One Way or Another
Diamond Tiara wasn't sure how long she'd slept for, but when she woke up, she could hear voices talking outside the room. It sounded like she was going to have visitors shortly.
Normally, the realization she was going to have other ponies coming in would have started her grooming herself and getting ready, but that wasn't the impression she wanted this time. She looked herself over carefully.
Looking down, she could see a few nasty bruises on her throat. Her tail lay limp on the bed, and her mane and tail were all matted and sweaty. All in all, she looked pathetic, which was perfect.
Of course, all things considered, she was actually feeling like she was pretty pathetic right now, but what was important for the next conversation was that it showed. One thing she'd learned from Daddy was that how you presented yourself in public was very important, especially for business transactions and other important matters.
You should always act whatever way would get you the desired result, even if this was totally opposite to how you felt. She had paid attention to Daddy, whatever he might think. It was just that the numbers would all dance around and call her names, and it all slipped away under pressure anyways. But not this time, she hoped.
So, pathetic: check. She scooted over to the edge of the bed next to the table. Splashing some water on her face might give her even more of a drowned and strangled kitten look, but Granny Smith'd probably disapprove. At least her head wasn't going round and round so much any more.
It was so nice just lying here on the bed. She could almost imagine things were normal again, staring up at the ceiling. It was a pity it was Apple Bloom's. Did she even realize what she had here?
She'd love to trade places with her right now, really, broken legs and all, even. Farm living wasn't the life for her, but Apple Bloom had a comfy place to sleep, regular meals, Granny Smith to fuss over her, and a protective brother and sister.
Too protective for her liking, but it was more than she had.
She lay back, enjoying the soft blanket under her, and closed her eyes. Enough of all this. She needed to know what was going on out there. Her ears perked up as she strained to hear what was going on.
"Back already? You've already talked to Filthy? I'd imagine he must be in a right state."
That sounded like Granny Smith, and she must be talking to Scootaloo. She really hoped Scoots hadn't actually talked to Daddy, or it was all over.
"Er, he mainly wanted to know about if Apple Bloom accepted her apology and if the Apple family was still upset about what happened. He didn't ask much about how Diamond was doing," Scootaloo grumbled. "He did say she should stay here until they've made up and she's feeling better."
With the way Scootaloo was going on about Daddy being more concerned about the apology than her, it made her think that Scootaloo didn't like him, or maybe was even upset with him on her behalf. That was sort of a warm glowing feeling she wasn't really used to.
Scoots had also given her an out to stay here as long as she wanted, or at least, until she was feeling better.
Thank you, Scoots. Maybe in a few years, I'll feel better.
"Hmmph. I'd think he would show a bit more concern for his daughter," Granny Smith said, more than a touch of annoyance in her voice. "Did he seem like he was alright to you? He's seemed a mite off for quite a while to me, and was awfully twitchy last time we met."
"Dunno, really. Never talk to him, so I wouldn't know how he usually is. How is Diamond doing?"
"Last I looked, she was sleeping like a lamb. A few bruises and head aching, but nothing time and a little rest won't fix. why don't you see if Apple Bloom and your other friend are ready to talk, an' I'll see if she's up?"
Was she up? Not being able to wake her up after she hurt her head might be enough to get them to actually talk to Daddy, so she supposed she'd better be.
The door creaked open.
"You up, young filly? How're you feelin'?"
Diamond brought one foreleg to her head and tried for a dramatic groan. "Horrible! I think I might have to stay for a while until I get better. Next week?"
Granny Smith laughed good-naturedly. "Feelin' good enough to be thinkin' 'bout getting out of school, I see. Think you're ready for company?"
Maybe her acting skills had gotten rusty. While she'd had a part in a play once, it'd been a while. Or maybe it was just Granny Smith. She seemed pretty sharp for such an old lady.
Daddy would've bought it, but he didn't really pay that much attention, and while Grey would've seen right through her, Daddy was always the important one to convince.
He had been, anyway. That still hurt. Suddenly feeling much worse than she had a minute ago, she gave up the act and opened her eyes wearily.
"Okay, I guess. Can I have something to drink first, though?"
She was going to have to do some talking, after all, and her throat was still a little raw.
Granny Smith raised an eyebrow and picked up a glass of water from the table right next to Diamond and passed it to her. Oh, right.
"Why don't you go ahead and try drinkin' it yourself this time. Your nap oughta've done you some good. You see, your body works on fixin' itself up when you're sleepin'. An' let me tell you, when you get to my age, you'll need that."
Diamond gulped down the water, a bit dribbling down into her fur, then set it back down. Her throat had needed that, even if her bladder didn't.
Well, here it goes. She was even less ready for this than when she'd come in the room, and what she had in mind to do next was probably pretty stupid, but she needed to get this over with.
"I guess I'd better talk to them. They're going to the clubhouse afterwards, too, and I think I'll have to go along." She bit her lip. "The only way I could think to make things up to Apple Bloom will involve stopping by pretty often to help her. That's not a problem, is it?"
Granny Smith, after all, was obviously the real head of the house here. Getting permission ahead of time wasn't really something she usually did, but Granny Smith was being so nice to her right now, so she might as well.
"That'd be nice of you, dear. I don't mind you helpin' out, long as you stay clear of Apple Bloom if she starts gettin' agitated. Do you want me in the room while the two of you have your lil' talk?"
Was Granny Smith worried about her? Nah, she was probably worried more about Apple Bloom, since she was her granddaughter. She shouldn't go reading too much into it.
She shook her head, though. If Granny Smith was in the room, she'd probably try to stop Diamond before she did anything stupid. And since she was going to do something stupid, she couldn't have that.
"I think this'd go better if this was just the four of us, though you might want to come back if it sounds like I'm being strangled again."
"As long as you're sure. I'd hate to see you getting hurt again." Granny Smith did look concerned. Why was she concerned? Maybe it was because of her business relationship with Daddy. She didn't know that he didn't care what happened to her. No one did. Did they?
"If anything happens, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle'll put a stop to it." She wasn't at all sure of that, but as long as she sounded confident, maybe it'd be enough.
Granny Smith looked a bit skeptical, but let it go. "Just let me know when you're finished, then. And if you need it, when you go out the door, there's a bathroom to the right."
Diamond nodded. She certainly would need it sooner than later. All that tea was starting to catch up with her.
A few minutes after Granny Smith left, the Crusaders filtered into the room. Despite the new ribbon on her mane, Apple Bloom did not look at all happy. The way her wheelchair lurched around as Sweetie Belle pushed it didn't help. Her casts almost hit the bed before the chair came to a rest beside it.
Scootaloo walked in a moment later and settled down on the other side, closer to the door. The way she was looking at it suggested she'd much rather be out of here as well.
Sweetie Belle nudged Apple Bloom. "I think somepony had something to say here?"
"Guess I went a little far," Apple Bloom muttered sullenly. "Sweetie Belle says I need to apologize to you."
The conversation was off to a great start so far. Diamond gave what was supposed to be a small cough for effect, but quickly turned into a much larger bout of coughing before she sipped some more water.
"I'm still not feeling so good, so come over here." Diamond waved Apple Bloom closer. "Sweetie Belle, can you get the wheelchair right next to me and the table?"
"Um, okay, I guess." She looked doubtful, but she somehow managed to lurch the chair into position.
"Good." She pointed over to the table. "See that vase there, Apple Bloom?"
Apple Bloom glanced at it in confusion. "Yeah, why?"
"It looks nice and heavy, and you're pretty strong. Why don't you pick it up, and smash it right against my legs? I won't move. The way I feel, I couldn't move fast enough to get away anyways."
Several horrified looks were shot at her, but Apple Bloom spoke first. "What!?"
"You wanted my legs broken like yours, didn't you?" Diamond asked. "Actually, no, you wanted me dead. That's right. Well, aim it at my head instead, then. It's all the same."
"It's not-" Sweetie Belle said, before being cut off by Apple Bloom.
"You're crazy!"
"Just practical." Diamond crossed her legs. "Look, if you're gonna kill me or break my legs, can you please do it now? I kind of need to pee."
"I'm not gonna kill ya!"
"Breaking my legs it is, then!" Diamond said cheerily. "Here, let me get them a little closer, so you can reach them better."
Diamond scooted a bit closer to Apple Bloom's horrified face, feeling a heady rush go through her. She was in total control of the situation now, all because she didn't really care all that much what happened to her. It was wonderful, giving her a type of freedom and power, something she hadn't felt in quite a while.
Apple Bloom yelped and would have backed up, except that the chair was still being held in place by Sweetie Belle, who was just standing still, plainly with no idea what to do. She couldn't quite see what Scootaloo was up to at the moment, but she was sure they'd talk about it later anyways.
"I won't break your legs!" Apple Bloom managed to say.
"Why not? I thought that was what you wanted, wasn't it? An eye for an eye and a leg for a leg or something?" She took another drink of water. "Think about it. There I am, stuck in a wheelchair, totally at everypony's mercy, and every time you see me, you know that it's all your fault. Wouldn't that be great?"
"It'd be horrible!"
Diamond slumped down a bit, pretty sure she wasn't going to be attacked any time soon. "Okay, you win, it'd be horrible. So why won't you at least let me apologize?"
Apple Bloom was witty and verbose as ever. "Huh?"
Did she really have to spell everything out for her?
"I'm the one who put you there, remember? You think maybe that's how I feel?"
From the look on her face, she didn't, but she was beginning to. Meanwhile, Sweetie Belle took a swig of water from the glass Diamond had been drinking from, which was kind of disgusting, really. She made a mental note not to drink from it again.
"Look, you're acting real weird, you know? I shouldn't've attacked you. I was upset, and I didn't mean to, all right? I'm sorry."
"Me too. I really didn't mean to break your legs. A lot's happened while you were in the hospital, and I just want to make this right."
"You can't, though. You just can't! I'm stuck here in this chair an' can't use my legs! How can you even start to make up for that?" Apple Bloom looked like she was about ready to go into hysterics again. Sweetie Belle put one foreleg on her shoulder, and she settled down a little.
Diamond leaned closer. "I did have one idea. What if I was your legs for a while?"
"What, you mean like get Twilight to use a swapping spell on our legs or somethin'?"
"I don't think that'd work." Diamond certainly hoped it wouldn't. "Since pushing you got me into this whole mess, what if I push you around some more? Only this time I'd be pushing you to school and back, and anywhere else you needed to get to in that wheelchair or yours."
For once Apple Bloom was lost in thought, which was a rare thing to see. "I dunno. Thing is, I don't really trust you. I'm sure Sweetie Belle an' Scoots'd help me out with all that."
"Sweetie Belle almost hit your legs on the bed a minute ago, and as far as Scootaloo goes- well, I don't think you've made up with her yet, unless I missed it."
"Made up with her?" Apple Bloom asked, a startled tone in her voice.
"Well, she's all the way over there acting like she doesn't want to be here, so I'd assume you haven't talked about it yet." As she pointed over at Scootaloo, Scootaloo suddenly looked in their direction.
"Scoots?" Apple Bloom shifted her gaze across to her. "What's wrong? Are you upset about somethin'?"
There was an awkward pause, which in Diamond's experience, was usually best filled with sarcasm.
"Well, I'm sure I wouldn't know. It's not like somepony called her a cripple earlier or anything."
"I didn't?" Apple Bloom's face turned ashen and she started babbling. "I did, didn't I? Oh geez, I'm sorry, Scoots, I really didn't mean it that way. You know I don't think of you that way, don't you? I didn't mean that, really I didn't."
Across the room, Scootaloo finally spoke up. "Apple Bloom, you're such a flankface."
"But I'm your flankface, right? Are we okay?"
The nod Scootaloo gave looked halfhearted at best, but Apple Bloom seemed to treat it as if it had settled things. She turned back towards Diamond.
"There, see? Scoots knows I didn't really mean it," Apple Bloom said. "And don't you get any ideas 'bout telling everypony in the school her wings don't work."
Diamond blinked.
"Her wings don't work? I see her buzz around town all the time with them," she said, as innocently as she could manage. She saw no reason to let Apple Bloom off the hook about this, even if Scootaloo's backbone seemed to have vanished.
Apple Bloom frowned.
"You know what I mean. Why are you still here, anyway? You've said you're sorry, I've said I'm sorry, and we've got a Crusader meeting to go to." A smug smile replaced her frown and she crossed her forelegs. "Members only."
"You know, Apple Bloom, there's this thing where if somepony gets hurt in your house, especially by somepony in your family, where you take care of them until they are feeling better?" Diamond said. "It's called hospitality. Your grandmother could teach you a thing or two about it, I think."
"I couldn't have hurt you that much. You're probably just faking it for sympathy. That'd be just like you."
Diamond pointed at her neck. "These spots here aren't normally purple. I wonder what I should say when everypony asks me how I got them?"
"Huh?"
"Oh, this? I just got it when Apple Bloom tried to murder me. She's quite mad, you know. I don't ever know what came over her." Diamond said in a mocking tone of voice. She considered trying to fake a swoon, then realised she'd probably end up really unconscious if she tried that.
"You are not telling everypony in school that." Apple Bloom glared at her.
"What, these bruises? I'm sorry, Apple Bloom told me I can't say anything about them. Why don't you ask her?" Diamond said flippantly. "Maybe if you buy me a nice scarf, I'll consider wrapping it around my neck and just saying it's a new fashion accessory? I can compromise, after all."
That was actually what she'd already had in mind to do, but getting Apple Bloom riled up was always fun.
"Oh, I'll get you a scarf, all right. I'll get it and wrap it right around your big, fat-"
"Girls!" Sweetie Belle's voice came stridently from behind Apple Bloom. "That's about enough of that! Apple Bloom, I don't know what's gotten into you, but stop it. And Diamond Tiara, stop acting like you usually do. Um, but don't act like you were when we came in, either. That was scary."
Apple Bloom's ears lay back on her head.
"Sorry, Sweetie Belle. Can't we just do our Crusader meeting now? I didn't want any of this really. I just wanted to act normal an' not think about things for a while. Can't I have that, at least?"
"We'll do our Crusader meeting," Sweetie Belle said. Apple Bloom brightened. "But Diamond is coming too."
Apple Bloom's face fell again. "Don't see why."
"Diamond has a few things she needs to talk about, but not here," Sweetie Belle told her. "And she needs to talk about them."
"Look, I'll say my piece at the beginning, all right?" Diamond cut in, suddenly sick of all this. "Then I'll let you guys have your whole silly meeting."
Apple Bloom sighed. "Fine. But it better be quick."
"Okay, come on, then. Scoots, can you push Apple Bloom this time?"
Scootaloo slowly walked around and silently traded places with Sweetie Belle.
Diamond crossed her hind legs a second time, then slowly climbed down the bed and walked towards the door. "I'll meet you in the hall."
"Where are you goin'?" Apple Bloom asked.
"I need to use the bathroom, remember? Don't think I can hold it much longer."
That said, she ducked into the hall and into a room to the right. Fortunately, it actually was the bathroom, not a closet or something, and she was able to go about her business normally for what was probably the first time in days, instead of having to use a bush or tree. It was funny how amazing having something like plumbing seemed after a few days without it.
After freshening up, she left the bathroom, wondering vaguely if they'd still be there. It wasn't the end of the world if they weren't. It'd give her an opportunity for another nap.
This, however, seemed unlikely, as something zoomed past her. Looking at the end of the hall, she saw Apple Bloom's wheelchair come screeching to a halt, Scootaloo hanging on to the back. Sweetie Belle came following a moment later.
Diamond walked up to the wheelchair.
"You know," she said casually, "it seems to me like if I really had it out for you, all I'd have to do is not offer to help. You'll end up back in the hospital if you keep this up."
"What do you know?" Apple Bloom snapped at her.
"Well, I doubt I could do much worse. Why don't I just push your chair to the clubhouse, at least?"
Apple Bloom rubbed a hoof across her forehead. "Fine. But if you try anything…"
"Sweetie Belle's already let me know where she'll put her horn and what she'll do with it."
Sweetie Belle nodded solemnly at this.
"I don't even want to think 'bout it. Let's just go."
"Going somewhere?" Granny Smith asked as she rounded the corner with Applejack.
"We had a Crusader meeting?" Sweetie Belle offered.
"Exactly how much crusading do you think you're going to do with my sis's legs broken?" Applejack asked, arching an eyebrow.
"Well, we were gonna talk 'bout it, anyways. We'll be careful, honest," Apple Bloom said.
"You're always going to be careful." She looked between Diamond and Apple Bloom. "You girls make up yet?"
Diamond scowled. "I tried. We both said sorry at some point, which is probably as good as it's going to get right now. "
"You sure you should be out of bed?" Granny Smith asked.
"I'm sure I can make it to their silly little meeting," Diamond said. "If you find me lying on the ground somewhere afterwards, maybe I'll need more time to get better."
"Now don't go pushin' yourself too hard if you still aren't feelin' good," Applejack said. "There'll always be time later."
"I have to pick up some dresses from Rarity later anyways," Diamond said breezily. She gave Apple Bloom a glare. "And a scarf."
"I told ya I'm not gettin' you a scarf!" Apple Bloom scowled and returned the glare.
"Girls…" Sweetie Belle said, a distinct warning tone in her voice.
"Your family always was too headstrong for your own good, I reckon," Granny Smith said, and then turned to Sweetie Belle. "Sweetie, can you keep an eye on her and get her back here or home if she isn't doin' too good? An' maybe try an' keep 'em from fightin'?"
"I keep trying!" an exasperated Sweetie Belle said. "They just keep going at it, though!"
She looked at both of them and seemed to come to a decision.
"All right. Either of you start at it again, you both are getting stuck in a three-way hug with me, and I'm not letting go until you both start playing nice! I swear I might as well have brought Opal along!"
"A group hug?" Apple Bloom said, not seeming particularly pleased with the thought. "With Diamond Tiara?"
"Uh-huh," Sweetie Belle said. "And I might make you kiss and make up. Don't try me."
Wait, kiss and make up was just a phrase, wasn't it? She didn't mean that literally, right? Diamond looked to Scootaloo questioningly.
"Go along with it," Scootaloo said, breaking her silence. "Believe me, you don't want to cross Sweetie Belle. She doesn't get mad easily, but…"
"I'll be good," Diamond said hastily. She wasn't sure how hugs could be so menacing, but wasn't sure she wanted to find out.
"Well, if you're all intent on this clubhouse meeting, don't be out too late, and try not to hurt your legs any worse or the wheelchair. It's been in the family for generations, you know," Applejack said.
"You take care of yourself," Granny Smith told them, and Diamond swore she was looking right at her.
Grabbing ahold of the wheelchair, Diamond started through the hall, finding it surprisingly easy to manage, despite her condition. It made her wonder how the others could possibly be so bad at it. Filing through the door, they all finally started on their way to the clubhouse.
It'd be awfully nice if that was the end of it, Diamond thought. But now I have to talk all about my disgrace and humiliation to somepony who totally hates my guts and I haven't had a single civil word or polite conversation with.
Well, maybe she won't gloat too much.
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You are no match for her Sweetie Fu. Hug Like the Wind, the Tiger Cuddle... she knows all the techniques.
Fear her.
Alive and updated, good stuff.
As always, keep up the good work.
And NOW the truth floweth forth.
4891246
Yes. Never underestimate or tick off Sweetie Belle...
4891259
Thanks!
4891264
Some of it, anyways. I think Diamond's looking forward to telling it to Apple Bloom about as much as Apple Bloom is looking forward to her being there...
--arcum42
Time, Dr. Arcum42?
Is it really that time again?
Wow, now this is one of the only few fics that I can't make a prediction of how it would end, keep it up man, it's getting better each chapter.
More. Soon
PLEASE!
I know, as a FiM fan, that I'm contractually obligated to dislike Diamond Tiara, except for when she shows those moments of being a good person. And certainly this fic continues to provide the good points
But... I'm really, really, really liking it when she turns her devious side loose. But I guess when one's evil plan is to convince someone to let you push their wheelchair around, I'm probably morally okay to be pleased. I think I might have found my favorite Redeemed Tiara in this chapter. Conniving, crafty, manipulative and actually using all that to do good things. Diamond Tiara as a Magnificent Bastard is... actually rather compelling.
4891337
I think so too!
You can doubly tell when pre-reading, when you have less and less to say each time. And spend more of that time patting the author on the head instead of pointing out what has gone horribly wrong.
fc08.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2013/231/2/7/alucard_wants_a_hug__by_xxsmilebrightxx-d6ivksw.png
Ah the old I'll be your servant until we make up gambit. Classic.
bout freaking time. Good chapter mate. Baby steps DT, Baby Steps.. also Filthy is such a bastard... he must paaay
4891337
It would be pretty difficult to predict. I don't really have all the pieces in place, quite, anyways. There's one thing that I've only mentioned once early on that I need to bring back into play, for example...
4891458
One of the most dangerous things in the world is someone who has nothing left to lose. And if you'll note, she has picked up a good deal from her father, too. Much more than he probably thinks. And thanks, btw...
--arcum42
Love seeing DT's progression and you've even shook up the CMC's dynamics in an interesting way.
4891530
Yes, he dresses her in a bunny outfit and physically shoves her over to participate in an Apple family activity. I expect that it didn't matter what Granny Smith wanted her for, just that she wanted help...
4891598
That sounds about right...
4891603
The downside, of course, would be having to do what Apple Bloom says. You'll note she's less and less enthusiastic about that.
--arcum42
4891676
Thanks. And yeah, one step at a time.
Filthy must pay? Cash or credit?
4891812
The new dynamics are pretty interesting. Scootaloo is actually probably feeling more sympathetic towards Diamond then Apple Bloom at the moment, which is a bit of a turn around.
--arcum42
remove
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into
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Yay! New chapter! Shwibbles
. Anywho, it's always great to see this and your MageAloo fic getting updated. I can't wait for the next one to come out.
4891617
It's been interesting. It took forever to even get them in the same room, let alone to talk. And they are also more similar in some ways then either would like to admit.
I seem to be doing a good job echoing real life, too, as I recall being told that Granny Smith was acting just like MistyShineStar's grandmother.
That's the thing, though. Apple Bloom might have been willing to go after Diamond again, but now she's been forced to think about her actions. And hitting someone when they are down isn't nearly as fun.
And yes, Diamond isn't stupid or blind. Naive and innocent are the words I'd use. She's been allowed to get away with everything without consequences, and she hasn't been taught that some things are wrong. Now she's learning about consequences, and learning hard.
--arcum42
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4892000
Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara really do bring out the worst in each other. Having them in the same room is usually a bad idea. And no matter how bad off Diamond is, she's still a spoiled brat, and change takes a lot of time.
I also enjoyed writing that exchange rather more than I should have.
--arcum42
Once more I suspect DT underestimates just how important family is to the Apples.
But either way, this gon b gud.
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4892128
Apple Bloom hasn't really given her too much reason to think otherwise, too. Apple Bloom is used to family being more important than anything, but she also hates Diamond, and those two things are about to come into conflict.
Apple Bloom isn't going to like this one bit. In more than one way.
--arcum42
4891847 Well no, DT should have told Granny right away she was Disowned, he only cared about the apology and his business.. he must face his own consequences
Y'know, this is probably the #1 fanfic I look forward to seeing get new chapters right now. I got to say you keep surprising me in good ways with it, and the directions/twists you take it. Tiara's li'l gambit here was very clever, unexpected, and well-done. It also seems to of helped ease some anger/tension between the two.
As I said already I love how while you make Tiara more sympathetic, and likeable in this story, while also still keeping her in-character by having her still be a bit selfish, snarky, and bratty at times, while also seeing a new more vulnerable, and perhaps "adorable" awkward side to her.
I also like how dispite making some progress here, there's still tension between the two fillies.
AppleBloom has reason to dislike Tiara for bullying her, and her friends for a long time, and especially for unintentionally breaking her legs recently.
While, Tiara also has reason to dislike Bloom for ruining her cute-ceañera, (as Tiara admitted a few chapters ago, which she blames her for) and in a way unintentionally putting her on bad terms with her father, and such. So it creates an interesting conflict between the two, and also gives them some things in common at the same time.
They're both pretty helpless in their current state, and could really use each other's help, but neither wants to admit it, or fully trusts the other.
I like how after cooling off, Applebloom's being more reasonable, and is now willing to hear her out. I also liked how Tiara called her out for what she (accidently) said about Scootaloo 2 chapters back, which also shows in a way Applebloom can be in the wrong to sometimes, and in a way Tiara is starting to stand up for Scoots to, in return for all the help she gave her. Tiara's gradually becoming nicer to the CMC.
Though, of course years of bullying isn't something that's going to heal everything between them, and I look forward to seeing them make more progress in making peace. I hope to see more interaction between Tiara & Bloom now that she's having to stay on her farm. I liked her interactions with Scoots in previous chapters, but I hope to see more of her interacting with the other two Crusaders.
It was also nice showing Sweetie trying to be "neutral," and trying to be the peace-keeper, which seems in-character for her. Sweetie always seemed like the "heart," or most-caring one of the CMC in a way who holds them together so it works well.
My only critique really is I kinda wish some chapters were a li'l longer sometimes, 'cause I get so into them, I just want to keep reading. (Which is funny, 'cause sometimes I don't have the patience to read other fics with long chapters. Hehe) I was hoping we'd get to see Tiara's confession about everything that's happened to her, but I can wait for the next chapter. (Even if it's a short chapter.) It kinda keeps me in suspense, and wondering what will happen next.
Even if Tiara is a brat, as I said before your story does a good job reminding the reader, "She's a li'l kid, and is capable of other emotions, and not just a souless bully" like some assume she is.
I can't help, but feel a li'l sorry for her having to swallow her pride, and having to tell Applebloom everything in the next chapter, dispite what a "jerk," she's been in the show.
I imagine it's going to be a bit of a blow to Tiara's ego, having to be at the "mercy" of the fillies she tormented so many times.
4892466
To be honest, I was a little worried about that gambit, since with it, Diamond's starting to act like she doesn't really care whether she lives or dies. It's realistic, though, and the others horrified reactions were worth it.
Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara do really tend to bring out the worst in each other. And they both have more in common than they'd like to think. You might note that Apple Bloom and Diamond both can be very oblivious about things at times, for example. And despite having a cutie mark, Diamond seems not to have a real idea of what she's good at either, and you might even say Apple Bloom's ahead of her there.
Diamond and Scootaloo honestly are tending to start being friends despite everything after spending so much time together, and Diamond defending her is one sign of it. At the moment, Scoots may be feeling closer to Diamond than Apple Bloom, in fact.
I've always seen one of Sweetie Belle's jobs as keeping Scootaloo and Apple Bloom from killing each other, as in 'the Stare Master', and now it extends to Diamond.
I partially broke off where I did because it was a good scene break point, but I also thought I'd rather get it out now rather than sitting on it for that much longer. I wish I had more writing time, really.
I do like throwing in little reminders, like when Sweetie Belle drank from Diamond's glass of water.
Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo wouldn't be so bad, since she's already told them, but Apple Bloom, well, Diamond's not looking forward to this one bit...
--arcum42
4892584
And his butler?
--arcum42
4892746
Scootaloo is homeless herself, and avoiding telling anyone, so she's hardly going to push someone else too much on that front. She may be streetwise, and know a lot about living on your own, but she isn't exactly wise. Ziplining comes to mind. Most of the crusading in general, really...
--arcum42
4892803
Well, she's about to tell someone about how her dad kicked her out... but then, it's Apple Bloom, so still not exactly a responsible adult. That should be interesting, though.
--arcum42
4892930
Ah. Finish the chapter.
--arcum42
ONE UPDATE WHEN SUMMER STARTED
ONE UPDATE RIGHT BEFORE I GO BACK TO COLLEGE
I'll read this right now and right a real review afterwards!
Dang, that escalated very quickly.
I gotta say, this fic has been absolutely amazing so far. One tiny quipe though, in flight to the finish, Scootaloo was shown inside her house. Not saying that EVERYTHING needs to match or be related to canon, but thinking about that makes me think that this fic takes place before flight to the finish.
Ah well, just another psychotic rambling.
Keep up the good work.
4893144
Thanks. As far as the contradiction between Scoots being homeless here and canon, there's a quite simple explanation on that. This fanfic actually was started before season four came out. As such, I'm disregarding any new canon that doesn't fit with what I've written after season three. I'll make it fit if it's reasonable on new chapters, but "Flight to the Finish" and "Twilight Time" will be mostly disregarded for this story.
--arcum42
4893182 That's totally cool, I'm excited in whatever direction you decide to take this story.
I hope, when the truth does come out, Granny Smith is the one to confront Filthy rich. Preferably with a saucepan or cane.
Diamond should be glad she's a filly. Otherwise, her balls would be big enough to drag on the ground.
And I think that Granny has already figured out that DT is homeless. She just need some solid confirmation before she crushes him like an insect.
Really glad this series is getting some love. I can't quite put my finger on it, but it's way more compelling of a read than I imagined it would be.
Finally got to a nice DT and AB confrontation I was waiting for. That was a great DT moment of control there.
Scoots still seems hurt and AB is so oblivious to others' feelings around her. Geez. Oh well, things happen.
I wonder how sharp Sweetie's horn is? I always imagined they'd be more stubby and blunty than sharp when they are small. But a three-way hug, kiss and make up threat seems like just the right touch to get these fillies to watch their step.
Now I'm excited....! I hate long pauses in chapters lol.
4893301
No promises there, since Granny Smith took over the last couple chapters way more than I was expecting, but we'll see.
4893703
Having nothing left to lose can do that.
Granny Smith still has a bit to go before figuring that out, I think. She knows Diamond was hurt, and might be acting like she's feeling better than she is, and she also knows Filthy's been acting strange for a while, but that started before Diamond became homeless.
If Filthy's acting strange, that could be affecting his daughter, too, though, which would have her concerned.
4893727
Thanks. From the comments, I think a lot of it is because I've put a fair amount for time on concentrating on what's going on inside Diamond's head, and making her three dimensional. Your mileage may vary, of course...
--arcum42
4894207
Yeah, the conversation was already looking to be on a rather bad track if she hadn't grabbed control of it, with half hearted apologies from Apple Bloom at best. Apple Bloom and the others had absolutely no idea how to react to what Diamond pulled, though, which put the ball right in Diamond's court.
And while beating up or killing someone that's hurt you may sound attractive, when they are just going to let you and not fight back, it loses most of its appeal.
And yes, Scoots is feeling hurt, and Apple Bloom has Diamond levels of obliviousness. Fortunately, they aren't oblivious about the same things.
If she gets moving fast enough, it might not matter, though I think it was more symbolic of a threat than anything. She was willing to let them work things out, but was clearly getting to the end of her rope. The hug threat was probably a better one to keep them in line, really.
--arcum42
4894487
Oh, I was just teasing at that point.
I am looking mighty forward to the next chapter. Maybe give us a nicer breather with a surprise update maybe of Filly B? One could only hope.
Looks like Granny Smith is a bit suspicious of Flithy, which is a good sign.
Love how Apple Bloom's finally back and soon we'll see her reaction to Diamond's whole homeless situation! Apple Bloom still has reason to be angry about her legs being broken, but she's definitely taken it a bit too far with trying to strangle Diamond and all. I like how Diamond defended Scootaloo there - it's nice how they're becoming friends.
I do think that Bloom's "Woops, sorry for calling you crippled" apology wasn't really good enough though but hey, she's pretty oblivious to stuff.
When I saw this tale on the first page of fanfiction I decided to give it a try. I almost gave up when I noticed it was already clocking 13 chapters. Now, I am glad I thought twice. The tale got my full attention. The moral conflicts of Diamond Tiara are very well developed. We can understand she talks agressivelly to other ponies because that's the only way she knows to. She also misses tons of oportunities of making amends and bits, due to pride and/or unfunded hope. Therefore, a falible, not-likeable protagonist, something hard to achieve.
Congratulations, and keep up the good work
Ok note to self, never piss off Sweetie Belle.
Wow. This was so much into Diamond's character to plot everything beforehand and made her foe suffer from guilt. Despite all her flaws Diamond is undeniably smart. Sometimes so smart that it's creepy.
I really can't help but wonder when did she find time and strength to plot all of this?
Reading this chapter left me in a state of light confusion. For me the whole situation looked like DT shamelessly manipulated crusaders and used their native softness to her own advantage (not that I can blame her, being homeless and stuff). Even her "protecting" Scootaloo felt more like an elaborate jab under Bloom's soft belly. The thing is this chapter lacks an insight on DT's feelings, so it's hard to proceed what was a part of her plan and what was made out of sincere motives.
4895051
Keep in mind that Granny Smith has thought something was up with him for 'a while', while it's only been a few days since Diamond was kicked out...
Diamond's been spending a lot of time around Scootaloo, and while neither of them may have wanted to be friends, it's pretty much happening anyways. And all Scootaloo's morning exercises and everything Scootaloo's said about her wings is still fresh in Diamond's mind.
And, no, Apple Bloom's apology wasn't adequate, and she decided things were resolved when they weren't. Her initial attempt at an apology to Diamond was pretty horrid, too..
--arcum42
4896495
Thanks. This one's been pretty interesting to write.
--arcum42
4896765
No, that isn't generally a good idea. Fortunately, it's not easy most of the time.
--arcum42
4899848
Pushing around the wheelchair is something she'd been thinking about for a while. She's also been feeling like it didn't really matter what happened to her recently. She started plotting what she was going to do before she went to sleep, though,
It wasn't so much that she thought they were soft and wouldn't do it, though she thought they probably wouldn't. She just didn't really care that much if Apple Bloom took her up on it...
As far as Scootaloo goes, Scoots took her in, has been helping her out for a couple days, and Diamond's seen all the effort she's putting into her wings. Scootaloo's also been filling the hole left by Silver Spoon's absence for Diamond to a certain extent. She's feeling more protective of Scootaloo then she'd really like to acknowledge.
--arcum42
4910886
Other things to think about. That may be the way Filthy does business, but the business was built by Stinking Rich. And remember what Granny Smith has to say about him?
Acting the way Filthy is wasn't what built Rich Enterprises up originally, and is actually going against the original principles it was run on.
Diamond hasn't thought things through to the end, either. Was kicking her out and disinheriting her based on the same ideas she stated? Well, she'll learn...
Also, just as a note, the Rich family butler, Greywithers, predates Filthy as the head of the household. He's been with them for a long time.
Of course, from my perspective, I'm proud of the bit about the numbers dancing around and calling her names.
--arcum42
4911088
Does this mean that Diamond has dyslexia then or you hinting at something else then?