//------------------------------// // Compromise // Story: Equestria Girls: Love Is Magic // by onekface //------------------------------// Chapter 51: Compromise (House by the hill) Luna felt like she was gonna need a whole bucket of painkillers after tonight. She felt a headache coming and a rough guess would say that the six girls before her was the cause of it all. Seven, if you count the one absentee. Honestly. There was once a time she used to think that magic would make a world a better place. But ever since this ‘magic’ came into the city, her life around school has been rather… unprecedented. A few years ago, the worst cases she had to deal with are student arguments, teachers bickering, cheaters, and on some occasions: Parent teacher conferences. But now? Now there are monster attacks, magical beings who brainwash you to do their biddings, a camping trip that turns into a nature trap, and now dark magical conspiracies? What’s next? A zombie infestation? Oh wait… At first she wanted the professionals to deal with it themselves. After all this was magic. It wasn’t the kind of subject you taught in a regular school like theirs. What were they to do against such things? She and her sister thought that the girls here could handle it, and that things would eventually go back to normal. Oh how naïve they were. What were they thinking leaving a bunch of teens to deal with this? That was perhaps the first mistake they made. She should’ve pressured Celestia to do something. Anything. Anything was better than leaving these kids to their own devices. And now here she was, staring at the same girls, standing at attention in front of the fireplace like a bunch of troublemakers who were perhaps neck deep in more problems than any teenager ever rightly deserved. How in the world did they let this get so far? It was supposed to be over. Things were supposed to go back to normal. Instead it blew up to a proportion that none of them had expected. Perhaps she should’ve taken Cranky’s words to heart and put these kids in their places. Pinching the bridge of her nose, she turned to face the girls. Luna would’ve preferred to have them all here, but unfortunately Twilight had other obligations that could not be canceled. “Right then. Let’s get this over with.” The Vice-Principal began sounding as stern as she could under the circumstances. “I don’t suppose I need to tell you all how disappointed I am with all of you.” Their twiddling figures and silent rubs lingered in the air. “Do you have anything to add to this discussion before I start?” “Uh… I do.” Rainbow Dash courageously raised her hand in the face of her fuming tantrum. “On a scale of 1-10. How much trouble do you say we’re in?” Honestly? A bazillion. “I don’t know Rainbow Dash.” Luna retorted. “How much trouble do you think you can get after breaking a fire in the middle of the city and creating a worldwide sensation on TV?” The poor girl slinked back into her friends sulking. It was a difficult task getting Sunset to finally confess all their doings. The girl was pretty tenacious when it came to keeping secrets. She even tried to hide it all feigning ignorance and trying to pull the innocent look. But the moment Luna brought up her burnt down apartment there was no defense or argument in which she could hide under. She had to come clean. And honestly the stories that came out of Sunset sounded more farfetched than anything she could come up with. I mean… shadow monsters and psychotics under the influence of magic. Now a secret cult of magic users? Where did the good old days go? “I honestly can’t believe you let it all go so… drastically.” She stated abruptly, pausing in her pace. “How in the world did you let it fall so far? First the fire in the city and now an entire island on lockdown?” Applejack raised her hand up in protest. “Well… in our defense, we were trying to stop Hoity Toity from taking over the city.” “He was trying to mind control everyone in the pageant show.” Sunset added. “We couldn’t just sit back and do nothing.” “I don’t care if he was trying to steal presents from children!” Luna roared, silencing them both. “That doesn’t excuse you from everything you’ve done!” She pinched the bridge of her nose fighting back a headache that was throbbing at the back of her mind. “I’m not saying what you did was wrong. I’m saying that I’m disappointed that you didn’t come to me or anyone else for help. Do you understand what kind of constant dangers the six of you are exposing yourself to?” Of course they did – or maybe they didn’t. There was this time that two worlds threatened to merge during the Friendship Games, but who wanted to remember that nonsense? “I mean… it’s not like we can just go to the police for this.” Rainbow Dash muttered, which strangely was oddly true. “I mean… what would we tell them? That some guy was trying to take over people through a fashion show?” “No. But you could’ve at least come to me or Celestia. We could’ve helped.” “Umm… how… exactly?” It was Fluttershy who asked the lottery-winning-question. Sunset again nodded in agreement. “Sorry Vice-Principal Luna. But this whole magic thing isn’t exactly up your alley.” She hand a hand up stopping her. “Sunset. You lost your apartment and everything you owned, and are now living in your ex-boyfriend’s old house. You are the least qualified to make an argument right now.” The redhead tried to protest but quickly found herself mumbling incoherently in the corner. “She’s got you there, darling.” Rarity muttered. “Look. I won’t say that I know what you’re all going through right now. But it’s clear to see that none of you here have a clue to what you are doing.” Luna sighed, leaning her backside on the edge of the couch. “Celestia and I thought that we could leave this whole magic thing to you – seeing how you all have some hand on things. We trusted you to handle things like you did during the Friendship Games or the trip to Camp Everfree. But this has clearly spiraled out of control.” Rainbow scoffed. “Hey come on now VP. You can’t say that we haven’t been doing good work. I mean if it weren’t for us, things would’ve been way worse.” Luna’s piercing stare would’ve made grown men whimper. “Rainbow Dash. Need I remind you of the stunt you pulled at the front of the school the other day? Your ‘shred-off’? Or the fact that your actions have caused the fire which left dozens of families homeless, destroying a castle and then having an entire island closed off?” The others tried to add in but Luna stopped them with a wave of her hand. “I’m gonna need coffee.” Pinkie gladly complied filling a cup and handing it over which she gratefully took a long gulp. “So… what happens now?” Sunset asked. “Are you going to stop us?” “Honestly? That seems to be most logical thing to do.” Luna hummed in defeat, keeping her eye on the dark liquid. “But knowing you girls – anything I say will probably be left ignored. And… I can’t stop you from doing what you’re doing. But what I can do is provide… assistance.” “Wait… what are you saying?” “It seems that this ordeal requires a more ‘Hands-on’ approach.” She stood up, taking another sip. “To make sure you girls don’t get into any more trouble that you’re already in… I suggest a compromise.” The six girls turned to one another nodding and shrugging. “We’re listening.” (Camp Everfree) The cabin was downright gorgeous. Twilight’s jaw went slack when Timber ushered her in, like a valet welcoming a lady to a grand ball. She heard about the renovations that the camp was having but this was far more than she anticipated. The cabin they were in was made for the camp councilors so it was expected to have some extra amenities. But still… it had that air of luxury that made you feel like the only piece of civilization in the far off countryside. It almost felt like she was living in a fantasy home in the woods. Yet oddly enough it also kind of reminds her of the house by the hill. The only thing missing was the giant portrait of Professor Sombra and his wife hanging over the fireplace. And maybe a few other furniture that made it look snazzy. “Well? Whatdaya think?” The boy inquired smugly, as he brought in the luggage. “Pretty impressive eh? Gloriosa and I spared no expenses. We even got subpar indoor plumbing if you can believe it.” She bobbed her head in response. “Alright. I’ll admit. It’s pretty good.” “And all of this was made possible thanks to you and your friends many… many… MANY… fund raising events.” He gave her a soft hug which somehow felt more annoying that cozy. “So think of this whole thing as me showing my appreciation for all your hard work.” “Oh please. We both know you just want to show off.” Twilight countered to which he did not deny. “But it is very impressive.” “Wait till you see the other places we’ve renovated. It’ll blow your mind. That spa resort next door’s got nothing got nothing compared to us. And I don’t wanna spoil anything. But it is going to be awesome. I bet when this whole trip is over, you’ll fall for me all over again.” Well someone’s acting confident tonight. “I thought you didn’t like the camp.” He shrugged. “I still don’t. But that doesn’t mean I can’t put my own personal touch. And don’t you worry about a thing either. Gloriosa had this place stocked up. We got enough food to last the New Year and more than enough firewood to warm us to spring.” “Sounds like you got everything planned.” “Like my sister always say: I got this.” She forced a smile and watched the boy head in to what looked like the bedroom, preparing for their weeklong stay. Yet strangely enough, something didn’t feel right. Twilight had this lingering anxiety building inside her chest. Like a certain unease was poking around. Could Midnight be doing this to her? “You ok Twilight?” Spike asked, poking his head out of her backpack. “Oh hey Spike. Yeah. Why?” “You got that look on your face. Like the kind of look when you eat a bad sandwich and holding it in.” Did she now? She didn’t really feel that good either. Not since their trip. “It’s probably from the long drive. Or maybe the change of weather. I have been to a desert wasteland and back after all. Sudden changes in temperature can be hazardous to your health.” “Is that really a thing?” The little mutt didn’t seem all that convinced but decided to drop it. He wanted to add something else but then his body began vibrating from an object inside. “Uh… Twilight. I think you got a call.” She reached in for her phone wondering who could be calling her at this time. “Twilight?” “Flash?” Her eyes lit up suddenly as a smile snuck its way to her lips. “Wh… wh… what’s up?” “Sorry to call so late. You busy?” “Me? Pfft. No. I’m just umm… hanging out.” She dropped her bag watching Spike crawl off with a soft grunt. “What’s new with you?” “I was gonna ask you that.” The boy let out a chuckle on the other side. “You left quite early after our visit to the pet shop. I was starting to wonder if I did something wrong.” “Oh please. If I didn’t leave when I did, we would’ve stayed in the mall the whole day. I think one afternoon is all I can spare.” Twilight mumbled softly, her hand playing with the tips of her hair. “I mean… there are only so many places we can go in the mall.” “Hey, when you’re out with Flash Sentry, you’re guaranteed to have a great time. Signed, sealed and approved.” “Yeah right. I bet you say that to all the girls.” “Meh… only the pretty ones.” She was glad he wasn’t around, otherwise he would’ve caught her cheeks turning redder than a tomato. “I take it you didn’t call me in the middle of the night just to double check on our date. So what’s up?” “Well for starters, I got some great news.” He began excitedly. “I went back to return the cup to my dad’s vault. And found something amazing. I wasn’t really sure at first. But when you showed me that picture of the Magic Compass in Hoofbeard’s journal, I knew it looked familiar. And I was right.” “You don’t mean…” “It’s right here.” He exclaimed which shocked her. “It’s part of my dad’s collection.” “I don’t remember seeing the compass in the exhibit.” “Because it wasn’t. The item was still being categorized in storage so it wasn’t put on display in the museum. But I’m definitely sure this is the same one.” That… that’s an amazing find. Talk about a stroke of good fortune. Twilight could already see the implications that device alone can bring. If she could get her hands on it and combine it with her technological magic radar, it would improve its efficiency and effectiveness by a hundred-fold. They’d be able to find magic all across the world. And that was only the tip of the iceberg. There were so many things she could do with it. Improving their defense against shadow monsters, magical detection, and maybe even invisibility. The implications are immeasurable. “That’s incredible!” She gasped, hastily walking out to the cabin’s porch for a better reception. “I know, right?” The boy on the other line chuckled. He totally knew full well that she would react like this. “Want to take a crack at it?” “Your dad won’t mind?” “Meh. What he doesn’t know, can’t hurt him.” Twilight could already see him shrugging nonchalantly. “I replaced it with a compass I won off a cereal box. I’m sure he won’t be able to tell the difference. Besides, I’m curious to see what this little thing can do.” Ha! Why wasn’t she surprised? That boy had the curiosity and bewilderment of a child. “So it’s for personal gains.” She teased, which again she could see him shrug. “I was thinking more of mutual gains.” Ha! What a quip. She could feel Midnight giggling somewhere underneath. Twilight couldn’t help but resist a laugh. “So should I stop by the old house tomorrow?” “That’d be…” But then she remembered where she was and froze. “Oh… umm… that might be a problem.” “Everything ok?” “Ye… yeah. It’s fine. It’s just that…” She turned to look inside watching her boyfriend bring in the firewood for the fireplace. “I’m gonna be a little occupied for the next few days.” “Oh… I get it.” He did? “It’s the New Year after all. You’d probably want to spend it with your family.” She was not. “Yeah… totally. Family.” “That’s fine. Sunset and I can have a look at it until you get back.” “That’s…… great.” For a moment there, Twilight felt a twinge in her heart. Like something shaking. Still it was a logical action to take. Sunset was their prime connection to Equestria, and her knowledge of magic probably surpasses hers tenfold. There was no reason to decline. “Cool. I’ll see you next year then.” A rough sound came from the other line. "Master Flash. Pardon the interruption but you have a private call from a... Vice-Principal Luna on the main line." That sounded like his personal butler. "I'll be right there Edmund." He whispered. "Bye for now Twilight." “Yeah…… bye.” And with that last farewell she hung up feeling somewhat hollow inside. She would’ve stayed there for the rest of the night had Spike not nudge his mane to get her attention. “Is everything alright? You don’t sound too good.” “I’m fine Spike. Really.” Again she waved his worries off. “You don’t have to hang over me all the time.” “Well somebody has to. Considering how much trouble you get without me.” Oh god. Even her own dog was looking out for her. How depressing is that? “I’m fine. Really.” “If you say so.” Thankfully they were interrupted by Timber who burst out of the bedroom with a wide eyed smile on his face. “Who wants popcorn?” Heh… she could go for some popcorn. (Celestia’s/Luna’s apartment) “I’m guessing from that long winded sigh of yours, the meeting with the Board of Education didn’t go so well.” Celestia let out a mumbling noise as she put the caller on loudspeaker as she fixed herself a nice cup of coffee. “Is it that obvious?” “It’s either that or you had the worst parent-teacher conference ever.” Sombra chuckled. “And seeing as school is still out for the holidays, I’m leaning on the former.” Dang it. Luna did say that she be quite obvious when it came to expressing things on her face, but never the sound she made. “I’ve tried to reason with the members, but they’ve all agreed to allocate our funding for the next school year to a… more demanding academic project.” As if it wasn’t enough that they had to cut their budget to an inch of its life. If the school suffers even more damage to magical shenanigans, they’ll be putting their finance on life support. “Apparently high schools like CHS don’t exactly meet the same standards compared to colleges like Everton Academy.” “I know the feeling.” She could see him shake his head in resentment. “Many of my students are already asking for scholarships to their school.” “If this keeps up, I might have to cut the salaries of my staff or worse… terminate one or two just to keep the school afloat.” “If it’s funding you need, you know you can always turn to me, right?” Of course she knew. That was pretty much the first thing that came to her mind the moment the meeting came to an end. With the amount he makes on a monthly basis paying for all his workers, expeditions, and fancy lifestyle, funding a simple school like hers would hardly register in his bank account. In fact, she had been debating herself on how to decline should the man ever offer. “Thanks Sombra. But I think using my fairly rich boyfriend to keep my school up is kind of… cheating.” “Sounds more like pride is getting in the way.” Ouch. No holding back on those counters. “But I understand. You raised that school yourself. So it’s only right you hold it on your own.” Oh come on! Don’t make it sound like she’s some paragon of strong-independent women. That just makes things harder. “How about a suggestion instead?” “At this point I’m ready to go see a soothsayer for advice.” She laid the coffee on the table, bringing the phone up to her ear. “What did you have in mind?” “Well I was combing through some of Dean Cadance’s old files and came across something rather interesting. Apparently she was working on a joint activity project between Crystal Prep and your school.” A joint activity? The Friendship Games? But that isn’t scheduled for another year or so. “She never mentioned anything to me.” “Well it was never completed.” Of course it wasn’t. The change of heads came rather sudden. So it was to be expected. “But according to what she wrote here, it sounds like she was planning some kind of educational event. If we put in some adjustments, we can have it as a fundraiser as well. Perhaps the two of us could take a look at it later tomorrow.” “I don’t know. Taking Cadance’s work for ourselves doesn’t sit well with me.” “We could bring her along as a compromise. I think she’d like to complete her grand project.” It sounded like a lot of work. But at this rate, Celestia couldn’t think of a reason to decline. The school needed money, and she’d rather have more paperwork done than to have teachers complain about their pay cut. “Maybe after the holidays, Sombra. I still want to enjoy what’s left of this year. Besides, Luna and I have this tradition of hanging out together in the New Year.” She muttered before her attention drew to her sister’s room. “I’ll call you later.” A few moments later, Luna stormed out of her room with a large suitcase in hand panting. “Oh! Celestia. Good timing.” She said like her actions didn’t really amount to any questioning. “Mind helping me with this?” “What are you doing with all that?” The elderly sister questioned. “Are you going somewhere?” “Not really. I thought about taking a little trip out of town for a while.” Luna shrugged back, struggling to pull the suitcase through the door. “You know… like a little vacation.” She gave it another haul but the darn thing remained stuck. “This thing looked a lot smaller when I was packing it.” “Is something wrong, sister? You never told me of any trips.” “It’s just a casual thing.” That sounded like a poor excuse but Celestia decided to hold that comment. “Just a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. I’ll be back for our annual New Year movie night. I promise.” After another two pulls, the suitcase finally broke free, thumping down on the floor with an audible noise. “Phew. There we go. Now if you’ll excuse me.” Celestia barely managed to get another word in when her sister brushed pass her hauling the comically large bag on her back and walking out the door with a plastic smile on her face. “Uh… bye?”