>Be Sunset Shimmer
>They haven't said much about you since the incident.
>You get an occasional scared "hello" from someone in the hall, or you see a terrified Fluttershy who you've tried to apologize to, but it's all the same.
>Who would talk to you after you literally became a demon (a demon? what even was it?) in front of the whole school? The explosion formed afterwards left such a large crater. You wish you could talk to Twilight Sparkle again. You wish you could go back home again.
"Hey Fluttershy... What's up?"
>She squeals in fear and clenches the locker door as she slowly closes it.
>"Um, just going to class..."
"That's nice. Say, I was hoping maybe we could hang out after school today. Maybe grab a drink at Starbucks."
>She freezes in place.
>"Oh I would love too, but I can't because... B-Because well..."
>Rainbow Dash and Applejack walk up from behind Fluttershy saying hello.
>"I already agreed to meet with Rainbow and Applejack!"
>Applejack understands what is happening, but Rainbow dash lays ignorant to the situation.
>Her scratchy voice is heard clearly. "You did?"
>From behind Fluttershy, Applejack pegs Rainbow on the arm and gives her a subtle glare.
>"Uh, oh yeah! I remember now."
>"So yeah... Maybe next Friday Sunset?" she begins walking away.
"Um, yeah! That's good..."
>The disappointment in your voice is clear. Do you deserve any better? You've been a jerk to her and her friends for years. You are going to have to earn it back Sunset. Just show how friendly you can be.
>A pink haired girl runs up from behinds you and goes in front of you.
>"HEY SUNSET! How're you doing?!?!"
"Uh, I'm alright I suppose."
>Pinkie was always accepting of a person. Most people in this school were, but you lost their respect. Pinkie isn't really upset with you. She's your one friend in this whole school it seems. After Twilight left, the other ponies have taken watch over me, but Pinkie is the only one that talks to you really. Well, Rarity does notice me occasionally, so that is good I suppose.
>"Just ALRIGHT?! ItIsSuchAnAwesomeDayThough, They'reServingTotsAtLunchToday! Oh, I wish they did that more often. And like, okay, so-"
>You smirk. Lunch was always pretty good. Pinkie was rambling on as always, but you loved it. When so few people talked to you, Pinkie made it up. How does she give so much optimism on such silly things? Why do I care about what I had for lunch today?
>"And then, Rarity gave me a hairdo change. It's a little bit less exciting, but I love the bangs she put in it! And also-"
>Her hair did look nice today. I should see if Rarity can give me a makeo-
>Your thought was cut off but the sound of the warning bell going off and the students rushing into class.
>"Hey! I gotta go to class, but maybe we could hang out after school! Sound good?!"
"Sure Pinkie. I'll meet you at my car. I have really wanted to go get a shake today, or something. Cool?"
>You smile as she nods enthusiastically. What a good friend Pinkie is.
>She runs off and you walk into your next class as the bell rings.
------------------------------------------------------------
>You sit down quickly, the teacher giving you an evil glare. You hide behind your bangs and pull out a journal to start writing.
>"Alright kids, today we will continue talking about the Early Modern Period. I presume you are all caught up on your reading? You should be done with chapter 28 before the quiz this Friday."
>You read, you tried your hardest, but it has been difficult recently. School had always been a breeze. You never had to do any assignments.
>"So students, who would like to tell us about the Spanish success in the Americas? Remember, when answering you go
>Cause
>"Cause,"
>Result
>"Result"
>and reasons
>"and reasons!"
>She has practically said it a billion times already.
>You role your eyes without anyone noticing.
>I know what she is talking about, I have practically studied nonstop for weeks, but every test is the same. Does everyone go through this? Is it this hard for everyone?
>Several students in the class raise their hands.
>Maybe I am alone in my struggles.
>"Ms. Shimmer?"
>Oh crap, what did she ask?
"Um..."
>The class rolls their eyes, sighing at the thought of you speaking.
"Well, the Aztecs were..."
>Destroyed? NO NO NO! Everyone knows you love destroying things you pathetic loser. Diminished? That's a good word.
"diminished because of the Spanish and..."
>"Mam, cause, result, reasons."
>Yes yes yes! Cause, result, reasons.... But, for what?
"Um, I'm very sorry, could you repeat the question?
>The class is filled with whispers and giggles directed at you.
>"Sunset, if you hope to do well at all in this class you're going to need to pay attention."
>You nod.
>Yes mam, I understand. Sorry, I just haven't been myself recently. I lost everything I thought I had and now I feel empty inside because of being rejected by all of those around me. By loosing all of my friends. By loosing the respect of my peers. By ruining a strong relationship with someone I cared about but was too stuck up to admit it. By-
>You breath in and out.
"Yes mam, I will do my best."
>She nods in appreciation, talking to the class now.
>You hide your head under your hair again. Are you shy? No. Reserved? No. What is a good word for it?
>"So, who can answer the question?"
>More people raise their hand than last time, but yours remains in your lap, caressing you other hand with you thumb.
>Lonely. Lonely is a good word for it.
>You think back to your days with Flash.
-Flashback!-
>You wait outside after school with your group of friends.
>He comes up, wearing his awesome jock jacket as always. Such a dork.
>Giving you a huge hug, you're wrapped in his embrace.
>You want to enjoy the moment, but your friends are around. You want to hold for a moment longer, but you can't.
>You shove off of him.
"Come on babe, not by surprise.
>He chuckles nervously, he's embarrassed. You wanted to hold him and tell him you were joking. Pet his hair and say that you care about him.
>You liked him a lot. Loved? I don't know if you lo-
-Flashback over-
>You snap back to reality in a sudden jolt, a sound of a ruler being smacked on your desk pulling you from your pleasant -yet unfulfilled- wishes.
>Looking up, you spot a grumpy History teacher, staring down at you angrily.
>"Do you need to go to the office young lady?"
>You lift your hands for defense. The teacher won't hit you, duh, but it's a natural reaction. Flinching. So second nature to you.
"N-no mam."
>"Then PAY ATTENTION!"
>The ruler smacks yet again as her voice raises. You nod terrified and uneasily.
>She hands you a stack of papers.
>"Pass these out Ms. Shimmer."
>She talks to the class as a whole with "some students refuse to pay attention it appears, so maybe a worksheet tonight will get their heads on straight."
>The class becomes filled with angry mumbles and a few crumbled up pieces of paper being thrown your direction.
>You make no effort to dodge them. You deserve this, right?
>You get up and pass the assignment around, insults being thrown at you from each student who receives a paper.
>"Moron."
>"Pay attention next time!"
>"What an ass hat!"
>"Bitch."
>They all take a large part out of you.
>You sit back down, a few more mumbles being heard until silence in the class room that is filled with pencils pressured heavily on notebook paper and frustrated sighs.
>Sorry everyone.
>You want to say it, but the class is peaceful now. Why ruin it?
>When do you see Pinkie next? You have Gym with her. That's good! When's that? 4th period!
>Then you eat lunch with her! 5th period!
>7th period you have Office assistant with her. All you have to do is talk in that class. Pinkie is your partner by your choice. I look forward to it.
>And then we get to leave school and just hang out at Jeffrey's Shakes. The smoothies there are amazing.
>Just in time, you spot the teacher getting up and spotting you zoning off again.
>Writing on your paper, you jot some notes down and it's okay.
------------------------------------------------------------
>Walking to lunch with Pinkie from Pre-Calculus, you smile to hear her stories.
>"And then, FluttershyWasLike 'But Pinkie, I don't know if they'll let you decorate the WHOLE park. Maybe just a small part?"
>Thank you Pinkie, please keep talking. I want to hear you stories. They bring good memories to me that I don't have.
>"And then I was all 'Watch me!' and then the park was decorated perfectly! There were pink ribbons and lovely confetti shooters around the center square of it, and it was awesome! Oh I wish you could have seen."
>You smile and chuckle.
"Wait, how long did it take you to decorate it all? The park is pretty large."
>Pinkie Ponders for a moment before speaking up.
>"Fluttershy describes it as 'just being there'. Oh but she loved it so much!"
>What do you mean 'just there' Pinkie? Eh, you'll probably never get a clear answer. Just let it be.
"Awesome Pinkie!"
>You could decorate my house. The dull gray bricks holding the house up have become stale to look at. How long have they been there? Were they always gray? You never gave much attention to the house, or anything around. You were too busy keeping your figure up for your 'totally cool' friends. Too busy impressing others.
>"I just never saw something so weird. It was all gooey but it was soooooo so so so good!"
>Coming back to focus, you realize you have no idea what Pinkie is talking about. What does that mean?
"Wh-what?"
>"I don't know what it is, but pancakes have always been weird to me. At least by appearance. But they are soooo good!"
>In your head you lay your face against your palm. Your head was in the gutter. Pinkie is too innocent of a soul to talk about that kind of stuff.
>Pinkie sits across from you but you don't see the table and you bump into, your bag falling.
>People yell at you from other tables.
>"Ha ha ha! Loser!"
>It's a little over the top today. I'm a tough girl, I've got this. No need to cry.
>Well crap.
>A single tear falls from your face onto the table, a few more follow it but your whimpering is silent and your blurry eyes blocked by your bangs falling down.
>Fortunately, no one else notices but Pinkie is quick to decipher your feelings.
>"Oh man! I love love love tots! Gosh these are th-... Hey, what's wrong?"
>Her head tilts, concerned for you.
"Um, nothing Pinkie. Just an irritated eye."
>She leans over the table unconvinced.
>"Are you sure Sunny?"
>What an awesome name. How is Pinkie such a good friend.
>A best friend.
>Though, the competition isn't necessarily steep for your closest friend right now.
>Oh, she needs an answer, what do I tell her? Dammit, I have to learn to focus!
"Um, I can tell you later?"
>Wait, what?!
>"Okie dokie loki! We can talk when we're getting ice cream today! Sound good!
>What a moron! Would Pinkie even care?
"O-o.... Okay."
>You look up nervously from the table, your watery eyes being made clear to her.
>Pinkie stares at you, like studying a dinosaur at a museum.
>Ah crap, it's now the first time she's done this. You can hide it well. Don't worry. You've hidden your feelings for so long, how is Pinkie going to break through.
>The tears start going away, your smile returning and the irritation under your eyes relaxing.
>"Hm..."
>You look away shyly from Pinkie and take a bite from you sandwich.
>Pinkie, just stop looking at me. Don't worry about me. I will be fine. Just tell me more stories about how you decorated the town park, or about how much you love tots, or why it's a good day, or what is so weird about pancakes.
>The last one makes you smirk. You'd like to hear that story again in its entirety.
>Pinkie sits back down on her side of the table.
"Hey, could you tell me about your first experience with pancakes again? I'd like to hear it once more."
>"Oh!" she says with food in her mouth. After a large gulp, she speaks up again. "That story? Sure thing! So it was when I was 14 years old, and before then I ha-"
>She stopped. Why did she stop?
>Pinkie's vision moves from you and onto a group that walks by.
>Rainbow Dash walks up to your table that is empty with the exception of you and Pinkie.
>"Hey Pinkie, we need to like, talk to you."
>She talks in the same scratchy voice.
>"Can you do it here?"
>"Remember when you said you'd eat with us for lunch? Come on!"
>Her motion stops, showing that she is split between two choices.
>After sighing sadly and looking at you, she gets up and puts her bags on.
>"Sorry Sunny, I don't break a Pinkie Promise. See you in 7th period though, okay?"
>She pulls off a smile but the distress isn't invisible.
>It's okay Pinkie, don't feel bad. I can go a day alone for lunch.
 
>After 8th period ends, you start walking from your Science class to see a group standing in a circle, hurdling their legs occasionally.
>They're kicking someone.
>They're beating someone up.
>Who's voice is that?
>You gasp as the familiar sound reaches your ears.
>Running up, you break the circle up to find a sweet yellow girl curling herself in a ball, hiding a squirrel behind her.
>"Hey what gives?!"
>"You pick up Fluttershy by the hand and run through the group.
>You don't have the energy to fight.
>Emotionally or physically.
>You still need to help Fluttershy though.
>The bullies give chase for a moment before they get halted by a group of Freshmen walking through the school.
>You take Fluttershy out to your car quickly, and as you turn you see no one is following you.
>Pinkie is next to the passenger car, seemingly quiet and lost in thought.
>Pushing your bang aside, you see Fluttershy shying away from you.
>"Um... Thanks Sunset."
"Are you okay? They were beating you up pretty badly."
>A squirrel comes from Fluttershy's backpack and snuggles her cheek softly.
>"Yeah, we're fine."
>She doesn't give eye contact.
>"I suppose I should give payment for your kindness."
>She pulls an envelope out from her backpack reading "For lunch: Love mom!" on it.
>She begins to rip it before you take her hand and close it.
"I don't need any payment. I just didn't want to see you get hurt, Fluttershy."
>Don't screw this up. Earn her respect.
"If you're still interested, you can go get ice cream with Pinkie and I."
>The joy on her face soon dropped to embarrassment, denying your offer through her bangs.
>"Um, not today... Remember? I have to uh..."
>She pauses for a short time.
>Your heart sinks. You know she is lying now.
>"I have to go take care of the animals today."
>"You remember what she said this morning. She was going to hang out with Applejack and Rainbow Dash.
>You close your mouth. Let her lie. Maybe next month you can earn her friendship. Her loyalty. Or the friendship of someone.
>She begins to walk away. "See you later Sunset."
>You get into the car and turn the ignition on as Pinkie jumps in as well.
>You start driving and Pinkie isn't saying anything.
>She wants you to talk first.
>How long will she do this for?
>You order ice cream, both of you, you sit down, silence.
"Um..."
>Her ears perk up and look at you.
"So, about lunch."
>You chuckle nervously. Are you really about to tell how you actually feel? When's the last time you've done that?
>When's the last time you've done anything needing real friends?
>There is a moment of silence again before Pinkie speaks up.
>"Go ahead, tell me what's going on."
>She gives you a sweet smile with sympathy and kindness, hoping you'll talk.
>How is it that she talks so much usually, but can just stop when she needs to listen.
>You take a bite of your ice cream, feeling a new found comfort rush over you.
------------------------------------------------------------
>You nod shyly to Pinkie.
"W-well... It's just... In rece-.... I..."
>Your eyes fill with tears once more, not sure where to start.
>Pinkie doesn't deserve this. She should be going around and hanging with her friends. Her better friends. Where do I fit into her life's equation? I don't. I shouldn't at least.
>"Take your time Sunny."
>That nickname rings in your head over and over again. It's like warm cocoa on a freezing winter day. The catchy chorus to your favorite song. A feeling of acceptance and knowing that Everything Will Be Alright In The End ((got any Weezer fans reading this?))
>You take a breath, ready to speak again.
"Well, I just recently haven't felt uh..."
>You search for the word in your head but you draw blank.
>"Happy? Relaxed? Connected? Brave?"
>God, It's like she is a gypsy. A friendly gypsy though.
"Y-yeah. That. Any of those. I don't search for sympathy when I say this, but I didn't ever really want to hurt all of your friends. Or you. Or anyone for that matter. I just ended up with friends and I didn't want to lose them."
>You clench your fist as your delve deeper into your story. It almost hurts to talk about this. It got harder to breath. This jacket isn't helping any.
>You take your jacket off, swipe your hair line, and continue.
"... So I stayed loyal to them. And it ended up hurting others that I wanted to befriend. I am surprised I have one friend in all honesty after years of being plain stupid."
>You smirk and Pinkie smiles as a result, trying to comfort you with kindness from across the table inside of a the square booth.
"... and um. I suppose that is the main jist of it."
>You shrug, your eyes becoming irritated from the tears building up inside of them.
>Barely managing to break a smile, you take another bite of ice cream and look out the window.
>"Would it help if I made some friends for you?"
>That idea hadn't actually crossed your mind. It'd be odd, but you can't do it so what does it matter?
"I'd like that Pinkie."
>"I could also talk to Applejack, and Rainbow Dash, and Fluttershy, and Rarity, and then get AllOfThemToHangWithUs!!!"
>Her normal self picks up again, the talking speed accelerating very quickly.
>That would not be good! They would think I'm some loser. I don't want to be a loser.
>You can't kill Pinkie's excitement now. That wouldn't be fair.
"I'm cool with that."
>You let out a soft chuckle as you genuinely smile widely.
>After a moment filled with the chatter from everyone else in the restaurant, you speak about lighter subjects.
"Hey, did your class get a worksheet for history?"
>"Yeah, she said someone in an earlier class was distracted so she gave the class a worksheet. Now everybody has to do it. It wasn't hard."
>You laugh as you pull out the homework and look at each other's answers to make sure you both do well.
"You're going to be surprised, but I think that person was me, Pinkie."
>"What?!"
>She giggles with you about it and as you look over each other's papers, you tell her what has happened over the course of the day.
>It's nice to have a story to tell.
 
>The next day, you wake up at 11:00 Am, stretching your arms out wide and yawning as you pull off the covers.
>You get up and look to the mirror in your room, giving a weak and tired chuckle to the crazy hairdo your bed managed to give you last night.
>After taking a shower and getting ready for a day of relaxing, you go back to your room and open your laptop.
>You wear lazy sweat pants and a tank top. You don't fix your hair up all nice, or put your ear rings in.
>Who would come over that you need to impress?
>As you sit down in your bed, you hear the door bell ring.
"What?"
>No one comes over. You didn't order anything. Who even knows where you live?!
>Going downstairs, you open the door to see a familiar face shying away from you.
"Um. H-hey Fluttershy!"
>Should I try to look good? Do I lean against the wall like I don't care? Do I hug her?
>"Oh, I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bother you on your day off. Maybe it can wait until Monday."
>She starts to walk away.
>No no no, wait, please come back, what do you need? I would love to help with anything you need! Please, let me show you who I can be...
"Wait Fluttershy! It's okay, you're not bothering me. What do you need?"
>You stick your hands into the loose pockets and smile gently to her.
>"Um, well. If it isn't much of a problem. I just. I um. I have a project in speech in which I need to interview someone I don't talk to often. Would you mind letting me interview you?"
>Well, at the very least, she choose me for this. She has to be somewhat comfortable with me then, right?
>You smile widely.
"Of course Fluttershy! Would you like to come inside?"
>Don't sound too enthusiastic, you'll scare her off.
>She nods and smiles underneath her bangs.
>You open the door widely, showing your house to her. It's clean, not a problem. Your parents aren't home as usual.
>They have to work often. It's not their fault.
"Where would you like to sit? Living room, kitchen...?"
>"Um, the kitchen is fine I suppose."
>You nod. Walking into the kitchen table, you let her choose her seat.
"Would you like something to drink or eat?"
>"If it's not a bother to you, may I have some honey tea?"
>Anything for you, bud.
"Sure!"
>You pour water into a cup and heat it up with the microwave.
"So how is this interview thing going to work?"
>Her eyes light up. She seems awfully excited.
>"Well, I basically need to ask you some questions that are about your life and then we get to defend why that person is awesome in class."
>Your heart stopped. You take a breath and nearly jump through the roof.
>A smile will do though.
"Aw, that's a nice idea for a project."
>"I thought so too. I wanted to pick you for the interview because it would be easy to defend. Thank you again, by the way, for helping me out on Friday."
>In recent times, this is something that I need.
>On the verge of tears because of absolute joy, you manage to hold them back and talk without choking up.
"It was my pleasure. I couldn't just sit back and walk away."
>She smiles shyly as you put the tea in front of her.
>You pour yourself a cup of coffee. You always like it dark. It was stronger and tasted more real.
"So Fluttershy, I am ready when you are!"
>You sip the coffee and smile at her.
>She returns the smile and pulls out a journal and a pen.
>"Well, okay! So the first question is, 'how would you describe yourself?'"
>Good question.
------------------------------------------------------------
>Does she want the truth? Or a lie?
>Give the truth, but not all of it.
"Well, I would say that I am a little shy and nervous in honesty. I at least prefer to be rather than my outgoing self. I am a helper to those who need it and love making others comfortable."
>Good answer. A little far from the whole truth, but it works.
>Fluttershy nods and jots down what was said.
>"Uh, how many people do you consider yourself to be true friends with."
>It's like I'm in a psychiatrist's office.
>The answer: One.
"I have a few really close friends that I spend most of my time with, but I would love to be friends with more of them!"
>Fluttershy smiles widely. Why? Does she think she is one of those friends that I don't actually have? IS she my friend? Are anyone else in her group my friend? Why did she smile?
>Because it was a good answer. She is going to get a good grade defending a hard subject.
>Even if she can't defend saying I'm awesome.
>"What is your least favorite activity to do outside?"
>Talk to people that I don't know. They make me feel pathetic. But everyone does. And it's because I am.
"Well. I have never been a fan of just catching the football. I love playing football outside, but catch has never been entertaining."
>When did you get so good at lying?
>"Question four: Do you ever find time to volunteer at any shelter?"
>I can't find time. I'm stuck in my own world of sorrows at the moment.
"No."
>She jots down what you said, and looks up as if expecting more of a story.
>I'm sorry Fluttershy. I just don't have the time.
------------------------------------------------------------
>I did when I was younger. My Mom would bring me down to the animal shelter to feed them. They were always understaffed and loved having my innocent self with them.
>Back when I was an actual decent person.
>I don't remember those times all too well. It's been blurred by years of peer pressure and self hatred.
>"Do you recall a time where you helped a friend out that was in need?"
"Well, I helped you out the other day. That's clear on my mind."
>Was that cocky? I hope not. I've got to learn how to say things too.
>I need to learn a lot.
>"Well, yeah. But if it's okay with you, could you give another example? It'll help if I have a wider diversity of answers."
"Yeah sure, um..."
>You think and your disappointed by the lack of re-collations you can submit.
"Well, a few weeks ago I wanted to relax in bed all day but Pinkie-"
>Needed isn't the correct word, she really just wanted to hang out with you. She can throw awesome parties by herself.
"-wanted me to help her out on setting up a party for another friend she had. I was tired and already over worked but I did it for a friend."
>"What do you think everyone else thinks of you?"
>This is getting harder.
"Um... Well, I..."
>You hold back a tear but still sniffle.
"I don't know."
>You do know.
"I don't think others find me to be an awesome person. Perhaps it's because I don't talk to everyone else. I don't get much of a say in how I'm seen, huh?"
>You chuckle, but Fluttershy sees some hurt inside of you.
>"Would you like to go onto the next one or do you want to take a break?"
>You take a sip of your coffee. It's loss the strong heat that made you feel whole inside. It's now cool.
>Getting up, you go to heat it up.
"W-we can continue. It's fine."
>"Okie. Um, how often do you find yourself helping others more than yourself?"
"Whenever I am given a chance to do so."
>You smile as she moves onto the next question.
>"Describe your best friend."
>Replacing "best" with "only" wouldn't have done much to affect the answer.
"She's a great friend. When I need her, she is there and I appreciate that. I've never felt annoyed by her out-of-this-world conversations or by the amount she has to say. She has a creative mind and when you need her she's..."
>The microwave beeps loudly, giving you a reason to stop and hold yourself back.
"She's pretty cool."
>You both chuckle as you open the prime black microwave door to a reheated cup of coffee.
>"Alright, two more. You're doing awesome so far."
>Thanks Fluttershy.
>"If you could have one thing in this world, what would it be?"
>You pause for a moment. You know the answer, but it hurts to say.
>Your reputation as an innocent child, your friends, someone to hold you at night once again.
"Good memories."
>Her face shines.
>"Oh, I'm going to ace this for sure. Thank you thank you Sunset! One more question, okay?"
>It was that good of an answer? Maybe I should look into Philosophy club.
>You chuckle and pat yourself on the back as you sit down, sipping at your coffee.
"Shoot."
>"What do you think this world would be like without you?"
>Her innocent, yellow face still shines, but your heart sinks.
>You lower your head and look to your bare feet and lazy clothes.
>After a dead minute of silence, Fluttershy speaks up.
>"Sunset?"
"The exact same."
>Well dammit. Now it's out there.
>Fluttershy doesn't write anything down, she puts the notepad and pen down.
>"Wh-, no it woul-"
"Yes it would Fluttershy."
>You look up and a lone tear has shed down your cheek, falling softly off your shaky chin.
>Fluttershy has no response. She can't come up with words to respond with.
>"I um... I had no... I didn't..."
>She let's out a squeal.
"It's fine Fluttershy. You don't have to feel sympathetic."
>You look down again while you push back the sobbing.
>Before you realized it, Fluttershy came around the table and hugged you tightly from your side.
>Just like Yesterday, it's too much.
>Everyday is too much nowadays.
>As her arms wrap around your shoulders and she lays her head on your shoulder, you shed another tear.
>Then a third tear.
>It's too much.
>You cry and lean against Fluttershy's head, sniffling ever so often.
"I-I'm sorry Fluttershy..."
>"You don't have anything to be sorry about."
>After a minute longer, your wipe your eyes and take a deep breath while Fluttershy lets go of you and rubs your back before standing upright again.
"Thank you Fluttershy. You can go now. I'm sorry for bothering you."
>"You're anything but a bother Sunset."
>It sure as hell doesn't feel like it.
>Nonetheless, you smile at her comment.
"Thank you, I needed that."
>She writes in her journal, but with a sharpie instead of her pencil.
>"So um, did you still want to hang out after school Friday next week?"
>Your face lights up.
"Whenever you'd like to go, just let me know."
>She nods and smiles.
>For a moment longer, she packs her bags and finishes her tea.
"I will get that."
>You look up at her with an optimistic smile.
>Returning the smile, Fluttershy rips the bottom half of a page from her notepad out and leaves it on the desk upside down.
>Black sharpie is visible on the paper, but isn't clear enough to read.
>"I'll see you Monday."
>You nod and wave goodbye as she walks out of the door.
>Your eyes stare at bother the tears on your lazily worn clothing and the note on the table.
"I can't read that right now."
>Today has given an interesting amount of emotions.
>You grab the note without looking and your coffee, and take both upstairs to you room.
>You place the note on your dresser for tomorrow and sip your coffee before laying in bed, staring at the ceiling in peace.
------------------------------------------------------------
>Hours and hours pass and your motionless.
>When did I wake up? 11:00.
>You look to your right to see your alarm clock on a small podium next to your bed.
*8:23 PM*
>You wipe your eyes in astonishment. They are still sore from earlier this morning.
>I've been laying in bed for at least eight hours...
>You rub your stomach and it growls in response.
>You have ate anything for those hours either.
>You get up slowly, beginning to walk over to the door until you stop yourself at the door frame.
>Slowly turning your head, your eyes focus in on the piece of paper Fluttershy wrote.
>Without thinking, you run over to grab it and proceed to walk downstairs.
>All the lights are off, no one is home.
>Typical.
>You make yourself a full dinner (breakfast? lunch?), staring at the note repeatedly.
>Sitting down once more onto the brown leather couch, you sit and eat.
>Before opening the note, you take a large bite of your food.
>You put down your Fork and open up the paper.
*"10. What do you think this world would be like without you?"
Response: The exact same.*
>The response was crossed out though.
>*Response: I feel like I would be missed greatly. There are a lot of people who care about me and even though there are some that do, I love those that care. I hope to never lose them, nor vice verse.*
"F-Fl... Fluttersh-..."
>Your eyes begin to water once more, but happily.
>You fold the paper as you lift your knees to your chest and snuggle your head against them, holding your legs tightly together.
>You smile, reading the note over and over and over again.
"Oh boy, this is pathetic."
>You chuckle softly to yourself. It's not a violent depressed insult, but a light hearted one. One you'd tell to those you love when they do something silly. One you say to your lover when they playfully hit you on the arm and you feel nothing.
>Before storing it in your pocket, you see more sharpie at the bottom, written smaller but legibly.
*If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask. I would always love to talk! 657-394-4422*
>You gasp in excitement and joy.
>Putting it in your pocket, you hum to yourself with a new found joy.
 
>Monday comes along.
>The alarm clock buzzes loudly and annoyingly as any morning.
>Everything is the same.
>You have barely any friends - if you can even call them that.
>You have one friend for sure... Well, 90% sure.
>But it doesn't matter as much, because there is a different aspect of life, a different perspective to look at it from when you know someone cares.
>It is something that's hard to appreciate in its entirety until it is taken away.
>After getting ready for school, you read the note once more, smile, and place it inside of your dresser.
>Going downstairs, you hear a knock at the door.
>No one comes to my house. There are only two people I could imagine being behind that door, and I doubt one of them would come over a second time in only a few short days.
>Pinkie Pie
>Opening the door widely, you had guess correctly.
>Pinkie jumps at you, arms opened wide, and hugs you tightly.
"Oh, uh, hey Pinkie!"
>"Hi Sunset! I didn't want to ride the bus today, SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, I was wondering if you could give me a ride."
"Sure, bud."
>You slowly pull away from the hug and smile at her, closing the door behind her.
"Did you want something to eat?"
>"Oh oh oh! WeShouldTOOOOOOOOOOTALLLLLLLLYGoToPancakePalace! Have you been there?!?!?!"
"I can't say I have."
>"OH! YouSimplyHaveToHaveToHaveToGo!"
"Do you think we'l have enough time t-"
>"School starts in an hour and a half! It's just down the street!!!"
"Well..."
>"PleasePleasePlease?!?!?!"
>She gives you a puppy dog face.
>Well, it must be good if she is this excited. This is hyper, even for Pinkie. Especially for the morning.
"Alright."
>She cheers, somehow shooting confetti over the entrance.
>You've stopped trying to question where or how Pinkie does what she does. Nonetheless, it's still pretty awesome.
>Grovelling at your feet, she hugs your legs.
>"Oh ThankYouThankYouThankYou!!! You're going to love it!"
"Let me just grab my things."
>After a few minutes, the two of you are in your car.
>You seem exhausted, not getting enough of the dark coffee in front of you.
>Pinkie could use a Nyquil Pm.
>Maybe she'll relax when we get to the restaurant.
>This day should be interesting.
------------------------------------------------------------
>After arriving to the restaurant, you and Pinkie are seated and wait for someone to walk by.
>Pinkie can hardly hold still, taping her feet under the table and smiling widely at you.
"What's got you so hyped Pinkie?"
>"Oh trust me, you will see!!!"
>You raise a brow at her in disbelief.
>"I promise you will!"
>Your disbelief grows stronger. She has to have something going on with this 'pancake' thingy.
"What are you planning Pinkie?"
>You smile at her.
>"Nothing nothing! Honest! Cross my heart, hope to fly..."
"stick a cupcake in my eye, alright."
>You chuckle. Every time she makes a promise she recites like it's a chant.
>Though it's often, she has broken her word.
>A sweet waitress comes up and greets the two of you.
>"Hi there, welcome to the Pancake Palace, what can I get for you two girls to drink?"
"Do you have Mtn Dew?"
>"and a Dr. Pepper for me!"
>"Yes to both of those! I will have them right up. Are you ready to order food yet or are we still looking?"
>You look at the menu but before you can even think of what to say, Pinkie is on the draw.
>"The quadruple stacked pancakes! For both of us!"
>"Sounds good! With the hash browns and biscuit as usual I assume?"
>"As usual Crista!"
>The two of them smile and nod as she walks up.
>Wh- wait, the hell?
>Your face must be completely confuzzled because Pinkie chuckles when turning back to it.
>"What is it Sunny?"
"I just... How many times have you been here?"
>"Hmm... One... Two... Two times!"
"How do you know everyone?!"
>"Well, there my friends, duh!"
>Pinkie has a different way of making friends. It's pretty efficient and seemingly impossible, but it's her thing.
"Well, alright the-"
>Your cut off by your drinks and food being brought to your table so quickly.
>Your jaw drops. They look so good. But how did they make them so fast?!
>"Here you are you two! Quad stacked pancakes, hash browns, and biscuits for you two girls.
>Maybe today won't be the worse.
------------------------------------------------------------
>You take your first bite as the waitress leaves.
>Holy crap.
>This is far better than you expected.
>The pancake takes you on an adventure of warm fluff and smooth syrup as you swallow, reminiscing the taste as it leaves.
>But there is more, so no need to be upset.
>Your eyes roll back and Pinkie claps in joy.
>"I told you you'd like it!"
"Oh boy, was I wrong Pinkie. This is good. One of the best things I have ever had probably."
>She cheers in joy.
 
>After the two of you finish, it feels difficult to stand but you somehow manage to do it with Pinkie's help.
>15 minutes until first period starts.
"Oh, we've got to get going."
>You leave an exciting tip onto the table and the two of you lug yourselves quickly out of the restaurant, thanking all of the workers you walk past on your way out.
>You step into the car, looking at your cold coffee with disinterest. You're pretty wide awake now.
>On the way to school, Pinkie tells the story of how she moved schools in the summer before her 9th grade year, and how she was so excited to become a Wondercolt. There is so much of a reputation that follows this school that it is hard to not have the least bit of interest in coming here.
>As you pull up, you see the large school in its entirety.
>"So basically, I lived on this farm and worked but studied in my free time. I passed some test thingies and they were totally cool with it!!!"
>You smile as she finished and you park.
>Pinkie; always have interesting stories to tell.
>You stop out of the car and quickly walk to the front doors, opening them as the first bell rings.
>Not tardy to class, but barely on time for school.
>It was always convenient that school started ten minutes before first period started. It gave some time to relax a moment longer and gather your things.
>You walk through the halls with Pinkie before she needs to go.
>"I have to go to Art class. I'll see you in Pre-Cal Sunny!"
>You nod and wave as she walks the direction you both came from and into a class nearby.
>Turning back around, you walk a little longer to see a quiet Fluttershy closing her locker after grabbing her things.
"Hey Fluttershy! What's up?"
>She looks around, searching for the source of the voice, finding you in the process.
>"Oh, hey there Sunset."
>The two of you smile at one another before you walk past her.
>You step into first period, a few minutes left on the clock.
>"MRS. SHIMMER! Come here this INSTANT!"
>Well Christ, pleasure to see you too.
>You step up to her, more confident than you have been previously but still timid.
"Yyyyyyyyyyyyyyes mam?
>"I heard about your little incident in the bathroom this weekend. You can't just break into a school and ruin the stalls for everyone else! How selfish of you! You're not all that you know. Not anymore, for sure."
>What the hell are you talking about?
"Um, I'm sorry?"
>"You've been called to the office. I have called your parents and I expect a formal apology to me through some form of contact very soon young lady."
>Well then.
>You feel yourself growing angry and ready to give all of the sarcasm you can throw at her, but you hold back.
"I don't know what you're talking about, but as you wish."
>You walk to the door and as you exit, you can hear her speak from the class room.
>"Sorry students, some people just don't understand that they aren't the top of the food chain. That's Biology though. Let's talk about History."
>You were an instant away from kicking her desk over and spitting in her face. You were an instant away from sitting back down in your desk and ripping your homework in half. You were an instant away from-.
>You stop yourself. What can you do now?
>The hallways are empty, through the yelling the bell must have rang.
"It's funny how in five seconds a day can turn you into a Trainwreck."
------------------------------------------------------------
>You have been to the Principal's Office plenty of times.
>Hell, all the staff probably knows you by name.
>But it has a different feel from a few months back. Instead of Cockiness, fear.
>Instead of carelessness, the utmost concern.
>You open the door to the front office, looking around at the familiar surroundings.
>Noticing some rearrangements of furniture, you try to strike a friendly conversation with the lady at the front desk.
"Oh, this is nice. When did the office get switched up?"
>She glares at you, unimpressed. She presses a button on her intercom base and presumably talks to the Principal.
>Principal Celestia.
>"Mrs. Shimmer is here for you, mam."
>"Thank you, send her in."
>She nods at Celestia's request and looks back at you.
>You nod and smile, trying to be friendly but she wasn't interested.
>Through a door in the back there is a long hallway with multiple doors onto the side.
>You wish you didn't know exactly who was in each office but you do. You've been in here too many times.
>Third to the left, the largest one and in the direct middle.
>You open the door, Celestia looking up at you disapointed.
>Smiling, you try to be as friendly as possible.
>It fails to remove everything she already though about you though.
>"Please sit, Mrs. Shimmer."
>You nod and sit down timidly.
"S-so, why was I called in h-here?"
>"You know damn well why you were called in here young lady!"
>Please don't yell, that's when it gets hard to hold in the tears.
>"Explain it to me!"
>Please stop.
"I don't know what you are talking about Ms. Celestia. Honest."
>She looks at you for a moment longer in disbelief.
>She has every right to not take your word. It's about as good as an eroded rock laying deep within the bottom of a vast ocean of nothingness.
>"Fine, I will play your game. Over the weekend, specifically on Saturday around Noon, someone broke into the school and made a mess of the Bathrooms. We have gotten multiple reports and rumors that you were to blame."
>Suck it up Sunny. You've got this.
"I don't have anyone in my contacts mam, and I was with Fluttershy around that time."
>"Well we haven't looked at the footage yet, so unfortunately we legally can't put you in detention or fine you... Yet. I would appreciate it if you came off clean earlier so we don't have to go through the process of re-watching the tapes."
>Who would blame me?
"I wouldn't do something like that Mam."
>"Then why would everyone tell me that you did it?"
>Don't cry, don't cry, don't cry.
>You think of the wonderful events that transpired this morning. You hanged with Pinkie and she brought you to the warm and comfortable restaurant. Buffet of Breakfast? No no no, Pancake something. Pancake Palace! You think to the fluffy pancakes you ate that made you feel whole and full, and the feeling of the contrasting cool syrup swimming in your mouth, hugging your tounge and being so accepting.
>Her hand smacks down onto the table aggressively.
>"Answer me young lady!"
"I-... I don't know Ms. Celestia."
>"But you do know!"
"But I honestly don't know!"
>"What?! Do you think it's because someone's out to get you? The 'popular' trouble maker of the school? Ruining prom for the good students of Canterlot High Sch-"
>You cut her off.
"Maybe I don't WANT TO KNOW."
>The room is filled with a stunning silence. It's beautiful. No yelling, no aggression, just the clarity and peace of the large office space around you.
>Sadly, it's ended by yours truly.
>"Well when I find out that it's you you're going to be in big trouble."
"And what if you find out it's not me?"
>You stand and are followed by Celestia in response.
>"Then I'll give you a lovely 20 dollar bill if you truly exceed the expectations that you've set for yourself."
"I look forward to spending it."
>You tuck your chair back in and storm out of the room, slamming the door behind you.
>From behind the wall, you can hear a hand slamming onto a desk.
>Did you win? For now, it's possible. But it will not end here and you know it.
>You walk out of the hallway and as you pass by the receptionist, you take a mint from a bowl she has set up on the table.
>Staring at her calmly but angrily, you throw the mint in your mouth and walk out of the door, waving goodbye politely at her.
>Does anger work?
>It does. It has in the pass. But it won't bring anything good. Next time, catch your breath.
>Relax.
>You sit down across from your History class, not wanting to go back in but there is still twenty minutes of class left.
>You take deep breaths, and hold back the tears forming in your eyes.
"Dammit."
>You speak softly as a tear almost escapes. You quickly rush to the bathroom that is nearby and wipe your eyes with a towel.
>Afterwards, you wash your face with the water coming from the sink.
>You look up into the mirror and see yourself.
"This is all your fault."
"Why'd you do this?! Why are you a moron that doesn't know how to properly make friends? Why are you a stupid, aggressive, unloved, narcissistic, damn bitch? Why why why?!"
>A toilet flushes and you quickly turn to the right to see a girl in black shoes walking out of the stall.
>You try to run out of the bathroom fast enough but both of you see each other.
>Rainbow Dash looks at you, worried and tries to catch up to you.
>"H-hey, Sunset, you co-"
>She is cut off by the bathroom door closing before she can finish her sentence.
>You grab the handle to your History class, turning to see Rainbow standing outside of the bathroom, looking straight at you.
>The two of you stare at each other for a moment. It lingers on for longer than it should.
>"Wait, Sunse-:
>She starts walking to you, but you open the door and walk inside, sitting down and apologizing to your teacher repeatedly, opening your book.
>"That's fine Ms. Shimmer, don't interrupt the whole class now. We are in chapter 19."
>You nod, and turn to the door to see Rainbow Dash walk by, looking in through the glass as she does so.
>After you meet eye contact again, you quickly look back at your text book. A few moments later, you turn back and she's gone.
>You breath out and try to wipe your mind of the past 30 minutes.
>"So, who can tell me about where China was politically, economically, and socially during the age of Colonization?"
>You can, but you won't.
------------------------------------------------------------
>The day doesn't meet your expectations anymore.
>You were enjoying yourself up until first period. Stepping onto the white tiles in that class room was the first mistake.
>While upset, you managed to pull through in all of your classes.
>They usually don't feel this long though.
>Rainbow Dash didn't appear much after the incident in the morning for the rest of the day.
>She a soccer game up until 8th period, so wasn't in any of your classes really.
>The only time you caught her in your sights was when she walked past you during lunch today. She had a concerned look on her face when noticing you, but as soon as she sat down with her friends it washed away.
>During 8th period, you were unexpectedly called up to the office.
>*BEEP BEEP BEEP*
>"Yes?"
>"Could you send Sunset Shimmer to the Front office, she will be returning in a moment.
>"Yes mam!"
>You nod at your teacher and walk out of the door.
>Fortunately, Physics isn't the worst class of the day. Your teacher isn't aware of what you've done and your fellow students are very out of it when it comes to the frequently traded gossip.
>Not to mention you have Fluttershy in that class with you.
>Approaching the office door, you take a moment to enjoy the peacefulness of the empty, long hallways.
>I'm probably going to be yelled at.
>You chuckle and sigh, opening the door to the office and go up to the receptionist desk.
>It's a different lady than it was this morning. They switch off after fourth period usually.
>"Hello Sunset. Go into the back door there and go into the third door on the left."
>You nod, a little put off because she didn't inform Principal Celestia first of your attendance in the front room.
>One, two, three.
>You turn left and walk into the office, noticing the lack of anyone else.
>An office empty of people, but there is a note on the desk for you.
>Walking up to it, you notice the lack of care put into folding it with crinkles ruining the smooth white and multiple tears on the envelope.
>Upon opening it, a twenty dollar bill falls out and a small piece of paper lands alongside it.
>*Until next time Ms. Shimmer*
>You chuckle, leaving the note be and taking the twenty dollars with you.
>As you enter back into 8th period, the final bell rings. You pick up your things and walk out of the class room, following the large crowd that already escaped from the room and merging into the hallway, unnoticeable.
------------------------------------------------------------
>You manage to survive almost being trampled in the hallway.
>Stepping out of the school, you walk through the parking lot and get into your car.
>Breath in, breath out, breath in, breath out.
>You take a moment to relax in your car. The silence is pleasant. It usually comes in small and infrequent burst, but when it does it brings calamity to any situation.
>The keys fit nicely into the ignition slot. You turn them, and the engine roars softly.
>You turn your head around and look out the back window to see Rainbow Dash crossing her arms and patiently waiting.
>The two of you make eye contact for a moment, fifteen seconds on the clock. Honking your horn at her, she refuses to move.
>You face forward, a little aggravated. You honk the horn furiously at her.
>Sadly, to no avail, your attempts fail.
>You growl and grab your keys, throwing your arms up in frustration.
"Fine, fine, fine!"
>You open your car door, almost hitting a car to the left of you.
>"Hey Sunset, I wanted to talk to you about what happened earlier."
>Well that was on the spot.
"It just wasn't my day Rainbow."
>How does Rainbow feel about you? She seems to have some concern but is almost threatened by you. Why is that? I don't have the upper leg in any fashion against her...
>"You were a bit harsh on yourself and I wanted to make sure you were okay."
>You were far from okay, but it's no different than any other day you go to school.
"I wasn't friendly, you'd be right."
>You let out a soft chuckle as you lean against your car with your arms crossed, facing the ground.
>"It wouldn't be cool of me if I just let you be upset all day. Could you tell me what is wrong?"
>She is speaking in a calm tone, but the voice cracks still manage to get through.
"Um... Well, I just..."
>"Yes?"
>Your mind draws blank.
"I uh..."
>"Here."
>She writes her number on a small slip of paper.
>You look uneasily at her.
>She hands you the note, and you look at it blankly.
>"I would love to stay and talk but I really have to get to practice. If you need something, text me, please.
>You nod at her uneasily, but she runs off before she saw your head nod.
>You look at the note and when she is out of site, you throw it in the backseat and on the ground.
"She probably wouldn't even respond."
>It hurts your deeply to know that, but Pinkie is the only one that would reply to your text, if you were lucky.
>Unfortunately, you're usually not so lucky.
>You sigh and lean your head on the steering wheel, trying to bring clarity to today's events.
>It just wasn't your day.
>You start your car once more, forcing yourself to breath calmly as your drive out of the parking lot and onto the road.
>*Click* You turn on the radio.
>"-ies and gentlemen, pleasure to have all of you listeners here on the Clasher, so we have a very special guess today with us by the name of Rarity. Hey there, Rarity, how you doing?
>The hell?
>"I'm great, thanks for having me Chad."
>"My pleasure sweetie. So, please do tell us what you've been working on as far as design dresses goes. I hear you and your mentor Apricot Cake have been working on some wonderful things as of recent.
>Are you even surprised?
>They ramble on about her work for a few minutes later and you listen to it patiently but are disinterested.
>"I also hear that you have some assistants working with you. Who are they?"
>"Oh those are my fiv-..."
>She is silent for a moment and you look at the radio while at a red light.
>"Sorry, I stuttered there."
>"No problem. You were saying?"
>"Oh! Well! My four friends are helping me out! Rainbow Dash, Flutters-"
>You turn off the radio. There is nothing for you on that channel.
>The next few minutes are filled with the smooth sound of the tires pushing themselves forward on the concrete street below you and the engine's vibration.
>Once getting home, the expression on your face practically weighs you down to the concrete path that travels from your front lawn to the door.
>You get home and sigh exhaustively.
>The day has done it's damage.
>After grabbing something to eat real quickly, you travel up your stairs and into your room, laying down on your bed for a moment.
>It seems like doing nothing is all you can do that doesn't take energy from you.
>In reality, even laying down on the bed takes out a large portion of what strength you have left.
>Your eyes starts to water, and you almost let out a lone tear.
>You slap your forehead to stop yourself and sit up, looking to the ceiling.
"Nope, nope, n-n... Nope..."
>You barely manage to hold it in but you did it.
>At what point does life get so screwed up that the hardest thing you have to do daily is not cry?
>You chuckle to yourself and the small attempt of laughter is followed by a grim look to the floor.
>Getting outside is what you need.
>When you were younger, you'd always go to the forest to play and have fun.
>It apparently wasn't cool to do that though, so you had to drop that.
>As you start heading downstairs to go to the forest for a walk, you think of all that you gave up for false friendships.
>For the friends you wanted.
>The feeling wasn't mutual until you showed masculinity over everyone else. Did things by your own will.
>You had to give up your sweet fuzzy slippers you wore every day for years.
>You had to get rid of all of your stuff animals that, if you didn't have to, would still be laying on your bed, comforting you as you slept through the night.
>You had to give up who you were.
>*Creaaaaaek* The door opens as you pull on it.
>You close it behind you and walk to the right.
>No one goes to the forest anymore. There aren't any more little kids in your neighborhood and anyone you talked to is too occupied or unconcerned with childish things like having fun.
>You smirk.
------------------------------------------------------------
>As you walk, your eyes are drawn to a particularly large tree that stands tall nearby.
>You recall the moments of your child hood climbing that tree -though it was particularly shorter- and seeing your neighborhood in all of its essence, and spotting some large structures towering in the back drop of the metal image you made.
>You approach the tree, noticing the feel of the bark against your soft but scared palm.
>You grip onto a branch above you and begin pulling yourself up to the top. As you climb, the city becomes more and more visible with less and less trees matching the height of the one you are raising yourself on.
"Ooph"
>You slip on a branch you are standing on and land on your stomach.
>You take a seat for a moment before trying to climb higher once again and succeeding.
>One at the top you let out a soft sigh, forgetting all of the troubles from the day.
>You chuckle, looking at the ground curiously.
>Now is as good as any time to jump I gu-
"NO NO NO!"
>Your sudden yell and astonishment scares away a flock of birds in some trees surrounding you.
>What are you thinking Sunset?
>But what else is there for you?
>It is like two of you are arguing in your head. Your lean against the main stem of the tree and hug your head, and curling yourself into a ball, leaning your head on your knees.
>There is still a hope for redemption. It's not just over.
>Ah, but why bother if the rest of your life is going through a process to earn back your respect?
>The silence of the forest will never understand, nor hear the screaming in your head.
>Jump right now, do it you coward!
>You take a step out and see the ground below, cowering back into your position out of fear.
>DO IT! Who do you think would care?!
>Pinkie Pie would. She'd probably cry for days, if not weeks over you. It would break her everlasting smile.
>With that thought, the forest grows silent and cold.
>You reach for your phone to text Pinkie, let her know how good of a friend she is.
>You left your phone at home.
>You calm yourself.
"Everything is good Sunny, just relax. Calm down."
>The breeze that flows and meets your tense body relaxes you.
>The sun warms you after the breeze.
>Everything is fine.
>Everything is okay.
>You relax a moment more before heading down from the tree and onto the floor. You delve deeper into the forest out of curiosity,.
>When you were younger you didn't delve too deep into the forest. There was barb wire that blocked you from exploring.
>You go further than you have ever. You find that the Barb Wire is no longer present.
>As you verged deeper and deeper into the black void hosted by the valuable wild life of the forest, you feel as if you aren't alone.
>You try to shake the feeling from your head, almost succeeding but subtly in the back of your mind lies the thought of one watching you.
>Your journey halts when you find yourself at a descent. It is a sloped ride but a long one down the hill and it is covered in plants with thorns attached to them.
>This is a good place to return home. The sun is beginning to set and the Horizon shows the colors shifting from a light blue to a mixture of red-orange and violet.
>This is a good place to stop the journey.
>Unfortunately, nature, or some thing didn't agree.
>As you turned 180 degrees and faced your home, you slipped on some unstable soil and you fell down, catching your grip on the only possible thing in the nearby vicinity; a thorn vine. It held securely but your palms began to bleed.
>You lacked the energy to climb up and you relaxed all of your muscles but your biceps to gain leverage on the vine.
>Looking down below you, your heart sinks to see the black void as the sun sets more and more. The trees now raise higher than the light from the star.
>You realize that if you fall, you will not be remembered. No one will know who you are. You will just be gone.
>You let your biceps relax as you lose energy. You're not sure if you wanted to relax them or not.
>Nonetheless, all that prevents you from falling as this point is your failing grip of the thorns that cut through your palms like fangs of an animal devouring its prey.
>You hang there, almost lifeless. You lack the energy to pull yourself up but your hands have time to hold and think.
>Why didn't you bring your phone?
>You are too tired to call for help. It's not even the physical destruction that has occurred since holding on, but mainly the emotional damage that makes you think you are weaker than you actually are.
>Time passes and the sun has completely set at this point. All that is visible is a small line of orange while the night sky is mainly overcome by darkness.
>You feel yourself beginning to give out. You don't want to die though.
>Your attempts are futile and your palms begin to be cut as you slip.
"Gah...."
>It's the last sound you can produce.
>Suddenly, when all seems against odds, your are lifted and pulled up onto the flat soil once more.
>Looking up, you spot Rainbow Dash looking at your hands, but your vision is blurry.
>"Sunset? You alright?"
>You look up at her exhaustively.
>She waves her hand in front of your face.
>"Hey, Sunset?"
>You shake your head and you're vision returns for the most part. You feel nauseous though.
>You cover your stomach in an attempt to comfort yourself, almost puking.
>Rainbow grabs the back of your hair and you puke.
>You wipe off some excess spit from your mouth and breath heavily.
>"Rough day?"
>You chuckle. That is a way of putting it.
>Nodding politely, Rainbow starts to lead you out of the forest.
>"You'll be fine Shimmer."
>Thanks bud.
>Did I just think that?
>You two walk home in silence but in peace and happily.
>Less so for you but you were pleased that you didn't fall down a hill and land in a thorn bush.
>When arriving at your front door, she leads you inside and upstairs into your bedroom.
>You lay down and Rainbow sits with you too.
>"What can I do for you? Let me know and I am on it."
>Your words are nearly whispers but are audible.
"A glass of water and um... a mint please."
>You both giggle and she goes to get you what you requested from your kitchen.
>As you lay by yourself, you think of who would have cared if you fell.
>Pinkie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash probably.
>It's comforting to add on the third name. It brings a roundness to the situation
>You hum a soft song to yourself.
>Videotape by Radiohead. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qvv-LpTBWVk [Embed]
>You finish one line and then knock yourself out of the trance that song gives you.
>Maybe Let It All Hang Out by Weezer? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnTzA0gxSDc [Embed]
>That works.
>As Rainbow returns without your knowledge, you sing the chorus at a soft but moderate volume.
"Tonight I'm leaving all my worries and my problems in the house I'm going out, with my homies and we're gonna let it gonna le-"
>Your cut off by the sound of a glass hitting a counter next to you.
>You begin to panic but much to your relief, find Rainbow Dash chuckling softly besides you.
>"You ever thought about joining the school choir."
"No, why do you ask?"
>"Because if you tried for it you'd make it in a heart beat."
>Your cheeks flush the softest shade of red.
"Oh please Rainbow."
>Just take the compliment.
>"No, it's true! You were singing well. A bit tiredly maybe, but it's understandable as to of why."
>You roll your eyes at the thought of the forest once again.
>"What were you singing anyways?"
>You both talk for the next few hours about albums, then music in general, and then sports, and the flow continues on and on until you fell asleep hanging off your bed and Rainbow against a dresser from across the room.
>The last conversation before you both went to sleep was about life altogether but you don't remember the last hour or so before your eyes gave up.
 
>The next morning, your alarm clock rips you from the pleasantries of sleep.
>Your eyes open as your hand slams a snooze button.
"You up Rainbow?"
>She is dead asleep across from you.
>It's a peaceful sight that you don't want to ruin.
>School sucks.
>You get out of bed and calmly go to Rainbow, shaking her shoulder to encourage her to wake up.
>With a sudden shake of her head, she was awake and looking into your calming eyes.
"Morning Dash."
>"Hey."
>You release your grip of her shoulder and smile, hearing her tired and crackly voice.
"Do you want to take a shower first or..."
>"Sure."
"Alright, cool. I'll make us some breakfast?"
>Nods and takes herself out of your bedroom and into the bathroom.
>You begin to head downstairs, ready to make some breakfast.
>What sounds good?
>Bacon and toast? Yeah.
>As you go downstairs, you're heavy bags of sleepiness are less noticeable and an odd, chipper feeling fills you up.
>You pull out a frying pan, some toast, oil, and bacon.
>Fuck yeah, bacon.
>Damn, it's a good morning. Don't get your hopes up about how the day will go because that turned out less than satisfactory last time, but this morning is perfect so far.
>You reach for your phone and play music through the living room speakers.
>Aw yeah, here's a classic. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Ht5RZpzPqw [Embed]
>Those pop punk days were great.
>You turn that shit up loud!
>The volume overbears the sound of the bacon sizzling in front of you and the water falling on the shower in the floor above you.
>Maybe a little too loud?
>You adjust the volume until you can hear yourself think again.
>When you finish cooking the bacon, the door opening from upstairs is in sync with the final piece of toast landing onto your plate.
>Hell yeah for this morning!
>Rainbow walks into the kitchen a few moments later, her mouth practically drooling at the sight of the food.
"You up for bacon and toast?"
>"I barely ate anything yesterday, I'm up for pretty much anything."
>Fortunately, the music isn't so loud that you can still talk to Rainbow at a normal volume and hear her pretty well.
>You both laugh and as you hand her a plate, she goes to give you a high five.
>Been a while since you have had one of those. Pinkie was more into hugs and Fluttershy... Well, she's Fluttershy.
>After a reluctant moment of a flinch, you giggle slightly and accept her invitation.
>You smile widely.
>Clothes are on, teeth are brushed, hair is done.
>You walk out of the bathroom and head back downstairs where you find Rainbow, leaving her eyes closed and as she almost falls asleep.
"Hey Rainbow, you awake?"
>"Hm? Yeah, I'm up."
>She doesn't look the sorts, but you'll trust her word.
"When do you want to leave?"
>"Never. I'm not up for school today."
>You both let out a little giggle.
>"Did we have homework?"
>You ponder for a moment.
"I don't think so. We have that uh Physics paper but that's due this Friday."
>You shrug and sit down on a chair across from Rainbow.
>Fortunately, you don't fall asleep yourself. If you did, there's no way either of you would go to school today.
>You want to skip but you're saving it for another day. Maybe Friday. Three day weekends are nice.
>For the next thirty minutes, time lingers on as you both sit in silence, listening to the music playing through the speakers.
>Your phone rings, and since no one would ever text you, school must be starting in fifteen minutes.
"Do you need anything else Rainbow?"
>No response.
>You giggle slightly, knowing she'd fall asleep.
"Hey! Rainbow!"
>You turn off the stereo setup and she's awoken in a quick panic by your rise in volume.
>"What time is it?!"
"Don't worry Rainbow, we have a minute or so, but we should be getting to school."
>"Oh, alright."
>She gets up, rubbing her exhausted eyes as you turn off the lights behind you and begin walking out of your house.
>Keys in the ignition, Rainbow in the car with you, seat belt on.
>She hasn't said a lot this morning but she doesn't need to. It's been enough just having her to lift your spirits.
>"You know Sunset, we should hang out more."
>You stomach lifts up even more. Damn, this is going to be a good day.
>Screw school, screw people, you have who you need to get through the day.
"That'd be awesome Rainbow."
>"Cool."
>She rest her eyes once more on the way to the school.
>Very little noteworthy occurred during the rest of the week.
>Some fight happened between two girls over a football game. You saw a video that Rainbow showed you.
>"Woah! She got smacked up! I would have taken her on!"
>Fortunately, it seemed Dash was going to remain your friend which gave you and ever so minuscule amount of confidence in return.
>Each day was better than it had been but still uninteresting.
>That is, until you began to walk out of English in on Friday that the pit of the week decided to come at you.
>For some reason, Rainbow, Pinkie, nor Fluttershy had talked to you all day. Odd, but eating lunch by yourself isn't unusual per say.
>While at your locker, you began to hear whispers from behind you, a hushed hallway. Abnormally quiet.
>Where are the freshman who think themselves higher on the social hierarchy than the Seniors? Or the Juniors who kept those Freshies in check? Or for that matter, the seniors that don't have a care in the world anymore? The sophomores had gone quiet as well.
>They were all there, but were whispering for whatever reason.
>"You're gonna' get what's coming for ya' Shimmy shim shim."
>The hell kind of nick name is that? It's not even clever. Almost like an emo Middle Schooler's intro to their mix tape.
>Nonetheless, you turn around to find that the hallway picked up sound again once the warning bell rang.
>More keywords being told, but little useful information to decipher the topic.
>A freshman came running up to you as fast as lightning, looking around cautiously.
>You recognized her but the name slips from your tongue.
>She uses you to become invisible from one side of the hallway. The other she watches carefully.
>After heavy panting and a relieved sigh, you decide to make conversation.
"Hey, are you okay?"
>"Y-yes, but you might not be later today."
>She took out a bow that was tied into her red hair to let it flow straight down.
"What do you mean?"
>"I'm sure you don't know me, but my name is Applebloom."
"You're Applejack's sister, aren't you?"
>Fear was plastered on her face, not from you, but of someone watching her.
>"Look, I will make this quick, but you need to stay away from the 2300 hall for... Well, starting today and lasting forever."
>What?
"What do you mean?"
>"Well, I did something I shouldn't of and she uh..."
>Her speaking voice became slightly nervous as she uneasily chuckled.
>"... She thought that you did it. Or at least some people said it was you. I promise I didn't frame you! But I-"
>At the least, you'll have your friends at you side, right?
>You took a deep breath in and sighed.
>"- haven't had the guts to tell her."
"I appreciate you telling me, but I have to go down the 2300 hall for Physics."
>Her eyes became wide and she moaned to herself, showing distress.
>"I-I need to go."
"Wait, Applebloom!"
>She was pretty fast in all honesty. Gone in almost a blink of an eye.
>You lacked the energy (or the interest) to go after her, curious as to of what is going to happen before 8th period.
>Deciphering Applebloom's words kept you loss in thought through the rest of the day.
>7th period ended soon after. You and Pinkie didn't really talk during the whole class.
>I just made two friends, please don't make me lose my closest. Why has she been so distant this whole week? Why has Rainbow been a little bit nervous around you? Fluttershy hasn't even said 'hi' in the hallways!
>Nonetheless, you walk out of the Office and head to Physics, each step feeling surprisingly light. Almost as if you were floating in the air over to your destination.
>You step into the 2300 hall where you find more people than usual stirring about but nothing too ordinary.
>What did Applebloom mean by 'she thought you did it'? Did what?
>Almost in 8th period, perfect.
>Just need to take a few more steps and-
>"Hey! Shimmer!"
>So close...
>You reluctantly step away from the door and turn around, putting a smile on your face.
"Hey Applej-"
>"Don't'cha 'Hey Applejack' me!"
>How bad in all honesty could Applebloom actually have screwed you over?
>Apparently, bad enough to gather the attention of everyone in the hall. She hadn't spoken so loudly, so why was everyone looking at the two of you?
"What's wrong?"
>"You know darn tootin' what's wrong. Why'd you do it?"
"D-do what?"
>"Oh, I bet'cha think y'all are real funny, huh? Alright, I'll play along."
>Her voices raises and turns into this helpless, sarcastic, and whiny cry.
>Almost sounds like Rarity, sadly enough.
>"Oh dear heavens! My science project I have been working on for weeks on end has been completely obliterated over night! Who could it have been?"
"You're not serious, are you?"
>She glares at you.
"Okay, what makes you think I had ANYTHING at all do this with it?"
>"Who else would do it? Not to mention I have heard plenty of talk about it."
>Perhaps she is being honest, but stubborn at the same time.
"I wouldn't ever destroy someone's work for the sake of being funny, Applejack."
>"Ya know that'cha would! Miss Bigshot with her high attitude on, thinking she is all that. You're nothing, you know that?"
>You can feel yourself almost tearing up. The words are strikingly effective.
>Fortunately, you see Rainbow and Fluttershy out of the corner of your eye in the crowd. You turn your head to them in hopes that they can talk reason into the conversation.
"Dash, Fluttershy, you guys know it wasn't me, right?"
>They look away awkwardly, Fluttershy rubbing an arm and covering her head with her bangs while Rainbow scratches the back of her hair and looks to the ceiling.
"Guys, come on."
>"You're not fooling anybody in this school Sunset. You can't keep acting like you're the best thing to walk the grounds of Earth!"
>She fronts up on you, making you feel uncomfortable.
"I know who I am and how I act."
>Maybe it was that she didn't hear the innocence in your voice. Maybe it was that she chose not to hear it. Hell, maybe you should have made it sound more innocent...
>It doesn't matter at this point what you could have done to prevent it.
>Your face was met with a fist that was directly applied at your nose. You heard the crowds gasp in excitement before you felt the pain.
>You groaned softly and became wide eyed as you were leaning against the wall.
>Rainbow and Fluttershy gasp and covered their mouths, the stress being present on their faces.
>You stood straight up and felt your nose let out a small drip of blood.
>Everything slowed down. Your little trust in the world fell apart.
>You almost let out a tear, the lone stream almost got out of you.
"Nope."
>You face Applejack who clearly had some layer of guilt strapped to her.
"Nope nope nope."
>You wipe your nose and crack your fingers.
>"Well, I uh, maybe you'll learn to be more mindful of oth-"
>In a beautiful, swift haste, your arm glides a swift punch across Applejack's face.
>Her eyes become wide as well, now feeling the pain that you felt.
>She almost seemed ready to stop right there but you didn't want to, or at least didn't have the power to not continue.
>Left hand comes along, another hit into her jaw.
>The joy of the crowd switches into horror as you grab Applejack's hair and throw her into the ground, kicking her ribs.
>You kick her to where she sits up, the swelling on her forehead from your hits being strongly apparent.
>Laying one last punch onto her cheek, you start to get up as you're pulled away by a few strong guys from behind you.
"I'm tired of this! Do you all hear?! Stay the hell away from me! You're all fucking terrible and should be ashamed of yourselves. You all know I didn't do shit!"
>You'd let out a curse here and there, but never so forcefully.
>The crowd was astonished as two police officers took your kicking legs and began to pull you away.
>A pink figure was seen from across the crowd. The disappointment on her face was heartbreaking. And in one sudden moment, you felt the last reminisce of care you had for anything fade away.
"Pinkie..."
>You weakly whisper and tears begin to form in your eyes.
>She turns around and walks through the crowd while Fluttershy and Rainbow look towards you.
>The crowd disperse as a few teachers walk by and drive everyone away.
"No no no no!"
>You pull all your limbs in random directions, but to no avail the two students and two officers don't budge their grip.
>Your eyes water and quickly you burst into tears.
>The four show little sympathy to your predicament, just a no body.
>And now, a no body with no friends.
>Eventually, they let you down right outside of the principals office.
>Physically, you've calmed down, but you're screaming inside your mind.
>Here we go again: Step into the principals office, get a glare from the assistant, walk towards Principal Celestia's office.
>Only difference is a cop is following you, and you're the one at fault.
>But you're not in actuality! She hit you first for a crime you hadn't committed!
>The door is open; she had been expecting you.
>"Pleasure, Ms. Shimmer."
"Hello Principal Celestia."
>She makes half a rotation, facing you with a smart ass grin.
>"Do you think I'm shocked?"
"No mam."
>"Tell me what happened?"
"You know what happened, mam."
>"Ep ep ep! From your perspective."
>You raise a brow at her. Maybe she is actually considering your perspective this time.
"Alright then..."
>You sit down in the chair, the officer closing the door behind the two of you.
"Everyone in the school thought I destroyed Applejack's science project, she wanted me to stop being so 'prestigious', she hit me once, I rebutted a little more violently."
>"Anything else?"
>You shake your head no.
>"Alright. Bring the other student in!"
>Applejack walked in, looking beaten up. It gave you an evil smile to know you still were capable of tossing people to the side, but it didn't necessarily make you proud.
>"So Applejack. I'd like to hear what happened."
>Weird, she didn't ask for her side of the story, only for what ACTUALLY happened.
>You keep the thought bookmarked and listen to Applejack's lie.
>Well, it's not really a lie. Just a half truth. Not really her fault entirely, she just assumed too fast.
>It's her fault that she got smacked up though.
>"Well, Sunset here destroyed my project and ah can't stand when someone has the nerve to destroy whatever they feel like. I worked hard on it and... And well..."
>"I understand Applejack."
>Wait, what?
>"So, Sunset, why did you destroy her project?"
>Your eyes become wide eyed and you happen to put on a smile in complete disbelief.
"Oh, you're serious?"
>"Please mam, we'd like to keep this as short and calm as we can."
>You shake your head and your smile drops.
"Well, I didn't destroy her project."
>"So why would she tell me that you did?"
"Maybe she hates me?"
>"I can promise ya Miss Celestia that I have never had anything against Sunset."
>"Interesting. You know, Applejack has never lied to me Sunset."
>Your mouth drops in disbelief once more.
"Okay, well maybe there are some people that want to get back at me."
>"Interesting, changing up your story, are we?"
"Don't interrogate me!"
>"How about I do what I need to to determine who did what, and I have to say I'm almost done with this case because I might know the culprit."
>You stand up out of the chair and begin to walk out, being obstructed by a police officer.
>No way you're just walking out of this one.
>A thought comes to mind that offers you peace. Fear maybe, but a calm sovereignty.
>You turn around and face a condescending Celestia alongside Applejack who sits impatiently.
"You know what? Fine. It was me. You got me. I'm a terrible human being!"
>The laugh you let out is on the border of insanity. This raises a few brows in the room.
>"I'm sorry mam?"
>They look around confused.
>"She never called you a terrible person Sunset." Applejack spoke up.
"Oh ho no! Maybe she didn't! But she implied it, didn't she? Her and everyone else in this school. Giving glares in the halls, not believing my word."
>"Well, do you ever think that you don't have any truthful words to speak?"
>Celestia's words were sharp and cut deep like a knife.
"Maybe not! Maybe it's because I'm such a worthless person that I don't deserve any respect of the sort!"
>"Would you stop acting so immature Miss Shimmer?!"
"Ah!"
>You laugh loudly for all of them to see. You're practically losing your mind at the moment.
"But you just said that I don't have any words worth saying, right? Maybe I should just never talk again!"
>"Enough of this! For hurting our dear student Applejack and for destroying school property, you are being sentenced to 12 weeks in ISS (In School Suspension).
"Maybe 12 weeks of silence would do me good! Go ahead! Shut me up and prove your point!"
>"Out of my office Miss Shimmer!"
>She turned down to Applejack.
>"I'm very sorry you had to be apart of this dear."
>She nods in response, indicating that she accepted her apology.
"Okay, cheerio Miss Celestia."
>"Hopefully this will be the last time you have to ever come in my office again!"
>It's a wonder why no one has come in yet to ensure everything is okay. She is screaming so loud it nearly vibrates the walls.
"Well I can guarantee you this mam, it definitely will be the last time I step into this office."
>She raises a brow as you walk out.
>Unbeknownst to them, you plan to not even go to ISS.
>This may be the last time you step foot into this school again.
>After exiting the long hallway, you go straight rather than to your left to walk out of the school. You head for you car an open it with an aggressive force, hitting the vehicle next to you.
>Who cares? You're not paying for it.
>You drive straight to your hang out place with Pinkie. Though, she won't be there.
>The radio is off, and silence is all that is in your wake.
>You've ran out of tears to shed, or care to give for others. All that rings in your mind is the last time you saw Pinkie Pie.
>It's unbelievable how a few seconds can feel like a millennium.
>The fear on her face was somehow more horrifying than beating up a teenage girl over a science project.
>The sadness she showed was more of a heart ache than you could even handle.
>And the disappointment?
>You closed your eyes for a moment, turning your head away from the road.
>The silence is filled in the car with the deep breathing that you give.
"Pinkie Pie..."
>You slam your head on the steering wheel, not concerned of going off course and hitting someone.
"Why did you have to come and see that? Why did you have to see me be so violent? So, arrogant?"
>After a few seconds, you look back to the rode and find yourself nearing the restaurant.
>The most jovial place you can think of is suddenly a cage filled with the few pleasant memories you have. They hang there, tortured, screaming in agony.
>'Let me go' they scream, you can almost hear them, but you don't. That, or you choose not to.
>You pull into the small parking lot and walk inside.
>There's something missing. You know what it is, but you ignore it and brush it off.
>You sit down in the usual spot, looking across from you on the other side of your booth.
>Your sanity is gone at this point as you watch yourself and Pinkie Pie sit down in the booth, laughing and giggling at another funny story.
>She always had the best stories to tell. There was no doubt about that at all. Every time you were the least bit upset, she somehow picked your spirit up. To you, it'd have taken hours of careful nit picking, almost as if you were walking into a large field that went on for miles and miles, and you needed to find every little shard of yourself inside that field and put it back together.
>Pinkie would just... Somehow, fix it all, and easily too.
>You slouch.
>Fortunately, you're hallucinations fade and now you're left alone in the booth.
>You play around with the salt shaker until a polite waitress finds you, curled up in a ball.
>"Uh, hell mam?"
>Oddly enough, you quickly posture yourself up. It's not like you have anything to prove to anyone though.
"Hi!"
>There's a diminish to your enthusiasm.
>"Is there anything I can get for you?"
>A meal sounds good for whatever reason. Stress does endue hunger after all.
"Y-yeah, could I have the um..."
>You look at the menu, unsure. It's uncommon of you to eat meals here. Their ice creams and treats are better than their food, not to mention more filling.
>"Do you need a second?"
>You feel the need to get out as fast as possible.
"No, thanks, I will have a cheese burger with a side of fries and a drink if that's cool."
>You hear yourself pick up some slang you used a few months back. Back whenever people had an actual reason to hate you.
>"Alright! I'll be sure to have your food right out!"
>You smile at each other and go back to looking out the window.
>In a quick, panicked rush, you check your pocket for your wallet, relaxing when you feel the leather sticking out of the denim stitching.
 
>A few minutes pass by and she returns with your food.
>You enjoy it. It's the most pleasurable experience you've had all week.
>The fries are surprisingly good actually. Who knows where you got the impression that the food wasn't that good here.
>You delve deeper into this thought, hoping it would release you from the thought of Pinkie Pie, and Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash.
>Once finishing the meal, you turn to the clock, seeing that school still has another 10 minutes left.
>You shrug, unconcerned with the time in all actuality.
>After ordering a shake to go, you head out and leave a reasonable tip on the table.
>The trip home is the longest period of time you have ever felt.
>Well, maybe the second longest period of time you have ever felt.
>You shake off the thought.
>Upon entering your house, school lets out, but you receive no phone calls, no text messages, nothing.
>You let out a soft sigh and walk towards your kitchen.
"What's the easiest way to do this?"
>You grab all of your belongings out from your pockets and toss them onto the counter without checking any of them.
>You sigh softly and take off your long sleeve jacket, moving your hair out of the way of your face.
>No phone calls, no text messages, nothing.
>Your hand finds itself at a drawer, and upon opening it you find plentiful silverware.
>Knifes specifically, and a lot of them.
>No phone calls, no text messages, nothing.
>The largest knife you find is placed on the counter.
>Under neath the counter, you find rubbing alcohol.
>In your fridge you find typical drinking alcohol. You're careless of the brand name, only that it does the job.
>You rarely drank alcohol. Maybe a few sips around the holidays but that's about it.
>On the counter now is your phone, wallet, a bottle of rubbing alcohol, three bottles of beer, and a large kitchen knife.
"Who gives two shits about me anymore?"
>You pour the rubbing alcohol on your left wrist and take a bottle of beer in hand on your right.
>No phone calls, no text messages, nothing.
>For the hell of it, you check your social networks one last time.
>Going through Twitter and Facebook, you're only mildly entertained.
>257 following, 6 followers.
>8 Facebook friends.
>It's a little heart breaking in all honesty.
>You check your past report cards, schedule for school, everything that gives a memory.
>Maybe within one of these pages, one of these post, somewhere, there's a reason for me to be alive.
>Nothing but reasons to have offed yourself sooner though.
>You check the final grade that is in the system. Some random drawing you made for art class in first grade.
>Taking another sip of beer, you take a deep breath and raise the kitchen knife.
>Just as you begin to lower the knife, your phone rings.
"Who could that possible be?"
>You roll your eyes with annoyance.
>Upon picking up the phone, you find a text message from Pinkie.
>You keep composure but can't help but feel more upset and guilty.
>*Open message*
>"Hey Sunny! Where are ya'? I thought we were getting some SUNDAES!"
>You pout and throw the phone gently back on the counter, then putting the blade onto your wrist.
>And, done!
>No, not really.
>And.... Done!
>What?
>Your hands are stationary, the blade resting softly on your wrist.
>The phone rings again.
>In a single second, an unbelievable amount of rage fills you, throwing the knife at the wall and growling.
>You pick up the phone to see another text from Pinkie.
>"Sunny? Are you okay? What's up?"
>You let out a soft sob and look to your wrist.
>There isn't a cut, but an easily visible imprint of the blade's edge.
>You respond, hating yourself but feeling relief.
>'Hey Pinkie! I had to pick something up from home. I'll be at school in a sec. Pinkie promise.'
>The tears welling up in your eyes makes it almost impossible to ensure you didn't misspell anything.
>You put away the knife, the rubbing alcohol, and store the three empty beer bottles carefully in the bottom of the trash.
>"Okay, great! Can't wait to see you! :D"
>You were never a huge fan of emoticons but Pinkie using them felt right.
>Figuring you can still drive, you head for the door.
>As for your plans... Let's hope that you won't have to do that at all.
>You hop into your car, your vision almost perfect still thankfully.
"Off to school, I guess."
>You roll your eyes. Now that you're still alive, you'll be in ISS for twelve weeks...
>Sixty days of no Pinkie Pie, or Rainbow Dash, Or Fluttershy.
>To be entirely honest though, it seems like Pinkie Pie is going to be the only one talking to you for a while.
>You're content with that though. Just having Pinkie is fine. She's more than enough.
>After a few long minutes, you find Pinkie outside of school, joyful as ever.
>She hops into your car, practically hopping.
>"Hey Sunny!"
"Uh, hey there, Pinkie...."
>Why is she so calm and relaxed?
>I punched your friend twice in the face.
>"I haven't seen you all week! Where have you been?!"
>Then knocked her on the ground and kicked her in the rips God knows how many times.
"I didn't want to bother you so I just let you be."
>After which I sat her up and wailed on her face before being pulled away.
>"Don't be silly!"
>She giggles light heartily.
>"We can always hang out! We're pretty much besties!"
>Despite your near-suicidal, angry mood, her optimism effectively made you somewhat more excited.
"That's good to know Pinkie."
>You give a weak smile to her as you shift the gear to 'drive' and begin heading out.
 
>After you are halfway there, your confusion forces you to ask.
"So Pinkie, about the uh... Fight...."
>"Yeah?"
"Well, I was wondering how you felt about it."
>"I wouldn't even worry about it."
>Her giggle was almost toxic. In a good way that is. She is definitely charismatic.
"I'm sorry, you said 'don't worry about it'?"
>It almost seemed like the alcohol was doing more than you had originally though.
>"Yep! Everything's okay!"
>Your face represents the confusion that you have.
"I don't understand."
>"What's there to understand? Everything is okie dokie loki!"
>You can't help but wonder how much Pinkie is being paid to go on with this joke.
>Any second now she is bound to have you stop the car, laugh at you with her friends, and get handed a sweet fifty.
>You scratch the back of your head.
"Could you tell me why everything is fine? I did some damage to Applejack, and I don't really feel good about that."
>You didn't feel too bad about the situation though. She did start it after all.
>"I talked to Applejack and she knows she went a bit over board."
>A bit?
>"She isn't mad at you anymore either. Someone coughed up to actually breaking her project."
>You roll your eyes, remembering Applebloom.
>"Applejack said she'll apologize Monday when you guys get back to school."
>A smile forms across your face even though you don't feel like it should.
"That's pretty cool Pinkie."
>You pull into the parking lot and go over to Pinkie's side, hugging her tightly.
>"Sunny?"
>After a few seconds, you start to pull away awkwardly when she pulls you in again, tighter.
>Almost suffocating you actually.
>The two of you stand there, hugging for a moment longer.
>When she pulls away, she wipes your cheek which unbeknownst to you, had a tear on it.
"How was your week Pinkie?"
>"Oh boy, let me tell you!"
>You both chuckle and begin to walk inside.
>The two of you walk into the restaurant quickly. She is probably excited about eating ice cream and talking you again.
>You're thrilled to just be talking to her again, and not have her hate you.
>You could never tell her, but Pinkie is the only reason you haven't called it a life yet.
>Now that the buzz from the alcohol has had time to fade away, the shock on your face almost draws the attention of Pinkie who somehow is already talking to the waitress you saw earlier.
>"Hey, weren't you in here like, half an hour ago or something like that?"
>You shake your head left to right. Maybe changing clothes would have helped to make your identity less well remembered.
>"You sure? You didn't come in here?"
>No.
>"Buy a meal with fries or something?"
>No.
>Your head shook left to right at each of her questions.
>"Alright then, what can I get for you gals?"
>"Ooo! Ooo ooo ooo! Do you have the strawberry double swip deluxe sundae?"
>Pinkie always asked for the craziest ice creams. You weren't even aware that that was something you could get!
>"Yes mam! We do!"
>She started writing down the ice cream name while Pinkie giggles.
"I'll just take a vanilla ice cream please."
>The waitress nods and smiles, riding away on her roller blades.
>All the little things show who people are on the inside sometimes.
>Pinkie got a crazy, happy, treat. You got a boring one.
>You tried to kill yourself, Pinkie didn't.
"Well, opposites do attract."
>Before you have the chance to chuckle, you realize you have outspoken your thought.
>"What'cha mean?"
"I-I was thinking about Physics class is all."
>Keeping composure after saying that was difficult, but you managed to pull through.
>"You didn't go to science today though, right?"
"Yeah, I was thinking about the make up work is all."
>Pinkie fortunately dropped the subject there.
>"So what was it like being in a fight?"
>What kind of question is that?
"It's uh... What?"
>"What's it like to go all boom boom boom on someone?"
"Oh, well..."
>This is the absolute last question you would have expected her to ask you.
>She seems enthusiastic enough though.
"It was an adrenaline rush to say the least. After she hit me I just kind of lost myself. You know how you focus in on something and everything else looks weird?"
>She nodded.
"It was kind of like that. All of it happened really fast."
>She smiled, leaning her body and then her head onto her hands which rested on the table.
>"Wow, that's kind of cool. I've always like, kind of wanted to be in a fight. I mean, I don't want to hurt anyone, but I want to know what that is like. I can only imagine. You did awesome by the way!"
>You could feel your cheeks heat up a little.
"Oh please, I did okay I guess."
>"No no no! You were all like-"
>She got out of the booth and began making motions to follow her sound.
>"Boom, then BOOM! And you like, whoapped with your foot countless times! Whoapp, whoapp, whoapp! And then another BOOM!!! It was crazy!"
>You rub the back of your head.
"Thanks I guess. You didn't seem too happy about it when I saw you."
>"Oh, because at first I was all like 'no! my friends are hurting each other! Why?!' but then, Applejack came up and talked to me in 8th period, and she was like 'I think I acted a little fast to be honest' and then she got a text from Applebloom who, in case you didn't know, is in BIG BIG trouble when she gets home. I'm just glad you two are okay! Luckily you didn't knock her up too badly. I'm shocked you two didn't go to the Nurses office."
>She winked, giggled, and then sat down.
"Huh..."
>The waitress comes back and hands the two of you your ice creams. Pinkie begins eating happily but notices you spinning your cone in circles.
>She is always able to tell when you're bothered.
>"Hey, what's got you all down silly?"
>You let out a sigh and posture your back straight.
"I just thought that..."
>"Though what?"
"That you hated me."
>Your eyes drift away but Pinkie's remain excited as always.
>"Why would'ya think that?"
"Because I beat up one of your best friends. I didn't mean to, I just got upset really fast for some reason and, and-"
>She grabs a hold of your hand that lays on the table.
>"You have no reason to worry. In all fairness, you had nothing to do with it. You were simply defending yourself."
>The two of you smile at each other. She lets go of your hand while you breath out.
"Thanks Pinkie."
>"My pleasure. Don't ever think I'd hate you Shimmy. You're awesome."
>You blush once more.
"Thanks."
>The nickname is nice. Which do you like more, Sunny or Shimmy?
>You take a bite of your ice cream and save the thought for later.
>While you aren't hungry anymore, the ice cream is nonetheless delicious, and filling up more than you should doesn't feel so bad when you're with Pinkie.
"So, uh, what about Fluttershy and Rainbow?"
>"What about them?"
"Are they upset at me?"
>"Oh! I don't know. I didn't talk to either one afterwards."
>You shrug, slightly pouting once more. Though, it's still hard to be sad with Pinkie's optimism flooding anywhere you go with her.
>"But hey! I'm sure they feel the same as I do. They won't be upset at you. And if they are, not for long. I pinkie promise!"
>Oh boy, here we go.
>"Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!"
>The two of you giggle.
>There's no way she's lying at this point. You take sovereignty in Pinkie's promise. They don't hate you. Everything is fine.
>Every thing will be fine...
>That was an interesting Friday to say the least.
>You and Pinkie begin leaving the restaurant.
"Did you want to come over now or do you have to do something?"
>Her eyes beam with excitement as the two of you get into the car.
>"Oh oh oh! You're going to love this!"
>Alright Pinkie, what do you have planned?
"Love what?"
>"Oh! I'm so excited! I can't believe I forgot to tell you!"
>You start the engine and starting heading out to the freeway.
"Tell me what?"
>"It's so cool, and awesome, and thrilling, you're going to love it!"
"Pinkie!"
>She quiets down but continues to lean left to right in excitement.
"What is it?"
>"So I was helping some guy at school throw a party-"
>Did she get a boyfriend?
>"-and he was all 'bro! You've got some wicked ideas!' and I was all 'thanks!'"
>Did she get a... Friend?
>"And he was all 'tell you what, since you're helping me out, I'll let you invite one friend that I don't invite to this awesome party'."
"Yes?"
>"Well, basically, I am going to bring you as that one friend!"
"Cool bud! When is it?"
>"Tonight!"
"Tonight?!"
>"Yeppers!"
>If you weren't driving your hand would be plastered against your face.
"You don't think you could have given me a little bit of a heads up?"
>"You've been so quiet this week though and I didn't want to be ruuuuuuuuuuuuuude-ah!"
"Well... Alright then."
>She has a point perhaps.
"So, what time tonight?"
>"At like, 8:30 or something."
"Oh, okay, that's a manageable time."
>"I would hope so, I'd love for you to go!"
>She hugs you by surprise which forces you to accidentally shift to the left lane.
"Hugs later Pinkie."
>She giggled and let off, allowing you to move back to the right lane in a heated panic.
>"So are you gonna' go?"
"Well I guess. Yeah, sure, whatever, fine."
>"You don't sound too enthusiastic though."
"I'll go. Look, I'm flipping out I'm so excited."
>You forced an exaggerated smile on your face which made you grin and chuckle anyways.
>"Grrrrrrrrrrreat! Woo hoo!"
>It's been a few months since you've been to a party. They used to have one every month at some guy's house you never bothered to meet.
>Going nowadays is going to be even odder because you aren't the big catch anymore. You're not the popular girl that everyone wants to be and fears.
>You're a typical outcast. Even using the word typical seems a bit forced.
"So what kind of party is this? A Birthday party? Do I need to get a gift? Who is it for?"
>Pinkie chuckles beside you innocently.
>"No silly! It's just for fun. You don't have to bring anything. I already assigned certain people to do that."
"So, wait, are you in charge?"
>"Nope! I am just helped out. And now, you get to go with me!"
>Your mind has subsided it but now that you think about it, it is weird not getting an invitation in a text or having someone come up with an address and time on a piece of paper.
>You pull into your neighborhood and turn into your street.
>"Oh boy, I'm so excited!"
>Perhaps you are less jovial than Pinkie Pie is, but still, it'll be nice for you to get outside besides the daily jog or walk.
>Your car bounces a little as you move into your driveway.
>What do you need to do to get ready?
>Well first things first, you'll need to fix your hair again. Your sweet friend wouldn't point it out (and probably hasn't even noticed) but tonight is about impressions!
>Second impressions, and hopefully these ones are a bit more revealing of who you actually are. Wouldn't want to get into the bad crowd again, would you?
>Would you?
>No, of course not. You'd lose Pinkie Pie almost definitely, and if you still had her she'd be completely different.
>"I always like coming to your house! It's really chill, dude."
"Where did you pick up those words?"
>"Oh, just me practicing for tonight to look cool."
"Please Pinkie, you're already pretty awesome."
>"Meh, I do alright."
>Let's hope that THAT is just a phase.
>You open your front door and walk inside.
>Your house greets you wish a fresh of cool breeze that contrast the warmth coming from the spring air.
>That, and a hint of sorrow from the horrors you faced recently.
>It's almost difficult to believe that all of that happened today.
>And now you're going to a party?!
"So, what do you want to do until we go?"
>"Hm... Well, I don't know. I could call over a few friends that could hang out with us beforehand."
>Your eyes grow wide.
"Uh, maybe not right now?"
>"Why? What's wrong?"
>Who are these people? What if they don't like your house?
"Well, we'll see them at the party, right?"
>You chuckle nervously.
>Either she completely dropped it because she saw your distress, or she was completely oblivious.
>"Yeah yeah yeah! You'll love them! Oh, I can't wait for you guys to all meet each other and hang out and oh my gosh it'll be so much fun!"
>She hops in the air and kicks her legs back in excitement.
"Sure Pinkie."
>You begin to walk upstairs to your room, following a routine unintentionally.
>"So this is what Sunny does as soon as he comes home then, huh?"
>It wasn't often that Pinkie would come to your house right after school. Usually she'd wait an hour or so before coming over.
"Yep. I come home, walk upstairs..."
>You do the activities as you say them.
"... Go into my room, put my keys on my dresser, lay my backpack down, and then relax on my bed for maybe an hour."
>Once laying down on your bed, you turn to face your speakers across the room but don't turn them on.
"Usually I would play some music."
>"Well why don't you?"
"I don't know. I'm talking to someone I guess."
>The two of you chuckle.
>A telephone rings.
>You check your phone and hold up to your face, almost dropping it in the process.
>It's Fluttershy.
>"Hey Sunset, are you going to that party tonight?"
>'Why do you ask?'
>"Just wondering."
>Just wondering never means just wondering.
>'Yeah, I am going with Pinkie.'
>"Oh, that's nice. Do you think I could go with you two?"
>Odd, but alright.