>"Uhhh, mmm... Anon? W-what are you doing after school?"
>You’re caught a bit off guard at the sudden voice from behind, and so you momentarily freeze upon realizing two distinct things.
>One: you don’t recognize that voice.
>Two: somebody’s actually talking to you at lunch.
>You close the locker and promptly turn around to see a pair of scared, purple eyes looking up at you.
>They belong to none other than Twilight Sparkle, honor roll student and adjacent locker mate.
>”Ehhehehe…” she chuckles, a bit of sweat showing on her forehead.
>You shake yourself awake and lean back onto your locker, giving a warm smile down at the sophomore once you’re comfortable.
“Nothing much, what’s up?”
>Her eyes flicker between you and someone just out of sight, though the stranger is quick and scuttles just out of sight as you turn.
>Once she realizes that she’s all on her own, Twilight sighs before mustering her courage and giving you a shaky smile.
>”I… Uhhh, was just wondering i-if...”
>She takes a moment to rub her arm with gusto, her eyes now staring pointedly at the floor.
>”If you’d mind sitting next to me during tonight’s soccer game…”
>...
“What?”
>”Aheh!” Twilight nervously giggles while beginning to rub her arm with renewed gusto as her voice grows frantic.
>“None of my other friends are going, you see, and I really, really don’t wanna’ go alone, s-so I was wondering…”
>You wait a moment for her to continue, but she remains quiet while stealing glances at you.
>You raise a brow and give her a lopsided smile.
“Never thought you liked soccer, Twilight.”
>You expected a small chuckle from that, but she just begins to rub the back of her head.
>”Uh, I’m really not… It’s just t-that, you know, Rainbow Dash is captain, and she always wants us to come and cheer her on…”
>Twilight’s eyes are alight with near-tangible fear and hope, her bottom lip slightly trembling as she now stares at you.
>God, the sheer trepidation on this girl is just adorable.
>And it’s enough to make you smile like a retard.
>You chuckle and give her a nod.
“Sounds good, I’ll see you there!”
>Her eyes remain on the ground, a hurt look overtaking them as she begins to speak.
>”No, it’s fine, really, thanks fo—”
>Your smile is quickly replaced with a grimace as she speaks, though it’s quickly replaced with confusion as Twilight looks up, her eyes alight with amazement and pure joy.
>”Wait, really!?”
>You stare at her for a moment before bursting out in a hearty laugh, of which echoes through the halls; all of the previous students having either entered the lunchroom or have gone to their favorite eating spots.
>And then you hear it a moment later.
>Twilight’s laughter.
>This is the first time you’ve heard her laughter outside of her being around her small group of usual friends, and, well, it’s heartwarming to say the least.
>You can’t help but stare for a moment, mind going off to past thoughts of another sophomore whose scratchy laugh was once your daily goal to hear.
>You’re snapped from your reverie when Twilight’s laugh come to an eventual end, her eyes still locked on you as she clasps her hands together while pivoting from one foot to the other.
>You move yourself off of the locker and begin to head off to your usual eating spot, but not before giving her shoulder a playful backhand.
“See you there?”
>You glance over your shoulder to see Twilight waving like a madwoman as the same smile adorns her face, “Yeah, see you then!”
>She quickly turns around before nearly sprinting down the hallway and rushing into the lunchroom, of which all her friends always ate in.
>You walk for several minutes in complete silence, though your mind is far from peaceful.
>You wonder what her friends will tell about you, should she tell them of the possibly budding friendship.
>Especially her.
>…
>……
“...Where the hell is everyone?”
>Your eyes dart around the near-barren bleachers and snack stands for any familiar faces that would care for a talk, but all are either sick of your shit or are complete strangers.
>Well shit.
>At least the field isn’t so bad, and the bleachers even offer a good view.
>Shrugging, you find a corner seat at the bottom of the bleachers and whip out your phone, though you quickly realize how fruitless the endeavor is when you realize just how small your list of friends who want to talk is.
>Maybe you could find a good story?
>Hmm…
>You look back up to see if there are any amicable faces among the crowd, though you’re only met with the impassive faces of the teachers and parents.
>Windy Whistles gives you an energetic wave, though, followed by her shaking her husband’s shoulder.
>He gives you a solid nod with just a trace of a smile.
>You smile and wave to both of them before looking back at your device, feigning interest in the thing.
>You sigh at the ultimate truth that nobody’s willing to talk to lil’ old Anon.
>Seems you’re back to your least-favorite masochistic hobby: browsing fanfiction.net in hopes that at least one story will turn out good.
>...
>......
>Huh.
>Shit, shit, and even more shit.
>Like, you’ve read some shit in your days, but the stories you’ve just read bordered on furry cock vore mixed with angsty self-inserts.
>You think the worst one consisted of a plot where someone continually forced a woman to give birth and having her ki—
>”Hey, Anon!”
>You flinch at the closeness of the voice, nearly dropping your phone while you’re at it.
>The sun has started going down, leaving the field and bleachers in a nice, orange haze, though the sun is directly behind Twilight’s head, so you’re forced to squint up at her.
>”Heh heh, oops…”
>You pocket the outdated gadget before looking up at Twilight, a relieved smile now on your mug.
“Got worried you wouldn’t show, you know?”
>”I-it’s only five minutes ‘till it starts…” she offers with a slight rub to the back of her neck, keeping eye contact all the while as she grinds the tip of her shoe into the ground in a nervous fashion.
>You give her a lopsided smile.
“Just pulling your leg, Twilight. C’mon,” you say with a pat to the open bit of metal bleacher next to you, “sit down and enjoy the absolutely riveting sight that is soccer.”  
>You turn to said field and give out a silent ‘Woot!’ before turning back to Twilight, a deadpan look now on your face.
>Twilight gives out a small giggle at that before she plops herself down beside you.
>”Well, I mean, it hasn’t even started yet,” she says while shooting you a small smile.
“But isn’t all soccer like this?” you say while scratching your head and going to steal a look at the captain as she does a small practice with one of her comrades. “Watching two people kick a ball back and forth while you eat overpriced nachos and cheap beer?”
>Twilight shrugs at that before a look of recognition crosses her face.
>”Have you ever even been to a soccer game, Anon?”
>You run a hand through your hair, eyes meandering up towards the sky as you give a light shrug.
“Maybe.”
>“Ooohooo,” Twilight cooes before tugging at the sleeve of your letterman, “Are you in for a treat, Anon!”
>You glance over at her hands, of which she quickly retracts with a small chuckle, though she continues on with the same amount of excitement.
>”You haven’t lived until you’ve seen Dash play, she’s like an animal!”
>Both of your heads snap to attention as the shrill cry of a whistle echoes throughout the field and beyond.
>They’re beginning the anthem to the Equestrian flag.
>Standing with the rest of the bleachers, you place your hand over your heart and begin to sing along, comforted by the fact that there’s someone familiar next to you.
>Well, familiar as you two can be with the handful of conversations you’ve had, but it’s a level of familiarity nonetheless.
>...God that sounds pathetic.
>The anthem soon ends and you take your seat, only to see Twilight sneak a peek at her phone.
>She snaps her fingers and turns to you with one brow raised
>”Hey, wanna’ grab some snacks?”
>A low hum escapes your throat as you try to remember exactly how much is in your wallet.
>Nine, maybe twelve dollars?
>Should be enough for a nice pretzel.
>You shrug and nod.
“Sure, but let’s wait until the first goal, though.”
>Twilight nods and pockets her phone, letting the moment pass as you two begin to watch the sport in earnest.
>And, much to your surprise, the first score is made in rapid succession, a mad blitz by the opposing team to your goal.
>Your side of the bleachers is deathly silent, nobody really expecting the first goal to be made in under a minute, but you’re quick to join in on the motivational cheer done by the cheerleaders.
>You remember this one by heart, despite your rather long hiatus from any school sporting event.
>Your booming voice is only matched by that of Celestia, her sister, and Dash’s parents.
>When you finish the cheer and take your seat, however, you notice Twilight trying to make herself a small figure as possible, leaning further and further into herself while she blushes heavily.
“Something wrong, Twilight?”
>Her eyes go wide for a moment before she springs back up in her seat, eyes now on you as she realizes that the cheering is over.
>”Just got a little nervous, I guess. Heh heh…”
>You give the young woman another lopsided grin before backhanding her shoulder.
“And here I was thinking you wanted us to cheer Dash on.”
>Her blush returns as her eyes dart from side to side, her fingers now lightly slapping her cheeks as she lets out a weird mixture of a giggle and a nervous groan.
>”Well, I, uhhh… You see!”
>You stare a moment longer before standing up with a chuckle, idly gesturing towards the nearby snack shack with a flick of your head.
“How about snacks, then existential crisis?”
>Twilight’s cheek slapping comes to an abrupt halt, her purple eyes now looking up at you.
>Ever so slowly do her hands fall to her sides as she makes to stand, though she’s now rubbing her arm again.
>”T-that’d be preferable…”
>And so you two make way for the snack shack, though both of you are far too wrapt with the furious game of soccer that’s just to your left, there never being a dull moment as people are sent flying nearly as much as the ball.
>Just as you’re third in line, however, the sound of polyester meeting flesh makes you chuckle.
“Woah, you see that?”
>You point at the laid out player, one underclassman which you can’t name at the moment, letting out a low whistle as you admire the new shade of purple his face is wearing.
>She looks nervously at the young woman before noticing that the player shoots a thumbs up to nobody in particular, much to the joy of both of the bleachers.
>She lets out a held in breath before adopting a cocky smile.
>”Told you it was a treat!”
“Heh, guess you were right, must’ve just forgotten how good these events are.”
>Twilight looks up at that, eyes somewhat wide as she looks up at you.
>”I never knew you came to any of the games.”
>You smile at her and shrug while looking at the captain talking to the downed player, a temporary pause in the game having been called to see if the girl had, despite her thumbs up, received a concussion.
“You must’ve forgotten that I’ve been here four years, and you’ve been here what, little over half of one?”
>You chuckle and move up in the line, now second place alongside Twilight.
“Hell, I was here when the soccer program just got started, was there at their first game too.”
>”Oh yeah, didn’t we somehow make state three years back?”
>You correct her with an upheld finger while turning back to her.
“Six, actually, but yeah, it was rea—”
>”Wait, six years? How have you been here six years?”
>Eh?
>You shake your head at the sudden interruption before returning eyes on the game as it starts anew.
“My dad’s Handy.”
>You hoped that your dismissive flick of the hand and quick explanation would’ve been enough, but Twilight merely looks at you as if you’d started speaking Russian.
>”Uhhh….”
>Oh for God’s sake.
“Handy, that’s his name, ring a bell?”
>”...The janitor?”
>Her confusion subsides quickly, but in its place you find reason to slightly hang your head and break eye contact with the field, now finding the parking lot much more interesting.
”Yeah, listen, it’s a long story. Mind if we don’t talk about this right now?”
>Detecting your apparent shame and reluctance to go in further detail, Twilight nods before turning back to the line.
>There comes a slight tug at your sleeve, followed by you realizing that it’s your time to order.
>You do so quickly enough, ordering a pretzel with some cheese while Twilight orders a blue snow cone and a small bag of cool ranch chips.
>You two take your seats again without much hassle before both digging in.
>Just as you’re stuffing your mouth full of fattening bread and cheese, however, there comes a nagging feeling in the back of your skull.
>It’s almost as if you’re forgetting something…
>You turn to your side and immediately remember, already moving to tear off a sizable bit of pretzel and dip it in the divine sauce.
>She accepts with a smile and a proper thanks before plopping the whole thing in her mouth...
>And then she subsequently melts into her chair, slumping back with a satisfied moan, of which sounded an awful lot like a ‘thank you’.
>You two watch the game in relative silence for a while, though you finish your snack all too soon.
>Thoughts of suicide appear in the place of your warm cheese.
>You glance over to see Twilight working on her bag of cool ranch tortilla chips, of which you nod at with a thumbs up.
“Best flavor, excellent choice.”
>”Uhhh, nacho cheese is better.”
>You take a deep breath in and clap your hands together.
“Boy.”
>”What?”
“Cool ranch is objectively better, nacho cheese tastes like rancid ass smeared on a chip.”
>She actually chokes on that one, though you’re not sure if it’s in laughter or shock.
>You pat her back to help her through it at any rate.
>”Thanks,” she offers once she’s regained full control of her faculties, though her voice does sound a little hoarse.
>You don’t wait before making to stand, hoping that you’ve enough money for what you’ve got in mind.
“Be right back.”
>And so you leave Twilight back to her own machinations, silently hoping that she doesn’t manage to choke to death while you’re gone.
>The snack shack is thankfully less busy when you arrive for the second time, and you’re left with five dollars in pocket as you make way back to Twilight, angrily grumbling to yourself all the while.
“Dollar fiddy for a Goddamned water bottle… Fuckin kikes.”
>When you reach your seat, however, you realize that someone’s taken your seat.
>A very unwelcome someone.
>You merely stare at the young man below you, gaze unflinching as his eyes meet your own.
>His face, usually one of carefree joy or thoughtlessness, is now one of a solemn demeanor.
>”Anon.”
>Your sneer at the bearded manchild as he makes to stand from your seat.
“Grizz.”
>”Was just saying hi to Twilight.”
>Your eyes flash to Twilight, of whom is rubbing her arm furiously and glancing between you and Grizz.
>”Wanted to make sure she was alright.”
>You raise an eyebrow at him.
>”Because that’s what friends do, Anon. They care about each other.”
>You nudge your head to the rest of the open bleachers and before speaking in a low voice.
“Get the fuck outta’ here, Grizz.”
>He holds up two hands in a placating manner, a shit-eating smile on his face as he begins to fake shiver.
>”Ooo, scary. What’cha gonna do, fight me?”
>He shows his yellowing teeth in a bigger smile, one which you don’t return.
>”We know who’ll win if you do.”
>Stupid cunt..
>You glance at Twilight, her eyes now locked onto yours.
>She may not be saying it, but she’s silently pleading for this to end.
>You take another look at manchild, of whom is still holding that shit-eating smile.
>You sneer and shake your head.
>Any other day and you would’ve cursed this sperg into oblivion.
“Yeah, sure, if that’s what you wanna’ think.”
>You gesture to the side and lean back against the railing, adopting a neutral face again.
“We’re waiting.”
>Grizz blinks before turning to see the nervous faces of Twilight, several other sophomores and freshman, along with a few juniors who shoot you both skeptical looks from on the bleachers.
>He smiles at you before making a tactical retreat to the other side of the bleachers, not another word spoken as he sits down among the few seniors that would have him.
>You curse under your breath before retaking your seat next to Twilight, making quick to offer her the water.
“You sounded thirsty. Drink?”
>She stares at the drink for several moments, then back at you, then back at the drink.
>Your breath stops as she moves to shake her head, though she eventually goes against her initial decision and takes the drink.
>”Thanks.”
>Her voice is weak and somewhat weary, though you can’t possibly imagine why.
>Unless…
“He didn’t say anything bad about me, did he?”
>She finishes taking a drink before managing to muster the courage to look at you, her eyes slightly wide at this.
>”N-no, he just kind’a… Introduced himself, asked if I was doing alright?”
>Her tone tells you that she’s as unsure as you.
>...Huh.
“Ehrm, sorry that you had to see that…”
>Silence for a moment, then a slightly nervous voice.
>”It’s fine.”
>You breath a sigh of relief when realizing that it’s the usual nervousness that accompanies the young woman, and not one that’s fearful for any actual reason.
>Back to square on—
>A roar from the crowd around you forces both of you to look up from the floor and see the mass of uniforms as they scramble into well-rehearsed formations, the ball currently switching possession faster than you can keep track of.
>You glance at the scoreboard.
>1-1.
>Well, shit.
>And the time?
>Fifteen minutes left in the first half.
>Time sure does fly.
>Seems that you quickly realize why everyone on the bleachers, for both sides at that, is standing up and cheering their hearts out.
>The ball is constantly stolen, recaptured, and then stolen again as younglings crash into each other at an astonishing rate, yourself nodding several times as shins are kicked into submission while ‘missing’ the ball.
>And, surprisingly enough, there’s a distinct lack of injuries on the soccer field.
>Unsurprisingly enough, you find yourself cheering as a few familiar faces get the ball ‘this’ close from shooting into the enemy’s net, though, either by bad luck or clear skill on the goalie’s part, none of them enter.
>Just as you feel a bit of the momentum shift in the opposition’s favor, however, you feel something swell within your chest as a silent, yet profoundly loud in your mind, yet determined voice cheers out just to your side, the young woman now standing besides you.
>It’s something that you’ve not felt in several months.
>School pride.
>Sucking in a great mouthful of air, you let your voice echo throughout the bleachers as a familiar tune rings out from your mouth.
“Wondercolts are what?”
>A moment’s hesitation from the crowd comes, a fair share of eyes now on you, but there comes a reply.
>Oh, there’s a reply all right.
>”RED HOT!”
>You look at the principal and her sisters, smiles adorning their faces as they turn to see you, both of them jumping up and down in place.
>Luna makes an effort to wave around that foam finger she always fucking has at these events, even after all these years.
>Celestia, however, sucks in a breath before shouting out to everyone at your half of the bleachers.
>”Everybody now!”
>You turn to see the faces of Canterlot High School.
>Some are fiercely shouting at the field, any semblance of cohesion in their cheers lost.
>A few talk amongst themselves while absentmindedly pointing at the field and chattering away.
>The majority of them, however, look at you with anticipation.
>No scorn, no suppressed hate, just anticipation of a cheer that’ll give your team the second wind they need.
>It’s almost enough to make your heart flutter.
“WONDERCOLTS ARE WHAT?”
>”RED HOT!”
“WONDERCOLTS ARE WHAT?”
>”RED HOT!”
>And so you lead the glorious bastards through the near-decade old chant, your feet not bouncing you in the air as you pump an arm while beginning on another few cheers that haven’t been said yet this game.
>The cheerleaders were taking a break, but that’s alright.
>You got this one covered.
>Soon enough, however, you realize something bouncing right next to you.
>Your smile expands exponentially as you see the sheer joy in Twilight’s eyes, herself now bouncing up and down with the rest of the crowd as the captain goes in for the kill.
>She cheers like a woman possessed, and you can only try to match her at this point, your voice long since gone as the end of the first half nears.
>You still stand with the best of them, but you’re left almost mute by the time your team scores, mere seconds before the half ends.
>The crowd roads, and, for a moment, you wonder if you’ll go deaf.
>You feel as if this is going to be a long, long game…
>Not that you’re complaining.
>You haven’t smiled this much in months.
>Your cheering days, sadly, are over.
>The game continues, yes, but there are no longer any truly gripping moments like at the end of the first half.
>Well, that is at least up until the very end.
>”Wooooo!”
>You look at Twilight, her voice somehow still managing to remaining to stay strong after the repeated hours of use.
>Her eyes still show all the joy of a child getting a whole tub of ice cream to himself, but you see the subtle signs of exhaustion on her face.
>Slight bags under the eyes, her blinking is slowed down to a point where she sometimes begins to hold her eyes closed before going back to get stuck in with the cheering, and, hell, she even gives out a yawn at one point before slumping back onto her seat.
>You tap her shoulder before catching her tired eyes.
“Tired?”
>...Your voice.
>Dear God, you sound like some sixty year old smoker that’s on one of anti-smoking commercials late at night.
>”What?”
>Twilight leans close in after shouting back her response, cupping a hand around her ear to help.
>Chuckling, of which sounds an awful lot like Darth Sidious’, you shake your head and wave her off, trying your best to gesticulate that your voice has died.
>She tilts her head at you before reaching down and producing something familiar.
>You raise an eyebrow but take back the water bottle, offering a nod with a smile in place of any words.
>You chug the thing, though are promptly interrupted by the need to clench every orifice as the sound of well over two hundred cheering men and women shakes you to the core.
“Fuck!”
>Your hand slipped on the bottle, and, just like that, you now look like you’ve done and gone pissed yourself.
>Groaning, you make to stand and begin to walk off in hopes of finding a bathroom.
>A tug at your sleeve, however, stays your retreat.
>”What’s wrong, Anon?”
>You take a moment to gesture towards the empty bottle in your hand and the huge wet spot upon your crotch.
>”...Oh yeah, you should probably go get that washed up, huh?’
>She waves you off before returning her attention back to the game, no more than ten minutes on the clock.
>Grumbling, you begin to wander around before eventually finding the sorry excuse for this school’s bathroom.
>Drawings of dicks and white stains adorn the slightly yellow walls, as per usual, but it’s the smell that makes you gag.
>Good God, it’s as if the Pooping Bandit took one in the air vents and left it there to fester, it’s that bad.
>You soldier through it, however, and quickly find yourself patting down your crotch with handfuls of toilet paper.
>The task is done quickly enough, despite your dong feeling a little damp after three drying attempts, and you head outside to come face to face with a sight that you didn’t expect.
>2-2.
“Well, shit…”
>Rubbing the back of your neck, you make way to the forming crowd of CHS students and faculty going to greet the team returning from the field, sweaty hugs and warm congratulations filling the scene.
>Well, if there’s one thing you could always love about the CHS student body, it’s that they were always loving at sporting events, come win or loss.
>When you see a familiar rainbow colored head of hair in the crowd connect with a purple one, you can’t help but chuckle and give a small smile.
>Despite everything, it’s still good to see Dash having a good time, whatever the circumstances may be.
>Former friends all around you continue on this orgy of affection and good nature, but you can’t help but take a step back.
>Close as you are to the action, nobody makes way to greet you.
>A few people give you a nod, but you’re merely standing there with arms crossed and a lopsided smile on your face.
>Slowly, though, it begins to fall.
>People bump into your shoulder, laughter now roaring through the crowd as small groups begin to gather, close knit friends slapping each other on the back or cracking jokes.
>Everyone has a friend else to laugh with, to enjoy this momentary high in life with.
>You take another step back.
>The familiar sight of Rainbow Dash sends your heartbeat spiking again, but this time it’s different.
>You take another step back.
>The man she’s hugging…
>Another step back.
>She’s never given you a hug after that day, no matter how many times you apologized or tried to make it right.
>Two hasty steps back.
>So why would she hug the man who caused it all?
>Why would she trust that stupid cunt?
>You can’t take this anymore.
>The crowd, the smell, the cramped space, it’s all too much.
>Trying to calm your breathing as you make a hasty, yet calm, retreat out of the area, you more or less jam your key into the bike’s lock which keeps it attached to the rack, jingling and twisting the key in a desperate attempt to get it free.
>And come free it does, but you’re still feeling the anxiety like no other.
>You shove the key into your shoe before shoving the lock into your mouth.
>No time to think, just gotta’ get out of here.
>With a few kicks of the leg, thankfully, you are left speeding off into the night’s dark embrace, snarl on your face the entire time as that image plays in your head over and over.
>Why would she even pay attention to you anyway?
>You think back to that day, his words forever engraved into your memory.
>You mutter his familiar words through teeth clenched hard on the metal lock.
>They are slurred, but are all too clear.
”Why are you being such a fucking asshole, Anon? We’re trying to help you, and you keep acting a child!”
>It’s hard to think everything was all so good little under a year ago.
>Friends with damn near everyone on campus, mom would have a hot meal waiting for you everyday, and, most notably, she smiled every time you met eyes.
>Or was it just over a year ago when things weren’t shit?
>...Or are you thinking about literal years or school years?
“I don’t fuckin know.”
>Your own stupid slurring forces yet another bout of mad giggles from you, everything feeling all tingly.
>”Dude, you’re fuckin’ gone.”
>You turn and glare at the woman just beside you, offering a single finger before jabbing her in the ribs, smile on your face all the while.
“Fuck you, you’re way more drunker!”
>Giving a gentle nod while staring at you with a challenging eye, she passes you the glass bottle as large as your head.
>Not daring to stop as you both continue towards the door, you press the thing to your lips and drink like there’s no tomorrow.
>Just then, few voices call out from behind.
>Oh, that’s new.
>You’ve never been called out to chug before.
>Inspired by the new sensation, you continue to glug the thing down until your lungs and burning and your head feels light as a balloon.
>It doesn’t even taste that bad.
>Hell, you’d wager that it tastes more like soda than actual vodka, but with a funny aftertaste.
>The bottle weighs noticeably less when you hand it back to her, though you can’t help but give a drunken giggle at that smile coming down from her.
>She grabs you around the waist before leading you forward towards the back door, your memory now returning to the task at hand.
>Man, this is going to be rad.
>Leaving the blaring music and cacophony of partygoers behind, however, you discover one fact.
>It’s so dark that you can barely see a few feet in front of you.
>She doesn’t give you any time to recover from the disorientation, so you kind of walk without thinking while still in her grasp.
>Oh hey, there’s light.
>It’s a campfire.
>No, wait, that requires a camp, right?
>Bonfire?
>No, this one’s too small.
>Er, it’s just a fucking fire, that’s all you know.
>Not a big fire, but one with people sitting around it.
>They seem to be having a good time, giggling while they put something over the fire.
>You presume marshmallows, as even the fire and things around it is blurry.
>Everything’s blurry at this point.
>The arm around you leads you down a stone path, though, so you’re not with much time to oggle at the bright sight.
>But there’s an echo of a voice, barely audible, but audible still.
>Someone shouting in the distance?
>No, wait, it’s getting closer.
>Funny, it sounds familiar.
>You feel her hand slowly move down and to the right, which gets you atten—
>”Anon?”
“Huh?”
>You snap to attention at the newfound face in front of you, trying hard to discern the face amidst the blinding darkness.
>You don’t immediately recognize the blurry face, so you squint at the newcomer’s face for several long, silent moments until you can just make out who exactly the face belongs to.
”Twilight?”
>You adopt a large smile and reach out with a hand to grab and shake her shoulder with gusto, giving out a guffaw as you do.
“Ayyy, wassup? Where ya’ been? Haven’t seen ya’ since the game!”
>Remembering what you were doing, you remove your hand from the sophomore and begin to jab your newest friend in the side repeatedly until she begins to giggle.
“Oh, oh, oh, Tilight! Ya’ gotta’ meet her, her names… Uh…”
>You look up to her with blurry eyes, but there comes no answer, just a smile.
“Yeah, somthin like that... But she’s got a cadillac, Twilight, a fucking ca-dil-lac! We’re hittin’ the town!”
>You can’t help but give out a another giggle at that, to which the woman holds you closer and returns the laughter.
>Man, this is gonna’ be great!
>...
>......
>Oh God.
>This is not good.
>NOT GOOD.
>You offer a glance backwards at your group, eyes pleading for help, and immediately do three of your more courageous friends join your side.
>Coming in close to nudge your side, Sunset places a hand on her hip while looking at the three strangers with a slight scowl, eyes occasionally drifting to Anon with worry.
>”What’s wrong, Twilight?”
>Her voice, thankfully, comes as a whisper.
>Boldened somewhat by the presence of Rainbow Dash, Sunset, and Applejack, you take in a slow breath before returning the whisper.
“They’re going to do something to Anon, this isn’t good.”
>Sunset’s eyes dart to the three strangers before examining them in greater detail.
>All three appear to be in their mid-twenties, all just slightly taller than you, and there comes a terrible reek of alcohol and smoke.
>Worst of all is the fact that all the strangers appear relatively sober, this being even more noticeable as Anon begins to ramble with a terrible slur.
>Everyone decides to ignore him.
>Situation report?
>Not good.
>”Let me take care of this.”
>Sunset steps in front of you and all but growls out her next few words.
>”Yeah, no. I’m going to have to put a stop to this before you do anything you’ll regret.”
>Despite your blood running cold, Dash and Applejack move to stand shoulder to shoulder with Sunset.
>Anon blinks slowly at this before going quick, his eyes moving up to the eyes of the woman holding him close.
>Silence reigns king for several long moments, the women smiling down you four
>”Do you even know his name?”
>Sunset’s words are said with more than a healthy dose of venom, reminding you of less pleasant times with her, but the assertiveness in her voice is still enough to make the calm looks on the women’s faces falter.
>Eventually, though, one of them whispers something to the one holding Anonymous.
>The two exchange a look, their eyes concealed by the darkness of the night.
>Nothing happens for several moments.
>Anonymous then tumbles to the ground with a thud, the woman’s hand vanishing from around his hip.
>You move without thinking and move to his side, immediately helping the drunk man up after checking for blood.
>He’s wobbly, yet he stands nonetheless.
>You blush a bit as he reaches over your shoulder for support, but you only hesitate for a good ten seconds or so before grabbing him across the side to hold him upright.
>He stabilizes after that, and only now do you realize that the three strangers have vanished.
>You blink and look at Shimmer, only now letting loose that breath you were holding in.
>You then notice that the girls are surrounding you.
>Some look with interest, others amusement, and one with disgust, but all are placed on Anon.
>”He alright?”
>Anon tilts his head to the speaker, pursing his lips before offering her a somewhat shaky hand before uttering a clear word.
>”Anon.”
>Sunset merely stretches out a smile before pinching the tip of his index finger and giving it a tiny shake.
>She then pulls back and turns to the rest of you, smiling without a care as she shoots a thumb at him.
>”He reeks of the stuff.”
>Applejack gives out a short nod before flicking up her hat after having a small session of looking into Anon’s eyes.
>”Eeeyup, he’s outta’ it.”
>”I think we’ve gathered that much, dear.”
>Applejack shrugs, a hint of annoyance in her eyes, but continues on nonplussed.
>”Glad you noticed him when you did, at least. Lord only knows what could’a happened...”
>Sunset puts three fingers in front of Anon’s face, to which he stares at for several moments.
>These moments turn into a good half a minute until he gives a lame shrug.
>You turn back to Sunset with a groan, your usual face breaking in spite of having a drunk, and rather heavy, friend on your shoulders.
“Uh, Sunset? What do I do here, exactly? I’m not exactly experienced when it comes to these type of situations…”
>”Uh, right.”
>”Sorry, dalin’.”
>Sunset gestures back over to the fire and to one of the open seats, namely the open sofa.
>Being the kind soul that she is, Applejack offers to take the hefty man, literally, off your shoulders, and you don’t hesitate a moment before shifting him over.
>It’s then when you all realize that he’s asleep.
>Applejack gives a few light slaps to his face in an attempt to wake him, but nothing comes of it.
>Sunset holds his nose, to which he just begins to breathe out of his mouth.
>Pinkie them splashes his face with a glass of water.
>There comes a few gasps from the group, and a growl from Applejack, but Pinkie purses her lips once she discovers that Anon’s still asleep.
>Dash then makes for the man, opening an eyelid and staring into it.
>She stares for a moment before sighing and stepping back, offering a shrug before crossing her arms.
>”One of them probably spiked his drink, no way he’d be out this hard otherwise.”
>She then rubs the back of her neck before muttering something inaudible, her legs now carrying her around in circles as she begins to silently ramble to herself.
>”Well, sure didn’t expect to see this when I woke up…”
>You nod at Sunset, watching as Pinkie takes care of Anon’s legs before the two lead him over to the sofa, of which they set him down softly upon.
“Didn’t even know there were drinks at this party…”
>...
>......
>Your head, legs, and everything in between groans in protest, yet you carry on nonetheless.
>The perfectly mown grass of CHS contrasts with the cloudy skies overhead, the nice weather allowing all but forcing the student body to come and enjoy nature’s bounty.
>The beautiful weather wouldn’t have bothered you any other day.
>But this isn’t any other day.
>You crack your neck, having already seen the somewhat familiar group out in the distance, all of them enjoying the weather from under a tree.
>A thought hits you as the distance between them and you lessens with every step: what if you just thanked them later?
>They always hang out around Sunset’s locker just after school for a norm of five minutes, and you’d only need a single minute to show thanks.
>Nothing wrong with that, right?
>Nope.
>Alright, it’s decid—
>Wait, you’re heading home after this.
“Fuck.”
>Oh well, there’s always tomorrow.
>Maybe that’ll help ease away any ill feelings they harbored towards you for getting into last night’s pickle?
>...Maybe not.
>You turn away and begin to make way for the front of the school, brain already churning over how you’ll bike home with all your dizzy-spells.
>A buss, maybe?
>Wait, that’d imply you have any cash on hand.
>The sound of hastily approaching footsteps amidst the grass pulls you from your thoughts.
>”Anon!”
>You stop and turn your head to see a familiar face, though you also notice the thin layer of sweat on her face.
>Did she really get tuckered out running over here?
>”Hey, Anon…”
>Twilight takes a moment to rest, hands on knees and all, but she looks back up with a weary smile a few moments later.
“Hey, Twilight, what’s up?”
>”Oh, uh… just wanted to say hi, you know?”
>Her smile is more than a bit nervous, which, of course, is followed by a nervous chuckle.
“Not much, was just thinking about thanking you for last night, though.”
>She blows a small raspberry before shaking her head and looking off to the side.
>”Oh, that? That was nothing, don’t worry about it.”
>You shrug.
“Not many people would’ve given a passed out Anon a ride back home… Speaking of which, how’d you figure out my address?”
>”Oh, that? Heheheh…”
>A weak shrug is had, followed by a subtle lowering of the head as she looks at you.
>”A friend told me.”
>You stare at her for a moment before letting it drop, instead going for a shrug.
“Well, still, thank you for doing that, means a lot to know that there’s at least one person who doesn’t think I’m an asshole.”
>She rises back to full height at that, her nervousness slowly being replaced by a cheeky smile.
>”I mean, the girls also helped me quite a bit, as, I was a bit, well… frantic.”
>You raise a brow, letting the silence sink in for a few moments.
“So you’re telling me that your friends actually managed to give a collective fuck about lil’ old Anon?” you say with a small chuckle, giving her shoulder a light slap while you’re at it.
>Her eyes turn wide for a fraction of a moment before they slightly narrow with a slight tinge of concern.
>”Well, I mean… Yes?”
>...Eh?
“What?”
>”You do know that people still care about you, right?”
>Oh.
>She doesn’t know.
>She’s too young, too green.
“It was probably just pity coming out rather than any genuine care. I mean, would you leave Flash passed out at a party?”
>”Uhhh, yeah?”
>You blink at that, eyes darting to and fro for a moment before you shake your head.
“What about Snips?”
>”Yep.”
“Big Mac?”
>”Nobody would mess with him.”
“Maybe Vinyl…?”
>Smug as shit, she replies.
>”You do realize that she does that every party, right?”
>And, sadly, you can’t refute that.
>Doesn’t stop you from flashing a grimace before shaking your head to collect your bearings.
“Doesn’t matter, you know what I’m talking about.”
>”Not really?”
>You purse your lips and gesture for her to say it is whatever she has to say.
>”I mean, you do realize that Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Sunset still care about you after everything, right? It wasn’t pity that made us help you out, Anon.”
>You act without thinking and jerk your head back, though this only gets you a small nod from Twilight, a sad smile now on her face.
>You raise a hand and shake your head before she can continue.
>And, for once, you’re left without much to say, and it’s your turn to stare at the dirt, not really wanting to explain to the girl why she’s wrong.
>”S-sorry.”
>You sigh and straighten yourself, offering her a small smile as you do so.
“You’re good, I’m just a bit tired is all.”
>You go to rub the back of your head, but are quickly, and painfully, reminded of the cause for your early retreat from school today.
>She is taken aback by that, brows going high for a moment before she takes a step closer, inspecting your head with critical eyes.
>”Concussion!? When’d you have time to get a concussion?”
>She begins to circle you, adopting a sort of low, almost frantic voice as she begins to rumble to herself about… whatever it is Twilight likes to mumble about.
“From the party? Must’a fell over or got in a fight while I was out of it, because I sure as hell don’t remember anything.”
>She seems to ignore you for a moment, tapping her lips with a lone finger while staring pointedly at the ground.
“Recognized a few of the symptoms myself and went to Redheart just to make sure. She gave me a pass to go home, was just going to say thanks to you all before heading out.”
>You offer a smile before taking a step backwards, jabbing your thumb out towards the front of the school.
“Talk to you later?”
>Twilight tilts her head slightly, still somewhat in deep thought, before beginning to chew on her lip while eyes start to dart to and fro.
>When you wait for a moment, thumb still in the air and everything, she eventually comes to with a snap of her fingers.
>”Paper?”
>Raising a brow, you look at her for an odd moment as she begins to pantomime some scribbling.
>You shrug and produce a slip a page of paper from your backpack quickly enough.
>Twilight immediately snatches it from your hands before scribbling something down.
>A small blush is on her face when she returns the paper, though you decide to ignore the small amount of trembling in her hand.
>Raising a brow again, you take the piece of paper and read it, though a small smile forms on your lips before you can help it.
>”J-just in case, you know? C-call or text me if you ever get yourself in a pinch… Or need anyone to talk to, alright?”
>Whatever thoughts you had before are all replaced with a pseudo-high, a small chuckle forcing itself out of your mouth as you look at the quirky sophomore.
>A genuine, if not nervous as all hell, smile is placed on her mug, her left arm being rubbed all the while as another nervous giggle leaves her.
>You smack her playfully on the shoulder, bemused still at her skittish nature.
“I don’t know what made you take such an interest in lil old me,” you say before jabbing a thumb at CHS, “but thank you, you’re worth the whole damn bunch put together.”
>Her face lights up at that, the young woman visibly relieved at your words.
>She sees you off with a small wave, though you turn around a moment after heading off to see her running like a bat outta’ hell back to her group.
>Heh, strange girl.
>Stranger more for putting effort into be friends with you.
 
>The trip home, unsurprisingly, takes much longer than you’d like.
>Dizzy spells, sudden loss of breath, and the ever present bouts of exhaustion all turn your mile and a half walk home into the thing of nightmares, though you arrive nonetheless.
>You take a moment to throw your bag in the usual corner before feeling something terrible churn in your stomach.
>You know this sensation all too well, your legs moving on instinct as you move towards the kitchen sink.
>...Only to have a pang of disgust and anger run through you see the sink stacked high with a myriad of pots and plates.
>And so you run off to the bathroom, horrible taste of stomach acid and chunky… stuff coming up all at once, yourself only having just enough time to lift the bowl before it all comes pouring out.
>It burns, oh it burns, but it ends after only five heaves.
>After dry heaving for three times, though, you come to a realization: you’re exhausted.
>So, so exhausted.
>Eventually you make to stand and make a tactical retreat from the bathroom, trundling through the knee-high piles of ‘Still useful stuff!’ that dad consistently adds to.
>You arrive to your ‘bed’ after only a few instances of almost tripping and breaking your neck.
>Throwing the bundle of worn and ripped blankets over your form, not even bothering to undress fully, you relax into the comforter that substitutes for any mattress.
>Pulling a blanket over your face to ward off a particularly annoying fruit fly, you soon find comfort in the form of a dreamless sleep.
...
>You awake several hours later in a daze, feeling a certain ache in your throat and the beginnings of a headache.
>You get up and take a trip to the sink, managing to fill up your usual water bottle up with some tap before heading back to your bed, though you realize something rather unpleasant.
>Seems you’ve slept all day, if the darkened curtains are anything to go by.
>Well shit.
>Seems that going back to sleep isn’t on the table, as you’ve never been able to fall asleep after waking up, so you settle for the next best thing at the moment.
>You plop on your letterman and shoes before heading outside and closing the door behind you, though not after grabbing a little red box.
>And, man, is it fucking cold outside.
>You place a cigarette in your mouth before lighting it up, wondering if your two day gap had been the reason for the headaches today.
>Growing ever restless, you reach inside your right pocket for your phone, though there comes something weird.
>Crinkling, namely from a piece of paper.
>Huh?
>Oh yeah, Twilight's number.
>Shrugging, you pull out your phone and plug the earphones in before opening up the messaging app.
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heRLuqwrBCA
>You glance at the time.
>9:57.
>Hmm.
>Should you risk it?
>You muddle over that for a moment before shrugging and muttering a quick, “Why not?” and tapping away.
>9:58
”I think I died, sorry.”
>You chuckle at your own mental retardation before taking another inhale of the cancer stick, yourself now leaning over the fourth story railing.
>Glancing down at your phone, however, reveals something much, much funnier.
>There’s a large R right next to your previous message, indicating that she’s read the message.
>What appears at the top, right where you’ve placed her name, however, is where the comedic gold is.
>Twilight is typing…
>Twilight.
>She just deleted her former message.
>Twilight is typing…
>Twilight.
>Twilight is typing…
>And it just keeps going on.
>The comedic value of it seems to diminish after your cigarette dies out entirely, though, so you speed up the process exponentially by giving the socially awkward girl a helping hand in the conversation with a hastily typed text.
“Hey’o, Twilight, it’s Anon. Sorry I didn’t text earlier to let you know that I didn’t forget to add your number, just woke up around seven minutes ago.”
>Twilight is typing…
>You briefly wonder if she’s contacting one of her friends as how to go about talking to males.
>You’ve never seen her conversate with the other sex, now that you really think about it…
>Well, there’s Flash, but does that really qualify?
>”Hey, Anon! :D”
>”How are you? Good, I hope? You didn’t seem all that well earlier today, and you first message, believe it or not, kind of scared me.”
>Huh, seems you’ve finally met a woman who cares about being grammatically correct.
“Eh, about as well as I can be, all things considered. You? Also, you really thought that I died? Like Virgil would just walk up to me with a phone and say, “Ay, you get one call,”?”
>”I don’t know, Virgil seemed like a nice guy…”
>You snigger at that, genuinely amused.
>”But I’m doing fine as well, just having a sleepover with the girls right now at my house.”
>”You ever watch Shaun of the Dead? Dash is making us watch it… （ ﾟ Дﾟ)”
>You move to respond, but she’s too quick.
>”It’s really scary, yet makes us laugh way too much. Like, Fluttershy is hiding under her blanket right now…”
>Then there comes a picture of one bulging mound beneath a blanket, just a bit blurry from motion.
>You can’t help but chuckle at that, lighting another fag one while you’re at it.
“Are you dead ass right now?”
>There comes another image, though this time you can see Twilight’s hand lifting up a bit of the green blanket, the flash of the picture showing a… rather revealing image of Fluttershy’s backside as she lays in the bowing position, head wrapped in her arms.
>Thank God she was wearing full pajamas instead of short shorts.
>...Not what you’re asking about, but alright.
>”Yep, she’s terrified.”
>You decide not to point out that she just sent you what 99% of your male friends would consider fap material.
“Damn, I mean, I knew she was squeamish as all hell, but isn’t she like turning seventeen in like, what, two weeks?”
>”Next Sunday, actually, but close enough.”
“Close enough indeed, but rewind for a little bit: you asked if I ever saw Shaun of the Dead?”
>”Yeah, why? You never seen it? It’s really quite great, definitely should see it when you have the time (＾ｖ＾).”
>You temporarily question if she’s as smart as everyone says.
>You’re halfway through sending a message, but you quickly decide against it.
>You scroll through your old image gallery, flicking by a number of painful images from years prior, up until you reach a familiar video.
>After you send it, though, you feel compelled to rewatch it, as if you’re beside her.
>Shrugging, you tap it and watch the memories unfold.
>The footage is a bit fuzzy, but not too bad as to where you can’t discern the obvious sight that is Principal Celestia’s face, her eyes closed as her mouth gives out a light snore.
>She wears a shirt that you haven’t seen her wear in some quite time.
>It’s a stark black tank top, the only thing noticeable about it being the single and bolded white word that runs down the middle: Director.
>Then there comes a snickering from just behind the camera and to the right, which is followed by the video panning right to show the smiling faces of Grizzly and an old friend, of which you’ve not seen since the day it all went to shit.
>Singsong.
>It’s kind of weird, seeing his face after all this time.
“Shut the fuck up, retards.”
>Your voice is interrupted by fits of giggles as well, and your voice sounds like the closest to breaking out in full laughter.
>They give you two thumbs up.
>The video pans back to Celestia, though your green hand is now present in the video, of which closes in to the left of Celestia’s snoring face.
>Placing the hand holding some rather conspicuous near the side of her face, there comes another fit of giggles from the younger Anonymous before he clears his throat and speaks.
“Celestia, Celestia!”
>Her eyes pop open at that, somewhat red from lack of rest, but she doesn’t move as she detects that something’s pressed against the left side of her face in a familiar position.
>She thinks it’s a phone and doesn’t bother looking at it.
“Call for you, urgent!”
>Her eyes go wide, darting to you before looking forward, her voice tired but attentive as she speaks into the flip flop.
>”Hello? Principal Celestia speaking.”
>She somehow doesn’t notice your shaking hand as it holds the flip flop, nor does she notice your poorly-concealed sniggering.
>Again, she tries, a completely serious expression still on her face all the while.
>”Hello?”
>The video turns right to show Grizzly and Singsong, but, before a moment passes, Singsong breaks and completely loses it.
>Celestia’s eyes flicker left to see what the ruckus is about, but this is followed by Grizz following Singsong to the ground, both clutching their sides and slapping each other in merriment.
>It’s only natural that the younger Anonymous couldn’t have kept a straight face at that, and so your laughing booms out in the video.
>Celestia looks at you with a tired and confused look, then at the ‘phone’, then back at you.
>An exhausted look takes over Celestia’s face, but not before she puts on a weary smile.
>Her hand shoots out towards the camera, though goes to the left.
>It didn’t take much force to send you falling to the ground, tears forming in the corners of your eyes as you laid there, breathlessly laughing and clapping like a seal.
>Damn good times, Shaun of the Dead.
>Damn good.
>The video cuts off abruptly, another fit of your laughing sounding off through the phone, but not before the weary, if not bemused, sound of Celestia’s voice comes in.
>”You goof…”
>...
>Her voice echoes through your mind, bringing back a plethora of memories of the three ragtag friends.
>Their laughter was a staple in your everyday life, especially Celestia.
>You tear yourself from one memory, one in which you filled her disk to the brim with gummy bears, to fill Twilight in about what exactly it was she just watched.
“That was two years ago, back when I was a sophomore, the school’s play was Shaun of the Dead. Heavily, heavily censored mind you, but we still had a bunch of gore makeup and whatnot. Favorite play I’ve ever been in, that’s for damn sure.”
>You shiver for just a moment at the harsh breeze, only to confide in your cigarette again before putting your attention back onto your phone
>”...Sunset just confirmed you’re not lying. Why does nobody tell me these things? I didn’t even know we used to have a theater program (;_:).”
“No offense, but you never really struck me as the type of person who likes plays or musicals.”
>Twilight is typing…
>Twilight.
>Twilight is typing.
>Twilight.
>”Fair point.”
>You crack your neck before rolling your shoulders, unsure of how to spend the rest of the night.
>The grumble from your stomach is help enough to narrow down your options, though.
“I think I’ma head off for the night, go see if I can’t scrounge myself up a dinner, don’t want to keep you from your little get-together anywho. Was pretty fun, talk to you later?”
>Twilight is typing…
>”Of course, Anon! Don’t ever worry about interrupting, though, as I’ve always got time for a friend! Good night (^0^)／.”
>For the first time in a long while, you head into your home with a smile as you wonder exactly how you’ll find anything edible today.
>...
>Being a senior at CHS, you’re allowed to take certain periods off, permitted you still have four classes and are a teacher's assistant for another one of your hours.
>Instead of relaxing with a nice nap in a secluded corner of the library, however, you’re stuck playing teacher’s assistant for your fifth hour.
“So, how do we get the length of this this side, provided we know the hypotenuse and angle C?”
>Of course, a purple hand shoots up the moment you quit talking, but you let the question linger for a moment.
“How about we give Twilight a break, class? Feels like a back and forth between me and her at this point.”
>Much to your surprise, though, someone actually accepts your challenge and slowly raises their hand.
“Ah, yes, Trixie?”
>”Trixie would propose that you would remember Sohcahtoa and solve it with sin?”
>You take a moment to smile at her, both glad and surprised that she’s finally studied the material.
>You also decide to ignore her shooting Twilight a smug smile.
“Very good, Trixie!”
>You begin to scribble down the basics of Sohcahtoa again, silence returning over the classroom as your turn around.
>Or, at least up until there comes a fit of boisterous laughing from behind your left.
>You don’t bother to show any signs of anger, but rather choose to continue writing out the next bit of the equation before turning on a heel and staring at the two culprits.
“So,” you say while gesturing with both arms wide open while looking the two in the eyes, “got somethin’ funny to share with the rest of the class?”
>Lyra flinches back at this, though your eyes quickly flicker off of her.
>She’s a good girl, just made a poor decision by sitting next to him.
>Said desk partner, however, you eye with ample attention while taking a few steps forward.
>He sniggers before giving you a cocky grin.
>”Nah.”
>Dropping your arms, you take a moment to slowly nod and set your piece of chalk down.
“Grizzly, you do realize that this is the third time today that you’ve laughed out loud and proved to be a distraction to the class, yes?”
>He shrugs in turn, giving a smile that knows damn well that his next words are a lie.
>”Sorry.”
“And you do realize that there’s a chapter test tomorrow? One that this class seems to be woefully underprepared for, yes?”
>”Yep.”
“And you do realize that you’re currently failing this class, yes?”
>A number of the juniors adopt faces of “Oh shit, nigga!” while others chuckle into their hands, but Grizzly furrows his brow, subtle traces of a frown beginning to form.
>”Yep.”
>You snap your fingers a few times while pointing towards the small chair that’s off to the side of the first row, the chair and desk combo being one usually reserved for special needs students or disruptive children.  
“Then come take a seat closer to the front of the class, just to make sure you’ll have no excuse to do badly on the text tomorrow.
>Grizzly, oddly enough, only stares at you.
>And you stare back, a lopsided smile now on your face as you lean back onto the chalkboard.
>”You haven’t changed.”
>If he expected a violent knee-jerk reaction, then he was sorely mistaken.
>You just shake your head and smile at him, now pointing at the tiny chair again.
“You can try insulting me again when you’re not failing two classes, Grizzly, now take your seat and be quiet.”
>The class, thankfully enough, goes by without further interruption.
>You announce that office hours after school are available, as per usual, but they all file out without any additional questions on the work or how to go about solving it.
>Sure, you were never a math person, but this is some really basic shit.
>You hate handing out F’s when grading for Cheerilee’s class, but you hate watching their willing negligence even more.
>Fucking idiots.
>”What was all that about?”
“Wha—?”
>You stop erasing the board and turn your head to see the prodigy of the class: one Twilight Sparkle.
>Sure, she’s only a sophomore, but she’s ahead a year in nearly every category, and she’s only needing to pass this trimester of precalc before being able to test out of it and move up to senior level math.
>Her eyes are worried, yet she doesn’t rub at her arm or refuse to meet your eyes.
>You know what she’s talking about before she even nudges her head at Grizzly’s seat.
“Oh, he just really got on my nerves today, don’t worry about it.”
>Your smile, however, is soon found faltering as her next words come out.
>”You didn’t always hate each other, did you?”
>You can only blink at her, surprised both by the question and her boldness to invade your privacy.
>”I was looking at that video you sent me last night, and I noticed how you seemed like a friend to him.”
>She takes a moment to rub the back of her neck.
>”Dash said that you two were once like brothers, even. Got me kind of sad, honestly…”
>You take a moment to look at her, then back at the door, then back at her.
>You think about telling her of the truth, but you speak without thinking.
“...Why are you care so much about me?”
>Your voice wasn’t aggressive at all, but only reeking with genuine curiosity.
>Twilight, however, continues to look at you with a somewhat saddened look.
>She takes a moment to let the silence sink in, but she eventually speaks after sucking in a gulp of air.
>”Because you were one of my first friends here?”
>You can only blink at her in response.
>”In walks little Twilight nobody into CHS halfway through the year, and all her classes are filled with jocks and idiots giving her dirty looks when she actually raise her hand or take notes…”
>She takes a moment to look down at the ground, more than a bit disheartened at the memories of how glum and alone she often looked, but she quickly looks up at you with a smile.
>”And then I met you.”
>She punches you playfully in the shoulder, now taking a moment to move to your side and lean back against the chalkboard, notebook still clutched against her chest.
>”Yeah, we started off slow at first, just a hi everyday while going through our lockers, but then we actually started talking. Talking, Anon, talking! They were some of… No, wait, they WERE the first conversations I had where somebody actually wanted to talk to me where they weren’t asking for my answers!”
>You begin to chuckle at the memories flooding your mind.
>...Jeez, have you really forgotten about all of this?
>I mean, sure, you never really paid the small talk much attention, but to completely forget all those talks where she would ramble off about her favorite animes and her brother?
>...Maybe you need to lay off the drugs.
“Heheheh… Now I guess you’re repaying the favor? Helping lil old Anon out when he’s down?”
>She jabs you in the side, but only hard enough to get another chuckle from both of you.
>”I’ve always wanted to know you better, Anon,” she says with a wistful tone, “but it’s not been until recently that… with the encouragement of friends was I able to overcome my fears and ask you to come to that soccer game, to see if you would consider me a true friend.”
>You shoot her a glance, your smile widening as you reach out and ruffle her hair.
“What’re you tryin’a make me do, kiddo? Tryin’a make lil old Anon cry, eh?”
>She can’t help but giggle and swat your hand away, though the damage is already done, her hair now resembling something akin to a mangy cat.
“But… thanks, Twilight. Been a long while since I’ve heard someone say somethin’ good about me, much less want to be my friend.”
>You slap her shoulder and remove yourself from the board, instead turning towards the door after shooting her a smile over your shoulder.
“Talk to you later?”
>”Y-yeah! C’ya, Anon!”
>With a small spring in your step, you head off to the library, rather pleased with how your day's going.
>...
>The rest of the school day goes without trouble, thankfully.
>Neglecting to do your homework and papers due soon, however, you decide to lean back in your chair and prop your shoes up on the mahogany desk.
>You look away from the familiar math class, one of Cheerilee that you see at least once a day, and back to the ceiling.
>Man, tonight is going to be good.
>Apparently your hookup just got this new batch of high-end goods from some obscure group in the north, it’s supposed to make—
>You’re pulled from your thoughts as the door creaks open ever so slowly, of which creaks all the while like some wrought iron gate.
>A bit of light blue face and a purple eye peek out from around the corner to catch a glimpse of you, but you already recognize the newcomer.
“Well, hot damn!” you say while relieving your feet from the desk and making to stand. “Seems one of the juniors actually cares about their grades.”
>She eventually makes her way inside, looking more than a bit nervous at the situation, but a warm smile followed by a gesture towards one of the front-row seats eventually coaxes her into a calmer mood.
>”T-Trixie would like help on chapter five review.”
>You nod and walk to the board, grabbing a piece of chalk off of the thing’s frame.
“Sure thing, Trix.”
>She fidgets at the name, but offers no protest besides a slightly embarrassed smile.
>...Turns out that the tutoring thing isn’t too bad.
>Just like teaching the class when Cheerilee's off and gone, but a lot more one-on-one and easy for both you and the one with questions.
>Kind of pisses you off that she’s the first person to come to office hours after school since the start of the year, though, but whatever.
>That being said, Trixie was usually quiet when you went through the problems, though she occasionally had trouble with solving angles.
>All in all, far from an unenjoyable experience, as you would occasionally drop shit-talk upon her less competent classmates.
>She was all too happy to join in on that.
>It all ends too quickly, though, when she happens to notice a sudden darkening in the room.
>You both turned to look at the window to see the sun setting, much to the surprise of you both.
>She rushed to gather her things and retreat from the classroom, but not before offering you a grateful thanks and a smile.
>But that’s all in the past.
>All that matters right now is the little green pill in your hand.
>Sure, it costed everything in your wallet and a few favors, but that doesn’t really matter right now.
>All that matters is plopping the fucker in and chugging it down with some gin.
>You take your eyes off of the pill and look about for the bottle that’s been passed around the sorry lot of young stoners and fellow fuckups, though it’s quite hard to get a good look at anything.
>The only thing illuminating the room is a bit of moonlight coming in from between a crack in the curtain.
>You glance around for a moment before speaking.
“Hey, who’s got the bottle?”
>Your voice is quiet, what with Flash’s parents being asleep down the hallway and all, but it still rises above the gentle jazz emanating from the room’s speakers.
>”Over here, bro.”
>You lean over to Flash and take the bottle with a quick thanks, pill already in your mouth as you lift the thing up to your lips.
>...Only to realize that the bottle is empty, save for a few drops.
“God fucking dammit.”
>You make to stand and step over the myriad of stoners laying on the carpet and chuck the bottle in the trash, your legs carrying you to the kitchen and back, a mug of water in your hands.
>You’ve been to Flash’s house so many times at this point that you navigate it in total darkness, and it proves no different when you navigate your way back to his door.
>Drowning the pill down with half of the mug, you open the door and head inside.
>What you see, however, forces you to stop mid stride and stare.
>Naturally, you’d like to call yourself a calm and collected man.
>But you’ve also never seen a sight quite like this, so that thought goes right out the fucking window.
>There, just at your feet, lays one Snails foaming at the mouth, his eyes glazed over while his body jerks violently every which way.
>Wait, shit.
>That’s not foam, that’s vomit.
>You all but throw your mug down before slamming the door behind you and frantically searching for the light switch.
>When you finally find the switch, though, you’re stunned by a scene even more disturbing than the last.
>There, like a writhing mass of flesh and sweat, lay a scene more degenerate than even your worst fantasies.
>The five underclassmen care not for anything but raw pleasure, each one more desperate than the last for the fleeting gratification of touch.
>They are lost to all reason, carnal desire having long since consumed them.
“What the fuck…”
>You can only shake your head at the sight and take a step back.
>Sure, you’ve snuck peeks in when Vinyl or Tree Hugger wore something especially revealing, but this…?
>This is… wrong.
>And, oh God, the smell.
>A violent spasm in your peripherals reminds you of Snails’ plight.
>Taking a knee, you begin to examine him while trying not to panic, your breathing now heavy as a thousand thoughts run by your mind.
>His mouth is full of vomit, of which is a sickly green that rolls down his cheeks due to the overflow.
>You alleviate this by setting him against the wall and tilting his head downward.
>You check his pulse while patting him on the back, as you’re not sure if the scrawny shit is still breathing.
“...Oh thank God.”
>The little fucker still has a pulse.
>Once his vomit sessions ends with a nice cough, he begins to breathe again, much to your relief.
>A little raspy, though, as if there’s some stuff left in his stomach.
>A gentle push on his stomach should fix that.
“Good, let it all out… Atta’ boy.”
>And let it all out he does, the bit of carpet before him amassing a sizable puddle of green mush and half-eaten chicken nuggets.
>You grimace at the chunky puddle and lift the scrawny lad a few feet away so that he wouldn’t choke on the stuff if he would happen to fall over.
>He’s out cold, and you honestly kind of envy him.
>Giving Snails a small pat on the shoulder, you stand and look towards the unseemly scene unfolding on the bed.
>Just as you look over, however, that’s when Vinyl decides to barf on her chest and part of Flash.
>Much to your horror, he gives her an affectionate kiss and leans in, licking a bit of the stuff off of her breast and swallowing.
>You’re gagging before he has time to even close his mouth.
>Rushing out of the room, you find yourself heaving over a toilet no more than five seconds later.
>The first mouthful of barf and stomach acid wasn’t that bad, all things considered, but it gets progressively worse.
>The second mouthfuls you managed to pull through by shutting your eyes tight and trying to ignore it all.
>The third and fourth are where you begin to dig your nails onto the side of the toilet, the very core of your stomach threatening give in at this point.
>Or that’s what it feels like, at least.
>Like someone shoved a Goddamn tarantula down your throat before pouring tabasco sauce down your nose.
“H-holy shit,” is all you’re able to choke out by the end of it, being barely able to stand.
>You take a moment to drink some tap from the sink before catching your breath, momentarily thinking about going out for a fag and letting the underclassmen wear themselves out.
>Sadly, though, you’re the only sober one in the situation and need to be babysit them, yet again.
>Have to make sure Snips doesn’t go streaking again.
>You meander your way back into Flash’s room and take a moment to mentally prepare yourself for what needs to be done.
>Sucking it up with a grimace, you force yourself to look at the sight.
>Vomit everywhere, Snails is still propped against the wall, and the five underclassmen are still going at it.
>You wonder if you should separate them…
>Wait, why wouldn’t you?
>None of the fuckers would be wearing protection right now, and you’re not so sure that Tree Hugger or Vinyl would be the type to own morning-after pills.
>You look back at Snails.
>Then back at the group.
>Then back at Snails.
“Fuckin’ great.”
>Rolling your shoulders and cracking your neck, you curse your luck while heading over to the bed.
>You decide to avoid looking directly at any of them, instead keeping your eyes off to the side while keeping your voice loud, yet quiet enough that it wouldn’t happen to wake anybody in an adjacent room.
“Guys, c’mon, someone could get pregnant.”
>Tree Hugger, temporarily breaking herself from the debauchery, looks up at you and offers you a sultry smile.
>”Don’t worry, hun, Flash already got it covered…”
>You look her in the eye, then offer Flash one gl—
>Yup, okay, he’s wrapt up.
>You glance at Snips’ and are relieved to see a faint shimmer of plastic.
>Lastly, you offer Soarin a skeptical look…
>Only to see him furiously molesting a stuffed teddy bear off in the corner.
>Huh.
>Guess he’s not going to contaminate the rest of the world just yet.
>Shaking your head, you pull out a cigarette and light it up, not really caring about common courtesy at this point.
>You’ve earned this little pleasure.
“All I wanted was a good fucking night for once, and what do I get?”
>A throaty moan from the bed is your only reply.
>You mosey off towards the kitchen and grab some basic cleaning supplies, only stopping to curse at the house’s lack of gloves.
>The room’s stench still makes you recoil upon reentering, however.
>Fucking degenerate.
>You approach Snails’ masterpiece before popping a slav squat and getting to work, grumbling all the while.
>It doesn’t take much physical work, but it requires more mental fortitude than anything else.
>You fold the paper towels over nearly four times before picking up handfuls of the stuff and throwing it in the trash, the smell making your stomach churn and eyes water.
>No more than twelve minutes later is the carpet good as new, though your hands now smell like dogshit.
“I always tell Flash to not invite these two faggots…”
>You take a moment to wipe your hands off on Snails’ shirt before standing and grabbing your materials.
“They always puke, or have bad trips, or some stupid shit like that…”
>Lifting Snails onto the couch to rest, you look down at the unconscious lad for a moment.
>Man, two years later and this dipshit still hasn’t changed.
“And I’m always playing the mother hen with these fuckin’ tards, cleaning up their shit and making sure nobody fights.”
>Lighting up another cigarette, you mentally steel yourself while preparing another wad of paper towel for the next task.
>Vinyl still has that barf all over her…
>Man, and then you gotta’ get these fuckers dressed; make it seem like nothing happened last night.
>With any luck they won’t remember a thing.
>Sighing, you bite the bullet and move over to the main group, which, thankfully, had gone completely silent about two minutes prior.
>Heavy snoring greets your ears as you stand before them, though you note that Flash has fallen down onto the ground, his form being coated in vomit, urine, and other things you’d rather not specify.
>Right, time to get this done.
>You decide to get the worst over with first, and so your eyes look to Vinyl’s filth-ridden form.
>As you begin to get the slimy shit off of her, however, you can’t help but notice a few things.
>First is the lack of reaction she has to you rubbing down her chest and such, your liberal amounts of soapy washcloth not fazing her in the least.
>Second is the fact that she’s awfully cold, yourself shivering when you begin to scrub her clean, a vicarious chill running down your spine and into your skull.
>Third is the small bit of puke still in her mouth.
>Well that’s disgusting.
>Shrugging, you go back to the task at hand, trying not to stare at—
>Wait.
>Your eyes snap onto her face, or more importantly her mouth.
>It’s filled with the green slush.
“Oh shit!”
>You scramble to get Vinyl on her side, all but slapping the back of her head to help get the stuff out.
>Once it all leaks out of her limp mouth, you set her back down and begin to lightly slap her face, her eyes unmoving all the while.
“Vinny, Vinny, Vinny, hey, Vinny, c’mon, wake up, Vinny…”
>You notice she’s not breathing.
>Oh God.
>She’s not fucking breathing!
>You don’t even care about the horrible stench from her mouth at this point.
>It tastes worse than anything you’ve ever tasted, but you administer a lungful of air before beginning to apply CPR.
”Oh shit, shit, shit… C’mon, Vinny…”
>Three more pumps, one breath, three more pumps, one breath, repeat.
“C’mon, Vinny…”
>She’s still cold.
“C’mon…”
>No response.
“C’mon.”
>Tears begin to well in the corners of your eyes.
>You’re not so much pumping her right breast so much as you are putting your entire body weight into it, Vinyl jerking up and down with each movement of yours, every part of her body numb as her lifeless eyes look right past you, all semblance of that carefree and lovable underclassman gone.
“C’mon!”
>...
>......
>”Uh, Twilight?”
>You shake your daydreams away, your body seizing up for a moment before you recognize the voice.
>”You alright?”
>Sunset Shimmer, bless her heart, has decided to get the attention of the entire group with her choice words.
>All conversation dies down from the group of close friends and confidants, the seven teenagers now eying you with looks ranging from mild interest to poorly-concealed worry.
“Y-yeah, I’m good. Why wouldn’t I be good?”
>Smooth, Twilight.
>”Well, ya’ haven’t touched yer lunch.”
>”Your hair’s a mess, dear.”
>”You look like hell, eggy.”
“Oh.”
>You take a moment to rub at your arm, eyes now staring pointedly at the untouched meal before you.
>”What’s wrong, dear?”
>Rarity takes a moment to stand up and make her way over towards you, the feeling of her delicate and smooth hands beginning to work on the knots on your back quickly proving too much for you.
>You give out a slight purr at the sensation before slumping slightly in your seat.
“That feels heavenly…”
>”Now tell your old friend Rarity what’s the matter, dear.”
>The drull cacophony of the lunchroom seems to dissipate upon her words, the shrill ringing in your ears no longer bearing down upon you with the force of a thousand suns.
>Maybe it’s the encouraging smile that Applejack wears, or maybe it’s the pat on the shoulder Sunset gives you.
>Either way, you can’t help but hope that they won’t think less of you for this.
“I’m worried about Anon.”
>”Oooh, Nonny time?”
>Pinkie swings around the table and slides herself next to you, her hands clapping excitedly all the while.
>Interested looks come from the rest of the table, none of them the indignant or hurtful looks that you imagined.
>Well, save for Dash, but that’s to be expected when speaking of Anon.
>”Why, what’s wrong?” questions Applejack, herself leaning into her seat with piqued interest.
“Uh, well… I presume you all heard about happened at Flash’s party, yes?”
>A few faces sour at that, but all take a moment to glance at Vinyl’s usual table, varying ranges of sadness phasing over them.
>”Damn shame, that.”
>Applejack takes a moment to tip her hat downwards, letting it stay there as she finds the table increasingly interesting.
>That seems to be the general consensus of the table, for that matter, as all consult the table for advice on the situation.
>Sunset, however, takes the initiative.
>”You’re not saying what I think you’re saying, are you?”
>The way she lets the words linger leaves a lot up to interpretation, a skeptical and slightly worried look in her eyes.
“W-what?” you stutter out, reflexively jerking back into Rarity and making an X with your hands.
“No, I’m not saying anything, it’s just—”
>”You think he’s involved?”
>Sunset, please, any time but now.
“No—well, maybe? I—”
>”Oh.”
>You look up from twiddling your thumbs to steal a glimpse at Rainbow Dash, her voice her unnatural low.
>When you see her, though, you’re forced to cringe.
>She’s already out the door.
>Oh God.
>Squirming out of Rarity’s grasp, you motion for the girls to follow before giving chase to the hotheaded friend, a sinking sensation in your stomach making you want to sit down and cry all the while.
>You are Anonymous.
>And, fuck, are you stressed.
>”Trixie would then square this, yes?”
>Not like you didn’t have enough on your mind, but Trixie also decided to ask you for some extra help during lunch.
>Literally last minute before the test.
“Yeah, you got it.”
>You take a moment to yawn and briefly rub the sleep from your eyes, which only elicits a small groan as you accidentally rub the bruised one.
>Still raw from this morning, your face sports a black eye, a busted lip, and some mild swelling.
>Thankfully Trixie dropped the issue when you told her not to worry about it, though there was still worry written all over her face.
>Trixie finishes the problem as told and without a hitch, though she does have to stop and count with her fingers a couple of times.
“You don’t even need me at this point,” you say while leaning into your palm and resting your eyes, “you’re going to be done within the first ten minutes, just like Twilight.”
>”If Twilight can be done within ten, then Trixie will be done in five!”
>You glance over to see her puff out her chest and adopt a cocky smile.
“Oh, really now?”
>”Trixie would bet on it, Anonymous.”
>Hmmm, this gun be good.
“You know that I’m going to call you out on that, right?”
>”Trixie cannot boast, for there is nothing she cannot do.”
>Aww hell naw.
>Rolling your shoulders, you slowly sit up in your seat and give her a skeptical look, your hand already halfway up to offer the shake.
“Bet you lunch—”
>”ANON!”
>..That voice.
>That fucking voice.
>You haven’t heard her say your name in just under a year, and by God does it make your blood run cold.
>All but jumping out of your chair, you stand and turn to see Rainbow Dash storming her way towards you, shoulders squared and eyes narrowed.
>There’s a chill down your spine as you somewhat falter under her gaze, though you quickly dismiss your fears and stand tall.
“H-hey, Dash, what’s up—”
>”Don’t you ‘What’s up?’ me. You know damn well why I’m here, don’t you?”
>You cringe at her volume and choice words, though you try not to break eye contact.
>You feel uncomfortably warm, and, with a rub to the back of your neck, give the young woman a slow shake of the head.
“Something about Flash’s party, I presume?”
>”And how you made another Goddamn repeat of last year’s play?”
>You hear the sound of Trixie removing herself from her seat and making her way to your side, though you don’t dare break eye contact with the young woman before you.
>”Trixie would like to know the meaning of—”
>”None of your business, Trixie. Get lost.”
>”It is very much Trixie’s business when you interrupt our lunch!”
>Making effort to take a single, calm breath, Dash glares daggers as Trixie as soon as she’s calmed herself.
>”Not. Now.”
>You shake your head and put a hand on Trixie’s shoulder, yourself taking a step in between the two.
“Could we please not do this now? You’re making a scene here, Dash—”
>”And you didn’t make an even bigger scene by sending Vinyl to the hospital?!”
>You flinch back, as if physically struck.
>This only encourages the young woman, however, as she takes a step forward and begins to jab you in the chest with an accusatory finger.
>”You just couldn’t be happy with ruining your own life, no, you had to go and force your pothead shit on my friends.”
“No, I—”
>She jabs you again, harder this time.
>”Gotta’ go and force your, ‘Oh, I’ve got it so bad, might as well drown my problems in drugs!’ shit on everyone else, huh?”
“Dash, no—”
>”Well, we’re fucking sick of it, Anon!”
>She’s nose to nose with you at this point, a snarl on her face as she glares up at you.
>”If you wanna’ kill yourself with these chems, then go ahead, nobody’s stopping you.”
>She takes a moment to slowly raise her finger and point at your face, her face so close that you can feel her breath now.
>”But you’ve got another thing coming if you think you can go around trying to kill my friends again!”
>A searing pain explodes from your left cheek, your head jerking to the right from the force of the blow.
>There are sounds just in front of you, particularly a loud yell among the sounds of a scuffle, but you can only focus on remaining upright from the force of the blow.
>There are stars in your vision, your head is swirling from the unexpected blow, but you right yourself before stumbling.
>Before long, though, there comes a steadying force from your right: someone’s holding onto your arm to help keep you steady.
>Slowly, ever so slowly, you open your eyes to see the dark purple eyes of Trixie looking into yours, worry plastered all over them.
>”Are you quite alright, Anonymous?”
>Your vision is still swirly and littered with stars, but you give a nod nonetheless.
>Before she can ask you any further questions, however, you both turn at the sound of hastily approaching footsteps.
>...Oh.
>Twilight and Rarity stand just before you, the rest of their group just in the immediate background.
>Fluttershy is being led off by Pinkie, the former no doubt still skittish around conflict, but you don’t care about them at the moment.
>What you care about is the sight that is Rainbow Dash, of whom is having a heated argument with Applejack and Sunset, though they’re just out of hearing range.
>You’re broken from your stare at Dash when a new pair of hands is upon you, with one being placed on your shoulder and another gently rubbing over the new bruise on your cheek.
>”Are you okay!?”
>Ah, Twilight’s staring up at you, on her tiptoes to get a good look at Dash’s hit.
“Yeah, I’ve had worse.”
>She catches look of your mouth while you speak, which causes her eyes to widen a little.
>”Anon, you’re bleeding.”
>You swallow the mouthful of blood and crack your neck.
“I’m good.”
>You can’t muster the willpower to give her a smile, as moving your face hurts at this point, so you opt to steal a glance at Dash.
>She’s still pissed beyond reason, her words lost to your ears, but you can still make out multiple curses from the way she moves her mouth.
>You wonder what’s going through that young brain of hers.
>Maybe she thinks you let it happen?
>Or maybe she feels obligated to act for the hospitalized friend, exacting revenge on her behalf?
>Or maybe—
>”Anon, Anon?”
“Huh?”
>You shake yourself awake from the small reverie and look down at Twilight, of whom has now taken her hands off of you.
>”I’m really sorry about this, we were talking at lunch, then things kind’ajustspiralledoutt’acontrolandI—”
>Rarity places a hand on Twilight’s shoulder.
>”Calmy now, dear.”
>Twilight, with three pairs of eyes now on her, takes a moment to calm herself before beginning to furiously rub her arm.
>”Trixie fears that your acquaintance will bring Anonymous harm again.”
>She’s still holding your arm, though you’re pretty sure that you’re able to stand on your own by now.
“I’ll be fine.”
>The words are duly noted, but ultimately ignored.
>”This won’t happen again, I-I promise! We’ll talk with Dash, we’ll get it sorted out, I swear,” Twilight says while beginning to frantically nod her head.
>The two begin to talk again, but your vision drifts back onto the rainbow haired one.
>A part of you wants to cry, another part wants to go out for a fag before losing yourself in drink.
>The most vocal part of you, however, finds this all quite humorous.
>You can’t help but chuckle, though this quickly escalates into a lighthearted laugh, and then finally into a full-blown guffaw.
>A great many number of eyes are upon you now, but you don’t really care.
>You offer a light smile at the six pairs of eyes now upon you.
“I guess they’re right, you know.”
>You take a moment to look Dash in the eyes, her glare unwavering as you give her a lopsided smile.
“Either you die a hero, or you live long enough to become the villain.”
>Silence rings throughout the library for several moments, the only sounds being everyone’s breathing and your own heartbeat.
>Dash raises a single, accusatory finger.
>”Don’t try to—”
>The ring of the bell, signalling fifth hour and the end of lunch, cries out across the campus like a siren, temporarily overpowering all other sound in the library.
>Applejack and Sunset make to silence Dash yet again, though you can’t be bothered to care at this point.
>You’ve seen what trying to argue with her will bring, and you’re left craving a fag right now above all else.
>Trixie slowly removes herself from your arm before going off to gather her things.
>”Listen, I, uhm…”
>Twilight seems to be having trouble with her words again, though Rarity gives her a comforting squeeze on the shoulder.
>”I’m really sorry about all this, can we talk after school, get it all sorted out?”
>Her smile is hopeful, so much so that it almost physically pains you to tell her of your situation.
“You’re good, Twilight, but, uh, I was going to visit Vinny after school.”
>You grab your bag, of which is proffered by a returning Trixie.
“Hospital’s got really strict visiting hours, you know?”
>She seems to deflate at your words, though she still tries to put on a semi-confident look before nodding vigorously.
>”Heh heh heh, s-some other time, then?”
>You take a step past her, but stop to give her shoulder a light slap.
“Count on it.”
>With that, you make your retreat to Ms. Cheerilee’s class, Trixie in toe.
>You make sure to look dead ahead while passing Dash, though you can see in your peripherals that Trixie is giving her a pointed glare.
>Man, what a fucking day.
>...
>......
>You are still Anon.
>Before, you were stressed and exhausted.
>Down, but not out.
>Now?
>You’re fucking livid.
>You can barely keep a straight face as you continue to circle the class of fifth hour, eyes just waiting for one of these little shits to fuck up and make themselves a target for your fury.
>Cheerilee is especially swamped this week, as there’s a fiasco going on with somebody stealing self-help books, and you’re being trusted again with monitoring the class and making sure that their answers are truly their own.
>Call it being an asshole, but you could really do with yelling somebody else at this point.
>A raised hand separates you from your mental musings, however.
>You make your way over to the youngling, a small and genuine smile now on your face as you lean down to see what the problem is.
“Hey, Lyra.”
>”Hey’o, Nun! I’ve just got a question here...”
>She goes on to show you the problem, explaining that she’s got it narrowed down but doesn’t remember if she has to square or divide the answer by half.
>You give her a skeptical eye, making sure to use your non-black one, and then glance down at her paper, then back at her.
>A nervous and slightly embarrassed smile meets you, followed by a slight blush.
>Anyone else…
>You gingerly tap her answer which was divided, her eyes lighting up as you pull back and take your leave from the bubbly junior.
>Running your hand through your hair, you make your way over to the right half of the classroom, namely where all of the tards sit, as it’s the farthest away from the teacher’s desk.
>Scanning over the students, you can all but feel them seize up at your presence, but you continue on.
>Reaching the back corner of the classroom, you lock eyes with Grizzly.
>The very same manchild who made you convince Cheerilee to have students sit one seat away from each other for these tests.
>However, there’s something about his usual look, something about that shit-eating grin that doesn’t sit right with you…
>You glance down at his paper, idly examining it for any oddities.
>And oddities there are aplenty.
>Namely the actual answers that look right, from a glance.
>If you remember correctly, a handful of the ones already completed are actually right, and he’s even shown some work...
>You squint at the paper.
>Not nearly enough, though.
“Finally studied, Grizzly?”
>You don’t break eye contact from the paper as you do, squinting at it while trying to remember of all the ways you’ve cheated in Precalculus.
>”Yep, aren’t you proud?”
>You hum at that, leaning over slightly and glancing at his palms for any writing.
>Hm, zilch.
“Nothing to be proud of, this should be simple stuff for someone of your age.”
>You look through his paper, what with the bright light from above, and check for any note cards hidden under.
>”Oh ho ho ho, throwing insults at me now?”
>Maybe there’s something you missed under the table?
“Being in this class is an insult in and of itself, young man.”
>He raises a brow at you.
>”Dude, you’re only a year older than me.”
>You make one last check around him, scouring your mind for any other ideas as to how one could cheat.
“Year and a half.”
>Stupid cunt.
>Finding yourself annoyed at being unable to find the source of his success, you turn and continue your slow circle around the classroom, only stopping to take a small drink of water and to check your phone.
>2:18 PM.
>Seven minutes until class ends.
>You roll your shoulders and swallow another bit of blood that’s pooled in the corner of your cheek.
>The remaining testers have either gone into full-panic mode or have begun to review their work, though you’re rather pleased to see Trixie being in the later group instead of the former.
>Twilight, on the other hand, is enjoying some obscure manga you’ve never heard of, an occasional chuckle leaving her mouth as she reads ever more, the girl having long since finished the test.
>You also grin at the fact that Lyra is standing to turn in her test now, and with a relieved smile on her face to boot.
>Making your way past the right portion of the class again, you glance over at the usual delinquents.
>Runts, jocks, and social retards.
>None have scored a higher than 79 to date, save for that one blonde kid who all the other juniors call “Ethnic cleanser”.
>When you’re just about to turn back, however, there comes the dull sound of a plastic bottle hitting the ground just behind you.
>Turning around, you take a knee and pick it up before eying the thing.
>Generic sports drink, probably about as likely to give cancer as it is to give some temporary energy.
>Shrugging, you set it back down on Grizzly’s desk before co—
>Shit, it’s rapper fell off.
>Cursing softly due to your laziness, you kneel down again and pick up the piece of garbage, before making your way towards the recycle bin.
>Just as you stand above the thing and hold the piece of plastic out, however, you notice something… off.
>When did it get so silent?
>No, wait, it was silent before, but there’s something about the air, something that makes your spidey senses tingle.
>Blinking, you slowly turn your head and see that the right half of the class is staring pointedly at you.
>Quirking your head to the side, you look to the wrapper with a newfound interest.
>Then you look back at Grizzly, his eyes lacking any bit of the usual confidence.
>Fixing yourself upright and clearing your throat, you slowly unwrinkle the piece of garbage…
>Oh.
>A small smile crawls its way onto your face.
>Can’t believe you forgot about the old wrapper trick.
>...
>......
>You are Twilight Sparkle.
>While you’re constantly praised for being smart beyond your years, it’s moments like these when you truly question that.
>Just in your hands lay your phone, a familiar messaging app open as you reread your message for the uptenth time.
“Hey, Anon, is Vinyl doing alright?”
>Maybe you forgot to apologize as to why you weren’t able to go with him to visit her?
>Maybe he’s mad at you?
>Of course he’s mad at you, you idiot!
>Would you be mad at Sunset if she didn’t want to come and visit one of your close friends in the hospital, when they need support the most?
>Of course you would be mad!
“Uggggh.”
>You relax back into your bed, rolling yourself into a cocoon of blankets.
>What if he doesn’t forgive you for this?
>Rainbow Dash said he’s not good at forgiving.
>Is she right?
>Oh God, what have you done?
>*BZZZT*
>Huh?
>You look back at your phone and unlock it, the light nearly blinding in your pitch-black room.
>”Eh, she’s doing as well as she can be doing, all things considered. She’s doing a lot better than last night, so that’s good.”
>He’s not angry…?
>Either he’s too distracted by Vinyl’s comatose state or you’ve gone crazy.
>”Out on a walk while having a smoke, thinking about life and shit. You?”
>You kind of wish—wait, REALLY wish—that Anon avoided all the nicotine and underage drug abuse, but you’re not going to voice that.
>Not yet, at least.
>He’s going through too much right now.  
“Laying in bed, thinking about you.”
>...
>Wait.
>WAIT!
>NO, NOT LIKE THAT!
>Anon is typing…
>Anon.
>Anon is typing…
>Anon.
>Oh God, Twilight, why don’t you preread your messages before hitting send?
>You want to correct yourself and state that it’s not in that way, but every time you begin writing your apology does Anon begin to type.
>Oh man, is it hot in here?
>Anon is typing...
>”I’m gay, sorry.”
>You jerk back as if you’ve been physically struck, an involuntary curse leaving your mouth as a sudden sinking feeling in your gut takes over.
>Anon’s gay!?
>Heart beating at about twice its normal pace, you stare at the message, something wet beginning to pool in the corners of your eyes…
>”Heh, just kidding.”
>...
>You blink.
>You reread those words several times.
>Spike is licking your face in worry, but you can’t be bothered to care.
>You give out a breath of relief and go limp into your pillow, letting yourself stay there until a familiar buzzing comes from your device.
>”Uh, you alright, Twilight? Just a prank, bro.”
>You stare blankly at the phone, half of your face buried into your pillow.
>Anon is typing…
>”Oh, really just gonna’ leave a brother on read? For shame, Twilight, for shame...”
>You feel like slapping him, he nearly have you a heart attack!
>Groaning into your pillow, you take a moment to exhale deeply.
>A small thought hits you just then...
>Why would you even care if he’s gay?
>He’s a senior.
>You’re a sophomore.
>Simple as that.
>With a sigh, you get back to the task at hand.
“Sorry, got distracted (・_・;).”
>A momentary pause, and then…
>”All good, I knew what you meant earlier, was just fuckin’ with ya’. Oh yeah, and Trixie still doesn’t believe you when you said that you’d be able to keep Dash in line.”
>The mention of Trixie makes your brow furrow for just a split second, but you’re not sure why.
“Trust me, Anon, we had a very long talk with Dash about her actions today. She still thinks she’s in the right, but she’s agreed to not do anything nearly as rash in the future, no matter what. She Pinkie promised.”
>Not exactly sure why, you begin to unravel yourself from the bundle of blankets and slowly begin to make your way towards your bathroom.
>”Wait, Pinkie still does those? That's… actually kind’a adorable. Guess she hasn’t changed much since last time we spoke, just short of a year ago. Does she still bring a plate of cookies to lunch every Monday for everyone?”
>You blink at that, taking a moment to think while looking yourself over.
>Nobody besides your parents has ever called you adorable.
“Yep, though, between you and me, Rarity’s been having one too many of those… (^_^;).”
>You really hope he laughs at that one.
“Pinkie really misses you, by the way. She always gets excited whenever we talk about you.”
>In all honesty, you don’t know why you felt compelled to tell him that just now.
>Probably you just wanting him to be more social instead of just moving from class to class before going off to party after school.
>Your phone is silent for a while.
>Originally, you wanted a moment of silence, a moment to examine yourself in the mirror.
>You’re soon beset by worry, though, at Anon’s lack of response.
>Did you just overstep a boundary again?
>Anon isn’t that comfortable with talking about the past, and you just went into it.
>Before you know it, you’re rubbing your arm again while staring at the mirror.
>You don’t see anything that makes you smile.
>Maybe if you tried putting your hair in a bun?
>You grunt in effort, trying desperately to remember how it goes, but eventually end up with a head of split hairs and knots.
>Ugh.
>Maybe if you…?
>The makeup drawer is immediately raided, soon a myriad of cosmetics and other such things lay sprawled out on the counter.
>A few minutes later, and, viola!
>You try and give out a few sexy looks to the mirror, even going so far to point finger guns at yourself and give out little ‘bang bang’s’, but even then you can’t help but groan at the futility of it all.
>No amount of makeup can change that all too small nose.
>Nothing can truly hide the bags under your eyes, the result of years spent up too late watching anime and reading bad romance novels.
>And you’re certain that nothing can make your eyes seem anything but freakishly small.
>Hell, you’re almost as flat as Dash!
>*BZZZT*
>N-nani?
>Shaking the ill thoughts away, you hesitantly unlock your phone and see what Anon has to say.
>”No shit, huh? Would be lying if I said that I didn’t miss the little goofball. You’re sure she’s still not at me for the whole Singsong incident, though?”
>Singsong incident?
>You’ll need to ask the girls about that one.
“You really think Pinkie would be the type of person to hold a grudge, Anon?”
>You’re not really able to explain it, but there it comes again as you tap away on your phone.
>That nagging feeling of doubt.
>”...Point taken. I dunno’, maybe I’ll say hi to her one of these days, maybe I won’t. Still got a lot on my plate, you know?”
>Despite your friends constant reassurance that you’re not hideous, you can’t help but feel like a monster while looking in the mirror.
“It would really make her day, just saying (^·^).”
>You’re revolting.
“Is it alright if I ask you a question, though? Just between friends?”
>Sure, you know about what happened at Flash’s party, what with Anon getting Vinyl to the hospital after the party died down and he noticed her, but you’re more interested in something else.
>Something that involves Anon’s bruised and battered face.
>”Ask away.”
>Fiddling with your thumbs, you offer the mirror one last glance before typing again.
“How did you get those bruises?”
>...
>......
>You are Anon.
>You are also cold and hungry, but you’re one thing above all.
>Uncertain.
>”How did you get those bruises?”
>The message is completely innocent, Twilight’s just worried about your wellbeing.
>Hell, you wish that you had more than one person who actually cared.
>Wish you didn’t have to spend lunch alone every Goddamn—
>Getting off track here.
>Pulling up to a familiar door and rummaging out a key, you open the thing without much trouble and step inside.
>How do you tell her this…?
>I mean, you could straight up tell her, but you don’t trust her that much yet.
>She could think she’s helping you by telling someone, which would end up being a giant fuckin’ fiasco.
>You continue to ponder this conundrum while seeing what’s left in the fridge.
>Your first instinct is to tell her that it’s a bit personal and that you’d rather not discuss it.
>But that would make you seem like a dick.
“Why are you being such a fucking asshole, Anon? We’re trying to help you, and you keep acting a child!”
>You mumble that to yourself in a mocking voice, trying to sound as retarded as the manchild who once spoke those words.
>Grabbing a few slices of bread and some cheese, you settle for a shit-sandwich before scuttling off to your room.
>Stuffing the thing in your mouth to free both of your hands, you settle on the bundle of comforter and frayed blankets that is your bed.
“Got into a fight this morning, nothing worth worrying about. Wasn’t as one sided as my face would make you think, though I still feel like I need to start lifting again.”
>The sandwich is about as delectable as minced baby brains, but it fills your stomach nonetheless.
>”Who’d you fight with?”
>Hmm.
>More than a bit direct are we, Twilight?
“Don’t worry about it, kiddo, little ol’ Anon can take care of himself.”
>You’re halfway through writing the next message, but another wave of exhaustion hits you.
>Groaning, you roll further into the covers and kick off your shoes, not even caring to chew the last bit of the sandwich that’s crammed in your mouth.
>Tired.
>”Just worried about you is all, Anon.”
>Flashbacks come up of a great many people saying the same thing come to mind, but you push them back with some effort.
“Thanks, Twilight. But, uh, I’m more than a bit tired at the moment, what with the concussion and all. Talk to you later?”
>And it’s not a lie, as far as you’re concerned.
>The morning’s fight, your complete lack of sleep, dealing with Dash…
>You’re spent, to say the least.
>”Of course! Good night, Anon! (^O^)／”
>Groaning, you toss in your bed before finding a comfortable position and groaning in satisfaction.
>There’s one thought running through your mind, though, one that makes you stay awake for another hour contemplating how exactly Twilight would react.
>Probably not well.
>Would she understand?
>Probably not, as she seems like the type to have it easy, just like the rest of them.
>Rolling over in your bed, a comforting mantra begins anew in your head, having been a staple in your mind ever since mother passed.
>It was one of the few sayings you remember from the soft-spoken woman.
>Family sticks together, no matter what.
>...
>......
>You are Rainbow Dash.
>You’re the best at a lot of things, but not the best at hiding your anger.
>Sadly, the others aren’t paying much attention to the glaring problem in the cafeteria.
>Stabbing at your salad idly, you can’t help but wonder why the other girls have forgotten about his sins.
>Anonymous, the cocky son of a bitch, currently sits no more than twenty feet away, sitting beside the wannabe magician and the mentally disabled siren, Sonata.
>They’re talking it up like no tomorrow, their food all but forgotten as they prattle on about whatever it is social outcasts talk about.
>The two act like they’re talking to someone who’s their equal, someone who deserves to be their friend.
>Idiots.
>”—Singsong?”
>Huh?
>Shaking your head and clearing it of past thoughts, you turn to the speaker.
“What about Singsong?”
>Twilight takes a moment to drink from her water before looking up to you.
>”Oh, I was asking if anyone knew anything about this Singsong guy. Anon and I were talking last night, and he—”
>You don’t know why, but all of the girls, save for Twilight, are eying you warily at this point.
>It may or may not be due to the snarl on your face, of which is followed by a slight twitch in the eye, but you’re not certain.
“So you don’t know?”
>Maybe it was the way you said it, maybe it’s how you leaned towards her, who knows.
>Either way, Twilight looks quite uncomfortable all of a sudden.
>”T-told me what?”
>Sunset, offering your shoulder a hand, tries to step in, probably thinking that you were on the verge of snapping.
>”Dash…”
>You give her a flat look, not bothering to hide the pissed-off glint in your eye.
“Don’t tell me that you forgot about what he did?”
>There’s a flash of anger in her eyes, though you’re not sure if it’s entirely directed at you.
>”We don’t know if he even did anything, it’s Grizzly’s word versus his.”
>Twilight, now rubbing her arm and with eyes darting between you and Sunset, speaks up with the voice that’s more reminiscent of Fluttershy.
>”Oh, uhm, I… N-nevermind, heheheh…”
>Oh hell no.
“No way am I letting you walk into that mess, Twilight,” you say while jabbing a thumb in his direction, “friends don’t let friends step on landmines.”
>Holding up a hand to hold back any responses that would be had from the indignant group of friends, you take a moment to stand and take a seat beside Twilight.
>Scooching up against said bookworm, you wrap an arm around her shoulder before speaking, your voice loud enough to carry to adjacent tables.
“So, once upon a time, there were four amigos…”
>Holding up four fingers in front of Twilight’s face, trying to sound as casual as possible, you begin to count down.
”There’s Grizzly, pretty weird guy who sometimes tried to flirt with me, but was still a pretty cool guy. Friends with all the other three.”
>He’s still suspended from getting caught yesterday, so you just continue on with a small twirl of the wrist, jabbing a thumb in your own chest.
”There’s yours truly, trying to get the most out of her freshman year, also tryin’a be a good friend as I can to everyone…”
>You don’t have anyone to point to for the next bit, so instead just let your hand hold up the two remaining fingers.
“There was also Singsong, a pretty cool guy, also happened to be my boyfriend at the time. Sure, he was a junior, but we didn’t care, we had something deeper.”
>Counting down to one last finger, you point at Anonymous.
“And then enter him.”
>Releasing her shoulder, you take a moment to lean back in your seat, trying to calm your rising anger.
“So the four of us were all a real close bunch, yeah? We went camping together, shooting, parties, you name it.”
>A trace of a rueful smile hits your face as the memories come seeping back in, though you’d be lying if you didn’t say that you think about those moments near daily.
>”Sounds... nice?”
>Twilight sounds very unsure of herself, as if you’re explaining a trick question.
>You offer her a smile, and a genuine one at that, before pulling her close again.
“Oh, it was, trust me. It was kind’a like our group here, ‘cept a bit smaller and a lot more… rowdy.”
>There comes a few half-suppressed chuckles from among the table, memories coming back of the infamous group’s shenanigans around the campus.
“But, it’s play season, yeah? We were putting up, uh, what was it called?”
>”Groundhog Day?”
“Thanks, Pinkie. Yeah, Groundhog Day!”
>As you go on telling the story, however, you can’t help the slow souring of your mood.
“Singsong got a minor lead, Anonymous as one of the four more important roles, Grizz and I got background characters, but that’s not the point.”
>You turn your attention back onto Anonymous, grinding your teeth as he enjoys his newfound company.
“It’s closing night, yeah? We all just got done tearing down the set, and Anon told me he got drinks for him and Singsong, but I kiss Singsong goodbye anyway, thinking that he deserved some fun after all the hard work, yeah?”
>Most of the others at the table are now downcast, each one of your friends remembering the night in their own distinct ways.
>Well, all save for Twilight and Sunset.
>The former looks at you quizzically, wondering what could go wrong, while the other looks indignant and skeptical at you.
>”We don’t know for sure,” are Sunset’s choice words before she turns her attention back to her meal, not caring whether you had anything more to say or not.
>The tone in her voice and the disappointed look in her eye is normally enough to make you think that maybe, just maybe, you’re in the wrong.
>But this isn’t a normal situation.
>This is one of those times that you just have to be sure in yourself.
>You have to be, for him.
“So Singsong and Anon are enjoying themselves, partying like no tomorrow, yeah…? ”
>...
>......
>This is pretty nice, actually.
>Be Anonymous, and be rather pleased at today’s outcome.
>Aside from the pungent aroma of chemicals wafting through the room, it’s quite nice to have company besides Vinyl’s mother this time around.
>You were quite pleased, and downright surprised, to see a great number of Vinyl’s friends come to visit the hospital.
>Of course, it was a bit of a chore introducing each of them to Gooseberry, Vinyl’s mother, but you didn’t mind.
>The sheer joy on the aging mother’s face made it all worth it.
>The devastated and dead look in her eyes from the past two days was enough to give you a vicarious depression.
>It’s a nice change of pace, seeing her smile.
>You’d guess about twenty or so students of CHS came in total, though most left rather quickly, as it’s not been more than a half an hour later after their arrival.
>Only about six or so remain.
>Two of them are forgettable at best and complete faggots at worst, but the other four?
>”Hi’ya, Nannymoose!”
>They’re not too bad.
“Hey, Sonata, long time no see.”
>You’d just met the enthusiastic little jackass earlier today, of course, but the sarcasm is completely lost on her.
>”Like, right?!”
>She takes to your side, copying your style of leaning against the stark white wall.
>Rather than engage in further conversation, however, she merely follows your eyes and stares at the resting Vinyl.
>And so you two enjoy the pleasant silence together, both trying to ignore the idle chatter of Trixie retelling of her tales with Vinyl to Gooseberry off by the bedside.
>The silence, however, lets your mind slowly drift off to the newest additions to the room.
>Namely the three Dazzling sisters, two of whom are sitting across from Gooseberry and Trixie, their faces sharing a similar level of solemn concern as any other.
“Thanks for coming, by the way.”
>You don’t look away from Vinyl, but your peripherals spot Sonata giving you a bashful smile.
>”It’s nothin’, boss.”
>You shoot her a shrug.
“Still, good to know that some of Vinny’s friends won’t jump ship soon as things turn south.”
>You know that Sonata and her sisters are only sophomores and that any friendship that they had with Vinyl was estranged at best, but it’s still nice that they care at least somewhat about her.
>Sonata elbows you in the side.
>”Don’t look so glummy, boss, you look like she’s never gonna’ wake up.”
>You give her a glance, though you can’t return the hopeful smile.
“Glummy isn’t a wor—”
>”Like, cheer up already!”
>Another elbow in the side.
>Okay, enough of that shit.
>Tousling her blue head of hair before she can react, you’re surprised to hear the little scamp’s giggle as she scuttles away.
>And, for a moment, a smile grows on your face as you lock eyes with the sophomore.
>Before you two can exchange further words, however, there comes the sound of the room’s door opening.
>Taking your eyes off of her, you pry yourself from the wall and turn to greet the newcomers, honestly surprised that anyone else would come this near to the end for visiting hours.
>A smile initially graces your lips as you see the initial six newcomers, but your look of confidence falters when you spot the last two, of whom are shooting you grimaces.
>The stupid cunt, and the young woman who would never love him back...
>Rainbow Dash.
>...Fuck.
>...Fuck.
>Doubling down and putting on a happy facade, you make your way in front of the group.
>Your smile and slight wave is returned in kind, which honestly surprises you, though the two at the very back are less than amicable.
“Glad you could all make it,” you say while gently raising an open palm to the bedside residents, “that’s Gooseberry, Vinny’s mother, and I’m sure she’d love to say hello to all of you.”
>Gently clapping your hands together, you look off to the side and gesture towards a small desk.
“If any of you happen to have cards, they go over there with all’a the rest.”
>You take a moment to appreciate the fact that the number of cards has risen from two to twelve.
“But it’s fine if you don’t, I’m sure she’d be happy that you’re all just here.”
>You step out of their way and give off a last, fleeting smile.
>Eventually returning to Sonata, you drop the illusion of happiness and choke out a sigh.
>Her happy-go-lucky smile slowly dissipates into something akin to a worried look.
>You flash her a grin, but it doesn’t hold up for long as you lean yourself against the wall once more.
>Your attention doesn’t remain on young Sonata for long, though.
>You’re more focused on watching the newcomers as they slowly, yet surely, introduce themselves to Gooseberry.
>Her eyes light up just the same as when you first entered and when the other sophomores did, but you’re left staring the back of two particular heads.
>Wonder what made all of them decide to come?
>It’s not like they’re that close with Vinyl, if at all.
>”Bad blood?”
>Turning back to Sonata, you give her a small shrug.
“Somethin’ like that.”
>Silence fills the void between you two once again, but it lacks any comforting feel this time.
>You feel like a tactical retreat from the room would be best, but you don’t want to leave Sonata all by herself in a room which mostly dislikes her and her sisters.
>”Soooo, I heard you go to a lot of parties…?”
>Huh?
“Uh, yeah, you could say that.”
>Out of all the people that you’ve decided to remain in contact with, you decided that the druggies and partygoers were the best choice, reasons being obvious.
>”What’dya do to get invited?”
>There’s a certain glimmer of hope in her eyes, a childlike glee which is almost infectious.
“Eh, don’t be a buzzkill, cleanup the morning after, bring some stuff if you’re coming, the usual.”
>You take a moment to shrug and idly scratch at your stubble—it’s more of a bored gesture that you do out of habit at this point—before raising a brow at the sophomore.  
“Why?”
>Her nervous giggle makes you wonder if she’s Twilight in disguise.
>”Well, I was just wondering, ya’know—”
>”Anon.”
>Both you and Sonata blink, taking a moment to realize that there was a newcomer before you two, the voice coming off as monotone and slightly deep.
>There, before you with arms folded and face solemn, stands a former best friend.
“What?”
>The stupid cunt flicks his head towards the door.
>”We need to talk.”
>Shaking your head with a scoff, you make a small X with your arms before speaking.
“No.”
>His unamused expression doesn’t change.
>”It isn’t what you think, Anonymous.”
>Hmmm.
>A chance for riveting conversation with a man who’s prone to twist the truth more than a politician?
>Oh boy!
“Didn’t your mother ever teach you the meaning of no, you greasy fuckin’ walrus lookin’ piece of shit?”
>You notice that the room has gotten just an eensy, teensy bit more quiet, but that’s not that important.
>You also notice that you’ve removed yourself from the wall and are now standing nose to nose with the stupid cunt, only a hair’s distance separating you two.
>There is a trace hint of a smile on his face.
>”We’re trying to get to the bottom of what happened, don’t act like a child.”
>You’re halfway to jabbing him in the chest with an accusatory finger before his words click.
“We?”
>And then there comes that cocky look yet again.
>”Yes, Anonymous, we.”
>He does a temporary jerk of his head off to the right, to which the seven sophomores are eying you both cautiously.
>”Something about this doesn’t add up, and we want to get to the bottom of it.”
>Your eyes flicker between him and the seven girls.
“What’re you talking about?”
>”We’re talking about what happened to Vinyl.”
>Oh.
>And you thought this might’ve been something important.
“Was on a walk late at night, saw her on the sidewalk near the park, called 911, end of story.”
>You could’ve done much, much worse in how you reacted.
>All in all, you were quite proud of your quick thinking.
>You’ll just have to pray that Vinny doesn’t remember anything so she doesn’t spill the beans by accident when she wakes up.
>”Twilight’s getting some weird readings from Vinyl, can’t recognize the magical residue or what type it is, but she thinks that it’s dangerous.”
>You blink.
>You blink again.
>Looking over to Sonata, you try and keep a straight face while gesturing towards the bumbling retard, though you end up exploding in laughter about halfway through.
>Sonata’s looking at him like he didn’t just try and explain that magic—
>Nope, you can’t even.
>You take a moment to try and cease your laughter, yourself holding up a single finger before sucking in a single, deep breath…
>Aaaand you double over in laughter, traces of tears forming in the corners of your eyes.
>”Wait… you don’t know?”
>Grizzly’s voice is a confused one, but you can’t be bothered to care at this point.
>This is fucking rich.
>Wiping a bit of tear from your eyes, you shoulder your way past Grizzly, making way for the door.
>You shake your head, chuckling all the while.
>Not bothering to turn back, you give off a wave for the few who would care about your departure.
>The only sound from the room upon your departure was the constant beep of the heart monitor.
>You never thought the stupid cunt was the type for drugs, but rejection can make a man do crazy and often reckless things.
>Can’t wait to tell the lads about it later tonight, though, they’re gonna’ die laughing.
>...
>......  
“You sure, man?”
>Flash Sentry takes another puff of the joint, his eyes tinted red as he looks through his rear-view mirror.
>”Yeah, bro, I’m just glad that you got Vinyl to the hospital in time.”
>The woman beside him, taking back her little slice of narcotic heaven, looks back at you, her calm smile doing wonders on your smoke-addled mind.
>”Dude, Anon, brother… don’t worry about it.”
>A small sigh of relief escapes your lips, and you rest your forehead against the back of Tree Hugger’s seat with an audible thump.
>You had initially feared that Flash and the others would despise you for not clothing them and making it seem as if nothing had happened, but your fears turned out to be false.
>They were all immensely grateful that you acted quickly and saved Vinyl’s life, but they were also awed by your quick thinking on how to avoid the whole situation ending with police at Flash’s door.
>A proffered wad of rolled paper and crushed leaf soon makes its way over to you, interrupting your reverie.
>You don’t hesitate before snatching the thing and sucking in as much as your lungs can hold.
>Doing this on a Tuesday night isn’t exactly ideal, but you didn’t have anything else planned for tonight; better than studying.
>Flash’s car, while somewhat cramped, has proven to be the best spot to hotbox by a mile.
>Exhaling a sizable cloud of smoke, you hand the thing to the man sitting to your right.
“You’re up, Lorry.”
>When you turn to see exactly why the joint remains in your grasp, you can’t help but giggle like a little girl.
>Lorica Segmentata, for all his wit and quick words, lays back in his seat, a small smile on his face as he looks lazily around the car.
“Pussy.”
>You hand the thing off to Flash, of whom takes it back eagerly.
>It’s kind of funny, you didn’t expect him to be telling the truth when he said that he never tried the stuff.
>Said he never wanted to try his own product, pffft.
>One part of you wants to call him smart, the other one wants to grab a sharpie and write, “RETARD!1!11!” on his forehead.
“Hey, guys, thanks for coming today… to Vinny’s, means a lot.”
>You take your vision off of Lorica’s skinny and pale green form, it being nearly the same shade as yours.
>People always used to confuse you two, back when he attended CHS your freshman year, and the memory still brings a small smile to your lips.
>”Least we could do.”
>”Mmmhmm.”
>Silence is only interrupted by the mellow jazz reverberating through the car, all of your worries starting to float away under the haze of smoke and camaraderie.
>”That offers still up, Anon…”
>You glance up at Tree Hugger, raising your brow just a bit, though your eyes soon settle as you remember it all.
>Apparently these two not only want to try Lorry’s aphrodisiacs again, but they want you to join them.
>Just the three of you
>In Flash’s room.
>Your eyes briefly travel down to admire her ample assets as she gives you a hopeful look, making sure to lean in just enough to give you a clear look at her ample assets.
>Giving out a low chuckle after a moment’s thought, you decide to throw caution to the wind and live a little.
“Fuck it, name a time and place.”
>The hippie passes you the joint with half-lidded eyes, though it’s a bit hard to see her what with how thick the smoke is growing.
>She breaks the eye contact by abruptly grabbing Flash and pulling him into a deep kiss.
>You can’t help but giggle at the two before you.
>The two were never really keen on admitting their feelings, but you’ve known for a while now.
>The kiss deepens between the two, and soon the sounds of french kissing invade the car.
>Lorry, unable to contain himself, falls onto your shoulder, a light snore coming from him.
>Blinking, you find him a bit too warm to shove off, and soon find yourself leaning into him.
>You always got really sleepy when smoking or drinking, no matter what.
>There comes a sound, however, that forces you to open an eye.
>You immediately wish you hadn’t.
>Tree Hugger’s form is easy enough to see through all the smoke, herself leaned over enough to do… something to Flash.
>The sloppy sounds are enough to give you an ample mental image, though.
“...You guys are fuckin’ wild, yo’.”
>...
>......
>No, wait, you can’t fall asleep.
>Not yet.
>The small rumble from your pocket isn’t enough to make you open an eye, but it’s enough to make you grumble and pull the thing out.
>Cursing, you begrudgingly open an eye, trying not to wake Lorry up.
>Things probably about to die, the piece of sh—
>Oh, a message.
>Wait, no, there’s four messages.
>Three from Twilight, and one from a random number.
>The fuck is this shit?
>Shrugging, you go to the unknown one first, a small feeling of fear building up in you.
>You’re not sure why, but random numbers always scare the shit out of you.
>Maybe it’s a fear of the unknown?
>Or maybe you were beat in the head with a telephone as a child, and that has manifested itself into some irrational fear of random numbers?
>Who knows, you sure as hell don’t.
>Opening it up, you squint a little bit to see the letters, the hotbox still working wonders.
>”Hey, it’s Sunset, is everything alright?”
>Again: the fuck is this shit?
>Thought you changed your number after that day.
>Nestling yourself a little more into the warm pillow that is Lorry, you begin to type out a response, though you have to retype every word about two to six times, depending on how well your brain is functioning at that particular moment.
“Yeah, just hotboxing, why?”
>Sure, not the best thing to tell someone that you’ve not talked to in nearly a year, but you remember that she’s not a snitch.
>Her message was sent, what, about fifteen minutes ago?
>You decide to check out Twilight’s messages.
>A wet ‘pop’ and a giggle from the front of the car interrupts you before anything else can happen.
>”You’re usually supposed to ask before you start recording, Non.”
>Tree Hugger looks up to you, a small trail of saliva trailing down from her mouth…
“Just textin’ a friend, don’t worry about me.”
>She licks her lips clean before going back at it, looking you in the eyes as she makes contact.
>Clicking your tongue, you take a moment to nod at the sight.
“...Noice.”
>You return your attention to your phone, and, more importantly, Twilight’s messages.
>All three of them, oh boy.
>”Hey, Anonymous, I’m really sorry about what happened today at the hospital. We were just next to Vinyl, next thing we know Grizzly’s talking to you… We had no idea that he was going to do that, and I understand if you’re mad at me.”
>There’s about a twenty minute gap between the first two, the original having been sent about an hour ago.
>”I really hope this doesn’t put a strain on our friendship, Anonymous, I know I messed up real bad, letting him come and not seeing that this would happen. I’m so sorry, Anonymous, can you forgive me? Nothing like this will happen ever again, I promise, I’ll be a better friend, just give me one more chance!”
>...Ouch.
>You grimace grows as you let out a subconscious, “Oh shit,” before reading the last message.
>”Please, Anonymous… I’m sorry if I never showed it, but I really care about you. I don’t care about Singsong, I don’t care if they say you let him die, I know you’re a good person and that you would never do something like that! Please, Anon, tell me you don’t hate me.”
>Groaning, you try and shift a little bit more into Lorry, finding his warmth much more comforting than anything coming from your phone.
“Fuck me, dude.”
>”Later.”
>Traces of a grin come onto your face as you shoot Tree Hugger a look, but you’re brought back to the situation all too soon by the buzz of your phone.
>Seems Sunset replied.
>”Twilight’s really upset right now, just got off the phone with her. She was crying, talking about how she messed up or something with you? Just wanted to make sure that everything’s ok on your end. I know how over-reactive Twilly can be from experience.”
>A small groan leaves your mouth as you put the phone down for a moment, trying to think about how to go about this.
>You muse the idea of ignoring your phone and passing out, but the caring part of you is typing away before your hedonist side can even comprehend that the phone’s back in your hand.
“Just read her texts, dunno what the fuck happened. Didn’t even leave her on ‘read’. Was busy. Also, how’d you get my number?”
>Fucking wonderful, this whole situation.
>Should’ve just ignored your phone at this rate.
>Returning to Twilight’s messages, you curse again before typing away.
“You doing alright, Twilight? Sorry, was busy getting stuck in with the lads.”
>Not your most eloquent work, but you decide to let it slide.
>*Bzzt*
>Sunset.
>”Good to see you too. More or less managed to bum it off of Twilly, but that’s not important. What’s important is that we calm Twilight down, haven’t seen her act this bad since the Midnight Sparkle incident.”
>Midnight Sparkle?
>Maybe Twilight has a sister? You’ll have to ask her about that.
“Working on it as we speak, bacon headass.”
>...Shit.
>You accidentally just called her by one of the nicknames you gave her way back when.
>”Good to hear, dumbass. Lemme know how it goes.”
>Heh, least she hasn’t forgotten your nickname.
>What you wouldn’t give to be back in those days where everyone had a nickname that related back to “ass”.
>There was little jackass for Dash, smartass for Singsong, fatass for Grizzly, and dumbass for you, among an uncountable amount of others.
>Good times.
>A message from Twilight pulls you back into the present.
>”Heh heh heh, I’m doing fine, just fine, not stressed at all…”
>Great.
“Again, sorry about that, was busy. I’m not mad at you and nothing has changed between us, trust me on that one. As it turns out, I’m  high. Can we talk about this later? People are banging right in front of me, someone’s passed out on my shoulder, and I can barely stay awake.”
>A moment of silence.
>Twilight is typing…
>Twilight.
>Twilight is typing...
>”You promise nothing’s going to change, Anon?”
“Swear on my life, kiddo.”
>A moment of silence passes, though the message remains as ‘read’ for quite some time.
>”Thanks, Anon, and sorry for being such a dork about all this. Good night! \(^o^)”
>You’re halfway asleep by the time you finish reading that message, but then you remember that another sophomore is expecting results.
>Grumbling, you type the message hastily before turning your notifications off.
“Hey, cheered her back up, I’m gonna’ pass out now, k bye.”
>Resting back into Lorry, you—
>*Bzzt*
>Mother fucker!
>Opening the damned thing up, you notice that you messed up and turned wifi on instead of turning all notifications off.
>”She’s sounding way better. Thanks, Anon. We’ve got to talk about what Grizz said though, you free tomorrow at lunch?”
>Fuck, you really want to be an asshole and leave her on read at this point, but, again, your moral compass just loves to be a dick munch.
“Maybe, I dunno, Trix wants me to sit with her and Sonata again. Alright, I’m passing out, c’ya.”
>You decide that you’re too lazy to turn off notifications, instead just turning the whole damn thing off instead.
>It’s then when you notice that the car is moving.
>You’d guess that it’s going a solid thirty, but that’s not important.
“Fuck’re we going?”
>Flash adjusts the rearview mirror, looking at you with red eyes and a small smile, the car’s interior being aired out as flashes of light from streetlights temporarily blind you.
>”Munchies, bro, munchies.”
>...
>......
>You are Pinkie Pie.
“Findin’ everything delish, you three?”
>They’re all a bit busy eating their food, so you entertain yourself by zipping around them a few times on your roller skates.
>Dash is the first to respond, being the fast eater that she is.
>”Ten outta’ ten.”
>Applejack then gives out a quick nod, her cheeks filled like a squirrel’s.
>Grizzly, being the most thorough, gives a thumbs up before going back to his meal, not even halfway done with it all.
>It’s not too common that your friends come to visit you during work, but that makes it all the more special.
>Being a waitress at the local diner, of which stays open until midnight, has only a few perks, but these moments are easily the best.
>Rainbow Dash and Applejack love coming here on Tuesday nights, though you’re not quite sure, and they even brought Grizzly!
>Well, more like Dash brought him along, as you’ve noticed that Applejack has been unusually quiet, but you don’t pay her any mind.
>Probably too busy stuffing her mouth to make chit chat!
>A distant, yet smooth, rumble breaks you from your thoughts.
>You already know that a cars pulled into the parking lot, some ways off to your left.
“Be right backy, holler if you need me!”
>”Will do, Pinkie.”
>You give a slight wave to Dash before turning on a dime and zipping towards the parked car.
>Oooo boy, is that a Cadillac?
>Wait, something about it feels… familiar.
>As you near the driver’s window, however, it all clicks as the window opens up.
“Flashy!”
>Aaaand then it hits you.
“Ooooph, stinky…”
>You immediately recognize the smell, having been around way too many parties not to remember it by heart at this point, but you manage to put on a small smile anyways.
>As long as people aren’t doing it right in front of you or offering you any, then you’ve no real problem with the stuff.
>”Heheheh, ayyyy, Pinkie! Long time no see, eh?”
>Flash’s eyes are slightly red as he leans back in his seat, shooting you a small wave that takes him visible effort to complete.
>Bouncing up a little and returning the wave with as much enthusiasm as you can give, you glance over to the person riding shotgun.
“Hey’o, Huggy! What can I do ya’ for?”
>The two discuss this for a moment, before deciding on… Five orders of onion rings and six corn dogs.
>Oh, and can’t forget the four milkshakes!
“And’ll that be all for ya’?”
>You wait for a moment, clicking your pen closed and giving the two a friendly smile, but then there comes something that catches you completely from left field.
>A voice from the back of the Cadillac, but it’s not just that which makes your eyes go wide.
>It’sthe fact that you can instantly recall who the voice belongs to.
>”I’ll have two number nines… a number nine large… a number six with extra dip…”
>The voice erupts into mad giggles after that, though you can’t help but lean in towards the window and take a peek at the senior behind Huggy.
“Nonny?!”
>There comes a small grunt before he speaks again.
>”Who ‘dat?”
>Flash reaches back and pats Anonymous on the thigh, making the man jump and bash the top of his head against the car’s roof.
>”Ay, what’chu want, bro? We’re here.”
>Anonymous, with eyes distant and slightly red, shoves Flash’s seat with a rare look of anger overtaking him.
>As soon as it appeared, however, it dissipates into a look of utter confusion as he squints your way.
>”Uh, where’d we go again?”
>”The diner, bro.”
>”Oh yeah, right…”
>It takes Nonny several seconds of squinting before a wave of recognition overtakes his eyes, the senior excitedly smacking the back of Huggy’s seat as he leans further in.
>”Dude, dude, dude, it’s chuckle nuts!”
>A small giggle erupts from your mouth as soon as you hear the old nickname, a great many memories coming back of all his silly names that he would give to you, sometimes upwards of three a day.
>Nonny begins to stare at you, a euphoric look overtaking him.
>Besides earlier today at the cafeteria, this is the happiest you’ve seen him in, like, forever!
>Flash, however, looks at him with a deadpan look.
>”That’s Pinkie, bro.”
>”Exactly, it’s chuckle nuts!”
>Nonny leans as much as he can in towards you, even shrugging off somebody that was sleeping on his shoulder.
>”Holy hell, it’s been ages, chuckle nuts, how ya’ been?”
>He doesn’t wait for a response, a connection now made as he looks up and down your uniform.
>This gets a small blush from you.
>”You workin’ here, nutty? Holy shit, how’d you manage that?”
>An amazed laugh leaves his mouth, his eyes wide and starry as he looks up at you.
>You do a little twirl on your skates before returning his smile.
“Well, I know a guy who knows a guy, who also turns out to know a guy, and that guy knows a guy’s cousin…!”
>Nonny blinks slowly before nodding his head rapidly, the same fascinated look on his face all the while.
>”Damn, that’s fuckin’ rad, nut—”
>”Bro, I’m hungry, hurry da fuck up!”
>Nonny slaps the back of Flash’s headrest.
>The two have a staring contest a moment later, getting right up in each other’s faces…
>It’s abruptly broken when the two burst out in laughter, Anon ruffling Flash’s hair afterwards before putting his attention back onto you.
>”Alright, uh, I’ll have… fuck, I dunno’.”
>He glances at the large menu in front of the parking space, squinting hard and focusing, though eventually settles for a shrug before looking back at you.
>”I trust ya’, Ponk, pick for me!”
>...Nonny trusts you?
>Blinking, you take a moment to realize what’s just happened.
>Nonny just had a conversation with you.
>Nonny’s enjoying a talk with you!
>NONNY WANTS TO BE YOUR FRIEND AGAIN!
>Unable to contain yourself, you jump into the air and zoom off back towards the kitchen, the sound of your happy cheer echoing throughout the night.
>...
>......
>Well, ain’t this a right and proper crapshoot?
>You are Applejack, and you’re more or less pissed.
>”And then you wanna’ know what he did?”
>Dash, as per usual, continues to talk with no end in sight, determined to keep your and Grizz’s attention throughout the whole tale.
>Well, in all honesty, she hasn’t really cared about caring your attention at all tonight.
>All she’s cared about is talking with Grizzly about how much dirt they can dig up on that Anon fella.
>While you never really talked with the guy, him being a senior and all, there’s something inside you that starts flashing you red flags every time that he starts talking about Anon.
>Sometimes it starts acting up when Dash talks too, which is more than a bit worrying.
>”Did he deny it?”
>”Heh, nope, just stared at me for a moment before laughing. Then he said something like, ‘Either die a hero or live long enough to become a villain.’”
>Not really excited to feign interest any longer than you already have, you rest your cheek on a fist.
>Conversation’s about as interesting as Shakespeare.
>Your eyes drift off to the side, settling on a brick wall and some shrubs.
>Hey, at least it’s a better sight than that ‘thing’ sitting at your table.
>...Okay, maybe you need to calm down.
>Distraction time.
>Maybe somebody texted you?
>You whip out the old brick of a phone and open it up, eager to not lose your temper quite yet.
>Normally you’d ignore the thing soon as you stepped out with friends, always having found it rude when someone was finding their phone more interesting than their company, but this isn’t exactly normal.
>Hasn’t been ever since Dash invited Grizzly last minute to your usual hangout.
>It wasn’t even that which really annoyed you, it’s the fact that she didn’t even ask if you were alright with him tagging along.
>When you open the phone and look for any red notifications, however, you’re actually surprised to see some.
>Two, to be specific, and both from Sunset.
>Shrugging, you tap the first.
>”Hey, Applejack, I’m in a bit of a pickle here. Kind of wondering how to break it to Anon that, you know, magic exists and all that stuff.”
>You tilt your head sideways, but read the second message regardless.
>”Like, you’re the most reasonable and honest people know, any advice?”
>A long whistle escapes your mouth as you give your hat a light flick.
>Now that’s a tall order…
>”What’s wrong? Getting nudes or something?”
>Looking up from the device, you don’t try to hide your slowly-growing grimace.
“Think yer funny or somethin?”
>Grizzly purses his lips for a moment before deciding on a shrug.
>”I was joking, chill.”
>A moment of silence passes by the table, though you make sure to shoot Dash a look.
>You always wait all week for Tuesday, the night where you get to hit the town with your best friend and forget about everything wrong in the world, and then comes Grizzly.
>’Hurr durr, sex joke, tiddy joke, Anon’s gay, hyuck hyuck hyuck, give attention pls Dash.’
>A small chuckle from your best friend grabs your attention before you’re able to lash out at the senior.
>”So you’re not going to believe what egghead told us…”
>You love her like a sister…
>But the woman can be dumber than a bag of Goddamned rocks sometimes.
>Looking back at your phone and calming yourself down for a solid minute, you momentarily ponder Sunset’s problem before replying.
“Hey there Sunny. How about trying to ease him into it? I’m not sure about you, but I like being brought up to speed slowly instead of having it shoved down my throat at once.”
>Almost as soon as you send the message, however, it’s marked as read.
>...Huh, didn’t know Sunny values your wisdom that much.
>A small smile graces your lips when you think back to her compliments, as it’s far from common when someone tosses a kind word or two your wa—
>”Hey, AJ, wanna go catch the midnight showing on the new war flick on Friday?”
>Eh?
>Looking up again from your device, you blink at the young athlete before remembering what in tarnation she’s talking about.
“There’s no war, Dash, just a few riots by some religious crazies.”
>”Have you even watched the news?”
>You don’t care to look at Grizzly, instead you just send a few dismissive flicks of the wrist his way.
“I’ve heard enough to know that there’s no darn war startin’ up, would’a heard more ‘bout it then, would’a heard a lot more.”
>”Stuff’s pretty brutal up there in Jåskela, AJ,” Dash says, chucking her empty drink off into the trash, “riots every day, people are constantly getting sent to the hospital, and I hear that the government’s startin’ to remilitarize.”
>”Trust me, Dashy, they’ve started on that, but they’re really quiet about it.”
>”No way, you’re lying!”
>You listen for a moment longer before you realize that the two are having their own private conversation yet again, yourself becoming a sort of third wheel for the two.
>Whoopee.
>*Bzzt*
>Looking back at your phone, you smile.
>At least you’ve got one person who wants to talk to you.
>”Oh yeah, imagine how that’ll go. ‘Hey, Anon, I know we haven’t talked in forever, but apparently there’s magic and we need your help finding out where you got that stuff from, because Twilly is getting some really bad readings off of it.’”
>Well, now that you think about it…
>How do you explain that without overwhelming the poor fella?
“Uh, shoot… Maybe there isn’t a way to slowly tell him about it all. Say, Twilight is pretty close to him, yeah?”
>Sunset is typing…
>Sunset.
>Sunset is typing…
>”Not ‘pretty close’, but she’s still closer to him than anyone else. Why?”
“I want you to have her with you to help explain it all, it’ll help coax him down if he gets antsy, or if he doesn’t believe you. Besides, it would be awkward if you just randomly started explaining all of this out of the blue all by your lonesome.”
>Another moment of hesitation, and then…
>”Yeah, that’s a pretty good idea! Thanks, Applejack. I’ll still be thinking about it all tomorrow, though, but thank you so much. Ttyl?”
“No problem. See you around, partner.”
>Closing the thing and setting it back in its usual pocket, you rub your eyes before slowly making to stand.
“Aihm calling it a night, c’ya, Dash.”
>Just as you finish throwing away your trash, however, there comes her voice.
>”So you comin’ Friday?”
>Huh?
“Yeah, sure, I guess.”
>”Sweet, c’ya!”
>Finding your way to the family truck, you begin to rev up the engine, though a very questioning sight welcomes you when you look up from the keys.
>Namely the Cadillac that you instantly recognize as Flash’s, but it’s not that which makes your eyes go wide.
>It’s the rather sizable beverage that soars through the air at a blinding speed, the thing almost seeming more like a blur than an actual object.
>It cuts through the air like a bullet, only slowing down when it violently collides with the back of Grizzly’s head, a dark cola erupting from it and drenching him in the bone.
>Grizzly’s curse is easily muffled by the Cadillac’s engine roaring to life, which only gives way to the screeching of burnt rubber as the thing peels out of the parking lot in a flash.
>There comes something above all the chaos, though, and it’s a something that’s loud and clear above all else…
>”HA, STUPID CUNT!”
>And that something is unmistakably Anon’s voice.
>...
>......
>You are Sunset Shimmer.
>”He should be here by now…”
>And you are, let’s just say… quite stressed.
“Maybe he went to go eat lunch with Trixie and Sonata again?”
>A slight grimace appears on Twilly’s face, but only for a moment.
>”Should we go check again?”
>D’awww, there she goes again, rubbing her arm and looking at the ground.
>Sucks that she never worries this much about you, though.
>Like, really, really sucks.
“Let’s give him five more minutes, then we’ll check. If he’s not here by then, then he’s not probably not coming to school.”
>”O-oh, okay…”
>Oh boy, she looks like she wants to head out and scout for Anon like some type of bloodhound.
>A very nervous and adorkable bloodhound.
>”You know… I really wish he didn’t smoke… and all that stuff.”
>Shaking away your random thoughts, you lean back into the bean bag, of which Anon usually sits during lunch.
“Yeah, I get’cha, really not the most attractive trait a guy can have.”
>Twilly takes a moment to think about this before leaning back in her bag as well.
>”I mean, yeah, I get it, he went through some bad stuff with Dash and Singsong, but was there really no other option?”
>She doesn’t wait for a response, continuing on with a quick twirl of the hands.
>”Like, didn’t he know that he had friends who really cared about him? From what I heard, he was pretty much good friends with everyone on campus, even you two were pretty close!”
>Scooting a bit towards her, you hesitate a moment before wrapping an arm around her shoulder.
“He was hit really hard by Singsong’s death. Kind’a lost all his friends, Twilly, he didn’t have anyone to turn to.”
>The somewhat biting look she sends your way is enough to make you flinch.
>”So you all just abandoned him because Grizzly said that Anon did something, despite there being no evidence?!”
>Retracting your arm, you put up two placating hands before speaking in a soothing voice.
“We didn’t abandon him, Twilly, we tried to help him… Or, well, I tried. Don’t know about the others.”
>You shrug, honestly uncertain about how others reacted to Anon’s situation way back when.
“He just stopped talking to everyone after that, didn’t come to any of the soccer or football games, didn’t come to any parties that didn’t have stuff on the side…”
>You shrug, somewhat hurt by the distant memories of that hollow look in his eyes.
“Whenever I tried talking to him, or offered to talk about it if he would like a friend to talk to, he would just … stare at me for a moment before scoffing and walking off.”
>Oh man, now this is getting depressing.
>Abort talk, abort!
>Making to stand, you offer Twilly a hand, of which she accepts after a moment’s thought.
“C’mon, let’s go check the cafeteria.”
>Twilly gives a short nod, now finding the confidence to look into your eyes and give a small smile.
>”O-okay…”
>...
>......
>Man, are you tired.
>Sure, you got a solid eleven hours of sleep, but your brain is still exhausted for some unknown reason.
>Man, your brain is a real piece of shit sometimes.
>You are Anon, and you are annoyed at your brain.
>Despite being tired as fuck, though, your legs can still work on autopilot and carry you to the cafeteria without issue.
>Still rubbing the sleep out of your eyes, you hold the door open for your two compatriots before entering behind them.
>All three of you already ate, having had some of Tree Hugger’s homemade omelets, but you all decided to show up at lunch anyway.
>The two both had tests to take during the last two hours, so that’s their excuse for coming to school while it’s already halfway over.
>Your excuse, however, is much more retarded.
>You came to chill with the two blue sophomores, as you’d never be able to forgive yourself if you left Trixie hanging.
>The three of you part ways, the two going off to their usual spot while you head off towards the two blue sophomores, of which are facing the opposite direction.
>Tousling Sonata’s hair, of which gets her to squeak and jump slightly, you take a seat opposite of the two with a yawn.
“Sup, shitlords.”
>The two immediately adopt smiles when their eyes land on you, Sonata’s pout instantly forgotten as she redoes her hair, though it’s soon replaced with a confused look.
>”Ah, Anonymous! We were just wondering where you’d run off to this time..”
>”Uh, Moony, is shitlord a good thing…?”
>Trixie blinks at that, still not used to her new nickname.
>People tend to forget her surname, oddly enough.
>”One would assume it’s an insult, but Anonymous always speaks in jest... mostly. So worry not, loyal sidekick, all is well.”
>Your eyes flicker between the two.
“Sidekick?”
>Trixie smiles at this, pulling Sonata closer and gesturing eagerly.
>”Of course, dear Anonymous! Every great magician needs an equally magnificent understudy—”
>Her look of pure confidence and joy is broken as she has some sort of epiphany, her eyes going wide.
>”Wait, has Trixie not told you of her magic show?”
>”Like, I don’t think you have, Moony.”
>”Impossible! The Great and Powerful Trixie cannot make mistakes!”
>”Didn’t you miss, like, five questions on your math test the other day?”
>”Out of thirty, those were completely acceptable losses.”
>”Still mistakes, though.”
>”You, dear sidekick, are a mistake.”
>”Are not.”
>”Are too.”
>”Are not!”
>Heh, it's kind of adorable, honestly.
>Kind'a reminds you of when you'd mess around with Em Dash, back before mom took him and moved up north.
>Just before you’re able to find a comfortable position, though, there comes a heavy shove to your shoulder.
>The scratchy and angry voice that ensues wakes you up faster than any coffee ever could.
>”What in the hell was with you last night, Anon!?”
>Another shove comes to your shoulder, though it fails to move you any as you glance up to meet her eyes.
>”You just don’t go around doing that stuff, Anon. You just… don’t.”
>Dash’s eyes look down at you with barely contained anger and disgust, her arms now folded as a small silence breaks out between you two.
>You knew this was going to happen, but the falling sensation in your stomach was inevitable.
>Sucking it up, you put on a small grin before sitting up straight.
“Don’t know what you’re talking about.”
>”Oh, sure, guess Flash just threw it then?”
>You think about of for a moment, honestly wondering if you should take the blame, but you eventually decide on a small shrug.
>She chews on her lip for a moment, the grimace never leaving her as she glares daggers at you.
>”Ya know what, Anon?”
>Your brow slowly rises, but you decide to remain silent as she raises a finger to point at you.
>”This is why nobody fuc—”
>”Hey’o, Dashy!”
>Eyes going wide, Dash stops her tirade just long enough to look at the newcomer.
>”Not now, Pinkie.”
>Said ball of smiles and euphoria doesn’t seem to acknowledge this, however, and goes on to give out a few enthusiastic waves.
>”Hey’o, Trixie, Sonny, Nonny!”
>Oh yeah, you’re sitting with people, huh?
>Wait, then why’s she only looking at you…?
>Oh, they’ve moved to your side.
>They stand with arms crossed and glare as if Dash was preparing to have a go at you.
>Trixie’s eyes don’t deviate from Dash, but Sonata completely breaks her act and gives out an equally joyful wave, her joy nearly matching Pinkie’s
>”Like, hi’o, Pinkie, what’s up?”
>”Oh, ya’ know, the usual: not prepared for Cranky’s test tomorrow, haven’t started on my history paper, and I probably—”
>Snapping her fingers with a huff, Dash makes her presence known.
>”Pinkie, we were talking, ya’ mind?”
>Trixie takes a step forward, now almost between you and Dash.
>”Trixie thinks your little tirade is over, Rainbow Dash, and Trixie would recommend that you vacate her company before you do anything that you will regret.”
>Dash just scoffs at her.
>”Nobody was talking to you, Trixie.”
>Pinkie then realizes just what type of verbal skirmish she had wandered into, a rare look of panic overtaking her for a moment.
>”H-hey, let’s just calm down, everyone!”
>Sonata takes a moment to look between you four before scratching her head.
>”Wait, we’re not calm? I just kind’a followed Trixie over here…”
>Pinkie gives off a nervous giggle, grabbing Dash gently, yet firmly, by the forearm before taking a step backwards.
>She gives Dash a quick tug, to which Dash eventually relents to before following.
>”I’ll talk to you all later, sorry!”
>And so Pinkie walks off with Dash in hand.
>Well, it’s more like Pinkie drags Dash off, but close enough.
>The two immediately begin to argue as soon as they think they’re out of earshot.
>A rare moment of silence passes between you three, one which you’re quite grateful for.
>Sonata, however, just looks to you two with wide eyes.
>”Uh, what just happened?”
>You and Trixie shrug in unison.
“I’ve said it time and time again,” you say while gesturing to the two open seats opposite of you, “but people are contentious little shits, that’s one universal constant you can always count on.”
>The two gladly retake their seats, but you can see Sonata whispering something to Trixie with a shrug.
>”It means ‘likely to cause fights,’ dear sidekick.”
>”Ooooh, alright.”
>Sonata  looks at you for a moment before blinking.
>”What’s a universal constant?”
>Clapping your hands together and giving them a fierce rub, you lean into your seat, all too eager to forget about the former friend.
“Alright, I’m about to drop some knowledge on yo’ sophomore ass, so listen up…”
>...
>......
>You are Twilight.
>”Alright, I’m about to drop some knowledge on yo’ sophomore ass, so listen up…”
>And you’re currently standing behind Anonymous, his voice all but dripping with enthusiasm.
>Wish he was that interested whenever he talked to you.
>”Uh, Anon?”
>Blinking, you look left to see Sunset, of whom has just made your presence known to Anon.
>He completely freezes, the silence of the table only broken when he slowly twists his head to get a good look at both of you.
>A small smile forms on his face after a moment, though has to stifle a yawn before continuing.
>”Hey, what’s up?”
“N-not much…”
>Sunset gives out a small chuckle at your stammering, but she’s soon turns after you shoot her a sideways look.
>She quickly gathers herself before putting on a smile and looking to Trixie and Sonata.
>”Hey, mind if we borrow Anon real quick?”
>Sonata shakes her head before giving Anon a quick wave goodbye.
>”Nah, have fun!”
>Trixie, however, puts on a small pout.
>She quickly relents, however, when she realizes that three sets of eyes are staring at her.
>”Trixie will await your return, Anonymous.”
>Said senior, raises an eyebrow, a slightly confused look on his face.
>”And I don’t get a say in this?”
>”Nope!”
>Sunset shakes Anon by the shoulder, though this only gets a small sigh from him.
>”Since when did I become popular?”
>”Heh, you wish, dumbass.”
“Sunset!”
>The two shoot you curious looks, though you only now realize that you’ve placed a hand over Sunset’s mouth.
“S-sorry, Anon!”
>You shoot Sunset another look, but she still looks more confused than anything, as does Anon…
>”Uh, Twilight?”
“Y-yes…? Heheheh…”
>Anon takes a moment to stretch, himself now fully standing, before pointing lazy thumb at Sunset.
>”It’s just a nickname from way back when.”
>N-nani?
>Oh Lord, is it hot in here, or is it just you?
>Removing your hand from Sunset’s mouth, you slowly begin to rub at your arm before looking at the tiles below.
>The two share a chuckle at that, but Sunset leads you three off before you can make yourself seem more stupid than you already have.
>Anon looks over to you, a smirk on his face that you desperately try to match.
>”Ya’ think I’m that thin skinned, Sprinkles? I’m hurt.”
>S-Sprinkles?
“N-nani?!”
>The two come to a sudden halt, both turning fully and looking at you with surprised and worried faces.
>They share a quick glance before turning their attention back onto you.
>”You alright, Twilly?” Sunset asks with a slight tilt of the head.
>Giving out a nervous laugh, you begin to twiddle your thumbs while looking off to the side.
“Dandy! Why, what’s wrong, old buddy old pal? Heheheh...”
>If there is a God, and if he is merciful, then he will strike you down and save you from embarrassing yourself further.
>Neither of them looked at all convinced by your words, however, though your breath catches when you see Anon slowly raise a hand to your face.
>Gingerly does the back of his hand graze against your forehead, the senior’s lips pursing up as he gives his head a light shake.
>You catch his eyes and offer a nervous smile, but it quickly falls under his scrutinizing look.
>”Hot, hot,” he mutters to nobody in particular before removing his hand, giving the thing a light shake after he’s done.
>”You’re boiling up, Sprinkles, ya’ sure you’re fine?”
>Did Anon just call you hot?!
>A-and he just touched you!
>Your breath catches as you realize that you’ve read about situations like these a thousand times over.
>The only thing that can happen next is hot, sweaty assr—
>”Uh, Twilly?”
“S-sorry!”
>Giving a quick bow, you—
>Wait, did you just bow?
>And it wasn’t just a quick one, no, it was a DEEP one.
>Oh God, oh God, alright, Twilight, breathe in… breathe out...
>Looking up, you can see Anon and Sunset give each other confused looks before shrugging in tandem.
>”Ooookay then, Twilly…”
>Sunset then gestures towards the empty table before you three, herself taking a seat only a moment after.
>She pats the seat next to her while looking at you, a small smile on her face.
>You’re not sure if she’s trying to contain a fit of laughter at your outburst or not, but you don’t have to worry about Anon hiding his amusement, as you can hear his chuckle as he takes a seat opposite of Sunset.
>”Did you just speak weeb back there, Sprinkles?”
>Your cheeks still feel like someone put a thousand degree knife to them, and you can’t really think of a proper response as you take your seat.
>Sunset, thankfully enough, moves quickly and speaks in your place.
>”Oh, trust me, Anon, you don’t wanna’ know about it.”
>Wait, what?
>”Lemme’ guess, she actually speaks fluent ching bing or some shit?”
>Et tu, Sunset?
>Pulling out a microfiber cloth and beginning to clean your glasses, you give a small huff before speaking.
“I may or may not have taken several online classes…”
>Anon, upon hearing this, cups his face into his hands as Sunset gives out a light giggle.
“So, moving on!”
>You begin to tap Sunset’s side furiously, eliciting a small giggle from her before she shrugs off your assault.
>”Oh yeah, huh? Guess we’ve got some stuff to talk about.”
>Removing his hands, Anon purses his lips before sitting up straight.
>”Well ain’t those some ominous words?”
>He doesn’t give you two time to reply, merely taking a moment to crack his neck before continuing.
>”I presume this has somethin’ to do with Grizzly going off the deep end?”
>Sunset, taking charge just as she said she would, nods and leans forward.
>”I guess you could say that…”
>She offers a look to you, giving off a small nod after a moment’s hesitation.
>”But, first, we’ve got to ask you a question.”
>The senior takes a moment to think about this, himself adopting a professional look that would rival that of Celestia when she needs to lay down the law.
>Deathly serious, yet approachable and open to suggestion.
>”Shoot.”
>...
>......
>You are Anonymous.
>”How much do you trust us?”
>And you’re more than a bit skeptical.
>You were expecting them to immediately talk about Grizzly's apparent insanity, but they’ve instead switched the subject matter to you.
>And their question isn’t exactly an easy one to answer.
>Glancing between the two for a moment longer, you ponder the question for a moment before raising a brow.
“Kind of a strange question to ask, but I’m an honest man...”
>You give them a light shrug.
“But I trust ya’ both, you’re good people.”
>Smiling, Sunset folds her hands together.
>A flash of doubt enters her face as she tries to find the right words, however...
>Maybe some incentive to find them will help?
“Why?”
>Slowly taking in a breath of air, Sunset stares down at her hands, eyes focused on avoiding yours.
>”Did you ever hear about what happened at the last Fall Formal?”
>Blinking, you shake your head.
“Somebody spike the punch?”
>A small chuckle leaves her mouth, which only serves to accentuate the growing sense of unease you’re now nursing.
>”What about the Friendship Games?”
“...They were pretty fun, way back when, but I haven’t gone to them the past few years, sorry.”
>A bit of confusion passes her face.
>”Midnight Sparkle?”
>Twilight’s eyes go a bit wide at that, but you can’t fathom why.
“Never heard of her.”
>Sunset glances left and right before letting her eyes settle on you, another small sigh leaving her mouth.
>”Promise you won’t think we’re crazy?”
>You look into her eyes, searching for anything that would lead you astray.
>Much to your relief, you can only see nervousness and hope in those eyes.
“Promise.”
>Nodding, Sunset takes in one last breath before glancing at Twilight.
>She nods.
>You suppose that Sunset’s smile should be more warming than it is ominous, but you can’t help that small shiver that runs down your spine.
>”Well, I’m going to be honest with you, Anon. Grizzly wasn’t lying, and he hasn’t gone crazy.”
>...
>Blinking, you look to Twilight with a raised eyebrow and the beginnings of a smile on your face.
>”It’s the truth, Anon.”
>Chuckling, you look around to see where the cameraman is.
>It’s probably Pinkie, now that you think about it.
>When you glance over at Twilight’s usual table, however, you’re surprised to see all of them return your stare, just as curious as you are.
>None of them have a phone pointed at you, though, which is weird.
>Maybe it’s one of those smaller cameras, like the little ones that look like a ball?
>Glancing around the cafeteria a little longer for anything off, you eventually turn back to the two.
“So, when’s Franku gonna’ pop out?”
>Sunset frowns a bit at that, but doesn’t show her displeasure beyond that quick slip up.
>”We’re not crazy, Anon.”
>Nodding, you give her a small grin.
“Never said you were, but you are hell’a dedicated to this prank.”
>Rubbing your eyes, you yawn into an elbow before continuing.
“Got me all nervous and shit, thinkin’ it was gonna’ be somethin’ bad.”
>Silence greets you, as well as two dead ass stares that lack any sort of mirth.
>And so the silence continues to drag on for the better half of a minute.
>Twilight’s eyes remain firmly placed on her lap, though Sunset’s glance nervously between you and her friend.
>Man, this is getting awkward fast.
>You wouldn’t have thought the two would be this committed to a joke, but that YouTube money drives people to do some stupid shit.
>You glance at Twilight again, catching her eyes for just a fraction of a second before she looks down again.
>Some REALLY stupid shit.
“So, just to reiterate, you’re trying to convince me that magic exists?”
>Sunset gives off a weary, if not forced, smile.
>”It’s not that simple, Anon…”
>Your deadpan stare is the only response she gets.
>Twilight, perhaps seeing the situation of her friend, speaks out for the first time in a few minutes.
>You have to strain your ears and lean in slightly, but you can hear her nonetheless.
>”Maybe it would be easier to show him?”
>The two share a look before Sunset’s eyes widen, herself giving out a small laugh before slapping herself on the forehead.
>After giving her head a quick shake, however, she focuses her attention back onto you.
>You don’t flinch when she reaches out towards your hand, but you do look her in the eyes all the while.
>She must be the best damn actor you’ve met yet, as she’s serious like no other.
>”Just… trust me, Anon. Please…”
>...
>......
>You are Sunset Shimmer.
>And you’re currently wondering why you still haven’t gotten used to that tingling sensation whenever you used your magic.
>You’ve done this like, what, ten times now?
>Maybe you aren’t nearly as gifted as you once—
>A quiet snif breaks you from your thoughts.
>Trying to focus on the sight before your eyes, you can just make out the sight of…
>I-is that Singsong!?
>Sure, it’s a flashback and all, but it’s still surreal to see him after all this time.
>It’s like you can actually reach out and touch him…
>The old friend is illuminated just enough by some moonlight coming in through a nearby window, though you’re unable to catch much more detail about him before his slurred shout makes you flinch back.
>”You fucking liar!”
>There’s a bit of light reflected from something within Singsong’s hands.
>After squinting, you can now make out the outline of the rifle pointed down and towards…
>Oh God.
>”She’s like a sister to me, Singsong, just like you’re my fucking brother!”
>Anon keeps his hands firmly planted on the back of his head all the while, not once daring to move off of his stomach.
>”Just think about this—”
>A heavy kick to side silences him, though you can hear him wheezing from the sheer force of the blow.
>Singsong then kicks him again.
>And again.
>And again.
>And again.
>It’s only now when you realize a terrible flaw of your magic.
>You can’t pull out of the flashback.
>Anon is soon coughing and wheezing for air, the man now on his back as he clutches his sides.
>”She won’t shut the fuck up about someone, Anon!”
>The muzzle of the rifle is mere inches away from Anon’s face at this point, though you’re now able to see the blood leaking down from a gash just above Anon’s left eye.
>”Always textin’ someone, even when we’re on a fucking date, always calling me out on shit that I never told her about…”
>He then begins to slowly press the muzzle into Anon’s neck, his eyes narrowing all the while.
>”It’s all shit that happened when you were around, fucking rat!”
>Anon forces his eyes open, of which are pleading and hold tears of pain in their corners.
>”I wouldn’t do that, Singsong, you know me better than anyone else!”
>”All your fault!”
>Anon attempts to squirm away, though this only gets the muzzle forced into him even harder..
>”All your fault!”
>”Singsong, p—”
>”All your fault!”
>”PL—”
>”ALL YOUR FAULT!”
>”MOM!”
>...Silence.
>This is quickly broken by a loud sob, one that makes you shiver from the primal fear in it, but that’s not all.
>”Mom…”
>”Mommy…”
>It’s Anon’s voice, each word followed by a sniffle or a squeal as he crawls into a ball, arms now clasped around his head in terror.
>”Save...”
>”Save me…”
>”M-mommy… Save me…”
>There comes a deafening gunshot, and all is silent, save for the sobs and desperate cries that echo in your mind endlessly.
>...
>......
>”...Did she just die?”
>You are Twilight, and you’re not quite so sure yourself whether or not Anon is right…
>Shrugging, you poke Sunset in the shoulder once more.
“I dunno’, she usually does it instantaneously. Something like this hasn’t happened before.”
>Anon’s eyes flicker back to you, the little orbs slowly filling with worry.
>”Should I go grab Redheart?”
“No, no, she’ll be back shortly… Should be, at least.”
>Anon glances down at Sunset’s hand, of which is still attached onto Anon’s.
>”What do you mean, ‘Should be?’”
“Oh, uh… Bad wording?”
>Squinting at you, Anon slowly begins to withdraw his hand from Sunset’s grasp.
>Sunset’s gasp and opening of the eyes gets you both to recoil slightly, though you’re only just able to hold back a shriek.
>Placing a hand over your heart, you take a moment to look at Sun—
>”O-oh God, Anon… I’m so, so sorry…”
>Nani?
>Taking in a few deep breaths, her eyes now glued onto Anon with a deep sorrow within them, Sunset slowly stretches out her hand to try and place it on Anon’s yet again.
>The senior retracts his hand, giving her a skeptical look as he leans back somewhat in his seat.
>Sunset doesn’t seem at all deterred by this, though, and continues to look at Anon with silently pleading eyes.
>She moves to speak, but is forced to silence herself further as her words are caught in her throat.
>Her eyes dart off to the side as she takes a moment to compose herself…
>Are… are those tears?
>She gently wipes them away before continuing on.
>”How many people even know?”
>Both of you look at her with curious eyes.
>”Know what?”
>There’s a moment of silence, one in which you can clearly see the slow reddening of Sunset’s eyes.
>”What really happened that night.”
>Anon shoots you a skeptical glance, though he puts on a much less worried face as of Sunset’s words.
>You don’t have anything helpful to say, so you just shrug while looking down at your lap.
>Useless as always, Twilight.
>Anon’s voice is flat, though you can faintly sense a bit of nervousness.
>”What?”
>”Anon, how many people actually know what really happened with Singsong?”
>Your eyes flicker between the two as the realization hits you.
>Why would she choose that memory out of them all, though?
>...Wait, can she even chose which memories to invade?
>Anon shakes his head, eyes again flickering over towards your table of friends.
>The small bit of panic and anger within those eyes betrays the otherwise calm voice.
>”What’re you getting at here? If this is all some bullshit prank, then I suggest you call it off, Sunset.”
>You feel your heart stop for a bit of a moment, but just only.
>This is the same voice he used in the encounter with Grizzly way back when.
>It’s enough to make you question if this is truly the same man that was one of your first friends...
>That thought is quickly thrown out, however, and you mentally reprimand yourself for such foolish thoughts.
>If Sunset was at all intimidated, she didn’t show it.
>She takes a moment to steady her breathing before finally giving a slow nod to Anon.
>”I know what Singsong did, Anon.”
>This earns her a squint and a small grin, all devoid of mirth.
>”Bullshit.”
>”You wanna’ know how I know?”
>Anon’s vision settles onto Sunset, his knuckles tapping away at the wooden table.
>”Still calling bullshit, but I’ll humor you.”  
>There’s another brief pause between the two, each staring at the other with eyes focused, as if the entire world meant nothing besides what the other will say.
>Finally, however, Sunset speaks.
>”I tapped into your memories, Anon, that’s how.”
>Anon scoffs at this, taking a moment to shake his head and raise a brow at Sunset, of whom continues on.
>”And, well, let’s just say that Singsong was… a bit worried about Dash’s loyalty.”
>N-nani?
“What?”
>Anon looks at you, his face not changing from the confident one that you would more likely see on a politician than your friend.
>”A bit of a rumor from way back when, Twilight, people kept saying that Singsong thought Dash was cheating on him.”
>He then turns his attention back to Sunset.
>”I fail to see your point.”
>Sunset nods.
>”He was worried about Dash’s loyalty, and yours, Anon.”
>She doesn’t relent in Anon’s lack of response, instead pressing on.
>”Nobody ever expected him to be a violent drunk, much less to his best friend, and nobody ever expected him to ambush you in his room.”
>She doesn’t give Anon a chance to reply, though judging from the growing anger on his face, you doubt that it’d be a pleasant one.
>”And nobody expected him to think that it’s all your fault.”
*SLAM*
>Nearly jumping out of your skin, you notice that Anon’s now standing up, hands balled up in fists on the table.
>His eyes scream bloody murder as he looks down at you two, a look which nearly makes you burst into tears.
>The sheer anger and unmolested fear in those eyes makes you want to crawl into a ball; it’s something that you can’t quite put into words, it’s a feeling that makes you feel as if you’ve wronged him horribly and lost a friend.
>A deathly silence has taken the cafeteria by storm, and you can just tell from your peripherals that there’s a bone-chilling amount of eyes on your table.
>Anon, however, doesn’t care in the least as his vision focuses on Sunset.
>”I… you shouldn’t… none of your Goddamn…”
>His mouth hangs limp for a moment, a slow shake of disbelief coming over him as he leaves his seat, not another word coming out of him as he slowly makes his way towards one of the cafeteria’s many exists.
>You make to stand, though there comes a hand on your shoulder.
>”I… wouldn’t recommend it, Twilly, I think he just needs time.”
>Your eyes narrow a bit, your mind and heart racing all the while.
“You can’t be serious, Sunset.”
>Her hand doesn’t falter, nor does her sad look.
“We gotta’ go talk this out with him, make sure he’s alright, make sure he doesn’t—”
>”Twilly.”
>You take a moment to breathe in and look at her, your eyes still panicked and angry, though it’s mostly angry at the layer of mist now covering them.
>”Trust me, Twilly, it’ll be fine.”
>You take a moment to stare at her, your breathing calming as you slowly descend and retake your seat, her words being far more calming than they have any right to be.
>Sunset won't lead you astray yet, will she?
“Promise?”
>”Promise, Twilly.”
>...
>......
>”What do you think happened, Moony?”
>Honestly?
>You have no clue, but that doesn’t help your mind speculate about a great number of things.
>None of them based on fact or reason, however, so you’re forced to bite your tongue and shrug at Sonata.
“As Trixie has said, there’s no real way to know until we ask Anonymous.”
>As the two of you stand in front of Vinyl’s hospital door, though, neither of you can muster the courage to reach out and turn the blasted thing.
>”Nose goes!”
>What?
>Turning, you see that your loyal sidekick has placed her left pointer finger upon her nose…
>Oh please, not this again…
“That little game of yours is of no valid use when determining any logical outco—”
>”I won, you have to open the dooooor~”
>Now listen here you little...
“The Great and Powerful Trixie will not be opening any door, you uncultured swine.”
>Before you both can continue the battle of wits, however, there comes the interrupting sound of the door slowly opening.
>Slowly do you and Sonata turn to face the one opening the door, of which seems to be Anon.
>His face is oddly calm, no sign of cheer or merriment on it at all.
>Not even the usual half-grimace that he wears around the hallways…
>Quite unsettling, to say the least.
>His eyes glance between you two, though you can’t help but force out a confident smile.
“Greetings, Anonymous!”
>”Like, hi, Nonny! Thanks for opening the door, neither of us wanted to go in first, so we—”
>Anonymous’ voice comes out with a flat tone, like one of a slightly annoyed parent.
>”I heard you quite well through the door, now come, let’s not disturb anyone else here in the hallway.”
>He steps aside to offer you entrance into the room, of which you both graciously accept.
>When you take a look at the room, however, you pause…
>”Like, Anon… Where’s everyone else?”
>Slowly does he make his way to Vinyl’s bedside, his seat being that where Gooseberry usually sat.
>Picking up a thick book from beneath the chair, he opens up a page before plopping himself down.
>”Gooseberry still has to work, sadly, and can’t make it today. Everyone else fucking up and left, as you can see.”
>He takes a moment to inhale, his eyes closed while he steadies his breathing, before looking up to you two.
>”Thank you for coming, however, Vinny would love to know that you’re here.”
>He glances back at the comatose party demon, his eyes unreadable.
>”We just gotta’ be here for her when she wakes up, yeah? Can’t abandon her like this… Not like everyone else did.”
>For a moment, you consider telling him that people haven’t abandoned her.
>A moment later, however, you quickly toss that thought away and take a seat next to Anonymous one one of the many wooden chairs inside the room.
>Sonata takes her place next to you, and so silence reigns king in the room.
>Seems Anonymous is busying himself with that thick, if somewhat small, book on his lap.
>Glancing down at it, you raise an eyebrow.
“Trixie never knew you were religious, Anonymous.”
>Glancing up from his book, the still zenlike calm on his face, he gives you a small nod.
>”Neither did I, up until late.”
>He takes a moment to look pointedly at Vinyl.
>”Everything just got me thinking about, ya’ know, just how quickly any one of us could pass; just how unstable everything really is.”
>Anonymous gestures towards himself.
>”Like, take me for example. Say I take the wrong pill one of these days, and, just like that, dead.”
>He then goes on to close his book, eyes flickering between you two as he speaks.
>”If I get so wasted that I make one mistake going down the stairs, or if I sleep upright, much like Vinyl, boom, I’m dead.”
>Shaking his head, he scoffs and gestures openly to the room around you.
>”Hell, what if the integrity of this entire place just gives way and we all get crushed to death under thousands of pounds of concrete and rebar?”
>He lightly pats his book, nodding at you both.
>”It’s just good to have a little comfort in knowing that when I pass, that I might see one of you up there, ya’ know?”
>While you were never a religious person, as mom and dad never really pressured you into anything and you were never exposed to it as a child, you still respected his reasons.
>That mode of thinking does have its appealing points, that much you don’t deny, but you digress.
>Nodding, you turn back to stare at Vinyl.
>”Wonder when she’ll wake up.”
>You shrug.
“No way of knowing for sure, we’ll just have to wait.”
>Nodding, Anon opens up his book again and begins to read again in earnest.
>”Could wake up in five minutes, could be five years. We just gotta’ be patient.”
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wtHAKEZzrl8
>Blinking, you look up to Anonymous, not entirely caring if he continues to read his book instead of meeting your eyes.
“And would you wait that long for her to awaken, Anonymous?”
>His eyes stop on skimming from left to right, staring silently at one point for a moment…
>”Yes.”
>That…
>That gets you to smile.
>Vinyl is quite lucky to have such a devoted friend.
>Wonder if Anonymous would do the same if you got injured?
>”That’s, like, really nice of you, Nonny!”
>Nodding, you nudge Anonymous in the side with your shoulder.
“Indeed, oh mighty green one, Vinyl is quite fortunate to have such dedicated allies.”
>Anonymous gives out a scoff that’s torn between disbelief and disgust.
>”Nah, far from it, I’m the whole damn reason everything went to shit, as per usual.”
>Sonata, bless her heart, frowns at this.
>”Like, Nonny, you can’t be so hard on yourself. Aren’t you, like, the only reason she didn’t die, or something?”
>He shakes his head.
>”I could have done more, usually do… Just one slip up, and, fuck, someone’s almost dead.”
>Shaking your head, you place a hand on Anonymous’ shoulder.
“One cannot keep wondering about what could have been, Anonymous, trust your good friend Trixie on this one.”
>Sonata takes this opportunity to stand and make her way behind Anonymous, wrapping her arms around his neck in a tight hug.
>”Quit being such a downer, Nonny!”
>She then goes onto place her head atop of his, the two resembling some type of totem pole.
>A lower face of wide-eyed shock followed by one of childlike glee, it’s quite the sight.
>Her fingers then trace up to the corners of his lips and forcibly pull them upwards into a smile.
>”See? Muuuuch better!”
>When Sonata releases her hands from Anonymous’ face, however, the smile sags a little, yet it remains.
>You… honestly didn’t expect that to work.
>His eyes look up in a futile attempt to catch Sonata’s eyes.
>”Thanks, Munchy, been too damn long since I had one of—”
>A loud grumble interrupts Anonymous, of which causes you two to slowly turn and stare at Sonata.
>The blush on her face and the nervous smile that follows is enough to get a laugh out of you, of which Anonymous soon shares.
“Oh, a new nickname for the sidekick?”
>Nodding, Anonymous makes to stand before setting his book down on his seat.
>”Well, I mean, she always is hungry…”
>”Am not!”
>He chuckles at that, tousling her hair as he steps between the chairs and makes for the door.
>”How about some lunch, my treat? I hear this place’s cafeteria has some pretty bomb-ass tendies, my treat.”
>Sonata is first to reply, all but jumping a few feet into the air before scampering her way to Anon’s side, a large smile on her face.
>”You’re the best, Nonny!”
>Taking your place beside your loyal sidekick, you nod up at him.
“Lead the way then, ogre.”
>His eyes slightly narrow at that.
>The small smile on his face makes it all worth it, though.
>”Now listen here, you little shit…”
>...
>......
“Are you sure this is a good idea?”
>Nodding, Sunset turns her head to look at you and the usual group as you all continue down the stark white hallway.
>”Trust me, Twilly, the only bad action here is inaction.”
>Shrugging, Applejack hums to herself for a moment before speaking.
>”I dunno’ about that one, Sunny, he didn’t look all too happy when ya’ broke the ice to him earlier today.”
>Sunset merely waves this off, leading you all down a last left before the end of the trail.
>”I’d like to think that he’s had plenty of time to simmer down by now; he seems like a easy going guy.”
>You and the other girls share a skeptical glance.
>”Well, Sunset dear, you do remember how long it took him to get over the whole ‘Singsong Debacle,’ yes?”
>This earns her a shake of the head.
>”That was different… way different.”
>She takes a moment to stop in front of the door, seemingly remembering something.
>”Oh yeah, I’ve got to tell the rest of you about that… Expect some type of serious talk tomorrow at lunch when we’re all together, so try and be there tomorrow.”
>That gets a nod out of each of you, though you’re all torn from the conversation by the door all but swinging open.
>”Like, c’mon, Nonny, I’m staaaarving!”
>Sonata holds the door open, not at all noticing your group, while she stares back at the two familiar forms of Trixie and Anon.
>The later is holding up an accusatory finger at the former.
>”Peasant.”
>”Churl.”
>”Gelding.”
>Trixie looks a bit confused at that one, though her raised brow gives way to her managing to catch you all in her peripherals.
>Following surprised eyes, you group is now eye to eye with the three, a deep silence overtaking the scene.
>The only thing you can truly focus on, however, is the slight tinge of fear in Anon’s eyes as he stares pointedly at Sunset...
>”Hey’o, you three!”
>Pinkie, blunt as ever, bounces her way in front of you and the rest of the girls, doing a little pose as she waves enthusiastically.
>Only Sonata reciprocates the joy, the two sharing a bit of back and forth as you continue to look at Anon.
>His eyes lack their usual mirth when being in your presence, in its place being a well hidden lob of dread.
>Whether it’s directed at fully or not as Sunset, you’re not sure.
>Trixie, thankfully enough, breaks the silence before long, putting your impromptu staring contest to an end.
>”Ah… Trixie is surprised that you all decided to visit.”
>She nods at you six, counting your numbers twice before smiling.
>”And, may Trixie express her delight at your choice to not bring the two contentious ones?”
>You give a nervous nod at that, not too willing to correct her at the moment.
“Didn’t want to cause a stir again, ya’ know?”
>Trixie, her mood now fixed again, takes a step forward.
>”We were just leaving to grab a quick bite from the cafeteria, though, so please don’t let us keep you.”
>Grabbing Sonata by the back of the collar and Anon by the wrist, she gently, yet firmly, begins to escort the two out of the room and down the hallway.
>You deeply at this, not only because Sunset insisted on talking to Anonymous, and there Trixie goes dragging him off, but also because she’s touching him like he’s her property.
>You know she’s competitive like nobody’s business, but would Trixie really…?
>Shaking your head, you give a small smile and wave to Anonymous, to which he replies with one of his own.
>Pinkie, as per usual, isn’t affected at all by less than pleasant situations.
>”Bye, Nonny, Sonny, Trixie!”
>Turning to Sunset as soon as the three are out of sight, you give her slight shrug.
>Guess you’ll just have to wait for him to return from the cafeter—
>Oh no.
 >...
>......
>Oh boy, your two best friends and a free meal?
>Today can’t get any better, can it?!
>You give out a little squeal of excitement as you remember tonight’s plans, and you just can’t wait to see the shock on his face.
>Wonder what’ll be there?
>Wonder if everyone’ll will be nice?
>Hopefully they’ll be nice than the people at CHS.
>”Sonata, are you… quite alright?”
>Blinking, you look up to Nonny and give him an excited nod.
“Silly Nonny, I’m Sonata Dusk!”
>”Uh, alrighty then?”
>Heck, despite the incident at lunch today and how weird Anon’s been acting since, everything’s been great!
>Pulling up a few fingers, you quickly begin to rattle off what’s on your mind.
“Like, Dazzy just got a job, Pinkie’s actually been really nice to me recently, so, like, maybe I’ve got a new friend?”
>That little bit makes you hop up and down a little bit, giggle fit escaping escaping you.
>The small smiles that the two now give you are more encouraging than anything else.
“And I get to spend more time with my two bestest friends?”
>You follow this up by pulling them close and into an big ol’ hug, one in each arm.
>This gets you a small chuckle from Nonny.
>He messes up your hair with a smile, but you can’t be bothered to fake anger this time.
>Moony, however, blushes for a moment before staring at you with wide eyes.
>A moment later, though, and she’s giving you the bear hug of a lifetime!
>...Too tight, too tight!
“C-can’t… breathe!”
>Luckily, she happens to hear this and she pulls away…
>Is... she crying?
>”Trixie is one of your… best friends, truly?”
>Nodding, you reach out and wipe a tear off of her cheek.
“‘Course, Moony, why wouldn’t you be?”
>She sniffles at this.
>”Trixie has never had a best friend before…”
>You can hear Nonny go “Awww…” off to the side.
>His arms then pull you three into an embrace, all before squeezing like no other.
>You thought you were going to snap like a twig somewhere in there, but he sets you down just a moment before that happens.
>Chuckling, he steps out of the elevator, said thing just opening as the hug ends, and gestures for you two to follow.
>Taking Moony’s hand, you skip along and follow Nonny.
>You can get used to this.
>Reeeeaaaally used to this!
>...
>......
>Man, your wallet is screaming at you in protest, but the smiles you get in response make it all worth it.
“No way you’re able to eat all’a of that, Munchy.”
>The blue scamp looks up, a defiant smile on her face, her tray filled to the brim.
>”Ya’ wanna’ bet?”
>Trixie shakes her head and makes a cutting gesture to her neck..
>”The woman’s stomach is more akin to a black hole than a functioning organ, Anonymous, be advised.”
>Sonata gives her a small pout at this.
>”Dazzy always said that if I wanna’ get thick thighs like hers—”
*PFFFFFBBFBTBBTBF*
>Aaaand there goes your drink, all over your tray and part of your lap.
>At least it’s only water…
>Smacking yourself in the chest a handful of times, you eventually get your coughing fit to settle down.
>When you look up, however, you’re met with two curious looks.
“S-sorry…”
>Man, is it hot in here, or is it just you?
>”Perhaps Anonymous has taken a liking to your sister, oh, dearest sidekick?”
>Goddammit, Trixie!
>”Like, Nonny! You should know better, tryin’a be all buddy and buddy with me so you can get with my sis!”
>Sonata then takes a moment to chomp down on one of her several burritos, her little cheeks soon filled to the brim like a squirrel’s.
>She’s practically beaming.
>You raise a finger to protest, but you know the battle has already been lost.
>Rolling your eyes, trying desperately to ignore the burn in your cheeks, you begin to dive into your tendies…
>And, holy hell, are these things good.
>Not good enough to the point where you’d feel a bit of pre coming out when you bite in, but still good enough to make everything else you’ve eaten in your life feel like absolute shit.
>But, then again, when was the last time you had a quality meal?
>You’ve not eaten at a restaurant since Em Dash’s twelfth birthday, and dad hasn’t cooked ever since mom left.
>Maybe it’d be one of those days at your “Aunt’s” house where she would make spaghetti before taking you out to milkshakes, where you would talk for hours on end about school drama?
>That train of thought sours your mood pretty damn quickly.
>Out of all the things you’ve tried to forget, her promises to always be there for you were always pretty high up there.
>She hasn’t really talked to you ever since that day, only whenever it was absolutely mandatory, like you’re some sort of demon.
>Going back for a drink out of your milkshake, you take a moment to stare at the beverage, dumbfounded.
>You’ve ordered her favorite flavor without even realizing it.
>Strawberry cheesecake.
>Hell, you’re even eating what you used to always order down at that diner that you’d visit every other Friday.
>Tendies and tots.
>Staring for a moment longer, you let a rueful chuckle leave your mouth.
>Fuck, man, and you thought that she would be the one to be good on her promises.
>Friends are one thing, but family?
>Turns out it really doesn’t stick together.
>Glancing up to your friends, you can’t help but feel a pang of doubt.
>How long until they grow bored of you?
>How long until they finally become more sociable among their peers and stop settling for some pariah of a senior?
>How long until they fade away, like tears in rain?
>These questions, sadly, are beyond your simple meal, as the only council you receive from them is silence.
>...
>Sighing again, you plop a handful of tots into your mouth before washing it down.
>Can’t wait for tonight.
>Get to forget about all of this, if only for a few hours…
>Speaking of which, you check the time.
>4:48 PM.
>About three more hours before things start looking up.
>”Uh, Nonny, ya’ doing alright there?”
>Shaking yourself awake from your reverie, you look up to Sonata.
“Yeah, Munchy, just got a bit distracted.”
>Your eyes slowly travel down to her plate—
“Jesus Christ, kid!”
>That tray originally had seven burritos and a taco on the side, along with a large soda.
>The thing only holds is wrappers now.
>”Trixie was not lying, Anonymous.”
>Shaking your head with an incredulous chuckle, you stare a moment longer before going back to your meal, of which you’ve barely touched.
>Why’d you even order this?
>You’re not even hungry.
>Haven’t been since Sunset’s… incident.
>You can hear Trixie and Sonata having a hushed conversation, but you can’t be bothered to eavesdrop.
>You’re busy wondering about how much stuff will be there tonight.
>You hope it’s the heavy shit that Lorry busts out when those rich kids come by.
>That stuff’s the best.
>All too soon do you finish the milkshake, a so you stand to make way to the garbage.
>”So, you gonna’ help us, or what?”
>That voice…
>Glancing with your peripherals, you spot her standing by your side, arms crossed and a surprisingly flat look on her face.
>A trace of a grin hits your face, all devoid of mirth.
“No idea what you’re talking about.”
>Picking up your tray, you begin to make way for the trash, though another, and far more welcome, blue sophomore makes her way to your side.
>”Uh, you gonna’ finish that, Nonny?”
>Shaking your head, you hand the tray to her, of which she gladly takes before heading back to the table.
>”I’m talking to you, you know?”
>Ah, seems she followed.
>Cracking your neck, you turn and face the one sophomore that was once that little sister you always wanted, Rainbow Dash.
“And we’re all the worse for it, your point?”
>She scowls a bit at that, doesn’t show her displeasure further than that.
>”I’m asking you if you’re gonna’ help us with this whole changeling mess.”
>Blinking, you tilt your head slightly while giving her a confused look.
“Changeling?”
>Much to your surprise, she merely shrugs before looking off to the side, her face and voice devoid of anger.
>”I dunno’ either, but Twilight and Sunset keep babblin’ about them, like they’re some big threat or something.”
>Ah.
>So that’s why they came to visit.
>More of this whole “magic” bullshit.
>You honestly kind of believe that you’ve been in some sort of coma ever since hotboxing last night, as some sort of atonement for what you’ve done to Vinyl.
>Much easier to swallow that what’s currently on your plate, that’s for damn sure.
>Anyways, you’re zoning out again, and Dash’s miffed expression shows that all too well.
“I’ll see what I can do.”
>With that, you sidestep the young woman and find your way back in front of Trixie and Sonata.
>The two give you curious and somewhat anxious looks, but you give them an even nod.
“Ready to head back?”
>Two nods are your only response.
>And, with that, you turn and make way back towards Vinyl’s room, a scowl on your face all the while.
>...
>......
>It’s kind of weird, honestly.
>You’ve had to explain the whole, “Magic is real, yadda yadda,” stuff to people before, yes, but it never seems to get any easier.
>Doesn’t matter if you’ve got your best friends around, no, it’s always like the first time.
>Man, it sucks.
>Clapping your hands together, you look around the room to see six familiar faces, all devoid of joy.
>Well, save for Pinkie, but she’s always happy, so that doesn’t really count.
>Sitting in front of Vinyl’s comatose form hasn’t exactly filled you with the most optimistic thoughts.
>You can see the sight having similar effects on the girls, varying levels of sadness overtaking their usually happy faces.
“So, uh, what’cha drawin’ there, Pinkie?”
>She peeks up from her little notebook, though only shoots playful tongue at you.
>”It’s a seeecret!”
>Ugh, so much for that icebreaker.
>Like, why doesn’t—
>The attention of the room is rapidly shifted from the comatose woman to the opening door, of which now gives way to three figures.
>Dash, Anon, and Grizzly, though you idly wonder where Trixie and Sonata went.
>Anon quickly finds his seat, of which happens next to be next to Pinkie, and opens up his bible without a word.
>Dash and Grizzly take the seats farthest away from him.
>Honestly, you don’t know why Dash insists on bringing Grizzly with her to these hospital visits.
>Probably just to piss Anon off, you’d guess.
>Said senior gave you all a general nod as he entered the room, but he hasn’t acknowledged any of you besides that small action.
>Speaking of which…
>”Where’s Gooseberry, Nonny?”
>”Work.”
>”Oh, that’s a bummer…
>He nods.
>”Her boss is a dick.”
>Silence comes back to the room, the only sounds being that of Vinyl’s heart monitor and gentle breaths coming from all of you.
>Great.
>Patting your knees, you look anxiously around the room before shaking your head.
>Might as well get to the point.
>Sucking in a large breath in order to get his attention, you turn to see that he’s still completely rapt in his book, though you can see an underlying layer of anger in those eyes.
>This is gonna’ go great.
“So, Anon…”
>His eyes don’t deviate from whatever verse he is focused on.
>”Yes?”
>His voice is flat, monotone, and doesn’t give you any confidence to continue on.
>You glance to the others for guidance, but are sadly met with looks just as uncomfortable as yours.
>Gulping, you turn back to him.
“I bet you’ve got a lot of questions, right, Anon?”
>Silence is your only reply.
>A few moments later, however, and he slowly lifts his face from the book, eyes bearing a zenlike calm.
>”Just one.”
>Raising a brow at you, he takes a moment to glance over towards Vinyl.
>Silence fills the room for a moment longer as he stares, almost pleadingly, at the comatose woman, though the dull beat of the heart monitor is his only response.
>Nodding, he sucks in a small breath before looking you in the eyes.
>”Why me?”
>Before you have time to properly think of a response, however, there comes a voice.
>”Because, Anonymous…”
>A voice laced with venom, a voice that’s so often followed by a restless night worrying about what’s to come, and a voice that’s certainly not welcome.
>”You’re the reason this all began, so you’re going to help us put an end to it before anything like this can happen again.”
>There is a flash of movement, and that’s when everything went to hell.