Our Chaotic Tranquility

by Edensola

Chapter 6: Insanity

As Eve stood still at her entrance of the fighting grounds; she couldn't help but tremble as she looked left and right in paranoia at the others. She felt like that one person who procrastinated her group project up until the last minute; and now she was the only one who didn't know what to do. She didn't know the rules, didn't read any guides, and she didn't even get into this event through the ordinary process; she was forced here. So as she looked upon that humungous dragon preparing to attack, she couldn't help but gulp; and think to herself. Oh no...I-I don't think I can- Her thoughts paused. No, fear wasn't the answer. She wasn't allowed to be afraid, she had to be strong and find the special somepony.

"Remove the muzzle!" Shouted the sword wielding mare from afar; looking straight at Eve as she did so.

Eve's eyes widened as she looked over to her, and then back up at the dragon. The baby draconequus squinted at the muzzle, focusing on it. Eve thought initially that was only there to prevent the dragon from using its flames; so, that was the actual challenge of this event? This was more like some bad humored game rather than a duel then. Well if that's what they needed to do, then that's what she would focus on. They just had to find a way to remove the dragon's muzzle before he knocked them all out? Yea, this event obviously needed some more work.

Eve took a quick glance at all of her surroundings, at least they gave them a bunch of stuff in order to shield themselves from the dragons physical attacks. And there was also the fact that she had three others to help her with this first part of the event. Yea; everything would be alright. They had this, and even Eve; as young as she was, was confident they'd be able to pull this off. She didn't feel she was exceptional to these others, especially that huge minotaur, they all looked like they'd be able to handle this with ease. Eve looked once more at the princesses, and particularly Princess Celestia. Was one of them the special somepony the fellow draconequus was talking about?

Eve pulled down on her hood, and before making her move she also noticed she was the only one without a weapon. This caused her to blink curiously as first she looked over at the sword wielding mare who had a beautiful blade crafted from rare gems found throughout Equestria. Then she looked at the Minotaur, who had a huge sledgehammer, probably common for their race. Then the gryphon who had tiny little blades fastened to the feathers of his wings. And then she looked down at herself, well, she had a couple of nice robes and a cool hood. She slumped; how dull, that wasn't cool at all. The baby draconequus tapped her lower lip with her claw real quick, pondering what she could do. Oh! She had the perfect idea. Eve chuckled as she thought about it, and then in an instant, she summoned a candy cane with a pointy tip. "SWEETS!"

The minotaur burst into laughter. "Ahahahaha! That's cute kid, what is this? Some sort of joke?"

Eve looked at her candy cane and thought. B-But I think it's cool.... She felt quite embarrassed now.

The minotaur continued. "Maybe you should go back home to momma an-"SMASH!
Everypony's eyes widened as the minotaur was suddenly flattened by the dragon's massive claw.

The crowd all cringed in unison. "Ooooooooooooooooo......"

Eve blinked a little, somewhat confused.

The sword wielding mare did a facehoof.

The gryphon's eyes widened as he was the one closest to the minotaur.

And as the dragon lifted its claw back up, the minotaur was passed out with twirling eyes. "Mom; I wanna go home now."

Shining Armor then blew his whistle as he raised a hoof; and at his call two ponies hurriedly made their way into the fighting grounds and picked up the minotaur, dragging him out through one of the doors.

So one was already down before the battle practically started? That was sad.

Next was the gryphon as he looked at the dragon, then at the only two pieces of support he had left. He squawked before flying up into the air hurriedly, up and out of the coliseum in retreat and fear. "Screw this! I'm not getting smashed!"

Suddenly a gryphon from the audience stood; raising her clenched talon to the air, infuriated at the retreating gryphon.
"Get back here you dweeb! You're making us look bad!"

So now there was only two. And this actually caused Princess Cadence to sigh heavily, perhaps they chose too difficult an opponent for the first part of the event? These last two seemed a little capable but not as much so as the others; and now these two were the only ones left. She hoped they'd be able to at least do something considering that she put so much hype into this coliseum, and not only that it was being seen by practically everypony in Equestria. But literally; how could a little cowled baby creature and a sword wielding mare who looked like she spent majority of her time getting manicures and perms possibly remove the muzzle of this mighty dragon?

Rainbow's expression sunk humurously. "Well that was fast..."

Although they all wanted to deny it, even the crowd felt this event was probably going nowhere, even so early at this point. Maybe they set it up wrong, and it'd probably be best to get that little baby creature out of there before it ended up getting seriously hurt. So with much disappointment and regret, Cadence began to lift her hoof; preparing to bring the event to an unfortunate pause and hopefully work out some of the gimmicks.

But Princess Celestia gently placed her hoof atop of Cadence's; lowering it back to the ground. The message itself was pretty self-explanatory, and Cadence cocked a brow at her aunt for a moment, but then hesitantly withdrew and continued to look upon the event in the hopes something interesting would take place. Now Princess Cadence was starting to consider Twilight's words; her worries about this event, maybe she should've reconsidered this entire thing.

Eve thought about the situation, and she couldn't forget that she had the element of surprise on her side.

To everypony else she was the underdog here, and she probably was, but she certainly far from defenseless. She wasn't just some little earth filly with no capable magic, she was the feared draconequus, chaos was her birthright, her potential was limitless, and she had one of the most wise and caring sages to explain this to her. Zecora was her tranquil master, and she found harmony in something even as hectic as chaotic magic. Eve closed her eyes for a moment, recalling the time her and Zecora were training by the pond near her hut, the zebra explained to her that finding peace even in chaos was likely the most reliable way for Eve to use her powers. She could accomplish practically anything she wanted, she just had to have a clear mind and stay focused. Eve thought about the stakes; she looked to her ally with familiarity, and then she recalled what Trixie had said to her not too long ago.

Do you know what you are!? What were you even thinking considering coming here?! Do you know how much trouble we could get into? Are you that daft!?

Everywhere she went she was considered a monster, a danger to society, a risk too great to be accepted. But if she could prove that she did have control, that she didn't want to be the monster they claimed she was, that she'd shoulder any burden to be with them; then maybe she'd finally earn true acceptance. Fiery determination fueled Eve's very being as she glared at the dragon with an intense look of hatred. She now had the chance of a lifetime sitting right at her feet and the only thing standing between that life and her was apparently some measly little game and a large muzzled dragon.

She was missing the entire point. But how could anypony realize it?

But all Eve saw was some big fat scaled behemoth standing in the way to her perfect life? And she; a mini harbinger of chaos, was afraid of this big dumb lizard? Eve was becoming slowly infuriated at the thought; this dragon didn't know what was at stake for her. It didn't know how much she'd lost just to get this far in life, just to make this much of a connection to pony society. Even Eve could piece together just how dedicated she was in knowing the fact she'd nearly died, lost practically all her memories, been shunned everywhere she went, even by following Trixie into the heart of supposed enemy territory; it showed how much she was willing to risk. And before, Eve never had any clear sign of progress, any clear sign of being accepted amongst pony society...until now. Now she had that sign of progress, she had a fellow draconequus deliver this message himself, and he knew much about her. She now had a clear path to take, and so far, the only obstacle was a dragon?! Eve gritted her teeth; as the rage bubbled with the little baby draconequus.

Was this what they wanted? For her to prove herself in such a ridiculous situation? Or was she once again taking everything for granted? Taking everything foolishly for face value? Eve was a child; and obviously no fighter, so what was the point of making her fight? Of backing her into another twisted scenario where everything was at stake. Little did Eve know there was once another time where she felt so much was at stake; another time that'd caused her to use her powers in such a shameful way. A time she unknowingly longed to return to, with Cheerilee by her side.

The sword wielding mare remained silent; her thoughts were private but based on the way she looked at Eve, she saw something in her that made the mare feel pity. Why did this mare seem to have a particular understanding of this draconequus, she didn't seem like anypony important, Eve certainly had never met her before now. So why did she seem to be so interested, at this point it didn't seem like a coincedence this same mare 'happened' to run into Eve during the middle of the festival; so what was her game? Either way as she saw that fierce determination wash over Eve, she to began to concentrate. And in the stands, she had a specific fan watching her from afar, one very close to her, and that fan was a stallion known as Fancy Pants. The stallion adjusted his monocle as he looked at the mare about to engage in battle down below, and based on his own expression he had the utmost confidence she'd be fine.

Now there was the case of the dragon now sitting there with a bored expression. What kind of joke was this? Princess Celestia told him he'd have a good challenge; but now all he had was some little kid and a mare who looked like she was pulled out of a filly's tale. He didn't want to dwell on his disappointment in the matter and just wanted to get this over with; well first he wanted to get the little one out of harms way so he'd just snatch her up and keep her in his massive claw, then he'd deal with the other one if she didn't already give up by that time. It was simple. So the large dragon just rolled his eyes and then made way for snatching up Eve into his claw, nice and easy.

But things didn't go as smoothly as he'd expected.

As the dragon attempted to catch Eve; the baby draconequus finally made her move. And as he sweeped his massive claw across the arena floor expecting to catch something in it, he lifted it up towards his face afterwords; uncurling it, and found that,....there was nothing there!?

Impossible; he just sweeped past the little one's position, there was no way he didn't catch her.

At this point the crowd was now looking on in interest as well.

Even Twilight and the rest of the mane six found this quite peculiar.

Eve had used her phase magic, a moment right before making contact with the dragon's claw, she had the ability to morph into the very landscape that surrounded her, a very helpful talent. It required a lot of concentration on her part however and as she found the dragon regarded her with a shocked look, Eve wasn't planning to give him time to think. I-I'm sorry about this..! The baby draconequus then hopped into the air as she snapped her claw and a massive golden graham appeared beneath her feet. She then began surfing on it around the outskirts of the arena as the crowd erupted into cheers and gasps of bewilderment. What was this form of magic and who was this little sweets master of a child!? Eve had caught their curiosity, and the baby draconequus wasn't planning to stop there. Eve then began to move her claw and paw in specific motions, casting more of her spells as she still had the dragon caught off guard. And suddenly, multiple crystal spires shot forth from the area surrounding him, knocking him from side to side with blunt impact. Accompanied with the aid of the elements which spewed forth from thin air.

This was only plain evidence of how much she'd progressed since her encounter in the ruins of Everfree. And this was one of the only ways for Eve to go against her protocol, to go against every single little thing she was taught; making everything she'd learned from Zecora obsolete. She needed to be placed in a situation too big, and too great for her to follow that specific set of rules made for herself in order to not only protect her; but everypony around her. And her encounter with Trixie only made it that much easier. Eve couldn't handle such a verbal beating, especially from a hopeful friend. She was still too caught up in the drama of her situation to realize what was truly going on. To realize it wasn't about this battle; it was about bringing her entire world crashing down before her. And she was a fool to chase after her dreams so frantically.

She was a fool to realize that she was getting played once again; and such a simple childish mind, and such sensitivity only made it easier to accomplish this goal from the other perspective. Eve was far too simple. Although any other pony would not have had the power or time to craft such a set plan, Princess Celestia was different. She was a god; and she had the responsibility of protecting all of her pony subjects, perhaps even the world as a whole. Harmony needed to be everlasting; the world always needed to stand for what was good and true, and it'd have its defenders. Princess Celestia saw something far too useful than to risk letting slip away. If the baby draconequus didn't go about its life the way it was meant to, fine. But then she'd need to bare the consequences, and she'd need to be approved by the goddess herself.

And in order for that to happen; Princess Celestia required a clean slate to work with.

The sword wielding mare was on the move as she made use of Eve's crystal spires almost as if she were expecting them to appear. She poofed to the top of one then hopped and hopped from spire to spire in a masterful motion, her sword unsheathed as she took control of it with telekinetic magic. And then she made way for the dragon's head, hopping atop of him and then eyeing the muzzle.

The crowd were in awe at the sight of such coordination from the two. And the little one's strange form of magic only made this even more fascinating. Any doubts they had about the event at that point were now cleared. This was something nopony ever expected, and it was indeed very different from anything most of them had ever witnessed.

But Trixie wasn't enjoying herself, she simply looked down in worry and dread; why was she so worried for the draconequus's wellbeing? It wasn't her responsibility, yet she couldn't help but feel uneasy knowing she was down there fighting that massive creature, and obviously from the looks of it, she was pulling out all the stops. Even at the risk of others discovering who she was since she obviously wasn't holding back any of her housed techniques.

The mane six weren't doing so good themselves after seeing this display for themselves.

Fluttershy in particular felt she was about to throw up. What is she doing here!? The mare was timid but she didn't lack common sense. She recognized that magic the moment Eve had summoned her candy cane. Now she was summoning crystal spires just like that time they'd run into her in the ruins of Everfree, and now she was surfing on a giant golden graham? It was so painfully obvious who she was she couldn't help but feel like she was about to pass out from the fact this baby draconequus always seemed to manage to find herself in the worst possible situations. And this was absolutely the worst possible situation!

She was surrounded by a multitude of ponies, and not only was Twilight present but Princess Celestia as well as Princess Luna and Cadence were here as well. Fluttershy trembled at the thought of what'd happen if the baby draconequus fully revealed herself; and the fact she didn't know if she'd be able to do anything to help her if she did. But there was still time, there was still a little time for her to escape if she just stopped this stupid bout and flew away right now. To Twilight and the others; she was dead, Fluttershy felt she was supposedly the only one who knew of Eve's survival, besides Zecora of course. P-Please just go...why...why're you still here? Just leave! Please! Fluttershy couldn't stand watching this, but she couldn't take her eyes off of Eve either, like so long ago she found herself worried for the baby draconequus's wellbeing, but this was horrible, why was Eve even here? What the hay was going on!?

And as expected, the others were growing quite skeptical every second this drew on.

Applejack was the first to speak up as she cocked a brow, then tapping her muzzle as she looked down at the arena grounds. "Wait a second ya'll...does that magic seem a little familiar to any of you?...."

Rainbow was munching on her popcorn and shrugged at Applejack. "Pshhhhh! You're overthinking things Applejack! There's no way it could be what you're thinking! Sure they use similar magic munch munch, but doesn't mean it's her. Think about what you're saying I mean....." Rainbow paused as her expression suddenly sunk. "I mean...uhm..we dealt with that..."

Rarity cut in nervously; raising a hoof. "Rainbow Dash is right darling. There's no way it's what you're thinking, that's impossible. We erhm...ugh..w-well that problem ended a long time ago." Rarity gave a cheesy smile to the others.

Applejack, Rarity, and Rainbow Dash then looked over at Twilight who they didn't fail to notice seemed overwhelmed with shock. Twilight seemed to be trying to come to terms with the possibility that Eve survived. Wait; if she was alive this was a good thing wasn't it, then she could finally patch things up with Cheerilee? But then if Eve survived that'd also mean she still posed a possible threat to them seeing as Twilight was the one who offed her herself. Could the baby draconequus be returning for revenge? Or was she hear for entirely different reasons? And how could that possibly be her anyway? There was no possible way! Even so; Twilight felt as if she were staring at a ghost.

Pinkie Pie cocked a brow. "Heeeey I think I saw her in the Sweet's Shop!"

Twilight's glare shot towards Pinkie. "Sweets Shop!?"

Pinkie nodded to Twilight with a smile. "Mhm! I think I saw her in the Sweet Shop! Buuuut...she looks a little different.." Pinkie then began tapping the lower tip of her muzzle.

Twilight then glared back down at the mysterious contestant.

Princess Cadence couldn't help but cut in, seeing as she was utterly confused by what they were talking about. "Wait what's going on? Why're you all so worked up on the little one down there?"

Twilight wanted to answer but couldn't; she was far too ashamed of it. And she also felt ashamed because if that truly was the same baby draconequus down there that would mean she didn't take care of anything like Princess Celestia had asked of her so long ago. This situation was horrible, and Twilight could only imagine it'd get worse as this little event progressed.

This baby draconequus only caused trouble. Why did it have to be such a rebel? Draconequus were prideful, independent, strong willed creatures. Living alone shouldn't have been a problem; actually, it should've been a preference! But of course there were always special cases. Such as Discord; the single draconequus who managed to rule over Equestria for a lengthy period of time. His personality was quite unique as well; seeing as he also craved the attention and felt the need to make a comedic joke out of everything. But this little draconequus just wouldn't give in, she was dangerous, frail, a crybaby, from what Twilight could recall. A possible emotional whirlpool; she was irresponsible and selfish. Sneaking into Ponyville, doing whatever it took to get their attention like Discord, but unlike Discord, this one also sought affection, but she went about it a different way. And it only irritated Twilight to no end to think it'd led her here, back here, right in the middle of their very society. She gritted her teeth, trying to keep cool seeing as she was a Princess now. But she couldn't take this.

Cheerilee watched in horror as she seemed quite sickly based on her current appearance. Ever since she'd seen the mysterious contestant on the TV use such familiar magic. She was speechless; and her thoughts were blank. She had her doubts but, it felt so confirmed. That was Eve, wasn't it? She'd always hoped she'd see her again, and even if she wasn't certain if she ever would, she never imagined it'd be like this. Seeing the baby draconequus she hoped would be able to live a happy joyous life, participating in some arena?! But she was only making assumptions, even with the candy based magic and the familiar cowl precaution she herself taught Eve so long ago; she couldn't be certain if that was really her. Not until she removed that hood.

"Miss Cheerilee are you okay?" Questioned a concerned Applebloom.

Scootaloo pointed a hoof at the TV; amazed by the cataclysmic battle that took place. "Wow they're amazing!"

Cheerilee couldn't take her eyes off the TV as she simply stared; wide eyed. She didn't answer Applebloom either as she was too lost in her own thoughts and concerns to notice she was even asked a question.

Applebloom soon discarded her worries for now and continued watching the TV as well.

And the longer Eve thought about what was at stake in all of this; the more her mind withdrew from the calming realm of tranquility. She only grew more infuriated, more erratic, more eager to get this over with and claim what she felt she'd been denied for far too long. Eve was becoming overwhelmed with greed; and so she only continued her onslaught in order to finally reach her desires. She'd been denied for so long just because of what she was, she was a monster even though nopony really knew her, she was a outcast although she didn't commit horrid crimes, and she just lost somepony she felt she could relate to just for being honest. Her life was nothing but one big misconception. She was tired of it; and Eve herself couldn't feel the taxing on her mind, her grip on reality slowly slipping away. The heat of this battle was steadily sending her further into the heart of chaos. And she didn't even realize it. The more she thought about concentrating, the deadlier she became, and she was the only one not seeing this.

The mare with the sword only continued putting her own beating onto the dragon with ease; and the dragon's willpower was slowly breaking down from the abuse it was receiving from the baby draconequus's horribly efficient magic. Crystal spires slammed into his hulking thick sides and not even his armored scales & muscles could protect him from the amount of force put into each of those spells. The dragon was getting tired; and the crowd was actually starting to become worried for the poor creature receiving such a beating, and growing more frightened of the one giving it.

And as the two contestants were far exceeding the expectations everypony else placed on them. The mare with the sword attempted to make contact with Eve in the middle of this battle. "You don't need to do this!"

Oh look; another pony who miraculously knew about Eve's situation? Or maybe she was simply referring to the beating she was giving the dragon? Was it also another pony who wanted to help her? Another pony who wanted to show her the correct way to go about things? Another pony who would just leave her nothing in the end? Or maybe this mare represented something else entirely. Maybe Eve had been broken so much she couldn't even pertain a normal warning from something more meaningful that related to her personal life anymore. Maybe this mare had nothing to do with her at all and she was over-thinking things; maybe she was going crazy.

Eve could feel it now; as she only continued to remain outside perimeter of the dragon's grasp and use her spells; she could sense the feelings swell up within her, feelings she was never used to before. Feeling's of anger mixed with feelings of grief, annoyance, confusion, hope. Why was she forced to do this? Eve didn't feel selfish; but all she wanted was to have a normal life. And here she was, acting like some monster as she used her magic in full not to defend herself, but to eliminate a threat in order to finally gain a path to acceptance.

But was it worth it? Why couldn't she just live that life; why couldn't they all just accept her? She felt so selfish for wanting everything to be so easy; but why this? Why did it have to be something like this? She wished she could go to school, go have fun and visit shops and buy clothes, help family and friends with their chores. But no; her life didn't have the right to those things. Why did she have to suffer for the reputation her predecessors left her? Or perhaps; she was already becoming the monster they all knew she'd become. Or maybe she was simply breaking from all the hardship she faced. At this point, she didn't even have the heart to dwell on it anymore. Eve simply looked to the sword weilding mare and said. "Yes I do!" And in her eyes, in her expression; one could see the pain she was going through. And beneath that cowl, one could see the confliction, the face of one whose guilt grew each day, and whose willpower was slowly chipping away.

Eve then made her way over the dragon; who was now quite frail at this point. "And I won't let anypony tell me otherwise anymore!" She felt she was going to cry again but she held her tears back. And then was about to perform a horrid finishing blow; but she stopped herself as she took one glance at the horror she'd caused. The multitude of spires sparked with electricity. The pained dragon as it groaned in agony from what she'd done. She didn't even believe she was capable of such damage but; as her mind was lost in those thoughts of pursuing her dreams, she went into a haze, her world went black, and she didn't even notice what she'd been doing the entire time. Causing all of this;....chaos. Eve looked to the sword wielding mare, the fleeting battle more set as an example if anything. Then she simply nodded to her with a solemn expression. "I...I just wanted this to be over with...that's all..." Then she looked away in shame; refusing to look at the crowd.

The swordsmare then proceeded to remove the muzzle; approaching the baby draconequus afterwords. What exactly did she know? Did she even know anything? Or was Eve simply making too many assumptions? She didn't want anypony getting in the way of this path to her new life. She just wanted to finish her task and finally receive her reward. Hopefully that'd be soon. But the sword wielding mare approached her still, and then she raised a hoof at the baby draconequus about to touch her. "Little one I don't know if I can help much. But please; if you just come with me I can-"

Eve snapped; turning swiftly to slap away her hoof. "Leave me alone!..."

"STOP!" Shouted an enraged Twilight Sparkle.

Almost everypony grew silent. And there was a foreboding atmosphere around the coliseum at this point. Everypony looked on in shock and horror as Eve herself didn't notice how much she'd made an impression on the crowd. This was supposed to be a cheerful event with honest entertainment. Although related to fighting of course; it was simply supposed to be friendly competition, and the first half of the event related heavily on teamwork. Although the two remaining contestants certainly did show teamwork; one of them in particular, was far too, menacing. What sort of child could possibly accomplish such powerful magic, the will to manifest objects out of nothing? To twist reality to their liking? The thought was inconceivable and everypony in the crowd had their speculations as they grew silent simply regarding the two winners below. What could possibly best a dragon so fast and efficiently at such a young age? Certainly no pony......

Princess Cadence was covering her mouth with a hoof as she regarded the entire scene. She was silent; she couldn't comprehend just what exactly happened either. The dragon although dangerous; was never expected to actually be bested in the event. He was simply supposed to attempt to thwart them from removing his muzzle; but not only had they removed his muzzle but they'd actually put a horrid beating into him. This isn't what the Princess wanted. That's why she gave them such a handicap. But it all felt so fast, and so unbelievable that only until it was over, could they finally react.

Princess Celestia was also silent; she actually had a straight face, a blank expression as she regarded the two winning contestants. Obviously the event wouldn't be continued; not until they cleared up this issue with the little one's absurd abilities. Of course behind that emotionless mask; Celestia was smiling. She'd already known this would happen, nothing was a surprise to her here. And in all honesty she was quite pleased with the results. The dragon would recover; although wounded he was far from dead. She'd seen what she wanted. Excellent.

But as much as everypony was focused on what'd just occurred down below; Princess Twilight had also spoken, which drew in everyponies curiosity as well. Twilight was furious; and she wasn't pleased by this victory not one bit. She'd been taught to keep a cool head in such situations, to tolerate and accept, but this couldn't have been a coincidence. And if her assumptions were correct; which she was fairly certain were, then that'd mean this creature was being completely irresponsible and idiotic as well. Using her magic so openly and in plain view in front of such a vast audience; although she was likely aware of how her race was viewed amongst the populace of Equestria. And even so, why was she even here, Twilight wouldn't be left in the dark any longer, and although she hated the idea of giving orders, this one wasn't going to deny her the right to see her face. "Come on you guys." Twilight stated simply as she moved out of their private seating sector and made her way down to the fighting grounds.

The rest of the mane six gulped, and Fluttershy was trembling profoundly as she to didn't deny Twilight this. She made her way down with the others as the mane six prepared themselves for what was to come.

Princess Cadence called out to Twilight. "T-Twilight wait! Don-"

But Princess Celestia raised a hoof to her niece with a soft smile. "Wait dear Cadence, let us see what Twilight plans to do."

Princess Cadence cocked a brow at her Aunt. "But Auntie Celestia she's-"

Princess Celestia interrupted her again. "She's growing up. Let's see how she handles this situation. She is a princess now, she can make her own decisions; and she has that right."

Princess Cadence paused, then looked back to Twilight descend worriedly as she sighed heavily; nodding. "A-Alright..."

Eve was ashamed of her act yes, of the erratic irresponsible use of her magic. But her terms were clear, and although she to was quite horrified by how much damage she'd caused to the once beautiful coliseum grounds, actually shifting the very ground with her manifested spires, she didn't regret it. The draconequus said she needed to make it to the end; and she'd be rewarded with a chance at being accepted into pony society and even regaining her memories. So she did what she needed to, she tried being nice, she tried being sweet, to go in the direction that would make others proud. And all she found down that path was more grief and sorrow. Maybe it was time to be assertive if she wanted to get what she wanted. And as bad as she felt about the whole thing; she wanted to prove she'd do anything to show them how much she cared.

The sword wielding mare backed away from Eve with a solemn look; lowering her head and sheathing her blade with her magic once more. She couldn't help but regard the draconequus with pity, and simply stayed in place.

As Princess Twilight arrived on the ground, she didn't hesitate to begin approaching the cowled draconequus; who then hopped from the top of the passed out dragon, approaching Twilight.

Ah; so this must've been the special somepony. This made Eve happy, because no matter how bad she felt about this entire situation, she'd proven herself and now she would reap her reward. She considered everything she'd been through and now perhaps she'd even be able to find out who that pony from her dreams was, the one that cared for her; and who was with her in the beautiful home away from all the troubles in the world. Even now maybe she could be friends with Trixie, and she'd have earned her place to walk around publicly; sure it'd take a little while for everypony to get used to her but they'd know she had the approval of a Princess no less! And not only that, they'd know she was on their side and their defender. Eve wanted to be with the ponies, not against them. She'd shown herself capable of using her powers with deadly efficiency and now all that was left was for her to hear out the terms of the agreement and begin.

It was all finally coming to an end.

As the mane six and Twilight approached even closer; Eve didn't fail to catch sight of Fluttershy. This caused the baby draconequus to smile softly; of course, Fluttershy, it should've been obvious she'd be playing a part in all this. Ever since she'd woken up all that time ago, all she's heard was good things about Fluttershy, the mare was truly nice and caring.

Shining Armor then made his way from the private sector of the fighting grounds, hurrying over to Twilight. "T-Twiley; listen, we didn't expect things to get out of hoof! We're not sure how this-"

Twilight looked to him with a smile. "It's alright Shining; you're not the one to blame here."

Shining cocked a brow at Twilight as the mare simply continued her approach. And soon eventually with her friends at her back, they'd finally arrived at this point once again. Twilight knew who was behind the hood, she just felt the need to confirm it. And she found it haunting how she'd managed to find herself in this exact same position again, all of them here, in this same position. What was this baby draconequus's game? But Twilight was prepared for an assault either way. She stated simply to the baby draconequus. "Remove your hood."

Everypony from the crowd looked on in curiosity.

Trixie found herself trembling a little as she seemed horribly paranoid; biting on her lower lip nervously with wide eyes. She knew that only trouble would come out of keeping that little draconequus around, which is why she left. But still; this was horrible, what were they going to do to her once they confirmed their suspicions? Well Trixie recalled her and Twilight's last encounter, and Twilight was a caring mare, she wouldn't do anything too drastic. Especially not here. This eased Trixie's worries a little as she attempted to calm herself down from her seating area.

Vinyl Scratch had her shades lifted as she looked down with interest much like the others. "Whoa; looks like the drama is picking up, that was insane though. Just what is that kid made out of?"

Octavia was silent as she only continued to watch everything unfold like the rest.

And Eve smiled; following the Princesses's orders as stated. And she looked up at the crowd surrounding her one last time with a nervous gleam but didn't want to risk jeopardizing her reward. "As you wish Princess." Eve then did it, lowering her hood in front of the crowd. And although she hated negative attention she'd get, she already felt she was past the point of no return having decided to follow this task this far.

There was only silence.

Twilight stared at the all too familiar draconequus with no idea what to say for a moment. Her mind in disarray, it was her, it was actually the same draconequus she left in the realm of nightmares. It was that same draconequus she'd chosen to let fall so long ago, and she survived. And what was even more frightening to Twilight was how much she'd changed since the last time she saw her. She still seemed to possess that childish vibe; but, her mastery over her magic was dangerously efficient, and even Twilight gulped at the thought of being forced into confrontation with her. She knew draconequus could easily accomplish much; but if this little draconequus certainly did come here to make a statement or settle the score; then that'd be quite bad. Twilight just kept silent; taking everything in, what were you supposed to say in a situation like this?

Even the rest of the mane six were unsure of what to say.

Rainbow Dash looked on in disbelief. "Noooo way."

Pinkie Pie blinked a bit; then cheered. "Wait...I have this odd feeling I've seen her before! But not at the Sweet Shop!"

Rarity rubbed her eyes for a second. "Eh; scratch that about Rainbow being right Applejack."

Fluttershy especially as she muttered beneath her breath. "E-Eve?...."

Eve closed her eyes with a smile. "I've done as you asked Princess; p-please...would you please keep your promise?" Eve felt as if her world was slowing down in this moment. Previously; everything seemed to be going so fast. She felt as if she were losing her mind; complying with something like this, simply revealing her identity. She was just so tired, so done of all the nonsense by this point in her life and she just wanted everything to work out now. She'd seen all the pain, heard all the lies. She didn't want this living fantasy to be a nightmare for her anymore; the world wasn't meant to work in that way. It was a happy loving place, and that's all she wanted out of it, no more of these events that led to many tears.

She couldn't take it anymore; she needed for it to end now, and she knew she was at the end of her rope. "P-Please?" She smiled at Twilight with a hopeful smile; her eyes revealing a strong sense of paranoia within her. "I've done what you've asked right?...P-Please...will you now tell them? Will you tell them I'm okay? You're the special somepony aren't you?" She looked up at the crowd who all regarded her with speechless and frightened looks. The silence was unbearable. "Please!?" Why was everypony so quiet? Why weren't they talking? What'd she do wrong, she did as they asked right!? They wanted this, so why couldn't they just be decent and give her what she wanted!? Eve's eyes widened as she just felt her grip on everything slowly slipping away. She looked to Fluttershy in desperation "F-Fluttershy!?"

Fluttershy began to tremble as she shook her head. Already by looking at the baby draconequus one could tell she just wasn't feeling right, what'd happened to her in this short time frame? It hurt Fluttershy to see her like this.

Eve snapped. "Why're you looking at me like that?! I...I'm only doing what I was told!..Why're you all just standing there..Please; just hurry and get it over with! Give me what you promised! He said there was a special somepony so who is it? Say something!"

Twilight stated simply beneath her breath, nervously backing away. "You're insane...."

Eve's eyes widened.

Insane?.........

She was Insane?........

Eve began to chuckle a little as she looked up at the speechless crowd. "That's funny hehe...I don't like this any more than you do! But I'm good! I won't hurt you see?! I'll do anything, I'll...I'll do anything to prove it to you and then we can all just-" But Eve saw it, that familiar look in their eyes. Where was this special somepony? Where was her reward? Where was the next step of this supposed task? Was anypony gonna fill her in? No; she didn't see any sign of more progress, all she saw was that familiar look. Those intense looks of disgust surrounding her, looks of fear and rejection. Not even the princesses acknowledged her story. Was it all just another trick? Or perhaps she truly was just some insane draconequus who couldn't even differ reality from fantasy anymore.

They weren't even to blame once again. She'd played herself the fool, and ended up putting on a horrid display of her deadly potential; and in a world of harmony, chaos such as this had no rightful place. She was so caught up with her reward, she'd only given them more reason to deny her entry into their society. She'd only given them more reason to not accept her, and how else could they regard her? Besides as some monster.

She was I-N-S-A-N-E........

Eve's eyes filled with tears as she looked up at the sky. Her eyes were wide; her pupils dilated like small circular specks resting in the center, quivering. And as she looked up with, that look of hopelessness overwhelmed her. There was nothing? This was it? This was what she was waiting for, revealed her identity for? Followed that draconequus's orders for? To beat up a dragon; then have everything suddenly just stop, for her to put herself into this idiotic situation and then get called insane? To be looked at as a monster? This truly was insanity then. This world was insane. Everything was insane! Eve; was insane. Nightmarish dreams ran amuck like a plaque in her mind, memories made no sense, Trixie would rather leave her to rot rather than be her friend simply because she was what she was. A world of love, magic, and tolerance? No; this world was the definition of insanity.

Eve looked up to the sky. Just; how far had she fallen since she got here? But she wasn't crying as usual. Instead she formed an awkward grin, followed by a chuckle. Eve closed her eyes as she just found it so funny how absurd everything was. The baby draconequus placed a paw on her head as her tears simply flowed and she couldn't stop herself from laughing. Her laughs became hoarse; and almost frighteningly creepy. This was absolutely hysterical. This is what was awaiting her in the end? For everything she learned to be grimed into dust at the simple request of a Princess because she was too dense to consider she wasn't the special somepony, or even if the special somepony existed. And she didn't fail to notice the longer she stood there laughing, the more backup that came, guards slowly began to surround her, the crowd watched the dramatic event unfold. Not even Fluttershy wanted to be involved in this situation.

The accumulation of everything had finally reached it's breaking point. And she felt as if her mind had shattered.

She'd fallen off the edge of sanity. And she didn't know whether or not she wanted to climb back up.

Cheerilee was speechless; just looking at the TV with tragedy written all over her face. It was her, it was Eve, and she'd hoped that maybe, the baby draconequus was doing okay out there in the world. She cared for her students just as much, and this far into the future there wasn't much bias towards Eve. But; why did the world work like this? To see that sweet little draconequus who'd called her mother and was particularly attached to her, having unleashed such destructive magic upon a dragon, and now, surrounded, laughing maniacally; broken, a villain. This was madness; and it broke her heart.

The class looked to Cheerilee all with worry.

Sweetie Belle got out of her seat, approaching her teacher. "M-Miss Cheerilee?...Are...Are you okay?"

Cheerilee said nothing; and never took her eyes off the TV.

Even Princess Celestia seemed a bit worried by this occurrence. It was obvious once she broke the draconequus down she'd need to be built back up. But now she started questioning whether that'd be possible. Princess Celestia then seemed quite serious as she flapped her wings a little; as if preparing them for flight.

It was about time she became intimately involved with this whole situation.
And she was more than eager to get started.