One night, half-awake in the dark, Twilight hears the knocking of pipes in the castle.

First place winner of The Seer's Spookfest, a Quills and Sofas Speedwriting group horror contest. We were given prompts at random from others, and mine was "Sweating Bullets."

A reading can be found here.

Sweetie Belle is finally returning home after a long stay at Carousel Boutique.
This time, she really hopes things will be different.

Winner of wishcometrue's 'Going Home' contest for the Quills and Sofas Speedwriting Group. The story was originally written in one hour, this version has received some refinement.
Thanks to Flashgen and Zontan for editing, and all who preread in the contest.
CW: Themes of child abuse, physical abuse & trauma

Years before the liberation of the Crystal Empire, King Sombra invites six citizens to feast in his castle on the last night of each month. Seldom few are ever seen again. Now a young pegasus who will become known as Guest Number Five has been invited to dine with the King, although his own plans for the night might just lead to everyone's salvation.

Five courses. Three chapters. Served up over three nights.

Queen Novo has passed, and Skystar's coronation is getting closer by the day. It's a big responsibility to take the throne, and Skystar is worried that she can never be what her people need, can never replace her mother, while she's herself. With Shelly and Sheldon at her side, she decides to undertake the arduous task of trying to grow up. How hard can it be?

Entry for FanOfMostEverything's 2nd Imposing Sovereigns Contest, for Coronation: Princess Skystar.

Special thanks to GaPJaxie for help with brainstorming.

Queen Chrysalis has only one grub that has survived into fillyhood; her daughter, the physically lame and mentally impaired Crown Princess Pupa. Chrysalis has never been what many would call the 'maternal type', even towards Pupa, whose adoration of her mother has no bounds. Preferring to swamp herself in the dire affairs of state, Chrysalis lets her crippled daughter be raised by her affectionate nanny.

But one day, as the Changeling Kingdom's problems reach boiling point, the Queen's already short temper erupts and she must deal with the heartbreaking consequences...

Edited and pre-read by Chaodiurn
Pre-read by Scarheart

Now with a TvTropes Page. Feel free to contribute.