Bitter disappointment.
Defines me in a nutshell, eh Sombra?
...
Still nothing. [BEEP]tard's kept quiet ever since our last conversation in the Crystal Empire. Sighing, I took a glance over the rest of the village. Current location: Yakyakistan. Friend's purpose here: A sort of friendship tour hosted by Celestia, whom was currently speaking pleasantly to Rutherford over something or another from the other side of the settlement, same with their respective disorganized guards.
My purpose here: To seek out the Yak Mystics and hopefully gain more info about their vague prophecy and some clues as to tracking down the elusive Zagreus. But fate had other plans in mind, the mystics were resting in their little hut, and my good side couldn't allow me to disturb their peaceful slumber.
Worse still, a passing by Yak informed me how it was customary for the mystics to sleep the entire weekend, for all the wisdom and knowledge gained in their vague undescriptive magic can be mentally draining, even among experts.
A feat I too became accustomed to in my youth. I share their pain.
How about MY pain? Sombra was being purposefully silent, and my own mission here led to jack squat. Originally I had intended to accompany Starlight in her studies while Spike, Big Mac and Discord had their 'guys night,' but Twilight's suggestion about meeting with the mystics again to obtain more insight was too much to pass up on.
Only for it all to be for naught.
Ay... Maybe I can find that yeti Pinkie mentioned earlier and-
"I'd prefer you refrain from engaging a dangerous yeti to alleviate your boredom." Damn. I grinned sheepishly as Twilight, in her adorable snow attire, joined me in watching our friends enjoy themselves, smiling tiredly. Evening was already crawling over the mountains. "I would rather not have to tend any possible wounds of yours on a friendship trip."
"But Twilight, I'd be doing the Yaks a favour." And I leaned forward, adding mischievously, "Also, any excuse for us to spend some more time together."
"We are spending time together." The Princess shook her head with an endearing smile, observing our friends again. "Looks like everything's proceeding as it should be. Princess Celestia and Prince Rutherford are going to make good allies and friends. This goodwill tour's already summing up to be a resounding success."
"All thanks to your expertise, of course."
"All thanks to everypony's efforts." We took a moment to admire the Yaks and ponies entertaining and conversing, my observant girlfriend speaking up next with a knowing tone. "I'm guessing your confrontation with the Mystics didn't go as you expected?"
"What made it obvious?"
"I can sense your disappointment all the way from where Princess Celestia is." Twilight raised a brow to me. "What went wrong?"
Sighing again, releasing the bitterness from my look and voice. "They're napping, and it'll take all weekend." A weak smile towards Twilight. "Guess my trip here was all for nothing."
"I wouldn't say that." Twilight countered reassuringly, placing a soft hoof to my side. "It was worth an attempt. Not to mention, we're all happy you came to see this goodwill come through as well." Code for I'm ecstatic you're here with me Jack. "We can try again another time." And her smile widened, as though something occurred to her. "Although, there's something I wanted to speak with you about while we have a moment. It's about Starlight."
My own brows raised at the new topic. "Is something wrong with her?"
Twilight shook her head yet again, grinning lightly. "No. On the contrary, I just want to say how grateful I am with your willingness to keep interacting with her. At first I thought you two weren't going to get along ever since I took her under my wing. You have no idea how happy I am to be proven wrong, for once."
I smirked humouredly. "Well, Starlight and I reached an... Understanding back when we were travelling through those alternate universes." Something akin to that, anyway. "Also, her redemption is so rushed that her character's affected by it, so obviously it would've varied how the two of us interact now."
Twilight perked a brow. "Rushed or not, I'm just thankful you're as willing to give her a chance as we all were." And beamed, quite proudly in fact. "She often speaks highly of you, you know, on some occasions when we're doing lessons together. I think she's taken a shine to you."
"Oh God." I groaned in playful exasperation. "Please tell me she's not another pony with a sudden inexplicable crush on me."
Twilight frowned teasingly. "I certainly hope I don't apply to that category."
"Twilight, you're a league of your own."
"I'll take that as a compliment." The alicorn rolled her eyes, but her heart shone in affection. "In any case, thank you for being a huge part of Starlight's life ever since she came to live in Ponyville. And if it helps, I think she looks to you as one would a big brother."
"...Makes sense, I guess." Another seeing me as an older sibling? I can't possibly get mad at that, smiling in both flattery and amusement. "She's part of the family now, and I'm sure Spike's happy to have a big sister."
Twilight smirked. "I thought that was my role?"
"Nah, you're obviously the mother."
"Jack, Starlight and I are around the same age gap."
"Yeah, but... Mentally you're far apart."
"Starlight will appreciate that... You really think I'm a good teacher? I'm not doing anything wrong with the lessons I'm providing to her?"
"Good is an understatement." I turned to her with a huge grin. "Starlight couldn't be in greater hands - Or hoofs - under the most knowledgeable, intelligent, resourceful and not to mention insanely beautiful pony in all of Equestria." Her heart flared up in pride and flattery along with the pleased yet embarrassed smile on her gorgeous features. "God knows Celestia could learn a thing or two from your teaching methods."
Twilight rolled her eyes, though this time more playfully, before addressing something else. "And speaking of Spike, I suppose you wouldn't mind sharing how he, Big Mac and Discord are going back home right about now?"
...Eh, what the Hell? Nothing she could do to change events now. Accompanying my girlfriend around the village, I proceeded to spoil, "Basically, Discord makes things difficult for them at first..."
"You should've been there with us, Stardust! It was a blast!"
"I know Spike. I saw the episode."
"Oh." I chuckled loudly, rubbing my little bro's head fondly. Pouting upwards, the dragon continued to say with a beaming expression. "Still, the whole thing was pretty awesome to experience! That is, after Discord was done being a major jerk of course."
"Why, I take high offense to that." The clown in question decided to throw himself into the conversation, slithering around us with a gleeful glint to his red pupils. "Were it not for me, your little game would be dull and tedious... Sort of like Stardust here was when he first met. Good times huh?" I grinned at the reminder, finding more charm in Discord's mockery than annoyance.
"Shh!" Spike quickly tried to keep the loudest gossiping character alive to quiet down as the mares were discussing the goodwill event in the next room. "They don't know exactly what our guy's night is! Let's keep it that way!" Pfft! Discord and I shared humoured looks, the former wiping off non-existent beads of sweat from his forehead with a cloth. "So anyway, it was an amazing night! You should've joined us Stardust!" Then his demeanor lessened somewhat. "Actually, I kinda wish you did."
Clearly I wasn't the only one disappointed this weekend. With an apologetic smile, I rubbed his head again. "Sorry Spike, but I couldn't take part for Balance's sake."
"Ah yes." Rising to the air, Discord produced a sand glass from his clasped hands. "How is your delicate Balance doing nowadays anyway?" And with a tiny hammer, flipping the glass over, sand leaked from it between mine and Spike's feet. "Oh, not good it appears. You need to catch that Zagreus character soon, Stardust. How's the progress?"
I shrugged, wincing. "Not well..." Then, a sudden, very plausible idea popped up that made me want to smack myself. Why didn't I think of this before? "Discord, you think you could-?"
"- Use my limitless chaotic magic to locate the walking talking instability to the very laws and nature of the universe itself?" The creature of fun and disharmony smirked knowingly, wagging a finger as though patronizingly. "Alas, if only it were that simple. My connection to magic only lets me know if there are changes to either chaotic or harmonic magic. Balance, and most especially imbalance, are far out of my league. Good try though."
"...Damn."
Spike frowned sympathetically. "I'm sure we'll find him sooner than later." I honestly hope so, bro... I really do. "We certainly can't give up. It's just part of being a Twilight Warrior, huh?"
Our young friend is correct. Starswirl pitched in, the fallen King continuing to give me the silent treatment. Keep faith in that we will track the hidden threat to Equestria very soon. There is short time before we reach the next finale, and not to mention the trip to Camp Everfree. He may not resist striking then.
Oh God, don't remind me to how close I am there...
Spike suddenly snapped his claws. "I got it?"
"Hmm? Got what little guy, a backbone? I'd certainly be surprised there."
My mind wandered back to the Crystal Empire. "You'd be surprised..."
Ignoring the chaotic clown's jibe, the young lizard grinned up at me excitedly. "The episode's over by now, right?" I slowly nodded, wondering where Spike was going with this. "Then let's have another, tonight! Our very own guy's night but including Stardust!"
"Oh?" Discord raised a brow, intrigued.
Just as I was, despite my initial meek smile. "Spike, I'm not really a fan of roleplaying board games..."
But my little friend was hardly deterred by the confession. "That's okay, we can play something of your choosing! Oh, I know!" Spike then added with a knowing glint to his reptilian eyes. "Along with Discord and Big Macintosh, why don't we invite some of your other guy friends too? You have some right?"
Do I? I frowned thoughtfully, thinking over stallions I knew personally. Pharynx was a Changeling whom I was hardly acquainted with... Scrap would probably be far from my reach... Ah. "Sunburst and Thorax could join if they wanted, I suppose..."
Spike nodded eagerly. "Yeah, I think that'd work!"
Smirking, I looked to Discord. "What do ya say, Discord? Up for another night of fun between guys , but hosted by a human?"
The creature twirled the beard with a finger playfully. "Hmm, well our last fun together was rather entertaining... I suppose I could squeeze some time in if I have nothing better to do."
"All right!" Spike took that as acceptance, punching the air happily. Couldn't blame him, the prospect does sound terribly exciting. "With six of us, it'll be the greatest guy's night ever! Uh... Second to last night's of course!" I rolled my eyes in good humour.
"Planning another guy's night?" Our heads turned to Twilight, Spike's exclamation obviously attracting their attention. She grinned approvingly. "But with more added friends?"
"Mm-hm!" Spike nodded cheerfully, leaning against my limb with crossed smug arms. "With Stardust planning the whole thing for us. Great idea, huh?"
"It sounds wonderful Spike." The Princess agreed, a sparkle to her alluring violet orbs. "In fact, it sorta gives me an idea of my own..."
Usually, Twilight having an idea never bothered me that much. But, for some reason, I felt a small prickle of dread at the sly expression and mischief across our bond...
"Alright, everything's set up." I announced after we checked, smiling down to my gleeful sibling. Spike nodded in agreement, inspecting the time claimed on the screen.
"It's four-thirty, so we have an hour and a half to spare."
"Three hours and a half should anything arise." Nodding, I pointed the remote in my hoof to the TV. "Let's keep it off in the meantime, we don't want to spoil the surprise just yet."
"This is gonna be fantastic!" Spike exclaimed, barely restraining himself from vibrating on the spot. "Oh, we should prepare some snacks too! What do ya say to some of our special crystal brownies?"
I laughed. "Hahahahaha! That sounds like code for something!"
"Code for what?"
"Eh I'll tell you when you're older."
"I'm old enough now!"
"Spike, chances are you'll always be my little kid bro to my eyes."
The dragon grumbled, but not sourly, as we exited my bedroom and proceeded down the corridor, heading straight for the kitchen. "I wonder how Thorax and Sunburst are gonna react to playing a game console. You think Sunburst will want to break the thing apart to see how it works?"
I snorted loudly. That stallion would [BEEP]ing wish. "Over my dead body he will."
"Looks like he may not have the chance to." Starlight met our path forward, frowning softly with an open letter floating over her head. "Bad news guys, Sunburst nor Thorax will be able to make it. Apparently Sunburst's duties are keeping him working in the Empire tonight, and Thorax isn't too comfortable interacting outside the Crystal Empire just yet."
...Well that sucks.
"Aw man!" Spike whined justifiably, sagging slightly. "Well, it was worth a shot I guess..." Starlight smiled sympathetically, as Spike then straightened and grinned forcibly back to me. "Well, it's not a complete loss right? We'll still have Big Mac and Discord joining in the fun."
"I should hope so." I huffed. "Especially since I need Discord for this to work." Both dragon and Starlight looked to me curiously, and I winked with mirth. "It's not just playing a game with controllers I have in store tonight..."
In fact, it's a plan so ludicrous and Discord-esque I guarantee it won't mess up the state of Balance nor harm anyone, right Starswirl?
Certainly; your intentions are within reason and won't bring any harm so long as it is kept in a pocket dimension of your own designs. Balance shouldn't be intentionally affected by what you have in store for your friends. I hope you have fun tonight; a break here and there form our searches for Zagreus.
Appreciate it.
"Actually." Starlight began, walking alongside us down the hallway. "Twilight mentioned inviting another pony to join your 'guy's night.'" What? I haven't heard anything about that? All Twilight did was mention she had an idea and slyly took off? Spike and I exchanged befuddled glances, myself reaching out through Balance to locate the Princess... In the throne room.
With another signature I recognized from a short while back... Who was it again?
Taking a slight detour, Spike and Starlight quickly hurried to follow my brisk pace. "Stardust, the kitchen's not that way-"
"I know Spike. We're just making a quick stop to Twilight."
Knowing the way like the back of my hand - And because of Balance showing me the way through our bond - I continued trying to identify that energy signature on the way to our destination. Funnily enough, the signature marks a strong familial presence to Fluttershy's-
Oh no.
Practically slamming the doors open, Twilight spun to face me, hardly looking surprised by my entrance and evidently sensing me coming. And beside her stood the very stallion I dreaded and hoped wasn't going to join us, sitting on his sister's throne with that insufferable smug disposition.
"Oh God dammit Twilight! Really?!"
"What is it?" Spike looked over to who was also among us, jaw slacking slightly. "Wait, what is Zephyr Breeze doing here?" Even Starlight didn't look entirely happy to see the blue pegasus lounging in Fluttershy's throne, rising up with a punchable smirk.
"Howdy darlings!" Zephyr started, swerving around the Princess of Friendship whilst dramatically holding up her hoof. "Princess Twilight was go generous as to request my much-needed presence to make your guy's night the best guy's night in all of Equestria!" And unwelcomingly kissed her hoof, to Twilight's barely-concealed irritation.
And my everlasting fury. Starlight and Spike were quick to hold me back firmly before I could unleash a firestorm on this self-absorbent mother-[BEEP]er. Spike was just as thrilled. "Twilight, this is who you had in mind to join us? Haven't you forgotten what he did last time he was in this room?!"
The mare stepped forward calmly. "Zephyr's changed since then, and Fluttershy agreed with me that this was a good opportunity for you boys to reconcile with him and start things over." Before adding through our bond, "And to help a special somepony of mine remember that he can overcome his own follies just as someone in common like Zephyr had."
"I'd be considering that if he wasn't standing so unjustly close near you." Was my scathing mental reply, glaring heatedly at the slightly unnerved pegasus, who was inching to hide behind the exasperated alicorn. Another step Zephyr, I swear-!
"You know," Spike suddenly whispered to my right ear rather conspiratorially, "Discord and Fluttershy are good friends. I'm sure Zephyr and he will make great friends in turn..."
...Oh Spike you cunning lizard.
I grinned mischievously and straightened myself, nodding to my girlfriend. "Alright Twilight, I'll play your game. Zephyr can join us if he wants to." Twilight knowingly frowned in suspicion to my new agreement, whereas Zephyr just beamed ignorantly, gesturing like a drunken Shakespeare.
"I knew you'd make the right choice! Trust me, I'll show you the best guy's night you've ever experienced of! I first suggest a night around the town followed with visiting a few of Ponyville's best hotspots-"
"Don't push it."
"I..."
While Zephyr sputtered like a goldfish, my unamused look then turned to Starlight, gaining another idea. Twilight did say the unicorn equally enjoyed my company, and she wasn't there to have fun on the goodwill trip and Spike's game night, so... "Starlight, how'd you like to join us too? I ideally wanted about six gamers tonight anyway."
The unicorn blinked those surprised purple eyes, smirking humouredly. "In case you've forgotten Stardust, I'm not-"
"Are you busy tonight?"
"Not... Really...?"
"Twilight, you wouldn't mind?"
The alicorn looked just as confused as her pupil, but answered, "It'd be fine, though-"
"She's a girl!" Spike interjected, prompting my look of snark.
"That rule was thrown out the window when you let Pinkie and Rainbow join your little game." The dragon shut his jaw at that, and I looked back to Starlight. "What do ya say? It's bad enough you were left out of both the tour and the game night last night." Another mistake of Hasbro's I have to remedy. Seriously, it's like they forgot she even exists until there are episodes essential for her presence.
As Starlight seriously contemplated it for a moment, Spike then perked up after a minute of silence. "If she says no we could invite Flash Sentry."
"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha! Hahahahahahahahahaha, hahahahahahaha, hoo hahahahahaha... Haha... Ahh...!"
After that moment of hysteria, Twilight raised a disapproving brow and twitching muzzle at my genuine spiteful laughter, whereas Spike looked amused and Zephyr befuddled, Starlight finally smiled lightly. "I guess if you guys don't mind... What exactly is it you have in store?"
Spike and I exchanged smirks. "It's a secret." I winked slyly, prompting her own smile to widen.
"Just try not to slow us down, dear Starlight!" Zephyr's unwelcome boast echoed through the room. "We guys excel at making every night something to remember-"
"You know, I wonder if Fluttershy wouldn't mind too much if I rip out her sibling's tongue and put it display if he makes another tactless remark to my friend."
"..."
"That's what I thought."
Twilight sighed, and Spike snickered.
You know, I think this is the first real time I have spent any form of entertainment together with Big Mac. Honestly, I'm not sure Applejack's brother and I have spent any interaction together outside of brief conversations few and far between. The red stallion sat on the couch comfortably, left side with Zephyr squeezed uncomfortably in the middle between the Earth Pony and a smirking Discord. Starlight was standing beside the blue couch, all observing me curiously. Spike stood to my left, myself standing before the wall-placed TV with a pleasant grin.
"Welcome to our special guy's night, hosted by yours truly."
"Hm. Last I checked, little miss equal over here wasn't a stallion." Discord inspected Starlight's eyelashes and mane style with a magnifying glass, to her immediate discomfort.
I rolled my eyes in good nature. "Alright, guy's night featuring Starlight Glimmer." And continued with authority. "Let's all get acquainted for a moment. Starlight, Twilight's protege." The unicorn smiled bashfully at that.
"Big Mac, Applejack's brother." The Earth Pony raised his head highly.
"Spike, Twilight's Number One Assistant and my brother-slash-son." The dragon beamed proudly at that.
"Zephyr, Fluttershy's... Brother." He smirked, missing my restraint to add something to that acknowledgement.
"And Discord, Fluttershy's boyfriend." Discord rolled his eyes, but smirked at Zephyr's gawking look of abject horror. "We're gonna do something similar to Spike's event last night. But without the roleplaying." I nodded to the dragon, who pointed the remote at the screen.
"Ooh! Are we going to reenact a movie?" Discord leaned forward in newfound interest, suddenly producing a brown cloak with inside pockets of silver hilts. "Star Wars perhaps? Or have you something new in store for us?"
"Tempting, but not what I have planned tonight."
"'Star Wars?'" Zephyr muttered uncertainly, glancing between us. "You guys are plain weird."
"Oh you have no idea." Both Discord and I stated in perfect harmony, sharing knowing grins. A sudden brightness brought out attention to the screen, revealing the game title and option to begin playing. As Starlight and Big Mac leaned forward in clear interest, the former frowned in open curiosity.
"'Minecraft?'" The unicorn read the title out-loud. "I haven't played that one yet."
"No time like the present Starlight." I offered a wireless controller to Spike, Starlight, Zephyr and Big Mac respectively. "We're not gonna waste any time. I need to speak with Discord privately about something, while Spike will be teaching you the basics. We're gonna have one hour to prepare."
"Prepare? Prepare for what exactly?" Zephyr glared bafflingly at the device in his hoofs? "Just what is this thing? And what's a 'Minecraft?' Is this some kind of technology only royals have access to? Are you sure this is meant to be a guy's night out?"
"It's a game Zephyr." Spike replied, taking Discord's spot as he and I moved out of the way. "It's easy once you get the hang of it. Just be careful with pressing buttons with your hoofs, Zephyr, Big Mac."
Smiling at Spike's everlasting assistance, I motioned for the trickster to the other side of the room where we could speak quietly. Discord, sensing this desire, smirking and snapped his finger, suddenly finding ourselves inside a tiny brick house without windows, the clown crossing his arms smugly.
"Alright boyo, what's the deal?"
I smirked. "The deal is, my friend, putting us all inside a made-up Minecraft world with our own health bars and all that, and whoever dies gets sent back to my room. There are conditions." I added as Discord opened his mouth, with stern to my tone. "First and foremost, damage we receive in the game inflicts no real pain, nor do we feel the embrace of death. Secondly, no meta-gaming, especially on your behalf."
"Why don't you take out all the fun entirely?" Discord inquired mockingly, sighing in resigned agreement. "Anything else your Lordship?"
"Since you and Zephyr share something in common, be sure to... Look after him in the world once we start, okay?"
Catching on, a playful glint emerged in those yellow eyes. "Oh, I gotcha covered." Before adding with good humour. "And speaking of this connection; you don't really presume Fluttershy and I's relationship to be that scandalous, do you?"
"Honestly, I think you're good for her." Discord blinked at my sincere shrug, myself adding with a smirk. "Sometimes you remind me of myself and Twilight."
"A high compliment I'm sure..."
"Don't push your luck." I added with some firmness, nodding to the bricks we're encased in. "Now come on, you need to learn how to play beforehand as well." Within a millisecond, the red bricks disappeared, revealing us back to the others. And already, it looked as both Zephyr and Big Mac were having a blast once we returned to them. Starlight was the only one who is struggling.
"Zephyr, that was my tree block!"
"Finder's keepers, Starlight!"
This was gonna be a fun night.
The hour was up, and just before Discord snapped his fingers, I raised my voice, startling the others from the game. "Time's up! Everyone get ready!"
"Get ready? For what?"
Starlight's question was answered with a bright light, my bedroom transforming into what Discord and I had planned, inciting my huge grin. Holy [BEEP], it worked! Zephyr yelped in genuine surprise, not just at the controller now gone form his hoofs, but at our newfound surroundings, grass, trees and leaves taken in the style of video game-formed blocks.
"Welcome, friends, to Minecraft!" Discord announced for me, gesturing quite happily at our new disposition. Big Mac and Starlight looked around in stunned surprise. Zephyr's jaw was dropped, and Spike punched the air happily, already proceeding to dig into the dirt and using the game's physics to test if it works.
"I knew it!"
"Of course you did Spike." Smirking in satisfaction, I turned to the others taking in their new surroundings, thankfully not adapting their own bodies and- Whoa! Health and hunger bars above their heads. Neat. "We're gonna spend the night trying to survive for as long as possible."
"Wait... Survive?!" The blue pegasus squeaked, face dropping in panic. Discord swerved a bear arm around the unnerved Zephyr, grinning crookedly.
"Not to worry my fine pegasus friend. As Stardust had requested of me, we shall feel no pain nor oblivion regardless oh how much damage we take."
"And I expect everyone to play fair." Discord grinned brightly, a literal halo glowing around his own bars. Smirking, I addressed everyone. "Here's what's happening: We're gonna try to survive by gathering food, making weapons and a shelter, and everything we practiced just earlier. If you get killed, you're taken out of the game and have to watch the rest of us from my room... Which reminds me, Discord, what difficulty are we on?"
"Hard. You expected anything less?"
My muzzle twitched. "With Spike playing? Yes. Set it to easy, it'd also help the newcomers."
"Aww!" The dragon immediately protested. "Don't set it on easy, I wanna play the game fair."
"The little guy's right. I at the very least demand a challenge of my crafting skills!" Zephyr added boastfully.
Starlight then pitched in with a small smirk, "I'm with them."
"Eeyup."
...Alright then. If you're so sure, guys. Especially you, Spike. Looking back to Discord, I instead said, "Set it to Medium then." Discord snapped his fingers, considering it done, and I addressed the group again. "Alright then; let's get everything set up. Before the sun sets, we'll need to either find a village or build a house, get some food, a crafting table, some weapons and maybe a furnace if needed." They all stood to attention, prompting my pleased nod, turning to each one by one.
"Spike, you're on house duty." The dragon nodded, immediately getting to work towards the nearest tree.
"Discord, Zephyr, go get yourselves some pickaxes and mine for coal and cobblestone. And do it the right way." Both pouted, the latter mostly because of working close to Fluttershy's likely love interest, the former leading his reluctant arse away with a wheelbarrow.
"Big Mac, build a crafting table and find the best spot for Spike to set up the house." The Earth Pony happily obliged and rushed off to inspect the forest.
"Starlight." The pink unicorn stood ready, use to being ordered around by an expectant Twilight. "Craft us some weapons. Wooden pickaxes and swords will do at the moment." Starlight grinned, running another way to proceed just that, before pausing and calling out.
"What are you gonna do?"
"Me?" I turned around with a faint smirk, my own task the only one I'm capable of doing of us all. "I'm gonna hunt for some food."
My hunt for fresh digital meat ended up in failure. Oh not because there weren't any to be found; animals were scattered all over the forest. But because I had to remind myself that, video game or no, my friends were herbivores. Plus, I immediately found myself hesitant on killing a sheep up close, another annoying sign as to how Twilight and my friends have affected me over time.
That or because it's much different to kill something in a game when you'rethatphysically close to it... Nah probably the former.
So instead, I resorted to crafting a wooden hoe and finds some apples and seeds. Hope that village didn't mind me taking their only food from them. I'll send an apology card later. Spike and Big Mac weren't hard to track down, the two finding a good spot by a river to construct the wooden house. Already with the game's physics they were about halfway done. Starlight was by the crafting table outside it, working on something.
"Stardust!" The pink unicorn called out upon noticing my approach. "How do you make windows? I have the sand but I can't find the option anywhere."
Spike answered for me, "You have to use a furnace." The mare frowned in disappointment. Can't blame her, she had to wait for those two schmucks to get back with a cobblestone and coal needed.
"Why don't you go check on how they're doing?" I recommended. "They'll need their own weapons against the monsters lurking underground." Starlight nodded, preparing to leave before something sprung to her mind.
"Oh! Here you go." Ah, nice. I took the weightless wooden sword from Starlight's offered magic. "Spike and Big Mac already have theirs. I'll come back with the others before sundown."
Always a team player. Once Starlight departed back into the woods, I headed towards my other friends. Big Mac was walking upon stacks of wood, placing one down by another at a steady pace. Spike was on the floor, replacing the previous sand with wooden planks, the two hard at work already.
"Nice place." I looked around appreciatively, nodding in approval. "I may have to move in."
Spike chuckled, dusting off his claws. "You better, we're making this specifically for you guys." And turned to me with a smile. "Where have you been?"
"Eh, gathering consumables." And nodded to the open view behind the dragon revealing the still lake. "I'm gonna use the back to grow some veges." After I gather some dirt first to plant the seeds, of course. "You and Big Mac are clearly having the time of your lives."
"Eeyup." The red Earth Pony grinned cheerfully from above.
Spike beamed. "I'm having a blast! The good news is we haven't encountered any creepers yet. Last thing we need is for all our effort to blow up in our faces... Literally." Too true. "I kinda wish Thorax could join us. He would be having fun too."
Smiling in empathy, my hoof placed itself on the semi-saddened dragon's shoulder. "I'm sure he's having just about as much fun back in the Empire." And speaking of which, now seemed the perfect time to address something I've been meaning to with Spike. "While we're on the subject, I want to talk to you about what happened back there, with Thorax, in that cave."
"Huh?"
Spike blinked in earnest confusion, prompting my small grin. "I mean your little bold display of sticking up for your friend." The dragon flushed, and I laughed lightly at the expression. "I've already said enough time how proud I am of you, but this time... This time it extends beyond that." Spike met my serious yet content gaze. "There's more than being a Twilight Warrior than just having powers and correcting Balance, Spike. It's about facing anything even though it scares you; defending the weak and anyone who's in need of assistance. You proved yourself more worthy of wielding the title than I that day."
Oh my God, were those tears beginning to leak from the dragon's eyes? Twilight, you've raised to be far too sensitive! Wiping them off with a claw, Spike smiled warmly. "It just felt like the right thing to do, that's all. And I'd do it again; Thorax is my friend, and he deserved a chance just as much as anyone else!"
His green eyes conveyed the hidden message alluding to another non-pony whom Spike had befriended, long ago. The conviction mixed with unshakable kindness to other beings made my chest swell with affection. "I've said this a million times already Spike, but I'm proud to call you my brother... And son." This time, Spike was properly taken aback, and I chuckled at the display. "That is, if you'd like me to call you that-"
A tight hug told everything for me, but the young blissful dragon whispered happily into my furry chest. "I've wanted both a brother and a dad... Now I get both at once." My smile widened in content, patting his back fondly. In my mind's eye, Twilight warm smile at this bonding moment was palpable-
"We're baaaaack!" And the moment was ruined faster than Rainbow's showers. Our attention turned towards the beaming Zephyr, proudly holding up his pickaxe with Starlight lumbering behind him. "Oh, is that our supposed shelter? Could use some more colour."
"You're welcome to help." I retorted dryly as Spike and I disengaged from the embrace. "Maybe get some carpet or different shades of wood."
"Y'know, anything to help when you've probably made Discord and Starlight do all the work for ya." My gaze snapped to Spike, the dragon snarking at Zephyr openly with a wry grin. Even Discord appearing from thin air looked stunned by the remark, Starlight and Zephyr blinking, and Big Mac pausing from his work in surprise.
...That's my son alright.
The rest of the game was... Progressive.
To a point, anyway.
"Well, now she's a beauty isn't she?"
"Careful Stardust; Twilight might not enjoy you saying that to someone else."
"Yeah, now she'll have to fight the whole house for my affections."
"My money's on the house."
"In all seriousness guys, I think we've made a great team today. And I think night's just around the corner. We better get inside."
"Do we have any beds?"
"Yeah, I sheared some sheep earlier and borrowed some wood from Big Mac."
"Eeyup."
"Love the back garden, by the way."
"Thank you, Zephyr helped with the style."
"Anything to make this place more bearable to live in."
"You're so considerate..."
"Eeyup."
"So what's the first thing we do in the morning? Mine underground?"
"We're gonna need more food that apples and vegetables."
"I'll handle that. We're also need more coal for the furnace; wood's barely keeping it alive."
"Discord and Zephyr already mined today. Big Mac, you and Starlight could handle that tomorrow if you're both up for it?"
"Eeyup."
"Sure thing. Anything else that needs doing?"
"Umm..."
"Hmm..."
"What we really need is a goal. Some kind of main objective we're doing all this for."
"He brings up a good point. There has to be some reward waiting for us at the end."
"...We could slay the Ender Dragon? Though that's just a suggest-"
"That's a great idea Starlight!"
"It... It is?"
"Yeah! Or the Wither! Either works!"
"I think the Ender Dragon would be the less likely to finish us off in a nanosecond. What do ya say guys? Shall we slay ourselves a dragon?"
"Sure... If it's possible."
"Eeyup."
"That dragon shall face my might!"
"Bring it on!"
"...Discord? You've been keeping quiet. You wanna help in our quest?"
"Oh, pay no attention to little ol' me. I'm just waiting for you guys to notice."
"Notice what...?"
"Guys... Why is there a green creature on the second floor?"
"Green- Oh [BEEP]."
"Language Stardust, please! There are kids here!"
"I'm not a kid-!"
"Who let a bloody creeper in?! And how'd it get on the second floor?!"
"Discord!"
"What? You can't possibly make me responsible foreveryounce of disharmony to your lives. Blame Mr. Midlife Crisis over here."
"What? I thought it'd look great next to the beds! So I sorta... Guided it in?"
"God dammit Zephyr-!"
"Wait, how did you manage to get a creeper up there without it blowing up?"
"With my charm of course! Oh honestly Spike you should know I have that effect on anypony by now."
"Yeah, like Rainbow..."
"Precisely! And one day, that mare will cease being in denial-"
"Can we focus on the fact that a creeper is preventing us from resting in our own house right now, please?!"
"Oh do relax, please Starlight! All that stress will ruin your makeup; I shall deal with our green eager friend up there-"
"One second."
"Ow!"
"Now get going."
"Did Zephyr just flash red?"
"A sign of taking damage. Stardust, you made him lose half a heart."
"He'll lose a lot more if that creeper explodes, I swear to God..."
"Eeyup..."
"Here creeper creeper creeper. That's a good boy! We're just going to play a game and- AHH!"
"Well... At least we have a wondrous view of the night sky."
"Aheh... Looks like the creeper wasn't happy about leaving his new home."
"He's not the only one..."
"Guys... Big Mac's gone! And all this stuff on the ground was what he was carrying!"
"And look, all the growing veg's are gone too! Really Stardust you'd make a terrible gardener... Oh, look I'm on four hearts- What the- Ow! Hey!"
"Here, let me help with that."
"No Stardust stop- Ow! Please! Enough! I'm going to- Ah!"
"There, that's one less problem to deal with."
"Wow... You just flat out killed him."
"One useless member dying for murdering a usefulpony. That's Balance right there."
"Sore loser anyone...?"
"I think we should get to work on repairing the house before- OW!"
"Oh relax, that didn't really hurt."
"Still, it was a reflexive reaction to... Uhh, guys?"
"What- Uh oh..."
"Well [BEEP]..."
"We're surrounded. Skeletons... Zombies! And more creepers!"
"They're getting close!"
"Unleash your weapons friends. We're going out fighting!"
"Or we could retreat and find shelter elsewhere-"
"For Spiketopia!"
"For Fluttershy's deceased brother!"
"Tonight we dine in Hell!"
"...Why do I bother... Keep them distracted while I'll repair the house- AG!"
"They got Starlight!"
"Skeleton to your left! Watch it!"
"Yay- Oh God! SPIDER!"
"'Oh God.' Stardust, you're rubbing off on him!"
"Two zombies to your right!"
"Pft! Easy peasy!"
"Discord! Watch out! Creeper behind you!"
"Hm-?"
"Well, that was a quick demise..."
"Stardust!"
"Spike I got your back! Just you and me now!"
"Just like old times, huh bro- Dad?"
"Team Spike and Star, and it'll always be that way son."
"Then let's give these monsters a fight worth remembering for!"
"Hiyaaaaaaaaaaa!"
"Let's just all agree on one thing." Spike started amidst our gathering around the dining table. "We definitely have to do that again one day soon."
"Hear hear!" Followed with the clanking of cola bottles tapping against one another in celebration, the six of us taking a long moment of relaxation after that rather tiring escapade. Spike and I were quick to join the others back in my room after that battle, to which I berated Discord for obviously not setting the world's difficulty to Medium, which the trickster retorted with a simple "I had forgotten all about it."
Because of course he had...
"I had a blast tonight." Starlight added, beaming radiantly at us all. "Though we didn't manage to reach the Ender Dragon, it was fun playing the inside of the game with you guys."
"We would've made it far." Zephyr responded with a tinge of annoyance. "Had some barbarian not killed me off just because I wanted the home to look more stylish." Discord's mockery dissipated my own irritation, the creature of chaos mimicking the shameless pegasus in his own form whilst making goofy faces, to Zephyr's ignorance.
Then Zephyr noticed with the voice perfectly matching his from the trickster's throat. "And if I wasn't such a mild inconvenience to my teammates with my stupid decision-making and lack of common sense." Discord then transformed back into his original abominable form as we all chuckled. "But what can ya do? Better luck next time, eh friends? I could look up my schedule for next week."
"That's a great idea!" Spike pitched in excitedly. "We could do like a game night every weekend after our guy's night! It'd be amazing wouldn't it?"
Starlight looked amused. "I wouldn't mind joining in again if I'm not busy." Zephyr and Big Mac all too thrilled, Discord smirking proudly, whereas I nodded in agreement. Why not? Sounds like fun should Twilight or Balance training not keep me those weekends.
"We should have a name for ourselves!" Zephyr then spoke up enthusiastically, speaking sensibly for the first time tonight. "A name for these gaming nights, and a name for our little group here."
"I got it! The Warrior's Game Night!" We all blinked at Spike, who shrugged and released a sheepish smile. "I mean, Stardust is gonna be in charge, and I was just thinking of that awesome fight we had inside the game..."
"...I think it suits." Discord replied sincerely, grinning crookedly. "Could've been a worse name."
"I was moreso think along the lines of 'Zephyr and Friend's Fun Gaming Night-'"
"You wish." I snapped lightly, turning back to my brother. "That sounds great Spike. Now all we need is a name for our group."
"Eeyup." Big Mac, the walking thesaurus, contributed once again.
Starlight tapped her chin with emphasized thought. "How about... The Twilight Gamers?"
"Pft! What is it with you ponies and your beloved Princess? I say 'The Zephyr Gamers!'"
"Team Misfit Gamers!"
"Star Brigade?"
"Team Disharmony!" We all looked to Discord. "What? We're anything but harmony together."
Starlight glared hard at the table, as if willing the object to give her an idea... And it seemed to work, given the mare's loud gasp. "I got it!" Yeah? The inspired unicorn grinned brightly at us all. "How about just 'The Gaming Warriors?'"
That... Sounds amazing, actually. And judging by the shared looks all around, the other members thought so too.
"It works I guess."
"Seems legit."
"I'm down with it."
"Eeyup."
"Alright!" Spike offered a claw. "Let's make this official then." As we exchanged amused looks, everyone decided to humour the hyped dragon and placed their hands atop one another, Spike declaring with pride, "Next time we'll slay the Ender Dragon, in the name of the Gaming Warriors!"
"Yeah!" And our limbs stretched to the ceiling in waking triumph. I was unable to wipe the silly grin off my face.
"That was incredible, our final battle in the game!" Spike continued, even when sleep was beginning to appear on his eyes. The tired lizard was wrapped nice and cozy in his small bed, but still excited enough to recount the events of tonight which I've already participated in. "Just imagine what we'll be like when we face the dragon! Yeah, we're sure to win, right Star?"
I smirked. "With an even braver dragon by our side, I know it." From the doorway, Twilight and Starlight watched in content, waiting for me to finish helping the enthusiastic dragon to rest. And it seemed to be already working; coaxing Spike's heart a little through Balance magic, urging him to finally sleep after an exciting night.
"Heh, we make a great team, don't we...?" Spike's voice softened with every passing word, settling down into his pillow with a blissful smile. "Hey Stardust?"
Rubbing the dragon's forehead with affection, I replied gently, "Yeah Spike?"
"Promise..." He yawned adorably. "Promise me you'll stick around forever... Please?"
I paused... Then answered in faint humour. "I'm not an alicorn, Spike."
"No, I mean... Just for as long as possible... Being there for me... You'll do that, right?"
"Always..." But Spike was already in the realm of sleep before he could possibly hear my quiet resolve. Yet, as I stood up after planting a kiss to his scalp, the dragon drowsily called out before complete sleep took over him.
"I love you Dad..."
My breath hitched. Dad... Just being verbally acknowledged as that brought a strange mixture of satisfaction, pride and... I think I was going to choke on my own happiness and the bond between us pulsing with light. With a shake grin, I replied gently to the resting lizard.
"Sleep well... Son."
This must be how Shining felt after Flurry was born... Or my own Dad after I managed to call him as such at a young age...
"'Dad?' 'Son?'" Twilight waited after we closed the doors with a raised brow, more curious than judging. Starlight smirked in knowing amusement, and I shrugged.
"Spike and I talked earlier... And it appears he now accepts me as his surrogate father."
"Just as you accept him as your surrogate son." Starlight pointed out fondly, smiling.
At my nod, Twilight's proud expression brightened to the point it looked likeshewas about to shed some tears of joy, nuzzling into my neck with a sweet tone. "I wouldn't think of anyone more suitable for him to view as such."
I whispered into her gorgeous mane tenderly, "Before you know it, he'll be calling you Mom sometime soon. As will Starlight." Twilight pulled back, eyes sparkling at the prospect.
"I wouldn't mind that..."
The pink unicorn meanwhile blinked in genuine confusion. "Wait, why would I call Twilight that?"
Wrapping a limb around my Princess's shoulders, we both grinned towards the confounded Starlight. "Because you're family too, Starlight. Isn't she love?"
"The moment she became my student." Twilight confirmed with affection, prompting her protege to blink rapidly, her cheeks turning a more rosy pink at the clear implications. Then, a warm smile wormed its way up on the happy unicorn.
"Could I just call you my sister then instead? 'Mom' feels weird when we're around the same age."
Twilight chuckled lightly. "That works just as well." And buried herself further into my chest, our bond allowing me to hear her heart speak:
"Thank you, Celestia... Starswirl... You've both given me an irreplaceable gift."