//------------------------------//
// Fillies and Colts 
// Story: The Wandering Physicist Adventures 
// by WanderingPhysicist 
//------------------------------//

Main Characters: Scootaloo, Silver Spoon, Diamond Tiara
Cameos: TWP, Fluttershy, Rei, Scootaloo’s parents, Rumble, Applejack, Apple Bloom, Twilight, Spike, Rainbow Dash
Original Write Date: June 9, 2012





WARNING: There is a lot of foul and demeaning language used early in the story for character development purposes. I apologize in advance for offending my readers. I doubt it is any consolation, but I have been called the names used in this story so I know how much they hurt.





    Scootaloo slouches at her desk as she clicks around on her computer. ‘No new Harpflank. Lame.’ She clicks a link. ‘Gah! What is with all that rule sixty-three crap in my rule thirty-four? Who wants two guys? ... Or one? ... Blah.’
    Scootaloo leans back in her chair. It has been over a month since her bet with Diamond Tiara and neither of them have yet to collect. The conditions were made even more difficult since they agreed that asking their friends would not count. Scootaloo snorts. Having a day with just Apple Bloom would be great. That Mr Wanderer got to do it. Lucky son of a bi...
    A knock on the door breaks Scootaloo’s trance. She looks over to see a periwinkle mare with a sky blue mane standing just outside. The filly groans and goes back to her computer while her mother trots over.
    ‘It-it is time for bed, Scoots.’
    ‘But I’m not tired.’
    ‘Did you at least do your homework?’
    ‘Most of it. I guess.’
    Scootaloo’s mom looks at the computer screen. ‘You know I don’t like you going on that site. It has stories that young fillies like you shouldn’t see.’
    ‘Ugh! It is my computer. I should be able to do what I want.’
    ‘Yes, but...’
    Scootaloo keeps browsing. She has an angry scowl.
    Scootaloo’s mom sighs. ‘I’m sorry for upsetting you.’
    The filly snorts. ‘It is not you. It’s... Never mind.’
    ‘You know you can tell me anything, Scoots.’
    Scootaloo looks back at her mom. She gets a friendly smile, but she turns back to her computer. Scootaloo’s mom sighs and gives her daughter a kiss on the head.
    ‘It must be hard being a filly these days, but please come to me with anything.’
    The young pegasus grumbles in reply.
    ‘Just don’t stay up too long. You want to look your best for your fillyfriend, right?’
    Scootaloo blushes and turns. ‘What?’
    Her mom smiles and winks. ‘Don’t worry. I won’t tell your father.’
    The door to the room is closed. The filly groans and starts clicking again. She stops, hits her head against her desk, and inhales deeply.
    ‘BU....’

    The next morning. Scootaloo rides her scooter through town at breakneck speeds as usual. She barely misses hitting several ponies as she makes her way to school. As she gets closer, she flaps her wings harder to gain speed. She kicks off the ground and jumps from her scooter at the same time. The filly flies over the slide while her scooter takes the long way up. They meet at the top and land with a skidding stop. The students who witnessed the stunt cheer as she whips her short mane around as it is freed from her helmet.
    A gaunt, cream-colored pegasus flitters up to the filly. ‘Awesome stunt, Scootaloo!’
    ‘What? Oh. Thanks, Featherweight. Did ya get it on film?’
    The pegasus holds up his camera. ‘As much as I could. Say, uh, would you..?’
    The schoolhouse bell chimes. All of the foals in the yard rush to get to their seats before they are marked tardy. Featherweight moans at the lost opportunity. In the schoolhouse, the foals chat as they wait for Cheerilee to begin her lecture. Unfortunately, Cheerilee is not present. Diamond Tiara takes advantage of situation by turning around and sticking her tongue out at Scootaloo. The pegasus snorts and turns away. She faces Rumble who is chatting with Silver Spoon. The other filly giggles and turns back to the front of the class. Scootaloo covers her head with her hooves and groans. The door to the class opens and the students perk up when they see who enters. James sets a saddlebag on the desk and turns to the class.
    ‘Sorry, I’m late. I just got the call.’ He pauses. ‘I mean! I was just summoned! By the spheres!’ He stands on his hind legs and waves his forelegs in front of him. ‘OOOOIIIIIIIIIIIUUUUUU!’
    The students laugh at their guest teacher.
    ‘Anyway! Long story short, Cheerilee has a cold and asked me to fill in for her. So...’ He kicks the wall and words and equations appear on the board. ‘Physics!’
    The students groan and headdesk.

    Midday. The students are playing hoofball. The odd number of students means Diamond Tiara gets excluded again. James has her on the sidelines as assistant referee. On the field, Scootaloo is playing very aggressively. She plows past the opposing midfielders, accidentally tripping Sweetie Belle as she passes. She kicks the ball up and headers it forward, planning on intercepting it herself. She flaps her wings to get a bit of lift, but a defender tries blocking her. The filly trips over Truffle Shuffle, and the foals tumble across the field. The pegasus is the first to her hooves.
    ‘Watch it, fat ass!’
    A whistle is blown. James gallops onto the field with a red card drawn. Scootaloo growls and turns away.
    ‘Scootaloo, that was uncalled for. Go to the schoolhouse. I’ll have to call your parents.’
    The filly kicks the ground as she stomps off the field. James returns to the sidelines and blows the whistle to resume play. Diamond Tiara looks back at Scoolaloo. James puts a hoof on the filly’s shoulder.
    ‘No. She has a lot of things on her mind right now. She might take a swing at you.’
    The filly sighs and watches the game.

    James stands next to Scootaloo at the end of the school day. The filly is staring at the ground. The adult has his eyes closed and is mumbling to himself.
    ‘Please be her mom. Please be her mom.’
    The door opens and a dark orange pegasus enters. Both waiting ponies groan.
    ‘Kid, come on. We’re going.’
    Scootaloo sighs and trots beside her father.
    ‘Whoa, whoa, whoa!’ James interrupts. ‘She is in trouble for insulting another student. We don’t want her turning into a bully, do we?’
    ‘Which kid was it?’
    ‘It was Truffle Shuffle. She made fun of his weight and used some foul language.’
    ‘You mean the fat kid? Good for her. Maybe it will get him to lose a few kilos.’
    ‘Sir, that is the kind of encouragement we don’t want to give her.’
    ‘Shut up. You’re not her parent. If you had any parenting skills, you would know to stay out of other parents’ business.’
    James groans. ‘Sir. I just want what is best for Scootaloo.’
    ‘Fine. You want her to stop swearing?’ Scootaloo’s dad hits the filly in the back of the head, knocking her to the ground. ‘Stop swearing!’ He turns to James. ‘Happy?’
    The Furious Physicist growls, ‘You don’t hit foals.’
    ‘Give it a rest. You fail at parenting. Your kid is retarded. Just because you have a beard now doesn’t make you a real father.’
    ‘Rei is a good girl! We give her plenty of love and attention. Scootaloo is a great kid, too. You just have give her more caring.’
    ‘Whatever, faggot.’
    CRACK! James stands over Scootaloo’s dad. The pegasus has a hoofprint on his face. He twitches as he lays on the ground. Scootaloo stares in shock at The Seething Physicist. The stallion takes a few deep breaths to control his anger.
    ‘How has nopony done that before?’ James turns to the filly. ‘I am sorry you had to see that, but what an asshole!’
    The stunned filly nods and picks up her jaw. The conscious stallion lifts the unconscious one onto his back.
    ‘Okay. You get to The Power Block. If Fluttershy or Rei are there, tell her that we are going to have some guests and to run program 27G. They’ll know what that means. I’ll be there later... hopefully.’
    ‘What are you going to do?’
    ‘Well, I just assaulted another pony. I’m going to turn myself in. That is the proper thing to do. I am also going to tell your mom to leave your home, too. It is just not safe there.’
    ‘That is an understatement.’
    ‘Let’s get going. This is going to be a busy afternoon.’

    Diamond Tiara moans and rolls around on her bed. She is bored. She looks over at Silver Spoon, who is busy doing their weekend homework. The bored filly moans again to get her friend’s attention. Silver Spoon looks up from her books to see her friend frowning down at her.
    ‘I’m bored,’ the pink filly whines. ‘Why are you doing that now? We have the whole weekend to do it.’
    ‘I want to get it out of the way so I have more free time,’ the grey filly huffs.
    ‘Fine. Just hurry and finish so I can copy it.’
    ‘You really should do your own work. Then you won’t have to cram before all of the tests.’
    ‘I pass, don’t I? Besides, we do what we are best at and for me, that is telling other ponies what to do.’
    ‘That is not what frie... Never mind.’
    Silver Spoon sighs and goes back to work. Diamond Tiara moans again and starts rolling on her bed.
    ‘This sucks! Want to go to a movie?’
    ‘Not right now, I have to be home by sundown.’
    ‘Fine. How about tomorrow?’
    ‘Um... Actually, I have plans for tomorrow.’
    ‘Ugh! Not one of your daddy-daughter days. Those are so boring!’
    ‘Actually... It is a date...’
    ‘WHAT?!’ Even she is getting a date before me!
    ‘I am, uh, sorta seeing a movie with Rumble.’
    Diamond Tiara rolls away from her friend. ‘Whatever, four eyes.’
    Silver Spoon gasps. She starts packing her bag. The other filly looks over.
    ‘What are you doing?’
    ‘I’m leaving,’ Silver Spoon snorts as she packs her last book. ‘I can’t believe you’d break your promise.’
    ‘What are you talking about?’
    The upset filly stops at the door. ‘You said you would never call me that again. You promised that when we became friends.’
    ‘Oh, come on. What is the big deal?’
    ‘You know I am sensitive about my glasses! Don’t you ever think about how you are hurting everypony? Haven’t you realized that I am, or was, your only friend? That is why you are going to lose your stupid bet!’
    Diamond Tiara gapes. ‘How dare you! You’re just a stupid nerd! Nopony else would even talk to you if it weren’t for me! You would be a complete loser if you didn’t have me to leach off of!’
    ‘If I am the loser, how come I am the one with the date tomorrow?’
    ‘Get out of my house!’
    Silver Spoon almost shouts back, but she turns and trots away, slamming the door behind her. Diamond Tiara buries a head in her pillow and screams.

    Fluttershy paces around the kitchen as she waits for James to return. Rei plays video games with Scootaloo in the living room. Clopping is heard on the stairs, and Fluttershy gallops to see who is coming. James climbs up the stairs with a couple boxes on his back. Behind him, Scootaloo’s mother nervously follows.
    ‘Daddy’s home!’ Rei cheers.
    ‘Hey, Rei.’ James sets down the boxes. He turns to Fluttershy and gives her a kiss. ‘Hey, hon. Looks like we might have some guests for a bit.’
    ‘That is fine,’ Fluttershy sighs. ‘What happened? Scootaloo was a little vague on the details.’
    ‘Mr Wanderer kicked my dad’s ass! That’s what happened.’
    James points at the filly. ‘Language!’
    Scootaloo shrinks away. ‘Sorry.’
    The stallion huffs and turns to his wife. ‘I got into a fight with Scootaloo’s father after class today. I ended up knocking him unconscious. He is in the hospital now. When I tried turning myself in, the authorities said they would write it off as justified assault.’ He snorts. ‘Total bull... Anyway, the authorities agreed that it might be a good idea to get the family away from the abuser, so we grabbed a few things and here we are.’
    Fluttershy looks at the guests. ‘Okay... What is in the boxes?’
    ‘Grabbed the kid’s computer just in case. You never know what anyone can do to or with your personal information if they are left unguarded.’
    ‘Sweet! I can check if there is new Harpflank later!’ Scootaloo beams.
    ‘And I can give you a copy of that game I was telling you about,’ Rei adds.
    The two pegasi fillies high hoof.
    James turns to Scootaloo’s mom. ‘Are you really okay with a filly as young as Scootaloo playing those sorts of games?’
    ‘It-it is okay... It is her computer...’
    James whispers the types of games Rei enjoys playing. Scootaloo’s mom gasps.
    ‘You left out my joso collection,’ Rei comments.
    ‘Scoots! I don’t want you...’
    Scootaloo looks over at her mother with an upset frown on her face.
    The older pegasus backs down. ‘Never mind... Do what you want. You’re a big girl now.’
    Scootaloo groans and hops off the couch. She goes to a new room at the end of the home. ‘Come on, Rei. Let’s set up my computer while we wait for dinner.’
    Rei swoops off the couch, lifts the box and follows the younger filly. James and Fluttershy turn to Scootaloo’s mom.
    ‘Why did you back down?’ Fluttershy asks.
    ‘She is just so...’
    ‘Want me to use The Stare on her?’
    Scootaloo’s mom gasps. ‘No! Ju-ju-just let her be. She’ll be fine.’
    James sighs and trots past the mares. ‘You two relax. I’ll get something started for us.’ He turns to Scootaloo’s mom. ‘Would you like anything to drink?’
    ‘A cup of coffee would be nice.’
    James nods and gets to work in the kitchen.

    The Waking Physicist yawns as he trots out of his room in the late morning. The smell of Fluttershy’s wonderful cooking is too enticing to stay in bed. He rounds the corner between kitchen and living room to see everypony gathered at the table. The Surprised Physicist jumps back.
    ‘Ack! Skybound sent his all-mare, ninja, supermodel pegasus assassin squad for revenge!’
    Fluttershy glares at her husband. The two fillies giggle. Scootaloo’s mother gives her host a confused look. The Embarrassed Physicist sits at the table.
    ‘Sorry,’ he apologizes. ‘Just not used to seeing all of you here.’
    Fluttershy sighs. ‘That will do, dear.’
    The pegasus sets a plate of food in front of her husband and goes back to her seat.
    ‘Mmm. Fluttershy makes the best waffles,’ James drools.
    ‘And tofu bacon!’ Rei cheers.
    ‘Yeah!’ Scootaloo agrees.
    The two fillies high hoof. Scootaloo’s mom giggles at her daughter.
    ‘So, did you have a nice night?’ James asks. ‘Hope you didn’t mind sharing a bed.’
    Scootaloo’s mom giggles. ‘It was fine. We haven’t done that since she was little. Or littler.’
    ‘Mo~~~m!’
    ‘Don’t worry. One day, you’ll be as big as me!’ Rei comforts.
    ‘What? You mean when I’m like twelve?’
    Rei growls and pinches Scootaloo’s cheeks. The younger filly screams.
    ‘Mommy! Help!’
    Fluttershy giggles. ‘Sorry, Rei, but no. Let her go.’
    Rei growls and frees the screaming filly.
    ‘Any big plans for today?’ James asks. ‘Big dates?’
    Scootaloo looks down and scowls.
    ‘Is something wrong, Scoots?’
    ‘Nothing...’
    ‘You know, there was nothing in your bet about age or gender of your date,’ James mentions, ‘and Rei doesn’t have any plans for the day...’
    Scootaloo perks up. ‘What?’
    ‘Come on!’ Rei cheers. ‘Will you go out with me? It will be fun!’
    ‘Sure! Let’s go!’
    ‘Rei, remember, no Inkie,’ her father warns.
    ‘Duh.’
    ‘No Stormy either.’
    ‘You’re no fun!’
    Rei sticks her tongue at her dad as she and Scootaloo gallop down the stairs. Scootaloo’s mother stares in shock about what just happened.
    ‘What was that? How did you know something about my daughter that I didn’t?’
    Fluttershy giggles, ‘James has his ways.’
    Scootaloo’s mom sighs. ‘I tried everything to get her to open up. Then I end up in a stranger’s home, and he knows my daughter better than I do.’
    ‘Scootaloo is not so different from Rei. You just need to be firm with her. Put your hoof down.’
    ‘Just not too hard,’ Fluttershy adds.
    ‘I...’ Scootaloo’s mom looks away, ‘I can’t. Her father.... The way he treats us. If we show any assertiveness... I’ve had to explain a lot of black eyes and bruises to Cheerilee to say the least...’
    James and Fluttershy both reach a hoof to the scared mare.
    ‘You’re safe here,’ James assures. ‘Nopony can get to you if we don’t let them.’
    ‘Thank you...’ Scootaloo’s mom squeaks.
    ‘Unless they have an evil, magic troll that feeds on negative emotions.’
    ‘James!’ Fluttershy snaps.
    ‘What? Just being honest.’
    The yellow pegasus shakes her head. She turns to the other mare. ‘You know what will clear your mind? A nice trip to the spa. My treat. We’ll call all our friends and have a girl’s day out.’
    ‘That would be fun...’ the other pegasus agrees.
    The pegasi smile and begin planning their day together. James ignores them and goes back to his late breakfast.

    Silver Spoon happily trots towards the town movie theater. She has been looking forward to her date with Rumble all week. Well, after he finally got the clue and asked her. The happy filly gets to the theater and looks for her date. She worries that he might be thick enough to go ahead without her, but her worries are soon replaced by new ones when she spots Rumble talking with Diamond Tiara. Silver Spoon growls and approaches the other foals.
    Diamond Tiara notices the approaching filly and smirks. ‘Oh, look who finally showed up.’
    Rumble turns. ‘Hey, Silver Spoon! Diamond Tiara offered to treat us. Isn’t that great?’
    ‘Yes. Great,’ Silver Spoon snorts.
    ‘Don’t be that way,’ the pink filly teases. ‘You know I love taking care of my friends.’
    ‘That would be a first,’ the bespectacled filly grumbles.
    ‘What was that?’ Rumble asks.
    ‘Hey! How about I get us all snacks?’ Diamond Tiara offers. ‘I have plenty of money to treat everypony. Come on! Get anything you want!’
    Diamond Tiara prances away, brushing against Rumble as she goes.
    ‘Wait up!’ Rumble calls as he follows the filly.
    Silver Spoon growls and stomps after the others.
…
    The three foals come out of the theater. Diamond Tiara leads the group with a smug look on her face. The two grey ponies follow behind. Rumble is excited, but Silver Spoon looks upset. The lead filly looks back and laughs.
        Through the whole date, Diamond Tiara did everything she could to mess with Silver Spoon. She bought Rumble all the snacks the colt could eat, leaving the silver filly on her own. She forced herself between the dating couple and held the colt’s hoof during the film. She even bumped the other filly out of the way when they were leaving the theater.
        ‘I had a blast!’ Rumble says. ‘Thanks for the great time.’
        ‘It was no problem,’ Diamond Tiara coos.
        The colt stops and turns to Silver Spoon. ‘I had a great time with you. We have to hang out more often.’
        ‘Yes, we should.’
        ‘I, uh, am really glad that Mr Wanderer introduced us.’
        The colt quickly leans in and gives Silver Spoon a peck on the cheek. The filly tenses and blushes. Diamond Tiara looks over and scowls.
        ‘Well, um... I’ll see you at school. Thanks for the movie, Diamond Tiara. Bye, Silver Spoon.’
        Rumble flies off, looking back. Silver Spoon smiles and waves, distracting the young colt, causing him to almost crash into another pegasus. Diamond Tiara trots over and snorts. Silver Spoon looks over and frowns.
        ‘Thanks for ruining my date,’ the grey filly snorts.
        ‘Please. I saved it. I paid for it. I kept him entertained. I got to hold his hoof.’
        Silver Spoon smirks. ‘I got the kiss.’
        Diamond Tiara turns her nose up. ‘I’ve been kissed plenty of times. Real kisses, too.’
        ‘Ha. So I am not a hussy like you or whoever you kissed.’
        The pink filly pushes the grey one to the ground. ‘Scootaloo is not a hussy! She could show you what a real kiss is like!’
        Silver Spoon dusts herself off. ‘Sorry. I am into colts.’ She bumps past her former friend. ‘Besides, Scootaloo is too good for you.’
        ‘You take that back!’
        ‘Also, I saw her with Mr Wanderer’s daughter earlier. Looks like she traded you in for the better model.’
        ‘That is a lie!’ She looks away. ‘It is not like I like her or anything...’ She snaps up. ‘At least I don’t have to have somepony arrange my dates for me! I am perfectly able to find my own!’
        ‘You tried stealing my date!’
        ‘Right. I found one and took it! He was too good for you anyway! You should be with, uh... Pound Cake! He is at least on your level!’
        ‘Which still makes him a dozen levels above you!’
        Diamond Tiara roars and tackles Silver Spoon. The two fillies roll on the ground, trying to hit each other, until they hit a potted plant. Large dirt clumps in the mane knock the fillies out of their brawl. They growl at each other for a moment before turning around and trotting away.
…
        Silver Spoon stares at the ground and grumbles to herself as she trots through town. She does not know where she is going. She just wants to get as far away from Diamond Tiara as possible. She wanders into the market district and quickly bumps into somepony.
        ‘Sorry. I wasn’t watching where I was going,’ the upset filly mumbles.
        ‘Well, uh, be more careful next time,’ the pony replies.
        Silver Spoon looks up. Apple Bloom is standing before her. The two fillies stare at each other before Silver Spoon starts backing away.
        ‘Not gonna stand up t’ me without yer friend?’ Apple Bloom asks.
        ‘She is not my friend. Not anymore,’ Silver Spoon growls.
        The yellow filly is surprised. ‘What? Why not?’
        ‘She broke a promise and tried ruining... Nothing. Never mind.’
        ‘What she do t’ break the promise? Nothin’ mean, Ah hope.’
        ‘She made fun of my glasses. She used to do that all the time, but I made her promise to stop.’
        ‘That ain’t nice! Y’all have great glasses. Shoot. If Ah ever had glasses, Ah’d hope they’re as nice as yers.’
        Silver Spoon looks away and blushes. ‘Thanks. Nopony has ever said that before.’
        ‘Apple Bloom, what’s goin’ on back there? We have t’ be closin’ shop soon,’ Applejack calls as she rounds their cart.
        ‘Sorry, sis. Ah was just talkin’ t’ Silver Spoon.’
        ‘Okay. That’s all right. Spend as much time as ya need with yer friend.’
        ‘Thank you, Miss Applejack, but I was just leaving.’
        Silver Spoon is about to step away when Applejack stops her.
        ‘Are ya okay? Looks y’all have been cryin’.’
        ‘It’s nothing. Really.’
        ‘That mean Diamond Tiara was teasin’ her, too!’ Apple Bloom blurts out.
        ‘The one that is always messin’ with ya?’ Apple Bloom nods in reply. ‘Shoot. That ain’t nice.’
        ‘It is okay. We’re not friends anymore. Nopony would want to be friends with her.’
        ‘That’s fer sure.’
        ‘Apple Bloom! Silver Spoon! That ain’t a nice thing t’ say ‘bout anypony.’
        ‘Sorry, Applejack,’ Apple Bloom apologizes.
        ‘I am sorry as well.’ Silver Spoon bows. ‘Well, um, I’ll see you at school. I guess.’
        Silver Spoon turns and trots away. Apple Bloom pulls her sister down and whispers to her.
        ‘Ah guess it is okay if it’s okay with her parents,’ the older pony replies.
        Apple Bloom gallops up to Silver Spoon. ‘Wait a sec.’
        ‘What now?’
        ‘Ah was jus’ wonderin’... Ah mean if it is okay with yer folks...’
        Silver Spoon sighs.
        ‘Would ya like t’ come over fer the night? Ah mean, Ah don’ know what sorta stuff ya like doin’ but ya need a friend right now.’
        Silver Spoon smiles and tears up a bit. ‘Thanks. I would love to come over.’ I guess I now know why she has so many friends.
        ‘Great! Come on! We’re gonna have loads o’ fun t’night!’
        Apple Bloom gallops back to tell her sister the good news. Silver Spoon collects herself and joins her new friend.
…
        Across town, Diamond Tiara is fuming to herself. She seems oblivious to everypony around her.
        ‘Stupid four eyes. What does she know?’ -- Mockingly -- ‘Ooh, I’m so smart and everypony likes me because I am a big stupid nerd. Just a big, stupid, four-eyed nerd with no friends.’ She stops and kicks at the ground. ‘No friends... I have no friends...’
        The filly stops trotting and starts crying.
        ‘Are you okay?’ a kind voice asks.
        Diamond Tiara looks up to see the concerned face of Twilight Sparkle. The princess smiles at the crying filly.
        ‘Of-of course I am okay! What makes you think anything is wrong?’
        ‘Well, you are crying in the middle of the street. Is something wrong?’
        ‘Ugh! Why do you keep asking that? It is not like I broke up with my only friend or anything.’
        ‘I am so sorry to hear about it. Losing a friend is hard. Do you want to talk about it?’
        ‘I’m fine! I’m fine! I’m... miserable!’
        The filly sobs loudly. Twilight leans down and comforts the filly.
        ‘It will be okay. Let’s go back to the library, and we can call your dad and talk about.’
        ‘Please don’t tell my dad...’ Diamond Tiara mumbles.
        ‘Okay. Whatever you want.’ Twilight stands and escorts the crying filly to the library.

        Rei and Scootaloo gallop up the stairs to Rei’s home. They charge straight to the living room to continue their fun. As soon they sit on the couch, a whistle draws their attention.
        ‘Scootaloo, can you come in here?’
        The fillies get up and trot to the kitchen. The adults are seated around the table. Scootaloo’s mother looks very upset.
        ‘What up, Mr Wanderer?’
        ‘We have some upsetting news... Your father has regained consciousness.’
        Scootaloo scowls. ‘Can you hit him again? Maybe keep him out this time?’
        James shakes his head. ‘The doctors are still keeping an eye on him, but he should be released tomorrow. It will probably be a matter of time before he comes looking for both of you.’
        Scootaloo snorts and looks away.
        ‘The authorities could detain him, but they would need one of you to provide evidence of his abuse.’
        ‘I couldn’t do that!’ Scootaloo’s mother gasps. ‘He-he is m-my husband. He provides for us and takes care of us. I-I-I can’t go against him.’
        ‘I’ll do it!’ Scootaloo shouts.
        ‘Scoots! You can’t.... He’s your...’
        ‘Mom! If we go back to him, he is just going to beat us again for trying to leave. We have to stand up to him and get rid of him for good!’
        ‘But he takes care...’
        ‘He does not! You do everything! It is your job with the weather patrol that pays the bills. You do all the cooking and cleaning. You are the only trying to raise me. As long as we have Mr Wanderer and Fluttershy helping us, they can keep us safe from him until he is locked up.’
        Fluttershy comforts Scootaloo’s mother. ‘Even if he comes looking here, we can stay at my cottage to get away from him. I know Rainbow Dash and the rest of your friends in the weather patrol will help you, too.’
        ‘I don’t know...’
        ‘Damn it, mom! You are letting him get to you! Grow a backbone for once in your life!’
        Scootaloo storms away. James nods to Rei. She gets the clue, and both fillies go to Rei’s room. Scootaloo’s mother covers her face as she cries.
        ‘I don’t know what to do. I don’t want him to hurt Scoots anymore, but I can’t go against him. He has a power over me.’
        ‘He only has the power you give him,’ Fluttershy states. ‘If you stand up to him, you take away that power and regain it for yourself. If somepony tries to block, show them that you rock!’
        ‘You have plenty of friends who are willing to help you, too. Friends with polonium.’
        ‘James, no polonium.’
        ‘Just saying!’
        ‘I think she’s right,’ Scootaloo’s mother sighs.
        ‘See.’ Fluttershy sticks her tongue at her husband.
        ‘I meant Scootaloo. She is right. I can’t stand up to him. I might as well quit now.’
        James sighs. ‘Fluttershy, how relieving is it to stand up to somepony who has been bullying you for a long time?’
        ‘It is like a burden has been lifted from your chest. It is still very scary because they have done such mean things to you for so long, but you finally get a piece of yourself back. A piece that can never be taken away again.’
        ‘Will you help me?’ Scootaloo’s mother whispers.
        ‘We already have,’ Fluttershy replies, ‘but you have to do the rest yourself. You have to find a reason to fight until the bitter end.’
        ‘I have a reason: fear. I am more scared of losing Scootaloo than of that bully. I... I can try to save her. I have to save her. She is the most important pony in my world.’
        Fluttershy smiles. ‘That is good to hear. You have to tell her that.’
        ‘Especially since she is ranting to Rei and not eavesdropping around the corner,’ James adds.
        Scootaloo’s mother sighs and gets up. ‘I’ll go talk to her now. I don’t want to have a bad air over the rest of the night.’
        Fluttershy gasps. ‘Oh my pizza! We totally forgot about dinner.’
        James trots to his TARDIS. ‘I’ll pick something up. Garden burgers okay?’
        ‘Yes!’ Rei and Fluttershy shout as they blow past Scootaloo and her mother to grab the stallion.

        ‘Thank you, Spike,’ Twilight beams at her assistant.
        ‘My pleasure, ladies,’ the dragon replies.
        Spike serves Twilight and Diamond Tiara cups of hot chocolate.
        Twilight nudges the filly. ‘Go on.’
        ‘Uh, thanks or whatever.’
        ‘Got your work cut out on this one, Twilight,’ Spike comments.
        ‘Thanks, Spike,’ Twilight groans.
        The dragon laughs to himself as he leaves. Diamond Tiara snorts.
        Twilight magically ties her mane up in a bun and levitates a notepad. ‘Now, how can I help you with your friendship problem?’
        ‘I don’t have any problems with friends.’ Diamond Tiara turns her nose up. She notices Twilight glaring at her. ‘Th-they have a problem with me.’
        ‘Well, if they have a problem with you, then you must have given them a reason to have a problem with you.’
        The filly looks away. ‘I might have teased her...’
        ‘Uh huh. And if I remember your last class trip to the library, you seemed to tease a lot of ponies.’
        ‘But they are just so weird and stupid.’
        ‘Are they? Or are you scared of what they might think about you?’
        ‘They like me! They come to my parties all the time! Everypony likes my parties...’
        ‘Do they come for you or for the party? My friend Pinkie Pie throws parties all the time, but I go because of her, not because of the party.’
        ‘Did Silver Spoon come just for the parties?’ Diamond Tiara mumbles.
        Twilight frowns. ‘Is there any pony you are friendly towards?’
        ‘What does it matter? Nopony likes me! Silver Spoon was right...’
        ‘Scootaloo seemed very worried about you after that field trip when you got hurt.’
        ‘She’s... No. She doesn’t even like me. She hasn’t been returning my calls all day.’
        Twilight takes a deep breath. ‘She has been going through a tough time as well. She is just busy. That is all.’
        Diamond Tiara sighs. ‘That still doesn’t mean I have any friends...’
        ‘You have me.’
        ‘You don’t count.’
        ‘Why not?’
        ‘Well, you’re old. You can’t be friends with a foal.’
        ‘I am friends with Scootaloo and her friends. They are your age. I am friends with Celestia. That is a big age difference.’
        ‘Well, uh...’
        ‘Are you thinking of reasons why I can’t be your friend or reasons why you can’t be mine? If you don’t want to be my friend, you can tell me.’
        Diamond Tiara stares at her hot chocolate. She takes a sip. ‘It’s cold...’ She takes another sip then whispers, ‘Will you be my friend?’
        Twilight reaches to the filly. ‘Only if you will be mine.’
        ‘I don’t know if I can. I don’t know how.’
        Twilight smiles. ‘Well! It just so happen that I know a thing or two about friendship.’
        Twilight starts levitating a large scroll from a shelf when Spike bursts into the room.
        ‘Wait!’ the dragon cries. He turns to the surprised filly. ‘Trust me. You don’t want to sit through all of that.’
        ‘Spike! What have I told you about spying on me?’
        ‘I thought you meant when you are cl...’
        Spike is cut off when the large scroll is shoved in his mouth. Twilight is blushing red from embarrassment and anger. Diamond Tiara giggles.

        A loud scream fills the Apple Family house. Applejack gallops to the source and bucks the door to Apple Bloom’s door open.
        ‘What happened? Is everypony safe?’ the excited mare asks.
        She scans the room. The scan is made easier when she turns on the lights. Apple Bloom and Silver Spoon are sitting on the floor with a torch sitting between them. Big Macintosh trots up behind his sister.
        ‘Sheesh, Applejack. We were jus’ tellin’ scary stories,’ Apple Bloom groans.
        ‘That’s fine and all, but which one of ya made that dreadful sound?’
        The fillies look at each other, and Silver Spoon starts giggling. Apple Bloom’s cheeks match her mane.
        ‘Apple Bloom? Thought ya were 'fraid o’ nothin’.’
        ‘Ah am! It is jus’...’
        ‘I learned a lot of good ghost stories from my father,’ Silver Spoon explains. ‘He likes to tell them when we go camping.’
        ‘Well, jus’ keep the volume down and don’ stay up too late.’
        The fillies giggle. Applejack sighs and closes the door. She laughs to herself.
        ‘Good t’ see AB make a new friend.’
        ‘Eeyup.’
        Another loud scream fills the house.
        ‘Jus’ wish they came with a volume control.’
        ‘Eeyup.’

        Scootaloo’s mother comes out of her guest room wearing a plain yellow dress. She trots through the residence towards the stairs. Fluttershy is in the kitchen making a large breakfast for her daughter. She catches her guest trotting past.
        ‘Where are you going?’
        ‘Oh, uh... The family usually goes to church on Sundays. I guess it is habit.’
        ‘Are you sure that is a good idea? If you used to go with your husband, it might not be safe if he is looking for you.’
        Scootaloo’s mother looks down. ‘I guess you’re right, but what else am I supposed to do?’
        ‘Tofu bacon!’
        A white and blue streak shoots to the kitchen.
        ‘I just put it in, Rei. You’ll have to wait.’
        The filly groans and glares at the oven. Fluttershy giggles. She turns back to the other mare and motions her to join them.
        ‘Do you always have large meals like this?’ Scootaloo’s mom asks.
        Fluttershy giggles again. ‘Rei has a very healthy appetite. I am used to making large meals for my animals, so cooking for another pony is pretty easy. Plus, it makes her happy, so I am happy.’
        ‘At least she isn’t a picky eater like Scoots.’
        ‘Do you ever ask what she likes?’
        Scootaloo’s mother glares at Fluttershy. ‘Really? You’ve seen the way she acts towards me.’
        ‘Tori-tan likes cherry-flavored things!’ Rei chimes in. Scootaloo’s mother groans. ‘I just found that out yesterday. I’m not a cheater like daddy is.’
        The light blue mare sighs and sits at the table. ‘Well, at least we will have time to get to know each other if we hole up to hide from her father today.’
        ‘Don’t worry. James is great company.’
        ‘You’re not going to be around?’
        ‘Maybe a bit, but I have to make up for missing my animals yesterday.’
        ‘RSI needs adventuring!’ Rei adds. She pauses. ‘Also, Rei-chan needs tofu bacon!’
        ‘You have to wait for it to cook, dear.’
        Rei frowns and returns to staring at the oven. Scootaloo’s mother looks for a clock and ends up staring at a series of lights on the wall.
        ‘It says eight-forty-five,’ Fluttershy says. ‘It took me a couple visits before I figured it was in bin... Oh no! I am late!’
        ‘AHA! I knew that you two were doing it!’ Rei accuses.
        Fluttershy groans. ‘No! I mean I am late for feeding my animals. One of you take the bacon out in five minutes. There is waffle batter in the fridge. Tell James I love him.’
        Fluttershy gallops out of the house. After a long silence, Rei turns and looks at Scootaloo’s mother. The other pegasus looks back.
        ‘You do know they are not really gods, right?’ Rei blurts out.
        ‘I know. I just like the sense of community.’
        ‘You know they would burn me and Tori-tan for liking the ponies we like, right?’
        Scootaloo’s mother looks down. ‘I am well aware of that.’
        ‘Have you ever kissed another mare? I’ve only done it a few times. It doesn’t seem that much different than kissing a stallion, but I have only kissed a few of them, too, and Stormy-kun doesn’t let me kiss him any more.’
        Scootaloo’s mother sighs and goes to the oven, hoping food will shut the filly up.
        ‘It has only been two minutes.’ Rei nods to the clock.
        ‘How the hell do you read that thing?’

        Twilight trots with Diamond Tiara towards the filly’s home. The older pony has a happy smile, but the younger one looks down.
        ‘I was not expecting a sleepover, but you were a fun guest.’
        ‘Um. Thank you. I guess.’
        ‘Don’t be so down. You made a new friend, and we had a great time.’
        ‘We did...’
        ‘Is something wrong?’
        ‘... Miss Twilight, can we make a stop before I go home?’
…
        Apple Bloom escorts Silver Spoon back to her house. The two fillies are in good spirits.
        ‘Thank you for having me over, Apple Bloom. I don’t get to do that too often.’
        ‘Diamond Tiara never had ya over?’
        Silver Spoon shakes her head. ‘No, nor have I ever had her to my home.’
        ‘So ya never stayed at another pony’s house before?’
        ‘Not necessarily... See, my parents aren’t together. I get to see my dad occasionally, and we do things together. It is our special daddy-daughter time together.’
        ‘Aww! That is so sweet.’
        Silver Spoon smiles and blushes. The fillies stop at a house.
        ‘It was great hangin’ out with ya. Ah... never thought we’d get along, but Ah had a lot o’ fun.’
        ‘Yes, it was nice making a new friend.’
        Silver Spoon leans in and gives Apple Bloom a friendly hug. There is a loud gasp. The fillies look in the direction of the noise to see Twilight and Diamond Tiara coming down the street. The pink filly is gaping. Silver Spoon breaks the hug and turns away from her former friend. Diamond Tiara slowly steps forward. Apple Bloom stands by her new friend and glares at her rival.
        ‘What do ya want?’ Apple Bloom snorts.
        ‘I just want to talk to Silver Spoon,’ Diamond Tiara mumbles.
        ‘Ya ain’t gonna tease her again, are ya,?’
        ‘I think she really just wants to talk, Apple Bloom,’ Twilight replies.
        ‘Fine, but if ya are mean t’ her one bit...’
        The yellow filly backs away. Diamond Tiara steps over to her former friend.
        ‘I am really sorry,’ Diamond Tiara apologizes. ‘Can we be friends again?’
        ‘No thank you. I highly doubt you know what friendship truly means.’
        ‘I know I haven’t been a good friend before, but I can change! I really want to be your friend again. Please!’
        Silver Spoon turns her nose up and snorts. Diamond Tiara winces and looks towards Apple Bloom.
        ‘I apologize to you, too. I shouldn’t have made fun of you for your lack of cutie mark. I... I am jealous of all of the friends you have. I wish I could be as kind as you.’
        Apple Bloom is surprised. She looks at Twilight for support. The princess smiles and nods. The filly looks down and thinks. She looks at Diamond Tiara.
        ‘Are ya willin’ t’ say the same t’ me and mah friends at school tomorrow?’
        Diamond Tiara panics for a moment at the thought of the potential public humiliation that would follow the public apology, but she stands tall and nods. ‘Yes. I am willing to do that.’
        Silver Spoon turns around. ‘If you really do that, then I will consider being your friend again.’
        Silver Spoon steps towards her house. Apple Bloom looks between the two former friends and starts heading back towards town. Diamond Tiara sighs and turns back towards Twilight. The alicorn growls and lifts all three fillies with her magic. She lines them up in front of her.
        ‘I didn’t want to get involved, but you two are being so stubborn and rude.’ Twilight huffs at Silver Spoon and Apple Bloom. ‘Diamond Tiara is crying out for a friend, and you two are ignoring her desperate pleas. It does not take much to be a friend, and you two are not willing to make that minimal effort.’ The two fillies look away, ashamed. ‘I don’t know about your family Silver Spoon, but I know Applejack would be very upset at you, Apple Bloom, for this sort of behaviour.’
        ‘I’m sorry, Miss Twilight,’ Apple Bloom apologizes.
        ‘I’m not the one you should be apologizing to, both of you.’
        Apple Bloom and Silver Spoon turn to Diamond Tiara with their heads down. ‘We are really sorry, Diamond Tiara.’
        Diamond Tiara sighs. ‘We were all being jerks because of me. It is not your fault.’
        ‘Would either of you want to do something today?’ Silver Spoon asks.
        ‘Only if Ah can invite Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo, too. Y’all are nice and all, but...’
        ‘I have to get Diamond Tiara back home soon,’ Twilight interrupts. ‘How about I ask Pinkie Pie to get a party together for you on my way back home?’
        ‘Ah guess that would be nice,’ Apple Bloom replies. ‘What ‘bout y’all?’
        ‘Sounds fun.’ Diamond Tiara shrugs.
        ‘I’ll have to ask my mom since I was out all night already,’ Silver Spoon adds.
        ‘Excellent! It is great seeing everypony becoming good friends.’ Twilight beams.
        ‘I’ll see you later, I guess,’ Diamond Tiara says.
        The pink filly trots back home with Twilight at her side. The filly is crying tears of joy.
        ‘Thank you. Thank you for your help.’
        Twilight smiles at the filly. ‘What are friends for?’

        Scootaloo screams in frustration. Beside her, an evil cackle grates against her nerves.
        ‘Rematch! And no using hacks!’ the filly shouts.
        ‘You’re on,’ James laughs.
        The two ponies are playing video games. Scootaloo’s mother watches. She sighs with boredom. James offers another controller.
        ‘Always room for one more.’
        ‘This was not how I thought my day would be.’
        The game is instantly turned off.
        ‘HEY!’ Scootaloo yells.
        ‘Sorry. Your mom’s turn to choose what we do now.’
        Scootaloo turns and glares at her mother.
        ‘Y-you can keep playing. Don’t mind me.’
        ‘Try again,’ James says.
        ‘N-no. Keep going.’
        ‘One more with feeling.’
        ‘I-I... N-n...’
        ‘Just pick something, mom!’
        Scootaloo’s mother snaps, ‘Stop yelling at me!’
        Scootaloo backs away. ‘I’m sorry.’
        Her mother snorts and turns to James. ‘What is your movie selection like?’
        James grins and pulls a keyboard from behind the couch. ‘Everything in the universe. What do you like?’
        ‘Do you have any good detective mysteries?’
        Scootaloo groans.
        ‘Scoots. We’re watching what I want to watch, and that is final.’
        James laughs and starts the movie. ‘Feels good, right?’
        ‘It is just so frustrating dealing with her insolence. It makes me want to scream.’
        ‘Mom?’
        ‘I can soundproof your room if you need to.’
        Scootaloo’s mother takes a deep breath. ‘No. I can distract myself with a good mystery.’
        ‘I can broadcast to the washroom if you want to draw a warm bath, too.’
        The pegasus mare regains her calm. ‘I’m good.’ She pats the seat next to her. ‘Scoots, will you sit with me like you used to?’
        ‘Yes, mom.’
        Scootaloo moves to sit next her mother. James laughs at the family scene. The three ponies settle in for the movie.

        James sets plates of food on the dining room table as he and Scootaloo’s mother finishes cooking. Rei bounces in her seat as she waits for dinner. Fluttershy sighs and lays her head on the table. Scootaloo watches the adults at work.
        ‘New dishes! New dishes!’ Rei cheers.
        ‘Rei, dear, not so loud until the headache medicine kicks in,’ Fluttershy winces.
        ‘I can't believe I missed a party with my friends because of that jerk,’ Scootaloo grumbles.
        ‘I’m not that big of a jerk,’ James says.
        ‘Not you,’ the filly moans. ‘The jerk we are hiding from.’
        Scootaloo’s mother sets a dish on the table. ‘Actually, I sort of want to go back to work tomorrow.’
        ‘Are you sure about that?’ James asks.
        ‘N-not really, but I don’t want to be cooped up anymore. Like you two said, I have friends with the weather patrol if I need them.’
        ‘I’ll see you out there,’ Fluttershy offers. ‘You don’t want to be caught alone.’
        ‘Thank you.’
        Nom nom nom. Rei swallows and sets an empty dish down. ‘Scootaloo to school for you.’
        ‘Rei, you’re supposed to let the guests serve themselves first,’ James groans.
        ‘I did.’
        Rei points at Scootaloo. The younger filly looks up with her mouth full of food.
        ‘What? I’m starved.’
        The adults sigh and start serving themselves as well.

        Fluttershy gives Scootaloo’s mother an encouraging hug before leaving her with the rest of the weather patrol. Rainbow Dash and all of the stallions and mares fly over to their friend.
        ‘We all heard what was going on,’ Dash says. ‘We have your back and will keep ya safe.’
        ‘I call right of first blood!’ Flitter shouts.
        Scootaloo’s mother laughs. ‘That is okay. As long as you are with me, I’ll feel safe.’
        ‘Anything for our friend,’ Raindrops assures.
        ‘Speaking of which...’ Dash growls.
        The other pegasi form up around Scootaloo’s mother as a dark orange pegasus flies up. He has a bandage on his left cheek. Cloudchaser has to hold Flitter back from attacking the approaching pegasus. Scootaloo’s father stops a short distance from the group. He gets an envelope from his pack and sets it on a nearby cloud.
        ‘I am leaving. I’m going back to Cloudsdale to find an assignment as far away from here as possible. You can keep your house and your kid, just leave me my money so I can get reestablished somewhere else.’ He taps the envelope. ‘That is all in there. … Divorce from the courts and an annulment from the church. Just let me leave this Celestia-forsaken town in peace.’
        He flaps his wings and flies away. The other pegasi turn toward Scootaloo’s mother. She has the widest grin and is wiping tears of joy.
        ‘I am free. We are finally free of him,’ she laughs.
        The other pegasi congratulate and comfort the emotional pegasus. One loud, beefy pegasus lets out a ‘yeah’ in celebration.

        Rei gives Scootaloo an extra long hug and a big kiss on the cheek outside of the schoolhouse before she flies off. The embarrassed filly heads straight in and goes right to her desk. She tries to hide herself from the world. A throat clears beside her. She looks over to see Diamond Tiara.
        ‘What do you want?’ Scootaloo grumbles.
        Diamond Tiara bows. ‘I am very sorry for all of the teasing I have subjected you to. If you could ever forgive me, I would like to be your friend.’
        The pegasus is shocked. ‘Uh, okay. Thank you.’
        The pink filly looks up and smiles. ‘Thank you.’
        Diamond Tiara goes to her seat, trying to ignore the giggles she is getting. Scootaloo looks around and tries to figure out what happened. Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle smile in encouragement. The pegasus sighs and goes back to her moping, but a sheet of paper appears in front of her. She looks up at a smiling Featherweight.
        ‘Um, hi, Scootaloo.’
        ‘Hey.’
        ‘I, um, noticed you were upset the other day. I was making this for you and your friends. You can have it first.’
        Scootaloo looks at the paper. It is a collage of photos of her and the other Cutie Mark Crusaders on their adventures as well as several photos of the individual fillies looking cool.
        Scootaloo smiles. ‘This is great!’ She pulls the skinny pegasus over her desk to hug him. ‘You’re very sweet for making this for us.’
        The filly releases the blushing colt. She leans over and gives him a small peck on the cheek. Both pegasi blush a little. Featherweight flitters away to his desk.
        I guess colts aren’t that bad... Scootaloo thinks.
        The door to the schoolhouse opens, and James grumbles as he marches in.
        ‘Cheerilee’s out again,’ he snorts. ‘First lesson: Bermuleda sounds nothing like a flu.’





Bonus Scene - since we need something light