Title:           Coming Out Of Her Shell pt. 2
Author:          Storm-mlp
Pastebin link:   http://pastebin.com/jUDsKbnf
First Edit:      Friday 3rd of July 2015 05:52:56 PM CDT
Last Edit:       Last edit on: Wednesday 11th of November 2015 06:58:18 PM CDT

>Be Fluttershy
>Today was a very special day, it's Christmas!
>You had invited all of your friends over to your apartment for a get-together, including your boyfriend, Anon.
>...It's funny how you've gotten so used to calling him that.
>It still feels like forever ago that you were once a like a little turtle trembling in it's shell when you were around others.
>And now look at you, you have a boyfriend!
>The game of life had finally played in your favor, it seems.
>*knock knock knock*
"Coming!"
>You proceed to the front door, and while looking over the living room you had vigorously decorated, it did look good.
>Especially with Angel and Butch with matching earmuffs.
>You did notice, however, the star on top of your Christmas tree was a little crooked, so you rush over and straighten it before heading back to answer the door.
"Hello everyone!"
>"Merry Christmas, Fluttershy!"
>All of your friends said, each giving you a big hug as they entered.
>Pinkie Pie giving an extra strong one, of course.
>PP:"Hey Fluttershy, is Nonny still coming?"
"He'll be here, he called a while ago."
>PP:"Oh, okay!"
>Pinkie merrily skips into the living room, and you made sure to close the door behind you.
"Hey, where's Sunset?"
>AJ:"Oh, uh, she said she couldn't make it. Somethin' about 'going home for the holidays.'"
"Aw, that's too bad."
>As you walk back, you see everyone placing small boxes underneath the tree.
"*gasp!* Girls, no, you didn't have to bring gifts!"
>TS:"Fluttershy, we wanted to bring gifts, we're friends!"
>RD:"And besides, it's Christmas! Share the love."
>Rainbow Dash tosses you a blue box with a yellow ribbon, which you manage to not let it fumble out of your hands.
"Rainbow-"
>RD:"Just open it, will ya?"
>You stare at the box in your hands before you remove the top off.
"...What?"
>You pull out a very large dog biscuit, with the name "Big Jim" inscribed on it.
>You look over to an already falling apart Rainbow, who was almost laughing to tears.
"Haw, haw, very funny."
>RD:"Aw c'mon, you know me!"
>R:"Indeed we do, Dash, indeed we do."
>Applejack pats you on the back.
>AJ:"Y'know she's just teasin', Fluttershy."
"Yeah..."
>You say while rolling your eyes.
>RD:"Anyway, your real gift is right here."
>Rainbow holds up another small box, but with inverted colors.
>Twilight suddenly perks up as if she remembered something.
>TS:"Speaking of gifts, Fluttershy, do you have Anon's gift ready?"
"Hmm? Oh yeah! He's in my room, I'll go get him."
 
>A few days earlier, you had received word from Ms. Richter that Mrs. Sharon had dropped off the German Shepard puppies from a while ago.
>Including the little male.
>You knew this was a big risk, but you figured this was the only way to show Anon how much you loved him.
>Especially after hearing about his last dog, Gerry.
>Once you went to the shelter and brought the puppy to your apartment, you let him walk around and get used to the place.
>He also met Angel and Butch for the first time, and they both seemed to like him.
>And you didn't wait to tell your friends, they were ecstatic about the plan.
 
"Wakey-wakey, little guy!"
>You unlock the gate door to his carrier and slip your hands under heath him.
>He wakes up with a cute little yawn.
>Scooping him up, you walk slowly back to the living room.
"Here he is!"
>R:"Aww, darling, he's gorgeous!"
>AJ:"Shoot, I think Winona's been out-cuted."
>Pinkie and Rainbow say nothing, instead they pluck the pooch right out of your hands and start petting him and giggling like little kids.
>While you and the rest watch them play with the puppy, you feel a hand rest on your shoulder.
>TS:"I know Anon will appreciate this, Fluttershy."
>You glance back at your friend, and smile.
>AJ:"So Fluttershy, when's Ahnon supposed to be here again?"
"Well, he said about the same time you all came, I hope he's okay..."
 
===
 
>Be Ano-
"FUCKFUCKFUCKFUCKFUCKFUCK-"
>...
>Be Anon
>You are running really, REALLY late today.
>When Fluttershy called you about tonight's plans you were still in bed, and immediately went -back- to sleep.
>God damn you regret being so lazy sometimes.
>After rushing to the nearest store, you picked up six small jewelry pieces you thought the girls would like for gifts.
>Each trinket was only 4 dollars each.
>Good goyum.
 
"FUCKING FUCK FUCKERS, MOVE!"
>You scream at the other drivers on the highway, not giving a damn about it.
>You swerve in and out of the lanes trying to pass them.
>You didn't care if the cops pulled you over, but no one is stopping you yet.
>Finally, you veer off to the exit towards Fluttershy's apartment.
 
>Screeching to a halt in the garage, you dismount your Jeep with 6 different colored bags, 3 in each hand.
>You were able to take a break while riding the elevator.
>*ding*
"Huh?"
>The elevator stops on the next floor, and when the doors open you see a large, fat man standing there.
>He was wearing a greasy t-shirt and very sweaty sweatpants.
>"Going down?"
>He asks in a deep voice.
"Um, no."
>"...Eh, I can wait."
>He waddles inside the elevator, making you squirm into the corner to make room.
>A swollen sausage of a finger presses the button for the first floor.
>The doors close and the elevator continues upward, but you swear you could hear the cables straining under the weight.
 
>*ding*
>Finally you reach the floor and you squeeze past the fat man.
"*gaaaaasp!* Bleh!"
>God, it smelled like a gas station bathroom in there.
>You shake your head and make your way down to Fluttershy's room.
>As you walk through the hallways, you look over the 6 small bags you were carrying.
>"I hope they like these."
>You think to yourself.
>You keep thinking about the gifts until the growing sound of music draws your attention.
>It sounded... European.
>Or at least not American, for sure.
>Using your ears, you zig-zag from door to door until the volume rises on one particular flat.
>It had a sign hanging from the door-handle.
"Huh, Russian..."
>Not knowing anything what the sign read, you could only guess that the people inside were hosting a party.
>The music did sound lively, and also with the music was chanting along to the beat.
>You know you had to get to a party of your own...
>You tiptoe up to the peephole and try to look inside.
"Holy crap..."
>Inside the apartment was a full-on band with trumpets, accordians, flutes.
>Two men were doing the Cossack dance on top of a table.
>And everyone was wearing red.
>With a military styled hats.
>Just before you think it's a good time to leave, a big, veined eye appears in the peephole.
"Ah!"
>The door is thrown open, and a tall, very muscular behemoth stood before you.
>He made you feel like a manlet.
>Although, his behavior was very unexpected.
>"??pa?c??y??e! B? ??ec? ??? ?ap????"
>He says with a happy tone.
"Um, s-sorry I d-don't speak-"
>"Oh, my apologies, are you here for party?"
>He says with a thick Russian accent, while pointing backwards with his thumb.
"Uh, no. I was just um..."
>Looking behind him, you see two goddesses of beauty hop up on the table, and begin to clap along with the song.
>Hera, Adonis, is that you?
"I-...uh..."
>Your brain suddenly becomes focused as Zeus slaps you for ogling his wife.
>You shake your head.
"I-I was just curious."
>"Oh, so you not join us? You sure?"
"Yeeeah, I uh have my own party to get to."
>"Hmph. Well, at least let me give you gift."
>The man turns away and heads back into his apartment.
"What? No, no! I don't want-"
>You glance back at the two girls on the table, one of them notices you and waves seductively.
>You awkwardly raise up your hand, and the girl giggles.
>*Another mental slap*
>You have a girlfriend, dammit!
>Slowly lowering your hand, you let the girls focus back on the party.
>The man returns with a crystal clear bottle, which he presents to you.
>"Is gift."
"Oh, no no no-"
>"Please comrade, is special vodka!"
"Um sir, I-I can't-"
>"Straight from motherland, enjoy!"
"No, I uh, t-thanks but-"
>"Happy Christmas!"
>The door slams shut.
"I'm not... *sigh* old enough to drink..."
>You stood in front of the door for a while, wondering what the fuck just happened.
>You now have a bottle of imported vodka, and you're under legal age.
>The label was in Russian, so no idea on what it says.
>*squeak-squeak-squeak-*
>Oh shit.
>That was the sound of wheels on a cleaning cart coming down the hallway.
*Fuck!*
>You slip the bottle into one of the bags just as the maid rounds the corner.
>You stand still like a moron and put on a wide grin.
>The maid bats an eyebrow, before shaking her head and knocking on the next door down the hall.
>You start shuffling away from her, then stop around the next corner.
*phew.*
>God damn, what next in the constant parade of antics?
>You continue on your journey to Fluttershy's.
 
===
 
>Be Fluttershy
>You and the girls watch as Pinkie and Rainbow roll a rubber ball across the floor and the German Shepard puppy chase after it.
>He was a cute little pooch, you had to admit.
>PP:"Where's the ball boy? Where's the ball!?"
>*yap! yap!*
>RD:"Over here, big guy!"
>PP:"*gasp!* Lookit, Dashie has the ball!"
>The puppy scurries over to Rainbow who shakes the ball above him.
"Okay Rainbow, don't wear him out."
>RD:"Yeah, yeah, I won't. Now who's a good boy?!"
>*yap yap!
>RD:"That's right, you are!"
>*knock knock knock*
>...
>The whole room goes silent.
>Rainbow holds the puppy down with her hand.
>*knock knock knock*
>"Helloooo, Fluttershy?"
*Shoot! Girls, hide the pup!*
>Rainbow and Pinkie nod, then rush the little dog back into your room.
>R:*What should we do?!"
*Just sit normally, act casual!*
>Rarity, Twilight, and Applejack rush to the surrounding couch and chairs.
>You look back one more time to see Rainbow and Pinkie coming out of your room, with Rainbow giving you a thumbs up.
>You nod, and go answer the door.
>*knock knock-*
>As you open the door, your face was almost struck by Anon's fist.
>A:"Whoops! Sorry."
"Hey Anon."
>A:"Hey Flutters, Merry Christmas."
"Merry Christmas to you, too."
>You exchange a hug, then you lead him to the living room.
"Girls, Anon's here!"
>"Hi Anon!"
>A:"Hey everyone, I uh, I brought gifts."
>You hadn't noticed them before, but you see Anon raise up 6 colored bags.
"Oh, Anon!"
>R:"Fluttershy, if Anon wanted to bring gifts, let him! We all did."
>A:"What?"
"*sigh* Nothing..."
>R:"Oh, she's just a little upset that we brought gifts to exchange with everyone."
>A:"Aw really? Flutters-"
>You raise up your hand to stop him, and walk back towards your room.
 
*Twilight, Rarity, Rainbow, Pinkie, Applejack...*
>You quietly listed out the names on the separate boxes you had laid out on your bedsheets, making sure they were correct.
*And... Anon.*
>You look over to the carrier, with one sleepy little dog inside.
>With mental checklist complete, you grab the boxes and head out.
>You still were planning to give Anon's gift later, though.
>Also you -might- have misjudged how tall the stack you were carrying was going to be, as you had to duck underneath your bedroom door.
"I wasn't gonna... *grunt* bring these out till later but-"
>AJ:"What the heck? Here, lemme help ya."
>Applejack grabs a box off of your stack.
>A:"Fluttershy, what is all this?"
>Anon takes another box.
"...Gifts."
>R:"My goodness, Fluttershy."
>TS:"Let us help with those."
"Wait, guys-"
>Everyone grabbed a box from you until there was one left, which you sigh and place it under the tree.
>PP:"Wow-wee, Fluttershy! These are some biiiig boxes."
>R:"Erm, Fluttershy dear, I hope these weren't too um... costly..."
>You shake your head.
>RD:"Arrgh! What's in these?! I gotta know!!"
>PP:"Uh-uh-uh, Rainbow, it's only Christmas Eve, silly!"
>AJ:"Oh Pinkie, Y'know we -ain't- stayin' the night, right?"
>Pinkie's hair seemed to droop as she realized.
>PP:"Oh... LET'S OPEN THEM NOW!!!"
>Rainbow and Pinkie look at you.
>PP:"I mean, if it's okay."
>You lay your hand over your face, and with the other you wave them off.
>RD&PP:"YAAAY!"
>Rainbow and Pinkie tear into their boxes, desperate to know what lies inside.
>You sigh, and shake your head.
>Suddenly, an arm came to rest behind your back.
>A:"Don't worry, they're just excited."
"Yeah, I hope they like them, at least."
>Your boyfriend looks worriedly at you.
>A:"Hey, if it's a gift from a friend, they wouldn't care how good or bad it is, they would still be thankful."
>Anon's hand rubs you reassuringly, which you did need at the moment.
>RD:"*GAAASP!* Ohmygosh! A new SportzBall?! Thanks Flutters! The team'll like this!"
"Eh-heh, you're welcome."
>A:"See? Even a soccer ball is something to-"
>PP:"*GAAAAAAASP*"
>AJ:"Huh? What is it?"
>Pinkie slowly raises the object out of her box.
>R:"Erm, what -is- that?"
>In her hands was a small plush animal resembling a baby alligator.
>Pinkie went bug-eyed as she inspected the toy.
>She then stops and stares into it's large purple irises.
>...
>She squeezes the sides of the alligator.
>*squeak*
"Um, d-do you like it?"
>PP:"Like it?! I love it!!!"
>Pinkie appears in between you and Anon in a flash, giving both of you a jump.
"Oh, well, glad you-"
>*Smoooooch!*
>Pinkie gives you an big unexpected kiss on your cheek.
>Before you could even speak, she was gone and back in the center of the living room.
>As you wipe off your cheek, you were starting to believe that Pinkie was supernatural...
>PP:"I think I'll call him... Gummy!"
>TS:"Gummy?"
>PP:"Yeah! He just looks so squishy!"
>*squeak*
"I uh... W-Well when I saw it in the store, I knew you'd like it."
>PP:"Aw, thanks Fluttershy!"
 
>The girls continue to open their gifts while you and Anon spent a few minutes catching up.
"-And then I said, 'What, had the cat been chasing it's own tail?'."
>Anon laughs at the joke, even though it was kind of simple.
>You laugh a little bit, too.
>*Ahem!*
>Anon glances over to the girls, then he turns pale white.
"Huh? What's-"
>AJ:"Care ta explain yerself, Ahnon?"
>Applejack was holding up a clear bottle in her hand.
>A:"...There was a party of Russians down the hall and the host gave it to meee?"
>Anon cringes at how stupid that sounded.
>But you knew what he meant too well.
>The girls all gave him disappointed looks, but you stick up for him.
"Girls, he's telling the truth."
>"What?"
"The Rastovskis, they moved here about three months ago from Ukraine. I should've known they would do something like this."
>R:"Surely you can't be serious?"
>You walk over and inspect the bottle.
>AJ:"Then why the heck was it in -my- gift bag from him?"
>Applejack points to Anon.
>A:"*sigh* I'm sorry, I panicked when the guy gave it to me, so I put it in there so no one would see."
>Taking the bottle from Applejack, you slosh around the liquid inside.
"Yep, it's vodka."
>TS:"Well, what are we going to do with it? We can't drink it, obviously."
>Everyone thinks for a minute.
>A:"Well, I don't want it to go to waste either. I mean, it -was- a gift."
>PP:"So we can't drink it, we can't throw it out, what are we gonna do!?"
"I know what to do."
>The group collectively "Huh?"'s.
>Walking into the kitchen, you place the bottle inside a high cabinet.
"There, out of sight, out of mind."
>A:"Are you sure?"
"Yeah, we'll worry about it later. For now, we've got gifts to unwrap."
>You say with a shy smile, while also giving Anon a rub on the shoulder.
 
>After a while, you all had dived into the piles of boxes underneath the Christmas tree.
>The girls all enjoyed their little pendants from Anon.
>You especially, your's being a small Monarch butterfly encrested in gems.
>At least Anon was happy knowing you liked his gift.
>Speaking of Anon...
>When you saw a chance when Anon wasn't looking, you swiftly move over to Rarity on the couch.
>R:*Ready to give Anon his "gift"?*
>You nod.
*Just like we practiced. You can still do the thing with your foot, right?*
>Rarity's face scrunches.
>R:*...Yes. Just remember, you cannot tell -anyone- about this.*
>Nodding again, you stay seated while Rarity gets up.
>R:"Oh my, I am quite thirsty, anyone care for a drink?"
>Some of the girls say yay or nay, and Rarity heads into the kitchen.
>This was your que to get ready to make a bolt for your room.
>You watch as Rarity gathers some plastic cups and fills them with water.
>She then sets them on a tray, and nods to you.
>As Rarity starts to walk back into the living room, she springs the trap.
>R:"BWA HA HAAA!"
>*crash!*
>"Rarity?!"
>"Are you okay?!"
>Everyone else rushes over to Rarity to help her.
>In the moment of confusion, you duck down and sprint towards your room.
>R:"OOOh the humanity!!! I think, *sniff*, I think my a-ankle's broken! *Waaa!!!*"
>You knew it was just a ruse, Rarity had very flexible feet.
>Now inside your room, you quietly unlock the carrier latch and pick up the little Shepard.
*Okay boy, I need you to stay quiet, please?*
>The little Shepard tucks himself into your arm, and you sneak back out of your room.
>Peeking into the hallway, you see Rarity still putting on a big show for her friends.
>AJ:"I'm tellin' ya, it doesn't look too-"
>Applejack tries to touch Rarity's ankle, but she lets out a painful wail.
>You silently wave at Rarity, and she makes eye contact with you.
>This was another signal for the go ahead, and you rush towards the Christmas tree.
>R:"Oh the paaain! I can't bear it any longer! Anonymous, I think you may have to c-c-cut it off!!!"
>A:"Okay, Rarity, you need to calm down. A broken ankle doesn't mean you have to amputate it."
>TS:"And if it -is- broken, we'll just take you to the hospital, no problem."
>Shoot, you need to hurry.
>If they figure out the charade, it's over.
>With puppy in hand, you drag a hidden white box out from behind the tree.
>You had already poked holes in the sides of it so the dog could breathe once inside.
>Taking off the top, you carefully place the puppy down.
*In you go, little one.*
>He sits at the bottom and you place the lid back.
>You stand up and nonchalantly walk over to the group, and you give a wink to Rarity.
>R:"*sniff* M-Maybe y-you're right, Twilight. L-Let me see if I can stand up."
>Applejack and Rainbow Dash both take each of Rarity's arms, and they pull her to her feet.
>TS:"Hmm... no, I don't think it's broken. Try walking around?"
>Rarity, still in character, limps forward a few steps, then leans against the couch.
>PP:"Does it hurt, Rarity?"
>She shakes her head.
>R:"Only a little, b-but I think I'm okay."
>A:"See? Nothing to worry about."
"I suppose I'll get a mop."
>You finally speak, trying to imply you were there the whole time.
>A:"Need any help?"
"No, I can get it. Go on back with them, it's fine."
>Anon sighs, then reluctantly nods.
>As he heads back, you clean up the spilled water with the kitchen mop.
>You kept one ear open towards the living room, listening for any surprised reactions.
>Still nothing, all you could hear was Pinkie messing around with her toy alligator.
>Picking up the plastic cups, you spot Butch taking a nap by the sink.
>You scratch his head softly, and he lets out a pleased whine.
>Then, a loud yowl.
>Which was not what you intended.
>*AROOOOOOO!*
>A high-pitched whine came from the living room.
"Oh no..."
>"Huh?"
>"What was that?"
>*AROOOOOOO!*
>No, no, no, no! This wasn't supposed to happen!
>Time to improvise.
>Setting the rest of the cups down in the sink, you shuffle back into the living room.
>RD:"Does anyone know where that's coming from?"
>The group looks around, unsure of the noise's source.
>*AROOOOOOO!*
>PP:"It sounds like it's coming from the tree. I know they have bark, but not -that- kind of bark!"
>You make your way to the other side of the tree.
"Gee, I wonder if it is this box over here marked, 'To Anon'?"
>You say monotonusly.
>A:"Huh? What box?"
>TS:"I think she means this one, over here."
>Twilight walks over and you help her pick it up.
>TS:"Woah! What's in this thing? Something's moving in there!"
>*Arrrrf!*
>R:"...Ah! I remember now!"
>She says with a smug grin.
>The girls look at Rarity, then come to enlightenment.
>A:"What? What is it?"
>RD:"Well, we'd like to tell you, but that would ruin the surprise, wouldn't it?"
>You and Twilight set the box down on the coffee table.
"Go ahead Anon, open it."
>Anon looks suspiciously at the box, then he slowly lifts off the lid.
 
>For a moment, he has no reaction at all.
>Taking a seat next to your boyfriend, you rub his shoulder.
"Anon?"
>He just stares blankly into the box, until a small head pops out and rests it's chin on the edge.
>Anon slowly extends his hand to the little puppy, and the dog sniffs it.
>A:"...Is, is this real?"
>He asks, looking at you.
>You nod softly.
>He looks back to the box, then lifts the puppy out of it.
>Holding it in his lap, he brushes his hand over it's coat.
>A:"I-...I-"
>Now his face showed some expression, even though his eyes were starting to water.
>Anon leans over to you and grasps you in a desperate hug.
>A:*I-I love it...*
>He whispers, barely able to speak.
>You hug him back.
>The others all give Anon some encouragement, but he still kept hugging you.
>Finally he breaks the hug.
>A:"I'm sorry, *sniff*, it's just-... wow."
>He says while picking up the pooch.
>A:"Is it a boy or girl?"
"A boy."
>Anon gasps and holds up the dog to his face.
>A:"Hah! He looks just like Gerry..."
"Well, I'm glad you like him."
>Anon suddenly gives you a kiss on the cheek.
>A:"Thank you, Fluttershy."
"Oh, y-you're welcome..."
>A:"Now uh, if you excuse me, I gotta make a phone call."
>Anon stands up from the couch, puppy in hand, then walks down the hallway while he takes out his cellphone.
>RD:"Well, I'd say that's a mission success, captain."
>Rainbow says from behind the couch.
"Eh-heh, yeah."
>TS:"Hey, wait a minute... how did you get the dog out here if he was still in your room?"
>You and Rarity look at each other.
>R:"It seems she pulled a little Houdini, I suppose."
>She says with a wink.
>From down the hall, everyone suddenly heard:
>A:"Hello mom? Yeah, it's me. You're not gonna believe the gift Fluttershy gave me!"
>You and the girls giggle delightfully.
>AJ:"Ya did good Fluttershy."
>Applejack says while she gives you a pat on the back.
"Thank you, all of you."
>PP:"No need to thank us, silly!"
>RD:"Yeah, we know you'd do the same for us."
>TS:"We're just happy for you and Anon."
>You smile knowing just how lucky you are for having great friends like these.
>And for having an extraordinary boyfriend like Anon.
 
===
 
***3 Months later***
 
===
 
>Be Anon
>Driving to Cole's house-
>...Scratch that. -Drove- to Cole's house.
>You almost hit a pole... thing.
>With the shiny thing on it.
>*smash*
>...Oh, you did.
>Heh.
>You jump out of your Jeep, and somehow hit the ground, uncomfortably.
"Ow."
>It didn't really hurt, but you said 'ow' out of habit.
>At least you and your friends could hang.
>Heh, your friends are cool.
>Getting up, you walk on Cole's wavy pathway and knock on the door.
>...
>...
"Hellooooo..."
>Your friend fucking finally opens the door.
>C:"Anon? What's wrablewrosa?
"Eh-heh... huh?"
>C:"Ano? Anwosdiaps-2q84109wq0-s=1..."
>Room became dark...
>You fall.
 
***
 
>You slowly crack open your eyes, something cold was on your forehead.
"Aw, man... What the fuck happened?"
>C:"Anon, you okay?"
"Shit. I feel like shit."
>C:"Ben, get some water, will ya?"
>B:"Okay."
>T:"Yo, is Anon up?"
>C:"Yeah."
>M:"Shit bro, you were tripping balls or something when you got here."
>J:"Esé, what's wrong with you?"
"Shut up...SHUT UP!"
>Everyone stops.
"...How long have I been out?"
>T:"Um, about an hour bruh."
>You try and sit up, but your back hurts really bad.
"...Shit."
>You say with a groan and lay back down.
>M:"Anon, just tell us what happened."
>You ponder a bit, but your head was still fuzzy.
"*sigh* Fuck, I can't remember. Tell me what I did when I got here."
>Your friends look around at each other.
>C:"Well... First of all your Jeep was swerving all over the street, then you crashed into that light pole.
>Your eyes sunk into your skull.
"IS MY CAR OKAY!?"
>You blurt out.
>B:"Mostly yeah, if you think a broken 80 Watt bulb smashing on your hood is good."
>C:"Not helping Ben."
>Ben shrugs.
>B:"Just sayin'."
>The back of your head smacks into the couch arm.
"Fuuuuuuck."
>J:"It's just a few scratches man, nobody will notice."
"Oh believe me, my mom and uncle will find out. They have like, psychic powers or... some shit."
>C:"Hey, cool it. Maybe you should just get some rest."
>M:"Yeah, probably for the best. We did move your car, though."
"Okay, thanks I guess."
>Cole pats you on the shoulder and your friends disperse.
 
>"C'mon, it's only this one time."
>*gulp gulp*
>"Oh wow, this is... t-this is"
>*crash*
>*knock-kn-*
>*SMASH*
>"I AM THE ONE WHO KNOCKS."
>"Bitch!"
 
"*snort*...*sigh*"
>You snap awake from your dream.
>Looking around, you realize this wasn't your house.
>...Oh yeah, you're at Cole's.
"Augh, fuck me."
>You sit up from the couch, your back not hurting as much.
"Cole? Mike? Anyone?"
>It was almost pitch dark.
>Probably about 2 in the morning, you think.
>As you stand up, you pop your back.
"Ow, fuck..."
>Looking around, you spot a light coming from the kitchen.
>You walk over, then peek around the corner.
>Cole was leaning against the kitchen counter.
"Hey."
>C:"...Hey."
>You join your friend.
"Where is everyone?"
>C:"Where do you think? They went home."
"Oh."
>You and Cole remain silent, until Cole pops the question:
>C:"So do you mind explaining to me what the fuck you did this past week?"
"...What?"
>C:"Seriously? It's only Spring Break and you've already forgotten?"
"Look, Cole-"
>C:"No, you look here smartass."
>He points at you.
>C:"Your mom called you worried sick and when I told her-"
"You -told- her?!"
>C:"Well what else was I gonna do? I'm not gonna tell her that you just-so-happened to swing buy and -not- crash into a street lamp!"
>You hold up your hand to speak, but then lower it back down.
>C:"So I told her it would be fine if you crashed here tonight, and I swear, as soon as we finished the call, you got a text from your 'ever-so-sweet' gf."
>You pat your pants pockets, only to find Cole holding your phone in his hand.
>C:"Well, technically a photo, but I couldn't see it. Take a look."
>He slides your phone across the counter.
>You unlock it and scroll through the conversation with Fluttershy.
"...Damn."
>C:"What?"
 
>The last photo in the chat was very, very lewd.
 
"I-I, um..."
>C:"What? Is it a nude?"
>Your eyes shoot towards Cole, then back down at your phone.
>Cole's hand goes under his chin while his face turns into a smug grin.
>You stuff your phone back into your pocket.
"I-It's none of your concern."
>He shrugs.
>C:"Whatever bro, that's between you and her."
>You exhale deeply and rub the back of your neck.
>C:"But dude, if you need any help from any of us, we'll be there for you."
>Looking up at your friend, you nod understandingly.
"*sigh* I think I -do- remember what happened, Cole."
>C:"Nah man, you don't have to tell me."
"But you'd still like to know, wouldn't you?"
>C:"...Yeah."
 
>Cole went to the fridge and brought over some Mtn. Dews.
"So, where to begin?"
>C:"Well, what happened at the beginning of the week?"
"Hmm..."
 
*=-Flashback to Sunday-=*
 
>It's the start of Spring Break.
>You're at Fluttershy's, you had brought your computer with hopes of letting her try some vidya.
>You both had nothing planned, but you wanted to just kill some time with her.
>She always gave you a warm welcome, and so did Butch, Angel...
>And your new German Shepard, which you dubbed him 'Gabe'.
>Since a few days after Christmas you caught him chewing on your wallet.
>After you had gotten settled in, you showed her a few simple games, and she picked them up pretty well.
>It was fun, you both laughed.
>You stayed the night, and the next day you went back home
 
*=-End Flashback-=*
 
>C:"That's it?"
"Only for that day."
>C:"Hmm, can you remember anything else that week?"
>You ponder...
 
*=-Flashback to Wednesday-=*
 
>Fluttershy is in to vidya now, especially side-scrollers.
>She was damn good too, she even beat you a few times.
>It was all in good fun though.
>After a while, you both were watching some shows on Netflix.
 
***
 
"I forgot what show it was though, um..."
>C:"What was it about?"
"Uh some kind of..."
>You wave your hand.
"Drug-dealing show, with some old guy."
>Cole suddenly perks up.
>C:"Did he say anything like, 'Say my name.', 'I am the danger.', 'I am the one who knocks.'?"
>You snap your fingers.
"Yeah, the last one."
>C:"Yeah that's Breaking Bad, man. She watches that?"
"Uh... I don't remember -why- we were watching it..."
 
***
 
>A hazed memory resurfaces.
>You remember letting Fluttershy play some gang-related vidya, and she asked if it was similar to the show.
>That got you started on a multi-season binge.
 
*=-End Flashback-=*
 
"And then we got to that episode where he says 'I am-"
>C:"-the one who knocks.' Yeah, I know."
"Yeah..."
>Cole leans himself against the counter.
>C:"Still doesn't explain what happened today."
"Today... Today, what happened... today..."
>You rub your eyes tiredly, then sigh.
>Cole's face suddenly scrunches.
>Then he sniffs the air.
>C:"Dude... is that booze on your breath?"
>Your face becomes concerned as you hold up your hand to your mouth.
>One exhale later, and the memories came flooding back.
 
>...
 
"It's so hooooot..."
>You were with Fluttershy at her apartment, the Los Angeles weather taking it's toll.
>"Why did the AC go out today?!"
>She groans.
>You were both sitting on her couch, sweltering.
>Angel, Butch, and little Gabe were all passed out on the floor, figuratively speaking.
>"Our top story at the hour, local hotels and businesses in the northern section of downtown have reported numerous failures of air conditioning and even water supply. All residences are advised to find ways to keep cool blah, blah, blah-"
>The news anchorman goes on, while you and Fluttershy sit under a fan.
"Man... I'm burning up..."
>"Y-Yeah, *pant* me too. Would it be to much to ask to get a drink for me?"
"I was just about to ask you that."
>You rub her leg and get up from the couch.
 
"Shhhhhit! Shit, shit, shit!"
>You bang the sink angrily.
>Nothing was coming out from the faucet.
>"What's wrong!?"
"The sink's out!"
>"Shoot, I'll try the bathroom!"
>Fluttershy races off down the hall.
>This isn't good, if you didn't have any water, you could get dehydrated.
>Or you may have to go...
>...Outside.
>Looking out the kitchen window, the glare of the sunlight nearly blinded you.
>You notice a small thermometer sitting on the ledge outside.
>It read 107 degrees.
>You shudder, and try to look somewhere else.
>You rummage through her refrigerator.
>Food, food, food, no drinks?!
"Dammit."
>You hear Fluttershy walking back from the bathroom.
"Anything?"
>She shakes her head sadly.
"Well we're up a creak without a paddle."
>"...Actually."
>Fluttershy moves past you and reaches for a high-up cabinet.
>...!
"No, Fluttershy-"
>"I'm not going out in this heat, and I know you're not either. We're out of options."
>She takes out a familiar looking bottle.
"Flutter-"
>*crack*
>Too late, she broke the seal.
"Fluttershy!"
>You grab her arm before she attempts to take a swig straight from the bottle.
>She looks into your eyes, then she lowers her defenses.
>Taking the bottle from her hand, you set it down on the counter.
"Think about this."
>"I am, and I'm just so... thirsty."
>You sigh, and pull her in for a hug.
>A sweaty, sticky hug.
"Yeah, I am too."
>You both keep holding on to her.
"And what about the pets, huh? We can't give them this."
>"*sigh* I know, it's just..."
>She rubs your back.
>"I thought we could quench our thirst first, then later when it gets cooler we could get some -real- water."
>Hmm, that did sound like a good idea, but there must be more behind this.
"Fluttershy... Is there some other reason why?"
>Her figure suddenly tenses up.
>"N-No, why?"
>Red flag.
"Just curious."
>"W-Well there isn't, i-if you were wondering."
>You break the hug, and look her in the eye.
>Attempting to replicate "The Stare", you gaze into her pupils.
>She must have realized what you were trying to do and she reacts quickly.
>...
>...
>You blink.
"Gah..."
>Fluttershy giggles at her victory.
 
"As far as I'm concerned, I'm not drinking this at room temp."
>You say as you stick the bottle inside Fluttershy's refrigerator.
>Closing the door, you see her standing there twiddling her thumbs.
>She stops when she notices you.
"...Are you sure there isn't anything you need to say?"
>She shakes her head silently.
>You exhale, and lead her back to the living room.
>You both sit back down on the couch.
>Gabe comes up to you, and you pick him up.
"Wow, he's grown a little since Christmas, hasn't he?"
>"...Mhmm."
>Fluttershy pats Gabe on the head.
>Your face grew concerned.
>Setting Gabe back down on the floor, you turn to Fluttershy.
"Flutters, I know you need to tell me something."
>"W-What?! N-No I don't."
>You cross your arms and stare at her.
>This time you were focused.
>And as expected, she catches on.
>With determination, you keep staring.
>...
>...
>...
>She blinks.
>"...*sigh* Alright! Alright..."
>Score 1 for you.
>"I only remembered the vodka because... I thought it would make tonight a little more... interesting."
"...Interesting?"
>"Oh you know, like... um, l-like we could play some games or w-watch a movie while..."
"Drunk?"
>Her face shy's itself from you.
"You know we're both under 21, right?"
>"Well, no one will know b-but us! As long as we don't go out-"
"What about the water then?"
>"..."
"Mhmm."
>"Anon-"
>You press your finger against her lips.
"Shh, it's okay."
>Remove finger.
"If you still want to try some later, that's fine. But first, I'm going out."
>You say as you get up from the couch.
>"T-To where?!"
"...The water?"
>"...Oh."
>Fluttershy looks down to the floor.
>You sigh, then sit back down briefly.
"Hey."
>She looks up.
>You lean forwards and give her a quick kiss on the lips.
"I didn't mean to be mad, I'm just trying to think clearly."
>"...I'm sorry."
"No need to be."
>You give her a hug, then proceed on out of her apartment.
 
===
 
>Be Fluttershy
>You're still sitting on the couch, waiting for Anon to come back with some water.
>Angel Bunny had hopped into your lap and you gently stroke his fur.
>Occasionally you had to stop and wipe your forehead.
>Stupid air conditioner, how could the entire thing fail for the whole apartment?
>You already made several calls to the building's personnel, and they said they were working on it as fast as they could.
>Your head leans back against the couch, and you let out a loud *wheeeeew*
>*bam-bam-bam!*
"Huh?!"
>*...bam-bam-bam!*
>"Fluttershyyyy!"
"Oh!"
>You put Angel on the couch and scramble towards the door.
>Unlocking it, you see a large blue water jug with two legs.
"Ah!"
>"Flutters, it's me!"
"Oh, sorry Anon. Here, let me help."
>You grab the underside of the jug and help Anon carry it inside.
>It sets down in your kitchen with a loud *thump*
>Anon, short of breath, wearily says "Thanks."
"No problem, but, why did you get such a big jug?"
>"They... were... *gasp* out of bottles."
"Out of bottles?!"
>"J-Just at the one store, but I thought this might last us longer."
>You look down at the giant jug of water.
"How are we going to pour it?"
>Anon snaps his fingers.
>"I've got just the thing."
>He reaches in his pocket and pulls out a coiled up hose.
>"Don't worry, it's an air hose. I bought it at the store too, it's clean."
"Um... do you want us to... -drink- from that?"
>"What? No. Here, take this end."
>Anon hands you one end of the tube, then he grabs a cup from the kitchen.
>"Unscrew the cap and put the hose inside."
"Um, okay..."
>Doing as he says, you give him a thumbs up when you are ready.
>"Now, watch this."
>Anon places his end of the hose into his mouth, then inhales sharply.
>His cheeks start to go red.
"Um-"
>He holds up his free hand, then stops.
>Then, he takes a gulp.
>Quickly taking the hose out of his mouth, he places his thumb over the end.
>"Give me the cup."
>You reach over to the counter and pass him the cup.
>He takes his thumb off of the hose and water flows into the cup.
"Whoa..."
>Once the cup is full, Anon plugs the hose again.
>"Here, take it."
>You hesitate, then take the cup out of his hand and you take a desperate chug of water.
>Anon holds the end of the hose over his mouth and lets the water pour into his mouth.
"*gulp, gulp, gulp* Ahh. Oh that's better."
>Anon nods as he caps the hose and swallows all the liquid in his mouth.
>"*whew*... Eh-heh..."
>You couldn't help but let out a good laugh, and so did Anon.
 
"I didn't know you could do that thing with the hose."
>"What, siphoning? Really?"
"Yeah, is it like, something you do when working on cars?"
>"Well, only in emergencies, we usually have pumps for it."
>You and Anon were sitting on the kitchen floor, the cool tiles were much more comfortable than the couch.
>You had also filled up the water bowls for all of your pets, which they were very thankful.
>After shooting the breeze for a while, there was something on your mind you needed to talk about.
"Um, Anon?"
>"Yeah?"
"What about the um, y'know?"
>You point to the refrigerator.
>"*sigh* Flutters, can I just ask why?"
>You hang your head low as you lift up your legs and wrap your arms around them.
"I'm... tired."
>"Tired?"
"I'm tired, of waiting..."
>Anon thought for a moment, but soon realizes what you were saying.
>"Fluttershy I know it's been a long time since we've said that, but-"
"But what? *sigh* I know we're still in high school and all of that, but we don't have to do all of these crazy things other people do, right?"
>"Like?"
>You throw up your hands dramatically.
"I don't know. Partying, drugs, dri-"
>You hold your tongue, but Anon had already caught you.
"-nking..."
>"Then why remember the bottle now?"
>Well, looks like your boyfriend is smarter than he already is.
>No other choice now...
 
"I... I wanna do it."
>"...W-What?"
>Anon asks as he shifts up a little.
>You turn towards him, then hold his hand.
"Anon, I know we said we would wait until after we graduated to... go all the way."
>"Yes...?"
"But... to be honest, I don't want to wait anymore."
>You pause, expecting Anon to say something.
>He remains silent.
"...A-And like I was saying, we don't have to do all this crazy stuff. We can just... do it here, in private."
>Still no words from your boyfriend.
>Maybe you can get him a little more interested...
"And... y'know, since y-you're over here so often..."
>You rub his hand softly.
"We could... y'know..."
>Anon finally acknowledges you with a nod.
>"Fluttershy?"
"Yes?"
>"How long have we been together?"
"Um, well... since September. So, about 6 months?"
>"Okay. And do you still feel like we're rushing this relationship?"
>Now that you think about it, half a year with Anon certainly has made you more comfortable with him.
"Well, n-not anymore. Do you?"
>Anon hesitates, then shakes his head.
"Then, why wait any longer?"
>"...I-I'm sorry, I'm-... *sigh*"
>...
>"It's just... wow."
"What?"
>"It was only 6 months ago that we hardly knew each other, and now look at us."
>Anon says with a relaxed smile.
>"A young, happy couple."
>He drapes his arm around you and pulls you closer.
"Yeah... I'm happy we found each other, Anon."
>"Me too, Flutters. Me too."
>He turns and gives you a kiss on the head, and you lean into him.
"So, um..."
>"So..."
"Do you... want to..."
>"Flutters- *sigh* Look, I know you want this, and believe me, so do I. But if we're going to do it, we need to be responsible about it."
"I know that! L-Like..."
>Anon looks towards you.
*...P-Protection?*
>"...Yeah."
>Anon then snaps his fingers.
>"I just remembered."
>He says while getting up from the floor.
"Remembered what?"
>You get up as well.
>He shortly comes back.
>With his... wallet?
"What's that for?"
>Anon unfolds the wallet, then pulls out 2 gold squares.
"...A-Are those-"
 
>"Yes... Condoms."
>He says as he places them on the kitchen counter.
>You stare at them for a good while before Anon asks
>"What's wrong?"
"Um... n-nothing... I-I-I didn't think you were... serious."
>"Oh, I am Fluttershy. I am 100% serious right now."
>You're starting to have second thoughts, perhaps you jumped the gun on this.
"Um-"
>"But. There is a catch."
"...Huh?"
>Anon walks over to the refrigerator and pulls out the bottle of vodka.
>"Ooh, nice and cold."
>He sets it down on the counter, then he rummages through your cupboards and finds two fairly small glasses.
>He walks back over and stands at the opposite side of the counter.
>"I have a proposition."
>He sets down one glass in front of him.
>"We have a drink-off."
>He sets down the other glass in front of you.
"W-What?"
>"We drink as much as we can, and whoever stops first is the loser."
"I'm n-not sure I follow."
>"*sigh* You don't want to wait, I still want to. So, in order to come to a conclusion, what better than a competition?"
"...You're serious?"
>Anon pops off the top on the bottle.
>"Just little shots, nothing to harmful."
>He pours a small amount of the liquid in each glass.
"So... If you win-"
>"We put off until after we graduate. We play it safe."
"And if I win... You'll-"
>"Yes... I will have sex with you, Fluttershy."
>...
>He sighs.
>"But I just want to be clear, I want to make love with you more than anything, but if I do win, we play it safe and we wait."
"...Well, t-then. I will have you by the time this is over!"
>You say with a little bit of confidence.
>Anon smirks.
>"You're on!"
 
***
 
>C:"Wait, wait, wait. You, Anonymous, challenged your girlfriend to a drink off over your virginity?!"
"...Yes."
>C:"Ooooooh man, I gotta hear this."
"Well maybe if you don't interrupt, you'd find out."
>C:"Alright, alright. Please, continue."
 
***
 
>Be Anon
>You had just challenged your girlfriend to a drink off.
>Basically over your virginity.
"You ready, Flutters?"
>She nods.
"Okay, first one to stop loses."
>"Okay. Um, cheers?"
>She holds out her glass.
"...Cheers."
>*clink*
>You both raise your glasses to your lips.
>Hesitating, you down the liquid.
>It... tasted bland at first, but as soon as you swallow you nearly gagged.
>So did Fluttershy, but she catches her drink in her mouth before it spewed out.
>She regains herself and forces it down.
>"*cough-cough* Oh, that burns!"
>You nod, as you try to control yourself from heaving.
"Y-*cough* You want to stop?"
>Fluttershy scoffs.
>"No way I'm stopping after only one. G-Go again."
>The charm of her determination to beat you only made you more willing to pour another glass.
>"Ready?"
"Ooh, I dunno. You seemed to take it better than me."
>"Pfft, c'mon. You're a big guy."
"For you."
>You say as you down your shot.
>"What?"
>*...hurk*
"N-Nothing."
>You pat your chest with your fist.
"AAAAAhhhh! ...Your turn."
>Fluttershy brushes off your subtle-yet-shit meme, and drinks her shot.
>Her face scrunches up, and she slams her hand on the counter.
>"Whooo... s-still wanna go?"
>It might be the vodka talking, but you nod to your girlfriend with a smirk.
 
>You pour two more shots.
 
>Then two more...
 
>Then... shit, how many?
 
>And, how have neither of you had at least-
 
>*Bleeeeh!*
 
>...There it is.
 
>You walk over to Fluttershy, who had managed to get to the sink in time.
"Hey, h-hey, I got you."
>You pull her hair back as she hurls into the sink again.
>She coughs a few more times before wiping her mouth.
>"Thanks."
"Heh, looks like I won."
>"*sigh* Yep..."
>Your ego had reached it's max, being able to hold down more vodka than your girlfriend.
>Hell, it's even the first time you've ever had a drink.
>You put on a big, cheezy grin, until you glimpse at the...
>The...
>...Oh god.
 
*Bleeeeh!*
 
>Fuck.
>You nearly missed the left side of the sink as your own vomit spilled out.
>"Anon!"
"*cough-cough* Fuck."
>"You okay?"
>You spit out any remaining puke into the sink.
"*pant* Yeah... I'm good."
 
>After the whole ordeal, you and Fluttershy both agreed to just wash the rest of the vodka down the sink.
>Along with all of the puke.
>Somehow you had both consumed about a third of the bottle.
>You both felt worse than when you had started.
>"Never... again."
"Never-ever."
>You both sat on the couch, trying to stabilize yourselves.
>You had managed to siphon some more water to drink, and it helped a little.
>As Fluttershy took another sip of her water, you notice something on her face.
>You reach out and brush against her cheek.
>"...What?"
"Your face... it's red."
>Fluttershy then looks to you.
>"So is yours."
"Is it hot in here?"
>"I dunno..."
>She says confused.
>...
>You both sit in silence for a long time.
>Your head was throbbing, and your heartbeat felt a little slower than normal.
"Do you... want to do anything?"
>"..."
"F-Fluttershy?"
>"Hm?"
"I asked... do you want to do anything?"
>"...I dunno, *yawn* I'm just... tired."
>Now that you think about it, you're kind of tired too.
"N-Now that I think about it... *yaaawn* I'm tired too."
>"I think... I think I'm gonna take a nap."
>A nap did sound good.
"Do you mind, if I join you?"
>Fluttershy meekly smiles, and offers her hand to you.
>You take it and she leads you to the bedroom.
 
>*pomf*
>You both land on the bed.
>"You think, m-maybe an hour or so?"
"Yeah, that's fine."
>"Okay, well... sweet dreams."
"You too, Flutters."
>She rolls onto her side, and you cuddle up next to her.
>You wrap your arm around her stomach, then you both get comfortable.
>And slowly, you both drift off to sleep.
 
>You have a dream.
>A simple dream.
>You were in an open space that seemed to go on forever.
>A soft breeze blew, shifting the billowing mist around.
>You noticed all of your clothes were gone, and replaced with a white t-shirt and pants.
>It seemed peaceful, but lonely.
>Then, from out of the mist, a figure appeared.
>You didn't call out to it, but stood there and watched it take form.
>It was... Fluttershy?
>As she steps closer to you, her appearance became more clear.
>Except she was wearing a simple white dress.
>You walk towards her and meet her half way.
>Neither of you spoke, neither of you did anything except stare at each other.
>You crack a smile, thinking about how strange this was.
>Fluttershy finally lets out a giggle, which made you chuckle.
>You... then feel the urge to reach around her.
>She follows your actions, and you both embrace each other in a hug.
>"I love you, Anonymous."
>She says.
"I love you too, Fluttershy."
>You keep holding on to her, and she tightens her grip on your chest.
>This felt nice...
>...
>Okay, enough hugs.
>You felt like you wanted to explore this place, maybe-
>...
>Fluttershy began rubbing herself up and down your chest.
>A few little moans squeaked from her mouth.
"Um, Flutters?"
>She starts accelerating her movements, which sent off all kinds of red flags in your brain.
>But southern command had other ideas.
>Your tent started to pitch itself up.
"H-Hey, c'mon. Stop it."
>Fluttershy ignores you and continues with her actions, now beginning to grind against your pelvis.
>Her moans started to grow louder, which only made your dick harder.
 
>Somehow, you manage to snap awake.
>Just in time to see what was actually happening.
>Fluttershy was doing the exact same thing as in your dream.
>You take control and grab her by the shoulder.
"F-Flutters!"
>"Ah!"
>...
>If her face wasn't red as before, it was now.
>She slowly rolls onto her back away from you.
>"...Sorry."
>You roll onto your back too, feeling like an idiot.
>Arrgh, she was grinding -you-, ya dingus!
>Fucking morality...
>You look down towards your pants.
>Anon Jr. was definitely up and about.
>God dammit, there must be something you could do with her besides sex...
>'Would blowjobs or titjobs be too far?'
>You wonder.
>Maybe something simpler...
>*LIGHTBULB*
>You look over to Fluttershy, who was now laying uncomfortably in self-pity.
"Hey, Flutters."
>She glances to you.
"I... I know w-we said, we would wait if I'd won, right?"
>"Right..."
"But... I'm thinking. *cough-cough*... Excuse me. *ahem*"
>"What?"
"What if we started, on a lower level?"
>This got her attention.
>"W-What do you mean?"
"It's something called, 'mutual masturbation'."
>She rolls on her side to face you.
>"...S-Seriously?"
>You nod.
>"Are, are you sure it's not the booze talking?"
"No, no-no-no-no,... no."
>You repeat as you sit yourself up in bed.
>You shake your head rapidly to try and wake yourself up.
"I think, it would be a... sort of neutral ground, y'know? Like, borderline sex, until we -do- have sex."
>"...Okay. I think I get it. But, w-what is um, 'm-mutual masturbation'?"
"Weellll, you know how to pleasure yourself, right?"
>"......"
"I'll uh, take that as a yes. And you know how a -guy- pleasures himself, right?"
>*....Yeah.*
"Okay, well, the idea of 'mutual masturbation' is that each partner takes turns at giving each other their own job, ya get me?"
>"...I think so..."
"So... you think you wanna do this?"
>"I um, I-I-I d-don't know."
"Oh c'mooon, you were the one dry-humping me a few minutes ago."
>"Y-Yeah but-"
"Aaaand wasn't it your idea to get me drunk in the first place-?"
>"ANON!"
>...
>Fluttershy finally gets the nerve to sit upright with you.
>"*sigh* I-I know h-how this is supposed to happen."
>She explains, her voice beginning to fade.
"B-But... since it's m-my first time I-... I don't know if I'll be... good enough."
>She looks back at you, tears beginning to well in her eyes.
>Her head rests onto your shoulder and muffled sobs escaped from her mouth.
>You place your hand behind her back and rub it softly in comfort.
>"I-If I'm no good at it the first time... will-... will you still l-love me?"
"Flutters..."
>You smile softly, leaning in to plant a quick kiss on her head.
"Of course, I'll still love you."
>"R-really?"
>Your girlfriend's eyes glimmer as she looks up from your shoulder.
>Was she really expecting you to say no?
"Yeah. Really. And, you know what else?"
>"What?"
"...*sigh* I've never tried to finger a girl before."
>Her eyes lit up with surprise.
"And even if we both aren't that good, we... we don't have to force it. But we can still try as long as you still want to."
>"...Thanks, Anon."
>She lifts up her head and scoots upwards to meet with your face.
>You answer her with another kiss.
>God, do you love her...
"...You're sure you want to?"
>Silently, she nods in response.
>While you let her get ready, you get up and close the window blinds and lock the door.
>Not that that was necessary, it was already dark out and no one else was home.
>But it's a nice little reassurance, you think.
>"Anon, do you mind if I um, go change, real quick?"
"What for?"
>"I just think it'll be more um, c-comfortable."
>Still wondering why, you give her a nod and she walks out of the bedroom towards the bathroom.
>...
>A ringing sound started to grow, and you smack the side of your head.
>...Okay, it's gone.
>Was this normal after drinking alcohol?
>Not a big concern at the moment, but definitely a concern none the less.
>...Maybe Fluttershy's right, you might be more comfortable in your night clothes.
>You look through her lower dresser drawer and find a pair of shorts and a night shirt.
>You had both thought it would be a good idea to keep at least one pair of pajamas at each other's houses in case of a sleep over.
>Good thing too, you quickly change clothes and hang your jeans and t-shirt over a chair in her room.
 
>"Okay, I'm-"
>Fluttershy sees you sitting on the edge of her bed wearing your night clothes.
>"-ready..."
>She stops in her tracks as she re-entered the bedroom.
>You stand up and walk over to her.
>Neither of you say anything, instead you both wrap your arms around each other.
>You lock lips with your girlfriend, giving her a long and passionate kiss.
>She rubs your back while soft moans squeak from her mouth.
>You decide to make this a little more interesting.
>Swiftly breaking the kiss, you reach down and pick up Fluttershy by the legs.
>She lets out a surprised "Eep!".
>"A-Anon?!"
"Just-, go with it."
>You say while trying to keep her up.
>Fucking weak arms.
>You carry her over to the end of the bed and set her down.
>Once she dismounts, you sit on the edge with her.
>"So, um..."
>Fluttershy fidgets, her eyes darting nervously between yourself and the floor.
>"This is the part where I... get naked...?"
>You raise an eyebrow at her, struggling to hold your laughter at her nervousness.
"Well, you don't -have- to rush. But you can if you want."
>"I-I know that!"
>Her cheeks turn to scarlet as her fingers mess about with the hem of her night shirt.
>"It wasn't like I was asking o-or anything."
>She insists, looking away.
>"I was just... saying what I -was- gonna do."
>You sigh deeply before moving to her side, wrapping Fluttershy up in a hug and pecking cheek.
>She seems tense against you at first.
>As you slip a hand around to rub her back between kisses, though, she begins to loosen up.
"It's okay."
>She smiles up at you before burying her face into the crook of your neck, giving you a quick squeeze back.
>Breaking away, Fluttershy leans back and turns to face you.
>She pauses, taking a deep breath.
>"Okay. Here goes."
>Grabbing the hem of her shirt once more, she hoists it up, the fabric enveloping her head as her white bra comes into view.
>Following suit, you grab your own shirt by the back of the collar, whipping it off in one swift motion.
>"Oh... my."
"What?"
>Fluttershy holds out her finger, pointing to your stomach.
"...Yeah, alright. I do have a gut- Hey!"
>She pokes you right in the side.
>"Oh, Mr. Big Man is ticklish, is he?"
"S-Stop it! Seriously!"
>She wiggles her fingers along your ribcage, and you couldn't help but keep laughing.
>Fluttershy finally shows you mercy and calls off the tickling.
>Making the best of her current rush of resolve, your girlfriend moves to her pajama bottoms next.
>As you match her action, Fluttershy's garments drop to the floor to leave behind a pair of matching white panties.
>You, in turn, take off your own night shorts, revealing your light gray boxer shorts.
>Suddenly, she turns her hips forward, her hands rushing down to provide some cover.
"Oh, sorry."
>You clear your throat, bringing your line of sight back up to her face.
"I... didn't meant to stare."
>"It's okay. I-I mean, it's not like I wasn't..."
>You just now notice that Fluttershy's eyes aren't locked on your own.
>But instead on the solid tent you're pitching under your boxers.
"Oh..."
>"Yeah..."
>She shakes her head, bringing her attention back to herself.
>Fluttershy reaches around her back and tries to unhitch the latch that held her bra together.
>"Hng, mmph! Oh, come on!"
"Need some help?"
>You interject, and she stops to nod her head.
>She turns her back to you and you fiddle with the rather tiny latch.
>It unhooks with a small *click*, and she catches the loose bra with her arm.
>You now sit back and let Fluttershy regain herself.
>"*sigh* Well, here goes."
>She takes her opposite arms and moves the small straps on her shoulders off, leaving only her hands to hold up the bra.
>She looks to you nervously and you give her a reassuring smile.
>With a tiny *phew*, she removes the white bra, and her glorious twins fall out.
>You were left staring at her wonderful pair for a while.
>"What? They're nothing special..."
"I beg to differ. I think they're beautiful."
>Fluttershy turns away unconvinced.
"Can I... touch them?"
>She looks to you quickly in surprise while covering them up with her arms.
>But after a second, she agrees.
>"W-Well, if you really want to."
>Lowering down her arms, she turns to face you.
>You were nervous yourself, you've seen thousand of tits online before, but this was the first time you've ever touched a pair.
"Don't worry, I'll be gentle."
>Your hand slowly reaches out, then stops.
>"It's okay, go ahead."
>You look up to Fluttershy's face, then back to her breasts.
>You move your hand forward until you make contact.
>"Oh!"
>Jerking your hand back, you look up to see if she's okay.
>"...Sorry. I-I'm fine, really."
"Okay, um..."
>Focus Anon, you just touched a girl's boob, nothing to get freaked out over.
>You place your hand back on Fluttershy, but this time she only lets out a small coo.
>Her breast was plump and tender, her skin soft to the touch.
>You couldn't help but place your other hand on her other melon.
>"Ah, Anon~"
>You slowly shift your hands around, fondling her mammaries.
 
***
 
>C:"Hey! *snap snap* Anon!"
"Huh?"
>C:"Stop staring off into space, man. What happened next?"
"What?"
>C:"You said she agreed to do it, but what next?"
"Cole, even if I wasn't daydreaming I wouldn't tell you the details. Have some decency."
>C:"*sigh* Fiiine, just don't leave me hangin' like that."
"Fine."
>C:"Okay, so she said yes to your idea...?"
>Cole rolls his hand, wanting more of the story.
>You lean against your wrist on the counter and keep thinking back on yesterday.
 
***
 
>They feel like ginormous, squishy eggs.
>That's the best you could describe them.
>Fluttershy lets out another moan, then her hands come up over yours.
>You just roll with it and continue to massage her breasts.
>"Oh, m-my. This feels good~"
>After a few more minutes of rubbing her boobs, and some pleasured moans, you stop.
>The foreplay is fun and all, but you both felt like it was time to move on.
>The only articles of clothing left on either of you were your under-drawers.
>"I'll um, go first..."
>Slipping her thumbs under the waistband of her panties, she grips tightly, the muscles in her arms and hands tensing.
>And while her hands tremble, they refuse to budge an inch downwards.
"Flutters? You okay?"
>She clenches for a few seconds more before finally giving up, sighing in defeat as she withdraws her thumbs.
>"I... I don't know."
"Hmm?"
>"It's like, um..."
>Fluttershy brings her hand to her forehead as she rubs her brain in search of the right words.
>"I... I want to do this, or part of me does, at least. But... I-I'm afraid."
>She explains, her words coming slowly but clearly.
"Afraid? Of not doing well, you mean?"
>"Not just that," she explains, shaking her head. "It's just... I've never shown anyone, you know, down -there- before. Let alone my breasts. And I've seen... videos, and pictures. A-And the girls in those... they look... different."
"Oh, I get you now. You think I'm not going to like your lady parts, don't you?"
>Fluttershy's face scrunches up in surprise, which made you chuckle.
"No, Flutters, it's not like that."
>Giving her a warm smile, you lean in, lowering your voice.
"You want to know something?"
>"What?"
"Pornos are bogus. Most of the actors and actresses have either had surgery or something along the line to make them look more... appealing. And for your information, my dick does look different from the ones you'd see on those actors as well."
>Your girlfriend blinks in surprise, taken aback by your confession.
>"I-It does?"
"Yeah. Want to see?"
>"Wait, wait, wait... Really?"
"Well, yeah. I mean, it's gonna have to come out eventually..."
>Chuckling to yourself, you reach down to your underwear waistband.
>"Hold on."
"Hm?"
>Freezing, you look up to see Fluttershy mirroring your movements, her hands as they were before.
>"C-Could you slow down a bit?"
"You don't have to if you don't want to, Flutters."
>"You're the one who said it'd to come out eventually; it should be the same for me."
>Her fists clench as she takes in a deep breath.
"Are you sure?"
>She nods briefly, then continues to pull down her panties.
>You do the same, until both of your undergarments drop to both of your ankles.
>You feel your rigid member slowly spring up as the restraint of your boxers is removed, and it stands proudly at attention.
>Looking up at your girlfriend, you see her eyes are screwed tightly shut, her arms rigidly straight by her sides.
"Flutters."
>"D-Don't look yet!"
"I'm not looking, don't worry."
>"Sorry, I just, I need a moment to..."
>Opening her eyes, she looks up to your own.
>"...Thanks."
"It's okay."
>"So," Fluttershy mumbles, "is it okay if I um... check y-yours?"
"Sure. Just be gentle, alright?"
>"O-Okay."
>With that, she looks down, her eyes plastered to your fully erect penis.
>"Huh... it really is kinda different."
>She notes idly as she reaches out a finger towards it.
>You flinch slightly at the first contact, but Fluttershy continues her examination.
>"Wow..."
>She comments before lightly squeezing the head, causing you to let out a stifled "Ow!".
>"Oh! I-I'm sorry, d-did that hurt?!"
>"Mmm-hmm."
>You managed to grunt.
>"S-Sorry."
>Pressing on, Fluttershy shifts her fingers about to surround your shaft before sliding them down and back up again.
>This sent a most pleasant tingle through your groin.
*Ahh.*
>"I've never seen one like this, it's so... simple..."
>She notes with her hand still idly working it back and forth.
"Like I said, *hnng* pornos are bogus."
>"So... um, sorry if this is a dumb question, but were you born like this, or...?"
>You chuckle at Fluttershy's phrasing before getting your serious face back in order.
"You could say that."
>"What do you mean?"
"Well, pretty much all guys have it look like this to start off with. It's just... most of the actors in pornos take pills or shots to make them bigger."
>"Oh, I-I thought all guys had big, veiny packages in their pants."
"W-What?"
>She lets out another nervous giggle.
>"J-Just kidding, eh-heh."
>After a chuckle between the two of you, and another minute of her inspecting your penis, Fluttershy pulls her hand away before quickly bringing it over to cover herself.
>"So... you wanna look at mine now?"
"Sure. Let's see what you're all worked up about."
>"*gulp* ...Okay then."
>As Fluttershy lifts up her hands, you lean further down to get a proper look.
>Then you see what's got her so worried.
>A normal, mint condition, no pubes pussy.
>No visible flaps, nor a visible clitoris.
>A genuine 100% virgin.
>"I know, it's weird..."
>She said shamefully.
"No, it's not."
>You reach out slowly, softly rubbing one side of her groin.
>She lets out a tiny gasp.
"A lot of girls are like this."
>"Y-Y'know you don't have to lie to me, right?"
"I'm not!"
>You say laughing while you retract your finger.
"It just shows that you... haven't done it yet."
>Fluttershy looks at you quizzically.
"*sigh* It mean's you're a virgin."
>"Oh."
>She says as she looks away to hide her returning red cheeks.
>You smile at her softly, and rub the length of her wide hip.
>She slowly brings her face back around, then watches as you continue.
>You bring your finger back and probe her slit, quickly finding the clitoris near the top.
>Fluttershy gasps as you begin to work your magic.
>Gently at first, you avoid direct contact, opting instead to just rub it through the hood.
>As you feel her begin to moisten, you pick up the pace, quickly grazing your fingertip across the now-swollen lump.
>"Ah-Ah-Anon~!"
>You stop before looking up at your girlfriend, her cheeks flushed and legs quivering.
>But at this stage, you're confident there's nothing wrong.
"What?"
>"We... w-we s-should lie down."
>She says gasping, most likely from almost going over the edge so quickly.
>Nodding, you get up, kicking off your underwear before laying down on the bed.
>Fluttershy does likewise, joining you seconds later.
>Rolling onto your sides, you gaze at one another for a moment before leaning in for a kiss.
>As you slip your left arm slips under her neck, your right hand dives back down to resume it's quest for her honeypot.
>Doing the same, Fluttershy grabs hold of your rod's tip while throwing her arm around you.
>She begins to work the shaft like before, gently rubbing it up and down as your finger runs rings around her clit.
"Flutters..."
>"Yeah?"
"Try... grabbing it."
>She nods, shifting her hand down before wrapping all of her fingers around the middle of your member.
>And starts to tug it simultaneously.
>"Like this?"
>You stifle a groan, momentarily stopping your own hand's motions.
"Yeah... that's good."
>With her confidence growing, Fluttershy firms her grip around you as she continues to pump.
>Meanwhile, you reach down further, finally slipping a finger inside of her now-slick passage
>Fluttershy lets out a loud gasp, yet she keeps her focus on jerking your cock.
>You step up your actions by using your thumb upon her now fully-exposed clit.
>"Ahhh~!"
>Every moan your girlfriend makes you even more horny.
>You continue to work her clit while curling your finger, stroking her front wall.
>In turn, she increases the pumping of your cock.
>Both of you are gasping and grunting, like animals.
>Your brain has gone into full instinct mode, you want to please your woman to the fullest extent.
>Though she was being gentle at first, you can feel her getting rougher and faster with each stroke.
>The way that your skin is stretching in response was almost painful.
>But the pleasure she's bringing you is well and truly overriding any discomfort.
>You slip in another finger inside her, making her moan yet again.
>"AAAH, YEsss~!"
>Going in for another kiss, you slip your tongue between her teeth and wrestle with hers.
>Strange... The taste of vodka from before was absent, and all that was left was a fresh mint taste.
>Maybe she used some mouthwash in the bathroom from earlier.
>"Oh God, Anon~!!"
>You could feel her walls tightening around your fingers.
"Ugh, Flutters..."
>And your own muscles preparing to fire it's payload.
>Her nails begin to claw into your back as you increase your fingering rate to full-auto.
>Suddenly, her hand starts jerking you erratically as her legs clamp down on your arm.
>You are so near to climaxing yourself.
>"I-I'm so close Anon... j-just a little more..."
>Gritting your teeth, you fight against the urge of your own orgasm to double your efforts, your fingers almost on the brink of giving out.
>But to no avail, you feel yourself pass the point of no return.
"Aahh!"
>A few seconds later, your seed spurts out with surprising force.
>Both of you were left gasping for air, heavily sweating, and exhausted.
>As you let yourself collapse onto the bed, it's only as you start to catch your breath that you notice where exactly you shot your load off to.
>More specifically, right on top of Fluttershy's belly.
"Oh, shit..."
>Your eyes go wide as you huff and puff, unable to look away from the aftermath.
"I-... sorry about that..."
>Fluttershy looks down at her midsection, staring at the mess you've made.
>She seems to be left speechless.
>Fluttershy runs a finger down towards her gut, collecting a bit of your essence on her finger.
>"So, t-this is your..."
>Trailing off, she strings the goop between her fingers before bringing her hand to her mouth.
>Pressing her fingers between her lips, her tongue slips out, stealing a quick taste.
>And immediately recoils as a shudder rocks her body.
>"Ech!"
>While blowing air past her lips as she tries to get rid of the foul taste, she reaches down and wipes the leftover cum from her hand on the bedsheets just behind her.
"Fluttershy!"
>"What?!"
"You know that stuff stains, right!?"
>"Oh!"
>She desperately reaches over to her nightstand for a tissue and tries to wipe off whatever remained on the sheets, then whatever was left from her stomach.
>"...Sorry."
>Sighing, you can't help but smile as you shift a little closer to her.
"It's okay. I probably should have mentioned that at some point."
>Mimicking your motion, she slips both of her arms around you, groaning softly as she hugs you.
>You return the favor, pecking her cheek as the two of you cuddle together.
>After a minute of this, Fluttershy decides to break the silence.
>"Anon..."
"Yeah?"
>"Did... d-did I do okay?"
"Okay?"
>You move your head so you could look at her better.
"You did great, for your first time giving a handjob."
>Fluttershy blushes while an awkward smile creeps on her lips.
>*T-Thanks, you were pretty great y-yourself.*
>She whispers back, pecking your cheek.
"Thanks."
>"So, uh..."
>Her eyes dart away for a moment before meeting yours once more.
>"Anon. Can we talk for a second?"
>You nod, putting on your serious face.
"Sure. What's up?"
>"That stuff from before, and now this..."
>She recalls, her voice beginning to quiver.
>"Are we like... t-together, now?
"Together? We're already boyfriend and girlfriend-"
>"I-I know, but... Like, are we..."
>She gulps, struggling to get the final word out.
>"...L-Lovers?"
>You think about the question for a moment
"Do you want to be? Because I wouldn't mind it one bit."
>"Um..."
>You facepalm internally at your poor choice of words.
>What you should be doing right now is be supportive.
"I mean, you don't have to be. We can just, uh... y'know. -Not-, do it."
>An awkward silence hangs as you finish the sentence, the both of you now totally lost.
"...I'm sorry. That came out wrong. What I mean is, uh, tha-"
>Suddenly, you find yourself cut off by her sweet pair of lips to your own.
>The sweet taste of passion returns as you both kiss for another moment.
>*It's okay, Anon.*
>Fluttershy whispers as she ends the kiss.
>"The truth is... I don't really know."
>She sighs, laying down on her back looking up at the ceiling.
>"I mean... some days I just want us to be together, and other days I... I-I want to do -this-... And, w-what happens if we go all the way and... you know?"
>You lie on your back as well, and slowly slip your hand over hers.
>As she looks back towards you, you can already see wetness pooling in the corners of her eyes.
>*You remember what happened between Flash and Sunset, right? They don't even talk to each other anymore!*
 
***
 
>C:"What? What happened with Flash and Sunset?"
"Hm? Oh yeah, you only came to Canterlot High the following semester."
>C:"Yeah, I've only heard stories about how Sunset Shimmer turned into a demon or something."
"Heh, well, there have been debates on what caused her to become so furious to do such a thing, but I think there's a major factor that people try to forget."
>C:"Her relationship with Flash Sentry?"
"*sigh* Yep..."
 
>You recall their infamous relationship, how one night after a football game they got caught beneath the football bleachers doing the nasty.
>People might think that would be bad enough, but when Sunset tested positive for pregnancy was one thing she would never get over.
>...Or her choice of abortion. Which was the one cause you presumed was what lead to her violent demonic uprising.
 
>C:"And neither of them got expelled?"
"Nope, that's the school's fair-and-legal justice system."
>C:"Jesus Christ."
"Yeah... Anyway, where was I?"
 
***
 
>Wanting to let Fluttershy keep a bit of her dignity, you scooch a little closer, just as she turns over and buries her head into the crook of your shoulder.
>You slide your arms behind her as you feel the tears start rolling onto your skin.
>"I-... I don't want to mess this up..."
>She sobs, squeezing you tight.
"Flutters."
>Your girlfriend sniffles as she keeps her head firmly planted where it is.
>"Yeah?"
"I'm gonna make you a promise right now."
>You lower your voice to a tone barely above a whisper as you nuzzle her cheek.
"No matter what happens between us, I will -always- love you. "
>"...Always?"
"Yeah. I will always love you as a kind, caring person."
>You sigh, searching for just the right words.
"I'll never shut you out. Ever. Because I love you, Fluttershy. Forever and always."
>For a while, the two of you remain silent, simply hugging one-another as your words hang in the air.
>"Thank you..."
>Reaching up to wipe her eyes, she pulls back to look at you.
>"I'm not gonna shut you out either, Anon."
"I'm glad."
>"Still... I-I don't know if I'm ready for a full-on relationship yet. But..."
>She sighs.
>"I don't want to wait too long either..."
"I get you. How about we just... take things slow? Like we talked about before."
>You shoot her a playful smirk.
"I mean, I know we've been playing the game of life, and that we've skipped ahead a few places, even broken some rules, but-"
>"I get it, it's better to not jump the gun."
>Fluttershy finishes, squishing herself against you once more.
>She looks up while laying flat against your chest.
>Nodding in agreement, you lean in to look your girlfriend's beautiful blue eyes.
>The only noise your breathing, and the silence of the two of you smiling softly at one another as Fluttershy's eyes lock straight back into yours.
>"So, uh, not to kill the mood or anything, but... w-we haven't really done -it- yet, have we?"
"Nope. And we agreed not to, remember?"
>She huffs in response, rolling her eyes at you.
>You rub your hand across her back.
"But we will, I promise."
>Fluttershy lays motionless for a moment, then gives you a tight squeeze.
>"I love you."
>You smile and give her a soft hug.
"I love you too."
>And with that, you both drift off to sleep...
 
*=-End Flashback-=*
 
>C:"So... that's it?"
"Sorry man, that's all I remember."
>C:"Nothing from today?"
>You shake your head.
"Only thing I remember was you calling me, me driving over, then passing out at your door."
>C:"So, you both had drinks for the first time, did something along the lines of getting each other off, and pass out afterwards?"
>Cole repeats as he counts on his fingers.
"Pretty much."
>You look back to your phone sitting on the counter, and of the image your girlfriend had sent you.
"But hey, I fingered my first girl."
>You say smugly.
>C:"Well, props to you bro."
>Your friend says with a chuckle and a pat on the back.
C:"Anyway, go get some rest man."
"Thanks, Cole. Goodnight."
>C:"G'night Anon."
>He says as he walks out of the kitchen.
>You make your way back to the couch and sit in the center.
>After letting out a long exhale, you take out your phone and go to your messages.
>Holy unf...
>The picture your ever-so-shy girlfriend had sent you was of her lying on her back, naked, with her left arm covering her breasts.
>Her right leg was crossed over her left, and she was giving you a cute little wink to the camera.
"Damn..."
>You scroll down the length of the picture until you see another small message.
 
"<3 u"
 
>You smile...
>This was an arousing picture, but to you, it was really a sign of trust.
>Of love.
 
>...Okay, enough of the emotional bullshit.
>You quickly save the image to your photos, then you clear your messages with Fluttershy.
>Just in case anyone got a hold of your phone.
>Most likely your mother tomorrow, you suspect she'll have a good rant prepared for your reckless driving.
>You just hope Cole didn't elaborate on why you were recklessly driving...
>Anyway, you had one last thing to do before you go to sleep.
>You open up Dropbox on your phone and save Fluttershy's picture there, then you go back to your photos and delete it there.
>No evidence left... good.
>You lock your phone and set it on the coffee table, then you lay down on the couch.
>You make yourself comfortable, but...
>The thought of what happened this morning before you drove over here was bugging you.
>If Cole smelled booze on your breath, did you have a drink again before you drove?
>No... because you and Fluttershy poured the rest of the vodka down the sink...
>Then... shit, your brain hurts just from trying to think.
>Was this a hangover side effect or something?
>Fuck if you know.
>...Maybe you could ask Fluttershy tomorrow, see if she remembers anything.
>You roll over on your side.
>Yeah... maybe she'll remember...
>*snooore*...
 
>The next morning, you get ready to head on back home.
>Cole offered to make you some breakfast, but you decline.
>You already felt sick to your stomach thinking about your mother.
>She's probably going to suspend you from driving.
>Or worse...
>From seeing Fluttershy.
>If she knows, hopefully not.
>You wave goodbye to Cole as you walk down his pathway to your Jeep, which was parked on the side of the street.
>As you inspected the hood, there weren't many scratches as you thought, but they were noticeable none the less.
>You look up to the light post not far away and you could see the obvious tilt, and lack of a light bulb.
>With a regretful sigh, you climb into your Jeep and start her up.
 
>The weather of downtown Los Angeles was definitely depressing, gray overcast along with low hanging mist.
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8ePSJ44Fiw
>The current song on the radio wasn't helping either, but you liked the rhythm.
>You kept going over and over in your head what possibilities could happen once you reach your place.
>Hopefully a meteor would crash through the building...
>Anything other than confrontation.
>You signal off the highway and take the exit in your home's direction.
>As you drove down the street headed towards your apartment, you hear your phone starting to go off in your pocket.
>You take it out and answer the call.
"Hello?"
>...
"Hello?"
>"...Hey."
>The voice was instantly recognized.
"Hey Fluttershy."
>"How are you feeling?"
"Me? I'm fine... Um, you?"
>"Oh, good... I guess."
>You keep on driving while you wait in awkward silence.
"Is everything alright?"
>"Yeah... mostly. Um, did you uh, h-happen to get a um... p-picture of me?"
"Flutters, don't worry. I deleted it."
>"You did? Oh, thank you."
"Well... technically from my phone..."
>"...What?"
"It's not on my phone per say, but-"
>"Anon, -please-... delete it."
>Another moment of silence, you see your building and pull into the garage.
"*sigh* Okay."
>"Promise?"
"I promise."
>"Okay... t-thanks."
"...Hey, Flutters?"
>"Yes?"
"Do you remember anything from the morning?"
>"Why do you ask?"
"Well, I was wondering what happened before I left for Cole's. I um, can't seem to remember."
>"Um, well, first of all, we didn't wake up until about noon."
>You give a slight chuckle.
"We were that tired? Damn, you're better than I thought."
>"*gasp!* Anon! D-Don't say that on the phone!"
"Don't worry, I'm alone."
>"Oh... w-well, just don't, p-please?"
"Alright, alright. What happened after we woke up?"
>"Well, you woke up first to your friend calling you. Then I woke up after you were talking a while with him."
"Okay."
>"Then, um..."
"...Yes?"
>"You uh... you almost threw up..."
"Eh-heh... w-what?"
>"When you were getting out of bed you stood up too quickly and got dizzy."
"I suppose that was hangover, right?"
>"I mostly had a bad headache, but I helped you to the bathroom. You heaved a few times, but nothing came up."
"Geez, Flutters-"
>"No, no, it's fine. We're there for each other, right?"
"...Right."
>You nod, even though she couldn't see it.
>...
>"So uh, you're feeling better though?"
"Yeah. Yeah, I'm better, no... sickness. You have any aches or pains?"
>Fluttershy giggles.
>"No, I'm feeling better too."
"Well that's good."
>"Yeah."
>...
>"Um, am I holding you up?"
"Huh? Oh, no, not at all. I'm glad you called actually. I appreciate it."
>"Oh w-well... you're welcome."
>...
>"Well, I won't keep you any longer."
"It's okay Fluttershy, it's no problem."
>"Okay... goodbye."
"Goodbye, love you."
>"Love you too."
>You end the call, feeling a little bit better with yourself.
 
>*ding*
>The elevator reaches your floor and you step out.
>You let out a long exhale as you walk down the hallway towards your apartment.
>Looking out of a window, you look to the skies and wait for any falling space rocks.
>...
"Dammit."
>You continue your trek, but soon you bump into a familiar face.
>"Oh! Anonymous!"
"Hello Mrs. Fu."
>"You better hurry on, young man. Your mother is -very- upset."
"Did she tell you?"
>"Only that you were drinking and driving!"
>She lightly slaps you in the shoulder.
"Mrs. Fu-"
>"Uh-uh-uh! No excuses, just-... go see your mother."
>She shoos you on down the hall.
 
>You unlock the door to your apartment, and you could see your mother on the couch watching tv.
>Once she heard the door open, she turns it off and turns around to see you.
>The glare in her eyes would definitely be a match for Fluttershy's stare.
>You unlock the door to your apartment, and you could see your mother on the couch watching TV.
>Once she heard the door open, she turns it off and turns around to see you.
>The glare in her eyes would definitely be a match for Fluttershy's stare.
"Mom-"
>"Shut it."
>She says sternly as she stands up.
>"Do you have any idea how much trouble you are in young man?"
"Quite a lot, actually."
>"No sarcasm."
"Sorry."
>"I mean, my god Anon. I'm not mad at you, but I'm very, -very- disappointed."
>You lowered your head in shame.
>"What were you even thinking? Drinking and driving..."
>She scoffs.
>"I'm just glad you didn't get into a wreck."
"Well unless a broken street lamp counts-"
>"Anon, please."
>You shut your trap yet again.
>Your mother crosses her arms, stares at the floor and shakes her head.
>"No driving, for one week."
"What?! But-"
>"No buts, keys. Now."
>She extends an open hand to you.
"B-But-"
>"Anonymous."
>...
>You take your car keys out from your pocket and drop them into her hand.
>"One week, then you can have them back."
"Can I at least explain-"
>"No. What's done has been done. And this is -your- punishment."
>She turns around and walks back to the living room.
"...Then can I still see Fluttershy?"
>Your mom stops and turns around.
>"I didn't say you couldn't, why?"
>You shrug, frustrated.
"Well she -does- live across town, and you took my only mode of transportation."
>"Then I guess you need to call a cab or get a bus pass. Oh riiight, you need -money- for that!"
>She says as she places her hand on her chin.
>Apparently it's alright for her to show sarcasm, but not you.
>You sigh angrily.
"Fine! If all you wanted was to take my car keys, then fine!"
>You head for the door.
>"And where are you going?"
>You look back at her one last time.
"To see my girlfriend."
>And with that, you slam the door behind you.
 
>It's been three days since you've last seen your mother.
>Fluttershy was more than happy to let you stay at her place, but you felt like a burden to her.
>She said otherwise, and that she didn't mind one bit.
>You were lucky that the nearest bus route took you straight to her apartment, so that was nice.
>What wasn't so nice was the fact that Spring Break was over, and you had school, again.
>It was good to see all of your friends again, and your new friends as well, especially band practice at AJ's.
>You told the girls what had happened after you left Fluttershy's, and they pretty much had the same reaction as your mother.
>You would go into detail of what everyone said, but Rainbow Dash suddenly interrupts the conversation.
>RD:"OHMYGOSHOHMYGOSHOHMYGOSH!!!"
>TS:"What is it, Rainbow?"
>Rainbow brings her laptop over and shows everyone the email notice.
>R:"'Congratulations! The Rainbooms have been selected as a contestant in... *gasp!* the APRIL SPRING CONCERT?!'"
>Suddenly all the girls start screaming bloody mary, and then surround you in a massive group hug.
"W-What? What happened?"
>RD:"The April Spring Concert is only the most important band competition in Los Angeles!"
>PP:"Every year, the best bands from all of the schools in LA perform at the Hollywood Bowl for best high school band!"
>AJ:"And we've just been invited! Woo-hoo!"
"Holy crap, that's awesome!"
>You embrace all of the girls in another hug, but you give Fluttershy the biggest squeeze of them all.
>SS:"Wow! This is so exciting!"
>RD:"I know right?! SO LET'S GET PRACTICING!"
>Everyone cheers and goes to their assigned places.
>RD:"Oh, Anon, could you put up my laptop please?"
"Sure thing Dash."
>You pick up her computer and was just about to close it, until a bold title on the invitation catches your eye.
>Reading it closely, the title said "Rules and Regulations".
"Um... guys, I think you want to see this."
>The girls murmur confusedly and surround behind you to see the computer.
>You read aloud the guidelines.
"'For this year's competition, we will be having a throwback-themed concert. All entries are required to perform older songs of their genre."
>RD:"What?!"
"There's a sub-note. '*For your band: The Rainbooms, your selected genre is: Classic Rock and Roll.'"
>RD:"Oh... well, that shouldn't be too hard, r-right?"
>The girls groan nervously.
"Um... 'The contest of best high school band will consist of eight separate bands from Los Angeles. Three rounds will be required to determine the winner."
>SS:"So does that mean-"
"'Three different songs will be required to be performed if your band advances through all three rounds.' "Ehh... blahblahblah 'No vulgarity, no racism', bupkis bupkis."
>TS:"Wow, that's a lot of rules this year..."
>RD:"But why are they doing a -throwback- concert?! We were working so hard on our new song..."
>Rainbow slumps sadly on the wall.
>PP:"Oh, cheer up Dashie! I'm sure we can do this. Besides, with Anon on the team, I'm sure he can give some good suggestions!"
"...Suggestions on what?"
>PP:"The -songs-! Silly!"
>R:"You know, Pinkie Pie's right. You do have an extensive knowledge on classic rock, am I correct?"
"Well, yeah, but..."
>AJ:"But what?"
"*sigh* I-I don't know what -kind- of rock. I mean there's hard rock, protest rock, peace rock... love rock?"
>The group "Oohs" with realization.
>FS:"I'm... sure we'll find the right three. But, what about the other bands?"
>TS:"What other bands?"
>FS:"The ones who we'll be up against?"
>You look back to the laptop and scroll down the email.
"Umm... doesn't say."
>AJ:"Ah guess they don't want anyone to know if they've got an advantage or not."
>PP:"Maybe if you looked around the websites of the schools in LA besides Canterlot High, maybe we'd find out more!"
>RD:"I dunno Pinkie..."
>SS:"Well, why don't we save the info-looking for later and um, let's try to make up our own song selection first?"
"Yeah Sunset, that's probably for the best."
 
>A day had passed since you and the girls found out about the April Spring Concert, and you were still stuck on the playlist options.
>You were at lunch going through your phone, looking at your vast collections of songs.
>All of them seemed good, but you needed the perfect trio-
>T:"Yo, Anon."
"Huh?"
>T:"You gonna eat man? You've been staring at your damn phone for the past 10 minutes."
"Oh, sorry Trey."
>You set down your phone and dug into your Sloppy Joe sandwich.
>You look around at your friends and they all have a worried look on their faces.
>Gulping down what you had in your mouth, you ask:
"What?"
>M:"Anon, is something wrong?"
"...With what?"
>Ben shrugs.
>B:"You've just been kinda quiet lately. Like, since yesterday."
>Setting down your sandwich, you let out a frustrated sigh.
"The band's gotten into the April Spring Concert-"
>"Holy shit!"
>"Damn son."
>Similar cheers.
"Yeah, yeah. It's great, but..."
>J:"But what?"
"For some reason the people hosting the concert decided to do a "throwback" theme. So the band can't play the awesome song they've been working on."
>C:"Aw, that sucks."
>M:"That's too bad. Is that why you've been stressed out?"
"Kinda, Mike. The girls asked me if I could suggest 3 good classic rock songs for their roster."
>B:"Well, that shouldn't be too hard."
>Ben says as he takes a bite out of an apple.
>B:"It's jusht like, all the shame thing, *gulp* right?"
"No Ben, it's -not- all the same. There's just so many different genres to choose from."
>You rub your forehead.
>T:"Well, you'll think of somethin'. You always do."
>Trey gives you a pat on the back.
>BEEEEEP
>God damn that dreaded bell.
>You certainly won't miss it after you graduate.
 
>"No... no, no!"
>You think to yourself.
>Scrolling through your entire fucking library, none of the songs you had seemed to make a good ensemble.
>You needed something... good.
>Something good as the first song...
>Argh, this is fucking frustrating!
>"Everything alright, Anon?"
"Huh?"
>You look up and see your animation-
>*ahem* -Advanced- Animation teacher standing behind you.
"Oh, sorry sir. I-I was just busy."
>"Seems like it, half of the class is already past this step."
>You look up from your desk and see the entire class looking back at you, with some stifled giggles in the background.
"Sorry..."
>You say as you put your phone away.
 
>"...And that's how you use Illustrator to line and enhance hand-drawn art."
>BEEEEEP
>"Well everyone, looks like we're out of time. We'll continue tomorrow."
>The class starts to pack up their things and head out to their next periods.
>You were tailing near the end of the line, until your teacher calls out:
>"Anonymous, stay a minute, would you?"
>You freeze in your tracks, and hang your head in shame as you let the rest of the students pass by you.
>Once everyone else was out, the teacher shuts the door for some privacy.
>"So, Anon. What's on your mind?"
"Well, sir... I've just been trying to find some songs."
>"Songs? What kind?"
"Uh, rock and roll."
>"Oh! And I thought kids today only like rap and pop."
>He says with a sarcastic smile.
"Eh-heh, yeah. It's just that these songs are really important."
>"What for? ...A serenade?"
>!
>Damn, he got you good.
"N-No, a competition."
>"Ah, I see."
"*sigh* I just can't seem to find the right three to fit all together."
>"Well, do they need to be all by the same artist?"
"Um... no, I don't think so."
>"Hmm..."
>He taps his chin with a pen.
>"If it were me, I would choose the opener as powerful and upbeat, but just enough to get the crowd to want more."
"Okay..."
>He stops, and stares at you with a weird look.
>"Are you not gonna write this down, Anon?"
"Should I?"
>He furrows his brow, and you laughingly grab a pen and paper.
 
"Go on."
>"Alright, the second one will be slower, more feeling, if you get me."
"A love song?"
>"No, no, no... something sad, but uplifting."
>You scribble down more and more notes, trying to formulate points together.
"And what about the last one?"
>"Ah, the grand finale. Just go with one that goes -all out-. I mean *boom!* *pow!* just gets the crowd standing and cheering your name."
>You laugh, and make sure to underline the last part.
"Okay, well. Thank you sir."
>"I hope that'll help you, Anon. I'm no music critic but-"
"Yeah yeah, thanks. I mean it."
>He gives you a faint smile, and sends you on your way.
 
>For the rest of the day, you always had one earbud in, listening through your playlist.
>You jotted down several songs that seemed to fit your teacher's recommendations.
>Now all you need is to find the right three...
>*tap-tap*
"Huh?"
>"Hey Anon."
"Oh! Hey Flutters."
>You were standing in the hall after the final bell had rung.
>After taking out your earbud, you give your girlfriend a quick hug.
"How are you?"
>"Good, you?"
"I'm alright."
>You say with a shrug of your shoulders.
>"Shall we go?"
"Of course!"
>You cockily say like an old Englishman.
"Lead the way, madam."
>Fluttershy chuckles and lightly shoves your arm, before taking you by the hand.
>You both walk down the congested hallways, saying "Hi" or "What's up" to the occasional friend passing by.
>It's amazing how far you both had come as a couple, both personally and socially.
>Ever since you started dating, you're not so much of an introverted loner.
>And with Fluttershy, she's blossomed into a beautiful thing, like a flower in springtime.
>"Anon?"
"Hm?"
>"You okay? You're kind of um, blank."
"Oh, sorry, just... lost in thought, that's all."
>She smiles meekly, and you both continue out of Canterlot High towards her car.
>One short drive later, you arrive at Fluttershy's apartment.
>You were both greeted by an excited duo of dogs.
>...And Angel too.
"Gabe, me boy!"
>*yap-yap!*
>You pick up your now rather large puppy, and he gives you a lick on the nose.
>"My goodness, he's really grown..."
"Yeah, I can barely- hold him-"
>Gabe starts to squirm in your grip, so you put him back down on the floor.
>"And let's not forget the big man!"
>The old bloodhound perks up and responds with a loud *woof!*
>You both give him a pet on the head.
>Angel hops over to Fluttershy and taps his paw on her shoe.
>"You guys want something to eat?"
>The pets sound off excitedly, and Fluttershy goes off to the kitchen to give them a snack.
>You on the otherhand, slump your backpack on the dinning table and pull out your notebook.
>Turning through several pages, you find the last page you left off.
>Your girlfriend soon returns from the kitchen and notices you working.
>"What are you doing, Anon?"
"Hm? Oh, just uh, going over some options for the concert."
>"Really? Can I see?"
>Fluttershy joins you at the table.
"Um, well, I don't have any songs to choose from. BUT, I do have a good formula for recommendation."
>Showing the notes to her, you had a three-point checklist you needed to complete.
>'Hook, Line, and Sinker.'
>"What do those mean?"
"I got suggestions from a reliable source. He said we should have a song to grab the attention of the crowd, 'The Hook'. Once hooked, the crowd wants more, and we need something to drag them along, 'The Line'. And lastly, for the grand finale, 'The Sinker'. One that will blow the crowd away."
>Fluttershy was nodding her head in agreement.
>"Wow, that's pretty smart actually. We should go over this with the band soon."
>You suddenly feel a nudge against your foot.
>Looking down, you see Gabe holding his leash in his maw.
"Wanna go for a walk, buddy?"
>*whine*
"Heh, okay."
>You rub your pooch on the head, then take his leash and attach it to his collar.
>"Butch! Want to go for a walk?"
>The bloodhound immediately comes flying out of the kitchen and skids across floor, making you and Fluttershy laugh.
>"Will you be alright by yourself, Angel?"
>*squeak squeak*
>"Okay, don't make a mess!"
>You lead Gabe out of the apartment, followed by Fluttershy and Butch.
 
>A small park was only a few blocks away, which you and your girlfriend often took your pets to go play.
>You and Fluttershy made some small chat as you walk down the sidewalk.
>You also had to keep Gabe from yanking the leash out of your hand.
"Gabe's a little hyper today, isn't he?"
>"Yeah..."
>Fluttershy looks behind her and sees Butch trailing a little behind.
"...Is Butch alright?"
>"I don't know..."
>She says with a hint of worry in her voice.
>Butch did occasionally try to keep up, but you and Fluttershy tried to walk a little slower.
"He is kinda old."
>"...Yeah."
 
>Soon you both arrive at the park and stop to rest at a nearby bench.
"Alright Gabriel, behave yourself."
>With one swift *click*, you set your German Shepard loose, taking off like a rocket.
>Fluttershy takes off Butch's leash, but he doesn't run off after Gabe.
>"Oh Butch, are you feeling okay?"
>He just sits next to the bench, panting heavily.
>After a moment, Butch finally gets up and wanders off into the park.
>You hope that nothing was wrong with him, maybe he was just tired...
>You place your arm behind Fluttershy and rub her back, trying to ease her worry.
>"So um..."
>Your girlfriend tries to look at you like nothing is wrong, but you could still tell her concern was in her eyes.
>"W-What kind of songs did you have in mind, again?"
"Oh!"
>You fumble your hand back and dig out your phone and earbuds.
"Here."
>You offer the right bud to her, which she puts into her ear.
>You then place in the left bud in your ear.
"Here's a small playlist I've been working on."
 
===
 
>Be Fluttershy
>The songs playing through Anon's phone was very intriguing...
>Some were completely new to you, some of them you have not heard on a long time.
>"Pretty good, huh?"
"Yeah, I like it."
>You bobbed your head along to the current song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFhM1XZsh6o
"There's still too many to choose from."
>"I know, I know. But I'm trying to slim it down to the three we need."
>You place your hand on the middle of the bench, and soon Anon's grasps it comfortably.
"Don't worry, I know we will."
>You rest your head on your boyfriend's shoulder.
>It was very nice this afternoon...
>Plenty of friendly faces walking around the park.
>You suddenly feel the soft press of Anon's lips against your skull, followed by the ol' "I love you."
"I love you, too."
 
>After a while of enjoying your rest, you look around for your animal companions.
>But you could not see them anywhere around the immediate area.
"Anon?"
>"Hm?"
"Have you seen the boys?"
>"Umm..."
>He looks around as well.
>"Last time I saw them they were over there."
>He points to his right.
"We should probably go get them."
>"Aw, already?"
"I'm just concerned about Butch is all."
>You take out Anon's earbud and get up from the park bench.
>"Well, he was moving a little slower than normal, but he and Gabe were still chasing each other and stuff."
>You hold a hand over your eyes so you could see better.
"I still can't see them anywhere."
>"Well-"
>Anon stands up and pops his back.
>"-Let's go look then."
>You nod and start walking down the concrete path through the park.
 
"Buuuutch!"
>"Gabe! Here boy!"
>Anon whistles loudly.
>Still no sign of your dogs, which was making you uneasy.
"Ohh where are they?! BUUUTCH! GAAABE!"
>You yell with cupped hands over your mouth.
>*yoooowl!*
>"Huh?"
"Was that-"
>*yoooowl!*
>"It's Gabe!"
>Anon takes off in the direction of the cry, and you chase after him.
"Anon! *ah!* Are you sure?!"
>"It better be!"
>A small wooded area lied around the small lake in the center of the park, which the crying got louder.
>*YOOOOWL!*
"Do you see anything?"
>"Uh-uh."
"Gabe! Butch!"
>Suddenly, the bushes start to rustle.
>You back up towards Anon, both of you preparing for what was coming out-
>*yap yap!*
>"Gabe!"
>Anon's little Shepard came running towards his open arms.
>"Where's Butch, boy? Have you seen him?"
>Gabe kept on barking, and was looking back towards the bushes.
>Then, he runs away from Anon back into them!
"Gabe, wait!"
>You take off after him with Anon right behind you.
>Pushing through the brush, you finally find a clearing with your missing pet in the center.
>But now how you expected him to be.
"B-Butch?"
>The bloodhound was lying on his left side towards you.
"Nonononono-"
>You and Anon run to him and examine his state.
>"Is he alright?"
>You look over his torso, no signs of trauma.
>And his eyes were responsive so that was good...
"Butch, can you hear me?"
>He lets out a soft whine.
>Anon stands over you as you kneel on your knees.
"I don't know if he's alright... I mean, he doesn't look hurt, but I don't know internally."
>"Do you think he can walk?"
>You look to Anon, then back to Butch.
>You slowly start to shift your arm underneath him with hopes of helping him.
"C'mon Butch, let's-"
>*BARK*
>You whipped your hand back just before he lashes out with his sharp teeth.
>You almost fell backwards, but Anon quickly caught you.
>"Jesus... What are we gonna do?"
"...I have an idea, Anon, go behind him."
>"Uhh, okay."
>Anon does as you ask, and you slowly extend your hand towards Butch's face.
>You give him a scratch underneath his chin, and he starts to calm down.
>He gives you a small lick on your wrist.
*Yeah... it's okay boy, it's just us...*
>You whispered quietly.
"Okay, Anon. I'm gonna roll him over, and I need you to try and pick him up, got it?"
>"Got it."
>With one last exhale, you place your hands on Butch's upper torso and start shifting him towards Anon.
>Butch let out a painful whine, but Anon successfully gets a hold of him.
>"Okay, he doesn't seem to hurt on this side."
"Good, can you try to pick him up?"
>"Yeah."
>Anon nods and lifts the hurt dog off the ground.
>"*hng!* Geez, we m-might have to cut back on his diet!"
>He starts to carry Butch out of the bushes, and you try and clear a path for them.
>Once all of you were out, you attach Gabe's leash to his collar.
>You don't want anything else going wrong today.
"Here, on that bench."
>You guide Anon over and he sits down with Butch in his lap.
>Then you loop Gabe's leash around an arm of the bench.
"Make sure he doesn't run off, I'm going back to the apartment to get my car."
>"Okay, hurry!"
>You take off, almost in a sprint.
>Even though you lived a few blocks away...
 
>Your arms felt heavy, your knees weakening...
>Every muscle in your body felt like they were on fire...
>It didn't feel like you ran for 3 blocks straight, but somehow you did.
>You reach the garage and run to your car.
>Fumbling with the keys, you get in and crank the engine.
 
"Come on, C'mon! Move it!"
>You honk your horn several times at the slow traffic.
>Curse rush hour...
>"What if you don't make it?"
>"What if Butch is dying?!"
>Your brain was sending out worried thoughts.
"Augh! Stop it! ...*sigh* Calm down Fluttershy, you can do this."
>Finally a large cluster of traffic moves forward and you finally drive towards the park.
>Once you spot Anon, you screech to a halt near the curb.
>You quickly hop out and rush over to him.
"Anon!"
>He spots you, then tries to get up while holding Butch.
>Still struggling...
>You untie Gabe's leash and lead him towards your car.
 
"Okay, Anon, you get in the back with Butch."
>"Yeah."
>You hold open the rear door for Anon as he gets in.
>You then rush to the other side and let Gabe get into the front passenger seat.
>"You know if there's a vet nearby?"
"Yeah, same one I take Angel too."
>Driving off, you head for the veterinary clinic on the south side of town.
 
***
 
>You and Anon sat in the small room, Gabe sitting next to Anon.
>It was quiet...
>...
>How long has it been since the doctor took Butch into the back of the clinic?
>You hoped they didn't have to drug him just to get an x-ray.
>After what happened to you at the park, you've never seen a pet lash out at you like that.
>It could only mean he was in great pain...
*Oh god...*
>You rub your face in sadness and frustration, how could you not have seen this earlier?
>A:"Hey, it's gonna be okay."
>Your boyfriend gives you a side hug, which did help.
>A little bit...
>The door suddenly opens and a man in a white coat enters the room.
>Both of you stand up.
"Doctor? Is he okay?"
>The veterinarian has a sorrowful look in his eyes as he moves over to the screen used to view x-rays.
>D:"I'm sorry to be the bearer of bad news."
>With the flick of a switch, the light illuminates the black canvas to show a vivid image of a skeleton.
>D:"If you can see right here..."
>He points to a spot on the right lower side of the skeleton.
>You and Anon had to move closer to make out what he was pointing at.
>You then gasp as you realize what is was...
>A:"Is that... a tumor?"
>D:"It is. We found it located on his left kidney. Just about the size of a dime."
>A:"Oh my god..."
>D:"It's good that you brought him in though, we can proceed with a removal operation, if you wish."
"Wait... you can?!"
>D:"Yes, actually. We don't have any other patients in the ward, plus we have a fully trained staff on hand."
"Well what are we waiting for? Let's-"
>A:"Um, Fluttershy?"
"...Yes?"
>A:"Can I talk to you, in private?"
>Anon says with a shallow tone.
"Um..."
>You look back at the doctor.
"Do you mind?"
>The vet waves his hand.
>D:"Not at all, I'll just be in the back. Knock on the door when you're ready."
>The doctor excuses himself and closes the door behind you.
>Your boyfriend runs his hand through his hair and exhales loudly.
"What's wrong?"
>"Flutters, I don't want to be the ass of this, but have you considered the cost of this?"
>Your mouth went agape.
>What he said shocked you at first, but then the reality did hit you.
"Oh my gosh, you're right..."
>"Okay, think. A small surgery like this costs... what, 200? 300?"
"I-I don't know... I've n-never had to do this before."
>*Shit.*
"I-I mean, I've never had to -pay- for this. I've taken animals in for surgery, but only from the shelter for emergencies!"
>"Well, they probably had insurance."
"Yeah... and we don't."
>You slump down on one of the chairs.
"What are we going to do?"
>Anon sighs and takes a seat next to you.
>"I think we need to call our parents."
"Our parents?"
>"Well what else can we do? Either we pay the bill now and give Butch a fighting chance."
>He pauses.
>"Or we leave the tumor in him..."
>You stare into your boyfriend's eyes, considering your options.
>You didn't really have any savings in a bank account... nor did you have a paying job...
>With a sigh, you pull out your cellphone.
"I'm calling my dad..."
>"Okay, I'm gonna step out and call my mom."
"Okay."
>Anon walks out of the clinic room, leaving you alone.
>You hit the dial button and listen to the ringing, waiting for your father to answer.
 
>"Hello?"
"Hey dad."
>"Hey baby girl! What's happening?"
"Um, dad?"
>"...Yes?"
"...MeandAnonareatthevetandButchhasatumor!"
>You blurt out all at once.
>"Wait, what? Baby, just slow down a bit."
>Darn it, pull yourself together Fluttershy!
>You take a breath to try and calm down.
"M-Me and Anon are at the vet w-with Butch, a-and the doctor said he has a... t-tumor."
>...
"Dad?"
>"Is it the one on the south side of town?"
"Y-Yes."
>"Stay right there, I'm coming to you."
"*gasp!* Oh, thank you dad! I'll see you then!"
>You end the call, seeing it went better than you expected.
>Hmm, it seems pretty quiet outside... You wonder if Anon is okay.
>Maybe you should check on him.
>Creaking the door open slowly, you stick your head out and spot your boyfriend in the hallway.
>"Mom-, Mom! I don't care if it's-"
>Even from a distance away, you could hear the intensity of volume coming out from his phone.
>"Mom, I don't care if it's not my pet! I want to help!"
>...
>Wow...
>This was...
>*more muffled screaming*
>"I don't care if it's from out of savings, just-"
>*even more muffled screaming*, but the last two words you definitely heard was:
>*"THAT'S FINAL!"*
>...
>"Mom? Mom!"
>Anon looks over his phone.
>"Are you fucking serious?!"
>He huffs angrily, then he turns around and sees you.
>"...F-Flutters."
"Um, y-you should probably come back in..."
>Anon nods wearily and you open the door for him.
>You both sit back down in the chairs of the small room, not saying a word.
"...My dad is coming."
>"...Good."
"...Should we let the doctor know?"
>"...Yeah."
>You fumble with your hands for a second, then you get up and knock on the door.
>Soon it opens and the doctor appears.
>D:"Have you made a decision?"
"Well, I did call my father and he will be arriving soon."
>D:"Very well, Butch is on hold for now, but he'll be able to be operated on if you give the go-ahead."
>A:"Doctor?"
>Your boyfriend suddenly spoke up.
>D:"Yes?"
>A:"...How long will he survive? With or without the tumor?"
>D:"Well..."
>The doctor rubbed his wrist.
>D:"With the tumor removed, and no more spread of the cancer, another good 5 to 6 months, at most."
"W-What!?"
>D:"Ma'am, I'm sorry that's the best estimation I have, but your dog is very, very old. You must understand."
"B-But... *sigh*"
>You nod, knowing that it was the sad truth.
>You and Anon thought Butch was at least 13 years old.
"But will it help ease the pain?"
>D:"It would be better than leaving the tumor in, otherwise he might not last more than a couple of weeks."
>You gasp, holding your hands over your mouth.
>Anon wraps his arms around you in an effort to comfort you.
 
>Soon your dad arrives, and the doctor fills him in on the situation.
>B:"Kidney cancer? Are you certain?"
>D:"Yes Mr. Blitz, with the tumor at this size and growing, the cancer would spread at an astounding pace."
>Your dad looks back at you and Anon.
>He grunts quietly, then reaches into his back pocket and pulls out his checkbook.
"Dad-"
>He hold out his hand, making you stop.
>He scribbles on the blank check and hands it to the doctor.
>B:"Just make sure he gets well."
>The doctor nods, then shakes hands with your dad and exits the room.
"Dad... I-I don't know what to say."
>B:"It's okay baby girl."
>Your dad embraces you in a big bear hug.
>B:"I would never let you be unable to help an animal."
"Aw dad..."
>You break the hug, then your dad looks over at your boyfriend standing in the corner.
>B:"Where's your mom, Anon?"
>Anon's face turns pale and his eyes dart around the room.
>A:"U-Um, s-she couldn't make it."
>Your dad furrows his brow, which made you a little nervous.
>The door to the back opens again, but this time a female nurse enters.
>N:"Hello, I just need to ask a few questions about Butch before we begin the operation."
"Oh um, okay."
>The nurse has out a clipboard and pen at the ready.
>N:"Now then, have you noticed any signs of weight loss or poor appetite?"
>You shake your head.
"If anything he's been eating normal portions. Just not as fast."
>N:"Not as fast?"
>A:"He used to gobble down a whole bowl in 10 seconds flat, heh."
>A stifled laugh came out from the nurse.
>N:"Okay, what about anything wrong with his excrements? Any blood?"
"No ma'am, nothing at all."
>N:"Hmm. What about energy loss? Or lethargy?"
>Both you and Anon perk up in surprise.
"Yeah, he did seem pretty tired today."
>N:"Anything out of the usual?"
>You and Anon looked at each other, but you both decided to tell her and your dad about what happened at the park.
>The nurse wrote down every detail, especially about Butch lashing out at you.
>N:"Okay, thank you very much. We'll keep Butch overnight and call you tomorrow."
"You're welcome, and thank you too."
>The nurse smiles, then exits into the back room.
 
>A:"What a day this has turned into, huh?"
>Anon said as he drove you back to your place.
>You honestly felt too sick to drive, so you accepted Anon's offer to take the wheel.
"..."
>A:"...*sigh* I'm sorry-"
"Anon."
>...
>Your boyfriend goes back to driving.
>You... you just needed some quiet...
>Until you get home.
 
===
 
>Be Anon
>You are now pulling into the garage of Fluttershy's apartment.
>It was a quiet trip indeed.
>You both silently exit her car and stand outside.
"Well... I should probably start heading back."
>Fluttershy just stares sadly at you while she rubs her elbow.
"...I guess... good-"
>"Anon?"
"...Yes?"
>"Back at the vet, with your mom..."
"Flutters-"
>"I want to know what happened, please."
"Fluttershy-"
>"No, Anon. No..."
>She glances around the garage.
>*No bullshit.*
>...That's the first time you've heard your girlfriend genuinely swear.
>Huh.
>But as much as Fluttershy demands it, you didn't really want to bring this up now.
"I'm sorry, I don't want to talk about it."
>"If there's nothing to talk about, then why was your mom so angry at you?"
>You try to come up with something, anything other than the facts.
"I-... It's-... She-"
>Suddenly, you felt a tugging at your pants leg.
>Looking down, you see Gabe looking up at you, then he whimpers.
"*sigh*, C-Can I tell you inside?"
>You point in the direction of the exit out of the garage.
>Fluttershy crosses her arms, then nods.
>She goes on ahead while you trail behind with Gabe in tow.
 
>Once you get inside her apartment, you let Gabe run off and you both sit on the couch.
>Another long silence, you're pretty sure this was going to become common...
"...She didn't want me to help."
>"...What?"
"My mother did not want to let me use MY savings to help pay for Butch's surgery."
>The look on Fluttershy's face was at first confused, then turns to anger.
>"W-Why not?!"
>You stare at your girlfriend with sorrowful eyes.
>You hold up your fingers in a quoting motion.
"'Because it's not our dog.'"
>Fluttershy's lip began to quiver, you swear you could see steam coming out of her ears.
"Even though it's my money that I worked for."
>You rub your sweaty palms over your face, waiting for her to explode.
>But it never came.
>Instead, all you heard was a loud inhale, then exhale.
>Looking up, you see her with crossed arms, leaning back into the couch.
>You hunch over, resting your arms on your knees.
"*scoff*, It's funny."
>"...What is?"
"How parents expect us behave like adults, only to be treated like children in return."
>You hear no reply from Fluttershy, only the uncomfortable shifting of the leather.
"...*sigh* I think I'll take the bus home."
>You start to get up, until she grabs your arm .
>"Wait."
>You look down at her.
>"I know this has been a hard time, for both of us, but..."
>You sit back down on the couch.
>"Anonymous, I am so, so thankful, to have you."
>...
>Shieeet, not these feels again.
"And I'm thankful to have you too Fluttershy."
>You could feel her hand slowly run over yours.
>She then leans towards you and rests her head on your shoulder.
>You move your hands behind her and hold her close.
>...
>You needed this more than you thought...
>The warmth of her embrace, the passion of her kindness...
>This was too much for one man.
>But you could handle it... for her...
>You break the hug, and go all in with a gentle kiss on her lips.
>It was brief, but enough to show that you care.
"Goodnight, Flutters"
>Now you could see a soft smile spreading.
>"Goodnight, Anon."
>You get up from the couch and head towards the door.
>"Oh, and Anon?"
"Yeah?"
>"Don't forget band practice is Friday."
"I won't, and I'll be sure to have a playlist ready."
>You wave back to Fluttershy, then exit the building.
 
>As you walk down the street towards the bus stop, the brisk air of the night ran a chill down your spine.
>You shiver and cross your arms in a poor attempt to keep your body heat.
>The small stop came into view and you hurry along the sidewalk.
>No one else was waiting, and looking at the schedule you had to wait another 10 minutes for the next bus.
>You sit down on the bench, and pop in your earbuds out of boredom.
>Taking out your phone, you start playing the last song you were listening to.
>Scrolling down the list, you were making a few mental notes on which songs would be good-
>...
>Were those footsteps?
>...
>Nah, probably nothing.
>*tap-tap-tap-tap-*
>Yes they were...
>It's nothing Anon, why are you so paranoid?
>...Anyway, you were making a few mental-
>Something in the corner of your eye makes you slowly turn your head...
"AAH!"
>A tall figure loomed over you, making you almost jump out of your skin.
>"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Easy man!"
>You're pretty sure you almost shat yourself.
>Gaining focus on the figure, a large black man was standing to your side.
>His clothes looked well worn, almost made him look homeless.
>But the lengthy tattoos on his arms and the gold chain on his neck said otherwise.
>"Sorry bro, didn't mean ta scare ya."
>You slowly put down your arms, which were drawn in some autistic karate stance.
>"I was just, uh... wondering if you'd be interested-"
"I don't do that shit. So no."
>"Huh? Naw, man, not drugs."
>He reaches into his back pocket, making you jump again.
>"Dude, chill. I ain't no OG. Well, not yet. And I ain't no killa either."
>He continues to reach into his pocket.
>"Now, check this out."
>He draws out a clear plastic square with a silver circle in the middle.
"...Are you serious?"
>"Ey man, this shit's -fire- yo."
"I don't want your mixtape."
>"Shit man, c'mon. It's good fo' raves n' shit."
"Well how do I know if it's legit? Huh? What if I buy this from you and all that's on there is a guy saying 'You just got robbed, nigga'?"
>"Yooo!"
"No offense."
>"Bruh. As a hustla, I find that -very- offensive."
"A hustler, huh? How much have you made off of selling your 'bomb' mixtape?"
>He tries to speak, but comes up with nothing.
"Uh-huh. Exactly."
>"Man, fuck you. I'm out."
>He turns around and starts to walk away from the bus stop.
"...Hey!"
>He looks back at you.
"If you want to prove it's legit, carry a boombox."
>"...Really?"
"Well how else is someone supposed to know what's on the disc?"
>He keeps staring at you in confusion.
"It doesn't have to be a big bulky one, there's some smaller ones you can buy for like, I dunno, twenty bucks?"
>He looks at the ground, then nods his head.
>"'Ight, but I'll hit you up later, fam."
"Uh-huh, sure."
>He starts walking away, but then turns around.
>"The name's Daemon, bruh! Gonna rise to the top like a phoenix!"
>He says with his hands in the air.
>You nod sarcastically, wondering what the fuck just happened.
>Thankfully, you hear the hissing of brakes as the bus comes to a halt at the stop.
 
***
 
>The bus arrives at your destination and you hop off onto the curb.
>This was the second time you did not want to come home this month.
*sigh*
>You make your way up to your flat, not a single soul out in the usual hallway.
>Taking out your keys, you let yourself in.
>What happened next, however, surprised you.
>In the living room was your mother and your neighbor, Mrs. Fu, sitting on the couch.
>Mrs. Fu appeared to be comforting your mom, who was hunched over, with random jerks.
"Uh, mom?"
>They both turn their heads and see you.
>And you could clearly see your mom's mascara running down her cheeks.
>Your mom suddenly jumps up and rushes towards you, embracing you in a death-grip bear hug.
>She starts falling apart, waterworks and all.
>From what you could make out, all she was wailing was:
>M:"I'm soooryyy!!"
>You were still standing there like a bewildered statue, but eventually you rest your arms behind her trying to calm her down.
>Mrs. Fu makes her way over to both of you, and watches silently.
>M:"I-I'm s-so sorry, s-son. *sniff* I-I feel like a s-selfish bitch!"
>F:"Annie..."
>Your mom still bawls in your arms, and squeezes you even tighter.
"Ach, m-mom, can't... breathe!"
 
===
 
>Be Fluttershy
>You're laying in your bed, staring up at the ceiling.
>Little Gabe was also on the bed next to you, he was too lonely to lie in his own without Butch.
>Angel seemed indifferent, but you notice he still hasn't eaten the carrot you placed in his bed for him.
>It felt empty in your apartment now...
>But how would you know?
>You've lived by yourself for so long with your Cottontail as your only companion.
>Turning your head, you look over at Gabe.
>He was huddling in a ball, his eyes were still open.
"Can't sleep, boy?"
>His pupils look towards you now.
"...Me neither."
>You stick out your hand and scratch his noggin, which he did enjoy a little.
>You sigh, and go back to staring at the ceiling.
>...
>Okay, this is making you even more sad.
>You glance to your right and look at your alarm clock.
>It's only 9:30... maybe Anon is still up.
>...Or not, maybe he went to bed early like you did.
>Today was pretty stressful.
>...
>Screw it, you're calling him to see if everything's okay.
>Grabbing your phone off the nightstand, you dial his number and wait for the tone...
>*riiiiing*
>*riiiiing*
>*riiiiing*
>*riiii-*
>"Hello? Fluttershy?"
"Um... H-Hello?"
>"I-It's Annie, A-Anonymous' mother?"
"Oh! Uh, hi. Um, is Anon there?"
>"*sniff* Y-Yes, he is."
"...Are you okay, Annie?"
>There was the sound of a nose blowing into a tissue.
>"N-No, I'm not. Fluttershy, I w-wanted to apologize to you."
>You're a bit shocked at how she said this.
>Annie then coughs away from the phone.
>A:"Mom-"
>"*cough* I-I'm fine, sweetie."
"Was that Anon?"
>"Yes, he's here."
>A:"Hi, Flutters."
>He said away from the conversation.
>"Anyway. I'm sorry I must sound l-like a mess."
"No, no, no. It's okay-"
>"It really isn't, Fluttershy. I-I don't know what got into me."
"...Is this about Butch?"
>"...Y-Yes."
"Annie-"
>"No! ...*ahem* No, I'm not having any argument. I so sorry I didn't help with the bill."
"Annie, it's okay! R-Really."
>"Fluttershy, I didn't offer to pay the bill myself, I wouldn't let Anonymous use his own savings to help, I... I feel so selfish..."
>A few raspy breaths came from her end of the line.
>"Y-You two are both adults, w-who love a-a-and care for each other. T-That includes times l-like this!"
>A:"Mom, it's okay."
>...
>*BWAAAAA-HA-HAAA-*
>You jerk your phone away from your head.
>Your ear rang a little bit from Annie's bawling.
>There was some static in the background, followed by someone speaking... Chinese?
>A:"Flutters?"
"Anon?"
>A:"Sorry about that, I didn't know you'd be calling."
"I'm more worried about your mom."
>A:"*sigh* Yeah. I honestly didn't expect her to be like this when I got home."
"She sounds really sad."
>A:"That's what I walked into, she and my neighbor..."
 
>The conversation goes on for a while, until it comes back to the money issue.
"Anon, I already said my dad is okay with it."
>A:"I know, but I still want to pay him back."
>...
>A:"And what if something else like this happens again? And I don't mean with a pet. I want to be able to pay for it myself."
"But Anon, neither of us have a job, and you can't even access your own savings?"
>A:"Yeaaahh, mom apparently doesn't want me to use it because it's for college."
"Oh..."
>A:"And... it's not like I haven't been looking for work, it's just that-"
"I know, I know. A lot with the band and all."
>A:"Well, not only that, but I'm trying, I'm still working for my uncle, y'know?"
"Yeah."
>A:"Hey, who knows? Maybe I'll find something."
"But, it doesn't have to be just you working, does it?"
>A:"Flutters-"
"Anon, don't burden yourself. I wouldn't mind working to help out."
>A:"Fluttershy, you don't have to."
"But I -do- want to, it's okay."
>...
>A long silence came between you, and that's when you both decided to wrap up the call.
>Saying your goodbyes, you hang up and place your phone back on the nightstand.
>You sat up for a while, pondering...
>You glance towards Gabe, and notice a furry friend had joined him.
>"When did you get up here, Angel bunny?"
>You think to yourself.
>Extending a finger, you lightly run it over his back, which he rolled towards in his slumber.
>They looked so cute sleeping together...
>...Which only made you think about Anon even more.
>You missed him... even if it's only for one night.
>...Are you becoming too needy?
>No, you just miss your partner, that's all... right?
>Partner.
>Boyfriend.
>...Lover.
>Jumbles of thoughts ran through your mind as you lay back down on your bed.
>It always seemed like people are more self conscious when their trying to go to sleep...
>And you needed some sleep, badly.
>Does Anon ever feel the same way?
>Maybe... but right now he's probably still trying to comfort his mother.
>You roll on your side towards the empty side of the bed.
>Anon was expected to be there, but sadly, he was not.
>All you felt was a missing half of you was gone.
>You grab the pillow opposite to yours and hold it close, hoping your own body heat would suffice...
 
***
 
>The next day, you and Anon went back to the vet to pick up Butch.
>In his Jeep, which his mother gave back to him in an attempt to make up for her mistake.
>He came over to your apartment after school and you loaded a large pet-carrier in the back.
>When you arrived at the vet, Butch was all ready to leave.
>With the comical over-sized cone around his head.
>Poor guy, the doctor said he wasn't even trying to chew at the stitches in his stomach.
>Too bad it was mandatory, none the less.
>Butch seemed too tired to even walk, so Anon had to carry him all the way to his Jeep.
>And what was even more funny was how the cone wouldn't even fit inside the carrier.
>So Butch had to ride all the way home, with the carrier open.
 
"C'mon Butch, good boy!"
>"Well at least he got a good stretch."
>The bloodhound let out a groaning yawn as he comes out of his stretch.
"Thanks again for carrying him up."
>"It was no trouble, really."
>Anon said with a smile.
>You knelt down on the floor next to Butch.
"Do you think you can walk now?"
>His old eyes look towards you, then he slowly waddles on down the hall.
>"Hey, wait up old timer!"
>You both laugh, and go catch up with him.
 
>Unlocking the door, you let Anon and Butch inside first.
>A yapping little Shepard came barreling down towards you.
>Gabe started sniffing all over the old dog, and his face lit up with excitement.
>"Oh Butch, it is you! It is you!"
>You imagine him saying, if he could talk.
>Butch suddenly growls in a low tone, making Gabe back off a little.
"Butch? You okay?"
>He waddles off again, this time into your room.
>You and Anon both follow behind to see what he was up to.
>Peeking your heads inside, you see him standing inside his bed, then settling down to where his cone wouldn't take up too much space.
>Then you see Angel hopping over to him, the same way as Gabe did.
>And as soon as Butch growled at him too, he ran off in a hurry.
>"How long did the doc say he had to wear that?"
"Um... about two weeks. Unless he doesn't show any signs of messing with his stitches."
>"Well I think he's too tired to even bother with them."
>Looking at Butch, then back to Anon, it did seem that way.
"Hmm, maybe. But maybe for just a few days, just to be safe."
>"Yeah, maybe..."
"We should probably let him get some rest."
>"Good idea."
>You whistle softly into the room.
"Angel! Come here."
>The white cottontail pokes his head out from under your dresser-drawer, which was where he was hiding apparently.
>He glances at Butch, then makes a mad dash towards you.
>Scooping him up in your hand, you duck under Anon's arm and take him out into the living room.
>As you set Angel down, you heard Anon say:
>"Sweet dreams, Butch."
>As he closes the bedroom door.
>D'aww.
>He walks back to join you as you both sit down on the couch.
>"Well, now what?"
"Hmm?"
>"Is there... anything you want to do?"
"Oh, well um..."
>You tap your hands on your lap as you looked around your apartment.
"Wanna watch TV?"
>Anon shrugs his shoulders and says "Eh."
"Well I don't want you to be bored, Anon."
>"*Pfft* Well..."
"...Do you want to just, talk?"
>"Talk?"
"Y'know... about, things?"
>"What kind of 'things'?"
>You fiddled with your hands nervously.
"W-Well..."
>You scoot a little closer to Anon, who wraps his hand around your back.
"Anything... we've been wanting to say to each other?"
>Anon grows a serious look on his face, one that showed some maturity.
"Anything... we've been wanting to ask?"
>"Okay, so... like, what exactly?"
"Well, a-anything. It doesn't have to be good things o-or not. I don't mind."
>Anon just sits there waiting.
>"I've never heard of anything like this before, so could you start?"
>You could tell he was being a little sarcastic, so you poke him in the gut.
>"Ow! Hey."
>You stifle your laughter, and he lets out a small giggle.
"*sigh* I guess so."
>...
"How about one ask, one answer for each turn?"
>Anon thinks about it, then nods his head in agreement.
"Okay then. So... um."
>This was going to be a little harder than you thought at first...
"A-About the um... -events- that happened yesterday."
>"Oh come on, Flutters-"
"Eh! Wait."
>Anon stops.
"I-I forgot to say that we should wait until the question is asked before we answer."
>Anon opens his mouth, but closes it and lets you continue.
"So about yesterday, are you and your mom... okay? And I mean r-relationship wise. If this caused some trouble between us, then..."
>Your hand started to twirl a strand of your pink hair, an old habit you haven't done in a while.
>"...So can I talk now?"
>You nod.
>"Well first off, no. No trouble between you or me, Fluttershy."
>You exhale, a bit relieved.
>"And second, yes. Me and my mom are fine otherwise. It's just kind of hard for me to use my own earnings to pay for something... expensive."
"Like Butch's surgery?"
>He nods wearily.
>"...Between you and me, I have a secret stash separate from my savings in the bank. Something my mom doesn't know about."
"Really?"
>"Yeah. But not even all of the stash couldn't pay for Butch. I've only got like... 200 in cash."
"Oh..."
>You both sit in silence for a minute.
>"So now it's my turn to ask a question?"
"Yes."
>"Okay. Ummmm...."
>He sarcastically taps his finger on his chin.
>"Why are we doing this?"
"Anon..."
>"Uh-uh! Let me finish!"
>You scrunch your face a little.
>"Why are we asking personal questions and the like just suddenly out of the blue?"
"...Because there isn't anything else to do?"
>Anon stares at you for a second, then starts to laugh.
>You laugh a little too.
>"Eh-heh... eh. Sorry, that wasn't my real question."
"Well, t-too bad!"
>You say while giving him a soft punch in the arm.
>"Oh c'mon, that's not fair!"
"Eh! Zip it."
>Anon crosses his arms and "hrrumph"s.
"You know I'm joking...right?"
>He rolls his eyes.
>"Yes."
>...
>"Well?"
"Well what? I just asked you a question, silly!"
>"...Oh, you cheeky little!"
>You both bust out laughing and he gives you a quick side hug.
>"Clever girl."
"Okay, now think about this one."
>"You know, it's weird how you sound so calm when it's my turn to ask a question."
"Eh-heh-heh, weird..."
>You rub your elbow a bit while Anon comes up with a question.
>"Do you think we'll do well with each other right now? I mean, I know we can't always go out on dates and all-"
"Anon-"
>Your boyfriend cocks an eyebrow.
"...Sorry."
>"It's okay. Anyway, I know we can't do a lot of stuff on our own right now because, well... we don't have jobs."
>He pauses... for a good while.
>His leg starts tapping while he rests his arms and head on his knees.
>"...Would you leave me if I can't provide?"
"W-What?"
>"I mean, not giving you all that you deserve. If it ever came to that..."
>He looks down at the floor and rubs his hands through his hair.
>You knew what he meant, but it still took a chunk out of your heart.
"Anon..."
>You lean into his shoulder, rubbing one hand on his back.
"Why would you ever think of that?"
>"I-... Y-Y'know..."
>He shrugs his shoulders and grunts.
>You sigh, then give him a comforting kiss on the cheek.
"I would never think of that about you, ever."
>"...Thanks."
 
>A few more tedious questions were asked, and answered.
>It did feel somewhat better that you both got some things of your chests.
>But now there was something you've been meaning to ask Anon for a while now...
"Anon?"
>"Hm?"
"I, uh... I-I've been wondering."
>"About what?"
"W-Well um, I-I don't know how to put it any other way, so..."
>You take a deep breath.
"If we're together now, a-and stuff... would you like to move in with me?"
 
===
 
>Be Anon
>Your girlfriend just offered you to move in with her.
>While your conscience was thinking "Awyiss!"
>brain.exe has stopped working...
 
>"Anon?"
"I-uh... W-What?"
>"...Would you like to live here, w-with me?"
"Um... wow, I... I don't know what to say F-Fluttershy."
>You rub your forehead, damn spaghetti don't flow out now.
"I-I'm not saying 'no' to the idea, but..."
>"But what? Our parents?"
"Well, kinda. I mean Flutters, we're-"
>"Still in school, I know."
"As much as I hate it too, I just don't want to screw up when we're so close to the end."
>Fluttershy looks disappointed at first, but she nods.
>"...I'm sorry. I must seem so greedy."
"What? No! It's just, *sigh*. I, personally, would -love- to move in with you right now."
>Fluttershy looks up, then blushes a bit.
>"But I get it... responsibility."
"Yeah..."
>You place an arm around her and you let each other fall back onto the couch.
>You think you both need a little TLC right now.
>...And the warmth of her gentle hug did feel nice.
>While you were enjoying the cuddling, you decide maybe you could make up for your disappointing answer.
"Hey, Flutters."
>"Hm?"
"Do you mind if I stay the night?"
>She pauses, then giggles playfully.
>A quick kiss on your cheek confirmed her answer.
>"Not at all."
"Heh, cool."
>You nuzzle a little closer to her, the rhythmic thumps of her heart beating against your chest was hypnotic.
>Again the lingering thought crosses your mind.
>How lucky you were to have met this amazing person.
>And how lucky you were that she loves you back.
 
>Later that night, you and Fluttershy are getting ready to go to sleep.
>Although Gabe and Angel were on the bed, since they were too scared to sleep next to Butch.
>"Guys, come on. He's just a little grumpy, that's all."
>You beg to differ.
>You walked over to Butch to try and check on him.
>A loud growl echoed from his cone, making you slowly back off.
>"...I'll move your beds to the other side of the room, okay?"
"Good idea, hopefully Butch will lighten up soon."
>Fluttershy picks up Gabe and Angel's pet beds, then they hop down and follow her.
>Once they were settled, you and Fluttershy climbed into your own bed.
>You were shimmying over to let her rest on your shoulder, but she stops you half way.
>"Wait... Anon?"
"Huh?"
>"Um... w-would you like to try um... s-spooning?"
"...H-Huh?"
>"We don't have to if you don't want to..."
"No, no. It's fine, I just... Spooning?"
>Your face felt noticeably warm as you rubbed your neck nervously.
>"Just... wanted t-to try something different, that's all."
>You finally manage to nod your head.
"S-Sure Flutters."
>A million thoughts were racing through your brain.
>Is she trying to get you aroused?
>And if you did, it would get very awkward real fast.
>...But her soft smile made you think differently, and that was a risk you're willing to take.
>You get yourself in position as Fluttershy scooches over to you.
>Behind first...
>"I-Is this good?"
>She was just far away enough to avoid contact with your nethers, yet within cuddling reach.
"Y-Yeah, you're good."
>You say as you wrap your arms around her torso, which she then holds your hands with hers.
>"O-Okay... hmm..."
>She seemed to really enjoy this position, which only increased -your- nervousness.
>The last thing you need is a boner right now.
>You tried to move yourself where your chest was close to her back and your legs away.
>...It was -very- uncomfortable.
>"Everything alright?"
"Yeah, um... j-just lemme-"
>With an annoyed sigh, Fluttershy reaches behind your back and pulls you in closer.
>You gasp when you could feel her ass against your pelvis.
"F-F-Flutter-"
>Before you could speak, she leans her head backwards and gives you a kiss on the nose.
>"Goodnight, Anon."
>Fluttershy reaches over and turns off the light.
>...
"G-Goodnight..."
 
>For a while, you could not sleep.
>The position you were in was comfortable, but challenging...
>And you were trying your hardest not to think about Fluttershy's bosom taunting you.
>Her... voluptuous, buttery bosom...
>God, it felt so soft, even through your night clothes-
>"NO! Snap out of it, Anon!"
>Your brain cries out.
>"You don't want to wake the downstairs!"
>It was hard not to, just the thought of her ass provoked your dick from raising up like a flagpole.
>You tried thinking of other things, horrible things, disgusting things, to try and distract yourself.
>But it was no use, her soft skin, warm body heat, her scent...
>*WARNING: BLOOD FLOW REDIRECTING."
>Shit, Anon Jr. is activating.
*Fuck... Maybe if I...*
>You try shifting your arm off of Fluttershy's chest, but in her sleep she grabs it and holds it closer.
*Dammit.*
>The attempt of tucking your penis between your legs has failed.
>You could feel your semi-flaccid now touching the inside of your boxers, and soon through the sleeve.
>And then your pants, and then...
>*WARNING: BLOOD LEVEL INCREASING: ERECTION IMMINENT.*
>Fuck! You've got to do something fast, or your relationship could be jeopardized!
>*scratch-scratch-scratch*
*Huh?*
>You look behind your back and squint in the darkness of the bedroom.
>You make out a cone-shaped object shaking, while the scratching sound continues.
>Fluttershy suddenly groans and lets go of your arm, shifting ever-so-slightly.
>Just enough for you to pull your other arm out from underneath her.
>You sigh with relief when she doesn't wake up.
>Rolling over, you look down on the floor and see Butch going to town on his protective cone, his leg was scratching the fuck out of it.
>...You still felt sorry for the old dog, being forced to wear that dreaded thing.
>You felt the urge to get out of bed and go over to him.
>Shifting your body slowly, you slide out from underneath the covers.
>Your girlfriend must be a deep sleeper, because she still hasn't woken up.
>You tip-toe over to the Bloodhound and squat beside him.
>He notices, and stops scratching.
*...You want me to take that off?*
>Butch does nothing, except letting out a big *huff* of breath.
>You fumble with the tiny plastic latches, and unwrap the giant cone from his head.
>Setting it aside, you watch him for a minute, expecting him to start licking his recent stitches.
>But he doesn't.
>Butch lets out a soft whine, then rests his head down on the side of his pet bed.
>Odd...
>You blow it off and quietly get back into your own bed.
>And before you spoon against Fluttershy, you made sure your pocket rocket was secured in between your legs.
>...Just to be safe.
 
===
*1 month later*
===
 
>Be Fluttershy
>The past few weeks have been grueling.
>Tons of decisions, preparation, and practicing...
>But it was all paying off, thank goodness.
>And with Anon lending a hand, everything was finally coming together.
>Because this is the last week before the April Spring Concert!
 
>It felt surreal of how much The Rainbooms have progressed in such a short time.
>Although the first few days were dedicated solely to finalizing song choices.
>Twilight and Rainbow Dash argued on about which songs would be easy to play versus appealing to the crowd and judges.
>But finally they came down with the three we needed to play...
 
---
>"Should I Stay or Should I go?" by The Clash.
>"Sweet Talkin' Woman" by Electric Light Orchestra.
>"Runnin' With The Devil" by Van Halen.
---
 
>Were written on a whiteboard, surrounded by various notes and sheet music.
>The bad part about this, however, were some conflicts with the actual songs themselves.
>Some instruments were required for this song, another needed more practicing, etc, etc.
>But this is where your awesome boyfriend comes in, he knew some girls from school who were musically inclined that might be able to help us!
>Those girls just so happened to be Octavia Melody and Vinyl Scratch.
>A master of strings and a master of... well, "wubs", as she called it.
>It turns out the duo were looking for some kind of big break as their first shot in showbiz, and they were more than happy to join the crew.
>Then, another problem arose...
>The barn at Applejack's farm was now too small for all the planning to take place.
>Turns out though, Vinyl works at a music store in uptown LA, and it even had it's own recording studio.
>Which the owner was more than happy to let us practice there after school, Rainbow was especially thankful.
>Over the few weeks we've been practicing, Anon asked if there was anything he could do to contribute to the band.
>Soon we all agreed on him being the general manager, of sorts.
>He was busy organizing and supervising every plan for the concert.
>Such as Rarity's costume designs, Applejack and Sunset on equipment handling and transportation, and Pinkie Pie and I about spreading the word around town about the Rainbooms with posters and online social media.
>He seemed to have such a knack at it, it impressed everyone so much...
 
"How's everything going, Anon?"
>A:"Oh, hey Flutters. Just listening to these two trying to work out-"
>V:"Octi, Octi! You're coming in too late!"
>O:"Well, Vinyl, pardon my lack of usual talent, but it has been some time since I last played a violin. Being I am so used to the cello."
>V:"Whaddya mean 'long time'?! You played it fine last week!"
>O:"Exactly my point! If I am to master an instrument in a short amount of time, I need to be practicing daily!"
>V:"For christ's sake Octi, just-"
>The two seem to bicker on for ages, until you finally stepped in.
"Um, Octavia, do you think some percussion could help with your tempo?"
>They both stop arguing and finally agree on something.
"Okay, I'll go find Pinkie Pie."
>You quickly dash upstairs from the basement of the music store, looking for your friend in the lobby.
"Pinkie? Pinkie Pie! Oh, where is she? ...Twilight!"
>TS:"Hm? Oh hey Fluttershy."
>Twilight was busy organizing some supplies to go into the instrument cases.
"Have you seen Pinkie Pie? We need her drumming skills."
>TS:"Huh... I don't know. The last time I saw her she was working on her laptop-"
>She pauses.
>TS:"-yesterday... Where is she?"
>You and Twilight quickly go outside and spot her pink Beetle still in the parking lot.
"Well, she hasn't left the building..."
>TS:"Hmm... this is strange, even for Pinkie."
>Twilight says as she rubs her chin.
>TS:"Rarity and Applejack left to get some materials for her costume, Sunset and Rainbow went out for lunch..."
"And Octavia, Vinyl, Anon, you, and I are still here..."
 
>"So where is Pinkie Pie?!"
 
===
 
>Be Anon
>You're walking up the stairs to see what's taking Fluttershy so long to find Pinkie Pie.
>...Actually your bladder felt a little under pressure, but why not hit two birds with one stone?
>You enter the lobby of the store and spot her outside talking with Twilight.
"Hmm, better not bother them, might be something important."
>You whistle a tune as you make your way to the restrooms, then you notice something... strange.
>Wet spots on the floor, oh god please don't let it be what you think it is.
>The trail led into the female restroom, where you could see the lights were off.
>But an eerie glow shown under the crack in the door.
>These restrooms were pretty small, what's going on in there?
*knock-knock*
"Hello?"
>...
"Anyone in there?"
>...
>You press your head against the wooden door, trying to hear anything.
>...Is that the clicking sound of a keyboard?
>*tika-tika-tika-*
>It was!
"Who's in there?"
>You knock on the door again, only to have no reply.
>R:"Anonymous?"
"Huh? Oh hey Rarity, you're back."
>The glamour girl came walking towards you followed by Applejack.
>AJ:"Just got back from shopping. What the heck are you doin'?"
>The country girl inquired while you spot Twilight and Fluttershy right behind her, both rather confused.
"Look at this."
>You point down at the floor, first at the wet spots and then the glow from the door.
>TS:"That's odd..."
>FS:"Do you know who is in there?"
"That's what I'm trying to find out, but they're not answering."
>AJ:"Here, lemme try."
>You step out of the way while Applejack bangs on the door.
>AJ:"Hey now, who's in there?!"
>...
>AJ:"Y'all better come out before we hav'ta come in!"
>...
>AJ:"Land sakes, stand back..."
>She starts to lift up her leather-boot in preparation to land a kick against the door, until Rarity steps in.
>R:"Waitwaitwait! Let me try something."
>Rarity's hand reaches up into a swirling curl in her hair, then plucks out a bobby pin.
>And as soon as she did the curl unraveled down in front of her face.
>R:"I learned this little trick when I lost the key to my jewelry box once."
>She says as she brushes away her free-hanging hair.
>Taking the bobby pin, she bends it straight and slides it into the lock on the door.
>TS:"*sigh* Rarity, that only works in movies. There's no way-"
*click*
>R:"Got it!"
>Rarity removes the bobby pin from the door and pulls it open.
>What happens next caught everyone by surprise.
>First a wall of Red Bull cans tumbles down in front of you, seemingly stacked against the door.
>Then, you see her.
 
>Pinkie Pie was sitting on the porcelain throne, clothed thank goodness.
>The only light source was from the laptop she was hacking away at.
>R:"P-Pinke?"
>There was no response, just a muffled grunt.
>TS:"How... How long have you been in here?"
>PP:"Mmf, buh..."
"What's wrong with her?"
>TS:"I-I don't know... I've never seen her like this."
>Fluttershy stepped through the cans littering the floor trying to get to her estranged friend.
>FS:"Pinkie Pie?"
>This time Pinkie let out an annoyed grunt.
>PP:"uhhu b-busy..."
>FS:"...I'm sorry?"
>PP:"I said... I'M BUSY!!!"
>She yelled while turning her neck towards everyone.
>It gave your girlfriend such a fright she tumbled backwards into Twilight and Rarity.
>You made a mediocre attempt to try and catch all of them, but you fall backwards too.
>Your head made a loud *thump* on the floor.
"Ow..."
>Applejack looked on in horror at you and the girls.
>Then, she lets out an angry huff of breath.
>The sound of crunching metal cans came from beneath her boots as she trudged into the restroom.
>Applejack grabs Pinkie by her shirt and drags her out.
>Pinkie struggled to break free of her grasp and to hold on to her laptop.
>PP:"Hey! What are you-"
>*SMACK*
>...
>You had raised your head up just in time to see AJ's hand slap across Pinkie's face.
>You cringed so hard you could almost feel Pinkie's pain.
>The girls, who were still laying on top of you, finally came to and saw what had happened.
>Their jaws fell to the ground.
>You were all expecting Pinkie to start crying... or hit Applejack back.
>But she just stared at her, with a visible red print forming on her cheek.
>She softly put her hand over AJ's and she was finally released from her clutch.
>Pinkie shakes her head, then rubs her cheek.
>PP:"...H-How bad was I?"
>AJ:"Pretty bad, sugarcube. Sorry I had'ta do that."
>Applejack says as she rubbed Pinkie's shoulder.
>Before you had the chance to say anything, the girls flocked over to Pinkie in a worried flurry.
>You just gave up and laid your head back down on the floor.
>AJ:"Need a hand?"
>The cowgirl said while standing over you.
>You eventually grasp her extended hand and pull yourself up.
"Thanks."
>AJ:"No problem, partner."
>Suddenly, the chime of the front door rang as two familiar faces walked in to the music store.
>SS:"Hey gang, we got Subway!"
>Sunset says as she and Rainbow Dash raised up their plastic bags full of sandwiches.
>Then they saw what was going on.
>RD:"Uhh, did we... miss something?"
>TS:"Quite a lot, actually."
>Twilight says as Pinkie Pie was slumped over her shoulder.
>SS:"Oh my gosh, what happened?"
>R:"Apparently poor Pinkie dear went on an energy binge... and Applejack had to, err, snap her out of it."
>Rainbow came to Pinkie and looked over her face.
>RD:"AJ, what the heck! Did you slap her?!"
>AJ:"Ah'm sorry! I had to!"
>The two go into such a loud fight that Vinyl and Octavia came up from the basement to see what was all the commotion.
>You suddenly feel a tap on your shoulder.
>FS:"Um, m-maybe I should go pick up all of those cans, don't you think?"
"Well, wait. Rarity?"
>R:"Hm?"
"Fluttershy and I are gonna go clean up those cans from the bathroom."
>Rarity gave a nod, then you and Fluttershy leave the drama behind.
 
===
 
>Be Fluttershy
>You and Anon were cleaning up all of the Red Bull cans left from the restroom.
"How in the world can she drink this many cans?"
>A:"I'm wondering how is she still alive?"
>He says as he sweeps a large amount of cans into the garbage bag you were holding open.
"I mean, you know how she can go a little crazy with her sugar."
>A:"Yeah?"
"But this, this is a whole new level..."
>A:"I still wonder why she locked herself in the bathroom all night though."
>With both of you struggling, you tie off the garbage bag, the neck of it barely containing all the cans.
"Phew, thanks."
>A:"No problem sweetie."
>Anon says as he gives you a quick kiss on the cheek.
>Aww...
>He lurches the garbage bag onto his back and you both walk out of the store.
>A:"Here, open the back."
>You open the rear door on Anon's Jeep as he slides it in.
>A:"I know a recycling place north of town, I can probably get some cash for it."
"...Don't you want to let Pinkie have it? She's the one that bought them in the first place."
>A:"...Oh yeah, hmm. C'mon, let's go ask her."
 
>Back in the store, everyone decided to take a break and help Pinkie recover.
>She was laying down on a leather couch in the basement, her boots and her blue over-shirt were taken off.
>She also had a bottle of water she was sipping out of while holding an ice-pack on her forehead.
>As you and Anon walked downstairs, he did a funny little wave to her and said:
>A:"'Ey Ponk."
>Pinkie Pie waved to both of you, and weakly said:
>PP:"Hey guys."
"How are you feeling?"
>PP:"Better. *sigh* I'm still too-awake to sleep..."
>A:"That's what you get for drinking-"
>He starts counting his fingers.
>A:"-almost a hundred cans."
>PP:"A... h-hundred?"
>The girls sitting around her all clamored with worry.
>RD:"Jesus Pinkie."
>AJ:"What in tarnation were you thinkin'?"
"That's what we counted. You need to be more careful about how much of this stuff you drink-"
>A:"Oh yeah, which reminds me. Shouldn't you be dead by now?"
"Anon!"
>PP:"Eh-heh. G-Good one."
>Pinkie was actually chuckling at Anon's... inappropriate comment.
>But at least she was feeling better, thank goodness.
"I think Anon -meant- to ask you something else?"
>You give him a light jab with your elbow.
>A:"Oh, right. What do you want to do with all of those cans, Pinke? There's a recycling-"
>PP:"Just... Do whatever you want with them. I-I don't want to think about them anymore."
>A:"Oh... o-okay."
>Anon rubbed the back of his neck.
>Several minutes go by, you, Anon, and the girls were making idle chitchat.
>Until...
>V:"Are you kidding me?!"
>The sudden yell from the recording studio made all of you jump.
>A:"What the heck?"
>Anon walks over and opens the door inside.
>V:"You still can't get the beat right?!"
>O:"I said I'm sorry! It doesn't feel the same-"
>V:"For the love of- GAHH!"
"Girls, girls! What's going on!?"
>V:"Little miss perfect over here can't practice without a real drum playing!"
>O:"Oh, I'm sooo sorry! I'm just not feeling the real beat of Vinyl's "precorded" drums!"
>V:"And you said you're a perfect strings player-"
>O:"I MASTER THE CELLO!"
>V:"AND YOU CAN'T KEEP A-"
>A:"HEEYYY!!!"
>...
>Anon points to Vinyl.
>A:"Shut."
>Then to Octavia.
>A:"Up."
>...
>A:"I've had enough drama for one day, maybe we can wait until Pinkie-"
>PP:"Wait until what?"
>Everyone turned around to see Pinkie Pie walking towards the studio.
"Pinkie! You shouldn't be up!"
>R:"Dear, go lie back down, it's alright-"
>PP:"No, no. I'm fine, really."
>She wearily rubs her eyes.
>TS:"Are you sure about that?"
>PP:"Guys, I just wanna help Octi with this part. I'll be really quick, I swear."
>Everyone was reluctant, but eventually you all step aside to let Pinkie get to her drums.
 
>Pinkie made her beating drums come to a stop.
>PP:"Hmm... You're still a teeny-weeny bit late, Octi."
>O:"*sigh* I know... Gosh, I never should have agreed to this."
>PP:"Hey now, don't down yourself. You're a great string player."
>O:"Cello player! Augh! I'm mediocre at violins... There! I admit it!"
>PP:"No you're not. You can play the beginning part just fine, it's just the chorus timing that needs work."
>Octavia looks around at the rest of you looking on at her.
>O:"... W-Would it be too much to ask if you all could um, l-leave?"
>...Then it hits you.
>No wonder she's been so nervous!
"No problem, Octavia. Girls, Anon, let's give them some privacy."
>"Huh?"
>You hold open the door and motion for everyone to move.
>They comply, but were confused at the same time.
>You noticed Vinyl Scratch still sitting in the sound booth.
"Should I call her out too?"
>O:"...No, she can stay."
"You sure?"
>Octavia nodded confidently, hopefully some solo-practice would help her a little.
>You close the door to the studio, and the girls ready themselves.
>V:"From the top, ladies."
>Vinyl says through the microphone.
>PP:"Ready Octi?"
>Octavia nods once to Pinkie, then holds up her violin.
>PP:"One, Two. And a one, two, three, four."
 
>A:"I still don't know if this is gonna work."
"Don't worry, I know exactly what she's going through right now. I had the same feeling when we first started as a band."
>RD:"Shy's right, she wouldn't play any songs with us until she mastered her part on the Tambo."
>R:"What concerns me is, Octavia can play her part perfectly. But when we try to play together, she always rushes..."
>AJ:"Heck, poor girl plays the cello all the time. I'd have trouble switching from my bass to a 6-string any day."
>You look to the door of the recording studio, and wonder if everything's going smoothly.
>*boom!*
>*beedo-beedo-boop*
>TS:"Darn it!"
>SS:"Haha! Got ya!"
>Anon walks over to the couch Twilight and Sunset were sitting on.
>A:"Hey guys, what are you playing?"
>SS:"It's called "Death Race", you make your own battle car and fight with it."
>TS:"The only reason I'm playing it is because Sunset convinced me."
>You decided to watch them play it with Anon, out of curiosity.
>The game was old-school pixels, but you could still see that it was 3D modeling.
"Huh, that's pretty neat."
>TS:"Believe me, it's not fun when -SOMEONE- keeps using wheel spikes!"
>Sunset snickers deviously.
>TS:"Don't you laugh, I need to get more XP to unlock it, then you'll be at my mercy!"
>SS:"Hmph, you'll just have to beat me then."
>*bam!*
>The door to the recording studio suddenly busts open.
>V:"Guys! You're not gonna believe this, but get in here!"
>You all scramble to see what had Vinyl so excited.
>The song by Electric Light Orchestra was playing over the speakers while everyone piled in to the sound booth.
>...But, it was repeating?
"Um, Vinyl, why is the song looping?"
>V:"I'm just playing the end chorus, and look!"
>She points through the glass towards Pinkie and Octavia.
>You had never seen Octavia literally rocking out on an instrument before, let alone a violin.
>AJ:"No way!"
>RD:"Awesome!"
>TS:"Look at her go!"
>You all watched her playing, and you noticed something even more astounding.
"Girls... I-I think she's on beat!"
>RD:"Really?!"
>Rainbow tapped her boots along to the beat, whispering slightly to the words of the song.
>RD:"Holy crap she is!"
>Everyone went into a craze, cheering and whooping.
>Until Vinyl got your attention again.
>V:"Heh, and heeeere's the best part."
>Vinyl stops the music from playing.
>...
>They're still playing in the studio.
>"Huh?!"
>V:"They ain't playing to the song! They're playing with each -other-!"
>TS:"That's amazing!"
>R:"Simply marvelous! We should go see them!"
>Rarity says as she claps her hands together with joy.
 
>*creeeak*
>Rainbow Dash sticks her head inside the studio.
>The sound of only a violin and a drum set seemed so... surreal.
>She opened the door fully and you all made your way inside.
>Neither of them had noticed the group yet, so you all watched in silence.
>Until finally, Pinkie Pie ended with a cutoff ending.
>Both of them looked worn out, visible sweat all over their faces.
>While they were catching their breath, they turn around and finally see all of you standing there.
>Then, the roaring sound of cheer washed over them.
 
***
 
>After a brief celebration for Octavia, Pinkie Pie remembered what she needed to show us from earlier.
>She explained that she found some information relevant to our competitors in the April Spring Concert.
>You were all unsure about it at first, if it would provide an unfair advantage.
>But Pinkie assured that it was nothing crucial, but more of along the lines of biographies.
 
>Vinyl and Octavia brought down a projector into the recording studio so that Pinkie could use it to show her "secret info".
>Twilight and Sunset were trying to hook it up to her laptop.
>SS:"I think this cable goes here."
>TS:"Then what's this one?"
>You and Anon brought folding chairs from the storage closet so everyone could sit down.
>TS:"If the power cord is here... then-"
>SS:"Oh! What's this one?"
>TS:"Aha! That's the HDMI, I was looking for that."
>Twilight plugs in the last cable, and turns on the projector.
>SS:"Okay Pinkie, you should be good to go!"
>Pinkie Pie nods and stands in front of the wall the screen was being displayed on.
>PP:"Ladies, and Nonny."
>An amused scoff was heard from your boyfriend.
>PP:"In my crazed energy binge from last night, I have acquired some intel regarding our competition in the ASC."
>She says as she moves her arms around dramatically.
>PP:"And I have whipped up a little presentation to show you all!"
>You all watch as she opens a PowerPoint document, and the title screen made all of you laugh a little.
 
>"Pinkie's supur awesome super sekrit info!"
 
>PP:"As you know, we are playing for the Classic Rock genre, The Rainbooms!"
>The next slide featured a rock riff and sparkling fireworks around the band's logo.
>PP:"And in my efforts to promote ourselves on the net, I found sort of a 'hub' floating around about the April Spring Concert."
>RD:"And?"
>PP:"Aaaaand my little Dashie, I have found all the names of our contestants!"
>Pinkie Pie advances to the next slide, and a group photo of African teenagers in street clothes surprised you at first.
"Oh my..."
>PP:"Contestant numero-uno, The Brotha's."
>TS:"Uh-"
>PP:"Couple of teens from the... um, -bad- side of town, but have talent in their line of song."
>R:"Which would be...?"
>PP:"Rap, assorted hip-hop. All censored of course."
>Some murmurs came from the group, you and Anon just looked briefly at each other.
 
>PP:"Contestant numero-dos, Wails From The Dark."
>The next slide showed an older African man surrounded by several younger teens.
>PP:"Small time jazz group. Music teacher's been playing lead for a few years. They've gotten positive reviews."
>AJ:"Huh, they seem better than the last guys..."
"Applejack, don't say that!"
>AJ:"What? ...Just bein' honest."
>She mumbles.
 
>PP:"Numero-tree, LAzERS-"
>V:"Wait, WHAT?! Did you say LAzERS!?"
>PP:"Uh, yeah. Why?"
>Pinkie advances the slide to show a black and white photo of a girl with a half shaven head, and a mohawk...
>V:"Dude, LAzERS is like, -THE- best amateur DJ in LA!"
>RD:"Is she good?"
>V:"Good, good?!"
>O:"Here we go..."
 
>PP:"Cuatro, The Ahhhh! Capellas."
>SS:"...Did you have to emphasize that?"
>PP:"Nope!"
>The next slide shows 4 rather rotund men in a barber shop quartet.
>PP:"Now while their name implies they sing A Capella, they sing their own renditions of lesser known music."
"Huh, where are they from?"
>PP:"Upper west side, it's a pretty decent school if you ask me."
 
>PP:"Sin-co, Lan Ming-huá."
>AJ:"Lan who now?"
>PP:"She's a specialist on piano solos. And yes, she is Chinese."
>A young female graced the screen, wearing a sharp uniform while standing next to a concert piano.
>R:"Oh my, she look dashing!"
>RD:"Huh?"
>R:"Not you, darling."
 
>PP:"Says, Jerry Corbin & Crew."
"And who are they?"
>PP:"Well, I'd show you, but I think you maaay want to cover AJ's eyes..."
>AJ:"Why?"
>Pinkie whines as she advances to the next slide.
>...Hubba hubba.
>A handsome young man in a plaid shirt, blue jeans, and a cowboy hat with a feather looked straight at Applejack.
>AJ:"...*gulp*, O-oh."
>She tugged at the collar of her shirt.
>Rarity cupped her hands over Applejack's eyes, and everyone around her giggled.
>AJ:"Haw-haw. Funny."
>PP:"If you couldn't already guess, he's a country man."
 
>PP:"And now, last but not least. I saved this for the end of the slide because I think these guys might literally, be our only competition..."
>RD:"What do you mean?"
>PP:"Well Dashie, what is the one genre you can think of that can rival Rock n Roll?"
>Rainbow ponders for a moment, then a shocking look came over her face.
>RD:"Oh no..."
>PP:"What-ever-seven-is-in-Spanish... meet People Under Numbing Knowledge..."
>*click*
>PP:"Otherwise known as 'P.U.N.K.'"
"...What?"
>A:"The hell?"
>You have seen punk bands before, but this...
>There were only 3 men and a woman.
>All of them looked menacing. Black leather, slick-backed hair, everything about their outfits screamed "punk".
>PP:"And you know the weirdest part?"
>RD:"Um, w-what?"
>PP:"Their names..."
>Pinkie points at each member of the band.
>PP:"Peter, lead singer... Nick, lead guitar... Keith, bass..."
>She stops on the girl.
>PP:"...Ursula, drummer."
>A faint chill ran down your spine.
>R:"And just how good are these... um, punks?"
>Pinkie Pie didn't answer, but instead switches from her PowerPoint to a Twitter page.
>-P.U.N.K.'s- Twitter page.
>PP:"They almost have the same amount of followers as we do..."
>Several concerned whispers come from the group.
 
>...You, needed to say something.
>You don't know what, but something!
"Hey!"
>You say as you stand up.
"J-Just because they have more followers doesn't have to make us worry. W-We can still put on a good performance, right?"
>"...Right."
"We're just as-... No, w-we're better than them!"
>Everyone was noticing your sudden surge of encouragement.
"We have a larger band, a-and way more talented musicians! Right?"
>"Right!"
"So I believe we can do this! Are you with me?"
>"Yeah!"
"Who are we?!"
>"We're the Rainbooms!"
"And what are we gonna do?!"
>"WE'RE GOING TO WIN!"
 
===
 
>Be Anon
>You're sitting down on Rarity's living room couch with Fluttershy.
>Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash were playing Poker in the dining room.
>Twilight was working on a research paper, Sunset was lying down on the wood floor staring at the ceiling.
>Vinyl was sitting cross-legged while Octavia played a slow, sad song on her violin.
>Rarity had to excuse herself to her room, her excuse was she had to work on a new dress design.
>But the trickling mascara said otherwise.
>Why are we here, you might ask?
>...Because we lost.
>Well, second place isn't that bad. But the girls still felt disappointed.
>Another question you might be wondering is what happened?
 
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
 
>It's Saturday evening, and the band was en route in a convoy to the April Spring Concert.
>Since everyone couldn't fit into the van, some of you had to share vehicles.
>Pinkie was whooping as she held on to Sunset on her Harley.
>Following them was Twilight and Rarity in an old 1981 Mercedes.
>Applejack and Rainbow were in the van hauling all the equipment.
>You admit, you and Fluttershy wanted to show off a bit. So she rolled out her Firebird to give a ride to Vinyl and Octavia.
>It was a bit cramped though, you being tall and all.
>You made up the tail as the convoy headed north towards the Hollywood bowl.
>O:"It's rather loud!"
"What!?"
>O:"I said, IT'S RATHER LOUD!"
>FS:"Don't worry, you'll get used to it!"
"C'mon Octi! That's the sound of 231 cubic inches of badass!"
>Fluttershy pedals down to give the car a good rev.
>V:"I think it's RAAAD!"
>Octavia groans and leans her head against her hand.
 
>All of you finally make it to the bowl, a long line of traffic led towards the main entrance.
>Luckily, you got to go in through the "Band Members Only" entrance.
>A guard stopped the convoy at the gate and walked to the white van.
>"Name?"
>RD:"Rainbow Dash and The Rainbooms."
>"Right, go park in the middle lot, Ms. Dash."
>RD:"Thanks."
>Sunset guides you to the parking spot and you all cut your engines.
>RD:"Alright everyone, be sure to grab your instruments. And help anyone who needs it."
>You helped mostly with the heavy stuff while everyone carried the smaller stuff.
>Rarity needed Fluttershy and Octavia to help carry all of her costumes in...
>FS:"Are all of these really necessary?"
>R:"Of course darling! If were going to compete we -have- to make a good impression."
>O:"Well there's nothing wrong with a proper uniform, but 3 for each person?!"
>R:"They go along with the mood of song, dear. And we'll all have plenty of time between competitors to change wardrobes."
>Everyone collectively sighs and hauls ass to the backstage.
>You see the other contestants setting up in the designated area.
>Some looked friendly, some were neutral.
>...Then you saw the members of P.U.N.K.
>Fluttershy was right, they did look a little unsettling in person.
>But you brush it off.
>After all, you're not technically performing.
>Once you unload all of your equipment, a stagehand came to assemble all of the performers.
>"We'll be going live in ten minutes people! First up are The Brotha's."
>Several fist bumps and "Aw yeah's" were heard.
>"Also a reminder, the concert will be televised. So be on your best behavior."
>...Oh shit.
>The girls all looked at each other worriedly.
"Hey, don't worry. Just pretend it's like performing at school. No big deal."
>None of their faces changed expression.
>Fuck.
 
>"Live from the Hollywood bowl, it's the 23rd annual April Spring Concert!"
>"I'm your host, Cathy Desmond. Here to welcome all 8 contestants in a battle of the bands!"
>A thundering roar came from the crowd, you could hear it all the way back here.
>Everyone minus the Brotha's was watching the show from the waiting room.
>"As you may not know, this year we have implemented a new system for audience voting! Along with voters texting their answers to the telephone hotline, we know have digital keypads!"
>The hostess holds up a tiny device that had a big green and red button on it.
>"Just press the green button if you want the band to move on, or the red if you want them off the stage."
"Huh, that's interesting."
>AJ:"Seems a bit too simple to me."
>J:"Well for a pretty little lady like you, I'd probably feel the same."
>A cowboy in plaid walked over to your group.
>J:"Jerry Corban. Pleasure to meet y'all."
"Same to you. I'm Anon."
>You briefly shake hands.
>J:"And who'd might this little angel be?"
>He tips his hat upwards to get a better view.
>AJ:"Uh...A-Applejack."
>P:"Weeelll, ain't that a sweet name."
>A skinny man donning a leather jacket snaked over to you three.
>AJ:"You must be Pete..."
>P:"In the flesh, baby."
>J:"Why don't you get along now, Stinky Pete."
>P:"Now now, Jerry. Just let me admire some of the..."
>He looks over Applejack's appearance.
>P:"...Real prize."
>He chuckles to himself.
>AJ:"Don'tcha already have a girlfriend?"
>Applejack points to the drummer of P.U.N.K.
>J:"Pfft, Ursula? Nah, she's into the -other- kinda meat. If ya catch my drift."
>A quick flick of her tongue visibly shook Applejack.
"Why don't you fuck off before we make you, jackass."
>You and Jerry easily dwarfed this little shitstain, he was probably half your height.
>J:"Go on, git!"
>...
>P:"...Whatever."
>Pete walks away to his band, who all glared at you angrily.
>AJ:"Thanks, both of ya."
>J:"No problem miss Applejack. I only wanted to greet ya here, not be a perv like that... snake."
>"Hey honey, aren't ya going to introduce me?"
>A blonde in tan skirt made her way to Jerry's side.
>J:"Oh! A'course where are my manners? Anon, Applejack, meet my girlfriend. Darla."
>Applejack's smile quickly vanished, but she still said hello.
>RD:"Hey guys! Their starting!"
"Oh hey, let's go."
>...
"Applejack?"
>"Huh!? Oh, r-right."
>You were starting to go meet up with the girls, but you noticed the two were staying behind.
"You're not coming?"'
>J:"Can't, we're up next after The Brotha's. We gotta do a quick practice run, y'know?"
>AJ:"Shucks... Well, nice meetin' the both of you."
>D:"Same to you, sug!"
>She waved with a smile before they both leave.
>AJ:*Dammit...*
"Hey, it's okay."
>You rub her on the shoulder.
>AJ:"Darn good looks, like a western Prince Charmin'."
>She scoffed lightly.
"Anyway, let's go see what these guys can do."
 
|||
>CD:"And now, representing North Carson High. The Brotha's with 'Slow Down' by Clyde Carson."
>The lights dim down as the camera focuses on the 5 black teens on stage.
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJdqw-JzW08
>A billow of smoke rolls out as strobe lights flash brightly to the beat.
 
"Wow, they're pretty good."
>RD:"The crowd thinks so, but their song choice is kinda..."
>TS:"Mediocre?"
>RD:"I was thinking pathetic, but that might be a nicer term."
 
>The group does a routine to the music that fucked your mind a little bit.
>Their feet slid across the stage like snakes.
>AJ:"Shoot. I take back what I said about these guys before..."
>PP:"They have been doing a good job at censorship."
>SS:"So far, all they've been doing is replacing the n-word with 'Brotha'."
>You haven't heard a single comment from Fluttershy yet.
>She was just as mesmerized as you.
 
>"I'm Jeff Gordon in his heyday. Ridin' like Tony Stewart smashin' through a two-way."
>"Doin' bout a hundred kinda burnin' up the Lou-ie."
>"Lou-ie, Louie 13th motha FUCKA! yeah Louie!"
|||
 
>...
>That guy put a little too much emphasis on that phrase.
>All music and singing came to a stop, followed by an eerie silence.
>The screen cut off from the stage back to the hostess.
>CD:"...*ahem* We are incredibly sorry about that use of profanity ladies and gentlemen. Officials have now ruled The Brotha's disqualified from the competition.
>The once cheering crowd now turned to jeers as the group walks angrily offstage.
>As they entered the back room the leader grabs the member who let the M-F slip.
>"YOU STUPID, Y'KNOW THAT?"
>"I-I'm sorry, G! You know that song's my jam!"
>"WE BEEN SAYIN' DON'T CUSS, AND WHAT YOU DO?"
>"G p-please!"
>His sentence was cut off from a cross punch straight to the jaw.
"HEY!"
>You grab 'G' and pull him off the victim.
>Several other band members help you out and restrain him while Fluttershy and the girls helped the fallen one up.
>The last members of The Brotha's chewed out G, calling him crazy and all before concert security came backstage to see what the commotion was about.
>There was a small pool of blood on the floor...
 
>Jerry and his band just came out of the practice room when they say the aftermath.
>He applauded your swift action, but you still didn't think it was a big deal.
>A stagehand informed Jerry that since The Brotha's were disqualified, he had won the round by default.
>Then he asked if they would still like to perform...
 
|||
>CD:"Representing Harold Magnolia High, here's Jerry Corban and Crew with 'Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way?' by Waylon Jennings."
>The camera focuses on Jerry and Darla as they sit on bar stools while each of them hold acoustic guitars.
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TNpLSaCirj8
 
>Everyone was impressed by the country singer so far, Applejack especially.
>Although, you could tell she wasn't smitten over Jerry. But you couldn't put your finger on the right term...
>FS:"Wow, he has such good vocals, don't you think?"
"Hm? Oh, yeah. He does. Good guitar work too."
>His girlfriend, Darla, joined in on the second half of the song.
>She didn't have a bad voice, either.
 
>Jerry and Darla finish the song in a duet, and cut off with one swift note.
|||
 
>The crowd applauds, and the band takes a bow.
>CD:"An excellent performance by Jerry Corban and Crew. We'll be taking a short break, so stay tuned!"
 
>An equal amount of cheer awaited them as they entered the backstage.
>RD:"Wow Jerry, for a countryman that was an awesome show."
>J:"Well, thank ya kindly. But I wouldn't be here without my Darla."
>AJ:"Well, she's a very lucky gal. Tex."
>She said with a wink.
>Several taunting 'Oooohs' were heard.
>Applejack was now the one to stun the man with a feathered cowboy hat, and Darla couldn't help but laugh. Which then caused a chain reaction of laughter!
>You couldn't help but give Fluttershy a soft squeeze, and she returned it in a hug.
>FS:"I'm really happy we made it here."
"Me too Flutters, me too."
 
>A five minute break let you mingle around with other bands.
>All except P.U.N.K., who only kept to themselves and gave an angry glare to anyone who came over to say hello.
>Currently you and Fluttershy were talking with the Ah Capellas who were more than willing to share what songs they were going to perform.
>"It's a remix of a song from a video game, but sung in a quartet."
>"Not many people have heard of it."
>You both were having a good time, but not as much as Vinyl was.
>To sum it up, she was fan-girling with the DJ, LAzERS. They seemed equally interested in their careers, and you're pretty sure you heard something come up about an 'apprenticeship' and Vinyl freaking out.
>Meanwhile, Octavia and Twilight were talking with the pianist Lia Ming-huá, a renown scholar and NHS member.
>O:"Is it true that you won several professional competitions?"
>She nods her head shyly.
>L:"Yes."
>TS:"And I heard you major in advanced chemistry?"
>L:"Mhmm, yes."
>Twilight and Octavia look at each other.
>L:"...I am sorry. My speech is not that good."
>O:"Oh that's alright. I think you're an excellent performer."
>A soft smile grew on Lia's face.
>Rarity, Pinkie, and Sunset were talking with the blues group Wails From The Dark.
>Their lead singer was their current music teacher, Mr. Willis.
>Apparently he is recovering from lung cancer after 20 something years of smoking, but he turned the partial loss of his voice into that of a gravelly themed tune.
>"After several treatments, I started to just hum along to some old tracks. And my wife said how much I sounded like Howlin' Wolf!"
>Everyone laughed and carried on happily.
>You still had an unnatural sense of pride being here among these people.
>Or maybe it was a sense of community, you don't know.
 
>"Ah-Capellas, you're up for prep!"
>A stagehand called out.
>"Oh, if you'll excuse us."
>The lead quartet man said as he and his group travelled into the practice room.
>You and Fluttershy mingled around a bit more before joining back with the Rainbooms.
>FS:"So how are the other bands?"
>RD:"Everyone else is really nice. But I -tried- talking with those guys."
>Rainbow points over to P.U.N.K.
>RD:"Aaand they don't seem like the talking type."
"Hey, where's Applejack?"
>RD:"*snicker*, Chumming it up with Jerry."
>A look over your shoulder spots the country band all having a laugh with AJ.
>She was probably telling a good story.
>Rainbow Dash gives a loud whistle to her friend, who says a quick goodbye and walks back towards you.
>AJ:"...What?"
>RD:"Psh, nothin'."
>You all chuckled.
>AJ:"Oh c'mon! I'm just tellin' a spell with them. THEM. Not Jerry."
>R:"I'm not so sure dear, he seemed to be especially amused by your tall-tales."
>PP:"Too bad he's already taken AJ!"
>Pinkie Pie let out a girly giggle, while Applejack's hat was starting to smoke.
>FS:"You know she doesn't mean it, Applejack."
>AJ:"Yeah yeah, Ah know."
>She says as she crosses her arms.
>The door to the practice room swung open and the quartet walked out while practicing their "Do Re Mi's".
>Their harmonious voices grabbed everyone's attention.
>"Ah Capella's are on in 3, 2, 1!"
>The stagehand cries.
>"Wish us luuuck!"
>The leader says in singsong as they walked on stage.
 
|||
>CD:"Welcome back to the April Spring Concert. I'm your host Cathy Desmond. Now walking onto the stage is a brilliant quartet group from East Redmond High, The Ah Capellas!"
>The crowd cheers as all four men take their place.
>CD:"Now the Ah Capellas are a special group, they sing a capella renditions of certain title songs and tracks from various artists, movies, and even video games. For example, here they are with 'God Only Knows', from the game 'Bioshock - Infinite'."
>The four men stand in line, arms behind their backs, as the house lights focus down on them.
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1t3Rrla7Zk   
 
"Ho-ly shit."
>R:"Simply amazing!"
>FS:"I've never heard such beautiful voices..."
>The quartet now wrap arms around each other's shoulders and sway together.
|||
 
>An uproar explodes as the quartet takes a bow.
>CD:"Marvelous! Another fantastic performance! Be sure to vote on your keypads, ladies and gentlemen, if you want the Ah Capellas to advance to the semi-finals."
>Everyone cheered as the group enter the backstage.
>RD:"I gotta hand it to you guys, that was awesome!"
>"Thank you, thank you very much."
>FS:"Um, excuse me, but we never got your name?"
>"...I go by many names, names known throughout this vast city. But you may call me... Tim."
>You snickered, and everyone looks at you strangely.
"What? Monty Python reference?"
>Tim squints at you.
>T:"Eyyy!"
"Eyy!"
>You both lock an autistic fist-bump while several others groan.
>The stagehand comes backstage and calls up Lia for her time to practice.
>L:"Oh. No, no. I don't need to."
>"...Are you sure, miss?"
>She nods confidently.
>L:"I know these notes by heart."
>TS:"Lia are you absolute-"
>Lia holds up her hand to Twilight, and nods again.
>No one attempts to stop her as she walks out to the awaiting crowd.
 
|||
>A beautiful grand piano has been wheeled on center stage, and a warm applause welcomed Lia as she made her way to it.
>CD:"Now coming on stage, the young Lia Ming-huá from St. Eleanor's Preparatory Academy. Tonight as her first performance she will be playing the classic 'Fur Elise' by Ludwig van Beethoven. It is requested that the audience hold their applause until after the song is finished."
>The lights dim down, Lia adjusts her position on the bench she sits upon and readies her hands at the keys.
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k_UOuSklNL4
 
>Everyone watches in silence as this young girl plays that piano perfectly...
>Every note, every key, was executed in perfect unison.
 
>You could see that Twilight and Octavia are practically swooning as Lia comes to the conclusion of the song.
>Fluttershy was utterly speechless at the flawless performance.
>You wrapped an arm around her to try and snap her out of her trance, which worked as she returned the side hug.
|||
 
>Lia ends the beautiful song with one last pressed key, and the crowd cheers.
>Although, it didn't seem as enthusiastic as the other performers so far.
>CD:"My goodness, to think such a young lady can master a beautiful composure without sheet music? Well done, miss Ming-huá!"
>As she walked into the back room, a hearty round of applause came from everyone.
>Even a slow, sarcastic one from P.U.N.K.
>O:"That was amazing, Lia!"
>The pianist blushes brightly and waves to everyone.
>L:"T-Thank you."
>TS:"It's extraordinary how you can play that without needing to see the music!"
>L:"I-It's nothing, thank you."
>Your girlfriend leaves your side and walks up to Lia.
>FS:"Lia?"
>L:"Oh! Yes?"
>FS:"I just wanted to say that... that was the most beautiful song I've ever heard."
>[collective "Aww's" here]
>Lia looked like she was about to cry from happiness, which Fluttershy quickly noticed.
>And fixed with a warm hug.
>P:"Yeah, yeah, big whoop! The Chinagirl can play beet-oven."
>You all angrily stare at Pete, which he laughs with his mates at your reactions.
>"P.U.N.K., you're up for practice."
>The stagehand calls out.
>P:"Finally. Thought we'd never get our turn."
>The grungy looking fellows grab their instruments and move into the practice room.
"God I hate those guys."
>R:"Well not to be rude, but yes, they're a bit... undesirable."
>AJ:"'Not to be rude'?! Rarity, that scag was practically lookin' all over me!"
>PP:"Ehhh, she kinda has a point, Rar."
>Lz:"You know he used to go to my school?"
>Everyone looked at the electro DJ.
>V:"What, really?!"
>Lz:"Yep, he got kicked out due to... unmentionable reasons. But you wanna know his old nickname back then?"
"...What was it?"
>LAzERS scoffs.
>Lz:"'Peter the perv.'"
"Ew."
>Lz:"Yep, fuckin' scuzball."
>J:"Downright jerk, that's what I think."
 
>The practice room door is kicked open and everyone jerks their heads.
>P:"See you losers out there."
>Pete says as he snaps his fingers.
>As they made their way on stage, a surprisingly massive roar from the crowd rang out.
>RD:"I guess you were right Pinkie, they're popular..."
>Pinkie whimpers, then everyone watches the television broadcast.
 
|||
>CD:"Coming up next, we have the rebellious group from Garrison High. People Under Numbing Knowledge. Otherwise known as-"
>P:"Thanks lady, we've got it from here!"
>Pete yells at the hostess from stage.
>He tears the microphone off the mic stand.
>P:"WHO ARE WE!?"
>He asks the crowd.
>"People! Under! Numbing! Knowledge!"
>P:"AND WHAT DOES THAT SPELL!?"
>"P! U! N! K!"
>P:"Yeahhh, that's right."
>He says with a cocky spring in his step.
>P:"Y'know, we like to play songs about stuff happenin' in today's society."
>N:"Yeah Pete. We sing 'bout stuff that normally don't get sung."
>P:"You are absolutely right, Nick! Keith, why don't you list some stuff we sing about to our looovely audience?"
>The crowd cheers, while everyone backstage grimaces.
>K:"Oh y'know, just some stuff that everyone seems to get so mad at y'know like, racism, police brutality, femini-"
>U:"Whoawhoawhoa, Keith. Keith. Were you about to say, feminism?!"
>Pete and Nick gasp dramatically.
>P:"Oh good heavens, not f-f-f-eminism!"
>N:"Pleeease, mercy!"
 
>R:"What on Earth are they going on about?"
>TS:"This is most... illogical."
"Well, they are a punk band. Speaking freely and not giving a damn about it."
>FS:"I'm glad we're not a punk band..."
>RD:"You said it."
 
>K:"You know what? Yeah! Feminism."
>Keith strums his bass in a low key.
>K:"I ain't sayin' it's bad. Gender equality's a -good- thing."
>The audience claps and cheers.
>K:"But have you guys seen what 'Modern' feminism is?"
>The entire band retches.
>K:"'All men are pigs!'"
>N:"'Check your privilege!'"
>P:"Ursala, you don't think -all- dudes are bad, right?"
>U:"Nah man, you guys are my best mates! And to all you femmies who think killing every male with 'save' the human race, you're really stupid."
>The crowd absolutely goes nuts, and you are wondering why they're eating this shit up.
>P:"A'ight, a'ight. Enough chit-chat. You guys wanna hear us play, right?"
>"YEAH!"
>The crowd screams.
>P:"Well, in my opinion, this is how we get these femmies to really pay attention."
>The band readies their instruments.
>P:"This is a little number by Fear, 'The Mouth Don't Stop.'"
>[more applause]
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xc16t3mwj0A
|||
 
>The crowd is going insane.
>Literally.
>CD:"Well, that certainly was something! Be sure to vote if you want them to go on to the next round, folks."
 
>As P.U.N.K. came back, they all laughed at your speechlessness.
>P:"What's the matter, scared that we're better than you?"
>Angered expressions grew around you, but not a word was spoken.
>U:"Looks like we broke 'em, Petey."
>Lz:"We'll see about that."
>LAzERS finally replies.
>P:"Pfft, some chick thinks she can beat us because she can spin some vinyl? HA!"
>The DJ did not retaliate, instead, she smirks.
>"Miss uh, LAzERS, you ready?"
>Lz:"Yes sir! Is the equipment all set up?"
>"To your specifications, yes."
>Lz:"Rad, let's do this."
>The girl with the Mohawk dawns a pair of shades and walks on stage.
>V:"GOOD LUCK LAzERS!!!"
 
|||
>CD:"And now, the talented DJ and number one ranked 'master of light shows' all the way from East Thompson High. LAzERS!"
>The crowd cheers excitedly as the Mohawk girl steps up to a turntable stand and puts on a pair of headphones.
>CD:"Tonight you're all in for a special treat, miss LAzERS will be performing 'Destroy Them With Lazers', by Knife Party."
>She checks several settings on a control pad, then gives a thumbs up to the crowd.
>*ca-chunk!*
>Everyone gasps as all lights in the Bowl are turned off.
>The only source of illumination were from the now visible neon outline of her sunglasses and headphones.
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKTpWi5itOM
>Several bright streams of neon colors burst along to the opening of the song.
>The crowd "Ooh's" and "Aah's" at the wide spectrum.
>Arrays of colors spew and flash, increasing as the beat builds up.
>Several band members had to plug their ears since you were so close to the speakers.
>Vinyl was nodding her head enthusiastically.
>The beat was now at it's peak, and so the bass drops.
 
>"DESTROY THEM WITH LAZERS!"
 
>The crowd erupts as the light show explodes to every vibration.
>And now you had to plug your ears due to the sudden ringing.
>You felt Fluttershy tap your shoulder and asked you something, but you couldn't hear her.
>You were certain she asked if you were alright, which you nod 'yes'.
 
>The song finally reaches a soft spot, and you could finally pull your index fingers out.
>Shaking your head didn't help the ringing go away, and the short section of the song quickly ended.
>The tempo picks up again, building to another bass drop.
>More intense lights shined as LAzERS rocked out on the turntable.
>Then, something else appears.
>A light cloud of smoke could be seen against the flashing strobe lights.
>You leaned over to Vinyl, even though you knew she probably couldn't hear you.
"I didn't know he had a smoke machine!"
>Somehow she -did- hear you, and stops her little bouncing dance to get a good look at the television.
>She lifts up her glasses and gasps.
>V:"THAT'S NOT A SMOKE MACHINE."
>She pushes through several people to get to a fire extinguisher hanging on the wall.
>Grabbing it, she runs out of the backstage with several shouts of stagehands calling after her.
>O:"Where is she- Oh my GOD!"
>Octavia points to the TV, and the camera is zoomed out enough to see an orange glow appearing from behind LAzERS.
>The crowd was now screaming in terror instead of excitement.
>The camera then tracks Vinyl running up to her, extinguisher in hand, and pushes her away from the fire.
>She whips out the hose and sprays white foam all over the laser equipment.
>There was no audio, but you could see the DJ shouting at Vinyl until she realizes what had happened.
>Several stagehands come out with more extinguishers until the blaze was put out.
|||
 
>CD:"Good gracious, we apologize for all of this, miss LAzERS."
>Lz:"No, no. It's alright. I'd probably be burned to a crisp if it wasn't for my buddy here."
>CD:"I see, miss Scratch, isn't it?"
>V:"Uh y-yes?"
>CD:"What made you do such a brave act such as yours?"
>V:"W-Well, I-I've had equipment burst into flames l-like this. So when a f-friend of mine pointed out the smoke, I just... I just had too."
>CD:"Truly noble, miss Scratch. Unfortunately miss LAzERS is now unable to compete in the April Spring Concert."
>Lz:"It's not too bad, I'd rather be safe and sound than to be smouldering."
>She and Vinyl exchange in an awkward laugh.
>CD:"Indeed. We'll be taking a short break to uh, clean up our mess. Stay tuned!"
>O:"That was very brave of you, Vinyl."
>V:"Psh, it was nothing-"
>O:"No. I'll have none of that. You're a hero, be proud of it!"
>V:"Well, without Anon noticing the smoke, I don't think LAzERS would be here anymore."
>Everyone now looks at you.
"...I just thought she had a smoke machine. Eh-heh."
>The Mohawk girl walks backstage carrying several items that were salvaged from the accident.
>V:"Here, lemme help."
>Lz:"No, it's okay. This is all I could recover."
>You all look down in disappointment.
>Lz:"But hey, I'm alive. Thanks to you."
>She taps Vinyl's shoulder with her fist.
>Lz:"I'll keep in touch, Vinyl."
>V:"Take care, LAzERS."
>Lz:"Actually, you can call me Charlize."
>V:"Oh... o-okay. Take care, Charlize."
>With one last goodbye hug, the DJ leaves the building.
 
>TS:"So Vinyl, how did you know there was a fire starting again?"
>V:"Overheated laser, it's happened to me several times. I use smaller lasers, LAz- I mean Charlize was using premium concert grade lasers, and those can spark a huge flame if they overheat."
>SS:"That doesn't seem very safe."
>V:"Yeah, but it's for show after all."
>You were listening in on the conversation until a stagehand came backstage with the announcement you've been waiting for.
>"Rainbooms, you're good to go for practice."
>RD:"Aw yeah! Girls, lets get movin'!"
>You helped carry several guitars into the practice room as all the girls made their way inside.
>RD:"Okay everyone, we'll be doing a quick tuning and then go over any rough spots for the first song.
>R:"*Hnng!* Anonymous! Could you help me dear?"
>Rarity was trying to bring her massive mobile wardrobe through the tiny door.
"Rarity is this necessary?"
>R:"Well I don't want to change in front of everyone else, do you?!"
>You groan, then walk over to help her.
>With one big pull, you yank the cart through.
>R:"Be careful! You could've ripped the fabric."
"OR, Or, you could've just gotten the certain costumes you -needed- off of this thing instead of dragging the whole thing inside!"
>RD:"*AHEM*"
>...
"Sorry."
>R:"Sorry, let me just... get my keytar."
 
>RD:"Twilight, Sunset, you have those Spanish lyrics nailed down?"
>The two backup singers mockingly answer "Si".
>RD:"Okay, Rarity and Applejack, you have your parts synced?"
>R:"Well I'm not used to a 'combined' bass part, but yes I think so."
>AJ:"Just try an' keep in tempo, you'll be fine."
>RD:"Awesome, and Vinyl, we're all in pitch?"
>V:"Yeppers! Good to go!"
>R:"Excellent, now all we need to do is change into costume!"
"Should uh... I step out?"
>R:"...Oh, right. Um-"
>FS:"Would you kindly, Anon? If you don't mind."
>You smiled meekly and nod, then excuse yourself out of the practice room.
 
===
 
>Be Fluttershy.
>You are now wearing the most ridiculous getup you've ever seen.
>Denim jacket, white skinny jeans, and a Bruce Lee t-shirt...
>You had questioned Rarity's choice of clothing, but she insisted she wanted as close to accuracy as possible.
>Even though she looked a little awkward wearing a worn-out leather jacket with a popped collar.
>With one last sound check, you and the girls follow a white-button-shirt-with-suspenders Rainbow Dash outside.
>The look on everyone's faces was astonished, but you still felt overwhelmed with the attention.
>Anon, however, was only focused on you.
>A:"Wow Flutters, you look great!"
"What? ...Really?"
>A:"Well, yeah. Paul Simonon, right?"
"Huh? I-I guess? I don't know..."
>A:"Heh, you still look beautiful to me."
>Aw man, he's sweet talking you.
>You shy away out of habit, but a large hand rests on your shoulder, making you look up at him.
>A:"Fluttershy, I know you're nervous."
"N-No, I'm not."
>Anon cocks his eyebrow... well, cockily.
>You let out a meager "hrrumph."
>A:"But I believe in you. All of you."
>He says the last bit a little louder so everyone in the group could hear.
>A:"I know you'll knock 'em dead."
>You looked into his eyes and felt some comfort, and you gave him a quick hug.
>One that took him a second to react to it was so fast.
"Thanks."
>A:"No problem."
>"Rainbooms, you're up!"
>RD:"Here we go girls!"
>Everyone whoops and hollers as they proceed on stage.
>A:"Good luck."
>He says with a quick smooch on the forehead.
>You felt your cheeks flare up, but you felt content.
>Grabbing your trusty tambourine, you follow last behind Pinkie Pie.
>PP:"Can you believe this is happening!? I'm so nervous, and excited! I...I-I'm nervouscited!!!"
>Oh, Pinkie...
 
|||
>CD:"Welcome back to the April Spring Concert live from the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. I'm Cathy Dawson, your host. Now coming on stage, the rock and rollin' Rainbooms from Canterlot High!"
>You can hear the roar of the crowd as you all take your positions on stage.
>The bright spotlights made it difficult to see how many people were out there, but it was better that way.
>CD:"And from looking at their apparel, I can assume they'll be playing the popular 'Should I Stay or Should I Go?' by The Clash."
>You take your place next to Pinkie Pie's drums, tambourine in hand.
>Twilight and Sunset stand to your left on the backup mics, Sunset had her secondary guitar.
>Applejack and Rarity were to the right of Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash took the center with her lead guitar.
>With one quick glance back to the drummer, Rainbow gives the signal to count off.
>Pinkie raises her drum sticks and clicks them four times.
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLQJVKP3YlM
 
>Everything's off to a good start, you tap your foot along to the beat to keep in tempo.
>You start your part of clashing your tambourine along with Pinkie's drums.
>Rainbow sang the words perfectly, Applejack and Rarity had their bass-line in sync, and Twilight and Sunset came in on cue with the Spanish lyrics.
>You jumped slightly when everyone howled, but you joined in the second half of it.
>The beat picked up near the ending of the song, which you acclimated to.
>Shake-shake-tap. Shake-shake-tap.
>That was the only thought crossing your mind.
>At last Rainbow ends the song with one final question.
>"Should I stay or should I go?"
|||
 
>You tense up at the silence after you all stop playing.
>But then a massive wave of approval overwhelmed any feeling of doubt.
>CD:"Very impressive, Rainbooms. Job well done! Be sure to vote for them if you want to see them in the next round!"
>Everyone was ecstatic with joy as you all walked offstage.
 
>Even more cheering was waiting for you as you came back.
>Several hugs and hi-5's were thrown around, but you squeal in surprise when Anon picks you up and spins you around.
>Once he sets you down, you give him a proper hug.
>A:"That was awesome, Fluttershy."
"Well don't just tell me, we couldn't have done it without each other."
>PP:"Yeah Nonny, don't forget us!"
>A:"Okay, you were ALL great!"
>The girls laugh, and you squeeze your boyfriend one more time.
>...It felt too good to be true.
>You peek your eyes open as your chin rests on Anon's shoulder.
>An unnerving stare seemed to drain you a little of your energy...
>Dismissing it, you let go of Anon and get back into the conversation.
 
>P:"These Rainbooms are a bigger threat than we thought."
>U:"Well, what're we gonna do about it?"
>N:"...I got nothin'."
>K:"We'll see how this plays out, there's only one more group to play. And I don't think the ol' geezer is up to it."
 
"Good luck you guys!"
>W:"Thank you ma'am, we'll do our best!"
>The jazz group makes their way on stage, they did look promising of their talent.
>The saxophone player had one of the nicest sax's you've ever seen.
>R:"Oh I do love a good jazz band."
>AJ:"You say that about every old thing, Rar'."
>A playful slap on her shoulder made everyone chuckle.
>A:"Look, they're starting."
 
|||
>CD:"The final act of the preliminary round, Harold Willis and Wails From The Dark. Performing the hit song 'Howlin' For My Darlin'' by Howlin' Wolf, a man that Mrs. Willis says resembles much of her loving husband. Good luck!"
>Mr. Willis is sitting at the grand piano, and he looks straight into the camera.
>W:"This number is for my lil' darlin', Rebecca. Without her, we probably wouldn't be here tonight. Love ya honey-pie."
>A quick smack of his lips causes the crowd to cheer.
>He cracks his knuckles and places his fingers on the starting keys.
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dkdtmQ9cxQ
 
>His older, refined voice did make it's charm on you and several of the girls.
>Although in some of the high-pitched wails, Mr. Willis did get a little choked up and had to cough away from the microphone.
>Yet he still plays on, and you notice that part of the crowd is clapping along to the beat of the song.
 
>Several more strains of his voice does take it's toll as the song concludes.
>His face was extremely sweaty and out of breath.
>Yet the crowd still cheers for their performance, and you clapped softly to yourself.
|||
 
>CD:"Wonderful! Are you alright, Harold?"
>W:"Yes ma'am, just went a little wild on some parts. I'll be fine- *cough-cough!*"
>CD:"Well would someone get that talented man a glass of water? Please! I don't want that marvelous voice to go to waste."
>The crowd laughs.
>CD:"And with that, the preliminary round has come to an end. 8 bands competed, 2 have already been counted out. Coming up after the break, we tally the polls. We will find out who goes on to the semi-finals, and who goes home. Don't go anywhere, we'll be right back!"
 
---
 
>CD:"Welcome back to the April Spring Concert, if you're now tuning in the preliminary round has concluded and the votes have been tallied."
>You stand alongside the girls as every remaining band is on stage awaiting the results.
>Your feet were quivering in your boots, the setting was very anxious indeed...
>CD:"4 bands move on, 2 go home. I have the results in this here envelope."
>Ms. Desmond holds up a golden envelope for all to see.
>You clenched your fists against your hips.
>CD:"The advancing competitors are..."
>*riiiip*
>A long silence seemed to only enhance the anxiety...
>CD:"...The Ah Capellas!"
>The four rotund men give a hearty sigh of relief, then they all give each other pats on their backs.
>CD:"...Jerry Corban and Crew!"
>The country singer and his girlfriend jump for joy and squeeze the ever-giving life out of each other.
>CD:"...The Rainbooms!"
>...You're speechless at first, but the whopping group hug snapped you out of it.
>CD:"And last but not least..."
>...
>CD:"People Under Numbing Knowledge!"
>The punk band hollered and made rock and roll signs with their hands as they banged their heads harshly.
>CD:"Lia Ming-huá. Wails From The Dark. I am so sorry, but you will not be advancing to the next round."
>Both Lia and Mr. Willis looked very disappointed, but they nod with acceptance.
>CD:"But please, give all our contestants a round of applause, everyone!"
>The crowd gives a huge wave of admiration, a feeling of pride raised your spirits.
>As the members left the stage, they shook hands with everyone.
>Even P.U.N.K. showed their sportsmanship, which was surprising...
>But when Lia followed behind the members of Wails From The Dark, she only briefly shook hands with a neutral expression on her face.
>When she came to Pinkie Pie, she didn't get a handshake.
>She got a massive Pinkie-sized hug instead.
>Which everyone else in the Rainbooms did too. Lia's face went from shock, to happiness, to...
>Her expression had changed drastically when she came up to you.
>Her eyes were watering, but she had a soft smile on her lips.
>She hugs you especially tight, then whispers in your ear:
>L:*Thank you.*
*...You're welcome.*
>When she breaks the hug, she quickly wipes her eye before any tear could trickle down.
>She faces the crowd once more and gives a final bow before exiting the stage.
>CD:"Absolutely beautiful, such friendship here tonight at the Hollywood Bowl. Hopefully the ties will not be broken as these 4 groups will compete in the semi-finals, right after this!"
 
>Anon gives you a big hug as you came back, which really helped calm your nerves.
>The rest of the girls tend to their business, but you and Anon just stay together for a while.
>Neither of you talk, you just enjoy each other's company.
>*riiing!-riiing!*
>...Until Anon's phone rings.
>A:"Hello? ...Oh!"
>He lowers his phone from his ear.
>A:"Hey girls! My friends all said congrats for winning the first round!"
>TS:"Are they watching it on TV?"
>A:"Yeah!"
>You smiled a little, you had grown accustomed to Anon's friends and their antics.
>A:"-So far we've just been... huh? ...Um, okay?"
>He then hands his phone to you.
>A:"It's for you."
"H-Hello?"
>C:"Hey Fluttershy, it's Cole. Could you put the phone on speaker?"
"Uh, why?"
>C:"Just so we can congratulate everyone ourselves."
>...You were a bit skeptical, but you obligate and turn the phone's speakers on.
"Okay, you're on-"
 
>What happens next is a compilation of various moans, grunts, and... sexual references all at once.
>Anon snaps the phone out of your hand and mutes the call.
>You looked around and see everyone staring at the both of you.
>Some were shocked, some were laughing their lungs out...
>A:"Uhh, if you'll excuse me..."
>Anon rushes around a corner of the backstage, and following was a very loud "You motherfuckers!"
>You were still in a state of shock when Rainbow Dash walked over and put her arm behind your back.
>RD:"S-So... *snicker* W-What was that about?! BWAHAHAHA!"
"..."
>You definitely knew your cheeks were turning crimson, but not of embarrassment.
>You were trying your hardest not to bust out in laughter.
>Anon soon comes back apologizing his heart out, but you and Rainbow dismiss him.
>RD:"I still can't believe Cole and the guys did that!"
>A:"I should've known they would try something awful."
>He shakes his head in frustration.
"It's okay, you know they were just joking."
>A:"*sigh* I know, but I mean-"
>You put a finger over his lips and he stops.
>A small giggle made him relax and he snatches you in his arms.
>P:"Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!"
>Both of you jump and look at the four punks taunting at you.
>RD:"Would you guys just knock it off?!"
>P:"Aww cmon, we wanna see a little action!"
>K:"Yeahhh baby kiss 'im!"
>AJ:"Alright, Ah'm stoppin' them before this gets outta hand. C'mon Jerry!"
>J:"Applejack, you'd be the one startin' it!"
>R:"Honestly, why must you persist on aggravating everybody?"
>U:"Dunno, but I could see you and the cowgirl doin' all kinds of kinky stuff."
>Rarity and Applejack's faces were beyond disgusted.
>N:"What's the matter, 'fraid of doin' something?"
>T:"Leave them alone!"
>P:"Ooooh, is Tubby Tim gonna-"
>*SLAM*
>Anon had somehow disappeared by your side and now had Peter pinned against the wall by his neck.
>Everyone rushed to get him off, but then realized he wasn't trying to harm him.
>A:"I am only going to tell you this once, so you'd better listen. I do -not- want you harassing anyone anymore. Not me, not my friends, not the other competitors, and ESPECIALLY not my girlfriend."
>Pete nods shakily.
>A:"And if you do, so help me God I will tear your fucking head off and shit down your neck, you got me?"
>Another shaky nod.
>A:"Same for all of you."
>Anon looks to the other members of P.U.N.K.
>Once Anon gives another angry glare into Peter's eyes, he lets him go.
>He runs cowardly towards Nick and Keith before turning around.
>A smug grin forms on his face.
>P:"H-Hey jackass! Your girl's got nice tits!"
>...
>Anon stops dead in his tracks as he was walking back to you.
>He chuckles.
>A:"I said 'harassing', not taunting."
>He swiftly turns around, which causes the punk band to flinch.
>A:"If you really want to piss me off you'll have to try harder. And besides, she does. So thanks for the compliment."
>Your jaw must have hit the floor, along with everyone else's.
>Anon turns back around and walks up to you.
>A:"C'mon, lets go."
"B-B-But-"
>A:"Flutters, let's go."
>He puts his arm around your back and you reluctantly go with him.
>You're still not sure how to react properly...
 
>You and Anon were sitting on the floor against the wall.
>His face appeared to be stern with a small amount of hate, but you knew he was just trying to stick up for you.
>Still, you gave him a piece of your mind about his comment, and he did apologize at least.
>After a rather tense silence between the groups, a stagehand announced that the second round will be starting soon.
>And that The Rainbooms would be going first.
>Yay...
 
"I take back everything I said about the last costume..."
>R:"Oh come now dear, it's nice! Just put this on."
>You reluctantly drape the gold medallion necklace on.
>R:"Perfect! You look just like Bev Bevan!"
"But... why such a *grunt* tight tank top?"
>You say as you adjust the stubborn fabric.
>RD:"Rarity!"
>R:"Hm?"
>RD:"I thought I was supposed to be Jeff Lynn, not John Lennon!"
>R:"Oh don't be so daft. So what if they both had a vibrant coat with epaulets?"
>RD:"This is ridiculous."
>TS:"You're telling me."
>Twilight looks in a small mirror at her frivolous Tye-dye shirt.
>SS:"Is all of this -really- necessary?"
>R:"As I said before. I. Want. Accuracy!"
>O:"Well girls?"
>You all turn to see Octavia strutting out with a glamorous tuxedo with a top hat.
"Oh, my."
>PP:"WOW Octi! You look super!"
>O:"Thank you. It compliments me well."
>V:"It looks stupid."
>O:"Shut up."
>AJ:"Look, I know we all don't wanna be in these silly costumes-"
>R:"Designer costumes, excuse you!"
>AJ:"Whatever. So let's get a move on and be done with it, alright?"
>RD:"Is it because you look like a 70's cop show actor?"
>AJ:"You tell me, JOHN."
>Rainbow grunts, then slings her guitar over her back.
>RD:"Sure thing, MICHAEL."
>Stepping out of the practice room, you hear Vinyl asking Octavia a question, but you couldn't make out the exact words.
>But her answer did sound very agitated, so it must be about her timing on the violin.
>You hope she can pull it off, especially after what happened at the music store.
>A:"You okay, Flutters?"
"O-Oh, yeah. I'm fine."
>Your boyfriend grins slightly as he hands you your tambourine.
>A:"Good luck out there."
"...Thanks."
>A quick kiss on the cheek from him gives you some confidence as you get ready to head out.
>You hold your tambourine against your chest as the other girls line up behind you.
>O:"Is my hat on straight, Vinyl?"
>V:"For the bazillionth time, YES. What you -should- be asking is if you have your bow."
>O:"Bow? What-"
>Vinyl holds up the bow necessary to play Octavia's violin.
>O:"...Oh."
>She takes it lightly from her hand.
>O:"Eh heh, thank you."
>V:"Don't mention it. Just don't get so light headed about your costume."
>"Rainbooms is on in 5, 4, 3-"
>RD:"Okay girls, get ready!"
"-2, 1. Go!"
 
|||
>CD:"Welcome back Los Angeles! Cathy Desmond here at the April Spring Concert. We're just starting the semi-final rounds with the rock and roll group, The Rainbooms, going up first."
>All of you walk single file out on stage to bright lights and a roaring crowd yet again.
>CD:"Ohh! I like the costumes girls! Props to the one in the smart suit."
>Octavia's face seemed to beam with pride.
>She readies her stance with the violin tucked underneath her cheek.
*Psst, Octavia.*
>O:"Hm"?
>You look down to the floor, right at the unplugged amplifier cable.
>O:"Oh! Sorry."
>*click*
>O:*Not used to playing with an electric!*
>You roll your eyes, then tug at one of your shoulder straps.
>It felt like the tight tank top was digging into your skin...
>CD:"Without further a due, 'Sweet Talkin' Woman' by Electric Light Orchestra."
 
>This time Sunset was standing alongside Rainbow Dash and Applejack, while Twilight was beside Rarity.
>Octavia was in your little section to the right of Pinkie Pie.
>She draws up her bow and sets it gently on the strings.
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LnPnbhyjGc
 
>The song starts off well, then everyone joins in.
>You were tapping your tambourine against your hip, then shake it every other time.
>Soon the first chorus comes up, and you anticipated Octavia's part...
>She nailed it!
>You could still hear the crowd cheering, so you play on!
 
>Halfway through the song, you felt your shoulder straps digging into your skin again.
>It took all the strength in you to fight the urge to adjust them.
>Must.
>Not.
>Scratch...
 
>Thank goodness you were at the repeating chorus section, and you close with only vocals, a bass drum, and a solo by Rainbow Dash.
|||
 
>A massive applause eases your nerves as you all bowed before heading off stage.
>CD:"Fan-tastic! *sigh* I always was a big fan of ELO. Good job, Rainbooms!"
 
>Same routine, same expectation when you came back.
>Applause, praise, all that.
>The only one that mattered was from Anon.
>He gave you a big hug as he came to you.
"How'd we do?"
>A:"Awesome as always."
>You giggle, and snuggle a little more against his shoulder.
>A:"...Hey, what's this?"
"Huh?"
>You see him pointing to your shoulder, which was now red from the tight straps.
>A:"Rarity, this tank top's way too tight."
>R:"Well I'm -sorry-! I needed it one size smaller than she wears-"
>A:"Why?"
>R:"For... a-accuracy?"
"Well, can I at least change out of it now? It's starting to sting..."
>R:"...Of course, here."
>She hands you your original tank top, and you excuse yourself to go change.
 
===
 
>Be Anon
>You were in a long argument with Rarity about her choice of costumes.
>Primarily over the fact she did not put her first interests in the comfort of the wearer.
>She argued that you were only mad because of Fluttershy's tight tank top.
>That may be true, but some of the other girls did join on your side with complaints about their wears being too small/big/hot/cold etc.
>Meanwhile, the other groups were becoming a bit uncomfortable around the arguing.
>Other than P.U.N.K., who were sitting back at watching with delight.
>Your girlfriend did finally come out with her original clothes on and she voiced her opinions, and things kind of settled down after that.
>You were growing tired and frustrated in the whole concert ordeal, but you were determined to push on and support The Rainbooms.
 
>The second group to go up was the Ah Capellas, and as they came out of rehearsal, there was a sudden silence as everyone looked at them.
>Tim and the rest were wearing their barbershop quartet uniforms, but had replaced their hats with viking helmets...
"Uh-"
>T:"Don't worry, you'll see."
 
|||
>CD:"Next up on stage are the Ah Capellas. Good thing they don't have to fight dragons, but just sing about them. Here is their rendition of 'The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim' theme."
"Oh my god."
>You wipe your face with your hand.
>FS:"What is it?"
"Nothing. It's just that's a really hard song to sing."
>TS:"How so?"
"...The lyrics are a made up language in the game."
 
>The stage is entirely dark, until soft blue floor-lights illuminate the singers.
>The crowd excitedly cheers at their hat choice.
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlCPOCwo3FY
 
>Your mouth fell agape when they sing to their full potential.
>Everyone else was either cheering or in shock as you were.
>Tim was doing most of the vocals and you were impressed with how good he remembered the lyrics.
>The lights flashed dramatically on every strong point, right until the very end.
|||
 
>The lights brighten to normal visibility and the Ah Capellas are visibly exhausted.
>The crowd cheers extremely loudly as all four of the men take a bow.
>CD:"Good gracious me! I am at a loss for words... other than magnificent! Well done gentlemen! We're going on a short break, so stay tuned!"
 
>As the group came back they were greeted with applause.
"Damn guys! Kudos to you Tim."
>He nods his head to you as he takes off his helmet.
>TS:"That was extraordinary!"
>J:"Heck partner, that took a lotta skill to remember all them lyrics."
>Another nod and smile from Tim.
"...Are you okay, Tim?"
>He nervously looks around at everyone.
>Soon his group members start asking the same, until he finally speaks.
>Or what sounded like speaking...
>T:"I think... I lost... My voice..."
>His voice was very dry and raspy, and his sudden cough proved it to be so.
"Can we get this guy some water?"
>You ask a stagehand, and soon he comes back with a fresh bottle.
>Tim immediately slurps the cool liquid down.
>"Will he be able to continue singing?"
>You all look at the lead acapella singer and he wearily shakes his head.
>"You realize this means you forfeit?"
>This time he nods.
>"It's okay Tim."
>"We understand."
>His friends comforted him as a growing look of sadness overcomes him.
 
>CD:"Welcome back to the April Spring Concert. I have some bad news for everyone. The lead singer for the Ah Capellas has sadly lost his voice after the last performance and will not be able to continue."
>Some gasps of shock, some boos, but overall sighs of disappointment came from the crowd.
>CD:"The Ah Capellas have decided to forfeit their place in the semi-final round, leaving only 2 competitors left to perform. And next up on the list are the country singers Jerry Corban and Crew."
>J:"I guess that's our call, let's get practicin'."
>D:"Right behind ya."
>The country band piles into the practice room, leaving just you and the girls to yourselves.
>P:"D'aww, too bad Tubby Tim lost his -sweeeeeet- singing voice. Ha!"
>Pete croons loudly, causing everyone to cringe.
>You stare intently at him, and his attitude soon changes.
>P:"I-I-I m-mean, shucks! S-Shame he lost his voice, right guys?"
>The rest of P.U.N.K. just murmurs under their breaths.
>Feeling content, you go back to sitting with Fluttershy against the wall.
>She did look a little sad, so you inquire what was wrong.
>FS:"It's true though, how sad that Tim lost his voice."
"Yeah, but he doesn't have to laugh at him for it."
>FS:"Anon?"
"Yes?"
>FS:"Isn't it strange how three competitors have had bad luck tonight?"
"What do you mean?"
>FS:"Well, Tim lost his voice, Charlize's lasers caught on fire, and then the Brotha's... cursed on live TV."
"...Yeah, that is a little weird."
>FS:"Don't you feel... uneasy, at all?"
"I don't understand-"
>FS:"Do you think we're going to mess up too?"
"What? No! No, not at all. You're worrying too much."
>FS:"Then tell me, how did we do the last time?"
"I already said you were great! Especially with Octavia nailing her violin part."
>O:"Thanks!"
>She calls out from across the room.
>Somehow she heard you over the rest of the girls talking.
>You wave jokingly, then turn back to your girlfriend.
"Are you worried that we're going to have bad luck?"
>She nods sheepishly.
>You look at her with an estranged look, then you give her a kiss on the head.
>She's surprised, and doesn't know how to react at first.
"*sigh* I know this is hard to grasp, but you need to let go of your anxiety."
>FS:"Easier said than done..."
"I mean-, you -have- been doing good so far, and the others couldn't help their failures. Well, besides the cursing, but you get my point."
>Fluttershy is resting her head on her knees, staring off in the distance.
>Following her gaze you found what she was looking at.
"...Are you intimidated by them?"
>Another shy nod of her head.
>FS:"After what they did to Applejack and the rest..."
"Hey, I said I wouldn't let Pete and his cronies bother us. Or I will put a stop to it."
>You glance back at the members of P.U.N.K., who glare back at you.
"One way or another."
 
>K:"You lettin' that bitch get away with makin' you look like shit?"
>N:"Yeah man, we thought you were cool."
>U:"I'm a lesbo and I'm pretty sure I'm more of a man than you are."
>P:"Shut up! I'm thinkin' here. There's gotta be a way we can get back at him..."
 
|||
>CD:"And now, performing 'Let's Ride Into The Sunset Together' by Tony Vice, here's Jerry Corban & Crew."
>You all watch in anticipation as the crowd cheers the country group on stage.
>Once they are all set up, the lights dim down and focus on Jerry and Darla.
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LwwFPraUNF8
 
>Both of their voices sounded like pure silk.
>You could see Applejack nodding her head along to the beat-
>"Yoode leiiiigh hooo! Yoode leiiiigh hooo!"
>Everyone's enjoyment turned into confusion.
>That off-tune chorus was very obvious, and it was not on Darla's part...
>Jerry's face had become distraught as he tried to match the pitch, yet the song ended with another unbalanced yodel.
|||
 
>The applause was a little faint as the lights rose again.
>CD:"Well, that was um... interesting. Still, good job Jerry and Crew. Good luck with the votes!"
 
>J:"Aw shoot, I messed it up..."
>D:"Honeypie it's alright, we did good!"
>J:"No we didn't! I dun screwed us over."
>Jerry threw his feathered hat on the ground in frustration.
>Applejack picks it up and hands it back.
>AJ:"Jerry. Look at me."
>The cowboy was stubborn, but he eventually does.
>AJ:"Cowpoke to cowpoke, that was the best darn voice I ever heard."
>J:"What are you talkin' about? I was awful up there."
>AJ:"The yodellin', sure. But you sir-"
>She tips up his hat.
>AJ:"-have the voice of a legend drinkin' black gold for breakfast."
>Somehow she managed to get a laugh out of the country singer and his group.
>J:"Ah shucks, yer makin' me blush."
>D:"Hey now, that's my job!"
>And now you all had a good laugh, which you all did need...
 
>P:"Ready guys?"
>The grungy members of P.U.N.K. hype themselves before they walk on stage.
>Just before they head out, Pete glances at you with a smug look in his eyes.
>P:"See you in the finals."
 
|||
>CD:"And now, People Under Numbing Knowledge."
>Pete waves to his adoring fans with a huge fake grin.
>P:"Yeaaah. Wassuuuuuup!"
>*Massive roar of cheer*
>P:"Now that's what I like to hear."
>K:"Y'know what Pete?"
>P:"What, Keith?"
>K:"You uh, ever stolen somethin'?"
>The band members gasp dramatically.
>P:"Wha- What are ya saying?!"
>K:"Well I don't wanna brag, but I stole a guitar from -THE- Billy Squier."
>U:"Whaaat? No way man."
>N:"Bullcrap, how'd you do it?"
>K:"Well, you do see the name 'Squier' on the side here?"
>The crowd immediately starts laughing, while everyone backstage took a minute to get the joke.
>P:"Shut up, Keith... But seriously. Don't steal stuff kids. Or else you might end up... in a 'Life of Crime.'"
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvsr2fBVf90
 
>The crowd goes nuts, and you had to admit they were pretty good.
>You still stand by with the Rainbooms.
>You're not questioning their abilities.
>But the thought of your girlfriend, however...
>Her face was stricken with concern, and no back rubbing helped at all.
>The song ends with a final drum roll and a huge applause.
|||
 
>CD:"Killer stuff, P.U.N.K.! I think you've got a good chance for the finals! But stay tuned America, 'cause after this break we'll find out who you voted to advance on and duke it out for the gold! Seeya then!"
 
>Pete came walking back with the biggest fucking grin on his face.
>He stared at everyone in the eye, flaunting his own victory.
>You'll be glad once the girls kick his ass in the final round, but you retained a neutral expression.
>P:"What's the matter, jack? 'Fraid we're gonna win?"
"The name's Anon. And no, I'm not."
>P:"Well you should be... Heh, I'd go on but ehhh I don't wanna light any unlit fuses."
>He taunts.
>Everyone glared at him, and he knew it.
>Slowly but surely he was crawling under everyone's skin.
>He goes on about, ranting, taunting...
>You see Rainbow Dash try to get up in anger, but Sunset stopped her.
>SS:"It's not worth it. We'll beat him and his band soon enough."
 
>CD:"Welcome back to the April Spring Concert! This is Cathy Desmond and if you're just now joining us, we have the remaining 3 bands on stage waiting for the voting results."
>You watched the TV with Vinyl right beside you, as her friend was out with the Rainbooms.
>She was biting her nails with anticipation.
>Or anxiety...
>CD:"Alright folks, the tallies are in. One unlucky band will be leaving us here tonight..."
>Cathy holds up her gold envelope, it's trim seeming to sparkle.
>CD:"The band that will be going home..."
>She tears open the seal.
>CD:"Is..."
>You suddenly feel Vinyl hugging your left side, now obviously worried.
>CD:"...Jerry Corban and Crew."
>Both of you sigh with relief, and she gave you a quick and unexpected hug.
>Jerry's band has disappointed reactions while The Rainbooms all gave them comfort and handshakes.
>And P.U.N.K. was whooping and giving each other high-fives.
>CD:"So sorry Jerry, it was good having you here!"
>J:"Thank you ma'am, it was an honor!"
>He shouts from the stage.
 
>As the bands came backstage, you all say your goodbyes to Jerry.
>Applejack got an especially big hug from the cowboy, and her face turned red like one of her own apples.
>J:"Y'all take care now, and good luck to ya!"
>The country group exits the building, with one last hat-wave from Jerry.
>P:"'An'a gud luk to ya! A-hyuk!"
>Pete mocks in a nasty tone, followed by his mates guffawing.
>You see Fluttershy's head look up slowly.
>And with a burning flame in her eye...
 
===
 
>Be Fluttershy
>You were trying your best to not let that punk's attitude get to you.
>But now it's happened.
>You move towards Pete and his hateful following.
>You could hear Anon trying to stop you, but you keep going.
>This has gone on far enough.
"You stop that."
>You say sternly while angrily pointing your finger in his face.
>P:"...HAHAHAHA!"
>...Maybe your tone of voice wasn't as menacing as you thought.
>P:"Y-You think you can do jack shit?! HA! Who's gonna stop me?"
>A:"I will."
>You see Anon now standing by your side.
>RD:"We will."
>And now you see the girls by your side as well.
"I don't need your help."
>P:"Reeeeallyyy?"
>You weren't expecting what happened next, but now you're lying down on the ground...
>A lot of gasps from everyone were the only thing you could hear, aside from the ringing in your head.
>When your vision clears, you can see Pete standing there... laughing...
>P:"Well maybe you d-"
>*CRACK*
 
>...
>Anon just punched Pete...
>Holy crap.
>Now he's lying on the ground too.
>A part of you was glad he finally got some justice, but you still just wanted all of this to stop.
>You can see Twilight and Sunset come to your side and help pull you to your feet.
>TS:"Are you okay?"
"Y-Yeah. I think so. What about him?"
>You point to Pete.
>SS:"IIII think you should worry about Anon first..."
>Now that she pointed it out, Anon did look a little estranged...
>You go over to him and see he's clenching his right hand in pain.
>His knuckles have turned bright red.
>A:"I told you not to, asshole."
>P:"*Augh!* Shhhit..."
>Ursula and Nick lift Pete up from the floor, and the dark ring around his eye made you gasp.
>You put your hands on Anon's shoulders trying to get him to back off.
>You were expecting Pete to retaliate...
>Instead, his reaction was much more unsettling.
>He started laughing hysterically.
>It even started to make his band mates worried.
>P:"Haaaa, that's one helluva right cross, Anon!"
>Two staff members came running backstage to see what was going on.
>Some people were saying Anon attacked Pete, some said he was provoking him.
>"I don't care who started it, I will throw both of you out of here in a heartbeat!"
"NO! Please!"
>A:"Flut-"
>You stare strictly at him, and he does not speak.
"I know this looks bad. But I beg you, -please- don't make both of our bands lose!"
>The staff glares at Pete, then to your boyfriend.
>"If either of you does anything again, you can kiss your trophy goodbye."
 
>You're glad you have a small first aid kit inside your Firebird's glove compartment, seeing how Anon's fist wasn't getting any better.
>A:"Ow!"
"Sorry, I told you it might sting."
>A:"You said 'sting', not burn in agony."
"Are you in agony?"
>He rolls his eyes as you wrap some gauze around his hand.
"And... there."
>A:"Thanks."
>You smile, but then you poke your index finger into his rib cage.
>A:"Ah! What was that for?!"
"You know what it was, mister."
>You say in a disappointed tone.
>A:"*sigh* Okay, I messed up. I admit it."
"I'd say you could've solved this another way."
>You rubbed the top of his injured hand.
"Without violence."
>A:"Well he -did- push you to the ground. Did you expect me not to return the favor?"
"But punching him? I mean Anon, I'm glad you and the girls stood up for me, but I didn't want things to become so drastic!"
>You both turned your heads after hearing a painful groan from Pete as Ursula held up an ice-pack to his eye.
>A sick feeling welled up in your stomach, and the urge made you go over to them.
 
>U:"What the hell do you want?"
>She says as they look up at you.
>You say nothing, instead you hold out the box of first aid towards her.
>U:"We don't need your help."
>K:"Yeah, get outta here!"
>Remaining silent, you turn around and leave them be.
>A:"Hey, at least you offered."
>You slump down against the wall and lean into Anon.
>His arm immediately wraps around your back, which you were anticipating.
>You spend some time lost in thought.
>The girls kept asking if you were alright, you kept saying yes.
>All you wanted was for this to be over and done with.
 
>Finally the stagehand announced the final round was going to start, and that the leaders of each band had to come forward.
>Rainbow eagerly hops up and goes over to him.
>Pete slowly gets off the ground and removes his ice-pack.
>His entire right eye was black...
>"For the final round, the band that gets to go first will be decided via coin toss."
>The stagehand pulls out a quarter from his pocket.
>P:"Ladies first."
>Pete says with a low snarl.
>RD:"Uh... tails."
>With a flick of his thumb, the quarter flies in the air and lands back in his palm.
>"Heads."
>Rainbow groans in disappointment while Pete snickers.
>"P.U.N.K., ready up."
>P:"Yes sir. Heh-heh..."
>As soon as the stagehand leaves, Pete sprints over to their equipment.
>He opens a rather large guitar case and what came out of it scared you deeply.
>P:"I call this baby, the Dischord!"
>The instrument was a black on black color with sharp, jagged edges.
>With one quick riff, Pete shreds on it's six strings.
>And did it sound... evil.
>P:"Good luck tryin' to stump this."
>He suddenly cricks his neck with a twist of his head.
>P:"Let's go!"
>He rallies his posse and head out to perform.
 
|||
>CD:"With no need for an introduction, P.U.N.K."
>At first the crowd gasps at Pete's face, but he calms them down-
>P:"No worries! It's just makeup!"
>-with an outright lie.
>P:"Yeah, this last song we're playing speaks a lot to me."
>N:"How so?"
>P:"Oh y'know... The meaning of it is really plain and simple."
>He plays a sharp note on his guitar.
>P:"I think you'll get it."
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKBwI7M-Aho
 
>The look on his face was almost feral.
>His display was pure fury, hatred...
>And the way he played the Dischord was terrifying, while also banging his head ferociously.
>The other band members were playing just as hard, but still had a visible look of concern.
>Soon the song ends, and with the final rift Pete raises the guitar over his head.
"Is he gonna-!?"
>You're cut off by the sound of the instrument splitting against the hard surface of the stage.
>And not once, twice, but three times...
>At this point you swore you saw Pete foaming at the mouth.
>Keith and Nick were calling to him to get him to stop, and once he does, all he had left in his hand was the neck of Dischord.
>He raises the fragment above him and the crowd goes wild.
|||
 
>The hostess was practically speechless, and says nothing as the punk band walks off stage.
>CD:"I... Uh, wow. Um, w-we'll be right back after this!"
 
>After a brief taunt and gloat by Pete, you and the girls head into the practice room to change into costume.
>RD:"Okay Rarity, what have you got for us this time?"
>Rainbow says in an annoyed tone.
>R:"Don't fret just yet, dear. This may be more to your liking, but *ugh* definitely not mine."
>Rarity hands her a red jacket with black and white lines crossing all over it.
>RD:"Whoa..."
>R:"I would rather have chosen something else, but the lead's choice of clothing was a little um... overbearing."
>RD:"Nah, nah, this'll work."
>She says as she slings the jacket around her back.
>R:"As for the rest of you, the costumes were a little more manageable."
>She hands out various pieces of clothing to everyone, and you get a bumblebee striped shirt with a yellow jacket.
 
===
 
>Be Anon
>You're talking with Octavia and Vinyl as you waited on the girls to finish dressing.
>Once they do, you're stunned at Fluttershy's outfit.
>She must have thought it looked ugly from observing your expression.
>FS:"*sigh* It's bad, isn't it?"
"Actually, no..."
>She looks up in surprise.
"I think it looks quite good on you."
>R:"Give him a little twirl, darling!"
>Fluttershy rolls her eyes and quickly spins on her toes.
>You chuckle and give her a hug, which she latches on to you for a good while.
>You had to get her attention when the rest of the band was going on stage.
"Good luck."
>FS:"Thanks."
>*smooch*
>You felt her swiftly kiss your cheek before catching up with The Rainbooms.
>You heard the faint giggling of a string player and a DJ.
 
|||
>CD:"For the final act of the night, The Rainbooms, with 'Runnin' With The Devil' by Van Halen!"
>The crowd hollers just as much as for P.U.N.K., which was a good sign at least.
>Rainbow takes the microphone stand and points to the audience.
>RD:"Are you guys ready for this!?"
>"YEAH!"
>RD:"I said... ARE YOU READY FOR THIS!?"
>"YEEEAAAHHH!"
>RD:"Alright! When I point the mic to you, you sing along!"
"Oh boy..."
>The girls position themselves, then the lights dim down.
>Rarity starts of with the slow whine of her keytar...
 
>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bl4dEAtxo0M
 
>At every chorus Rainbow held out the mic, and the crowd shouted "Runnin' with the Devil!"
>It was very exciting, even you, Vinyl, and Octavia were chanting it.
>And thank goodness Rainbow remembered to leave out the "God dammit" part.
 
>Every note was hit perfectly, every riff was timed just right.
>But you were paying more attention to your girlfriend, who was actually having fun playing her part.
>Rainbow Dash was screaming her heart out as the band concludes the song.
|||
 
>Literally everyone in the crowd cheered and so did everyone backstage.
>...minus P.U.N.K.
>CD:"HOLY MOLY! That has to be -the- most powerful ballad I've ever witnessed!"
>The girls were hugging and high-fiving each other, and were all so elated.
>CD:"If it were up to me, I would declare you girls the winners!"
>Everyone started flipping out, even joining in a massive group hug.
>Octavia and Vinyl couldn't help but cling to you, too.
>But you didn't mind.
>CD:"But sadly, it isn't. That is up to you, everyone. Send in your votes, we'll count them! See ya after the break!"
 
>After a small celebration backstage, the girls put away all their instruments in their cases while giddily talking to each other in excitement.
>RD:"We practically won! There's no way those greasers can beat us."
>TS:"We certainly did impress."
>SS:"Both with music-"
>R:"-and wardrobe design!"
>[laughter]
>PP:"I'm just glad we got to play at the concert in the first place!"
>AJ:"Darn tootin'!"
>FS:"Especially with all of our friends."
>[awwww]
>You all get in -another- group hug, this was like the seventh time...
>V:"And hey, let's not forget Anon here."
"What? Me?"
>V:"Yeah, you!"
>She punches your arm.
>V:"Without your taste in rock, we'd probably never have any good choices!"
>O:"And not to mention -Vinyl-, without him, we wouldn't have gotten the opportunity to be with all of you here."
>V:"...Eh-heh, that too."
"Oh c'mon, ...R-Rainbow would have done the... same..."
>RD:"Ooohh, is somebody nervous of attention?"
>You awkwardly rub the back of your neck, only to be stopped by the presence of Fluttershy by your side.
>FS:"I think what Rainbow Dash meant to say was, we all appreciate your help, Anon."
>You look up to see everyone smiling at you, and you actually felt like you belong there...
>Seeing how you were feeling better, your girlfriend hugs you gently, and you kiss the top of her head.
 
>Out of the corner of your eye, you could see four nasty slimeballs bickering to each other about something.
>With the occasional glance towards you.
>"Attention! All band members are to go on stage for the finale vote count!"
>RD:"Well girls, let's go get the gold!"
>The Rainbooms cheer as they start to leave.
>FS:"Aren't you coming, Anon?"
"Nah, I'm not technically a band member."
>V:"Neither are we, really."
>O:"As much as I enjoyed the tuxedo, I can't take the glory reserved for all of you."
>TS:"Wow... that's uh, very noble of you."
>RD:"C'mon guys-"
"It's okay Dash, really."
>She grunts in frustration, but blows it off.
"Now go on, I want to see that trophy on your mantelpiece."
>Rainbow finally chuckles, and nods confidently.
 
>P:"So much for Mr. Manly here."
>An unexpected hand rests on your shoulder.
>K:"Not wanting the fame?"
"I had no major contribution, so I don't need it."
>You say blatantly.
>V:"Why don't you leave us alone and go get your butts kicked by the better band?"
>U:"Buzz off, you wannabe dyke! Why don't you and Ms. Brit-bong here-"
>O:"Excuse me?!"
>"HEY!"
>A stagehand finally broke up the skirmish, and the punks make their way on stage.
>P:"This ain't over, Anon! Just you wait!"
 
|||
>CD:"What an eventful evening this has been. Many groups have come and gone, but now only two remain."
>Two bright spotlights shine on the stage, one at P.U.N.K., the other at The Rainbooms.
>The crowd seems to be chanting for both of them at the same time, as if split apart...
>CD:"Thanks to all of our audience members, and the viewers at home, the final vote has been tallied!"
>As she showcases the golden envelope, the stage-crew wheel out a massive trophy on a cart.
>It was at least 4 feet tall, and it had a double-clef note as an ornament.
>CD:"But only one band can take home the gold, and the title of April Spring Concert Champions!"
>The chanting of the crowd became even louder, the excitement was almost too much to bear.
>CD:"And now, the moment you have all been waiting for."
>*rrrriiip*
>CD:"The winners of the April Spring Concert..."
>...Her facial expression suddenly turned sour.
>She then whispers into her earpiece, with even more confused expressions.
>CD:"...*ahem* Sorry about that. The winners of the April Spring Concert, by an almost 50/50 vote, is..."
>She trails off on the last word.
>CD:"People Under Numbing Knowledge..."
 
"WHAT?!"
>V&O:"HUH!?"
>Half of the audience gasps in shock while the other cheers like howling apes.
>The members of P.U.N.K. start to bang their heads and flail their arms in triumph.
>And every one of The Rainbooms have their jaws on the floor.
>Pete grabs the trophy off of the cart and holds it up high.
>CD:"I am so sorry Rainbooms. Still, excellent performance from you."
>The one half of the crowd that was shocked now cheers for the Rainbooms, while the other half boos and hisses.
>This was a ll becoming very strange.
>CD:"Despite the um, outcome. Congratulations, P.U.N.K... yay..."
>She puts on a fake smile, but shakes their hands all the same.
>As Cathy made her way to the Rainbooms, Rainbow Dash asks her something.
>Then she hands over the microphone.
>RD:"Hey everybody."
>The supporting portion of the crowd cheers.
>RD:"We just wanted to say thanks for all of you being here tonight. We might not have won, but we did have fun playing for all of you!"
>More cheering, followed by jeers of the second half.
>RD:"We couldn't have done it without each other, and especially without all you supporting fans!"
>Somehow, the good cheer was slowly dwarfing the jeering.
>RD:"But not to mention, we did have some extra help with us tonight, and we'd like you to meet them!"
"Wait, what?"
>RD:"Our backup violinist, Octavia Melody."
>You and the girls backstage are dumbfounded, until Octavia finally builds up the nerve go on out.
>You look back at the TV and see her shyly waving to the crowd as she meets up with Rainbow.
>RD:"Our executive sound producer, Vinyl Scratch."
>Vinyl looks at you, then her face grows wide as her smile goes from cheek to cheek.
>She giddily walks out and waves ecstatically.
>RD:"And last, but not least, our associate producer and honorary manager, Anonymous!"
"Oh shit..."
>Your sweaty hands rub down your face.
>You admit, you hate getting attention.
>But... at least this was -good- attention.
"Fuck it."
>You sigh heavily, then walk out on stage.
>Cringing on the inside, you brace for the thousands of cheers.
>...It wasn't as bad as you thought.
>You make it to everyone and you all stand together.
>RD:"Let's give a hand to this awesome team!"
>The girls surround you, Vinyl, and Octavia.
>The crowd is chanting "Rainbooms! Rainbooms! Rainbooms!"
>The looks on P.U.N.K.'s face was priceless, Pete was getting a bit red.
>You didn't exactly what to do in this moment, but you bow to the crowd.
>The girls follow suit and all curtsy with pride.
>For a moment... a brief moment.
>You felt happy being together with them.
>You'd probably wouldn't be here if it wasn't for your girlfriend.
>After you all rise from your final bows, you immediately take Fluttershy and kiss her.
>She was a little shocked at first, but then she succumbs to it.
>You didn't care, you just wanted to show your thanks to her.
>RD:"Eh-heh, don't worry folks, they're dating."
>The crowd laughs for a second, then they all cheer for you.
>When you break the kiss Fluttershy was embarrassed beyond belief, but was smiling all the same.
 
\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
 
>And that's... pretty much it.
>Aside from the small temper tantrum Pete had once the whole ceremony was over.
>But now your attention comes back to reality.
>Your hand rubs Fluttershy's shoulder, the one still wrapped in gauze.
>A melancholy feel was drifting through the air around Rarity's house, but at least things were calm for the moment.
>Octavia wraps up her sad melody and lays her violin down in her lap.
>O:"Well, it is getting late. I suppose Vinyl and I should head out."
>V:"Yeah, *yaaaawn* prolly should."
"Well you guys take care."
>O:"You too, Anonymous."
>Just before they leave, Vinyl sticks her head back in the door.
>V:"Hey."
"Hm?"
>V:"Thanks."
"For what?"
>V:"For giving us a chance."
>She says with a wink.
>You nod back, and the girls leave.
>Soon everyone else started heading home, until it was just you and Fluttershy.
>R:"You're welcome to stay the night, if you'd like."
>FS:"No thank you, Rarity. I mean, not that I don't want to, but-"
>R:"Oh save it darling. I know you and your big ol' hunk want some alone time."
>You chuckle while your girlfriend scrunches her face.
 
>Fluttershy stops at your apartment, the Firebird engine idling happily.
>FS:"Well, here we are..."
"Thanks, Flutters."
>FS:"Are you sure you can't stay one more night?"
"*sigh* As much as I'd like too, no. My mom's got me by the throat she hasn't seen me in a while."
>You both laugh, then settle down.
>She leans in and gives you a soft kiss, which you accept openly.
>Once you break, you stare into her big, beautiful eyes.
>FS:"Well... goodbye."
>You smile and give her a small hug in return.
"Goodbye."
>Stepping out of the car, you wave to her until she drives out of sight.
>The tail lights appeared to leave a glimmering trail behind in the darkness.
 
===
End of part 2