Dusk Shine, Cadance, and the Shadow 5 followed the signs to the gymnasium. Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna agreed that a simple welcome party would help facilitate a healthy relationship between the competing schools.
Hopefully.
He led from the front, keeping his distance from the rest of his group. Dusk Shine’s face was blank stone, ignoring what had occurred a few moments ago. He didn’t mention or acknowledge it whatsoever. His purple eyes were shallow voids like any other day. Still, something awakened in his pupils—a frenzied internal inferno begging Dusk Shine to satisfy its hunger. The Shadow 5 muttered, wondering what had happened.
“I know you guys saw that,” Sour Sweet whispered to her nodding team. They all did.
“Something was up with that statue,” Lemon Zest contributed, lowering the headphone’s volume. Dusk Shine was stuck on the stone horse as if something was forcing him to maintain contact.
Sugarcoat briefly pondered, recalling the soft flaming material oozing from the statue. “You think it. .,” She paused as the tension lumped into her throat. Insects skittered across her nerves at the sheer mention of the upcoming words. “It was aether?” Sugarcoat announced, swiftly glancing at Dusk Shine with Dean Cadance by his side. Unease crashed against the girls like an apathetic tidal wave. Sour Sweet examined her hand for any marks.
They’re aware of the Gateway experiment. Everyone knew about the dangers and horrors of Aether. How couldn’t they? Abnormal weather patterns & mutated wildlife. People with strange abilities, but those were thankfully sporadic. Although, the fact that they were on a potential hot spot . . . frightened them.
“That would explain how CHS climbed the ranks in the past year,” Indigo Zap considered speaking everyone’s thoughts or trying to avoid the conversation. Everybody gossiped about how CHS rapidly jumped from a decent school to one of the top in Equestria. Then again, Dusk Shine helped clean up some of CHS’s internal issues.
‘Dusk Shine,’ They all thought, worrying about their teammate. Did Aether corrupt his mind and personality in exchange for improved abilities? Some would eagerly believe that to save their own ego. Unable to stomach the repulsive bile of their inadequacy. Sunny Flare didn’t voice her opinions on whether she believes that Dusk Shine undoubtedly built alternatively or was amplified by magic. She had an inkling of what was going on with Dusk Shine. She overheard that her . . . mother acquired some type of amulet from a benefactor.
Speaking of which, I need some new names for magic/Aether. Aeon? I’ll worry about it later.
“They haven’t broken records, so I doubt it,” Sour Sweet grumbled, focusing on their upcoming victory. That boosted their confidence and eased their worries. Magic or not. Crystal Prep Academy was going to win another Friendship game.
They arrived at the gymnasium, where all the students and several CHS teachers were. Dusk Shine handed his bag to Cadance, who went in a separate direction down the hall. The A-team entered the room.
A banner saying ‘Welcome Crystal Prep’ hung overhead while Vinyl Scratch played some low-tempo music. Tension ran thick between the two schools, occupying different room halves like a pitched battle, exchanging harsh glares with the other school while Photo Finish snapped some pictures. Luna, Celestia, and Cinch were on the stage. Two echoing taps broke the stalemate, turning their attention to CHS’s principal.
“Good day, everyone,” Celestia announced with a sunny skip in her voice. It’s her job to make their guests feel welcome. “Today, we welcome our guests, Crystal Prep, for another Friendship game. Please enjoy yourselves,” She concluded, attempting to ease the dense air.
Flash Sentry was the first to attempt to make a friendly approach, stepping forward with a smile along with some of his classmates. Sour Sweet sneered at them, dropping a cup and crushing it beneath her heel. Flash Sentry eyed Dusk Shine. The Schola Perfecta gestured against attempting to socialize with his school. Not worth the headache. Believe him, he tried for years. Flash raised his hands in a surrendering shrug and returned to his school’s side.
“O. . .k then,” Celestia muttered, observing as the students prolonged their separation. This isn’t good. No fault of their own, but definitely Cinch’s, given that coldly smug grin on her face. What has she been teaching her students? Celestia predicted the notions of class, status, and elitism. Cinch always had a dominating sense of classism, despite her being of a barely lower social rank than the Celestial siblings. Was their school’s rivalry her method of getting a sense of superiority over them?
“Don’t worry, I have an idea,” Luna whispered with a grin. The older sister shared a grin as well.
Trixie smirked at the signal. Time to put on a show for their guests. She freshened herself using a mild fragrance and fluffing her blueish-white hair for added volume. Her lips were glistening with a gentle balm. She cleared her throat.
“Oh, Dusk Shine~,” Trixie announced with a gallop and wide grin, raising her hand. Dusk Shine glanced at the noise, holding his beverage.
“Hm,” He muttered before erecting a smile. “Hey, Tri-IXE!” Dusk Shine grunted as she jumped into an embrace. He’s strong enough to hold her, so it wasn’t an issue. But give a guy a warning next time. “Okay, what’s the scheme?” He asked, resting her down. She got in close, resting her arm on his shoulder. Students' eyes widened, and they gasped at their casual behavior.
“Whatever do you mean?” Trixie cooed, playfully fluttering her eyelashes. He wasn’t deterred even as she drew circles on his chest.
“I was born at night, not last night, Lulamoon,” Dusk Shine deadpanned. The pair continued to chat. His classmates stared wide-eyed at their interaction. WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON? When did Dusk Shine meet this light blue beauty? It would help explain why he wasn’t interested in any girls at school. Or . . . maybe . . . think about it for a few moments. Perhaps Dusk Shine isn’t romantically interested in CPA’s female student population because of how you guys treated him? The deliberate isolation you imposed on the Top Student just to project your weak and pathetic egos. Transactional interactions with him so you can maintain a B average. Plus, some of you actively bullied and harassed Dusk Shine in the past and flipped your attitude toward him when Dean Cadance returned from maternity leave.
“Hey, is that the girl you guys were talking about when you were at the mall?” A student whispered to the B-team. They continued to whisper curiously about Dusk Shine’s relationship with Trixie. Was she his girlfriend instead of this Sunset Shimmer? Trixie had to be important to him as he allowed her to touch him.
“Yes. See, I told you guys,” Neon Lights boasted with a smirk and crossed arms. They told their schoolmates that Dusk Shine was hanging out with a cute girl Royal Pin scoffed while sipping on his punch.
“Come on, we have a lot to discuss,” Trixie urged him to follow her by tugging his hand. She has a showman’s smile that charms her audience.
“Sure,” Dusk Shine shrugged, seeing no problem with it. Better than being an invisible drone among his classmates. However, someone didn’t enjoy that idea.
“Hold it,” Sunny Flare barked as she grabbed his sleeve, stopping the two in their tracks. Dusk Shine blankly stared at her hand, frowning as if he was disgusted. “You’re not going over there with her,” She demanded, garnering her team's attention. They stood behind her.
Dusk Shine ignored her and his team, roughly pulling his arm away as he resumed his journey. That defiance infuriated her. What gives him the right to brush her off without an explanation? Cinch would scold her if she didn’t try to stop him.
“I told you, you’re not going over there with her. Don’t you hear what I said?” Sunny Flare stomped, roughly grabbing his shoulder with her demands.
His eyes darkened about experiencing her invasive touch as his amulet became a second burning heartbeat. Who the fuck said she could touch him? Luna’s spine chilled, recalling this same foul stygian feeling throughout her body. Her panicked opal eyes searched for it before focusing on Dusk Shine.
“Please, no,” The Vice Principal muttered. Not him, anyone but him. He’s too young to tread on such a path.
Dusk Shine rotated his head, glaring at her fingers with murderous intent. He grabbed her hand, tossing them away like hot coals as he dusted away any filthy residue, handing off his cup to the magician.
Trixie stepped away, her heart pounding and sweat forming on her brow. The magician didn’t know what the hell was going but . . . Dusk Shine was PISSED. It wasn’t the ordinary pissed. He was boiling with anger, likely something that’s been accumulating for years, underneath his calm demeanor. She doesn’t blame him, especially after everything he endured at CPA and in his personal life. Her purple eyes scanned the posh girl’s solar hairpin. This must be Sunny Flare, CPA’s principal’s daughter. Trixie saw the similarities: Skintone, hair texture, and that annoyed pout with crossed arms.
“Good, now you’re going to sit down and,” Sunny Flare nodded with a conceited and stern smile as she ordered him.
“Hey . . . shut the hell up, will ya?” Dusk Shine whispered in a booming tone. Something in his voice changed as well. Lower, guttural, even unworldly. Dusk Shine wanted to curse at her, but they were guests, and he didn’t want to sully CPA’s reputation. Trixie and the A-team jaws hung loose.
“Excuse me?!” Sunny Flare retorted, narrowing her eyes, taken back by his sudden disrespect.
“Did I stutter?!” Dusk Shine countered, arching his brow. He approached her, getting directly into her face. Sunny Flare glared at him, tilting her upwards as he stared down at her. She took an unconscious step back. Mere millimeters separated them. “I wanted to ask you a question,” He did something they would never expect. Dusk Shine . . . removed his glasses and placed them in his pocket. Sunny Flare got a good look at his eyes. Once, they were beautiful purple gemstones but mutated into an oily flaming abyss devoid of that intellectual charm and curious wonder. Her reflection stared back into the void. Sunny Flare saw the panic in her eyes, locking her in place. “Who gave you the authority to tell me what to do?” Dusk Shine enquired, tilting his head, peering directly into her soul with a hollow gaze. His breath was hot and minty, displaying top-tier hygiene, yet it offered no comfort. Some of his team's hearts raced, and bodies tensed. Waves of fear and scorching intimidation radiated off Dusk Shine’s presence.
It’s a simple question. Who gave Sunny Flare the power, authority, and right to order Dusk Shine around? The last he checked, nobody did.
“. . .” Sunny Flare didn’t respond as she looked down. Trixie, Luna, and Shadow 5 gazed worriedly at this exchange. They’ve never seen Sunny Flare be so submissive. Cinch was the only one who could make Sunny Flare this humble. Haunting thoughts formed in their minds.
Something wasn’t right.
This wasn’t Dusk Shine. This was the Schola Perfecta of Crystal Preparatory Academy. You don’t become Schola Perfecta of such a prestigious educational institution by being friendly or merciful. It requires a particular type of selfishness and cruelty to topple over everyone in your path. That’s why his brother can’t be the Top Student. Shining Armor was too kind. Thankfully Dusk Shine does not have such pathetic weaknesses.
His amulet cackled at their tensing bodies like they were about to run. Did they expect him to be passive and follow whatever order uttered from their lips? Fucking idiots. The amulet smirked as the Shadow’s 5 hearts quaked at Dusk Shine’s enmity and malevolence.
“Exactly. Nobody did,” Dusk Shine admonished, stepping forward as her body chilled to the bone and nerves. Sunny Flare’s image was supposed to be blurry, yet he could see her. It wasn’t crystal clear, but Dusk Shine could still see her. “Only a few people have that authority,” Several individuals flashed in his mind. His parents, Shining Armor, Cadance, various family members, friends, and notable associates. They can order him without question. Not her! Never! Dusk Shine would rather die than submit to anyone of his classmates at Crystal Prep. He has never before and won’t be doing that anytime soon.
“And you. . . are . . . not . . . one. . . of . . . them,” He emphasized every syllable into her ears in a silvery voice. Softly yet potent. His voice was a somber campfire that exploded into a voracious annihilating blaze leaving nothing but remains in his path. Dusk Shine kept his cool as his eyes narrowed into predatory slits. “And you NEVER will be, so don’t even attempt to order me around,”
“Dusk Shine, just take it into consideration,” Sugarcoat interjected, attempting to ease the tension.
“Excuse me? Did I ask for your opinion on navigating my social life?” Dusk Shine snapped. Sugarcoat kept her mouth shut. “The last time I checked, we’re not friends; I don’t think we ever were based on prior experiences,” He tapped his chin and elaborated on any misunderstanding in their relationships. His eyes were narrowed dangerously, sharply gesturing between himself and the girls. The harsh words cut them profoundly, but they can’t deny the truth. Trixie’s chest ballooned watching Dusk Shine stand up for himself and chastise those who harmed and mistreated him. She frowned, unable to ignore the flickers of regret in their expressions.
“We’re acquaintances, colleagues, or classmates at best. I’m only here to make you guys don’t ruin our reputation,” Dusk Shine continued before gazing at Sunny Flare. She shuddered. “Besides, the faster we win, the faster I’m in Everton. The faster you’ll be the top student again,” He smiled sardonically at Sunny Flare. Her fist clenched, lip quivered at the brutal mockery of the claim. “Moondancer,” Dusk Shine called to his old classmate.
“Yes,” Moondancer obeyed, her body straightened at attention. She’s still anxious from the training incident with the arrow in his shoulder.
“You’re with me. Let’s say hi to some of our old classmates,” Dusk Shine suggested, gesturing to some familiar faces. It’s better than being with benchwarmers and coat-tail pests.
“Gladly,” Moondancer agreed, glaring at some of her classmates while trailing behind Dusk Shine and Trixie. The Shadow 5 wanted to yell at her, but they were chained by social conviction. Crystal Prep had a reputation for decorum. Cinch’s callous glare prevented them from acting out. They were arrogant but not rude. Their anger and indignation bubbled, but they kept the lid on, taking a few seats at nearby bleachers.
“Can you believe him?” Sour Sweet grumbled, folding her arms as Dusk Shine walked away.
“He’s not wrong,” Sugarcoat rationalized, much to her chagrin. Sour Sweet groaned, aware of that groundbreaking revelation but didn’t like hearing it. The archer sighed, wishing she wasn’t so weak in the past. She wondered if that one-time deal with Cinch was worth it or had any semblance of truth. Did Sour Sweet toss away Dusk Shine for half-truths and bald-faced lies? She glared at Cinch as the cold-hearted principal observed Dusk Shine, Moondancer, and their companions before glancing at Sunny Flare. Sour’s eyes widened at the principal’s daughter.
Sunny Flare had her head down, not even looking up from her lap. She shielded herself with her arm to avoid Cinch’s piercing glare. Another failure in her mother’s eyes. Sunny’s pride evaporated from her body, leaving a biological husk behind. She wanted to run away, hide and cry to escape it all. However, Cinch won’t allow it. Their principal won't let her reputation be sullied just because her daughter wanted to be a crybaby. Where’s Dean Cadance? Sunny Flare needed someone kind and empathetic. Her ‘friends’ weren’t the best options. Sugarcoat’s blunt and notably stony tone and Sour Sweet’s rapid mood spins left Dusk Shine as her main pillar. But he’s with Trixie and doesn’t want anything to do with them. Guess Sunny Flare is stuck here until something happens.
Several students observed Dusk Shine chatting with Trixie and her bandmates while commenting on his old classmates' conversation, even getting a few laughs and smiles from them. The interactions were an anomaly or a paradox to the spectating CPA students.
Dusk Shine . . . the Purple Prince, the Amethyst Academic, the Striped Scholar, the Conqueror of Cloudsdale.
For all the time they’ve known him, they never saw Dusk Shine being so open and vibrant in his words and expression. The Schola Perfecta was virtually an automaton designed to be intellectually superior to any average human. Brief interactions, dull expressions, and swift explanations were the norm. You were lucky if you got Dusk Shine to talk for more than a few minutes. However, they did shut him down numerous times in the past.
Dusk Shine is EVERYTHING that Crystal Prep represents. He was of noble birth and remained in the upper levels of society. The only ones that outclass him are Celestia and Luna. His drive, ambition, and determination to reach the apex. It pains them to admit it, but they can’t discredit his work ethic. Numerous parents begged, pleaded, or demanded that they be around Dusk Shine so his habits could be transferred to them. Some did. The majority did not, likely due to pride.
How can they?
To be told they were better than others due to their wealth, social status, and institution, even if they were average. They were still better than everyone else. Then someone of their stature emerged, making their average look mediocre. Parents and colleagues immediately scrutinize their children’s work ethic, wondering why they can’t be like Dusk Shine. His presence mocks them. He was better than them. If Dusk Shine was a prodigy from a middle or upper-middle-class family, their harsh treatment of him would be lessened. He would’ve been beneath them, giving them something lord over him. No. Dusk Shine’s one of them. An elite. Watching him achieve award after award like they were apples on a farm. It stains their pride and honor. Now he’s the Schola Perfecta, another barrier separating him from the rest of his peers like a massive stone dividing a river. An untouchable position away from the ordinary people.
Yet Dusk Shine was chatting with their opponents like they were old friends. He trusted total strangers more than his own schoolmates. Some were his previous classmates before his acceptance into Crystal Prep. Another idea popped into their heads. If Dusk Shine can mingle with their opponents, then why can’t they? CHS students seemed like cool people. Several students arose and stepped to CHS’s side.
“Where are you guys going?” Royal Pin accused the group, crossing his arms along with others. Why are they going over there?
“Um, over there,” A girl gestured her thumb to CHS’s section of the room. It’s getting boring over here. They’ll be damned if they allow Dusk Shine, the solitary beacon, to have better social skills than them.
Royal Pin rolled his eyes before frowning again. “You guys, too,” He exaggerated at his teammates, going over to CHS.
“Yes, plus there are cute girls over there, and my contact list needs to be expanded,” Trenderhoof nodded with a beaming Neon Lights. More gradually went over to CHS, but it was that cold professional mingling.
CHS’s A-team entered the room. Pinkie Pie jumped with a wide grin. “Time to get part-tay started!” She broadcasted jubilantly before her voice dragged to a crawl. “Oh,” Pinkie Pie muttered, caressing her forehead in disappointment. This wasn’t what she expected. There was little mingling throughout the room, but the majority remained segregated. Still better than nothing.
“What a snooze fest,” Rainbow Dash whispered to the group. Rarity shushed her as the rainbow-haired tomboy shrugged. She’s not wrong. However, what do they expect? For everyone to be buddy-buddy before one of the most intense events of their life? At least Dusk Shine was chatting with Trixie and her group, Moondancer, Lyra, and Bon-Bon. They thought Dusk Shine had a sister or cousin that resembled him. Sunset corrected them that Moondancer and Lyra Heartstrings were among his former classmates.
“Thank goodness, otherwise his father or mother had some explaining to do,” Rarity and Applejack added. Those two resemble identifiable twins, with Dusk Shine being older, or will it be Moondancer since her birthday is before his? Whatever. CPA students were hanging with CHS but in small niche gatherings. Sunset Shimmer eyed the Shadow 5 near the bleachers, keeping a snobby aura with turned noses and crossed arms. Sunny Flare stole glances at Dusk Shine, enjoying himself without them. Sunset focused on Cinch, giving Sunny Flare an icy glare.
“Sheesh,” Sunset Shimmer muttered, screwing her face up at such a loveless relationship. Dusk Shine reported that Cinch was notoriously strict and critical of her daughter, especially after she lost the title of Schola Perfecta to him. Also that Cinch was attempting to play matchmaker with them. Seriously what’s wrong with that woman?
Speaking of Dusk Shine, he went to the snack table. Wallflower Blush bumped into Indigo Zap and Royal Pin and excused herself, nearly colliding into Dusk Shine. The two quickly spoke and separated. Wallflower had a beam on herself. He paused, glaring at the CMC, who cowered under his harsh gaze but let them through to the table. Dusk Shine grabbed that . . . oh, definitely shouldn’t have done that.
Sunset Shimmer marched over to him. “Dusk Shine, what are you doing?” She demanded with crossed arms, gathering CPA’s attention. He lifted a brow behind his glasses.
“Who wants to know?” Indigo Zap interjected before he could speak, jabbing Sunset in the chest. Zap knows that Sunset Shimmer is one of Dusk Shine’s few weaknesses. She’s not going to let that happen. Shimmer arched her brow, was she supposed to be intimidated?
“Um, we are,” Rainbow Dash countered, getting into Zap’s space. Applejack separated them, attempting to cool hostilities. An itching sense of familiarity plagued Dusk Shine’s mind as he watched the smack talk between the two parties.
‘Have I been here before?’ He wondered. There are striking similarities between his team and Sunset’s team. However, the Shadowbolts were supposed to be dark or corrupted equivalents. Sunny Flare and Rarity had posh elegance, but Sunny lacked social tact. Applejack was honest, while Sugarcoat was brutally honest. Oh, the irony. Sour Sweet was superficially kind before swapping to extreme animosity. Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash had identical personalities. Still, his team had a more defined competitive and mean streak.
Then there’s Dusk Shine and Sunset Shimmer. The top student of their respective schools, Sunset Shimmer, was once hated as the Sunscorch demon in her bullying days but now has been reborn as the beloved Solar-kissed Phoniex.
In contrast, Dusk Shine was once loved as the Rising Star of Crystal Prep, then he became the Schola Perfecta, taking the title from Sunny Flare. Envy, pride, and insecurity turned their admiration into pure bitter rancor. Now Dusk Shine stands alone as the Crystal Prince, the Flaming lavender comet, the Scourge of the Clouds. Some even called him a demon.
The smack talk intensified, forcing the rest of the CHS team to stand by. Dusk Shine looked at the team. Flash Sentry, Derpy Hooves, Lyra Heartstrings, Bon-Bon, Sandalwood & Microchip. Cinch’s gaze forced the CPA’s B-team to act as well. Indignation flowed through Dusk Shine’s body with this excess noise. Indigo and Rainbow continued to argue.
“Listen here, Skittles,” Indigo snarled when a cold hand grabbed her shoulder. She paused.
“That’s enough,” Dusk Shine commanded gently as if she was a young child. Everyone stopped arguing. The principals and Dean Cadance muttered, approving of Dusk Shine’s actions. “Hold your wings. I can handle Sunset myself,” He declared, motioning her to get behind on the line as he approached Canterlot High. Rainbow Dash didn’t want to deal with Dusk Shine again, so Sunset Shimmer took the lead.
“I would like to recognize the twelve students that CHS has elected to compete. I don't think we could have chosen a better group to represent the excellence, sportsmanship, and friendship the games stand for,” Celestia broadcasted to the entire school. All the students were there.
Canterlot High: Applejack, Rarity, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Sunset Shimmer as the A-team. Flash Sentry, Derpy Hooves, Lyra Heartstrings, Bon-Bon, Sandalwood & Microchip as the B-team serving as back-up or generalists.
Crystal Prep: Dusk Shine, Sugarcoat, Lemon Zest, Sunny Flare, Indigo Zap, and Sour Sweet as the A-team or the Shadow 6. Finally, Royal Pin, Suri Polomare, Upper Crust, Jet Set, Trenderhoof, and Neon Lights as the B-team
Here they are, standing face to face against one another like two armies before a pitched battle. The champions of their schools. Sunset Shimmer was flanked by Rainbow Dash and Applejack. Dusk Shine had Sour Sweet and Sunny Flare right behind him.
“Dusk Shine,” Sunset Shimmer started.
“How can I help you, Ms. Shimmer,” Dusk Shine questioned. She glanced at his hand.
“Is that the last choco-red velvet cupcake?” Sunset Shimmer quizzed, focusing on the cupcake
Dusk Shine removed the wrap, tearing the reddish brown bottom, and placed it on top of the rich crimson frosting, making a sandwich. He devoured it in one bite. “Probably,” Dusk Shine shrugged as he chewed the moist dessert.
“Oh no,” Someone from the CHS side muttered fearfully.
“You know what happens,” Sunset Shimmer warned, narrowing her eyes at him
“I do, but do I care?” Dusk Shine remarked, rolling his eyes, closing the distance.
“Think you’re pretty cute just because you got a growth sprout, you walking bisexual flag,”
“I am adorable, you burnt piece of bacon,” Dusk Shine taunted, countering with another tease.
“Burnt bacon?!” Rarity yelled at the comment. He could’ve called her a ketchup-mustard swirl.
“Uncooked sharp cheddar,”
“Purple throw-up,”
“Milady, I am Mulberry,” Dusk Shine corrected, holding one of those color palettes cards. “Or a gentle lilac or lavender,” He theorized, looking at the card.
“You actually keep those around,” Sunset Shimmer laughed, resting her hand on his shoulder.
“I have to get my facts right,” Dusk Shine said.
“But seriously, is that last one?” Sunset Shimmer asked. He motioned his hand, and a cupcake appeared in the middle. Yes!” Her eyes brightened as she snatched it from his palm. “Have I mentioned that you’re awesome?” She said while biting into the treat.
“Feelings’ mutual at least someone appreciates my efforts,” Dusk Shine mumbled.
“We do!” Celestia, Luna, Cadance, and Trixie broadcasted.
“I wasn’t referencing you guys,” Dusk Shine deadpanned. He knows that his family loves and appreciates him. His classmates were the targets of his ire. The amulet hummed against his chest. Look down. “Hm?” Dusk Shine gazed downwards, viewing a girl around his age, slightly older, crouching with an expensive camera directed at him. “Um, hello,” He said before being blinded by a series of camera lights.
“Ah yes, this one has it. He has the MAGIC,” Photo Finish broadcasted as she took several albums of photos. “Ze refined scholarly elegance, Ze stern smooth angles, Ze sliver of defiance with the ear piercing contrasting the textbook definition of gentlemanly intellect, how Ze colors coordinate perfectly and symmetrically,” She enumerated, finding all possible angles of this polished specimen. Dusk Shine raised his brow, utterly confused about who this lady was. Although that accent is familiar. The flashing and shuttering stopped as Photo Finish examined the photos. He sighed in relief. “Ja, Ja, Ja, this is wonderful, my greatest creation yet of such a natural beauty,” The photographer nodded with a shining beam. She’s flanked by two girls. Pixel Pizzaz's deep voice doesn’t match her gothic Lolita servant aesthetic. I haven’t read that book, but I know it’s fucking disturbing. Violet Blurr dressed similarly to the Dazzlings, with her extended hair reaching the back of her knees and emphasizing the rocker look.
“Um . . . thank you,” Dusk Shine responded, unsure of how to perceive this interaction.
“Oh! My mistake, I haven’t introduced myself,” Phone Finish gasped before stretching out her hand.
“You’re Photo Finish,” Dusk Shine greeted, accepting the introduction. “I’ve heard of your amazing work,” He remarked as her eyes widened and sparkled at the news.
“EEEKKK!!!” Photo Finish squealed like a groupie meeting their favorite celebrity. “Ze top student of Crystal Prep has heard of my work,” She rambled off with a face-breaking smile. “Pinch me,” Photo Finish outstretched her arm, hoping this wasn’t a dream. The Snapshots obliged, leaving her arm with dual stinging pinch marks.
“Do you want to take off my glasses for any glares?” Dusk Shine requested as his hands took off his glasses. He squinted his eyes, adjusting the blurry images.
“NO!” Several girls rejected that notion.
“Dusk, you’ve been wearing glasses forever,” Sunset Shimmer mentioned, approaching him and helping him put on his glasses. Dusk Shine’s face turned pink at the proximity. “It’s literally a part of your identity, so it’ll be weird without it,” She beamed at him.
“Plus, you’re handsome with them and still handsome without them,” Sugarcoat announced straightforwardly. Everyone looked at her. “What?” She argued defensively while looking around.
“I won’t mind handing some of this-” Lemon Zest muttered with a smirk before Indigo Zap punched her shoulder. That murderous glare from Sour Sweet was all the reason to stop.
“How about some photos for ze top students?” Photo Finish requested, holding her camera ready. The two shared a look and shrugged with a smile. They did standard posses. Some were as if they were a couple. The two decided to have some fun and do a few Jojo poses. Few of their teammates get involved in the fun. Pinkie Pie used this time with Luna’s and Celestia’s permission to help prepare for the actual party. Several CHS students were also involved.
“Come on, Egghead,” Sunset Shimmer urged, now that the music switched to a slightly upbeat tone. Her arm around was his shoulder. He smiled as he followed her.
“Um, no, thank you,” Sour Sweet shot off, pushing Sunset Shimmer’s arm off Dusk Shine. “You already had your time with CHS,” She glared. Dusk Shine opened his mouth when Sunset decided to deal with it herself.
“Excuse me, why are you yelling at him?” Sunset Shimmer grimaced, accusing Sour Sweet, marching right up to her. She couldn’t defend Dusk Shine while he was at Crystal Prep but Sunset’s damn sure to protect him now.
“Yelling?” Sour Sweet repeated, not backing down from this.
“YELLING?!” Sunset Shimmer barked. Several members from both sides dragged the other away, attempting to prevent a cat fright. Each team wondered what the hell happened between the two. All they know is that Dusk Shine was the source of it. Those with a history with them know that Dusk Shine and Sour Sweet had some kind of relationship with each other. They were close, but then it stopped. Both claimed they grew apart, but something about that seemed oddly convenient, especially when Cinch got involved.
“Hey, Dusk Shine,” Pinkie Pie appeared from behind. He turned to her. “How about a little experiment,” She handed him a remote, gesturing to a set of . . .cannons?! Both had a sly smirk as he pushed the button. Students were startled by the sudden explosion of confetti. Still, the shock turned into a partying mood as Vinyl Scratch played more energetic music. Dusk Shine watched Pinkie Pie have a pink aura around her. The amulet cheered and roared excitedly as the pink energy flowed into him. It made Dusk Shine relax, cracking a bit of a smile and chuckle here and there. Strobe lights flickered around as students raced to the dancefloor with pony-eared headbands.
Sunset Shimmer grabbed his hand. “Come on, Smartypants, let’s go,” She coaxed with a wide beam.
“All right,” Dusk Shine agreed, loosing up his tie. “Come on, guys, it’s a party, time to have some fun,” He bargained with his schoolmates.
“What, are you serious?” Some of them questioned his decision. Is he going to cut loose? Dusk Shine of all people, the lord of introversion
“You don’t have to tell me twice,” Lemon Zest bubbled. She wanted any excuse to have a dance party. If Dusk Shine’s okay with it, who is she to argue against it?
“Anyone else?” Dusk Shine questioned. More shrugged and smiled as they got up from the bleachers. “Let’s show them how CPA really parties!” He roared, dragging Sunset Shimmer with him.
“Yes, sir!” Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, and Neon Lights charged after him. CPA students watched with agape jaws at Dusk Shine dancing. The fun kind!
“We’re all seeing the same thing, right?” One of the more stuck-up students questioned what they were seeing.
“Dusk Shine was a bit of a party animal when we were kids,” Moon Dancer admitted to their shocked expressions.
“He was a party animal,” They can’t see it, but here’s the evidence in front of them.
Dusk Shine approached them. His body was loose, with an unusual jubilant smile on his face. “Moondancer, what are you going here with these snores?” He teased before offering his hand. “Have fun with the rest of us,” His purple eyes glimmered as her face blushed, taking his hand.
“I don’t really dance,” Moondancer muttered, raising her sweater to cover her face.
“You have dancer in your name, plus I missed watching you dance,” Dusk Shine remarked, hoping to coax her further. Purpose fueled her eyes with a determined smile as she followed him to the dance floor. Fleur De Lis, Sugarcoat, Sunny Flare, and Sour Sweet trailed behind them.
“You girls too?” Royal Pin accused the girls.
“Yep,” Sugarcoat confirmed his suspicions. Most of the students were having fun while they were just there being sourpusses.
“Come on, if Dusk Shine and Moondancer of all people can have fun while you can’t. There’s something wrong with you,” Sour Sweet defended as Fleur De Lis nodded to confirm before leaving them behind. That wounded their pride, forcing them to act.
The party was in full swing; even Vice Principal Luna danced a bit. Flash Sentry gazed at Sunset Shimmer when Derpy Hooves patted him on the back. Her gray face turned a mild pink before calming herself for what she was about to do.
“Do you want to dance?” Derpy asked with a mild stammer. His eyes widened at the request, but he smiled.
“I would like that,” Flash Sentry agreed as they held each other’s hand. Dusk Shine’s heart raced as his restrictions were lifted. For the first time in years at CPA, he’s having fun with his schoolmates. Dusk Shine even danced with a few of them, but Sunset Shimmer took his priority. She’s his best friend, and he trusts her beyond most people. The music slowed, and his face softened as he gazed at Sunset. Hers did as well, caressing his cheek with her hand.
‘He’s touch starved,’ Sunset remarked as he melted into her touch. His mouth opened and shut, wanting to tell her something but couldn’t.
“Sunset I-,” Dusk Shine started with fearful eyes but had to speak.
The light suddenly flared as the microphone whirred, stopping the music. Numerous people groaned, wondering who had stopped the fun. Principal Cinch was right there on the stage.
“I'd like to thank Principal Celestia for her unconventional welcome. It's been four years since the last Friendship Games, but it feels as though nothing has changed. Canterlot High continues to pick its competitors in a popularity contest. Crystal Prep continues to field its top twelve students,” Principal Cinch avowed as she had everyone’s attention. Her monotone voice had that arrogant passive-aggressive, mocking edge to it. CPA students frowned as they departed, returning the various items given by CHS students. They’re herded by Cinch’s more . . . loyal or obedient students over to their rightful place.
That’s right. There are factions within CPA. Those loyal to Cinch and those loyal to Cadance. No one wanted to admit this openly.
“It is a comfort to know that even after so many years of losses, your school remains committed to its ideals, however misguided they may be. Regardless of the inevitable outcome, I wish you all the best of luck,” She concluded with a tiny dismissive smirk. Those who don’t speak ‘Cinch.’ Here’s a translation: ‘You lowly commoners are foolish to even think you can beat us. But hey, you can try. It’ll be hilarious to watch you fail again,’
The schools separated once more, and all their unity vanished instantly like a bag of chips on a casual evening. Students grumbled as the boring attitude returned, forcing them back into their respective school groups. What a mood killer. However, some students established connections like Vinyl Scratch and Lemon Zest. Dusk Shine exhaled. Why did Cinch have to kill the fun again?
“I’m getting some drinks,” He announced, easing the stress from his body. He focused on Pinkie Pie, wondering what that strange Aether was. It was sweet and bubbly, making Dusk Shine experience joy and laughter like he never had in years. The amulet rumbled against his chest, forcing strange memories and images into his mind. It was from the other world he saw in his dreams. One memory was quite peculiar. A hoard of Pinkie Pie rampaged throughout the settlement, and they had to discover the real one like an advanced game of Where’s Waldo. Something about a Mirror Pool. Wait, was it that Mirror pool from that old nursery rhyme? Were these two worlds connected in some way?
“Can you get me one too?” Sunset’s voice snapped him out of his thoughts. Dusk Shine nodded and proceeded to the drink table. Applejack and Sour Sweet engaged in a staredown.
“Applejack,” Sour Sweet said, crossing her arms.
“Sour Sweet,” Applejack replied, copying the same gesture. Both had tense glares.
“Hey, save the aggression for the games, please,” Dusk Shine cautioned, getting between the girls. Some people would call him insane for this. These two are the physically strongest in their respective schools.
“Don’t worry about it, Dusk,” Applejack smiled, calming his worries. They just had a great party before Cinch froze the mood. There’s no point reheating the tension. She had a great business idea and reached into her jeans pockets. “Our families go way back as rivals in the farming section,” Applejack handed Dusk Shine a family business card with a voucher for Apple cider.
“We've evenly matched her apples against my family's berries,” Sour Sweet added with a confident smirk, handing him her family’s business card. Oh, smoothies. “Plus, we’re both strong thanks to harvesting and moving heavy equipment,” The archer continued. “But I’m the stronger one,”
“I honestly agree with you on everything except that last one,” Applejack frowned, countering Sour Sweet’s claim.
“How about a little contest?” Sour Sweet broadly smiled, looking over to Dusk Shine. “Do you have measuring tape?”
“I do,” Dusk Shine agreed, searching for the item.
“How about it, Applejack? The bigger biceps win,” Sour Sweet challenged, pulling up her sleeve and flexing her biceps.
“Fine by me.” Applejack grinned as she did the same. Dusk Shine went to each girl, wrapping the tape around their biceps and recording the data. They waited for his results.
“Mhm, it’s tied,” Dusk Shine announced after comparing the results.
“WHAT?!” Sour Sweet exclaimed, grabbing the measuring tape. He showed the results written on his phone. Sour Sweet would’ve lost if they were comparing thighs/quads.
“Well, how about that?” Applejack grinned, tipping up her hat. That shocked look on Sour Sweet’s face is priceless.
“Doesn’t matter; we’ll still win the Friendship games,” Sour Sweet scoffed, still holding the tape and CPA’s chances of victory. They have Dusk Shine on their team. They can’t lose unless there’s some otherworldly event that prevents them.
“Or it could be us; Arces will send some cider when we win,” Applejack challenged with a grin.
“I doubt it. We’ll be having victory smoothies, and you guys will have the losers discount,” Sour Sweet rolled her eyes at the claim.
“What’s going on here?” Sunset Shimmer quizzed the group.
“They were comparing biceps to see who’s stronger,” Dusk Shine answered
“How about you?” Sunset Shimmer questioned, nudging him with her elbow.
“Unfortunately, I’m not as impressive as them,” Dusk Shine confessed, rubbing the neck with a blush. How can a bookworm like him compare with a thoroughbred country girl and an experienced archer?
“Sounds like someone’s scared,” Sunset Shimmer teased singly.
“You think taunting or questioning my honor will force me to act?” Dusk Shine questioned, narrowing his eyes at his best friend. She smiled. “And you’re right,” He admitted while removing his coat and handing it to Sunset Shimmer. Dusk Shine didn’t have Shonen anime muscles, but damn, were they tasty. They couldn’t see him as outrageously bulky or muscle-bound. Those tight and lithe muscles suited him perfectly. Even if Dusk Shine didn’t have a toned physique, he was still quite handsome.
Applejack whistled, impressed at his muscles. “Huh, you’re packing some muscle there, city boy,” She praised. Sour Sweet’s gaze hallowed, tightly holding the measuring table. Was Applejack flirting with him?
“Most of the muscle mass went to my brother. Plus, my grandma is an Atmosite and a veteran, so there’s no slacking on our part,” Dusk Shine explained. Applejack raised a brow. He has Peagus running through his blood? “It worked in my favor since I’ve been carrying my school for two years,” He bragged. Oh great, now he’s flirting back! Cadance raised her thumbs as she fully supported his potential healthy relationships.
“Clearly,” Applejack grinned. City boy has a strict and responsible grandmother. She can relate to that and respects it. His family was good people.
“I’ll be over there,” Sunset Shimmer mentioned before pausing at someone.
“Sunset Shimmer,” Pixel Pizzaz said with a displeased frown.
“Pixel Pizzaz,” Sunset Shimmer replied, trying to maintain the peace. They kept out of each other’s way. She went over to Dusk Shine and Applejack.
“Hey, I don’t know how you get along with her after everything,” Pixel Pizzaz groaned, glancing over her shoulder while Sunset Shimmer poured them some drinks. She wanted to know. Sunset and Dusk Shine. Pixel could understand since he wasn’t a victim of bullying, and his rank protected him.
“We had our differences and conflicts and decided to talk like responsible people,” Dusk Shine informed as Applejack nodded in agreement. Sour Sweet rolled her eyes and went off to CPA’s side.
“She’s a pigeon if you ask me,” Pixel Pizzaz grumbled with a sneer. There’s still bad blood between the two girls.
“Oi, fix your muzzle before I fix it for you,” Dusk Shine barked with a lowered, gruff voice. The girls were alarmed by the sudden code switch. “Nothing’s sweet around here; you busted up honeycomb,” His eyes narrowed dangerously.
“Hold up, you’re from Manehattan,” Pixel Pizzaz confirmed, analyzing the accent and slang used.
“My grandma is, but I visit during vacations,” Dusk Shine revealed. It’s been a while since he visited his cousins. He paused. “And you’re from the Bronx, the central area either slightly north or west,” He predicted after analyzing her thick accent. She smiled
“No wonder how a high riser like you can deal with all that bullshit,” Pixel Pizzaz commented, giving him a playful punch on the shoulder.
“You’ll get used to it,” Dusk Shine shrugged. “It’s nice to be hated and challenged when I’m in Canterlot,” There’s a level of truth to his words. People always forget what it's like to be threatened or hated when they’re at the top. Everyone wants to be your friend. In a way, Dusk Shine was lucky. “No one really touches my family in Manehattan,”
“Only if you’re one of those groups. We don’t let people from Canterlot tell us what to do,” Pixel Pizzaz chuckled, arching a brow at his statement. He smiled, fully aware of what she meant. “You’re not right?” She stammered, losing her broad smile. Sweat formed ranked on her brow.
“Well, does this name ring any bells?” Dusk Shine quizzed, beckoning her to listen and clarify. Pixel rolled her eyes but obliged to it. He whispered the name along with several individuals. Her jaw slacked, and frozen blood coursed through her veins. Panic and terror cascaded on Pixel’s spine. She gulped, losing that tough girl attitude embedded into her being.
Holy shit, Dusk Shine’s family is one of those groups. He smiled, but his eyes didn’t. They were narrowed, sharpened to a dagger’s edge, probably something he routinely used. That group isn’t known for their mercy. His demolition of the Cloudsdale team was evidence of that. Becoming the Top Student of Crystal Prep can’t be for the kind, gentle or merciful.
“Oh . . . shit, my bad, Dusk Shine, sir,” Pixel Pizzaz stammered, bowing her head to be on her best behavior, taking a few steps back. She can’t believe that she pissed off the girlfriend(?) or the best friend of a likely future executive of one of those organizations. “Shit,” She mouthed, her heart rumbling in her stomach.
Applejack overheard their conversation. She recalled one summer when she visited her Aunt and Uncle Orange. Someone visited them. The farm girl cursed herself for not reminding them since it was slightly after Applebloom was born.
Don’t worry. I haven’t figured out any group names yet.
That person made the Oranges tremble and used honorifics. It bewildered her. Why were they doing that? They were one of the top families in Manehattan. For someone to make them humble and meek, they must be dangerous or unbelievably powerful. Her emerald eyes viewed Dusk Shine. He’s more dangerous than she initially expected. The prestige of Canterlot with the bloody yet callous underbelly of Manehattan.
“Don’t worry about it,” Dusk Shine consoled, enabling her and Applejack to relax. “You stood up to Sunset Shimmer and kept her head on,” He recalled her past deeds and how she was one of the few who stood up against Sunset Shimmer during her bully phase. “I appreciate it, and you have my thanks,” Dusk Shine nodded with a polite salute across his chest.
“You’re welcome,” Pixel Pizzaz grinned with a bow. Her chest swelled with pride, obtaining the approval of an elite. Maybe he can get her into Crystal Prep, or they can collaborate soon?
Dusk Shine returned to their table. He and Sunset Shimmer chatted more as they had time before the competition started. Vinyl Scratch walked by their table, briefly pausing to give Dusk Shine an over-the-shoulder hug from behind. He smiled back, patting her forearm before she returned to her turntables.
“Wait a minute, you know Vinyl Scratch?” Sunset Shimmer asked, grinning at his gobsmacked classmates.
“Yeah, our brothers are friends,” Dusk Shine explained. She hooks him up with some of the latest music. He fixes her equipment in exchange.
“Bet he doesn’t have her number,” A CPA student mocked.
“I don’t think he could even if he tried,” Another added with conceited laughter. The two shared a look, and Dusk Shine got up.
“You probably shouldn’t have said that,” Sunset Shimmer warned, sipping her punch.
“Why’s that?” A student countered. Sunset Shimmer gestured to Dusk Shine and Vinyl Scratch. She had a smile on her face as she typed her contact information into his phone. Dusk Shine has a smugly nonchalant look of superiority as his schoolmates are gobsmacked at his casual success. Vinyl got her phone out and took a selfie with him.
“Okay, HOW?!” One of them exclaimed.
“Why are you so surprised?” Sunset Shimmer smiled at their frustration. “Dusk Shine has always been a cool guy,” She admitted with a heartfelt smile. It morphed into a cruel sneer as she glowered at the CPA students. “Not like you guys know anything about having passion, charisma, or any semblance of a personality,” Sunset Shimmer morphed into her former bully mode with harsh words as their anger flared. However, something told them it was the truth. She knew what they did to Dusk Shine. All those late-night chats as he confessed the day's troubles. She wondered if his parents knew everything about “You have money. That’s it. Nothing special or unique beyond that,” Sunset reiterated with a scoff, swirling her cup around, disinterested in whatever they had to say. The students gazed at their cups or fiddled with their phones. Weak. These people have all the money in the world and choose to be boring and petty. A smile returned to her, gesturing over to her mulberry nerd.
“He has that and more. It’s why Dusk Shine is the Top student, and you’re just . . .,” Sunset Shimmer continued as Dusk Shine and Vinyl Scratch had their talk. Her dull cyan eyes examined the posh students. “This. So you can wallow in your little pride on the sidelines like always wonder why he’s at the top. And why you’ll never be,” She pointed her cup at the petty students. Her blood boiled and seethed with a belittling smirk. “Like anyone like you has a chance of beating him even if he’s going to Everton. Someone else will be the top student, and it won’t be you guys. I wonder if you’ll treat them like Dusk Shine or if this is something unique,” Sunset Shimmer shot with a laugh. Her gaze darkened and intensified as she concluded. The cup crinkled under her constricting grasp, imagining it was their throats. They squeaked and ran like frightened vermin.
“And now he’s flirting with the vice principal,” Sugarcoat mentioned, pointing to Dusk Shine talking with Luna.
“Are you kidding me?!”
“That’s a summary of it. I can’t tell you everything for reasons,” Dusk Shine confessed. His dull eyes motioned towards his schoolmates and Cinch. There are always prying eyes or unwanted listeners, mainly Sunny Flare, the damned tattle-tale.
“Understandable,” Luna said. “But do try not to keep it all in. It’s not healthy,” The vice principal cautioned sympathetically. Dusk Shine released a dense sigh; his shoulders sagged, barely able to hold the burden and stress of his position. He must win the games, get into Everton, and never return to Crystal Prep. The amulet bellowed in gut-busting laughter, mocking Dusk Shine for even thinking Cinch would hold her end of the bargain. Internally, Dusk Shine knew that she wasn’t going to do that. However, rancor flooded his thoughts and motives. He wasn’t going to let her get away with it.
“Do you think Cinch would allow me to?” Dusk Shine countered. His eyelids were heavy as his silvery voice dragged. Luna didn’t reply, only offering a comforting look, knowing Cinch’s uncompromising methods. “My only option is winning and leaving CPA,” He confessed, rubbing and scratching his neck. Anxiety sprouted goosebumps across his supple skin like a swarm of hornets piercing his nerves with venom.
“At least take a break or vacation after the games, please,” Luna counseled, resting a comforting hand on his shoulder. She knew Dusk Shine and emphasized with him. Both were the nocturnal-themed younger sibling of the more accepted bright older sibling. At least Dusk Shine is viewed as having more potential than Shining Armor, while Luna was always in Celestia’s shadow. Envy marked their souls, desiring what their elder sibling had while they struggled for the bare minimum. The respect, admiration, or basic human decency, at least. Why must they become a monster just to be treated like a human? Resolve fueled Luna’s future endeavors; she won’t have him lost on that path. Celestia and Cadance worry about him too, and are devising a plan to counteract Cinch’s corrupting influence. Hopefully, they aren’t too late.
“Again . . . will Cinch allow that?” Dusk Shine retorted. Luna frowned. Both of them knew the answer.
“Dusk Shine, we need to go,” Sunny Flare directed with crossed arms.
“Under whose authority?” Dusk Shine queried. His back was still turned to her. Sunny Flare’s lip quivered as he refused to look at her. Luna's heart raced, and her eyes widened at the severe molten tone. Oh no. For the love of Faust, no. He’s already on the path.
“That would be my authority, Dusk Shine,” Cinch’s voice appeared behind them. She stood between Dusk Shine and Vice Principal Luna.
Luna crossed her arms with a displeased expression. Both children had lifeless looks; Dusk Shine was exhausted, simply desiring to be done with this nonsense. On the other hand, Sunny Flare was fearful with a self-critical aura, keeping her posture prim and proper in front of her mother. Luna sighed internally, disgusted at how Cinch was treating her students. Playing Matchmaker just to Dusk Shine and Sunny Flare together?
“Come along, Dusk Shine, you have a game to win,” Cinch ordered. Her well-manicured hand reached for his shoulder to guide him. An unprecedented occurrence happened. Dusk Shine’s hand blocked hers as he walked away. He didn’t give Cinch a second look as Sunny Flare trailed.
Cinch rubbed her silkened opalish gray palm. She recalled a similar experience when she first opened and touched the amulet. That time was a warning zap. This time . . . it was angry, furious that she dared to touch, lingering more than usual.
Luna saw something else. An image she hadn’t seen since during her youth when she . . . was Nightmare Moon. Ominous midnight corvid wings emerged from his broad back. A jagged flaming cyan horn rested on the center of his forehead. She blinked. Those features were gone. Dusk Shine returned to his teammates.
“Hey, are you okay?” Sunset Shine and Trixie asked via text message.
“I’m fine,” Dusk Shine replied dully. His hollow purple eye scoped the area, marking his teammates. “Can’t talk right now. Wait until after the first round?” He asked. The girls sent him thumbs-up emoji.
“Dusk Shine, can we ask a question if you so, please,” Jet Set asked. He picked his words carefully. Dusk Shine was not in a good mood. The last thing he needed was to get Dusk Shine’s side. They saw how he placed Sunny Flare in her place.
“And I might have the answer, depending on the question,” Dusk Shine considered his question before returning his phone to his pocket. “Proceed,” He accepted.
“What’s the deal with you and the Vice Principal?” Upper Crust questioned. They set their gazes on him. Why were they so casual with each other?
“Family friend or my Consul Familarius legally,” Dusk Shine explained. The social elites mouthed an agreement that described their relationship. However, the average members raised their brows and shrugged as they were unfamiliar with the term. Family friend, that they understood but Consul Familarius? Was it like a guardian or something along those lines?
“Dusk Shine,” Pixel Pizzaz spoke, obtaining his attention along with his team. They glared, frowning at the girl with Indigo Zap and Sour Sweet blocking her. Pixel glared back with wrinkles on her forehead. Who’s this chick? And why was her voice deep? It must be the accent.
Dusk Shine raised his hand, halting their hostility.“How can I help you?” He asked, standing up and approaching the city girl from the Bronx. Her face heated, recognizing how stellarly handsome he was. Pixel never paid much mind to the appearances of Photo’s latest project. But wow. Dusk Shine had noble features many envied, especially that emollient mulberry skin. How did his skin get that smooth and clear? Was it genetic or a mixture of products and proper diet? Those dreamy lilac eyes glistened behind his spectacles. Is that how he got his name? His hair was a nightly carpet of midnight blue and mild violet with a streak of hot pink. Intellectual sophistication radiated off his form. Fuck, Dusk Shine has the hot teacher or tutor vibe. Pixel won’t mind getting some extra credit from him. Photo Finish would definitely want photos. The uptown socialite city boy with the rough and tough girl from downtown. Hey, the look on Sunset’s face would be priceless.
“So, uh, Photo Finish wanted your number when you want photos taken,” Pixel Pizzaz explained, holding her phone out as her heart raced. Why was she so nervous?
“Okay, I’ll talk with Dean Cadance about it,” Dusk Shine shrugged, taking his phone as they exchanged contacts.
“Cool,” Pixel Pizzaz smiled with rosy cheeks.
“Ohhh~ can I?!” Pinkie Pie interjected, causing Pixel to jump in shock. She had a hot pink smartphone with a birthday party theme case.
“Yes, yes, you can,” Dusk Shine sighed, rolling his eyes, causing Pinkie Pie to glomp on him. His classmates' jaws’ dropped. Sunset told him how persistent Pinkie can sometimes be. It’s better to just let it happen. “Ok, that’s enough,” He commanded; this was too long for his liking. She agreed and exchanged phone numbers with him. Pinkie Pie smirked, taunting the CPA students by waving the phone before them as they departed. “What?” He asked, annoyed by their prolonged stares.
“You . . . let her . . . hug you?”
“Yeah,” Dusk Shine deadpanned, raising a brow.
“That means . . .,” Some of the students, including Lemon Zest, attempted to hug and/or touch him. He hopped and slipped out of the way.
“1: We’re not there in terms of a relationship. 2. She’s Sunset’s best friend, so I trust her. 3. She’s cute and cuddly. 4. Most importantly, it’s my body, my choice,” Dusk Shine listed his reasons.” 5. And I want to know where she got that party cannon,” He muttered under his voice, avoiding eye contact with Luna and Cadance.
“No,” Cadance & Luna refused, making an X with their arms. They know how mischievous he can be and refuse to enable the chaos.
“But hear me out,” Dusk Shine negotiated.
“No,” The two absolutely refused to hear him out.
“Come on,” Dusk Shine whined. They never let him have fun.
“Dusk Shine, we’ve known you since you were in your mother’s womb,” Luna countered, folding her armed with a disciplined gaze as did Cadance. “We trust your judgment and reliability as a competent individual,” The Vice-Principal mentioned his positive traits before narrowing her eyes. “However, you always had a mischievous spark in you,”
“I don’t like these false accusations,” Dusk Shine said. “I’ll ask,” He typed into the family about his request. They said no. “Damn. Well, I’m going where I’m appreciated,” Dusk Shine turned away right when Cadance grabbed his coat collar and dragged him back to his classmates.
“You stay here, please, and thank you,” The dean ordered with a smile as he rolled his eyes.
“Yes?” Dusk Shine remarked, gaining another set of looks.
“Okay, how?” Trenderhoof mentioned, gesturing to the CHS girls.
“You got like 3 girls' numbers in under an hour,” Another stated, holding their fingers. “Just how?!” It’s insane. For all their time knowing Dusk Shine, he only had one, maybe two crushes. He halted his romantic endeavors when becoming the Schola Perfecta. He never gave others a second glance. Yet Dusk Shine’s stacking phone numbers like they were playing cards. Was he always able to do this?
Dusk Shine rolled his eyes as they continued to talk. Their voices were annoying insignificant white noise to his ears. Corrosive rancor burned in his veins as the amulet roared in agreement. Dusk Shine experiences heat for a considerable amount of time. Yet, his body had no burn marks but still perceived changes. Dusk Shine thought he did. His mind listed his symptoms after receiving the necklace: Increased aggression, Vigorous appetite, Heightened awareness, Reduced Inhibitions, Notable Personalities changes, and becoming crueler in his words. His heart ballooned with pity and remorse for his words towards Sunny Flare, but the amulet devoured those feelings and spat them out. It found those emotions . . . disgusting.
His eyes darkened, his body heated, and his muscles tightened as he scooped members of CHS and CPA. They thought of him as a freak, a monster, a cat’s paw, as his classmates were too pitiful to do anything themselves. He had a job to do. Dusk Shine was going to win. So they better stay fuck of his way.
That bitch Cinch won’t allow him to leave. Even if he wanted to graduate early, Dusk Shine comprehends his importance to her reputation. He’ll be here until his final year. A dark chuckle echoed in his mind.
That’s fine. That’ll give us more time to destroy everything.
But what about your school and classmates? What about the other innocents involved in it?
What
About
Them?!
Have you forgotten everything they’ve said and done? Some of them did ABSOLUTELY NOTHING! AND WATCH! Why give them such mercy and kindness when they give nothing in return?
That’s. Not. Fair! That isn’t justice. Dusk Shine wanted to win. You don’t get what you want by being nice all the time. Besides, they can always go to another school or place to work.
An unholy flame burned in Dusk Shine’s soul. Something he wanted to push down and extinguish for years. He can’t. Not anymore. He desired . . . no needed retribution for everything that happened, not just for him but for others as well. Dusk Shine stockpiled years of data on his classmates. What he was . . . interestingly damning. Cinch is a selfish woman, and if word got out that some of her students, graduates, alumni, and faculty were such scumbags. She’ll abandon them. That simple. It’s law 10, after all. Avoid Infection. However, as human nature would indicate, they’ll retaliate as well, exposing more dirty deeds and causing a monstrous chain reaction. He smiled cruelly, imagining the carnage.
Heh.
Nobody wants to be punished, so they’ll do anything to avoid or reduce it.
Decades-long bonds snap like dead twigs during a blizzard in an instant as parties and entire families betray and abandon each other in the wonderfully selfish and pragmatic name of self-preservation. Countlessly people will be impacted by this, including himself. He wondered how his classmates with react to this. Some will attempt to bride him in exchange for help. Others will seek vengeance for ruining their lives. Their livelihoods are in shambles due to their parents' businesses in the red. Disowned and rejected with long-deserved punishments. Maybe he was a traitor after all.
Well . . . they betrayed him first. Dusk Shine’s returning the favor. If he was going to burn in Cinch’s ambitions.
They should burn in his.
Fun fact: Consul Familarius is an old term going back to the early Unification days. It originally came from the Pegasi thanks to their militaristic culture. These individuals are often outsiders working for the interests of a city-state. For example, a powerful clan conqueror or settles a region then one of their vassal clans is placed in charge of the settlement. This is to prevent one clan from having too much power and establish long-term alliances between clans
Now Consuls are now family friends or close associates typically acting as guardians or godparents just in case something happens to an heir's family and keep them on the proper path. It's among the highest honor a person can have. They even have the right to remove a child from their family if they become too problematic. However, that's only in extreme cases as Consuls and their recipients are typically of higher status families.