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Dash Mom and Anon Son

By wingedanon
Created: 2026-02-12 02:37:19
Updated: 2026-03-04 00:39:07
Expiry: Never
rainbow dashanonstallion

  1. 1.
    >Be the One and Only Dash!
  2. 2.
    >And you've been pondering real hard about this subject.
  3. 3.
    >You're a kind of mare that takes charge and tears into a problem.
  4. 4.
    >The problem is your child.
  5. 5.
    >You asked for advice from some random unicorn from Canterlot who's in a similar situation as you.
  6. 6.
    >Something Sparkle.
  7. 7.
    >Teenage parent as well.
  8. 8.
    >Anyway, you open the door.
  9. 9.
    >Anon bolts up from his book.
  10. 10.
    >A geography book, you know his class isn't studying that boring stuff.
  11. 11.
    "There you are squirt."
  12. 12.
    >"Hi Rain--."
  13. 13.
    >Glare at him.
  14. 14.
    >"Mom."
  15. 15.
    >That was problem number one you had to break him out of.
  16. 16.
    >It kind of hurt that he didn't call you mom.
  17. 17.
    >There's respect, and there's outright rejecting any familial attachment.
  18. 18.
    >It is a launching point.
  19. 19.
    "Would be nice if Mom was your first response."
  20. 20.
    >He shrugs.
  21. 21.
    "We need to talk."
  22. 22.
    >His eyes dart between you and anywhere else but you.
  23. 23.
    >"O-ok."
  24. 24.
    >Look at him straight in the eye.
  25. 25.
    "Do you hate me?"
  26. 26.
    >"What!? No!"
  27. 27.
    >He practically springs off the bed.
  28. 28.
    >With a wing you push him back down.
  29. 29.
    "Not so fast. Anon, you say one thing, but clearly your talk game is not your game game."
  30. 30.
    >"Uuuuh."
  31. 31.
    "Not interested in me getting involved in school. Volunteer to hang out with grandgram and grandpappy a lot. Like Anon, I appreciate me time, but there's no us time. And every time I'm looking at Wonderbolt application stuff you get that weird look in your eye."
  32. 32.
    >"Because you should be a Wonderbolt."
  33. 33.
    "That's sweet kid, but not really the point I'm getting at."
  34. 34.
    >Anon huffs.
  35. 35.
    >"Well I don't hate you."
  36. 36.
    >Pick up the face down picture of Zepher on the desk.
  37. 37.
    >"He's...I don't hate him. Just disappointed."
  38. 38.
    >Weird.
  39. 39.
    >Why does he think this way.
  40. 40.
    >This isn't eggheadness.
  41. 41.
    >This is like, something real off.
  42. 42.
    "Do you hate yourself?"
  43. 43.
    >Damn it, you weren't supposed to be that blunt.
  44. 44.
    >Lead into that idiot!
  45. 45.
    >Son is quiet, just rubbing his leg.
  46. 46.
    >"I don't think so."
  47. 47.
    "That is some limp wing response."
  48. 48.
    >"It's just. I know you were going to be in the Wonderbolts. Not weather manager at some earth pony town."
  49. 49.
    >Mare is he implying what you think he's implying?
  50. 50.
    >"I know you're not as fast as you used to be. I ask Aunt Flutters. You could zip real fast. But then I happened."
  51. 51.
    "You can't be serious. Anon Dash, of all the things you could spout. I don't regret having you."
  52. 52.
    >"I've read your workout journal when you found out."
  53. 53.
    "That was me being upset at myself for losing control and getting pregnant. Not upset about you. This is like even worse than my parents. You wish you weren't even born!"
  54. 54.
    >Now your just pacing around the room.
  55. 55.
    "Bucking apples, did I really put that kind of pressure on my own colt?"
  56. 56.
    >"N-no."
  57. 57.
    "Anon. Buck the Wonderbolts."
  58. 58.
    >His eyes go wide.
  59. 59.
    "I want you to be happy. With us. Can we do that?"
  60. 60.
    >Anon is breathing hard.
  61. 61.
    >He doesn't look happy.
  62. 62.
    >What the bucking tartarus is going on here!?
  63. 63.
    >He mumbles something, but you hear anyway.
  64. 64.
    >"Did I just Starlight this whole thing?"
  65. 65.
    >Makes no sense to you.
  66. 66.
    >Crab-apples, you might actually need to take this to a therapist.
  67. 67.
     
  68. 68.
    >Still be the Dash.
  69. 69.
    >Oh yeah.
  70. 70.
    >Not feeling that 'oh yeah' though.
  71. 71.
    >Sitting on the cloud and chatting with the one mare in town that is in a similar boat.
  72. 72.
    "I don't get it, Derpy. Anon is just confusing to me."
  73. 73.
    >Derpy is sticking her tongue out as she spins around on her cloud.
  74. 74.
    >"Well, what happened this time?"
  75. 75.
    >How much can you say?
  76. 76.
    >Shallow your pride and confess that you think you're a complete failure of a mother?
  77. 77.
    "So you are Dinkie are great. Happy relationship. She thinks the world of you."
  78. 78.
    >Derpy stops spinning and slows down.
  79. 79.
    >Drifts closer to you and tilts her head.
  80. 80.
    >"Well yeah. We love each other, and Anon loves you. I can tell you love him too. But I know there'll be a, um."
  81. 81.
    >She pauses a moment, closes her eyes to concentrate.
  82. 82.
    >"A time when a foal will start seeing the world as more than just you. You're not losing something special. They're just growing up. Maybe Anon is a fast grower."
  83. 83.
    >Interesting line of thinking.
  84. 84.
    "That's not really the issue here."
  85. 85.
    >She 'ohs' and rolls over on her back.
  86. 86.
    >This should be a good example.
  87. 87.
    "Let's say that Dinkie is upset about something. She's real dodgy about it. Has a hard time expressing herself."
  88. 88.
    >Derpy nods.
  89. 89.
    "Then you find out what's wrong. She thinks she's responsible for what happened to you."
  90. 90.
    >Spread a wing to emphasis your point.
  91. 91.
    "The amph. Yolp. Drat. Eye thing.
  92. 92.
    >"Strabismic Amblyopia."
  93. 93.
    "That's it. Dinky thinks that because you got pregnant with her your eye problem happened."
  94. 94.
    >She frowns at that thought.
  95. 95.
    >"That's silly, and wrong."
  96. 96.
    >Flare out your wings and shout.
  97. 97.
    "Exactly! He blames himself for me not being in the Wonderbolts."
  98. 98.
    >Slap your wings over your mouth.
  99. 99.
    >Derpy doesn't say anything, just looks at you.
  100. 100.
    >And probably something else, kind of hard to tell.
  101. 101.
    "I wish it was like with what you and Dinkie have. Anon is smart, but also scares me. It would make more sense if he hated me or something. But he doesn't."
  102. 102.
    >"Dash."
  103. 103.
    >The grey pegasus is sitting up straight now.
  104. 104.
    >"This was never going to be easy. Neither of us fly like we use too. Remember when I was best in class?"
  105. 105.
    >You hear some whining down below, but ignore it.
  106. 106.
    >"Now you have an idea of the problem. Tackle it. We can come up with a plan to beat this."
  107. 107.
    >"Hey! You two!"
  108. 108.
    >Both of you stop and look down.
  109. 109.
    >A lavender unicorn is giving you the meanest look.
  110. 110.
    >"I was told you were supposed to get rid of the clouds."
  111. 111.
    >Geez, what's her deal?
  112. 112.
    "Yeah, I'll take care of it."
  113. 113.
    >"With a full sky? Where's the rest of the team?"
  114. 114.
    >Rolling your eyes you tell Derpy to go roost somewhere.
  115. 115.
    >Flex your wings and bolt.
  116. 116.
    >That unicorn doesn't even have time to blink before the sky is clear.
  117. 117.
    >Float down gently.
  118. 118.
    "There. You happy? 10 seconds for you princess."
  119. 119.
    >She rolls her eyes.
  120. 120.
    >"Well that takes care of that. I can only hope the rest of this festival is just as smooth"
  121. 121.
    "And who are you?"
  122. 122.
    >A quick glance at the young drake catches your eye.
  123. 123.
    >"Twilight Sparkle."
  124. 124.
    >That stops you.
  125. 125.
    "No way! I'm Rainbow Dash!"
  126. 126.
    >"You!? We've been pen pals! How's Anon?"
  127. 127.
     
  128. 128.
    >In the mind and body of The Dash.
  129. 129.
    >Hey cool, Twilight Sparkle.
  130. 130.
    >Never thought you'd meet the mare.
  131. 131.
    >The drake waves his little claws at you.
  132. 132.
    >"You two know each other?
  133. 133.
    "Part of the single mother's support group. You must be Spike."
  134. 134.
    >He shakes your hoof.
  135. 135.
    >"Oh right. Twilight, didn't Celestia have you start that group so you can make friends? One of many attempts. Kind of like today."
  136. 136.
    >Twilight's pleased expression evaporated to a even tempered glare.
  137. 137.
    >"I'd like to think that the help the group proved was more beneficial then me finding a friend."
  138. 138.
    >Looking between the two, you can tell he's ribbing her.
  139. 139.
    >A bit more of a relaxed relationship then you'd expect.
  140. 140.
    >Whatever, you ain't judging her parenting style when your own still needs work.
  141. 141.
    >"Also now that we have officially meet Ms. Dash. I can say we did meet a friend."
  142. 142.
    "Yeah. Still though, now that we have a chance to meet, thanks for the advice."
  143. 143.
    >She beams brightly.
  144. 144.
    >"My pleasure, and thank you as well."
  145. 145.
    >Then she waits, with her smile.
  146. 146.
    >Leading on to something.
  147. 147.
    >Clears her throat.
  148. 148.
    >"So Anon?"
  149. 149.
    >Not sure if you really want to vomit your woes on her.
  150. 150.
    >Doing it on Derpy was exhausting enough.
  151. 151.
    "You're overseeing the celebrating right? My son is with his Aunt Fluttershy helping her with the bird choir. Get a first impression of him."
  152. 152.
    >Twilight tilts her head at that.
  153. 153.
    >You can tell she wants to ask more.
  154. 154.
    >"Sure. It's on the checklist anyway. Speaking of, decorations?"
  155. 155.
    "Boutique. Looks like a carnival ride. Real tacky. Rarity runs it."
  156. 156.
    "Cool. Spike, keep it real my dragon dude."
  157. 157.
    >"You know it!"
  158. 158.
    >They go trotting off, leaving you with nothing to do.
  159. 159.
    >Work got done sooner than you were planning.
  160. 160.
    >You know what, sneaking time.
  161. 161.
    >Let's watch your son help Fluttershy.
  162. 162.
    >Then see how he reacts to the new unicorn.
  163. 163.
    >---
  164. 164.
    >Despite being as colorful as the rainbow, your sneaking skills are still top notch.
  165. 165.
    >Sure enough your son is helping Fluttershy.
  166. 166.
    >Anon is being a little standoffish.
  167. 167.
    >Now that you think about it, is he acting the same way around her?
  168. 168.
    >Fluttershy, being the passive self she is, doesn't seem all to bothered by it.
  169. 169.
    >Then again, she really hides her emotions.
  170. 170.
    >Need to ask her if she's noticed anything.
  171. 171.
    >"Anon, could you get the water tray ready? Our little friends are going to need to break from singing soon.
  172. 172.
    >"Sure."
  173. 173.
    >The birds seem to appreciate the water cooler time.
  174. 174.
    >Fluttershy huddles closer to her nephew.
  175. 175.
    >"So, have you tried to look for your cutie mark?"
  176. 176.
    >Anon looks up, more than a little surprised at the question.
  177. 177.
    >"When I was your age I was looking forward to it. Your dad was asking."
  178. 178.
    >Puff your cheeks in frustration at the mention of that stallion.
  179. 179.
    >Your little boy mirrors your expression.
  180. 180.
    >"Zephyr can ask me himself. I'm not going to yell at him."
  181. 181.
    >Fluttershy hums at that answer.
  182. 182.
    >"Anon. Your father has me as a sister growing up. He had to learn how to read me. Now, you're a bright young colt. How would you describe your Aunt Fluttershy?"
  183. 183.
    >"Meek."
  184. 184.
    >Understating it.
  185. 185.
     
  186. 186.
    >Fluttershy doesn't object to the answer from Anon.
  187. 187.
    >"I would go with reserved. Zephyr was able to understand me even when I was withdrawn."
  188. 188.
    >Anon looks like he isn't buying it.
  189. 189.
    >"Aunt Fluttershy, Zephyr still tries to hit on Rainbow."
  190. 190.
    >Straining her grin, Fluttershy pats him on the head.
  191. 191.
    >"His heart still pines for her."
  192. 192.
    >"He might as well be headbutting a brick wall."
  193. 193.
    >Well your son isn't wrong.
  194. 194.
    >Fluttershy sighs, she clearly had hoped this conversation was going somewhere else.
  195. 195.
    >"Do you want your parents to get back together?"
  196. 196.
    >Anon doesn't even blink at that idea.
  197. 197.
    >"What I want doesn't matter. They need to have a working relationship before they can even consider a romantic one."
  198. 198.
    >Subtle as a brick, also really need to figure out how to give himself some value.
  199. 199.
    >Serious self-depreciation going on.
  200. 200.
    >Ears perk up with the familiar sound of Twilight Sparkle and Spike.
  201. 201.
    >Was wondering when they would show up.
  202. 202.
    >Fluttershy and Anon are having the birds sing again.
  203. 203.
    >Just in time to not realize they have guests.
  204. 204.
    >Twilight practically bumbles her way onto the scene.
  205. 205.
    >"Oh good the bird choir. Hello!"
  206. 206.
    >The birds scream, Fluttershy almost screams, Anon screams.
  207. 207.
    >"Princess Twilight!"
  208. 208.
    >What?
  209. 209.
    >"What?"
  210. 210.
    >"I'm sorry what?"
  211. 211.
    >Anon looks like he was just caught with a hoof in the cookie jar.
  212. 212.
    >Something he has never done.
  213. 213.
    >"...shit.."
  214. 214.
    >He's says quietly.
  215. 215.
    >"Well that's a first."
  216. 216.
    >Spike says next to you.
  217. 217.
    "Yeah."
  218. 218.
    >There's a pregnant pause between the two groups.
  219. 219.
    >The fact that your hiding spot was so easily blown, and Twilight is just trying to process what your son just said.
  220. 220.
    ---
  221. 221.
    Be Anon, about time.
  222. 222.
    >Shit, Twilight was princess longer than she was a unicorn.
  223. 223.
    >Stupid, stupid, stupid!
  224. 224.
    ---
  225. 225.
    Back to being Rainbow
  226. 226.
    >"That's just silly. I'm Twilight Sparkle. Not a princess, though I am her student. I'm guessing your mom told you I was coming."
  227. 227.
    >You didn't.
  228. 228.
    >Wait a moment, you didn't.
  229. 229.
    >Anon just gulps and doesn't say anything.
  230. 230.
    >Great skies he's sweating hard.
  231. 231.
    >He looks even more stressed than when you asked if he hated himself.
  232. 232.
    >Kind of hoped Fluttershy would step in to the rescue.
  233. 233.
    >Forget it, you'll come out.
  234. 234.
    "Anon, there you are. I finished my work. Chatting it up with Twilight here?"
  235. 235.
    >Twilight is now studying Anon a little more closely.
  236. 236.
    >Your son's eyes dart between the two of you.
  237. 237.
    >"Uh, yeah. She surprised me."
  238. 238.
    >Twilight's bullshit meter must work, she raises an eyebrow at that.
  239. 239.
    >"Well the bird music sounds beautiful."
  240. 240.
    >"Yup. Fluttershy did a great job. You should talk to her. She's important. I mean her work is important. Twilight, this is Fluttershy. She's very kind and talks to animals."
  241. 241.
    >Word vomit salad aside, he isn't wrong.
  242. 242.
    "She's your aunt as well. Thanks sis for watching him."
  243. 243.
    >Fluttershy isn't listening, for her gaze just saw a baby dragon.
  244. 244.
    >"Baby!"
  245. 245.
    >Oh right, Spike.
  246. 246.
    >He takes the attention in stride.
  247. 247.
    >Anon, on the other hoof, is melting under the attention.
  248. 248.
    "If we're done here, you want to go anywhere?"
  249. 249.
    >"Library."
  250. 250.
     
  251. 251.
    >Fluttershy won't stop asking Spike questions.
  252. 252.
    >Which, yeah, you understand.
  253. 253.
    >Also, you're Rainbow The Dash.
  254. 254.
    >Anyway, you hope that Twilight would get insight on Anon's strange behavior won't go anywhere now.
  255. 255.
    >He's shut down.
  256. 256.
    >Quietly trotting along side you as you make way to the party.
  257. 257.
    >The party Twilight doesn't realize she's about to stumble into.
  258. 258.
    >She hasn't asked Anon anything.
  259. 259.
    >Twilight looks to you, and all you can do is shrug.
  260. 260.
    "So Anon, Twilight here is an old pen-pal. You might remember me mentioning her. Like when you didn't cry as a baby I was real worried. She wrote back saying while unusual it happens sometimes."
  261. 261.
    >"Oh yeah, I remember you writing that one to me."
  262. 262.
    >Twilight taps her chin as she recalls.
  263. 263.
    >Anon nods, ears still down and staring at the ground.
  264. 264.
    >What?
  265. 265.
    >Is he worried about saying something now?
  266. 266.
    >Maybe don't push it.
  267. 267.
    >Look back up to Twilight and shake your head.
  268. 268.
    >Twilight gives Anon one last determined look before dropping it and looking ahead.
  269. 269.
    >Spike, on the other hoof, just told Fluttershy his entire life story.
  270. 270.
    >It's a little strange Anon isn't interested in Spike at all.
  271. 271.
    >This is a dragon.
  272. 272.
    >Baby yeah, but you've known Anon to always be interested in dragons.
  273. 273.
    >Can your kid be suicidal?
  274. 274.
    >Are there signs?
  275. 275.
    >You feel a strong urge to hug him and not let go.
  276. 276.
    >Could be overreacting.
  277. 277.
    >Better to overreact then being wrong.
  278. 278.
    >"Oh here's the library."
  279. 279.
    >Right, time to cover your ears.
  280. 280.
    >Pinkie always goes over board.
  281. 281.
    >Odd that Anon never asked to have her do his birthday parties.
  282. 282.
    >Always Bon Bon.
  283. 283.
    >You feel the same way, Pinkie is way too much.
  284. 284.
    >How you can be friends with somepony like her is a mystery.
  285. 285.
    >Twilight is immediately bowled over, Fluttershy cowers.
  286. 286.
    >Yup, the usual happens.
  287. 287.
    >Pinkie Pie is going to Pinkie Pie.
  288. 288.
    >First impressions, you doubt Twilight is going to enjoy this.
  289. 289.
    >Whatever, let it happen.
  290. 290.
    >Look down to your son, and he's watching the two of them.
  291. 291.
    >You blink a moment, and you see a smile.
  292. 292.
    >Like he's reliving an old memory.
  293. 293.
    >Not sure where your hunch comes from, maybe a mother's intuition.
  294. 294.
    >And there goes Twilight drinking the hot sauce.
  295. 295.
    "Well that could've gone better. Anon, go chat up with Spike. Not often you get someone like him roll into town."
  296. 296.
    >"He's wearing a lamp shade."
  297. 297.
    "That's how you know he knows how to have fun. Come on, we only have a little bit of time before the sun rising. I ain't going to let you sleep past this one."
  298. 298.
    >Anon looks up the stairs where Twilight ran up.
  299. 299.
    >"'K."
  300. 300.
    >You sigh as he moseys on over to the drake.
  301. 301.
    >Fluttershy next to you also sighs.
  302. 302.
    >"Aw, he's going to make friends with a dragon his own age. What a beautiful thing."
  303. 303.
    "I hope so. Was he acting weird today?"
  304. 304.
    >"Besides what you told me what he said? Just more reserved. Still helpful. My parents are concern."
  305. 305.
    "Well yeah, who wouldn't be?"
  306. 306.
    >"Did you tell his dad?"
  307. 307.
    "Yes."
  308. 308.
    >That short stern answer tells Fluttershy everything.
  309. 309.
    >"He cares."
  310. 310.
    >"Hey girls! Cupcake?"
  311. 311.
    >Pinkie Pie has slide her way between the two of you.
  312. 312.
     
  313. 313.
    >Be Spike the dragon.
  314. 314.
    >Wait don't leave.
  315. 315.
    >Crushing it on the dance floor with the other ponies.
  316. 316.
    >Anon is with you, doing a pretty normal pony trot.
  317. 317.
    >Poor equines can't match these moves.
  318. 318.
    >"I'm grab'n a drink."
  319. 319.
    "Oh, I want one too. I really want that hot sauce."
  320. 320.
    >That gets a chuckle out of him.
  321. 321.
    >There's a mare at the bar watching the two of you.
  322. 322.
    >Don't worry lady, we're not going to grab the adult drinks.
  323. 323.
    "Pinkie parties are great. You probably enjoy them all the time."
  324. 324.
    >Anon carefully balances his cup in his wing.
  325. 325.
    >Interesting, it looks like how you hold stuff with your claws.
  326. 326.
    >"Not really. She's got something going on everyday, which is more than I can handle."
  327. 327.
    "And Rarity looks so beautiful when she dances."
  328. 328.
    >How how your heart flutters for that beautiful unicorn.
  329. 329.
    >"Really? Her? Spike, you come from Canterlot. A city of unicorns; I'm pretty sure you got some knock out gorgeous mares up there."
  330. 330.
    >No accounting for taste.
  331. 331.
    >Poor Anon and his plebeian tastes.
  332. 332.
    >"Grass is, no wait better analogy, emeralds are always greener on the other mountain?"
  333. 333.
    "Probably need to workshop that one a bit longer, but I get what you're saying."
  334. 334.
    >"So does Twilight really not have any friends?"
  335. 335.
    >Right, that thing that Princess Celestia wrote about.
  336. 336.
    "I mean, it's not entirely true, but it has gotten worse. She practically ran away from the idea of attending Moondancer's birthday party."
  337. 337.
    >Anon cringes at that.
  338. 338.
    >"That poor mare. You gotta check up on her, she's probably devastated."
  339. 339.
    >Play with your empty cup.
  340. 340.
    "Eh, she has other friends."
  341. 341.
    >Anon's face flashes with a bit of anger, but it vanishes so fast you think you just imagined it.
  342. 342.
    "You got friends? I'll be honest you seem pretty reclusive yourself."
  343. 343.
    >He nods.
  344. 344.
    >"A few close ones. In Cloudsdale and here."
  345. 345.
    >"Don't listen to him. This guy is lying his tail off."
  346. 346.
    >A new challenger appears.
  347. 347.
    >"Hey Scootaloo, and yeah they're my friends. Adults make for good friends"
  348. 348.
    >Some orange pegasus has slinked her way to the drink bar too.
  349. 349.
    >"Spike right? You're probably the longest Anon has talked to anyone his own age. Willingly."
  350. 350.
    >She seems a little vindictive.
  351. 351.
    >History?
  352. 352.
    >"Hey, Spike is a dragon. Which is pretty cool. Got you to come up and talk to him."
  353. 353.
    >Aw, thanks Anon.
  354. 354.
    >Scootaloo just glares at Anon.
  355. 355.
    >Anon, just doesn't seem to care.
  356. 356.
    >Then he just yells.
  357. 357.
    >"Pinkie! Cupcake for Scoots stat!"
  358. 358.
    >Scootaloo's eyes widen.
  359. 359.
    >"Not again! Anon you jerk!"
  360. 360.
    >Pinkie Pie swoops in from up high and grabs the filly.
  361. 361.
    >"Cupcake time! Weeeee!"
  362. 362.
    >You give Anon a questioning look.
  363. 363.
    >He shrugs.
  364. 364.
    >"She worships the air my mom flies on. Has strong feelings about how I don't appreciate it."
  365. 365.
    >Not fully buying that explanation, but whatever.
  366. 366.
    "Right, better check up on Twilight. What to help?"
  367. 367.
    >"That's ok. We'll be leaving soonish."
  368. 368.
     
  369. 369.
    >It's great to be Rainbow Dash again.
  370. 370.
    >Your time perception is tingling.
  371. 371.
    >Got a knack for that when perfecting weather patterns and time schedules.
  372. 372.
    >It's close to the big ol' sun rising.
  373. 373.
    "Gals, it's time to get going. Anon, get your fluffy rump over here. We got a princess to go witness."
  374. 374.
    >Herds move in the masses, but you spot your boy easily as he maneuvers to you.
  375. 375.
    "You weren't picking on Scootaloo again were you?"
  376. 376.
    >The frustrated puffing of his cheeks is still adorable.
  377. 377.
    >"I am always polite. It isn't my fault she has a feather to pick with me."
  378. 378.
    "Maybe she has a crush on you squirt."
  379. 379.
    >He quickly retorts, not even slightly embarrassed.
  380. 380.
    >"She has a crush on her idol. You, Dash."
  381. 381.
    >...
  382. 382.
    >"M-mom."
  383. 383.
    "Thank you."
  384. 384.
    >Fluttershy practically buts her way in the conversation.
  385. 385.
    >"I saw you Anon! Your aunt Fluttershy is so proud of you making friends with Spike. He's a very cute baby dragon."
  386. 386.
    >Anon actually takes a step back from his eager aunt.
  387. 387.
    >"Well it was a positive interaction. I don't know if we can call it a friendship. Working up to acquaintance."
  388. 388.
    >"I think he would love to be your friend."
  389. 389.
    >Now he's looking annoyed.
  390. 390.
    >So does Twilight behind him.
  391. 391.
    >Oh hey, Twilight is here.
  392. 392.
    >"Great. Glad this is working out. Where is the town hall? I really want to get this moving."
  393. 393.
    >Geez, gnawing on her horn?
  394. 394.
    >Outside the library you take point for the group.
  395. 395.
    >"Dashie. 'Nonny!"
  396. 396.
    >You shudder.
  397. 397.
    >Anon shudders.
  398. 398.
    >He's here.
  399. 399.
    >Zephyr Breeze is here, why?
  400. 400.
    >Even the other ponies around you all are giving you a wide birth.
  401. 401.
    >A quick glance at Fluttershy, who is looking a little guilty right now.
  402. 402.
    "Just Rainbow Dash."
  403. 403.
    >Twilight watches with curious attention as he bodily picks up Anon and gives him a hug.
  404. 404.
    >Anon looks real uncomfortable.
  405. 405.
    >"You're his father?"
  406. 406.
    >"He's Zephyr Breeze."
  407. 407.
    >Anon answers her, his dad pulls back.
  408. 408.
    >"Hey there little Anon, just dad is fine."
  409. 409.
    >"How the airship project go?"
  410. 410.
    >Zephry missteps as Anon just cuts him a no nonsense question.
  411. 411.
    >"Or did you move on to the next goal again?"
  412. 412.
    >Sweating a bit, Zephyr puts him down.
  413. 413.
    >"Don't worry about that my boy. I'm here for you!"
  414. 414.
    >"I'm fine."
  415. 415.
    >Ouch, that deadpan delivery.
  416. 416.
    >Twilight actually steps up next to them.
  417. 417.
    >"Actually while we walk to the town hall, could you tell me more about yourself?"
  418. 418.
    >Zephry pauses as he processes this new pony.
  419. 419.
    >Then he looks at you.
  420. 420.
    >And her again.
  421. 421.
    >A wiry grin crosses his face.
  422. 422.
    >"You're not going to get Dash jealous. Don't bother."
  423. 423.
    >Like a gunshot, Anon just shoots his father down.
  424. 424.
    >He coughs almost uncontrollably.
  425. 425.
    >"No love for your dear pops?"
  426. 426.
    >"Just saving you the trouble."
  427. 427.
    >Twilight is actually writing down something in a notebook floating next to her.
  428. 428.
    >"Mr. Breeze, I was in a support group for teenage mothers. Granted, Ms. Dash and I have aged out of the group. However, I am curious about what you do for a living?"
  429. 429.
    >Like he was just caught sleeping on a thunder cloud, Zephry pauses from the onslaught of information.
  430. 430.
    >"Exploring my options right now."
  431. 431.
     
  432. 432.
    >"Exploring your options. Oh, so you're in advance school then, or even a high trade."
  433. 433.
    >Twilight, you can't be this naive.
  434. 434.
    >Right?
  435. 435.
    >Be Rainbow mother of one Dash.
  436. 436.
    >Zephry looks between you and Anon.
  437. 437.
    >And a third pony?
  438. 438.
    >Oh right, Fluttershy is also here.
  439. 439.
    "Twilight, don't worry about it."
  440. 440.
    >Anon also interjects.
  441. 441.
    >"Don't you have more important things to think about than some colt's familiar relationship?"
  442. 442.
    >She pauses at that, giving Anon that annoyed stare.
  443. 443.
    >"You're trying to deflect. You're correct and you're trying to use that. Very smart for someone your age."
  444. 444.
    >Chewing on her lip, Twilight looks at Zephry.
  445. 445.
    >"Go talk to your son, I'm going to ask Dash a few questions."
  446. 446.
    >Uh what?
  447. 447.
    "What's this about?"
  448. 448.
    >"How smart is he?"
  449. 449.
    "Very. When he thinks I'm not looking. I am. I don't think he got it from either of his parents."
  450. 450.
    >Twilight hums at that.
  451. 451.
    >"I wonder if his intelligence is linked to his depreciating value in himself."
  452. 452.
    "That's a thing?"
  453. 453.
    >"Or maybe autism."
  454. 454.
    >Thanks, Twilight.
  455. 455.
    >"Twilight, you can't just call a child autistic."
  456. 456.
    >Spike facepalmed.
  457. 457.
    >"It's very likely the root cause to this situation."
  458. 458.
    >She might be autistic herself.
  459. 459.
    "How about this? Think about it, and get back with me after you go home to Canterlot."
  460. 460.
    >It gets a little crowded as you all stand in front of the town hall doors.
  461. 461.
    >Have to take to the skies to hover.
  462. 462.
    >"Right, back to Canterlot. It might not matter."
  463. 463.
    >Ears flick at Twilight mumbling under her breath.
  464. 464.
    >Strange, what's bothering her?
  465. 465.
    >"Mom, please save me."
  466. 466.
    >Anon in a deadpan voice pleads for you to rescue him.
  467. 467.
    >Zephyr is doing that thing where he tries to mold Anon's mane into some kind of nonsense.
  468. 468.
    "Ok, Zephry. We're about to see Princess Celestia. Now is not the time for goofy new age mane art. This is going to be his first time seeing her. Would rather you don't style his mane into something that he can't see past."
  469. 469.
    >"Dash, he needs to feel loved, and as a emotionally intelligent pony I am applying my skills."
  470. 470.
    "You can't be serious. He doesn't like being treated like a poodle."
  471. 471.
    >Or Rarity.
  472. 472.
    >Don't say that out loud.
  473. 473.
    >Whining would never cease.
  474. 474.
    >"I don't treat him like a dog, and I'm not Serious. That's a donkey."
  475. 475.
    "Then stop being such an ass."
  476. 476.
    >"You know, the rest of us would love you don't spill out your family drama in public."
  477. 477.
    >Applejack, do you have to headbutt into this?
  478. 478.
    >Though she is right, the other ponies around are shifting uncomfortably.
  479. 479.
    >This always happens when he rolls into town.
  480. 480.
    >Zephry looks embarrassed as he lands on the ground, then jerks his head around when he realizes he just lost his son.
  481. 481.
    >"Wait, where did Anon go?"
  482. 482.
    "He's under the appetizer table. Snuck off the moment you let go."
  483. 483.
    >Following after him, you wait for the ceremony to start.
  484. 484.
    >We'll get this show on the road, and then you'll fly the coop with Anon.
  485. 485.
    >Mare, this day was so disappointing.
  486. 486.
    >Don't feel like you've made much progress at all.
  487. 487.
    >Gotta work this out.
  488. 488.
    >Well this day is almost over, and Celestia will raise a new one.
  489. 489.
     
  490. 490.
    >Be Scootaloo, and rather upset.
  491. 491.
    >You were going to be hiding under the snack table.
  492. 492.
    >Instead you find Anon there.
  493. 493.
    >Step on his tail.
  494. 494.
    "What are you doing here? This was my spot."
  495. 495.
    >With a twinge of annoyance, Anon pulls his tail away.
  496. 496.
    >Glares at you before lifting a little more of the table cloth.
  497. 497.
    >"Hi Scootaloo!"
  498. 498.
    >Oh, he's not the only one.
  499. 499.
    >Applebloom, Sweetie Bell, Dinkie, actually all of the school students are under the snack table.
  500. 500.
    >"Get your tail in here before you blow our cover. I want full access to the snacks."
  501. 501.
    >Hopefully the adults don't know.
  502. 502.
    >---
  503. 503.
    >Be adults in the room.
  504. 504.
    >We know.
  505. 505.
    >---
  506. 506.
    >Squishing up next to Anon, you quickly steal a cookie.
  507. 507.
    "You're a real spoil sport, you know that?"
  508. 508.
    >"Arguing with you is not something I'm interested in doing."
  509. 509.
    "Yeah well, maybe you should have someone tell you when you're being a cloud head."
  510. 510.
    >Taking a big swig of apple juice, Anon once again doesn't retort.
  511. 511.
    >That just makes you madder.
  512. 512.
    >Angrier?
  513. 513.
    >Whatever, he thinks he's better than you.
  514. 514.
    "You. Y-your a real jerk. A bucking jerk!"
  515. 515.
    >Gasps from the rest of the class is heard.
  516. 516.
    >Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon from the other end of the table 'ooohs' at that.
  517. 517.
    >Anon rolls his eyes at you.
  518. 518.
    >"End of the world, and I have to deal with this. What's going on between Dash and me is none of your business. I don't pry into your family drama."
  519. 519.
    >How dare he say it's none of your business.
  520. 520.
    "I'm the president of the Rainbow Dash club."
  521. 521.
    >"Fan clubs is no basis or reason to get your feathers in a pin cushion."
  522. 522.
    "Don't brush me off like that."
  523. 523.
    >You attempt to push him, and he just parries you with one of his large wings.
  524. 524.
    >So instead you just grab it.
  525. 525.
    "See this, you got it from your mom and you don't appreciate it."
  526. 526.
    >Then he just picks you up with the wing as you hold on.
  527. 527.
    >Hate how uninterested he is.
  528. 528.
    >"You know, you could just ask Dash to hang out with you. I'm not going to tell her not to."
  529. 529.
    "She doesn't have the time."
  530. 530.
    >"More than you think. Now let go of my wing."
  531. 531.
    >With a flick, he jerks it out of your hooves.
  532. 532.
    >Mayor Mare starts speaking.
  533. 533.
    >Guess it's time for the princess to show up.
  534. 534.
     
  535. 535.
    >Your majesty fills the room.
  536. 536.
    >Fresh from victory and blood boiling with jubilation.
  537. 537.
    >Darkness shrouds your arrival, but it doesn't hide the ponies visages from you.
  538. 538.
    >Be Nightmare Moon.
  539. 539.
    >Eternal night is at hoof, and you see it fit to herald it to the ponies that expected their lovely sun princess to appear.
  540. 540.
    >Makes you mirthful.
  541. 541.
    >Fear colors the room.
  542. 542.
    >As you introduce yourself to the subjects, their fear is palpable.
  543. 543.
    >All attention is on you as you move like shadows.
  544. 544.
    >They can't turn away from your voice.
  545. 545.
    >Every word they hold onto it like a last will and testament.
  546. 546.
    >How elevating.
  547. 547.
    >Their whispers reach your ears.
  548. 548.
    >Going through the stages of denial.
  549. 549.
    >Despair foals.
  550. 550.
    >Behold my glory and despair!
  551. 551.
    >Though something has caught your magic.
  552. 552.
    >Something else.
  553. 553.
    >---
  554. 554.
    >Be Anon.
  555. 555.
    >You don't know how many times you've seen this scene, but it takes on a whole other level witnessing it.
  556. 556.
    >She is beautiful.
  557. 557.
    >Incredible in how she moves.
  558. 558.
    >The chill she brings to the room.
  559. 559.
    >Wow.
  560. 560.
    "Nightmare Moon."
  561. 561.
    >---
  562. 562.
    >The child, he knows who you are.
  563. 563.
    >He said your name just before the unicorn did.
  564. 564.
    >No fear, no panic.
  565. 565.
    >Adoration.
  566. 566.
    >Eyes wide with wonder.
  567. 567.
    >He doesn't see a monster to fear.
  568. 568.
    >Why?
  569. 569.
    >You intend to find out.
  570. 570.
    >As you strike down the day guards with lightening.
  571. 571.
    >You leap down, again the colt doesn't flinch at anything you do.
  572. 572.
    >Faster than the ponies can anticipate you move across the room.
  573. 573.
    "I'll take you."
  574. 574.
    >"What?"
  575. 575.
    >Scooping him up with mane of stars, you fly out of the building with him.
  576. 576.
    >Now you taste the fear off of him.
  577. 577.
    >Too late for that child.
  578. 578.
    >You will pry out the truth.
  579. 579.
    >---
  580. 580.
    >Be Rainbow Dash.
  581. 581.
    >Your son.
  582. 582.
    >He just got grabbed.
  583. 583.
    >Your son, just got foalnapped by an evil alicorn!
  584. 584.
    >He had reached out his hoof and called for you.
  585. 585.
    >Called for his mom.
  586. 586.
    >You buck Applejack in the face for grabbing your tail and bolt.
  587. 587.
    >Kick the town hall doors off their hinges.
  588. 588.
    >She's flying off fast, but you're Rainbow Dash.
  589. 589.
    >Rainbow Dash is fast, and you will not lose this race.
  590. 590.
     
  591. 591.
    >This race for your son is on.
  592. 592.
    >Nightmare Moon must be distracted, because you close in fast.
  593. 593.
    >A few kilohooves from where you started and you dive to grab him.
  594. 594.
    >She almost yelps in surprise.
  595. 595.
    >The monster mare twists unnaturally, and mists.
  596. 596.
    >Anon drops through the mist, and you buzz it.
  597. 597.
    >Miss him by a wingspan.
  598. 598.
    >Nightmare reforms quickly and grabs Anon just as he opens his own wings.
  599. 599.
    >"You must be the mother. I can see where the bravery comes from, now fail in your duty."
  600. 600.
    >Screech to a stop, can feel your body shift uncomfortably at the break.
  601. 601.
    >Spin 180 and shoot back.
  602. 602.
    >Without missing a beat, the monster mare had taken off straight through the open store stalls.
  603. 603.
    >Purposefully, Nightmare takes the most cluttered route to knock you off her tail and lose line of sight.
  604. 604.
    >Not even breaking a sweat, you tighten your turns and body.
  605. 605.
    >Miss pots and produce like a missile.
  606. 606.
    >Then she cheats and throws an entire door at you with her magic.
  607. 607.
    "No you don't!"
  608. 608.
    >Twist over the offending obstacle and kick off of it.
  609. 609.
    >Might have just ruined somepony's stall, but you'll apologize later.
  610. 610.
    >What you weren't expecting was blue magic walls to appear in front of you.
  611. 611.
    >A blue magic wall of force.
  612. 612.
    "Oh manure."
  613. 613.
    >With the same force as you kicked the door, you buck the earth.
  614. 614.
    >Thrown up, you see Nightmare Moon leaping over a house.
  615. 615.
    >Hooves and legs sting from kicking the ground as hard as you could.
  616. 616.
    >Anon is trying to bite the only place he could reach, which is sadly her helmeted head.
  617. 617.
    >Good try champ.
  618. 618.
    >"Stop trying to bite my ears."
  619. 619.
    >"Stop trying to hurt her."
  620. 620.
    >"Nothing I've done has been any real danger to her. I can change my mind if you don't cooperate."
  621. 621.
    "Go kick moon dust!"
  622. 622.
    >Try to lunge kick again.
  623. 623.
    >With a blue blip, Nightmare teleports to a house roof over.
  624. 624.
    >"Not fast enough."
  625. 625.
    >With a toothy grin, she floats up.
  626. 626.
    >"As amusing as this is, I think we're done here."
  627. 627.
    >Nightmare Moon shoots up, half mist, half solid.
  628. 628.
    >"Let's see how long your endurance holds until you fall."
  629. 629.
    >Follow quickly after the sorceress.
  630. 630.
    >A straight assent is difficult, so you pump your wings to make the most of lift.
  631. 631.
    >Then she cheats.
  632. 632.
    >Teleporting ahead, Nightmare Moon pops farther and farther away.
  633. 633.
    >Straight up, she doesn't have to worry about exhausting herself if she doesn't fly.
  634. 634.
    >Suck in as much air as you can.
  635. 635.
    >Then push.
  636. 636.
    >"Ouch! Stupid colt."
  637. 637.
    >With a hesitant moment, Nightmare Moon smacks your son and dazes him.
  638. 638.
    >Red colors your vision as you fly harder.
  639. 639.
    >Lungs are starting to burn.
  640. 640.
    >Lactic acid is eating your muscles.
  641. 641.
    >It's not enough, and Nightmare Moon merely teleports even higher.
  642. 642.
    >Now higher than Cloudsdale.
  643. 643.
    >Vision is getting hazy at the edges.
  644. 644.
    >Air is nearly gone.
  645. 645.
    >Wings are about to cramp.
  646. 646.
    >You see her even higher, and she's smiling.
  647. 647.
    >You see your son, in his dazed state he looks confused.
  648. 648.
    >For a moment, you can't hear it, but you swear he calls 'mom' in his stupefied state.
  649. 649.
    >Now you don't care if you hurt yourself.
  650. 650.
    >Air around you cones.
  651. 651.
     
  652. 652.
    >"So mom, what all goes into a Sonic Rainboom?"
  653. 653.
    >Look up as your son eats oatmeal you made.
  654. 654.
    "Really challenging and demanding on your body. I did it once, but I was very young. Honestly I attribute that to how my body was?"
  655. 655.
    >Anon tilts his head, ears straight forward.
  656. 656.
    "Bouncy. I was small and wiry. I could stretch and bend like a spring. It gets way harder as an adult. Not that I haven't tried. Every so often I'll give it a go."
  657. 657.
    >Slap your hips to make a point.
  658. 658.
    "I doubt I could do it even if I didn't have this. You need a lot of thrust. You can cheat by going down, but then you hit the resistance."
  659. 659.
    >"Like air resistance?"
  660. 660.
    >Shake your head no.
  661. 661.
    "That's only part of it. Magic is actually a big factor. It wants to explode, but it only has so much of your body to use. It demands everything."
  662. 662.
    "So when the wall comes, you either break it."
  663. 663.
    "Or it breaks you."
  664. 664.
    ---
  665. 665.
    >You're breaking.
  666. 666.
    >Flying straight up like this is going to kill you.
  667. 667.
    >Head is throbbing, have to focus to not see double.
  668. 668.
    >There is only one shot at this.
  669. 669.
    >Nightmare Moon is going to teleport away again.
  670. 670.
    >In that short window of time, she can't see you.
  671. 671.
    >In the span of time this teleport happens, you have to speed up faster then ever.
  672. 672.
    >Then catch her.
  673. 673.
    >Your body was burning up, but at this altitude now your freezing.
  674. 674.
    >Gotta bluff her.
  675. 675.
    >Maintain eye contact with this alicorn monster.
  676. 676.
    >She has the upper hoof, let her keep thinking that.
  677. 677.
    >With another dark glow, her horn shines.
  678. 678.
    >There's the teleport.
  679. 679.
    >The air around you tightens.
  680. 680.
    >Crushes you.
  681. 681.
    >Buck your wings feel like they're being torn off in a compressor.
  682. 682.
    >The wall is coming, and you're about to hit it head on.
  683. 683.
    >Air screams around you, making your ears ring.
  684. 684.
    >A fraction of time you proceed the teleport returning.
  685. 685.
    >Nightmare Moon doesn't see how close you are.
  686. 686.
    >Do or...
  687. 687.
    >Do, there is no die.
  688. 688.
    >You're doing this now!
  689. 689.
    >Magic and air crackle as the monster appears.
  690. 690.
    >Go.
  691. 691.
     
  692. 692.
    >...
  693. 693.
    >Where?
  694. 694.
    >...
  695. 695.
    >Wa
  696. 696.
    >Dark.
  697. 697.
    >'Wake up.'
  698. 698.
     
  699. 699.
    >Throw your eyes open.
  700. 700.
    >You're tail spinning.
  701. 701.
    >Hacking and coughing your lungs out.
  702. 702.
    >Saliva hangs out your mouth like a frothy mess.
  703. 703.
    >Smell blood.
  704. 704.
    >Hooves feel like they hit a mountain.
  705. 705.
    >Wings won't move.
  706. 706.
    >Cramping up.
  707. 707.
    >Twist your body upright and just let them stretch out.
  708. 708.
    >You can't fly, but slow the fall enough.
  709. 709.
    >Do you even have energy to fly?
  710. 710.
    >Oh, you have nose bleeds.
  711. 711.
    >That explains the smell.
  712. 712.
    >Buck, you blacked out mid flight.
  713. 713.
    >Where's your son?
  714. 714.
    "A-An."
  715. 715.
    >A coughing fit starts.
  716. 716.
    "Anon?"
  717. 717.
    >"Dash!"
  718. 718.
    >Ears perk up.
  719. 719.
    >You see a few pegasi coming up to you.
  720. 720.
    >Zephyr Breeze, panting, flies up to to meet you.
  721. 721.
    "What happened? I can't remember anything in the last few minutes?"
  722. 722.
    >"What do you mean you don't remember? You exploded! The sky exploded!"
  723. 723.
    "Where's Anon?"
  724. 724.
    >He looks ashamed to shrug his shoulders.
  725. 725.
    >"I don't know."
  726. 726.
    >Grab him roughly.
  727. 727.
    "I bet Twilight does. Go to my house. In my freezer I have energy shakes. In the closet of my room, I have a dark cloud seed in a jar."
  728. 728.
    >Zephry's eyes widen.
  729. 729.
    >"Dash, that stuff is dangerous."
  730. 730.
    "I don't know if you noticed, but I threw myself at Nightmare Moon and it did nothing! I need to bring something, anything dangerous."
  731. 731.
    >He points at your man.
  732. 732.
    >"I don't think you did nothing."
  733. 733.
    >Slowly you raise a hoof to your mane, and something is stuck in it.
  734. 734.
    >Pull it out.
  735. 735.
    >It's a fang.
  736. 736.
    >"I think you just punched that out of her."
  737. 737.
    "Well, good to know that she bleeds. Now get my stuff. I got a unicorn to talk to."
  738. 738.
    >"Right. Sis also followed that Twilight mare, they're at the library."
  739. 739.
    >Perfect.
  740. 740.
     
  741. 741.
    >Be the embodiment of eternal night, Nightmare Moon.
  742. 742.
    >Flying on the wings of your darkened sky, you carry your passenger.
  743. 743.
    >Honestly expected him to be wailing and crying right now.
  744. 744.
    >Not even pouting.
  745. 745.
    >Just sits there in your maw.
  746. 746.
    >Accepting his fate might make you more lenient.
  747. 747.
    >Find a room to lock him up in your castle.
  748. 748.
    >The forest bleeds into itself as you zoom overhead.
  749. 749.
    >Then you see your home.
  750. 750.
    >Scrunch up your nose to see the dilapidated state of it.
  751. 751.
    >Damn it Celestia.
  752. 752.
    >Did you really have to just leave it there rotting in the past.
  753. 753.
    >The same hole in the ceiling of the throne room you threw her through is still there.
  754. 754.
    >Just straight up left the place after banishing you.
  755. 755.
    >Flying down into the throne room, you put down the colt.
  756. 756.
    >He sits there looking up at you.
  757. 757.
    >Waits for you to say something.
  758. 758.
    >Want to test this patience game with him, but you don't have the time.
  759. 759.
    "What is your name."
  760. 760.
    >"Anon Dash."
  761. 761.
    "Are you upset that I tossed aside your mother?"
  762. 762.
    >"It is as you say."
  763. 763.
    >Oh you love how he looks at you.
  764. 764.
    >Sharp eyes.
  765. 765.
    >Not looking away, he's actually inspecting you.
  766. 766.
    "Very careful with your language I see. You speak much older than your age suggests. Do not worry, nothing you say can possibly incur my wraith for I am beyond petty foalish stings."
  767. 767.
    >"Should I call you by the name your mother gave you then, Princess Luna."
  768. 768.
    >A cold wind blows between you two.
  769. 769.
    "It seems you have corrected me. For there are still ways you can test my word."
  770. 770.
    >You say with gritted teeth, once again fully aware of missing one.
  771. 771.
    >"Well it is like you said, I am very angry right now. When I first saw you I could honestly say I was amazed. Right now, I'm still wondering if my mom is alive."
  772. 772.
    >He holds cold wraith then, much like yourself.
  773. 773.
    "How is it you know who I am? The others did not, except for Celestia's student."
  774. 774.
    >Anon looks around the place.
  775. 775.
    >"I found this castle. It still has a lot of stuff left behind. Like journals."
  776. 776.
    >Colt, you better not be reading my personal diary.
  777. 777.
    >"From solders and other generic reports."
  778. 778.
    >Oh he's practiced this line.
  779. 779.
    >Smart, but he gives himself away.
  780. 780.
    "Lying to me will only incur discipline. You found more didn't you? Like my room, or my sis-."
  781. 781.
    >Stop a moment.
  782. 782.
    "Celestia's room."
  783. 783.
    >Anon raises an eyebrow, but doesn't press.
  784. 784.
    >"Found Starswirl's room too."
  785. 785.
    >Sit up straight at that information.
  786. 786.
    "How? That room is hidden by secrets and illusions."
  787. 787.
    >For the first time, the colt smiles.
  788. 788.
    >A dark mischievous smile.
  789. 789.
    >"The castle is full of tricks and traps. Isn't it?"
  790. 790.
    >Stepping on a brick in front of himself, a trap door opens beneath him.
  791. 791.
    >Oh by the moon.
  792. 792.
    "Get back here welp!"
  793. 793.
    >Leap at the floor as it closes.
  794. 794.
    >Quickly press the switch again to open and jump down.
  795. 795.
    >It's smaller than you, but you can mist.
  796. 796.
    >The small servants passage is dark.
  797. 797.
    >Not an issue for you, but you would think it would be for him.
  798. 798.
    "Where are you child? I'm am quickly losing my temper."
  799. 799.
    >A voice echos from many directions.
  800. 800.
    >"Hunt me if you want. I won't make it easy."
  801. 801.
     
  802. 802.
    >Outside the Everfree Forest, you must be Rainbow Dash.
  803. 803.
    >Sort of expected this group to protest you joining along given your condition.
  804. 804.
    >You must have a real intense look of 'no isn't an answer' about you right now.
  805. 805.
    >What you didn't expect was to baby birded by Zephyr.
  806. 806.
    >"I read the calories on these things. Wow. Be careful how you load up like this."
  807. 807.
    "I know what I'm doing. I never stopped living the athlete life style."
  808. 808.
    >Zephry gulps as he looks in the woods.
  809. 809.
    >"I really want to go in and help, but I know I would get in the way. This place freaks me out. How did our son make this trip multiple times boggles my mind."
  810. 810.
    >Fluttershy puts a comforting hoof on her brother.
  811. 811.
    >"Don't worry. We'll get Anon back and you'll be the first one to know when we rescue him."
  812. 812.
    "Nightmare Moon is going to regret foalnapping Anon."
  813. 813.
    >That seething hiss from you is practically poison.
  814. 814.
    >Look into the saddlebag with your other backup weapon.
  815. 815.
    "This should help level the playing field."
  816. 816.
    >Twilight looks at the dark cloud seed.
  817. 817.
    >"Doesn't this make dangerous weather? In the Everfree it could be incredibly chaotic. Don't you need a special license to carry this?"
  818. 818.
    "Don't worry, it won't be our first choice, and of course I carry. Offensive weather is good home defense."
  819. 819.
    >Twilight gives you a wary stare.
  820. 820.
    >"We're not in your home."
  821. 821.
    "True, we're in the Everfree. Open carry is very legal, though the common consent is that you're looking for trouble when you decide to come in here."
  822. 822.
    >Applejack gruffs at that.
  823. 823.
    >"Most ponies don't come out in one piece even when they 'carry'. Ain't nothing but trouble."
  824. 824.
    >Fluttershy kicks the dirt softly.
  825. 825.
    >"So are you going to, well, you know."
  826. 826.
    >Roll you eyes.
  827. 827.
    "No. I'm not going to ask you to help use it. I'm a professional weather mare. You take care of any angry animals we find here."
  828. 828.
    >"Oh thank Celestia. Flying in a tornado is so scary."
  829. 829.
    >Rarity rolls her hoof to continue on that point.
  830. 830.
    >"Really, on that important note, do warn us when you decide to destroy the entire area. I really don't want to be thrown ten miles in any direction."
  831. 831.
    >Pinkie just nods.
  832. 832.
    >Or you think she is.
  833. 833.
    >"Just bouncing Dash."
  834. 834.
    >Thanks Pinkie.
  835. 835.
    >Right, time to track down Nightmare Moon.
  836. 836.
    ---
  837. 837.
    >Be Nightmare Moon, you had time to send out your shadow minions to slow down anypony that dares to come find you.
  838. 838.
    >Suspect that will be Celestia's student.
  839. 839.
    >Sort of regretting it now.
  840. 840.
    >Could use them to help you track down this colt.
  841. 841.
    >A stream of fire shoots over your head, twinging your mane.
  842. 842.
    >Good thing it's ethereal.
  843. 843.
    >Cast a bubble shield.
  844. 844.
    >The flames roll off the shield as you approach the infernal device.
  845. 845.
    >A click sound is heard as you step on a stone panel.
  846. 846.
    >Two new torches spring up from the walls parallel to you and torch the inside of your bubble.
  847. 847.
    >Spitting rage, you have to duck down.
  848. 848.
    >"On your knees you're highness?"
  849. 849.
    "These traps were not here before! Celestia made these to have harmless tricks and jokes."
  850. 850.
    >Somewhere his voice echoes.
  851. 851.
    >"Yeah. Imagine my surprise when your secret passageways had defense features. Honestly, pretty smart. Never know when an assassin could use your own secrets against you."
  852. 852.
    >Use magic to bend the torches until the nozzle breaks.
  853. 853.
    >"Could you imagine it? Celestia wants to protect her dear sister from her own whimsy. Must have been difficult work to accommodate both functions. Much good it did her. You still hate her despite her best efforts."
  854. 854.
    "I am not about to be psycho-analyzed by a child. Celestia wanted to play the role of god-queen, and she did. Now I'm here to supplant that reign."
  855. 855.
    >"Is this a might makes ri."
  856. 856.
    >Crack open a wall with a buck, and find him in an upper room.
  857. 857.
    >Yelping, he flips back into another secret passage.
  858. 858.
    >This is going to be impossible.
  859. 859.
    >He's too nimble, and your memory of this place is too dusty.
  860. 860.
    "I'd rather not have to tear down the foundations of this place just to catch you."
  861. 861.
    >"You give up? Wonderful news."
  862. 862.
    >No, we're done playing like foals.
  863. 863.
    >Step quietly without a clop into shadows.
  864. 864.
    >Don't move towards him, he seems to know.
  865. 865.
    >Close your eyes.
  866. 866.
    >Reach out with your dream magic to the solitary mind in this place.
  867. 867.
    >The dreamscape is a mess, but you'll clean it up when you have the time.
  868. 868.
     
  869. 869.
    >Be Anon, as you do.
  870. 870.
    >Nightmare Moon has stopped talking.
  871. 871.
    >Which is really bad as that was the main way you could keep track of her.
  872. 872.
    >Villains usually can't help but yak their head off.
  873. 873.
    >Carefully slink through the walls by flying.
  874. 874.
    >Same walls start to stretch farther, and shadows twist unnaturally.
  875. 875.
    >Crap, she's going Freddy Krueger on you.
  876. 876.
    >Not even sleeping rules.
  877. 877.
    >"Little colt. Little Anon."
  878. 878.
    >A sing songy voice huh.
  879. 879.
    >"Oh yes. My melody will put you to a deep slumber."
  880. 880.
    >And reads your mind, full of interesting tricks.
  881. 881.
    >Got you on my mind.
  882. 882.
    >"Is that the only thing? Why do you run yourself ragged through these empty halls?"
  883. 883.
    >Not much choice, you did kidnap me.
  884. 884.
    >Oddly enough, you think the room you're in has turned upside down.
  885. 885.
    >Funky.
  886. 886.
    >"Little colt, what else is on your mind? Do you think of your mother?"
  887. 887.
    >All the time.
  888. 888.
    >Opening the door leads you to a cloud room.
  889. 889.
    >Your room.
  890. 890.
    >With an eyeless version of you sitting on the bed.
  891. 891.
    >Yeah, not going in there.
  892. 892.
    >Watch as you close the door as you sit on the bed.
  893. 893.
    >Oh, you've switched places with the 'fake'.
  894. 894.
    >Kind of sums up how you feel.
  895. 895.
    >"Fake?"
  896. 896.
    >You have no idea lady.
  897. 897.
    >Shouldn't be here.
  898. 898.
    >Never was here.
  899. 899.
    >Wait, why are you spilling this to her?
  900. 900.
    >"The mind is a treasure box, just need to twist the key."
  901. 901.
    >You're not going to catch me this way.
  902. 902.
    >"I won't have to."
  903. 903.
    >Sit on your bed and look at the book you are now reading.
  904. 904.
    >Moving pictures of moments with Rainbow Dash.
  905. 905.
    >Is it gif or jifs?
  906. 906.
    >"What?"
  907. 907.
    >Sorry, never mind.
  908. 908.
    >Proceed perving on my mind.
  909. 909.
    >"Interesting, you don't think you're worthy of your mother's legacy."
  910. 910.
    >Worthy?
  911. 911.
    >You pretty much ruined her chance at making a legacy.
  912. 912.
    >World class athlete.
  913. 913.
    >Ruined because you were born.
  914. 914.
    >There's an entire life Rainbow Dash has.
  915. 915.
    >Then you came along.
  916. 916.
    >Never should have happened.
  917. 917.
    >"These are some dark thoughts young colt."
  918. 918.
    >You tried to be out of her life as much as possible.
  919. 919.
    >Let her try to recover any chance to regain what's lost.
  920. 920.
    >Suicide wasn't used because you're pretty sure that would devastate her to a degree she could never recover from.
  921. 921.
    >It was tempting though.
  922. 922.
    >"A-are you serious!?"
  923. 923.
    >Hey, you wanted to surf my brain.
  924. 924.
    >This stuff is unfiltered.
  925. 925.
    >"Colt, I have traveled many minds. This isn't normal."
  926. 926.
    >It is what it is.
  927. 927.
    >Still a chance that Dash died because she tried to rescue you.
  928. 928.
    >The ultimate millstone of your failure.
  929. 929.
    >All because you were born.
  930. 930.
    >You're quiet right now.
  931. 931.
    >"I have nothing else to say. For I've already found you."
  932. 932.
    >Look up at the imposing figure of Nightmare Moon.
  933. 933.
    "Well now. Aren't you impressive, but I know you haven't actually found me. You can't move and use that dream spell."
  934. 934.
    >Her jaws open wider than the room.
  935. 935.
    >So you take out a dream copy of Pinkie's cannon.
  936. 936.
    >---
  937. 937.
    >Be Nightmare Moon, really unhappy right now.
  938. 938.
    >Not only is a child giving you a run about.
  939. 939.
    >He's a suicidal mental mess.
  940. 940.
    >The worst combinations to deal with right now.
  941. 941.
    >Cut your losses?
  942. 942.
    >Find the Elements.
  943. 943.
     
  944. 944.
    >Be Rainbow Dash, this journey to the castle has been a real hassle.
  945. 945.
    >You've finished the protein energy drinks a while ago.
  946. 946.
    >Almost got brain freeze from that.
  947. 947.
    >Trying your best to not snap and take the violent option for everything the herd encounters.
  948. 948.
    >At least your surrounded by cooler minds.
  949. 949.
    "A chasm with a broken bridge huh."
  950. 950.
    >Applejack gives you small nudge.
  951. 951.
    >"Shouldn't be a problem."
  952. 952.
    "Given everything that has happened tonight, I'm sure something is waiting for me on the other side."
  953. 953.
    >Twilight nods warily.
  954. 954.
    >"Be quick. Watch out for ambushes."
  955. 955.
    >Without a word, your wings stretch wide and you jet across.
  956. 956.
    >The other side is quiet and misty.
  957. 957.
    >Quickly look to tie the rope to make this rickety bridge more stable.
  958. 958.
    >Something rustles behind you.
  959. 959.
    >"Mom?"
  960. 960.
    >Buck.
  961. 961.
    >Turn around, try to shore up any courage.
  962. 962.
    >Yup, that's Anon.
  963. 963.
    >Looks just like him.
  964. 964.
    "Squirt! What are you doing out here?"
  965. 965.
    >"I was able to get away mom."
  966. 966.
    >He runs up to you, only to get snatched by a pegasus.
  967. 967.
    >Flare up your wings again and go to intercept.
  968. 968.
    >Another stallion pegasus blocks your path, then blocks your punch.
  969. 969.
    >"Nu, uh, uh, none of that now."
  970. 970.
    >The mare and stallion are dressed in spookier uniforms of the Wonderbolts.
  971. 971.
    "I want my child back, what do you want?"
  972. 972.
    >Your growl doesn't even make them flinch.
  973. 973.
    >"A promise. Your word."
  974. 974.
    >The mare holding Anon answers.
  975. 975.
    >"Our queen wanted to ask your son a few questions, that is all."
  976. 976.
    >The stallion is still putting himself between you and the hostage situation.
  977. 977.
    >"We're willing to return your son. Unharmed, as you can see."
  978. 978.
    >"If you take your son, and go home."
  979. 979.
    >There's always a catch.
  980. 980.
    "Ok, I'll fix this bridge and I'll take him home."
  981. 981.
    >"No!"
  982. 982.
    >Both of them shout.
  983. 983.
    >Anon looks spooked.
  984. 984.
    >"We wish to be left alone. Your night will be more peaceful if you take your son, and go home. That's all we want."
  985. 985.
    >Look at Anon as he pleads silently to you.
  986. 986.
    >The mare holds on to him tightly.
  987. 987.
    >"Come on now, shouldn't be too hard of a decision for a mother. You wouldn't abandon your son?"
  988. 988.
    >"Mom please. It's been a long night. I want to go home."
  989. 989.
    >Shore up your strength.
  990. 990.
    >Then turn around.
  991. 991.
    >"What!?"
  992. 992.
    >"I have your son in a headlock! What is wrong with you?"
  993. 993.
    >"Mom! Wait!"
  994. 994.
    >Buck.
  995. 995.
    >It isn't fair.
  996. 996.
    "You all are real cunts pulling this stunt."
  997. 997.
    >They remain silent.
  998. 998.
    "My son doesn't call me mom."
  999. 999.
    >Go to start to tie the rope for the bridge.
  1000. 1000.
    >"I-I'm just scare mom! Dash, please. They're going to hurt me."
  1001. 1001.
    >Something inside you is screaming.
  1002. 1002.
    >So you let that fury flow.
  1003. 1003.
    "You bucking flyholes can go crawl back to your 'queen' and tell her I'm coming to kick her flank so hard it's going to look like the ugly side of the moon."
  1004. 1004.
    >They all flinch back, then scour.
  1005. 1005.
    >"Fine. We'll be waiting."
  1006. 1006.
    >Going your separate ways, the bridge is fixed.
  1007. 1007.
    >The girls shout out when they see you.
  1008. 1008.
    "Hey y'all."
  1009. 1009.
    >"Dash what happened?"
  1010. 1010.
    "Nothing. Just, a small thing."
  1011. 1011.
    >Fluttershy is already hugging you.
  1012. 1012.
    >"Did they?"
  1013. 1013.
    "Don't worry about it. I'm with you girls. Let's end this night."
  1014. 1014.
     
  1015. 1015.
    >What a terrible night to foalsit, 'tis a curse.
  1016. 1016.
    >Also be Nightmare Moon
  1017. 1017.
    >Breaking away from chasing down the colt.
  1018. 1018.
    >Need to find the Elements of Harmony before they're used against you.
  1019. 1019.
    >"So what's the plan here? Hide them away and hope you don't have to use them?"
  1020. 1020.
    >You think he's in the ceiling, or perhaps the floor below you.
  1021. 1021.
    "As long as I control them, then they won't be an issue to undermine me."
  1022. 1022.
    >"Of course, as long as nothing worse than you doesn't show up and murder you on your throne."
  1023. 1023.
    >He's taunting you, don't fall for it.
  1024. 1024.
    >"Like what's the plan when Discord rolls into town? It's going to happen. You changing the status quo is going to cause enough chaos to break him out."
  1025. 1025.
    >The room with the alter is empty.
  1026. 1026.
    >On the pedestal where the elements were is just stone spheres.
  1027. 1027.
    >Placeholders.
  1028. 1028.
    >They weren't in Canterlot, Celestia said she couldn't use them.
  1029. 1029.
    >"Then you got Sombra, or maybe Tirek. That's the threats you're familiar with."
  1030. 1030.
    "Maybe I'll execute them both."
  1031. 1031.
    >"Or you'll become Sombra's favorite mind slave, or Tirek's magic snack. Starswirl was also pretty bad at leaving a mess behind. What's the plan here?"
  1032. 1032.
    >With a glance, you see your minions creep around the windows.
  1033. 1033.
    >A subtle hint, you direct them to catch the child.
  1034. 1034.
    "I won't be passive like Celestia is. After all, she let me return. Foalish on all levels."
  1035. 1035.
    >"By upending the entire country. There are tyrants that would love to raid Equestria to make pony slaves. Which you won't be able to stop because you don't have an army that serves you. You're going to bring ruin."
  1036. 1036.
    >That does it.
  1037. 1037.
    >Charge your horn and whip it around the room.
  1038. 1038.
    >It cuts the room half and the entire castle shifts.
  1039. 1039.
    >Probably told everypony where you are now, but you don't care.
  1040. 1040.
    >That's when your shadowbolts strike.
  1041. 1041.
    >Anon is squirming in a narrow crawlspace, trying to move to a safer spot.
  1042. 1042.
    >He dodges a swoop from your minions, but it leaves him open.
  1043. 1043.
    >Grab him with your magic and jerk him to you.
  1044. 1044.
    "Self-righteous brat. What right do you have to judge me?"
  1045. 1045.
    >"Murdering my mom for one."
  1046. 1046.
    >A shadowbolt lands next to you.
  1047. 1047.
    >"The colt's mother is alive."
  1048. 1048.
    "Well then. For all your bravado, you're still a colt with an inflated ego. Your mother made her decision. Self-deprecation is it's own elevated sense of self. Much like my sister, you think the world revolves around you."
  1049. 1049.
    >Anon struggles in your magic.
  1050. 1050.
    >"So why did you kidnap me again? Oh right, because you wanted me to satisfy your ego."
  1051. 1051.
    "I am the Mare of Night! The moon and stars drap the skies under my authority. I don't need a foal to elevate me."
  1052. 1052.
    >Your ears twitch, and can hear the ponies approaching.
  1053. 1053.
    "Well, it's time to make good use of you."
  1054. 1054.
    >Anon gulps loudly.
  1055. 1055.
    "The darkness you hold inside you will make a perfect obstacle for these ponies. I grant you my power, just a small amount."
  1056. 1056.
    >Six ponies enter just in time to witness your power.
  1057. 1057.
    >Power flows out, then something grabs you.
  1058. 1058.
    >Something in the colt pulls in your darkness.
  1059. 1059.
    >"Power. Perfect."
  1060. 1060.
     
  1061. 1061.
    >Be Twilight Sparkle, and horrified.
  1062. 1062.
    >After all the crazy nonsense that has happened tonight, this tops it all.
  1063. 1063.
    >Nightmare Moon was standing over Anon Dash doing a weird magic spell.
  1064. 1064.
    >Then she screamed.
  1065. 1065.
    >What was once a simple flow of magic turned into a surge.
  1066. 1066.
    >You all can see Nightmare Moon (or is it Luna) wilt, her power stolen.
  1067. 1067.
    >Losing her colors and size.
  1068. 1068.
    >Anon on the other hoof, something terrifying is making the hair on your coat stand on end.
  1069. 1069.
    >"Power! For too long I've waited. I'll take this from you little Luna, it's far too much for you to handle."
  1070. 1070.
    >What was once a little colt was an inky blot of darkness pulsating in the room.
  1071. 1071.
    >The shadowbolts that were trying to help their mistress escape melt into slag.
  1072. 1072.
    >Nightmare Moon is screeching, crying for any kind of help.
  1073. 1073.
    >Then wicked glue like wings erupt from the pulsating ooze.
  1074. 1074.
    >Followed by a horn.
  1075. 1075.
    >A mockery of pony form molds itself from the dark magic.
  1076. 1076.
    >Black bolts strike out at an alter, evaporating the platform.
  1077. 1077.
    >"Excellent! No more Elements of Harmony. With this, I can avoid my downfall."
  1078. 1078.
    >It laughs, then looks straight at you.
  1079. 1079.
    >"Twilight Sparkle. Time to take care of you!"
  1080. 1080.
    >Twitch reaction is just enough to pull up a shield around you and the girls.
  1081. 1081.
    >Beastly blows start to pound on it, cracking your shield.
  1082. 1082.
    "What do we do!? What do we do!?"
  1083. 1083.
    >A beam of light slices through the tendrils.
  1084. 1084.
    >Like an answer to prayer, Princess Celestia descends from up high.
  1085. 1085.
    >Her eyes look at Nightmare Moon with panic.
  1086. 1086.
    >"Luna! What is this!?"
  1087. 1087.
    >Slamming down in front of you and the girls, Celestia takes a fighting stance.
  1088. 1088.
    >"Twilight, what has happened? The spell that was sealing me was broken, but this is beyond what I expected."
  1089. 1089.
    "I'm not sure Princess Celestia. A colt named Anon just sucked Nightmare Moon's magic and turned into that."
  1090. 1090.
    >Slamming a hoof down, the beast cackles.
  1091. 1091.
    >"Hello Celestia. It's been a while. Though you may not remember me. I am The Pony of Shadows. Now if I'm not mistaken, our dear Luna has just returned from the Moon. It's been a while since you talked with your sister, why don't you--"
  1092. 1092.
    >Luna goes catatonic, still standing up.
  1093. 1093.
    >"--catch up."
  1094. 1094.
    >Like strings on a puppet, Luna attacks the shield, breaking it.
  1095. 1095.
    >Celestia yells out to you before Luna tackles her.
  1096. 1096.
    >"Move Twilight!"
  1097. 1097.
    "Girls! We need space to figure out what we can do."
  1098. 1098.
    >Look over to Dash, who is just dumbstruck.
  1099. 1099.
    >"My boy. What about my boy?"
  1100. 1100.
    >Tendrils slam into her, and pin her to the wall.
  1101. 1101.
    >Oh buck.
  1102. 1102.
    >Ducking one tendril meant for you, you start to gallop behind a pillar.
  1103. 1103.
    "Applejack, can you pull her down?"
  1104. 1104.
    >"I gosh darn try."
  1105. 1105.
    >Dash struggles against her bonds.
  1106. 1106.
    >All the while she's yelling.
  1107. 1107.
    >"Anon! Wake up! Anon!"
  1108. 1108.
    >---
  1109. 1109.
    "Where the hell am I?"
  1110. 1110.
    >Be Anon, in a black void.
  1111. 1111.
    >Pretty edgy, not going to lie.
  1112. 1112.
    >"Where you belong, Anon."
  1113. 1113.
    "Well that's a start. Who are you?"
  1114. 1114.
    >Don't see anything, but might as well scream into the void.
  1115. 1115.
    >"Am I really that unremarkable that you don't remember me?"
  1116. 1116.
    >"The Pony of Shadows?"
  1117. 1117.
    “Aw, fuck.”
  1118. 1118.
     
  1119. 1119.
    >Be Anon, and hello darkness you are not my friend.
  1120. 1120.
    >Completely lost the plot on this one.
  1121. 1121.
    "Wait, wait, wait, Stygian!? What are you doing here?"
  1122. 1122.
    >A voice echoes all around you.
  1123. 1123.
    >Don't see the source yet.
  1124. 1124.
    >"Not Stygian, he's still in limbo. That will be changing soon, and you're my meal ticket."
  1125. 1125.
    >Well that's one question.
  1126. 1126.
    >Take careful steps into the void, trying to determine what to do.
  1127. 1127.
    "Care to explain that a little more? You're not suppose to show up until Twilight goofs and brings you into Equestria."
  1128. 1128.
    >A face almost forms.
  1129. 1129.
    >Then it is followed by a wall of fleshy faces.
  1130. 1130.
    >Kind of reminds you of Doom.
  1131. 1131.
    >"I made you!"
  1132. 1132.
    >...
  1133. 1133.
    >You must be giving him the most deadpan of faces, cause a few of the faces start to look away.
  1134. 1134.
    "Dude, you might be a monster, but you're a monster in the shape of a pony. You are all terrible at lying. Always give it away."
  1135. 1135.
    >Hissing with anger, the void turns red.
  1136. 1136.
    >"Always the clever one. Find then, here's a reality check then.
  1137. 1137.
    >An illusion vision of you appears, human you.
  1138. 1138.
    >"Do you think that you can just go to Equestria for free? Surprise idiot, there are no free rides."
  1139. 1139.
    >Watch passively as human you is ripped to pieces by shadowy claws.
  1140. 1140.
    >Meh, you've watched worse.
  1141. 1141.
    >"I brought you here, and implanted inside you a tiny seed just so I can make it across the limbo barrier."
  1142. 1142.
    "Otherwise you'd die right? You need a host."
  1143. 1143.
    >The redness dissipates back into the black void.
  1144. 1144.
    >"Not die. Like I said, I was just a small piece. The main Pony of Shadows is just fine."
  1145. 1145.
    "Just confined forever until Twilight."
  1146. 1146.
    >"Oh the things I learned when I found you. The entire history of Equestria, not just the show you consumed everything about it."
  1147. 1147.
    >Damn, did being a fan doom Equestria?
  1148. 1148.
    >"It did."
  1149. 1149.
    "Stop reading my thoughts. It's rude. Also if it wasn't me, it would have been anyone else. How did you manage to get Rainbow Dash as my mother?"
  1150. 1150.
    >It's quiet.
  1151. 1151.
    >No laughing, the faces have vanished.
  1152. 1152.
    >Then a whisper in your ear.
  1153. 1153.
    >"You care about her greatly."
  1154. 1154.
    "I care about everypony. I want what's best for them."
  1155. 1155.
    >"Even if it leads to what comes next? Generation 5 was it?"
  1156. 1156.
    "Man I don't know about you, but why aren't you have an existential crisis that you were made to sell plastic crap for a toy company."
  1157. 1157.
    >Tendrils slap you down.
  1158. 1158.
    >A growl is heard and shadowy tendrils wrap around your neck.
  1159. 1159.
    >Oh God you've seen enou--.
  1160. 1160.
    >"No more jokes."
  1161. 1161.
    >Another slam into the ground.
  1162. 1162.
    >"This laissez faire attitude doesn't change the fact that I'm going to make sure your worse nightmare is going to happen."
  1163. 1163.
    >See a vision outside where the others are.
  1164. 1164.
    >They're struggling hard.
  1165. 1165.
    >This is a late season villain and they're all still on episode 2.
  1166. 1166.
    >"Rainbow Dash is too slow, Twilight isn't smart enough, nothing to say about the others."
  1167. 1167.
    >Dash is struggling in a death grip.
  1168. 1168.
    >Can't help but feel tears threatening to unleash.
  1169. 1169.
    >"I have Nightmare Moon's power, and now I'm just as powerful as my main body. I will use you as an instrument of destruction. You can't stop this."
  1170. 1170.
    "No."
  1171. 1171.
    >Force yourself up.
  1172. 1172.
    >Dash didn't raise a quitter.
  1173. 1173.
    >"What can you possibly do? I own you!"
  1174. 1174.
    "You forget an important detail."
  1175. 1175.
    >Force whatever is holding you to tighten around your barrel.
  1176. 1176.
    >Take another step, almost got it to break.
  1177. 1177.
    "A willing host. You need a willing host, and I sure as fuck ain't willing."
  1178. 1178.
    >Remember Dash, as she's raising you.
  1179. 1179.
    >Trying to walk for the first time.
  1180. 1180.
    >"Come on Anon, you got this!"
  1181. 1181.
    >Running with her for the first time.
  1182. 1182.
    >"Doing great there champ!"
  1183. 1183.
    >Flying.
  1184. 1184.
    >Flying for the first time!
  1185. 1185.
    >"Anon! You're doing it! I'm so proud of you!"
  1186. 1186.
    >Your wings rip free from the bonds.
  1187. 1187.
    >There are screams from that idiot.
  1188. 1188.
    >Proclaiming that this shouldn't be possible.
  1189. 1189.
    >Just like mom, you don't give up.
  1190. 1190.
    >Jump straight into the projection.
  1191. 1191.
     
  1192. 1192.
    >Be Rainbow Dash, and you're about to slip free from the grasp of this creature.
  1193. 1193.
    >Princess Celestia is doing her best to ward off (Sister!? Really!?) Nightmare Moon.
  1194. 1194.
    >The rest of the girls are doing their best to avoid getting slammed and help you escape.
  1195. 1195.
    >Your mind is going through a million possible scenarios right now.
  1196. 1196.
    >Majority of them see you failing to save Anon.
  1197. 1197.
    >Again.
  1198. 1198.
    >Why aren't you strong enough?
  1199. 1199.
    >In an instant, the beast recoils and lets you go.
  1200. 1200.
    >Bleating like a wounded creature, it grabs at its own chest.
  1201. 1201.
    >Landing safely next to Applejack, you all watch in confusion.
  1202. 1202.
    >Then elation.
  1203. 1203.
    >Bright hope illuminates you as you watch as your own son rips his way out of the chest.
  1204. 1204.
    >"Get off me!"
  1205. 1205.
    >Without even thinking, you leap into action.
  1206. 1206.
    >Grabbing Applejack's rope around your barrel you fly straight at your struggling son.
  1207. 1207.
    >The rest of the mares grab the other end of the rope ready to pull.
  1208. 1208.
    "I got you Anon!"
  1209. 1209.
    >"Don't touch this thing, it will suck you in!"
  1210. 1210.
    >Buck, this thing is wiggly and everywhere.
  1211. 1211.
    >Grab his hoof and try to pull.
  1212. 1212.
    >Feel the rope tighten.
  1213. 1213.
    >Anon growls as he tries to lurch forward.
  1214. 1214.
    >The wind shifts on your feathers.
  1215. 1215.
    >Jump back quickly as spiky claws swing down on you.
  1216. 1216.
    >Anon is looking around until he looks up.
  1217. 1217.
    >"Up there! My saddle bag! In the destroyed crawlspace. Get it!"
  1218. 1218.
    >With a disgusting goo sound, the monster is pulling your son back in.
  1219. 1219.
    >"Hurry!"
  1220. 1220.
    >Throw the rope to his hoof so the girls can pull on him.
  1221. 1221.
    >Dodging princess laser beams, you slam the broken roof rubble to find the crawlspace he was talking about.
  1222. 1222.
    >Saddlebags!
  1223. 1223.
    >Quickly open it to find lots of random stuff.
  1224. 1224.
    >What catches your eye are large fruits.
  1225. 1225.
    >They glow harmoniously.
  1226. 1226.
    >Gives you a sense of peace.
  1227. 1227.
    >On it is a note.
  1228. 1228.
    >'Use as last resource. Don't know what Tree of Harmony Fruit does.'
  1229. 1229.
    "Well now is the time for random food. Here it goes."
  1230. 1230.
    >Take out the last of your workout shakes.
  1231. 1231.
    >The good one.
  1232. 1232.
    >Stuff the glowing fruit into your shake and quickly mix it together.
  1233. 1233.
    >"Dashie! Dodge!"
  1234. 1234.
    >Pinkie yells out quickly, so you drop like a rock.
  1235. 1235.
    >A magic lancing beam rips overhead.
  1236. 1236.
    >While you fall you drink what might as well be called a potion.
  1237. 1237.
    >Huge gulps from a drink you're normally supposed to portion out for extreme training.
  1238. 1238.
    >It tastes gross.
  1239. 1239.
    >Land just in time to see the Pony of Shadows cut the rope and slurp your son back in.
  1240. 1240.
    >Anon's eyes are wide, but he doesn't stop struggling.
  1241. 1241.
    >He's looking at you.
  1242. 1242.
    >Hoping you can save him.
  1243. 1243.
    >A pit forms inside you, no butterflies, no balloons.
  1244. 1244.
    >What in the sky is happening to you?
  1245. 1245.
    >Heart slows.
  1246. 1246.
    >Magic, you feel magic.
  1247. 1247.
    >Like when you process raw rainbows.
  1248. 1248.
    >Feel strong.
  1249. 1249.
    >Gritting teeth, you glare at the monster.
  1250. 1250.
    >Then dash.
  1251. 1251.
    >Rubble flies as you close the expanse in an instant.
  1252. 1252.
    >No yelp.
  1253. 1253.
    >No scream.
  1254. 1254.
    >You punch him right in the diaphragm area.
  1255. 1255.
    >Its back crumples back.
  1256. 1256.
    >Anon is puked out of his chest.
  1257. 1257.
    >With him safe, you uppercut.
  1258. 1258.
    >A shock-wave is felt, and with speed like a rocket, the Pony of Shadows is launched.
  1259. 1259.
     
  1260. 1260.
    >On that fateful night in Ponyville, most of the citizens would say they saw a bright star rising in the darkness over the Everfree.
  1261. 1261.
    >Blazing rainbow colors that streaked life across the desolate skies.
  1262. 1262.
    >Then all the pegasi freaked out when the storm of the century billow to life.
  1263. 1263.
    >They swore it was the end of the world.
  1264. 1264.
    >Be Rainbow Dash.
  1265. 1265.
    >Following the Pony of Shadows as he goes flying straight up.
  1266. 1266.
    >When he finally regains his wits he is furious.
  1267. 1267.
    >"You hit me!? You hit me! That shouldn't be possible!"
  1268. 1268.
    >Holding your weapon in your hoof, you can't help but smirk evilly.
  1269. 1269.
    "Freak, you're about to be a world of pain."
  1270. 1270.
    >"Rainbow Dash."
  1271. 1271.
    >His voice was poison.
  1272. 1272.
    >"I will rip the wings off your back."
  1273. 1273.
    >Pop the cork and throw the bottle up.
  1274. 1274.
    >The dark cloud seed drifts out then springs to life.
  1275. 1275.
    >Drawing in on the weather magic in the area, the seed sucked in the chaotic nature of the worst aspects of the Everfree.
  1276. 1276.
    >Lightning screaming light as bright as the sun, roaring winds, hail ready to blister the world.
  1277. 1277.
    >The monster lunges for you, caring little for light weather.
  1278. 1278.
    >With little effort, you take a ride through a wind tunnel.
  1279. 1279.
    >Zooming past his attack, you feel the rain on your wings.
  1280. 1280.
    >Twisting around, you drop the pH levels to levels that would drive the safety weather inspector to a tizzy.
  1281. 1281.
    "Drink that in."
  1282. 1282.
    >Pony of Shadow whips around to attack you again.
  1283. 1283.
    >Water sizzles on his membranes.
  1284. 1284.
    >Growling in pain, he forms a shield spell around himself.
  1285. 1285.
    >No problem, freeze the water around his shield and encase him in ice.
  1286. 1286.
    "Won't be able to see through that."
  1287. 1287.
    >The magic shield ripples before iron dark spikes break out.
  1288. 1288.
    >Prep your next trick.
  1289. 1289.
    >"You surround yourself in dark clouds I can be anywhere."
  1290. 1290.
    >A lancing spear appears behind you.
  1291. 1291.
    >"Fool!"
  1292. 1292.
    >He laughs maniacally as he strikes you.
  1293. 1293.
    >Which sputters out quickly as the illusion vanishes.
  1294. 1294.
    >Looking up at you, and you, and you.
  1295. 1295.
    "What's wrong? Seeing double?"
  1296. 1296.
    >Using refraction and fine mists, you have after-effects dancing around him.
  1297. 1297.
    >Magic blasts from his horn as he tries to hit one.
  1298. 1298.
    >"Delaying the inevitable."
  1299. 1299.
    >Sleet falls, hail crashes, icicles stab.
  1300. 1300.
    >Throwing everything at him.
  1301. 1301.
    >Pieces of him start breaking off, but it isn't fast enough.
  1302. 1302.
    >Lightning is getting more violent.
  1303. 1303.
    >The wind tunnels are tornadoes now.
  1304. 1304.
    >"How!? How are you doing this? You're slow now! Weaker!"
  1305. 1305.
    >A cyclone whirls around him now, and you sit on stop of it looking down at him.
  1306. 1306.
    "I'm a weather mare."
  1307. 1307.
    >He roars at you.
  1308. 1308.
    >You're going to do it this time.
  1309. 1309.
    >Stretch your wings up, you gather positive electrostatic charge.
  1310. 1310.
    >"I'll take anything you'll throw at me. I'll take it all!"
  1311. 1311.
    >Fly down, straight at him.
  1312. 1312.
    >Wind is pushing you this time.
  1313. 1313.
    >Gravity is working with you.
  1314. 1314.
    >But the old burn from earlier hasn't quite healed.
  1315. 1315.
    >Tendrils ripple from his body, then rip out like arrows.
  1316. 1316.
    >Dodge through the assault, still gaining speed.
  1317. 1317.
    >The air starts to cone.
  1318. 1318.
    >Is your body still broken?
  1319. 1319.
     
  1320. 1320.
    >You can't give up, not on this.
  1321. 1321.
    >This monster is going to destroy everything you hold dear.
  1322. 1322.
    >You know he's going to hurt Anon.
  1323. 1323.
    >Air is now crushing your body again.
  1324. 1324.
    >The angle is intense.
  1325. 1325.
    >Eyes water.
  1326. 1326.
    >Searing pain is felt.
  1327. 1327.
    >One of his arrows just sliced across your side.
  1328. 1328.
    >Don't have time to bleed.
  1329. 1329.
    >"You're too slow! This time, you'll fall. Your son won't save you this time."
  1330. 1330.
    >Time slows as the area between him and you fills with shadows threatening to consume you.
  1331. 1331.
    >Lies is were he thrives though.
  1332. 1332.
    >He came from Anon, fed him his doubts.
  1333. 1333.
    >Probably was whispering in his ear to kill himself..
  1334. 1334.
    >But bullies like him always want to appear bigger.
  1335. 1335.
    >Evil sorcerers from the moon, shadow monstrosities from time long ago.
  1336. 1336.
    >Just need to show them, no pony has time for their nonsense.
  1337. 1337.
    >Scream fury to pull through.
  1338. 1338.
    >Sound is lost.
  1339. 1339.
    >Ripples upon your flesh smooth out.
  1340. 1340.
    >You don't break.
  1341. 1341.
    >He does.
  1342. 1342.
    >An explosion erupts from you, and you don't bounce.
  1343. 1343.
    >A rainbow shock wave shatters the storm.
  1344. 1344.
    >Cyclone, rain, hurricane winds, all blown away.
  1345. 1345.
    >The Pony of Shadows is ripped to pieces, but still holds.
  1346. 1346.
    >Too much light for you huh?
  1347. 1347.
    >Speed is your state of being.
  1348. 1348.
    >Turn around mid flight and bring your wings up.
  1349. 1349.
    >Hooves out, then tuck in.
  1350. 1350.
    >Curve your wings towards the sky.
  1351. 1351.
    >Sparks tickle the feathers.
  1352. 1352.
    >Hair on your coat stands on end.
  1353. 1353.
    >Then you bring your wing tips together.
  1354. 1354.
    "Take this! Sonic Lightning Boom!
  1355. 1355.
    >Light overwhelms your sense.
  1356. 1356.
    >Heat boils like the sun.
  1357. 1357.
    >Sound breaks like a volcano
  1358. 1358.
    >A column of energy bigger than the cyclone you created crackles across the sky.
  1359. 1359.
    >It's like the day is once again reborn from this dark night.
  1360. 1360.
    >Red, orange, yellow, green, cyan, blue, and violet pound into the villain.
  1361. 1361.
    >There is no scream.
  1362. 1362.
    >He can't.
  1363. 1363.
    >It's too much for him.
  1364. 1364.
    >All his vicious features is stripped from him.
  1365. 1365.
    >Horn, wings, vanish under the onslaught of energy.
  1366. 1366.
    >He's held aloft by the power of what you just unleashed on him.
  1367. 1367.
    >Only for a moment.
  1368. 1368.
    >The aftershock hits you.
  1369. 1369.
    >A gut punch to you sends you flying down.
  1370. 1370.
    >Towards the castle again.
  1371. 1371.
    >Wings sizzle from your attack.
  1372. 1372.
    >A darkness covers you.
  1373. 1373.
    >With a yelp, you dodge out of the way of the falling mass.
  1374. 1374.
    >Stunned, dazed, twitching like he’s having a seizure.
  1375. 1375.
    >The Pony of Shadows falls.
  1376. 1376.
    >And you along with it.
  1377. 1377.
     
  1378. 1378.
    >Be Anon, Dash went full on Goku on Pony of Shadows.
  1379. 1379.
    >Just launched him into the atmosphere.
  1380. 1380.
    >Damn, that's nuts.
  1381. 1381.
    >Coughing up black gunk.
  1382. 1382.
    >Gross.
  1383. 1383.
    >Yellow wings wrap you up tightly.
  1384. 1384.
    >The world lurches as Fluttershy dives with you in tow.
  1385. 1385.
    >"Anon! I got you."
  1386. 1386.
    >Pushed against Fluttershy's chest, your nose tickles from her soft coat.
  1387. 1387.
    >Magic lasers are screaming around you two.
  1388. 1388.
    >Come to a short stop, you find yourself squeezed tight to her.
  1389. 1389.
    >She's breathing hard and fast.
  1390. 1390.
    >Won't let you go.
  1391. 1391.
    >Tap on her barrel.
  1392. 1392.
    >"Oh sorry!"
  1393. 1393.
    >Deposited onto the ground, everything spins.
  1394. 1394.
    >Vomit up more black goo.
  1395. 1395.
    "Didn't, bleh, want, gak, to throw up on you. Gross."
  1396. 1396.
    >Fluttershy pats your back.
  1397. 1397.
    >Look around to find the other girls huddling behind the broken alter of the Elements of Harmony.
  1398. 1398.
    >"Good work sugarcube. Saved your nephew."
  1399. 1399.
    >"Quite brave darling."
  1400. 1400.
    >Twilight Sparkle is looking at the destroyed materials.
  1401. 1401.
    >"I don't know what we can do now."
  1402. 1402.
    >Pinkie Pie is trying to shove broken pieces together.
  1403. 1403.
    >"Hey Twilight, we only have five here."
  1404. 1404.
    >You look up, there's a massive storm over the hole forest.
  1405. 1405.
    >If Dash is up there, they won't be able to use the Elements of Harmony.
  1406. 1406.
    >"Anon."
  1407. 1407.
    >Twilight speaks directly to you.
  1408. 1408.
    >"You've been studying this place. Do you know anything?"
  1409. 1409.
    >They're all looking at you.
  1410. 1410.
    >Hope in their eyes for any kind of answer.
  1411. 1411.
    >As you all huddle from the princesses fighting each other, and Dash summoning the storm of the century above.
  1412. 1412.
    >There's no point.
  1413. 1413.
    >History has already changed.
  1414. 1414.
    >But don't give too much away.
  1415. 1415.
    "They're characteristics that match positive traits that made Equestria. It was founded on the principles. Loyalty, kindness, generosity, honesty, laughter."
  1416. 1416.
    >Twilight nods in agreement as you lay it out.
  1417. 1417.
    >"They are all tied together, but there must be an element that binds those together."
  1418. 1418.
    >She looks at all of you, and you really hope Rainbow Dash shows up soon.
  1419. 1419.
    >"Not physical artifacts, but bonds that bring us all together. We wouldn't have gotten this far without it. Friendship is..."
  1420. 1420.
    >Everypony is looking at her with smiles.
  1421. 1421.
    >You're trying to not cry.
  1422. 1422.
    >"Magic."
  1423. 1423.
    >That damn twinkle in her eye.
  1424. 1424.
    >Makes grown men weep.
  1425. 1425.
    >Eureka, she's found it.
  1426. 1426.
    >A blast of holy light erupts from her.
  1427. 1427.
    >The tiara crowned upon her head.
  1428. 1428.
    >Once shattered stones glow and transform into the amulets.
  1429. 1429.
    >All the girls get theirs.
  1430. 1430.
    >Where's Dash?
  1431. 1431.
    >Look down at your chest.
  1432. 1432.
    >Oh no.
  1433. 1433.
    >The Element of Loyalty is adorned upon you.
  1434. 1434.
    >What have you done!?
  1435. 1435.
    "I-I don't deserve this! My mom after everything she's done tonight should be wearing this."
  1436. 1436.
    >Twilight aloft with bright light just smiles.
  1437. 1437.
    >"That's what makes it beautiful. You hold her spirit as well. That spirit of Loyalty."
  1438. 1438.
    >You're not bawling, you're not bawling.
  1439. 1439.
    >A slam is heard behind you all.
  1440. 1440.
    >The Pony of Shadows, tiny and frail, crashes into the ground.
  1441. 1441.
    >Dash pounces on him upon high.
  1442. 1442.
    >Then starts to wail upon him like an ugly stick saying hello again.
  1443. 1443.
     
  1444. 1444.
    >"Stop! Hitting me! Oh no. You didn't! You fool what have you done!?"
  1445. 1445.
    >The Pony of Shadows is staring straight at you.
  1446. 1446.
    >Dash, Celestia, and Nightmare Moon look up to see the successful summoning of the Elements of Harmony.
  1447. 1447.
    >Celestia is beaming with pride for her student.
  1448. 1448.
    >Nightmare Moon shrinks, knowing what's about to happen.
  1449. 1449.
    >Rainbow Dash, your mom, cries tears of pride.
  1450. 1450.
    >Gives you the wing 'thumbs up'.
  1451. 1451.
    >---
  1452. 1452.
    >Be Twilight Sparkle, this moment is one you'll forever cherish in your heart.
  1453. 1453.
    >All of your efforts with these mares have brought you to this moment.
  1454. 1454.
    >Anon might not be as close as they are, but those bonds are still there.
  1455. 1455.
    >He did a lot of work too.
  1456. 1456.
    >Kind of like you.
  1457. 1457.
    >The Element of Magic tells you how strong your bonds are.
  1458. 1458.
    >Fresh and full of life, all the mares are strong with you.
  1459. 1459.
    >New yes, and has a lot of room to grow.
  1460. 1460.
    >These bonds formed are small, but will be worth a lifetime.
  1461. 1461.
    >They're small threads to Anon.
  1462. 1462.
    >Something catches your magic.
  1463. 1463.
    >While your bond with Anon is small, his is different.
  1464. 1464.
    >The other mares don't notice, but you stare intently at Anon.
  1465. 1465.
    >His is strong, with all of you.
  1466. 1466.
    >Decades old!
  1467. 1467.
    >Loved and cherished.
  1468. 1468.
    >Like he's spent a lifetime with you.
  1469. 1469.
    >All of you.
  1470. 1470.
    >This mystery; it's a beautiful thing.
  1471. 1471.
    >Forever in your heart, you'll hide his secret and cherish it.
  1472. 1472.
    >The Pony of Shadows screams as he latches onto Nightmare Moon.
  1473. 1473.
    >Slinking like a stain on the floor he envelops his puppet.
  1474. 1474.
    >"Curse you all. You'll never find Luna, I won't be blasted by those Elements."
  1475. 1475.
    >A quick teleport, and they appear outside then take off straight up into the sky.
  1476. 1476.
    >Probably hoping the darkness will hide them.
  1477. 1477.
    >Unleash the power of friendship, and it goes straight after them.
  1478. 1478.
    >Slow from previous battles wearing them down, the friendship magic catches up to them.
  1479. 1479.
    >You can hear them both scream in panic.
  1480. 1480.
    >As the sun rises, purity finds them.
  1481. 1481.
    >Then you senses dim as you black out.
  1482. 1482.
     
  1483. 1483.
    >Be Anon, somehow you scrapped by worse case scenario through bullshit and spite.
  1484. 1484.
    >Scratch that, you didn't do it.
  1485. 1485.
    >Laughable idea that you had any control over the situation.
  1486. 1486.
    >Waking up with a sizable headache, you're in the clutches of Rainbow Dash.
  1487. 1487.
    "Let me sleep in."
  1488. 1488.
    >"Any other time squirt I'd let'cha. Wouldn't want to miss the celebration right?"
  1489. 1489.
    >Clear your vision.
  1490. 1490.
    >Sure enough you were the last one to wake up.
  1491. 1491.
    >Dash is carrying you as you all are being carried back to Ponyville on chariots.
  1492. 1492.
    >Seems Celestia called in some rides for you all.
  1493. 1493.
    "Guess I was really tired. How do you feel? That was really wild what you did."
  1494. 1494.
    >Look over her as she gently puts you down.
  1495. 1495.
    >Her wings are worn, feathers tattered, hooves have cracks.
  1496. 1496.
    >"Your old mom still got some fight in her."
  1497. 1497.
    "Old!? You're in your 20s."
  1498. 1498.
    >"Yeah well maybe you put some grey hairs on my mane. Make me age 30 years with what you've been putting me through."
  1499. 1499.
    >Touch her shoulder gently, and she grimaces.
  1500. 1500.
    "Sorry."
  1501. 1501.
    >"Going to need to call in sick for work. They're going to be ticked with all the work I just left them for the mess I made."
  1502. 1502.
    "That's what happens when you decide to be a hero. What was that rainbow colored lightning bolt!? Never seen anything like it."
  1503. 1503.
    >She blushes at your praise.
  1504. 1504.
    >"Only the best attack your mom pulled. When I--"
  1505. 1505.
    >She has a faraway look.
  1506. 1506.
    >"When I lost you. I tried really hard to save you and."
  1507. 1507.
    >Wait a moment to let her catch her thoughts.
  1508. 1508.
    >"I failed. I failed to save you."
  1509. 1509.
    >Memories flood of that moment.
  1510. 1510.
    >She kneels down next to you, then just leans on you.
  1511. 1511.
    >"So your mom did something real stupid, broke the number one rule of a weather mare."
  1512. 1512.
    >Don't use the weather for selfish reasons.
  1513. 1513.
    "What you did saved everyone."
  1514. 1514.
    >Dash wants to say more.
  1515. 1515.
    >Honestly never knew she could pull something like that off.
  1516. 1516.
    >Canon Dash never did.
  1517. 1517.
    >Could she had?
  1518. 1518.
    "You did a Sonic Rainboom."
  1519. 1519.
    >She smiles at that.
  1520. 1520.
    >"Sure did. Followed it up with the Sonic Lightning Boom. Really gave that jerk a real light show."
  1521. 1521.
    "Going to make some real fans back home. That fan club that filly has of you is going to explode."
  1522. 1522.
    >Rainbow Dash looks over to you, slightly frowning.
  1523. 1523.
    >"What about you? Can mom be your hero?"
  1524. 1524.
    "You always were."
  1525. 1525.
    >Barking out a laugh, Dash clutches her barrel.
  1526. 1526.
    >"Ow, hurts to laugh. Really? What about your, you know, thoughts. Was all that the monster hitching a ride inside you?"
  1527. 1527.
    >How do you even approach that?
  1528. 1528.
    >Do you know?
  1529. 1529.
    >You're not even totally sure if the Pony of Shadows was just toying with you.
  1530. 1530.
    "I don't know."
  1531. 1531.
    >"I thought I lost you for good."
  1532. 1532.
    >Mom leans her head on top of yours.
  1533. 1533.
    >She's closing her eyes and breathing slowly.
  1534. 1534.
    >Breath out a little to mix your breath with hers.
  1535. 1535.
    >Strange horse behavior, but it makes them happy.
  1536. 1536.
    "I got out because of you."
  1537. 1537.
    >Dash doesn't say anything.
  1538. 1538.
    "When I was trapped in there, and that monster was taunting me. I remembered you. Everything you've done for me mom. So I didn't give up."
  1539. 1539.
    >A wing drapes over you and pulls you closer.
  1540. 1540.
     
  1541. 1541.
    >"Citizens of Ponyville, bring this news to all of Equestria. A day of celebration is at hoof!"
  1542. 1542.
    >Standing all in a line down town of Ponyville, the mares as you are in a middle of the royal proclamation.
  1543. 1543.
    >Anon wanted to wiggle his way out of this, but Celestia wasn't having none of it.
  1544. 1544.
    >"Your dear princess, and my beloved sister, Princess Luna has been returned to us thanks to the efforts of these amazing ponies. I can't express my gratitude enough."
  1545. 1545.
    >Lean a little to the left and give Fluttershy, your sis from another mother, a wing hug.
  1546. 1546.
    "Thanks. For everything."
  1547. 1547.
    >Her trembling from all the attention pauses.
  1548. 1548.
    >She looks to you and then down to Anon who is distracted by all the partying.
  1549. 1549.
    >"Never have to say thank you. You're both dear to me."
  1550. 1550.
    "Oh I will always say it."
  1551. 1551.
    >"I see a few special ponies waving at us."
  1552. 1552.
    "Special? Who could you possibly be talking about? Oh."
  1553. 1553.
    >Really should have seen this coming.
  1554. 1554.
    >Zephry showing up is one thing, it just means the rest of the family was going to show up too.
  1555. 1555.
    >There are your parents, waving flags with your mug on it.
  1556. 1556.
    >Told them to ditch that.
  1557. 1557.
    >Fluttershy's folks are right next to them.
  1558. 1558.
    >Thankfully much more subdued.
  1559. 1559.
    >"Go Dash! Go Anon!"
  1560. 1560.
    >Come on, this was a team effort.
  1561. 1561.
    >"Dear Ponies, I am heartened by the jubilation you all have for my return and renewal. The efforts of these incredible ponies are to be remembered for all of Equestria's reign."
  1562. 1562.
    >Princess Luna sounds and looks way different now.
  1563. 1563.
    >Guess that's what happens when you get blasted like that.
  1564. 1564.
    >Not missing a tooth anymore is a bonus.
  1565. 1565.
    >Don't want to be remembered for that.
  1566. 1566.
    >Nightmare Moon's tooth is going on the trophy case though.
  1567. 1567.
    >"For particular recognition, this young colt."
  1568. 1568.
    >Your boy goes rigid when the spotlight is on him.
  1569. 1569.
    >"Facing darkness head on while showing such bravery is worthy of knighthood. Maybe a squire until he is of age."
  1570. 1570.
    >Celestia leans down to Luna and whispers something.
  1571. 1571.
    >Luna jerks back with shock.
  1572. 1572.
    >"No knights anymore? What a loss."
  1573. 1573.
    >Can't help but nudge the boy.
  1574. 1574.
    "Sir Anon, how's that sound?"
  1575. 1575.
    >He grimaces.
  1576. 1576.
    >"Oh what? Ponyville's Primary School?
  1577. 1577.
    "We can work shop that idea."
  1578. 1578.
    >Confetti floats down everywhere as ponies cheer on.
  1579. 1579.
    >The rest of the mares are elated from the adoration.
  1580. 1580.
    >Even with your folks going overboard you're also loving it.
  1581. 1581.
    >Except for Twilight, she seems more contemplative.
  1582. 1582.
    >Anon is looking at her, just waiting.
  1583. 1583.
    >"Princess, I'm going to miss them. These friends I have made. It would be sad to leave them all behind."
  1584. 1584.
    >Princess Celestia looks down at her student with a soft smile.
  1585. 1585.
    >"Here's my proclamation for you, my faithful student. Your studies will now include the magic of friendship, and you will do so here in Ponyville with your new friends. I expect you to report your findings to me as you learn and discover more."
  1586. 1586.
    >Anon's face twists in confusion for a moment and mutters quietly.
  1587. 1587.
    >"Not the same phrase. Whatever. Can't pull my hair over every little thing now."
  1588. 1588.
     
  1589. 1589.
    >"There's our girls! Anon! My Grandson! National heroes!"
  1590. 1590.
    >Mom is screaming her head off like it's a Wonderbolt's game.
  1591. 1591.
    >Dad has risen her up above his head, despite them both being, you know, pegasi.
  1592. 1592.
    "Well, there's our biggest fans. Fluttershy, you ready?"
  1593. 1593.
    >"I'm thinking I should go back home and check if the chicken coop is safe and quiet."
  1594. 1594.
    "Got room in there for the three of us?"
  1595. 1595.
    >Head hangs low.
  1596. 1596.
    >"No."
  1597. 1597.
    >Anon sighs as he trots on ahead.
  1598. 1598.
    >Well if the boy can show some fortitude so can you two.
  1599. 1599.
    >Grunting in pain, you follow behind, and you think Fluttershy is also there.
  1600. 1600.
    >Out of all the ponies to swoop in to see how you're doing, you didn't expect him to win.
  1601. 1601.
    >"Dash! My boy! Oh thank the skies your both ok."
  1602. 1602.
    >Zephry zipped his in front, which isn't hard to do with his own parents.
  1603. 1603.
    >Butting his way past your folks is another matter.
  1604. 1604.
    >He's already picking up Anon and hugging him.
  1605. 1605.
    >"Hey come on. Let me see grand-moms and grand-dads too."
  1606. 1606.
    "Morning mom, dad, Posey, Breeze. Thanks for making the trip down here."
  1607. 1607.
    >Posey nods, you can barely hear her over the crowd.
  1608. 1608.
    >"Anything for you both. Just didn't expect, well any of this."
  1609. 1609.
    >You can't hear Fluttershy's dad at all.
  1610. 1610.
    >Somehow Fluttershy is able to hear him and they start talking.
  1611. 1611.
    >Anon is getting his head rubbed by dad.
  1612. 1612.
    >"Why's everyone here?"
  1613. 1613.
    >Mom is quick to interject.
  1614. 1614.
    >"For the Summer Sun Celebration, of course! We all thought it would be a perfect time for the whole family to get together for this event."
  1615. 1615.
    >Dad leans in with the biggest grin.
  1616. 1616.
    >"And what a celebration this is going to turn out. Foalnappings, Princesses, and your mom pulling off the most amazing stunt. Really gets the positive juices flowing."
  1617. 1617.
    >Don't lay into it that hard dad.
  1618. 1618.
    >You give him the look of 'calm down' really quick before Anon can notice.
  1619. 1619.
    >He noticed.
  1620. 1620.
    >Anon is looking between him, mom, and you.
  1621. 1621.
    >"Sure."
  1622. 1622.
    >Oh he's thinking, the brain gears are turning.
  1623. 1623.
    >Zephry is smiling wide as he looks straight at him, and remembers when he first arrived.
  1624. 1624.
    >"Ah, I see."
  1625. 1625.
    >Welp, that canary is out of the cage.
  1626. 1626.
    "Hey, this is a big celebration. Let's enjoy the hospitality of Ponyville."
  1627. 1627.
    >"Excuse me."
  1628. 1628.
    >You all look up at a day guard.
  1629. 1629.
    >He's looking down at you and Anon.
  1630. 1630.
    >"This is for you."
  1631. 1631.
    >Hoofing over a letter with a royal seal.
  1632. 1632.
    >"It doesn't have to be today, given how the situation is. Please prepare appropriately."
  1633. 1633.
    >He salutes and walks off.
  1634. 1634.
    >Oh mare.
  1635. 1635.
    >Open it up.
  1636. 1636.
    "It's a summons. For Anon and me."
  1637. 1637.
    >The family tilt their head in confusion.
  1638. 1638.
    >Anon doesn't, he just shrinks down.
  1639. 1639.
    >"Oh I'm in so much trouble."
  1640. 1640.
    >Yes, getting possessed by an ancient shadow demon would be a cause for concern.
  1641. 1641.
    >I'm sure Princess Celestia would like to know more.
  1642. 1642.
    >At least it isn't today.
  1643. 1643.
     
  1644. 1644.
    >Be Anon, son of Dash, son of Hothoof, son of...
  1645. 1645.
    >Well that would be getting into head-cannon territory and we don't want that do we?
  1646. 1646.
    >Being interviewed for the local paper.
  1647. 1647.
    >The school one.
  1648. 1648.
    >Featherweight is taking way too make pictures.
  1649. 1649.
    >A background foal you don't remember is asking you questions.
  1650. 1650.
    >Must have been before Diamond Tiara's takeover.
  1651. 1651.
    >The other school horses are talking over him with their own questions.
  1652. 1652.
    >"Anon Dash, what were you thinking when Nightmare Moon kidnapped you."
  1653. 1653.
    >Don't say anything as another foal cuts him off.
  1654. 1654.
    >"Hey! Hey, is it true you've been going into the Everfree Forest?"
  1655. 1655.
    >Shrug as another prod with poked at you.
  1656. 1656.
    >"So you've been going behind your mom's back?"
  1657. 1657.
    >Open an eye at that question.
  1658. 1658.
    >Oh, it's Scootaloo.
  1659. 1659.
    >"Shove it, blank flank. No one cares about your obsession with his mom. Hey, how is it you're still a blank flank after literally using the Elements of Harmony? That's like the most qualifying thing to earn one."
  1660. 1660.
    >Diamond Tiara flank bumps Scoots out of the way.
  1661. 1661.
    >Silver Spoon is slinking up behind you.
  1662. 1662.
    >Great, a double team.
  1663. 1663.
    >The other foals nod emphatically at that question.
  1664. 1664.
    "Listen, saving the world isn't related to cutie marks. Look at the adult mares. One of them is a baker."
  1665. 1665.
    >Silver Spoon blows into your ear, making it twitch.
  1666. 1666.
    >"I bet you have a real important cutie mark coming."
  1667. 1667.
    >Don't really want to play this game.
  1668. 1668.
    "Please, this is a one time thing. Literally my 15 minutes in the spotlight. Tomorrow everything is back to normal. There is no way I'm going to do anything like this again."
  1669. 1669.
    >Buck, you're fooling yourself.
  1670. 1670.
    >You should know better.
  1671. 1671.
    >"How about a Sonic Rainboom? "
  1672. 1672.
    >Scootaloo tries to flutter over the herd to gain a little height.
  1673. 1673.
    "That's how my mom got hers. Would rather do my own thing."
  1674. 1674.
    >"Scootaloo, stop asking questions about his mom! You can read her interview in the adult's paper."
  1675. 1675.
    >"It's about him too! He's hiding stuff still. Got to go on an adventure of a lifetime and he's downplaying it. Don't let him wiggle his way out of this."
  1676. 1676.
    >Diamond Tiara just glares at Scoots.
  1677. 1677.
    >Ah, that's the mare on mare look of 'I'm trying to do something here'.
  1678. 1678.
    >"You know what. Maybe he does prefer to spend his time in more productive means."
  1679. 1679.
    >Leans real close to you.
  1680. 1680.
    >Backing up isn't an option, Silver Spoon is right behind you.
  1681. 1681.
    >"How about a 1 on 1 interview?"
  1682. 1682.
    >The protest of the actual colt reporter is drowned out.
  1683. 1683.
    "I'm afraid somepony has already beaten you to that."
  1684. 1684.
    >Twinge of annoyance crosses her face.
  1685. 1685.
    >Answer her question before she asks.
  1686. 1686.
    "Princess Celestia has got her eye on me and wants to pick my brain."
  1687. 1687.
    >The rest of the classmates go into an uproar of new questions.
  1688. 1688.
    >Drowning out any attempts by Diamond and Silver to manipulate you.
  1689. 1689.
    >Not sure what their goal is, but you're not planning on getting played.
  1690. 1690.
    >Unless it is just as simple as get famous coltfriend for clout.
  1691. 1691.
    >Too much on your plate to deal with that.
  1692. 1692.
    >Scootaloo kicks dirt in frustration and leaves.

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