>Late afternoon, hammered out of your mind... again
>You stare out the window of the shelter that you and twilight put together. She was the only one that reached out when you first arrived.
>Doesn't even seem that long ago, home one minute, here the next.
>You still remember the screams of those common ponies when you 'appeared' in the center of town
>It was supposed to be so simple. "They'll get used to me". "I'll be friends with all my favorites". 
 
>"It'll be paradise"
 
>You deserve this
>How naive to even THINK that you deserved any kind of paradise after the life you led back home.
>As if the universe would let you off so easy
>No, this was no paradise. More akin to a personal hell.
>If it hadn't been for Twilight, the town would have unanimously voted for you to be exiled.
>A danger to society. An unpredictable beast. A monster.
>But even with the opposition, it was still Twilight's duty as the princess of whatever, to extend hospitality to all.
>Thinking of it now, it probably would have been better to have been exiled.
 
>Most of the towns folk rarely looked in your direction in public.
>Mother's held their filly's a little closer when you walked by.
>They tolerated you because they had no choice. It was obvious they hated every moment.
>You can remember one instance you saw a light yellow mare sat alone on a park bench. Reading.
>You needed directions, and it seemed like the perfect opportunity to attempt interacting with what you idolized for so long.
>You were barely anywhere near when she noticed you approaching, and promptly started going into a panic.
 
>"OH my celes- .. H-hello?"
"Hi, I was wondering if you could-"
>"HERE"
>The mare tossed some bits onto the ground
>"It's all I have, please just don't hurt me!"
"Hey, calm down I'm not g-"
 
>It was then she let out a small yelp, turned and ran.
>The standard for what was to come
 
>Then there was the main 6
>The ponies you adored and fantasized about for so long.
>Partying with Pinkie
>Watching Dash dive into a sonic rainboom 
>Drinking Cider with Applejack
>Attend a lecture with Twilight
>Getting in touch with nature with Fluttershy
>Trying on interesting outfits with Rarity
 
>What a complete moron you were.
>And are.
 
>Pinkie was always so friendly to everyone, and gave you the same courtesy. But you knew it was a burden on her.
>You recall one night, Sugarcube Corner. Music and lights emanating from within the bakery where Pinkie held such lively parties.
>Feeling bold, you waltzed in. After all, this is what you wanted to be here for.
>As soon as you entered, one by one, each technicolor pony looked in your direction and stared. Conversation began dying down until the room was silent, save for the music still keeping the beat.
>You froze. Unsure what to do or say
 
"Hi there..."
>You manage to choke out
"I .. uh. I'm Anon"
>You say, as you give a nervous little wave
 
>You receive a cough and some whispers in response.
>It's at this point you see Pinkie pushing her way through the crowd, Trotting toward you
 
>"ANON! Hi, listen... you mind talking in ehm, private for a secoruni?"
>She reaches you and begins pushing you out the front door
>After a few feet outside she stops. You feel your heart sink.
 
>"Anon, um. I didn't know you were coming tonight. Eheh"
>She gives a half hearted smile
"Well, to be honest I didn't know there was a party tonight. But I was around, and thought maybe it would be a good opportunity to pop in and get to know some ponies ya know?"
>Looking at the ground she clears her throat
>"Right totally. Uhm. About that. Its just that.... well."
>She trails off
"Yea?"
>"Well.. you see Anon. I'm not super duper sure that ponies are uhm. Ready to party with you. Or uh. Be around you. Really... at all. YET! Ahem, yet yeah..."
 
"What do you mean?"
>"Well, uhm. Most ponies I know are kinda shy see?"
>"And they don't know what to do when they see somepon-...uh..when they see something. Like you.."
>You stay silent
>"oh..but don't worry Anon! I'll throw a party for you. A uh, a small one. It'll be great. I swear! Next time. Promise!"
>She stares nervously for a few moments. And begins to back up toward the bakery.
"...Do you Pinkie promi-"
>"ANYWAY I really should be getting back now, you know how it is heheh, talk to ya later BYE!"
>SLAM
 
>You stand there in the moonlight dazed at what you just experienced. Not even her. You didn't want to believe it.
 
>Next time never came.
 
 
>Dash wasn't any better, no matter how many times Twilight scolded her.
>She was perfectly keen on making sure you knew she hated you.
>No matter what the situation, she'd make it her goal to taunt and torture
 
>something about loyalty to "the ponies that already live here" and that there "wasn't any room for weirdos"
 
>One particular afternoon you remember sitting under a tall tree just outside of town. Trying to be optimistic about the future of living here.
>If you could just change the way they see you, present yourself in some manner that would be pleasant to be around, something that-
 
>SPLASH
>The fuck? Something half-solid, half-liquid has just covered you entirely
>It reeks, an unholy smell making you gag.
>you wipe your face and look at yourself.
>Brown.. lots of brown chunks.. mixed with grass?
>You turn hearing snickers grow into laughter behind you
 
"What in the fuck?"
>"Fresh from Sweet Apple Acres!"
"Rainbow?"
 
>Rainbow tread air above you, a metal bucket in her hooves, along with some ponies you weren't familiar with
 
>"Figured you could use a bath loser!"
"Fuck you"
>"Aw, did I make the little hairless monkey upset? If you don't like it, GET OUT"
>With that she threw the bucket straight at you
>You still have the scar
 
>After the world came back into focus you forced yourself to look up
>All you could do was stare, looking into her eyes, and nothing but contempt looking back
>This pony you once adored and admired not only didn't care for you, but hated your very existence.
>You could hear Twilight shouting in the distance
>With a snort, she and her newly formed gang were off in a matter of seconds
 
>You didn't go outside much after that.
 
>You walked across the room to pour another glass of cider.
>From a bottle you stole
>Out the window you can hear laughter
>You see a red ball bounce and roll into view
>A small filly comes chasing after it
>She's about to nudge it in the other direction when she sees you
>You lock eyes for a little bit
>Her friends start shouting for her to hurry up
>She shakes her head as if to combat a chill. and pushes the ball away.
>It was unfortunately still adorable
 
>You had the chance to talk to a filly once
 
>Sweet Apple Acres
>Twilight had to see to it that you had some form of income to keep you going.
>She tried so hard, even though everyone . . .or pony was against her.
 
>It was arranged that you would work on the farm. AppleJack hesitant and resistant to the Idea from the beginning.
>The conversation still vivid in your memory
 
>"You want me to take that thing here? What about the rest of the family?"
>"Please Applejack the princ-"
>"To hell with the princess! What if it goes rabid and tries to hurt somepony?! You're gonna put that on me?"
>"Applejack please. For me? Just for a little while. I promise he won't do anything wrong."
>"Right Anon?"
>Twilight turned to you flashing a painfully forced smile
 
"Yeah, of course. I won't hurt anyone."
>"Anyone what?" Applejack replied raising an eyebrow
"Uh anypony I mean..yea"
 
>Applejack looked at you, back at the farm, then you again.
>she sighed
>"Ahlright. But only for a little while. And if I catch you schemin' anything, these hooves are gonna cave your skull understand?"
>"Applejack dont-"
>"UNDERSTAND?"
 
"y..yes ma'am"
 
>And thus begun your short-lived farmhand career
 
>At times it was difficult, other times simple
>Still the optimist in you shined
>Once they got to know you it wouldn't be so bad you thought
>Not so bad at all
 
>Applejack only really ever gave orders and avoided conversation like the plague
>Most times when you attempted anything further than "Yes ma'am" you were met with a
>"Yea whatever just do what I'm tellin' ya."
 
>She made sure that everyone else on the farm worked far away from you
>Just in case you turn rabid of course
>Sometimes you could see Big Mac and Apple Bloom on the far side of the field
>Applejack caught you looking once and pointed to what you were supposed to be working on with a stern look on her face
 
>You suppose it had been a month or two when it came to pass the straw that broke the camel's back
>It was later in the afternoon when you were loading baskets of apples from today's haul into a cart.
>You could only fill the cart with so many, otherwise it'd be impossible to pull
>Thus, always putting you below Applejack's standards. 
>You see, they could pull more because they were fucking horses
>You digress
 
>You were finishing up when suddenly the last basket slipped from your grip
>Apples tumbled and rolled all over the ground
"Shit"
>One by one you begin picking up each apple, your back in pain from lifting all day
>"Here"
>A little voice says, as two apples roll your way
>You turn to see a small yellow pony with a red mane at knee level looking up at you
 
>You reach down to retrieve the apples
"Uh, thanks."
>Into the basket they go
"...You know if Applejack catches you here she'll-"
>"Ah don't care, you need help and ahm helping"
>She picks up an apple with her mouth and gently places it into the basket
>You could see she appeared annoyed at something
"You really don't have to its fine, I-"
>"Applejack always told me to help anypony in need."
>"But ah guess now I know she only meant to help PONIES."
>She closes her eyes
>"Well ahm not gonna be like her anymore. It ain't right"
 
"..well.. thanks. But I really don't want you getting in trouble-"
>"I'm Apple Bloom, whats your name?"
"..Anon..."
>You say almost in a whisper 
"My name is, *ehm* Anon. I really shouldn't-"
>"Where ya from anyway?"
>She's a stubborn little one isn't she?
>You clear your throat and sigh
"I'm from a different world...from yours.. and in that world there's a...place. Called Earth"
>"Whats it like?"
"well, it kinda looks like this place. There's grass and trees...and lots of uh.. things. Like me"
>"Now ya can't just be a thing. Don't they call y'all somethin?"
"Humans. We're called Humans."
>"Well from one Pony to a Human, it's mighty nice to meetcha!"
>She extends a hoof, smiling
>Slowly, you reach out. And gently grasp it.
>It's the softest thing you have ever felt.
>She giggles as you both shake
 
>You smile
 
>"APPLE BLOOM!"
>Shit
>You see applejack in a full gallop coming towards you
>In a matter of seconds she snatches Apple Bloom out of the way, turns and bucks you square in the chest
>You fumble to the ground, head spinning, air completely knocked out of you
>"Ah knew it, nothin but trouble!"
>"APPLEJACK! He didn' do anythin-!"
>"Go to your room, we'll talk bout this later."
>"BUT APP-"
>"ROOM. NOW. GO."
>Applejack shouted louder than previously thought possible
>Apple Bloom reluctantly begins her way toward the farm house, only to look back and mouth "Sorry" to you before trotting away. Tears in her eyes.
 
>You struggled to get the air back into your lungs
>"Now what did I tell ya about breakin' rules?!"
"..I.."
>You try speaking but it mostly comes out as a wheeze as you lay on the ground, trying to prop yourself up with your elbow
>"We'll I've justa bout had it! I'm done! Twilight'll have ta figure out somethin' else."
>"I don't ever wanna see your slimy face round' her again! YA HEAR?!"
>She slowly begins backing up
>"You can drag yourself out..." She remarks completely monotone.
 
>The memory stings as you sip the overly fermented cider
>How could they be wrong? You knew who you were. It only made sense they acted this way.
 
>The sun still shined outside, everything and everyone seemed to carry on in spite of you.
>All the common ponies, smiling away, the flowers, the animals.
 
>The animals...
 
>There wasn't much of a story with Fluttershy.
>The one and only encounter you had with her was.
>Strange.
 
>One afternoon Twilight had given you the task of retrieving some books from Fluttershy's place.
>Said it would be a good opportunity to introduce yourself. Though the way she said it, it was as if she had already excepted what she was saying was a lie. How could you blame her?
>You arrived at the cottage, it was beautiful. Just like you imagined. Although something seemed out of place.
>Maybe the birds. In the show you recall the place being lively with wildlife. Especially birds, which were supposed to be merrily chirping away.
>But there were none. Empty birdhouses swayed from trees.
>Come to think of it there wasn't any kind of life anywhere, no squirrels, rabbits, rodents, nothing.
>Eerily quiet as well.
 
>You approached the door and knocked twice
>Some kind of muffled ruckus emanated from within
>Something that sounded like a porcelain dish smashing on the floor, followed by an audible "SSHHH!"
>Suddenly you could hear a number of bolts and locks being undone
>The door cracked open, and there stood Fluttershy, her long pink mane slightly frizzed
>She stared at you... rather intensely
>"y-yes?" she stammered
"..ehm..Twilight said you had some books to return to her?"
>Behind her you could see... what looked like a dozen tiny shapes under a table cloth..
>Is that.. Is that a bear with a lamp shade on it's head?
>"Wait here" she said quietly, never breaking eye contact
>The door closed and all ten or so locks and bolts were locked once more
>After a few moments, the door suddenly opened
>Four books stacked on top of each other slid out onto the ground
"Uh, thanks."
>You reach down to pick them up
>You hear a quick squeak from Fultters as the door slams shut.
>Sighing, you take two books under each arm and head back to Twi's
 
>Hey, at least you didn't get injured this time.
 
>The bottle of cider was beginning to dwindle to below half.
>Maybe this lovely trip down memory lane would be better in the easy chair on the other side of your one room shack. Something you had found rummaging around the town dump.
>You move to take a step and unknowingly a nail catches the underside of your pant leg
>This unfortunately (or fortunately) causes you to face plant on the hard wooden floor
"Fucking Christ"
>You mutter to yourself, the pain is numbed by the intoxication you've given yourself
>Sitting up you examine your pants. You are now the proud owner of a large tear in your left pant leg. You take each side of the tear in your fingers.
 
>Rarity, Rarity, Rarity
>She made these clothes for you, once again at the decree of Twilight Sparkle.
>And once again met with an obvious resistance.
 
>"Twilight, dear, please reconsider. Think of the customers I'm going to lose! I simply must keep up my appearances! What would critics think?! I would be shunned! Ruined! Expelled! I would-"
>"Just do it." Twilight said bluntly, apparently friendship mode was off today
>"But Twilight I-"
>FLASH
>With one teleportation spell, you were left alone with Rarity outside the Carousel Boutique
>A moment of silence passes as the both of you nervously look at anything but each-other
>At this point you had known better than to break the ice first. Seeing how well it worked in the past
 
>"Anon is it?" She said surprisingly calm
"Yes, ...eh .. nice to meet you."
>"Hm" she remarked nonchalantly
>"Follow me please." She opened the door to the Boutique with her magic
>You promptly followed as you were told
 
>As the both of you enter you watch as the open sign is flipped to closed with a blue magic aura
>The boutique itself is pristine, fabrics, tassels, gems all neatly arranged in an upright wooden organizer shelf. Dresses on display on each side of the room with memorizing patterns and details
>Your thoughts are interrupted as Rarity beings to speak
 
>"I will be making three outfits for you, they will be simple, staunch, and practical. Much better than what you have on now. I will have complete creative control over the design and you will except them as they are, yes?"
"Yes ma'am"
>"You should thank Twilight heavily for this, I'll be losing a day of business because of you. I couldn't possibly have customers here whilst someone of your... stature is present. No offense"
"None ta-"
>"Or maybe offense I'm not sure yet."
>She says with a pout as she whips around and disappears into a back room
>Suddenly, different colored fabrics, a set of needles and various types of left over materials begin flying into the air.
>The magic blue aura sets them all down neatly, each in it what seems to be its own preferred spot in the workshop.
 
>It was hard not to be impressed, you had always seen these things in the show, but in person there was an entirely new sense of wonderment
 
>"Let us begin shall we?"
>"First are the measurements, please, the ehm.. whatever you call them.. top legs?"
"Arms"
>"Right, arms up then please."
>You comply, holding up your arms into a T-pose
>"Good, hold still"
 
>A roll of measuring tape floats around you, stretching and moving to each part of you
>"...dear Celestia ..." She mutters under her breath
"I hope this won't be too much of a challenge for you."
>What in the holy mother of fuck possessed you to say that?
>You cringe waiting for a response
 
>She looks up at you first with contempt, then cracking a small smile.
>"Nothing is a challenge for me, darling"
 
>Her face scrunches and she quickly looks to the ground looking flustered
>"ehm, moving on. Let me just.."
>She trots over to a desk in the corner of the room
>One of the drawers opens and a pen and paper float out onto the desk
>"This will only take a moment"
>A few moments go by as you stand in the middle of the room watching her scribble away at her plans.
>She suddenly looks up from the desk and then turns to face you
>"Oh, um.."
>A chair covered in the same blue aura scoots over to you
>"You can sit there if you prefer, this will only take a moment longer"
"Thank you"
>"mhmm" she mutters quietly
 
>More time passes as you watch her begin the process of making what would be your clothes for the rest of your days in Equestria
>Mistakes on paper crumbled up and discarded floating through the air into the waste bin
>The sound of a sewing machine whirring ingrained into your memory, along with Rarity's quiet mutters of thinking aloud
>"hmm, yes ...ok"
>"....oh no no no, ghastly....that wont do"
 
>Eventually the first piece is completed. It looks like a pair of regular old 'earthling' jeans
>Except they are a tasteful light brown in color, complete with a gold zipper and button.
 
>"Well, lets see how we did yes? Try these on please"
>The trousers are floated over to you
>You examine them a bit, soft to the touch, but sturdy. Just like she said.
"um... Is there a changing room?"
>"What in Equestria do you mean? There's plenty of room right here"
>It hadn't occurred to you the concept of indecency was lost on equestrians. Seeing as they didn't wear clothes normally anyway.
 
>Welp, when in Rome..
>You remove the jeans your already wearing, stripping down to your boxers
>"I must admit, I may have copied a small portion of the design from those ghastly things you already have, such a stale blue colo-"
>You've already put one leg in when you stop to see her face turn to puzzlement
 
 
>"Now this simply won't do, does your kind usually where another pair of short pants underneath?"
>She says pointing at your boxers
"well.. yea"
>She scoffs at you
>"Wonderful, if I had known those were there I would have changed those measurements."
>She sighs putting her face in her hooves
"I'm sorry, I should have said someth-"
>"Off with them please." she says without looking up, waving a hoof at you
>Does everything offbeat and awkward have to happen to you?
"Really its fine I'm sure they'll fit"
>"I will not be doing this a second time, now stop wasting mine and do as I say."
>She looks pissed. Whatever lets just get this over with.
>You remove the boxers and begin putting on the pants
>You watch her do a double take looking at you, and then switching her gaze toward the wall.
 
>They fit great, comfy. You walk over to the floor mirror to get a better view.
>You have to admit. She is very good at what she does
>She trots next to you also looking into the mirror
>"hmm, It's a start. Let us continue, yes?"
 
>As the hours go by, each ensemble is completed
>Leaving you with two outfits for the summer, and one for the winter.
>Each with its own personal details, even for someone she didn't care for she couldn't help but be creative.
>There wasn't much conversation during the process
>After that "challenge" comment, you were happy just to stay silent while she worked.
 
>So there you stood, holding the clothes in a bag she was kind enough to give you.
>"Alright then, Mr. Anon. I have done what has been requested, so if you don't mind I would like to get back to my OWN work thank you."
>She remarked, walking you toward the door
>You stepped outside and turned around
>surprisingly the door was still open, and she stood looking at you with an unsure expression
"Thanks, I do appreciate you taking the time"
>"Hmf well yes. uhm, right. Good day"
>The door closed. 
>It didn't slam, but closed
 
>A cold breeze flowed through the air as you made your way home.
 
>You pull your legs in close sitting on the ground and wrap your arms around them
>Your chin resting on your knees
 
>The sun was going down.
>Perhaps tonight you'll go down with it.
 
>Though, there's still cider left. You lift yourself up
>Walking over to the table where it resides, along with your single glass.
>You pick up the glass and stare at it.
>Then throw it against the wall
>It shatters into a thousand pieces
>You take the bottle and begin taking a slug
>Finally, you stumble into your easy chair, the rusted springs whining under you as you sit down.
 
>Twilight...
>I only meant to stay a while...
>Twilight...
 
>When you first arrived she made it her duty to make sure that you would be welcomed and integrated as a valued member of their society.
>To show you kindness and hospitality, as the Princess of Friendship.
>To prove that no matter your differences, it was possible to become a friend to all
 
>And it was killing her.
 
>You know she tried so hard, but at every turn she was met with the obstacle that you simply were incompatible with what was already established here
>A new political party against foreign creatures was formed because of your arrival.
>Celestia wouldn't take no for an answer, asking for weekly reports on your progress.
>Twilight would schedule meetings with you, each with less and less enthusiasm.
 
>Because of you, Twilight's REAL life had to be put on hold. A friendship problem with no solution
>An episode with no ending
>She wasn't herself, on more than one occasion you caught her yelling at spike, or snapping on her friends
>And her friends, blamed YOU for her behavior
>But they were right, everyone had a great thing going and then you had to show up
>It became painfully apparent at the last meeting
 
>"So, Anon. I know the um. Past few weeks have been... A challenge"
>She sat across from you in your shack. The wooden chair creaking under her as she adjusted herself, looking at the clipboard floating in front of her
>"It seems we are not meeting our requirements for this week...or any..but uhm."
>She flips open a page on her clipboard
>"Yes, I'll. *sigh* Just have to come up with a new plan. Again."
"Twilight I'm sorry you-"
>"NO, no. That's fine, we just have to change our strategy is all."
>She gives you a weak smile
>"Tell me, how has pony to human interaction been this week?"
 
>Reluctantly, you tell her about the encounter you had with Rainbow Dash not too long ago
>Each word draining the color from her face
>When you finish, she just sits there staring
>Her clipboard slowly lowers to the ground
 
>"You said there was more than one pony with her?"
"Yes"
>She puts a hoof on her head
>"Were any of these ponies wearing an orange leg band?"
>Thinking about it, you could clearly recall seeing one of them wearing a band just above their hoof, bright orange with some kind of symbol on it
"Now that you mention it, I think I saw something like that on one of them yes"
>She let out a deep sigh
"So whats that about exactly?"
>"It's the uh...new display of being a member of the PFFE"
"You mean the-"
>"Protection From Foreign Enemies party yes"
"oh"
>You both sat there staring at each other.
>Twilight then spoke.. barely above a whisper
>"Was....was Rainbow Dash wearing one?"
>You couldn't remember
"I uh...didn't really see. She could have.. I don't know"
 
>It was then Twilight began to weep
>You wanted nothing as badly as you wanted to embrace Twilight right then
>But you knew it wasn't your place.
>You were a monster after all.
>The very thing that was causing this pain
 
"Twilight I'm sorry I-"
>"NO, Its not your fault Anon. It's mine"
>"I failed you. I failed Celestiaaa..."
>Her voice turned to whispering sobs
>What could you do?
 
>After a while she eventually composed herself and continued the meeting
>You both went over some strategies that could possibly change public opinion
>Random acts of kindness, A formal visit with Princess Celestia
>At one point Twilight even considered staging a fake event to win ponies over in your favor
 
>You knew it was all fruitless, meaningless, impractical
 
>The hours passed and the meeting was wrapping up
>You promised Twi that you would attempt the things discussed as best you could
>You thanked her for trying so hard
 
>"We'll make this work Anon. I know we can. I promise."
>Still giving you that same week smile
>You opened the door for her
>She exited and looked back at you with those big lavender eyes
>"Just hang in there a little longer Anon, ok?"
"Sure Twilight. I'll try"
>And with that she was on her way home
 
>So here you were.
>You still haven't left this place since that meeting
 
>you take one more slug out of your cider bottle, finishing it
>It was night now and the moon was shining in the sky
>Time to go
 
>Maybe the next life would be paradise.
>Or the hell you deserved.
>In which case you'd just end up back here
>You chuckle at the thought
>No this has to happen. For Equestria
>At the very least you could save them from you.
 
>But how?
>You drunkenly waltz over to wear the glass you threw shattered
>Moving the pieces around with your feet, you discover a nice large... sharp.. shard
>picking it up in your hands you run your fingers across it
>No point in waiting anymore
"For Equestria"
>You slur to yourself as you hold the shard up in the air, then toward your neck
>You close your eyes and press the glass hard into your neck, making a swift motion from left to right
>The first go is a just scratch
>You slash again
>The pain begins to creep into your senses until its the only feeling present, sharp stinging pain
>Slash
>You look down as blood spills onto the floor
>The shard drops from your hand as the room spins
 
>The sun rises in Equestria
 
>It didn't take long for a random pony to tip off authorities of a red substance leaking out from a small shack on the far side of town
 
>Twilight was the first to know.
>She doesn't take it well
>A discrete meeting is called
 
>Rumors began spreading throughout the town as Royal authority blocks off the street
>Later in the Afternoon Celestia arrives in Ponyville, only igniting the rumors further
 
>After meeting with Twilight, Celestia begins the task of preparing a funeral. And a speech.
>Spike keeps asking whats going on, neither answer him
>Twilight paces back and forth for a time. Wishing today was a dream
>Wiping away the tears Twilight tells Celestia to look after spike while she gathers her friends
>Inside her is a depraved desire to have her friends attend the funeral
>This time she wouldn't be asking, only telling
 
>The first was Pinkie
>She caught her at Sugarcube corner, blowing up balloons out in front of the bakery
>"TWILIGHT! I'm so glad to see you! Ya know I was thinking, with this whole human thing living here and making the town go crazy I thought that we should-"
>"Pinkie"
>"By the way did you see they blocked off the street back there?! I hope the cops aren't bugging him too much! But I really think this party I planned is gonna fix-"
>"PINKIE" Twilight shouted. staring at Pinkie
>"Yea what is it?" Pinkie said her tongue sticking out playfully
 
>A fluffy mane turned straight just then
 
>The media began swarming Twilight's castle repeatedly asking for a statement on the recent commotion
>The doors stayed closed
 
>Applejack was next
>Twilight made her way to the farm as Pinkie prepared herself to attend the one event full of ponies she 'didn't' want to be at.
 
 
>"Hiya Twilight...oh listen, if this is about that Anon thing, I told ya I'm not doing it anymore"
>"You won't have to Applejack" Twilight said completely monotone
>Applejack gave a sigh of relief
>"Oh thank Celestia, heh, made him somepony else's problem huh?"
>"No, its still yours"
>Applejack noticed the dark circles under her eyes. And that she wasn't blinking
>"Uhm.. well what exactly do ya mean Twilight?"
>"Anon's dead"
>Applejack froze, a literal chill shot down her spine
 
>"HE'S WHAT?!" a small voice shouted from behind Applejack
 
>Twilight had failed to notice Apple Bloom eavesdropping behind a tree a few feet away
>Applejack turned around with a panicked expression
>"A-apple bloo. ." Applejack couldn't find any words
>Fresh tears began to fill the filly's eyes as she started to breath heavier
>It was then she turned galloped away toward the barn
>Applejack wanted to call out to her but knew it wouldn't help anything
>so instead, she turned back to twilight
>"Twi, what are you talking abou-"
>"The funeral is tomorrow. If you don't attend I don't know you anymore."
 
>Twilight turned and calmly began a slow trot to her next destination
>She felt nothing
 
>As she headed for the Carousel Boutique, Applejack sat down against the fence and contemplated what she would say to Apple Bloom. It was one thing honesty couldn't cure this time
 
>"Twilight! Just the mare I was looking for. Come in, please!"
>Twilight walked into the boutique, mentally preparing herself to deliver the news for the third time today
>"I wanted to apologize" Rarity said avoiding eye contact
 
>"Apologize?" Twilight asked quietly
>"Yes, I shouldn't have made such a fuss the other week. About that Anon fellow"
>"Really?" Twilight said, perfectly content with listening to Rarity speak a little longer
>Just to delay the inevitable 
>"Of course dear, you know... he was actually quite well mannered... charming even"
>"To be completely honest I thought he was going to act like some kind of brute"
>"oh" Twilight breathed, perhaps she'd take her time with this one
>"What I'm saying is.. If Anon needs any more clothing done, I would be glad to help."
 
>Twilight just stared at the floor. She wanted to wait as long as she could
>"Twilight, you look like you've seen a ghost, whats the matter?"
>She thought she was out of tears at this point. And yet, here they were again
>"Rarity... Anon's...gone"
>"What!? He left?"
>"No.."
>"...You mean hes!?...."
>Twilight gave a small nod
>"Oh dear Celestia....but he was just here, how could-?! I mean how did this happen? The PFFE?"
>"He did it to himself..."
>Rarity wished she had never heard those words
>"why?"
>Joining in the sorrow, Rarity's eye liner began to run down her face
>The two embraced each other, without giving any thought
 
>They stayed together a while until Twilight broke the silence. Whispering
>"Thank you for caring"
>"Of course" Rarity said between a shaking sniffle
 
>Still holding onto Rarity, Twilight backed out of the hug a little to face her 
>"Fluttershy and ...Rainbow...still dont know yet. I have to go"
>"Please dear, let me go with you"
>"No I'd rather... it would be easier if it was just me"
 
>With that Twilight said her goodbye's
>"I'll see you tomorrow?"
>"Yes" Rarity said with a caring expression
 
>Twilight once again, set off. This time for a cottage.
 
>Twilight reluctantly Knocked twice on the door
>"Who is it?" a muffled voice called from inside
>"Its me Fluttershy, just open the door please"
>"Is..um..Anon..with you?"
>Twilight sighed for what seemed like the hundredth time today
>"No, he's not. Can I come in now please?"
 
>A plethora of locks and bolts being unlocked sounded through the door
>The door cracked open and there stood the mare looking at twilight through those long pink locks 
>"Uhm so...what brings you here?"
>Twilight thought of a way she could get the news across with as soft a landing as possible
>She knew it was impossible
>"I have to tell you something. Can we sit down?"
>"Always Twilight, come in." The meek pony stepped out of the way letting Twilight enter
 
>The two sat next to one and other on Flutters' living room couch
>"Would you like some tea, coffee maybe?"
>"No Fluttershy, that's okay"
>Twilight caught herself staring again. It never got any easier. But it had to be done
>"okay...well, what is it you wanted to tell me?"
>"Something...bad.." 
>"Oh no, don't tell me. Did Rainbow try to-"
>"PLEASE, don't...don't try to guess, just let me tell you"
>"...o-okay" Fluttershy said quieter than normal. Bracing for impact
>"Its about Anon"
>"OH no, did he finally go rabid and hurt somepony!? Applejack told me-"
>"NO no... well.. it's half true."
>"W-what do you mean?"
>"He hurt himself"
>"Oh.." Fluttershy said with confusion in her voice
>"Why would he do that?"
 
>It was questions like these that brought the tears back, no matter how many times Twilight thought the pain was over, it came rushing back. Another wave of hurt and regret.
>But it was only because she knew the answer, she just didn't want to admit it.
 
>"I...I don't know..." She stammered, fresh tears streaming down her face once more
>"Fluttershy....Anon...isn't with us anymore."
>Fluttershy sat silent, with an expression akin to deer in headlights
 
>Twilight placed a hoof on Flutters shoulder
>She continues to stare blankly
>"...are you-"
>"Excuse me" She yelped and galloped out of sight
>Twilight's hoof hovered at the spot where Flutters shoulder was
>As she lowered it, she could hear Fluttershy retching with the echo of bathroom walls
>"..Celestia help me" Twi muttered to herself
 
>It would be another two hours before Twilight could leave in any confidence that Fulttershy could keep composed until tomorrow
>She knew she wouldn't
>She never handled anything like this well, though Twilight couldn't imagine the thoughts going through her head.
>Fluttershy was supposed to be in tune with nature, of course, fill her head with a story and her anxiety will do the rest. Even if it doesn't make sense.
>Twilight wished she could have explained to her earlier that Anon wasn't exactly "a rabid, unpredictable monster"
>She kept putting it off, placing at the bottom of her list of things to fix
>She was out of time now. Too late, passed the point of no return
>She didn't keep her schedule
 
>She wondered if she could ever be in the presence of a mirror again
 
>It didn't matter. There was still one more pony to tell
>One who deserved hearing the news the most
>A newfound anger was ignited inside Twilight
>Every single variable in this tragedy was important.
>And she knew this pony was a VERY important variable
>One that even after the event, she felt, could still be corrected
 
>And she knew just where to find her.
 
https://youtu.be/FomIzp0QH-s
 
>Exiting Fluttershy's cottage Twilight noticed clouds had began to gather
>She began her trot, at a steady, brisk pace
>Her posture confident, but not from pride
>There was no need for teleportation
>She wanted to hold on to this depravity, this fire inside, as long as she could.
 
>Raindrops began to tap the ground as she made it to the first cobble street of Ponyville
 
>'A monster?' She thought to herself
>'where?'
>'I did know a human named Anon, a troubled soul, begging for acceptance'
>'No, I KNOW what a monster is'
>'I've seen it'
 
>As she made her way through Ponyville, more and more of the common ponies noticed that the literal Princess of Friendship was walking through their town
>At this point with all the nauseating rumors already spread, they wanted answers.
 
>"Hey...HEY.. THATS TWILIGHT BUCKIN' SPARKLE" An older stallion called out
>Small mutters from the town quickly turned to shouts as they began to gallop towards her
>"Hey princess! Why'd the block off Iron street?"
>"Is it true that creature is a serial killer? Did they catch it?"
>"PRINCESS!, when are these buckin' taxes gettin fixed?"
>"TWI, is it true that thing turns into a timberwolf at night? I know I saw it!"
 
>The rain began to grow into a storm
>It was only a matter of time until the press turned their attention away from Twilight's castle to follow her
>A large crowd began to form around her, to the point where they block her path. Completely surrounding her.
>Cameras flashed, as the press and common ponies all shouted over each other
 
>'I have seen it'
>Twilight's thoughts enveloped her mind
>'It's all around me right now'
>'Monsters... All of them'
>'Putrid, disgusting creatures... lowly filth that I have to INSTRUCT to care about one and other'
>'They are incapable of any sort of menial decency, let alone friendship'
 
>Twilight felt like her heart was about to burst
 
>"MOVE" She shouted, it didn't even sound like the word, more like a primal scream
>An aura of purple magic floated in the air, turning itself into a transparent wall
>It lowered in front of her, and she marched forward
>The front of the crowd began to be involuntarily pushed
>The entire crowd quickly reacted and moved away in a hurry
 
>Thunder cracked as the crown began to fall silent
>She continued to march until the road was clear of any ponies
>The transparent wall faded to nothingness
>Ponies whispered among themselves following behind, but at a distance
>Royal guards begin to attempt to disperse the crowd
 
>It was only a little farther now, a secluded patch of land on the outskirts of town
>It's where they'd sometimes meet back when they were friends
>It seemed completely inconceivable now
 
>She arrived in the small patch of forest looking up at an abnormally low cloud
>A black silhouette of a mare in its gray center
>it was snoring
>She could hear herself breath as she stared
>"Rainbow Dash" she said firmly
>The silhouette turns over grunting
>"hua- wha? Who's that?" Dash's voice still asleep
>Rainbow turned onto her stomach, and crawled toward the edge of the cloud to see who had woke her
>Her eyes focused onto a rather intense looking purple mare
 
>"Twiiilight! What are you doing here? I thought you said ya hadda a busy schedule with your pet monkey today?"
>"Come down. Now." Twilight said, her tone coarse as sandpaper
>"Alright alright, don't get your mane into a bunch" Rainbow said as she stretched her wings
>She yawned
>"It's glad you woke me up when you did, I didn't know rain was scheduled today"
>Eventually, she floated down to the ground with a couple lazy flaps of her wings
 
>Twilight gazed at her locking eye contact
>Dash snorted
>"Wow you look like you were hit by a train, I told ya this whole monster lovin' peace rally thing is just gonna wear you down" Dash said smugly
 
>Twilight seethed 
>"You did this." she said, in a guttural tone
>"What, are you talking about?" Dash remarked unimpressed
>Twilight was about to answer when she was interrupted
>"NO wait, don't tell me! You heard about the prank we did?" She began to snicker
>"So it's a tattle-tale too? HA!" Rainbow chuckled
>Twilight took a step forward
>"How many times do I have to explain this Twilight, you can't even trust it!"
>Twilight let Dash make her case as to why she deserved what she was unknowingly about to receive
>"Twi, trust me. You'd feel a lot better if you just saw things how they REALLY are!" 
>"Listen, how bout' you and me head to the PFFE headquarters, I can put in a good word for you"
>She just couldn't stop
>"All we gotta do is run this thing outa to-"
 
>FLASH
>Dash feels a wave of energy abruptly push and lift her through the air
>Before she can realize whats happening she feels her back slam into a tree
>Dazed and in newly found pain, Dash picks herself up and looks completely surprised at Twilight
>"What the buck is wrong with you?!" She shouts
>"Anon is Dead" Twilight said with malice
>Rainbow chokes on her own spit
>"What? What are you talking about"
>"He cut open his throat last night" She growled, her eyes narrowing
>Dash just stared wide eyed and confused, eyes shifting back and forth between Twilight's pupils
>"Wha... .. well why d-did d-d...I didn't.. he..." She rambled only succeeding in making noise as her voice cracked
>"Tell me," Twilight leaned in
>"Do you feel very 'protected' right now?"
>Dash's eyes begin to water, as her breath shakes
 
>"....h-hiym...I'm ..sorry....I'm sorry" she whispered through sobs
 
>Twilight breathed heavily, her mind was clouded with corrupted thoughts. Her old self nowhere to be found
>A voice inside her head begged her to remember who she was, what she was doing
>Twilight closed her eyes as she fought with herself internally
 
>Twilight opens her eyes, returning her gaze upon Dash
>Who was cowering and sobbing at the moment
>Twilight's horn begins to glow, and spark
>She slowly begins walking backward
>Dash watching through burning watery eyes
 
>"T-twi? ....Please...don't" Rainbow squeaks
 
>Twilight's eyes glow slightly as she suddenly stops
>Dash puts her hooves over her head, crying aloud
>"No no no no" She whispers over and over
 
>Suddenly a sound like the crack of thunder pounded dash's ears
>She was still for a moment, then opened her eyes
>She was unharmed
>Looking at Twilight, Rainbow saw a trail of smoke emanating from Twilight's horn
 
>She followed the trail upward to the sky, where she spotted a ball of purple light, still climbing into the heavens
>She exhaled
 
>BANG
>The ball explodes expanding into a single ring of light, sparkling in the cloudy sky.
>A draft of wind covers the two of them as the ring expands further
 
>Rainbow Dash watches, completely mesmerized. Then slowly looks at twilight
>She stands motionless with her eyes closed
>The light rain gradually became heavier
 
>"Twilight?" Rainbow quietly spoke
 
>Just then, Dash saw two Royal guards gallop into view from behind Twilight
>They stop
>"Princess! We got your signal, what's-"
>"Arrest that Pony" Twilight said blankly, pointing at Dash
>The guard hesitated, recognizing the pony in question was Rainbow Dash
>"Now" Twilight said, again without emotion
>"..yes your majesty." 
>The guards approached Dash, who also stood motionless, staring at Twilight
>Cuffs and chains were place on her hooves, she put up no resistance
>The guards looked at each other, then at Twilight. Who still hadn't moved
>"Lets go" one guard coughed
>Calmly the two of them escorted the blue mare out of view
 
>Dash followed with her head down the whole time
 
>For a while Twilight just stood there, soaking in the rain
>Her soul was still in there. Somewhere.
>Night falls, as she makes her way home
 
>Celestia sat in the main foyer of Twilight's castle, using the map in the center of the room as a desk
>A yellow aura followed a pen writing on its own
>She had already put spike to bed, he was fine with going early, after listening to her explain what was going on
>The pen falls mid sentence
>The Princess let out a long sigh
 
>What sounds like a lock turning echos across the room 
>Followed by a loud creak as the main door to the castle opens in front of Celestia
>Twilight enters, the door closing on its own as she slowly trotted toward the center of the room, tracking mud behind her
>"Twilight?" Celestia's voice echoed as she watched Twilight walk around the table
>She passed Celestia without even glancing in her direction, heading into the hallway behind her
>"Twilight...Twilight STOP" Celestia called
 
>She stopped
>Cold and wet she stood, still facing away from Celestia
 
>The tall goddess rose from the table and walked over to her, stopping in front of her
>She sat, still towering over twilight
>"Come here" Celestia tapped a hoof on the ground in front of her
 
>Twilight slowly walked forward, until she was pressing her face into Celestia's chest
>Celestia draped her wings around her, and lowered her head closer to Twilight's
>Twilight inhaled shakily, her body almost convulsing as she began to sob
>Celestia held her tighter 
>Rain tapped the windows as they embraced
 
>It would soon be morning
 
>Celestia rose the sun while Twilight slept
>Its rays, shining through the blinds of her bedroom
>She rolled onto her side, away from the window, and yawned underneath the covers
>She felt numb
>Her eyes still closed, but her mind awake
>She listened to herself breath
 
>There was a small knock at the door
>Twilight opened her eyes slightly to peak
>She saw the door open, but no figure enter
>Until she heard tapping on the floor which made her look downward
 
 
>There was spike, carrying a tray holding pancakes, toast and a glass of orange juice
>"Good morning Twilight. I made you breakfast"
>He set the tray on the bedside table
>"..so..how you feeling?"
>Twilight exhaled in response
>"It hurts" she said, muffled under the covers
>"...I know...It does"
>Spike examined his foot for a moment
>"...do..uh,..do you wanna hug?" Spike said quietly
>For some reason, twilight found herself smiling a little.
>Nobody could ask for a better assistant
>"Yes, I do"
>Twilight inched over to the edge of the bed and the two embraced each other
 
>Today was the funeral.
>She and the mares, or rather most of them, would get together and say their goodbyes
>She stepped out of her room, her mane, unkept and frizzy
>As she began making her way down the hall she heard-
>"Twilight" Celestia spoke from the guest bedroom
>Looking in the direction of the voice, Twilight saw Celestia looking back at her through the doorway to the guest bedroom
>"May I speak with you?" her tone soft
>"Yes Princess" Twilight replied entering the room
>"close the door please"
>Twilight sheepishly looked toward the door, and it closed on its own
>"One of my captains, has informed me that Rainbow Dash is residing in Canterlot Prison."
>Twilight swallowed
>"...Yes"
>"...would you please explain why you've done this?"
 
>Twilight hesitated
>"...She....I think I made the correct judgement Princess"
>"I see...And you are absolutely sure she is capable of a crime at this level? Beyond reformation?" Celestia said firmly
>"I...I'm..not sure" Twilight avoided eye contact
>Celestia sighed
>"We will discuss this further...after today's gathering"
>"Yes Princess" Twilight replied in a whisper, her eyes closed
>Twilight slowly turned to exit the room
 
>Over the course of the morning, the official statement from Celestia informed the public of what had taken place just one day ago
>The crowd had mixed reactions, naturally
>Some pitied Anon, saying no creature, pony or not, should ever feel the need to take such an option
>And some held steadfast to their beliefs, saying good riddance...
>The press continued digging like rats
 
>A plot of land had been prepared in the cemetery on the outskirts of town
>Folding chairs, and a podium had been placed uniformly 
>Among it all was a custom brown wooden casket. Open.
>By order of the Princess
>Inside laid Anons body.
>Ponyville's Morticians had never worked on a specimen like this one. But they did their best, also by order of the Princess
>The skin on his neck had been sewn, and slightly covered by his shirt
>He wore the same clothes, the blood carefully washed from them.
>his face, molded into an expression of peace
 
>The time came, and Celestia, Twilight, and spike exited the castle
>Walking only to step into a a private carriage
>Escorted by Royal guards the entire distance
>The press snapped any pictures they could, all shouting questions and general nonsense
 
>The door closed behind them as they were seated
>The noise of the crowd thankfully muffled by the walls
>Twilight sat next to Celestia, while spike was seated across from them
>The carriage jerked, and began to move
>Whilst they rode, they stayed silent
>Twilight stared out the window, watching the scenery go by
>She felt a hoof touch hers
 
>Twilight turned to see Celestia who was also looking out the window
>Looking closer she noticed Celestia was blinking rather frequently, her face in a permanent concerned expression
>Celestia's hoof wrapped around Twilight's a little tighter
>Twilight scooted closer to her, returning the gesture of affection
 
>'I guess these things don't get easier, no matter how many you've been too' Twilight thought to herself
>Spike twiddled his claws
 
>The carriage stopped, a moment later the door opened
>Bright sunlight blinded twilight as she exited 
>Royal guards were quick to escort the group to the burial site
 
>As they approached she noticed 3 familiar ponies conversing with one and other
>"Twilight.." Rarity was the first to trot over to them
>She was dressed all in black
>Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie followed
>Pinkie's mane still lay straight, covering half her face
>Fluttershy just stared at the ground sniffling 
>"Oh, Princess.." Rarity said, as she knelt down in front of Celestia
>Flutters and Pinkie followed Rarity's example, also kneeling down
>The goddess sighed
>"Girls please, no formalities today" She said smiling slightly, placing a hoof on Rarity's cheek 
>"Forgive me, but I must prepare my speech. I'll leave you to get acquainted" Celestia stated calmly, excusing herself from the group as she made her way to the podium
 
>Rarity immediately embraced Twilight
>Followed by Fluttershy, then Pinkie
>Spiked stared at the ground until he too was pulled into a hug from Rarity
>Her friends looked weathered and tired.
 
>She noticed a lack of orange in her vision
 
>"Where's Applejack?" Twilight asked softly
>"I'm not sure dear" Rarity replied giving a sympathetic look
>"She'll be here soon" Pinkie stated flatly, as if it were fact
>Her straight mane hiding her face
>Fluttershy still stood motionless, sniffling quietly
>"..Thank you all so much... for being here. It means a lot" Twilight said, again just above a whisper
>Rarity and Pinkie nodded, as Fluttershy just slowly walked into twilight, once again wrapping her hooves around her
>Twilight was happy to oblige
 
>She heard hoof steps behind her
>After letting fluttershy go, she turned to face
>Applejack
>She wasn't wearing her stetson.
>The sunlight beating down on her face, it looked like she hadn't slept in years
>Beside her was Apple Bloom, a small black bow tied into her mane.
>Before any of them spoke, Apple Bloom trotted over to the casket. stopping just before, then sitting in front of it
>Celestia looked up from her pages sitting on the podium, and directed her eyes toward Apple Bloom.
>She stepped down from the podium and joined Apple Bloom sitting beside her.
 
>"Twilight."
>She took a step toward the purple mare
>"....b-Big mac and Granny would have been here but...Granny's not feeling well, so Mac is stayin' behind to..take care of her" Applejack's voice was quiet and hoarse
>Twilight found herself staring at her
>She remembered how she felt yesterday.
>Recalling the anger she didn't hide when she met with her that cloudy afternoon
 
>Today the feeling was absent
>She knew it logically made sense to feel angry, and betrayed
>But she also saw the pain on Applejack's face
>The longer she stared, she noticed more and more tears falling from Applejack's eyes
>It didn't appear she was crying, but every time she blinked, another tear fell
>Applejack broke the silence
>"Twilight....I...know...I did wrong....and..."
>She inhaled and exhaled deeply
 
>Pinkie, Rarity and Fluttershy watched from behind Twilight. Knowing full well Applejack's role in today's events
>"...and I understand that...after this....Ifin' you don't wanna know me anymore...I won't-"
>Twilight interrupted her by quickly marching up to her, eyes narrowing
>Closing the distance until they were inches away from each other's face
 
>Applejack stared wide eyed at Twilight
>In her mind, Twilight unwillingly made the comparison to how Applejack looked now. And how similar Dash looked in that moment, yesterday, in the rain
>She felt a heaviness in her chest
 
>Before Applejack could say anything
>Twilight threw her hooves around her, and brought her in close
>Applejack sharply inhaled
>The girls watched from a distance, surprised at what was taking place in front of them
 
>"...Its...ITS...ALL...my...FAult!" Applejack cried in between gasps
>Twilight only held her tighter
>Applejack weakly returned the embrace
>She lost all composure, practically howling in front of the group
>Pinkie, Flutters, Rarity and spike all watched in astonishment.
>Out of all the years together they had never seen Applejack in this state before
 
>As if on command, the four of them rushed toward Applejack
>Putting hooves around her where ever they could go
>"...I...I-I..." Applejack fighting to speak through her emotion
 
>Twilight's mind wrestled with her
>The logic was not adding up, the variables were set for anger, and revenge. Not this.
>But still against her minds supposedly higher judgement
>A part that had lay dormant inside her during this tragedy, had awakened once more
>The heaviness in her chest begging to be set free 
>She had let her heart decide instead
 
>"...I forgive you...." Twilight whispered
 
>Celestia looked down at the small filly beside her
>Apple bloom looked up at the casket, she was too short to see up and into it's contents. Though she dared not to try.
>Celestia contemplated saying something to her. But she knew words were superficial in times such as this
 
>Even with all the commotion happening behind them, Apple Bloom didn't once turn her attention away from what was in front of her.
>Celestia extended a wing around the filly
>Apple Bloom leaned against her, eyes still locked on the casket, saying nothing.
 
>Applejack stood sniffling in the warmth of all her friends
>"....ah..I Love you all...so much.." Applejack said her voice still quivering
>The group almost all instantly returned the sentiment speaking over each other
 
>Royal Guards had almost finishing setting up barriers for which the public was allowed to attend behind
>The sun reached its peak, the grass glittered, still damp from the day before
>A guard approached the group of grieving friends
 
>"Princess, the service will be beginning soon"
>Twilight nodded to the guard.
>She sighed, "Ready girls?" she said softly, looking upon her friends
>Fluttershy still stayed close to Applejack, her wing draped around her
>Applejack inhaled deeply
>"..I...reckon so" she whispered
>Rarity directed her attention to the casket that stood a short distance away
>"..I must confess...I still haven't found the nerve to see...him.." She said 
>"We'll go together" Spike replied, holding out his claw
>Rarity exhaled quickly
>"..ok" she said almost inaudibly 
 
>The two of them walked down the aisle, as Applejack and Fluttershy followed her wing still around her
>Twilight watched them go, standing for a moment, pinkie did the same at her side
>She thought to herself how lucky she was to know these ponies. Even with their flaws
>She stepped forward to join them when she heard Pinkie speak
 
>"Where is Rainbow Dash?"
 
 
>Twilight froze
>Pinkies stared blankly
>Twilight didn't turn to face her
>"...she ..said she wouldn't be here" Twilight said, her eyes closed
>Pinkie blinked
>"I know you're lying" she said, monotone as her expression
>Twilight stood there for a moment, unsure what to do next
>"I....I can't explain this now" she cringed 
>Pinkie casually trotted past her
>"We'll discuss this later" Pinkie said, almost like her sister
 
>Twilight caught her breath and joined the rest of the group
>The crowd began filling in as quickly as access was allowed
>While they were seated, an announcement was made that the Princess would soon be giving a speech
>Apple Bloom sat much further from Applejack, opting to sit next to spike instead
>All were seated but one pony who still stood next to Anon
>A feeling of dread washed over her, as she stood next to the same creature she had been conversing with not long ago
>Rarity tried and failed to hold back her emotion
>She closed her eyes, and her horn began to glow
>a black designer saddle bag opened by itself
>A needle and thread float into the air
>The tear in the fabric by Anon's leg began to glow, as the needle and thread began sewing it together on their own
>When she had finished, she laid the needle and thread inside the casket, and returned to her seat
 
>Celestia approached the podium
>The crowd stirred
>She began to speak
 
>"Residents of Ponyville.." she paused
>The noise of the crowd hushed itself
>Nearly silent, they waited in anticipation for her to continue
 
>"I have come today, despite my Royal obligations and responsibilities." 
>"Because I am afraid I can no longer continue leading if we don't address the current situation our society faces"
>Some quiet conversations suddenly manifested in the crowd
 
>"I understand that there are rumors circulating around, this human."
>"The one who lays inside this casket. No longer drawing breath"
>"His name was Anon. We know this because he told us."
>"Just as he told us of his world. What it looked like, who his kind were, what role he played in his society"
>"He was excited to share with us his thoughts, his feelings..."
>"Things monsters are incapable of.."
>"To dispel these rumors, let it be known that Anon, in complete factual legitimacy.."
>"Has never harmed any pony who resides in this land."
>"The truth instead, is that one day ago. Anon took his own life"
 
>"My pupil, Twilight Sparkle, told me wondrous accounts of Anons willingness to be a part of our lives. She told me he yearned to befriend the ponies around him."
>"Although In the short time he was with us, It is only now that I am informed that the consensus of my subjects thoughts regarding Anon..."
 
>Celestia paused, staring at the podium
>Using her magic she tossed the pages of her speech away
 
>"When Anon first arrived. I was elated."
>"Not only for the opportunity to learn of an entirely new species."
>"But to see how my subjects would embrace this creature, as one of their own."
>"I was confident in my assumption that my ponies understood..."
>Celestia seemed to be searching the crowd with her eyes
>"...understood...what it means...to care....to give..."
>"To love.."
 
>"But I was most confident.."
>"That my subjects understood what it meant to harm"
>"To ridicule"
>"To abuse"
>"...To hate"
 
>"I was wrong. And I have failed you, as leader"
 
>"Anon was also flawed"
>"Flawed.... as any pony is flawed"
>"Perhaps his most prominent flaw being, that he didn't find it necessary to ask for help when he needed it"
 
>"I recall Twilight, speaking of the time when Anon declined living in her castle, opting instead to live in an improvised
shelter..."
>"As not to burden to her..."
>"Though he was mindful of her, he failed to tell us... when he was burdened himself"
 
>"But flawed or not, Anon entered our world with an open heart"
>"While yours did not beat"
>"He came with an open mind"
>"While yours inert, corrupted"
 
>"We can not claim the principles our land stands for"
>"What our guard give their lives in battle for"
>"If this is the result of them.."
 
>"I would much rather Equestria fall into eternal darkness, than to continue in a future of chaos"
>"But there is no law that can be enacted, to correct a society that is it's own impairment"
>Celestia closed her eyes
>"So instead, for Anon. The first and only human to ever grace this land."
>"I ask for one moment of silence"
>The princess stood at the podium motionless
 
>Twilight, along with the rest of her friends. followed the command without hesitation
>Their heads lowered, their eyes closed
>The crowd lay silent. Save for one mare quietly sobbing within
>Celestia raised a hoof pointed toward the casket
>Royal guards began the process of lowering it into the ground
>A swift breeze swept around the grass and trees
>The sun had begun to set
 
>Though it was not yet time for it to do so
 
>Sunlight cast rays across the walls of a grand bedroom.
>A lone scroll resting on a nearby dresser, accompanied by a red ribbon and a golden seal
>Hoof steps echoed across the wooden floor
>Doors to the bedroom's balcony opened on their own
 
>The sun continued it's decent as the sky dimmed 
>Princess Luna gazed across Canterlot, then, looking to the heavens
>Her mane waving to the wind's command
>It was then her horn began to produce a warm blue glow
>The citizens of Canterlot looked to the sky in confusion
 
>Stars became visible once more, the last of the sunlight creating twilight
>Now, just above the horizon, the moon began ascending to it's peak
>An enchantingly soft white glow shined from it's core
>Luna's beautiful night sky enveloped Equestira once more
>She inhaled gradually, regaining her strength
 
>"May you be remembered....Anon" She spoke to herself
 
>The crowd in Ponyville stirred, unsure of what was to come
>The 7 mares and drake looked at each other in the same state as the crowd
>Celestia spoke once more
 
>"On this day we remember Anon. We remember his struggle. And we remember our sin"
>"From now until the end....on this date the moon will rise at this hour. To remind us."
>"Not only of Anon. But of the consequences of hate."
>"Though it can never truly be conquered, each one of us has the power within our souls to choose."
>"To choose to heal instead of harm"
>"To choose risk in the face of uncertainty"
>"To choose right over wrong"
 
>Celestia stepped away from the podium, and approached the crowd
>"In my heart...I believe you are all not irredeemable"
>"But it will take time before I can be proud of this land once more..."
>The mass of ponies stared at Celestia, ears drooped 
>Celestia turned and slowly returned to Anon's final resting place
>Twilight and her friends watched intently
 
 
>Celestia stopped just before the opening in the ground
>A moment passed as she stood 
>Until she laid, or rather collapsed close to the edge
>Twilight quickly hopped off her chair and hurried to Celestia's side
>Rarity gasped, and quickly joined her as well as the rest of the group
>All eyes fixed on Celestia, she spoke
 
>".....What have we done?"
 
>The words reverberated in each of their minds.
>Twilight found new meaning in them
>Each role ponies played in Anon's demise, was just an addition, not the final action
>'WE, each of us. Played a part in this abhorrent event'
>No single pony could cause such destruction on their own
>Not just one
 
>Apple Bloom made her way to the Princess's side and again embraced the goddess as she wept
>Celestia returned the sentiment
 
>All in a row they sat by the princess, whilst the moon light shinned upon them, as the wind howled
>Only their silhouettes visible from the view of the ponies inside the barriers
 
>As the last layer of soil was placed over his body..
>Anon's funeral had concluded
 
>The somber darkness of the night, carries on
 
 
>"This way Princess"
>A large gate was opened loudly via chain, pulled by a burly Royal guard
>Torches adorn the walls of stone, crackling away
>Their hoof steps echoed along the corridor
>Diamond dogs and other condemned growled at her through the bars of the cells as she passed
 
>Finally, they reached one lone cell at the end of the hall.
>"Leave us" Twilight spoke
>"As you wish" The guard said lowering his head, then returning to his post
 
>Inside the cell lay a mare on the floor with her back turned
>Her rainbow mane glistening with the flicker of the torch light
>Twilight sat in front of the cell door, looking at her through the bars
 
>"Rainb-"
>"What do you want?"
>"I...." Twilight wasn't even sure how to answer the question in her own mind
 
>"I want you to leave with me" She said softly
>Rainbow flicked her tail
>"No..."
>"This is where I belong now"
>"Forever..." she said weakly
>"Rainb-"
>"I'm a murderer" she interrupted
 
>Twilight contemplated for a moment
>She thought of the Rainbow Dash she once knew before Anon ever arrived, one who was full energy and laughter
>The one who always pulled through for her and her friend's most desperate times
>The one who vowed loyalty from now until the end of time...
>The one who now lay on the floor of cold cell, in a dungeon for Equestria's most dangerous, and irredeemable criminals
 
>Twilight knew Rainbow could be misled
>But she also understood that every decision Dash made, was in favor of her and her friends
>To protect and defend them
>Only this time, it had ended in disaster. Instead of a lesson.
 
>"Guard.... open this cell..." Twilight commanded blankly
>"Yes Princess" The guard called back from down the hall
>A key traveled through the air into the lock of the cell door
>The steel creaked as it opened
>Twilight entered and approached Rainbow, who had crawled further into the corner
 
>"Leave me" Rainbow said, her voice muffled as she burred her face in her hooves
 
>"I can't do that" Twilight said as she sat next to her
>Rainbow pushed herself against the wall as much as she could, her back still turned
>She wept softly
 
>"...I don't deserve to live"
 
>Twilight's body tensed as her heart sank indefinitely
>What purpose did this punishment serve?
>It solved nothing, it only furthered the pain, the suffering
>The hate wasn't defeated, it had only been passed on to another victim
>It was then Twilight experienced a realization her mind had neglected to explore
 
>With every wound Anon received, every ounce of distress
>He never once sought retribution for the actions against him
>Nor did he speak poorly of those who opposed him
>Instead he remained determined to befriend them, to love,
>Until... 
 
>Twilight laid herself by Rainbow's side, wrapping her hooves, and draping her wings around her from behind.
>She knew the difference between Dash, and the ones who resided in the cells around her...
>Was that Rainbow could feel remorse for her actions
>"That is not true" She said
>Rainbow cried as if she were a filly once again
>"...no......I ca..h-h....can't....." she sobbed without control
>Twilight felt her quiver against her body
>"I'm not letting you stay here" Twilight spoke with care in her tone
>"I love you"
 
>Rainbow turned to face Twilight and forcibly pressed herself against her, wailing loudly
>The guard outside the cell stood awkwardly looking to the floor.
 
>Two mares left the dungeon that day
 
>As time passed, Equestria changed
 
>The PFFE eventually disbanded as public opinion changed. 
>With a lack of members and funding, it was only a matter of time
 
>The event stirred a strong sense of community in the common ponies of the land
>The phrase "lest you be Anon" emerged, for use when ponies held a grudge against one an other
 
>Every year on that day when the sun set early, flowers were placed, and candles were lit by Anon's grave.
>As the ponies remembered the event that brought them together
>They mourned once more by Anon's side
 
>A certain 6 ponies had changed as well
 
>Rainbow Dash spent most of her time speaking at different schools, auditoriums, theaters across Equestria. Anywhere she could get the message out. She made it her goal to have every creature understand the meaning and consequence of unsubstantiated hate.
>She rarely performed stunts in the sky anymore
 
>Fluttershy also did much traveling. She became devoted to befriending and taming every wild creature Equestria had to offer. Most with success, and those with difficulties.
>Perhaps she did it to prove something to herself. The answer remained unknown
>Oddly she became more extroverted than before. A change that happened almost over night.
 
>Pinkie returned to her duties at Sugarcube Corner
>her mane still lay straight, but with personal style
>She now preferred small gatherings of friends, opposed to parties
>She still talked and showed interest in other ponies. But her bubbly personality had faded.
>For better or worse, she remained in this state
 
>Rarity was currently being interviewed for a biography on Anon's life
>She continued to run her business as usual.
>Although she no longer got into dramatics, or panicked over trivial things.
>Not getting a spot at a fashion show, or an opportunity to expand her business didn't seem to matter as much
>She was content working where she started
 
>Applejack remained on the farm
>Her relationship with Apple Bloom strained, but functioning
>When she wasn't working she spent most of her time inside, with a bottle of cider.
>Granny smith had passed away a few months after the funeral
>Applejack would go on to have multiple stays at the local rehabilitation center
>Big Mac continued to work
 
>Then there was Twilight
>She continued her duties as princess of friendship
>This time with a completely new understanding of mental health
>She filled her schedule with friendship problems big or small
>She offered a walk-in service, anytime of the day or night. If some pony needed someone to talk to
>Time was made for them
>Spike did his best to keep her strong, even during the nights the memories became too much for her
>Any free time she had was spent on visiting her friends. Doing everything she could to help them along for the coming years
>Only time would tell if they could ever truly heal
 
>It was night once more
>And twilight stayed awake late into the night, writing reply's to letters ponies had written to her
>Spike sleep soundly in his room inside the castle
>She sighed and lay the quill she was writing with on the desk neatly
>Stretching she walked toward the balcony of her bedroom.
>Looking toward Luna's beautiful night sky
 
>"Hi again." She spoke
>"This week has been so busy. But I think we've accomplished a lot."
>"Rainbow is speaking in Griffonstone this week. I'm curious how they'll react" she chuckled a little
>"Pinkies getting better too. Slowly, but better than before."
>"She still talks about you a lot."
 
>"Applejack doesn't seem like she's ready to forgive herself yet....I'll keep trying."
>"They're writing a book about you ya know? Rarity's interviewing for it! It's been a while since I've seen her excited like that"
>"Oh and get this... Fluttershy tamed an Ursa Major! Can you believe it? She really has talent..."
 
>"....I miss you.."
 
https://youtu.be/X8qp0gCgtLc