https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9uLuy9kHlQ
>"I think I'm gonna be sick..."
"Come on, it wasn't that bad, right?"
>You are Sweetie Belle, now very well-educated on the workings of fish.
>You are heading back to your clubhouse alongside a very dejected Scootaloo and Apple Bloom. Jojo trails several metres behind you, so you try to keep your voice low.
>"'Wasn't that bad'? Now just where th' hay were YOU while we were all havin' ta look at t' INSIDES of a FISH?"
>Bloom glares at you, and you recoil in response.
"Uh, I mean... at least it was... educational?"
>Scoots gives an exaggerated huff.
>"Whatever. It's over now. So you're going to keep your promise right? Invite Rarity to go camping?"
"Sure... I just don't get why it's so important to you, though."
>"Of course you don't. How could you?"
>You stop walking.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
>"Forget it," Scoot trudges on. "It probably doesn't matter anyway."
>This feeling... is it guilt?
>Have you been a bad friend?
"Hey... Scoots..."
>"Forget it. It's a dumb idea anyway."
"No! It's a great idea! You just need to spend some time with Rainbow, and-"
>"And what? She's going to suddenly like me? Think I'm awesome? Because I'm not."
>"'Course ya are, Scootaloo!"
>Bloom extends a comforting hoof, but Scoot swats it away.
>"No, I'm not. I can't fly, I don't have my cutie mark, and I'm certainly not a fascinating alien that sucks up everypony's attention."
"I might've gotten carried away with Jojo, but I said I'm sorry!"
>"Enough, Sweetie."
>Now Bloom is looking at you the same way Rarity does when you... do anything, really.
>"This ain't about Jojo, it's 'bout you. Yer head's been in the clouds all day. What's goin' on?"
"Nothing!"
>Your friends glare at you.
>Heavy footsteps signal that Jojo's caught up to you.
>"Something wrong?"
"Nope!"
>You turn to Jojo with a bright grin that you don't feel on the inside.
>He tilts his head in confusion.
>"If something is bothering you, you should talk about it."
"Nope! Everything's great! Come on, we're close to the clubhouse!"
>You start to gallop.
>Why do you feel so uncomfortable?
>Why can't you stop worrying about what Jojo thinks of you?
>The thought of him seeing how angry your friends have gotten at you makes you want to run and hide.
>At first it was great to feel like he saw something special in you.
>But now it's like there's pressure all around you.
>...is this what getting your cutie mark will be like?
>You don't really want to think about that.

>But right now, you need to make Bloom and Scoots not be mad anymore, and that means you need...
>"YOO-HOO! SWEETIE BELLE!"
"...Rarity?"
>Your big sister rushes towards you, scooping you up in a suffocating hug.
>"How are you? What have you been doing all day? Have you been getting along well with Joh-tah-roh?"
>Why does she always have to say things like that?
"I'm fine? Why are you asking?"
>"Because I just couldn't stop myself from wondering how my PRECIOUS little sister was doing, of course! I haven't seen you all day, I've been sick with worry!"
"I just went to school and the lake for a bit, stop crushing me!"
>She finally lets up.
>"But I just love you so much! I can't help but give you a big squeeze!"
>Really?
>You know you're adorable and everything, but still!
>You catch your friends in the corner of your eye.
"Oh yeah, Rarity! Would you like to go camping this weekend with me, Bloom, and Applejack?"
>Rarity recoils in disgust.
>"What are you thinking? I DESPISE-"
>Suddenly her expression softens.
>"I mean... For you, Sweetie? Anything!"
>Huh.
>That was... suspiciously easy.
>You smile at your friends.
>"Oh, listen t' that!" Apple Bloom exclaims loudly. "Rarity and Sweetie, two SISTERS, are going to be accompanyin' me an' Applejack, two SISTERS, to our SISTERLY camping trip in Winsome Falls!"
>"Wow!" Scoots responds. "I sure would like to go with you!"
>"But Scoots!"
>Apple Bloom casually walks closer to Rarity as she talks.
>"This is a trip for SISTERS! And you don't HAVE a sister!"
>"Oh no! Is there anypony that could go with me as a replacement?"
>Rarity doesn't seem to be listening.
"Maybe somepony who's really... fast?"
>"Fast?"
>Rarity looks at you in confusion.
"And... um... blue?"

>"How about us?"
>Huh?
>You turn in surprise, and see-
"Mom? Dad?"
>Your parents are trotting towards you.
>"Got room on that there campin' trip for us?"
>You shoot a panicked look at Bloom.
>What now? This wasn't part of the plan.
>"Uh, ah, well it's kind of a sister thing..."
>"Well now, I could be this adorable little filly's sister for a weekend, eh?"
>Oh no, Scoots is getting noogied!
>She shoots you a look of fear and desperation, which you share. At this rate they'll ruin everything!
>"Oh, and this here must be one of them there aliens that done landed!"
>No! Run, Jojo!
"Stop! This spot is supposed to be for Crusaders! Not parents!"
>"Oh, well there, sorry for to get in your way there then..."
>"Sweetie, is anything the matter?" Rarity tilts her head at you. "You seem awfully nervous."
"Just what is everypony doing here?"
>Your family flinches in shock at your volume.
>"Well, I just had this feeling..." Your mother slowly answers, "like it had been so long since I saw my precious little Sweetie Belle..."
>"Same here!" Your father chirps excitedly.
"Well, you saw her, so leave already. We've still got Crusaderin' to do!"
>"Hold on."
>Jojo's deep voice startles you.
>"The three of you, each on your own, all had the sudden thought that you wanted to see Sweetie? Just now?"
>Your parents seem stunned, so Rarity answers for them.
>"It certainly seems that way darling, why do you ask?"
>"Because I think I've found what I've been looking for."
>Jojo fixes his gaze squarely on you.
>It is not a friendly expression.
~~~~~

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1-7rABbBNk
>You are once again Diamond Tiara.
>And you don't want this wonderful dinner to end.
>You continued to push Bruno for information, and he did his best to oblige you.
>He obviously thinks the world of you... as he should!
>"So... what's the plan?"
>Silver nudges you.
"What plan?"
>You whisper back quietly. Right now, Bruno is focused on Father, and you don't want to disturb them.
>"Are we gonna take a picture of us getting along? Or get him to tell these stories at school tomorrow? Or have your dad come by and show how well they get along?"
"Why would we do any of that?"
>Silver gives you a curious look.
>"How else are we gonna put those blank flanks in their place?"
>Oh, right.
>That's why you did all this in the first place.
>You sigh.
"They don't matter, Silver. Move on already."
>She looks shocked.
>"But... why did we go through all this? We could have gone shopping, or stopped by the spa, or-"
"There's more to life than just running around town showing off and spending money, Silver!"
>Your friend gasps in horror.
>Understandably.
>You're not sure what happened to you for a moment there, but you shake your head and recover.
"Sorry, but right now I just want to listen to what Bruno's saying."
>You try to refocus your attention, but Silver continues to be distracting.
>She looks at you, then the human, then back and forth a few more times before her eyes widen in surprise and she slams a hoof over her mouth with a squeak.
>You reluctantly face her again.
"Alright, what is it?"
>"Nothing."
>That coy smile she has tells you that it isn't nothing.
>Did she pick up on Bruno's affections?
>"I've just never seen you look at anypony other than your dad like that before."
>Huh?
"What does THAT mean?"
>That annoying smile again.
>"What do you think it means?"

>"Alright, if everypony is intent on ignoring me..."
>You shiver slightly at the unexpected sound of Mother's voice.
>"I think I'll be retiring early this evening."
>"Spoiled, darling..."
>Too little, too late, Father.
>"No thank you, Filthy. I'm tired."
>Your mother refills her glass and carefully takes it with her out of the room.
>Looks like just another of her moods. You turn back to Silver.
"Just what sort of look are you talking about?"
>"I don't know... like somepony special to you. Like they're the only pony you'd be nice to."
"I'm nice to lots of ponies!"
>Silver squints in disbelief.
"I am!"
>"If you say so..."
>"Diamond!"
>Mother's voice makes you jump in your seat.
"Yes, Mother?"
>"Don't stay up too late."
"Yes, Mother!"
>She opens her mouth to say something again, then stops as if she forgot what it was.
>She turns around and heads back without another word.
>Just what was that about?
>Bruno watches her leave in confusion.
>Figures. Mother always finds a way to embarrass you in front of ponies you-
>...
>You catch yourself before you finish that thought with a foalish word like... 'like'.
>He's the one who likes you.
>Obviously.
>You don't have that sort of... weakness.
>No matter what Silver says.
>As Mother stumbles off, Bruno catches your eye.
>He smiles, but not in a mean way.
>It looks like sympathy.
>...Clearly, he's still enthralled by you.
>That must be what this weird tingling feeling means, right?
>"Filthy!"
>You sigh in tandem with Father.
>Why can't she just stay gone?
>"Yes, Spoiled? What is it? You're welcome to come back to the table if you've changed your mind."
>"I think... I'm feeling sick."
>On second glance, you notice Mother doesn't look quite right. She looks incredibly uneasy.
>"Whatever is wrong, darling?"
>Father walks over to her side as she tries to find the right words.
>"I don't... I don't know why I'm still here. I was going upstairs when I had this... strange feeling."
>"Maybe you should lie down..."
>"But that's just it. I was going to lie down, then I had this feeling that I had to come back."
>"Sounds serious." Bruno stands. "What sort of feeling?"
>Oh no, now Mother is the center of attention.
>Yet again.
"She's fine!"
>Bruno turns to you with a piercing gaze, and you're hit with a tremendous wave of guilt.
>Like he somehow knows your every secret.
>You really, really hope he doesn't know your every secret.
"I mean... she just gets like this sometimes. Father can accompany her to bed."
>Sure enough, you see her lean on Father as he guides her toward the stairs.
"And while they're gone, we can keep talking. You can tell me-us, Silver and I, more stories?"
>You feel your face get flushed.
>Not for the first time, you're extremely thankful that your pink coat hides it.
>Even so, you think you see Silver smirk again from the corner of your eye.

>"I'm afraid I don't have many more stories that would interest a child... or a filly," Bruno smiles. "How about we hear from your friend? She's been awfully quiet this evening."
>"I-"
"Oh, that's fine. She's not very interesting."
>Silver tries to give you her signature offended look but you ignore her and lean forward.
"Tell us more about all the gold and jewels you found in a bathroom! Oh no wait, tell us more about that chariot you found that was made of silver! Or... no, tell us about-EEP!"
>You jump straight in the air in response to the sudden BANG that echoed throughout the room.
>"Wha- What is going on?"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Maaupg55uAk [Embed]
>Father starts to pound on the dining room door, which is suddenly closed.
>"Hello? Why is this door locked? Randolph? What is the meaning of this?"
>"I didn't even know this door had a lock..."
>"Are... we trapped in here?"
"Of course not. It's probably just some silly game the servants are playing."
>Father is frantically banging on the door now.
>You can't remember the last time you saw him lose his composure like this.
>"Step aside."
>Bruno?
>The tall human bends down to examine the door.
>"It's not locked, and there's no reason for it to be stuck. Something must be holding it in place."
>"Randolph! If this is some plot to snatch our valuables, I'll have you thrown in-"
>"It's not a servant. And I doubt it's magic."
>He turns to face you and Silver.
>"I'm guessing that one of you knows the answer?"
>What?
"We... We didn't do anything! We've been here this whole time!"
>"Diamond, if this is some foalish prank it's gone too far!"
>Oh no, Mother is REALLY mad.
>You turn on the only pony in the room that could be the culprit.
>Who also happens to be the only pony in the room that you can shift all this anger and blame towards.
"Silver... explain. NOW."
>Your (former) friend cowers before you.
>"I didn't do anything! I swear! Diamond, please! You know I would never..."
>It's true, she wouldn't.
>But there's no way you're taking the fall for whatever's going on.
"You open that door right now, Silver. Then head home. And don't you even think of sitting next to me at school tomorrow."
>Silver's mouth opens and shuts several times in shock. Her eyes beg you for mercy.
>They find none.
>"...fine."
>She rushes off in the opposite direction of the door.
>"If you don't want me here, then..."
>She's opening the window?
>"I guess I'll just leave, the only way I can. Because I DON'T know how to open that door, Diamond."
>Tears pool at the corners of her eyes.
>"Goodbye."
>She hops out of the window onto the finely trimmed lawn below.
>And is immediately launched back inside!
>"WAAAAGH!"
>You grunt in pain as she crashes into you, and the two of you tumble around in a pile of confusion.
>From your dazed position on the floor, you can barely see the open window close itself.
"But... how?"

~~~~~

>You are Bruno Buccellati.
>And you finally saw it.
>It was fast, but a Stand definitely closed that window.
>No point in concealing your powers, then.
"STICKY FINGERS!"
>Your zipper rips through the sealed door.
>And promptly shuts.
"What..."
>Enough playing around.
>You pound the door, zippers cutting it to shreds.
>And every one is immediately sealed.
>You catch a glimpse of it again.
>A small pony-shaped Stand, no larger than a toy, is on the other side, closing each zipper as soon as it appears.
>It won't let any of you leave the room, but it isn't attacking directly.
>Why? What could it be trying to do?
>Judging from the pile of tangled fillies on the floor, neither of them seem to have any control over it.
>But you can still identify the User.
>As Diamond's parents help them to their feet (hooves?), you crouch down next to them and summon your Stand in full.
>...
>No reaction.
"Hey. Look at me."
>Two pairs of wide, adorable eyes stare at you in confusion.
>And you aim direct punches at both.
>Stopping just short of contact.
>...
>Neither flinch.
"You can't see this?"
>You glance at the parents as well.
"None of you can see another human next to me?"
>They all shake their heads. Diamond speaks up.
>"What's going on, Mr. Bruno?"
>...
"I have no idea."
>The air in the room is tense.
"But I think there's still one way to find out."
>You dart to the side of the room, and Sticky Fingers reaches out to strike the wall.
>Another zipper, this time carving a large circle.
>Sure enough, the Stand appears again, faster than your eyes can track it.
>But this time you're ready.
>It moves faster than you, but that doesn't matter.
>You know where it's going.
>Ordinarily it would follow the zipper you made, away from the point of impact.
>But with a circle, that leads it directly back to you.
>You smile as your hand squeezes around its body.
"Finally caught you."
>The Stand squeals and thrashes in your grasp.
"Now then, I can't destroy you, and I can't find your User. So, what do I do..?"

~~~~~

>You are the terrified (but still adorable) Sweetie Belle.
"This has to be some sort of mistake! Stop it! I'm innocent! Please!"
>All Jojo's done is glare at you, but it feels worse than any punishment you've experienced in your life.
>"They're all here for you, Sweetie Belle. Why is that? You must have caused something to happen."
>You shudder. How did this day go so wrong?
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean for anything bad to happen. Please don't be mad at me!"
>"It's not 'er fault!"
>Apple Bloom?
>"Yeah! You l-l-leave our friend alone!"
>Scootaloo!
>Your friends leap between you and the scary alien, followed by Rarity and your parents.
>"Good Grief, I just wanted to scare her a little."
>Jojo throws up his hands in surrender.
>"Of course, Jojo, but I believe that you might have come on a touch stronger than you may have intended, dear."
>"Ya seem like a nice alien there and all but you ain't exactly got that nice and gentle way with kids there then, eh?"
>Jojo sighs and faces you again with gentle eyes.
>"I promise nobody will be mad. But we need to understand this power you have."
>Huh?
"I have a power?"
>You look at your friends in bewilderment, and-
>Whoa.
>WHOA!
>NO WAY!
"SCOOTS! YOU GOT YOUR CUTIE MARK?"
>There's a collective gasp as everypony turns to stare at where you're pointing.
>Right there on Scoots' flank is-
>Wait.
>"Huh? How'd I get my cutie mark? I didn't do any-"
>Scoots stares at her own flank in confusion.
>"Well, now." Jojo is the first to speak. "Buccellati must have been busy."
>You squint at the bizarre letters that are now suddenly covering Scoots' flank.
>They seem to be made of... zippers?
"Stand... User...? Now just what kind of cutie mark is that?"

~~~~~

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDaoabeHllY
>You are the extremely confused Diamond Tiara.
>Turns out Scootaloo was somehow the cause of all that craziness in the dining room.
>You are standing just inside the gates to your estate, listening to her explain.
>She's accompanied by those other two blank flanks, their favourite human (far more ugly compared to yours), Sweetie's sister Rarity, and two older ponies that you think might actually be vagrants.
>You hope they don't touch anything.
>Seeing your enemy so contrite should fill your heart with triumph, but instead you feel...
>Disappointed?
>"I'm real sorry for everything. I just kept thinking about Rainbow Dash, and how much I wanted to have her as my big sister."
>"I felt angry, and frustrated. Bloom has AJ, Sweetie has Rarity... It's not fair, not having anypony like that for me."
>"All those feelings just kept building and building, then when I shoved you earlier today, Sweetie too, I think those feelings came out, and they went inside the two of you instead."
>"I just wanted everypony else to appreciate their family. To stay close to them, and not leave them like-"
>"A-Anyway, Jojo here says it's called a Stand, and that I got it from this really bad human. I remember getting stabbed with a spear, but since I woke up without a scratch, I just figured it was a bad dream."
>"Anyway, that's the real reason why Jojo and Bruno here came to school today. They were looking for the foal with a Stand. They say they're gonna help teach me how to use it, so that it doesn't ever hurt anypony else."
>Father speaks up.
>"Well, I can't say you haven't caused more than a mite of misery today, but it shows good character for you to own up and take responsibility. Good on you for that."
>Bruno walks over to Scootaloo and pats her head.
>"It wasn't your fault. You didn't choose to get this power, and it is often uncontrollable. Just know that you aren't alone. Myself and several others in this town also have them, and we are always willing to help you."
>This feeling is one you recognize: jealousy.
>"Rainbow Dash has one too, right?" Scootaloo looks giddy. "M-Maybe she could be like my Stand teacher or something?"
>"I'm sure she'd be delighted," Bruno nods. "The three of us should spend some time together, test the limits of your..."
>You don't hear the rest.
>You're running back towards the house, and you're not sure why.
>Your parents shout for you but you can't turn around.
>You barge through the front door and gallop up the stairs towards your room.
>As you throw yourself on the bed, you finally notice that there are hot tears running down your face.
>You were never very good at identifying feelings, but this is a bad one.
>Something inside you hurts.

>It started as soon as you realized why Bruno was really here.
>He didn't care about your fancy house, or your world-class chef, or your brilliant father.
>He just thought you or Silver might be the foal with a magic power.
>He didn't care about you.
>He certainly didn't love you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=301lXwcEL7w
>You shove your face deep into your pillow, trying to stifle the sobbing from your treacherous throat.
>Your ever-present tiara falls from your head and clatters on the floor.
>You don't bother to pick it up.
>Right now it's just another reminder that you truly aren't special at all.
>You hear approaching hoofsteps, the slow and heavy type that must belong to a human.
>You quickly hide the tear-stained pillow and adopt a natural posture quietly gazing out the window, head turned so that any signs of your outburst would be hidden.
>The sounds stop and you hear your door creak open.
"Oh. That you, Bruno? I'll be down in a minute, do tell my parents not to worry. Just needed a little space from those ruffians."
>You've had a lot of practice at keeping your voice sounding confident and carefree, no matter what is going on inside.
>You hear Bruno walk forward, then stop.
>In the corner of your eye, you see an extended hand holding your tiara.
>You silently put it back in its rightful place.
"You can go now."
>No response.
"You found what you were looking for, right? And I'm sure Father is eager to give you a job, or anything else you want. So... you don't need anything from me. You should go."
>"I didn't come here just to find the Stand User."
>You hear a gentle creak as he sits on your bed.
>"I wanted to have dinner with you and your family. It's been a very long time since I met anyone like you."
>You scoff.
"I know I'm not that interesting. I'm not like the po- people in your stories."
>You adjust the tiara on your head.
"I'm not as great as Father, or you. And I certainly don't have any special abilities. I'm supposed to be a leader, but I can't make anypony follow me like you can."
>"You know, I can't remember the last time someone wanted to get to know me for me."
>You finally turn away from the window, looking at him in surprise.
>"That is not to say I don't value the relationships with my comrades. My old team were are like brothers to me. The bond formed from fighting alongside someone is special."
>He gives you a warm smile.
>"But you, you didn't have to talk to me. Even if your reasons for doing so were trivial, you still went out of your way to invite me here. That's a different kind of friendship, one I haven't experienced in a long time. Thank you, for showing me what normal life is like in this crazy town filled with bizarre little horse-people."
>You can't help but chuckle at that.
>"As for how special you are, I can see that you have the makings of a great leader in you."
>You feel your jaw drop in surprise.
"But... how? What makes you think that?"
>"Think back to what happened in the dining room, with your friend."
"Silver?"
>"Scootaloo said that her Stand affected family. Silver isn't related to you, but you still considered her to be your family. Otherwise the Stand wouldn't have affected her."
>That's right!
>Wait... do you really consider Silver to be family?
"But Silver's... she's not even a friend, really. She just follows me around because I tell her what to do."
>"It might not have been your Stand, but it acted according to your heart, your inner desires. You didn't really want Silver to leave. You wanted to keep her close, to protect her."
>And him...
>You wanted Bruno to stay with you too...
>But of course you don't say that.
>You have to cling on to whatever scraps of dignity you have left after this day.
>Your cheeks start to burn again, and you turn back to the safety of the window.
>"That is why I know you could make an excellent leader one day. You've already found a strong ally in Silver, someone who will jump out a window for you. If you treat her coldly, it is only because you believe you must be cruel in order to be strong."
"Don't I?"
>"Sometimes. But Silver doesn't follow you because you're strong. She follows you because she sees what I see: that you are cruel in spite of your true nature, not because of it. You are not a bad pony. You've just been given a very heavy burden at a young age, and very little guidance on how to carry it."
>He finally stands up, and you hear him walk to the door.
>"A true leader is able to lead because he offers a promise. The promise of being better than you are. Believing in that dream with all your heart makes you rise above the rest. You don't have that yet. But if you are truly meant to inspire others, you will find it."
>He's gone.
>The tiara on your head suddenly feels very heavy.

『STAND MASTER』
>SCOOTALOO
『STAND NAME』
>WE ARE FAMILY
『STATUS』
>ACTIVE

>DESTRUCTIVE POWER: E
>SPEED: A
>RANGE: A
>PERSISTENCE: B
>PRECISION: D
>DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL: D

~~~~~

"His name was... Starburst."
>You poke at your food as you feel the burning of DIO's inquisitive eyes.
>You're not sure if you're uncomfortable because of the horrible situation you're in, or uncomfortable because despite your best efforts, you can feel that this monster is slowly breaking down the barriers around your mind.
>"And he was important to you."
>You grimace.
"He was my friend. My only friend. And then..."
>You don't have to keep talking.
>You could go back to your lonely room.
>But you know he's never going to let you go if that's your choice.
>And even if it's giving in to what he wants... you need somepony to confide in.
"He left me. He got his cutie mark and left for... more important things."
>That burning shame appears again.
>Years after getting your own cutie mark, gaining a mastery over magic that would put you in Canterlot's elite, and even running your own independent commune.
>And just the thought of that miserable time makes you feel like a talentless little filly again.
>"When was the last time you saw him?"
"Not for... a very long time."
>Of course you know exactly how long it's been, down to the day.
>But you can't bear to admit that.
>"It appears you were separated by fate. And this separation is what inspired you to found that place, to spare others the pain you felt."
>You nod.
>"Most in your place would miserably accept the situation. Some would lash out in foolish anger, blaming him or some other individual. You, however..."
>Stayed weak and pathetic? Refused to move ahead with your life? You've heard it all before.
>"You chose the right path."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtZBSw3UUlU
>You look up to see DIO smiling.
>"In my world, very few humans had the resolve to try and change their fate. In this world, even fewer ponies do. Yours is, in comparison, a docile and complacent society. From the moment a pony is born, he gleefully awaits the day that fate reveals its design for him. The 'cutie mark'. A charmingly innocuous name to disguise a sinister design. A symbol that brands you as a slave to your fate. And from that day forth, this pony will happily pursue the task assigned to him, and only in rare cases will he seek anything greater. Such burdens are laid at the feet, or hooves, of your Princess. Your kind lacks ambition; the drive to improve upon the way things are. They lack even the ability to recognize their own chains for what they are."
>A tingle runs down your spine.
>It's all a trick. An attempt to get in your head.
>But still... he's saying all the right things. Voicing the most bitter thoughts that flood your mind on sleepless nights.

>"You, however, are different. When this 'Starburst' left you, you did not accept fate's plan. Nor did you release your frustrations on a pointless effort to tie him down with you. Instead, you directed your righteous fury towards the true culprit responsible for your misfortune: fate itself! And in doing so, you actually managed to strike a blow to fate. Or, at least the symbol of fate's hold over you. You destroyed these brands. I have learned much about your land, but I was unaware such a power existed in this place before I learned of you. It must take great strength of will to perform such a feat."
>He's a monster. You know that.
>But... he understands.
>He knows better than anypony what you were trying to accomplish.
>"Although... it was still a useless effort, doomed to fail."
"No!"
>You slam your hoof on the table without thinking.
"It was working! We were all happy there. None of us greater or lesser than any other. No cutie marks to divide us, to make us different! We were all-"
>"Except you."
>DIO calmly cuts right through your words and straight to your deepest insecurity.
>"You kept your mark. You kept your power. You elevated yourself above the others."
"Because I had to! Without me-"
>"Of course you had to. And I approve. It was the correct decision."
>Once again, your words die away.
>"You were more powerful than them. You were able to provide for them. You alone knew what was best for them. And so you used your power freely, without regard for worthless concerns such as their own short-sighted desires."
"You're... just trying to set me off-balance. Pretending that you understand me, then trying to make me out to be some sort of monster like you!"
>"Is Princess Celestia a monster?"
"What? Of course not!"
>"Even though she also uses her power to rule over others? Force them to obey her laws?"
"She only does that for the good of all ponies!"
>"Same as you. And me. Although we may all have very different visions of a perfect world, we all understand the same fundamental truth: that such a world requires a ruler with power, who is not afraid to use that power to enforce their will. I am sure Celestia would deny it, but she follows that doctrine all the same. As did you. It was hypocrisy to not take your rightful place as ruler. You pretended to be one of them, equal to them. You shouldn't have lied to yourself. You ARE better than them. Stronger than any of your kind that I have met. The only flaw in your plan was that your power to defy fate was itself tied to your mark, to your destiny."

>Your mind races, trying to find inconsistencies in his philosophy... while also admiring its simplicity.
>The strong rule the weak. A statement that seems primitive on the surface, fit only for the ancient tribes or barbaric dragons, but is it really any different from what you've seen in modern-day Equestria?
>What you've seen in your own town?
>He sighs.
>"And thus, you are trapped. You may fight against fate and even achieve small victories, but all your actions are still part of fate's grand design. Even tremendous power has limits. And that, Starlight Glimmer, is precisely why I wish for you to ally with me. My power is also incomplete. But together, I believe we can change the world."
>DIO stands.
>"Rest well, Starlight Glimmer. Reflect on my words. I await our future conversations with great anticipation."
>He locks the door behind him.
>You try to summon the fury you felt when he first foalnapped you.
>Your rational mind understands what is happening, how he is manipulating you, and you swear that you will not surrender to such tricks.
>But there is another part of you, one that you've always pretended doesn't exist, and it forces a shameful image to the forefront of your mind.
>An image of you on Celestia's throne.
>Legions of ponies gazing upon you in awe and jubilation.
>All of them offering you their cutie marks. Their shackles.
>And one by one... you save them.
>Freeing them all from the whims of fate.
>And giving them new purpose, all according to your great wisdom.
>Rewarding the worthy.
>Punishing the cruel.
>Protecting the weak.
>Forming a better Equestria.

~~~~~

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmxNZH3zrK8
>You are Daring Do.
>After days of being cooped up inside this ancient structure with narrow corridors, you're feeling pretty restless.
>The sight of your Master approaching doesn't make you feel any better.
>You know what he's been doing. She's all he cares about since he picked her up.
>You bow your head in a reverent greeting, but you also know that Lord DIO won't get upset if you speak your mind a little.
"Master. I see you're still trying to play nice with that pompous little-"
>"She is an integral part of my designs," Lord DIO calmly responds. "The strength of the connection I form with her will determine my chances for success."
>The burn of jealousy makes your eye twitch.
"Why not just show her the light like you did for me? As she is now, she doesn't deserve to have your-"
>"My path to Heaven will require a great sacrifice. I must surrender The World, and place my trust wholly in one other. I cannot rely on such tricks for something so crucial."
>You step closer.
"You can rely on me."
>Your Master smiles, and extends a hand to rest on your head.
>"I know, and none of this would be possible without your assistance. You will always be first among my servants."
>His words fill you with pride, reinforcing your resolve towards your Master.
>They also silence those irritating doubts whispering in your mind.
>"But in the meantime..." Lord DIO looks beyond you, and you hear rapidly approaching hoofsteps.
>"Oh, most grorious DIO! I come wizz great tidings!"
>Your eyes narrow.
>Yet another new servant that you dearly wish Lord DIO could do without.
"Caballeron. Out with it already, what's your news?"
>Your old rival turned reluctant comrade performs an elaborate bow.
>"I 'ave sent ze messagez as jou instructed, and alveady I 'ave received promising responses!"
>"Excellent." Master folds his arms. "And you have faith in these contacts?"
>"Wizzout question! I 'ave sent word through ze most secretive network in Equezchria! Ze Underground! Creeminals! Chieves! Murderahrs! Outlawz! Ne'er-do-wellz! Tax collectahz! All of ze most seenister and brack-hearted soulz in ze land, and zhey 'ave ansahred!"
>"Excellent. If worthy, they will be granted Stands, then assigned their targets. You must ensure that their actions will not impede our greater work."
>Lord DIO draws a familiar object from his clothes, and hands it to the obeisant pony before him.
>Even if it is His will, you fume at the sight of that rotten stallion holding a sacred object you've worked hard to keep out of hooves like his.
>"The Spear will determine who is worthy. Protect it with your life."
>"Of course, my most eggcelleent and magnificeent Master!"
>He departs with unnecessary prostration.
"I still don't trust him."
>"He is as loyal to me now as you are, my precious Daring Do. Not half as valuable, of course, but scum like that do have their uses."

"If you say so. I just... I wish we didn't have to rely on ponies like him. If I went to Ponyville, then surely-"
>His hand returns to your head, firm this time.
>"No. You are not a match for Jotaro Kujo. Your life is mine, and I do not needlessly waste what is mine. Besides, this is simply a precautionary measure. The Elements and their human companions are a danger, but not an immediate threat. You must focus on the task before you, and it is a considerable one indeed."
"I can do it. No artifact is beyond my reach."
>"We will see what our friend has to say on the matter."
>Your Master leads you down another corridor to an unadorned door, beyond which echoes an unsettling rumble.
>He enters without ceremony, and you cough as a sudden cloud of ill-scented smoke envelopes you.
>The rumbling emerges from a massive cauldron in the middle of the circular room, and Lord DIO's most exotic servant is entirely focused on whatever is inside.
>"My dear Zecora. How is your progress?"
>The zebra stares at the frothing brew for a moment before facing your Master and bowing deeply.
>"My Lord, I have been able to produce what you require,"
>"But I must caution, the consequences may still be quite dire!"
"Does that mean it's finished, or what?"
>Zecora gives you a stern look.
>"My potion is designed to aid you in flight,"
>"It will allow you to cut through the air like a kite."
>"But it will not protect you, or add to your skill,"
>"If you are careless, you'll end up as roadkill!"
>You roll your eyes.
"I could probably get up there without your stupid potion. I've flown through some of the most dangerous places in Equestria!"
>"Of your prowess in flight, I have been assured:"
>"That in most of your books, you get severely injured."
"It was like twice!"
>"Enough."
>Lord DIO stands on the other side of the cauldron, and you didn't see him move.
>"If you are confident, Zecora, then we will follow your wisdom. We make for the mountain as soon as night falls."
>Finally. But there's still one loose end.
"What about HER?"
>Lord DIO smiles.
>"I have devised an experiment that will aid Starlight Glimmer's development. I will ensure that she is taken care of during our excursion."
>You nod.
>"I will make the final preparations for your journey."
>"As long as you are cautious, I see no reason to worry."
>Your Master turns to you.
>"Daring Do, this will likely be the crowning achievement of your career. You must rest."
>He's right, but the idea of sitting still is torture.
>Your wings twitch in anticipation.
>It won't be long now.
>You will triumph over the dangers of Mount Everhoof.
>And when your Master recovers Grogar's Bell, he will become unstoppable.

~~~~~

>"Wait! Maybe the red..."
"You look amazing as always, Rarity. Come on, we can't keep Twilight waiting!"
>You are Spike the (baby) Dragon!
>And while you would love to watch the beautiful specimen before you model a endless series of outfits, each more stunning than the last, you really should get moving.
>With a heartfelt sigh, the beauty before you reluctantly walked towards the door, her dress billowing out behind her like a sail.
>A really, really pretty sail that smelled of expensive perfume.
>You kick your little (but still very strong and masculine) legs into a jog and follow her.
>"Oh dear, I might have spent a little too much time getting ready. I certainly hope Twilight won't be cross. Will she? Of course, Rainbow is chronically late to everything, to the point where I have to wonder if her head has been stuffed with one too many clouds over the years, but of course none of us would ever say anything bad about her because of it!"
"Of course not!"
>"And after all I simply must be allowed the privilege of looking my best, on today of all days!"
"I certainly can't argue with that..."
>"Oh Spike, to tell you the truth, I'm somewhat nervous. What if they don't like me? I still know so little about that other world. What if they find me... vulgar?"
"They'd never!"
>"Thank you so much for those kind words darling, but I'm afraid I must face facts. While I wouldn't exactly say that our dear Jojo has a particular eye for fashion, he still has an incredibly distinctive style. And Bruno... my goodness, I'd say he comes from an entire country of fabulousity experts!"
"Well, I still say they should all grow a few scales for protection..."
>"And while I'll admit it's a very unlikely possibility, if the Element of Generosity is in any way linked to one's proclivity for fashion, that would mean that our newest arrival... I feel faint. I might actually faint."
"Don't faint now! We're almost at the library."
>A familiar whooshing noise distracts you from the gorgeous view before you.
>"Heya, Spike! Rarity!"
>"Rainbow! See, Spike, I told you we have nothing to worry about. Rainbow's just arriving now as well."
"Hi, Rainbow!"
>"Spike, Rarity. Greetings." A deeper voice adds chimes in.
"Hi, Bruno!"
>"Oooh! Buongiorno, Signore Buccellati!"
>The skinny human leisurely strolls down the street, surrounded by an impatient multi-coloured blur.
>"Hurry up, Cap'n," Rainbow shouts at her companion. "They're waiting for us!"
"Cap'n?"
>Rainbow skids to a halt... in mid-air?
>Eh, whatever. Pegasi stuff.
>"Yeah, turns out he was actually a captain back in his world, or some weird human version of one, anyway. Isn't that right Cap?"
>"The term was 'capo', but..." The human smiles softly. "Close enough."

>Rainbow does a few energetic flips for no reason that you can see.
>"With all the training we've been doing together, and all that he's been teaching me about my Stand, calling him that just seemed... right. Y'know what I mean?"
"Yeah."
>Not really.
>You can't ever imagine calling Twilight 'Captain' just because she taught you a few things.
>Must be more pegasi stuff.
>"Oh my, I wouldn't have guessed you're the military type, Signore!"
>Rarity trots to Bruno's side, and you follow.
>The three of you make a strange group, especially with the impatient pegasus fluttering overhead.
>"By the way darling, you really must tell me: what is it like living in Filthy Rich's guest house? They must have the most luxurious decor!"
>Bruno seems a little embarrassed.
>"It's comfortable. I don't like having to impose on anyone..."
>"Oh don't worry about that at all, dear."
>"Yeah! you've only been here a few days and you've already saved the town twice!
>Rainbow rests her foreleg on his shoulder.
>"We're all glad to have you here, Cap! And the Rich family owes you big time, so don't worry about it!"
>A lovely sigh draws your attention back to an even more lovely mare.
>"Just look at the two of you! Such good friends already. Oh... I'm just so nervous!"
>She bites her lip.
>Even her worried face is stunning.
"C'mon Rarity, there's nothing to fret about. This new human is going to adore you! How could he not?"
>As soon as the words leave your mouth, the realization hits you.
>"Oh thank you so much, Spike darling. You're probably right. They are my counterpart from another world, no? Yes, I trust that the two of us will soon be as close as Rainbow and Bruno over there!"
>Oh no.
>The last two humans have been so big, and muscular, and well-groomed.
>If this new one is like these last two AND he shares Rarity's Element...
>It's over.
>Your joyful jog to the library quickly turns into the shuffle of a doomed dragon.
>In a few minutes this human is going to be summoned.
>He'll instantly catch Rarity's eye, and she his.
>They'll be so similar, and form an instant connection.
>Then they'll start finding excuses to spend time together.
>He'll call it 'Stand training', but you'll know his true intentions.
>One evening, when they're alone together, he'll gaze deeply into her spectacular eyes, and...
>You can't bear to finish that thought.
>The three of them are about to enter the library, and part of you wants to turn and flee.
>But you can't.
>You have to follow them.
>Mainly because that's where you live and it's going to be lunch time soon.
>But also because Rarity is your friend.
>And you're going to continue being as a good friend to her as she's been to you.
>With a deep breath of determination, you follow your friends into the library.

>"Oh, good! Now everypony's here!"
"Hey, Fluttershy."
>"Hello, Spike. Hello, Rarity. Hello, Bruno. He- um, hi, Rainbow."
>"Uh, yeah. Hey Flutters. You look... better."
>"Oh, thanks. I, uh, feel much better."
>"Yeah, I'm really... uh, glad that you're better."
>"Me too. Uh, not that I have any right to, um, anyway, it's good to see that you're good too!"
>"Uh, OK."
>You, Bruno, and Rarity silently observe the two friends struggle to speak to each other.
>Just watching them makes you wince in discomfort.
>Nopony knows exactly what happened during their big fight, but they were both pretty banged up by the end of it.
>Maybe you should talk to Fluttershy? You've got a bit of experience in the whole 'turning into a monster that attacks your friends and nearly destroys Ponyville' thing.
>But that might just make it more awkward for both of you.
>"Anyway, the others are waiting in the basement. We should join them."
>You follow Fluttershy down a curving set of stairs, and that feeling of dread returns.
"Hey, uh, Rarity? Can I talk to you for a moment?"
>"Oh certainly darling, let's just get this new human nice and settled first!"
>Great.
>You don't even know what you were going to say, but you had to try.
>You slump near the top of the stairs. From here you have a good vantage point over the room.
>Jojo is standing by his bed with his arms folded. As long as there isn't an emergency, he seems to always be in here, even for meals.
>Bruno is pacing along the edge of the room. Twilight is fiddling with some weird machine. And the others are all chatting excitedly near the Elements.
>Even from here, you can see the purple glow from a certain diamond-shaped gem.
>You gulp nervously.
>"Alright girls, you know what to do!"
>Twilight is satisfied with the amount of whirring and zapping from her various doodads, and joins the larger group.
>They close their eyes and do their thing. The Element shines brighter from its protective storage tank.
>Soon, the light fades, then the ancient scrolls sealed in glass at the center of the room project a warmer golden glow.
>This is it.
>Whoever is created by that light will forever change Rarity's life, and yours.
>The object of your affections gazes upon that light, and it makes her eyes look even more perfect than usual.
>Her eyes...
>You let yourself get lost in those flawless gems...
>A sudden roar makes you jump straight up.
>It's immediately followed by multiple high-pitched screams.
>As your sight readjusts, you see the bearer of those wonderful eyes cowering in fear!
>The roaring continues, and as you look back to the light, you see the cause.
>Water.

>A massive spray of water is blasting out of the portal like a geyser.
>As you watch in stunned silence, a second jet of water shoots out to the side with incredible pressure.
>It hits Bruno in his chest, slamming him against the wall like a ragdoll.
>More jets of water appear, smashing Twilight's well-maintained machines in a cacophany of sparks.
>You try to will your frozen limbs to move, but you have no idea what you should even do.
>There's a loud cracking sound to your side. Twilight materializes out of thin air, clutching Pinkie and Applejack to her side.
>Jojo suddenly and silently appears next to her, holding Fluttershy and Rarity, then vanishes a moment later.
>You can see Rainbow struggling to drag Bruno's limb body, only for the two of them to instantly appear in Jojo's arms.
>As he carries them to the relative safety of the stairs, you notice that the water already covers most of his lower legs.
>Nopony says a word as the nine of you gaze in horror at the growing destruction below.
>The glass jars protecting the Elements of Harmony have been cracked, but not broken.
>But everything else in the room is ruined.
>Jojo's few personal items are floating in a pool that now looks deeper than you are tall.
>Slowly, the glow of the spell starts to fade, and the roaring water with it.
>There are a brief few seconds of eerie silence.
>Then a shadow appears.
>You don't quite understand what you're looking at. Solid? Liquid?
>Whatever it is, it starts to grow at the center of the room.
>The strange blackness erupts from the water with a splash.
>The sight of the thing fills you with terror.
>A tall, black creature in the shape of a human, but somehow not right.
>Parts of it are grey like metal.
>The head is elongated, with bizarre markings that carve out fierce eyes with bright yellow slits.
>Eyes that now turn to face you and your friends with a completely alien expression.
>A twisted fang-filled mouth opens.
>"Huh."
>The thing tilts its head, and speaks again.
>"I'm... not dead? That's... weird."

>The thing slowly turns its gaze to each of you in turn.
>Finally, it locks eyes with you, and as you shiver in fear, the thing dramatically gasps.
>"No WAY!"
>A distorted arm raises, pointing directly at you!
>"CHARLOTTE? Is that you? I always knew you were alive, the others didn't beli-"
>"Enough of this!"
>You glance to the source of the shout, where Bruno squats at the bottom of the stairs.
>His hand is on the wall, below the waterline. You can see a blurry zipper extending from it around the curving wall of the circular room.
>"I'm guessing your Stand requires water, right? One wrong move and I drain this pool. Now, cut the theatrics and show us your true self!"
>"GRRAAAAAGGH!"
>The massive thing shrieks in fury.
>It whirls to point at Bruno. You hear some strange noises, and a moment later a tiny something seems to shoot out of it!
>Your eyes track a tiny black blur shooting at Bruno, but it instantly changes course as if deflected by an invisible hand.
>"Don't. You. Dare. TOUCH MY WATEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEER!"
>Your friends quickly swallow their fear and assume battle stances.
>"STOP!"
>The loud voice catches you off guard.
>Fluttershy swoops down, hovering protectively in front of Bruno, and facing the giant.
>"Excuse me? I'm terribly sorry for this rude reception. You gave us quite a scare, but we mean you no harm! We were just surprised, is all. Unfortunately, we weren't prepared to meet any aquatic critters today. Had we known, we would've prepared a much nicer environment for you."
>The thing lowers its arm.
>"You're... not an animal."
>Fluttershy gives a soft smile.
>"Only as much an animal as you. I'm a pony, specifically a pegasus. Are you perhaps... somehow related to plankton?"
>"Hey, yeah! I'm actually an intelligence contained within plankton. My name's Foo Fighters, but you can call me F.F."
>Intelligent... plankton?
>Wait, what's plankton again?
>"It's very nice to meet you, F.F., my name is Fluttershy."
>Well, at least the thing is friendly now. There shouldn't be any more surprises coming.
>"By the way, where am I? Last I recall I was with Jolyne-"
>"WHAT DID YOU SAY?"

~~~~~

>You are Bruno Buccellati.
>You were really not prepared for this.
>Thankfully, Kujo has taken over the conversation, with the ponies upstairs trying to figure out the best way to drain the pool without killing their newest guest.
>It at least has taken a more humanoid form now, although it is still obviously some gelatinous construction.
>While Kujo and the plankton thing finish sharing information, you assess the damage you took from that jet of water.
>Your torso is badly bruised, but nothing is broken. Strangely, the pain is almost pleasant. Like an old friend coming to say hello.
>You savor the moment. Even if you're aching and lost in a fairytale land of weird creatures, it feels good to breathe the breath of life again.
>"I don't believe it!"
>The plankton is upset again.
>You judge the distance between you and the wall, and how long it would take to drain the room.
>Just in case.
>"There's nothing to be done. Wherever Jolyne is, she's out of our reach. We have more pressing concerns right now."
>"How the fuck could anything be more important? If these magic ponies could zap us over here, just have them zap us to wherever she is!"
>"I've asked. They can't. It could take years for them to get it right. I fully intend to find Jolyne, but right now DIO is the priority. Everything that's happened to us is because of him. Besides, Jolyne might be the next one those shiny rocks over there pull through."
>He nods at the 'elements', supposedly the source of magic in this place, or something like that.
>You really didn't pay much attention during the one day you spent in school here.

>The plankton thing glares at you.
>"And what's your stake in all of this? You after Jolyne, the priest, or DIO?"
"DIO, for now. I don't know Jolyne or this priest. And just to be clear..."
>You face Kujo.
"I'm fighting DIO mainly for the ponies. They're the ones that pulled me back from death, so I'll do what I can to protect them."
>Kujo's face hardens slightly.
>"I'm not asking you to give a shit about me or my problems. But the entire world, including anyone you care about, has suffered at the hands of the priest. If you want to return to them, or at least avenge them, then we have a common goal."
"Maybe that's all true, but don't expect me to jump into the void just for the chance for revenge on someone I've never met."
>An unfamiliar bitterness enters your voice.
"I've been given a second chance, one that I don't deserve. I'm not wasting it on a fool's errand."
"Besides, you've made it clear that you don't need or want my help."
>The room falls silent.
>"Hey, I didn't get all of that," the plankton calls out, cutting the tension. "But we're at least agreed that we're fighting DIO the time stopping vampire for now, right?"
>Kujo shifts into a more relaxed posture.
>"For now, yes."
>He looks like he wants to add more, but doesn't.
>"OK, great!"
>The plankton either doesn't notice or doesn't care for such subtlety.
>"Oh, let me know if any of you guys are injured. I can't heal you, not exactly, but if I fill your wounds with plankton, I can-"
"OK, thanks. We'll keep that in mind."
>You won't.

>As you rejoin the colourful ponies on the main floor, you allow a weight to drop from your shoulders.
>The tiny ponies are at least a familiar form of insanity.
>Fluttershy meekly steps forward.
>"Um, if it's alright with everypony, then I think I should maybe help F.F. find a place where she, or uh, they could live? I think there's a pond near my cottage that would work. If... if the rest of you think that's a good idea, that is."
>Unanimous nods reassure her.
>"OK, then I think I'm going to need a bucket..."
>The little dragon makes himself available to help with what she needs as you and Kujo approach the others.
>Twilight, their purple leader, is clearly distraught.
>"The entire spell is ruined. Even if we get all the components replaced, there might be water damage to the ancient scrolls..."
>"It'll be alright, sugarcube." Applejack, the exceptionally American one, comforts her.
>"If anypony can fix it, it's you." Rarity adds.
>"Don't worry."
>Kujo's voice.
>"If Foo Fighters can really use that Stand to heal, then that means DIO's advantage in numbers isn't a problem. We'll be able to keep fighting without needing to take time off."
>Twilight still looks sad.
>"But, you... we might not be able to find-"
>"As I said. We'll be fine."
>Kujo walks away, letting the library door slam behind him.
>Rainbow awkwardly clears her throat.
>"Anyway, maybe we should help Fluttershy with the..."
>"Yeah, 'bout that," Applejack smiles. "Ah think Ah got 'n idea that'll help that water-lovin' critter feel more at home..."

~~~~~

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqayHTpYR7w [Embed]
>This.
>Is.
>The.
>Best.
>Day.
>EVER!!!!!!!!
>You are Scootaloo and you have never traveled this fast in your life!
>Your wings buzz as hard as they can, powered by pure instinct.
>Rainbow Dash adjusts her grip to keep your weight perfectly balanced on her hoof.
>And despite the frightening speed, you know that if you start to fall, she will catch you in the blink of an eye!
>Below you, a sea of clouds opens to reveal a spectacular view of Winsome Falls, and your camping site.
>The waterfall is silent from this far up, and it almost looks still, like a glittering jewel, dozens of different colours
>You can barely make out the figures of your fellow campers.
>"Ready for an awesome landing?"
>Rainbow's voice is barely audible through the rushing wind around you, so you just give an eager nod in response.
>What little stability you felt during your flight vanishes as Rainbow starts her descent.
>Your stomach feels like it's flipping faster than the wheels on your scooter have ever spun.
>But not once does the emotion of fear enter your mind.
>Rainbow's got you.
>Your big sis has got you.
>The blurry details of the camp get clearer.
>Two tiny bouncing dots turn into your dear friends.
>Eventually, you land.
>Bloom and Sweetie instantly mob you, their excitement pushing your mood to critical levels of a happiness overdose.
>This trip might have seemed a little scary at first, and especially once Rainbow Dash told that story...
>But you persevered!
>That time you spent with her learning about your Stand really helped. She told you that you could talk to her about anything, even if it made you feel... not so cool.
>And you've had enough of keeping secrets for a long while.
>So you fessed up to being too scared to sleep, and Rainbow was proud of you!
>Since then, everything has been...
>Just as good as you imagined.
>"WOO! THIS WATER'S AMAZING!"
>Although, not quite like you imagined.
>The weird friendly monster named F.F. is splashing happily in the waterfall.
>She seems nice enough, but still. The way she just melts in and out of the water like that is freaky.
>"This place is WAY better than the prison! Everything's so pretty!"
>Prison!?
>"Glad ya like it, Miss Fighters."
>"F.F. is fine!"
>Applejack smiles.
>She was the one to invite F.F. along, and carried her inside a big jug of water the whole way.
>Apparently F.F. really, really likes water?
>Well, this place certainly has the prettiest water you've ever seen.
>It still feels like a miracle that you're standing here.
>It was a long shot to start with, and that was before you basically attacked Diamond Tiara's family!
>Rainbow Dash, and Applejack and Rarity too...
>They've been so nice to you. Even though you...
>"Hey, c'mon Scoots!"
>"We're swimming!"
>Your two best friends are splashing in the nearest pool.
>With a quick farewell smile to Rainbow Dash, you dive in.
>This will surely be the best day ever...

>Everything is dark and quiet.
>You slowly yawn, and shift in your sleeping bag.
>Your body is aching after a day of intense fun.
>Your mind also begs you for rest.
>You should be asleep right now, but something that doesn't feel quite right.
>There's a little itch at the back of your skull.
>You can barely see the other side of your tent through the darkness, but nothing seems to be moving.
>And it's completely quiet.
>It just must be a few lingering fears from that scary story.
>You sigh, and let your eyes close.
>The itch is slowly soothed, and you can feel the comforting embrace of sleep...
>...
>A split second before you drift away, your exhausted mind finally grasps the problem.
>Your eyes shoot open wide.
>It's too quiet.
>Every night that you've been camping, you've had to tolerate the sound of a snoring Rainbow Dash.
>Now you can't see her next to you either.
"Rainbow?"
>You whisper into the void.
>Did she leave the tent? Why?
>You get up and make your way to the exit.
"Rainbow Dash!"
>Nothing.
>The world is dark and silent.
>You can barely make out the moon and stars above.
>Ever since Princess Luna got sick, their lights have been dimmed.
"Rainbow? Are you out here?"
>"Scoots? Is that you?"
"Sweetie?"
>"You couldn't sleep either, huh?"
>You can't see anything in this thick darkness.
"Sweetie, where are you?"
>"I'm not sure, I was looking for Rarity and must've got turned around."
>She sounds close.
"Stay where you are, I'm coming over to you."
>"OK, good. This is... kinda..."
>"...scary."
>Wait...
>You were walking towards Sweetie's voice, but that last word came from your left.
"Sweetie, did you move?"
>"Huh? No, I'm right..."
>"...here."
>Now she's on your right.
>"Is that you, Rarity?"
"Sweetie? Can you hear me?"
>"I found Rarity, Scoots, everything's al-"
>...
"Sweetie?"
>...
>...
"Rainbow?"
>...
>You are alone.
"OK, Rainbow, you got me. Funny prank, haha."
>...
>It's dark, and quiet, and cold, and you are alone.
"Rainbow! Sweetie! Where are you?"
>You start running.
>You have no idea where you're going.
>You need to get out of this darkness.
>Now.
>RIGHT NOW.
>There are monsters here with you, you're sure of it.
"RAINBOW! HELP!"
>You don't care about looking scared, you don't care if everypony thinks you're lame, you don't care if Rainbow is totally embarrassed and never wants to hang out with you again, you just need to GET OUT OF HERE NOW!
>"Scootaloo?"
>You freeze.
"Bloom?"
>"Scootaloo... RUN."
>Her warbling voice turns your creeping fear into an incontrollable panic.
>Your legs gallop on their own.
>It feels like you're screaming but you can't hear your own voice.
>Your eyes are clamped shut in terror.
>You force yourself to open them, but it's so dark now you don't notice a difference.
>Suddenly you crash into something.
>It's large, and warm, and you hear it speak in a masculine voice.
>"And that makes three."

~~~~~

>"WAKE UP!!!"
>You squeal in terror and hurl your favourite tasselled alhambra cream lacy decorative pillow at the intruder to your abode.
"BEGONE, YOU RUFFIAN!"
>You are Rarity.
>As you remove your silken sleeping mask, you realize that two of your best friends are glaring at you.
"Whatever is the matter? It's not even dawn-"
>"They're gone!"
"What?"
>"They're GONE! They're all missing!"
>"They must'a left durin' the night, but they're smart 'nuff not ta go wanderin' on their own."
>"They were taken. I'm sure of it."
>"We don't know that, and if we start panickin'-"
"The girls? They're gone?"
>Applejack and Rainbow shoot you angry looks.
>"We've BEEN hollerin' for 'em!"
>"I did a quick fly-by and there was no sign of them."
>"Guess ya slept through it all."
>You turn to Sweetie Belle's sleeping bag.
>It's lying empty on the floor.
>Like it was never occupied to begin with.
>"As I was saying, if we haven't seen any sign of Scootaloo's Stand, then that means she's in a position where she can't reach the other two!"
>"Maybe Miss Beauty Sleep 'ere snoozed through it!"
>"That's not how it works! You can't ignore it! You don't feel anything, right?"
>She's really gone.
>"RARITY!"
"Huh?"
>They're glaring at you again.
>"Do ya or do ya not feel any sudden urge ta go and run off into the woods?"
"Um... no..."
>"So they're separated, and they'd never do that willingly!"
>"Guess yer right. Taken, then."
>"What are their options?"
>"By land there's only th' one decent route, and that's th' one we took."
>"No hidden towns or anything on the way?"
>"Nothin'. What about flyin'?"
>"While carrying three foals? You'd have to be... well, me."
>"Balloon?"
>"I would have seen the landing site."
>"So whether by land or air, they gotta have a camp."
>"Yeah, probably near water."
>"Definitely. Followin' the river's the only reliable way ta navigate 'round here."
>"No chance of them leaving the trail?"
>"Ah've heard o' plenty o' ponies who got lost 'round these parts and never came out again. Ya need a trail, and ta my knowledge, there's only the one."
>"Then I'm ready whenever."
>The two of them trot out of your tent.
>You rush out in pursuit.
>Your unbrushed mane gets in your eyes, and you wonder when was the last time you went outside without your morning beauty routine.

>Applejack is trotting toward the falls.
>"Hey! You lot ready?"
>With a deep gurgling sound, F.F. rises up from the water.
>"I can spread myself out," your new plankton friend explains. "I'll have a direct connection to any body of water downstream. If anything with a Stand gets near the water, I'll know it."
>"Good." AJ nods. "Ya got some kinda way t' signal us if ya find 'em?"
>"You've seen my F.F. bullets, right?"
>With a series of squishes, F.F. shapes her hoof- no, HAND... into a strange shape.
>In the next moment, there's a bright flash and a BANG.
>"Should make enough noise for one of you to find me."
>AJ nods in approval.
>"Ah'm rushin' ahead to try and catch their trail."
>"I'll be doing wider sweeps, see if I can spot a wagon."
>"Hang on."
>Applejack pulls out a familiar saddlebag, one that she's kept close ever since she's gotten her Stand.
>After a few seconds of searching, she selects a glass vial.
>With a muffled thud, like the sound of her bucking a tree, her Stand materializes into existence.
>She winces as she pours the contents of the vial onto her Stand's receiving tray.
"Is that... EAGH!"
>It's an EYE!
>"Hawk's eye," Applejack explains, "Fer yer vision, courtesy o' Fluttershy. Should last a while, hit me up whenever you need a refill."
>Extraordinary Machine produces a small apple, which Applejack quickly tosses to Rainbow.
>"Thanks."
>"Stay hydrated!" Applejack shouts as she starts to trot back down the trail you all arrived on. "It's the lack of water that gets ya!"
"Wait!"
>Three faces turn back to you in confusion.
"What... what should I do?"
>...
>They're all looking at each other.
>Why aren't they saying anything?
>"Ah think it's best ya stay here."
>"Yeah. You never know, they might find their way back."
>"Yeah, and they'll be lookin' fer us here."
>"You can send up sparks with your horn if they do, right?"
>You nod.
>"Good. And hey: don't worry," Applejack forces a smile. "Everything's going to be alright."
>She turns to Rainbow, wearing a far grimmer expression, and nods.
>The whoosh of wings, the pounding of hooves, and the gurgle of water.
>And you are alone.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Kzt7TWKyvk
>It's a beautiful view.
>The vast forest that you spent the past few days miserably walking through sprawls out before you.
>...
>Sweetie Belle is there, somewhere.
>Alongside Apple Bloom and Scootaloo.
>They must have been taken.
>Taken by ponies who consider you their enemy.
>The kind who would stoop to foalnapping... the lowest of the low.
>Your vision suddenly starts to blur, and you realize that you haven't been breathing properly.
>You open your mouth wide and suck in as much air as possible.
>This is no time for a fainting spell.
>Sweetie needs you right now.
>She needs you... and you're not there.
>You can't find her.
>You can't fly, or track, or... do anything in a wilderness like that.
>You're surrounded by nature, and completely useless.
"Send up sparks if they find their way back..."
>Is that really all you're good for right now?
>Just waiting for something to happen?
>Your mane falls in your eyes again.
>Might as well brush it, if you're just going to sit here and wait.
>That's probably what they expect of you.
>Just sit around and pretty yourself while the capable ponies do all the real work.
"Sweetie..."
>It's not like she expects anything more from you, either.
>Everypony knows the truth.
>You're not able to take care of her.
>You look back to your oversized tent, which seems far more gaudy than stylish now.
>Filled with decorative pillows, hairbrushes, treats...
>All useless.
>Just like you.
>Your vision blurs again, but the heat on your cheeks tells you that this time it's from tears.
>You're still a terrible sister.
>And because of it, there's a chance that you'll never see Sweetie again.
>You'd give anything to hear her yell at you once again.
>Like when you had that awful fight, and she decided to make Applejack her new sister.
>Maybe that was for the best, after all...
>...
>But, that can't be right.
>You didn't let her leave you.
>You went to the Social.
>You lied down in that disgusting mud, for what felt like hours.
>You nearly choked on a pie.
>You ran until you were out of breath and your legs felt like they could fall off.
>And you did it all so that the two of you could make up.
>Just like how this camping trip was for her.
>You managed to drag yourself here, after all.
>So what if you don't have any outdoors-y skills?
>So what if you like to feel beautiful and comfortable?
>You've never let that stop you before.
>You wipe the tears from your face and turn back to the forest, a great expanse beneath your hooves.
"SWEETIE BELLE!"
"I'M GOING TO FIND YOU!"
"I DON'T CARE HOW LONG IT TAKES!"
"I DON'T CARE WHAT I HAVE TO DO!"
"I'M COMING TO SAVE YOU!"
"I'LL SEARCH EVERY CORNER OF EQUESTRIA!"
"NOTHING IS EVER GOING TO COME BETWEEN US AGAIN!"

>You hear faint echoes as your voice is carried by the wind.
>As if on cue, you see a faint light on the horizon.
>The sun is rising.
>The sight fills you with tremendous hope, and resolve.
>The light grows brighter.
>Wait... it's not coming from the sky.
>It's coming from... your horn?
>And as it grows, you hear a loud hum.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDd28DyvyEY
>Before you can begin to figure out what is happening, your hooves suddenly leave the ground.
>And your body flies backwards at an incredible speed.
>You twist around, and gasp in fear as you're hurled over the edge of the falls.
>Before you can even scream in terror, you're sharply pulled in another direction.
>Now you are careening down a steep slope toward the vast forest that extends towards distant, shadowy mountains.
>Your horn is brighter than you've ever seen it.
>It's just like the time you got your...
>A quick glance confirms that your cutie mark is glowing as well.
>How could this be happening again?
>Why is it happening now, of all times?
>And why is it stronger than ever?
"Stop... stop!"
>The sound of rushing air fills your head.
>Trees are little more than a blur as you fly past, and you wrench your eyes shut to stop yourself from being sick.
>You try and twist your head, paw at your horn, anything to get it to stop.
>But then suddenly your hoof feels...
>Cloth.
>No..., not just cloth.
>Silk.
>Fine silk.
>And something warm beneath.
>There's a strange sensation... like you're somehow touching your own beating heart.
>You open your eyes to try and get a look at the thing.
>Countless scarves flutter in the rushing air around your head.
>You spot goldenrod, periwinkle, turquoise, magenta... and countless other vibrant colours.
>The palette is vaguely Saddle Arabian, as are the faint designs on the ends, but the dazzling effect is unlike any ensemble you've ever witnessed.
>They all shift and shimmer in the weak morning light, changing hues as if on a whim.
>But despite their wild flailing, they all lead back to an obscured shape above your horn.
>It looks like a tiny pony, but covered entirely in twisting, iridescent silk.
>As your vision sharpens, you notice the bulge of fabric that serves as the 'head' swivel around.
>Beneath the scarves layering its face, you can see only two eyes, burning pure white lights that stare directly at you.
>And then you hear it screech.
>"TREAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURE!!!!"
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!"

>You can't stop screaming!
>This is insane!
>You need to stop, now!
>That single thought fills your mind, and you feel the wind around you soften as your speed rapidly decreases.
>You pant as your hooves touch the ground again.
"What's... happening...?"
>The bundle of scarves flies away from your now deactivated horn.
>"TREASUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURE!!! TREASURE TREASURE TREASUUUUUUUUURE!!!!!"
>The thing whirls around you excitedly, stirring leaves and twigs from the ground in a gentle breeze.
>"WE GOOOOOOOOOO!!! WE FLYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!! WE GO FIND TREASUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURE!!!!"
>The thing shouts in a shrill voice that would make even Pinkie wince.
"What... are you?"
>"ME YOUUUUUUUUUU!!!! RARITY!!!! CUTIE MARK!!! SPECIAL TALENT!!!! STAAAAAAAAAAAND!!!!!"
"A Stand? MY Stand?"
>Have you finally done it?
>Did you unlock the same power as Rainbow, Applejack, and Fluttershy?
>"YES YES YEEEEEEEEEEES!!! ME STAND!! YOU USER!!! YOU RARITY!!! ME LONE DIGGER!!!"
"Lone Digger? Is that your name?"
>"YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES!!!!!"
>The scarves cartwheel in joy.
>"LONE DIGGER STAND NAME!! STAND FOR YOU!!! GREAT STAND! GREAT POWER!! FIND TREASURE!!! LONE DIGGER BEST TREASURE HUNTER!!!!"
"Treasure hunter?"
>This thing... is it somehow the embodiment of your special talent?
>Has it really been here with you since that day?
>"WHEEEEEEEEEEYESYESYES!!!! LONE DIGGER FIND TREASURE!! TREASURE HIDING!? NO PROBLEM! ME FIND! GOLD, RUBIES, DIAMONDS!!! TREASURE TREASURE TREASUUUUUUUUURE!!!"
"Why are you going on about treasure? This is hardly the time; my sister is missing!"
>"YES!!!!"
>Lone Digger suddenly swoops up close, two glowing eyes inches from your own.
>"SISTER-TREASURE! SISTER-TREASURE BEST TREASURE!!!! PRECIOUS PRECIOUS PRECIOUS TREASURE!!!!! FUR SOFTER THAN SILK, EYES PRETTIER THAN DIAMONDS!!!"
"Sweetie is... treasure?"
>Despite your dizziness and total bafflement, hope starts to flow through you.
"You can find her? You can find Sweetie Belle like I... like you find gems?"
>"ME FIND! ME FIND! SWEETIE-SISTER-TREASURE CANNOT HIDE!!!"

"Where? Where is she? Tell me now!"
>You hear a hum, and a gentle tug on your horn in the direction you were travelling.
>"THATAWAY!!! SISTER-TREASURE THATAWAY!! NOT FAR NOW!!"
"Wait, that can't make sense. We must be miles from the trail! Applejack said nopony could make it this way!"
>"THEY WRONG, THEY WRONG!!! LONE DIGGER KNOW! LONE DIGGER SENSE SISTER-TREASURE!! BURIED DEEP!? SMALL AS BUG!? NO MATTER!! ME FIND!!! ME ALWAYS FIND!!!"
>The tug on your horn changes direction.
>"APPLE-TREASURE THAT WAY!! LOOOOOOOONG WAY!!!!"
"You can sense Applejack too?"
>A burst of inspiration hits you.
"Hold on a moment, can you sense anypony? Could you even find where DIO is hiding?"
>Lone Digger tilts its head at you.
>"DIO-TREASURE? NOT KNOW. ONLY KNOW LOOK. NOT LISTEN. NOT FEEL. NEED FEEL! MOST IMPORTANT PART OF TREASURE!! LIKE RARITY SAY: FABRIC FEEL MOST IMPORTANT!!! SMOOTH SILK! ROUGH WOOL! WARM PONY! NEED KNOW TREASURE-FEEL!!!!"
"So only something that you've- that I'VE touched before..."
>"ALSO KNOW: LONE DIGGER HAVE RANGE!!! BIG RANGE, BUT NOT FOREVER!!! APPLE-TREASURE NEAR LIMIT! NO SENSE RAINBOW-TREASURE, NO SENSE OTHER FRIEND-TREASURES!!! TREASURE NEED BE IN RANGE! OR NO FIND!"
"Right then... You said Sweetie is within your range?"
>Lone Digger swirls with impatience.
>"YES, STILL IN RANGE! BUT MOVING! MOVING AWAY!! GO TOO FAR AWAY IF SIT AND DO NOTHING!!!"
>You touch your chin in thought.
>The safest thing to do would be to find your friends.
>If you don't do it now, then Applejack may fall out of range.
>And you'd be facing unknown odds completely alone.
>You have no idea where you're going, and if your friends knew they were searching in the wrong direction, they'd likely be able to come up with some sort of brilliant plan to save the foals.
>Rainbow has her Mr. Blue Sky, a powerhouse that could squash a pony like a bug!
>But in that time... you'd likely lose Sweetie's trail.
>And if whoever has her was to get away...
>...
>There's no choice.
>The realization stiffens your resolve, and you look back at your Stand with determination.
"Tell me. If we find Sweetie and there are enemies, bad ponies standing between us and her... what can you do?"
>There's a pause, then....
>"IF PATH TO TREASURE BLOCKED, THEN..."
>Various tools spring out of the bundle of cloth, held by unseen hooves.
>A shovel. A pickaxe. A massive hammer. A heavy bundle of dynamite.
>"ME LONE DIGGER. ME... DIG!"
>You nod in approval.
"Take me to my sister. Now."
>You feel a surge of power as Lone Digger grabs your horn again.
>It's magical... plus something you can't quite identify.
>"WE GOOOOOOO!!!! FIND SISTER-TREASURE!!!!!"
>Your hooves leave the ground and you go flying once more, leaving the false safety of your camp far behind.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVv87koTqws
>The forest starts to thin out, and you realize that your Stand is taking you along a faint path marked by two parallel tracks.
>They look like they were made by dragging or rolling something through the forest floor.
>The trees here are old and massive, although the large canopies hide the sun (and hide travelers from flying eyes), there is a lot of room to move between them, as the winding tracks indicate.
>Your speed starts to decrease, and you notice a thin layer of smoke above the path you've been following.
>"CLOSE NOW," your Stand whispers harshly.
>As you come to a gentle stop, you can hear the rumble of a machine and see the glint of metal ahead.
>You creep forward as stealthily as you're able.
>The mechanical cart is moving forward slowly, on wheels wrapped in some sort of strange metal bands.
>You vaguely remember Applejack telling you about 'some kinda fancy plow' that used wheels like that to travel more effectively through mud.
>They certainly seem to be handling the uneven forest floor just fine.
>Some sort of invention at the front that's belching smoke into the air appears to be responsible for driving the cart forward.
>Next to it are several baskets and barrels, presumably stocked with enough food and water for the lengthy journey.
>But your attention is focused on three sacks in particular, each large enough to hold a filly, and each squirming as their occupants attempt to tear through the thick burlap.
>And then you see the two familiar stallions awkwardly crammed on the cart.
>And their even more familiar straw hats.
>And those absolutely garish bow ties.
>The one sitting backwards (you're not terribly sure which is which) catches sight of you, and his expression of shock mirrors what you're feeling.
>He hastily slaps his brother steering the cart.
>"Brother! Brother! FLAM! They found us!"
>"What?"
>The one you now know is Flam struggles to look behind at you while keeping the cart from crashing.
>"How did that one get here?"
>"How should I know?"
"There's no way you'd get away with this," You let your voice drop into a fierce growl. "Give her back to me."
>"Brother, this wasn't included in the plan."
>"I am aware, Brother."
>"Well perhaps we should form a new plan?"
>"I am open to suggestions, Brother."
>You trot forward, your Stand hovering by your side.
>"She's getting closer. Do you intend to spend the best years of our lives wasting away in a dungeon, Brother?"
>"Very well, I will handle her, then catch up later. Do try not to crash while I'm gone."
>Flim hops off the cart and stands squarely in the center of the trail as Flam slowly drives off.
>You watch those three precious sacks slowly drift further away from you.
>Then Flim steps to the side, blocking your view.
>His steely gaze makes it clear that simply walking around isn't going to be an option.
>"Don't take too long! These brats are starting to squeal again." Flam calls back, already nearly out of earshot.

>You and Flim stand ready, each suspicious of what the other is planning.
>He breaks the tense silence first.
>"I can see you also have one." He nods at your Stand. "But you are clearly not aligned with our employer, else our services would hardly be required, so I am terribly curious how you got it."
"I assume your benefactor is DIO. But since when did your 'services' include foalnapping?"
>Flim scoffs.
>"You aren't going to get very far in this world just making cider, you know. We're ponies of many talents, and if somepony has a lot of bits to spend, then 'the customer is always right', I say."
>He carefully bows his head, without taking his eyes off you.
>"I'm afraid I can't actually give you the name of our employer, because we don't even know that ourselves! Better for everypony that such things remain hush-hush in this line of work, don't you know?"
"Oh, I quite understand."
>Your familiar mask of tact slips on unconsciously to hide your fury.
>Sweetie Belle needs you to be calm, and you won't disappoint her.
>Flim seems to relax at your demeanor.
>"Then I do hope there are no hard feelings, and of course no harm whatsoever shall come to those three... PRECIOUS... little fillies."
>His lips curl in disgust.
>"My employer's only wish is that you and your close friends not harass their activities with any of your typical heroic stylings. So you see, there's really no need for us to fight at all, is there? After all, even if you were to blow right past me and catch my brother, he would still hold all the cards. All three of them, to be exact."
>His diplomatic air is undercut by the hint of a smirk.
>"And of course, that is all supposing you and that little bundle of cloth can defeat me, which, sadly, you can't."
"Is that so?"
>You make a show of scratching the side of your head in confusion.
"That must be quite a power you're hiding. Care to sate a lady's curiosity and elaborate?" You bat your eyelashes. "Just a touch?"
>His smirk returns.
>"I will only state that if our true objective was murder most foul, it would have been pitifully easy to collect each and all of your lives last night. Of course, while we may be rogues, we are not vile killers, and our instructions were clear that your lives were not the objective. We merely require your cooperation."
>He's relaxing. If you could just get him distracted for a moment...
"I can see you're extremely reasonable."
>"We do try."
"Then surely you must see that surrender is a reasonable option for you?"
>"Perhaps, but not a very lucrative one."
"You might it preferable to fighting. Why, Rainbow looks ready to smash you to bits!"
>There!
>Your bait works, and he glances behind him, searching for an angry pegasus!
>You focus on your Stand, sending it swooping in to attack.
>Flim reacts just in time to block the swinging pickaxe... with his own Stand!

>You can see a strange mechanical limb emerging from his body, then another!
>With a thought, you command your Stand to attack again, your legs straining as if you were swinging at him.
>Keeping Lone Digger this far away from you must make it harder to control.
>You force your legs to gallop closer to your enemy, and feel your blows gain in strength.
>He blocks your blows, and you see his Stand in full.
>It's like a skeleton made of slate-gray metal, wearing a deep charcoal cloak, emitting smoke from its mouth.
>"Have it your way!"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8JhgbPggJ0
>Flim shouts at you as the smoke from his Stand gets thicker.
>You swing again, and again, and you can feel yourself overwhelming his defenses.
>The smoke billows around you, and you realize it's also rising up from beneath the ground!
>"I've only been conversing so that I could prepare my... preparations! Black Velvet has been seeping a thick haze beneath your hooves this entire time!"
>You grit your teeth and redouble your efforts.
>Finally, a swing connects with Flim's shoulder. You hear him yelp, and see a spray of blood.
>But the smoke around you has grown thick.
>You swing again, and connect with only air.
>You can barely see him through the haze.
>A tingle of fear runs down your spine, and you pull your Stand back, close to your body, ready to defend from whatever his attack will be.
>The thick vapor blots out the last of the feeble sunlight.
>You summon magic to light your horn, but it barely makes any difference.
>"Now, you've lost."
>The voice comes from close behind you, and you whirl around in fury.
"GET HIM, LONE DIGGER!"
>Your Stand swipes into the inky darkness, but finds nothing.
>Something strikes your right flank, and you shout as you lose your balance.
>You struggle to your hooves, and gasp as the area he struck is seized with more pain.
>Putting too much weight on it is not a good idea.
>Despite your pain, you focus on Lone Digger, striking in the direction where you felt the blow.
>Once again, you fail to land a hit.
>"Useless."
>You gasp for breath.
>You can't see a thing.
>You can't hear anything except your desperate panting.
>Something warm and wet runs down your injured leg.
>But you can still fight.

"Lone Digger," you whisper.
>The spritely Stand hovers before you.
"You struck him, yes? Does that mean you can find him?"
>It slowly nods.
>"YES, YES, B-B-BUT..."
"Then consider Flim my new 'treasure'. Seek him out, and hit him again."
>"CAAAAAN'T!"
>Despite it trying to whisper, it's voice is still harsh and shrill.
>"ME TRY BUT CAN'T FIND!"
"What do you mean? That's your ability!"
>You hiss in fury, your frustration with this irritating bundle of rags growing steadily.
>The sudden whoosh of air disrupts your conversation, and you duck instinctively.
>Something passes over your head.
>You turn your duck into a tight roll, then break into a run!
>Well, that's what you try to do. It seems gaining control of your Stand powers didn't increase your agility, and your injured leg isn't helping, so you somewhat awkwardly shuffle through the motions.
>You take off down the path that you arrived on, maybe with enough distance...
>Your thoughts come to a sudden stop as your head slams into something and your body collapses.
>Your throbbing head is resting against the unmistakable texture of rough bark.
>But how?
>You might not be used to navigation in a forest, but you're sure that you were headed in the direction of the broad path, free of any trees.
>"Are we in a spot of trouble?"
>Flim's voice is right next to you!
>You spring to your feet, and leap away from it.
>Only to suffer another blow straight to your ribcage.
>You think you hear something break.
>Lone Digger flails around you in unrestrained fury!
>And once again, fails to land a single hit.
>You try to calm yourself with another deep breath, but it only increases the stabbing pain throughout your chest.
"GRRRAAAAAAAAGH!"
>You can't tell if that's you or Lone Digger screaming.
>Probably both.
>As the pain floods your mind, you focus on one thought.
>It doesn't matter what wounds you receive here. Saving Sweetie is all that matters.

"Lone... Digger."
>You force out a scratchy whisper.
"Why... can't you find..."
>As you take a shallow breath, your Stand answers the unfinished question.
>"THIS SMOKE! TOO STRANGE! CAN'T FIND! LIKE HE EVERYWHERE AT ONCE!"
"Find... the path. Get us out of..."
>"YOU ON PATH! YOU NOT ON PATH! IS BOTH!"
"What... do you MEAN?"
>"PATH THAT WAY, ENEMY THAT WAY. PATH ALSO THAT WAY, ENEMY ALSO THAT WAY! ALL DIRECTIONS, SAME!"
>This is his power. It's not just simple smoke.
"If I walk... walk forward... What will... I find?"
>Your Stand shakes its head.
"LONE DIGGER SHOW!"
>With the rustle of fabric, a fancifully adorned compass is revealed to you from Lone Digger's seemingly endless folds of silk.
>The glow of your horn is barely enough to make out the display.
>It spins with a will of its own. North is behind you, then to your right, your front...
>There is no consistency to the speed or direction of the rotations that you can make out.
"No..."
>You're trapped.
>You now understand this smoke. Within it, all sense of direction is lost.
>No... direction ITSELF is lost!
>Terms like 'North', 'South', or even 'towards Flim' are meaningless.
>"Have you unraveled my designs?"
>His voice is ahead of you, and to your left.
>Again, you instinctively leap in the opposite direction, and this time you see yourself get hit in the stomach, from your right side.
>The metal hoof hisses slightly as it retracts, countless tiny gears and pistons controlling its movements.
>"My Stand represents the future of Equestria. The gears of progress will turn, and countless new innovations shall blanket the land in smog. The power of invention is unmatched, and shall produce wondrous machines capable of blotting out Celestia's sun itself."
>His voice shifts, coming from every direction at once.
>"Those like myself, who can see the beauty of the machine, the power of invention... we will prosper. The rest of you will remain lost, fumbling in the darkness for eternity."
>Your hooves scratch fruitlessly in the dirt as you try to stand.
>Pain covers you like a heavy blanket, hampering your every movement.
>"This future is absolute. Progress can only be delayed, never halted. And thusly, all paths are closed to you. There is no escape for the likes of you, no future for backwards apple farmers, or prissy little small-town dressmakers with delusions of grandeur."
>Lone Digger frantically flaps around in a meager defense, but Flim effortlessly lands another strike on your back, and you fall limp in the dirt again.
"You... weren't kidding..."
>There was nothing stopping him from killing you all last night, and there's nothing you can do to stop him now.
>None of your friends could escape from this infinite darkness.
>As you draw another excruciating breath, you find yourself wondering if it will be your last.
>There's nothing else you can do...

~~~~~

>You're Flim, and now you've gone and found your fine self in quite a pickle.
>Sure, on the one hoof you could simply leave this stubborn dame lying in the dirt and rejoin your brother on the literal road to the metaphorical good life.
>But on the other hoof, who's to say the purple pony won't be a persistent pursuer despite your painful persuasion?
>Your Stand strikes again, and as you skitter backwards to avoid her latest round of desperate flailing, you ponder your circumstances, consider your condition, and evaluate your status.
>The shimmering smog shudders and shimmies about, but never crosses the boundary of your own personal circle of sunshine, a zone of fresh air brought to you courtesy of the cute mechanical pony that sprang forth from the depths of your subconscious.
>You are at the eye of the storm, and your Stand alone can guide you through the swirling chaos.
>This means that on yet another hoof, it wouldn't be terribly complicated to simply continue your unabashedly aggressive assault until your foe draws her final rattling breath.
>And from the sounds of it, that won't be very long at all.
>But there upon your fourth and final hoof, is the very vertice of your virulent visiting vexations.
>You aren't a killer.
>Not for the reasons that most ponies aren't killers. The idea of striking this obstinate obstacle into a fine paste does not disturb any delicate sensibilities.
>It's just not good business, as pure and simple as that.
>Once anypony else knows (or indeed even suspects) that you are capable of such savage proclivities, it will forever pollute their perceptions.
>Rogues may be lovable, thieves may be gentleponies, but murderers are most revolting.
>Still...
>What choice do you have?
>When you think about it, you'd actually be doing her a favour.
>After all, she was the one to choose to go and get herself stranded, isolated, completely lost in the woods.
>It wouldn't do to let her suffer in pain until she ends up prey to some vile timberwolf. Or slowly succumbs to hunger.
>As your impatient Stand lets out another loud hiss of smoke, you make up your mind.
>This isn't murder.
>It's mercy.
>With a nod of your head, you command Black Velvet, and it groans in response.
>Creeping forward carefully, you try to reduce the sound of your hoofsteps.
>She may not be able to tell her mane-end from her tail-end in there, but still no sense in giving her any clues.
>Of course, despite her being right in front of you only a few seconds ago, you expect it might take a dear moment for your Stand to find her again.
>Such is the nature of your power, but it's well worth the inconvenience.
>Black Velvet stops.
>All you see is the same impenetrable darkness, but a harsh snort and a wicked gleam in your Stand's eye tells you you've arrived.
"Ta-ta, my dear lady."
>With a powerful thump, Black Velvet's metal hoof slams into the vast unknown before you.
>...
>Not a sound echoes in response.

"And that, for better or worse, is that."
>Still took far too long for your liking.
>How far HAS Flam gotten by now, anyway? You're really not looking forward to that jog.
>And of course he just HAD to eat all those little crackers you like on the ride over.
>You wouldn't be surprised if that rotter was speeding along at full throttle just to spite-
>"Euuagh?"
>Oh, what is that infernal sound it's making now?
>Your Stand turns to you and tilts its head questioningly.
"Pardon me?"
>"Eeeuuugh."
>It shakes its head slowly.
>You blink in surprise.
"Well what do you MEAN she's not there?"
>"Eyyuaaagh."
"Well don't look at me for the answers, you're the only one that's able to find everything in that mess."
>"Eaaaaghuayyyyuaaai!"
>You gesture around your little patch of normalcy, bereft of the billowing black bewilderment before you.
"Do YOU see her here? Hm? Where do you supposed she is? Under my hat?"
>You make a show of searching beneath the article in question.
"No! And as it's utterly, absolutely, totally, assuredly, without a single DOUBT impossible for her to leave the outer boundaries of your little playground, it therefore must follow that she is STILL in there, and YOU simply have not found her due to YOUR own incompetence!"
>"Urrrrgharagh?"
"No. She WANTS you to lift the smog and search for her. She hasn't escaped, it's just some clever little trick to make us panic and THINK she's escaped, so that we do something stupid that allows her to ACTUALLY escape. Honestly. Don't you ever read? Comic heroes use that sort of cheap deception all the time."
>You rub your chin in most contemplative rumination.
"Have you even bothered searching underground? She likely dug herself a little hole with her toy shovel and is hiding in there like a shivering little gopher."
>"Agghuraeugh."
"Well then make some more! Smoke her out of there!"
>"Eurragh."
>The stubborn Stand coughs up more magic smoke. The darkness around you slowly gets even thicker, and it's as if you're staring at a solid wall of obsidian. A moment later, the walls that were previously as high as two full grown ponies lower to around one and a half.
"You're sending it underground?
>"Argh."
"And making it thicker? Harder to breathe?"
>"Argh-argh."
"Good. Now we just follow the sounds of her hacking up a lung. Which should start... any moment now!"
>...
>...
>...
"Alright now, seriously. What is taking so-URK!"
>"Surprise, darling."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4md2d4NUJg
"W-W-W-W-WHAT?"
>You can't move your head!
>Something cold and metallic is squeezing your neck against the ground.
>Out of the corner of your eye, you can barely make out the spike of a pickaxe pointing to the sky.
>Its twin must be buried in the dirt, pinning you in place.
"Black Velvet! Get her! Attack!"
>"GRRAAAAGH!"
>Your Stand swings at her, and you feel an unbearable stabbing in your hoof!
"OOWWWWAAAAGHH!"
>"GROOWWWWAAAAGHH!"

>The evil witch blocked the blow with the edge of her Stand's shovel.
>Some of the doodads on your Stand break off, and the damage is transferred to you, your hoof suddenly spurting blood from a large cut!
>The vile pony before you increases the pressure, and you're terrified that your hoof will split in two!
>"Stop! Stop!"
>"Oh, now you want to stop?"
>Her head lowers to your field of vision.
>She looks like something that came out of Tartarus.
>Her fur is covered in blood and dirt. Her tattered mane is filled with twigs.
>Bulging eyes, flared nostrils, and lips curled in a terrifying scowl.
>Her shuddering legs don't look like they can support her for much longer, it's as if she's powered by rage alone.
>"I thought we were just starting to have fun, DARLING."
>A sickeningly sweet smile accompanying her hideous hiss of hatred.
"Y-You can't be here. It's unimaginable, impossible, inconceivable! How? HOW COULD YOU ESCAPE?"
>The madmare before you starts laughing.
>"You don't even know your own Stand's weakness? Oh darling, it was so easy. I first noticed something strange back when I was first lying in the dirt."
>She points a bloody hoof at you and cackles with unrestrained glee.
>"Namely: that I was lying in the dirt AT ALL!"
"You're insane..."
>She laughs even more at your confusion.
>"GRAVITY! That's your Stand's weakness! No matter how much you distorted reality, there was one direction that never changed: the direction of gravity!"
>She leans closer, and you tremble in fear.
>"And if my body could still follow the direction of gravity, then of course it could follow the opposite direction."
>Some ancient instinct forces your body to move.
>You thrash as hard as you can, and for a moment it seems like you can wiggle free!
>But then something smashes into your back and the strength leaves your body.
>Her blows aren't particularly strong, or fast, but you're in no real position to defend yourself.
>"Thanks to some dear friends of mine, I was able to visit Cloudsdale a while back. Lovely place. And I must say, the sensation of clouds beneath my hooves is one I'll never forget! So I made the clouds my treasure, and my Stand took me right to them! Lone Digger FLEW me right out of your fiendish trap!"
>Her damaged body forces itself into a triumphant pose.
>"So much for your 'Future of Equestria'! As long as there are decent ponies like my friends and I, we'll be able to overcome any evil the future holds! My friends may not be here right now, but they were still able to help me!"
>You don't really understand all of that, and you don't care to try.
>Especially once that terrifying smile returns.
>"Now, should we continue our dance?"

>You try and push fear out of your mind.
>It doesn't matter that you're pinned. You can still talk, and that's all you need to do!
>It's all you've ever needed. Your gift of gab has gotten you this far, and it will get you through this somehow!
>You search your brain for ideas.
>There has to be some plan still available to you.
>Some trick, ruse, gambit, con, bluff, cheat, scam, SOMETHING that can get you away from this enraged freak!
"L-Look, let's just talk about this, we can be reasonable ponies. I can give you-"
>"Reasonable?"
>Her eyes grow wide, and her confident grin fades into the most serious expression you've seen on her yet.
>"You know, I would truly love to be reasonable."
>"But you... you've gone too far."
>"You made a deal with monsters."
>"Abducted my sister."
>"Shoved her into a filthy sack."
>"Threatened my friends."
>"Beat me to a pulp."
>"Even tried to kill me."
>"But you know... Despite all that, despite all your cruelty and despicable treachery, I'm sure I could still have found it in me to show you mercy."
>"Except... you also had to go and do the one thing that I simply can't forgive."
"Wh-Wh-What's that?"
>Her face twists into an expression of pure fury.
>"You ruined my mane."
>You gulp.
"Now h-h-hang on-"
>"And for that... I'm going to tear you apart."
>A magical force yanks you into the air.
>"Stitch..."
>Something strikes you across the face.
>"by stitch..."
>Again.
>And again.
>"by stitch... by stitch..."
>The blows increase in speed, becoming an indistinguishable blur!
>"BY STITCH BY STITCH BY STITCH BY STITCH!!"
>It's like a massive wall of pain slamming into you!
>"BYSTITCHBYSTITCHBYSTITCHBYSTITCHBYSTITCHBYSTITCHBYSTIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIITCH!!!!!!!!!!"
>Your consciousness leaves you before you hit the ground.

『STAND MASTER』
>RARITY
『STAND NAME』
>LONE DIGGER
『STATUS』
>ACTIVE

>DESTRUCTIVE POWER: B
>SPEED: B
>RANGE: A
>PERSISTENCE: A
>PRECISION: A
>DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL: B

~~~~~

>You are Rarity, currently an absolute mess.
>Your teeth clench harder on poorly-washed hair as Lone Digger pulls you over a small bump in the road.
>Flim makes another moan of pain, but you ignore him.
>All the trouble he's put you through, all these aching wounds, and you're STILL forced to bite down on his disgusting tail in order to drag him along with you.
>Absolutely revolting.
>You'll need to let Aloe and Lotus know that you'll be clearing their schedule for an entire month.
>But first things first, and thankfully the belch of engine smoke lets you know you've arrived.
>Flim notices it too, and immediately starts crying out for his brother.
>Although it's not very loud, considering he's gagged with what's left of his hat.
>You finally let go and allow him to crash on the ground as his contraption comes into full view.
>Flam is facing you with a concerned expression on his face.
>You release Lone Digger's hold and land as softly as possible, your injuries still causing a jolt of pain.
>It could be your imagination, but it seems that the forest grows deathly still as you and Flam stare each other down.
>You break the silence.
"Family for family. Give the fillies back, and you get your brother back."
>You force your eyes to stay fixed on Flam, ignoring the sacks at his hooves that suddenly start to rustle as the captives hear your voice.
>A slight tingle on your skin tells you that your Stand detects Sweetie Belle in the leftmost one.
>Flam tilts his head and raises his brow in what you suspect is a forced show of bemusement.
>"I assume that Flim has explained the situation to you? We are in no position to betray our employer, and you are still in no position to threaten me."
"It's a fair trade."
>Your leg muscles shift slightly, and you have to stop yourself from wincing in pain.
>"Fair has nothing to do with it. We're in a stalemate. If I give up these hostages, then I have nothing to protect myself from you, much less my vindictive employer. And you clearly lack the strength to stand for much longer, let alone prevent me from leaving."
>He takes a deep breath.
>"The only thing that you can control is what happens to my brother. Let him go, and I promise to do what I can to keep these fillies as comfortable as possible."
"You're not particularly adept at bargaining, are you?"
>Flam clenches his jaw.
>You get the awful sense that he's being sincere with you, that he truly feels he can't let them go.

>"You're asking me to blindly trust you, when I have no reason to consider you a mare of your word."
"I'm not the one who-"
>"Of course, my brother and I are to blame. We're the aggressors. Naked villains who would stab you in the back for a bit." He waves his hoof dramatically. "Does that change anything? Our fiendishness doesn't make you trustworthy.."
"Alright darling, we'll do it the hard way.."
>Lone Digger draws her pickaxe, and runs the tip along Flim's neck.
"Let them go. I'm not asking again."
>Flim starts to struggle, his voice straining to escape the gag, his legs tugging at his binds.
>Flam winces in response, closing his eyes and drawing a shuddering breath.
>"Do you think that getting rid of us will let you be free? That we're the only ones who were sent after you? Eventually, another of them will beat you, and then you'll be forced to do what they want. If they don't simply decide to slit your throats first. Look here, I'm offering a way where nopony has to die! Believe me, it's far better to let us win than risk dealing with some of the other types we saw at that meeting."
>You say nothing.
>The pickaxe begins to pierce the skin, a drop of blood staining Flim's pale olive coat.
>"Alright! Alright... Just-"
>"MMMMPHLAAAAM!"
>You look in shock at the source of the noise: Flim, with his gag spit out, wheezing for air.
>"Brother?" Flam stares in shock.
>"Use it."
>Flam shudders at his brother's words.
>"I can't, it could kill you, it could-"
>"DO IT! USE IT ON HER NOW!"
>What is happening?
"Don't even think of trying anything!"
>Flam doesn't even seem to be listening to you.
>Drawing a deep breath, Flim speaks again.
>"Finish the job... for both our sakes."
"Listen to me! Don't you dare-"
>The sound is what you notice first, the horrible hiss of liquid erupting in a forceful spray.
>Next you realize your vision is obscured in a vibrant crimson.
>Then the sensation of hot blood in your mouth.
>Somepony is screaming.
>Wiping your face, you anticipate the sensation of pain, but it doesn't arrive.
>You're not the one screaming. You weren't attacked.
>As your eyes focus, you see Flim writhing at your hooves, blood spurting from his neck, right where you had pricked him.

"What... what happened?"
>Your hooves move automatically, ripping his shirt off and pressing down hard to slow the bleeding.
>You didn't touch him. You're sure you didn't...
>"It's done."
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2EVPOtJDyg
>You look up to see Flam gazing down at his brother, tears slowly filling his eyes.
>"It may have cost us everything... but now our victory is assured, brother."
"You did this? Why? To your own-"
>"It has to travel through blood. That's the only way. I had it in his bloodstream. I never expected to have to use it, much less while he was still..."
>Flam gulps, and his gaze refocuses directly at you.
>It's an expression of pure hate.
>And then he takes one step forward.
>"You're a wealthy pony, aren't you?"
"What are you doing? He needs help! Find something better to cover the wound!"
>"All those gems, all those dresses, even your own store? Even if you don't make much of a profit with all that overhead, there's still quite a lot in your name, Rarity."
>Another step.
"Lone Digger, atta-"
>Your world goes black.
>You taste... dirt?
>Your already battered head is pressed down hard into the ground, along with the rest of your body.
>"Have you ever wondered, Rarity, just how much you're really worth?"
>You can't raise your head. With some flailing you manage to turn it enough that one eye can see Flam approaching.
>Even so, there's no escape from the crushing pressure all around you.
>When you were up in the clouds, the air felt thinner and lighter. This is the opposite. It feels like you're at the bottom of the ocean.
>Your entire body is being dragged down under its own weight.
>Having reached his brother, Flam methodically tightens your makeshift bandage into a proper tourniquet.
>"He was always the dreamer. The planner. The inventor. Me, I'm just a simple pony who was always just a mite too careful with his money."
>Having finished treating Flim's wound, Flam lays a hoof against his cheek and closes his eyes in reverence.
>"He still breathes, for now. The only one that your persistence has harmed is yourself."

>You sense your Stand, pinned under the same oppressive weight that's trapped you.
>You can't fight.
>You can't do anything.
>It's a great effort just to open your mouth and force the words out.
"What did... you do to..."
>"I activated my Stand. It left him through the cut you made and entered your mouth. It's in your blood now, reaching every corner of your body. You can't escape from it. Now, Heart of Gold will make you feel the full weight of your material burdens. All of them. Do you ever really look at the bits that you carry in your purse? Most ponies don't. Some don't even know that they're not made of gold, not entirely. If they were, they'd be far heavier, not suited at all to casual commerce."
>You inhale, and it feels like sucking molasses.
>Every scrap of air is a painful struggle.
>"If everything you owned was sold, how many bits would it all be worth? A better question would be: how much would it be worth in pure gold? How much value have you amassed over the years? How much has the Element of Generosity selfishly kept for herself? And... how much would all that pure gold weigh?"
>For the first time since Flim last spoke, Flam meets your gaze directly.
>"Well, I can't give you an exact number, but you're feeling it right now."
>You focus on filling your lungs with air.
>"We gave you every chance to turn around, but you didn't listen. You continued to pursue me in blind arrogance and selfishness. They say you can't take your wealth with you when you die, but it's fitting that it's your own selfishness that sends you there."
>A quiver in his lip betrays his anger as a mask for grief.
>Your vision starts to blur.
>You can't tell how far you've sunk in the earth, but it feels like you'll be buried before long.
>Flam activates his magic, gently raising his brother's limp body and carrying him back to the mechanical cart.
>It's now or never.
>You exhale your hard-earned breath in one last desperate statement.
"I forfeit our wager."
>Instantly the pressure starts to recede.
>You draw another breath, your lungs moving freely.
>You never thought pure air could taste so marvelous.
>Flam glances back at you, his expression of confusion quickly turning to terror.
>"What? What did you just say?"
>You muscles scream at you as you force them to do your bidding once more.
>Slowly, you rise to your hooves.
"I forfeit. We lost that cider-squeezing contest to you, fair and square. Which means..."
>Another delicious breath.
"I now owe you one-sixth of Sweet Apple Acres. That's a lot of gold off my back."
>For a brief moment Flam's eyes waver in comprehension before narrowing in anger.
>"I forgive your-"
"LONE DIGGERRRRRRRRRR!"

>It feels like your sore throat is being torn to ribbons, but your battle cry sends a rush of new strength through your limbs.
>Your Stand screeches as it flies through the air, directly at Flam's wide eyes.
>A sharp shovel whistles through the air...
>And he ducks.
>Your Stand flies over him, over the sacks, and past the cart into the forest beyond, its wild swing having failed to give Flam even a scratch.
>His body is defensively curled over his unconscious brother as he glares at you once more.
>"All your debts to us are hereby forgiven."
>You shout in pain as gravity yanks you down once again.
>"I know the strengths and weaknesses of my power. When it comes to money, I know every trick in the book, and those that can't be found in any book!"
>You can barely sense your Stand's presence near the very edge of your range.
>You can't be sure where it is, but you know it's pinned down as well.
>At least this time you were able to anticipate the sudden weight. You're still being driven into the ground, but your hooves are underneath you instead of being helplessly spread out.
>Hopefully it will be enough.
>You need to move, and you need your Stand to be able to move.
>You close your eyes.
>It takes a lot of concentration, but eventually you feel it.
>Your horn pulses with energy, and you redirect it back into yourself.
>Now to lift...
>Your legs and horn are pushed to their limits as you struggle.
>Your magic isn't strong. Twilight could probably juggle all this weight without breaking a sweat.
>But it's enough for you to take a step.
"Flam... give her..."
>Your enemy chuckles.
>"By all means, fight. You'll just wear yourself out faster."
>You force your eyes to open.
>Several blurry Flams waver before you.
>A grunt of pain, a strangled buzz of protest from your aching horn, and you manage another step.
"Give her back."
>A flicker of doubt enters his eyes as you hold his gaze.
>"Come on now. I'd rather not get my hooves any filthier by fighting you."
>A third step.
"Give my sister back to me."
>Flam takes a step backwards.
>"It's over! Lie down and I might just release Heart of Gold before you suffocate."
>You keep your eyes locked on his.
>It's true that he holds all the cards.
>You don't really have a chance at all.
>But you still see fear in his eyes.
>And that gives you a sliver of hope.
>You feel a sharp pain in your horn and your magic fizzles out.
>The full weight returns midstep, and you finally collapse.
>Flam breathes a sigh of relief.
>"As I said. You've lost."
"I lost..."
>As you sink into the cold ground, you allow a smile to spread across your face.
"But she's won."
>That fear returns to his eyes.
>"What are you-"
"THE ONE ON YOUR LEFT! TOUCH APPLE BLOOM NOW!"
>Flam spins around to see your true goal.
>The frightened gamboge filly stares back at the large unicorn with wide eyes.