloth around one more time, then set the small roll that had accumulated in her mouth down to reply. "No, that's how it happened," she replied. "Extend your wing, please. Be careful, okay?" It was raining again; the windows had been shut firmly against the wind and the rain, and the warm curtains drawn fast against the storm-dark summer twilight. Inside, pools of candlelight cast shadows around the room. Fluttershy's candle rested on the floor next to her; its light mixed with that of the candle on Gilda's bedside table, softening the edges of the world into shadow beyond the little puddle of brightness. Sitting nearby, Gilda nodded, pulling the last of the sling bandage from her shoulder. "Yeah, yeah." Gilda extended the bandaged limb gingerly, as if she expected any second for it to be shocked by a bolt of static electricity; but the only thing she felt was a sore, stale ache, and she rolled her shoulder irritably. "Damn, I'm stiff. So, yeah – you're saying you got knocked out of Cloudsdale, landed in a pile of bugs, and that was enough to get you your whatever mark?" She snorted. "Wow. That's so pathetic I almost feel sorry for you. That's pathetic on an entirely different level than walking around with pictures on your ass in the first place. It's, like, super pathetic." She twitched as Fluttershy finished another pass around her wing. "Hey, watch it." Nice Gilda had lasted until about nightfall; her walls of sarcasm and scorn had gone back up as the sun went down. Something about the gryphon had softened, though; her barbs didn't sting as much as they had before, and Fluttershy didn't think it was just because she was starting to get used to the gryphon's abrasive manner. "That wasn't what gave me my cutie mark, Gilda," Fluttershy said mildly, standing for a moment to stretch out her legs. The pile of bandages on the rug was almost up to her fetlocks; the heavier burn bandages alone were left on Gilda's wing, and she had their replacements right at hoof. "It was comforting the animals after Rainbow Dash's Sonic Rainboom." Gilda looked for a moment like she was going to let go with another sarcastic comment, but she paused. "Oh, right," she said, her eyes growing slightly softer for a moment. Fluttershy wouldn't have noticed if she hadn't been watching for it, but she had been, and she smiled very softly as she picked up the new bandages. "Wish I'd been able to see that. Was probably… a year or so before I got to Cloudsdale," Gilda mused, thinking back. "I – ow!" Gilda hissed as Fluttershy removed the last of the bandages, but she managed to keep her wing outstretched. "Warn me next time, you dipstick!" She twisted her neck to glare at the yellow pegasus, and in doing so she got her first good look at her injury. Her first thought was, Ow. Somehow, looking at it made it start to burn again; whatever Fluttershy had done for her apparently wouldn't stand up to some idiot looking straight at it and going Well now, that really should be more painful than it is. Like Fluttershy had said, she'd lost her second and third primaries at about the halfway point; the down below was blackened, either from burning or from the smoke of her other feathers. She thought she might be able to glide if she had to, but flying was straight out. Her whole wing felt hot and tender, and looking at it reminded her just how close of a call she'd had. Suppressing a shudder, she looked away. She tensed again as Fluttershy laid the new bandages on; there was a cool sort of paste on them that smelled slightly minty when she got a whiff of it. Whatever it was, it soothed the slowly intensifying burn, and Gilda settled her hackles back down as Fluttershy got to rewrapping her wing. "…You're not bad at this," she said finally, occupying herself tracing doodles and obscene words into the weave of the rug with a talon. "Get a lot of practice?" Fluttershy tied off the wing wrapping with a professional nip and tug, then nodded. "I help a lot of birds," she said quietly, tossing her head to throw the roll of bandages across Gilda's broad shoulders. "This close to the E-Everfree Forest, there's really no one else to look after them when they get hurt…" The thought of the alternative visibly upset her, and she only seemed to remember what she was doing after a few moments. "And you've been doing this since then? On your own?" Gilda asked, frowning. Fluttershy walked around her and retrieved the roll, working on remaking the sling she had woken up in. Gilda bit back a sigh at her poking around, and soon Fluttershy answered her. "Oh, I'm not alone. I have Angel bunny and all my other friends – and Twilight, Rarity, Dash, Pinkie Pie and Applejack, too," she said, smiling as she pulled the sling taut with a gentle tug. "There, all better." "Hardly," Gilda sniffed, but a bemused smirk tugged at the corner of her beak. Fluttershy was so damn straightforward, it was almost ridiculous. As Fluttershy set to cleaning up the discarded bandages, scooping them up with her hooves and depositing them in the trash, Gilda stood and stretched, still not quite used to having her wing confined. "But you taught yourself all this medical crap, right?" "Um, mostly," Fluttershy agreed. "About setting bones and treating injuries and things like that, yes… and surgery, too... Sometimes I find bodies in the forest, and… well, it's important to know certain things, to help others… I always try my best to be respectful…" Ignorant of Gilda's suddenly raised eyebrows, she looked down at her feet, obviously slightly uncomfortable with the subject. "Um… you said you came to Cloudsdale about a year after the Sonic Rainboom, right…? …Where did you live, um, before that…?" "No," Gilda replied firmly, accepting the awkward change in subject if not the destination. Fluttershy looked up, confused, and Gilda shook her head. "This is not Happy Share Time," she said, clambering up into bed. "You wanna babble about your past, go right ahead. But I'm not gonna play You Show Me Yours with you." "Oh. Okay," Fluttershy replied, looking slightly downcast. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to pry." Gilda grunted, half-and-half an acknowledgement and a dismissal, and stretched out over the covers. Fluttershy bent down and picked up her candleholder, teeth clamped firmly on the worn wooden handle, and turned to leave. "Hey," Gilda said quietly. Fluttershy stopped, surprised, and turned to look back at her. Gilda didn't return her gaze; she had her eyes closed, and looked for all the world like she was dozing, or asleep. Her voice, though, had held an edge of tension that belied her appearance. Fluttershy set the candle down, but didn't speak, and after a minute Gilda continued. Her voice was very low; Fluttershy almost had to strain to hear her next words. "It was… everything she always said it was, wasn't it?" Fluttershy nodded, knowing immediately what the gryphon meant. "It was amazing," she said, her voice just as low as Gilda's. It was a little hard to bring the vibrant colors, the sweeping wind and the palpable sense of power into the little sphere of candlelight, but she closed her eyes and tried her best. "I've never seen anything so magnificent aside from the Princess. And she saved Rarity's life, and the Wonderbolts', too…" "Yeah," Gilda replied, nodding slightly. "Yeah, that's how it should've been. Even in Flight School, she… well, yeah. You know how she is. She was always the coolest." Fluttershy blinked at the gryphon. "You were in Flight School with Rainbow Dash?" Gilda cracked an eye and looked at the pegasus, frowning slightly. "Yeah, we were in the same class. What about it?" "If you were in the same class…" Fluttershy smiled gently, unable to stop herself. "That means I'm a year older than you." Gilda blinked, taken aback. "No," she said finally, shaking her head. "Nope. Not possible." Her tone was one of such absolute disbelief that Fluttershy almost questioned her own math for a minute, but she rebounded. "It's true," she said. "I'm older than most of my friends." She looked down at her hooves, suddenly uncertain again. "Because… I was never very good at flying… and I'm very shy. I didn't have anyone to help me when I had trouble… until I met Rainbow Dash." Fluttershy took a deep breath. "She was always helping me, and standing up for me, even though I was… well… the way I am." She smiled, weakly but genuinely, and looked up at Gilda. "She's a very good person." Gilda swallowed hard. "Yeah, she is." You changed, Gilda. "Better than me, that's for damn sure…" she muttered, turning away from Fluttershy. She reached out and pinched her candle's wick, snuffing the flame out; the remaining light from Fluttershy's candle behind her cast tall shadows on the far wall, dark against dark, and Gilda closed her eyes, suddenly eager to get to sleep and end the conversation. "Are you sure you don't want visitors?" Fluttershy asked, very quietly. Gilda stiffened, but didn't turn around. "Yeah," she said firmly. "Last time I saw her…" You changed. I didn't think I'd see you again, after what you said about my friends. She shrugged, affecting a casualness she didn't feel at all. "Things didn't go that smooth." "I'm sorry," Fluttershy said, and she sounded so damn earnest, like she actually meant it. Gilda's hackles stood up, and she glared at the pegasus. "You really think apologizing will make me feel better? More like, what the hell do you have to apologize for? It wasn't your fault," she growled. She drew a deep breath and laced her claws together, talons scraping across her tough, horny skin. "Look, I'm smart enough to know when I screw myself over," she said finally, not sounding happy about it. "What Dash said was…" The fucking flip-flop threw you out. You drew a line and she picked her side. It had to happen someday! Just a matter of time. Gilda swallowed. "…she was right. About all of it. I did every damn thing to myself." She shrugged again, this time not caring about the pull at her side. "Whatever. That's it. End of the story." She laid down again, closing her eyes. "There isn't a damn thing I can do now that'll make it up to her." As she said it she knew it was true, and she swallowed the bitter lump in her throat. "That's not true," Fluttershy said suddenly, almost knocking her candle over. "It's just not!" Gilda didn't even bother opening her eyes. Fluttershy trembled a little, but she continued. "I-If you're talking about what happened at the party… or… I mean, with the ducklings…" After a moment more of trembling, she pushed forward: "I was scared of you at first... and, um, I've been scared of you since then, really… but I'm not scared of you anymore," she said, from beside the bed. "I forgive you, Gilda." She laid her head on Gilda's shoulder, being careful of her wing. "And I'm sure the others will too." Gilda's entire body felt electrified, every hair and feather standing on end. "What the hell are you doing?" she hissed, looking back at Fluttershy. The yellow pegasus looked somewhat abashed, but didn't stop nuzzling her. Gilda growled at her, but little by little she felt her hackles go back down; within a few minutes, the unpleasant alert feeling – too much like the charge in the air just before the lightning had struck – had vanished, to be replaced by comfortable warmth. Fluttershy sat down by the bed, her head resting comfortably on the mattress by Gilda's forearm; Gilda could feel the warmth from her cheek. "Why are you doing all this for me?" she asked finally, looking down at the pegasus. "Really, I mean." Fluttershy let out a contented sigh, and didn't reply right away. When she did, she spoke quietly, hard for Gilda to hear even so close by. "Because we're friends, right?" Gilda nearly pulled away at that, but Fluttershy's quiet breathing had deepened, and her eyes had slipped closed. "Go sleep somewhere else," Gilda muttered, but she was careful not to disturb the sleeping pony as she stretched out. "Friends, huh?" she sniffed. "Yeah, whatever…" But she still felt the yellow pony's warmth. As she closed her eyes, she heard Fluttershy's voice again: I forgive you. And I'm sure the others will too. A faint smile touched Gilda's beak as she finally drifted off, the seeds of an idea growing slowly but surely in her mind. It was a stupid plan – nothing she'd ever have considered even three days ago – but somehow, she felt confident it would work… with a little help from a friend. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Next chapter should have Applejack in it, unless something goes terribly wrong while I'm writing. Thanks as always for reading, folks, and I hope you continue to enjoy the fic as things progress.
RedSavant	933	4	Angel,Fluttershy,Gilda,Rainbow Dash,Romance,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Gryphon A Second Chance	Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Dash - but things don't go as planned.	incomplete	26	3	<p>When Gilda returns to Ponyville looking to patch things up with Rainbow Dash, things don't exactly go as planned. Grounded and humiliated, Gilda begins the long process of learning that sometimes, friendship means being willing to admit you were wrong.</p><p>One-sided Gilda/Dash shipping, rated for Gilda's bad language. Crossposted from Fanfiction.net.</p>	teen	2011-12-13T05:26:49+00:00	2011-12-13T05:26:49+00:00	2,169	Well now! I can hardly believe the numbers - this chapter nearly doubles the current word count! Thanks so much for all the comments and reviews - your patience with my schedule is much appreciated, and thank you all for giving Gilda the chance to prove herself, however slowly. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fluttershy woke up slowly, letting wakefulness seep into her body. A few swishes of her tail, back and forth; next, her legs, then her back, as she got her feet under her and stretched her rump up into the air. Finally, with a shake of her head and a few flicks of her ears, she opened her eyes… …To find Gilda sitting nearby, watching her with a claw pressed against her beak and an expression that suggested she was trying very hard not to burst out laughing. Fluttershy immediately shrank back, feeling her face heat, and she stammered as she looked around, belatedly remembering where she was. The storm and the night had passed while she slept; by the pale golden sunlight streaming through the windows, it was midmorning, later than she usually slept. That, and the flattened patch of rug by the bed, explained the stiffness in her shoulders and back. "I-I'm so sorry," she finally managed, apologizing to Gilda's feet. "I don't know what came over me last night – I was just very tired, I guess… I hope I didn't disturb you or make you uncomfortable or anything…" Even looking in the general direction of the gryphon was starting to get embarrassing. "Um…" "No, no," Gilda choked, waving away the pegasus's consternation. "Don't worry about it. Really." She managed to hold off another second, then snorted and buried her head in her pillow. Muffled laughter was audible through the down, and Fluttershy whimpered a bit. "Sorry! Sorry," Gilda gasped, coming back up for air. She flopped down onto the bedspread, still chuckling, and wiped a tear from her eye. "So… you do that rump-wiggle thing every morning?" she asked, grinning at Fluttershy. "'Cause I could get used to it." Fluttershy blinked at Gilda for a moment, then her back legs gave out. "O-Oh," she stammered, her face on fire again. "I-I'm very flattered, Gilda, and you're a very pretty gryphon, but I'm… I'm not, um… I don't…like… um…" Gilda stared at her. "What?" Then the pin dropped, and she reared back, looking horrified. "Wha— No! Hell no! I meant it was funny, not…! I'm not into pon—" Gilda stopped herself before she finished the patently untrue sentence. "I'm not into you, anyway. Not that you're not, y'know… oh, shit." She slumped back down onto the bed, pressing her claws over her eyes. There was a deafening silence as Fluttershy attempted to hide her entire body behind her mane. Fortunately for them both, Angel cleared his throat from the top of the stairs; Gilda sprang gratefully to her feet, stepping down off the bed. "Come on, Fluttershy," she said, starting down the stairs. "Must be breakfast time or whatever." She nodded thanks to Angel, who rolled his eyes at her and motioned for Fluttershy to hurry up. "So, I've been thinking," Gilda said a few minutes later, sitting down at the table. She'd been a little skeptical of eating pony food at first, but the bread Fluttershy had made for lunch yesterday wasn't bad at all, a hearty wheat bread with some sort of honey glaze on top; she shredded her loaf idly as she continued, occasionally eating a piece. "You said something about forgiving me last night. You think the others would too? Pinkie Pie and that old pony, I mean. I guess I was pretty much a bitch to everyone in Ponyville, come to think of it, but…" She shrugged, popping a breadball into her beak. "I think they will," Fluttershy said, setting down Angel's breakfast and looking up. The rabbit set to with a vengeance, and Fluttershy joined Gilda at the table for her own meal. "Pinkie Pie is a good pony at heart; she's just a little... silly sometimes." She paused, munching a sprig of celery. "Um, by 'old pony', do you mean Granny Smith?" Gilda shrugged again. "Old green pony. Didn't quite catch her name. I tricked her into thinking my tail was a snake." She swished her tail around to demonstrate the point. Fluttershy gasped. "Gilda, that's so mean! She's very old. She might have hurt herself." She took another bite of celery, looking somewhat disappointed. "Hey," Gilda replied, feeling surprisingly stung. "Look, where I come from, if you make it as far as old, you know how to take shit from people – that is, you don't. Not from anyone. It's not my fault your old folks don't –" She broke off with a visible effort. "Damn. Sorry." She sighed, resting her forehead on the edge of the table. "This is gonna suck. Just sayin'." "I'm sorry," Fluttershy said quietly. "I know you're trying your best." She came around the table and leaned against Gilda's shoulder. "I'll help you-" She squeaked as a brisk knock sounded on the door. "Expecting visitors?" Gilda asked archly, gently but firmly pushing Fluttershy away. She stood and stretched her powerful shoulders and legs as Fluttershy trotted over to the door, Angel following close behind. She turned to watch her hostess, only mildly interested in the knock. "Not really," Fluttershy replied. "It might be-" she began, peeking through the little window inset in her door. "Ah! It's my friends!" She nosed the top section of her door open. "Man, it's about time! Where the heck have you been for the past two days?" asked the blue pegasus whose nose was suddenly in her face. Rainbow Dash was hovering just about the cobblestones of Fluttershy's doorstep, resting her hooves on the door; she frowned at her yellow friend. "We were freakin' worried about you, you know! You can't just disappear off the face of the planet like that!" "Rainbow, dear, please," Rarity said from behind her. A blue and magenta glow enveloped Dash and she floated backwards, wings beating futilely. "Give her some space. You must remember that not everypony is as, ah, robust as you." Dash sniffed as she was set down between her two companions, and Twilight Sparkle stepped forward as the glow of magic around her horn dissipated. "Good morning, Fluttershy," she said, offering a patient smile. Fluttershy did her best to return it, and Twilight continued. "How have you been recently? I haven't seen you around town at all for a few days, and when I mentioned it to Rarity, she said the same, so we thought we'd come check up on you. We kind of ran into Rainbow Dash along the way." She looked back at Dash, who tapped a hoof impatiently. "Oh, I-I've been just fine," Fluttershy said, looking off toward the kitchen. Gilda's face was just visible over the counter, her beak poking over the edge; she looked rather upset. "I've been taking care of a p-patient, so I've been kind of busy…" She checked with Gilda again, who nodded, still on edge. "Oh, that's okay then," Twilight replied, visibly relieved. "We were just worried that, living so close to the forest, you might have run into something. Like a manticore or a cockatrice…" A small shiver passed through her, and she regained her focus with a visible effort. "Anyway, it's good to see you again! What sort of patient are you treating?" "O-Oh," Fluttershy replied, eyes widening. She cast another look at Gilda, who had ducked entirely behind the counter; she was on her own. "She – um, he is, he's…a bear, that…" "Come on," Dash replied, scowling. "That only works on Pinkie Pie." She pushed past Twilight to get back to the door. "Look, Fluttershy," she said quietly. "Have you seen Gilda at all? Like, yesterday or the day before that, maybe?" Rarity paused in examining her pedicure. "Your gryphon friend? Ugh," she said, somehow making her disgust sound ladylike. "Trust me, Rainbow Dash, there is a sort that one must be careful not to associate with, and that dreadful gryphon counts quite firmly among them." Dash frowned at her. "Hey! She's not…" she sighed, settling down onto the ground. "Yeah, okay, maybe," she continued quietly, after a moment. "I guess so." Twilight turned to look at her friend. "I thought she lived in Cloudsdale, anyway," she said, looking a little confused. "Dash, is something going on? You've been jumpy the whole morning." "N-no, nothing's wrong," Dash replied hotly. "I just, ugh, whatever. I have to go… practice some stuff. Or something. I'll catch you girls later." She turned around and rocketed off back toward Ponyville before any of her friends could speak up. "She's been acting strangely lately," Twilight said, frowning after the rapidly vanishing prismatic trail in the morning air. "But you know how she is. It's a chore getting anything out of her, much less anything she doesn't want to talk about." She sighed. "Fluttershy, I'm sorry – I'm sure we woke you up. It's good to see you again, though, and remember that if you need any help, all you have to do is ask." She nuzzled the yellow pegasus through the open door, then stepped down off the doorstep. "Do be sure not to forget our usual, dear," Rarity trilled, following suit. Fluttershy waved as they turned and headed down the cobbled path back through the thicket. "Goodbye," she said quietly. She shut the door, then turned back to Gilda. The gryphon emerged from behind the counter slowly, making sure that the ponies had gone before she settled down. Her talons tapped rhythmically on the hardwood floor. "Gilda, are you okay?" Fluttershy asked. Gilda said nothing; her gaze went straight through Fluttershy and into the couch against the far wall. The speed of her tapping increased slowly. Fluttershy took a tentative step toward her. "Gilda…?" "Shit," Gilda shouted suddenly, shooting to her feet and pounding a hand against the floor. Fluttershy screamed and jumped backward onto the couch, startled, and Gilda jerked as the motion snapped her out of her reverie. Pegasus and gryphon stared at each other, bodies tense, for a few moments, then they relaxed. "Uh, sorry," Gilda said, folding her wing with difficulty and sitting down. "It's just… y'know… that." She made a gesture toward the door that somehow encompassed the entire exchange that had just occurred. "Um," Fluttershy squeaked. She stepped down off the couch with trembling legs, her wings still fully up and out. "I don't… um…" Gilda stood again; her entire body fairly hummed with tension, and she paced in a tight circle. "You heard what Dash said," she said, staring at her feet as she clicked across the floorboards. "She thinks I'm 'dreadful'." She sneered the word, adopting a prissy accent that was unkind to Rarity in its accuracy. "But hey, I knew that already." She drew in a deep breath, then let it out in a visible effort to stay calm. "Whatever. Starting from square one. I've done that shit before." "Dash isn't like that," Fluttershy said quietly, regaining some of her composure, but Gilda didn't appear to be listening. She stalked over to the table and grabbed her half-eaten loaf, tearing a huge chunk off of it with her beak. Sitting down again, she finished off the bread; she drummed distractedly on the floor with a claw. "So like I was saying," she said suddenly, after a minute. "Dash told me last time I saw her that we weren't friends anymore." The words hurt, but she ignored the twinge in her chest. "Because of what I said and did to her real friends." Helpless little twits. "So that means that if I get her friends to forgive me, then she won't have anything left to complain about. And we can…" she cut off, a sudden lump in her throat. "Well… yeah." "You can be friends again," Fluttershy finished for her. She folded her wings and resettled them. "But Gilda, I-I'm not so sure-" "No time like now," Gilda said briskly, standing. She stepped past Fluttershy to the door and nudged the top open, peeking out around the frame. "Your friends're gone. Let's go." She pulled her head back in and swung the rest of the door open, walking out into the morning sun. "Gilda-" Fluttershy tried again, to similar effect. Staring down at her feet, she followed Gilda outside. The clouds had vanished with the night, leaving the morning dew and the crystal remnants of the rain to sparkle on the borderline between sunlight and shadow; the air felt fresh and clean, and the day was already heating up nicely. "Man, it's good to be back outside," Gilda said, stretching her free wing in the late morning sun. "Feel like I've been stuck in your dinky house for days." She flexed her arms and legs, her excitement tangible. "Where's that old green pony live? She's first." "Sweet Apple Acres," Fluttershy replied hesitantly. She frowned, taking a few steps closer to Gilda. "Gilda, I don't think you really-" "Let's go, Fluttershy," Gilda broke in impatiently. "If Dash sees me before I get this done, I'm screwed. So let's hurry up here." She set off down the road, not even looking back to see if she was going the right way. "Gilda, I… but…no…" Fluttershy protested, but after a few moments of increasingly upset squeaking, she stopped, sighed, and joined Gilda on the cobbled road. Hooves clattered and talons scraped down the road as they walked; Gilda occasionally asked questions, which Fluttershy answered to the best of her knowledge, but she couldn't shake the dark pit of worry that had settled into her stomach. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sweet Apple Acres was one of the cornerstones of Ponyville. The property of the Apple clan for generations, it provided the entire town and the surrounding countryside with rich, sweet, juicy fruit, and its many outposts, all populated by Apple clan members and Apple clan apple trees, did the same across the length and breadth of Equestria and lands beyond. On occasions, Sweet Apple apples had even ended up on the royal table in Canterlot. Princess Celestia herself was known to be fond of them. For such a large orchard, sometimes there wasn't all that much to do in terms of upkeep. This was evidently not one of those times. As Gilda and Fluttershy passed under the weathered wooden arch and its hanging sign that proclaimed 'Sweet Apple Acres', there was a flurry of activity visible in the rows of ancient apple trees standing in the distance – or at least, as much of a flurry as two ponies could produce. Gilda's sharp eyes focused on the young bronze mare with ease; the sun shone off of her sweat-sheened flanks as she bent and twisted to heave a massive broken branch into a nearby cart. The massive red stallion doing the same looked nothing like her, but there was definitely an indescribable family resemblance… and that wasn't mentioning their paired apple cutie marks. Gilda looked around a bit more, but the old green pony was nowhere to be found. She sighed. "Hey Fluttershy," she said, indicating the siblings with a claw. "You know those two? They related to the old pony?" "A-Applejack and Big Macintosh are her grandchildren," Fluttershy replied, peeking out from behind her hair. "I don't see Gran-" "Well, let's ask," Gilda said, setting off for the orchard. Fluttershy sighed and trailed after her, long since having given up on trying to stop the impetuous gryphon. "Hey," Gilda called, as she neared the cart. The edge of a beaten cowboy hat appeared over the twisted mass of deadwood that had already been collected, followed closely by a sun-gold mane and the head and shoulders of the bronze mare she had seen earlier. She was about the same age as Dash, maybe a little younger, and she looked vaguely familiar. Gilda raised a hand in a lazy wave. "Yeah, hi. You know-" "Well, howdy there," the mare called, smiling. The expression fit her as comfortably as the old hat did, and she hopped down off the cart's edge, coming around to stand in front of Gilda. "Don't suppose Ah've met you before. Woulda remembered a critter like you," she added with a wink, swiping her red-banded tail across her forehead. "Beg yer pardon. Ah'd shake yer hoof, but Big Mac an' Ah've been workin' all mornin', an' it's gotten a mite sweaty out. Ah'm Applejack," she said, crossing her hooves. "Welcome ta Sweet Apple Acres – oldest apple orchard in Equestria, Ah imagine," she chuckled. "Hi, Applejack," Fluttershy said quietly, a few paces behind Gilda. "Hello, Mr. Macintosh." She kicked a hoof in the dirt, looking at the big stallion's feet. Mac nodded courteously to her. "Miss Fluttershy." Applejack leaned to look around the gryphon's broad chest, then brightened as she saw the buttercup-yellow pegasus. "Hey there, Fluttershy! Haven't see you fer a while," she said, taking a few steps forward to nuzzle her friend before she thought better of it. "Busy out there in the forest, Ah take it?" "Y-you could say that," Fluttershy said, nodding. She opened her mouth to continue, but Applejack was already off again. "Well, Ah'm glad you're here," the farm mare said, nodding to herself. "Winona needs her checkup, after all, and Ah just couldn't find the time t'get out ta yer place." She paused to remember if there was anything else that needed veterinary attention, and the big red stallion behind her cleared his throat. Just once, and not loudly, but it was a big sound nonetheless. "Right," Applejack cried, smacking herself in the forehead with a hoof. "Ah'm so sorry, Ah plumb forgot Ah interrupted ya," she said, turning to Gilda. "What's yer name, an' if you don't mind me askin', what manner of critter are ya?" "Gilda," Gilda replied, pausing for a moment to see if she'd be interrupted by another flow of hospitality from the earth pony. "I'm a gryphon." She turned to look over her shoulder at the farmhouse. "You guys live with-" "Gilda? Gilda the Gryphon?" Applejack asked, frowning slightly. She thought for a moment, then her eyes widened. "Oh. Oh!" She took a step back from Gilda, frowning. "Oh yeah, Ah do remember you now! Yer that gryphon friend of Rainbow's, ain'tcha? From the party last year? Way Ah recall it, you burned yer bridges pretty hard last time you were here." "Yeah, maybe," Gilda replied, a bit of an edge in her voice. "Why is that the only thing everybody remembers?" "Well, it made a bit of an impression," Applejack replied, her tone a bit cooler than it had been. "An' Ah don't recall you havin' much of a better impression before that, ta be honest." Gilda said nothing, and after a moment Applejack shook her head, visibly making an effort to warm up again. "But Ah'm sorry. Ah guess if you were here ta make trouble, you woulda made it already." She looked back at her brother, who shrugged. "We were just gonna stop fer a bit of lunch, Big Mac an' Ah. Yer both welcome ta join us – in fact, Ah insist." She circled around Fluttershy and gently herded the shy pegasus forward toward the farmhouse. Big Mac and Gilda trailed along after her, sizing each other up. The farm stallion was about as tall and just as broad as a full-grown buck gryphon; Gilda wasn't used to looking up at ponies, but there was a first time for everything, apparently. They walked along in silence, each keeping an eye on the cajoling, stammering pair of ponies ahead of them. "So… Big Mac," Gilda said, after a minute or two. Mac looked over at her. The stalk of wheat in his mouth bobbed up and down a bit as he chewed idly on the end. "Eyup." "Can't imagine why," Gilda said. "Nope." And that was the end of that conversation. In short order, the unusual party reached the farmhouse. It combined the fancy architecture most ponies seemed fond of with the basic design of pretty much every barn Gilda had ever seen, but somehow, the end result looked surprisingly comfortable. Applejack, still herding a softly protesting Fluttershy, led the group in through a side door, which opened into a house addition built into the side of the main barn. Gilda looked around as she stepped into what looked to be the kitchen; it was a long, fairly narrow room, with a pumped sink and a gas stove in one corner, just under an open window looking picturesquely out onto the orchard. An old, solid applewood table standing in the middle of the room looked like it had not just history, but History. The exposed boards of the walls were painted white, and pictures of varicolored ponies, all with various apple-related cutie marks, were hung absolutely everywhere. "Sorry, we don't actually have any apples right now," Applejack said, using a floor pump to run water from the sink over her head. "They ain't just ripe yet, y'see. But we got plenty of other tasty stuff to feed you with, so don't you worry none." Shaking drops of water from her mane, she set six plates onto the table, then went digging into the unexpectedly modern refrigerator. "Lessee here… oh, we got plenty a'those… Macintosh, you stop lettin' Applebloom sneak pansies from in here, y'hear? Ah know yer in on it." Mac deliberately avoided looking at his sister as Applejack doled out the food – sprouts in a sweet-smelling dressing for the ponies, and more bread for Gilda after a short exchange. "Hey, Applebloom! Granny Smith! Soup's up!" Applejack called out, sitting down at the table. As she tucked in, a little yellow filly trotted into the room. She had an enormous bow in her hair, and she wore a look of consternation that seemed mature for her young age. "Sis, Ah'm not hungry," she complained, circling the table to stand between her siblings. "Ah dunno what it is – maybe Ah had too much alfalfa at dinner last night an' that's why Ah'm not feelin' good." She looked across the table and brightened. "Hi, Fluttershy! Ah di'nt know you were comin' fer lunch! Ah wouldn'ta eaten so… many… pa…" She trailed off as she noticed the gryphon sitting next to Fluttershy, and her eyes widened. "Oh, hello, Applebloom," Fluttershy said, smiling gently at the little girl. "This is my friend Gilda. She's a gryphon." Applebloom didn't say anything; she barely blinked. Fluttershy's smiled faltered a bit. "A-Applebloom…?" Gilda set her bread down and leaned across the table. "What's the matter, kid? Got something to say?" "Whoa now," Applejack said warningly, half-standing, but before she could get between her sister and Gilda, Applebloom practically hopped around the table to stand next to the gryphon. Her eyes were shining brightly, and a silly grin had spread across her face. "You look so awesome," the filly enthused, almost bouncing up and down in her excitement. "Ah've never met a griffin before." She sat down next to Gilda, putting her hooves up on the table near Gilda's plate. "Where're you from? Are there a lot of griffins there? What kinda place is it?" She glanced down at Gilda's legs, then swallowed before continuing. "…Do griffins get cutie marks, too?" "Uh," Gilda said, taken aback by the verbal flood. She blinked at the filly, who still hadn't blinked yet and who was starting to invade her personal space. "Applebloom," Applejack said firmly. "Hooves offa the table, first of all. Secondly, Gilda's our guest. Quit badgerin' her with all yer questions, an' come an' eat yer sprouts." She sat back down as Applebloom pouted, not wanting to move. Out of the corner of her eye, Gilda saw Big Mac relax, too – again, not a big motion… but one that left her feeling very glad she hadn't actually intended any harm to the filly. "Can't Ah just eat over here with Miss Gilda?" Applebloom asked plaintively. She hopped down from the bench and retrieved her plate before her sister could object, and settled in happily next to Gilda, who still wasn't quite sure what to make of the situation. "Ah guess so," Applejack replied, giving in after a moment. She turned to Fluttershy, who was taking little nibbles of her food. "Sorry fer yankin' you two in here, Fluttershy," she said. "Y'didn't really catch us at our best time – that storm a coupla days ago took down a buncha branches all over the place, an' Mac an' I have been workin' our flanks off gettin' 'em taken care of since then. Two whole days o' work, an' it's shapin' up ta be another full day again today." She sighed, letting her chin rest on the table for a moment. "Ah ain't been so sore since… well, prob'ly since Applebuck Season last year…" She blushed, embarrassed at the memory. "That's when we kick all the apples offa the trees," Applebloom explained, smiling up at Gilda. "Ah can't do it yet, but Sis an' Big Mac can clear a whole tree with one kick!" She looked thoughtful for a moment. "Mac hasta use one leg, though. Ah think last time he tried it with two legs, he kicked the whole tree clean in half…" "Eyup," Mac replied, somewhat shortly. He took a bite of salad, obviously not enjoying the turn the conversation had taken. "Well, you'll be able ta help out this year, Ah think," he said, after a minute. "Yer gettin' big enough." Applebloom cheered. "Didja hear that, Fluttershy? Ah get ta help next year!" Fluttershy smiled at the filly. "That's very good, Applebloom. I'm happy for you." Applejack nodded. "Help, Applebloom," she said, emphasizing the verb. "Ah might set ya one or two trees ta buck, fer practice. Yer still too little ta go up a row." "Aw," Applebloom said, dejected. She finally started nibbling at her food, looking rather sullen. "If you don't like being weak, then get stronger," Gilda said offhandedly. "Never give up and never back down, and never stop making yourself better than you are. There's a gryphon culture lesson for you, kid." She glanced at Applejack, who was frowning at her. "What?" "Oh, nothin', really," the farm mare replied, shaking her head. "Jus' sounded a bit like somethin' my daddy used ta say to me, that's all. Dontcha think, Mac?" The big, quiet stallion nodded, and when the older Apple siblings looked back at her, Gilda saw a small bit of respect in their eyes. Lunch went much more smoothly after that. Applebloom never quite stopped asking questions of Gilda, but Applejack used her experience with her little sister's thought process to keep her focused on her adventures with her fellow Cutie Mark Crusaders for the most part. Gilda found herself warming up to the siblings, which was a strange, but not altogether unwelcome, feeling. It felt like the night with Fluttershy had felt – just sitting around and talking, not even about anything that had a point. Just enjoying being around people… it had been a long, long time since she'd done that. "-an' you shoulda seen the look on his face when he put the durn thing on! It was just, oh, Ah can't even say," Applejack said, laughing. Mac had turned redder than Gilda would have thought possible under his hair; he buried his face in his sprouts, very noticeably not looking at Fluttershy. Applejack recovered, then looked around, suddenly remembering something. "Speakin' of who, how come Granny Smith ain't here yet? Applebloom, was she sleepin' when Ah called fer lunch?" "Yup," Applebloom replied, looking up. She had finished a while ago and was now inspecting Gilda's tail; the gryphon was amusing herself playing keep-away with the filly. "Ah woke her up an' told her, but she jus' went right back ta sleep. Should Ah go – oh, hiya, Granny! You got good timing!" She and waved at her grandmother as the elderly pony finally tottered into the kitchen. Granny Smith squinted at Applebloom. "Mm, 'morning, hmbloom," she replied, taking a few shaky steps into the room. Gilda looked over her shoulder at the old pony, and her tail twitched in excitement. The Apple clan had dined at the royal table as honored warriors before even the spectre of the Nightmare Eclipse had appeared on the horizon; they had stood against Discord in the Chaos Times, eons before the start of recorded history. Though it had been over a thousand years since the last time a clan matriarch had stormed into battle, Edith Smith had been raised, and had raised her children and grandchildren, on the tales of their heroism. She was getting old, true, but she could recognize a rattlesnake when she saw one – and she knew immediately what she had to do. "Applebloom!" the old mare yelped. Rushing forward as fast as her old frame could manage, she planted herself between Applebloom and Gilda's tail, squaring off with the imaginary serpent. "Applejack, Macintosh, git yer sister outta here," she hissed. "Ah'll keep its attention." She squinted harder at the offending appendage. "Oh yeah, Ah remember you," she snarled with a nod. "Yer ugly even fer a rattler, mm… this time y'won't get me so easy." "Yeah, about that," Gilda began, having the grace to look abashed. She turned around, the motion pulling her tail within Granny Smith's very limited range. "Look, old lady, I-" Before she could finish the sentence, the old pony stomped down hard on the tuft at the end of Gilda's tail, eliciting a roar of pain from the gryphon. Gilda leapt forward, knocking over several benches and nearly bowling Fluttershy to the ground, then spun to face her assailant. "You crazy old witch," she bellowed. "That hurt!" With Gilda's tail hidden behind the rest of her, Granny Smith began to lose focus again. "Hm? Wha's goin' on?" she asked, looking around. "Applebloom?" Big Mac and Applebloom stepped to her side and nuzzled her, and soon the old pony had calmed down. Applejack joined her siblings over by Granny Smith, then turned a glare on Gilda. "Rattlesnake? She remembers you? You wanna explain what that was all about, Gilda?" she asked, the tone of her voice making it very clear that the gryphon didn't have many other options. "Yer our guest, and Ah was startin' ta think of you as a friend… but it seems you ain't been entirely honest with us. Now." She took a deliberate step toward Gilda. "What's goin' on?" Gilda, stroking the end of her tail, started to reply hotly, then she looked over at Fluttershy. The little yellow pegasus was rooted to the spot, wings out, and she looked almost in tears. Rubbing her temples with a hand, Gilda sighed, struggling to keep her annoyance under control. "Last time I was here, I played a prank on your grandmother," she said, after a long moment. "Tricked her into thinking my tail was a snake. I didn't think it would work this well. But I-" "Wh, snake?" Granny Smith asked, perking up at the word. She looked around wildly, searching, and Mac gently led her from the room. Applejack watched her go, concern clear on her face, and Gilda almost flinched when the farm mare turned her glare back at the gryphon. Various emotions waged war under the surface of that glare – distrust, anger, and betrayal among them. "Ah can't believe you," Applejack said quietly. "Bad enough you did that before, but then you come back an' make it worse? Granny's old!" she said, voice starting to rise in volume. "What if she'd hurt herself? She still might! An' if she does-" Applejack's voice broke, and she swallowed. "If you just came here to do harm ta mah family, then Ah want you gone," she continued quietly. "Get out, an' never come back ta Sweet Apple Acres. Apple clan don't ferget their friends – or their enemies." "I came here to apologize," Gilda barked, hackles rising. The sincerity in Applejack's voice unsettled her – the bronze mare wasn't making threats, she was simply stating a fact. "Seriously! Ask Fluttershy." She looked over at her friend. "S-she really is trying…" Fluttershy said quietly, hiding behind her mane. "Way to sell it, Fluttershy," Gilda muttered. She pulled at her tail again, stroking the still-sensitive tip as she spoke. "Look, I'm serious here. It's not my fault she's got bad eyes, is it?" "Ah don't believe you," Applejack said again, straightening up out of her ready stance. "Yer a liar and a bully, Gilda, an' nothin' more. You don't understand the difference between sayin' sorry an' bein' sorry, an' you never will." "Sis!" Applebloom said suddenly, speaking up for the first time since the incident. She took a few steps toward Gilda, then turned back to face Applejack. "Ah think she's tellin' the truth." She looked over her shoulder at Gilda. "Ah know we just met her an' all, but Ah don't think she's a bad person. Can't we give her a chance, Sis? Please?" She turned the full power of her wide eyes onto her sister. Applejack rallied heroically, but she stood no chance at all. "Fine," she said, pressing her lips into a thin line. She turned back to Gilda. "Ah'll give you one chance ta prove yer sorry fer what you did – all of what you did." "And how the hell am I supposed to do that?" Gilda snapped, letting her tail go. It lashed back and forth, a visual reflection of her agitation. "Anything I say is obviously a lie, right? So what do you want me to do, write you a damn song?" "Watch yer mouth around my sister," Applejack warned her. "How's this sound? Ah'm goin' back outside ta clear up more branches. There's another cart in the barn. If yer serious about this, go get it an' come on out. Last through the rest o' the day at mah pace, and Ah'll hear you out. Sound fair?" "Oh, Applejack, no," Fluttershy cried. She fidgeted in place, stomping her hooves up and down. "Gilda's badly hurt! She can't do anything that strenuous for at least another-" She interrupted herself with a squeak as Gilda let out an annoyed growl and stepped past her. "Deal," the gryphon said, grabbing Applejack's hoof. The two shook once, a determined, powerful motion, and then Applejack let go and turned away. She headed out for the fields, stopping to right the benches as she went. Gilda sighed, rolling her shoulders out; she winced as her bandages pulled, but completed the motion. She turned to Applebloom. "Hey, kid, show me where this cart is, will ya?" "Sure, Miss Gilda," Applebloom said, looking troubled. "Ah don't understand why Sis is doin' this, though… it ain't like her t'be so mean, 'specially when Ah know you din't really mean t'scare Granny Smith." Her head drooped a little. "An' Ah don't want her t'treat you like a bad person, either… 'cause then Ah can't talk with you anymore…" She turned away and started for the door. Gilda blinked twice, then shook her head briskly; she followed after the little filly, with Fluttershy trailing behind. "Here y'go," Applebloom said, nosing open the barn door. A medium-sized cart was just visible in the light spilling into the hay-dusted darkness; Gilda grinned predatorily as she spied it. "See you in a few hours, Fluttershy," she said, pushing the doors open all the way and heading into the barn. Fluttershy whimpered in response, and Gilda paused by the cart. "Oh, come on. I'll be fine," the gryphon said, beginning to smirk despite herself at the pegasus's watering eyes and worried expression. She bent under the cart's yoke, spent a few moments making sure the crossbar wouldn't rest on her wings, then stood tall with a quiet grunt. "You just… stay here with the kid and cheer me on, or whatever it is you do." With that, she started forward, turning left out the door to head for the south orchards, where Applejack was getting herself situated. Fluttershy wasn't quite trembling, but she was visibly agitated; she seemed to be fighting against her wings' extension, to little effect, and she scuffled her hooves in the dirt as Gilda drew away. Several times, she opened her mouth to say something… but then she paused for a moment. "Gilda, wait," she called, taking a step after the gryphon. Gilda didn't turn around, but she did stop walking. Fluttershy drew a deep breath and straightened up, folding her wings with a calm, deliberate motion. After a long moment, she opened her eyes and let her breath out. "Do your best," she said clearly. Gilda gave a sharp nod and started on her way to the orchards again. Fluttershy and Applebloom watched her go, then the little filly turned back to her pegasus friend. "Ah think there might still be some pansies left in the fridge if ya want some," she offered tentatively. Fluttershy smiled at the girl's transparent attempt to lift her spirits. "That sounds lovely," she beamed, nuzzling Applebloom, and they headed back into the house. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "So?" Gilda asked, a little tightly, as she came up beside Applejack and set her cart down with a grunt. The orange farm mare had crested the hill with ease; she let Gilda's slightly slower ascent pass without comment, which was somehow more annoying than anything else. "We're picking up little sticks and that's it?" Granted, there were a lot of them scattered around; the apple trees in this part of the orchards were pretty big and sturdy, and some of the branches Gilda could see lying around weren't exactly little sticks either, but it still seemed like a fairly simple task. Not even you can screw this one up. Gilda snorted and reached for the nearest log, a shortish branch about as wide as a pony's leg. As her claws closed around it, though, Applejack stepped firmly down onto it, holding the wood down into the springy soil. "Why are you really here, Gilda?" she asked plainly, looking up at the gryphon. Her eyes were rich green, and they were absolutely unreadable. "Ah mean really." "We've been through this," Gilda replied, a little annoyed. She tugged on the branch; Applejack didn't move at all, but Gilda fetched up against a brick wall. "Oh, I see," she continued, giving it another tug to identical results. "You don't –erg – believe me, so you – rgh! – get me out here where your sister can't speak up." She paused for a moment. "What the hell are you made of?" "Ah don't want you startin' if yer not gonna be truthful about this," Applejack replied levelly, not relinquishing her stance. "Y've given me power over you, an' that's a mighty trustin' thing t'give ta someone who not ten minutes ago was ready t'run you off the farm." She took a breath and looked back to Gilda, her expression hardening. "That's why Ah'm givin' you this chance t'back out. You leave now, and Ah won't fault ya fer bein' honest." Gilda stared at Applejack for a few moments, then slowly, she tightened her grip on the branch and lifted it, waiting for the iron resistance to kick in. Instead, Applejack watched her for a long, tense moment… and then she stepped backward, surprising the gryphon and causing her to jerk the branch upward. The mare's gaze was steady, and she didn't blink as she indicated Gilda's cart with a flick of her head. "W-what?" Gilda snapped, frowning. Though the expression couldn't be more different, Applejack's eyes reminded her unpleasantly of Fluttershy – and wasn't that a lovely memory, the little yellow pegasus smashing right through all the walls Gilda had constructed around her heart with a single painfully innocent question. Three days ago, she'd never have put up with it. Three days ago, she'd have pushed the pony aside and gone home. Except three days ago, she hadn't had a home, had she? Three days ago, she'd been clinging to a scraggly mountain pine near Canterlot, navigating toward Ponyville on year-old memories, desperate hopes and the lights she could see through the gloom and the driving rain. Three days ago, she'd had no friends. A lot had changed in three days. You're not a bad person, Gilda. I'm sure of it. Gilda jerked in surprise. That was new, for instance. "I mean… what?" she replied, more softly. She managed to avoid grinding her beak. This was hard. Applejack shook her head, stepping back to her cart. "Nothin'," she said shortly. "Let's get t'work, huh? Don't bother with the little ones, we'll rake those later." She ducked under her yoke and pulled her cart away, giving Gilda some space to work. The gryphon watched her go, bemused, then shrugged and turned to pick up another branch. Ponies. Who the hell knew what they were ever thinking? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fluttershy looked up as Mac came back into the kitchen; he set the lantern carefully back onto its iron peg by the door, blowing out the wick with a single strong puff. He settled down at the table with a quiet sigh, casting Fluttershy a quick glance over plates still bearing the remnants of dinner. She looked back at him, a slight frown of concern on her face, and he looked down at his hooves. "They're still goin' at it," he said after a few minutes of silence. "Oh, Gilda," Fluttershy murmured, resting her head on her hooves. She looked over at the other door; Applebloom had been sent to bed nearly an hour ago, protesting through her yawns, and Granny Smith's tremulous snoring was just barely audible from her room by the stairs. "I shouldn't have let her go out there…" "If y'want my thinkin' on it, Miss Fluttershy…" Mac said quietly, his voice rumbling through his chest and down into the bench; Fluttershy could feel it in her hooves. "Maybe t'weren't right, what mah sis set her t'do. Maybe t'weren't even. Ah won't speak ta that matter." He didn't look up, but Fluttershy felt her eyes start to prickle as she remembered the frightening standoff. She'd never seen Applejack so angry and scared before, and with Gilda shouting back… she sniffed, and Mac looked over. "Ah don't mean ta upset ya, Miss," he said carefully. "But this is somethin' they've gotta work out for themselves. Neither mah sis nor Gilda is gonna back down now, not after they got each other riled up like that." He shook his head, sighing. "At least the brush is gettin' cleared." "I'm just worried," Fluttershy said quietly. "Gilda's trying so hard, she really is, but she's got such a long way to go still… and she's so sure that Rainbow Dash will just take her back, but I just don't know… Rainbow Dash is a lovely pony, but she can be so stubborn sometimes… and I'm worried that she won't be forgiven, and if that happens …" she sniffed, tears starting to track down her cheeks. "She'll never open up to anypony ever again, and she'll be left all alone…" She jerked upright. "Oh! Oh no, I didn't mean to… I mean, I shouldn't have…" She sniffed again, rubbing her face. "I shouldn't have said anything… um, please… please forget what I just said…" "Didn't hear a thing, Miss," Mac replied, shaking his head. He stood up slowly, stretching out the huge, solid bands of muscle in his legs, and crossed to the counter. Taking the basket of napkins in his teeth, he brought them over to the table and set them within Fluttershy's reach. She shook her head gratefully, taking the opportunity to regain a bit of her composure while Mac picked up the stack of dirty dishes. Taking them over to the sink, he set the plates into a washing rack and began to work the hoof pump. "Miss Fluttershy," he said, after a moment. "Not havin' heard anything, mind, an' forgive me fer speakin' without knowin' the whole story…" He paused, and the only sounds were the squeaking of the hoof pump and the quiet splashing of water. "T'occurs ta me that Gilda couldn'ta found a better pony fer the job." He cleared his throat. "Yer, ah… yer the kindest an' the gentlest soul Ah know… an' if anypony can help her, it's you." Fluttershy felt her cheeks heat, and she looked away at the unfamiliar little jump in her chest. "Um, that… that's very kind of you to say, Mr. Macintosh. Th-thank you." Mac's attention was fixed on the dishes, which were long since washed. "Miss… if'n you'd like… Ah'd be just fine with just 'Mac'." "Oh, my," Fluttershy squeaked, the burn intensifying. "Th-then… maybe, if you like… you can just call me… Fluttershy…" she kicked a hoof against the floorboards, looking anywhere but at Mac. "That might be… nice…" There was a long moment of silence. "Maybe I should go check on Gilda-" "Ah should go check on Granny Smith-" Mac began at the same time. Both ponies moved toward the doors, then stopped, embarrassed. "Sorry," Mac said, chuckling. "It's just-" There was a sudden bright burst of lightning through the window, followed almost immediately by a deafening crash of thunder. Fluttershy screamed and fled under the table; even Mac started. The tearing sound reverberated for full seconds, shaking the barn on its foundations, and the lantern rattled wildly against the doorframe. "Are y'all right, Mi… Ah mean… Fluttershy?" Mac asked as the noise faded, peeking under the table. "You sure can move fast when y'want to." Fluttershy nodded shakily, slowly coming out from under the sturdy piece of furniture. "Ah didn't think there was s'posedta be a storm today…" he said, frowning out the window. The wind had picked up, and shingles clattered on the roof. The darkness had been gathering slowly in the sweet summer twilight, but now dark clouds blotted out even the last remnants of the sunset. "Well, that tears it," Mac said, with a quiet note of something very near relief in his voice. "Not even Applejack can argue fer brushin' in this." He crossed the kitchen in a few steps, stopping by the door. "Ah'll go round 'em up." He leaned forward and nosed the lantern's switch; light bathed the room as the clever little mechanism inside the device lit the wick, and he took the ring in his teeth. "Um… if you're okay with it, I mean… I'd like to come with you," Fluttershy said quietly, joining him by the door. "Y'sure? Don't feel right askin' ya t'come out in the dark an' the rain," Mac said doubtfully. Fluttershy nodded once, slowly, then again, with more force. "No, I want to come," she said, stepping into the mudroom. In the far wall, the outside door rattled and shook with the wind; she shrank back at a particularly loud clatter, and Mac stepped forward to put a hoof against the door. "Lantern ain't got that much lightin' power, so be sure t'stick close by me," Mac warned. "Ah'll keep you grounded if y'start blowin' away, too." He pushed, and the door swung out into the sweeping darkness. "I know," Fluttershy said quietly, blushing again. Taking a deep breath, she looked to Mac and nodded, and they stepped through the door together. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- As Macintosh and Fluttershy left the house, another huge bolt of lightning tore through the air, bringing with it the first heavy curtains of rain. Out in the fields, Applejack and Gilda braced themselves against the wind. They had reached the end of the row together by chance, and the carts, mostly full, shook as the wind caught at the leafy branches. "You've got to be kidding me," Gilda spat, glaring up at the clouds. "Another storm?" She groaned, rearing up to toss a branch into her cart. "Your weather team sucks…" Part of her was glad for the rain; her back was starting to protest, and she could see, even from ground level, that the incoming storm would be a doozy. She stomped savagely on the relief she felt, and grabbed another branch just to spite it. She threw up her wing to try to keep the rain off; it didn't help much. "Ah guess that's it – we can't brush in this," Applejack said. She turned to Gilda, giving her a tired smile. "Yer done. Congratulations," she said, stretching mightily and cracking her neck. "Why don't ya head on in? Ah'll finish up here an' come right after ya." She turned back and headed for her cart yoke, then stepped back as Gilda grabbed a branch near her feet. "Uh, d'you hear me right?" "Yeah," Gilda said shortly. "Nice try. I didn't forget the terms – I'm going back when you do, and not a second before." There were a few seconds of silence, and Gilda fidgeted under Applejack's unreadable expression. "I'm no welcher. I finish what I start," she said, frowning. For better or for worse, the voice reminded her nastily. Applejack paused for a moment, surprised, then she started to chuckle. Gilda's hackles rose immediately, but she clamped down on the reaction. "Ah guess Ah figured you right," the farm mare said, nodding. Droplets of water flew from the brim of her hat, and she gave a tired, but satisfied, sigh as the laughter worked its way out of her system. "Ah gotta apologize, Gilda," she said after a moment. "Truth is… Ah knew you were tellin' the truth when we started. Ah wouldn'ta let you pick up that branch otherwise." She scratched behind her ear with a hoof. "The challenge was a dumb idea, but Ah know what pride is like. Y'woulda agreed to anythin' I asked ya t'do in front o' that many folks, wouldn't ya? So I wanted t'ask you again by yer lonesome, t'see how you really felt about it." Gilda stared at her in disbelief. "Wait," she said, having a hard time processing it. "Wait, wait, wait. You figured I was telling the truth and you still made me spend seven hours picking up sticks?" Applejack took a breath, and Gilda was surprised to see her look to the side, somewhat embarrassed. "Ah've been thinkin', an' maybe that wasn't right o'me. I believe now that y'really didn't mean any harm, this time around at least, an' this is all just a misunderstandin'." She looked back at Gilda, and the gryphon was astounded to see a sly smile on her face. "But y'wouldn't'a backed out anyway, would ya?" Gilda stared at her, then looked back at the nearly full cart at her side. It was satisfyingly weighted, just the right amount to force her to use her strength but not heavy enough to tire her quickly. Her muscles felt warm and loose; she swiveled her shoulders experimentally, not missing the tightness that had plagued them the past few days cooped up in Fluttershy's tiny little house. Looking back at where they'd been, there was noticeable progress (current storm notwithstanding). It wasn't flying, but it was doing something. She'd missed that. "No, I wouldn't have," Gilda grudgingly replied. Applejack chuckled again, and despite herself, after a moment Gilda did too. "That's still a bitch move, though," she said lightly, stepping under her yoke as Applejack did the same. "Like Ah said, I feel a bit bad about it," Applejack admitted, starting back toward the farmhouse with a grunt. "But hey, Mac'll thank ya fer doin' most of his share of the work fer today. An' Ah'll thank ya, too. Y'did us a good amount of help." "Yeah, whatever," Gilda replied long-sufferingly. "Don't get too used to it, huh?" "Ah won't," Applejack laughed. She perked up as she reached the top of a small hill, looking off into the distance toward the farmhouse. "Oh, wouldja look at that. We got guests." "Gilda!" Gilda followed Applejack's gaze as Fluttershy's voice cut through the rain. The little yellow pegasus came into view over the hill, somehow looking even smaller with her mane and tail already soaked through; she had her slightly bedraggled wings pressed against her body for warmth. Macintosh was with her, a lantern clasped in his teeth, looking none the worse for wear. "Applejack! Oh, we've just been looking all over for you," she called. Now that she had spotted the gryphon and earth pony, her voice was returning to its normal volume, and Gilda had to strain to hear her. "Why are you even out here?" Gilda called, setting the cart back down. Another bolt of lightning split the sky as the newcomers reached the foot of the hill; Gilda swore in surprise, and Fluttershy locked up and fell over. By the time the thunder had faded from the hills, Mac had helped her back to her hooves. The slightly muddy pegasus blushed furiously as Macintosh lent her his side for support, and Gilda rolled her eyes. "Thought we'd come an' check on ya," Mac said, looking up at his sister. "Though Ah take it y'got things worked out on yer own?" Fluttershy didn't miss the glance that passed between the siblings. "Yeah, everythin's all set here," Applejack replied, smiling. She turned to look at Gilda. "We'll put the two of ya up fer the night," she said. "Ain't gonna make you walk home in…" She broke off, frowning. "Hey…" The sky tore open in a fit of rage, hammering the farm with pure sound as bolt after bolt struck at the orchards. Scenes flashed in front of Gilda's eyes like photographs, highlighted by the white brilliance of lightning: Applejack's wide eyes. The cart, slightly unbalanced, catching the incline and gaining speed. The slope of the hill. Fluttershy at the bottom… There was a meaty thud. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Forgive me for the cliffhanger, eh? You can thank Determamfidd and his wonderful It Takes A Village for the inclusion of FlutterMac - it's always been a favorite pairing of mine, but his portrayal of the relationship inspired me. So, consider that yet another tribute to a fic that's shaped my fanon extensively! As always, reviews are greatly appreciated. Don't like something? Let me know why!
BrianBlessedPony	934	1	Fluttershy,Original Character,Princess Celestia,Spike,Alternate Universe,Sad,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sweet Dreams	A Princess of Equestria teaches a class about the past	incomplete	49	2	<p>In the Everfree forest, one of the Princess' of Equestria take's a class of fillies and colts to learn about the past and its hero's. There they discover that legends often replace the original story.<br/>(A quick one shot story I came up with, which I think is starting to evolve in my head. There may be more...)</p>	everyone	2011-10-07T11:57:39+00:00	2011-10-07T11:57:39+00:00	3,193	It was a bright, warm spring in Equestria, the perfect weather complimenting the variety of bright colours of the new season. It would have been a perfect day for all, but for one class of foals this was far from the case. At that moment there were being lead down a path in the Everfree forest. They huddled together; to the point their sides continuously brushed one another. Even the pegasai in the group kept to the ground this far in the dark forest. At the centre of the mass was a filly pegasus named Mosquito who had a darkish green and brown body with dark green hair. She squeaked at every noise and shadow now. Not even the cruellest bully in the class mocked the continuously afraid pony now. “Now then, I know how you must feel, but trust me.” Came the voice of the leader, her mature tone soothing the fillies and colts a little. Mosquito though couldn’t think of it like that. “Easy for you to say when you’re a Princess...” she mumbled to herself, a few of her peers nodding in agreement behind the alicorn. The journey wasn’t far for the group and soon they had arrived at a dense vine and plant covered rock face. There had been a distinct lack of animal or fauna attacks, of which the forest was well known for. “What now Princess?” a jet black colt asked, pushing against the forest covered wall. It failed to budge under his weight and strength, finally forcing him to give up. With a faint aura of magic surrounding her horn the Princess smiled at the colt. Before he knew it, the thick tangle of foliage un-wove itself. Astounded, the colt was soon looking into the entrance of a tunnel. “Those unicorns that have learnt their light spells can practice them in here,” the regal pony said, looking back at her class. “Everypony else, I’ll have my own horn lit. Please keep close to me.” With students surrounding her, the mare trotted on with her horn illuminating the cavern. The magic light she and her students gave reflected off of mirrors placed on the walls. Mosquito found herself hovering above the Princess. “Okay class, who here knows about the Elements of Harmony?” the alicorn asked, her soft voice becoming quieter. The bombardment of whispered agreements made her chuckle. “Now, who knows what happened to them?” There was some slight mumbling and disagreements as to what had happened to the six mares, none of which were new. There was the tale that Rainbow Dash had managed to go so fast she exploded into a Sonic Rainboom seen all across Equestria. The one about Applejack holding off hordes of Diamond Dogs in one last stand was a classic of course. The Princess had never understood the Rarity becoming a jewel herself but apparently it was romantic. Pinkie Pie was meant to still be partying across Equestria, a true party pony never dying. She cringed at the idea that Fluttershy had got her wish and was now the grandest tree in Canterlot. And it was amazing how Twilight Sparkle had managed to become a star in the night sky. These were the more common tales, of course. After the hubbub died down, the alicorn began to speak again as her light became the sole remaining one. The young unicorns needed a lot more practice. “Five centuries ago, the Elements were in this forest, looking for their friend Zecora. Searching her hut, they were covered in a combination of potions that reacted violently. Slowly they were dying, and worse still, they risked spreading their condition. They were able to send a message to the Royal Sisters. A cure would take centuries to make, and old Lore told that if most of the Elements were to all die at once, then all their good work would be undone. So Princess Luna granted them the time. After heartfelt goodbyes to their loved ones through a magic field in this cave, Luna gave them magical sleep, to last until a cure could be made.” There was a chorus of groan from the young ones. This was a tale they’d heard all their lives from their parents. Only an adult would come up with some so boring. The rabble stopped when the alicorn ceased to move. The light from her horn floated away and touched a point in the ceiling, leading a cry of gasps as a moment later the cavern was surrounded in a light as bright as the sun itself. “There they are, the Elements of Harmony.” stated the soft voice. Clambering over one another, the class stared intently at the group of ponies, each lying on their own bed. They glittered under the light as an aura surrounded their deep sleep. Her little wings flapping like a humming bird, Mosquito noticed something amiss. “There’s only five!” she squeaked, pointing a hoof at an empty bed. “Where’s the-“ An aura surrounded the filly and settled her on the ground in front of the Princess who maintained a smile, though sadness etched her face. “Princess Gaea?” “Only five of the friends went to the hut. The sixth, the Element of Kindness, was too afraid to do so.” Princess Gaea crouched down to Mosquito, her long pink mane pooling around the young mare. The light shone off of her regalia that were shaped like plant life. “When she heard what had happened, she rushed to her friend but Princess Celestia stopped her.” “She begged and she pleaded to help them, not caring about her own well being. Unable to separate the friends, Celestia gave Fluttershy the power to look after them until they could awake. Fluttershy was gifted alicorn powers and given the title of Princess Gaea.” Gasp’s echoed around the cavern, the realisation that all this time, the sixth Element had been with the young ponies. At the centre of the light yellow pony’s royal jewels was a pink butterfly, the Element of Kindness itself. “With the power over plant and animal life, she began her care for her friends as well as the world they left behind. That is why Mosquito I can say you have nothing to be afraid of. I have been in your position, and even today I still have my fears. That is why I remind ponies of the truth of my friends.” With that, the former pegasus rose and looked fondly at the sleeping ponies. The auras that kept them asleep also prevented their disease from spreading. After that one last look, Fluttershy took the class back outside to the forest, answering the questions that got thrown at her. The unicorns giggled when she was forced to reveal it took the Princess decades to master simple magic. When they arrived at the forest once more, the little ponies began to tremble at the sight that greeted them. Four manticores stood waiting patiently at the entrance. Princess Gaea gently flew over to the lead creature, which she nuzzled. “These little kittens will escort you back to Ponyville. I must make sure the girls are okay before I return.” At first, no child moved. Eventually, little Mosquito rose from her friends and hovered by one of the manticores. There was a moment before the beast held out its paw. The pegasus settled in it a few seconds after and motioned her friends over. It wasn’t long before Fluttershy watched them leave, the manticores allowing the little ones to rest on them or carried them. “Another class taught the first steps of the truth, Princess Gaea?” came a voice from the forest. The yellow alicorn bowed in its direction. “Yes, your Highness.” “I have always wondered why you neglect the full tale.” Princess Celestia said, stepping into the clearing. “And please, how many times must you be told you don’t need to bow?” “And how many times must you be told I’m not a true Princess?” there was a faint smirk on Gaea’s face. “And they’ll learn the truth in their history lessons. Some lies are kinder; they’ll be cushioned a little before they learn that the girls were hit by a plague we wanted to cure by ourselves...” “Luna says that the road to the moon is paved with good intentions Gaea.” “I have heard that saying many times Princess Celestia. I prefer the one of ‘the truth is so precious, it needs a bodyguard of lies.’ Besides, I feel that was the last generation that needs to visit the girls like this. The Princess of the Sun had started down the tunnel, just to turn around again. “You can feel the plant?” she said, her voice mingled with hope. “Yes, and I’ve been helping where I can. I would never have thought that dr-dr-dragons would be such good botanists, Spike especially.” Celestia could only smile as she draped a wing over the ‘younger’ alicorn and lead her back into the cave. “You know Gaea; you really should hold court now and then. It isn’t right that you get all the time off whilst Luna and I have to work.” Celestia was rewarded with a squeak of shock. “Oh no, I couldn’t do that! I’d be too nervous to hold court! Besides, there’s so many animals I need to care for and...” the Princess of Animals and Fauna trailed off, hiding her blushing cheeks behind her mane. It took all of Celestia’s self control to not laugh. After all that time, after all that had happened and even with her powers, at her very core Fluttershy was still herself. She wondered whether or not to give similar powers to her friends once they were finally reunited. For now though, there was nothing to do, but wait and see.
BrianBlessedPony	934	2	Fluttershy,Original Character,Princess Celestia,Spike,Alternate Universe,Sad,Slice of Life,My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic	Sweet Dreams	A Princess of Equestria teaches a class about the past	incomplete	49	2	<p>In the Everfree forest, one of the Princess' of Equestria take's a class of fillies and colts to learn about the past and its hero's. There they discover that legends often replace the original story.<br/>(A quick one shot story I came up with, which I think is starting to evolve in my head. There may be more...)</p>	everyone	2011-10-17T19:26:15+00:00	2011-10-17T19:26:15+00:00	3,143	Silent. That was one way to describe it, but it didn’t do the lack of sound any credit. The silence that radiated over the room wasn’t just deafening, it was suffocating. Spending any more than an hour here would drive most beings insane. But if, before their sanity left their minds, the beings cared to listen very closely, they would hear the gentle rhythm of shallow breathing. Sadly, as the old saying goes, all good things must come to an end. There was what could be described as the sound of two pillows being thrown together at speeds unknown to all but pegasai. This was promptly followed by the sound of a paper tube hitting a rug spread over a stone floor. A shocked squeak echoed out in the silence. Princess Gaea, Sovereign of Flora and Fauna on Equestria, the Element of Kindness and former pegasus known as Fluttershy found herself sat up in her bed, her sheet over her head. She remained there, dumbfounded for a moment, trying to figure out where she was. Being an alicorn, she had no need for a clock, sensing the time of the day though her power. Celestia relied on the position of the sun, Luna the moon whilst Gaea had the plants and animals to help her. Consensuses lead her to understand it was 4am, still in the realm of Luna but not for much longer. Removing the sheet, the royal pony scrabbled about on a bedside table until hooves met a group of matches. Of course, she could just use her magic and make light, but to Gaea she was still simple Fluttershy. Eventually a flash appeared in the darkness as the smell of sulphur wafted around. The light grew as the lit match was applied to a candle. Placing a reflective cover over the candle, Gaea looked around for the source of the noise. The Princess couldn’t help but gaze upon her main for being here first. To her side, in their own beds, lay her friends in magical slumber. They looked peaceful, as if it was nothing more than a mere nap for them. There was a content sigh as Gaea realised that Pinkie Pie had been sleep partying again. She was covered in streamers and had gained a party hat. The butter coloured pony had long given up trying to work out how she did it. She remained adamant that the conga line 30 years ago was a dream though. It didn’t take her long to find what woke her up; a royal scroll sat on her rug, the parchment a dark blue in colour. A yellow magic aura surrounded the paper and brought it over to Gaea, who opened it up. Against all odds, that day’s morning edition of the Equestria Daily flopped onto her bed. Few ponies understood the relationship between the three alicorns. Fluttershy, as she still insisted back then, had looked to Celestia as a teacher, much like Twilight once had. Luna on the other hoof had been more like a friend. Fewer ponies still knew that to become an alicorn, Fluttershy had to effectively be reborn. Having a second foalhood was lonely at times, but Luna had always been there. The newspaper and early morning scroll was as big a prank Luna would attempt on Gaea. For a while, the cavern was filled with soft chuckling as Gaea read the scroll. The Princess of the Moon and Night had long mastered how to write the “Straw Sandwich” letter; elements of bad or dull news broken up with good and pieces. Whilst the former pegasus was immune to severe pranks, Celestia was a prime target. Replacing the Princess of the Sun’s mouthwash with liquid Rainbow was a new pra- Gaea stared intently down the cavern towards its entrance. The animals of the Everfree Forest were panicking; something was coming. From what she could tell, it was huge, scary and worst yet, in the air. Some animals maintained collective memories, and those ones said it so plainly. Dragon. Leaping out of her bed, Gaea quickly assembled her royal regalia and tidied her extremely long mane. She had no power over dragons, and one on the loose could cause untold damage to her or Ponyville. As much as the alicorn still feared them, she had no choice but to confront those that came close. Some ponies liked to think of Gaea as a great dragon fighter due to her numerous confrontations. Really, only once had Gaea been forced to anger. Forgetting her easy morning, Gaea galloped towards the forest, already working in the plants that covered the exit before she saw it. Her wings were unfurling as it came into view and leapt into the air as soon as she could. In the air the alicorn scanned the horizon around her but found nothing. Not even birds were airborne but that was to be expected. Her sight failing, Gaea focused on the fear of the wildlife to pinpoint where the dragon was. Worryingly, it was around her. “You know,” boomed a youthful voice from behind her head. Her wings instantly folded by her sides and froze. Before she could fall more than hoof, a large claw caught her with ease. “I remember when you ran to greet me the first time. There was no fear then.” Turning in the opened claws, the ponies jaw dropped open at the sight of the purple and green dragon. There was a grin on its face as it slowly flapped to the ground. “Spike?! Why didn’t you write me?!” Once the dragon had landed, the yellow Princess managed to get her wings working again, allowing her to nuzzle his cheek slightly. The blush was easy to see under all the scales. “It’s good to see you too Fluttershy, it’s been too long.” Spike rumbled. “Besides, I wanted this to be a surprise visit for a change.” Both of them settled on the ground opposite one another and began to catch up on the last few years. The forest filled itself with the emotions of the two; flowers blooming and brightening with laughter, then shutting with bad news that flowed between them. Eventually the dragon’s eyes couldn’t help but glance down the tunnel, an action that didn’t escape the alicorns attention. “How are they?” his voice quivered with emotion. “Same as always Spike.” Gaea half sighed. It was almost a ritual to the two long lived friends. “How is your research doing?” The dragon smirked at the pony, showing a lot of teeth. “I should ask you that Fluttershy. It’s going okay, as you no doubt know the plant has been a success, thus far. We plan to start testing it soon.” Fluttershy looked at the dragon for a moment, confused at his statement. Noticing, Spike looked embarrassed. “Oh there are still victims of the Hoofton Plague without us infecting anypony on purpose, if that’s what you though. It is after all, the root cause of the girls’ anguish. They haven’t been the only ones to try those remedies to cure themselves, sadly. I suppose luckily, the girls were the only ones to try so many cures at once...” The old friends both looked down the tunnel again. Memories shared only by them replayed in their minds. Both pairs of eyes soon welled with tears. “I can’t wait to see them again...” Spike said, his voice sounding almost like it did 500 years ago. “Neither can I Spike.” The young Princess responded, her own voice similar to that of an age long gone. “You can visit them now you know right? I’m sure Rarity won’t mind you peeking in.” The dragons chuckling sounded almost like an avalanche, and seemed to last as long. Eventually a single claw wiped a tear away from his eye. “I’m certain she wouldn’t! But no, I’m going to wait until they are cured. Good things come to those who wait, after all.” With midday approaching the dragon made his leave with a heart filled goodbye, leaving Princess Gaea on her own. With a warm smile, the yellow royal made her way back to the chambers. The candle still burned, though it didn’t have much lift. Gaea guessed it probably had an hour left before it gave out completely. Creating a ball of light from her horn and applying it to the ceiling, she blew out the candle as the cavern exploded with light. The girls stirred slightly in their sleep before returning to sleeping bliss. Perching herself on the edge of her bed, Gaea leant over to Twilight and put her head near the unicorns ear. “You’ll never guess who that was Twilight.” The unicorn made no movement to her friend’s voice. “He flew all the way here! It was Spike!” She was rewarded with a grin. With that single motivation, Gaea continued informing the student on the outside world, as she did every week, as she did with all her friends. Until that day that they could reply back to her.

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