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My Little Persona: Bonds of Flame Part 1 (11/11/2018)

By DisgruntledAnon
Created: 2020-12-24 23:46:34
Expiry: Never
sunset shimmersafecyoapersonamlp:slam

  1. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Dcwt7LMIOc
  2.  
  3. >Maretropolis, ???
  4.  
  5. >The city is in shambles, with several skyscrapers already toppled from the fightings and fallen glass strewn across the street.
  6. >Citizens who haven't fled in time hide behind rubble and ruined cars, beholding the terror before them.
  7. >"Ugyaaaah!"
  8. >Filli-Second flies back, crashing into the prone Saddle Rager and going limp.
  9. >Beyond the two fallen, Hum Drum is holding a heavily injured Radiance, crying out her name.
  10. >Mistress Mare-velous and Zapp lie unconscious against the nearby buildings, their tools shattered and useless.
  11. >"Filli! You bastard, I won't forgive you for hurting my friends!"
  12. >While the fires of defiance still burned in the Masked Matter-Horn's eyes, it takes all her concentration to keep her own body upright.
  13. >On the other hand, her opponent laughs at her empty threat and looks at the ancient, obsidian scepter in his hoof, his reflection smiling back.
  14. >"Oh, you Power Ponies have been a thorn at my side for FAR too long, foiling plan after plan to reclaim my lost empire. But now, with the Scepter of Ahtu, all of Maretropolis, neigh, the WORLD shall worship the almighty Pharaoh Phetlock!"
  15. >Matter-Horn grits her teeth and focuses on her horn, trying desperately to fire something, anything from her horn.
  16. >"Come on, body, move! This isn't the time to fail on me!"
  17. >"I have certainly enjoyed the fun you lot have given me, but now it is time to wipe the slate clean and begin my eternal rule!"
  18. >Phetlock aims his Scepter at the helpless heroine, who looks back to her fallen comrades before closing her eyes in anticipation.
  19.  
  20. "Hold it right there!"
  21. >My voice pierces the sky, causing the Pharaoh to flinch in surprise momentarily, then turn around to glare at me.
  22. >"Who dares?! Wait..."
  23. >It takes him a moment to truly notice who I am, as his eyes widen in terror.
  24. >"I-it can't be! You're...!"
  25. >"Masked Rider!"
  26. >The Masked Matter-Horn looks up in relief as I jump down to the battlefield, the flames around the city reflecting against my battlesuit.
  27. "Pharaoh Phetlock, your reign of terror ends here! No amount of power can keep you safe from my fires of Justice!"
  28. >Somehow this shakes my opponent out of his stupor, his smug smile returning as he laughs maniacally.
  29. >"Hahaha! If you think you can stop me now, with the power of the Scepter of Ahtu in my hooves, you're sorely mistaken, Masked Rider. Have at you!"
  30. >I ready myself for battle as Matter-Horn readies herself behind me.
  31. >"Thank you, Masked Rider, but I can't just stand here while you save us. I believe I can pool together enough magic to patch you up or energize your power, if you need to. We're depending on you!"
  32. "I appreciate it, now let's kick this Pharaoh to next century!"
  33. >Pharaoh versus Rider, for the fate of the world!
  34.  
  35. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzV1MoTg_9Y
  36.  
  37. "The fire in my heart's burning bright! It demands retribution for the crimes you have caused, Pharaoh."
  38. >My right hoof begins to burn a blazing orange, the fire radiating out like a miniature sun.
  39. "Take this, my Burning Justice!"
  40. >I slam my hoof into the ground, a ring of fire circling around him before erupting in a violent pillar!
  41. >"Gyaah!"
  42. >The flames consume some of the jewelry around his body, singing the fur below it.
  43. >After hurriedly patting out the fire, Phetlock aims the Scepter of Ahtu at me, a purple light emanating from it.
  44. >"You dare hurt the future ruler of the world?! You shall pay for this insolence with your life!"
  45. >A black tendril sprouts out from the light with amazing speed, thrusting like a spear!
  46. >I try my best to dodge, but the tentacle glances my side, sending me spinning from the momentum!
  47. >"Ha! This is only right, is it not? The strong standing tall above the weak, groveling in the dirt!"
  48. >"Masker Rider!"
  49. >Before the hero behind me could lend a hoof, I stand of my own accord, giving a nod behind me.
  50. "I'm alright, Matter-Horn, the blow wasn't nearly as bad as it could have been."
  51. >I turn back to the Pharaoh and ready my fighting stance.
  52. "And you're wrong, Phetlock: the right to rule is for those who care and walk with their subordinates, not laugh above them!"
  53. >Still, that blow hurt quite a bit.
  54. >I should find a way to catch Phetlock off guard and quickly claim victory.
  55.  
  56. >Masked Rider: 51% Health, 60% Magic Reserve
  57.  
  58. >I turn to Matter-Horn,who's still struggling to keep herself together.
  59. >This next strike needs to end this, and I think I have the perfect plan.
  60. "Matter-Horn, I need you to heal my wounds with your magicks. Just for insurance in case this doesn't work.
  61. >Nodding, the masked mare shoots a soft, green beam at me, closing the wounds opened by the previous attack.
  62. >Fully recovered, I charge at Phetlock, unflinching in my resolve.
  63. >"Have you lost your cool already, Masked Rider? No matter, This will be an excellent way to herald my new world!"
  64. >He readies the scepter, a dry wind drifting from it and permeating the area.
  65. >Even my helmet cannot keep the arid feel out of it.
  66. >"Now die!"
  67. >A torrent of bone-slicing sand rushes from the scepter, surrounding me like an earthen tomb.
  68.  
  69. >All according to plan.
  70. >Grinning under my mask, I stomp the ground before leaping into the air!
  71. "Toh!"
  72. >My timing pays off, as the hole in the sand is quickly shut tight behind me, Phetlock cackling at my apparent demise.
  73. >Three claws emerge from each of my boots, forming iron talons that catch themselves in a nearby building surface.
  74. >The Pharaoh disperses the sand, revealing nothing underneath .
  75. >Before he can understand his situation, I leap at him from the wall, one of my talons aimed squarely for his Scepter of Ahtu.
  76. >"What?!"
  77. "There's no escape! Phoenix Kiiiiiiiick!"
  78. >My kick slices through the scepter, the eldritch energies from it leaking from the remains before fading into non-existence.
  79. >The momentum also slams into the Pharaoh, sending him reeling across the street and into a nearby lamppost, putting the villain out of commission!
  80. >"N-no... My... empire..."
  81.  
  82. >"You did it, Masked Rider! The city, neigh, the entire world is safe now because of you. You're truly an amazing hero!"
  83. >It's a good thing Matter-Horn cannot see under my helmet, as my face burns with embarrassment before holding out a hoof to shake.
  84. "It's nothing, Masked Matter-Horn. We must all do our part to ensure no pony's ambitions crush the hearts and minds of our fellow ponies."
  85. >With that, I leap off to the nearest tower and look over the horizon to the sun, rising over a new day.
  86. >A new day where Justice must do its part to protect the weak.
  87. >A new day for Masked Rider.
  88.  
  89. >Celestia's Castle, Sunday, October 26th, Morning
  90.  
  91. >"Sunset... Sunset, wake up. we're gonna miss breakfast if you sleep any longer."
  92. "Mmm... huh?"
  93. >My eyes flutter open to the sight of a tall, green human poking the side of my cheek, his soft voice catching in my ear.
  94. >"there's the late bird. how are you feeling, Sunset?"
  95. >Yawning, I stretch my muscles and hop off the bed Hanged Man and I were sharing, noticing most of the covers huddled around where I laid.
  96. "I'm alright, Hanged Man, a bit tired, though."
  97. >Grabbing the upside -down mask he always wears, my betrothed combs my mane while I look at the nearby mirror.
  98. >Man, what a day to get a bad case of bed mane, as I wince a little from a snag.
  99. >"sorry, I'll try to be gentler."
  100. "Mm. You're getting better at this, love."
  101. >The combing continues, nearly putting me to sleep again, when Hanged Man stops, placing the comb on the dresser and hugging me from behind.
  102. "What's wrong?"
  103. >"... was it a nightmare again?"
  104.  
  105. >The question catches me off guard, thoughts from earlier coming back up.
  106. >Ever since Dream Magus emerged from wherever he came from, I've been having nightmares occasionally.
  107. >Well, they're more like memories I never experienced: things that feel real, but clearly never happened.
  108. >Anonymous and I getting on the train by ourselves.
  109. >An emergency back in Ponyville that he had to go back to alone.
  110. >A meeting with Celestia that went down a more.. fatal road.
  111. >I've been having nightmares of my "death" from Celestia's Shadow, something that clearly didn't happen to me.
  112. >But ever since I learned from that alternate Shizuka and Celestia about the universe they came from, I think the memories of that world are bleeding into my dreams.
  113. >It definitely doesn't help that, when I asked the others about that incident, they told me that I only avoided that fate due to extreme micromanaging.
  114.  
  115. >Still, I shake my head, smiling at Hanged Man's concerned face.
  116. "Not tonight: surprisingly it was a pleasant dream, for once. I think that Power Ponies binge we had last night might've spiked my... imagination.
  117. >"I see."
  118. >I can tell he's not satisfied by my answer, so I turn around and nuzzle his cheek.
  119. "It's fine, love, I'm a strong mare: I can handle a nightmare or two. I'll ask Dream Magus about the nightmares, as planned, and hopefully we'll get this settled.
  120. >He nods, as we finally get out of the room and make our way down to the dining hall.
  121. ."Ah, looks like the lovebirds are finally awake. Good morning, Sunset, Hanged Man."
  122. >I turn to see Dream Magus trudging down the hall behind us, his eyes drooping slightly with each step.
  123. "Oh, Dream Magus, I didn't expect to see you here. You look pretty dead this morning."
  124. >"Yeah, Mother's been working quite hard in preparation for Nightmare Night, so I decided to help her out with some of her dream watching."
  125.  
  126. >I nod in understanding before turning back to Hanged Man.
  127. "Could you go ahead and get some breakfast and spots for us, HM? I think now's a good a time as any."
  128. >"right. don't take too long, cold eggs taste like crap."
  129. >He hurries off while I turn back to Dream Magus, appearing more awake now from curiosity.
  130. >"What'd you need to talk about, Sunset?"
  131. >I explain to him about the nightmares, the world the alternate ponies came from, and how I thought they were connected.
  132. >He scratches his chin, eyes narrowed in contemplation.
  133. >"That is certainly an odd scenario, since most worlds are nigh impossible to connect, even during Nightmare Night. But perhaps my...outburst from last year, it's entirely possible that traces of that alternate reality have bled into this one."
  134. >Magus motions to keep moving, and I keep the pace, letting him continue.
  135. >"If I had to take a gander at your current episodes, perhaps the blurring of dreams is making the connection to that world more prevalent. I wouldn't worry too much about it, though, I'll let Mother know about it so she can help sever that connection."
  136. "Thanks, Dream Magus, I appreciate the help."
  137. >"Oh, it's not even a problem. Besides, you've more than paid for it."
  138.  
  139. >I stop dead in my tracks, a cold feeling in my gut.
  140. "Wait...don't tell me you-"
  141. >"I recall you calling that fire move 'Burning Justice' before, but 'Phoenix Kick'? That's a good one."
  142. "I- But- You...!"
  143. >My feeling of dread quickly turns to embarrassed anger as the alicorn whistles away.
  144. >"You better hurry, Masked Rider, I heard cold eggs taste like crap."
  145. "You... You fucking jerk!"
  146. >I chase after that prick, the anger and imminent pummeling taking my mind off the nightmares.
  147.  
  148. >Breakfast was mostly uneventful, since most of the guys went to movie night at the castle by themselves.
  149. >I think I saw some of them catch Dream Magus's smug mess of a face, but they wisely avoided questioning.
  150. >Spike had a bag of ice to help with some of the bruising, and I wonder if I might have done him in a bit too rough.
  151. >Nah, he knew what he was doing.
  152. "Well, it's been fun to hang out with you guys again, but I need to get back to my apartment for classes tomorrow."
  153. >"Yeah, and most of us probably need to get back to work in Ponyville again."
  154. >A handful of the Arcana and I make our way to the station, Dream Magus following behind with a chuckle.
  155. >"Well, it was nice for you guys to come by again. Now we just need to get through the week without incident, and we can party hard again!"
  156. >The guys focus their gaze on the one with the skull mask, who shrugs in response.
  157. >"Eh, I promise nothing."
  158.  
  159. >Our train arrives shortly afterwards and we all get on, waving back to a quickly shrinking Dream Magus in the distance.
  160. >Hanged Man and I share a seat while the others are more separated, jabbing and laughing with each other.
  161. >As I look out through the window, I can't help but think I'm blessed to be in this world, with a love like mine, and a bright future ahead of me.
  162. >I feel like we can make it through anything we set our minds to.
  163. >The gentle rumble of the train, along with the tranquil scenery make my eyes heavier as I drift off to sleep.
  164. "A few minutes of rest won't hurt..."
  165.  
  166. >???, ???
  167.  
  168. >Piano music drifts through the air, stirring me from my slumber as a female voice joins in the melody.
  169. >This doesn't look like the train I was in; it was more like a blue library, if it was caught in a warzone.
  170. >Torn books litter the floor as a giant crater sits in the middle of the room, like a bizarre set piece.
  171. >"Ah, it looks like we have a new guest."
  172. >The voice catches me off guard, turning to find a tan alicorn wearing a blue vest and cap looking dead into my eyes.
  173. >"As my master is currently away on other business, allow me to welcome you to the Velvet Room. My name is Theodore, and I am delighted to make your acquaintance."
  174. >My voice seems to catch in my throat, my mind befuddled by this strange new location.
  175. >"This realm exists between dream and reality, mind and matter. It is a room where we assist those tied with destiny."
  176. >His ephemeral yellow eyes seem to shine with interest as he continues.
  177. >"And quite a destiny awaits you, for shadowy figures behind the scenes are moving pieces in place to tear the boundary between dreams, and usher in a future of disaster."
  178.  
  179. >"But worry not, for I shall assist you, to the best of my ability, to ensure this will not happen. All you need to to is sign this contract."
  180. >A parchment and pen are levitated towards me, the writing slowly forming between the ledgers.
  181. >"It is not anything terrible: simply that you accept all consequences of your actions. Quite an acceptable deal, if I do say so, myself."
  182. >I look at the finished contract, pen in hoof:
  183.  
  184. I, __________, chooseth this fate of mine own free will.
  185.  
  186. >I sign my name on the line, as the contract and pen vanish.
  187. >"It is done, then: you are now a guest of this Velvet Room, though it has certainly seen better days. I shall do my best to prepare this room for you when next we speak. Hold on to this."
  188. >A tiny key is placed in my hoof before gently fading into light.
  189. >"Unfortunately, the key to this room has long left the physical world, but this will allow you to visit while you slumber. And now we must part ways. Until we meet again, dear guest."
  190.  
  191. >Ponyville, Sunday, October 26th, Afternoon
  192.  
  193. >A sharp pain cracks into my head as I awaken, the window not taking kindly to my sudden burst.
  194. >"are you alright, Sunset?"
  195. "I'm fine, Hanged Man, must've woke up too fast."
  196. >I chuckle the issue away as we make our way to Twilight's castle, and the mirror to my other home.
  197. >"Bacon!"
  198. >Oh god, not him.
  199. >Anything but him.
  200. >I quietly ignore the voice and continue towards the castle, increasing the speed of my walking.
  201. >"Bacon, wait!"
  202. >It takes all my focus to not break into a full blown run as the voice gets closer.
  203.  
  204. >"BACON!"
  205. >"oh, it's Hermit."
  206. >Damn it, I was so close to getting home scot-free.
  207. >Defeated, I turn around to see the hunched over Arcana, catching his breath from his chase.
  208. >"Thank god I was able to catch up with you. I almost didn't make it."
  209. "That would've been a shame."
  210. >My sarcasm falls on deaf ears as he pulls out a pouch from his pocket.
  211. >"Anyways, I heard there's a new album from that band I like over there. So here."
  212. >He drops the heavy bag next to me, opening it slightly to reveal countless gems.
  213.  
  214. "Absolutely not."
  215. >"Oh, come on."
  216. "You do realize gems are far more rare on the other side, right?"
  217. >Hermit laughs as he flexes an arm.
  218. >"I know, folks here have so many to pay for work that I'm practically swimming in 'em."
  219. "I'm not breaking another world's economy in order to pay for your otherworldly musical tastes."
  220. >He huffs and challenges my glare, trying my patience far more before I groan in defeat.
  221. "Ugh, fine, I'll take one decent ruby back with me. But no flooding the market with jewels: I don't need the police knocking my door down."
  222. >"It ain't my fault the other side doesn't take bits."
  223. >I take one of the rubies and continue on towards the castle, a headache starting to form from the stress.
  224.  
  225. >Thankfully, the rest of the trip is uneventful, as I make my way to the portal with no other interruptions.
  226. "Don't worry, love, I'll be back in time for the Nightmare Night party."
  227. >"I know, just be careful during those... Fall Olympics?"
  228. "Friendship Games, and I will."
  229. >The two of us share a kiss before I make my way through the portal, to the other side.
  230.  
  231. >Canterlot High School, Sunday, October 26th, Afternoon
  232.  
  233. >It feels weird to be back into this human form again, but I stretch my limbs and make my way to the local pawn shop.
  234. >Flim seems to be the only one in, currently, listlessly fingering through a magazine before he hears the bell at the door go off.
  235. >"Wwwwelcome to Flim & Flam's Amazing Deal Emporium! How may I entreat the little heiress today?"
  236. >I nod along with a smile as I recall that little fib.
  237. >Turns out being a nobody in a city's pretty bad with no money, and I only had a handful of gems I swiped before I fled into the mirror.
  238. >Thankfully, it seems the brothers care not for where goods come from, as much as the authenticity of the materials, so I fabricated a story of being the heir to a family fortune.
  239. "Not much, Flim, just got another gem to appraise."
  240. >The salesman droops momentarily before regaining his composure, walking back to the counter.
  241. >"That's fine, Miss Shimmer, you're always a good customer to us, so we'll see what we can get you for that ruby."
  242.  
  243. >The gem gets me a nice slab of dollars, as well as the record Hermit was requesting, so I make my way out of the store.
  244. >Suddenly, the phone in my jacket pocket starts going off, and I check to find a text from this world's Rainbow.
  245. >EMERGENCY MEET @ SCHOOL
  246. >I place the record in my backpack as I book it towards the school.
  247. >It seems I'm not the only one to get the text, as I notice the other girls huddled at the entrance, along with Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo.
  248. "I got your text, Rainbow Dash! Did something come through the portal? Is Equestrian magic on the loose?"
  249. >"Has a giant cake monster covered all the cakes in the world in cake?!"
  250. >Pinkie pops in, chomping on a slice of cake as Rainbow chuckles and scratches the back of her head.
  251. >"Um, not exactly."
  252. >My confused reaction prompts Applejack to speak up.
  253. >"Well, Sunset, I was just tellin' Rainbow Dash here that a broken guitar string doesn't really qualify as an emergency."
  254. >"It totally does!"
  255. >Rarity rolls her eyes while Fluttershy cradles a sleepy Angel Bunny, slowly rocking the tired animal in her arms.
  256. "Why would you send all of us an emergency text for a guitar string?"
  257.  
  258. >"Well, I was going to pony up and show our fans some awesome guitar licks, but I kinda need all six strings to do it. Got any extra?"
  259. >Rainbow asks with a sheepish tone as I dig through my bag for some spares I always keep around.
  260. "Here. But everyone finished practicing for the day. I'm pretty sure all the music rooms are locked."
  261. Rainbow Dash grins confidently as she strums a chord with the new string.
  262. >"No problem. The acoustics in the hallway are perfect for power chords. C'mon! Let's go!"
  263. >The others follow our lead guitarist in, while Applejack stops at the door before turning around.
  264. >"You comin', Sunset?"
  265. "I'll catch up in a bit."
  266. >I give a smile and Applejack continues inside, leaving me to mess with the journal Twilight and I still use from time to time.
  267. "Dear Twilight, things seem quiet on this end of the mirror, but I'll make sure to let you know of anything major. It seems like forever since we discovered the power of Persona and defeated Sombra and Nyarlathotep. Still, even with this quiet, I can't help but feel like something is brewing in the distance, like the calm before the storm."
  268.  
  269. >As I think about what to say, a public transit stops by the school, and a weird looking figure steps out of it.
  270. >I can't really tell what gender they are, since they're wearing a nondescript grey hoodie, sunglasses, and jeans that cover them mostly.
  271. >What I do see is that they seems to be carrying around something that looks like a metal detector, and that they seems to be very interested in the statue with the mirror.
  272. >I should find out what they're doing here, especially since humans would probably freak out if they fell into the other side.
  273. >I think about calling out to them, but if they're particularly skittish, they might run if I startle them.
  274. >Perhaps I should quietly approach and let my presence be known at a calmer tone.
  275. >The headache from before returns, adding to the stress as I figure out what to do.
  276.  
  277. >My head spikes with pain for a moment, before I decide to sneak up on this stranger.
  278. >Worst case scenario, I can always say I was leaving or something.
  279. >Slowly, quietly, I sneak up on the person fiddling with their device, and notice their hand reaching towards the mirror.
  280. >Well, if I'm going to say something, now is the time.
  281. "Hey, are you alright?"
  282. >The stranger jolts in surprise before turning around, revealing herself to be a girl, now that I have a closer look.
  283. >"Oh! Uh... I'm fine! How are you today?"
  284. >I can practically smell the pasta wafting from the poor kid's pockets, so I do my best to make her less nervous, smiling in response.
  285. "I'm doing fine, just finished up some work at school and heading home. Are you from around here? I don't think I've seen you at Canterlot High before."
  286. >Thankfully, that seems to lower her guard a bit, letting her relax her flight response.
  287. >"I'm, uh, actually from a school further into Crystal City. Crystal Prep Academy, if you've heard of it before."
  288. >I wrack my brain, but for the most part I only recall folks mumbling about another sister school nearby.
  289. "I've heard about it in passing, myself. Say,"
  290.  
  291. >I motion to the metal detector in one of her hands.
  292. "Seems a bit odd to wander around with a metal detector on school grounds. Are you working on a project of some kind?"
  293. >At first, it looks like she might bolt from that question, but instead she shows me the screen of the device.
  294. >"It's actually an electromagnetic detector, repurposed from an older model of metal detector Crystal Prep was giving away."
  295. >Giving an impressed whistle, I take a closer look at the multitude of different screens and readings.
  296. >This girl might dress like a weirdo, but her skill in tech is apparent.
  297. "This is pretty good, it even has a gauge for gamma rays. But why bring such a high-tech thing here? Canterlot High seems like a strange place for electromagnetic observations."
  298.  
  299. >For the first time since I met her, the girl's eyes light up as she ruffles through her pockets to show me a picture of multiple graph readings crossing each other.
  300. >"You see, I've been trying to get together a hypothesis for the string of major electromagnetic spikes in the past year and a half. Last Fall and Spring, my scans around the city went crazy around this area."
  301. >Immediately I recall the Battle of the Bands... as well as the Fall Formal.
  302. >Equestrian Magic isn't exactly electromagnetism, but perhaps scanners wouldn't be able to tell the difference?
  303.  
  304. >"Since you're going to this school, have you noticed anything odd occur in the past year and a half?"
  305. >It'd probably be best to not tell this stranger, no matter how nice they are, about literal magic in a a magickless world.
  306. "I can't say that I have, but I can help keep an eye out for you."
  307. >"Oh, that would be excellent! If you do find something, just come by the school and look for me. An associate would certainly look good on the thesis paper."
  308. >I nod stiffly as we continue to talk about things like physics, magnetism, and other topics.
  309. >Clearly this girl's quite intelligent.
  310. "I don't think I've ever met a high-schooler with your amount of knowledge. You sound like you could be in college."
  311. >"I wouldn't say that, but thanks. My grandpa was this amazing thinker that taught me to always learn as much as I can."
  312.  
  313. >Before I can comment, the local clock tower tolls the next hour.
  314. >"Oh my, the time's gone faster than I thought. Thanks for the conversation, ma'am!"
  315. >And with that, the strange girl runs off, striking me as someone I should know.
  316. >Still...
  317. "'Ma'am?'"
  318. >I look back at the mirror, my form far more appropriate for my age than it was a few months back.
  319. >It seems the glamour hiding my age is starting to wear off; might want to have Twilight help reapply it soon.
  320. >Popping my ear towards the school only results in silence.
  321. >Looks like the others left, so I should get going.
  322.  
  323. >Lug's Nuts & Bolts, Sunday, October 26th, Night
  324.  
  325. "I'm home!"
  326. >Opening the door to the shop, a rugged, old man stepping out of the back with several oil stains and the smell of gasoline on him.
  327. >"You're later than I expected."
  328. >I gently place my bag on the bottom stair, taking off my shoes outside of the work zone.
  329. "I ran into someone, and I think we managed to kick it off well."
  330. >Lug grunts in response, putting his working equipment up and walking over to me, his tan hand outstretched towards me.
  331. >"Rent's gone up, so you know. Business's been slower lately,"
  332. "Right, here you go, then."
  333. >I fish in my wallet and hand my landlord next month's rent, my budget slightly lighter now.
  334. >After counting the bills, the mechanic nods and glares at me while I put on my work uniform.
  335.  
  336. "What?"
  337. >"You look like crap tonight. Go to bed."
  338. >Lug Nut takes my hat and puts it back on the rack while I confusedly take off the equipment.
  339. "What about working on my bike?"
  340. >"I'll do some work on it tonight. Consider it payment for the rent rising."
  341. >Without any good rebuttal, I relent and make my way to my room.
  342. >The door to Lug's unused flat opens up, showing off all the guitars and furniture I've gotten over the years.
  343. >Payment's never really a problem, though working with a skilled mechanic such as Lug Nut is certainly good practice for my bike.
  344. >After taking the record out of my bag and gently placing it on the nearby table, I slip into my sleepwear and crash onto my bed.
  345. >The headache's still gnawing at the back of my mind, so I groan and flop to bed, covering up for the fall weather.
  346. >Hopefully I sleep this off.
  347.  
  348. >Velvet Room, ???
  349.  
  350. >I find myself back in the Velvet Room, with Theodore awaiting patiently in his alicorn form.
  351. >"Welcome back, dear guest, to the Velvet Room. I suppose you're curious as to what you're supposed to do to prevent the catastrophe looming in the distance."
  352. >With a light of his horn, a deck of cards materializes, hovering towards me.
  353. >"While I am not as skilled at this compared to my master and siblings, my skill in prediction is still quite reliable. Feel free to pick any card."
  354. >Reaching out to one of the middle cards, I lift it up to reveal an image of a dancing jester with a "0" on the corners.
  355. >"I see you have picked the Fool, an excellent card for the journey ahead. The path ahead is filled with many possibilities, and you might not be able to find a way through. But fear not,"
  356. >The deck vanished in a blink, the alicorn presenting to me a blank card with an empty heart on it.
  357. >"Like-minded hearts have also agreed to assist you in this journey. Listen to them, look upon the paths with different perspectives, and find your own."
  358. >The nearby clock tolls as Theodore moves back to his original place.
  359. >"Alas, it seems you are being called back to the waking world. Until we meet again."
  360.  
  361. >Flat, Monday, October 27th, Morning
  362.  
  363. >The sunlight from a nearby window finally gets me to open my eyes.
  364. >I check the time on my phone, and surprisingly it's fairly early in the morning.
  365. >Far earlier than I usually wake up, as I get up and take a shower.
  366. >That sleep must have done wonders for my health, as the headache from yesterday is completely gone.
  367. >I dry up and put on some clothes for school, while I figure out what to eat.
  368. >It's not a terribly important choice, but I might as well choose.
  369.  
  370. Uhhh, if we've got the time, I guess a bacon-and-egg sandwich with some coffee?
  371.  
  372. >I think I've got enough time for eggs, though meat still sickens my stomach: that's why I don't keep any in my fridge.
  373. >Don't know why I forgot about-
  374. "Wait."
  375.  
  376. I'd suggest trying with a complete breakfast. Something tells me today we might need a lot of energy.
  377.  
  378. >A voice not my own echoes along with the other one, making me freeze in my tracks.
  379. >First something about a sandwich with bacon and egg, now a complete breakfast?
  380. >Swiftly, I leap over to the couch where I dropped my bag, pulling out the gladius still wrapped in its leather sheath.
  381.  
  382. I'm going to say don't go too crazy, just make some pancakes with banana slices and something like milk or yogurt.
  383.  
  384. "Enough with the breakfast suggestions, who the hell are you?! In fact, where are you?"
  385. >I hold the blade out defensively, shuffling around the flat before backing into the bathroom sink.
  386. "This is one crazy dream, Sunset. Just need to splash myself, and everything will go to normal."
  387. >Placing the sword down, I start the sink and cup a hearty serving of water, splashing the icy cold liquid across my face.
  388. >The sounds of voices and thoughts continue to zoom through my mind as I look closely at the mirror.
  389. >Maybe it's a trick of the light, but something seems different from yesterday.
  390. >I'm me, but not just me, like someone else is looking through my eyes as well.
  391. >Theodore's words from last night echo through my thoughts.
  392.  
  393. >"Like-minded hearts have also agreed to assist you in this journey. Listen to them, look upon the paths with different perspectives, and find your own."
  394.  
  395. "So these voices in my head are the 'like-minded hearts'? Good to know I'm not crazy yet, I guess."
  396. >Taking a deep breath, I sheathe the gladius and put it on the counter while opening a cabinet or five.
  397. "Looks we're doing pancakes and eggs today."
  398. >The cooking takes no time at all, as I slump on the couch and switch to the news.
  399. >"Details into the recent infrastructure collapse are still under wraps, but authorities ensure that efforts are underway to ensure a swift repair."
  400.  
  401. >I recall something odd from back when we fought Nyarlathotep on Hearts and Hooves Day.
  402. >When we managed to break into that void, Anonymous was more like a group of thoughts kept together by Nightmare.
  403. >Perhaps these voices are similar, anchored by staying in my mind?
  404. >"And now the weather: looks like bright sun and cool winds today as Fall is in full effect. Be sure to stay warm!"
  405. >Shaking my head, I get up and begin to wash the dishes in the sink.
  406. "It doesn't do me any good to think about this right now. So, if you guys are anywhere as helpful as Theodore said you are, I'll be in your care."
  407. >I put the dishes up to dry and get the rest of my school stuff ready, grabbing the gladius and slipping it back in the bag.
  408. >And, with new company in tow, I lock the flat and hurry out of the shop.
  409.  
  410. >Canterlot High, Monday, October 27, Noon
  411.  
  412. >Thankfully, it seems today has been just as normal as usual.
  413. >There's a good chance that's because today's class schedule's been cut in half, in preparation for the Friendship Games coming up.
  414. >Just need to get through lunch and the pep rally before we're out of here.
  415. >"So how's things on the other side, darling? You haven't been staying there as much lately."
  416. >The girls and I are relaxing at our usual spot by the statue, Rarity motioning to the mirror.
  417. "Well, things have been quiet for quite a while now. Ever since last Halloween, there hasn't been anything that I've needed to deal with."
  418. >Rarity nods before continuing to eat her food on the cloth she brought with her.
  419.  
  420. >"Um...How are we, I mean, the other 'we' doing over there?"
  421. "Fairly well, Fluttershy. Rainbow's been doting over her kid, Prism Blitz, when she's not trying to start a prank war with one of the guys."
  422. >Hearing 'kids' must have shocked Rainbow Dash, causing her to choke on her drink and nearly lose her spot.
  423. >"Please don't talk about any 'me' and kids. I'm way too young to have to worry about that!"
  424. >I chuckle as Rainbow sits back up.
  425.  
  426. >You know, for as much as these girls are similar to the ones on the other side, there are some things that aren't quite the same.
  427. >I haven't even asked about Fluttershy's past yet, since I don't think she knows that I know her other name.
  428. >"ANYWAYS, where were you yesterday, Sunset? You totally missed my headbanger!"
  429. "Oh, sorry about that, Rainbow. I actually noticed a girl walking around with the statue. I think she was trying to scan it for something?"
  430. >This causes Rainbow's grin to turn, a look of suspicion trying to dig a hole through me.
  431. >"A girl? Did you manage to find out where she came from? Who she was?"
  432. >I scratch my head, recalling the details of yesterday's meeting.
  433. "Well, I didn't catch her name, but I think she said she went to Crystal Prep Academy, if that helps."
  434. >"Crystal Prep?!"
  435. >The other girls join in the outburst, catching me off guard as Rainbow pulls out her phone.
  436. "Is that bad?"
  437. >"Bad? They're only our local rivals that have better equipment, better funds, and have been vandalizing the statue for decades now!"
  438.  
  439. >She flips through a few pictures online, showing older and older pictures dating back 30 years, it looks like.
  440. >And every one of them shows the statue with graffiti, embarrassing outfits, and even a stolen rope that used to be on the statue.
  441. "I don't get it, though, if these are the same people that we're playing against in the Friendship Games, why would someone show up so early?"
  442. >"Probably to get an early plan on what to humiliate us with, again. At this point, they're more like 'Crystal Prep is Awesome' Games."
  443. >Rainbow grumbles before slamming a fist against her chest, a confident smile on her face.
  444. >"But not this year: I'm gonna make this rally awesome and pump us up to victory!"
  445. >Applejack nods before checking her own phone.
  446. >"Speaking of, I think its about time to get moving. We can talk about all this Crystal Prep stuff later."
  447. >Can't argue with that logic, as I pack up and follow the girls.
  448.  
  449. >Canterlot High, Monday, October 27th, Afternoon
  450.  
  451. >Looks like Rainbow was true to her word: she managed to rope in the marching band to rock out and pump the student body.
  452. >She even managed to Pony Up, though I'm still perplexed as to how that works.
  453. >After the rally, the six of us meet up back at the statue to plan our next move as Rainbow holds up a clenched fist.
  454. >"Well, if Crystal Prep has decided to spy on us, then it's only fair we get a closer look at our competition! I say we should check out their campus and see what they're up to."
  455. >Rarity shakes her head, motioning in the direction to downtown.
  456. >"As much as I'd love to try out some of my spy costumes, I feel like we'd better spend our time checking out the public library. In addition to checking out some of the older records of the Friendship Games, some extra studying never hurts."
  457. >Pinkie hops over to Rainbow, practically jumping out of her skin from excitement.
  458. >"Oh boy, I've never broke into a rival campus before! That sounds like it'd be fun!"
  459. >Meanwhile, Fluttershy edges closer to Rarity,
  460. >"I'm not so sure spying on a school like Crystal Prep's a good idea. Rarity's plan sounds a lot safer."
  461. >Applejack shrugs, looking thoroughly disinterested in both ideas.
  462. >"Personally, I think I'm gonna get some more practice in the range while I can."
  463.  
  464. >The girls look to me for my own plans, and I consider each of the possibilities.
  465. >Rainbow Dash might have a point: if we could catch a glimpse of our competition, that should help prepare us for the Games proper.
  466. >On the other hand, though, Rarity and Fluttershy make good points: getting caught spying on another school would not be the best time spent for today.
  467. >Plus we might be able to find something useful in the archives.
  468. >Of course, we can always do some practice with Applejack as well: the Friendship Games are most likely physical in some nature.
  469. >You're stuck in this too with me, what do you guys think?
  470.  
  471. Being healthy and ready is always a good thing, especially if what Theodore says is true, and you should mind your figure Sunny your getting up there, ya know?
  472.  
  473. >My figure is just fine, jackass.
  474. >I exercise in my spare time in case something weird, like you guys, shows up.
  475.  
  476. I think for someone that's seen first hand what Anon was and is like, before and after the Myriad Hearts, she's taking this exceptionally well.
  477.  
  478. >Well, from what I gathered from Theodore, it seems like we're stuck like this for now.
  479. >Seems more productive to at least listen to your suggestions.
  480.  
  481. You don't need to "Spy". You were invited in by the hoodie girl, remember? We can just Go there and have a chat with her, and in the meanwhile just happen to take a look around.
  482. seems like a good enough excuse to me, i like it
  483. I'll side with team Sneak, as well.
  484.  
  485. >That's... a very good point, actually, especially with how that girl invited me herself.
  486. >I'm not sure if it's a good enough excuse to justify walking into the building by myself, but if we get lucky it might be easier than just doing a stakeout.
  487. "I think I'll go with Rainbow on this one. As long as we stay out of sight, we should be fine."
  488. >Rainbow pumps her fist in the air as Rarity assents and checks the time on her phone.
  489. >"Alright, then we can exchange what we learned later tonight on our phones. Do try to be careful in 'enemy territory', as it were."
  490. >"We'll be fine, Rarity, those guys won't even know we're there. You ready to get going, Sunset?"
  491. >I nod and shift the weight of my backpack, the weight of the sword still apparent through all the books and folders.
  492. "Ready as I'll ever be."
  493. >"This is gonna be so awesome!"
  494.  
  495. >"This is so boring; why the heck are we sneaking in to spy on Crystal Prep on public transit?"
  496. >Rainbow's exasperated complaints are thankfully muffled by the loud bus engine, as the three of us wait in the back.
  497. "I don't know this part of Crystal City very well, and I'd rather not waste mileage on my bike asking for directions. Not to mention that it'll be easier to not be seen if we don't have to worry about parking."
  498. >"I guess. I was sorta hoping that you'd be able to drive us with that cool motorcycle of yours, though."
  499. >I don't normally take my motor-bike out for school, and I wasn't about to recommend we go all the way to the shop to grab it.
  500. >Pinkie pops up from the seat behind us, bouncing along to the bumps in the road.
  501. >"Oh come on, Rainbow Dash, it's not that bad. Catching all the bumps while bouncing is fun!"
  502.  
  503. >Crystal Prep Academy, Monday, October 27th, Afternoon
  504.  
  505. >Well, Rainbow was certainly right about one thing: Crystal Prep must have quite the finances.
  506. >The main building must be three or four stories tall, far bigger than Canterlot High, and the gates and centerpiece look like they have literal crystals in them.
  507. >In the distance, I can see students practicing diligently with exercises and sports, their expressions dead-set on the task at hand.
  508. "So this is Crystal Prep; I'm starting to see what you meant Rainbow. What's the plan of attack?"
  509. >Rainbow Dash ruffles through her bag to pull out a pair of binoculars, a handful of candy, and three capped bottles with Applejack's family's seal on them.
  510. >"We're gonna have a stakeout by that tree next to the bushes. I've got enough fuel to last about an hour or two, so we'll sneak a peek what they're up to."
  511.  
  512. >Now looks like a good time to suggest our alternate plan
  513. "Go ahead and set up the spot with Pinkie. The girl from before invited me to talk to her at the school, so maybe I can sneak in that way."
  514. >Rainbow scratches her chin in contemplation, before nodding and placing everything in her bag again.
  515. >"Alright, Sunset, if you think that'll work. Just try not to get too cozy with the competition, okay?"
  516. >I give her a thumbs up as we turn to Pinkie, already in a black skinsuit and slinking into the nearby bushes.
  517. >Rainbow looks back to me and shrugs before following suit, doing her best to stay hidden while I open the front gates.
  518.  
  519. >Surprisingly, for such sturdy-looking bars, the front gates aren't locked at all, and open from a push.
  520. >I guess they're more lenient about students leaving school early?
  521. >Feeling the suspicious glances and stares of the student body, I try my best to ignore them as I get closer to the main building.
  522. >It looks like Crystal Prep enforces a dress code, as everyone I've seen so far wears a rather professional-looking uniform.
  523. >As I reach the front doors, I can't help but feel trepidation about entering a school I don't go to.
  524. >What if the girl's invitation was only acceptable to her, but not the staff?
  525. >For a moment, I consider returning to the girls, when I hear a familiar voice from behind me.
  526.  
  527. >"Is that you, ma'am? Why are you here during school hours?"
  528. >I turn to see... Twilight?
  529. >No doubt this is the same girl I talked to yesterday, but the skin, the hair, the inquisitive eyes, albeit with glasses.
  530. >This must be this world's Twilight Sparkle, though I suppose I shouldn't be surprised about that.
  531. >I'm sure I'd find another 'me' if I looked hard enough.
  532. "O-oh, there you are. My classes got finished early today, so I figured I had enough time to meet up with you."
  533. >I stick my hand out to the new Twilight, a slight look of confusion from the gesture.
  534. "And it's Sunset, Sunset Shimmer."
  535.  
  536. >"Oh, right, I see now. Good to meet you, Sunset."
  537. >Twilight fumbles a bit before accepting the handshake, blushing a little from the other students looking at her.
  538. >"My name's Twilight Sparkle, but we really should save proper introductions for later. Come with me."
  539. >And with that, I found my in to the insides of Crystal Prep Academy.
  540. >The inside of the building is very clean, almost spotless even after a long day of classes.
  541. >Rows upon rows of trophies line the walls, glittering like gold behind their glass casings with each date consecutively going back every four years.
  542.  
  543. >The new Twilight leads me through the slightly populated halls, with students giving curious glances before moving on.
  544. >Eventually we reach what appears to be a door for a computer lab, and Twilight opens it to reveal quite the living space.
  545. >Most of the counters have books, empty food packages, and bits and pieces of disassembled tech.
  546. >I notice a large board over the only working computer, with red lines connected between each other, though it's too far back to really see what it is.
  547. >Twilight motions to one of the clean chairs in the room, which I take a seat in while she pulls out a clipboard and pen.
  548. >"So I take it that you came because you remember something about those electromagnetic spikes, right, Sunset?"
  549. >That's right, her invitation was for helping her out with her thesis paper.
  550. >Which means I'm going to have to talk about something like the Fall Formal or the Battle of the Bands.
  551.  
  552. >The Fall Formal, where I abused my power above others and almost lost myself to my own ambition.
  553. >The Battle of the Bands, where the Dazzlings managed to almost take over the school completely, if not the entire world.
  554. >Both of those events clearly had magic involved, but I still cant help but feel like mentioning magic in any capacity is not the best idea.
  555. >Still, I look to this world's Twilight, and her eyes sparkling with the joy of learning I see the Twilight I know have occasionally.
  556. >I could try fabricating an event entirely out of scratch as well, if I want, but if Twilight is anywhere as smart as the one I know, I'll need to be careful with how I do that.
  557. >Alternatively, the events that have happened can easily be talked about without bringing up magic, so that's an option too.
  558. >Should I tell a completely fabricated event, or merely leave out certain magic details from either the Fall Formal or the Battle of the Bands?
  559.  
  560. i'd say talk about the events but leave out the whole magic thing, be helpful but don't drop a bombshell on her like that
  561. I agree. Even if we were to tell her about magic, she doesn't seem like the type of person to believe in such unscientific things.
  562. i agree as well
  563.  
  564. >You think it'd be better to talk about both of them?
  565. >Guess it's better than crafting one entirely out of scratch, though.
  566. "Actually, I was looking through some older yearbooks, and started to recall strange events occurring around the times you mentioned before."
  567. >"Oh, excellent! Please, recall as much as you can and don't leave anything out."
  568. >Here goes nothing, I grimace as I'm forced to recall the Fall Formal.
  569. "Well, back during that particular Autumn, there was a Fall Formal competition between this new girl and a cruel, popular girl over this crown."
  570. >"I've heard the popularity world is a cutthroat business sometimes. Though I'm not entirely sure what makes this strange."
  571. "You see, the new girl managed to win, and the two got into a fight. I wasn't... entirely myself at the time, so my memories of the fight are faint. All I do know is that part of the school and the sidewalk both had holes in them."
  572.  
  573. >Twilight nods intensely, writing down the details along with additional notes I can't really read from this distance.
  574. >"I see, very interesting: it's not quite what my predictions were, but this will be interesting to collaborate with my research. What about the event during the Spring?"
  575. "A group of transfer students came in when we were planning a music show. They were amazing singers, but you could tell they were competitive. There was just something about their songs that just made people change, like become meaner or more favorable towards them."
  576. >Twilight giggles from the last bit, stifling it the best she can before waving her hand dismissively.
  577. >"From the way you're describing things, you'd think a flock of sirens invaded."
  578. "Well, when you say it like that..."
  579.  
  580. >Shit, I might've said too much there; still, I continue the tale.
  581. "Anyways, they changed the show into more of a Battle of the Bands competition, and even made it to the finals. However, another band managed to win over them, and just like that they left the school as quickly as they came."
  582. >Twilight furiously scribbled some thing in the margin after that last bit, but makes no comment as she places the pen and clipboard down on the table.
  583. >"Well, thank you for your time, Sunset. These might not be the linchpin I was hoping for, but this information should help with further research."
  584. >The two of us stand back up, shaking hands and smiling before something weird crawls up my nose.
  585. "Is it just me, or does something smell like wet dog?"
  586. >Twilight's eyes widen as she looks around frantically, turning me around and pushing me along.
  587. >"Dog? Here? No way, everyone knows that dogs are against the rules in Crystal Prep. Must be... dust! Yes, most likely dust. Hehehe."
  588.  
  589. >Chuckling awkwardly, Twilight assertively showing me out of the lab before quickly closing the door.
  590. >"Thanks for your help!"
  591. >And with that, the door slams shut, and I hear the distinct sound of a lock turning as my ticket in the Academy expired.
  592. >I quickly make my way out of the building, doing my best to avert my face from the students and avoid anyone that looked like a teacher.
  593. >On the way out, I noticed a sheet of paper on a bulletin board with the words "Friendship Games" in bold on top.
  594. >Quickly, I nab the paper and take a sigh of relief as I finally step outside of the building with at least something for my troubles.
  595.  
  596. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSYNeffr1zY
  597.  
  598. >Suddenly, I get a chilling feeling in my spine as everything seems to stop.
  599. >At least around the entrance of the school: I can see the students practicing in the field still moving around just fine.
  600. >But the area around me seems odd, the air hangs dead, animals nearby seem to be reacting poorly to the changes.
  601. >Even my breath seems to catch itself as I try to figure out what's wrong.
  602. >"Somebody, anybody, we need help over here!"
  603. >That was Rainbow's voice; she must be in trouble!
  604. >With haste, I book it over to the tree and bushes Rainbow marked for spying purposes.
  605. >I see Rainbow standing in front of a worried Pinkie, a rather large branch in her hands as she extends it to ward away a group of three...
  606. "Shadows?!"
  607.  
  608. >But how can Shadows be here, outside of Fantasia?
  609. >I need to get over there and help the girls quick, but how am I supposed to fight a Shadow without a Persona?
  610. >A firm weight forms both around my waste and in my hand, as I turn it around to reveal a strange-looking device with a card scanner, speakers, and lights.
  611. >If they didn't appear like this, I'd have assumed it to be an elaborate toy, but that, along with the new belt around me seem to be related to my Persona?
  612. >Bah, these questions can wait, they need our help now!
  613. >I rush on over, pulling out the gladius from my bag before moving in to intercept the Shadows.
  614.  
  615. >They were short and imp-like, with pointed ears and a metal stick that seems to be quite sharp.
  616. >The mask on these creatures was blue and expressionless, as they readied their weapons at me!
  617. >"Sunset, what's going on? One minute we were checking out something interesting from the sports team, and then these weird things showed up and tried to get Pinkie!"
  618. >Rainbow tries her best to keep a brave face, but Pinkie's usual cheerful facade begins to break, her body shivering in fright.
  619. >"I... didn't even get a Pinkie Sense from that. I..."
  620.  
  621. >Of course they're scared, they're basically kids compared to the ones from the Dream Team.
  622. >I can't let these Shadows hurt my friends.
  623. >Just then, a bright light shines above me as the familiar card floats down into my other hand.
  624. >I get the feeling that I know how to make this card function, as I ready the card in one hand, and the device in the other.
  625. >In one smooth motion, I cross the two, scanning the card into the device as the card's energy pours into it.
  626. "Persona, Henshin!"
  627. >Slamming the device into the belt produces a loud click, as the device locks in and a tinny voice comes out of the speakers.
  628. >"Carpe Diem. Are ya ready?"
  629. >Suddenly, my body bursts into flames, my clothing burning off before a sleek shell of underarmor covers my body, reflecting in the flames before being covered partially by a flaming breastplate and reinforced pants.
  630. >My shoes appear to have been replaced with combat boots, while a black, open leather jacket forms around my chest.
  631. >Finally, a helmet forms around my head, with multiple programs lighting up on my HUD, as well as an armor condition display which shows a horn on the top of the helmet itself.
  632.  
  633. >This Persona is far different than the one on the other side, but I can feel that the capabilities are still the same.
  634. "Rainbow Dash, take Pinkie and fall back somewhere safe while I take care of these guys."
  635. >"But what's with the weird getup? What's a Persona-"
  636. >I hold a hand up, stopping her midsentence.
  637. "I promise I'll do my best to explain after we get out of this danger. Now fall back, please!"
  638. >Rainbow can only dumbly nod as she helps Pinkie up and the two run off, leaving me against these three Imps.
  639. "If you guys have been with Anonymous since the beginning, surely you know how to fight like him too. Let's mop the floor with these things!"
  640.  
  641. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=enmbF7E0F0s
  642.  
  643. Eigaon one of those li'l chumps, let's not waste too much SP turn one.
  644.  
  645. >Conserving energy definitely sounds like a good idea, plus these Shadows don't seem particularly bulky.
  646. >I place a hand out in front of me, dark energies swirling around and coalescing into a blackish-purple ball.
  647. "I've got you in my sights! Dark Blaster, fire!"
  648. >The energy ball zooms towards the Shadow I targeted, slamming hard into its tiny body before devouring the entire thing in a vicious blast!
  649. >One of the remaining imps releases a moderate stream of fire that I manage to hop over just fine.
  650. >However, a sharp pain to my side greets me on the way down, the other Shadow leaping at my blind spot to score a hit.
  651. >Landing with a pained grunt, I hold the attacked spot and notice some blood from the wound, both on my hand and dripping from the smug fucker's stick.
  652. "Laugh while you can, asshole. I'm killing you next!"
  653. >I resume my combat stance, taking a deep breath as I assess the situation.
  654. >Like I suspected, these imp-like Shadows seem to be made of fragile stuff, so it might be best to wipe them out quick with a group attack.
  655. >Alternatively, my spells seem to be working just fine, and my weapon might be able to catch a weak spot.
  656. >Time to plan our next move.
  657.  
  658. >Status:
  659.  
  660. Sunset: 78% HP, 80% SP
  661.  
  662. Go for the crit on one of them.
  663. If we get the crit, we use the strongest single physical on the last enemy standing. You know, for extra style points.
  664.  
  665. >I ready my blade, the prismatic edge shining radiantly as I rush in towards the Shadow that blindsided me.
  666. >The Imp attempts to scurry away, but a well-timed kick sends the scamp flying into the air!
  667. >With a skilled aim, I launch the sword skyward, the blade skewering through the mask and splitting the Shadow in two!
  668. "Now's a good opportunity to strike! Toh!"
  669. >I crouch before leaping into the air, hand outstretched as I grasp the falling blade by the hilt.
  670. >Using the momentum from the jump, I aim my trajectory towards the remaining Shadow and fling the blade downward.
  671. >The sword sings through the air before stabbing into the Imp's foot, locking him in place!
  672. "Hissatsu! Rider Kick!"
  673. >My leg is engulfed in flames as I crash into the Shadow, completely obliterating it to dust!
  674.  
  675. "That looks like the last of them."
  676. >Suddenly, a loud, booming sound erupts behind me, along with gunfire.
  677. >I look around, but there doesn't seem to be any sign of police anywhere.
  678. >That might be another group of Shadows, so I quickly grab my weapon out of the ground and rush towards the source of the noise.
  679. >When I arrive, I notice the tree that was originally here has exploded outright, leaving nothing but a jagged trunk.
  680. >Rainbow is still standing in front of Pinkie, but she's horribly wounded, with cuts and scrapes all over her body.
  681. >Across from here are what looks like two fat cops, though their bodies look far more like donuts with a key in their center hole.
  682. >Both have round masks with waves along the edges, with "XIX" carved into them.
  683. >In addition, a large tank looms behind them, ornately designed with something yellow on the very top, though I can't get a good look at it right now.
  684.  
  685. >This is bad: I'm still fairly injured from those Shadows from before, and these ones look a lot more sturdy compared to them.
  686. >Rainbow collapses, likely due to the pain, and slowly pulls herself up, huffing and puffing on one knee.
  687. >"Rainbow, stop this! These things are bad news, we need to run!"
  688. >Pinkie's pleas are shut down as Rainbow pulls herself up again, readying her weapon once more.
  689. >"Those things have guns, Pinkie, we couldn't run away if we tried. We've gotta hold on... until Sunset gets here."
  690. >Overhearing those words makes my muscles tense as I clock it overtime towards the two, the tank aiming its cannon square at them once more.
  691. >"Rainbow!"
  692. "Rainbow Dash!"
  693. >A shell bursts out of the barrel and careens towards the lone girl, ready to claim its prey.
  694.  
  695. >Only for a gargantuan sheet of metal to slam in front of Rainbow and weather the blow!
  696. >"What the-?"
  697. >The shocked Rainbow Dash looks behind her as I see a giant, heavily armored soldier, more like a castle than a man.
  698. >Looking closer at the tower shield reveals a multi-colored lightning bolt emblazoned on its front, and in his other hand is an ornate bronze spear.
  699.  
  700. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9GikHvhukk
  701.  
  702. I am thou.
  703. >"...Come again?"
  704. Thou art I.
  705. From the sea of thy soul, I come...
  706.  
  707. >The soldier marches forth, shaking the ground with every step as readies for battle!
  708. I am Achilles, the Immortal Chariot.
  709. >Trundling forward, the cops hurriedly reload their weapons and try to shoot the myrmidon, only for the bullets to seemingly phase through his armor.
  710. >Almost like they were shooting an after-image.
  711. >A wall of flame erupts in front of the Shadows, causing them to stumble and back away in terror as Pinkie finally stands, determination in her eyes.
  712. >"I won't let you bullies harm my friends anymore!"
  713. >From behind her, a thespian-looking figure emerges from the ground, two masks sharing the spot of a head above the frilly collar.
  714.  
  715. >One of the masks has a jovial expression, with bright, red flames giving the impression of light, upright hair.
  716. >The other scowls with sharp fangs lining its mouth, dark blue flames sinking below like long, flowing hair.
  717. We art thou.
  718. Thou art us.
  719. From the sea of thy soul, we come...
  720. >The jovial mask cackles in glee while the scowling mask roars in bloodlust, a swirl of red and blue flames surrounding her in a spiral vortex!
  721. We are Agni, the two faces of fire.
  722.  
  723. >They have the potential for Persona as well?
  724. >Well, their versions on the other side are, so it's not entirely surprising, but-
  725. >Wait, this isn't the time to worry about this!
  726. >I finally catch up with Rainbow and Pinkie, as they break they attention from their new Persona.
  727. >"Sunset, there you are!"
  728. >"I don't know what's going on, but I get the feeling that you do."
  729. >I hold up my hand, stopping their questions.
  730. "Like I said earlier, I'll be able to explain this after we're safe. I need your help to take these things out."
  731. >"Okie dokie lokie!"
  732. >"Let's clean house, then!"
  733. >The three of us ready our weapons as the Shadows regroup and descend upon us.
  734.  
  735. >"By the way, Sunset,"
  736. >Rainbow tosses me one of the ciders she brought with her earlier.
  737. >"I have no idea why, but these seem to be able to patch up some of your injuries. We've only got two, though, so I'll leave it up to you on how to use them."
  738. >I nod and holster the Cider for now, as well as consider the possibility of using the Candy she brought as well.
  739. >Perhaps they'll work the same as they do in Fantasia?
  740. >What's the best plan for attack?
  741.  
  742. Pinkie and Rainbow are new to this kind of battle, we should go a bit on the defensive. pinkie should lower the enemies attack. Rainbow should try and blind them. As for Sunset, we could either test the waters by doing an AoE attack, or just buff the party.
  743. We should let Pinkie use the one more to further exploit the fire weakness and thus keep the mana pool even.
  744.  
  745. "Alright, then, time to turn up the heat! Take my Burning Justice!"
  746. >I slam a rune into the ground, a circle of fire surrounding the three shadows before erupting into several large pillars of flame.
  747. >The tank appears to weather through just fine, but the pastry bits of the police Shadows begin to burn and char as they flail on the ground!
  748. "Pinkie, you're up!"
  749. >"Roger, let's have some fun, Agni!"
  750. >As I step back, Pinkie bats the card floating down with a flawless right hook, calling forth the fire god who pulls out three impossibly large cherries.
  751. >Actually, a closer look reveals the stalks to be fuses with an active spark!
  752. >"Bomb voyage!"
  753. >With a chuckle, Agni lobs the cherry bombs at the Shadows, reducing the Fuzz to rubble and singing the side of the tank.
  754.  
  755. >"Persona!'
  756. >Rainbow swings her branch at her card, Achilles slamming his shield into the ground and unleashing a powerful ray of light aimed directly towards the remaining Shadow!
  757. >...Only for the tank to remain steady, unfazed by the blinding light.
  758. >"Oh, come on!"
  759. >...
  760. >Even in this world, huh?
  761. >"Then if we can't get the tank to miss, let's make it weaker. Persona!"
  762. >Agni's demonic half lets out a murderous roar, causing the Shadow to flinch for a moment, its fighting spirit muffled.
  763.  
  764. >The tank shudders as the barrel swirls around violently before setting its sights on Rainbow Dash.
  765. >Before she can react, a sleek bullet speeds out of the tank, blasting through the air and punching through Achilles's defenses!
  766. >Momentum carries it forward, knocking into Rainbow and sending her crashing to the floor.
  767. >"Son of a-!"
  768. >Sensing an opportunity, the Shadow zooms towards us, shifting its weight to the side and creating a spinning top of death!
  769. >Pinkie manages to hop back in time, but the strike hits my wounded spot again, sending me crashing into the blasted remains of the tree and hitting Rainbow while she's down.
  770.  
  771. >That... was rougher than I'd have liked, and Rainbow looks as well as I feel.
  772. >With the new hole blasted from my helmet, I look at my suit, large patches of it broken from the assault.
  773. >Pinkie, thankfully, appears to be in good condition, and we still have those two Ciders to use if we're in danger.
  774. >The situation looks grim, but it's not hopeless yet: let's rack our brains for a solution.
  775.  
  776. Sunset 34% HP, 50% SP
  777. Rainbow (Down): 37% HP, 95% SP
  778. Pinkie: 100% HP, 95% SP
  779.  
  780. Oof, that's a lot of damage. Lucky we got that attack-down off, or Dash might've bit the dust in one turn. We should probably let her defend and let Shim-Sham show off those chugging skills, maybe Plinko throw out a Freidyne to see if that can score a One More.
  781.  
  782. >That's a good point: unless we can get that tank to stop using skills, a stray shot can easily take Rainbow out.
  783. "Rainbow, stay on the defensive for now, Pinkie and I'll stay on the offense!"
  784. >"Fine, I got you. Man, this is so lame.."
  785. >Rainbow grumbles under her breath and pulls herself back up, holding the branch up defensively as I uncap the Cider and chug it down.
  786. >The taste stings the back of my throat, never been a fan of apple cider myself, but sure enough, the injuries from before close before my eyes.
  787. >Even my suit seems to repair, the HUD coming back online as I return to fighting strength.
  788. >Pinkie clocks the card once more, the two-faced god snarling as a bluish beam forms in one of her hands, the orb gathering more energy with each moment.
  789. >"How 'bout this Party Cannon!"
  790. >The nuclear energy burst forth, a beam of deadly light which punches through the tank, severely damaging its servos and causing sparks to leak out from its top!
  791.  
  792. >The wheels on the Shadow rev to life once more, sending it spinning into the three of us and slamming into us, Achilles, defending with his shield and mitigating most of the damage on Rainbow's side..
  793. >Thankfully, the blows seem more muted, not nearly damaging me or Pinkie as much, though part of my gauntlet chips off from the impact.
  794. >A drop of water lands on my visor, a storm following suit as thunder rolls in the clouds.
  795. >"Jeez, how much punishment can this thing take? That thing's persistent, I'll give it that!"
  796. >Rainbow readies her branch once more as Pinkie shadowboxes at the stuttering Shadow.
  797. >"I think it's finally starting to fall apart, we just need to keep at it!"
  798. >She's right, the Shadow's defenses appear all but broken now.
  799. >A focused assault might just be enough to tank this tank.
  800. >What should we do next?
  801.  
  802. Sunset 79% HP, 50% SP
  803. Rainbow: 33% HP, 95% SP
  804. Pinkie: 72% HP, 75% SP
  805.  
  806. It is time all party members do their strongest attacks.
  807. To be more specific: Eigaon from Sunset, God Hand(?) from Rainbow, Ragnarok via Ponks.
  808.  
  809. "We can't let this keep going, but I doubt that tank can either. Let's wrap this up with one final assault!"
  810. >I fire a volley of dark orbs at the Shadow, blasting off chucks of armor and exposing the wiring within to the elements.
  811. >"Alright, time to redeem yourself, Achilles!"
  812. >With a smack of Rainbow's branch, the myrmidon slowly and methodically moves forward, its lance inching towards the Shadow.
  813. >Suddenly, a gaping hole appears right about where Achilles's spear was aiming, even as it was barely halfway there!
  814. >Could it be that the Persona is moving faster than I can see?
  815. >"Nice, finally pried open the shell! Hey, Pinkie, you got any of the strong stuff on you?"
  816. >"Do I ever! Come on out, Persona!"
  817. >Agni leaps at the Shadow before it can react, tearing the gash wide enough to stay open, pulling out an odd-looking red bottle.
  818. >The god chugs down the entire bottle, nothing initially happening until the flames on the cheerful mask erupt skyward, a volcano of energy that touches the sky!
  819. >With a hard click, the mask's mouth opens, redirecting the pyroclastic flow through his mouth, and into the tank itself!
  820. >The Shadow shudders and groans as the molten spice melts it from the inside out, finally giving one final squeall before dissolving into shadow.
  821.  
  822. >"Did... Did we get 'em?"
  823. >Rainbow falls on her backside as the armor around me begins to burn off, returning the clothes I came here with.
  824. "It certainly looks like it. But why would Shadows appear here?"
  825. >The rain continues to drench us as a nondescript black car drives up to the road near us.
  826. >Wait, is that Vice-Principal Luna?
  827. >Rolling down the window, Luna unlocks the door and motions us to get in.
  828. >"It's not very safe for girls your age to be out in thunderstorms. I'll take you back."
  829. >While the words suggested a choice, the tone and look in her eyes demanded compliance.
  830. >Bruised and wet, the three of us pile into the car as Luna takes off towards the school, numerous questions in the air.
  831.  
  832. >Vice-Principal Luna's Office, Monday, October 27th, Late Afternoon
  833.  
  834. >We arrive to the office of Vice-Principal Luna, seeing Rarity, Fluttershy, and Applejack waiting inside with mixtures of relief and worry.
  835. "Vice-Principal Luna, why are we in your office so late in the day?"
  836. >Ignoring my question, Luna locks the door and closes the blinds entirely, leaving only the lone lamp on her desk as illumination.
  837. >"Now, girls, what I'm about to say never leaves this office. Am I understood?"
  838. >All six of us stiffly nod as the Vice-Principal pulls out no less than three different manila folders, with pictures peeking out.
  839. >"You're all here because something happened to you, all of you. Those things that broke into the world and caused quite a bit of collateral."
  840. "The Shadows?"
  841. >Shit, I spoke without thinking!
  842. >Luna merely responds with an intrigued rise of her eyebrow.
  843. >"Sounds like you've had your own fair share of experience with these things. No matter, I shall not pry into your business or knowledge."
  844.  
  845. >She proceeds to open one of the folders, showing images of Shadows across the city.
  846. >But the more I look at the photos, the more I notice how ephemeral the creatures appear to be.
  847. >"Starting about a decade ago, these 'Shadows', as you call them, have been sporadically appearing around the city and the surrounding area."
  848. >Applejack's eyes glue onto a photo with a particularly bulky Shadow with a flimsy halo on top its head.
  849. >"I don't get it, if these things have been around for ten whole years, how come we ain't never seen them before today? Why did my sister and her friends only see a wolf when the Shadow was attacking them?"
  850. >Luna nods, and opens the second folder, revealing countless thesis papers and studies with no known insignia on them.
  851.  
  852. >"This world is held together by laws and physics: even quantum mechanics obey their own laws, no matter how different they are. Shadows, on the other hand, break all the rules."
  853. >"Something about their form defies all logic, all reason. They are literally non-thoughts in a system of thoughts, and as such, the world rejects them. Quarantines them."
  854. >Luna turns back to me, a knowing look in her eyes.
  855. >"Tell me, Sunset, did you notice anything odd happen during your battle with those Shadows? Something that didn't quite follow everything you were told today?"
  856. >The spotlight turns on me as the others look in utter confusion between the Vice-Principal and I.
  857. >I'm having trouble remembering all the details of the incident.
  858. >I remember leaving the school, and I remember the cry for help.
  859. >Do you guys remember if anything else weird happened during that time?
  860.  
  861. ">Suddenly, I get a chilling feeling in my spine as everything seems to stop.
  862. >At least around the entrance of the school: I can see the students practicing in the field still moving around just fine.
  863. >But the area around me seems odd, the air hangs dead, animals nearby seem to be reacting poorly to the changes.
  864. >Even my breath seems to catch itself as I try to figure out what's wrong."
  865. Is what you thought at the moment.
  866.  
  867. >I recall that, definitely something weird and out of place.
  868. "Well, when the Shadows first appeared, it felt like the world sort of stopped in a specific area. The animals nearby, like squirrels and birds were also acting strange, and I had difficulty breathing at first."
  869. >Luna nods, grabbing a paper cup and activating the nearby coffee machine before returning to her desk.
  870. >"Most people find their first Decoherence disorienting, even those with potential."
  871. >Fluttershy cocks her head to the side, the terms clearly confusing her.
  872. >"Decoherence? Potential?"
  873. >"The feeling you felt is what we've termed a 'Decoherence Field': an anomaly that masks a Shadow's presence and shifts reality. Anyone outside of a Field, save for those with the potential of Persona, is incapable of seeing Shadows within them."
  874. >That would explain why, when Rainbow was shouting for help, no one on the field even looked their way.
  875.  
  876. The nature of what happened is still in speculation but what i do realize is that we enter an "area" of effect. Personally to my knowledge the events that played out went something like this.
  877. 1. Pinkie and Rainbow were in the school grounds
  878. 2. Sunset entered the building
  879. 3. Less than hour later Pinkie and Rainbow were attacked
  880. 4.Sunset exited the building minutes after this and experienced an uncofortable chill, followed by an observation that the very air around her had stopped blowing
  881. 5. During this Sunset has entered the "Area"
  882. I should also mention possiblity of the area having 1 of 2 properties and possibly both
  883. The "Area" Sunset entered either spawned immediatly and Sunset walked straight into its effect
  884. Or the more dangerous scenario that the "Area" grew and Sunset was absorbed into its effect
  885.  
  886. "I also noticed that the feeling came over me after I left the building, like it appeared suddenly or, worst, started growing."
  887. >"Very astute, Sunset. The strength of the Shadow determines the radius of the Decoherence Field, with the stronger ones even creating a field the size of half a soccer field. They're even known to mesh with additional Shadows, making the field larger by staying together."
  888. >As Luna explains, Rarity raises her hand up, waiting until Luna nods in her direction to speak.
  889. >"Well, that's all and good, but if these Fields keep people outside from seeing these things, what about the people inside them who can't use Persona? Fluttershy had to help escort a few of them out of harm's way while I bought time. But after we finished the Shadow off, they acted like bony wolves weren't trying to eat them!"
  890.  
  891. >The vice-principal holds up a hand, taking another drink before continuing.
  892. >"We aren't entirely sure what happens in the process, but when people without potential leave the Decoherence Field, their memories begin to fade about what's inside them. Perhaps it's a defensive mechanism for people to forget about things they can't comprehend."
  893.  
  894. Wait... do you mean the world itself ignores Shadows, or just that people have an inability to recognize Shadows as such? Because that tank blew up a tree, which makes sense if people are just ignoring it, but if the world itself shouldn't be reacting to these Shadows, that tree shouldn't have been destroyed.
  895.  
  896. "So people don't react to Shadows, then, but what about the world? If these things are non-thoughts that are rejected by the world, how are they able to interact with it, like the tank blasting the tree, or the wolf Applejack talked about?"
  897. >Luna places the manila folders away before returning to the window and pulling up the blinds.
  898. >The storm rages on as the Vice-Principal softly moves the cup in a circle.
  899. >"There's a reason why it's called 'Decoherence': even as Shadows defy logic, their actions still must make sense to the world. And the world has its own ways to make sense. For example,"
  900. >She tosses the local newspaper at me, as I unfurl it and realize its the weather section.
  901. >"If you hadn't checked the morning news, the weather was supposed to be sunny, yet chilly. And yet this has to be one of the most violent thunderstorms in recent memory."
  902.  
  903. >Rainbow gives a credulous look while eyeing the paper over my shoulder.
  904. >"Newspapers are wrong about the weather all the time. It's not like we can force weather."
  905. >I awkwardly cough as Luna moves to an old sports radio sitting on a nearby shelf.
  906. >"Indeed, but listen to this."
  907. >With a flick of a few knobs, the radio sparks to life as a voice flows through the air.
  908.  
  909. >"We'd like to remind you to be careful if you're looking to brave the weather today, folks! Crystal Prep Academy has reported at least one direct lightning strike on a tree near school grounds, and the Library has just finished boarding up their windows in hopes to prevent another break in by these breakneck winds."
  910. >Wait, he can't mean what I think he means, as I look at the shocked faces of Rainbow and Pinkie.
  911. >"We've also had numerous reports of wildlife fleeing the forest, potentially due to the violence of the storm. Be sure to avoid any animals that you don't know!"
  912.  
  913. >The others' faces share my shock as Luna clips off the speaker, returning to her desk with a serious expression on her face.
  914. >"This is not a coincindence. Perhaps you could attribute this as a meteorological error if each of your encounters with the Shadows hadn't mirrored this event."
  915. "So you're saying that it was both the tank and the lightning that destroyed the tree?"
  916. >"Not quite; you see, something about the world cannot comprehend Shadows, and to compensate for it, the world changes to make the events possible. To justify a tank blasting a tree, a Shadow bursting through a window, another Shadow attacking students here, the world created a storm powerful enough for that to make sense."
  917. >That means the students didn't go inside because the tank blew up the tree, but because they saw a lightning bolt blast it apart?
  918. "So it's like the world's a giant computer, and Decoherence is a typo that's auto-corrected?"
  919. >"It's certainly not an inaccurate analogy, but even with a decade's worth of research and fighting, we still don't know everything about Decoherence."
  920.  
  921. >Applejack scratches her head in confusion, standing momentarily to stretch her muscles before sitting back down.
  922. >'You keep sayin' 'we' about all this stuff. Who's 'we'?"
  923. >"I've got... connections, with a group of individuals who are also concerned with the appearances of these Decoherence Fields. And the only reason I've told you all this is that you six have managed to unlock the power of Persona so suddenly."
  924. >Luna stretches her hand out towards me, looking at me expectantly.
  925. >"I want to recruit you to help find out what's causing this sudden rash of Decoherence, and stop it, if you can."
  926.  
  927. >This might be what Theo was talking about when he described the line between Dream and Reality getting blurred.
  928. >If working with Luna can help stop that from happening, then there's only one option.
  929. >I shake her hand, as the others follow suit.
  930. >"Thank you for accepting my offer, girls. I get the feeling you'll be of great help."
  931. >A horrible thought comes back to mind as I recall my incident with Twilight's crown.
  932. "...You don't think that this was exacerbated by my Fall Formal incident?"
  933. >The vice principal looks down at her desk in contemplation, then shakes her head.
  934. >"While sightings have increased since the incident, there's no conclusive evidence of this Equestrian magic being the cause. In fact,"
  935. >She pulls out another five folders, filled to the brim with images from the Fall Formal and Battle of the Bands.
  936. >"I would argue that Equestrian magic appears to be a normal part of this world, or at least doesn't seem to cause Decoherence by itself. Hence why I had to pull all my strings, and then some, to make sure these past two incidents never left the school."
  937.  
  938. "Right..."
  939. >Guess I did walk right into that one.
  940. >"That is why I need you six to do your best NOT to use magic of any kind during the Friendship Games. Not only is it cheating to the point of trivializing the games themselves, but the more people that know about this magic, the harder it will be to keep this a secret."
  941. >That makes sense.
  942. >The last thing I want to have to deal with is getting kidnapped by the government for "testing" purposes.
  943. >Not to mention how dangerous it might be to have a government find out about a land of resources like Equestria.
  944. "Yes, ma'am."
  945. >Luna gives a warm smile as she unlocks the door and motions us to leave.
  946. >"Excellent. Now hurry on home and get some rest: the Meet and Greet for the Friendship Games begins tomorrow, and I'll not have our favorite students miss it due to a cold."
  947.  
  948. >Flat, Monday, October 27th, Evening
  949.  
  950. >Lug Nut's shop was closed due to the bad weather, leaving me to return, soaking wet, to my room.
  951. >After drying off and changing to my nightwear, I notice my laptop nearby giving off a sharp ringing sound.
  952. >I check my notices and see a chat room opened on the Concord app I just installed.
  953. >Logging in, I join the voice chat and activate my microphone.
  954. "Hey, girls, did you all manage to get back home safely?"
  955. >Rarity's name lights up as she drags a long sigh.
  956. >"Oh, darling, it was the worst! It's bad enough my latest creations were torn by those filthy hounds, but the rain ruined my make-up as well. I might as well have been wearing a sign that said 'Ugly' all the way back home."
  957. >"Ha, sucks to be you, then! I managed to get a ride back to my place from Applejack."
  958. >Rainbow barely finishes before Applejack butts in.
  959. >"Only 'cause you live on the way back to the farm. This weather's gonna be a pain to recover from, especially since the soil's getting upturned in some areas."
  960.  
  961. >"Ooh! Ooh! What about all that stuff today with the Ponysona? That was fun!"
  962. >Pinkie's enthusiasm is only comparable to her lack of grammar sometimes.
  963. "They're called Persona, Pinkie, and I'm surprised that all of us managed to awaken them all today."
  964. >Loud clicking comes from Applejack's speakers before she speaks up again.
  965. >'It looks like my Persona's name is Arash Kamangir, some kinda legendary Iranian archer."
  966. >Rarity goes next, scuffling around the floor as a fat meow goes through the speakers.
  967. >"Oh, mine was called Cait Sith, and she looks so much like my darling Opalescence, but with such beautiful violet clothing. I feel inspiration tonight!"
  968. >"Mrow..."
  969. >That poor cat, I think as Fluttershy mumbles on her end.
  970. >"I think mine called herself Tzaphkiel, but it doesn't really look like an angel to me..."
  971.  
  972. >"You shoulda seen my Persona! His name was Agni, and he was throwing fire like -Fwoosh!- and roaring like -Rawr!-, and it was so cool!"
  973. >Rainbow groans a bit, though I'm not sure if its from her pain or wounded pride, before responding.
  974. >"I've got Achilles, but he got punked hard from that tank we fought. But the dude's huge, and he's super fast too! Say, Sunset, I don't think any of us have heard what your Persona's called."
  975. >A cold pit in my stomach grows as I realize the fresh hell I have walked into tonight.
  976. "...men rider... nix requiem."
  977. >"I'm sorry, dear, but could you speak up? I couldn't quite catch all that."
  978. "Kamen Rider... nix Requiem."
  979. >"Come on, Sunset, it can't be that ba-"
  980. >I groan and shake my head, taking a deep breath before sealing my fate,
  981.  
  982. "Kamen Rider Phoenix Requiem."
  983. >Silence takes the chat as I wait for death to take me.
  984. >Then, from the depths of Rainbow's mic, a rapid vibration exploding into full blown laughter.
  985. >"Hahahahaha, what kind of OC Donut Steel kinda name is that?!"
  986. >Applejack tries her best to keep her laughter hidden, but occasionally a chuckle gets caught on a mic.
  987. >"O-oh, come now, Rainbow Dash. Kamen Rider Phoenix Requiem is a... perfectly creative name."
  988. >"For edgy fourteen year-olds! Are you gonna start adding more words at the end of it?"
  989. >As Rainbow revels in my linguine, a notice pops up in my private chats from Fluttershy.
  990. ><I didn't know you liked Kamen Rider too. I can send you some of my collection, if you don't mind that is...>
  991.  
  992. >This really isn't what I need to worry about this late.
  993. "Alright, girls, I think I'm gonna sleep for the night. We'll meet at the band room to talk about our findings."
  994. >"That's fine, darling. Do try to get some good rest."
  995. >"Nighty night!"
  996. >"Sleep well."
  997. >"Night."
  998. >"Oh, how about Kamen Rider Phoenix Super Deluxe Fin-"
  999. >I mute the chat and mic before heating up some of the leftovers from breakfast and quickly eating and brushing my teeth.
  1000. >As I fall onto the bed, I think back to what Theodore said about entering the Velvet Room.
  1001.  
  1002. >I'm not entirely sure if this is guaranteed, but I think if I keep my mind on the Velvet Room before I sleep, we can end up there.
  1003. >I doubt we need to do this all the time, however, I think it might be good to see what he has to say from time to time.
  1004. >Do you guys think we should check out the Velvet Room tonight?
  1005.  
  1006. It would be worth it to check what Theo is up to. Maybe he can explain about Shadows entering this world and if it relates somehow to the ones in Equestria.
  1007. Theo's a good goi, he might be able to help you out. No reason not to pop in on him.
  1008.  
  1009. >I guess Luna did leave some questions hanging from our meeting, questions someone not of this world might be able to answer.
  1010. >Time to visit the Velvet Room, then.
  1011.  
  1012. >Velvet Room, ???
  1013.  
  1014. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_Fc3PxsXzE
  1015.  
  1016. >As I enter the Velvet Room once more, I feel a presence behind me in addition to Theodore's smile.
  1017. >"Welcome to the Velvet Room, dear guest. Pray, do no be alarmed by the being behind you, for they are merely a representation of your Myriad Hearts."
  1018. >I turn around to see a group of shadowy people, no more than thirty I'd say, waiting patiently as Theo continues.
  1019. >"It seems you have come here with questions. While I cannot answer in a manner that leads you down a particular path, I shall do my best to explain."
  1020. Why are the Shadows entering this world?
  1021. >Something like words, yet nothing like them, echoes through the room.
  1022. Are they related to the ones in Equestria?
  1023. >The alicorn attendant mulls over the question for a moment, leafing through several books before looking back up.
  1024. >"Shadows are an inherent part of human and pony nature: the unconscious and subconscious made manifest. I mentioned before how this realm exists between dream and reality, mind and matter. Somehow, the boundary between them is growing thin, allowing denizens from the dark corners of the mind to invade the world of man."
  1025. >"As for their connections to your original home, looking through my sister's records of your past exploits, your descriptions of the Shadows you have fought seem similar to those of the one who was here before. I am unsure if these creatures are the same as the ones from the past, but do not underestimate them, regardless. For your own health."
  1026.  
  1027. Decoherence seems like a dangerous concept. Can something happen that's so improbable that its impossible to correct?
  1028. >"What you call 'Decoherence' is simply the collective conscious of the world protecting itself. As Shadows are part of the realm of dreams and mind, they are naturally anathema to the world of reality and matter. No doubt, if a sufficiently large field is created, the world very well might be unable to recover."
  1029. >Theodore returns the books to their respective shelves as he continues to pave the hole in the ground.
  1030. >Looks like he's about halfway done with that.
  1031. >"This is all the more reason to prevent the machinations of those seeking to break the boundary. A reminder of what might happen if you fail."
  1032. >The clock begins to ring out, as I feel my connection to the Velvet Room slipping away.
  1033. >"Oh dear, it appears our time together has run out for tonight. It is time to return to the waking world."
  1034. >Theo takes a bow as my sight finally gives, everything going to darkness.
  1035. >"We await your next visit, dear guest."
  1036.  
  1037. >Flat, Tuesday, October 28th, Morning
  1038.  
  1039. >The sun's rays leak through the window and spitefully rouse me from slumber, as I stretch and check the time on my phone.
  1040. >6:00 A.M.
  1041. >Early again, I see.
  1042. >Perhaps visiting the Velvet Room prevents me from missing a full night's sleep.
  1043. >Perhaps the lot of you are keeping me from sleeping too deeply at night.
  1044. >Regardless, it's a new day, and I need to get ready.
  1045.  
  1046. >A quick shower and breakfast later, I check on the number of things I set on the counter to dry overnight.
  1047. >One of them, the flyer from the wall at Crystal Prep, is all but washed away from the sudden rainstorm.
  1048. >Damn it, I really thought I had something with this.
  1049. >But wait, there does seem to be parts of the flyer still in one piece, as I sit and take a closer look.
  1050.  
  1051. ...while these are indeed called the "Friendship Games", do not be fooled into thinking we are there to play nice. Friendships are forged in the fires of battle and progress, and it is there you shall find friends worthy to keep. We will win these games because we have always won these games...
  1052.  
  1053. >Well, that certainly explains why everyone there looked like they had a stick up their ass.
  1054. >Definitely something I can share with the others today, before the Meet and Greet.
  1055. >I place the remaining dried things into my bag and make my way to Canterlot High.
  1056.  
  1057. >Canterlot High, Tuesday, October 28th, Noon
  1058.  
  1059. >You can cut the tension at school with a knife, even with Principal Celestia's speech about welcoming Crystal Prep Academy for the Friendship games.
  1060. >Everyone's both parts frightened of competing against our rivals, but determined to make them bleed for every inch.
  1061. >I see the bus carrying the school logo pulling into the parking lot as I enter the band room with the other girls.
  1062. "Alright, let's review what we've learned about Crystal Prep and the Friendship Games. Shall I start?"
  1063. >The others nod as Applejack attempts to do so, sadly becoming the guinea pig to Rarity's fashion fever.
  1064. "When I went inside the campus, the trophies for the past few Friendship Games were lined up across the walls. Some of them are really old too, several decades, in fact."
  1065. >"Like I said, they've been kicking our butts this entire time. What else is new?"
  1066. >I pull out the strip of the flyer that survived water damages, showing it to the girls.
  1067. >"'We will win these games because we have always won these games...' What an ass thing to say!"
  1068. >Applejack grunts as Rainbow finishes, clearly not used to the restrictive garments Rarity created.
  1069. >"Well, that's probably why they're always so adamant about winning. They're more focused on the 'games' part."
  1070.  
  1071. >Fluttershy pulls out a notebook with various stickers of animals on it, flipping through before stopping on a particular page.
  1072. >"Before we got attacked, Rarity and I found out quite a bit about the Friendship Games themselves. It seems that it was a joint effort between Principal Celestia, and the previous Principal of Crystal Prep."
  1073. >She flips the page, a picture stapled on that gives me a pit in my stomach as I look at the man's stern expression, the dark hair, the green eyes.
  1074. "Sombra?!"
  1075. >I check and recheck all the details of the picture, but there can be no mistake: the person in picture's no doubt the Sombra of this world.
  1076. >Though for how stern he looks, he's nowhere near looks like the villain we fought on the moon.
  1077. >"Oh, do you know him, Sunset?"
  1078. "Well... Not him exactly, though I'm certainly familiar with the other side's version."
  1079. >Fluttershy looks as though she wants to ask a question, but stops herself as she goes on.
  1080. >"Well, whoever you met on the other side of the portal, this Principal Sombra perished about 22 years ago. He got into a nasty car crash that killed him instantly."
  1081. >That's not good; I had hoped we could have asked someone who was there at the beginning, but Celestia's almost certainly too busy to talk to now.
  1082.  
  1083. "There's also something else: something that might make the games a little more complicated."
  1084. >The others look at me as I find the best way to describe my discovery.
  1085. "So I've got good news and bad news. The good news is that I've found this side's Twilight Sparkle."
  1086. >"You have? Nice, we'll just need to make sure our Twilight doesn't run into her."
  1087. "The bad news is that she goes to Crystal Prep."
  1088. >The commotion dies as all five of them look at me in shock.
  1089. >"Don't tell me we're going to have to play against Twilight!"
  1090. >"Even if we know she's not the real deal, it's still stressful to consider..."
  1091.  
  1092. "When I met her, she seemed a lot more nervous and shy than she usually is. At least outside of the research she was doing."
  1093. >The others contemplate what to do as Rarity continues to molest Applejack with her tailoring appliances.
  1094. >"Well, we'll just need to remember that, while the girl seems pleasant enough, she's not the Twilight we know. Applejack, stop squirming, it's hard to get your measurements while you're moving."
  1095. >"I'd squirm less if you stopped stabbing me with that tiny needle of yours. Are all these costumes really necessary? We don't even know what the Friendship Games are gonna be yet."
  1096. >I rummage through one of the many clothes racks, pulling out a police uniform with a fake badge and everything.
  1097. "I can't help but agree with Applejack on this one, Rarity. I doubt we need to arrest criminals in these games."
  1098. >"Not to mention how much time you've spent on these outfits. Your gonna burn yourself before we even begin!"
  1099. >Rarity scoffs, waving her hand dismissively as she pulls out a handful of dresses.
  1100. >"I'd never get tired of this for the world, darling. It's like making dresses gives me energy!"
  1101. >Suddenly, a pair of ears form on her head as her hair stretches to the ground, creating the illusion of a tail.
  1102. >Somehow talking about dresses made her Pony Up, even without playing music.
  1103. >I'll need to make sure to note this for my own research.
  1104.  
  1105. >Then, as suddenly as it came, it looks like the energy she had is leaking out of her, causing her Pony form to vanish as she stands woozily.
  1106. >"Then again, I might just take a little break."
  1107. >Applejack catches her before she drops to the floor, helping Rarity to a seat and scowling at her.
  1108. >"This is what I'm talking about, Rarity: making all these dresses is fine and all, but sleep is just as important!"
  1109. >It looks like out meeting is concluded, so I turn around and leave the two to fuss over each other.
  1110. >Only for a shocked, bespectacled girl to be waiting for me behind the door.
  1111.  
  1112. "Twilight?"
  1113. >The girl from Crystal Prep swiftly lets go of a strange-looking necklace before waving.
  1114. >"Oh, hi, Sunset. Fancy meeting you here, of all places."
  1115. "I told you, Twilight, I'm a student here."
  1116. >Twilight nervously chuckles, clearly not expecting to run into me at this moment.
  1117. >"Right... Well, it was nice meeting you, but I really need to-"
  1118. >"Sunset, what's going on? Who are you talking to?"
  1119. >The poor girl looks torn between being petrified in fear and running away, so I try to calm her with a smile.
  1120. "It's fine if you want to come in for a while, Twilight. My friends are in here, and they're probably the second least dangerous thing here."
  1121.  
  1122. >It looks like Twilight's attempting to figure out a reason why she can't stay a while, but fails to find one.
  1123. >"...Alright."
  1124. >Taking her by the hand, I lead her into the band room, the others looking excited at her presence before I shake my head silently.
  1125. >Applejack takes the initiative, sticking out a strong hand towards Twilight, who takes it with some trepidation.
  1126. >"So, uh, you must be that Twilight Sparkle Sunset was talking about. The name's Applejack."
  1127. >After she thoroughly flings Twilight's arm around, the others introduce themselves as well, though Rarity still seems a bit too drained to leave her chair.
  1128. >"Glad to know I'm so... popular. You didn't tell everyone at this school about me, did you?"
  1129. "Actually, there was a student here a while back who's also called Twilight. I think most folks are confusing the two of you."
  1130. >Crap, I totally forgot next to no one even knows Crystal Prep has a Twilight.
  1131. >Maybe I should've gone and told everyone.
  1132.  
  1133. >Pinkie looks closer at the strange necklace I saw earlier, causing Twilight to back away slowly in discomfort.
  1134. >"That's a funny looking thing you've got around your neck. What's it do?"
  1135. >Twilight lifts the device a little higher, which looks somewhat like a purple pocket watch with glowing lights around it.
  1136. >"Well, I don't know how much Sunset told you guys, but I've been working on a thesis paper about abnormal electromagnetism in the area. This is an upgraded model of my last version, which can capture and record particular wavelengths."
  1137. >Something about the way the lights go around the device makes me uneasy, but it's probably not important.
  1138. "Why did you bring something like that to a competition? Are you looking to do some field research as well?"
  1139. >"I figured now would be as good a time as any, especially since we'll be around here for three more days, starting tomorrow."
  1140.  
  1141. >Before the others can ask any questions, a set of ringing noises sounds off from Twilight's phone.
  1142. >She picks it up as her eyes widen in panic.
  1143. >"Oh no, we're about to do rollcall soon. I need to get going before they notice I'm late! Good luck with the Games!"
  1144. >And with that, she's off.
  1145. >Girl might not flee all the time, but it looks like she's the reigning champion of it when she does.
  1146. "Well, that was interesting. Can't say I expected to run into the person I was talking about."
  1147. >Rainbow shrugs as she begins to follow suit, grabbing her bag and guitar case.
  1148. >"I've seen weirder. Come on, it's almost time for the Meet and Greet."
  1149. >The other girls begin packing up as well, though I feel a thought cross my mind.
  1150.  
  1151. >We've still got about half an hour before I need to get to the auditorium.
  1152. >If the coast is clear outside, it might be helpful to let Twilight know about the events so far.
  1153. >The last few days, I haven't actually found the time to write in the journal, so now would be a good time to fill her in.
  1154. >What do you guys think?
  1155.  
  1156. If you plan on writing to Princess Twilight you should probably do it somewhere away from prying eyes.
  1157. I guess it wouldn't hurt to fill her in, but try and find someplace out of the way to do so, eh? The journal uses Equestrian magic, which is what Humanlight is searching for; she seems nice enough, but "the road to Hell", and all that.
  1158.  
  1159. >You guys think this world's Twilight's actively searching for Equestrian Magic?
  1160. >While I'm sure Equestrian Magic in particular can be detected by technology, I find it hard to believe she can make a device that could sap and store it.
  1161. >But all the same, it definitely a good idea to find a safe place to write.
  1162. >I lock the band room door and pull the curtains, finding a spot out of the way before pulling out a pen.
  1163.  
  1164. >Dear Twilight, the situation has gotten far more serious over the past few days. It seems the boundary between dream and reality is under risk of being broken on this side of the mirror. The girls and I have been given the task of taking care of it before it happens, and I wouldn't mind your thoughts about some of the things we've learned...
  1165.  
  1166. >I jot down details surrounding the Friendship Games, Decoherence, and the Shadows we encountered.
  1167.  
  1168. >Also, I would recommend against during school hours for now, Twilight. It seems there's another version of you in our rival school, and she might be investigating Equestrian Magic. If there's an emergency, I'll let you know through the journal. Until then, Sunset Shimmer.
  1169.  
  1170. >That seems good enough, as I close the journal and grab the rest of my stuff.
  1171. "Now all that's left is to wait for Twilight to return the message."
  1172. >Until then, we might as well see what this Meet and Greet is all about.
  1173. >I lock the band room door behind me as I hurry over to the auditorium.
  1174.  
  1175. >Canterlot High Auditorium, Tuesday, October 28th, Afternoon
  1176.  
  1177. >Well, I expected students from here to not mash well with some of the ones from Crystal Prep.
  1178. >But they're literally on different sides of the room!
  1179. >Something's telling me that this Meet and Greet isn't going to go as well as Principal Celestia hoped.
  1180. >I walk over to where the other girls seem to have made their haunt, with Pinkie nowhere to be seen.
  1181. "Where's Pinkie? I'd have thought she'd do her part to spice this party."
  1182.  
  1183. >Rainbow Dash motions to tables filled with cupcakes, muffins, and other pastries, all on top of a bright and colorful table dress that clashes with the atmosphere.
  1184. >"I've been seeing Pinkie run around with that other Twilight, messing with the food, music, and lightning. As for where they are now, I've no clue."
  1185. >The mumbles growing in the audience are silenced as Principal Celestia arrives to the podium.
  1186. >"Hello, everyone! I'd like to take this opportunity to greet all of our visitors from Crystal Prep Academy and welcome them to CHS."
  1187. >Suddenly, a feeling sprouts in the back of my neck, a premonition forewarning like an old sea dog looking out to harbor.
  1188. >"And lastly, I would like to recognize the twelve students that CHS has elected to compete. I don't think we could have chosen a better group to represent the excellence, sportsmanship, and friendship the games stand for."
  1189. >Something is coming.
  1190.  
  1191. >As if to respond to my sixth sense, a loud eruption of confetti and music booms throughout the room.
  1192. >The fun explosion rouses the students from their stupor, and they notice the new festive look as the two sides begin to talk amongst each other.
  1193. >"Leave it to Pinkie to set the surprise at the right moment. We should probably check out out competition, as it were."
  1194. >Applejack goes off to talk to a group of Crystal Prep students as the others break apart and go their separate ways.
  1195. >I suppose Applejack is right: we might as well get acquainted with a couple of our competitors.
  1196. >Looking around to see folks available, my eye catches five particular students.
  1197.  
  1198. >An athletic-looking girl with slicked up blue hair is currently doing some stretches in a more open part of the auditorium.
  1199. >There appear to be a number of girls watching her do so from the distance as well.
  1200. >I see Vinyl Scratch and another girl with ragged, lime green hair jamming to the music playing at her DJ stand.
  1201. >Though I'm wondering how she's even listening in with those headphones of hers.
  1202.  
  1203. >Another girl with a long pink-green ponytail is chattering and laughing with a group of students from both schools.
  1204. >There's something about her smile that seems off to me, but its probably just the distance.
  1205. >There's also a loner with silver hair sitting in a far corner of the room, reading through a book with a nonchalant expression on her face.
  1206. >It seems weird that she'd keep to herself during a socializing event like this.
  1207. >And finally, there's this girl with a short cut drinking next to the punch bowl, surrounded by other students chatting with each other.
  1208. >Perhaps it's just me, but it looks like she's far more lonely in that group of people than the one sitting by herself.
  1209. >Regardless who we check out first, it looks like we'll have plenty of time to check with each one.
  1210. >Which of these girls do you want to check with first?
  1211.  
  1212. Let's try with the last one you mentioned. The others seem a bit more... intense, so let's go with the easier choice.
  1213. I'll concur with talking to the punch-bowl gal.
  1214.  
  1215. >She does seem like the most lonely out of the five of them, so I don't think it'd hurt to talk with her first.
  1216. >As I make my way towards the punch bowl, I notice an old-style parasol lying nearby, clearly belonging to her.
  1217. >Perhaps she's preemptively planning for the storm to return?
  1218. >Regardless, I finally arrive to my destination, the short-cut girl barely noticing my presence.
  1219. "Hey, my name's Sunset Shimmer. I was hoping that we might hang out for a bit and talk about stuff while we wait."
  1220. >The girl finishes her punch before setting the cup down, wiping her lip and giving me a frigid look.
  1221. >"No offense, but we're here to win, not make friends. I'm sure you can find countless other people dying to let you know what they had for breakfast."
  1222. >Well, that's a good first impression.
  1223. >After a moment of trying to ignore me, she sighs and checks her really high-tech watch on her right hand.
  1224. >"But I suppose there's nothing better to do while we wait. The name's Sunny, Sunny Flare."
  1225. >Oddly, she offers her left hand, which I awkward grasp with my own for a nonchalant handshake.
  1226.  
  1227. "That sounds a lot like my name. That's kinda cool."
  1228. >"I guess. Say, since you're so willing to talk, do you mind giving me your opinion?"
  1229. >I nod as she points to a group of Crystal Prep and Canterlot High students mingling together.
  1230. >"Unlike your school, we don't pick our teams based off of voting. We pick the strongest, fastest, smartest, most skilled people on campus to win at these games."
  1231. >I have to admit, the clean-cut, fancy uniforms of Crystal Prep stick out in this auditorium of standard school clothes.
  1232. >"Not to mention the financial differences between the two of our schools. Don't you find it weird that you're expected to compete against a school that not only outclasses you, but can afford the necessities to continue doing so?"
  1233.  
  1234. >Sunny pours another cup as she looks into her reflection and sighs.
  1235. >"I don't know if you're aware, but these used to be for promoting kinship and cooperation between the schools. Now these 'Friendship Games' are glorified curbstomps..."
  1236. >Sunny looks like she's stuck in her own thoughts, so I cough a bit to get her attention and give the best smile I can.
  1237. "Well, if you ask me, I think the idea of focusing on winning these games seems silly. This is something we only get to experience once in our entire time at high school. So I think we should enjoy ourselves, even if Canterlot loses again."
  1238. >A shocked look crosses the girl's face, covering her mouth for a moment before turning back, her serious expression acting like nothing happened.
  1239. >"...You are a strange person, Sunset. But if you can have fun being utterly destroyed, then who am I to take that from you?"
  1240.  
  1241. >Suddenly, a ringing sound comes from Sunny's watch, causing her to check what happened before grabbing her parasol.
  1242. >"Unfortunately, I have something I need to settle right now, so I must be going. I think this year's Friendship Games are going to be very... interesting."
  1243. >And with that, Sunny Flare vanishes into the crowd, leaving me with a half-full cup of punch and weird feelings in my gut.
  1244. >It didn't feel like we talked about much, but I feel like I've learned something about this Sunny that makes me understand her a bit more.
  1245. >Still, there's nothing worse than sticking next to the punch without a line, so it's time to keep moving.
  1246. >It seems none of the other girls have strayed too far from where they originally were, so who should we talk to next?
  1247.  
  1248. Wanna try with twintails next? Maybe you both like reading the same stuff.
  1249. I agree, twintails next. Wonder if she's studying, or just reading for pleasure?
  1250.  
  1251. >Sounds good to me.
  1252. >I leave the lonely punch bowl and make my way towards the corner with the girl reading.
  1253. >She really is completely out of the action: the corner she picked is the furthest from any group of students.
  1254. >As I get closer, the sounds of talking and laughter fade into the background, my footsteps becoming more and more audible.
  1255. >Does anyone other than me know this girl is over here?
  1256. >Finally, I reach the girl with twintails, who doesn't even look out of her book to acknowledge me.
  1257. "Hey, my name's Sunset Shimmer, and I'm part of the CHS team."
  1258. >No reaction.
  1259. "Um... I noticed that you were sitting here all by yourself, and I thought that you might like some company. Especially since we're still waiting for announcements."
  1260.  
  1261. >The girl looks up from her book, her bespectacled violet eyes staring dead into my own as she opened her mouth.
  1262. >"You're weird."
  1263. >I blink in surprise as she returns to her book, seemingly satisfied with the interaction.
  1264. "Come again?"
  1265. >"You went out of your way to leave where everyone else was in order to talk to someone on the other side of the area, just to spend time. You're weird."
  1266. >The twintailled girl doesn't even look up this time, continuing to read in silence.
  1267. >However, she does scoot closer to the wall, leaving a spot open which I take as an invitation.
  1268.  
  1269. >Sitting next to the girl, I notice how young she looks: no more than a freshman or sophomore, I'd say.
  1270. "So, uh, what's your name?"
  1271. >"... Sugarcoat."
  1272. >Well, we're making progress at least.
  1273. >Unfortunately, it seems Sugarcoat is more than content sitting in silence and reading her book.
  1274. >I don't think she's against answering questions, though, if we want to bring up topics.
  1275. >I've got some of my own to ask, but do you guys have anything in particular you want to talk to Sugarcoat about?
  1276.  
  1277. I'd compliment her hairstyle, but I think you can come up with better topics than us in this situation.
  1278. Kind of curious what she's here for, she doesn't seem to be very interested in the competition or co-mingling aspects, but she still took the bus all the way over to Canterlot High... maybe supporting a friend?
  1279.  
  1280. >I'll try and ease her into answering before I ask those kinds of questions.
  1281. "So what are you reading there? I don't think I've seen that book before."
  1282. >Sugarcoat slightly closes the book, revealing the name "The Visual Handbook of Building and Remodeling", before returning to her reading position.
  1283. >Interesting, I wouldn't have thought a girl so small would be into heavy duty work like construction.
  1284. "That's pretty cool. Do you build anything in particular?"
  1285. >"... Clock frames and chairs, mostly. Still not experienced for more advanced projects."
  1286. "Why are you all the way over here, anyways? It seems weird to go to something called the Friendship Games and not at least socialize."
  1287. >She looks out to the groups of students mingling out in the distance, her blank expression betraying nothing.
  1288. >"... Don't feel like it."
  1289.  
  1290. >Regardless of her expression, her body language seems to have relaxed, the icebreaker doing its job.
  1291. "Are you rooting for a friend, then?"
  1292. >Sugarcoat shakes her head, turning the page over before responding.
  1293. >"I'm competing for Crystal Prep. We'll probably win again."
  1294. >Girl just doesn't pull back her punches, huh.
  1295. "I like your hairstyle, twintails must be hard to maintain."
  1296. >"Mmm."
  1297. >Well, I've got nothing left.
  1298. >Out of things to talk about, I simply sit and look out to the entire auditorium.
  1299.  
  1300. >...
  1301. >...
  1302. >Maybe it's just my imagination, but the sounds of auditorium feel like they're starting to blend together into a mesh of background noise.
  1303. >It feels nice and calm over here, like we're the only people in the entire room.
  1304. >Makes me feel kinda...
  1305. >... Sleepy...
  1306.  
  1307. >A sharp feeling in my side wakes me up in a shock.
  1308. >I look around and see Sugarcoat looking at me funny.
  1309. >'You were sleeping on me, so I poked you."
  1310. >Judging by the positioning of her elbow, it looks like she jabbed me more than anything else.
  1311. >My neck aches somewhat as I stand up, moving out of my spot so Sugarcoat can comfortably sit again.
  1312. "Oh, sorry. I think I'm going to go check out with other people. Thanks for talking with me, Sugarcoat."
  1313. >"Mmm. Bye."
  1314.  
  1315. >And with that, the silent girl returns to her book, almost as if nothing even happened in the first place.
  1316. >Still, I feel like I've gotten a better understanding about Sugarcoat, and why she might want to hang out in this corner.
  1317. >I check the clock on the nearby wall for the time, and realize I hadn't actually been sleeping for long at all.
  1318. >Still, I probably shouldn't waste much more time if I want to properly check out the competition.
  1319. >Thankfully, it looks like all the girls I noticed earlier are still in their relative areas, so I make my way back to the sights and sounds of camaraderie.
  1320. >Which girl do you guys want to visit next?
  1321.  
  1322. Mu-sic girl! Mu-sic girl! Mu-sic girl!
  1323.  
  1324. >Fine, fine, we'll check out the girl hanging out with Vinyl.
  1325. >Of all the days I forget to bring my earplugs...
  1326. >Against my better judgement, I make my way to the DJ stand, the bass beating in my chest and soul.
  1327. >Vinyl notices my arrival and wordlessly waves at me, just as mute as her pony version.
  1328. >I return the gesture as I try to catch the lime-haired girl's attention.
  1329. >However, it looks like she's enraptured by the sounds of her headphones, banging her head to the imaginary beat with her eyes closed.
  1330. >Clearly, I'm not going to reach her by talking, so I tap her shoulder with appropriate force.
  1331. >She jumps in shock, looking around to see who could have done such a thing, before noticing me.
  1332. >"Oh, hey, I totally didn't see you there, dude. What's up?"
  1333.  
  1334. "Well, since we've still got some time left before the announcement of the events, I thought it might be a good idea to see who I'd be competing against. My name's Sunset Shimmer, by the way."
  1335. >"Rad, the name's Lemon Zest, and it's totally nice to meet you. Say, you got a favorite kind of music?"
  1336. >Blinking a bit at her sudden question, I think to some of the bands I like in particular.
  1337. "Well, I've been a fan of rock for the most part: groups like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. I have been listening to other genres as well, since the Battle of the Bands we had a year or so back."
  1338. >Lemon Zest grin widens as she hears me mention those bands, moving her headphones towards me.
  1339. >"Dude, you should totally listen to this, then!"
  1340.  
  1341. >Before I can respond, she plops the headphones over my ears, and music booms into my very bones.
  1342. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXtPycm5dGc
  1343. >"THERE I WAS COMPLETELY WASTED, OUT OF WORK AND DOWN"
  1344. >The music seems familiar, but it's hard to tell with the sick guitar rhythms throttling my earbuds.
  1345. >"BREAKING THE LAW, BREAKING THE LAW"
  1346. >At this point, my ears are starting to adapt to the volume, at the cost of future hearing most likely.
  1347. >"YOU DON'T KNOW WHAT IT'S LIKE, YOU DON'T HAVE A CLUE"
  1348.  
  1349. >Thankfully, Lemon Zest manages to save my poor ears when she takes them off and pauses the song.
  1350. >"Well, whaddya think? Pretty cool, right?"
  1351. >It takes a moment to regain my balance, the ringing in my ears slowly fading away.
  1352. "It was certainly... powerful, to say the least. That was Judas Priest, wasn't it?"
  1353. >This earns a nod from the tired-looking girl, who flips through several of the albums she's carrying in her player.
  1354. >"I never leave home without my tunes, ya know? Say, if you were in a Battle of the Bands, you must be part of a band too, right?"
  1355. "Yeah, a couple friends of mine and I practice in the afternoons and play in some venues occasionally."
  1356. >Lemon Zest's eyes widen with excitement as I mention this.
  1357. >"That's so cool! I don't really have a group to play music with, but I am working to get into the music scene. Music production, mostly."
  1358.  
  1359. >She stretches arms and sighs dejectedly, looking around the room with a troubled look.
  1360. >"Still, what a pain these Friendship Games are. I doubt there's even gonna be something music-related in this entire thing."
  1361. >For all her energy about music, that same energy seems to deflate the moment its not relevant.
  1362. >"On the other hand, this seems like a good time to find folks with similar tastes, like you. From one music dude to another, I hope to see you in the Finals, Sunset."
  1363. >Lemon Zest finally sticks out a hand to shake as I return her smile.
  1364. "Likewise, Lemon."
  1365. >And with that, the musician wanders off to new groups, most likely to bleed a few more virgin ears while she has the chance.
  1366.  
  1367. >That leaves the athlete and popular-looking girl left to talk to.
  1368. >You guys have any preference on this one?
  1369.  
  1370. I say we talk to the athletic girl, we are about to have a sports competition after all
  1371. Yes, tomgirl next sounds good.
  1372.  
  1373. >Sounds good to me: who knows, maybe the one person seemingly pumped for the event will be the normal one out of the bunch.
  1374. >I silently wave goodbye to Vinyl and make my way out of the pumping music, aiming towards the center of the room.
  1375. >The athletic girl seems long done with her stretches and exercises, talking with the group of girls who were watching from afar.
  1376. >"Oh, Zap, you're going to destroy the competition this year!"
  1377. >Miss Zap, if the fangirl can be believed, laughs at the remark, flexing an arm muscle.
  1378. >"Ha, I sure hope not! It's be a complete waste of time if none of these Canterlot guys gave me a little challenge."
  1379. >Her eyes lock onto me as she grins and motions me over.
  1380. >"Speaking of, you're one of the gals Canterlot voted for the team, right? The name's Indigo Zap."
  1381. >Indigo thrusts her hand out to me, which I take as she shakes with a firm handshake.
  1382.  
  1383. "That's right, my name is Sunset Shimmer. Since the announcements haven't happened yet, I've been checking out the competition early."
  1384. >She nods at my reasoning, walking around and eyeing me up and down the entire time before nodding approvingly.
  1385. >Can't say I appreciate being appraised like a piece of meat.
  1386. >"That's a pretty good strat, Sundown. I can already tell you're gonna be some good competition later on. You've got fire in your eyes."
  1387. "Sunset."
  1388. >Still, her response appears to shock the gaggle of fangirls following her around, who quickly recover and glare daggers at me.
  1389. >"Even if you make it to the finals, Zap's the number one athlete in the entire school."
  1390. >"She's the captain of every sports team, too, so you stand no chance!"
  1391.  
  1392. >Indigo shrugs at the praises and takes a drink out of her bottle of water.
  1393. >"Looks like you've got their expectations now, Glimmer. Mine too, so you better make it to the finals!"
  1394. "...Shimmer."
  1395. >"Well, that's enough time resting. Bet I can get another rep in."
  1396. >And with that, Indigo wanders off, her gaggle of supporters following suit.
  1397.  
  1398. >Well, looks like the only girl left to check on is that popular-looking one.
  1399. >I notice her back where I met Sunny Flare before, near the punch bowl.
  1400. >The closer I get, the more I see this girl's slouched over position and slight mutterings under her breath.
  1401. "Hey, you alright? You're looking pretty beat up for a Meet and Greet."
  1402. >Suddenly, her form straightens in a hurry as she spins around with a golden smile on her face.
  1403. >"Oh! Hey there, I didn't hear you coming over. Like, my name's Sour Sweet, and I'm so glad to meet you!"
  1404. >The saccharine tone of her voice grates my ears a little, but I shake away those thoughts and share her smile.
  1405. "My name's Sunset Shimmer, I thought it might be a good idea to talk to some folks at Crystal Prep to get to know my fellows better."
  1406. >"Like, I totally agree, Sunset. I know some folks here are determined to win the games for Crystal Prep... again, but I'll be happy if we all just do our best out there."
  1407. >It might just be me, but the way she said 'again' seemed off, just a little bit.
  1408. >Still Sour Sweet looks like a fairly nice girl, out of all the competitive students from Crystal Prep.
  1409.  
  1410. >A random student trundles by Sour, grazing her with his shoulder and causing the last bit of her punch to splash on her uniform.
  1411. >"Oh, sorry."
  1412. >In an instant, her expression darkens, and I feel a murderous intent radiating from her stare at the passing student.
  1413. >"You're gonna be sorry when I pum... out of you, you fu-"
  1414. >She mutters under her breath, crushing the life out of the cup in her hand before apparently realizing she's in company.
  1415. "... Sour Sweet?"
  1416. >"O-oh, don't mind that, Sunset, I'm perfectly fine. Punch might be so concentrated with fructose that this will take hours of cleaning to fix, but that's alright. Accidents happen."
  1417. >The smile she gives seem less sincere as she runs off to where the towels have been placed.
  1418.  
  1419. >The crowd starts quieting down as a professionally dressed lady makes her way to the podium stand.
  1420. >Her expression looks like it's never understood the definition of fun, her eyes coldly looking across the sea of students before clearing her throat.
  1421. >"Hello, my name is Principal Cinch. I'd like to thank Principal Celestia for her unconventional welcome. It's been four years since the last Friendship Games, but it feels as though nothing has changed. Canterlot High continues to pick its competitors in a popularity contest and Crystal Prep continues to field its top twelve students."
  1422. >At the sound of her voice, the students start distancing themselves from each other once more.
  1423. >"It is a comfort to know that even after so many years of losses, your school remains committed to its ideals, however misguided they may be. I wish you all the best of luck, regardless of the inevitable outcome."
  1424. >Wow, what a bitch.
  1425.  
  1426. >With her spiel out of the way, Cinch pulls out a sheaf of papers and continues.
  1427. >"Now for the events. Each team of twelve students shall take place in an Academic Decathlon, where they will be graded in fields such as chemistry, construction, and spelling, among others. This shall lead to the two leading members of each group participating in the elimination equation finale."
  1428. >That would explain students like Sugarcoat taking part in the games.
  1429. >"The students with the top six scores shall then take part in the Triathlon, which will be three different athletic events. The side with the most victories will be the winner of this year's Friendship Games."
  1430. >And with that, Principal Cinch leaves as professionally as she arrived, the camaraderie exhibited earlier completely murdered.
  1431. >"Oh."
  1432. >I turn around to see a disheveled Pinkie walking along with the other girls, Applejack putting a comforting arm on her shoulder.
  1433. >"I'm sorry, Pinkie. I thought your party additions were really swell."
  1434.  
  1435. >"They definitely broke the ice."
  1436. >Fluttershy adds as Rarity looks over to the podium annoyed.
  1437. >"Yes. If only that Principal Cinch hadn't frozen it again."
  1438. >"Yeah, she's awful."
  1439. >As Pinkie gets closer, she almost looks just as bad as Rarity did, if not worst, as her curly hair lies deflated to her side.
  1440. "Wow, Pinkie, what happened to you?"
  1441. >"I don't know. Everyone started having fun after Twilight and I fired the party cannons and I ponied up."
  1442. >Of course she did.
  1443. >"But then the magic just drained right out of me."
  1444.  
  1445. >The phrasing catches me by surprise.
  1446. "Wait, what do you mean 'drained out of you'?"
  1447. >Pinkie shrugs with next to no energy in her own movements.
  1448. >"It was sorta like being a big, bright balloon! Then having someone untie the knot and release all the air...
  1449. >Applejack looks around, eyeing the crowd for someone in particular.
  1450. >"Hey. Where is that other Twilight?"
  1451. >"Oh. She's right..."
  1452. >Pinkie points to her side, but any traces of the Twilight of this world are long gone.
  1453. >"Uh, well, she was right here."
  1454.  
  1455. >Once is a coincidence, but twice is a conspiracy.
  1456. >Something's draining our Pony Ups, and I can't factor out that Twilight might be involved.
  1457. >Still, for all the magic drained, it doesn't look like the act of it does any permanent harm.
  1458. "We should keep an eye out for anything particularly suspicious, girls. This hasn't gotten to a dangerous point yet, but if we can find the problem, we need to take care of it."
  1459. >The girls nod in agreement as the final bell rings, the rest of the students making their way out of school.
  1460. >We should head back as well.
  1461.  
  1462. >Lug's Nuts & Bolts, Tuesday, October 28th, Late Afternoon
  1463.  
  1464. "I'm home."
  1465. >I place my bag somewhere safe before putting on my work clothes and stepping into the shop.
  1466. >Lug Nut's currently working on a welding project, so I wait until he finishes his spark-filled work and turns.
  1467. >"Hey, Sunset, you ready to bleed?"
  1468. >I nod at his little joke and follow him to a set of dead motorcycles and a car engine.
  1469.  
  1470. >"We just got these in today. Apparently some idiot decided not to change his fluids, so the engine's a mess. You'll be on clean up duty."
  1471. >He hands me an assortment of tools before returning to his welding tool.
  1472. >As I take a closer look, I can tell he wasn't kidding: this idiot must've been running this engine for years without check-up.
  1473. >I might not even be able to get it back to a workable condition, but it is what we're paid for, so I get to work.
  1474. >Brushing the debris out of the engine compartment, I cover the powerless wiring with some plastic wrap before pulling out the degreaser.
  1475. "If only I had a car to warm this grease up."
  1476. >"If only he hadn't run it to the ground."
  1477. >Thanks to the cooler temperature of the shop, I have to wait a while longer for the degreaser to take effect, though it seems to to the job for the most part.
  1478. >With a scrub or five, I manage to clean most of the grease around the engine.
  1479. >Still, there are some stubborn spots, so I pull out the stiff bristled brush and get to work rubbing them down.
  1480.  
  1481. >"So I heard your school's hosting the Friendship Games this year."
  1482. "Yeah, the competition looks tough, but I bet we can win if we try hard enough."
  1483. >Lug Nut nods, having finished his work and gone to the counter to grab a drink.
  1484. >"Winning is all fine and well, but don't burn yourself out too much. You don't need to win a silly game to go up in the world."
  1485. >The grease finally annihilated, for the most part, I spray the degreaser off and begin work on the corroded terminal screws.
  1486. "Didn't know you cared that much, Boss."
  1487. >The old mechanic shrugs, moving to take a closer look at the engine.
  1488. >"Your work's good, and your rent's better. Would hate to lose either. Fuck me, that battery's useless now."
  1489. >I hate to admit defeat, but Lug's not wrong.
  1490. >There's more rust than metal at this point, and even if we tried to scrub it all off, it'd be an acidic paperweight.
  1491. "Guess we're gonna have to replace it, then."
  1492.  
  1493. >"Customer's not gonna like that, but it ain't our problem now. I'll put an order in for a new battery."
  1494. >My work done, I shift my focus to the motorcycles, which seem to be in perfect order.
  1495. "So what happened with these bad boys? They look ready enough as is."
  1496. >Lug Nut opens one of the nearby compartment and shows the tubes connected to the fuel, a jagged hole punched through them.
  1497. >"According to the client, he and a friend were doing some off-road riding when they hit a rough patch of rocks. Didn't notice the hole until he tried to get one of them started again."
  1498. >The faint stench of gasoline reaches my nose as the old man opens the other bike to show me the same thing.
  1499. "And we're sure its just an accident? Someone could've cut it open intentionally."
  1500. >"Perhaps, but we aren't paid to investigate the causes, only to fix up the messes. Besides,"
  1501. >Lug Nut pulls out a knife and cuts another line into the fuel tube, the cut leaving a fine line in its wake.
  1502. >"Intentionally cutting the tube always makes a clean cut, assuming you want to effectively drain the fuel. Now get to work."
  1503.  
  1504. >After the long and tedious procedure to replace all the tubing with fresh, new ones, we refill the tank and I hop on top of one of them.
  1505. >"She's all yours, Sunset, let's see how the girl purrs now."
  1506. >With a solid rev, the motorcycle roars to life, a check below the vehicle showing no signs of leaking.
  1507. >After checking with the other motorcycle, I properly park the two ladies and make my way to the counter, where Lug offers me a bottled water.
  1508. >"Good work today, Sunset. Here's your share of the check, though I doubt you need it that much."
  1509. >He hands me a wad of bills that I pocket before tossing the empty bottle to the bin.
  1510. "I keep telling you, you don't have to pay me. The experience is more than enough."
  1511. >"And I keep telling you that you earn what you work for. I'm gonna lock up the shop now, have a good night, Sunset."
  1512.  
  1513. >Flat, Tuesday, October 28th, Evening
  1514.  
  1515. >I'm dead tired from the socializing and work.
  1516. >Still, those girls: Sunny Flare, Sugarcoat, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, and Sour Sweet.
  1517. >I feel like I understand them all a bit better now, like we've created a bond of some kind.
  1518. >After a short dinner, shower, and brushing, I crash onto the bed, my eyes nearly closed.
  1519. >Oh yeah, we can probably visit the Velvet Room again, if you guys want.
  1520. >What do you think?
  1521.  
  1522. sounds fine to me
  1523. Understanding someone/pony better usually means good things to come in the Velvet Room. I know you are tired, but it could be advisable to visit the room.
  1524. I can't help but wonder if this is hampering your ability to sleep at all. That being said I still think it's a good idea to pull as much insight and information that we can.
  1525.  
  1526. >That's fine, I'll just keep it in...
  1527.  
  1528. >Velvet Room, ???
  1529.  
  1530. >I open my eyes to the now familiar blue room around me, noticing Theodore busying himself with sorting out the various bookshelves.
  1531. >Looks like I managed to keep the Velvet Room in mind before sleeping, as the attendant turns around in surprise.
  1532. >"Oh, I didn't see you come in, dear guest. While you shall receive a full night's rest in this Velvet Room, do not feel obligated to visit every night. Feel free to enjoy your slumber without my presence from time to time."
  1533. >The chair I sit on begins to move closer to the sizable oak desk, with Theodore standing nearby.
  1534. >"Still, you have come tonight, and for that, I shall tell you something vital to your journey."
  1535. >The tarot deck from before materializes in his magical grasp, as six card slide to the desk in the shape of a star, with an upright Hanged Man in the center.
  1536.  
  1537. >"During your time in this world, you have made countless connections with the people around you. In particular, five girls have been with you during your bid for redemption, through thick and thin."
  1538. >The cards flip over, revealing the Star, Strength, Sun, Chariot, and Temperance Arcana surrounding the Hanged Man in the center.
  1539. >"These bonds are unbreakable, and shall serve you well in your future struggles. However, these alone shall not be enough to halt the tide of darkness."
  1540. >Five more cards spawn, taking spots in between each of the existing cards before flipping to reveal the Moon, Hermit, Sun, Chariot, and Fortune cards, though the Sun and Chariot are of a different design.
  1541. >"Your interactions earlier today have created newborn connections between you and your rivals. By nurturing these bonds, you will become stronger for it, and they will become great assets in your journey."
  1542.  
  1543. >So I should become friends with those girls from before, and reinforce our bonds?
  1544. >It all seems confusing, but if all I have to do is make friends, I'll do my best.
  1545. >The bell has not yet rung ,but I find my eyes growing heavier.
  1546. >"Ah, it seems your mind is more sluggish than usual tonight. Pray, enjoy the rest of your night in peace, dear guest."
  1547. >Theo bows as my mind blacks out.
  1548.  
  1549. >Flat, Wednesday, October 29th, Morning
  1550.  
  1551. >My eyes flutter awake before the sun can catch them unawares, pulling out of my bed with a stretch.
  1552. >Looks like Theodore was right: I seem to be getting enough sleep, even with the visits to the Velvet Room.
  1553. >I take a shower and start cooking some eggs and toast, when the journal begins to ring,
  1554. >Ah, Twilight must've gotten around to answering, finally.
  1555. >Leaving the eggs to cool, I slip around the couch and take a comfortable seat before opening the book.
  1556.  
  1557. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJsI1HoWdi0
  1558.  
  1559. >!
  1560. >My ears are assaulted with a horrible ringing sound that digs into my brain like a knife!
  1561. >Colors burst in my eyes, the text on the journal becoming all but unreadable.
  1562. >What the hell is happening?!
  1563. >Gritting my teeth, I fling the book with all my might, slamming it against the nearby wall and closing it.
  1564. >I close my eyes and try to focus my thoughts, scattered as they were.
  1565. >What happened to the Journal? It's never done anything like that before.
  1566. >I'm not terribly keen to opening it once more, but a thought crosses my mind like a bullet.
  1567. >What if the Journal's not working because Equestria's in danger?
  1568. >What if something horrible's happened, and everyone needs me?
  1569.  
  1570. "Hanged Man..."
  1571. >Without a second thought, I quickly nab my bag and slip on some shoes, nearly tumbling down the stairs as I bolt out like a madman.
  1572. >I reach the school with no trouble, with not even staff out of their beds yet.
  1573. >Without wasting time, I sling the bag around my shoulders, take a deep breath, and rush through the portal!
  1574.  
  1575. >Only to slam into the statue's mirror and fall on my ass from the impact.
  1576. >The pain slaps me out of my panic, as I look at the imposing statue above it.
  1577. >Is this the right side?
  1578. >I walk around the statue before confirming that this side was, indeed, where the portal was connected.
  1579. "Oh no."
  1580. >I place my hand on the mirror, hoping beyond hope to feel the familiar jelly-like push of the portal's magic.
  1581. "No, please..."
  1582. >My hands are only met with a cold, hard, unyielding surface, which only reflected a scared, disheveled girl.
  1583. "Where's the portal?"
  1584. >I damn my eyes reflecting the answer known to me.
  1585. "Where's the portal?!"
  1586.  
  1587. >I'm slouching on the couch, mindlessly chomping on lukewarm eggs and toast.
  1588. >Hanged Man was right, cold eggs do taste like shit.
  1589. >I sigh as I place the plate down on the coffee table next to me, looking up at the ceiling.
  1590. >My journal isn't working, the portal is gone, and I don't know what to do.
  1591. >Where do I even go from here?
  1592.  
  1593. Call your friends because we can only do so much from our side, its going to be alright and im sure Hanged Man wouldnt want to ruin your smile with tears.
  1594. Weeeell shit. As a student, I think you kind of have to go to school (unless the truancy officer is too lazy to come looking for you). Besides, your friends might be able to help, or at least make you feel better, so no harm in calling an ACTUAL emergency meeting. From there we can start exhausting our longer shots.
  1595.  
  1596. "..."
  1597. >You're right, moping about like this isn't going to help.
  1598. >I've got a duty to CHS, my friends, and you guys, to keep going.
  1599.  
  1600. This may be a long shot... but maybe the problem with shadows here is affecting the connection with Equestria?
  1601.  
  1602. >That might be it as well.
  1603. >I think we're gonna need to wake up the girls.
  1604. >Leaving the Journal on the floor, I pick up the second best thing and dial up Rarity.
  1605. *Ring*
  1606. *Ring*
  1607. >"Mmm... Hello? Who is this?"
  1608. >Rarity's groggy voice responds, clearly far more tired than I am.
  1609. "Sorry for waking you up, Rarity. It's Sunset."
  1610. >"Sunset? Darling, it's 5 A.M., why are you up at such a ghastly hour?"
  1611. "There's no time to explain, help me get everyone onto Concord. We need to talk about something."
  1612.  
  1613. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQHonpNrMMY
  1614.  
  1615. >"What do ya mean the portal's gone?"
  1616. >Applejack's the first to respond to the news, but she's probably wide awake already.
  1617. >I pinch the bridge of my nose as I try to find a way to explain my horror.
  1618. "I mean it's gone. It's closed. It's not there anymore!"
  1619. >"It's an ex-portal!"
  1620. >I've half a mind to glare at Pinkie, but I remember she's only a name in the chat.
  1621. >"How'd that happen?"
  1622. "I don't know. One moment, I get a message from the journal, and the next it's drilling feedback into my ears. By the time I reached the statue, it was just a normal mirror."
  1623.  
  1624. >"Are you sure Princess Twilight didn't just turn off the portal on her side?"
  1625. >In truth, I had considered the possibility: I doubt it's entirely safe to leave an active portal in the center of your castle.
  1626. "If that was the only thing, though, why would my journal be acting funny? The portal was inactive when I used the journal back during the Battle of the Bands."
  1627. >"Um... you don't think the other Twilight did something, do you?"
  1628. "... We've had two cases of our Pony Ups being drained with her nearby, and now the portal's not working.Even if it's entirely unintentional, she's still a prime suspect."
  1629. >Hopefully, if that's the case. we can just convince her to stop, since I doubt she's draining magic for malicious purposes.
  1630.  
  1631. "For now, we need to focus on these Friendship Games. Whether or not Twilight's involved with draining magic from the portal or our Pony Ups can wait. If you see her doing it, however, we'll need to convince her not to."
  1632. >"Sounds good, darling. Now, if you don't mind, I need to get to bed."
  1633. >Rarity loudly yawns at her mic, leading to a response from Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy.
  1634. >"Darn it, Rarity, now you've got me yawning too. I gotta stay up and work on my spelling!"
  1635. >Soft snoring creeps through Pinkie's mic, the girl most likely fast asleep on her keyboard.
  1636. "Sorry for waking you all up so early. Go ahead and get some rest so we're not half-dead during the Games.
  1637. >And with that, all but Pinkie's connection cuts off, as I put her on mute.
  1638. >Alright, now's the time to focus: the Journal and portal can be figured out later.
  1639. >Hell, if the magic's merely drained, it should come back after a while..
  1640. >With these optimistic thoughts in mind, I clean up my dishes and prepare the rest of my stuff for school.
  1641.  
  1642. >Canterlot High, Wednesday, October 29th, Morning
  1643.  
  1644. >"Good morning, students. I'm sure you're all thrilled to start the first day of the Friendship Games. Our competitors will face off in every aspect of the CHS curriculum, culminating in the elimination equation finale."
  1645. >Vice-Principal Luna's voice crackles on the intercom, the two groups of twelve staring each other down with renewed determination.
  1646. >I look over to Twilight, who smiles and gives a little, awkward wave before returning her attention to something else.
  1647. >I want to believe she has nothing to do with this, but I'm going to find out the truth.
  1648. >One way or another.
  1649. >The dean from Crystal Prep, Cadance, moves to the center of the hallway as she announces the event.
  1650. >"Welcome to the first event, the Academic Decathlon! You'll be scored on chemistry, home-ec and everything in between. But remember, only the six students from each team with the most points will move on to event number 2. Good luck!"
  1651.  
  1652. >First is chemistry, simple enough: we just need to make sure we mix the chemicals correctly.
  1653. >Everyone seems to be doing alright, with the judges nodding and checking every mark with a pleasant expression.
  1654. >Suddenly, a loud boom echoes from the back, causing everyone to turn to Derpy, giving a sheepish grin.
  1655. >The aroma of vinegar taints the room as Celestia scribbles something down.
  1656. >Next is cooking, which I'm just planning to sit out of, personally.
  1657. >My realm of expertise in terms of cooking is mediocre at best, and I can catch up in points in other ways.
  1658. >Applejack and Rarity decided to make a round cake with multi-colored fruit decorating the top.
  1659. >Simple, yet elegant.
  1660. >One of the Crystal Prep pairs decided to do something similar, making a smiling face with icing.
  1661. >It's just a shame it looks more like a lumpy pancake with icing.
  1662. >To my surprise, it looks more like Flash and Bon Bon made a loaf of bread, with sprinkles.
  1663. >Why are they blushing like that?
  1664.  
  1665. >The real heart of the show appears to be two smug Crystal Prep students with a beautiful layered cake.
  1666. >The frosting, the icing, even a candied logo of their school definitely makes the patriotism clear.
  1667. >"Amazing, this is like something you get from a bakery."
  1668. >The judges are enjoying their slices as the students bask in the certainty of their victory.
  1669. >Oh, those sweet summer children.
  1670. >Pinkie walk over and gawks at the cake with excitement.
  1671. >"Ooh, that looks tasty! How many layers of cake are you on?"
  1672. >The two look at each other with confusion before they reply.
  1673. >"Like five or six right now, my dude."
  1674. >Pinkie chuckles like a weathered fisherman, moving to slice her tower cake open.
  1675. >"You are like a little baby. Watch this."
  1676. >And the cake splits open to reveal an exact replica of the Mona Lisa, down to the mysterious smile of hers.
  1677. >In shock and awe, the Principals drop their forks before giving their undivided attention to the masterpiece.
  1678. >The other students weep as they realize their hubris.
  1679.  
  1680. >Carpentry comes up, and we're instructed to make a bird house.
  1681. >Which is surprisingly a lot more difficult than it sounds, but luckily I managed to team up with Fluttershy.
  1682. >It's far easier when one person builds, and the other plans, and I'd say we've made a perfectly decent one.
  1683. >Sandalwood and Micro Chips, on the other hand, look like they've made theirs out of recycled wood and dreams.
  1684. >Both of which fall to a simple tap from Luna's pen, collapsing like a house of cards.
  1685. >I notice Indigo Zap and Sugarcoat with a veiled project, which they tear off the cloth at the arrival of the judges.
  1686. >Their bird house is more like a suite, with two different homes for birds, rad flames painted on the front of them, and a nice little patio to enjoy the weather from.
  1687. >Micro looks dejectedly at the lone piece of wood in his hand, but Sandalwood quickly wraps an arm around him and the two make their exit.
  1688.  
  1689. >Finally, after several more events, we reach the semi-finals.
  1690. >Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie and I are the top 6 for Canterlot, and Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, Indigo Zap, Sunny Flare, Lemon Zest, and Twilight are the same for Crystal Prep.
  1691. >Now for the true horror: the Spelling Bee.
  1692. >Rainbow Dash falls immediately to 'hippopotamus", with Lemon Zest following suit with "Munchausen".
  1693. >They were throwing some pretty serious words up there, with each person inevitably falling like flies.
  1694. >Still, I somehow manage to spell my own words well enough, and I find myself the chosen candidate for the elimination equation.
  1695. >Twilight makes it as well, unsurprisingly, really, considering her intelligence.
  1696.  
  1697. >The two of us are place in front of chalkboards with several triangles inside a large one.
  1698. >We've only got 5 minutes to solve for 'x', showing our steps.
  1699. >Twilight gets to work immediately while I take a closer look.
  1700. >It's clearly geometry, but I can't quite put my finger on where I've seen it before.
  1701. >Do you guys got any ideas?
  1702.  
  1703. Thank god you got us big thinkers Sunny or you'd be proper fucked. Some elbow grease and thinking makes this easy.
  1704. http://i.4cdn.org/mlp/1541660057260.jpg
  1705.  
  1706. >The math looks good, let's go with that!
  1707. >I furiously write down the proof, taking the proper measurements and reaching the answer of x=50 degrees.
  1708. >The clock rings as the two of us set our chalk down, turning to the judges as Principal Cinch walks onto the stage.
  1709. >She stands between the two chalkboards and examines the proofs of each of them.
  1710. >Finally, satisfied with her checks, she motions an arm at my answer.
  1711. >"... Incorrect."
  1712. >My jaw drops, checking between my answer and Twilight's, which was 20 degrees.
  1713. >How did we miss the answer by 30?
  1714. >"That means the winner of the Friendship Games' first event is Twilight Sparkle and Crystal Prep!"
  1715. >My shoulders slump as the Crystal Prep students politely applaud for the teen genius.
  1716.  
  1717. >Suddenly, the girls surround me, Rainbow punching my arm playfully while the others smile and cheer.
  1718. >"That was awesome!"
  1719. >"Truly amazing!"
  1720. >Rainbow Dash and Rarity's comment confuse me, almost like they were watching a completely different competition.
  1721. "But we didn't win! I wasn't even that close..."
  1722. >Applejack shrugs, motioning to the other Canterlot students who watch on, their gazes defeated, but not yet broken.
  1723. >"That was as close to winnin' as Canterlot's ever been. And we've got a perfect chance to make a comeback."
  1724. >Surrounded by cheer and determination, I can't help but feel the same, smiling as the six of us leave the stage.
  1725.  
  1726. >Canterlot High, Wednesday, October 29th, Afternoon
  1727.  
  1728. >The girls have gone off to do their own things, since classes are effectively canceled during the Games.
  1729. >After searching for a long while, it looks like that Twilight is elsewhere as well.
  1730. >I think back to what Theo mentioned last night, about nurturing our bonds with those five girls we talked to yesterday.
  1731. >While a number of students have left, I get the feeling that I'll run into those five if I look around long enough.
  1732. >Which girl should we look for first: Sunny Flare, Sugarcoat, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, or Sour Sweet?
  1733.  
  1734. imma say sports girl fist
  1735. Works for me, athletic babe is a babe.
  1736.  
  1737. >Let's see what Indigo Zap's up to, then.
  1738. >It takes a while, wandering through the school halls, but eventually I find Indigo scrounging through the science lab.
  1739. "Indigo? What are you doing all the way over here?"
  1740. >She turns to me with a sheepish grin, pointing to her hair before continuing her search.
  1741. >"Oh hey, Sunrise, didn't hear you come in. I seem to have lost my goggles, and I last remember them being here."
  1742. "Sunset. And if you need help finding them, I can help."
  1743. >Hearing that, Indigo gives me a thumbs up, motioning to the other side of the lab.
  1744. >"Awesome, could you check that end of the lab? That'll make things quicker."
  1745.  
  1746. >I begin my search around the area Derpy was before, faint traces of vinegar still wafting from ground zero.
  1747. >"Congrats on making it to the finals, by the way. Apparently its been ages since someone from Canterlot made it to the elimination equation like you did."
  1748. >Indigo takes a step back from the cabinet she was checking, before sitting on a stool and sighing.
  1749. >"Man, my mental spelling sucks. I don't even like that academic garbage anyways: gimme something that'll really get my blood pumping, you know?"
  1750.  
  1751. "You seemed to be doing well enough, from what I saw."
  1752. >She shrugs, standing up and lowering herself to the floor with a grunt.
  1753. >"I'm not saying I'm dumb, it's just that I'm mostly average with that book stuff. Hell, I bet the only reason I'm allowed to be in all of those sport teams is because I'm just that good. Most of the other members have at least above-average grades."
  1754. >I think to Sunny Flare and Sugarcoat's odd behaviors when I met them.
  1755. >Perhaps someone so big in Crystal Prep might know more about their quirks?
  1756. "Say, Indigo, what's your opinion about Sunny Flare? She seemed a bit cold when I met her."
  1757. >"Sunny, huh? I don't know much about her, since her interests split from mine."
  1758.  
  1759. >Indigo pushes herself back upright, dusting her hands and knees before continuing.
  1760. >"Still, from what I've heard, most folks avoid her, since she's sometimes seen talking with Principal Cinch. I guess folks see her like a teacher's pet?"
  1761. >Is that why she felt so isolated when she was waiting at the punch bowl?
  1762. "What about Sugarcoat, then? She seems standoffish, in general."
  1763. >"Oh, Sugarcoat? She's awesome: a bit dorky, since she's usually reading, but that girl's a wizard with a hammer!"
  1764. >Finished with my side of the lab, I move over to Indigo's and continue the search.
  1765. >"Really, the only thing I helped with, outside of general construction, was with the flames. She's the one who made all the blueprints and everything. Even the patio was her idea."
  1766. "Sounds like she already won that section before it started."
  1767.  
  1768. >She nods, a frown crossing her face as she leans against the wall next to the chalkboard.
  1769. >"It's just a shame she's always nose-deep in those books. Sugarcoat always seems to be in her own little world."
  1770. >I finish my investigation, the missing goggles nowhere to be found.
  1771. "It doesn't look like they're here, Indigo."
  1772. >"Darn, I really thought they'd be here too. Oh well, there's plenty more areas to check before giving up."
  1773. >Before I can offer to continue my help, a voice sounds through the air, causing the two of us to stop.
  1774.  
  1775. ><Hello, does anyone hear me? This is an emergency, please respond!>
  1776. >That sounds like Fluttershy!
  1777. "Fluttershy? What's going on?"
  1778. ><Oh, Sunset, thank goodness I managed to catch you with Tzaphkiel. There are Shadows in the garden, I've got someone in my Persona, and I can't fight back!>
  1779. "I've got it, stay strong, Fluttershy, I'll be there as soon as I can!"
  1780. >Before Indigo can respond, I rush out the door and make my way towards the school gardens.
  1781.  
  1782. >When I arrive to the gardens, I see a large, closed eye shimmering in the light, with Fluttershy and a figure huddled inside the Persona.
  1783. >I notice two starved-looking wolves sporting masks with a four-way split of red, blue, green, and yellow, prowling around the eye, hungrily eyeing the trapped students.
  1784. >In addition, two bulky men with torsos ending in storm clouds flex nearby, their golden masks practically sneering.
  1785. >Finally, a feral-looking rabbit wearing the same mask of the wolves, along with a full set of samurai armor, continues swinging at Tzaphkiel, trying its best to break open the Persona.
  1786. "We can't waste any more time! Persona, Henshin!"
  1787. >"Carpe Diem. Are ya ready?"
  1788. >My armor bursts forth from the flames, the presence of another Persona catching the attention of the five Shadows.
  1789. ><Sunset, you made it!>
  1790. >I nod, pulling the gladius out of the bag and unsheathing it before pointing it menacingly at the enemies.
  1791. "I won't let you harm my friends! Prepare to taste Justice!"
  1792.  
  1793. >"Not alone, you won't!"
  1794. >Turning around, I'm surprised to see Indigo running into the gardens.
  1795. "Indigo, get back! It's not safe here."
  1796. >Smirking, she pulls out a pair of knuckledusters and slides them on before holding out a hand upright.
  1797. >"No need to worry, Sunday, I'm more than capable of handling a few losers like these. Besides,"
  1798. >A card floats down from the sky, gently stopping in Indigo's grasp.
  1799. >"I have a Persona too. Let's show how it's done, Pheidippides!"
  1800. >She crushes her card, a figure in stark white armor spawning behind her.
  1801. >Upon closer look, the armor sports three pairs of exhaust pipes on its back, like a pair of wings, along with two smaller ones on the back of its feet.
  1802. >Shaking off the shock, I nod and return my attention to the group of Shadows in front of us, poised to attack.
  1803. "Alright then, Indigo, let's trample these things quick!"
  1804. >"Ha, as if you even need to mention it!"
  1805.  
  1806. ><I'll help with Support. Which Shadow do you want me to scan first?>
  1807.  
  1808. Is Pheidippides Psy attacks multi-hit or single-hit? because if multi-hit I'd say we should do that.
  1809. Also have shim-sham try out some fire attacks on them
  1810.  
  1811. "Go ahead and scan those wolves, Fluttershy. Burn in hell!"
  1812. >I slam the ground with my fist, as an inferno bursts underneath the Shadows, lightning the samurai and genies up!
  1813. >Unfortunately, the two wolves leap out of the way in time, unscathed by the flames.
  1814. >"Light 'em up, Pheidippides!"
  1815. >Guns emerge from the runner's arms, as he circles the enemy with blinding speed, unleashing a torrent of lasers into the group.
  1816. >None escape the barrage, the djinns being riddled with holes before dissolving into the ground!
  1817. >The rabbit pulls itself upright, and assumes a stance with its sword sheathed.
  1818. >Suddenly, a feeling of dread builds in my gut, and I duck out of instinct.
  1819. >Just above my nose, a barrage of blade strikes fly through the air, buffeting Indigo in the process!
  1820. >One of the wolves continues the assault, as a number of ice spears materialize and crash into the both of us!
  1821.  
  1822. >Smelling the blood from Indigo's wounds, the other wolf howls to the sky, energizing the remaining Shadows and making their movements more fluid.
  1823. >"Oof, that's gonna sting after this. You don't have a heal, do ya?"
  1824. >I check my bag and find a single Cider remaining from two days back, along with a handful of Zap Apple Candies I bought on the way home yesterday.
  1825. >Knew I should've prepared for Decoherence to occur at school, I silently curse before pulling out the Cider on standby.
  1826. ><Your friend's badly injured, Sunset, but it looks like the Musha's just as bad. Here's my analysis on the wolves:>
  1827.  
  1828. Starving Wolf (Temperance)-
  1829.  
  1830. Resist: Ice
  1831. Weak: Fire
  1832.  
  1833. "Thanks, Fluttershy, go ahead and try to get a scan off the Musha as well."
  1834. ><Right!>
  1835. >I look over to Indigo, who's clutching her gut and gritting her teeth, but still able to fight.
  1836. >What do you guys think we should do?
  1837.  
  1838. Status:
  1839.  
  1840. Sunset Shimmer: 63% HP, 70% SP
  1841. Indigo Zap: 18% HP, 75% SP
  1842.  
  1843. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  1844.  
  1845. Fucking Neighponese bun... At least now we know what we're up against on those wolves, let's Remix their Ignition this round and burn them to cinders. Indigo should heal, and if we get the follow-up she can throw a ranged strike at the swordsrabbit.
  1846.  
  1847. >That sounds good, and I think I know a way to keep those Wolves in the line of fire.
  1848. >I toss the Cider to Indigo before lunging at the Shadows, positioning my trajectory to barely graze past the Musha's blade.
  1849. ><Sunset? What are you doing?>
  1850. >Landing behind them, I punch the nearby wall, leaving a mark on its surface before doing it to the right and left of the group.
  1851. "Alright, that should cover enough area. Turn to dust by my Burning Justice!"
  1852. >Slamming the flames in my hand into the ground, the four marked areas glow with a hellish glow before each spew pillars of flame into the Shadows!
  1853. >With all corners covered, the enemies cook in the flames, turning the Wolves into charcoal while leaving the Musha with blackened armor.
  1854. >Indigo chugs down the aged Cider, her wounds patching up before she crushes her card.
  1855. >"I've got you in my sights. Persona!"
  1856. >Pheidippides aims a single arm gun at the Shadow, shooting it square in the head and causing its body to explode in darkness!
  1857.  
  1858. ><You guys did it, Decoherence Field dematerializing.>
  1859. >My suit fades away as the world returns to normal, the garden a little roughed up, but still in decent condition.
  1860. >Giving a thumbs up to Indigo, we make our way to Fluttershy, who's sitting exhausted on the floor.
  1861. >Before I can check to see how she is, the figure lying down next to her bolts towards the school.
  1862. "Hey, wait!"
  1863. >"Twilight, wait up!"
  1864. >A male voice pipes up somewhere, though I can't seem to find out who said that.
  1865.  
  1866. >I guess that Twilight was here, too.
  1867. >That can wait, though, as I help Fluttershy to her feet and lead her to a nearby bench.
  1868. "Are you alright, Fluttershy?"
  1869. >She shakes her, head massaging her temples as I remember there's an extra someone here who shouldn't hear this.
  1870. >I turn to Indigo, who is currently pocketing the empty Cider bottle and looking around the garden.
  1871. >'Doesn't look like it's here either. Anyways, Dimmer, I didn't know you and your friend had Persona too."
  1872.  
  1873. "Shimmer, and I'm surprised to see you with one as well. It looks like you've got quite a lot of experience with it."
  1874. >Indigo gives a cheeky grin as she flexes her arm.
  1875. >"Yeah, me and Phei've been through a lot. Cinch has a club for guys and chicks with the ability, wants to keep everything under wraps."
  1876. >Interesting, so Principal Cinch knows about Persona and Decoherence as well?
  1877. >"Welp, I'm not gonna find my goggles hanging around here slack-jawed. Catch you later, Sunstone!"
  1878. >Before I can correct her, Indigo continues her search out of the garden.
  1879. >It's not how I was planning to get her to leave, but it'll work.
  1880. "What happened, Fluttershy? Did Twilight do something to you; did she drain your magic?"
  1881. >"It's...hard to remember, I have this headache that's making it hard to think. Maybe if I rested for a bit, it'll go away."
  1882.  
  1883. >I place a reassuring hand on Fluttershy's shoulder, nodding with a smile.
  1884. "That's fine, Fluttershy, just make sure the girls are together so we can talk about it as a group."
  1885. >"Right, it might take a while for everyone to get together, but I'll make sure to let you know when I do."
  1886. >With that, I leave her to recover with her animal friends, returning to the school halls.
  1887. >Checking my phone, it looks like some time has passed.
  1888. >A number of students have probably left campus grounds already, so I might not be able to talk with all the girls.
  1889. >Who should I look for next?
  1890.  
  1891. Why not looking for Sunny? If she is as close to Cinch as they say, then maybe she knows about Decoherence Fields and Twilight.
  1892.  
  1893. >Sounds good, let's go find Sunny Flare.
  1894. >I find her hanging out around the front entrance, messing around with her watch again until she hears me coming.
  1895. >"Oh, it's Sunset, right? Didn't expect to run into you so late today."
  1896. "I found myself with some free time, so I decided to walk around and check up on friends. I'm more surprised to see you here so later in the afternoon."
  1897. >Sunny shrugs, closing whatever she was looking at on her watch before taking a seat on the staircase.
  1898. >"My mother wants to pick me up from here, so I'm waiting for her to finish her business."
  1899. >Seems weird for someone to drive all the way to another school to pick up their child, but some parents are like that.
  1900. >Sunny looks around listlessly as I try to think of a good time to bring up our questions.
  1901. "So, uh, Sunny, what do you know about 'Decoherence'?"
  1902. >She freezes upon hearing my question, her expression calm while her right hand fiddles with her parasol's handle.
  1903. >"... What an odd question to ask, out of the blue. Where did you hear that, I wonder?"
  1904.  
  1905. >Probably not the best way to pop the question, as I hold my hands up and explain myself.
  1906. "Your classmate Indigo Zap and I just had an encounter with Shadows in the garden. She mentioned how she was part of a club that deals with stuff like that, and I thought that, since you talk with Principal Cinch, you'd know more about this."
  1907. >"Indigo Zap, huh..."
  1908. >Sunny sighs as she rests her hand back onto the step, looking around to make sure no one was around, before continuing.
  1909. >"Seeing as you're a Persona user, I'm assuming you know the general stuff: about how Decoherence attempts to quarantine Shadows until they are eliminated."
  1910. >I nod, recalling what both Luna and Theo mentioned before.
  1911. >"Well here's the thing, normal weapons don't work on Shadows. It's almost like trying to shoot your actual shadow. The only way to harm those things is with the power of Persona. There's just one catch,"
  1912.  
  1913. >"The only way to harm Shadows is with the power of Shadows. Persona are simply Shadows within ourselves that we tame to use as our tools. That's what allows us to work in the Decoherence unscathed."
  1914. "Unscathed? You mean the Decoherence Fields are dangerous to people?"
  1915. >Sunny nods, a grim look on her face.
  1916. >"There's something about where these Shadows comes from that just doesn't agree with our world. Everything seems to move slower inside a field, and smaller animals slowly die from exposure."
  1917. >I recall what Theodore said about the other side being anathema to our own.
  1918. >"Still, it's even worse for a person without potential: just because you lack the potential for taming your Shadow doesn't mean you don't have one. If people without potential are caught in a Decoherence Field for too long, they start to react violently as the Shadows within them attempt to escape."
  1919. "So if a Decoherence Field gets too large to dissipate, it could kill everyone in it?"
  1920.  
  1921. >Sunny shakes her head, leaning a bit more to her right as she stretches something.
  1922. >"There's not enough research on that to make certain, and I'll be damned if we start testing how lethal being lazy is."
  1923. >I nod in reply, catching a flashing light around Sunny's right wrist before I hear her speak up again.
  1924. >"Now's my turn for questions. I noticed that Twilight girl waving at you earlier today. Do you know her?"
  1925. >The spotlight suddenly force onto me, I try to think of a way to explain without mentioning the now defunct portal.
  1926. "I ran into her a few days back, and she asked me to give her an interview at Crystal Prep. I don't know much about her, though."
  1927. >"I see, sorry for asking such an odd question. Whenever I look at Sparkle, I get the nagging feeling like I know here from somewhere. However, whenever I get close enough to talk to her, she always seems to notice and run off."
  1928. >From what I gathered when talking to the Twilight I know, her childhood was mostly by herself, Spike, and Celestia.
  1929.  
  1930. >Even with the handful of friends she used to have then, I don't remember anypony by the name of Sunny Flare that she knew of.
  1931. >Suddenly, a loud beeping comes from Sunny's right wrist as she pulls it up and groans.
  1932. >"Oh great, the power ran out. I knew I should've charged last night."
  1933. >Before I can ask what she means, her right hand begins to violently shudder and twitch, bending in ways a hand shouldn't!
  1934. >However, through all of it, Sunny's expression doesn't change, and eventually her right hand goes limp and motionless.
  1935. "What was that?"
  1936. >She places her motionless hand on her lap, as if to pretend nothing happened.
  1937. >"Oh, it's just my prosthetic hand."
  1938. >Sunny states this as a matter of fact, but I can't help but feel like I've fallen into a science fiction story.
  1939. "That looks so real. How did you lose your hand?"
  1940. >"It's not that important. Anyways, I think my mother should be done with her business, so I'll see you tomorrow."
  1941.  
  1942. >And with that, Sunny Flare walks off with her right prosthetic limply swinging at her side.
  1943. >I feel like that reveal, along with the conversation we had, has made me understand her more.
  1944. >Checking the time, I'm surprised to see that it's fairly late in the afternoon.
  1945. >I'd say almost everyone has left the school grounds.
  1946. >While I get the feeling that I'll be able to find one of the other three girls if I look hard enough, I doubt the other two will stay at school much longer.
  1947. >Who should we talk to next?
  1948.  
  1949. Hm... Let's pop in on Sour Sweet, I've got a hankering for some salt.
  1950.  
  1951. "Sour Sweet huh? Should be around here somewhere."
  1952. >However, no matter how hard I look, I can't seem to find that pony tail girl anywhere.
  1953. >Was my intuition off?
  1954. >I shrug and make my way to find one of the other girls, when I hear an annoyed groan from the girl's restroom.
  1955. >It certainly sounds like Sour Sweet, as I make my way into a rather colorful rant.
  1956. >"God damn, that spelling bee was a real pain in the ass. How the hell was I supposed to know how to spell 'coprolalia'? The fuck do I look like, a dictionary?"
  1957. >Entering the restroom, I see Sour Sweet scowling at her reflection, clearly lost in thought.
  1958. >I clear my throat, shaking her out of her stupor with a panicked look.
  1959.  
  1960. >"O-oh, hey there, Sunset, I totally didn't hear you come in. I was just, like, reapplying make-up and sheei- stuff..."
  1961. >She smiles as wide as her mouth can allow her, but eventually Sour's expression sours.
  1962. >"Well shit, looks like you ain't buying the act at all. Guess the gig had to end some time."
  1963. "I don't think I understand what you're getting at."
  1964. >Sour Sweet sighs, leaning against the wall with a look.of irritation.
  1965. >"I mean this is how I talk, dumbass. That 'totally like popular girl' shit is just an act."
  1966.  
  1967. "Then why put up the 'act' at all? Seems like a lot of work to clean your language just for other people."
  1968. >Sour motions to her Crystal Prep insignia on her uniform.
  1969. >"Crystal Prep's got a reputation of being a nice, clean place full of prim and proper, rich kids. Unfortunately, I've got none of that shit, but I gotta fit somehow, right?"
  1970. >She covers her face in her hands for a while, before uncovering them to reveal the bright and cheery facade from earlier.
  1971. >"So, like, I had to practice acting like one of those popular girls, that way I could fit in. And it was totes working too, before you stumbled onto me."
  1972. >I think back to the cold, snooty attitude of the students earlier, even after Twilight won.
  1973.  
  1974. >"So, what's it gonna take to keep ya quiet, Sunset?"
  1975. >I blink for a moment as I register that question out of the blue.
  1976. "Come again?"
  1977. >"Ya managed to find me with my pants down, ripe for humiliation for Crystal Prep. And I'm asking, what it'll take for ya to keep your hole shut?"
  1978. >I've my experience being a bully and ass, but I don't think I've ever been legit bribed before.
  1979. >This must be very important to her.
  1980. "If it's that important to you, Sour, then I'll keep it a secret. It's not like I have a grudge against you or your school."
  1981. >Hearing that, Sour Sweet gets off the wall and looks close at my eyes, sharing Indigo's disregard for personal space.
  1982.  
  1983. >After a moment of awkwardness, she pulls back with a huff.
  1984. >"I have to say, Sunset, you're one weird woman."
  1985. "I've been getting that a lot, lately."
  1986. >"Still, you seem like a trustworthy sort, so I guess I'll trust ya. But I'll fucking sock ya in the face if you gab."
  1987. >The two of us nod over our newly brokered promise, and I feel like I understand her more through all of this.
  1988. >"So, why were ya looking for me, anyways?"
  1989.  
  1990. >...
  1991. >Now that I think about it, there wasn't very much of a reason to talk with her, was there?
  1992. >Laughing over her lack of spelling doesn't seem like a productive thing to do.
  1993. >Still, we're basically two for five with this mysterious club Indigo talked about, so maybe Sour Sweet's part of it too?
  1994. ":Well, I heard from Indigo Zap and Sunny Flare that they're part of a special club dealing with 'Decoherence'. Are you part of it too?"
  1995. >"Oh, you're talking about that club. What was it, now, the 'Extracurricular Activities for Specialized Techniques' club? Yeah, I'm part of it."
  1996. >EAST, huh?
  1997. "Guess it's a stab in the dark, but does that mean the other people in your top six are part of this club too?"
  1998. .>Sour Sweet stops a moment to think, before slowly nodding.
  1999. >"Sugarcoat and Lemon Zest are, but I don't think I've ever seen that Twilight girl in meetings."
  2000.  
  2001. >"It's not like we planned on having the top six have potential. We're just here to make sure those Shadow fuckers don't kill anyone."
  2002. "So Shadows can appear anywhere, then?"
  2003. >Sour nods, pulling a collapsible baton out of her bag.
  2004. >"My advice for you? Bring a hidden weapon tomorrow. I ain't sayin' Shadows always show up to wreck parties, but Persona or no, you don't want to have to punch those things."
  2005. >I nod, taking the advice to heart as she checks the time.
  2006. >"Damn, I've been here this long? I gotta git before curfew happens, I'll probably see you tomorrow."
  2007. >Sour Sweet swiftly departs, as my phone begins to ring in my jacket pocket.
  2008. >Everyone's here, Sunset. Meet at field?
  2009. >I text an affirmative before leaving the restroom myself.
  2010.  
  2011. >"All I did was hand Twilight a bunny. Then I Ponied Up."
  2012. >We all meet at the edge of the field, the entirety of it being changed to fit the coming events.
  2013. "We're just Ponying Up like crazy this week. Rarity's magic came out when she made us outfits, Pinkie's when she fixed the party, and now Fluttershy."
  2014. >Fluttershy nods timidly, then continues.
  2015. >"And then Twilight's pendant thingy just pulled the magic right out of me. I couldn't even stand up."
  2016. >Pinkie and Rarity nod in agreement, recalling their previous events.
  2017. >"Like me at the party!"
  2018. >"Or me right before we met Twilight!"
  2019. >I guess this is confirmation of what you guys suspected.
  2020.  
  2021. "So she's stealing magic, then."
  2022. >Applejack seems unconvinced, scratching an itch under her hat.
  2023. >"I don't know. She doesn't seem like the magic-stealin' type."
  2024. "Yeah, but if her pendant can pull in magic, maybe it stole the portal, too."
  2025. >"How?"
  2026. >I shrug, the six of us walking around the edge of the field.
  2027. "I don't know. And the pony, or person, or princess who could help me figure this out is completely unreachable now."
  2028. >Twilight would probably have had this under control by now.
  2029.  
  2030. >"Which is too bad, because Twilight knows everything about magic and portals and magical portals and portable magics!"
  2031. >Rainbow shrugs nonchalantly as Pinkie's tirade ends with her landing near the storage shed.
  2032. >"For now, let's just focus on beating the Shadowbolts. And as long as this event puts me in a playing field, I don't think we've got anything to worry about."
  2033. >But as we walk by the shed, the sharp smell of gasoline assaults my nostrils, turning my attention towards the door.
  2034. "I think something's leaking in the shed. Applejack, help me get it open."
  2035. >The two of us work on opening the door, revealing a set of motorcycles with a huge puddle of oil leaking under them.
  2036. "What the-? Our bikes for tomorrow's event are leaking fuel!"
  2037.  
  2038. >We need to mop up this mess before the whole thing becomes a fire hazard.
  2039. "Applejack, help me get these bikes out of the shed. Pinkie, you and Rainbow clean up the oil."
  2040. >It takes quite a while, but we manage to clean most of the mess, though now the bikes are completely empty.
  2041. >"I don't get it, how did these bikes already get leaks? We just got them!"
  2042. >Rainbow's right, I recall the news of acquiring them just last week.
  2043. >Kneeling down, I open both of the bike's sides and check the insides.
  2044. >Just as I thought: the tube's been cut, and extremely efficiently as well, with smooth edges,
  2045.  
  2046. "It looks like someone sabotaged the bikes."
  2047. >"What?!"
  2048. >The others are taken aback as Rainbow pulls out a familiar set of goggles.
  2049. >"I knew those Shadowbolts wouldn't play fair! I found these goggles that blue-haired chick was wearing nearby. She must have cut the tubes!"
  2050. >That doesn't really make sense, though: if she did it, why would she be looking for her goggles everywhere but the scene of the crime?
  2051. >Indigo also doesn't seem like the kind of person to do that.
  2052. >I recall her mentioning that she'd keep looking for them when she left.
  2053. >Should we try and find her, maybe see what she can tell us?
  2054.  
  2055. Yeah, c'mon Rainbow Dash, this is amateur-hour shit; not even counting the goggles, let's say we didn't notice this ahead of time. When someone came to get these bikes tomorrow and none of them started, how would they spin that into "Canterlot High loses"?
  2056. If anything, this looks like a plant to fuck with Crystal Prep. We should warn them that someone's trying to frame them for some shit, and pretty badly at that.
  2057.  
  2058. >You're right, though we have some older models we could've used, this all seems way too obvious to be anything but a plant.
  2059. "I don't think she had anything to do with this."
  2060. >"How could you say that? The evidence is right here!"
  2061. >Rainbow rattles the goggles as I shake my head, looking back at the storage shed.
  2062. "Think about it, Rainbow: why would Indigo be professional with cutting the fuel tube, but not only leave the oil pouring out, but also her goggles? Someone wanted us to find these things, and I bet that someone wanted to pin the blame on Crystal Prep."
  2063. >Fluttershy's eyes light up as you mention Indigo's name.
  2064. >"Was that the girl that helped you against those Shadows? She seemed nice enough."
  2065. >Rainbow still looks unconvinced, so I hold my hand out near the goggles.
  2066. "Look, I think Indigo's still in the area, so why don't I take the goggles and see if I can't find her. Worst-case scenario, I'm wrong and she really did it, but let's see what she has to say."
  2067. >She attempts to counter with something, but fails and sighs, handing over the goggles.
  2068. >"Fine, we'll wait for you here. Someone needs to keep an eye on the bikes anyways."
  2069.  
  2070. >I grab the goggles and run towards the school, my gut telling me Indigo's still here.
  2071. >And lucky me, it looks like we managed to find her: she's talking with a girl I've never seen before.
  2072. >Her long, messy green hair and average sweater and jeans clearly means she's not Crystal Prep.
  2073. >But I thought I'd have known nearly everyone at Canterlot.
  2074. "Indigo!"
  2075. >I wave and holler over to her, the mystery girl quickly turning away and leaving the building.
  2076. >"Oh, Sundrop, I wasn't expecting to see you again today. You wouldn't happen to have seen my goggles anywhere, have you?"
  2077. >I hand the goggles over, Indigo's eyes gleaming with happiness as she puts them on her head again.
  2078. >"Right on, thanks for finding them! Where did you even find these?"
  2079. >I motion her to follow me, as I make my way back to the field.
  2080.  
  2081. >"Wait, how would they even get out here? I never left the school with these on."
  2082. >Indigo's expression is a mix of confusion and worry, though I'm not surprised.
  2083. >Walking into a group of girls glaring at you like you killed their dogs can make anyone slightly worried.
  2084. >"That's what we wanna know! We found your goggles near the storage shed, and the bikes in there got their fuel lines cut."
  2085. >I place a comforting hand on Rainbow's shoulder, gently pulling her back as I continue.
  2086. "The fact that they're all the way out here, as well as the amateur sabotage job, make me suspect that someone is trying to frame you and Crystal Prep."
  2087. >Indigo is taken aback, as she takes a closer look at the inner motorcycle parts.
  2088. >"Yeah, whoever did this only messed with the fuel line, and that can probably be fixed overnight. But why go through all the trouble to blame us? Crystal Prep doesn't need to cheat, and our reputation would be ruined if this got out."
  2089.  
  2090. "Well, whatever the reason, I think this is plenty of evidence to disprove Indigo's hand in this. But we still need to fix these bikes."
  2091. >I pull out my phone and dial up Lug Nut's line.
  2092. >"This is Lug's Nuts & Bolts, your one stop for repairs of all manner of vehicles. How can I help you?"
  2093. "Boss, it's me. I've got two bikes that need to get their fuel lines replaced."
  2094. >"Sunset, huh? Sure, just get em over here, and I'll take a look over em tomo-"
  2095. "They need to be repaired tonight."
  2096. >Lug's voice goes silent, a while passing before he responds.
  2097. >"That serious, is it? Get em over here, and I'll see how much you're paying for this."
  2098. >He hangs up, as I turn to the girls with a smile.
  2099. "Alright, I think I've got a plan set to get these bikes ready for tomorrow. I just need some help pushing them to the shop."
  2100. >As if waiting for the invitation, Rainbow grabs one of the bikes immediately and starts pushing it off the field.
  2101.  
  2102. >Indigo also takes one of the bikes out, and I follow her off the field as the rest of us break for the night.
  2103. "You don't have to help out, Indigo. Rainbow and I should be able to push these all the way."
  2104. >She shakes her head, giving a bright smile as we start catching up to Rainbow's head start.
  2105. >"Not even a problem, Sunspot: you managed to not only find my goggles, but also defended me from slander, even though you didn't have to. Helping out seems like the least I can do to pay you back."
  2106. >Indigo's earnestness is apparent, as I feel like I understand her more now.
  2107. >The three of us walk past the statue, slowing down at the lifeless mirror.
  2108. >I touch the surface, the same cold feeling surrounding my hand.
  2109. >...
  2110. >I have to keep strong, and fix this problem for good.
  2111. >"Hey, Sunset, hurry up, you're the one who knows where we're going!"
  2112. >Resolved, I hurry back to Rainbow and Indigo, as we make our way home.
  2113.  
  2114. >Lug's Nuts & Bolts, Wednesday, October 29th, Late Afternoon
  2115.  
  2116. "I'm home."
  2117. >Placing my bag up, I help the two bike-pushers move our cargo into the garage.
  2118. >Lug Nut is sitting at the counter, putting down his magazine as we approach.
  2119. >"Wasn't expecting you to bring friends, Sunset. Now, lemme see those motorbikes while you show our guests around."
  2120. "Right, let's go back to the waiting room, Rainbow, Indigo."
  2121. >The three of us leave the garage as the old mechanic turns his attentions towards his work.
  2122.  
  2123. >"I didn't know you lived next to a mechanic shop, Sunset."
  2124. >I shrug, thumbing through one of the newer motorcycle magazines.
  2125. "Technically, I'm employed by Lug Nut, and pay rent for the flat he doesn't use."
  2126. >Indigo restlessly wanders around the waiting room, stopping to a particular news clip and an encased jersey.
  2127. >"Woah, no way. Is this a Maverick jersey?"
  2128. >Rainbow hurries over as I slowly follow behind, checking out the case from behind them.
  2129. "Maverick? I'm afraid I don't know that name, personally."
  2130.  
  2131. >"He's only the coolest stunt biker to come outta Crystal City! A Crystal Prep alumni too."
  2132. >I take a closer look at the clip, the age of the newspaper apparent.
  2133. LOCAL BIKER STAR THROWS TOWEL AFTER TRAGIC ACCIDENT
  2134. >The clip describes Maverick suffering a crash during one of his latest stunts, putting him into the hospital.
  2135. "Says here that he gave up biking after the accident, and that no one seems to know where he went."
  2136. >"A real shame, that Maverick: never even saw what he lost before then."
  2137. >Lug Nut's voice booms behind us as we turn, the old mechanic looking at the case.
  2138. >"Wait, you knew THE Maverick?"
  2139. >Rainbow's eyes light up as Lug nods, his eyes fixed on the news clip.
  2140. >"Yeah, I fixed his bike way more times than I could count. Maverick had eyes set for the stars, but he ended up leaving everything he cared about back on Earth."
  2141.  
  2142. >"He used to have a girl waiting for him to come back down, but she eventually couldn't wait anymore, and Ol' Maverick realized he was alone, in the hospital room."
  2143. >For a moment, it looks like Lug Nut's expression changes, but in a blink, he's back to his normal self.
  2144. >"So, Sunset, those fuel lines are cut bad. I'll need to fully replace them. I'll raise December's rent for payment."
  2145. "Thanks, Boss."
  2146. >He nods, before turning around to look at Rainbow and Indigo.
  2147. >"Now, seeing as you're all fans of that fool, Maverick, I bet you want to hear some stories about him too. I should have a few good ones still on my mind."
  2148. >The two sporty girls nod excitedly as we go back to the garage to listen to Lug Nut's tales of stunts and engines.
  2149. >Perhaps it's just my imagination, but that old mechanic looks happier today than I've ever seen him.
  2150.  
  2151. >Flat, Wednesday, October 29th, Night
  2152.  
  2153. >I finish my text to the girls, reminding them to bring something they can conceal, in case Shadows arrive again.
  2154. >After cooking up an average dinner, I put my nightwear on and think about the Velvet Room.
  2155. >Do you guys think we should visit Theo tonight?
  2156.  
  2157. I'm legit not sure, I feel like we could skip the visit this time.
  2158.  
  2159. >I guess there wasn't anything today that needs to be run by Theo.
  2160. "Alright, let's just have a good sleep, then."
  2161. >I pull the covers over me and close my tired eyes, as sleep takes me.
  2162.  
  2163. >Flat, Thursday, October 30th, Morning
  2164.  
  2165. >The light of the sun pries my eyes open as I hop out of bed and check the time.
  2166. >7:00 A.M.
  2167. >Another early morning, huh?
  2168. >Better make use of it, as I take a shower and cook some grub.
  2169. >Thankfully, since it's so early in the morning, I should have plenty of time to move these bikes back to the field before the Triathlon.
  2170. >Mopping up the rest of my pancakes, I make my way downstairs and notice the motorcycles parked near the entrance.
  2171. >Looks like Lug Nut moved them to a more convenient spot, I'll have to thank him later for it.
  2172.  
  2173. >I open the door out and push both bikes outside, the crisp morning air greeting me.
  2174. >"Hey, Sunset, lemme help!"
  2175. >Turning towards the voice, I'm surprised to see Rainbow Dash running towards me with a rather sizable metal pipe.
  2176. "Rainbow? Why are you up so early? And why are you carrying a pipe the size of a small child?"
  2177. >She gives a cheeky grin, spinning the pipe staff around before resting it on her shoulder.
  2178. >"You said to bring something that I can fight with in case Shadows pop up. And I wake up early too!"
  2179. "I said to bring something you can conceal, but that thing's huge! How are you expecting to sneak that thing into the games?"
  2180. >Rainbow shrugs as she takes one of the bikes I pulled outside and clicks the pipe onto the side.
  2181. >"It'll be fine, Sunset, they barely even check these things anyways. It'll just be on the side in case something does sprout out of the ground."
  2182. >I sigh in defeat, pushing the other bike after her.
  2183.  
  2184. >Canterlot High Field, Thursday, October 30th, Noon
  2185.  
  2186. >I checked up with all the girls concerning their concealed weapons, and find that their choices for weapons are also a bit odd.
  2187. >Rarity managed to sneak her custom-made epee into her bag, though it definitely looks quite flashy for concealment.
  2188. >Applejack's forte seems to be archery, so she decided to just use the bow given during the competition if things go sour.
  2189. >Fluttershy quietly showed me her survival knife, the average-looking blade fitting nicely at her side.
  2190. >Pinkie just giggled at the question, filling me with a small amount of dread as I put on my biking uniform.
  2191. >After making sure the helmet fits correctly, I check up on the bikes Rainbow and I returned to the shed.
  2192. >Thankfully, their insides are thoroughly unmolested, and seem ready to go at any time.
  2193. >From the sound of it, students are starting to make their way to the field, so I leave to join them.
  2194.  
  2195. >In addition to seeing the girls preparing for their parts in the race, I notice several Crystal Prep students here early as well.
  2196. >Indigo Zap is messing with her school's bike on the race track, perhaps to make sure the sabotage was only one-sided?
  2197. >Sour Sweet is practicing her shots on one of the practice targets on the back of the field, doing a fairly good job from what I'm seeing.
  2198. >Sunny Flare is doing leg stretches nearby, her right prosthetic functioning now.
  2199. >Unfortunately, it looks like both Lemon Zest and Sugarcoat are preoccupied with other things, so I doubt we can talk with them right now.
  2200. >If we're going to strengthen our bond between these Crystal Prep girls, now seems like the perfect time.
  2201. >Who should we talk with first: Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet, or Sunny Flare?
  2202.  
  2203. I'm not gonna lie, Sour Motherfucking Sweet really intrigues me right now. Let's hang out with her first.
  2204.  
  2205. >Alright, then, let's see what Sour Sweet's up to.
  2206. >Walking to the practice targets, I take a better look at Sour Sweet's form.
  2207. >Her eyes are focused, her breath calm, as the arrows strike their mark.
  2208. "Wow, you're pretty good at this, Sour Sweet. Do you normally practice archery?"
  2209. >She looks back to me with the valley girl look she's accustomed to, only to change back when she sees it's me.
  2210. >"Oh, hey there, Sunset, and everyone at Crystal Prep does at least Archery. It's why that nerd Twilight's in the first leg of the race."
  2211. >Strange that Twilight isn't here practicing as well, but perhaps she's just running late.
  2212. "You seem a lot more skilled than 'base requirement' would imply."
  2213. >Sour pulls out a pair of arrows from the target, notching them both before replying.
  2214. >"Yeah, my uncle's a fan of competitive archery, and he teaches me on the side."
  2215.  
  2216. "Your uncle?"
  2217. >She nods, releasing the two arrows and nearly hitting the center with both of them.
  2218. >"Midnight Hero, the chief of police in Crystal City. Big, burly fucker who doesn't take shit from folks. But he always does his best to keep the peace and do good"
  2219. >I recall the baton Sour showed me yesterday, perhaps it's a police standard?
  2220. "It sounds like you really look up to your uncle, Sour."
  2221. >She nods, pulling another arrow from her quiver with a smile.
  2222. >"He really is the coolest uncle I could ask for. When I graduate, I'm gonna join the force, so I can help him out. It's the least I can do, really, for all he's done."
  2223.  
  2224. >The gentle smile on her lips, when she talks about her uncle, is perhaps the most genuine expression I've ever seen Sour Sweet have before.
  2225. >I truly feel like I understand her even more now.
  2226. >Just then, a thought comes to mind about how Sour Sweet only talked about her uncle.
  2227. "What about your parents, then, Sour Sweet?"
  2228. >The soft expression on her face immediately hardens as the arrow careens at another on the target, splitting it in half!
  2229.  
  2230. >"No offense, Sunset, but it's none of your fucking business. Do folks normally ask about your parents?"
  2231. >Before I can answer, Sour Sweet pulls the ruined arrows out, pocketing them in the quiver before pulling out a fresh one.
  2232. >"I need to focus on my archery before this event starts. We can talk later."
  2233. >And with that, her eyes remain glued on the target, cold with fury.
  2234. >Did I step on a sensitive topic?
  2235. >I never even got to thank her for her advice on concealed weapons.
  2236. >Regardless, Sour Sweet no longer seems willing to talk, so I leave the archer to do her work in silence.
  2237. >When I get back to the main field, I notice students making their way to the stands with food and flags.
  2238. >Looks like it's almost time for this part of the Friendship Games to really get underway.
  2239. >Still, I think I have just enough time to check up with either Indigo Zap or Sunny Flare before I have to get everything else prepared.
  2240. >Which one should we talk to, with the remaining time we have?
  2241.  
  2242. We are competing with Indigo at motocross, right? We can let our skill speak for itself then.
  2243. Now we should talk with Sunny... although I'm not sure about the topic.
  2244. Would it be rude to talk about her hand?
  2245.  
  2246. >I can try bringing up the prosthetic, if the opportunity presents itself.
  2247. >Hopefully it's less of a nerve compared to Sour Sweet's parents.
  2248. >As I approach, it looks like Sunny's all done with her stretches, tying the laces of her skates.
  2249. "Hey, Sunny, how're you doing today?"
  2250. >I hold a hand out to help her get up, as she grasps it with her right "hand".
  2251. >The skin feels real, but the grip is definitely artificial and strong, pulling herself up.
  2252. >"It's been fine, for the most part. Had an argument with my mother about being in the skating portion of the Tricross, but this hand's unfair for the other two sections. I'm not going to cheat for her victory."
  2253. "Your mother's victory? Why would your mother have anything to do with this competition?"
  2254. >Sunny sighs and shakes her head.
  2255. >"You really don't know, do you? I was wondering why you were so friendly to me, considering."
  2256. >She motions to the commentator's room, where the judges are watching from.
  2257. >"Principal Cinch is my mother."
  2258.  
  2259. >Nani?
  2260. >I look back and forth between Cinch and Sunny, and notice some similarities between the two.
  2261. >Sunny's hair is a lighter shade of purple, and her eyes are a darker pink, but she definitely looks a bit like her mother.
  2262. >She gives a chuckle at my surprised expression, looking back at the stern principal examining the field.
  2263. >"Yeah, it sometimes take a while, but everyone I meet eventually finds out my connection to my mother. Either I'm a teacher's pet or an easy target for students that get targeted by her."
  2264. >Her hands clench into fists as she mentions this, turning back to me with a bitter smile.
  2265. >"Feel free to distance yourself from me as well, if you want. I'm used to it: another bridge burned won't kill me."
  2266. >So that's why she always seems alone, even when surrounded by her peers.
  2267. >The shadow of Principal Cinch looms over her daughter, making other students fear and hate her by proxy.
  2268. >No one deserves to be all alone for their parent's sins.
  2269.  
  2270. "I don't mind, Sunny. You aren't the one at fault for what your mother does, so it doesn't make sense for you to suffer for it."
  2271. >At first, she looks surprised, but she shakes her head and tries to hide a small grin.
  2272. >"You'll only have yourself to blame if this bites you later... But thanks."
  2273. "Does that mean Principal Cinch got you that prosthetic, then? It practically looks like something from Star Wars."
  2274. >Sunny nods, making her way to the skating point while I follow towards the shed.
  2275. >"Despite all the rumors and stigma surrounding Mother, being the head of a prestigious school carries quite a lot of weight. And I doubt Shadows were involved with my incident."
  2276. >We stop at the shed as I quickly pull out my bike and push it onward.
  2277. >"I don't remember anything about the incident, but I never experienced Decoherence Fields or Persona until around my freshman year."
  2278.  
  2279. >At last, we arrive to the starting line for the speed skating section, and Sunny waves to Lemon Zest, while I greet Rarity and Pinkie.
  2280. >"Five minutes until the Tricross Relay begins. Participants, make your way to your respective sections and do your best!"
  2281. >Looks like our time for socializing has run out, but I feel like I understand Sunny Flare even more now.
  2282. "Well, Sunny, good luck on the field."
  2283. >I hold out a hand, which she takes with a firm handshake.
  2284. >"Same, Sunset. May the best team win today."
  2285. >And with that, I hurry over to the motocross section and get ready for the countdown.
  2286.  
  2287. >"Welcome, everyone to the Friendship Games Tricross Relay!"
  2288. >The crowd cheers wildly as Cadance announces the games.
  2289. >"In this event, our qualifying competitors will face off in archery, speed skating, and finally, motocross. So if the competitors are ready..."
  2290. >With a loud blow of the airhorn, Sour Sweet and Fluttershy make their way across the minature obstacle course.
  2291. >"Each competitor must hit a bullseye before their teammates can start the next leg of the relay."
  2292.  
  2293. >Sour Sweet rockets over the obstacles with grace, grabbing one of the quivers without stopping and swinging to the shooting area with one hand.
  2294. >Fluttershy is just behind her, carefully sliding over the hay stacks as Sour fires three arrows at the target.
  2295. >The spreadshot tactic succeeds, triangulating one of the bullseyes with a satisfied grin!
  2296. >Twilight looks at her teammate's work with awe for a moment before hurrying onward, tripping on the first haystack and landing right on her face.
  2297. >Fluttershy, meanwhile, seems to be having trouble with draw strength, as her first two arrows wobble to the ground limply.
  2298. >With a heave, Twilight attempts to swing across the sandpit, only to barely catch the other side with her foot.
  2299. >Just then, Fluttershy holds her breath and pulls the bow back enough to make the arrow soar into the target below Sour Sweet's!
  2300.  
  2301. >She smiles at the victory shot before giving Applejack the thumbs up, the country gal hopping through the course like a pro.
  2302. >Twilight manages to pull herself up just as Applejack makes it to the shooting spot, the two pulling their arrows back and firing.
  2303. >Applejack's arrow strikes the target, though not exactly on the bullseye, but Twilight misses and hits the board moving the target along.
  2304. >"Come on, Twilight, you can't just be shooting at the target. Aim where it's going!"
  2305. >With a deep breath, Applejack strikes the target with a bullseye, giving the green light to Rarity and Pinkie to start their skating.
  2306. >Three more arrows later, Twilight is almost in tears, her legs' shaking as Sour Sweet is losing her mind.
  2307. >"This is like the bare minimum requirement for P.E., how are you so bad at this?! Lead the shot!"
  2308. >Pinkie and Rarity clear their first lap on the ring, Lemon Zest and Sunny Flare unable to do anything as Canterlot's points go up once more.
  2309.  
  2310. >"If CPA can't hit another bullseye soon, they'll be out of this race."
  2311. >Sugarcoat looks on the embarrassing display of aiming, takes a deep breath and hollers with the wit of Shakespeare.
  2312. >"You're really bad at this!"
  2313. >Like poetry.
  2314. >Eventually, Applejack groans in annoyance and hands Fluttershy the bow.
  2315. >"Ugh! I can't take anymore! Look, Twilight, you're letting the stress get to you. Take a deep breath, then fire."
  2316. >Applejack helps position the bow more favorably, as Twilight takes a deep breath.
  2317. >"Keep steady, trust me when I tell you to fire. ...Fire!"
  2318. >The arrow flies in the air, the target moving right into position as it hits dead center!
  2319. >With the green light on their end, Lemon and Sunny race forth, quickly matching Canterlot's pace.
  2320.  
  2321. >To my surprise, what looks like Spike pops up from the shooting area, jumping around the victorious Twilight.
  2322. >"Yeah! That's my girl!"
  2323. >Sour Sweet jumps at the sound of Spike's voice, slowly backing off with widened eyes.
  2324. >"That dog's fucking talking. I knew I should've gotten more sleep today..."
  2325. >"Canterlot only has two laps to go! But it looks like Crystal Prep is making up for lost time!"
  2326. >Lemon Zest and Sunny Flare zoom past Rarity and Pinkie on the final lap, causing Rarity to grit her teeth and move her leg out.
  2327. >"Come on, Pinkie, grab on!"
  2328. >With a solid kick, Rarity sends Pinkie careening across the track, zipping past Crystal Prep and claiming the next win!
  2329.  
  2330. >It's our turn now, as I rev the engines and make my way across the new biking track.
  2331. >"Aw yeah! This is awesome!"
  2332. >I hear Rainbow's excited cries as Indigo and Sugarcoat close in.
  2333. >The four of us are neck-to-neck, the engines roaring in fury, when the earth begins to shake beneath us.
  2334. >Before I can check to see what's happening, I feel the familiar weight of the Persona belt around me.
  2335. >Suddenly, vines burst out of the ground, rupturing the field and causing Sugarcoat and I to crash into them!
  2336.  
  2337. >Next thing I know, I'm suddenly on the ground, my bike lying quite a ways ahead of me.
  2338. >I look around to see a gargantuan plant monster, with countless vines entrenched around the field.
  2339. >Sugarcoat is currently hanging onto dear life to her bike, as the head is currently chewing down on it.
  2340. >"Don't worry, Sunset, I got you!"
  2341. >Rainbow stops her bike near me, giving me a hand as wings begin to form on her back.
  2342. >"We can still win this, Sunset. I can pummel this thing into fertilizer while you keep racing and beat Indigo!"
  2343. "But why split up? This thing is dangerous!"
  2344. >Rainbow motions to the fleeing students, as Vice-Principal Luna and Dean Cadance quickly help them evacuate the field.
  2345. >"I'm betting this is looking like an earthquake to them, so the race needs to finish. Don't worry about me: focus on catching up and winning this for CHS!"
  2346. >I look back to Sugarcoat, her grip finally failing as she bumps her way down the vines to the ground.
  2347. >I look forward as Indigo zooms down the track, her mind only focused on the race.
  2348. >One of us needs to fight this thing off while the other finishes the race, but do I have to not fight?
  2349. >Should I trust Rainbow Dash to beat this thing before we finish the race?
  2350. >Which one of us should stay to fight this monster?
  2351.  
  2352. Let's stay and have Rainbow finish the race.
  2353.  
  2354. >I guess that makes sense, though it feels weird to let Rainbow go ahead.
  2355. >Regardless, this isn't the time to worry about gut feelings, not when folks are in danger.
  2356. "Rainbow, you keep racing while I take care of this plant monster. This thing's probably weak to fire, and I've got that to spare."
  2357. >Rainbow Dash opens her mouth to object, but stops as she revs her bike up.
  2358. >"Alright, Sunset, be careful. I'll be at the finish line before you know it!"
  2359. >And with that, Rainbow zooms off after Indigo's bike, the two continuing their race.
  2360. "Persona, Henshin!"
  2361. >My suit flares to life as I climb onto the bike, and ride towards the creature.
  2362. "This is probably coming out of my wallet!"
  2363. >I kick the bike into high gear and send it flying at the plant, the bike crashing into its block-masked face and sending it reeling back!
  2364. >I stick the landing near the stunned Sugarcoat, lending a hand to help her up.
  2365. >"...Thanks."
  2366. >As she gets up, she pulls out a taser from her pocket and readies it against the monster.
  2367. >I unsheathe my blade and join her as the plant's face gives a toothy grin and roars!
  2368.  
  2369. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=skJuPufKFic
  2370.  
  2371. >(Sunset, Sugarcoat, can you hear me? This is Sunny Flare.)
  2372. >"You're doing Analysis?"
  2373. >(Someone has to, especially with how separated we all are right now. I can scan this Shadow, if you want.)
  2374. "Alright, we're in your care, Sunny."
  2375. >I check the supplies the girls and I split up this morning: two Apple Ciders, two Zap Apple Candies, and what Fluttershy calls 'Cherry Blossom Incense'.
  2376. >Apparently the incense can revitalize those who smell it, so perhaps it works like Phoenix Feathers in Fantasia.
  2377. >What should we do this turn?
  2378.  
  2379. I say we should have Sunset use fire attacks while Sugarcoat uses wind, I don't know why but I just have a feeling Ice wont work on this thing
  2380.  
  2381. >Let's hope our pyrotechnics show doesn't set the entire field on fire.
  2382. "Burn to ashes, you overgrown weed!"
  2383. >I slam my fist into the ground, the familiar inferno engulfing the Shadow and causing it to cry out in pain!
  2384. >With a hard thump, the plant monster crashes to the floor, writhing in the flames.
  2385. >"An opening!"
  2386. "Let's exploit it, then. All Out Attack!"
  2387. >The two of us charge the toppled Shadow, as I hack several of the vines off the main form!
  2388. >In addition, Sugarcoat sticks the taser into its exposed body, increasing to full power and earning an addition scream from the monster!
  2389. >"Come forth, Hel..."
  2390. >Hopping back to safety, Sugarcoat grabs her card and flings it into the ground, the card sinking into the dirt as the earth trembles.
  2391. >A cloaked woman rises from the ground, one side of the body a beautiful, pale lady with a sharp blue eye.
  2392. >On the other side, however, she appears horribly disfigured and frostbitten, with a burning blue orb in her eye socket.
  2393. >She holds her hands forth, a frigid wind blowing across the field, enveloping the Shadow in its grip.
  2394.  
  2395. >However, the winds cannot rouse the creature, merely passing by it as the Shadow lifts itself up.
  2396. >Without warning, the main head lunges at me, its jaws clamping down on my arm!
  2397. >My suit breaks under the pressure of its bite, shattering and allowing the teeth to dig into my skin.
  2398. >Stuck in its jowls, I'm unable to move before the Shadow flings me at Sugarcoat, knocking the both of us down from the impact!
  2399. "That's one mean green mother. Sorry, Sugarcoat, are you alright?"
  2400. >The two of us pull ourselves back up, the monster cackling.
  2401. >"I'm fine... Wind doesn't work."
  2402. >(That Fire attack really hit that thing where it hurts! Here's a scan on the Shadow:)
  2403.  
  2404. Audrey VIII
  2405.  
  2406. Null: Wind
  2407. Resist: Curse
  2408. Weak: Fire
  2409.  
  2410. >Looks like we were right about the fire.
  2411. >Let's keep up the momentum!
  2412.  
  2413. Status:
  2414.  
  2415.  
  2416. Sunset Shimmer: 69% HP, 65% SP
  2417. Sugarcoat: 66% HP, 100% SP
  2418.  
  2419. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  2420.  
  2421. Keep applying pressure, imo
  2422. Hardest hitting fire and ice; Antipode this nerd.
  2423.  
  2424. >You're right, let's turn this thing into fire wood!
  2425. "Burning Justice!"
  2426. >Flames dance around Audrey VIII, the fires licking the vines hungrily.
  2427. >Suddenly,the Shadow burrows underground, the fires of justice whiffing and petering out.
  2428. >After a moment, the plant monster resurfaces, a cheeky grin on its mouth.
  2429. "Hey, you can't do that!"
  2430. >The Shadow sticks out a large tongue in tease, when a giant spear of ice slams down on it, dealing massive damage!
  2431. >"Direct hit."
  2432. >With a powerful tug, Audrey VIII frees itself from the new piercing, splitting its entire tongue in two in the process!
  2433. >Its vines shoot into the air, before entering the earth, digging deep and surrounding the Shadow in a soft, green light.
  2434. >I see the injury on the tongue Sugarcoat dealt slowly recover into something closer to a snake's forked tongue.
  2435. >This bastard's healing itself!
  2436.  
  2437. >However, while Sugarcoat and I brace for another strike, Audrey VIII seems content to remain motionless, bearing its teeth threateningly.
  2438. >(It doesn't look like major regeneration, but there's no doubt Shadow's healing itself right now! But there's something about the way its positioned that doesn't sit right with me. Be careful if you're planning to attack it!)
  2439. >Sunny has a point, there's something suspicious about how this Shadow never attempted to capitalize on its healing.
  2440. >On the other hand, the more time we spend being cautious, the more time this thing's gonna have to potentially return to full strength.
  2441. >I'm also running low on energy right now: I doubt I have enough for more than one more Burning Justice.
  2442. >What do you guys think we should do next?
  2443.  
  2444. Status:
  2445.  
  2446. Sunset Shimmer: 69% HP, 30% SP
  2447. Sugarcoat: 66% HP, 75% SP
  2448.  
  2449. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  2450.  
  2451. Hm, since Sunny nulls Nuke, maybe we have her throw a Freidyne out instead? Then Sugar Nukes, Sunset physical's.
  2452. Sugar Bufu's, I mean.
  2453.  
  2454. >Sunny's on Analysis duty, and on the other side of the field from what I can see, but we can definitely do the rest of it.
  2455. "I should save the remainder of my energy for an emergency. Hissatsu - Rider Kick!"
  2456. >I leap into the air, my leg encircled with flame as I crash into the immobile Shadow.
  2457. >My armored foot connects with its jaw, kicking out several teeth and delivering a satisfying crunch!
  2458. >Suddenly, a vine shoots up out of the ground, wrapping around my waist and pinning me against the floor!
  2459. "Shit, I can't move!"
  2460. >As I struggle in Audrey VIII's grip, Sugarcoat flings her card into the ground, the ruler of death unleashing a blizzard upon the Shadow.
  2461. >The ice sticks to several vines, freezing them in place and slowing its movement to a crawl.
  2462.  
  2463. >The Shadow roars, slowly lifting the icy tentacle that nabbed me into the air, before slamming it to the ground!
  2464. >The impact knocks the air out of me, shattering more of the suit as the HUD goes crazy with vital alerts.
  2465. >Audrey VIII looks at me with an eldritch liquid drooling out of its mouth.
  2466. >I've seen way too much anime to know one of two things is going to happen.
  2467. "But that shit ain't happening on my watch! Got to... find a way... to break free!"
  2468. >I manage to worm an arm out of the plant bind, freeing my sword hand.
  2469. >I doubt I can do any Persona skills while trapped in this thing's clutches, but this vine around me is way too close to miss.
  2470. >If I can hack away at it enough, it should let go of me!
  2471.  
  2472. >(It looks like Sugarcoat's attack managed to freeze several parts of that Shadow. Make sure to use Physical attacks to capitalize on the damage! Also, it looks like Rage just plain doesn't work on this Shadow.)
  2473. >The vines squeeze against my ribs, injuring me more and breaking off another part of my suit.
  2474. >What should I direct to Sugarcoat while I fight these bonds?
  2475.  
  2476. Status:
  2477.  
  2478. Sunset Shimmer (Trapped): 23% HP, 30% SP
  2479. Sugarcoat: 66% HP, 70% SP
  2480.  
  2481. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  2482.  
  2483. I'm assuming it all counts as one target, so let's Bufudyne it with Hel, while you work on escaping.
  2484.  
  2485. >That's a good idea, especially if this thing is still countering Physical skills.
  2486. "Sugarcoat, keep using Ice magic! I'll cut my way out from here!"
  2487. >"Right."
  2488. >I ready my prismatic blade and whack at the vine surrounding me, the frostbitten plant tissue shattering from the impact.
  2489. >With the frozen outer shell broken, I'm able to dig the sword in even deeper, causing the Shadow to cry out in pain!
  2490. >"Persona..."
  2491. >Another frigid torrent of ice envelops Audrey VIII, sneaking into all the open wounds and dealing heavy damage!
  2492. >The tentacle around me loosens, allowing me to jump out to safety.
  2493. "Thanks, Sugarcoat, that really got me out of a pinch."
  2494. >"Mmm."
  2495.  
  2496. >The frost begins to evaporate as the Shadow roars and rips its roots out of the ground, ripping the track apart and attempting to strike us both.
  2497. >I manage to avoid the attack by a hair, but Sugarcoat is caught in the thrashing, knocking the girl around!
  2498. >Eventually, the vines return to their normal state around the Shadow, the various wounds still festering from previous burns, slices, and frostbite.
  2499. >(Sunset, Sugarcoat, both of your health pools look really bad right now. You should heal yourselves while the monster's out of his regenerative state.)
  2500. >Sunny's right: Audrey VIII is no longer rooted into the ground, so he can't heal himself anymore!
  2501. >On the other hand, the Shadow's no longer frozen either, so we'll need to be careful about double attacks once more.
  2502.  
  2503. >Sugarcoat's looking bad, her usually muted expression in pain as she glares at the Shadow.
  2504. >We should probably heal her wounds with a Cider before something awful happens.
  2505. >On the other hand, that Shadow's looking far weaker now.
  2506. >One concentrated assault might be all we need to take it out.
  2507. >Defensive, Offensive, maybe something in between?
  2508. >What do you guys think?
  2509.  
  2510. Status:
  2511.  
  2512. Sunset Shimmer: 23% HP, 30% SP
  2513. Sugarcoat: 33% HP, 65% SP
  2514.  
  2515. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  2516.  
  2517. Let Sugarcoat heal, go for another Burning Kickaroo yourself, and see if you can get an all out attack going to polish it off.
  2518.  
  2519. >Alright, this is the last push, then!
  2520. "Sugarcoat, use a Cider and get ready for the worst!"
  2521. >With a soft chug, she drinks down one of the bottles, her wounds fading away.
  2522. "It's time we end this now! Burning Justice!"
  2523. >I leap at the Shadow, my fist encircled with flame as I slam it straight into its body.
  2524. >Nothing seems to happen at first, but suddenly crimson lights shine out of Audrey VIII.
  2525. >Through the wounds, I see the hungry flames of justice flaring out,catching the main body on fire as well!
  2526. >The Shadow thrashes against the flames, but not even the earth can douse the inferno consuming it from the inside out.
  2527. >I jump back to Sugarcoat as the plant monster screams its last, collapsing onto the ground and fading out of existence!
  2528.  
  2529. >(Shadow defeated, but it looks like Decoherence is still materialized. We need to find out where it is, before-)
  2530. >Suddenly, the field snaps out of existence, just as Rainbow inches ahead of Indigo, taking the race!
  2531. >Dean Cadance looks to the field, after the siren sounds the final point, looking at the score before announcing on the speakers.
  2532. >"Even through that minor earthquake, it seems that out competitors kept going and finished the relay. Canterlot wins, by a narrow margin!"
  2533. >Everyone gathers up, including the Shadowbolts, as we assess the damage.
  2534. >"Is everyone alright?"
  2535. >Applejack's concern seems unfounded as Rainbow pumps her fist in victory.
  2536. >"Better than all right! We won!"
  2537. >"I almost had it too! How did you manage to kick the bike's speed up like that?"
  2538. >"To be honest, I'm pretty sure I broke something to do that. But hey, at least we have a mechanic we can take these to,"
  2539.  
  2540. >I shake my head, my body weary from the close encounter along with the excited chatter from the athletes.
  2541. "Yeah, we won, but somebody could've been seriously hurt. How did a Decoherence Field appear at just the right time to screw with us?"
  2542. >"Um, excuse me."
  2543. >We turn to see Twilight, cupping that strange device with an apologetic look.
  2544.  
  2545. >"I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I just wanted to learn about the strange energy coming from your school. I didn't know that it caused these 'Decoherences' or... how it works."
  2546. >Rainbow shrugs, grinning at Twilight as the girl slowly walks towards me.
  2547. >"That's okay, Twilight, neither do we."
  2548. >Suddenly, as Twilight finally enters the circle, the device begins to vibrate violently, levitating into the air and turning towards me!
  2549. >"Oh, no! Oh, no no no! Not again!"
  2550. >My strength begins to leave me, wisps of my inherent magic being drained into the device like a vacuum!
  2551. "What... are you doing...?"
  2552. >Eventually, the device is satisfied, closing itself and leaving me horribly woozy from the experience.
  2553. >"I'm sorry! It just started absorbing energy on its own! But I'm not sure how!"
  2554.  
  2555. >A small rift forms nearby, the same feeling of Decoherence coming from it, before vanishing.
  2556. >So Twilight was the one creating these fields?
  2557. >Obviously, the one at Crystal Prep didn't happen because of it, but the one yesterday?
  2558. >Considering how Fluttershy lost her magic to that device before it happened, there's no other conclusion.
  2559. >My head roars in pain as I try and keep myself together,
  2560. >So Twilight must have known about the effects of the device draining magic and decided to bring it with her to this event.
  2561. >Hell, maybe that's why she decided to bring it with her: to 'experiment' even more with something she doesn't understand!
  2562. >I'm so fucking angry!
  2563.  
  2564. >This Twilight has drained magic from my friends, probably took the magic from the portal too, and she's the reason for the last two Decoherence incidents!
  2565. >How dare she put my friends into harm's way, just so she can satisfy a curiosity that doesn't even concern her!
  2566. >It's clear now this Twilight is nothing like the Twilight I know, and I've been a fool to assume that at the start.
  2567. >Guys... I feel like I'm about to explode, to do something I can't take back.
  2568. >Please, tell me, what should I do?
  2569.  
  2570. 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
  2571.  
  2572. >What the hell are you saying?
  2573. >Stop speaking in gibberish!
  2574. >That's it, I can't take anymore of this!
  2575. "Is there anything you do know?! Like how to get our magic back?! Or how to fix the portal to Equestria?!"
  2576. >"Magic? Equestria? What are you talking about?"
  2577. >Twilight's confusion can't save her from my fury, as I continue my tirade.
  2578. "This device you're carrying around drains energy from us, and it creates Decoherence Fields. Even worse, after you found out about that from taking Fluttershy's magic, you brought it here, again! What would have happened if that Shadow actually ate someone?!"
  2579. >"I... I..."
  2580. >I feel a hand on my shoulder, but I shake it off, too infuriated to notice who it was.
  2581.  
  2582. "You're supposed to be so smart, but did you ever think that you shouldn't be messing around with things you don't understand?!"
  2583. >Twilight attempts to stand her ground, but it's obvious that she's barely holding back her tears, let alone her ground.
  2584. >"But I want to understand!"
  2585. "But you don't! You created something you can't control: that does things that can endanger the lives of everyone around you. And instead of putting it away to check what might have gone wrong, you decided to bring it to an even more populated event! That's dangerous, irresponsible, and fucking stupid!"
  2586. >Those three points appear to finally shatter what facade the poor girl had, as she sobs into her hands.
  2587. >"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..."
  2588. >And with that, Twilight runs off the field,with her dog Spike following close behind her.
  2589. >The fog of rage leaves my mind, but the sting of my words remain to remind me of my actions.
  2590.  
  2591. Hm... Take a deep breath, first of all. It's okay to be mad, expected even, but this needs a measured response.
  2592.  
  2593. Tell her that whether she meant to do this or not, it's messing with your friends, and it's putting people in danger. She needs to stop using it, reverse whatever process it's using to drain your friends, and come talk with you. Preferably without screaming too much.
  2594.  
  2595. "..."
  2596. >I screwed up bad, haven't I?
  2597. >The others look at me with a mixture of fear and concern.
  2598. >"Sunset, are you doing alright? That seemed pretty harsh, even for what Twilight did."
  2599. >Applejack's hand returns to my shoulder as I sigh and facepalm.
  2600. "I... don't know what came over me. I was just so angry, and I blew up on someone who didn't deserve it."
  2601.  
  2602. Sunny Flare shrugs, looking to where Twilight ran off to.
  2603. >"I wouldn't say she didn't deserve a reprimand, but you did sort of explode on her."
  2604. >Fuck, I screwed up real bad.
  2605. >No one deserves to be thrashed that bad for honest mistakes.
  2606. >"Cheer up, Sunset, I'm sure you haven't burned that bridge with Twilight yet. Just make sure to apologize when you see her again."
  2607. >I nod at Applejack's comment, as Celestia, Luna, Cadance, and Cinch all arrive with a mixture of expressions.
  2608. >Principal Celestia is the first to talk, the professional smile shining through the general gloom.
  2609. >"Congratulations, everyone, for your work in the Tricross Relay. Even though it was a close race, I hope you all had a good time."
  2610. >Cinch scoffs, adjusting her glasses as she glares at the scoreboard.
  2611. >"You can't possibly call that a fair race. Absolutely none of us were here to witness it, after that... earthquake."
  2612. >With a scowl, Luna motions to several cameras around the finish line.
  2613. >"We've got countless cameras around the finish line. You can't tell me that those aren't proof enough."
  2614.  
  2615. >"I can, and I will. Trusting technology to confirm a narrow race is foolish in every sense of the word."
  2616. >I turn to Cinch with a disbelieving look, her expression stone cold in response.
  2617. "But I saw Rainbow win the race. If you can't count technology, surely you can count someone's who was on the field."
  2618. >The Crystal Prep Principal shrugs, looking at us in disdain.
  2619. >"Of course you'd say it's your victory: you have a stake to even the score and try to win. You cannot possibly think your perspective is unbiased."
  2620. >This lady is unbelievable, I think as I grit my teeth in annoyance.
  2621. >Sensing the tension, Dean Cadance holds up her hands and moves between us.
  2622. >"Now, now, there's no need to get heated over this. If we're looking for unbiased perspective, why not ask our own students? At the very least, we'll have something to compare it to."
  2623.  
  2624. >Principal Cinch huffs as Cadance turns towards the Crystal Prep students, a gentle smile on her lips.
  2625. >"The only side of the story we haven't heard is yours. What happened on the field?"
  2626. >For a moment, the girls think about what to say, looking between each other before Sunny Flare stepped up.
  2627. >"It was distracting with the earthquake earlier, but I saw Rainbow Dash winning the race by a hair."
  2628. >Cinch turns to her daughter in shock, as it was Sunny's turn to remain stoic.
  2629. >"Like, I totally saw Canterlot win the race, ma'am! It was so close, too!"
  2630. >Sour Sweet's saccharine state works in her favor as her smile earns Cadance's in return and Indigo jumps in.
  2631. >"If you're gonna believe anyone, believe the gal racing at the end! It was close, but Rainbow managed to pull a trick out of her sleeve and beat me!"
  2632. >Everyone turns to Sugarcoat, the twin-tailed girl shrugging as she points to the cameras.
  2633. >"I saw what those things saw."
  2634. >"Canterlot won that competition fair and square. Even I could see it from my end of the track!"
  2635. >Lemon Zest adds, as Principal Cinch grits her teeth in annoyance, before returning to a neutral expression.
  2636.  
  2637. >"Very well, all records state that it was a Canterlot victory, which makes the score 1:1. It looks like we'll have to dust off the Tiebreaker."
  2638. >Vice-Principal Luna looks at her like she's speaking French, but Celestia nods, a faint smile on her lips.
  2639. >"It's been so long since we've had to do that. I'm really excited now!"
  2640. >"I wasn't made aware we even had a 'Tiebreaker'. We will need to talk about this."
  2641. >The four of them nod in unison as Cinch looks to her students.
  2642. >"Well, since you're already here, I shall inform you that it was decided that today shall be a free night. Curfew is no longer in effect, and you may spend the night as you wish."
  2643. >With that, the judges leave the field as the eleven of us look at each other with excitement.
  2644. >"Aw, yeah, we finally got a night out! I've been dying to see what Canterlot's like!"
  2645.  
  2646. >Pinkie begins to hop at Indigo's comment, her hand in the air.
  2647. >"Oh! Oh! We could have a slumber party!"
  2648. "We haven't done one of those since the Battle of the Bands, huh? That'd be pretty fun to do."
  2649. >My thoughts go back to that Spring, the memories of playing at Pinkie's house and talking all night.
  2650. >Or when Twilight and I...
  2651. >I shake my head, no good will come worrying about my outburst for now, so let's focus on having fun tonight.
  2652. >The other girls are arguing with each other about which house to spend the night.
  2653. >"There's tons of games and treats at my house. Even better, we might be able to hang out with my sisters!"
  2654. >Lemon Zest nods along to Pinkie's suggestion, drooling a little before she wipes it off.
  2655. >"Not gonna lie, treats and games sounds like my kinda night. Sign me up with Ponks's crib."
  2656.  
  2657. >Rainbow groans, shaking her head at the two party maniacs.
  2658. >"We went to your house last time! I just got the new Super Slap Sisters game for my Swap."
  2659. >Indigo turns to her with a wild grin, giving her a fist bump.
  2660. >"For real? Man, I've been dying to get that one into my library. My vote's for that!"
  2661. >Applejack checks her phone for a moment, before looking up with a smile.
  2662. >"Folks' at home said y'all are welcome to stay the night, if ya want. The farm might not have much high-tech stuff, but there's plenty of food and outside stuff we could do."
  2663. >Sunny Flare scratches her chin in thought, mulling over Applejack's offer.
  2664. >"I don't think I've ever been to a farm before. That might be a fun experience, at least for the night."
  2665.  
  2666. >"Um... we could go to my house tonight. I've got plenty of animal friends to play with, and we could watch some movies too."
  2667. >Sugarcoat's eyes light up as she mentions animals, moving over to Fluttershy's spot.
  2668. >"Animals?"
  2669. >Rainbow frowns at the suggestion, shivering as she seems to recall something horrible.
  2670. >"I dunno, Fluttershy, are you sure 'he' isn't home? This sleepover will end before it begins if 'he' is."
  2671.  
  2672. >Fluttershy think about it for a moment before nodding.
  2673. >"I'm pretty sure he has work tonight, so we should be by ourselves. Probably."
  2674. >Rainbow seems dissatisfied by the answer, but Sugarcoat's eyes remain starry-eyed, ignoring the two's worries.
  2675. >"Well, if we want, my house is available for a sleepover. We can tell stories and try out my new dresses I've been working on!"
  2676. >Sour Sweet appears to grumble a bit before hiding it behind a smile again.
  2677. >"Oh, so many choices to choose from! Too bad absolutely none of them interest me. I guess I'll go with Rarity's idea."
  2678. >My thoughts go back to my flat: there should be plenty of space to do things, but I wonder if there'd be enough to keep everyone entertained?
  2679. >"What do you think, Sunset? It seems all out options are tied, at the moment, so you can decide which place we should go to."
  2680. >Everyone turns to me with expectant looks, waiting for my decision.
  2681. >What do you guys think, should we go to Pinkie's, Rainbow's, Applejack's, Fluttershy's, or Rarity's house tonight?
  2682. >Maybe I can even suggest my own flat, if you guys think its a good idea.
  2683. >And I'll try to actually listen to you all this time...
  2684.  
  2685. You can't go wrong with a Pinkie Pie Sleepover.
  2686. I'll agree, Panko Party is pretty hard to beat.
  2687.  
  2688. >Looks like we're hanging out at Pinkie's then; always a safe bet.
  2689. "Well, we can never go wrong with one of Pinkie Pie's parties. I'll put my vote in for her place."
  2690. >Pinkie Pie leaps for joy, with Lemon Zest sharing her big, dumb grin as the others slowly accept the situation.
  2691. >"I'll go ahead and get the house set up, while the rest of you girls pack up. I'll give you all directions on your phones!"
  2692. >She ravenously scours through all the Crystal Prep phones, leaving directions before all of us go our separate ways.
  2693. >Now we just need to let Lug Nut know and grab some supplies for the night.
  2694.  
  2695. >Lug's Nuts and Bolts, Thursday, October 30th, Afternoon
  2696.  
  2697. "I'm home."
  2698. >I open the door leading to the shop and find an odd paper note taped on the counter.
  2699. >The rough handwriting looks like the Boss's, though he's not usually the kind of guy to leave notes.
  2700. >Lifting the letter, I read the contents aloud to myself.
  2701. "To Sunset: some old friends invited me for a bit of a class reunion. Work today's canceled, and I know how important Halloween is for you. We'll tackle the rest of this stuff next Monday. To everyone else: we're closed. Lug Nut."
  2702. >Looks like we won't have to explain ourselves, though that seems like quite the surprise visit.
  2703. >Creeping up to the flat, I grab some toiletries and chargers, slowly lifting the Journal off the ground and inspecting it.
  2704.  
  2705. "..."
  2706. >Part of me hopes, beyond hope, that the Journal and portal will start working tomorrow, like nothing happened.
  2707. >But I get the feeling that things won't get better until we figure out the truth.
  2708. "Until then, I'll just need to be strong and carry on."
  2709. >I gently place the book on the counter, grabbing some more clothes before finishing my business and locking the flat for the night.
  2710.  
  2711. >Pinkie's House, Thursday, October 30th, Late Afternoon
  2712.  
  2713. >It seems I'm the last to arrive, as I see Sour Sweet entering the front door just as I drive up with my bike.
  2714. >After safely parking it, I knock on the door with my sleepover equipment, the door opening to greet me with Pinkie's smiling face.
  2715. >"You're here, Sunset! Come on, you're the one we were waiting for before we really go this party started!"
  2716. >Pinkie drags me in, the other girls helping themselves to the vast array of cooked confectioneries across the tables.
  2717. "Wow, you really did go all out with your cooking this time, Pinkie. I'm pretty certain we'll rot our teeth out eating all of these."
  2718. >"Parties are like gambling: you go big or go home. And you're just in time to meet my sisters!"
  2719. >Pinkie excitedly motions to three grey-looking girls talking with the guests with a mixture of expressions.
  2720. >Maud is fairly obvious to notice, the stone-faced girl silently hanging out with Rarity and Lemon Zest.
  2721. >There's a girl I could have sworn is Fluttershy's clone, though there are certain differences, talking with Applejack while Sugarcoat observes from a handful of sweets.
  2722. >Finally, there seems to be a sassy, lost child scowling at Indigo and Rainbow Dash's attempts to plug something into the television.
  2723. >Perhaps that's the Swap that was previously mentioned?
  2724.  
  2725. >"Since we're all here for the night, why don't I introduce you to them? Oh, you can even choose who to talk to first!"
  2726. >Pinkie's expectant gaze and smile tell me that, no matter what I say, the only choice that will matter is what order I talk to these girls.
  2727. >Maud seems like a safe bet to talk with first, since I know her already, but perhaps that's too obvious?
  2728. >The Fluttershy doppelgänger might be interesting to talk to first, but if she's anything like her double, crowding her might be a problem.
  2729. >... I really don't want to see what trouble those two got in with the grumpy sister, but I feel that's inevitable.
  2730. >Which should we talk to first?
  2731.  
  2732. ...Go with the sassy lost child. I bet she is not all that bad.
  2733. Listen to Louis Cypher Sunset. He knows what is best for you.
  2734. I'm down for this as well.
  2735.  
  2736. >Why do I get the ominous feeling that you guys are out to get me?
  2737. >Still, it seems I've been looking at the silver-haired girl for too long, as Pinkie grabs my arm with giddiness.
  2738. >"I see you eyeing Limey, Sunset! I knew you'd take an interest with her!"
  2739. >Before I can object, she yanks me towards 'Limey', who is busying herself with tearing Indigo and Rainbow a new one.
  2740. >"Have you barbarians never heard of a 'surge protector' before? You could have blown out our entire power grid!"
  2741. >Rainbow scratches the back of her head with a sheepish smile, suffering the outrage of the smaller girl.
  2742. >"Sorry, Limestone, it was a complete accident on my end. We weren't sure which things in the surge protector were important."
  2743.  
  2744. >Limestone sigh, palming her face while Indigo safely stays out of the firing range.
  2745. >"And you decided to stick an extra drain into the empty plug, rather than ask one of the three people who know. God, even Pinkie knows which ones are optional!"
  2746. >"Heya, Limey, I brought a new friend for you to talk with! This is Sunset Shimmer, one of my friends from high school. Sunset, this is Limestone!"
  2747. >I offer a smile and a handshake, which she accepts after looking me up and down.
  2748. >"Speak of the devil... Welcome to the Pie household, Sunset. I'm in charge of keeping order in this chaos."
  2749. "Nice to meet you, Limestone. It's always impressive to see someone so young being in charge of this much."
  2750. >Suddenly, her grip hardens like concrete, her eyes blazing with an inferno of rage.
  2751.  
  2752. >"Young?"
  2753. >...
  2754. >I think I've made a horrible mistake.
  2755. >"You wanna fight or something, brat? I'll kick your ass outta this house If I have to!"
  2756. >The rage of the short lady is interrupted by Pinkie's sisterly bear hug, lifting her into the air, out of reach.
  2757. >"Oh, Limey, you know she didn't mean it that way. You're the bestest, smartest, reliable older sister any of us can ask for!"
  2758. >Indigo's eyes widen, as well as my own, as Rainbow turns to explain.
  2759.  
  2760. >"Oh yeah, I forgot you never met Pinkie's other sisters, Sunset. Limestone's the oldest out of the four of 'em, then Maud, Pinkie and Marble."
  2761. >Now that I get a closer look, it seems much more obvious: Limestone's face is still young, but she has the eyes of an adult.
  2762. >An adult with a short temper about her height, but I've seen older people get angrier for less.
  2763. >With a huff, Limestone breaks out of Pinkie's grip of loving death, moving over to the surge protector.
  2764. >"While Mom and Dad said you had the house for your sleepover, Pinkie, you still need to keep an eye on your guests."
  2765. >Her gaze turns to Indigo, who waves with a broad smile, probably trying her best to abate Limestone's murderous aura.
  2766. >"Even if I don't approve of Crystal Prep guests. You do realize they're your rivals in terms of competition, right?"
  2767.  
  2768. >Pinkie giggles, sitting down alongside her sister and pulling out some plugs.
  2769. >"Oh, Limey, you haven't been at the Friendship Games for four years now. Crystal Prep's changed, and these girls are great!"
  2770. >Limestone humphs, plugging the cords of Rainbow's console into the protector and television, before placing it back in the cabinet.
  2771. >"If you say so, Pinkie. They haven't torched the field yet, so the least I can do is give them a chance."
  2772. >With a nudge of encouragement from Rainbow, Indigo follows her to the Swap, taking one of the controllers as Rainbow flips the switch.
  2773. >"You wanna play with us, Limestone? Triple S can play up to four local."
  2774. >The elder sister looks at the television and console with curiosity, her lime-green eyes shining with hesitant excitement.
  2775.  
  2776. >"I don't even know how to play that game, anyways. Plus, I got to keep an eye on the house..."
  2777. >Pinkie pushes her sister towards the TV, Rainbow offering a controller with a grin.
  2778. >"Oh, come on, Limey, it'll be fun! I'll let you know if something happens!"
  2779. >"And we can teach you how to play the game. You know, to apologize for almost gutting your electric bill."
  2780.  
  2781. >With peer pressure on all sides, Limestone relents with a tired sigh.
  2782. >"Alright, I guess I can play for a little while. You better tell me if something goes wrong, Pinkie."
  2783. >Pinkie handwaves Limestone's interjection, leading me a bit aways as her sister gets taught the basics.
  2784. "Are you sure it's alright to pressure your sister like that? She seemed resistant to the idea."
  2785. >"Oh, that's how Limey's always been. She's been so focused on college these days, in order to take the family business. She never stops to wind herself down with some fun."
  2786. >Pinkie smiles at Limestone's attempts to play, the rough girl who was just about to kick my ass utterly focused on the game.
  2787.  
  2788. >"Anywho, Sunset, we've still got some extra time on our hands! Who do you wanna meet next?"
  2789. >I notice Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare talking with each other while tasting Pinkie's treats, with Sunny talking into the watch on her right prosthetic.
  2790. >Rarity is doing her best to follow Lemon Zest and Maud's conversation, but her smile belies a special kind of confusion.
  2791. >Applejack is still talking with who I'm assuming is Marble, though Sugarcoat is more preoccupied with Fluttershy and whatever it is she has in her arms.
  2792. >We've got time to burn before the real sleepover begins, so who do you guys want to check on next?
  2793.  
  2794. We could go and talk a bit with Maud and Lemon. I mean what could they be talking about... rock?
  2795. Probably the Rolling Stones
  2796.  
  2797. >God, those puns are horrible, you'd have to be stoned to like them...
  2798. >Damn it, now you're making me do them!
  2799. "What about Maud, then? It looks like Lemon Zest's having a blast with her."
  2800. >"Oh yeah, Maud's a great conversationalist!"
  2801. >We make our way to Maud's group, apparently in the middle of a discussion between her and Lemon Zest.
  2802. >"And that's why, though we have a minor fault line in the city, you're more likely to find sedimentary rocks compared to igneous.
  2803. >Lemon's nods enthusiastically as Maud finishes her topic, surprisingly overly attentive to what she's saying.
  2804. >"Wow, I'd never thought about that before, Maud. You're a real pro on rocks!"
  2805. >"And you are quite knowledgeable about music. Tell me again why it's called 'rock and roll'."
  2806.  
  2807. >Before she can explain the origins of genre names to Maud, Rarity catches our arrival and waves us over.
  2808. >"Oh, Sunset, Pinkie, so nice to see you visiting our little... social circle. How are you enjoying the party, darling?"
  2809. "It's pretty good, so far: you know how high quality Pinkie's parties are. It looks like you and Maud are pretty familiar with each other."
  2810. >Rarity chuckles as she eyes Maud's average-looking frock.
  2811. >"Oh, we mostly know each other for business purposes. You see, Maud's 'fashion' isn't normally produced by most markets, so Pinkie Pie requested I help supply her."
  2812. >Maud nods slowly, admiring Rarity's handiwork on her.
  2813. >"She always makes the best frocks."
  2814.  
  2815. >"Though I must say, Maud, I bet I could make you even better styles of frocks. You know, if you let me customize them a bit more."
  2816. >Maud mulls over Rarity's offer and hopeful grin, then shakes her head as she pulls out a tiny rock.
  2817. >"I like the way you make these as is. They're nice and comfortable, and they have nice pockets for Boulder to stay in."
  2818. >She pockets Boulder once more, as I turn to Lemon Zest with an odd look.
  2819. "I'm surprised you mesh so well with Maud. She's normally a bit hard to... get along with for newcomers."
  2820.  
  2821. >"Are you kidding? Maud's dedication to geology and petrology is admirable!"
  2822. >Lemon Zest pulls out a guitar from a case nearby, tunes it with a few plinks and strums a chord.
  2823. >"This makes me wanna play a song. You said you do poetry on the side, didn't you, Maud?"
  2824. >Maud nods with an emotionless expression, pulling out a sheet of paper and clearing her throat.
  2825. >"This is my poem, called Sand:"
  2826.  
  2827. Sand, you are eroded rocks,
  2828. But not completely,
  2829. For there are minerals and sea creatures also in you.
  2830. When I go to the beach, I sometimes wonder
  2831. Which rocks you all came from.
  2832. With all types of rocks you could have eroded from,
  2833. It would be hard to keep track of who you were.
  2834. But that's not a problem,
  2835. Because rocks don't have brains,
  2836. And neither does sand.
  2837.  
  2838. >Each line of Shakespearean dialogue is accompanied with the perfect, dulcet tones of Lemon's guitar.
  2839. >Ironically, the emotional music mixes well with the monotone beats of Maud's poetry, creating a powerful feeling that echoes through my bones.
  2840. >I feel a wetness in my eye, as I notice I've been crying without knowing.
  2841. >Looking at Rarity and Pinkie, their reactions are similar, if not more or less exaggerated.
  2842. >Maud finishes her poem, as Lemon Zest strums her final chord, leaving us three in the audience silent.
  2843. >"Man, we're that good? We should totally start a band, Maud."
  2844. >"Maybe as something on the side. Boulder is very skilled in percussion."
  2845. >As if on cue, the pet rock slips out of Maud's pocket, bouncing against the table, ground, and other things nearby.
  2846. >If I didn't know any better, I'd have sworn it sounded like a basic drum solo.
  2847.  
  2848. >"Radical, I don't think I've ever played with a rock before. This'll be interesting."
  2849. "Well, it certainly sounds like you girls have a lot to talk about. I think Pinkie and I are gonna check on the other girls for now."
  2850. >Lemon Zest energetically waves goodbye while Maud nods silently before pulling out a pencil and paper.
  2851.  
  2852. >Rarity attempts to find an excuse to leave, but accepts her fate as she watches the two newly minted maestros get to work.
  2853. "That certainly wasn't a side of Maud I've ever seen before. Who knew all she needed to shine was a guitarist?"
  2854. >Pinkie giggles, enjoying the sight of Maud and Lemon working together.
  2855. >"Looks like my super-best-friend-sister Is going places! I wonder if they'll focus more on blues or rock?"
  2856. "Pinkie."
  2857. >I groan as she laughs from her obvious pun, and I check out the other two groups.
  2858. >Sour Sweet looks like she ate a habanero while I wasn't watching, while Sunny supplies her with cups of milk.
  2859. >Meanwhile, it looks like Sugarcoat has her hands on Gummy, the toothless alligator blinking and nibbling on her arm as she watches Marble's conversation.
  2860. >I doubt we're gonna stop after meeting one of them, so which one should we start with?
  2861.  
  2862. Go for the Pie Family Hat Trick and "attempt" to have a conversation with Marble.
  2863. Concur.
  2864.  
  2865. "I guess we can go visit Marble's group next. From the look of Sour Sweet, she probably needs some time to herself."
  2866. >Leaving Sour to her unfortunate predicament, we make our way to the other side of the room.
  2867. >Upon a closer inspection, Marble seems far more 'Fluttershy' than Fluttershy is: content nodding along to Applejack's conversation rather than joining in.
  2868. >Sugarcoat and Fluttershy are taking care of Angel Bunny and Gummy on a nearby table, the rabbit more visibly enthused than his reptilian accomplice.
  2869. >"Hey there, Pinkie, Sunset, glad to see ya made it. Marble wanted to know how the Apple family business was, so I've been talkin' about that for a while now."
  2870. >Applejack grins, patting Marble's back as she shares a far shyer smile.
  2871. >Something about the way she looks at Applejack makes me think that there's something, or someone, else on her mind.
  2872.  
  2873. >Suddenly, Pinkie wraps an arm around her sister and rustles Marble's hair, burying her eyes under her bangs.
  2874. >"Oh, Marble, there's no need to be coy with AJ! We all know you want to hear how Big Mac's doing."
  2875. >Marble shoots upright, her widened eyes visible from her messy bangs as she looks to her older sister in a panic.
  2876. >"Pinkie!"
  2877. >Even that shout was barely more than a stage whisper, as Applejack finally catches one.
  2878. >"Oh, you want to hear about Big Mac? He's been doing fine, for the most part: he's been working at the farm ever since he graduated a few years back."
  2879. >"... Does he have a... 'special someone'?"
  2880. >Applejack shakes her head, a drawn-out sigh slipping past her lips.
  2881. >"Poor guy's been avoiding women since his confession to Miss Cheerilee. He's too shy to start one of them dating sites that've been cropping up."
  2882. >Marble tries to hide it, but I see a faint smile when she hears the news.
  2883.  
  2884. >"... You should probably talk to him before he finds someone else."
  2885. >Sugarcoat's comment surprises both Marble and I, the shy girl stuttering as she attempted to respond.
  2886. >"H-huh? Sure..."
  2887. >While she registers Sugarcoat's comment, I turn my attention to the twin-haired girl playing around with Gummy.
  2888. "Looks like Gummy made a new friend today. How'd you get your hands on him?"
  2889. >Sugarcoat lifts her arm up as the toothless gator latches on with an iron grip.
  2890. >"I saw him walk over here, then he bit my arm."
  2891. >Pinkie giggles as she pets Gummy's head, loosening his grip on Sugarcoat's arm before he lunges at her pink hair.
  2892. >"Gummy's got a habit of latching onto folks. He doesn't normally do that to strangers, though."
  2893. >Sugarcoat shrugs as she continues to poke the tiny gator swinging from Pinkie's fluff.
  2894. >"... He's pretty cute."
  2895.  
  2896. "How about you, Fluttershy? I didn't expect you to bring Angel so far from home."
  2897. >The rabbit stands tall as Fluttershy coddles him, a smug smile on his face.
  2898. >"Oh, he insisted when I went back to the house. He and Gummy know each other too, so I thought a little reunion would be nice."
  2899. >Gummy continues to absentmindedly swing on Pinkie's hair, the plump lizard seemingly satisfied with his life choices.
  2900. >Eventually, Marble and Applejack come over and help spoil the two pets rotten, though Angel seems to dislike Applejack's touch.
  2901. >After a long while, I check the nearby clock and see it getting close to nightfall.
  2902. "This has been fun, but I think I'm gonna check up on Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare."
  2903. >The others, including Pinkie, wave me off as I walk over to Sour's hunched-over form.
  2904.  
  2905. "You look like death, Sour, did you eat a 'baked bad' or something?"
  2906. >With a groan, she looks at me with a stinkeye as she lifts up a half-eaten cupcake,
  2907. >"The hell is a 'baked bad'? I chomped down on one of those cupcakes in the back, and suddenly my entire gut was on fire!"
  2908. >I take a closer look at the cupcake, the sharp scent of hot sauce wafting from it.
  2909.  
  2910. "If I had to take a guess, you probably got into Pinkie's hot sauce cupcakes."
  2911. >Sour Sweet looks at me incredulously as I shrug in response.
  2912. >"For real? That girl's a fucking maniac, putting hot sauce in different goods."
  2913. >Sunny nods along to her plight, her attention focused on messing with her arm screen
  2914. >"To be fair, though, you went out of your way to grab that cupcake, Sour. This platter's all the way on the back of the table."
  2915. >"Shut up!"
  2916. >I turn to Sunny, remembering he talking at her prosthetic earlier.
  2917. "Say, Sunny, why were you talking to your arm screen earlier? It looked like you were taking note of something."
  2918. >Looking up to me, she moves her prosthetic closer while tapping an application called 'V. Record'.
  2919. >"I've got a voice recorder installed on here, for moments I want to review or enjoy. For example:"
  2920.  
  2921. >With a few more presses, a recording pops to life as Sour's voice comes out of an unknown speaker.
  2922. >"Aw man, look at all these cupcakes, Sunny. we're more likely to get diabetic before we finish these!"
  2923. >"And yet you're going to the very back of the selection."
  2924. >"Well yeah, everyone knows you keep the good shit in the back. That way everyone's too full to enjoy them!"
  2925. >"I hope you know what you're doing, Sour."
  2926. >"Oh, come on, Sunny, there's no way I'd ever regret my decision on this."
  2927. >With a beep,the recording finishes, with Sour Sweet glaring at Sunny.
  2928. >"Don't you dare play that other clip."
  2929.  
  2930. >Sunny can only respond with a mean grin as she innocently pokes around the touch screen.
  2931. >"What other clip could you possibly be talking about? You wouldn't mean this one, would you?"
  2932. >"I swear to Go-"
  2933. >Sour's threats are too little too late, as another recording sparks to life.
  2934. >"I regret my decision on this! What the hell did I just eat?"
  2935. >"Looks like you got had, Sour. This Pinkie sure is a master strategist."
  2936. >"Shut up and get me some more milk! My innards feel like they're liquefying!"
  2937.  
  2938. >"You ass."
  2939. >Sour Sweet scowls at Sunny's laughter, though the two don't seem to be in bad spirits.
  2940. "Looks like you two work well together. Are you friends?"
  2941. >The two look between themselves and I, before shrugging.
  2942. >"I wouldn't say we're 'friends' but we work together during certain Decoherence incidents."
  2943. >Sour nods, slapping her 'partner''s back while smiling.
  2944. >"Yeah, EAST tends to split groups into combat and analysis.Since Phoebe's so good at scanning Shadows, I'm usually the muscle with Doppelgänger."
  2945. >That must be her Persona, though I haven't seen it in action yet.
  2946. >We talk a while longer, until Pinkie pushes us all into her room, her siblings staying behind to help take care of the mess.
  2947.  
  2948. >Since there's not much else to do while waiting, I check with the Crystal Prep students for what weapons they bring for Decoherence Fields.
  2949. >Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet, and Sugarcoat's I already know, since I saw them before: knuckledusters, a collapsible baton, and a taser gun.
  2950. >The knuckledusters have a lightning cloud engraved into them, along with a matching 'I' and 'Z' on each one.
  2951. >The baton and taser gun look like standard issue police fair, though Sugarcoat is highly resistant on letting anyone take a closer look at the taser.
  2952. >Sunny Flare pulls out her parasol and unhooks the latch I noticed earlier, unsheathing a blade hidden in the pole!
  2953. >Suddenly, remembering her messing with it yesterday gives me a sense of uneasiness.
  2954. >Finally Lemon Zest pulls out her guitar once more, though it takes a while for us to understand what she's implying.
  2955. >"Don't worry, this sick girl's triply reinforced for combat. It's practically a musical club!"
  2956.  
  2957. >After a while, Pinkie bursts through the door with a large platter of multi-colored cupcakes.
  2958. >"Sorry for making you wait, girls, but I thought of just the game for tonight!"
  2959. "Judging from the selection of food, I'm assuming it's an eating game?"
  2960.  
  2961. >She shakes her head, moving everyone to the center of the room as she spins the platter around.
  2962. >"Not exactly: I was thinking we should play a little game of 'Prussian Roulette'."
  2963. >Everyone goes silent, worried gazes all around as Pinkie continues.
  2964. >"Ten of these cupcakes are amazingly, scrumptious, super-duper cupcakes that I've been saving up till now. But another has been made with the hottest sauce I could find!"
  2965. >Sour Sweet coughs in pained memory, Pinkie's devilish smile growing wider.
  2966. >"Everyone needs to take one. Let's see what happens!"
  2967. >It feels like we're in a weird Bond flick, forcing to gamble for our taste buds.
  2968. >No one looks like they want to make the first move, so I suppose I'll have to do it, instead.
  2969. >My hand hovers over all the delicious-looking morsels, knowing one will leave me on the floor, moaning.
  2970. >Which one do you guys think is the safest bet?
  2971.  
  2972. You can only pray, Sunset. I pray along with you. Let's go for the coconut-topped one. If it makes you feel better, you've got less than a 10% chance of igniting?
  2973. The second cupcake from the middle row gives me a bad feeling... you should totally eat it! That way your friends will have nothing to worry about! Be a hero Sunset!
  2974. Go with the caramel topped one
  2975. you can never go wrong with caramel
  2976. The oreo ones are clearly a trap.
  2977. I feel like only a true sadist would mix hot sauce with coconut shavings, so I imagine that one's safe.
  2978. Failing that the caramel one might be safe too simply because at the end of the day Ponk is a skilled pâtissier. And I don't think she'd allow herself to mix caramel with something like that.
  2979.  
  2980. >Guess we're going with the coconut cupcake, then.
  2981. >My hands slightly trembling, I unwrap the cupcake as the others look to me in part horror and expectation.
  2982. >I close my eyes before biting into it, sealing my fate...
  2983. >...
  2984. "Wow, this is really light and fluffy! It practically melts in my mouth with every bite."
  2985. >Looks like we're safe tonight, boys, as I enjoy the rest of my correct pick.
  2986. >Indigo, bolstered by my first pick, reaches down and takes the chocolate icing cupcake with the little candy banana on it.
  2987. >"If Sunset can bite into one without hesitating, then I can too!"
  2988. >With that, she digs into the cupcake, mulling over the taste before turning over to Pinkie.
  2989. >"Banana bread with chocolate icing, huh? Definitely the first time I've tried that combination."
  2990.  
  2991. >Pinkie glows with praise as Rainbow follows suit, picking the white cupcake with the small purple flower in the center.
  2992. >She takes a big bite, chewing for a moment before pumping her fist in victory.
  2993. >It seems Rainbow has chosen wisely, as she scarfs up the final bits of the confectionery and passes the platter to Lemon Zest.
  2994. >However, it doesn't look like she has any worries about choosing which cupcake, as she takes the chocolate cupcake with white icing and chocolate sprinkles.
  2995. >And judging by the way she mows it down with pleasure, it doesn't look like Lemon was wrong about her decision.
  2996. >Applejack's poker face, however, is remarkably poor, reaching towards the chocolate icing cupcake with the other flower topping.
  2997. >With a shaky bite, the cowpoke waits for the end, only to pleasantly devour the rest of the baked good.
  2998.  
  2999. >Silently, Sugarcoat takes the caramel-laced cupcake, taking small bites out of it while looking at the remaining players.
  3000. >If she got the deathcake, she certainly isn't showing it.
  3001. >And with half the safe bets gone, the others begin sweating bullets, aside from Pinkie's dumb grin.
  3002.  
  3003. >Rarity, doing her best to keep form, picks up one of the Oreo cupcakes and takes a bite out of it.
  3004. >Her fake smile swiftly turning genuine as she enjoys the taste of her correct choice.
  3005. >Sunny's prosthetic twitches over the remaining four cupcakes, though whether that was from fear or low battery life, I couldn't say.
  3006. >Eventually she decides on the plain-looking chocolate cupcake, muttering a prayer before taking a bite.
  3007. >After a few moments of chewing, Sunny's eyes lighten up, her safety guaranteed within the chocolate-ly goodness.
  3008. >With the final three cupcakes in sight, Fluttershy is forced to finally choose, picking the other Oreo cupcake and biting down with a squeak.
  3009. >Though her fears appear to be unfounded, as she opens her eyes without the pained look of burning alive, sighing in relief.
  3010. >Sour Sweet appears to be the opposite of relieved, however, now stuck with a 50% chance of killing her taste buds.
  3011. >"U-uh... Hey Pinkie, we should totally like eat our cupcakes at the same time. I bet that would be pretty exciting, right?"
  3012. >Her twitching smile seems to be missed by Pinkie, who nods along with the idea.
  3013. >"Yeah, that does sound like it'd be fun! Okie dokie lokie, let's do this standoff!"
  3014.  
  3015. >Sour Sweet grabs the peach icing cupcake, while Pinkie picks up the final coffee bean cupcake.
  3016. >The tension in the room become thick enough to cut with a knife, as everyone watches the final showdown!
  3017. >After psyching themselves, the two girls bite into their cupcakes, and we wait to see what happens!
  3018. >... Only for nothing to actually happen.
  3019. >Pinkie frowns as we all sit there, unfulfilled from the tension.
  3020. >"That's odd, I could have Pinkie Swear'd that I took a cupcake from the spicy platter. What a party pooper, huh, Sour?"
  3021. >Silence replies, as we all look at the shivering, sweating Sour Sweet, just barely keeping her eyes open.
  3022. >"Oh, so that was the one! You've got good spice tolerance."
  3023. >With all her strength, the poor girl grips Pinkie's shirt like death.
  3024.  
  3025. >"You're... a cold-blooded monster... woman..."
  3026. >And with that, Sour Sweet collapses to the floor, out of commission as she has chosen poorly.
  3027. >The rest of us, I'd like to think, grew closer in that desperation, as we worked together to treat our fallen comrade and continue our nightly fun.
  3028.  
  3029. >Pinkie's Room, Thursday, October 30th, Night
  3030.  
  3031. >After an intense game of Twister, we all become exhausted over today's events and get ready for bed.
  3032. >"Good night, everyone. Let's get some good rest so we're ready for the finale tomorrow!"
  3033. >And with that, Pinkie turns off the light and goes out like a lamp.
  3034. >Today has been quite the day, but I recall that episode with Twilight, when I wasn't able to hear you guys.
  3035. >If my connection to the Myriad Hearts is becoming weaker, that sounds like a problem we need to bring to Theo.
  3036. >What do you guys think, should we visit the Velvet Room tonight?
  3037.  
  3038. Absolutely you should, Theo seems like the most looped-in person, and even we don't know why your connection shorted out, so he's our best bet.
  3039.  
  3040. >You're right, if anyone's going to know about this, it'll be Theo.
  3041. >I close my tired eyes and think about the Velvet Room as sleep takes me.
  3042.  
  3043. >dGhlIHBhcmxvdXI=, ???
  3044.  
  3045. >...
  3046. >This doesn't feel right: I should have made it to the Velvet Room, but this looks nothing like it.
  3047. >As far as I can see, the blue library I'm used to has been replaced by an odd parlour room or sorts.
  3048. >The floor is littered with countless masks of different colors and shapes.
  3049. >In fact, I'd argue that some of them look like the ones Shadows wear.
  3050. >I'm sitting on a rather comfortable armchair, the desk and Theodore nowhere to be seen.
  3051. >In front of me is an extravagant chair, ornately designed and luxurious looking from here.
  3052. >You could probably get away with calling it a throne.
  3053. >Before I can get up and move around, someone enters the room and sits down across from me, in the 'throne'.
  3054. >Even though I see the... person sitting in front of me, something about their form seems to keep me from seeing who they are.
  3055.  
  3056. >"Z29vZCBldmVuaW5nLCBzdW5zZXQgc2hpbW1lci4gd2VsY29tZSB0byBteSBodW1ibGUgcGFybG91ci4="
  3057. >A grating noise of sight and sound spills forth from the being's form, assailing my mind and ears.
  3058. >I look around for you guys, but find we are completely alone in this room, the masks our only company.
  3059. >"Zm9yZ2l2ZSBtZSwgSSBzaW1wbHkgd2FudGVkIHRvIG1lZXQgeW91IHdpdGhvdXQgeW91ciBwdXBwZXRlZXJzIGJyZWF0aGluZyBkb3duIG91ciBuZWNrcy4gYWZ0ZXIgYWxsLCB0aGV5IHRyaWVkIHRvIGRvIHNvbWV0aGluZyB0aGF0IHNob3VsZG4ndCBoYXZlIGhhcHBlbmVkLg=="
  3060. >The being seemed to have noticed who I was looking for, as it picks up one of the masks scattered on the ground and inspects it.
  3061. >"aXQncyBpbXByZXNzaXZlLCBpcyBpdCBub3Q/IGV2ZW4gbm93LCAgaHVtYW5pdHkgYXR0ZW1wdHMgdG8gZmlnaHQgYSBkZXN0aW55IG1pbGxlbm5pYSBpbiB0aGUgbWFraW5nLg=="
  3062.  
  3063. >"SSBzZWNyZXRseSBhZG1pcmUgdGhhdCBhYm91dCB5b3UsIGFuZCBhcyBzdWNoIGRvIG5vdCBwbGFuIHRvIHB1bmlzaCB5b3U6IEkgYW0gbm90aGluZyBpZiBub3QgbWVyY2lmdWwu"
  3064. >Even though I can't see it, I feel the being smile at me.
  3065. >"c28gY29udGludWUgeW91ciBob3BlbGVzcyBmaWdodCBhZ2FpbnN0IGRlc3RpbnksIG15IGNoaWxkLiBpbiB0aW1lLCB5b3UgdG9vIHdpbGwgc2VlIHlvdXIgZm9sbHksIGFuZCBJIHNoYWxsIGJlIHRoZXJlIHRvIGNvbWZvcnQgeW91Lg=="
  3066. >The being stands up and brushes my hair with a foggy hand, before turning my face up to its.
  3067. >"dW50aWwgdGhlbiwgZG8geW91ciBiZXN0IHRvIGVudGVydGFpbiBtZS4gYWZ0ZXIgYWxsLA=="
  3068. >Suddenly, eyes begin to pop around everywhere, looking at me from every possible angle as the being's grin widens!
  3069. I CAN SEE YOU NOW.
  3070. >The mouth opens impossibly wide to reveal a giant, unblinking eye bearing down on me.
  3071. >I can see my horrified expression in its reflection, unable to escape!
  3072. >No.
  3073. >No!
  3074.  
  3075. >Pinkie's Room, Thursday, October 30th, Late Night
  3076.  
  3077. >I get up in a shock, gasping for air as I stare at the darkened, frivolous wallpaper of Pinkie's room.
  3078. "I don't get dreams anymore, but I get nightmares? Great deal."
  3079. >I sigh and get out of my sleeping bag, looking around the room.
  3080. >Everyone appears to be fast asleep, unaware of the nightmare I experienced.
  3081. >However, I notice Sour Sweet's sleeping bag empty, her hair band nearby.
  3082. >In addition, it looks like Sunny Flare is up and about, though she seems to have left her prosthetic on a charger on the nearby shelf.
  3083. >With sleep not an option for now, I silently leave the room and make my way downstairs.
  3084.  
  3085. >When I reach the bottom step, I notice a light from the kitchen and the bathroom.
  3086. >One of the girls must have needed to go in the middle of the night.
  3087. >It's probably not the best idea to talk with a girl going to the bathroom, so let's see who's in the kitchen.
  3088. >I can only guess who's in there, myself.
  3089. >Who do you guys think is in the kitchen right now: Sour Sweet, or Sunny Flare?
  3090.  
  3091. my guess is that sweet is in the kitchen
  3092. Unless all that spicy stuff gave her a serious case of the runs
  3093. I've got the same hunch, she's probably looking for something that isn't coated in Carolina Reaper to eat.
  3094.  
  3095. >Only one way to find out, as I sneak into the kitchen.
  3096. >Looks like you guys were right: Sour Sweet is messing around with one of Pinkie's fridges, grumbling as she takes out cans of whipped cream.
  3097. >"First the hot sauce cupcakes, then a fridge full of whipped cream. This Pinkie girl's bloody crazy..."
  3098. >I consider whether or not to bother her fridge-diving, but after the sixteenth can, I decided to walk over.
  3099. "You're digging through the wrong fridge, Sour. The one you're looking for is here."
  3100. >I kneel down and open the miniature fridge to the side of the big one, revealing a number of refrigerated drinks.
  3101. >Grabbing two, I toss one to the flabbergasted Sour while I take a seat near her.
  3102. >"How does that even work?"
  3103. "You gotta think like Pinkie, man. Anyhow, I'm surprised you're able to move around to grab drinks."
  3104.  
  3105. >I open my drink and take a gulp as she shrugs, taking a seat as well.
  3106. >"I guess what Pinkie said was true: that I have a good spice tolerance or some shit. Don't think I'm gonna trust another cupcake from her ever again, but I'm not dying horribly."
  3107. >The two of us sit in relative silence, memories from earlier today resurfacing.
  3108. >It was crazy, with that whole giant plant monster and incident with Twilight, but there were also the things we talked about beforehand.
  3109. >About Sour's uncle, Midnight Hero, and the sensitive topic about her parents.
  3110. >What has to happen to make you never want to talk about your parents, to the point of shutting down all conversation?
  3111.  
  3112. >I recall my relationship with Princess Celestia, which was all but destroyed until Anonymous came around.
  3113. >Perhaps it's best for folks to keep their baggage to themselves, until they're more ready to express it.
  3114. >"... Hey, Sunset."
  3115. >Sour Sweet's voice snaps me out of my daze, nearly causing my drink to spill as I turn to her.
  3116. "Oh! Yeah, what's up, Sour?"
  3117. >"Remember earlier today, when you asked about my parents?"
  3118.  
  3119. "Oh, yeah... Sorry about bringing them up then. I didn't realize it was a sore point for you."
  3120. >Sour sighs and shakes her head, taking a long drink from the can.
  3121. >"Nah, I should be apologizing to you. I was being a dick to you, even though there was no way you could've known."
  3122. >I set my drink down and wait patiently, as Sour Sweet psyches herself to explain.
  3123. >"I was born in San Hidalgo, with my folks Cold Feet and Cherry Glaze, and they were complete garbage. Spent money the moment they got it, didn't bother with employment with the welfare checks. Also swore like sailors too, which is probably where I got my fucking vernacular from."
  3124. >San Hidalgo; from what I recall, that's practically in the next state over.
  3125. >Not the worst place to grow up, but I've heard most of those neighborhoods are in poor condition.
  3126. >"We basically lived in a hole in the wall, the rent bills almost stacking as high as I was back then. That's when Uncle Hero realized what was going on, and dragged me out of that shithole over child neglect charges. He decided to adopt me and take me to live in Crystal City."
  3127.  
  3128. "And your parents? Have you heard anything from them since then?"
  3129. >She shakes her head, taking another swig from her drink before continuing.
  3130. >"I haven't, and I wouldn't give a shit if they did. They're probably fighting over some stupid shit while they get evicted. When I saw how my uncle shined above them, I swore to never go down the path my parents did."
  3131. >However, when Sour turns her can for another drink, naught but a drop falls out of it.
  3132. >"Though I guess the apple didn't fall too far from the fucking tree. I'm coarse, swear all the time, and have a stupidly short temper. I'm a slum girl in a school of elite class students, and I've been fooling myself that acting like them gets rid of the mud between my fingers."
  3133. >She tosses the can into the garbage can nearby, clanging around the edges before falling in.
  3134.  
  3135. >"How can I get past my parents, and pursue my dreams, when that past follows me around like a damned chain?"
  3136. >Sour Sweet sighs and rests her head against the table, staring at the pack of whipped cream cans she dug out.
  3137. >It's obvious that Sour wants to break free from the cycle of failure and refuse her parents were in.
  3138. >But it looks like she feels that, no matter what she does, she can't change the side of herself that was born in that environment.
  3139. >The coarse side of swearing, violence, and short temper that is frowned down upon by polite society.
  3140. >Is that really a chain, however?
  3141. >Regardless if it is or not, a friend is currently in distress, and I think I should say something about it.
  3142. >I've got some choice words myself, but if you got anything to tell her, I'm all ears.
  3143.  
  3144. It's a story too long to tell in its entirety, but let's just say we know someone who uses the word "fuck" as a comma, is forever itching for an excuse to fight, and relishes the chance to teach anyone who crosses her a lesson. And people fucking love her, she's kind of a huge deal. If she's able to achieve what she's after in life, I think Sour has a pretty good chance of making it too.
  3145. Just, yknow, don't deny that side of yourself. It was... an ordeal, when she did.
  3146.  
  3147. >I think back to Celestia's Shadow, and all the emotions Anon had during our battle with her.
  3148. "You know, I met someone several years back that reminds me of you. She used 'fuck' as a comma, always was waiting for an excuse to duke things out, and was sometimes extremely vindictive with her grudges. She probably thought there wasn't a place for her, outside of her fate to fade away."
  3149. >Sour silently watches with interest, resting her chin on her arms.
  3150. "But someone else I knew, a man I wish I could have known longer, showed her that she didn't need to change who she was to be accepted. And people liked her for what she was, rather than what she could have pretended to be."
  3151. >I pull out a drink from the miniature fridge and hand it to Sour, who cracks it open and takes a swig.
  3152. "It's no good, shoving a part of yourself into a corner and forgetting about it. That only leads to self-loathing and hurting yourself in the end."
  3153. >"Hurting myself, huh? I can't say you're wrong."
  3154.  
  3155. Then again, once you make it big it doesn't matter how you talk but what you do.
  3156.  
  3157. "Once people see your actions are genuine, people will easily tolerate how you talk. Heck, maybe some folks will adore it."
  3158. >She gives me an incredulous look at the comment, clearly never knowing about those dorks back home.
  3159.  
  3160. You don't have to change who you are at your core in order to break a supposed cycle like that. You are not purely your past made manifest and you can surpass your roots while not forgetting who you are. It's not until you get too far in your own head about it that it ends up being a self fulfilling prophecy.
  3161. It's almost as if her past wasn't ... what defines her at this moment.
  3162. Perhaps you can make it sound better Sunset.
  3163. Feel free to add your take on this whenever you want Sunset.
  3164.  
  3165. "I guess what I'm trying to say is that your past isn't what defines you at this moment."
  3166. >Sour Sweet's expression shifts to confusion, as she lifts her head off her arms and sits back on her chair.
  3167. "Sour, why do you want to be a police officer?"
  3168. >The question seems to stun Sour Sweet, as she blinks in surprise.
  3169. "I'm not an expert in the field of law enforcement, but I've heard it's a lot of work. Every action you do is scrutinized by the larger public, and you have to make decisions that might end someone's life."
  3170.  
  3171. >Sour mulls over my point, her eyes betraying her emotions as she speaks up.
  3172. >"... Yeah, I've heard stories about Uncle Hero: ones where him, or the officers under his watch, have ended up hurting people bad. I know a lot of those are exaggerated, but I see how it tears him apart sometimes."
  3173. "So why do you want to be a officer, then? What's your real reason, beyond your parents and uncle?"
  3174. >She looks out the nearby window, the waxing gibbous moon shining its light into the kitchen.
  3175. >"When I was alone in that house, accepting of the life that I was doomed to have, Uncle Hero showed me there was a better way. That anyone could help change lives, if they do what they know is right."
  3176. >She stretches her hand to the window, several scars shining ethereally in the moonlight.
  3177.  
  3178. >"I want to be that hand that helps the downtrodden get back up: that shows people there's another way than some stupid shit set out before them. And to kick the fuckers who give up and make everyone's lives worse in the face."
  3179. >There's a fire in Sour Sweet's eyes as she says this, the true motivation of her desires laid bare.
  3180. "See, that's the core of what defines you: not your past, not your parents' cycle of poverty and failure, not your uncle's standing above them. What defines you is what you believe in, and that alone can surpass any roots that hold you down, without forgetting them."
  3181. >The pieces begin to click in Sour's mind as she finally understands what I'm getting at.
  3182. "You're only chained by your past when you shackle it onto your neck, Sour Sweet. And believe me, you can't let your past define your actions now."
  3183. >"First hand experience, I suppose?"
  3184. >I awkwardly cough as I recall my mistakes during the Fall Formal, and Sour lets out a chuckle.
  3185. >"You're right, I've been so focused on the past that I forgot the reasons for my desires. Damn, to think I've been worrying about this for years when I could've gone to you for a shrink job."
  3186.  
  3187. "Dunno if I should take that as a compliment or not."
  3188. >The two of us laugh, tears falling out of Sour Sweet's eyes as she gets up and throws her second can away properly.
  3189. >"But seriously, Sunset, thanks. You've given me a lot to think about tonight."
  3190. >Nodding with a smile, I watch her begin the effort of replacing all the cans of whipped cream from before.
  3191. >"You know, there's something about you that makes talking about all this shit... I dunno, less awkward? I feel like I could talk to you about anything."
  3192. >I clean up my can and help Sour return all the misplaced sweets to their rightful place.
  3193. "I guess all I can say is that I've been there, in some capacity. I've had times where the fear of my past repeating has prevented me from doing what I knew was right."
  3194.  
  3195. >Finishing up our work, Sour Sweet shuts the door and turns around with a fist out.
  3196. >"Well, as a fellow past fear-er, I can definitely say I'm glad you're here to help straighten my shit."
  3197. >We share a fistbump, as I feel that our bond has become far stronger than before, and I understand her like a friend should.
  3198. >Looking at the late time, the two of us make our way back upstairs, the bathroom now completely unoccupied.
  3199. >Sour Sweet wishes a silent good night as she goes back in her sleeping bag and falls asleep.
  3200. >I follow suit, my eyes closing as I imagine the Velvet Room once more.
  3201.  
  3202. >Pinkie's Room, Friday, October 31st, Morning
  3203.  
  3204. >I wake to the faint sunlight through Pinkie's window, rousing me upright and towards the bathroom.
  3205. >Looks like the Pies are rather old-fashioned, as there's only a bathtub available for use.
  3206. >As I soak and clean myself, I think back to last night's nightmare.
  3207. >It was weird: normally thinking about the Velvet Room sends us there, but instead I had a horrible nightmare.
  3208. >And when I tried to sleep again, I only ended up having a dreamless slumber.
  3209. "It's a shame, we really could have asked Theo about yesterday's events."
  3210.  
  3211. >After ruminating a while longer, I step out of the bath and make my way to the kitchen.
  3212. >I open a few cabinets and find an assortment of cooking supplies.
  3213. >Not surprising, considering who we're talking about.
  3214. >With relative ease, I begin to cook up some breakfast as the other girls awaken from their slumber and fight over cleaning rights.
  3215. >Rainbow seems to have been the winner of that conflict, if the other girls' expressions have anything to say about it.
  3216. >But even their grumbling attitudes can't compete against their grumbling stomachs.
  3217. >Eventually, we clean ourselves up and enjoy a nice breakfast before going our separate ways and preparing for the finale of the Friendship Games.
  3218.  
  3219. >Canterlot High School, Friday, October 31st, Afternoon
  3220.  
  3221. >The final round of the Friendship Games is upon us, and the fatigue of the entire event is beginning to become apparent in the eyes of the students.
  3222. >Regardless, the air is electrified with excitement, as the final twelve wait for the announcement from the judges.
  3223. >I look over and see Twilight, seemingly unfazed by my explosion from yesterday.
  3224. >The device also seems to be nowhere on her body either, so maybe she finally realized the dangers of it?
  3225. >Before I can talk to her, Vice-Principal Luna's voice echoes through the air as she steps to the podium with two small flags.
  3226. >"Since the score's tied, the final event will determine the winner of the Friendship Games. Somewhere on campus, six pennants from each school has been hidden. Your goal is to find all six pennants and bring them back."
  3227. >Doesn't sound so difficult, sort of like Capture the Flag or something,
  3228.  
  3229. >"However, all contestants will be split into pairs of Canterlot and Crystal Prep students. The two of you will have to work together to find these flags, so choose your partner carefully."
  3230. >Well, this is certainly out of left field; it almost doesn't sound like a competition at all, but I'm sure there's a point to it.
  3231. >As for who to choose...
  3232.  
  3233. >Sour Sweet looks my direction with a grin, clearly expecting me to pick her for a partner.
  3234. >Sunny Flare doesn't seem to care either way, waiting for someone to make their choice before moving in.
  3235. >Indigo appears to be lost in thought, scratching her chin while looking at all of us.
  3236. >Sugarcoat is even less motivated than Sunny was, content with looking around rather than picking.
  3237. >If I'm seeing this right, it looks like Lemon Zest is playing 'eeny, meeny, miny, moe' to decide who to pick.
  3238. >If I want to apologize to Twilight, now might be a good opportunity to do so by working together in this portion.
  3239. >Who should we partner with for this final event?
  3240.  
  3241. This is really mean, because now I 100% want to do this flag search thing with Sour. But apologizing and hopefully explaining to Twilight what's going on (in some capacity, anyhow) is more important; think you can put in a quick apology to SS?
  3242.  
  3243. >You're right, if anything Twilight deserves an explanation for my outburst yesterday.
  3244. >I shake my head at Sour Sweet, motioning to Twilight with an apologetic look.
  3245. >It seems she catches onto my meaning, sighing before nodding back with an understanding look.
  3246. "Hey, Twilight, do you want to work together on this one? I also have something to talk to you about while we work."
  3247. >She mulls it over before nodding with a small smile, relieving my fears just a bit.
  3248. >"Sure, Sunset, I'd be glad to. I'm not the best athlete though, if yesterday was any indication."
  3249. >Sour, without her first pick, goes to Applejack and takes her for a partner.
  3250. >It's no surprise when Indigo and Rainbow team up, their competitive sides only serving to fuel their motivations.
  3251. >Sunny seems to find interest in Fluttershy, the two part-time Analysis teaming up.
  3252. >Pinkie practically hops over to Sugarcoat and takes her by the hand, the most and least excited duo ready for action.
  3253. >Finally, Lemon finishes her game of choosing and decides on Rarity, the latter sharing a less than enthused smile with her.
  3254.  
  3255. >"If all teams are ready, we will begin the countdown. 3, 2, 1..."
  3256. >Cadance lets loose the airs of horn, as all six groups make their ways across campus, the cheers of the students following behind them!
  3257. >Everyone seems ready to move fast, but I decide to take some time walking around the campus with Twilight.
  3258. "So, um, I just wanted to say that I'm sorry I exploded at you yesterday. You didn't deserve that level of anger for an honest mistake."
  3259. >Twilight shakes her head with a smile, opening a side door for me.
  3260. >"It's fine, what you said was definitely true: I don't understand anything about the energy in the device."
  3261. >A rustling sound comes from her bag, before a familiar purple dog sticks his head out.
  3262. >"Hey, Twilight, now's a great time to ask this Sunset about that stuff."
  3263. >It looks like this side's Spike can talk now too, though he exudes the delightfully innocent aura of a puppy.
  3264.  
  3265. "Well, I'm not sure if I have all the answers you're looking for, but I can certainly try."
  3266. >Spike hops out of the bag as we search through the halls of the school building.
  3267. >"I guess my biggest question is what you said yesterday. Was that stuff really magic?"
  3268. >I think about the best way to explain Equestrian magic to someone as scientifically-oriented as Twilight.
  3269. "Well, you remember when you saw Fluttershy grow ears and wings on Wednesday?"
  3270. >"I do, actually, she handed me her rabbit to feel better, even though she was on the losing side of the Acadeca."
  3271. >Certainly fits what I heard, I think to myself as we inspect the science labs.
  3272. "I don't entirely know what causes it, but my friends and I sometimes do that, which I call 'Ponying Up'. All I know is that the cause is magic."
  3273. >Twilight nods to my comments, checking several of the cabinets before pausing in thought.
  3274. >"If that's the case, why did this magic get drained out of you when you weren't 'Ponied Up'?"
  3275.  
  3276. "Well..."
  3277. >I suppose it's too little too late to worry about letting someone else know about Equestria, especially since I spilled it out.
  3278. "I'm not technically from this world. The statue in the courtyard has a mirror that's connected to a land called 'Equestria'."
  3279. >"You mean that place you mentioned before? That's where the magic comes from, I'm assuming."
  3280. >I nod, scanning through auditorium before continuing on.
  3281. "I don't know if your device drained the magic out of the mirror, but the portal stopped working on Wednesday."
  3282. >Spike runs in front of me as we reach the library, a curious look in his eyes.
  3283. >"So why can I talk, then? I remember chasing this rabbit that Twilight's device summoned, then it felt like I got hit with some sort of energy. Suddenly, I knew how to talk!"
  3284. "It could be the residual Equestrian magic, especially since some animals in that world can talk. I'm afraid I don't know more about that subject, however."
  3285.  
  3286. >Twilight seems satisfied with these answers, nodding before looking around the empty halls of books.
  3287. >"I guess the only other question I have is why we're in the library, of all places? As much as I like a good read, I don't think we're going to find flags here."
  3288. >I shake my head, moving towards the back of the library where the archives gather dust.
  3289. "Don't you think it's weird, how two opposing sides are being made to work together for a tiebreaker? Call it a hunch, but I think I know what the teachers are trying to get at."
  3290. >I open numerous cabinets, pulling out a handful of old yearbooks before handing one to Twilight.
  3291. >"What am I supposed to do with this?"
  3292. "These games started when the principals of both Crystal Prep and Canterlot wanted to unify their schools. Look through these yearbooks and see if we don't find something."
  3293.  
  3294. >While Twilight's expression is marred with utter confusion, she relents, thumbing through pages while I dig back to about thirty years back.
  3295. >Eventually, I find the aged yearbook, the pages somewhat yellow from age.
  3296. >This has to be the one; I gently go through the contents of the book, stopping at Principal Celestia's younger self.
  3297. >She definitely looks younger, but her eyes still contain that soft, motherly glow.
  3298. >Thumbing through the other pages, I finally reach the section I was looking for: Important Events.
  3299. >I turn to the page describing the very first Friendship Games and find a Wondercolt pennant wedged in between the pages.
  3300. "Looks like I found one."
  3301.  
  3302. >Twilight and Spike look at the flag in surprise, as I pull it out and examine it.
  3303. >"That's certainly a hard place for someone to find it, but why this yearbook, out of all the others?"
  3304. "That's easy: this has to do with the very first Friendship Games, so putting it here's symbolic. The real question is what kind of pennant is this?"
  3305. >As I flip the flag over, I see the colors of the Shadowbolts on the opposite side.
  3306.  
  3307. "This pennant has both Wondercolt and Shadowbolt colors on it. How very odd."
  3308. >My phone goes off in my jacket pocket, and I pull it out to see a text from Applejack.
  3309. >I'm assuming you got a flag on your end too. We're all waiting for you at the field.
  3310. >I text an affirmative and motion Twilight and Spike to follow, the three of us leaving the library.
  3311. >And Applejack wasn't kidding: it looks like everyone decided to gather at the field, each of them with their own pennant.
  3312. >"About time you get here, Sunset. What the heck's with all these flags, anyways?"
  3313. >Rainbow spins the pennant in her hand around, showing the alternating sides of Canterlot and Crystal Prep's flags.
  3314. >Twilight inspects the pennant we found in the Library, then looks at Rainbow's before looking at the other girls.
  3315. >"I'd like to take a closer look at all the pennants, if you girls don't mind."
  3316.  
  3317. >Everyone nods along to the plan, handing Twilight their own pennants up until Sunny Flare hands hers over with a stare.
  3318. >When Twilight attempts to take it out of her hand, she finds Sunny's grip on it too strong.
  3319. >"Um... if you don't mind letting go, I can take a closer look at them..."
  3320. >Twilight seems unable to keep a solid glance at Sunny's gaze, looking away whenever their eyes meet.
  3321. >"Twilight, have I seen you before all of this?"
  3322. >With surprising strength, Twilight rips the flag out of her hand, turning around and laughing awkwardly.
  3323. >"Of course not, Sol, there's no way we could have met before."
  3324. >Sunny' stops in her tracks as Twilight closely examines all six pennants, the latter closely analyzing the cloth.
  3325.  
  3326. >"What did you-?"
  3327. >"Interesting, these aren't just two flags sewn together: these are two sides of the same pennant!"
  3328. >Whatever Sunny was going to say is lost as the revelation puts everyone into a frenzy.
  3329. >I throw my hat into the ring as well, considering all the pieces we know.
  3330.  
  3331. >The Friendship Games were originally designed to promote unity between the schools.
  3332. >A number of flags were placed in areas of significance to this, even in obtuse areas like the yearbooks.
  3333. >All the flags are double-sided: one side with the Canterlot Wondercolts, and the other with the Crystal Prep Shadowbolts.
  3334. >Not to mention how Luna stated there were six of these flags throughout campus, and we all found one of them.
  3335. >I think I'm starting to piece together the bigger picture here, but what do you guys-
  3336. >Before I can finish that thought, I get a sickening feeling in my gut, the other girls pausing what they're doing as well.
  3337. >Suddenly, Shadows burst out of the ground, glaring at us menacingly as I feel the belt and device form again.
  3338. >As the rest of us prepare for combat, I notice Twilight stand up and slowly move towards the encroaching mob.
  3339. "Twilight, get back, it's too dangerous to get near those things without a Persona!"
  3340.  
  3341. >However, Twilight passes through the Shadows without incident, moving past them and towards a tall figure with a familiar-looking device.
  3342. >"I must say, Twilight Sparkle, this device is truly quite amazing. I can already imagine the practical uses of this in Decoherence events."
  3343. >The figure walks forward, Principal Cinch looking at all of us with a smug smile.
  3344. "What are you doing with that device? That thing summons Shadows and Decoherence Fields!"
  3345. >With a wave of her hand, the principal parts the sea of Shadows and makes her way towards us.
  3346. >"On the contrary, child, this device controls these things. It's like a queen's pheromone or carrot on a stick, instilling obedience."
  3347. "But why would you use something like that anyways? The earth might literally break if you weaponize non-thoughts!"
  3348. >"That is only a speculation from our research: research that people are too afraid to do for fear of a hypothetical apocalypse."
  3349.  
  3350. >This is going nowhere: before we even begin to understand the shit Cinch is spewing, these Shadows need to go.
  3351. >I pull out my card and device, scanning it before slamming it into my belt!
  3352. "Persona, Henshin!"
  3353. >...
  3354. >"CARD REJECTED"
  3355. >The device blares the message, then dispenses the card, which floats back into my hands.
  3356. "That's not how this is supposed to work..."
  3357. >I flip the card to its face, revealing the entirety of it cracked and shattered like a broken mirror.
  3358. >All the blue has vanished, leaving a cold, grey card that sits flatly in my hand.
  3359. >"How interesting, your Persona seems to be malfunctioning. But that's not quite as interesting as you, is it, Sunset Shimmer?"
  3360. >I look up to catch Cinch tossing a folder of documents to my feet.
  3361.  
  3362. >Opening it up, I find something that shouldn't be there: something impossible.
  3363. "It's... me. But I look so young in these pictures."
  3364. >The other girls gather as we examine the documents and Cinch continues.
  3365. >"I very much doubt that is you: that girl died in a violent car crash eighteen years ago."
  3366. >So the me of this world is dead, or rather, has been dead for almost two decades now.
  3367. >"I do not know if you're merely a look-alike or an honest-to-god revenant, but I had to pull quite the strings to get this information."
  3368. >Vice-Principal Luna must have been doing her best to keep me safe from suspicion.
  3369. >"Regardless, with the flags you so generously gave to Miss Sparkle, we can finally end this farce and ensure our legacy."
  3370.  
  3371. >Rainbow, Applejack, Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy move into battle position beside me, glaring at Cinch.
  3372. >"Like heck we're gonna just let you cheat like this! We got those flags fair and square!"
  3373. >The Principal shrugs, a sly look in her eye.
  3374. >"The funny thing about reputation is that it only matters when people are looking. I'll just simply keep you here with these Shadows while we finish this."
  3375. >With a motion of her hand, the Shadows begin to bear down upon us, readying for combat!
  3376.  
  3377. >"Worry not, this is hardly fatal, considering your previous feats of strength. This is merely to keep you occupied while Crystal Prep claims its victory."
  3378. >With that, Cinch motions to the Crystal Prep students to come to her, as one of the Imp Shadows lunges at me!
  3379. >I use my arms to shield myself, but the blow never comes.
  3380. >Opening my eyes, I see Sour Sweet crushing the Shadow with a hard stomp, splattering it violently across the grass.
  3381. >"Bullshit! You expect us to be alright with blatantly cheating like this?"
  3382. >Sunny, Sugarcoat, Indigo and Lemon ready their weapons with a nod, causing Cinch to scowl.
  3383. >"How childish, to lash out at what's good for you. No matter, you'l just have to be preoccupied here as well, with your 'friends'."
  3384. >With that, Principal Cinch leaves towards the courtyard, Twilight silently following behind her.
  3385.  
  3386. >"CARD REJECTED"
  3387. "Damn it, it's no use: I can't get my Persona working. Sorry..."
  3388. >Fluttershy shakes her head, a small smile forming on her lips.
  3389. >"Oh, don't worry about it, Sunset: you've done so much for us already."
  3390. >The other girls nod, though Sour Sweet frowns at the small militia of Shadows.
  3391. >"Still, that bastard Cinch gave us quite the distraction; I doubt we can burn through it all fast enough with just ten fighters."
  3392. >"Make it eleven!"
  3393. >We turn to see Spike running through the legs of the other Shadows before stopping to catch his breath.
  3394. >"Oh man, it's the talking dog again..."
  3395. "Why are you here, Spike? I thought you were with Twilight."
  3396.  
  3397. >"I don't know what's happened to her, but that isn't the Twilight I know. Cinch must be doing something to force her to comply, so I came to you guys for help!"
  3398. >A familiar aura of power emanates from Spike, as he turns to face the Shadows.
  3399. "You have a Persona too, Spike? You didn't mention that at all."
  3400. >"Is that what it's called? Well, whatever it is, I'm gonna do my best to help Twilight!"
  3401.  
  3402. >Sunny motions to me, a serious look on her face.
  3403. >"There's too many enemies to risk a full out assault. We're going to have to reserve most of us in an Analysis Persona while keeping the fighting to four people at a time."
  3404. >That makes sense, if Shadows use group attacks, they'll be far more manageable with fewer fighters.
  3405. >Judging from the broken card in my hand, it looks like we're out of commission for this fight, guys.
  3406. >Who do you guys think we should choose for our four fighters and main Analysis?
  3407.  
  3408. Oh diggity-dang, now things are heating up!
  3409. Let's see... I'm really curious about Doppelgänger, so let's field Sour.
  3410. I have a suspicion the angels might be weak to Curse, so Spike's up too.
  3411. Rarity's got two elements and a cure on her, so she'll for sure have something to do each turn, she's number 3.
  3412. Ponk should round out the team nicely for elemental coverage.
  3413. As for analysis, I'm voting Sunny, she's got that single-unit killer in case we wind up against something that hits every weakness somehow.
  3414.  
  3415. >Sour Sweet, Pinkie Pie, Rarity and Spike take point, the rest of us standing near Sunny as she punches her card into her watch.
  3416. >A giant woman, dressed in stars with hair of moonlight, encloses her hands around us, shielding us from the enemy Shadows while giving us a view of the fight.
  3417. >"Let's mow through these fuckers. Strike them, my Doppelgänger!"
  3418. >From behind Sour Sweet, her shadow begins to twitch and spasm, rising from the earth and changing into a near duplicate of Sour herself!
  3419. >With a crooked grin, the Doppelgänger begins to split into five, the copies lunging at the Shadows with a variety of shadowy weapons.
  3420. >While the Imps are thoroughly beaten by the barrage, the Angelic Gigas simply flex through it all, confident smirks across their faces.
  3421. >"Tch! It looks like these big boys don't mind a physical beating."
  3422.  
  3423. >"How 'bout a magical one? Tactical party nuke, incoming!"
  3424. >Pinkie pulls out a party cannon and shoots her card, the twin-faced god of fire howling in fury as a giant ball of nuclear flame forms above him.
  3425. >As it reaches optimal size, Agni flings the atomic cherry bomb into the enemies, obliterating two of the Imps while causing the burly Shadows to stumble!
  3426. >One of the tiny buggers manages to scuttle out of the way, avoid the blast and taunting Pinkie with its metal stick.
  3427. >"How rude; didn't your mother ever teach you its rude to taunt? We'll just have to teach it ourselves, Cait Sith!"
  3428. >With a triad of desperado slices, Rarity calls forth a small, white, bipedal cat draped in a royal purple hat and scarf.
  3429. >The opal around Cait Sith's collar glows as he swings his tiny sword forward, releasing a wave of sights and sounds upon the remaining Shadows.
  3430. >With a high-pitched screech, the final Imp explodes violently, while one of the Gigas's holds its head in pain!
  3431. >The other Shadow manages to juke past the anomalous effects, spinning elegantly into a flashy pose.
  3432.  
  3433. >"Get out of the way, we need to save Twilight! Let's burn a path through, Amarok!"
  3434. >As Spike howls to the sky a gargantuan hound leaps through the air, dark substances dripping from its purple jaws before evaporating on the ground.
  3435. >Amarok's tribal tattoos glow brightly as the dark substance forms into a giant blade, which the fell hound wields in its mouth to skewer through one of the Gigas's torsos!
  3436. >The Shadow shudders from the dark magicks within, staggering back from the assault!
  3437. >Suddenly, three more Shadows emerge from the pack: two statues of equine nature with star-shaped masks on their faces, and a shambling young humanoid with a long pair of shears sharing the same mask.
  3438. >Wait a second, I recognize these Shadows: these were ones from Rarity's Fantasia!
  3439.  
  3440. >With a hearty wind-up, one of the Gigas swings a haymaker at Pinkie, striking her dead in the face and sending her reeling back!
  3441. >Meanwhile, the other burly Shadow flexes so hard that a heavenly light descends on the two injured Gigas, patching up some of their wounds.
  3442. >One of the statues lets out a proud whinny as a barrier of stone forms around the Shadows.
  3443. >The other flat out charges Sour Sweet, slamming into her hard and pushing her back!
  3444. >"... Gotcha."
  3445. >Doppelgänger looks up from the blow with a shit-eating grin, its shadowy form hardening to pure rock.
  3446. >"Whenever Doppelgänger gets hit by something, it copies the strengths and weaknesses of the attacker. Looks like this thing's weak to Wind!"
  3447. >After a moment of doing nothing, the scissor man cuts the air with his scissors menacingly, an aura of unease emanating from him.
  3448. >"Oh no, it's the Scissor Man! He's going to cut me up with his shears!"
  3449. >"Zoinks! Not the Scissorman!"
  3450. >Rarity and Spike are stricken with pure terror as the midget with shears spooks them hard!
  3451.  
  3452. >(... That has to be the stupidest thing to be scared of. Still, if they're frightened, they might not be able to do actions properly. Looks like we've got seven Ciders, Candies, and Incenses each, so don't be afraid to use them if you need to. Here's the scan on the angels:)
  3453.  
  3454. Angelic Gigas (Strength)-
  3455.  
  3456. Resist: Physical
  3457. 1.5x Damage: Magic
  3458.  
  3459. Status:
  3460.  
  3461. Sour Sweet: 45% HP, 100% SP
  3462. Pinkie Pie: 69% HP, 80% SP
  3463. Rarity (Fear): 100% HP, 80% SP
  3464. Spike the Dog (Fear): 100% HP, 80% SP
  3465.  
  3466. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3467.  
  3468. In reserve:
  3469.  
  3470. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3471. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3472. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3473. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3474. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3475. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3476.  
  3477. >(And here's Doppelgänger's current resistances:)
  3478.  
  3479. Doppelgänger*-
  3480.  
  3481. Repel: Curse
  3482. Null: Fire
  3483. Resist: Physical
  3484. Weak: Wind
  3485.  
  3486. >(Rarity, fall back! Sugarcoat will take your place.)
  3487. >The rattled girl is all too happy to retreat, fleeing the maniacal gardener and cowering within the protective arms of Phoebe.
  3488. >Sugarcoat takes her place in silence, readying her taser with a look of disdain.
  3489. >(That scissor Shadow is more trouble than its worth. Begone!)
  3490. >A heavenly light forms above the Shadow, before a lance of starlight crashes downward, obliterating it before it can make a sound!
  3491. >"Man, those things beat me up bad. I'm gonna take a drink, if you don't mind."
  3492. >Sour Sweet grabs one of the Apple Ciders, chugging it down as its restorative effects patch her wounds.
  3493. >"Alright, Agni, let's turn up the heat!"
  3494. >Agni pulls a bottle of hot sauce from thin air, drinking directly from the source as his flaming hair roars to life.
  3495. >The jovial mask opens its mouth with a bout of laughter as a pillar of flame erupts from it, catching one of the Gigas in the inferno!
  3496. >After a moment of flailing helplessly, the angelic Shadow burns to crisp in a spicy hell.
  3497.  
  3498. >"Blow them away, Hel."
  3499. >Sugarcoat flings her card into the earth, the goddess of the dead unleashing a frigid storm that only manages to send one of the Statues crashing to the ground.
  3500. >With another round of gales, the remaining Gigas is ripped apart by the violent winds as the downed Statue crumbles to dust!
  3501. >Unfortunately, it appears that the remaining Statue is all too alive and well, having avoided both wind assaults.
  3502. >"P-p-persona"!
  3503. >Spike shakes away the fear long enough to howl, Amarok beginning to charge energy into his maw
  3504. >The hypercharged electric ball launches out like a cannonball, slamming into the Shadow and breaking off a chunk of its body!
  3505.  
  3506. >Almost as soon as the fallen Shadows vanish, new ones move to take their place.
  3507. >A smaller version of the tank Rainbow, Pinkie and I fought on Monday trudges onto the field, two Genies flanking it.
  3508. >In addition, a gaunt, skeletal Shadow with white hair emerges from the ground, an aged lantern in one hand, and a rusty spade in the other.
  3509. >The Statue forcibly opens its mouth, the stone ripping apart, as a heart-piercing shriek resounds through the field, dropping Spike immediately!
  3510. >(Damn it, that thing must have had an ability that kills scared enemies!)
  3511. >The Turret fires a celebratory shot into the air, riling up the remaining Shadows and strengthening their resolve.
  3512. >One of the Genies sprinkles some sand onto the Statue's body, restoring parts of the stone damaged from Spike's attack.
  3513. >The other djinn takes a great huff of air and blows out a vicious sandstorm that bites and sears Pinkie, dealing moderate damage.
  3514. >With a wave of its skeletal hand, the gaunt Shadow begins to exude a sickly green mist around itself, surrounding both friend and foe and causing everyone to shiver.
  3515. >(Be careful, guys, it looks like that tank just raised the group's attack power. Also, it looks like your resistances to ailments are weaker now, but so are the opponents'. Doppelgänger's resistances are still the same as before.)
  3516.  
  3517. Status:
  3518.  
  3519. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3520. Pinkie Pie: 50% HP, 50% SP
  3521. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 85% SP
  3522. Spike the Dog (KO): 0% HP, 60% SP
  3523.  
  3524. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3525.  
  3526. In reserve:
  3527.  
  3528. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3529. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3530. Rarity (Fear): 100% HP, 100% SP
  3531. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3532. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3533. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3534.  
  3535. >"Those Genies are gonna be a pain with their Wind magic. I'm gonna guard this turn."
  3536. >Sour Sweet takes a defensive stance as Sugarcoat's eyes light with inspiration.
  3537. >"I feel... empowered!"
  3538. >Before Pinkie can act, Sugarcoat leans to Spike's unconscious body and snaps the Incense in two, the revitalizing scent springing him back on his feet!
  3539. >"Thanks, Sugarcoat, that was a close one! I'll swap out with Applejack for this one."
  3540. >Pinkie patiently twiddles her thumbs as Spike runs back to Phoebe, where he's immediately grabbed and petted by the rattled Rarity.
  3541. >Applejack readies her bow before jumping out, finally allowing the bored Pinkie to act!
  3542. >"It's about time: that took forever! Persona!"
  3543. >With a delightful chuckle, Agni produces a flurry of flaming pies that circle around him before flying at the enemies.
  3544. >The Statue is completely unaffected by the fire show, but every other Shadow flares to life, dealing heavy damage.
  3545. >A death shriek comes from the Gravedigger in particular, as it desperately attempts to kill the flames on its cloak, flailing on the ground as a result!
  3546.  
  3547. >"Yahoo, I got one! You're next, Sugarcoat!"
  3548. >Pinkie passes the baton to Sugarcoat, who calls forth another frigid storm, catching the Statue in its tempest and tearing the eyesore apart!
  3549. >The Genies are largely unfazed by the storm, crossing their arms while the Turret stands tall.
  3550. >Unfortunately, it seems that the winds also blow out the fires on the Gravedigger, restoring some of its energy.
  3551. >"Applejack."
  3552. >Sugarcoat quietly allows Applejack to shine, as she aims her arrow at the card.
  3553. >"Alright, then, let's do this Arash Kamangir!"
  3554. >A towering figure with aged emerald armor under his duster comes forth, his red scarf and desperado hat fluttering in the wind.
  3555. >He effortlessly nocks a handful of arrows into his bow, aiming towards the sky before letting go, unleashing death unto to field!
  3556.  
  3557. >The Gravedigger and Genies stand no chance against the arrows that blot out the sun, tearing them apart violently while making one of the Genies in particular a nasty pincushion!
  3558. >While the Turret still stands on its own, it's in poor state: with circuitry and sparks flying from its newly perforated shell.
  3559. >"Why not keep going, Sour? The Turret's almost down, anyhow."
  3560. >Sour Sweet looks at Applejack with an annoyed look, then sighs as she lets her guard down.
  3561. >"I swear, if this kills us, you're an asshole."
  3562. >Begrudgingly taking the opportunity, she smacks her card as Doppelgänger leaps into the Turret and tears it apart from the inside!
  3563. >(Don't get cocky just yet, girls. There's still a handful of Shadows left to deal with!)
  3564. >As if waiting for Sunny to say so, two Wolves, an Usagi Musha, a Fuzz, and a sickly-looking tree with farmer's attire take the field!
  3565. >"Then let's see if we can't make them a bit weaker. Persona!"
  3566. >The lone star pulls out a hemlock arrow, shooting it into the crowd of Shadows before it explodes in a toxic mist!.
  3567.  
  3568. >While most of the Shadows avoid the stench, one of the wolves, and the tree Shadow, begin to shudder and cough violently!
  3569. >One of the Wolves howls to the sky, agitating the other Shadows and making their movements more fluid.
  3570. >The other sends a volley of ice spears into the team, one harmlessly absorbed by Hel while the others suffer moderate damage.
  3571. >"Oooh... Brain freeze..."
  3572. >Pinkie collapses to the ground, clutching her brain while moaning.
  3573. >Seizing the opportunity, the Shadow lunges at Applejack, biting down hard on her arm and shaking it around!
  3574. >"Agh! Get off me, you mangy mutt!"
  3575. >Applejack manages to kick the Shadow off of her, but the wound is still pretty deep.
  3576. >The Musha sheathes its blade and crouches, a powerful aura coming from him.
  3577. >After clumsily going through its pockets, the Fun Fuzz pulls out a police badge, which causes giant replicas to begin circling around the Shadows, bulking their defenses.
  3578.  
  3579. >Finally, the tree waves its arms at the Musha, a pink sphere forming momentarily around him before disappearing.
  3580. >(Pinkie's down, the Shadows are all more agile and defended, that rabbit's charging for an attack, and you all look horrible. Make sure to patch yourselves up! Here's the scan on the tree:)
  3581.  
  3582. Hell Nyogo (Strength)-
  3583.  
  3584. 100/100 HP
  3585.  
  3586. Resist: Ranged, Curse
  3587. Weak: Ice, Nuke
  3588.  
  3589. >(And here's Doppelgänger's current defenses:)
  3590.  
  3591. Resist: Ice
  3592. Weak: Fire
  3593.  
  3594. >Sour Sweet brushes the frost off her uniform as her Persona's stone surface morphs into a fleshy-wood hybrid.
  3595. >"Applejack?"
  3596. >Applejack holds her bleeding arm while catching her breath, turning to the very cross Sour.
  3597. >"...Yeah?"
  3598. >"You're an asshole."
  3599. >I turn to check on Rarity, the girl thankfully no longer deathly afraid of gardening tools or little boys.
  3600. "Are you feeling better, Rarity?"
  3601. >"I think so, darling. I'm dreadfully sorry about that whole business, but I'm ready to go back in and give them what for!"
  3602.  
  3603. Status:
  3604.  
  3605. Sour Sweet: 59% HP, 100% SP
  3606. Pinkie Pie (KO): 0% HP, 25% SP
  3607. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 85% SP
  3608. Applejack: 18% HP, 90% SP
  3609.  
  3610. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 50% SP
  3611.  
  3612. In reserve:
  3613.  
  3614. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3615. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3616. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3617. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3618. Spike the Dog: 100% HP, 60% SP
  3619. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3620.  
  3621. >(Applejack, you're too injured to stay in right now. Swap out with Lemon Zest!)
  3622. >"Right, sorry for the trouble."
  3623. >Applejack falls back into Phoebe as Lemon walks onto the field, jamming to the tune of her blaring headphones.
  3624. >"This ain't no time to take a dirt nap, Pinkie. Rise and shine!"
  3625. >Sour Sweet pulls out another Sakura Incense, snapping it in two before waving it around the moaning girl.
  3626. >Upon smelling the soothing scent of cherry blossoms, Pinkie's eyes shoot wide open as she jumps back up, fully charged.
  3627. >"Alrighty, let's wrap up this party, Agni!"
  3628. >The fire god conjures forth twin orbs of fire, which he flings into the crowd of Shadows with a cackle.
  3629. >Spinning in tandem, the two flames merge into one, blasting right into the Fat Fuzz and exploding!
  3630. >The Musha and Nyogo manage to avoid the fires, but the two Starving Wolves yip in pain momentarily before one incinerates from the heat!
  3631. >Pinkie, sensing the opportunity, hops over to Sugarcoat and gives her a thumbs-up with a playful wink.
  3632. >"Hel."
  3633. >The ice queen raises her hands to the sky before an avalanche crashes into the Shadows, crushing the helpless officer and mutt under its subzero embrace!
  3634.  
  3635. >The Musha and Nyogo fair not much better, the force of the snow causing the two Shadows to fall back as the tree wilts in the frost.
  3636. >"Lemon, go."
  3637. >"Zip gun John, his finger is itchin'~"
  3638. >Lemon Zest strums her guitar, her tunes calling forth Ame-no-Uzume, a beautiful lime-haired goddess with ornate headphones and a loose kimono.
  3639. >Dancing endlessly to the rhythm, her dance calls down an electric fury that strikes the remaining Shadows and obliterates the Nyogo!
  3640. >"Persona."
  3641. >Hel focuses her magicks on the injured Usagi Musha, freezing its body entirely and leaving it helpess!
  3642. >"El Kabong, baby!"
  3643. >Lemon Zest leaps in and swings her guitar down hard on the Shadow, shattering the rabbit-cicle and clearing a path forward!
  3644.  
  3645. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcxzv0YMfKg
  3646. >(Good job, girls, now we just need to stop Mother before she does something stupid!)
  3647. >Phoebe vanishes into the air as we hurry towards the courtyard, the outline of two Angelic Gigas hulking over Principal Celestia and Vice-Principal Luna.
  3648. >I see Cinch talk to Twilight before handing her the device, Twilight's hands shaking while holding it.
  3649. "Twilight, we're on our way now! Don't use that device!"
  3650. >If she can hear me shouting this far away, she doesn't register it, her hands closing around that purple amulet.
  3651. "What do you see, Fluttershy?"
  3652. ><The Shadows don't seem to be aggressive for now, but Twilight's gripping the top of the device. I think she's trying to open it!>
  3653. >But that device is currently the only thing that's holding the combined Equestrian magic of at least five people inside!
  3654. >If she opens it now-
  3655. "Twilight, stop!"
  3656. ><!!! Sunny, bring up Phoebe now!>
  3657.  
  3658. >Suddenly, just as I get close enough to see Twilight's conflicted expression, a wall of light and hands bars my way and encloses around the group!
  3659. "What do you think you're doing? We need to save Twilight!"
  3660. ><You can't go outside, Sunset: it's too dangerous!>
  3661. >I push against the Persona with all my might, but their shells refuse to budge.
  3662. "If we don't stop her from opening that device-!"
  3663. >(Sunset, if you go out there, without your Persona, you'll die.)
  3664. >I pause as a hand grabs my shoulder and pulls me back to the center of the bubble.
  3665. >Turning around, I see Sour Sweet motioning to the visual feed with a look of fear.
  3666. >When Twilight opens the device, the concentrated purple orb of energy inside begins to expand and rise into the air!
  3667. >She appears to be trapped in the magic's pull, her hairbands snapping under the pressure along with her glasses.
  3668. >"Help... me...!"
  3669. >And just like that, the magic engulfs Twilight entirely as everyone looks on in horror!
  3670.  
  3671. >Slowly, but surely, the magical orb begins to sink into itself, the outline of a figure coming into view.
  3672. >Is that Twilight?
  3673. >That doesn't make any sense: Twilight doesn't have wi-
  3674. >Before my thoughts can finish, the figure curls up into a ball before bursting out of her aetherial womb!
  3675. >I see Twilight, or what used to be her, with a striking violet dress, ominous wings, and a long magical horn on her forehead.
  3676. >"So... This is the power of Equestrian Magic? No, this is even better: the power of dreams is now under my control!"
  3677. >The being looks across the horrified students and staff with a frown, Luna doing her best to gather as many as she can along with Celestia.
  3678. >"And yet I find this dream wanting, BORING. I think it's high time we change that, isn't it?"
  3679. >Her smile creeps into a full-tooth grin as she brings her fingers together.
  3680. >"Tia, get behind me!"
  3681. >The Vice-Principal yanks her sister behind her, as I see Flash and Trixie look on in petrified horror.
  3682.  
  3683. ><It's coming; everyone, brace yourselves!>
  3684. >"Protect us, Nephthys!"
  3685. >And with the effort of breathing or blinking, the being formerly known as Twilight snaps her fingers.
  3686. >Immediately, a burst of invisible force explodes from her center and blasts through the entire school, shattering the windows and sending nearby people staggering back!
  3687. >Even in the doubly-protected field of two Analysis Persona, I feel a cold sense of dread wash over me as we weather the blast.
  3688. >In the feed, I see the students Celestia and Luna gathered knocked down, yet unharmed as a beautiful woman with soft, dark blue wings encircles them.
  3689. >Luna grits her teeth in pain, and a trickle of blood goes down her nose as she does her best to keep Nephthys together.
  3690. >Then my attention turns to the students outside the protection of Persona.
  3691.  
  3692. >At first, Flash pulls himself up as if he only got pushed, dusting himself off as he looks around his surroundings.
  3693. >The purple sky with countless stars shining across it seems to distract his attention, until he feel a wet feeling on his nose.
  3694. >*drip*
  3695. >Flash touches his forehead to wipe off what he probably assumed was sweat, but when he looks at his hand, a think, black substance is smeared across it.
  3696. >Then more falls down, the tar-like liquid coming from his hair melting, and he tries to fling the material off his arm.
  3697. "Oh no..."
  3698. >This only causes more harm than good, as the hand he shakes drops to the ground, twitching in front of his eyes before melting into shadow!
  3699. >All around him, the students and faculty are reacting the same, their forms slowly melting away amidst their moans and panicked cries for help!
  3700. >Eventually, Flash's legs follow his hand, his body sinking into the darkness as he claws the air with his remaining hand.
  3701. >A final cry leaves Flash's lips before his head melts away entirely, his struggling hand following suit.
  3702.  
  3703. ><This is...>
  3704. >(...A total Decoherence Failure. Without the protection of Persona, their Shadows are breaking free and consuming their hosts.)
  3705. >Sunny's words fall dead out of her mouth, as if even she herself cannot believe what she's saying.
  3706. >Suddenly, we hear a cry of pain: Derpy appears to have sprained her leg, as the Shadows creep closer to her.
  3707. >Without warning, Principal Celestia dives out of Nephtys's protection, rushing to the aid of the endangered student!
  3708. >"Tia, what are you doing? You have to get back in before the Shadows catch you!"
  3709. >Ignoring her sister's cries, Celestia picks up the injured student and sprints full force back to the Persona, the darkness nipping at her heels!
  3710. >Unfortunately, the tar manages to snatch her foot, causing the Principal to catch herself mere inches away from safety.
  3711. >"No, Tia!"
  3712. >"I'll be fine, Lulu, just keep her safe!"
  3713.  
  3714. >With all her might, Celestia tosses Derpy into the Persona's bubble, the girl crashing into Bulk's cowering form.
  3715. >"You damn fool! Why... why do you always have to be so selfless, Tia?!"
  3716. >Luna's tears run wild as she screams at her sister's soft smile, the Shadows slowly consuming her form.
  3717. >"Because these students are my future: our future, Lulu. I need you to keep them safe."
  3718. >Celestia's just close enough to rest her hand on the edge of Nephthys's bubble, as Luna moves her hand to align.
  3719. >"I love you, Lulu."
  3720. >Her hand slowly begins to sink as my Principal is consumed by the Shadows.
  3721. >"...I love you too. More than you'll ever know."
  3722. >The Vice-Principal in tears, I turn my attention to Twilight's twisted form, laughing at the chaos.
  3723. >"Wow, this power's far more potent than I thought! I'll need to learn to properly control it if I am to mold this dream to my liking."
  3724. >Principal Cinch clings to the wall, her eyes looking on in terror as the students of both Cystral Prep and Canterlot melt away.
  3725. >Shaking her head, she manages to gather herself enough to attempt to sneak away.
  3726.  
  3727. >"Principal Abacus Cinch, wherever do you think you're going?"
  3728. >She freezes on the spot, turning around to see the wild eyes of the former student of hers.
  3729. >"I... uh..."
  3730. >"Don't think you can run away from the monster you created. In fact,"
  3731. >The being's grip tightens on Cinch's suit, dragging her face-to-face.
  3732. >"I've got plans for you."
  3733. >And with the force of the devil, Twilight drags her principal, kicking and screaming, to the school before turning directly in our direction.
  3734. >"I'll be waiting for you girls in my dreams. Don't keep your goddess waiting~."
  3735. >Then she turns around, opens the door, and floats inside with Cinch's screams echoing behind her!
  3736. >The school shudders and shifts, forming into a monumental castle of dark crystal and stone.
  3737. >After a moment, the protective auras of Tzaphkiel and Phoebe vanish, leaving us to assess the damage.
  3738.  
  3739. >The floor, while tar-like and sticky, no longer seems to be a threat and seems safe enough to walk on.
  3740. >Luna collapses, the moon goddess fading away, as the students who survived help her sit down.
  3741. "That was horrible. Did all of those students... die?"
  3742. >Everyone's eyes look away in abject sorrow as Sunny scratches her head.
  3743. >"We've never had a Decoherence Failure of this magnitude before. I think we're going to have to work under the assumption that anyone not here... is dead."
  3744. >All that effort, all that struggle, and we still failed in our task.
  3745. >...
  3746. >...
  3747. "No, there has to be a way to save everyone. We need to follow Twilight and stop whatever it is she's planning to do!"
  3748. >Sour nods, the others following suit as their eyes relight with determination.
  3749. >"We're with you all the way, Sunset. Let's save the damn world."
  3750.  
  3751. >I nod, moving over to Luna and handing her an Apple Cider and Zap Apple Candy.
  3752. "Use these to get your energy back, Vice-Principal. We're going into the belly of the beast."
  3753. >Luna drinks the apple juice slowly while chewing the candy down, her strength returning to her.
  3754. >"Alright, I'll do my best to take care of stragglers that come out of the school."
  3755. >Nodding to her, I start making my way back to the others when I feel Luna tug my jacket sleeve.
  3756. >"Sunset, please save Tia."
  3757. >The look in her eyes is all I need to nod and continue my path, stopping next to Twilight's device, now closed without it's string.
  3758. >I kneel down and pick it up, my reflection scowling back at me as I examine it.
  3759. >It's all this thing's fault we're even in this mess: if Twilight hadn't made this, she wouldn't have gone berserk.
  3760. >... If I was stronger, I would have helped Twlight understand the dangers before it was too late.
  3761. >Regardless, I get the feeling this might be important, so I pocket it and make my way to the school entrance, where the other girls are waiting.
  3762.  
  3763. "Alright, I'm done on my end. Are you all ready for this?"
  3764. >Rainbow nods, motioning to a shining blue door nearby.
  3765. >"More or less, we're just trying to figure out what this door's for. It's locked tight, and we can't force it open."
  3766. >I feel a small weight in my pocket, as I pull out a tiny key that shines with a velvet blue light.
  3767. >It seems we have business with Theo before we go in.
  3768. >Do you guys have any question you want to ask him when we get there?
  3769. >...
  3770. >Sounds good to me; let's not keep the Velvet Room waiting.
  3771. "I think I've got just the key for this. I'll be just a while, Rainbow."
  3772. >Before Rainbow Dash can ask what I mean, I unlock the blue door and step inside.
  3773.  
  3774. >Velvet Room, Friday, October 31st, Nightmare
  3775.  
  3776. >For the first time, I can actually move around, sitting down on the chair of my own volition.
  3777. >"Welcome to the Velvet Room, dear guest. The line between dream and reality has snapped, bleeding into your world and threatening to start anew."
  3778. >I pull out the device as I remember Twilight's conflicted expression, her tears when I snapped at her.
  3779. "I wonder if I could have done things differently: kept her from opening this device."
  3780. >"The past is filled with many what-if's, dear guest, yet none of them will avail you from your duty."
  3781. >Looking up at the alicorn, a spark of hope ignites in my chest.
  3782. "You mean there really is a chance to make things right again?"
  3783. >Theodore nods, eyeing the amulet in my hand with interest.
  3784. >"Were it truly an impossible scenario, I doubt we would be talking here at all. Mind if I look at that device you're holding?"
  3785. "Sure, but be careful: that thing drains magic."
  3786.  
  3787. >Theo gently lifts the purple device and places it on the desk before turning around with a smile.
  3788. >"Now, I'm sure you all have questions you wish to ask. I, too, am curious about some events."
  3789. What happened the last time we tried to meet with you?
  3790. >The alicorn attendant scratches his chin in confusion, before looking at you with an apologetic expression.
  3791. >"I'm afraid you have not been here since Tuesday."
  3792. "But we tried to meet up with you last night. When I went to sleep, however, I had this horrible nightmare."
  3793. >This causes Theo to look on with complete seriousness, one of the few times I've seen him frown.
  3794. >"A nightmare? Please, explain it all in detail: don't leave anything out.
  3795. >The nightmare is less fresh on my mind than it was last night, but I tell him of the being, and the eyes.
  3796.  
  3797. "I see, so after this 'Twilight' drained your magic, you had this nightmare when you attempted to visit the Velvet Room. While I do not know about the being in your nightmare, I can take a guess as to why it happened."
  3798. >He pulls out two cards from the tarot and reveal them to me: the Fool and Hanged Man.
  3799. >"Your bond with the Myriad Hearts, along with your Persona, may be indiscernible compared to the magic running through your veins. My guess is this: when Twilight's device took a hold over you, your connection to these things were drained away as well."
  3800. "So that's why I couldn't hear them when I exploded on Twilight, and why I couldn't use my Persona?"
  3801. >Theo nods as he places the cards back into the deck.
  3802. >"Indeed, but there is more to it than that. Other things reside in the cracks between mind and matter: beings that are more than happy to welcome you to their parlors without your Persona to guide you here."
  3803. Is that what the eye was, another being?
  3804. >"There is always the possibility, especially considering how it touched and spoke to you. Could you understand what it was saying, dear guest?"
  3805.  
  3806. >I shake my head, shivering at the recollection of the event.
  3807. "It sounded like complete gibberish, just like when I couldn't hear you guys."
  3808. >Theodore nods, mulling over the information before continuing.
  3809. >"While I cannot play translator, I can assure you that your connection to your Persona is recovering while here. Kamen Rider Phoenix Requiem should be available for action when we are finished."
  3810. What's happening with Equestrian magic, and how does it relate to the power of Persona?
  3811. >"I'm unsure of all the properties of Equestrian magic, but if we are correct in assuming the indiscernible nature of Persona and magic, then it could act as a catalyst. Perhaps the power of your world mixes well with dreams, and allows it to pierce the veil."
  3812. >So it's not Equestrian magic by itself, like Luna was saying.
  3813.  
  3814. Can we save everyone that got caught in the Shadows?
  3815. >"I would not call it impossible. When exposed to the boundless nature of dreams, one must keep a strong presence in mind to remain stable."
  3816. "So without Persona to keep a strong presence, they turned into Shadows? Can they be turned back to normal?"
  3817. >Theodore nods, picking up the device and examining it closely.
  3818. >"Given enough force, the Shadows should exhaust themselves and retreat back into the subconscious."
  3819. >You guys seem satisfied with your answers, but one last burning question races through my mind.
  3820.  
  3821. "Theo, can we save Twilight?"
  3822. >Shifting his attention to me, his welcoming smile returns to his face.
  3823. >"Can you, dear guest? It seems as if this Equestrian magic is too much for mere humans: corrupting them in an instant, like Twilight. Or even yourself."
  3824. >I flinch at his remark, thinking back to when I lost control during the Fall Formal.
  3825. >"But the ponies in the other world can use it, as can your friends here. Even you are no longer corrupted by the magic you wield. I wonder, what makes you all different from her?"
  3826. >Before I can think about his question, Theodore returns the device to my hand, returning to his duties.
  3827. >"Keep hold of this device, dear guest: most of its energy is spent, but it may prove useful in a bind."
  3828. >Nodding, I rise out of my chair and walk towards the door, turning the knob and opening it to the outside world.
  3829. >"Until we meet again, dear guest."
  3830.  
  3831. >Canterlot High, Friday, October 31st, Nightmare
  3832.  
  3833. >I open the door to the school entrance, with a wide-eyed Rainbow Dash greeting me.
  3834. >"Where did you go, Sunset? You just opened the door, and the two of you vanished into thin air!"
  3835. "I don't quite know myself, but I think I should be able to use my Persona again."
  3836. >Sunny and Fluttershy pull me over as I arrive, motioning to Fluttershy's backpack.
  3837.  
  3838. >"We managed to find some more supplies, but that means we've only got nine Ciders, ten Candies, and eight Incenses. We'll need to ration best we can."
  3839. >I nod, turning to the others and motioning them to gather.
  3840. "Alright, girls, this is important for all of us: if I had to take a guess as to what Twilight meant by 'her dreams', I think we're about to enter her Fantasia."
  3841. >"Fantasia? You mean like the movie?"
  3842. >I shake my head, looking over to Fluttershy with a serious expression.
  3843. "Fluttershy, does anything strike you as odd when you look at the castle?"
  3844. >Fluttershy calls down Tzaphkiel and examines the transformed school, shivering as she does so.
  3845. ><There's something dangerous lurking in those halls. It feels like the shadow of Death is weighing down on me.>
  3846. "That feeling is an extremely powerful Shadow that will hunt us down if we don't keep our active Persona down to five. That's one Analysis and four Fighters out at any time."
  3847. >Everyone looks at me with hints of nervousness before nodding, resolve returning to their eyes,
  3848. "Alright, let's go in and save everyone!"
  3849. >The twelve of us let out a war cry before entering the door to dreams.
  3850.  
  3851. >The Princess's Archives
  3852.  
  3853. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrIghS_V-q8
  3854. >The doors to reality shut behind us as we turn our attention to the main hall.
  3855. >Everything is pristine, crystalline, and sterile, as if even our very footsteps insult this library.
  3856. >No, even libraries have life within them; this is far more like a tomb.
  3857. >As we make our way to the front desk, four Shadows immediately spawn in front of us, barring the way through!
  3858. >(Scans show a Sagacious Owl, Radiant Knight, Loyal Hound and Akashic Records! Sunset, who should be the vanguard for this battle?)
  3859. >It would be nice to jump in and fight some, after sitting everything out, but we can't afford blunders from picking favorites.
  3860. >Who do you guys think should start the fight?
  3861.  
  3862. Let's open with Sunny on analysis again, that instakill is too tempting for me not to want it at the ready.
  3863. I'm anticipating the Knight and Hound will be primarily physical, so let's pull out Dash for this fight.
  3864. Let's put Indigo in as well. Partly because I think she might be a good asset against the Owl, and partly because I want to see if she and Dash might have a combo.
  3865. Let's give Rara another chance to shine, I imagine we might need a healer in this round.
  3866. Lastly, I say give Fluttershy a round or two on the field, if the Knight or Akashic Records are Light it'll be nice to have at least one person able to resist.
  3867. First round orders:
  3868. Scan the Knight.
  3869. Dash: God's Fist that Akashic Record closed.
  3870. Zap: Give the field some Mapsiodyne. I've got a hunch the Owl might absorb it, but let's see what happens.
  3871. Rarity: throw some Magarudyne into the mix.
  3872. Flutterbutter: Mabufudyne.
  3873.  
  3874. "Let's go with Indigo, Rainbow, Rarity and Fluttershy for now. Sunny, you're our eyes for this fight."
  3875. >(Alright, I'll begin my scans on the Radiant Knight then.)
  3876. >The rest of us fall back into Phoebe's protective grasp, as Indigo cracks her knuckles.
  3877. >"About time I get some action in. Let's show 'em hell, Pheidippides!"
  3878. >The speedster fires off a volley of lasers into the crowd of Shadows, striking the Sagacious Owl and Loyal Hound directly.
  3879. >With a movement unlike his bulking form implies, the knight in shining armor rolls out of the way of the spell!
  3880. >Pages flip around the Akashic Records as a magic circle forms in front of it, reflecting the ray back at the Persona, who absorbs it harmlessly.
  3881. >"Huh, I'd have thought the Owl would've been the resistant one."
  3882. >"I'm really feeling this one. Persona!"
  3883. >Rainbow smacks her card with her pipe, as Achilles crashes forward at a speed too fast for our eyes!
  3884. >Before I can blink, the Akashic Records are entirely skewered by the gargantuan lance, the pages twitching weakly before shredding to pieces!
  3885.  
  3886. >"Alright, Achilles, let's prep for something nasty!"
  3887. >The thick armor around the warrior begins to crack all over, lightning licking out of the gaps before exploding.
  3888. >In its place, a rainbow-haired humanoid hovers in the air with a sleek bodysuit and rocket boots, an aura of electricity crackling around him.
  3889. >This new, supercharged Achilles swings his ornate lance out as a pair of blue wings form on his back.
  3890. >"Time to shine, my darling Cait Sith!"
  3891. >With a yowl, the white cat sends a flurry of razor-sharp winds at the Shadows, slicing through the Owl and Hound and leaving nothing but ribbons in its wake!
  3892. >Unfortunately, the Knight once again avoids the assault, sliding underneath the attack.
  3893. >"I must say, that Shadow's quite agile."
  3894. >Seizing the opportunity from striking the Hound, the cat fey rubs against Rainbow's injuries, the wounds patching themselves up as he purrs.
  3895.  
  3896. >"Tzaphkiel, assist me!"
  3897. >Fluttershy bisects the card in two with her knife, as the four-winged angel descends from the heavens.
  3898. >With a flap of her wings, Tzaphkiel unleashes a barrage of ice against the remaining Shadow, glancing its side and causing it to stumble in response!
  3899. >However, I can't help but think that was intentional, as the stumble evolved into a rolling slash which catches Rainbow in its arc!
  3900. >"Not the best choice of targets, tinhead. Hey, Fluttershy, let's kick this sucker to the footnotes!"
  3901. >(Before you go off swinging, here's a scan on the Radiant Knight:)
  3902.  
  3903. Radiant Knight (Priestess)-
  3904.  
  3905. Resist: Physical
  3906. Weak: Curse
  3907.  
  3908. Status:
  3909.  
  3910. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 80% SP
  3911. Rainbow Dash (Power Charged): 77% HP, 90% SP
  3912. Rarity: 100% HP, 70% SP
  3913. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 85% SP
  3914.  
  3915. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3916.  
  3917. In reserve:
  3918. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3919. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3920. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3921. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3922. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3923. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3924. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  3925.  
  3926. >"I'm surprised these things are so weak. Let's wrap this up!"
  3927. >Indigo crushes her card as Pheidippides showers the Knight with bullets, punching holes through its armor!
  3928. >"I'll patch you up after this, darling, so give it all you got!"
  3929. >Rainbow nods at Rarity, motioning to Fluttershy with a wild grin.
  3930. >"Don't have to tell me twice. Persona!"
  3931. >"Persona!"
  3932. >Rainbow and Fluttershy shatter their cards, as Tzaphkiel slowly rises to the sky, a heavenly light exuding from her body.
  3933.  
  3934. >Suddenly, a barrage of shining swords shoot out of her eye, piercing the Shadow and pinning it to the ground!
  3935. >In a flash, Achilles rushes the helpless Knight, his lance piercing the creature's heart and causing it to yell in pain!
  3936. >"Rainbow Dash, catch!"
  3937. >Two blades in particular hurtle towards Achilles, who effortlessly catches one in each hand, slicing away at the armor and laying bear the trembling Shadow within!
  3938. >"There's no escape!"
  3939. >Achilles leaps into the air, using his newly-formed rockets to bounce himself from the highest point of the roof, blades aimed for the Radiant Knight's neck.
  3940. >Like a guillotine, the hero crashes into the ground, the crossed blades of light searing through the Shadow's neck like paper!
  3941.  
  3942. Combo Activated: Zwei Sieger
  3943.  
  3944. >The blades fade into the aether as the rupturing Knight bursts in a flash of light, leaving behind only a puddle of darkness!
  3945. >(All Shadows eliminated, though that was far too easy.)
  3946. >The pools of tar left behind by the Shadows trembles and expands, dissolving away to reveal two Crystal Prep and Canterlot students.
  3947. >I kneel down, near the mouths of the students, and hear steady, if slow, breathing from all of them.
  3948. "It's alright, everyone: they're just sleeping."
  3949. >Rainbow flinches as Rarity patches her wounds, looking over to the sleeping four with concern.
  3950. >"Shouldn't we wake them up? I doubt a giant library full of Shadows is the safest place to sleep in.
  3951. >I shake my head, thinking back to the Fantasias before this one.
  3952.  
  3953. "Shadows in Fantasias are agitated by waking people: so long as they're asleep, nothing bad should happen to them."
  3954. >After making sure the students were out of the way, we began to investigate the area we entered.
  3955. >It appears to be a large welcome room, though no one appears to be manning the desk at the moment.
  3956. >Beyond that lies bookshelves that soar almost to the sky, and reach the walls.
  3957. >There's an entrance between two bookshelves that seems to be the only way through the Fantasia.
  3958. "Fluttershy, can you sense Twilight through all of this?"
  3959. >After a moment of scanning, Fluttershy exits Tzaphkiel with an odd expression.
  3960. >"I tracked down where Twilight is, but she doesn't seem to be doing anything in there. It's almost like she's waiting for us to arrive before acting."
  3961. >Definitely different than how Rarity's went, then; perhaps this is because of her self-awareness?
  3962. >Before I can think more on it, the loud clacking of heels echoes through the room.
  3963.  
  3964. >(!!! Heads up, everyone, a new Shadow reading is approaching us!)
  3965. >We ready our weapons as a tall lady emerges from the shadows, dressed in blue with white polka dots, along with imposing high heels.
  3966. >The mask of the High Priestess rests over her eyes, almost like glasses, as she adjusts them with a sigh of irritation.
  3967. >"Really, must you girls act like savages? I'd have thought it would be obvious, but this is a library."
  3968. >To our surprise, the lady walks past us, towards the welcoming desk.
  3969. >"Don't you ignore us like that!"
  3970. >Indigo and Rainbow lunge at the Shadow, only to seemingly phase through her and fall flat on their faces!
  3971. >The woman sits down at the desk and holds herself upright, the blank expression on the mask staring directly at our souls.
  3972. >"Be calm, children, I am not the enemy you seek. I am the Librarian, and I keep order in this Fool's mind."
  3973. "Fool? You mean Twilight?"
  3974. >She nods, pulling out some forms full of gibberish and signing them with a pen that she materialized.
  3975.  
  3976. >"The Fool of a girl brought her Principal through here, and is waiting for you at the Heart."
  3977. "Then we need to go and stop her, then!"
  3978. >The Librarian holds up a grey hand, stopping us in our tracks before motioning to the bookshelves she emerged from.
  3979. >"I would not be so hasty to leap in, child. The Labyrinth of books is a veritable maze: the countless knowledge that Fool has accumulated all her short life. To enter such a place without a clue of where to go is prolonged suicide."
  3980. >A Labyrinth, huh: with the shelves towering to the roof and spanning the walls, I doubt we can cheat our way around this one.
  3981. >Sunny Flare shakes me out of my thought and motions to herself and Fluttershy.
  3982. >"We can probably scan the Labyrinth as we go along. It's difficult to see the exact layout, but it should at least let us know where we haven't been."
  3983. >With ethereal grace, the Librarian stands from her chair and walks to the entrance of the Labyrinth, an outstretched hand inviting us in.
  3984.  
  3985. >"If you children desire it, I can guide you through the Labyrinth myself. That is, if you can trust a Shadow like myself."
  3986. >Looking through the information we've gathered, several important points come up.
  3987. >The first is that we can save the students that turned into Shadows, just like Theo mentioned.
  3988. >Since they're sleeping by default, I doubt we'll need to worry about protecting them beyond making their slumber more comfortable.
  3989. >Second, it seems that Twilight is content to wait for us at this 'Heart', meaning we don't seem to be strapped for time like we usually are.
  3990. >Finally, this Librarian Shadow is offering to guide us through this maze of knowledge.
  3991. >While we can use our Analysis to force our way through, it might be more effective to take someone who knows their way.
  3992. >But can we even trust a Shadow to not lead us into a trap?
  3993. >What do you guys think: should we accept the Librarian's offer, or force our own way through the Labyrinth?
  3994.  
  3995. Twilight wants us to get to her, so I don't think the Librarian is lying to us. We could use her help after all.
  3996. I'll second that, besides, I'd be amazed if she's strong enough to completely lock us down. We can deal with betrayal if it comes, but for now I think it's worth it to take her at her word.
  3997. And if things go bad... at least we know physical doesn't work on her.
  3998. I would say just stick to the left wall of the maze and you're guaranteed to get to where you need to go but this being a Fantsaia something tells me the maze will change shape or some shit.
  3999. Fuck it, let the librarian guide us and deal with the possible consequences later
  4000.  
  4001. >I suppose it always helps to have someone who knows their way with you.
  4002. "Alright, Librarian, we'll follow you through this Labyrinth. But we're keeping an eye on you."
  4003. >The Shadow simply shrugs at my threat, calmly entering the Labyrinth as we follow suit.
  4004. >"Mind your steps: the Shadows that have taken residence here are not to be underestimated."
  4005. >Rainbow scoffs at the thought, listlessly checking the variety of titles across the bookshelves.
  4006. >"Ha, like we'd believe that malarky. If those guys in the hall were any indication, the ones we fought outside were tougher than here!"
  4007.  
  4008. >The Lbriarian takes an odd turn, bypassing a normal-looking hallway and climbing up a tight pair of staircases.
  4009. >"You think to compare the Shadows in here with those souless echoes outside? Unlike those you fought before, the Shadows here have one thing that makes them far more dangerous."
  4010. >We leave the staircase to find a large marble room, a lone pedestal in the center of the countless bookshelves.
  4011. "... And what is that, Librarian?"
  4012. >I've got a real bad feeling about this place.
  4013. >There's not a single trace of Shadows, or anything for that matter, anywhere.
  4014. >"They learn."
  4015. >Suddenly, a burst of smoke fills the room, followed by myriad explosions of light!
  4016. >Sunny Flare does her best to shelter us with Phoebe, but a few of the girls are trapped outside!
  4017.  
  4018. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xWhcwdhgefA
  4019. >Lemon Zest, along with Applejack, Spike and Fluttershy, decide to stick together, their backs against each other as they try to discern the enemies' location.
  4020. >A blanket of fire spews out from the smoke, encasing the party in flame and severely burning Lemon in the process!
  4021. >The smoke clears afterwards, revealing a levitating magician with a top hat and comically long, white beard.
  4022.  
  4023. >In addition, an Akashic Records, along with a floating vase and abstract dolphin rise from the floor around the Shadow.
  4024. >The vase spews forth a shiny liquid that encircles the mage Shadow, an ethereal glow shimmering on its surface.
  4025. >With a furious turning of its pages, the Akashic Records draws a purple magic circle, calling forth rays of psychedelic energy.
  4026. >Applejack manages to avoid the shots in time, but the other teammates are barraged by impossible tastes and touches!
  4027. >Finally, the dolphin flips in the air as another ball of energy, pink in color, forms around the main Shadow, the two bubbles melding into a shade of magenta.
  4028.  
  4029. >(Damn it, we got ambushed, and everyone's hurt really bad! What's the deal, Librarian?!)
  4030. >The Librarian waits patiently on the sidelines, her mask betraying so sense of emotion.
  4031. >"I only offered to guide you through this Labyrinth. Any and all battles you find yourselves a part in are not my business."
  4032. >And with that, the tall Shadow sits in a nearby chair and observes the chaos unfolding before her.
  4033. >(We'll deal with her later: these Shadows take priority! It looks like the main Shadow's called Elusive Magician, and that thing has reflection magic for both magical and Physical damage. In addition, we have a Calamity Pot and Truth Pesce along with the familiar Akashic Records.)
  4034. >The first step of this battle completely caught off-guard, the party steels themselves and considers what to do next.
  4035.  
  4036. Status:
  4037.  
  4038. Lemon Zest (Burn): 42% HP, 100% SP
  4039. Applejack: 79% HP, 100% SP
  4040. Spike: 41% HP, 100% SP
  4041. Fluttershy: 40% HP, 65% SP
  4042.  
  4043. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4044.  
  4045. In reserve:
  4046. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4047. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4048. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4049. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4050. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4051. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 90% SP
  4052. Rarity: 100% HP, 60% SP
  4053.  
  4054. >"Don't even have time to pop in a good track. Patch us up, Benzaiten!"
  4055. >The dancer of the dawn fluidly dances around the party, a green light surrounding them as their wounds fade away..
  4056. >"I suppose we're gonna have to break those shields if we want a piece of that wizard. Persona!"
  4057. >The lone star fires a volley of arrows at the Shadows, the pink shell around the Magician shooting them back at Arash Kamangir before fading away.
  4058. >The Pesce also reflects them back with a flip of its tail, but the arrows simply sink into his coat, restoring Applejack's vitality.
  4059. >The Pot and Records are caught in the blast, though one of the arrows misses the arcane tome and harmlessly clacks on the marble floor.
  4060. >"I've got the other shield; Persona!"
  4061. >Spike howls as Amarok lunges with a gargantuan, black sword and cleaves the Shadows, striking all but the dolphin as it dodges in the air.
  4062. >The final barrier also repels the darkness, though it drips limply to the ground as a result.
  4063.  
  4064. >"Persona!"
  4065. >Fluttershy slices her card as Tzaphkiel calls down a heavenly light above the Shadows, but they all manage to flee the holy judgement unscathed!
  4066. >"Sorry, everyone, I really thought that'd work..."
  4067. >I can't help but get flashbacks to the other Pinkie and Apollo Medicus.
  4068. >With an arrogant twirl of his cane, the Magician slams the ground as a bright light flashes throughout the room!
  4069. >Thankfully, the party manages to shield their eyes in time, avoiding the blinding assault.
  4070. >Water begins to bubble out of the Calamity Pot, erupting out a frigid geyser that freezes Applejack in her tracks!
  4071. >The Akashic Records barely keeps its pages together, but a circle of magic forms around it, firing another round of psychedelic beams that strike everyone but Lemon Zest!
  4072. >Frozen in place, Applejack can only look on in fear as the magic shoots through her, sending her frozen form hurtling to the ground!
  4073.  
  4074. >The Shadow seizes the new opportunity, flocks of pages ripping out of nearby books to surround the Shadows with protective magicks.
  4075. >Floating menacingly in the air, the Truth Pesce's gaze locks onto Fluttershy as a needle-sharp lance of laces shoots out.
  4076. >Tzaphkiel manages to form in time to protect her, but the cloth pierces its knowing eye, causing Fluttershy to scream in pain before collapsing to the floor!
  4077. >A cackle erupts from the dolphin as it flips in the air, raising the tension in the room!
  4078. >(Shit, Applejack's frozen and hurt pretty bad, and Fluttershy just took a ribbon to the eye. If you feel like you've got bad match-ups, don't be afraid to swap out! Here's the scan on the Elusive Magician:)
  4079.  
  4080. Elusive Magician (Priestess)-
  4081.  
  4082. Resist: Fire, Psy
  4083.  
  4084. >(Doesn't look like we're gonna be able to exploit weakness on this one, but everyone's critical attack potential has risen. Also, your Marakukaja is about to wear off.)
  4085.  
  4086. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4087. Applejack (Frozen/Down): 1% HP, 100% SP
  4088. Spike: 73% HP, 80% SP
  4089. Fluttershy (Down): 37% HP, 45% SP
  4090.  
  4091. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4092.  
  4093. In reserve:
  4094. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4095. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4096. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4097. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4098. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4099. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 90% SP
  4100. Rarity: 100% HP, 60% SP
  4101.  
  4102. >(Lemon, swap out with Rarity.)
  4103. >"You got it, boss!"
  4104. >Lemon Zest retreats back into Phoebe as Rarity takes her place, readying her epee for combat.
  4105. >(Stand back everyone, this is gonna get messy! Apollyon!)
  4106. >A starry sky materializes above the Shadows, as the heavenly bodies make their descent.
  4107. >One by one, the flaming orbs crash down on the enemies, dealing massive damage!
  4108. >"Cait Sith, let's defrost our dear friend Applejack!"
  4109. >Rarity slices the card in a Z-formation, as the pudgy white cat proceeds to hop on top of Applejack's frozen form.
  4110. >Once there, it curls up into a ball and naps soundly.
  4111. >(...You said you were defrosting Applejack, right?)
  4112. >"Give it a moment, darling. Persona are fantastical beings created by our psyche, not miracle workers."
  4113. >Sure enough, the ice around the frozen archer begins to melt away as Cait Sith obliviously slumbers through it all!
  4114. >Eventually, Applejack manages to fight the frost, pulling herself up as Rarity's Persona vanishes.
  4115.  
  4116. >"I still can't feel my fingertips, but yer gonna pay for that!"
  4117. >Flinching from the pain, Applejack shakes her head and steadies the aim on her bow, letting loose an arrow that punches through the center of the manuscript and obliterates it instantly!
  4118. >"Yer turn again, Rarity: we need patching up real bad."
  4119. >"Of course, we'll get you all back to full in no time. Persona!"
  4120. >Cait Sith lets out a lovely yowl as a green light envelops the group, patching up their wounds.
  4121. >"I think that Pot's weak to electric attacks. Persona!"
  4122. >A violent beam of pure plasma erupts from Amarok's jowls, vaporizing the Calamity Pot on the spot and dealing heavy damage to the Elusive Magician!
  4123. >While the Truth Pesce was harmed, the electricity merely seems to inconvenience the dolphin Shadow.
  4124. >"Focus on the Magician, Amarok!"
  4125. >The beam closes in on the severely wounded Shadow, the lightning bathing the Elusive Magician and destroying it!
  4126.  
  4127. >"There's just the Pesce left. Go, Tzaphkiel!"
  4128. >Pillars of ice shoot forth from the Beholder's vision, crashing into the Truth Pesce and dealing heavy damage.
  4129. >The Shadow's floating begins to falter as the ribbons that make its form shoot out towards Fluttershy again.
  4130. >Thankfully, the same trick doesn't appear to work twice, as she manages to slide under them unscathed.
  4131. >(Alright, we turned that around just in time. There's only the Truth Pesce left, so here's its scan:)
  4132.  
  4133. Truth Pesce (Priestess)-
  4134.  
  4135. Repel: Ranged
  4136. Resist: Elec
  4137. Weak: Psy
  4138.  
  4139. >(Let's wrap this up and keep going!)
  4140.  
  4141. Status:
  4142.  
  4143. Rarity: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4144. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4145. Spike: 100% HP, 25% SP
  4146. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 25% SP
  4147.  
  4148. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 65% SP
  4149.  
  4150. In reserve:
  4151. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4152. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4153. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 90% SP
  4154. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4155. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4156. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4157. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4158.  
  4159. >"Then let's finish this off with class. Persona!"
  4160. >Rarity slices her card with ease as Cait Sith sends out a supersonic hiss, rattling the Truth Pesce to its core and sending it plummeting to the ground!
  4161. >"Yeehaw!"
  4162. >Applejack is the first to lunge at the downed Shadow, smacking it with the bow itself as the others follow suit!
  4163. >The outright pummeling is too much, the ribbons making its form flying off before burning away in darkness!
  4164. >(All Shadows are eliminated. And it looks like more students are materializing from the remains.)
  4165. >Trixie is the first one I notice, as her sleeping form is all that remains of the Elusive Magician, but it looks like two of the other Shadows contained her friends.
  4166. >"And here's Royal Pin, though I don't think he'll appreciate knowing he was a ribbon dolphin."
  4167.  
  4168. >Indigo's comments are mostly ignored as I make my way to the Librarian, sitting down comfortably and reading a book with no title.
  4169. "What's your deal, Librarian? The first place you lead us to in this Labyrinth is an ambush!"
  4170. >"As I said, your battles are none of my concern: I only offered to lead you through this maze."
  4171. >The Shadow stands back up and returns the book to its rightful place, pulling out a handful of others in another section.
  4172. >"Besides, you came in here to experience the Fool's memories, no?"
  4173. "We came here to save her."
  4174. >She shrugs at my defence, pulling out a round crystal orb and walking towards the marble pedestal in the center of the room.
  4175. >"And you presume you can save her without knowing her? Regardless of whatever dimension you crawled out of, you do not know this Fool."
  4176. >Unable to refute her harsh accusation, I simply watch as the Librarian places the orb into a slot in the center of the top.
  4177. >Arcane lines cover the pedestal like leylines, glowing bright as an image comes into view.
  4178.  
  4179. Grandpa
  4180.  
  4181. "Show me that trick again, Grandpa!"
  4182. >My hands are gripped tight around Grandpa's pant leg, as I look up to see his massive beard.
  4183. >Grandpa's looks just like Dad, even though his hair's white, his skin is more wrinkled, and his eyes shine like gold.
  4184. >"Oh? Did I not hear from a certain young lady that she was too old for 'magic tricks'?"
  4185. "But..."
  4186. >I can't think of anything to argue, since it was true, so I pout.
  4187. >Grandpa chuckles with that deep voice he has, reaching into the bag of tricks he always kept on his desk.
  4188. >"Ah, don't give me that look, my little Twilight. Very well, I'll show it one more time."
  4189. >I nod excitedly as he pulls out a worn coin and holds it in front of my eyes.
  4190. >"Here's the coin, my dear guest: no strings attached, no secret pockets in sight."
  4191. >It's true: Grandpa did wear his favorite coat, but he showed me multiple times that it was just nice, smooth velvet.
  4192. >"And just like that,"
  4193. >He flipped his hand in a flash, and when he opened it once more, the coin was gone!
  4194.  
  4195. >I thought for sure I was keeping a close eye on it, but no matter how hard I stared at Grandpa's hand, it would not reveal itself.
  4196. "I lost where it was again, Grandpa!"
  4197. >"That's alright, dear guest, for it's closer than you think."
  4198. >And with that, he reached behind my ear and pulled out the coin: still just as worn and scratched as ever.
  4199. "How did you do that, Grandpa?"
  4200. >Grandpa returns the coin to his bag, then looks back to me with a sly grin.
  4201. >"I'm afraid this old magician can't explain his tricks quite yet. Perhaps after I come back from this week's seminar."
  4202. >From what Dad told me, Grandpa talks about learning and thinking all over the place.
  4203. >"No matter how smart you are, Twilight, there's always something new you can learn every day."
  4204. >That's what Grandpa always tells me, though I can't help but feel worried about him leaving again.
  4205.  
  4206. Will you be gone for a long time, again?"
  4207. >"It should only take a week, maybe a bit longer depending on travel."
  4208. >After a moment of silence, Grandpa fiddles with something on his desk, then turns around with something in his hands.
  4209. >"I was planning on putting some extra touches on her over the travel time, but I think she's ready."
  4210. >With that, Grandpa hands me a grey horse plush, with raggedy hair and blue shorts with white polka dots.
  4211. "What's this?"
  4212. >"That, my little Twilight, is Miss Smarty Pants: something I've been working on for you while I had free time. She's a smart girl that'll help you take notes with that little notebook and pen she has."
  4213. >I look at Miss Smarty Pants' mismatching red and blue button eyes, and can't help but hug her tight.
  4214. "It's amazing, Grandpa, thank you!"
  4215. >We spent the rest of the day playing around with Miss Smarty Pants, Grandpa's smile mirroring my own.
  4216.  
  4217. >What...
  4218. >What was that?
  4219. >It was almost like a movie, but I could actually see through Twilight's eyes and feel her emotions.
  4220. >"He never made it back from his trip, you know: had a fatal heart attack enroute back home."
  4221. "Twilight mentioned that she looked up to her grandpa. To think he passed away so soon from her life..."
  4222. >Nodding, the Librarian removes the crystal orb and returns it to its rightful place.
  4223. >"The Fool certainly took after him: his insatiable thirst for knowledge, his disregard for personal safety."
  4224. >The Shadow's heels click towards the exit of the room, motioning towards the next hall of books.
  4225. >"There's more to learn of the Fool, before you can finally meet her."
  4226. >(It's a good idea to check on our condition first, Sunset. We've still got nine Ciders, ten Candies, and eight Incenses we can use to resupply our reserves.)
  4227. >Fluttershy speaks up as well, picking up where Sunny left off.
  4228. >"We can also use our Analysis abilities to distribute SP between us, if you wish to save on Candy use."
  4229. >(Here's our status:)
  4230.  
  4231. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4232. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4233. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 90% SP
  4234. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4235. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4236. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4237. Rarity: 100% HP, 20% SP
  4238. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4239. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4240. Spike: 100% HP, 25% SP
  4241. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 65% SP
  4242. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 25% SP
  4243.  
  4244. Total amount of SP we'd need to get everyone up to full is about 320% (assuming 1% of one user's SP is equal to 1% of anyone else's). For someone like AJ or Sour who primarily Physical's, we can leave them at less than full, since they're probably not going to burn their whole pool in one fight.
  4245. We can probably get away with using 2 candies, leave AJ at 40%, Sour and Sugarcoat at 70% each? If that math works out.
  4246.  
  4247. "Alright, let's use two Candies and focus our SP on the casters. Sour Sweet and Applejack are more physical, anyways, and Sugarcoat can regenerate hers."
  4248. >It takes a while to properly partion all of our collective energy, but Fluttershy manages to efficiently spend only two Zap Apple Candies.
  4249. >"If you are all ready, then please follow me."
  4250. >With the Librarian as our guide, we continue through the book-laden halls of the Archives.
  4251. >I notice that, every time we reach a hallway that feels like the right direction, that the Shadow insists on taking odd rights and lefts.
  4252. >"Do you even know where you're going? With how many turns we've taken, I wouldn't be surprised if we've gone around in a circle!"
  4253. >Rainbow's irritation is ignored as the Librarian forges on ahead, which earns an exasperated sigh.
  4254. "Rainbow Dash has a point, though: every time we reach a good path, you always ignore it completely."
  4255. >"The obvious path forward is rarely the smartest one, child. The numerous halls of this Labyrinth are known to shift and sway in a moment's notice."
  4256.  
  4257. >Satisfied with her explanation, the Shadow treks onward and leads us into the next room.
  4258. >If the last room looked like a study, then this room looks like one of those darkrooms old-time photographers used for pictures.
  4259. >A dull, red light illuminates the otherwise dim room, and several faded photographs line the walls.
  4260. >(I don't like this: it screams 'trap', especially with how our last encounter happened. Keep alert, everyone.)
  4261. >We ready our weapons and inspect the room, making sure to keep an eye on each others' blindspots.
  4262. >"There's something at the center of the room; a projector?"
  4263. >Indigo makes her way to the object in question: a marble sculpture of a projector facing a blank, white wall.
  4264. "Why would something like this be in the dead center of the room?"
  4265.  
  4266. >Sugarcoat takes a closer look, focusing on the empty reel slot with interest.
  4267. >"This thing probably works like the pedestal in the other room. Perhaps we can find a reel to put in?"
  4268. >Suddenly, a bright flash of light goes off behind us, as we turn around to see a gargantuan, lanky lizard!
  4269. >Instead of a head, the Shadow instead sports an odd, old-timey camera with the center lens focusing on each of us individually.
  4270. >With a roar, a Sagacious Owl, Loyal Hound, and a floating head with an extravagant crown join the fight!
  4271. >(We've got four Shadows again: Photo Stalker, Sagacious Owl, Loyal Hound, and Shouting Tiara. Who should be the vanguard this time, Sunset?)
  4272. >Looks like this time they didn't get the drop on us, so we're off to a good start, at least.
  4273. >Who do you guys want to start the battle with?
  4274.  
  4275. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rd-ALviCIh0
  4276.  
  4277. We haven't fielded Sunset the last couple fights, so I say she should jump in on this one. Pinkie to try for a combo, Indigo and Sour to prep in case we get surprisingly hard enemies.
  4278. Let's lead with the Sunset/Pinkie combo, a Mapsiodyne from Indigo, and a single target Physical move from Sour on the Tiara.
  4279. Flutters is on Analysis duty this time, scan the Stalker since it looks to be our major enemy for this fight.
  4280.  
  4281. >>33257962
  4282. >About time I get a piece of the action!
  4283. "Persona, Henshin!"
  4284. >"Carpe Diem. Are ya ready?"
  4285. >My combat armor blazes forth as I turn to my comrades.
  4286. "Fluttershy, you're on Analysis duty for now. Indigo, Sour, and Pinkie are with me!"
  4287. >"Right!"
  4288. >The shining, ethereal kindness of God envelops the non-combatants as the four of us take the field, weapons ready!
  4289. "Pinkie, I think we can pull off an effective combination attack if we combine our attacks."
  4290. >Scratching her head in thought, Pinkie nods to my offer and focuses on her Persona card.
  4291. >"Okie dokie lokie, Sunset, I just need a little time to prepare for it."
  4292. "Alright, I'll focus with you then. Indigo, Sour, help soften them up for us!"
  4293. >"You got it, Sunset; blow their minds, Pheidippides!"
  4294. >Indigo crushes her card as the runner fires off a round of lasers into the group of Shadows, striking all of them for heavy damage!
  4295.  
  4296. >"Persona!"
  4297. >Doppelgänger lunges at the injured Tiara, ripping into it and sending it stumbling back!
  4298. >"Alrighty, Sunset, Agni and I are super charged now!"
  4299. "Then let's show these things Hell. Persona!"
  4300. >"Persona!"
  4301. >My hand begins to glow with heat as Agni bursts out, his hands raised to the sky in prayer.
  4302. >Running as swiftly as my legs can carry, I slam flaming sigils around the Shadows, dodging their attacks in the process.
  4303. >The heat continues to rise, my hand feeling like it's being cooked from the inside out, but I grit my teeth as I finish the last rune.
  4304. >"We're all ready over here, Sunset. On your mark!"
  4305. >The fire god's hands balance a gargantuan ball of hellish flames, the very heat of it catching some of the hanging pictures on fire!
  4306. "Take this: the cursed fires of Hell, coming to claim your souls as sacrifice! Gehenna!"
  4307. >I leap back to the group and slam my hand into the ground, as Agni flings his fiery death upon the crowd of Shadows.
  4308.  
  4309. >The pilars of flame I set up catch all the Shadows in place, restricting their movements and cutting through their defenses!
  4310. >"Surprise!"
  4311. >Agni points at the slowly descending orb and fires out a single, tiny flame that floats after it.
  4312. >When the flame finally connects with the hellfire, the orb explodes, caking the enemies in damnation!
  4313.  
  4314. Combo Activated: Gehenna
  4315.  
  4316. >The unholy flames claim the Sagacious Owl before it can hoot, reducing it to cinders!
  4317. >With a terrible screech, the Photo Stalker flails around in the fire, a nasty burn forming on its underbelly!
  4318. >However, when the flames descend on the Loyal Hound and Shouting Tiara, their wounds don't seem to increase.
  4319. >In fact, they appear to be patching themselves up from the heat!
  4320. "Crap, I didn't know these things absorbed Fire magic!"
  4321. >The Photo Stalker regains its composure as it focuses its lenses on Indigo Zap, snapping a picture of the surprised athlete.
  4322. >"The hell was that? I know they say a picture last longer, but that's creepy!"
  4323.  
  4324. >Ignoring her complaints, the Shadow's skin shifts to a more metallic hue as smoke begins to leak out of its back.
  4325. >The Stalker's 'eye' lights up a dark shade of purple as it fires a volley of psychic bolts!
  4326. >I manage to dodge out of the way in time, and Indigo merely absorbs the beam into Pheidippides, but Sour Sweet and Pinkie take the blasts head-on!
  4327. >Seeing a prime opportunity, the Loyal Hound charges the injured Sour and slams into her, stopping Doppelgänger's metallic transformation and causing her to shift to purple instead.
  4328. >With a whoop and holler, the Shouting Tiara's hair raises skyward as all the remaining Shadows' wounds recover before our eyes!
  4329. >Even the burn from our attack appears to vanish completely!
  4330. ><I'm not sure what Photo Stalker did, but its resistances changed before I could get a scan off. I'll try and get another one out next time.>
  4331.  
  4332. ><Here's Doppelgänger's resistances at the moment:>
  4333.  
  4334. Absorb: Fire
  4335. Weak: Wind
  4336.  
  4337. >Sour Sweet groans as she attempts to stay upright, an annoyed scowl on her lips.
  4338. >"Don't suppose we could use another Cider, could we? I feel like a fucking punching bag sometimes."
  4339. >Sour Sweet doesn't look too good right now: if we don't recover some of her health, there's a good chance the next attack will down her.
  4340. >We still got nine Ciders, eight Candies, and eight incenses. There's also Rarity and Lemon Zest's healing capabilities and my revival magic.
  4341. >What do you guys think we should do next?
  4342.  
  4343. Status:
  4344.  
  4345. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4346. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4347. Sour Sweet: 11% HP, 70% SP
  4348. Pinkie Pie: 79% HP, 80% SP
  4349.  
  4350. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4351.  
  4352. In reserve:
  4353. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4354. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 70% SP
  4355. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4356. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4357. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4358. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4359. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4360.  
  4361. Belay that scan for a moment Yellow, we need it on the healer first! I'll take a two-shot kill on Owloiscious as a win for the round, but we need that Tiara dead yesterday; luckily Sour is in a good spot with her weakness/strengths this turn.
  4362. Let's play tactically:
  4363. Ponks should single-target Agidyne the Stalker, for some damage. She can't Frei until it's dead, or we might accidentally give it access to Indigo's weakness.
  4364. Indigo should throw down her strongest Psi move on the Tiara, and let's try to piss off that tiara with Sunset's enrage? And yeah, Red Sour needs Cider badly.
  4365. If we don't take it out this turn, scan that Tiara; otherwise, let's go for the Hound, I anticipate the Stalker's weaknesses will keep changing as he attacks.
  4366.  
  4367. "Hold up on scanning the Photo Stalker, Fluttershy: there's a good chance its weaknesses are shuffling every once in a while. Get a scan off the Shouting Tiara instead!"
  4368. ><Oh, alright then, Sunset.>
  4369. >We need to keep that Tiara from healing every turn.
  4370. >I pull out my sword and point it menacingly at the Shadow, who turns its head at the gesture.
  4371. >"You are gonna attack it, right?"
  4372. >Laughing at Indigo's suggestion, I spread my arms out in a taunting display and walk forward, smirking under my helmet.
  4373. >This absolutely infuriates the Shadow, who flails around in a fit of rage as I fall back to the group.
  4374. ><I'm not sure what you did, Sunset, but whatever it was worked. The Shouting Tiara's too angry to use magic right now!>
  4375. "And it's the perfect opportunity to hit it with Psychokinesis magic."
  4376.  
  4377. >"Don't have to tell me twice; Persona!"
  4378. >Indigo crushes her card as Pheidippides's arm converts into a full-blown cannon, psychedelic forces collecting in the center.
  4379. >After a moment of charging, the cannon fires a powerful wave of energy at the raging Tiara, obliterating the berserking Shadow in an instant!
  4380. >"Direct hit!"
  4381. >I toss one of the Ciders at Sour Sweet, who grabs it and nods thankfully before downing the entire bottle, her wounds patching up instantly.
  4382. >"Let's light this toaster some more! Persona!"
  4383. >Agni cackles as he materializes a flaming pie and flings it at the Photo Stalker, splattering over its chest and dealing moderate damage.
  4384. >The Photo Stalker, in exchange, aims one of its arms at Pinkie, firing a barrage of bullets.
  4385. >Unable to dodge in time, Pinkie is forced to weather the rounds, flinching as they punch holes through Agni!
  4386. >It then turns to me and snaps a photo once more, its skin changing into a far more heroic countenance.
  4387. >I also notice that its stance has shifted as well, though I can't quite tell where I've seen it before.
  4388.  
  4389. >The Loyal Hound howls in confidence as the remaining Shadows become filled with confidence, their strength increasing.
  4390. ><Pinkie's health isn't at maximum, but it looks like everyone's health is at safe levels. I've checked the Loyal Hound, but it looks like its the same as Doppelgänger's resistances.>
  4391. >Then that just leaves finding out Photo Stalker's gimmick.
  4392. >You guys have any ideas on what this thing's doing?
  4393. >Where should we go from here?
  4394.  
  4395. Status:
  4396.  
  4397. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4398. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 50% SP
  4399. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 70% SP
  4400. Pinkie Pie: 64% HP, 65% SP
  4401.  
  4402. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4403.  
  4404. In reserve:
  4405. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4406. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 70% SP
  4407. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4408. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4409. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4410. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4411. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4412.  
  4413. Let's leave the team as is, Sour Enervates the Stalker to limit its strength, Sunset Eihaon's the dog while Sour fucking powerbombs it, and Zap can fire a ranged shot at the Stalker to test the waters. Cautious, but perhaps not unfounded. If Fluttershy can scan it, I'm betting it's weak to Light moves right now, though who knows who it'll snap at the end of the turn..
  4414.  
  4415. >Let's get to work, then.
  4416. "Fetch this, Fido: Dark Blaster!"
  4417. >A volley of cursed shots burst out of my hand, slamming into the Loyal Hound and dealing heavy damage.
  4418. >"If that thing's copying movesets, then it shouldn't have anything to heal with. Kill it by inches, Pheidippides!"
  4419. >With a skilled leap, the eternal runner unleashes a round of bullets into the Photo Stalker, cracking the Shadow's lens slightly.
  4420. >"Persona!"
  4421. >Doppelgänger grabs the Loyal Hound by its torso, lifts the Shadow above its head, and slams it against the ground, earning a confused yelp before it explodes on impact!
  4422. >"Sunset got lucky with her Rage earlier, so let's try and weaken it. Persona!"
  4423. >Pinkie fires upon her card as Agni's body begins to shine like the morning sun, a wave of radiation washing off him.
  4424.  
  4425. >Unfortunately, the Photo Stalker seems unaffected by the attack, merely shifting colors momentarily before shifting back.
  4426. >"Aw, nuts."
  4427. >A microphone forms in the Shadows hand as it shrieks into the mic and enhances its physical values.
  4428. >There's no mistaking it now: that Photo Stalker is copying the skills of whoever it takes a photo of!
  4429. >I don't think it copies passive abilities, though, since it's only taking a picture from the outside, not a complete copy.
  4430. >Before I can muse on the further nature of its ability, the Shadow fires a round of dark energy at Pinkie, slamming her with its newly increased power!
  4431. >"Oof! I don't think I can get away with much more natural regeneration, Sunset!"
  4432. "But this time it got too greedy! Fluttershy, what's your scan results for the Photo Stalker?"
  4433. ><Scanning... There, I've managed to pin down its weaknesses now. Here's a scan:>
  4434.  
  4435. Photo Stalker (Priestess) -
  4436.  
  4437. Repel: Curse
  4438. Weak: Bless
  4439.  
  4440. ><It looks like the Photo Stalker does copy the weaknesses of the person it takes a photo of. Now's our chance to exploit that!>
  4441. >I nod, looking over to Pinkie, who's panting from exhaustion and pain.
  4442. >Now might be a good time to swap her out with Fluttershy or Lemon Zest, to capitalize on the weakness.
  4443. >Let's figure out how to crush this photo job and move on!
  4444.  
  4445. Status:
  4446.  
  4447. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 60% SP
  4448. Indigo Zap: 80% HP, 50% SP
  4449. Sour Sweet: 80% HP, 70% SP
  4450. Pinkie Pie: 39% HP, 60% SP
  4451.  
  4452. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4453.  
  4454. In reserve:
  4455. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4456. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4457. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4458. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4459. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4460. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4461. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4462.  
  4463. ou got the right idea, Shimmer, time to end this!
  4464. Ponks, swap out to Zest, who can kick in a Kougaon on this. That should let us All-Out and kick this thing in the teeth.
  4465. Sour can fuckin' deck it with a Persona physical if it's still standing, and the rest of the team should be able to basic it down if for some reason it's still up.
  4466.  
  4467. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nKjB4M6dR0o
  4468. "Pinkie, fall back into Tzaphkiel. Lemon Zest can handle it from here!"
  4469. >"If you say so, Sunset."
  4470. >Pinkie limps back to the reserve while Lemon jams out onto the field.
  4471. "Get a Bless spell ready while we soften the Stalker up!"
  4472. >I roll towards the Shadow and jab my sword into its stomach, causing it to roar in pain!
  4473. >Indigo follows suit with a flurry of punches that cause the Shadow to stagger
  4474. >"Alright, Doppelgänger, slam this fool!"
  4475. >The shadowy Persona tries its best to tackle the Photo Stalker, but misses just short and is forced to return to Sour Sweet.
  4476. >"And of course you had to fucking miss. Quality turn there, Persona."
  4477. >"Toki o koero sora o kakero kono hoshi no tame~"
  4478. >Lemon Zest sings a familiar song as Ame-no-Uzume's fans glow in a heavenly light.
  4479.  
  4480. >In time with her unknown rhythm, the dancing goddess fires a barrage of talismans into the Shadow, causing it to writhe upon the ground.
  4481. "Now's our chance for an All-Out Attack!"
  4482. >The four of us swarm the downed Stalker, slamming away at it with our weapons until it body finally fails itself and fades away!
  4483. ><Good job, everyone, all Shadows have been eliminated! Just like last time, it looks like more students are in these Shadows.>
  4484. >The Photo Stalker's body melts away to reveal Photo Finish, and the other three Shadows appear to be her co-workers, though I can't remember their names.
  4485. >"Hold up, Sunset, what's that photo girl holding on to?"
  4486. >Sour Sweet pulls out a crystalline reel before placing it onto the projector in the center of the room.
  4487. >Sure enough, it clicks in perfectly and begins to spin on its own, a light shooting out from the projector and onto the screen.
  4488.  
  4489. The Photo
  4490.  
  4491. "Are you sure I have to go with you, Mom?"
  4492. >With an apologetic look, my mom nods, packing some things into the car before helping me inside.
  4493. >"Unfortunately, Dad's got very many meetings to deal with, and Shining is staying with some of his friends."
  4494.  
  4495. >Try as I might, there's nothing I can say to counter that, so I hold Miss Smarty Pants in my arms and look out the window.
  4496. >...
  4497. >It's been a few years since Grandpa passed away, and while we have moved on for the most part, I still miss him.
  4498. >"I think you'll like it at Mrs. Eclipse's place, Twilight. If I recall correctly, she has a daughter around your age."
  4499. >Mom was probably trying to comfort me, but knowing there's someone my age there only makes me worry more.
  4500. >What if I'm forced to talk with them?
  4501. >What if we have completely different likes and dislikes?
  4502. >Regardless of my worries, we reach Mrs. Eclipse's home and make our way to the front door and knock.
  4503. >After a while, a tall lady with scary eyes opened the door and smiled at Mom.
  4504. >"Ah, Velvet, you finally made it. The others have been waiting for you."
  4505. >The lady knelt down to meet me face-to-face, her smile and eyes greatly contrasting one another.
  4506. >"And what is your name, young lady?"
  4507. >I look away in order avoid her gaze as I stutter out an answer.
  4508. "T-Twilight, ma'am..."
  4509.  
  4510. >"Well, Twilight, welcome to my home. My name is Mrs. Eclipse, and your mother and I are close friends."
  4511. >Her eyes retain their sharp gaze, but they seem less scary than before.
  4512. >Mom and I enter the house at her behest, and Mrs. Eclipse points me towards what looks like her living room.
  4513. >"The other children are playing in the room over, so why don't you join them?"
  4514. >The feelings of worry and trepidation returns, but are quashed by Mom rubbing my hair.
  4515. >With uncertainty, I leave Mom and Mrs. Eclipse to their activities, while I enter the room full of strangers.
  4516. >Five girls around my age are hanging around the living room, talking amongst each other until they notice me.
  4517. "Um... Hi."
  4518. >I wave awkwardly, the scent of marinara from the kitchen wafting into the room.
  4519. >This was a horrible idea: I could've been reading at home.
  4520. >As I turn to quickly retreat to the safety of Mom's car, I feel a hand firmly grasp my shoulder.
  4521.  
  4522. >I turn to see a girl with purple and pink hair, a friendly smile on her face.
  4523. >"Hey, no need to run off on us. My name's Sunny Flare, but my friends call me Sol."
  4524. >Sunny drags me back to the group of girls, though I don't really put up much of a resistance.
  4525. >The rest of the girls, noticing our actions, turn their attention towards me, their eyes judging my every move.
  4526. >"So what's your name?"
  4527. "Twilight Sparkle..."
  4528. >I'm practically mumbling the name, but the other girls don't seem particularly bothered by it.
  4529. >The girl with blue, spiky hair is the first to introduce herself with a forceful handshake.
  4530. >"I'm Indigo Zap, pleased to meet you, Sunlight!"
  4531. "...Twilight."
  4532. >After swinging my poor arm around, Indigo takes a seat while a quiet-looking girl with flowing blue and white hair speaks up next.
  4533. >"The name's Sugarcoat. You're weird, Twilight, but whatever."
  4534. >Thanks?
  4535.  
  4536. >Before I can interpret Sugarcoat's meaning, she returns to reading the book she had in her hands.
  4537. >I manage to catch the title, "Through the Looking-Glass, and What Alice Found There", before the last two grab my attention.
  4538. >The first is a tough-looking girl with a mixture of green and magenta hair, while the other is partially jamming to a tune in her headphones.
  4539. >"My name's Sour Sweet, and this ass over here jamming away is Lemon Zest."
  4540. >I jump at Sour's language, but she ignores my surprise and lifts up one of the headphones to grab the rocking girl's attention.
  4541. >After some initial confusion, Lemon turns to me with a grin and takes off her headset.
  4542. >"Dude, you gotta hear this!"
  4543. >And just like that, my ears are assailed with loud music from all sides, leaving me to squirm in discomfort before Sunny pulls them off.
  4544. >"So what's that you're holding onto, Twilight?"
  4545. >My arms unintentionally squeeze Miss Smarty Pants hard against my chest, but I eventually show her to the other girls.
  4546. "Her name's Miss Smarty Pants."
  4547. >Sour Sweet takes a look at it before looking up to me with a confused look.
  4548.  
  4549. >"Not that this isn't a nice plushie, Twilight, but don't you think it's time to get a newer one?"
  4550. >Sugarcoat nods, pointing out Miss Smarty Pants's red button eye, slowly but surely coming loose.
  4551. >"It's practically falling apart."
  4552. >Their words sting true, but when I look at Miss Smarty Pants, I can't help but get a tear in my eye.
  4553. >"Grandpa made me this a few years back, Back before he... Before he passed away."
  4554. >The other girls look shocked at my admission, an awkward silence filling the room.
  4555. "Oh, I didn't mean to make you all feel bad about it!"
  4556.  
  4557. >Sunny shakes her head and checks out Miss Smarty Pants for herself.
  4558. >"It's fine, Twilight, there's nothing for you to be sorry about. What's with the notebook by her side?"
  4559. >My eyes lit up at the question, and I begin to explain the functions of Miss Smarty Pants, while the other girls talked about other things as well.
  4560. >We were having such a great time that we didn't even notice when someone entered the room.
  4561. >"Don't you all look precious? I think this calls for a photo to commemorate the moment!"
  4562. >I turn around with a confused look as Mom snaps her camera and catches us all in the flash.
  4563. >The photo comes out, and I have to say, I don't looks terribly photogenic in it.
  4564. >But even then, I can't help but keep it close to my heart.
  4565. >On this day, I found new friends: Indigo Zap, Sugarcoat, Sour Sweet, Lemon Zest, and Sunny Flare.
  4566. >No, not Sunny, Sol.
  4567. >After all, that what her friends call her, right?
  4568.  
  4569. >The reel finally runs out of footage as the Crystal Prep students look between each other in surprise.
  4570. >"You're telling me that, not only did we all used to be friends,"
  4571. >"But Twilight was one of them."
  4572. "From what I heard from Sunny and Sour, they only knew each other from club activities."
  4573. >Sour Sweet nods, her brow furrowing as she tries to make sense of it.
  4574. >"I'm trying to remember anything from that time, but I can't get a grasp on it. What the hell happened to our memories?"
  4575.  
  4576. >I turn to the Libararian, calmly examining one of the many developing photographs on the walls.
  4577. "What do you have to say about this, Librarian? How is Twilight connected to these girls?"
  4578. >The Shadow shrugs, walking back to the rest of the group.
  4579. >"The Fool might be foolish, but her memory is rarely incorrect. Perhaps you simply forgot."
  4580. >Despite their attempts to counter her point, the girls can't seem to find a way to argue back.
  4581. >Ignoring their struggles, the Librarian makes her way to the exit of the room, waiting for us to follow her deeper.
  4582. ><Pinkie and Sour Sweet are the only ones injured from that fight, so whether we use magic or Ciders I'll leave to you. Here's our condition:>
  4583.  
  4584. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4585. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 50% SP
  4586. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4587. Sour Sweet: 80% HP, 70% SP
  4588. Pinkie Pie: 49% HP, 65% SP
  4589. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4590. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4591. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 93% SP
  4592. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4593. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4594. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4595. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4596.  
  4597. ><We've got eight Ciders, Candies, and Incenses remaining.>
  4598.  
  4599. Let's heal up Penke and Sour with Rarity's cure, we should probably save the ciders for when we don't have easy access to SP-based healing, or when our healers are status'd. Sour is a fucking champ, muscling through these fights, just gonna say.
  4600. Hm, seems like a weird thing to just forget about without cause... I'm anticipating some major fuckery in the next couple memories. Probably revolving in no small part around Cinch and her thirst for control.
  4601.  
  4602. >Sour Sweet really has pulled her weight during all of this, especially with that special ability of hers.
  4603. >You're right, though, this is something far too important to just forget completely.
  4604. >We'll need to keep a closer eye on the memories from now on.
  4605. "Rarity, could you patch up Sour Sweet and Pinkie? I don't think we need to use a Cider unless we can't use magic."
  4606. >After some TLC from Cait Sith, we continue to follow the Librarian through the halls, avoiding the straightforward paths and seemingly losing ourselves in the books.
  4607. "So what are you, Librarian?"
  4608. >The Shadow looks back to me for a moment, a feeling of slight annoyance emanating from her.
  4609. >"I'd have though I given a proper explanation."
  4610.  
  4611. >I shake my head as she opens a secret passage from one of the bookshelves.
  4612. "Most of the Shadows here are essentially the forms of students overwritten by their Shadows. But you're so familiar with this place that you have to have been here long before that."
  4613. >The Librarian pauses for a moment, stiff as a board, before continuing her movement forward.
  4614. >"You are an interesting one, child; I have been a part of this Fool long before now."
  4615. >"Then are you Twilight's Shadow?"
  4616. >Sunny's question seems less effective than my own, halting her march not by a whit.
  4617. >"I am a part of her, but not a Shadow like you are familiar with."
  4618. >Before we can press her more for information, a choking smoke drifts from the hallway we're on.
  4619. >Almost like there's a fire in the book labyrinth!
  4620. "We gotta get to where that's going now!"
  4621. >We rush into the room to see a group of Shadows burning down a tapestry of words on the wall!
  4622.  
  4623. ><Oh no, my scans indicate that was a memory! There's another one on the other side of the room: don't let them burn that one down!>
  4624. >We maneuver in between the tapestry and the Shadows, as a woman floating on a reverse pyramid enters from the other exit, her "eyes" set on the tapestry's destruction..
  4625. ><Scans show another Loyal Hound, a Primitive Idol, and two Autonomic Basalts! Who do you guys want on the field this time?>
  4626. >Something tells me we're going to have to play both offense and defense for this fight: if that tapestry burns up, we might never learn what's on it!
  4627. >Who should we start this fight with?
  4628.  
  4629. "Fluttershy, you're on Analysis again. We'll start with Rainbow, Rarity, Spike, and Sunny for this fight!"
  4630. ><Alright, be careful, everyone!>
  4631. >With the non-combatants safely inside Tzaphkiel's orb of light, I notice the Primitive Idol wave some arcane sigils into the air, covering the Shadows with a shimmering green light.
  4632. >"I don't like the look of that Idol. Punch a hole right through it, Achilles!"
  4633. >Rainbow swipes at her card, the hero of Troy's afterimage slowly raising his weapon while the true strike hits almost instantly, dealing heavy damage!
  4634. >"I think our Personas mesh well together, Spike. How about trying out a combination attack?"
  4635. >Spike's ears perk up as he jumps up and down with excitement.
  4636. >"I'd love to, Rarity!"
  4637.  
  4638. >Rarity scritches the doggo with a loving smile on her lips, then stands up and readies her rapier.
  4639. >"Well, then, without further ado: Persona!"
  4640. >"Persona!"
  4641. >Amarok's black drool drips out of the dread wolf's mouth, hardening in freefall and transforming into dark blades that skewer the earth.
  4642. >The corrupted ooze from the blades leaks into the library floor, crawling up to the Shadows and ensnaring their lower bodies in the mire!
  4643. >With an energized yowl, Caith Sith swings his blade in a circle, summoning a typhoon of biting winds that encircles the Shadows and tears away at them.
  4644. >Meanwhile, the swords in the earth begin to jostle out of their positions, drawn by the raging storm and eventually ripped out of their resting place.
  4645. >The winds rage on as the blades themselves join in the assault, slicing through the enemies in every direction!
  4646.  
  4647. Combo Activated: Tempest Fang
  4648.  
  4649. >Unable to escape the storm, the Shadows are forced to suffer through it all dealing heavy damage!
  4650. >However, something doesn't quite seem right.
  4651. >"That's odd, I'd have thought the Loyal Hound would have at least fallen from that."
  4652. >As Rarity mulls over the confusion, Fluttershy's eyes widen as she examines the emerald sheen surrounding the Shadows.
  4653.  
  4654. ><It looks like that Primitive Idol nullified the Shadows' weaknesses to Wind attacks! Unless you can break the Wall, you can't hit their weak points!>
  4655. >Sunny's focus remains on the hovering woman, even moreso from Fluttershy's Analysis.
  4656. >"That Idol is the true threat here: so long as she can cast spells, we're in trouble. Shut her mouth, Phoebe!"
  4657. >The titaness crouches down from the roof and blows a soft wind on the Shadows, the star-filled mist surrounding them with a deathly silence.
  4658. >As a result, the Loyal Hound and one of the Autonomic Basalts find themselves voiceless, squirming around as their abilities are locked for a time.
  4659. >The Primitive Idol and other Basalt, on the other hand, manage to bypass the mist, unaffected by the magic.
  4660. ><Good job, Sunny, you managed to hamper two of the Shadow's skills!>
  4661. >"But the main one still has hers available."
  4662.  
  4663. >As if to respond to Sunny's comment, the Idol chants ominously as beams of light burst forth from the pyramid, striking everyone but Spike with heavy damage!
  4664. >Sensing it's opportunity to strike, the silenced Hound attempts to leap at Rainbow, but the black ooze on its paws slows it down enough for her to avoid the attack.
  4665. >The ailment-free Basalt shivers as a layer of rocks surrounds all the Shadows, granting them extra protection.
  4666. >Finally, the soundless rock slams into Rarity, causing her to stagger back in pain!
  4667. >As that happens, a gout of flame erupts from behind the Shadows, slamming into the tapestry and setting part of it ablaze!
  4668. ><Integrity of the tapestry has fallen to 51%!>
  4669. >Sunny bites her lip as her right prosthetic grips the parasol handle tightly.
  4670. >"Damn it; can we use magic to restore the tapestry to its original condition?"
  4671. >Fluttershy pauses in thought, scanning the burning text.
  4672. ><My scans show the damage to be mostly magical in nature. I think you can restore it with healing magic, if not cast other skills on it.>
  4673. >The girls ponder on what to do next as the information of the Primitive Idol pops into view.
  4674.  
  4675. Primitive Idol (Priestess) -
  4676.  
  4677. Repel: Fire
  4678. Resist: Ice, Bless
  4679.  
  4680. ><Here's everyone's condition:>
  4681.  
  4682. Status:
  4683.  
  4684. Rainbow Dash: 59% HP, 100% SP (Physical Idol Hit)
  4685. Rarity: 51% HP, 65% SP (Tempest Fang)
  4686. Spike: 100% HP, 80% SP (Tempest Fang)
  4687. Sunny Flare: 76% HP, 95% SP (Silence Idol Fail)
  4688.  
  4689. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4690.  
  4691. In reserve:
  4692. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4693. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 50% SP
  4694. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 70% SP
  4695. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 65% SP
  4696. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 80% SP
  4697. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 93% SP
  4698. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4699.  
  4700. >"Well, if all we need to do is give the paper some fire protection, then let's get that over with. Persona!"
  4701. >Rainow slams her card with the pipe, a crimson targe falling from the ceiling and landing in front of the tapestry, granting it protection against the flames.
  4702. >"Patch everyone up, my dear Cait Sith!"
  4703. >The cat fey rubs against everyone and purrs, the adorable display of affection filling the party with warmth and restoring their wounds.
  4704. >In addition, it seems to have an effect on the decoration as well, reverting the damage done by the previous fire!
  4705. ><Looks like group healing works just as fine as targeted, so keep it up!>
  4706. >"I wasn't able to try this out before, but maybe it'll work? Stop thinking about it and strike them down, Amarok!"
  4707. >Spike howls as the dread wolf charges energy in its jaws, the bright shine of plasma illuminating the entire room.
  4708. >Fully charged, the beam slams into the Shadows, missing the Primitive Idol and one of the Basalts by a hair, but slamming into the Loyal Hound and the other Basalt for heavy damage!
  4709.  
  4710. >After the wave subsides, the stone Shadow's movements sieze up as electricity jumps around it.
  4711. ><It looks like that Basalt's Shocked now: be careful when striking it, or you might get Shocked yourselves!>
  4712. >"And Shocked enemies take extra damage to Nuclear magic, don't they. Persona!"
  4713. >With a concentrated slash, Sunny calls forth Phoebe as the goddess causes the heavens to rain down on the Shadows.
  4714. >None are able to escape judgement, as the Loyal Hound bursts into stardust and the others take heavy damage!
  4715. >The Primitive Idol chants softly as a heavenly glow descends on the Shadows, rejuvenating their bodies and restoring some of their wounds.
  4716. >After that, the Shadow waves her hands in a pattern and unleashes a torrent of lasers at the girls and Spike, striking the poor dog and Rainbow, but missing Rarity and Sunny in the process!
  4717.  
  4718. >While one of the Basalts is unable to move from the involuntary paralysis, the other silently leaps at Spike, landing on the injured doggo's tail and earning a yelp of surprise and pain!
  4719. >Another gout of flame strikes the tapestry, but the targe in front of it absorbs most of the blow.
  4720. ><Tapestry integrity is now at 73%!>
  4721. >"That heal doesn't seem as strong as last time, but it'll be a pain to have to deal with that every turn!"
  4722. ><If you need a break, I can try to stun or frighten the Shadows with Tzaphkiel. It might not work, but if it does, it should lessen your burden for a while. Here's a scan for the Autonomic Basalt:>
  4723.  
  4724. Autonomic Basalt (Priestess) -
  4725.  
  4726. Resist: Physical, Ranged
  4727. Weak: Wind
  4728.  
  4729. Status:
  4730.  
  4731. Rainbow Dash: 73% HP, 95% SP
  4732. Rarity: 100% HP, 50% SP
  4733. Spike: 41% HP, 60% SP
  4734. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4735.  
  4736. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4737.  
  4738. In reserve:
  4739. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4740. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 50% SP
  4741. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 70% SP
  4742. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 65% SP
  4743. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 90% SP
  4744. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 93% SP
  4745. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4746.  
  4747. ><It's time to capitalize on our luck! Spike, swap out with Indigo: we're going to exploit those ailments for extra damage!>
  4748. >Spike flinches a bit from his wounds, but nods as he limps back towards the angel's gaze, as the star athlete takes his place.
  4749. >"Alright, Pheidippides, focus fire on that silent Shadow!"
  4750. >Indigo crushes her card as a barrage of laser fire shoots through the air and punches holes through the Autonomic Basalt, its rocky exterior flaking in response!
  4751. >"I'll leave the magic to you guys: my beef's with that Idol. Persona!"
  4752. >Rainbow's determined gaze is shared with her Persona, as Achilles slams into the Primitive Idol faster than we can see.
  4753. >"Persona!"
  4754. >Rarity slices away as Cait Sith unleashes another psychedelic yowl, striking all the Shadows and finally shattering the wordless Basalt!
  4755. >"No mercy!"
  4756. >Phoebe calls down a heavenly light, as a beam of pure plasma vaporizes the final Basalt, leaving the wounded Idol remaining!
  4757. >At first, the Shadow seems lost at what to do, but then a wry aura emanates from her blank features.
  4758.  
  4759. >She raises a hand to her mouth and laughs haughtily, momentarily confusing Indigo and Rarity before their gazes turn to their comrades.
  4760. >"What's so fucking funny, you snooty little shit?"
  4761. >Rainbow dash begins fuming uncontrollably as Sunny's glare shoots murder at the smug enemy!
  4762. ><Oh no, whatever that Primitive Idol did made Rainbow and Sunny incredibly upset! Their guard's been lowered, and I can't get them to respond!>
  4763. >With a menacing glint and hand signals, another wave of unholy energy slams into the group, striking everyone and heavily damaging the furious girls!
  4764. >"I'll never... forgive you!"
  4765. >Sunny spits the words out as another fireball slams into the tapestry, burning more of it away!
  4766. ><Tapestry integrity now at 58%. This isn't good: with how angry those two are, we won't be able to pull them out of combat!>
  4767.  
  4768. >Indigo looks around her outraged rival, her mind wracking around for a solution.
  4769. >"I think I might be able to snap Rainbow Dash out of this, if we don't want to waste a Cider. No guarantees, though."
  4770. >"I'm afraid I'm not much help, either: I can either heal them or cure their ailments, not both.
  4771. ><Well, whatever we decide to do, it looks like the Shadow's getting desperate; we'll just need to keep up the offense! Here's everyone's condition:>
  4772.  
  4773. Indigo Zap: 76% HP, 40% SP
  4774. Rainbow Dash (Rage): 23% HP, 95% SP
  4775. Rarity: 76% HP, 35% SP
  4776. Sunny Flare (Rage): 42% HP, 65% SP
  4777.  
  4778. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4779.  
  4780. In reserve:
  4781. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4782. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 70% SP
  4783. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 65% SP
  4784. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4785. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 93% SP
  4786. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4787. Spike: 41% HP, 60% SP
  4788.  
  4789. ><... On second thought, it might be best to keep Rainbow Dash angry. Her attacks might be more potent that way.>
  4790. >Fluttershy's comment earns her a number of confused looks, causing her to shrink back in embarrassment.
  4791. ><Um, that isn't to say you can't snap her out of it, Indigo Zap. Sorry if that sounded weird."
  4792. >Indigo shakes her head, pulling out a Cider from the communal supply bag.
  4793. >"I don't mind; though if we want to capitalize on our damage, we should probably have most of us in our right mind."
  4794. >With that, she expertly tosses the bottle at the enraged Sunny Flare, the shattered glass dissolving into the aether as the apple-y goodness soaks through her skin.
  4795. >"Ugh, why does it feel like I've been hit with a glass bottle? Why am I sticky and sweet-smelling?"
  4796. >As Sunny regains her sense of self, Rainbow leaps at the Primitive Idol like a barbarian, slamming her pipe into the Shadow's head with a sickening crunch!
  4797.  
  4798. >"If we're going this route, then I'll patch up our wounds!"
  4799. >Cait Sith's warmth and love restores the group's vitality and regenerates the damage done to the tapestry.
  4800. >"The Shadow looks like she's on her last legs. Smite her down, Phoebe!"
  4801. >Sunny slices the card in half as the sky darkens above everyone, small stars lining the inky blackness of space.
  4802. >Suddenly one of the lights begins to crash down, becoming larger and more defined as it comes closer.
  4803. >Wait, that isn't a star.
  4804. ><! Everyone, back away from the Shadow!>
  4805. >With Indigo dragging the frothing Rainbow Dash back, everyone retreats closer to Tzaphkiel as the gigantic fist slams into the poor Idol, deleting it from existence!
  4806. ><A-all Shadows have been eliminated: good work, girls.>
  4807. >Fluttershy calls back her Persona as the four girls and Spike pant from exhaustion.
  4808. >"That... was a rough one."
  4809. >Indigo sighs as an unfortunate revelation pops in my mind.
  4810.  
  4811. "Wait, if the only reason we couldn't exploit those Shadows' weaknesses was because of their Wind resistance, couldn't we have used Rarity's Wind Break spell?"
  4812. >The group is struck with a dumb silence as the Librarian sighs and shakes her head in exasperation.
  4813. >"Regardless, you've managed to save that one memory on the wall. Though I can't say the same about the original piece."
  4814. >We look over to see the charred remains of the second tapestry, so completely burnt as to be unreadable.
  4815. >Considering their focus on those memories, along with the thoroughness of the flames, this can only mean one thing.
  4816. "Twilight didn't want us to see these memories."
  4817. >The others look to me in surprise as the Librarian simply moves towards the exit.
  4818. "Think about it: we already have a memory where she knows Sunny, Sour, Indigo, Lemon, and Sugarcoat. If these memories were the targets of censorship, then there's something about this point in time she doesn't want us to know."
  4819.  
  4820. >Sunny's prosthetic twitches as she looks at the remaining tapestry, lost in thought.
  4821. >"But why these memories; what could have possibly happened to have been so traumatizing?"
  4822. >We inspect the tapestry closely, but it looks like its not gonna talk any time soon.
  4823. >Instead, the images begin to move in an order of events, sort of like a flip book or comic.
  4824. >Someone, who I can only assume is Twilight's father, is driving all the girls, now older, to some place.
  4825. >Everyone seems excited in their own way, especially Twilight, who is still holding onto the Miss Smarty Pants doll in her bag.
  4826. >From the looks of it, it's even more ragged and aged: threatening to tear at the first sign of weakness.
  4827. >They reach a forested area, perhaps Everfree, and set up a campsite as the girls hang out on a nearby hill.
  4828. >Until the end of the final image, the girls talk and look at the night sky without a care in the world.
  4829.  
  4830. >I look back to the girls, only to find even more shock and pain in their eyes.
  4831. >"Camping? I don't think I've ever gone camping before..."
  4832. >The confusion is only amplified as Sunny's prosthetic begins to spasm far more violently than before!
  4833. >"Damn it, what's with this thing? I can't get it under control!"
  4834. >After a moment of fiddling and slamming, the robotic hand returns to its default state, though a finger occasionally squirms.
  4835. >I turn to the Librarian for answers, but she seems either uninterested or unknowing, merely waiting for us at the exit into the Labyrinth.
  4836. >Something is definitely going on with these memories.
  4837. >Something that everyone here has forgotten completely.
  4838. >But stewing on it isn't going to help, especially since we have more students to save.
  4839. "We'll worry about all of this later. Let's focus on getting through the rest of this as efficiently as we can."
  4840. >After a moment of pause, the others nod in unison as Fluttershy summons Tzaphkiel.
  4841. ><Spike's still injured from that last battle, and we're running low on SP again. I'll leave it to you how to resupply energy:>
  4842.  
  4843. Status:
  4844. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 75% SP
  4845. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 50% SP
  4846. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 95% SP
  4847. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 70% SP
  4848. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 65% SP
  4849. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 90% SP
  4850. Rarity: 100% HP, 15% SP
  4851. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 93% SP
  4852. Applejack: 100% HP, 40% SP
  4853. Spike: 41% HP, 60% SP
  4854. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 45% SP
  4855. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  4856.  
  4857. ><We've got seven Ciders, eight Candies, and eight Incenses remaining.>
  4858.  
  4859. ouch, we burned through a lot of SP... it'd take about 4 candies to get everyone topped off, but if we keep with our previous plan of keeping our more physical fighters in the half-to-three-quarters range, we'll probably be alright.
  4860.  
  4861. Let's see... Shimmer, Dash, Sour, Sugarcoat, Zest, AJ, and Fluttershy are all probably good for at least one more fight before we have to worry about their SP rations. That leaves Indigo, Ponk, Rarara, Spike, and Sunny, for a total of... 250%? Then we've got 50% of a candy to use, so let's use that to give AJ another 30%, and 10% each for Shimsham and Sour. Heal up Spike with a Cider, and we're good to soldier on, I think.
  4862.  
  4863. "Let's break three more Candies between us to keep our general SP high. Spike can use a Cider to patch himself up, to save on energy."
  4864. >After a few transfers and a very awkward attempt at a dog trying to drink from a glass bottle, we finish preparations and follow the Librarian deeper in.
  4865. >"As you have seen, the Fool rarely does things for her own good."
  4866. >Further, and further still, we trek through the endless books and records lining the walls, as Lemon Zest finally lowers her headphones.
  4867. >"Hey, Book Lady, you said this was all part of Twilight's knowledge, right?"
  4868. >"It is the accumulation of all her knowledge, yes."
  4869. >"Why make it a maze, then? Wouldn't that make it harder to find things?."
  4870. >The Librarian, for the first time I've seen, takes a direct path through an open hallway, avoiding the natural turn to the left.
  4871. >"Tell me, have you heard of Asterion the Second? Son of Minos, king of Crete, and the dreaded Minotauros."
  4872.  
  4873. >She pulls out a heavy book on Greek mythology and continues on her way.
  4874. >"Born of Hubris and Sin, the monster of a man was encased in the Heart of the Labyrinth."
  4875. >Designed, not to keep people out, but to keep the Minotaur in.
  4876. >I remember our History teacher going on about it last month.
  4877. "So you're saying Twilight is trapping herself with all this knowledge?"
  4878. >The Shadow shrugs and returns the book in a convenient slot in the nearby wall, opening a secret passage.
  4879. >"Who knows?"
  4880. >It seems that's all the information we'll be getting out of her, but what it implies makes me wonder.
  4881. >Did this Fantasia form when Twilight lost control, or has it always been here?
  4882. >We make our way to the next room: a surprisingly peaceful room filled with dog toys and pictures of Spike dotting the walls.
  4883. "Suppose we already know what this memory is, but where's our Shadow fight?"
  4884. ><I'm scanning around, Sunset, but there's not even a trace of Shadow activities in this room. We're probably the first to enter this room in a long while.>
  4885.  
  4886. >The Librarian nods, picking a toy bone up and flipping it around in her hand, revealing a remote underneath.
  4887. >"Those Shadows the Fool has summoned might learn, but they are still strangers in these Archives."
  4888. >With that, the Shadow presses the lone red button on the controller as a television set emerges from the wall and flickers to life.
  4889.  
  4890. Spike
  4891.  
  4892. >"Now, Twilight, you can pick any pet you want, but you can only pick one, alright?"
  4893. >I nod to Dad as I break off and check out the pets in the shelter.
  4894. >Mom and Big Bro didn't want to come with us, so it's just Dad and I today.
  4895. >As I look at all the pets in their cages, I think back to just a few years ago.
  4896. >After that... incident... all the girls just moved to different schools, probably because of me.
  4897. >The only one I see these days is Sol, but something about "trauma" made her forget all about me.
  4898. >Dad gives her a new hand every year, as well as something to her mother.
  4899. >But that isn't important today: Dad said we can get a new pet!
  4900.  
  4901. >I find myself stopping at the puppy section, all the cute doggies trying their best to tempt me.
  4902. >But my eyes are on one particular pup: a little, purple dog that clumsily bumps into the cage door, trying his best to look up at me.
  4903. >I crouch down and smile at the runt, who happily barks in reply, his eyes shining with joy.
  4904. "Dad, I think I know what I want to get as a pet."
  4905. >The pet shop owner seems relieved to part with this puppy.
  4906. >Apparently he's been in the shop for several weeks now, with no one wanting to take him in.
  4907. >I don't know why; he looks so cute walking around and looking at everything with barely held joy.
  4908. >We sign the papers and return to the car.
  4909. >"Well, Twilight, I'm glad you found your perfect pet. He certainly looks like he'll be a great addition to our little family."
  4910. >I nod excitedly, petting the now snoozing pup.
  4911. >"Have you decided on a name yet?"
  4912. >My fingers brush on his green back, feeling a lump sorta like a...
  4913. "... Spike.I think I'll call him Spike."
  4914.  
  4915. >The video finishes as the set merges back into the wall, leaving no trace of its existence.
  4916. >Spike smiles as he chews down on one of the ephemeral toys on the ground.
  4917. >"Wow, I didn't think Twilight would remember the time she adopted me so vividly. I was way too young to remember all of that!"
  4918. >As I watch Spike's adorable reaction to the video, I hear murmurs of disbelief coming from behind me.
  4919. >"No way, Mr. Light is her father?"
  4920. >I turn to see Sunny's eyes flash with surprise as she looks back at her prosthetic.
  4921. "What's wrong, Sunny? You look really pale right now."
  4922. >After tapping through some screens, she shows us all the trademark on the bottom part of her robotic hand.
  4923. >Light Industries Ltd.
  4924. >"Night Light's the one that my mother hired to create my prosthetics. He's the head of one of the largest AI and Robotics companies in the country!"
  4925. >This has become an incredibly convenient web of relations, hasn't it?
  4926. >There must be something more to it.
  4927.  
  4928. "The beginning part said something about an 'incident' that caused all of you to move to different schools."
  4929. >"And I suffered some form of trauma where I forgot about all of this..."
  4930. >The Crystal Prep girls try their best to think about what might have happened, but to no avail.
  4931. >"Fucking hell, the worst part is that I have this feeling at the back of my mind: like I know what happened, but I just can't remember!"
  4932. >Sour swears through gritted teeth as I look at the always unmoving expression of the Librarian, quietly awaiting our departure.
  4933. "With every piece of the puzzle we get, another question pops up. But we need to put this on the backburner and keep moving forward."
  4934. >With some hesitant nods, we continue our voyage into the Labyrinth of an archive, passing by with relative ease.
  4935. >After what feels like fleeting moments, we reach a new room, filled with pictures of...
  4936.  
  4937. "String?"
  4938. >I see pictures tied with string, including the girls and school, all pinned up on a board that spans the entirety of the room's walls.
  4939. >And right at the heart of it, I see a picture of myself, where all the strings connect.
  4940. >"Ain't this one of them conspiracy boards ya see in movies? Didn't think this Twilight would be so paranoid."
  4941. >It's true that the Twilight I know is a worrywart of the worst calibur sometimes, and can get neurotic over minute things.
  4942. >But there's something about this board that makes me concerned, for some reason.
  4943. >(Heads up, everyone, there's a Shadow coming our way!)
  4944.  
  4945. >With a jolt, we turn around and ready our weapons, bracing ourselves as a bright white figure leaps into view.
  4946. >After a dramatic landing, the Shadow strikes a deliberate dabbing motion as an explosion bursts out behind him!
  4947. >...
  4948. >Is this some sort of sick joke?
  4949. >It looks like my own Persona, with inverted colors: whites instead of blacks, and blues instead of reds.
  4950. >Still, it looks like we have no time to be embarrassed, as the Shadow assumes a fighting stance and readies for battle!
  4951. ><Scans show this Shadow as Flash Rider; while he looks alone, don't underestimate him! Who do you want as our vanguard, Sunset?>
  4952. >Part of me feels like I should beat this Shadow to a pulp for copying me.
  4953. >But I'll leave the setup to you guys.
  4954. >Who should start the fight?
  4955.  
  4956. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qKw2_QU118
  4957.  
  4958. Hmm... Pallette swap? Someone else mains Kamen Rider? I guess it is a pretty high-tier persona.
  4959. Let's get Sunny on analysis, we might need Flutters in the wings if this fake pulls something sneaky.
  4960. I say field yourself, Spike, Sugarcoat, and Shygal.
  4961. Put up a Marakukaja in case this guy comes out swinging, it's 4 on 1 so unless he pulls in some allies he's probably going to be pretty tough.
  4962. Spike can give Eihaon a try, if he's truly your opposite it might knock him down.
  4963. Sugarcoat should guard just in case I'm wrong and he's a clone, wouldn't want her getting blitzed down.
  4964. And Butterhush can give us a Kougaon, let's see if he responds to either Bless or Curse moves poorly.
  4965. I'm curious what this fight holds, both for the mechanics and what this design appearing now means for SciTwi...
  4966.  
  4967. >Alright, time to pulverize this nerd!
  4968. "Persona, Henshin!"
  4969. >My own suit flares to life as I ready my battle stance, the two Riders staring each other down in anticipation.
  4970. >I hold my hand as a microphone forms in my grasp, and music plays from the suit's speakers.
  4971. "We are all together,"
  4972. >An invisible chorus echoes along to the tune, to the confusion of Spike and Sugarcoat.
  4973. "Now it's better than ever."
  4974. >Fluttershy hums quietly along to the tune as my magic starts to kick in.
  4975. "Now that we are back on track. And I'm so glad that we're better: better than ever!"
  4976. >With a final pose, I finish the track as everyone is surrounded by a protective blue aura.
  4977. "That should help us weather some damage, in case that Shadow has something nasty up their sleeve."
  4978. >Sugarcoat nods, then braces herself for the coming attack.
  4979. >"Just in case he has a fire attack like yours."
  4980.  
  4981. >Spike howls as Amarok leaps onto the battlefield, the dark ichor from its feral jaws hardening into a large blade.
  4982. >With cursed sword in jowl, the dread wolf tears into the Rider, cause it to collapse to its feet!
  4983. >"Direct hit! Now would be a good time for an All Out Attack!"
  4984. "Let's do it!"
  4985. >"Dogpile!"
  4986. >Spike, Fluttershy, and I rush the downed Rider, pummeling the white knight as Sugarcoat watches on from the safety of her guard.
  4987. >With a final kick to the head, the Flash Rider stops moving, it's lights powering down!
  4988. "Nice, we managed to clear that one in record time!"
  4989. >(Think again, Sunset, that Shadow's regaining its energy!)
  4990. >I jump back in time to avoid the burst of light from its body, as the Shadow pulls itself up once more!
  4991. >The armor is fully repaired with a set of black shades covering the eyes, the Flash Rider taunting us once more.
  4992. "So it has my revival skill, huh? Guess I should've known this battle wouldn't be a short one."
  4993.  
  4994. >"Persona!"
  4995. >Fluttershy slashes away at her card as Tzaphkiel rains down holy judgement on the Shadow!
  4996. >... Only for the spears of light to reflect off his shining armor and return to the angel, where they fade away!
  4997. >"Looks like Bless spells will be ineffective for this battle!"
  4998. >Sensing an opportunity, the Rider leaps into the air and slams his foot into the ground.
  4999. >Suddenly, the air grows colder as the ground cracks under the change of temperature.
  5000. >Without warning, giant ice spikes punch through the ground, stabbing into my arm hard!
  5001. >Sugarcoat is able to send the icicles back to the Shadow, striking him hard in return, but Spike and Fluttershy aren't as lucky.
  5002. >Spike takes heavy damage as Fluttershy's ice grows around her body, locking her movements despite her struggles!
  5003. >"I don't think I can break out of this Ice any time soon. Should we use a Cider?"
  5004. >(Looks like we can't go around underestimating this Shadow either. Here's the scan of Flash Rider EX:)
  5005. >EX?
  5006.  
  5007. Flash Rider EX (Priestess) -
  5008.  
  5009. Repel: Bless
  5010.  
  5011. >"But it was just weak to Curse magic before this!"
  5012. >(It seems to have grown out of that weakness. His strength also seems greater than when I began my scans.)
  5013. >Spike scratches his ear as I look back to the newly strengthened Flash Rider EX.
  5014. >Weakness exploits no longer seems like an option, but critical strikes should also work.
  5015. >Any ideas on what to do next?
  5016.  
  5017. Status:
  5018.  
  5019. Sunset Shimmer: 68% HP, 75% SP
  5020. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5021. Spike: 68% HP, 80% SP
  5022. Fluttershy (Frozen): 80% HP, 80% SP
  5023.  
  5024. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5025.  
  5026. In reserve:
  5027. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5028. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5029. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5030. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5031. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5032. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 93% SP
  5033. Applejack: 100% HP, 70% SP
  5034.  
  5035. Hm, so he really is your total opposite, huh? A clash for the ages!
  5036. Featherman Pink Starlight: Analysis! Can this foe be silenced?
  5037. Fetherman Black Grim: Eigaon! That imposter might not be weak to it anymore, but we'll remind them of the pain that evildoers feel when they receive comeuppance!
  5038. Featherman Blue Frost: help Yellow recover with some Cider, our teammate is in need of assistance!
  5039. Featherman Yellow Quiet: Grant Sunset the strength of Ice resistance, so we can show this fool that the embers of righteousness won't be snuffed by his cold imitation of True Justice!
  5040. And finally, Featherman Red Phoenix: let's ignite this fake's heart! Be reborn from the ashes of this Shadow's defeat, and see the world anew! ERUPTING! BURNING! JUSTICE!!!
  5041. uh... shit, actually, can we use Flutters' turn to give Shimsham anti-insta-KO instead? Trying to avoid him blasting us with a weakness and keep forgetting Sunset's is Light, not Ice.
  5042.  
  5043. >Don't you even start down that road.
  5044. >If this turns into an impromptu Sentai episode, someone's going to die horribly.
  5045. "Since you seem so gung-ho about your ice, how about I turn up the heat? Burning Justice!"
  5046. >I slam my hand into the ground as a blazing inferno erupts underneath the Flash Rider EX's feet!
  5047. >... But the quickfooted Shadow manages to stylishly swerve through the flames unscathed.
  5048. "Damn it, guys, your weeb shit ruined my concentration..."
  5049. >My mumbles don't seem to be caught by the others, as Sugarcoat begins to shake one of the Ciders from the bag.
  5050. >The bubbly liquid froths in the bottle, before bursting out in a stream when she popped the lid.
  5051. >Like a celebratory wine, the fruity cocktail sprays all over Fluttershy's frosted form, melting her icy prison and leaving her with a fresh, fruity scent!
  5052. >"That Rider might not be weak to Curse magic anymore, but it's not resistant to it either. Tear it apart, Amarok!"
  5053. >The dread wolf readies another dark blade in his jaws, then runs the Rider through, dealing heavy damage!
  5054.  
  5055. >"Oh, Tzaphkiel, protect my friend from the shadow of death!"
  5056. >The Beholder of God's eye flashes as a shimmering, ephemeral garment materializes around me.
  5057. >The feeling emanating from it is soothing, like a mother's embrace.
  5058. >Flash Rider EX clenches its fist and focuses, a shining aura radiating from it.
  5059. >Suddenly, it zooms right at me and slams its fist square directly at my chest!
  5060. >My armor breaks under the force, as I fall back from the momentum of the strike, catching myself in time.
  5061. >(My scans show that Silence has a very high chance of working against the Shadow. Make sure you don't need Fluttershy before you swap her out.)
  5062. >That Shadow's definitely not a pushover: we might need to swap in a healer soon if this keeps up.
  5063. >What's our next move, guys?
  5064.  
  5065. Status:
  5066.  
  5067. Sunset Shimmer (Tetraja): 35% HP, 40% SP
  5068. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5069. Spike: 68% HP, 60% SP)
  5070. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5071.  
  5072. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5073.  
  5074. In reserve:
  5075. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5076. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5077. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5078. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5079. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5080. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 93% SP
  5081. Applejack: 100% HP, 70% SP
  5082.  
  5083. Oof... we might need Lemon to jump in for some healing, yeah... sorry about your attack there Shimmerario.
  5084. Let's give it one more shot, Burning Justice!
  5085. Sugarcoat can try and lower this guy's agility, maybe this time we'll land a hit on him?
  5086. Spike should throw in some Ziodyne, maybe we can get another Shock out of it?
  5087. And yeah, as much as I like being able to wall this jerk's light moves, let's put Zest in here for a quick heal, lest he gets fancy and doles out a bunch of hurt on this next turn.
  5088. Scan him for Rage, I don't anticipate him making it much past this round if at all, but it wouldn't hurt to know just in case.
  5089.  
  5090. >Burning Justice is expensive to use, but I can't argue against it's strength.
  5091. "Fluttershy, swap out with Lemon Zest: we need to keep everyone healed up for that Shadow's attacks!"
  5092. >Nodding, Fluttershy retreats back to Phoebe's protection, while Lemon leaps into position.
  5093. "Burn in hell, you flashy phony! Burning Justice!"
  5094. >I slam my blazing fist into the ground, conjuring an explosion of flames that consumes Flash Rider EX, dealing heavy damage!
  5095. >As I get back up, I stumble a bit, my head aching something fierce.
  5096. >Looks like my SP reserves have finally run on empty: doubt I can do more than a buffing spell as is.
  5097. >"Slow it down, Hel..."
  5098. >Sugarcoat flicks her card into the earth, the maiden of death touching the ground and whispering something to its core.
  5099. >Suddenly, bony, frostbitten hands surge from underneath the Shadow, grabbing onto its suit and restricting its movement.
  5100.  
  5101. >"Time for a recharge, with your favorite heal-girl, Ame-no-Uzume!"
  5102. >The sultry dancer struts her stuff as the soft, glowing aura of her form soothes our pain and patches our wounds.
  5103. >"Let's end this, here and now! Persona!"
  5104. >Amarok's plasma lights the room in a violet light, the lone Rider facing it down with steely determination.
  5105. >Finally, Spike's charging is complete, and the wrath of the gods smites the Shadow, sending it crumbling to the ground!
  5106. "Alright, that was a tough surprise, but thankfully that seems to be the end of-"
  5107. >(Don't get too comfortable, Sunset, that Shadow's still not down!)
  5108. "Oh, come on!"
  5109. >My frustrations are completely ignored by the newly revived Rider, now clad in brilliant, blue armor.
  5110. >(Scans now show the Shadow has changed its name again to... Flash Rider EX Platinum.)
  5111. >You've got to be kidding me.
  5112. >As I gawk in an odd mixture of disbelief and humiliation, Flash Rider EX Platinum slams his fist into the ground, striking us all with his vengeful frost!
  5113.  
  5114. >Once more, Hel redirects the blow from Sugarcoat, slamming into it for heavy damage.
  5115. >Before we can react, the Shadow lunges at her and strikes her across the face, knocking her glasses off!
  5116. >(Sugarcoat!)
  5117. >Blood drips from the Rider's fist as Sugarcoat bends down and picks up her glasses, hand shaking.
  5118. >She places them back on her face, her eyes burning in frigid rage.
  5119. >"I'm going to kill you for that."
  5120. >(Everyone's a bit injured from that run, and it looks like the Shadow has gained more defense now. Here's the new scan:)
  5121.  
  5122. Flash Rider EX Platinum (Priestess) -
  5123.  
  5124. Repel: Bless
  5125. Resist: Curse
  5126.  
  5127. >(The chance of inflicting Rage is low, so don't expect to utilize it.)
  5128. >This Shadow should've been dead twice over by now.
  5129. >Instead, he keeps coming back like a reject shonen protagonist denied his second season.
  5130. >Part of me wants to go all out and slam this Shadow with everything we've got.
  5131. >Maybe even try and get Sunny to nuke it, if that'll work.
  5132. >On the other hand, that seems particularly wasteful in terms of SP management.
  5133. >We've only got five more Candies to split between us, after all.
  5134. >What do you guys think?
  5135.  
  5136. Sunset Shimmer (Tetraja): 69% HP, 5% SP
  5137. Sugarcoat: 70% HP, 100% SP
  5138. Lemon Zest: 65% HP, 78% SP
  5139. Spike: 61% HP, 60% SP
  5140.  
  5141. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5142.  
  5143. In reserve:
  5144. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5145. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5146. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5147. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5148. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5149. Applejack: 100% HP, 70% SP
  5150. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5151.  
  5152. Who knew Flash was going to be this strong.
  5153.  
  5154. Not sure I count "getting one's ass kicked" as strength, but he's sure resilient, I'll give him that.
  5155.  
  5156. Ugh, I really don't want to waste the SP on him now, but yeah it's tempting as fuck to use Sunny's Nuke From Orbit ability...
  5157. Let's throw hands on this bitch, Sunset use the highest-crit-chance move ya got on him.
  5158. Let's pour on the Ziodynes from both Spike and Lemon (unless Lemon has something stronger? Can never keep track).
  5159. And Sugarcoat should freeze this bitch solid with her strongest Ice move.
  5160.  
  5161. >It's like a cockroach; I wouldn't even be surprised if there's another form after this.
  5162. >But if we're aiming for the best chance for a critical hit, then we'll need to get creative.
  5163. >I rush at the Flash Rider EX Platinum, who attempts to take a swing at me as I get closer.
  5164. >Ducking under the fist, I sweep the Shadow's legs and use the momentum to kick it into the air!
  5165. >Now airborne, the enemy is helpless as I slice away at it, dealing heavy damage before pinning it to the ground with my blade!
  5166. "Alright, everyone, let's squash this insect for good!"
  5167. >The others nod and dogpile on the Rider, slamming away at its immobile form until it stops twitching!
  5168. "And now, right on cue."
  5169. >(Geez, this Shadow doesn't know how to die! Final name of target is Flash Rider EX Platinum Nocturne!)
  5170. >The final form of this annoying enemy bursts out of its dying shell like a butterfly reborn.
  5171. >Its back is lined with impressive turbo-boosters that blaze white with energy, creating the illusion of flaming wings!
  5172.  
  5173. >"No."
  5174. >And with a wave of Sugarcoat's hand, Hel freezes over and encases the Shadow in a thick block of ice!
  5175. >"None of that. Shame on you."
  5176. >"Now's the time to focus our attacks, Lemon!"
  5177. >"Danger! Danger! High Voltage!"
  5178. >Spike's howls clash with Lemon Zest's riffs as the two Persona's bolts meld together into an electric storm of biblical proportions, dealing heavy damage!
  5179. >(The Rider's can't act or move with all that ice: now's the perfect time for a direct assault!)
  5180. >Nodding, the four of us slam away at the Shadow, finishing it off with a resounding crack from Spike's teeth!
  5181. >We wait, with baited breath, as the body of the frostbitten Rider lies motionless on the ground.
  5182. >(Alright, that looks like it was the straw that broke the camel's back. Shadow has been eliminated.)
  5183. >I sigh in relief as the armor melts away, revealing a sleeping Flash Sentry.
  5184. >He might feel like shit, being a punching bag for four entire beatdowns, but at least he's alright.
  5185.  
  5186. >Now that the coast is clear, I finally get some more time to check out the expansive board that surrounds the room itself.
  5187. >Sure enough, every single string on this board ties back to my own picture, in the dead center of the room.
  5188. >And now that I'm walking around, this looks almost exactly like the room where Twilight interviewed me in.
  5189. >"Hey, Sunset, you might wanna look at this!"
  5190. >Rainbow's holler brings me back to reality as I hurry over to the large, grey cabinet the girls are inspecting.
  5191. "Did you girls find something that can help?"
  5192. >"You can say that: me and AJ were looking through all of these files, and there's this huge folder all about you."
  5193. >She motions over to the desk nearby, where a fat folder of papers and photos sits, waiting to be opened.
  5194. "I've got a bad feeling about this."
  5195. >Still, we need to learn more about this Twilight if we want to save her, so I sit at the desk and read out the documents while the others gather to listen.
  5196.  
  5197. Sunset Shimmer
  5198.  
  5199. >This is a bad idea.
  5200. >I take a deep breath in and out, just like Dean Cadance taught me, attempting to soothe my frayed nerves.
  5201. >The bumps on the road certainly do me no favors, as I collect myself at the back of this bus.
  5202. >According to my analysis results, it looks like all of the recent electromagnetic disturbances are coming from Crystal Prep's sister school, Canterlot High.
  5203. >The first disturbance was two years back, during the Fall, with another one happening a few months afterwards.
  5204. >I'm hoping that, with the help of my scans of the school, this investigation will net me admission into the Everton Independent Study Program.
  5205. >As the bus screeches to a halt, I take my bag and toss my grey hoodie and sunglasses on.
  5206. >The last thing I need is drama over going to our rival school.
  5207. >I pull out the EM scanner and begin my search, the scanner showing normal levels as I enter school grounds.
  5208.  
  5209. >Suddenly, the scanner shrieks in activity as I near this old statue with reflective sides.
  5210. >Judging from the weathered statue of a majestic horse, it has to be decades, if not even a century old.
  5211. >As I reach the mirror facing the school entrance, I can't help but take a closer look at it.
  5212. >There's something about this reflection that doesn't seem quite right.
  5213. >With my detector going off like mad, I reach towards the smooth surface with a timid hand.
  5214. >"Hey, are you alright?"
  5215. >I jolt at the sudden question, turning around to see a girl looking at me with concern in her eyes.
  5216. >She looks older than I am, maybe a senior?
  5217. >Quick, say something that won't either break your cover or embarrass you.
  5218. "Oh! Uh... I'm fine! How are you today?"
  5219. >Perfect.
  5220. >Still, this seems to earn a smile from the girl, her red and yellow hair shimmering in the sunlight.
  5221.  
  5222. >We manage to strike a conversation, even after my blunder, and I find that this girl has a brilliant mind.
  5223. >It's nice to talk with someone who understands what I talk about, even moreso with someone my age.
  5224. >It almost feels like talking with Sol again...
  5225. >She doesn't seem to remember what happened during those EM spikes, but she offered to let me know if she recalled anything.
  5226. >Eventually, I hear the bell of the nearby clock tower go off; I swore to keep my investigations locked at an hour, so I prepare to go.
  5227. "Oh my, the time's gone faster than I thought. Thanks for the conversation, ma'am!"
  5228. >I hurry to the bus stop as my ride back to the city picks me up.
  5229. >With a sigh of relief, I sit back down at the back of the bus, taking off the hood as I ponder about that interaction.
  5230. >I never even asked her name.
  5231.  
  5232. >The next day, I run into her as I made my way back into the school from lunch.
  5233. >She certainly looks lost: probably because I completely forgot to give her details on where to meet.
  5234. "Is that you, ma'am? Why are you here during school hours?"
  5235. >As the girl turned around, I noticed that her eyes seemed to widen at the sight of me.
  5236. >I suppose she never got a good look at me when we last met.
  5237. >She introduces herself as Sunset Shimmer, and after a minor awkward handshake, I lead her to the computer room I've repurposed into my lab.
  5238. >According to her memory, it seems that the time of the first incident was during the Fall Formal at her school.
  5239. >An interesting time for EM waves to spike, but apparently things got so bad that the school suffered damages.
  5240. >And the Spring of the following year was a Battle of the Bands competition, though the way she describes it makes me giggle from the absurdity.
  5241. "From the way you're describing things, you'd think a flock of sirens invaded."
  5242. >"Well, when you say it like that..."
  5243. >With all my questions answered, I start packing up my supplies when Sunset's nose begins to twitch.
  5244. >"Is it just me, or does something smell like wet dog?"
  5245.  
  5246. >Oh no, Spike must've gone playing around outside again; I can't let people know he's in the school!
  5247. "Dog? Here? No way, everyone knows that dogs are against the rules in Crystal Prep. Must be... dust! Yes, most likely dust. Hehehe."
  5248. >I quickly push her out the door and slam it behind me, taking a breath of relief as Spike pops his head out from behind the table.
  5249. "Don't make me worry like that, Spike: you know I'm technically not allowed to bring you to school."
  5250. >Still, my smile only grows wider as I go over what Sunset said.
  5251. >If what she says is true, then even if those situations are a coincidence, there might be something I can gather to work on my thesis!
  5252. >It's a good thing I'm not participating in the games this year: there should be plenty of time between events to get my work done.
  5253. >And I think I know just what to bring for this venture.
  5254.  
  5255. >...Turns out that I am going to be participating in the Friendship Games, if only to secure my scholarship to Everton.
  5256. >I'm not sure what Principal Cinch sees in me, but I'll just have to grin and bear it.
  5257. >The ride to Canterlot seems far more suffocating than before, and I know the reason all too well.
  5258. >Fate's cruel, it seems, as my old friends are also participants of these Games.
  5259. >Thankfully, they don't seem to recognize me, but Sol's gaze keeps falling on me every so often.
  5260. >I want to apologize to her, but even if she knew what I did, would she even forgive me?
  5261. >After what feels like an eternity, we finally reach the school, and I find an opportunity to break from the group.
  5262. >Making sure no one followed me, I pull out the device I was working on yesterday: an electromagnetic detector and storage device.
  5263. >Since I don't know what kind of EM waves I'm dealing with here, I'll need to make sure to stay safe while collecting samples.
  5264. >A primitive AI from my father's company should be more than enough to work without me messing with anything.
  5265.  
  5266. >"Hey, Twilight."
  5267. >Suddenly, I am bombarded with greetings from all of the Canterlot students I run into.
  5268. >"Looking good, Twilight!"
  5269. >How does everyone know about me, enough to act like I'm a close acquaintance?
  5270. >Before I can mull on it any further, I run into someone and drop my glasses, leaving me completely blind as a boy calls out to me.
  5271. >"Twilight? I almost didn't recognize you. When did you start wearin' glasses?"
  5272. >For people who know my name, they sure don't know a lot about me.
  5273. "Um, like, since forever."
  5274. >The voice hands me my glasses back, and I put them on to see a handsome-looking fellow with lightning blue hair.
  5275. >"Oh, so how long are you here for?"
  5276. "Just for the Friendship Games."
  5277. >The student prattles on as my detector beeps furiously further beyond him.
  5278. "Uh, I gotta go."
  5279. >And so I leave the Canterlot student behind, focused on my task at hand.
  5280.  
  5281. >Eventually, I reach what looks like the band room as my device begins to go crazy.
  5282. >It looks like I found a spike of the EM waves I've been looking for!
  5283. >The device opens and begins to collect samples of the energy, though I notice the waves being visible enough to actually see them.
  5284. >Interesting.
  5285. >Suddenly, the door opens, and I stand face to face with Sunset Shimmer.
  5286. >She begins to introduce me to her friends, who seem really friendly with someone they just met.
  5287.  
  5288. >Apparently, according to Sunset, I look a lot like another Twilight who used to go here.
  5289. >Doppelgänger aside, it seems these girls are also competing in these games as well.
  5290. >Coincidence is certainly going into overdrive.
  5291. >I feel a hand on my shoulder as Principal Cinch begins to drag me back for rollcall.
  5292. >"Twilight, what you do in your free time is of little interest to me, but while you're here, I... all of Crystal Prep, in fact, require your complete focus."
  5293. >She's not wrong, but it still seems weird that everyone knows my name and face.
  5294.  
  5295. >When the meet and greet occurs, it's completely lifeless: with students on each side avoiding each other like the plague.
  5296. >Pink fills my vision as one of the girls Sunset introduced me to pops out of nowhere; Pinkie Pie, I think.
  5297. >"What's that?"
  5298. >Pinkie's eyes lock onto my spectrometer, which I was looking at just a moment ago.
  5299. "It's sort of a spectrometer. I built it to track EM frequencies, but it can also contain anomalies."
  5300. >I can tell that flew over her poofy head, her smile wavering not an inch.
  5301. "...It measures things."
  5302.  
  5303. >Her eyes light up in understanding as she jumps up and down.
  5304. >"Like the party?"
  5305. "Yeah, though it doesn't look like much of a party to me."
  5306. >You'd be forgiven if you thought this was a funeral, with all the frowning.
  5307. >"I know. Something is definitely missing. Come on!"
  5308. >Pinkie grabs me by the arm and drags me away, as the two of us make the scene more festive.
  5309. >Eventually, the two of us begin to push large cannons into the room.
  5310.  
  5311. "What in the world is in these?"
  5312. >Pinkie giggles as she readies the two comically huge strings for pulling.
  5313. >"Party cannons, of course!"
  5314. >With the look of a madman, she pulls the fuses simultaneously, unleashing a torrent of confetti that washes over the unsuspecting masses!
  5315. >The party finally seems to have come to life, as Pinkie leaps to the air in joy.
  5316. >Suddenly, her hair begins to grow into a sort of pseudo-tail, and another pair of ears forms on her head!
  5317. >The spectrometer goes crazy, opening up once more and draining the aura emanating from her!
  5318. >That isn't good: I try my best to force the device to stop draining the energy from Pinkie, but in the end, she ends up tired and down for the count.
  5319. >"I need to mess with the AI and make sure I can actually stop the Spectrometer next time."
  5320. >Muttering to myself, I prepare to return to my dorm with two newly collected samples.
  5321.  
  5322. >If only the next day was more manageable.
  5323. >The Academic Decathlon is a fun event: pushing our skills to the limit as Sunset and I compete at the Elimination Equation.
  5324. >It's close, but I manage to eke out a victory, though my teammates seem less enthused.
  5325. >Almost as if they're obligated to clap, and not happy about it at all.
  5326. >I leave to a seculded area to pet Spike and soothe my nerves.
  5327. >However, it looks like I'm not the only one to smuggle in a pet or ten, as another one of Sunset's friends also arrives.
  5328. >The girl, Fluttershy, hands me a rabbit to hold and pet, and I start to feel a bit better about all of this.
  5329. "I'm on the other team and you just lost. Why are you being so nice to me?"
  5330. >Fluttershy shrugs, petting Spike and scratching the back of his ears.
  5331. >"You looked like you needed it."
  5332. >What a kind girl.
  5333.  
  5334. >I hear a loud beeping from my spectrometer as Fluttershy also changes her form just like Pinkie, though with wings as well!
  5335. >Before I can react, the device begins to drain her energy as well, and I can't stop it from doing that.
  5336. >Eventually, the spectrometer unleashes a powerful wave that knocks me out cold.
  5337. >"Twilight, Twilight, are you okay?"
  5338. >A voice calls out to me as I regain consciousness, a ringing sound in my ears as I shake my head.
  5339. "I can hear you just fine, though my head is killing me."
  5340. >"Thank goodness, I dunno what I would've done if you got hurt."
  5341. >I look over to the source of the voice, only to find Spike with a smile of relief.
  5342. >My dog is talking to me, and I'm pretty sure this isn't a hallucination.
  5343. >So I did what every normal girl would do in this situation: scream and run like the devil.
  5344. >"Twilight, wait!"
  5345. >Spike follows behind me, confused as to my distress, and I have to learn to live with the fact that my dog talks now.
  5346.  
  5347. >Today's the day for the Triathlon, and I can't say that I'm particularly enthused.
  5348. >Since archery is a core class in Crystal Prep, I'm working with Sour Sweet at the start of the tournament.
  5349. >It looks like the motorcycles I messed with yesterday are working just fine, though I'm not sure how they managed to repair them so quickly.
  5350. >Putting that thought to the back of my mind, I focus as we begin the Triathlon, Sour flying through the obstacle course like a naturall and easily scoring the bullseye!
  5351. >I'll admit, I'm not particularly athletic, and it's no surprise that I'm having more difficulty with the course.
  5352. >Applejack is rushing beyond me as my teammate looks at me with a look of exasperation.
  5353. >Eventually, I manage to pull myself up and ready my bow, only for a dagger of fear to plunge in my heart.
  5354. >There's something about being under pressure and timed that mixes together into a potent brew that paralyzes my thoughts.
  5355. >My arrows miss the mark, my teammates are forced to watch Canterlot take the lead.
  5356.  
  5357. >"You're really bad at this!"
  5358. >Sugarcoat is right: I'm so unqualified to do this it hurts.
  5359. >I don't wanna be here anymore...
  5360. >Then, to my surprise, Applejack comes over and helps me calm my nerves.
  5361. >"Keep steady, trust me when I tell you to fire. ...Fire!"
  5362. >I let loose the final arrow and strike the bullseye allowing the race to continue!
  5363. .>As I thank Applejack for the assistance, her forms begins to change just like Pinkie and Fluttershy before her.
  5364. >Oh no.
  5365. >My device predictably beeps once more, opening up and draining the energy from the person willing to help me in my hour of need.
  5366. >I try to deactivate the AI, but it outright ignores my pleas and force, draining her of her strength and unleashing rays of EM waves across the arena.
  5367. >The force rips the spectrometer from my hands as it flies to the bleachers nearby.
  5368. >Hurrying over to try and close it, I find myself at the receiving end of a thorny vine and plant-like mouth.
  5369.  
  5370. >I've seen way too many animes to not know where this is going.
  5371. >I struggle to escape with all my might, but eventually, the vines lose their strength, and I manage to close the device, shutting the portals down for good.
  5372. >The race concludes, and the girls gather together to talk about something.
  5373. >I'm the one that caused them all this trouble: it's only right to apologize like an adult.
  5374. >Reaching the group, I apologize for my actions as they explain the situation.
  5375. >It seems the energy I've been draining from the girls has been creating something called "Decoherence", which seems far-fetched.
  5376. >Then I remember that a giant plant almost ate me, and realize there are just some things I don't know yet.
  5377. >Suddenly, the device goes wild once more, pointing itself toward the direction of Sunset.
  5378. >Not her, anyone but her!
  5379. >No matter how hard I try to turn off the machine, I'm forced to watch as the one girl I'm close to is sapped of her energy by the spectrometer.
  5380. "I'm sorry! It just started absorbing energy on its own! But I'm not sure how!"
  5381.  
  5382. >Sunset glares at me with smouldering anger, and I can see that I'm in trouble.
  5383. >"Is there anything you do know?! Like how to get our magic back?! Or how to fix the portal to Equestria?!"
  5384. >The words coming from her mouth are like buckshot: so many questions I don't know, but I can't escape any of them.
  5385. "Magic? Equestria? What are you talking about?"
  5386. >However, my questions seem to not register to Sunset, as she continues her rage.
  5387. >"This device you're carrying around drains energy from us, and it creates Decoherence Fields. Even worse, after you found out about that from taking Fluttershy's magic, you brought it here, again! What would have happened if that Shadow actually ate someone?!"
  5388. >!
  5389. >But I've been trying to fix the AI I've installed onto the spectrometer; everything seemed to have been working last night!
  5390. >And yet I decided not to test in outside of the lab, instead taking it with me to an area full of citizens.
  5391. "I... I..."
  5392. >She's right, I have no excuse for my actions, do I?
  5393.  
  5394. >"You're supposed to be so smart, but did you ever think that you shouldn't be messing around with things you don't understand?!"
  5395. >I try to stand up against her, even when all the fibers of my being try to tear away from her blazing stare.
  5396. "But I want to understand!"
  5397. >"But you don't! You created something you can't control: that does things that can endanger the lives of everyone around you. And instead of putting it away to check what might have gone wrong, you decided to bring it to an even more populated event! That's dangerous, irresponsible, and fucking stupid!"
  5398. >And just like that, my heart shatters from the truth.
  5399. >Sunset, even in her rage, has a point: it's all my fault.
  5400. >Again.
  5401. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to..."
  5402. >I run off, tears flooding my eyes as I flee from my sins once more.
  5403. >Once again, my eagerness has caused people I care for harm, and I have no one to blame but myself.
  5404. >It was a mistake to come here.
  5405. >... It was a mistake to make friends again.
  5406.  
  5407. >...
  5408. >And that's the last bit of information from the folio.
  5409. >Reminders of my own shortcomings, and understanding into Twilight's.
  5410. "I didn't know she saw so much in me..."
  5411. >"We rarely know when people look at us from afar. Come, there is one final room you must see before you are ready."
  5412. >With that, the Librarian goes to the exit of the room and waits for us to resupply.
  5413. ><Your SP is extremely low, Sunset, and everyone else's on the current setup is getting to critical levels. We've only got five more Candies to split, so keep that in mind as we put together our resupply plan. Here's everyone's condition:>
  5414.  
  5415. Status:
  5416.  
  5417. Sunset Shimmer: 69% HP, 5% SP
  5418. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5419. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5420. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5421. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5422. Sugarcoat: 70% HP, 90% SP
  5423. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5424. Lemon Zest: 55% HP, 48% SP
  5425. Applejack: 100% HP, 70% SP
  5426. Spike: 61% HP, 40% SP
  5427. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5428. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5429.  
  5430. You're actually the only one with critically low SP, Shim Scampi, I think we can get away with you popping a candy and taking 70%, then 15% each to Spike and Lemony Zest. I want us to have enough backup to go into these fights prepped and ready in case something extra fucky happens, you dig?
  5431.  
  5432. >I... Think?
  5433. >We definitely need to make sure we have enough to last the rest of the Fantasia.
  5434. "I think we can get away with using a single Candy to boost my, Spike and Lemon Zest into more manageable SP levels."
  5435. ><Do you want to heal anyone up, as well?>
  5436. >Thinking about it, I turn to Rarity with a nod.
  5437. "You have enough SP to afford a full heal, Rarity, so we'll go with that."
  5438. >"Alright, darling, another healing session coming up!"
  5439. >Cait Sith tends to our wounds before curling up and vanishing into the aether.
  5440. >With everyone patched up, we follow the Librarian through the halls of the maze, the travel becoming routine.
  5441. >"We are nearing the entrance to the Heart: soon you will know enough to defeat her."
  5442.  
  5443. >True to the Shadow's word, a light peeks through the shelves as we finally break into a wide room filled to the brim with books.
  5444. >This place, moreso than all the others in this Fantasia, actually looks like an honest-to-god library.
  5445. ><Head's up, everyone, it looks like one more mass of Shadows is coming to this room! The reading looks a lot like->
  5446. >...
  5447. >I get the feeling I know what Fluttershy's trying to say, as a slender, feminine-looking Shadow bursts out of one of the bookshelves, readying its blade with deadly efficiency.
  5448. "So this is what Principal Celestia's looks like. I'm sorry we couldn't keep this from happening, but we're going to make sure this ends now!"
  5449. >Everyone prepares for battle as four familiar Shadows begin to flank Celestia's, blocking any clear shot.
  5450. ><Shadows confirmed as one Raidant Knight, Sagacious Owl, Loyal Hound, Akashic Records, and Solar Guardian. It looks like the main Shadow's using the others as a shield: if we don't take them out first, we won't be able to harm it!>
  5451. >Still, we know those Shadows' weaknesses by heart, don't we?
  5452. >We'll just need to rampage through them and finish this marathon once and for all!
  5453. >Who should take the vanguard for this one?
  5454.  
  5455. Let's see, we got... A wind weakness to exploit on the Hound, we need a Curse move for the Knight, and someone physical for the Record (it just seems it's weak to getting BTFO, honestly). I'm not terribly concerned about the Owl, I don't know that we've ever seen it do anything, so we'll probably leave it on low priority.
  5456. Let's put Fluttershy on analyst role, scan the Solar Guardian if she's targetable, or the Owl if she's not.
  5457. Rarity looks to be the less susceptible of our Wind users, let's put her out and have her Garudyne. Assuming we get a One More, toss it to:
  5458. Sunset, slap the group with an Maeigaon. That should proc another One More, which gets passed to:
  5459. AJ, who should rain bullets with an AoE ranged attack. Don't think that exploits any weaknesses, but if it does or we get a crit, send it to:
  5460. Sunny, who can hammer the field with a Megidola and hopefully wipe any stragglers.
  5461. I want to see this combo between AJ and Sunny, but I think we can get these small fry down in one go and try it on Celly herself next round, unless she pulls out more enemies to shield her.
  5462.  
  5463. >Back into the fray, then!
  5464. "Persona, Henshin!"
  5465. >My suit blazes to life as Rarity, Applejack, and Sunny join me on the frontlines.
  5466. "Black Gate: open!"
  5467. >I hold my hand out as a portal to darkness opens in front of me, readying my weapon before rushing in.
  5468. >Using the shadows as openings, I tear through the enemies with my cursed blade, missing the Sagacious Owl in my assault.
  5469. >After slicing all the Shadows up, I teleport above them and slam my sword into the ground!
  5470. "Dark Rush!"
  5471. >Tendrils of inky black darkness pierce through most of the Shadows, severely harming the Radiant Knight and sending it crashing to the floor!
  5472. >I give a nod to Rarity, who takes the opportunity to fire a barrage of wind slashes at the Loyal Hound, barely missing it by a hair.
  5473. >"Will you stop moving, you ruffian! Take it down, Cait Sith!"
  5474. >The fey hisses as the barrage thickens, transforming into a gale of blades that slices through the Hound, tearing it to pieces!
  5475. >"They're all yours now, Applejack!"
  5476.  
  5477. >The cow girl nods as she shoots her card with unerring, accuracy, calling forth Arash Kamangir to the battlefield.
  5478. >With perfectly timed shots, the legendary archer unleashes hell upon the Shadows, turning the Owl into a pincushion while leaving the armored knight in a critical state!
  5479. >"Sunny, now!"
  5480. >Sunny readies her blade before slicing her card in half, summoning Phoebe and calling down a meteor shower that pulverizes the remaining Shadows!
  5481. ><You did it, everyone, the Solar Guardian's open for a counterattack. The moment to push on is now!>
  5482. >"Are ya ready to pile on the damage, Sunny?"
  5483. >The two girls share a knowing grin as they ready their cards.
  5484. >"More than you know, Applejack. Persona!"
  5485. >"Persona!"
  5486. >Arash readies his bow, his trench coat flapping in the wind as Phoebe gathers energy in her hands.
  5487.  
  5488. >"I'll store as much power as I can in your shot, Applejack. Just make sure to tell me when to stop."
  5489. >Applejack nods as the energy begins to pour into her Persona's arrow, the chaotic forces surging under the surface.
  5490. ><Energy capacity at 25%.>
  5491. >Arawn's grip tightens as the arrow becomes more unstable by the second, glowing white from the concentrated enegy.
  5492. ><Energy Capacity at 60%.>
  5493. >Gritting her teeth to stay focused, Applejack delays the order to release the shot, gathering more energy from the stars.
  5494. ><Energy Capacity at 95%. You need to release that energy soon, Applejack!>
  5495. >"Are you crazy, Applejack? Gathering too much power with your Persona can lead to harmful side-effects!"
  5496. >Applejack flinches as a trickle of blood flows down her nose, her gaze unwavering.
  5497. >"Nothin' short of full power will be enough to put the hurt on this Shadow; I just need a little more!"
  5498.  
  5499. ><Energy Capactiy at 100%: overcharging is imminent!>
  5500. >The arrow shines like the rainbow, but the stress is obvious on Applejack's face, as she tries her best to stay upright.
  5501. >"Applejack, you've got to-!"
  5502. >Before Sunny can finish her thought, Arash Kamangir's mouth appears to move, though only Applejack seems capable of hearing it.
  5503. >"Could it really be you? Alright, I'll be relying on you, then!"
  5504. >The Persona nods with an enigmatic grin as his arm pulls even further back, his body slowly falling to pieces!
  5505. ><No way, Energy Capacity's at 105%, and growing!>
  5506. >Almost as if free from the burden of holding onto such power, Applejack stands tall and stares the Solar Guardian down.
  5507. >"Oh, Lord, who grants wisdom, majesty, and strength. Our hearts, our thoughts, and all that we have seen, we give to you."
  5508. ><Energy Capacity at 110%!>
  5509. >"Ancestors, descendants, witness our bonds of family, our bonds of friends. Witness these give us the strength for a miracle!"
  5510. >Arash's hat flies away from the forces of the energy stored in the shot, revealing a light-colored man with apple-red hair.
  5511. >He looks familiar, though I can't put my finger on it.
  5512. ><Energy Capacity at 120%!>
  5513. >"With all our hopes and dream, we release this arrow, and allow our bodies to pave the way to a better tomorrow!"
  5514.  
  5515. Combo Activated: Stella
  5516.  
  5517. >Arash smiles one last time, satisfied with Applejack's answer, and lets loose the arrow.
  5518. >The force of the launch pulverizes the Persona, shattering him to pieces as the projectile tears through the air!
  5519. >With the force of a hundred suns, the arrow finds its mark, punching a hole through the Solar Guardian and earning a pained cry in response!
  5520. >Suddenly, the hole begins to grow in size, eventually exploding through the other side of the Shadow, leaving it crippled as a result!
  5521. >Applejack falls to her knees, massaging her temples as we quickly help her up.
  5522. "Are you alright, Applejack?"
  5523. >She stumbles at first, but catches her footing, pulling herself upright.
  5524. >"I think I'll be alright in the long term. Don't feel anything from my Persona right now."
  5525.  
  5526. ><Applejack's Persona is Broken: it'll repair itself over time, but until it does, she won't be able to use it for combat!>
  5527. >The Solar Guardian picks itself up from the floor, cracking its arms and assuming a combat stance once more.
  5528. >A flurry of missiles fire from the mecha's shoulders, but Rarity, Applejack, and I are able to avoid the shots in time.
  5529. >Sunny, unfortunately, is caught in the blast and sent skyward, where the Shadow leaps into the air and slams her down with its sword!
  5530. >After moaning in pain, she manages to pull herself back up, a fire lit in her eyes.
  5531. >The Guardian clutches its arm in pain as it retreats into the darkness.
  5532. >In response, four more Shadows, identical to the last, spawn, though they seem sturdier than the ones before.
  5533.  
  5534. ><Even though that combo was risky, it did the job well: if you can catch the Solar Guardian in the open again, we could finish this with a focused assault! Here's a scan on it:>
  5535.  
  5536. Solar Guardian (Priestess) -
  5537.  
  5538. Null: Instant Death
  5539. Resist: Bless, Curse
  5540.  
  5541. >High risk, high reward, I suppose.
  5542. >What should we do next?
  5543.  
  5544. Status:
  5545.  
  5546. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 50% SP
  5547. Rarity: 100% HP, 45% SP
  5548. Applejack (Persona Break): 63% HP, 70% SP
  5549. Sunny Flare: 51% HP, 50% SP
  5550. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5551.  
  5552. In reserve:
  5553. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5554. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5555. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5556. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5557. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 90% SP
  5558. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 63% SP
  5559. Spike: 100% HP, 55% SP
  5560.  
  5561. Let's give AJ time to heal after that showing, ya did damn good though girl.
  5562. Swap in Lemon for AJ and let's see if they're going to be any harder to take down now.
  5563. Shimsham, hit that knight with a focused Eigaon, and if it lands, throw it over to Rarity.
  5564. Blast the hound with another Garudyne, if that gives us another power up to ship over to Lemon.
  5565. Let Zestyria rain lightning on these scrubs. Don't think that leads to anything, but if the Owl is by some chance weak to it it can go over to Sunny to HP drain off the Records.
  5566. Depending on what's left, we should be able to physical them all down with the rest of our turns, but kill priority goes Records > Hound > Owl > Knight.
  5567. Analyze the Guardian for weakness to Rage.
  5568.  
  5569. "You've done more than your fair share this fight, Applejack! Switch out with Lemon Zest so you can take a break."
  5570. >She nods, falling back to Tzaphkiel with a hand to her temple while groaning.
  5571. >While Lemon gets into position, I aim my hand at the Radiant Knight, firing a volley of dark balls that slam into the Shadow and send it crashing to the ground!
  5572. >I notice, however, that the attack, in and of itself, seems far less effective than it was before.
  5573. >Whatever, no time to worry about that, as I give the OK to Rarity.
  5574. >"Sit, boy!"
  5575. >With a fanciful flourish, Cait Sith unleashes a powerful gust of wind that sends the Loyal Hound reeling in pain!
  5576. >"Fluttershy's right, these Shadows seem a lot sturdier than before. Your turn next, Lemon Zest!"
  5577. >The guitarist nods with a cheeky grin, breaking out into a riff as her card floats down.
  5578. >"Righteous, let's thin out the crowd a bit, Ame-no-Uzume!"
  5579. >With the grace of a professional, the dawn goddess skates across the arena, waving through the confused Shadows like a leaf in the wind.
  5580.  
  5581. >Suddenly, the areas that the Persona tread glow bright, calling down directed lightning that strikes the Radiant Knight dead and deals heavy damage to the other Shadows!
  5582. >Rarity catches the opportunity handed to her, slicing the downed Hound in a single, clean hit.
  5583. >"Encore, encore!"
  5584. >Ame-no-Uzume continues to rain down heavenly judgement, striking the Owl once more, but missing the Akashic Records entirely.
  5585. >"Let's see how much health I can siphon off these Shadows. Persona!"
  5586. >Phoebe's hand reaches out towards the Records, tapping its surface with her finger before diving into its core.
  5587. >In a rather uncomfortable display, the titaness rips out part of the Shadow's life force, pressing the red orb into Sunny's injured form.
  5588. >As it enters her body, a number of wounds patch themselves up, though only minor ones.
  5589.  
  5590. >Struggling to stay adrift, the Sagacious Owl hoots in frustration, launching spears of light that shoot out towards us!
  5591. >I manage to roll out of the way in time, but the others are pierced by the shining beams, taking moderate damage as a result.
  5592. >Cackling in delight, the Akashic Records unleashes an explosion of alien sights and sounds, missing Sunny by a hair, but striking the rest of us.
  5593. >From the protection of the remaining Shadows, the Solar Guardian issues out an intelligible command, causing the others to move around faster.
  5594. ><It looks like the Shadows have increased evasion, but they're incredibly injured now. Here's a scan on the Akashic Records:>
  5595.  
  5596. Akashic Records (Priestess)-
  5597.  
  5598. Repel: Psy
  5599. Weak: Fire
  5600.  
  5601. ><There's a likely chance that Rage can work against the Solar Guardian.>
  5602. >We're beat up a bit, but if we can break through these last two Shadows, we should have a clear shot at the Guardian.
  5603. >I'll leave it to you whether you want to risk Sunny or I remaining here with these Shadows having our weaknesses.
  5604.  
  5605. Status:
  5606.  
  5607. Sunset Shimmer: 77% HP, 30% SP
  5608. Rarity: 63% HP, 25% SP
  5609. Lemon Zest: 63% HP, 37% SP
  5610. Sunny Flare: 42% HP, 40% SP
  5611.  
  5612. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5613.  
  5614. In reserve:
  5615. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5616. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5617. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 80% SP
  5618. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5619. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5620. Applejack (Persona Break): 63% HP, 70% SP
  5621. Spike: 100% HP, 55% SP
  5622.  
  5623. Alright, not too bad! We lucked the hell out on those weaknesses though, could've been real bad.
  5624. Swap out to Ponks, Sunset, she's got the fire we desire for those Records to expire. Agidyne them into oblivion, then throw the One More over to Lemon to patch us back to full.
  5625. Rarara can hit the bird with a Garudyne on her turn, which should leave us with a clear path to the Guardian.
  5626. Let's hit the Guardian with Sunny and Lemon's combo, maybe we luck out and smack her shit before she has much of a chance to do anything.
  5627.  
  5628. >You're right: better not to tempt fate.
  5629. "I'm out for this one: Pinkie, you're up next!"
  5630. >"Roger-dodger, Sunset! Lemme at 'em!"
  5631. >I return to Fluttershy's Persona, nursing my wounds as I watch the battle unfold.
  5632. >"Time for some good ol' fashioned book burning. Persona!"
  5633. >Pinkie shoots her card, calling forth Agni as he cackles and pulls a giant cherry bomb from his sleeves.
  5634. >With a skilled toss, the fire god immolates the Records, leaving naught but ash in its wake.
  5635. >"Direct hit, now's your cue, Lemony Zest!"
  5636. >Zest nods while strumming a soothing rhythm, her Persona gently healing everyone's wounds.
  5637. >"Cait Sith, clip this bird's wings!"
  5638. >The fey feline slices the Owl to pieces with his gales, leaving the Solar Guardian open to attack!
  5639.  
  5640. >"Awesome, we've got a shot to the big one! You ready to rock and roll, Sunset?"
  5641. >"Yeah, let's wrap this fight up! Persona!"
  5642. >"Persona!"
  5643. >Ame-no-Uzume holds her hands together, a ball of energy flickering between them.
  5644. >Meanwhile, Phoebe's fingers slice through the air, opening four rifts around the Solar Guardian and trapping its movements.
  5645. >"There's nowhere left for you to run!"
  5646. >What used to be a ball of energy bursts into a globe of plasma, flickering wisps of electricity dancing in the air.
  5647. >"Take this!"
  5648. >The energy bursts out of the goddess's hands, launching into one of the wormholes and racing through each of them with lightning speed!
  5649.  
  5650. Combo Activated: Lazy Laser
  5651.  
  5652. >As the laser shoots through each portal, it punches through a part of the Guardian, leaving it exposed to fire from all corners!
  5653. >The intricate web of plasma tears the Shadow apart, devouring its form in an exquisite explosion!
  5654. >Everyone braces themselves as the dust settles, revealing the slumbering form of Principal Celestia in its place.
  5655. >After checking her condition, we search the room for anything that can reveal more memories.
  5656. >Unfortunately, it seems we've run into the first empty room in this entire Labyrinthine archive.
  5657. >Absolutely nothing in this room to work with, save for what appears to be an empty book.
  5658. "Is this like invisible ink or something? I could try putting some fire underneath it."
  5659. ><Before we do anything with that book, I think its best we rest. We're lacking supplies to keep moving forward without rest, and it doesn't look like we're pressed for time.>
  5660. >As much as I want to keep moving, that's a good point: we'll be in trouble if we keep burning through our supplies like this.
  5661. >Now would be a perfect time to rest, wouldn't you guys say?
  5662.  
  5663. Completely agree, get some rest you bacon-haired madwoman, we've been going pretty non-stop since we hit Fantasia.
  5664.  
  5665. >Who you calling a madwoman?
  5666. >Then again, I doubt most girls listen to the voices in their heads.
  5667. "Alright, everyone, we'll be taking a short break to rest and psyche ourselves. We need to be in top condition in case there's something waiting for us at the end."
  5668. >The girls sigh with relief and place their armaments in safe locations, taking seats around the slightly scorched room.
  5669. >If the Librarian is annoyed or upset about this, she's doing an excellent job of not showing it: simply waiting at the exit like a statue.
  5670.  
  5671. Should we take that book with us?
  5672.  
  5673. >Well, it wouldn't hurt to take it with us.
  5674. >I focus my remaining SP on the tip of my thumb, attempting to see if there was invisible ink or something.
  5675. >No dice, though: it's not even like I'm too far away from it.
  5676. >Rather, it seems the book itself is unaffected by the heat entirely.
  5677. >This book had my interest earlier, but now it has my attention; I pocket the book and survey the situation.
  5678. >Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves: talking and joking with each other like close friends.
  5679. >If we could make a microcosm of both Canterlot and Crystal Prep students, this would be ideal, I think.
  5680. >A group of friends unbound by the restrictions of history or tradition.
  5681.  
  5682. >I think Twilight would love to see this, if she were here now.
  5683. >My contemplation is cut off as Sour Sweet makes her way to me with a frown on her face.
  5684. >"What's wrong, Sunset, too high and mighty to hang out with everyone else?"
  5685. >The facade quickly crumbles as she laughs and sits to my right.
  5686. >"I'm just joking: it can't be easy to take charge of an entire group of people. Especially in a high-stakes situation like this."
  5687. "It's not the easiest thing to do, but we're all doing our own part in this. How are you handling all these memories?"
  5688. >Sour goes silent, looking at the girls conversing with a wistful gaze.
  5689.  
  5690. >"... I know I'm not the best when it comes to memories, but even I can't help but be suspicious that I don't remember Twilight, or the other girls for that matter. Hell, anyone would be freaking out that years of their life are just fucking missing from their memories."
  5691. >For everyone to forget something at that degree, it has to be something horribly traumatic.
  5692. >"It's been easy to push these fears and worries to the side, focusing on saving those lost to the Shadows, but as we stand on the edge of truth, I'm afraid."
  5693. "Sour..."
  5694. >However, she turns to me with a genuine smile as she continues.
  5695. >"I know I can't let that fear get to me, though: after all, you were the one who taught me that our beliefs define us, above our roots and past. And I can't think of anything worse than forgetting my own roots like that."
  5696. >The two of us stand as Sour Sweet holds out a hand.
  5697. >"I wanted to thank you again for reminding me about what's truly important. I know my temper can be a bitch sometimes, but I hope I can pay back your kindness by becoming someone you girls can rely on too."
  5698. >Smiling, I take her hand and shake it firmly, looking her straight in the eyes.
  5699.  
  5700. "Looking forward to it, Sour Sweet; if anyone can help people, it'd be you."
  5701. >It truly feels like our bond has become unbreakable, like a true friend!
  5702. >I wonder if such a bond might help with combat as well?
  5703. >As I consider the benefits of camaraderie in battle, the book I pocketed seems to catch Sour's eye.
  5704. >"Hey, Sunset, you mind if I get a closer look at that book? I'm getting a weird sense from it."
  5705. >I hand the empty book to her, the girl thumbing through the pages with a look of shock.
  5706. >"Why didn't you tell me about this book sooner? There's loads of shit in here!"
  5707. "It was completely blank when I looked through it; does that mean you can read it?"
  5708. >Sour nods, flipping through the pages to make sure of her guess.
  5709. >"At the very least, I think this has the last piece of knowledge we need."
  5710.  
  5711. >Calling the girls to huddle up around the book, Sour Sweet begins to read aloud the contents of the book.
  5712.  
  5713. Guilty
  5714.  
  5715. >The word echoes in my mind as I leave Sunset, Sol, and the others to fend for themselves.
  5716. Guilty.
  5717. >I think back to just moment ago, where Sunset finally decided to bare her heart to me.
  5718. >She told me about actual magic: a whole world on the other side of that mirror I nearly touched.
  5719. >Even though she could've risked that secret coming out and condemning her people.
  5720. >And I repay that trust with betrayal.
  5721. Guilty.
  5722. >I look to Principal Cinch, clearly satisfied with the results of my spectrometer with these muscleheads.
  5723. >When I ran off, Principal Cinch found me and told me how the world might benefit from the energies collected in the device.
  5724. >It would be easy to say Cinch forced me: that I had no choice in the matter.
  5725. >But I know why I betrayed my friends so easily: I'm-
  5726. Guilty.
  5727. >Every time, I pick myself over others, caring not for how others feel, or the consequences of my actions.
  5728. >Why would now be different?
  5729.  
  5730. >We reach the concourse, everyone clearly surprised at our entrance and entourage.
  5731. >Principal Celestia coughs and tries her best to be diplomatic, but the vice principal looks ready to attack at the slightest provocation.
  5732. >"Ah, Twilight and Principal Cinch, it's certainly a... surprise to see you two here by yourselves."
  5733. >Cinch drops the pennants unceremoniously on the table, her grin looking like she ate the canary.
  5734. >"I trust the return of all these pennants is enough to declare a winner?"
  5735. >Celestia frowns, looking between the Principal and the pennants right in front of her.
  5736. >"I don't think you understand the meaning of this competition-"
  5737. >Vice-Principal Luna cuts off her sister and glares at us, a strange blue card in her hand.
  5738. >"What is the meaning of bringing Shadows here, Asbacus? Have you lost your mind, as well as your tact?"
  5739. >Cinch smile widens as she holds up a hand to what Luna called 'Shadows'.
  5740.  
  5741. >"The only thing that's been lost is the looming fear of Shadows. With a simple wave of this device MY student made, they can do whatever one desires. For example,"
  5742. >With a snap of her fingers, one of the hulking masses punches the horse statue above the mirror, the old horse collapsing into rubble.
  5743. >The Shadow smirks and flexes as Cinch continues.
  5744. >"As you can see, these things are mere tools, and we can use them to help humanity. Surely even someone as bullheaded as yourself can see the benefits."
  5745. >Luna appears unfazed by the feat of strength, motioning to her sister to hide behind her.
  5746. >"That's assuming you can even remove these Shadows once you order them around. The world can't handle so much Decoherence in one spot!"
  5747. >"Even if that speculation is true, we can make them go as easily as bring them out. Ms. Sparkle, here, will show you how easily it's done."
  5748.  
  5749. >My eyes widen as Principal Cinch hands me the device, everyone's eyes trained on me.
  5750. >Sunset was right: the risk of opening the spectrometer might cause something horrible.
  5751. >But...
  5752. >I was the one who made this irresponsible bed, huh?
  5753. >One selfish decision after another; what's one more?
  5754. >My shaking hands rest on the casing, steeling myself for what was to come.
  5755. >And with a deep breath, I open Pandora's Box.
  5756.  
  5757. >Suddenly, the energy stored in the device erupts out, obliterating the Shadows and causing everyone else to stagger back.
  5758. >I can't move my body.
  5759. >Rising into the air, the orb of magic grows out hungrily, closing in on me.
  5760. >My mind screams to run: whatever that thing is, it wants my everything.
  5761. >If I go in there, I'm never leaving, that's what my gut shouts.
  5762. "Help... me..."
  5763. >I reach out in despair, as the magic consumes me.
  5764. >It burns.
  5765. >My body feels like it's on fire.
  5766. >But this is what I deserve, for all the things I've done.
  5767. >Sunset...
  5768. >Sol...
  5769. >I'm sorry for being a horrible friend.
  5770.  
  5771. >Sour Sweet finishes the entry, as we all look at each other.
  5772. "This confirms what I suspected from the last memory: Twilight feels guilty about something. Something so bad that she feels like this is what she deserves."
  5773. >The girls from Crystal Prep wrack their brains to remember, but they only sigh in annoyance.
  5774. >"This is suppose to be the last piece of the puzzle, but this only raises more questions!"
  5775. "We need to find Twilight and get the truth from her. Fluttershy, is everyone fully rested?"
  5776. ><Scans show that everyone's health and energy reserves are full. We're good to go when you're ready.>
  5777. >After picking up our weapons, we follow the Librarian one last time, the short path leading to a room with two doors.
  5778. >The first door has a staircase leading up, and I get the feeling that leads to the Heart.
  5779. >On the other hand, the door adjacent to it is horribly burned and sealed shut.
  5780. "What is that door over there, another memory?"
  5781.  
  5782. >The Librarian nods, though she places herself in front of the entrance in question.
  5783. >"This is where the truth is: the thing the Fool is unwilling to show you. Behind this door is what happened at the forest."
  5784. >So there was a copy of that memory, hidden behind a blocked door.
  5785. >"It is not for you to peruse, however, and I recommend simply taking the stairs and defeating that Fool once and for all."
  5786. >The Shadow takes an aggressive stance, and suddenly an oppressive feeling looms over all of us.
  5787. >"If you are so foolish as to want to learn the entire truth, I shall do everything in my power to crush you."
  5788. ><The Librarian's strength has increased a hundred-fold. This reading is more powerful than all the other Shadows we've faced!>
  5789. >Like a statue, the Librarian stays firm in her stance, awaiting our answer.
  5790.  
  5791. >Whatever is behind the Librarian is clearly important, if this pacifistic Shadow is forced to fight to protect it.
  5792. >But is it worth the risk of death, especially when we are so close?
  5793. >What happened during that camping trip?
  5794. >What horrible thing made everyone forget about it?
  5795. >These questions race through my head as the other girls look to me for a decision.
  5796. >This feels like a very important decision: what should we do?
  5797.  
  5798. We are not going to let any Shadow deny us the TRUTH!
  5799. We need to know what happened that fateful day, otherwise, even if we defeat the Fool, we won't be really saving Twilight from whatever is makin her feel guilty.
  5800.  
  5801. Yeah, we're here on a mission to save our friend, and we'd prefer not to fight anything that doesn't need fighting, but we're also not going to let a construct of her own mind push us away from information that could help us help her. If the Librarian is trying to help Twilight, blocking the way to this memory does her no favors, and if she's trying to hurt her, then we won't abide that. If that means we fight, so be it.
  5802.  
  5803. >You're right, we can't save Twilight if we don't know the root cause of everything.
  5804. "Librarian, even if you're trying to help Twilight by blocking that memory, we need to see it. And if that means we have to fight you, then so be it! Persona, Henshin!"
  5805. >"Carpe Diem. Are ya ready?"
  5806. >Flames dance around me as my suit bursts to life, readying my weapon at the Shadow.
  5807. >"... The Fool seems to have equally foolish friends. Very well, meet the death you're so eager to reach!"
  5808. >The Librarian's body violently shifts, becoming larger and far less like the cool, calculated Shadow like before.
  5809. >A colossal figure now blocks our way, a grey figure meditating atop an elaborate top.
  5810. >The top itself blooms like a tree, the tip like a hearty oak trunk while the seat bears etchings of leaves.
  5811. >Surrounding the Shadow are innumerable tomes with alternating red and blue eyes.
  5812. >"I am a fragment of Shadow, a part of the self. The Fool desires not to be saved, and I will honor her foolish wishes!"
  5813. ><Scans show that the Librarian has changed into Turbulent Prophetess; we've got a battle on our hands!>
  5814. >"We're gonna find out that truth, even if it means dragging Twilight out of here by the fucking hair!"
  5815. >Sour Sweet and the others ready their weapons, their fighting spirits having been rejuvenated beforehand.
  5816. >Turbulent Prophetess is the only thing standing between us and the truth.
  5817. >Let's blow through her and truly save Twilight!
  5818. >Who should lead the vanguard?
  5819.  
  5820. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBxV3LZInug
  5821.  
  5822. Sunset and Sour for sure, let's run Indigo and Dash for our other two combatants, Sunny on Analysis this time in case we need the extra damage.
  5823. Let's prep for a turn: Mind and Power Charges, Marakukaja, and Debilitate, scan this bitch (not that I'm anticipating she'll have any weaknesses, but it couldn't hurt to make sure), and be ready to smack the shit out of her next turn, unless she seriously lays a beatdown on turn 1.
  5824.  
  5825. >Save the major damage for next turn, then?
  5826. "We'll start with myself, Indigo, Rainbow, and Sour on the field. Sunny will be our Analysis to begin with."
  5827. >The others retreat to Phoebe's protection as I conjure a mic and prepare a new song to perform.
  5828. "Shake your tail 'cause we're here to have a party tonight!"
  5829. >The chorus in my boomboxes echoes the words as the musical notes float around the party, creating a defensive barrier around us.
  5830. >"You thinking what I'm thinking, Rainbow?"
  5831. >Indigo's smile is matched by her rival's, their cards lighting up in competition.
  5832. >"Make sure you can keep up with my speed. Achilles!"
  5833. >"Pheidippides!"
  5834. >The two armored Personas break free from their iron tombs, Pheidippides focusing all her energy in her main cannons, while Achilles twitches in the air.
  5835.  
  5836. >"Persona!"
  5837. >Sour decks her card as Doppelgänger cackles at the Turbulent Prophetess, weakening her abilities.
  5838. >The Shadow, in response holds out one of her hands as a volley of fire slams into the group.
  5839. >Indigo and Sour are able to avoid the move in time, but one of the fireballs glances my shoulder, blasting off the armor at the blast point.
  5840. >Rainbow, on the other hand, takes the brunt of the flames, burning her in the process!
  5841. >The tomes circling the Prophetess begin to open as the Librarian's voice echoes throughout the room.
  5842. >"Hell hath come to take the Traitor's due."
  5843. >Something in me begins to change, but I'm not sure what.
  5844. >(Be careful, guys, that Shadow's planning to do something next turn, but I can't see what she's doing. Here's a scan on the Turbulent Prophetess:)
  5845.  
  5846. Turbulent Prophet (Priestess)-
  5847.  
  5848. Repel: Oracle
  5849. Null: Instant Death
  5850.  
  5851. "What's 'Oracle'?"
  5852. >(I'm not sure, perhaps it's the thing she said just now? If you can figure out the Oracle, we could pull out teammates weak to it."
  5853. >Hell hath come to take the Traitor's due.
  5854. >I can't think of anything that would fit that description.
  5855. >What do you guys think?
  5856.  
  5857. Status:
  5858.  
  5859. Sunset Shimmer: 71% HP, 95% SP
  5860. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 90% SP
  5861. Rainbow Dash (Burned): 74% HP, 90% SP
  5862. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5863.  
  5864. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5865.  
  5866. In reserve:
  5867. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  5868. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5869. Rarity: 100% HP, 100%
  5870. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5871. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5872. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5873. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5874.  
  5875. So, my first instinct here is to say it'll be Ice. The Inferno's various symbolic punishments included, in the lowest circle of Hell, those who were traitors to their benefactors, where they were encased in ice. If this is the allusion she's making, none of the weaknesses of our current party require a change in plan; that worries me though, because it feels like she'd by necessity aim for one of the party's weaknesses, she's certainly seen enough of our fights to ascertain what abilities we have.
  5876. Assuming I'm right, we don't have any specific needs for this turn, so let's proceed with our previous plan:
  5877. Dash and Indigo don't have any ice moves in their repertoire, so I'm not too worries about that combo going haywire, let's unleash that on her.
  5878. Sour can cider up Dash, I imagine the combo takes HP from her end but even if not, being burned leaves her susceptible to wind and Nuke, neither of which are out of the question next turn.
  5879. Let's see if we can infuriate the librarian into going physical, it's a long shot but if it works she'll probably hold up on throwing out riddles until she shakes it off.
  5880.  
  5881. >Alright, if Ice is the planned attack, we should be fine.
  5882. >My microphone blares to life as I stand indignantly against the Turbulent Prophetess.
  5883. "What self-respecting Librarian misses half her intended targets? I've seen better eyes on a potato!"
  5884. >Unfortunately, my rapier wit seems ineffective against the Shadow: barely earning even a notice.
  5885. >"Alright, we're fully fueled and ready to let loose. Time to show this Shadow who she's messing with! Persona!"
  5886. >"Persona!"
  5887. >Pheidippides launches towards the Prophetess, the light in the huge cannon shining brightly as she nears.
  5888. >With a professional leap into the air, the athlete positions herself above the Shadow, unleashing a powerful psychedelic beam that sends her rocketing upward!
  5889.  
  5890. >Using this opportunity, Achilles leaps on Pheidippides's back, using the momentum to soar even higher.
  5891. >"This ends here!"
  5892. >The hero makes his descent, the force of his speed causing a rainbow-colored burst behind him..
  5893. >It actually looks like Rainbow's Sonic Rainboom!
  5894. >As Achilles rockets downward, Phedippides's cannon goes into overdrive, hammering the Prophetess with immense power.
  5895. >The rainbow force around the hero begins to form the image of a dragon, which roars in fury before slamming into the Shadow!
  5896.  
  5897. Combo Activated: Dragonsong Dive
  5898.  
  5899. >The Shadow screams from the pain, wobbling from her perfect balance as the two massive powers collide!
  5900. >(Good job, you two, that combination attack really did a number on the Turbulent Prophetess!)
  5901. >Rainbow sighs in exhaustion while wincing at the burn on her body.
  5902. >"It'd be a lot more satisfying if I didn't have to worry about this stupid burn."
  5903. >"I can help with that, Rainbow."
  5904. >Sour Sweet tosses her one of the Ciders, which she downs to recover her health.
  5905.  
  5906. >"Prepare yourselves."
  5907. >The tomes around the Turbulent Prophetess burst with light, a large magical circle forming above our heads.
  5908. >Without warning, icy jaws slam into us on all sides, striking everyone for massive damage!
  5909. >Sour's body becomes enveloped in ice, locking her in place as she struggles fruitlessly.
  5910. >A tiny bubble forms around the main body of the Shadow before popping, and the body appears to no longer be weakened.
  5911. >(Looks like that Oracle attack still does a lot of damage, even without elemental advantages. An additional scan on the Prophetess indicates full immunity to Rage.)
  5912. >We did a lot of damage to the Shadow, but it looks like she did just as much to us.
  5913. >At least we were able to figure out the element correctly on that one.
  5914. >Keeping those in mind might help later.
  5915. >Before we do anything, it might be a good idea to unfreeze Sour Sweet.
  5916. >What should our next move be?
  5917.  
  5918. Status:
  5919.  
  5920. Sunset Shimmer: 25% HP, 90% SP
  5921. Indigo Zap: 48% HP, 60% SP
  5922. Rainbow Dash: 52% HP, 90% SP
  5923. Sour Sweet (Frozen): 48% HP, 95% SP
  5924.  
  5925. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5926.  
  5927. In reserve:
  5928. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  5929. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5930. Rarity: 100% HP, 100%
  5931. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5932. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5933. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5934. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5935.  
  5936. Zest is probably going to have to play healer for us for a few rounds this match, unfortunately; kind of wonder if she has ailment boost or if the dice gods are just in a good mood specifically for burns, freezes, and shocks this run.
  5937. Let's let Indigo step out for this turn, we need Zest's heals and cure to keep us out of trouble, especially with the Prophetess busting us below half with one move while Debilitated and everyone essentially Heat Riser'd.
  5938. Speaking of, gotta re-Debilitate once Sour's out of Frozen status, at SP cost of 5% that's an invaluable cure-or-eat-it dilemma for our enemy.
  5939. Dash can Power Charge again, for how little she uses SP I'm willing to wait a turn for the damage itself, plus it keeps her further from dead. And if Sour ever has a chance to do something other than Debilitate, boosting Dash's crit% will make Power Charge even more menacing.
  5940. That just leaves Sunset, and I'm kind of feeling a God's Fist or equivalent this turn. We're unlikely to outright bite it from what's coming this turn assuming the Debilitate lands, and we'll probably wind up healing anyhow.
  5941. What does Sunny have to say regarding Silence? I wouldn't think it would work, but no sense throwing the turn away.
  5942.  
  5943. "Indigo, swap out with Lemon Zest for now. We need to be conservative with our remaining items."
  5944. >Indigo gives a thumbs up with a smile of relief, falling back to the others as Lemon Zest hops back into the fray.
  5945. >"Man, Sunset, you sure like to bring me out for healing duty. It'll be a bit before I can crack Sour out of that ice, so don't wait on either of us."
  5946. >Taking a page from that fake Rider, I focus my vitality into my fist instead of my leg.
  5947. >The results are a pair of blazing talons that extend from the suit's gloves.
  5948. >I don't recall where I've seen this, but this looks familiar somehow.
  5949. >With a leaping headstart, I lunge at the Shadow, tearing at her for moderate damage as the Prophetess slightly staggers.
  5950. >"Achilles isn't using much SP as is, so let's keep up the Charges!"
  5951. >Just as quickly as the hero's armor returns does it burst once more, preparing for a powerful strike.
  5952. >"Persona!"
  5953. >Lemon strums a fiery tune as Ame-no-Uzume shakes fiercely to the beat.
  5954. >The heat of the moment cures our wounds and defrosts Sour Sweet, earning a sudden gasp and coughing fit.
  5955. >"F-f-fuck me, that is not comfortable to deal with."
  5956.  
  5957. >Before we can recuperate, a volley of light arrows descends upon us, blotting out the ceiling!
  5958. >Luckily, we manage to avoid the projectiles, the arrows slamming into the ground where we were previously before dissipating.
  5959. >The tomes around the Turbulent Prophetess open once more, an ominous chant coming from her mouth.
  5960. >"The bull of heaven lashes out at the sun, uncaring for those beneath it."
  5961. >Another feeling of change flows through me as the Shadow recites her latest prophecy.
  5962. >(Looks like this is a new Oracle: if you can figure out what type of magic she's planning to cast, it could make things easier. Silence has a low chance of working.)
  5963.  
  5964. >I hear another faint voice behind Sunny's, as the two converse with each other.
  5965. >(Fluttershy says she might be able to stun that Shadow with Tzaphkiel, if you want to focus on offense. There's no guarantee it will work, but if it does, she won't be able to act.)
  5966. >I feel the enhancing magicks wear off as Sunny mentions that, considering our current options.
  5967. >If we get lucky with Fluttershy's stun, we'd have free reign for a while to let loose.
  5968. >We might even be able to silence the Shadow, if we prepare with something that reduces ailment resistance.
  5969. >This "bull of heaven" sounds familiar, I think I've heard about it in my Science class before.
  5970. >I'll leave the decision to you guys: what should we do next?
  5971.  
  5972. Status:
  5973.  
  5974. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5975. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 90% SP
  5976. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 95% SP
  5977. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 85% SP
  5978.  
  5979. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5980.  
  5981. In reserve:
  5982. Indigo Zap: 48% HP, 60% SP
  5983. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  5984. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5985. Rarity: 100% HP, 100%
  5986. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5987. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5988. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  5989.  
  5990. Alright, so... this is basically a guess, but I think we should prepare for a Wind move. I know the Bull of Heaven is from Gilgamesh, it's what killed Enkidu and put Gil on his quest for immortality. But I don't remember that having anything to do with the sun, so I'm not super sure if this is right. The Bull of Heaven did have super-strong breath though, so that's why I'm guessing Wind. That said, we don't have any people on the field with Wind weaknesses, so I'm going with "minimize damage" strat.
  5991. Let's swap Flutters in, didn't realize we could swap Analysis though I guess I should've. If she can land the Stun, that'll let us go full tilt next turn.
  5992. Unfortunately I'm pretty sure Dash is faster than Sunset, and getting her silence off is going to be problematic without an Ailment Boost, so let's have her slam the Prophetess as-is with a Persona physical.
  5993. Sour can throw that Debilitate gauntlet down again, Prophetess can eat it or spend a turn fixing it.
  5994. Let's refresh the defense buff with Sunset, last thing we want is to underestimate this enemy and get slapped for it.
  5995. And Lemon's pretty single-utility, but let's let her Kougaon this turn, she'll gain most of it back thanks to the regen.
  5996. I'm little shaky on this one, but I think we should be okay?
  5997.  
  5998. >It's a gamble, but it's better than just waiting for the Turbulent Prophetess to strike.
  5999. "Sunny, change with Fluttershy and try to stun that Shadow: we're going all in!"
  6000. ><All right, it will take time to activate, so hit her hard!>
  6001. >I grasp out as the familiar microphone forms in my hand, an idea forming on what to do.
  6002. "Rainbow, catch!"
  6003. >Tossing the microphone to Rainbow, I see her fumble it momentarily before looking at me with confusion.
  6004. >"What gives, Sunset? I'm a bit busy preparing for the smackdown here."
  6005. >Smiling, I mess around with my suit interface as music rocks out of my speakers.
  6006. "Just thought you'd want to sing your own song. I doubt I can do it the justice you can."
  6007. >Her eyes widen as she finally realizes what I'm talking about, scratching the back of her head in embarrassment.
  6008. >"I dunno, Sunset, that song didn't age well with me."
  6009. "It's just for fun, Rainbow Dash. Besides, now's your big time to shine."
  6010.  
  6011. >After mulling it over a bit, she shrugs and psyches herself as Achilles bursts with renewed power.
  6012. >"First you see me riding on a sonic boom; got my guitar shreddin' up my latest tune."
  6013. >The soldier vanishes into thin air, zooming towards the Prophetess with intense speed!
  6014. >"There is nothin' you can do to beat me ; I'm so good that you can't defeat me!"
  6015. >Despite the Shadow's attempts to push him back, Achilles dances through the swats and begins his assault.
  6016. >"Yeah, I'm awesome, take caution; watch out for me, I'm awesome as I wanna be!"
  6017. >With the skill of a veteran warrior, the azure dragoon pierces the Shadow with a flurry of jabs, knocking her off balance!
  6018. >"Yeah, I'm awesome, take caution; watch out for me, I'm awesome as I wanna be!"
  6019. >Rainbow points to the Prophetess in a taunting matter, smirking as Achilles strikes with the but of his spear, sending the Shadow toppling to the ground!
  6020.  
  6021. >"Now's our time to go all out, Sunset!"
  6022. "Let's do it!"
  6023. >"Charge!"
  6024. >The four of us crash into the Prophetess, dealing heavy damage while the prone Shadow fruitlessly resists!
  6025. >We pull back as she begins to rise once more, Sour decking her card in the process.
  6026. >"Soften the blow if this goes to shit, Doppelgänger!"
  6027. >Sour's shadow rises up as the Persona mocks the Prophetess, cackling as her power is weakened.
  6028. >"Not the best tune, Rainbow, but it definitely had a good beat to it. Let's join the chorus, Ame-no-Uzume!"
  6029. >Lemon jams as the dawn goddess hops along to the tune, a volley of white talismans thrown at the Shadow with each spin.
  6030. >The Turbulent Prophetess screams in pain as the talismans burn her skin!
  6031. >"No... I can't let you through this door. She decided to keep it hidden, and I must-!"
  6032.  
  6033. ><Keeping the truth hidden will do nothing but hurt people! Everyone, close your eyes!>
  6034. >Quickly covering my eyes, I feel a sudden cold chill, as if a spectre of death passed right by me.
  6035. >Looking to see the damage done, the Shadow's body seizes in place, unable to release her prophecy!
  6036. ><I don't think that'll work again, but the Turbulent Prophetess is faltering: one final assault should be enough to finish her!>
  6037. >Sour waves to catch my attention, a smile forming on her face.
  6038. >"Looking at how your Persona works gave me an idea for a combination attack; now might be a perfect chance to test it out."
  6039. >I get the feeling that, if I do a combo with Sour Sweet, it'll take some health to burn.
  6040. >Still, it might be worth it to strike while the iron is hot: attempt to finish this fight now.
  6041. >Should we perform that combination attack?
  6042.  
  6043. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 90% SP
  6044. Rainbow Dash: 70% HP, 90% SP
  6045. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 90% SP
  6046. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 73% SP
  6047.  
  6048. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 60% SP
  6049.  
  6050. In reserve:
  6051. Indigo Zap: 48% HP, 60% SP
  6052. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6053. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6054. Rarity: 100% HP, 100%
  6055. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6056. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6057. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6058.  
  6059. Do combo
  6060.  
  6061. I agree, do combo.
  6062. Specifically let's get Sunset and Sour to show off the power of friendship vis-a-vis knocking this Shadow's lights out.
  6063. Dash should take full advantage of that buff to crack some skulls with another Persona physical.
  6064. And Lemon should pop off with whatever her strongest single-target lightning move is.
  6065. Let's see if we can finish this fight here and now, before the Prophetess manages to beat our cheeks.
  6066.  
  6067. >Alright, this is all or nothing, then!
  6068. "Let's do it, Sour!"
  6069. >A wicked grin crosses Sour's face as Achilles flings his spear at the Turbulent Prophetess, pinning the Shadow to the ground!
  6070. >"Bullseye!"
  6071. >With Rainbow celebrating her shot, Sour takes a deep breath before posing with her arms.
  6072.  
  6073. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UsI5GMhRok
  6074.  
  6075. >"Monomane... Henshin!"
  6076. >Doppelgänger leaps onto her, shifting in form until hardening into a battle suit like my own.
  6077. >A white scarf flutters in the wind as she checks herself out.
  6078. >"Damn, gotta say this is a good attempt for eyeballing it. Let's see what kinda toys I can make out of this!"
  6079. >Sour holds her arm out, sharp, black claws extending from her fists.
  6080. >"It'll do for now; you get the top while I break this top!"
  6081. >Before I can respond, she charges at the bottom half of the Prophetess.
  6082. "I can't fault her for enthusiasm, at least. Toh!"
  6083. >Leaping to the top where the Shadow's main body is, I slice away at the hovering tomes protecting the Shadow.
  6084.  
  6085. >Meanwhile, Sour Sweet seems to be enjoying herself, laughing as she tears away at the foundations.
  6086. >With one final slash, I destroy the final tome encircling the Prophetess, leaving her completely defenseless.
  6087. "Sour, with me!"
  6088. >"Right!"
  6089. >Sour leaps into the air as I extend the fiery talons of my boots.
  6090. >I join her in the air as our legs course with the flames of justice.
  6091. >"It's lights out for you, Librarian! Rider-!"
  6092. "Rider-!"
  6093. >Kick!
  6094.  
  6095. Combo Activated: Rider Double Kick
  6096.  
  6097. >Both our legs strike the Turbulent Prophetess, the energy gathered in them coursing through the Shadow as sparks fly!
  6098. >"... So that is your answer..."
  6099. >We turn around and nod to each other, bumping our fists as the Shadow explodes behind us!
  6100. "Looks like we won that one. We're lucky that stun even worked when it did."
  6101. >The battle over, we all check on what used to be our opponent: now splattered across the floor.
  6102.  
  6103. >"I think it's still moving!"
  6104. >Twitching at first, the goop coalesces at the center of the room, forming into a familiar face.
  6105. "Your..."
  6106. >Before I can finish myself, what used to be the Librarian holds up a patch hoof to silence me.
  6107. >"I surrender, child: you have all shown your willingness to learn the truth. Come."
  6108. >Her diminutive hoof waves at the barred door, removing the bindings as it creaks open.
  6109. >We follow behind, the shelves lining only half-eaten manuscripts and mold.
  6110.  
  6111. "Has anyone ever been in here?"
  6112. >Our guide shakes her head, looking at all the ex-books with a sad look in her odd eyes.
  6113. >"This part of the Fool's memory has been quarantined from the rest. The times she does try to relive it, guilt and self-loathing overwhelm her."
  6114. >Finally, we reach our destination: a charred book in a glass case, locked with mechanics so intricate it would take days to figure it out.
  6115. >With a wave of our new friend's hoof, however, the lock fades away as the case open.
  6116. >"Go, Sunset Shimmer, learn the truth you've been searching for."
  6117. >I walk forward and grab the book, gently opening it as words form on the pages.
  6118.  
  6119. Fire
  6120.  
  6121. >That was an amazing night: who knew camping out in the wilderness would be so fun?
  6122. >I don't quite remember what forest this is, though.
  6123. >Everfree?
  6124. >Evergreen?
  6125. >I wouldn't be surprised if people didn't know there were two different forests in the same area.
  6126. >Regardless, we're walking back to Dad's car: the girls, Dad, Shining, and I.
  6127. >Dad and Shining are talking about something ahead of us, so I've been listening to the other girls' conversation.
  6128.  
  6129. >"So then, the samurai pulled his sword out and hit all the bad guys. One of them even went through the floor!"
  6130. >"Woah!"
  6131. >The girls were excited over something Sol was talking about, an excited grin on her face.
  6132. >Still, I can't help but feel like I forgot something.
  6133. >I can't see what I could be missing though: I've got my gear, my snacks, my books and research materials.
  6134. >Miss Smarty Pants...
  6135.  
  6136. >My blood goes cold as I desperately rustle through my bag, but my widened eyes see no sign of her!
  6137. >"Twily, what's wrong?"
  6138. >Shining looks at me with concern as I hurriedly zip up my bag.
  6139. "I think I left Miss Smarty Pants at the campsite. We need to go back and grab her before something happens!"
  6140. >Turning to leave, I'm stopped by Dad, his grip on my shoulders firmly keeping me still.
  6141. >"Twilight, we're already so far from the camp, dear. It would take another hour to go back and forth; how about we look for another doll when we get back home?"
  6142. >Another doll?
  6143. >I force myself out of his grip and start running back as fast as I can.
  6144. "Nothing can replace Miss Smarty Pants; if you aren't going to go back, then I will!"
  6145. >The others try to stop me, but their voices fade away as I go deeper into the woods.
  6146.  
  6147. >Miss Smarty Pants is the last thing Grandpa ever made for me: it's the last thing I have from him!
  6148. >How could Dad not realize how important she is to me?
  6149. >After running through the countless trees, I finally calm down and look around my surroundings.
  6150. >...
  6151. >I think I'm lost.
  6152. >This was a horrible idea: I should have just convinced everyone to come with me.
  6153. >Just then, my train of thought falters as I pick a heavy scent in the air.
  6154. >Smoke.
  6155. >I look behind me to see a raging fire consuming the forest!
  6156. >How did it get here?
  6157. >I should have seen it long before arriving!
  6158. >Backing away from the flames, I run as fast as my legs can take me.
  6159.  
  6160. >The air is filled with smoke, I can't stop coughing.
  6161. >I know the floor is safer, but the fires won't wait for me to crawl away.
  6162. >As I continue to flee, I notice figures moving in the flames, terrifying in their motions.
  6163. >My foot hits something hard as I fall down to the forest floor, scratched and bruised.
  6164. >It hurts.
  6165. >I don't want to be here.
  6166. "Help me..."
  6167. >"Twilight!"
  6168. >Looking up in show, I see Sol rushing to my side, helping me up and supporting me with her left arm.
  6169.  
  6170. "Sol? How did you find me?"
  6171. >"There's no time for that, we got to get out of here!"
  6172. >The two of us continue our escape, the trees crying out as branches snap from the pressure.
  6173. >"We should be getting close to the exit. Come on, Twilight, just a bit further."
  6174. >I cough before nodding to Sol, when I see a swiftly approaching shadow beneath us.
  6175. "Sol, look out!"
  6176. >She only has enough time to push me out of the way before a flaming branch crashes onto her, trapping her hand!
  6177. >I can only stand there, frightened beyond belief, as my best friend screams in pain.
  6178. >It takes all I can muster to get up and help her remove the branch trapping her hand, but the smallest opening frees it.
  6179. >Sol's screams slowly die down as she curls up and closes her eyes.
  6180.  
  6181. >Additional branches block the path ahead, trapping us in a circle of fiery death.
  6182. >Sitting next to her, I close my eyes and pray as hard as I can.
  6183. "Someone, anyone, please help Sol and I. I don't want to die..."
  6184. >I huddle over my friend and wait for the end.
  6185. >"Hey, are you okay?"
  6186. >I open my eyes to see a firefighter, lifting me into his arms before carrying me down a path.
  6187. "What... happened?"
  6188. >"We found you and your friend in the middle of the fire. I have to say, you're lucky the fire seemed to go around you two."
  6189. >I couldn't believe what he was saying: we survived the fire?
  6190.  
  6191. >Looking around, it's obvious the fires are still roaring in other parts of the forest, but we're alright.
  6192. "Wait, where's Sol?"
  6193. >The firefighter looks away with a sad look on his face,
  6194. >"You mean your friend? Her hand was severely injured, heavy burns, so we took her to the medic first. Wouldn't be surprised if they had to remove the whole thing."
  6195. >He sighs as we finally break out of the woods, to see the worried looks of Dad and Shining.
  6196. >"Twily, you're alright!"
  6197. >The firefighter hands me to Dad before returning to the forest.
  6198. >"Oh, baby, we were so worried..."
  6199.  
  6200. >As they cried, I can see the medics pushing Sol into the ambulance: her right hand bandaged heavily.
  6201. >This is all my fault.
  6202. >Because I was selfish and went off on my own, Sol was hurt.
  6203. "I'm sorry..."
  6204. >"It's alright, Twilight, you're safe now."
  6205. >Dad continues to hug me tightly as tears run down my face.
  6206. >I'm so sorry, Sol...
  6207.  
  6208. >Suddenly, as if a tension coil snapped, Sunny and the other girls begin to fall to the floor, screaming and holding their heads.
  6209. "What's wrong, are you guys alright?"
  6210. >"What the hell is this? It feels like my head is about the explode!"
  6211. >Before I can help them out, the screams stop: the girls' eyes wet with tears.
  6212. >"I... I remember now. Twilight, the camping trip, the fires: so they weren't just dreams."
  6213. >What used to be the Librarian shakes her head, looking at Sunny with forlorn.
  6214. >"When the Fool went to save her doll, the one her own grandfather made, she doomed you to suffer, Sunny Flare."
  6215. >The others look to the ground as Sunny gently takes the book from my hand.
  6216.  
  6217. >"All this time, she's been suffering these memories all by herself. And that's why you took this form, right, Miss Smarty Pants?"
  6218. >Nodding, the doll looks back to the outside of the room, to the cold Archive beyond.
  6219. >"The guilt of such a childish action has hounded her since then. She has decided that she deserves no happiness, and I can only obey her wishes."
  6220. >So this is what you've been hiding, Twilight: survivor's guilt for having a friend lose her hand.
  6221. >"Sunset Shimmer, you are the only one who can put some sense into that Fool's head before she goes down the path of no return."
  6222. >Golden lights sprout from Miss Smarty Pants as she begins to fade away.
  6223. >"Please, help Twilight forgive herself."
  6224.  
  6225. >...
  6226. "I will."
  6227. >The doll nods in satisfaction before the light overtakes her, the light coalescing on everyone's weapons.
  6228. >When the light vanishes, everyone's gear has changed in some way!
  6229.  
  6230. >Rainbow's pipe is now a prismatic spear, with an ornamental head in the shape of a pegasus midflight on top.
  6231. >The tip of the spearhead spirals, shining brilliantly in the light of the door.
  6232. >Pinkie's cannon grows in size, its baby blue, yellow, and pink exterior changing into a green, scaled surface.
  6233. >At the cannon's head, a cover shaped like an alligator's head bobs up and down like a mouth opening and closing.
  6234. >Rarity's practice epee blooms into a full-blown rapier, with an ornate handle and thorny engravings.
  6235. >A gorgeous white rose grows from the hilt, shamelessly extolling its beauty and brilliance.
  6236. >The knife in Fluttershy's hand flattens as the handle shifts into a black rope wrapped around it.
  6237. >A crimson sheen covers the kunai's blade, as a set of kanji is engraved onto the base itself.
  6238. >Applejack's bow grows in size, looking more like a sturdy oak tree in its smooth grooves.
  6239. >Poking menacingly at the bottom is a retractable spike, presumably for keeping the bow still.
  6240. >Lemon's guitar is magically back in its case, but an odd protrusion sticks out of one end of the case.
  6241. >As she grasps it, a gun barrel shoots out from the tip of the case, firing a few rounds at one of the empty bookshelves.
  6242. >"Oops..."
  6243.  
  6244. >Sugarcoat's taser doesn't seem to have changed much, but the cover appears to be emanating a bright blue light from the openings.
  6245. >I wouldn't be surprised if that thing got supercharged.
  6246. >In place of Indigo's knuckles, a fashionable pair of black gloves now adorn her hands.
  6247. >She punches out with one of them, revealing glowing marks all over the gloves themselves.
  6248. >Spike appears unaffected, but when Rarity pets him on the head, a green gout of flame bursts from his mouth, to everyone's surprise.
  6249. >Sunny's parasol sword didn't change at all, but her right prosthetic hand has transformed into a gnarled, black gauntlet.
  6250. >After poking around on it, the screen of her old arm seems to be perfectly functional, with an additional program called "Belial".
  6251.  
  6252. >Sour's baton begins to crackle with lightning, surrounding her and arcing towards anything close to her.
  6253. >From what I can tell, however, they don't seem to be affecting anything.
  6254. "It looks like the Librarian, I mean, Miss Smarty Pants, had one final gift for us. It's time to save Twilight!"
  6255. >Everyone nods as Sunny calls forth Phoebe.
  6256. >(There appears to be two more signatures up ahead: one is Twilight, the other is unknown. We best be prepared for a fight. Here's everyone's condition:)
  6257.  
  6258. In reserve:
  6259. Sunset Shimmer: 70% HP, 90% SP
  6260. Indigo Zap: 48% HP, 60% SP
  6261. Rainbow Dash: 40% HP, 90% SP
  6262. Sour Sweet: 70% HP, 90% SP
  6263. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6264. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6265. Rarity: 100% HP, 100%
  6266. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 73% SP
  6267. Applejack: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6268. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6269. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6270. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 60% SP
  6271.  
  6272. >(We've got 4 Ciders, 4 Candies, and 8 Incenses still in reserve, in case you want to use them.)
  6273.  
  6274. Total SP to max before healing is 137%; i think a full heal from Rarity cost 15%? That leaves us with 152% if I'm right, which if we skimp a bit means one candy and a 52% deficit to split among all members:
  6275. AJ @ 80%
  6276. RD @ 80%
  6277. Sour @ 88%
  6278. Everyone else at full.
  6279. With that done, let's get our asses up there and save Twilight! And Cinch, I guess, even if she more than anyone brought this shit on herself.
  6280.  
  6281. "I think we can get away with using only one Candy. Take some SP from Rainbow, Applejack, and Sour, since their Persona don't use it as much."
  6282. >With a single Candy to re-energize herself, Sunny transfers the extra energy between the girls.
  6283. >After one final look at the charred manuscript, I turn and rush towards the staircase leading higher to the Heart.
  6284. >(The reading is starting to become clearer the further we go up. Judging from the signature, this can only be-!)
  6285. >Shadowbreaker immediately ejects the Persona card into the aether as Sunny charges ahead.
  6286. >"Fluttershy, you're on Analysis for now; I know who this is!"
  6287. >With a jolt of surprise, she activates Tzaphkiel as we try to catch up with Sunny.
  6288. >Eventually, the large staircase comes to an end, revealing a large throne room, completely bereft of life.
  6289. ><Up ahead, that's Sunny Flare; and the other signature is-!>
  6290. "Principal Cinch."
  6291.  
  6292. >I suppose it's not a surprise we find the cause of all of this in the last place we look.
  6293. >But something's wrong in the way she's standing: the yellow glimmer in her normally dark eyes.
  6294. >"I must admit, I'm surprised it took this long for you to arrive. Took your time to sight-see, I suppose?"
  6295. >We move to Sunny's side as she grips her prosthetic in pain.
  6296. >"Don't get too close, Sunset, that isn't my mother!"
  6297. >The Principal chuckles, adjusting her glasses with a sinister grin.
  6298. >"Oh, I am very much Abacus Cinch, child. Though you are right about one thing,"
  6299. >Her eyes narrow at Sunny, piercing mercilessly into her soul.
  6300. >"You are certainly no daughter of mine, colluding with the enemy; and to think, I went through all the trouble of giving you these Games on a silver platter."
  6301. "What do you mean, 'giving them on a silver platter'?"
  6302. >Cinch shrugs, looking through me with a bored look on her bespectacled face.
  6303. >"I suppose it doesn't matter much now, does it? The dream's slowly falling apart now, so I shall tell you the truth."
  6304.  
  6305. >"I tinkered with both the Academic Decathlon and the Tricross Relay, all to give my students the decisive advantage for these Games."
  6306. >"Whaddya mean, tinkered?"
  6307. >Rainbow indignantly readies her spear as the Principal continues, unconcerned by the idle threat.
  6308. >"Nothing that would be noticed by the common eye. For example, the Elimination Equation you and Miss Sparkle did: before we brought them in, I intentionally changed the angles on your triangle."
  6309. >I think back to the triangle we worked on two days ago; we never did get a good look at Twilight's side of the board, did we?
  6310. >"Ten degrees more here, ten degrees less there, and your failure was ensured. Even if you followed the rules correctly, you would have gotten 30 degrees, ten off from the true answer."
  6311. >She gives a shit-eating grin as she looks down on me.
  6312. >"Though apparently, I never even needed to go that far."
  6313.  
  6314. >I clench my teeth as Principal Cinch takes a seat on the throne in front of us.
  6315. >"The Tricross Relay was far more difficult to interfere with: to have the members of the competing team suffer injuries before the competition would be too obvious. So I made Miss Sparkle sabotage your bikes, to force you to use the older models that would be unable to keep up."
  6316. >Indigo's eyes light up with anger as she realizes something.
  6317. >"Wait, if you used Twilight to do that, then you had to have known she used my goggles to frame me. Did you really try to throw me under the bus?"
  6318. >Cinch shrugs nonchalantly, barely even looking her direction as she responds.
  6319. >"I had not expected Canterlot to find them before it was too late, but you are just a student of Crystal Prep: we can and will cut you off when our reputation is on the line."
  6320. >Clenching her prosthetic arm, Sunny points at her mother, anger in her eyes.
  6321. >"You undermined our school's potential by deliberately sabotaging our competition? Our reputation is nonexistent now!"
  6322.  
  6323. >Cinch stands, moving towards us with a look of pure murder.
  6324. >"Our reputation is pristine, so long as there are no witnesses to my deeds. And I am very good at cleaning up my own messes."
  6325. >She pulls out a sickly yellow mask, a dark aura emanating from it, placing it onto her face with no hesitation!
  6326. >The mask remains steadfast on her face, now completely devoid of features other than two eye-holes, as a portal opens in front of her.
  6327. >What rises from the portal appears to be an elderly man in a tacky yellow suit, his pale head bald with tufts and a goatee of purple hair.
  6328. >"Your journey end here, interlopers: perish at the hands of Kaiwan!"
  6329. ><Be careful, everyone, this thing is a Persona of the likes we've never seen before!>
  6330. >Kaiwan materializes a scythe into his hands, assuming a combat position with a sinister smile on his face.
  6331. >It looks like Cinch isn't going to let us through without a fight, and I've got a bone to pick with her myself.
  6332. >Who should lead the vanguard on this one?
  6333.  
  6334. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvDuBdcB2YE
  6335.  
  6336. Oh jeez... So she's able to use the power of Persona too? Wonder if she could always do this, or if it's the power of Twilight's amulet.
  6337. I don't hold too much hope for easily exploitable weaknesses, but let's field Sunny, AJ, Rarity, and Sugarcoat, with Flutters on Analysis.
  6338. AJ boosts our defense by default, so she can go straight for a Ranged attack this turn; does the act of planting for damageboost take a turn, or does it go into effect immediately?
  6339. Rara should actually basic this round, I think; we'll need the SP for healing or damage later, but for right now let's play conservative, until we know what we're facing.
  6340. Sunny can lay down some unblockable damage with Meg idolatry we don't proc a reflect before we know what to worry about.
  6341. Sugarcoat can up the ailment chances, I really want to land a status effect on one of these guys.
  6342. And of course Fluttershy should sneak a peak at Kaiwan and share her findings.
  6343.  
  6344. >From what I recall, Cinch was able to remember what happened outside of Decoherence, so she at least had to have potential before this.
  6345. >Still, the way she called forth Kaiwan is something I've never seen before.
  6346. "We'll start with Sugarcoat, Rarity, Applejack, and Sunny. Fluttershy is on Analysis for this one!"
  6347. >We all nod as the four girls take the field, newly enhanced weapons in hand.
  6348. >"Persona."
  6349. >With a professional flick of her wrist, Sugarcoat tosses her card into the ground, Hel rising in its place.
  6350. >The death goddess raises her arms, calling forth a frostbitten gate which opens with a sickening creak.
  6351. >A green mist pours forth, covering the arena and making everyone noticeably shiver.
  6352. >"I must admit, I'm curious about what these new weapons can do."
  6353. >With a flourish, Rarity lunges at Cinch, slashing across Kaiwan's torso as he intervenes.
  6354. >"We also don't know what kind of resistances that Persona has. Better safe than sorry."
  6355. >Applejack slams her greatbow into the ground, locking it in place as she readies a gargantuan arrow.
  6356.  
  6357. >With a hearty thung, the glorified spear launches through the air, slamming into the suited man and knocking the wind out of him!
  6358. >"Why would you bother doing all these petty things, Mother? These Games aren't worth the effort to ruin your reputation!"
  6359. >Sunny slashes her card as Phoebe unleashes a meteor shower, striking the earth with various amounts of space rock.
  6360. >"Children hardly understand what's good for them, but you're correct: the Games don't matter. Not anymore."
  6361. >Principal Cinch evades the barrage with minimal effort, the mask flashing as Kaiwan hurls a fireball at Rarity.
  6362. >The flames connect, causing Rarity to shout in pain as she continues.
  6363. >"With the failure of Decoherence, we can finally shape the world to our desires!"
  6364. >Kaiwan's glove glows with a dark aura as he strikes Sunny across the face with it, barely glancing her.
  6365.  
  6366. >"That attack barely hurt me; what are you planning, Mother?!"
  6367. >Cinch only responds with a grin as she falls back to a safe distance.
  6368. ><Sunny, be careful, something weird's happened with your magical core, and I can't tell what it is. From the looks of it, though, you won't be able to cleanse it with spells.>
  6369. >Sunny clicks her tongue in annoyance as Rarity brushes some ashes off her dress.
  6370. >"Honestly, you'd think someone intending to kill us would do so without such collateral damage. As if my clothes deserved that."
  6371. ><Just got a reading from Tzaphkiel on Principal Cinch's Persona:>
  6372.  
  6373. Kaiwan (Emperor)-
  6374.  
  6375. Null: Instant Death
  6376. Weak: ???
  6377.  
  6378. >"Wait, so she's weak to something? How can you not scan it for more details?"
  6379. ><Sorry, but Tzaphkiel can only scan for elemental and ailment weaknesses. If we have something to exploit that weakness, it's not on any of our Persona.>
  6380. >The girls ponder on what to do next as the Principal of Crystal Prep readies her attack.
  6381. ><Here's everyone's condition:>
  6382.  
  6383. Status:
  6384.  
  6385. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 95% SP
  6386. Rarity: 69% HP, 100%
  6387. Applejack: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6388. Sunny Flare (???): 95% HP, 70% SP
  6389.  
  6390. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6391.  
  6392. In reserve:
  6393. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6394. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6395. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6396. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 88% SP
  6397. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6398. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6399. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6400.  
  6401. >"That's big talk for someone inclined to slink in the shadows for her plans. Come forth, Hel."
  6402. >A flurry of frozen spears soar through the air, slamming into Kaiwan and dealing heavy damage!
  6403. >"Better safe than sorry, my dear Cait Sith!"
  6404. >With a flourish, the white cat rubs himself across Rarity, the burns fading away in the process.
  6405. >"An ailment would help us out in the long run. Strike true, Arash Kamangir!"
  6406. >Pulling an oily arrow from his quiver, the legendary archer's shot strikes true, catching the enemy Persona's shoulder and causing him to cough.
  6407. >"What do you mean, shaping the world to our desires? You act like this is some sort of dream where you can do whatever you want!"
  6408. >Phoebe swings one of her celestial fists down, connecting against Kaiwan's suit and sending him staggering backwards.
  6409. >"For all the things you know, child, you understand nothing."
  6410. >Pulling back from Phoebe's attack, the demon brandishes his scythe, striking Sunny across the torso.
  6411.  
  6412. >Suddenly, just as the weapon slices her, a powerful burst of energy explodes from Sunny, dealing heavy damage to the girls!
  6413. >"With the realm of dreams finally leaking into this 'world', I can now see the truth with my own eyes."
  6414. >Electricity dances through the Persona's arms before lashing out at the group, missing Applejack by a hair, but sending Rarity collapsing to the floor.
  6415. >Sunny's body seizes on itself, the remaining electricity coursing through her muscles and constraining her movements.
  6416. >"There are infinite dreams, just like this one, dotting the dreamscape like stars. Some are like our own, but differing based on important decisions."
  6417. >As Cinch continues, several orbs of light descend from the ceiling, showing scenes that have me in them, but couldn't have happened.
  6418.  
  6419. >One depicts me with Rainbow and Fluttershy, looking exasperated at a lanky man with messy blonde hair.
  6420. >Another shows me talking with a troubled Lemon Zest, her head in her hands.
  6421. >There's even one with Principal Cinch opening the magic-storing device herself!
  6422. >"Every choice you made in this dream, another you has done something completely different. An infinite amount of dreams, even without the odd outliers."
  6423. >More stars float around us, showing scenes like two ponies talking in a hospital room, or a man standing on a boat.
  6424. >There are even scenes of great battles in ruined castles, as well as claustrophobic corridors in space.
  6425.  
  6426. >Kaiwan takes the opportunity to recover some of his injuries as the stars part between the two groups.
  6427. >"Whether the dreams continue towards completion or fade away to nothing, they are all connected by a single thread."
  6428. >Seemingly satisfied with her response, the Principal returns to her fighting stance.
  6429. ><it looks like that attack made your magical core volatile, like a Bomb! If you get affected by the ailment again, guarding should keep the explosion internalized and not hit everyone else. Here's everyone's condition:>
  6430.  
  6431. Sugarcoat: 42% HP, 85% SP
  6432. Rarity (Down): 18% HP, 85%
  6433. Applejack: 80% HP, 75% SP
  6434. Sunny Flare (Shock): 24% HP, 50% SP
  6435.  
  6436. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6437.  
  6438. In reserve:
  6439. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6440. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6441. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6442. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 88% SP
  6443. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6444. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6445. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6446.  
  6447. ><Silence currently has a chance of working, thanks to Sugarcoat's efforts.>
  6448.  
  6449. >"Persona."
  6450. >Sugarcoat once more unleashes a volley of icy javelins, striking Kaiwan and dealing heavy damage.
  6451. >"Ow... For a dream world, this doesn't feel like one in the slightest."
  6452. >Cait Sith purrs as he does his best to soothe all the fighters, patching up their wounds in the process.
  6453. >"If you're right about all this malarkey, then what's yer point? So what if all of these dreams are connected in some way?"
  6454. >Heaving a javelin back, Applejack launches the projectile at the Persona, puncturing his shoulder and creating a hole in it!
  6455. >Sunny's body refuses to move: her muscles paralyzed with the remnant electricity running through it.
  6456. >Her eyes scream bloody murder at Cinch as she prepares herself.
  6457. >"Of course you wouldn't understand it: you're like ants attempting to look at a house."
  6458.  
  6459. >Kaiwan's hands crackle with electrical current as a giant bolt of lightning strikes Rarity once more, causing her to collapse to the ground once more!
  6460. >"That string that ties all these dreams together is the original dream: the Ur-Dream. From it, countless realities have been formed under the whims of 'what-if' and 'choice'."
  6461. >His hand glows ominously once more as the Persona tags Rarity's downed form, priming her for the next attack.
  6462. >"It is there that my new ambitions lie; if I can break from this dream and locate the Ur-Dream, I will be able to control all realities!"
  6463. >The Principal laughs uncontrollably as her Persona focuses his energy into his scythe, coughing violently in between as the poison carries on its duties.
  6464. ><Principal Cinch has gone completely insane! It looks like Kaiwain's preparing for a powerful physical attack, and Rarity's primed with a Bomb.>
  6465. >"This really isn't my best moment, is it?"
  6466. >Rarity flinches from the pain as she tries to pull herself up.
  6467. ><It looks like Cinch remembers our weaknesses: don't be afraid to put up elemental walls for protection, or switch out with another teammate. Here's everyone's condition:>
  6468.  
  6469. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 55% SP
  6470. Rarity (Down/Bomb): 27% HP, 65%
  6471. Applejack: 100% HP, 75% SP
  6472. Sunny Flare (Shock): 100% HP, 50% SP
  6473.  
  6474. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6475.  
  6476. In reserve:
  6477. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6478. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6479. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6480. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 88% SP
  6481. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6482. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6483. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6484.  
  6485. ><Rarity, switch out with Indigo for now. We might be able to time out the Bomb ailment.>
  6486. >"Sorry for my poor performance, everyone."
  6487. >Pulling herself up, Rarity winces before falling back to Tzaphkiel, leaving Indigo to rush in.
  6488. >"Cinch is already poisoned, so maybe we can net some Technical damage off her. Give her hell, Pheidippides!"
  6489. >The Runner's arm cannons extend, parts of the armor feeding into their forms to enlarge them.
  6490. >After a moment of charging, two beams of psychedelic energy burst forth, slamming into Kaiwan, dealing heavy damage!
  6491. >"Hmm, guess Poison doesn't count as a technical combo for Psy damage."
  6492. >"We can't afford to have one of us in constant paralysis. Sunny, catch!"
  6493. >Sugarcoat flings an Apple Cider at Sunny's shocked form, the bottle shattering and dousing her in its healing properties.
  6494.  
  6495. >With a harsh grunt, Applejack plants the greatbow into the floor again, steadying the weapon while pulling an arrow back.
  6496. >"Take this!"
  6497. >The spear sings through the air, punching another hole through the Persona as it staggers back in pain!
  6498. >"Thanks for the assist, Sugarcoat; now to see what this new function does. Belial Mode, Activate!"
  6499. >As Sunny exclaims this, the screen on the Shadowbreaker flashes a bloody red before spreading through the prosthetic.
  6500. >Her eyes cloud with rage as she screams a war cry, assuming a highly-aggressive stance.
  6501. >"GYAH!"
  6502. >A brutal slice shoots toward Sunny's card as the great, celestial fist of Phoebe slams into Kaiwan, flattening him before erupting into a bright blue flame!
  6503.  
  6504. >Cinch flinches from the heat before grasping her mask tightly, forcing her Persona to stand.
  6505. >"I won't let a group of upstart brats stop me, not when I'm this close!"
  6506. >Kaiwan's scythe materializes once more, as he leaps in to unleash his full power!
  6507. ><STOP!>
  6508. >A chilling aura of death emanates behind the girls as they keep their focus on the Principal, who blinks in shock.
  6509. >With that, Cinch's body freezes in place, her Persona's sickle struggling to move his weapon forth!
  6510. ><There, that should keep you safe for now, but it won't keep her stunned for long! Here's everyone's condition:>
  6511.  
  6512. Status:
  6513.  
  6514. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 70% SP
  6515. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 55% SP
  6516. Applejack: 100% HP, 75% SP
  6517. Sunny Flare (BM): 100% HP, 70% SP
  6518.  
  6519. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 50% SP
  6520.  
  6521. In reserve:
  6522. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6523. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6524. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 88% SP
  6525. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6526. Rarity (Bomb): 27% HP, 65%
  6527. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6528. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6529.  
  6530. >"It'd be so much easier if we could figure out that weakness. Butterfly, can't you take a closer look at the Bomb status Rarity has, maybe find more details on the weakness?"
  6531. ><... Um, Fluttershy, and I'll see what I can do.>
  6532. >"Good enough for me, time to set up a wombo combo. Persona!"
  6533. >Indigo crushes her card, calling forth Pheidippides as she focuses all her powers to her front cannons.
  6534. >"This is getting annoying."
  6535. >Grumbling to herself, Sugarcoat summons Hel, sending another wave of frigid frost at Kaiwan, dealing heavy damage.
  6536. >"We have to be doing something to that Persona: just gotta keep at it!"
  6537. >Planting her greatbow into the floor, Applejack fires another javelin at the Persona, grazing his shoulder before thrusting into the wall.
  6538. >"Mother!"
  6539. >Sunny furiously dices her card, the star goddess Phoebe pummeling the enemy with another cosmic fist and dealing heavy damage!
  6540.  
  6541. >At the last blow, Kaiwan, nearly drops to the floor, staying upright with the help of his scythe.
  6542. >"How can this be? This Persona should be far more powerful than any of yours!"
  6543. >Finally free to unleash his pent up energy, Kaiwan spins around the room, his scythe tearing the area apart in the process!
  6544. >The top of death reaches the group, missing Sugarcoat by a hair, but slicing into the other girls horribly.
  6545. >Indigo catches the brunt of the assault, heavily injuring her as her body suffers multiple cuts!
  6546. >Pulling back to his master, the Persona snaps his fingers, calling forth two very weak Maya-type Shadows.
  6547. >With his ungloved hand, he marks both of them with the sigil placed on Sunny and Rarity earlier.
  6548. ><Alright, scans on Rarity's condition show that the Bomb inside her doesn't have an expiration timer. Instead, the only way to get rid of it is to prime the charge by physical trauma and unleash the energy.>
  6549. >"... That's not really an option, sugarcube. Ain't you got any more info on that weakness she has?"
  6550.  
  6551. ><It's hard to scan for something Tzaphkiel isn't designed to locate, but I would assume it has something to do with Principal Cinch herself. If we knew more about her: past trauma, anxieties, fears, even allergies could help narrow down the search.>
  6552. >Indigo flinches at the numerous cuts around her body, though her smile barely falters.
  6553. >"I get the feeling that my combo with Sour will only cost me energy, so I can still let 'er rip!"
  6554. ><Everyone's badly injured, but it looks like Kaiwan's on his last legs as well. Whether we go all in or play safe, here's everyone's condition:>
  6555.  
  6556. Indigo Zap: 8% HP, 60% SP
  6557. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 35% SP
  6558. Applejack: 23% HP, 75% SP
  6559. Sunny Flare (BM): 31% HP, 40% SP
  6560.  
  6561. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 50% SP
  6562.  
  6563. In reserve:
  6564. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6565. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6566. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 88% SP
  6567. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6568. Rarity (Bomb): 27% HP, 65%
  6569. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6570. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6571.  
  6572. ><If I had to take a guess, Sunny's Belial Mode will time out soon, and it looks like the poison's fully out of the Persona's system.>
  6573.  
  6574. ><Sugarcoat, Applejack, swap out with Sour Sweet and Lemon Zest. We might be able to turn the tables with those Maya!>
  6575. >The two girls switch out as Sour cracks her neck with a grin.
  6576. >"It's about damn time you let me go loose!"
  6577. >Indigo rushes Kaiwan as she punches as hard as she can, dealing moderate damage.
  6578. >The shadowy Doppelgänger cackles as she tears away at the enemies, sending Principal Cinch and her Persona crashing to the ground!
  6579. >In addition, one of the strikes catches a Maya, causing it to glow uncontrollably before exploding, causing a chain reaction that grievously injures the downed opponent!
  6580. >"No more game: you ready to go all out, Indigo?"
  6581. >The athlete shares her friend's grin, readying her card with glee.
  6582. >"Aw yeah, it's go time! Persona!"
  6583. >"Persona!"
  6584.  
  6585. >Doppelgänger's form begins to leak out of her, the shadowy substance coating the room in inky darkness.
  6586. >As this happens, Pheidippides leaps into the void, vanishing without a trace.
  6587. >Suddenly, she leaps out of the adjacent wall, firing a volley of lasers at the defenseless Persona, riddling it with holes before sinking into the opposing wall!
  6588. >Then Pheidippides flies through the tar behind her target, her form nearly rocketing to the other side as her rounds find their mark.
  6589. >The Persona continues to catapult around the ring, her speed increasing exponentially as the bullets rain down on the Principal.
  6590. >Finally, all the accumulated black void melds itself onto the Marathon girl, coating the main cannons with a pitch-tar lacquer.
  6591. >With the two Persona melded together, a bright light charges within the cannons, nearly blinding in its brilliance.
  6592. >"Lights out, Finch!"
  6593. >"It's Cinch, you stupid-!"
  6594.  
  6595. Combo Activated: Pandemonium Lost
  6596.  
  6597. >A gargantuan blast of pure energy engulfs the enemy, sending the two toppling back in pain and shock!
  6598. >The door behind her blasts open, leaving a huge hole where it once stood!
  6599. >"Oops, we must've shot a little harder than expected."
  6600. >Indigo chuckles whiles scratching her head as the two Persona detach and return to their hosts.
  6601. >"It's the final countdown!"
  6602. >Jamming out to the choir invisible, Lemon calls forth Ame-no-Uzume from the sea of her soul, the goddess caressing the group with a soft, healing light.
  6603. >Principal Cinch pulls herself up, outright fury blazing from her visible eyes
  6604. >Just then, she looks up to see her daughter descend, blade in hand as the two scream very different cries.
  6605. >With a single slash, Sunny sheathes her weapon and calmly walks away, the mask upon Cinch's face cleanly sliced in two before falling off!
  6606. >The catalyst destroyed, Kaiwan vanished into the aether, as the Principal collapses to the ground.
  6607. >A loud, shattering sound echoes through the room as the combat prosthetic shatters, leaving behind an ethereal shell.
  6608.  
  6609. >I jump out of Tzaphkiel and rush over to check up on our fallen opponent, hearing faint breathing from her lips.
  6610. >She isn't dead, thankfully, but it looks like she won't be troubling us any further.
  6611. >Turning to Sunny Flare, I put a hand on her shoulder, causing her to slightly jump before turning to me with a slight frown on her face.
  6612. "Are you alright, Sunny? That can't have been easy for you to do."
  6613. >She looks back to her fallen mother, sighing before looking down at her ghostly limb.
  6614. >"... I remember when Mother wasn't obsessed with these games: she was strict, but she cared for me with a warm smile. I just wish I knew why she went down this path."
  6615. >With a shake of her head, she turns around, moving towards the ominous hole that used to be the door forward.
  6616. >Only obscuring darkness can be seen, though I feel in my gut that Twilight is waiting for us to cross through.
  6617. ><This is it, the final battle. If we want to prepare with healing and energy management, now would be the time to do so.>
  6618. >Tzaphkiel generates a list of our conditions as I rummage through my bag to see our remaining supplies.
  6619. >Three Apple Ciders, three Zap Apple Candies, and eight sticks of Sakura Incense are all that remains of our original haul.
  6620. >What do you guys think is an effective way to make sure everyone's in peak condition?
  6621.  
  6622. Status:
  6623.  
  6624. Sunset Shimmer: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6625. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 30% SP
  6626. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6627. Sour Sweet: 100% HP, 88% SP
  6628. Pinkie Pie: 100% HP, 100%
  6629. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 35% SP
  6630. Rarity: 27% HP, 65%
  6631. Lemon Zest: 100% HP, 85% SP
  6632. Applejack: 23% HP, 75% SP
  6633. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6634. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 40% SP
  6635. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 50% SP
  6636.  
  6637. So, total cost to recover on SP is somewhere around 352%, but some of our team doesn't need full SP, so let's have Rara cure her and AJ to get the HP side of things covered.
  6638. Leave AJ, Dash, and Sour off the recovery list and we can just get by, unless we have a good reason to save a candy for the heat of battle. Leaving Fluttershy off and giving all the spare SP to Sunny would give both just enough to use their respective analysis mode powers once each, not counting the SP cost of the cure...
  6639. Let's cure, bring everyone up to full except Sour, AJ, Dash, and Fluttershy, siphon enough SP to get Sunny to 60% from Sunset.
  6640.  
  6641. "Our supplies are running pretty low, but I think we can get away with using only two Candies for now. Also, take some of mine for Sunny."
  6642. >Fluttershy does her best to transfer the remaining SP, taking two Candies to spread amongst the group.
  6643. >Sunny's prosthetic hardens and returns to the physical plane as the others grip their weapons in anticipation.
  6644. >Alright, it's time to finish this and save Twilight!
  6645. >I lead the charge, passing through the impromptu doorway and climbing the stairs with fervor.
  6646. >The final flight seems to be even more unstable than the rest, shifting with every footstep and stretching out to infinity.
  6647. >After what feels like hours of climbing up, we finally reach our destination: a room filled to the brim with darkness.
  6648. >The walls look as if they are covered in oil, dripping continuously to the floor, which faintly glows enough to illuminate the surrounding area.
  6649. >In the center of this dreary room, sat upon a crystalline throne, Midnight Sparkle sits nonchalantly.
  6650.  
  6651. >"Ah, you all finally decided to show up. I've just been dying to finally face you all and become the goddess I am meant to be."
  6652. >She rises from her throne, cracking her limbs before flying down to our level.
  6653. >"So, are you ready to become my sacrifices?"
  6654. >A wicked smile is plastered on her lips, but this doesn't seem to deter Sunny, who walks up to the goddess and points at her.
  6655. >"We remember everything now, Twilight: we know that fire wasn't your fault!"
  6656. >Midnight staggers slightly, eyes widened in shock at the declaration.
  6657. >"How would you even know about-? So the Librarian has decided to betray me."
  6658. "She wants to help you, Twilight, and the only way to do that is for you to forgive yourself."
  6659. >Gritting her teeth, Midnight Sparkle flies into the air, her arms outstretched as the ceiling begins to shine.
  6660. >"Forgiving myself for the past will not fix the consequences of it; no matter what I do, this blood is on my hands."
  6661.  
  6662. >"But with this power of dreams AND magic, I can create a new dream: a perfect world where you don't have to suffer that fate. Think about it, Sol, a world where that fire NEVER happened!"
  6663. >Sunny shakes her head, her expression resolute as their gazes clash.
  6664. >"That's nothing but running away from the truth, Twilight!"
  6665. >Sour Sweet nods, joining in with her friend as she aims her baton at Midnight.
  6666. >"Damn straight, I don't wanna live in a world where everything's perfect! Life's meant to fuck you over every once in a while, that's why you have friends to support you!"
  6667. >The other girls nod in agreement, as Midnight Sparkle holds her head in pain, screaming out in frustration.
  6668. >"Shut up, shut up, SHUT UP! This is the only way to redeem myself, the only way we can all be friends again!"
  6669. "It doesn't look like we can talk Twilight out of this one; we'll just need to work together and save her from herself!"
  6670. >Activating my transformation, I burst into my Rider Suit, readying my weapon as our enemy holds out a twisted claw with a grin.
  6671. >"Die for me: become the foundation required to build the perfect dream!"
  6672. ><This is it, the final battle: everyone get ready!>
  6673. >"Right!"
  6674. >Who should start the battle?
  6675.  
  6676. >https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NR8bEpjr_4c
  6677.  
  6678. Sunny on analysis, I bet we already know what we'll find on the scan but let's probe for weaknesses.
  6679. Sunset hit the field and give everyone a defense boost.
  6680. Ponk should enter with some Persona physical goodness.
  6681. Zest gets to test out that bomb-ass shotgun.
  6682. And Sour is on debuff duty for this turn.
  6683. Let's give Twi a good hard reminder that she's got friends here and now, that don't need perfection to be happy with her.
  6684.  
  6685. >I've been dying to get back on the field.
  6686. "Alright, Sour, Pinkie and Lemon are with me for now. I doubt we're going to learn much from scanning Twilight, but see what you can find, Sunny!"
  6687. >(Okay, I'll see what I can do. Be careful, she's really aiming to kill us this time.)
  6688. >As the others take cover in Phoebe's arms, I whip out my microphone and prepare an encore.
  6689. "Shake your tail, 'cause we're here to have a party tonight!"
  6690. >The magic of music envelops the entire group, strengthening our defenses in the process.
  6691. >"We're dragging you home, whether you like it or not!"
  6692. >Sour Sweet decks her card, calling forth her Doppelgänger from the shadows.
  6693. >With a mocking cackle, the crooked reflection puts Midnight Sparkle on edge, debilitating her combat prowess.
  6694. >"Persona!"
  6695. >Pinkie fires point blank at her card, obliterating it and summoning Agni in a burst of flames.
  6696. >The blue-flamed mask furiously screams, sharp claws extending from his hands before lunging at Midnight, tearing her apart for heavy damage!
  6697.  
  6698. >"Now, let's see what this bad boy can do!"
  6699. >Grabbing the side handle of her case, Lemon pulls back, revealing the gun barrel at the tip.
  6700. >A hail of bullets spray from the automatic acoustic, with most of them landing, dealing moderate damage and causing her target to stagger back in pain!
  6701. >"Feel the power of true magic!"
  6702. >Midnight Sparkle holds her hand out, a green light emanating from her palm before a powerful tornado forms in the center of the room.
  6703. >The winds buffet the group, dealing heavy damage as a bit of debris strikes my helmet, a haze of static flooding my display.
  6704. >I doubt I can hit anything while I'm blinded like this.
  6705. >"Now, what are you all weak to? I can't wait to experiment on all of you."
  6706. >A yellow flash of light bursts from her hand as a bolt of lightning strikes Sour, causing her to grunt in pain as Doppelgänger's form turns wispy and purple.
  6707.  
  6708. >"I'm not feeling anything different about Doppelgänger's resistances this time around. Don't think we're gonna be able exploit this time!"
  6709. >(Everyone's hurt, but not in critical condition yet. That Blind's bad news for you, Sunset: make sure to take care of it before going in for the attack.)
  6710. >Nodding, I look over the damage shown on my HUD: while I can see an outline of where Midnight probably is, it would be better not to risk it.
  6711. >Judging from her stagger from earlier, it looks like our first strike was effective.
  6712. >What do you guys think we should do next?
  6713.  
  6714. Status:
  6715.  
  6716. Sunset Shimmer (Blind): 72% HP, 85% SP
  6717. Sour Sweet: 53% HP, 83% SP
  6718. Pinkie Pie: 62% HP, 100% SP
  6719. Lemon Zest: 69% HP, 100% SP
  6720.  
  6721. Sunny Flare: 100% HP, 60% SP
  6722.  
  6723. In reserve:
  6724. Indigo Zap: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6725. Rainbow Dash: 100% HP, 80% SP
  6726. Sugarcoat: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6727. Rarity: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6728. Applejack: 100% HP, 75% SP
  6729. Spike: 100% HP, 100% SP
  6730. Fluttershy: 100% HP, 50% SP
  6731.  
  6732. >(Scan complete on Midnight Sparkle, sending it through now:)
  6733.  
  6734. Midnight Sparkle (Priestess) -
  6735.  
  6736. Resist: None
  6737.  
  6738. >(Not much help, I know, but I'll keep scanning for ailments.)

My Little Persona: Another Way Round 2

by DisgruntledAnon

Tower's Epilogue (10/18/2015)

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Hanged Man's Epilogue (10/18/2015)

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Empress's Epilogue (10/18/2015)

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