> Secrets > by Final Sunlight > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Are you sure that you don’t want to stay?” The annoying voice of her nurse asked as Sunset climbed from the now parked wheelchair. She wanted to walk out after finally getting the doctor to discharge her, but hospital regulations forbid it. Damned hospitals. “Yes, I’m sure. Don’t worry, I have plenty of friends I can stay with when I need it.” Sunset assured the nurse, despite wanting to once again become a demon and turn the nuisance to ash. Three days with the nurse attending to her every need got tiresome really quickly, which was kind of messed up. She was always a bitch, that much was true, but she enjoyed forcing people to do her bidding. Ever since being admitted to the hospital she found that her tastes for having people to serve her had drastically changed. ‘Damn you Sparkle!’ Sunset spat mentally, as she stretched. The damned elements purged her of all those pesky dark emotions and thoughts giving her a second chance at life. Why the hell couldn’t it heal the physical side of her also? “If you change your mind hun, just come back. I will do everything I can to make you comfortable. No person should go through this alone.” The nurse said softly, tearing up as she looked at the flame haired youth. “I know that you are trying to help, but I’m ready for this. I probably deserve this for everything I’ve done.” Sunset told the nurse wistfully, meaning every word. She had been the school’s alpha bitch ruling by blackmail and worse. Not one person really liked her, not even Flash or her two cronies. Perhaps if she treated people nicer she may not have to face this alone. “Don’t you dare say that! You are only sixteen years old, no matter what you think you did, there is no way in hell that you deserve this.” The nurse cried out in shock as a taxi pulled up in front of Sunset. “Well, it’s been great, but my ride is here.” Sunset chirped, opening the door and threw the duffel bag she had been carrying into the car before climbing in after it. Anything else was useless as Sunset couldn’t hear the nurse with the door shut. “Where to, Miss?” The driver asked, a man with a chiseled jaw line and dark shades asked. To Sunset, this man belonged on the front of a cheesy romance novel, not driving a cab. A part of her was tempted to ask if she could give him a special tip, but quickly pushed that thought out of her head. She may not have long to live, but she sure as hell wasn’t going to start sleeping around now. She was a virgin and she would die one. Sad? Maybe, but she refused to give herself to some stranger. “Just drop me off at Canterlot Garden Estates.” Sunset said, her voice stiff making the man arch an eyebrow questioningly. “Just drive!” Unlike what the name implied, Canterlot Garden Estates was not a lovely home or apartment complex. At one time it may have been, but now it was a run down apartment building that was probably closer to death than Sunset herself. The ride from the hospital to there went quickly as Sunset ignored the glances the man shot her way. “You know, if you take a pic it may last longer.” Sunset snapped as she climbed from the cab. Pulling out her wallet from her duffel bag, Sunset pulled two twenty dollar bills out and threw them at the man. “You know, you kind of stink.” The man grinned before pulling the door shut. Sunset stood there with her mouth moving for several moments as the cab barked its tires before taking off down the street. “Screw you asshole! I do not STINK!” Sunset screamed after the cab. Just because she was in the hospital didn’t mean she avoided taking care of herself. She didn’t get to use her normal soaps and lotions, but the hospital supplied some. Sniffing herself again to make sure she admitted that she did smell funny, but it was because of the medicated scent of the soaps and shampoo instead of her normal fruity scented ones. “That’s no way to talk to your elders, Sunset Shimmer.” A cold voice said from behind her turning the blood in Sunset’s veins to freeze. Slowly turning around, shouldering the strap while hiding the wince of pain it caused, she looked up to see the angry visage of Principal Celestia. “Principal Celestia! Fancy meeting you here.” Sunset giggled nervously, as she shifting her weight back and forth. “Save it Shimmer.” Celestia said as she crinkled her nose, as if smelling something unpleasant. What the hell was wrong with everyone today? First the rude taxi driver telling her flat out that she stunk, and now her principal acting as if she smelled bad. The angry look on Celestia’s face melted away leaving behind concern for the younger girl. “Are you okay? You look a little sick.” “As if anyone really gives a damn!” Sunset snapped out before she could help herself. Yeah she was pissed off, who wouldn’t be after learning that they only had a couple weeks to live at most? Yet she also accepted it at the same time, there was no getting back home to Equestria in time to help her. She kept reminding herself that it was probably punishment for all the pain she caused others. “There is no need for that attitude young lady, there are plenty of people who care for you.” Celestia sighed as she looked directly into Sunset’s eyes. The quick flash of green made Sunset take a step back before forcing herself to calm down. It was probably a side effect of the pain killers she was on. “Yeah, Sparkle’s friends? Get real, they are only being nice because the princess asked them to. Do you honestly think they give a damn about me?” Sunset asked, her voice rising higher and higher as she went on. “They don’t give two shits about me, and you know what, I don’t care. I’ll be out of everyone’s way in less that a couple weeks. I’m sure the whole school will be happy when I’m long gone.” “Sunset, please, tell me what’s wrong.” Celestia asked softly, reaching a hand out to gently squeeze Sunset’s shoulder as the girl trembled while hugging herself. “I have cancer, they told me I have at most two weeks.” Sunset sobbed out as she threw herself into Celestia’s arms. The older woman sighed as she held the crying student, unsure of what to do. She really liked Sunset Shimmer, always going easy on the teen as there was so much potential there waiting to come out. Time and time again Celestia tried her best to coax it out of the girl, but it was a difficult process at best. Maybe there was a chance for the girl, but she would have to look into them first. The first option that came in mind could cause more trouble than it was worth, and may actually get the girl killed quicker if the elders found out. It was a dangerous thing and broke one of the two most important rules that Celestia lived by. It was something that could not be taken lightly, no matter how much she cared for this girl. Of course there was also the problem of Sunset not being of this world which may cause complications to the most likely option. “Isn’t there anything they can do?” Celestia whispered into the girl’s hair. “No, they said it was too advanced. They said pancreatic cancer was one of the worse and it’s too late for surgery.” Sunset cried, “Damn you. Damn YOU! Why did you have to show up here? I had it under control!” “Come on, let’s get you inside. I think you can miss a day of school.” Celestia said, but Sunset pulled back and hugged herself again. “No. I’m not a coward. I’m not going to run away from this and let it disrupt my life.” Sunset declared, forcing the despair back down and covered it with the cold, uncaring mask she was trying to maintain before Celestia showed up. “Besides, I have to take care of some things at school.” “Are you sure, maybe you should just relax?” Celestia said uncertainly. She had seen plenty of people die before, but for some reason she felt a connection to this girl that was unexplainable. “I’m sure, I know I’m going to be late, but do you think you could wait and give me a ride?” Sunset asked hopefully, “I want to wash this hospital scent off me; I can’t believe two people think I stink.” Celestia shook her head, how could she tell Sunset that the stench she was smelling wasn’t coming from the soaps and shampoos, or whatever else she had used. It was coming from whatever unnatural medications that she must have been pumped full of. “Of course I’ll wait, and I’ll even make sure that your teachers know that you are to be excused for your absences.” “Whatever.” Sunset grumbled, shifting the bag on her shoulder before brushing past Celestia. “Coming?” > Chapter 2 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fluttershy was worried, there was no denying it. She had always cared about Sunset to some extent; there was just something there that drew her to the girl. She was also sure that Sunset felt the same which was the whole reason the girl was such a bully. Sunset was afraid of those feelings, of that Fluttershy was positive, and that made Sunset lash out at the target of those feelings. It was Thursday now and Sunset still hadn’t shown up at school, more than enough reason to worry Fluttershy. She had a bad feeling that something was wrong. She could smell it on the girl when they were close to each other. She had dismissed it though as a side effect of being turned into a human when the girl was really a magical pony. Could she have been wrong though? She knew she was, but was afraid to admit it, because that would mean that there was something seriously wrong. She didn’t want to think that, Fluttershy didn’t want to even think of a possibility of not having Sunset near her. Their newfound friendship had started rocky, but it was the best thing that had ever happened. Fluttershy had been able to spend time with the girl that occupied so many of her thoughts, even when the object of her affection seemed to try her best to push them all away. Something that Fluttershy refused to let happen, even when the others may have been okay with it. “Are ya even listenin to meh, sugarcube?” Applejack asked, her thick southern drawl making Fluttershy shudder. Normally she didn’t mind it, Applejack being one of her friends, but every since Sunset disappeared the other girls had been getting on Fluttershy’s nerves. She tried not to get angry at them, but they refused to completely give Sunset a completely fair chance. Okay, Fluttershy could partially understand that. It was Sunset who had broken up their friendship a year ago, as well as bullied and blackmailed nearly the entire school. Something like that just couldn’t be ignored, but they did want to give Sunset the benefit of the doubt. Wanting to do that, and emotionally wanting to do so, was two different things. It was hard forgetting the pain Sunset caused when the girl was around for any normal person. Thankfully, Fluttershy was far from normal. She remembered every hurtful thing Sunset had done, but she had dealt with far worse from her own family. It was something she was use to since she was a disappointment to her lineage, and she was proud of that. While a good amount of her family had nothing but contempt for most people, Fluttershy held compassion and love. Just because she was different than most of her friends didn’t mean she had to look down at them. “What?” Fluttershy asked, looking up at her friends around the circular lunch table. It was one of the few smaller, round tables in the cafeteria and it seemed that the other students left it empty just for the group of friends. Not that many of the students wanted to eat with Sunset Shimmer. “Ah was saying, ya shouldn’t worry so much about that darn backstabbin girl.” Applejack replied with an eye roll. Much like Rainbow Dash, Applejack wanted to forget about Sunset now that the flame haired girl was missing. “Yeah, Flutters, if the bitch wants to ignore us, then she can go to hell.” Rainbow shrugged, her head propped up on a hand with elbow on the table. She was chewing on a fry while giving an exasperated sigh. “Darling, while I don’t exactly agree with how they are saying it, Sunset is more than capable of taking care of herself.” Rarity said, wiping some crumbs from the corner of her mouth with a napkin. “At least some of you seem to give a shit.” Sunset snapped, throwing her tray down on the table. If it wasn’t for Fluttershy grabbing it, the contents would have spilled across the table. “You know, I expected this shit from Miss Gay Pride and the country hick, but I sure as hell didn’t expect it from you Rarity.” “What did you say?” Rainbow snapped, starting to get up only to be stopped by Pinkie Pie’s hand on her shoulder. “I warned you my pinkie sense said it was a bad idea bringing this up.” Pinkie whispered, refusing to look up at Sunset’s angry visage. “Sunset, u-um, where were you. If you don’t mind that is?” Fluttershy asked, worried when she saw the tears building up in Sunset’s eyes. Unlike the other girls who seemed angry at the pissed off girl’s state of mind. Fluttershy was good at sensing the emotional states of those around her though, especially Sunset’s. Especially now, the girl was practically screaming out in anger and frustration. There was also a heavy dose of despair clouding her emotions as well. “As if you give a shit!” Sunset snarled as she stomped off from the group. “Let her go, who needs her.” Rainbow Dash scoffed, pissing Fluttershy off more than she ever thought possible. How could she act so, so, so much like the bitch Rainbow accused Sunset of being? Fluttershy knew that it was because the slight had pissed off Rainbow, as well as hurt her a little, but at the moment she didn’t give a damn. She loved Rainbow and her friends, but she had to admit that she still hurt over them breaking up. Of course she knew it was Sunset’s fault that they broke up, but unlike the others, Fluttershy did try to talk to them after. It was the others who were adamant about ending their friendship, and in the end Fluttershy had to accept it. Now that they were back together, things for the most part seemed like their fight never happened. Fluttershy seemed to be the only one that was still affected by the stupid argument. “I do, for one.” Fluttershy said as she pushed away from the table. “What are ya doin, sugarcube?” Applejack asked, her emotions at war inside. Fluttershy could feel the anger at Sunset, but also the worry for the girl, even if said worry was buried deeper than anything else. “I’m going to check on our friend.” Fluttershy angrily replied, “Something I think you all should be doing, but you know what? Don’t bother!” Fluttershy could feel her own eyes burning her eyes as the girls stared at her in shock. Spinning around on her hell, she stomped off after Sunset. Thankfully Sunset must have showered recently, the scent of her shampoo lingering in the air. Following the scent of strawberries, Fluttershy made her way down the mostly empty hall to the girl’s restroom and pushed her way in. “Sunset?” Fluttershy asked, looking at the flame haired girl who was fighting back tears, furiously scrubbing at her face in the sink. “Go away, I don’t want to deal with any of you right now.” Sunset snapped, pulling up from her previous leaning position. “I shouldn’t have bothered coming in today, but for some screwed up reason, I wanted to see you. To see you all.” “Don’t talk like that.” Fluttershy said, taking a step toward Sunset. Sunset stepped away and walked to the opposite side of the room, leaning on her hands against the cold, hard cinder blocks. Sighing she leaned her forehead against the wall as Fluttershy came up to her and started rubbing her shoulder. “Why do you even care?” Sunset said, trying her best to keep the tears from falling. She should have known better than to come here seeking comfort. “The only reason you all bother with me is because that bitch Sparkle asked you to keep an eye on me.” “I care for you, I can’t say why the others do, but I care for you. I cared before Princess Twilight came here, and I still care for you.” Fluttershy said, a deep blush covering her cheeks as she tried to hide behind her hair. She was trying to figure out just how far to go, just how much should she admit to? “Yeah, prove it!” Sunset snapped, spinning around to glare at Fluttershy. For several moments Fluttershy shifted nervously, a determined look finally settling on her face. “Screw it, I don’t care about the rules.” Fluttershy said, grabbing Sunset’s shoulders and pinning the girl to the wall. “What are you doing?” Sunset demanded, fear filling her when she realized just how strong Fluttershy was. Sunset herself was a lot stronger than the average teen, but Fluttershy, her strength was so far beyond Sunset’s own. “You want proof that I care?” Fluttershy asked, leaning closer and closer to Sunset. “Fine, I’ll show you just how much I care!” “Wh-?” Sunset started to ask, her voice cut off as Fluttershy’s lips smashed against hers. Unlike the gentle kiss that Sunset would have expected from this girl, the kiss was rough and eager. It was as if she was putting all of her desperation for Sunset to understand into the kiss, and Fluttershy was. She was begging Sunset to understand as the fire haired girl struggled. At first nothing seemed to happen, then all of a sudden, it felt as if the two were struck by lightning. The world turned dark for the two, at least at first. Slowly, light filled the abyss they found themselves floating it, neither wearing any clothing at all. Despite being naked, nothing was showing as their bodies seemed to be filled with a bright inner light. “Where are we?” Sunset asked, scared as she looked around. “I don’t know.” Fluttershy squeaked out, unsure if this was really happening. > Chapter 3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fear, it was an emotion Sunset knew all to well. She feared losing her mother figure so ended up screwing everything over. She feared the new world so tried to live off of her anger and resentment, yet another screw up. She feared that she wasn’t good enough, so stole the element of magic to prove that she deserved it more, and in proxy deserved Celestia’s love more. Yet another royal screw up. She feared the pain she was feeling, putting it off as just cramps until it literally brought her to her knees. Another screw up, and she was now paying for it with her life. So Sunset knew fear, it had been with her all her life, even after the elements of harmony purged her of those other pesky negative emotions. The fear had remained, something she just couldn’t get rid of. Something that she was finding new experiences to fear. Every single day. For example, the present moment was giving her numerous reasons to fear the girl she had once treated like an emotional punching bag. Fluttershy had pinned her to the wall of the restroom, her strength easily holding her in place until the girl stole a kiss. Not a gentle kiss either, nor a kiss like the ones she shared with Flash Sentry. There was a roughness to it, but also a passion that Sunset had never expected to come from this shy wallflower of a girl. Of course she struggled at first, who wouldn’t at being forced into doing this. Yet it was something she had wanted to do more than once to this girl. It was what scared Sunset the most since coming here, the powerfully intimate connection she felt toward Fluttershy. It was the whole reason she pushed the girl away as violently as she did. It was a feeling that she didn’t really understand, a feeling that felt wrong. She shouldn’t have these feelings for another girl, yet she had never felt the feelings as powerful as this with anyone else. Not even Flash Sentry stirred emotions so powerful within her. Finally giving in, her struggles ceasing for the moment, Sunset couldn’t help giving into the kiss. It was so wrong, yet felt so right to her. Closing her eyes, she felt her fears and worries being swept away from the soft, yet forceful lips. She wasn’t sure what to expect as the kiss deepened, but a jolt of electricity shooting through her entire being was not it. “Where are we?” Sunset demanded after opening her eyes to see that they were now floating in a void. They were completely naked which made her blush, but at least they couldn’t really make out any details of each other’s bodies. There seemed to be an inner light making them glow, much like in some of those animes that Sunset had seen a few times. “I don’t know.” Fluttershy squeaked out, reminding Sunset of the mousey girl she new, and not the strong, powerful girl who stole a kiss. ‘Because I love her!’ an image of Fluttershy cried out, floating by them. The image of the girl seemed to be yelling at an older woman, several dogs in cages surrounding them barking loudly at the outburst. “What the hell was that?” Sunset gasped, the image quickly fading away to be replaced by one of Sunset. She was standing in the shower, hugging herself tightly as her tears mixed with the water washing over her. Waves of self loathing and depression just rolling off of her, both girls feeling it. “Sunset.” Fluttershy said softly, almost too low to hear, yet Sunset heard her as if the girl screamed her name. “Don’t, just don’t.” Sunset said, hugging herself as she floated back a few feet away from Fluttershy. ‘Sunset isn’t a bad person, she just needs a little kindness.’ An image of Fluttershy cried out, standing up to Rainbow Dash as the rainbow haired girl bounced a soccer ball back and forth on her knees. The will of determination clear in the girl as she defended Sunset against her own friends. It was a bit of a shock since both of them somehow knew when this happened, it was right before Sunset manipulated them into ending their friendship. “Are you doing this?” Sunset demanded, now glaring at Fluttershy. Her anger was making the space they were floating in turn red, fueled by her fear and rage at what ever trick was. It wasn’t any magic she had ever heard of and knew she wasn’t doing this. “No, but I think I know what it is. I didn’t believe it, but the rumors. They said it was happening, that the soulmate principal was returning.” Fluttershy explained, “It makes sense.” “What the hell are you babbling about?” Sunset demanded. “It’s an old story where every soul is split between two people. When those two people find each other, then, well, they just know it. And when they touch, sometimes they can see into each other’s heart.” Fluttershy explained, a happy gleam in her eyes. ‘I’m sorry, Miss Shimmer, if you came in months ago then something may have been done. As it stands, you are too far along to stop it. At most, we may be able to prolong your life a few weeks, maybe even a month or two. I won’t lie to you, if we do that, then you will be in a lot more pain than you have been feeling.’ The Doctor explained to Sunset as she looked up at him, fighting back tears as she learned that her days were literally numbered. “No. NO!” Fluttershy screamed, tears spilling from her eyes. She refused to believe it, yet it was right there. The whole reason that Sunset was missing for three days. “I appreciate the sentiment, but I would rather you not say anything to anyone.” Sunset sighed, choking back a sob as Fluttershy floated forward to hold her in a comforting embrace. “I’ll find a way to save you.” Fluttershy whispered, “Even if I have to fight Lord Tempesh, I’ll find a way.” “AHEM!” Someone cleared their throat loudly, making Fluttershy jump back from Sunset. Both in the void, and in real life which broke what ever spell that had a hold on the two teens. “While this is very touching girls, I advise you to go to class.” “Yes, Principal Celestia.” Sunset squeaked out, brushing past Fluttershy and Celestia with a blush lighting up her cheeks. “Young lady, you know you are on very thin ice.” Celestia growled out, Fluttershy gripping the handle to the restroom door that Sunset just hurried out of. “It isn’t right.” Fluttershy whispered, though Celestia’s keen hearing easily picked it up. She couldn’t help frowning as she had the same exact thought. “Life isn’t fair, especially to them, but it happens.” Celestia sighed, wondering just what to do. She wanted to help Sunset so much, but she was in charge of the area. She was the elder here, despite her radical views, and it was her duty to uphold their laws. She may have convinced the council to allow her to rule over an experimental colony, where things were much different than back at home, but no matter what the two main laws must be upheld at all times. “There has to be a way to help her.” Fluttershy said, turning her head to glare at Celestia with determination. “Fluttershy, must I remind you that it is my duty to kill you if you break the rules?” Celestia asked after a few moments of staring at one another. It was a tense few moments, but Celestia had to make the young teen understood her. Unlike Celestia herself, Fluttershy really was only a teenage girl. The teen didn’t have centuries of experience to call from, or the experience needed to harden ones heart. Unlike the rest of the girl’s family, Fluttershy wasn’t the cruel creature the rest of her family line was. “Then go ahead and kill me then!” Fluttershy snapped out, ignoring the older woman’s protest as she stormed out of the bathroom. Screw school, she had people to see about getting the help needed. > Chapter 4 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The so called bad side of town, a place where drug dealers, gangs and run down buildings seemed to cover a vast majority of the area. It was a place that Fluttershy really hated, but she was here today on a mission. There was one person who she thought may be able to help Sunset Shimmer, and unfortunately the girl was most likely at the Black Rose. Of course Fluttershy knew this was pretty much suicide if the girl turned her in, but she doubted Maud would. Maud Pie and Fluttershy were friends even before the other girls got together to form their group. Unlike the girl’s little sister, Maud was a full blooded witch with all the power that went with it. Pinkie herself did have witches blood, but her father was a one night stand leaving the girl part human. Even if witches were usually more lax around the rules, the family kept the truth from their youngest. Pinkie was half human after all, her witch’s blood giving her what was dubbed as ‘Pinkie Sense,’ and could be in danger if some of the purest got her alone. That wouldn’t happen since the territory belonged to Celestia, and she protected all of those under her. Finding an old, run down warehouse that had all the windows boarded up, Fluttershy walked around the back next to the loading dock. A heavy steel door was next to the large bay door, graffiti covering most of the building. None of it was relevant though, except for an intricately painted black rose. Black flowers were a symbol of their world, the Night World, a place all around them. It wasn’t another world such as where Sunset came from; it was a secret society among humans that was comprised of all the creatures of the night. Including both Fluttershy and Maud Pie. Ringing the buzzer next to the door, Fluttershy tapped her foot, waiting for the doorman to answer. Moments later a slot slid open in the door with an unfamiliar set of eyes looking her over. “You got the wrong place, kid.” A voice growled out, sounding as if it was male. “I don’t think so.” Fluttershy said as she pulled a necklace out from under her top, letting it fall down on her shirt. She almost growled when the eyes lingered to long on her bust and not the pendant sporting a black rose. Of course she could have gotten black rose jewelry most anywhere, but this was specially made. Only those directly involved with Celestia herself had them, it was a mark showing that one had the woman’s full support and protection. “Damn fang toothed bitch.” The voice growled slamming the slot shut, a moment later opening the door. The boy that stood there couldn’t have been much older than herself, very lanky and smelled of wet dog. He must have been a werewolf, a creature her kind looked down on in general, and having to deal with this one Fluttershy could understand it. Not that she generally shared the view, she agreed with Celestia that all creatures were equal and should be treated as such. “I would appreciate being shown at least some respect.” Fluttershy said as she walked past the boy, her hair moving slightly away from her neck showing enough of a tattoo that resembled an intricately detailed bat symbol, much like a tribal marking, which made the boy whimper. She made sure it showed just to get that reaction, as only her family was allowed to have the marking. If anyone else even dared to get even a copy of it, they were killed by her grandfather Lord Tempesh. “I’m sorry Lady Tempesh.” The boy whimpered, backing away as he looked up in fright at her making Fluttershy sigh. Maybe she went too far scaring the poor wolf. “It’s okay, sweetie, I’m not Lord Tempesh. I’m not going to hurt you.” Fluttershy said softly. “You are only doing your job, and you are doing it well.” “Thank you my Lady.” The wolf whimpered bowing, making Fluttershy roll her eyes. “You’re very welcome, now if you will excuse me, I have to see if my friend is here.” Fluttershy said as she turned from the boy and stepped through the curtain. The inside of the warehouse looked as if it was something completely different. There were soft lights illuminating the place with a large floor for dancing, where many people were doing so. There was also a large bar, a row of stools before it, and a section with tables and booths for people to relax at. “Merry meet, Fluttershy.” Maud said, swirling a green colored drink with a tiny umbrella in a glass before taking a sip from the straw. “Merry meet, Maud Pie.” Fluttershy said, returning the greeting as she sat in the booth across from Maud. Even if she wasn’t one of Maud’s kind, she respected the witch and her traditions. Thankfully she was a member of Circle Twilight, named after a Princess of their kind that was said to be a direct descendant of Hecate herself. She kind of wondered more than once if there was any relation to the Princess that was here not long ago, but never even seen a picture of the witch so didn’t really know. Circle Twilight was more open than the other two main circles, Circle Midnight being the worse as they tended to hate any non witch. “So, shouldn’t you be in school?” Maud asked, her mood seeming tome its normal dour state. The whole family was actually like that, except for Pinkie Pie, which Fluttershy never understood. Surely Pinkie could see how different she was and figure out that she had a different father. “Not really, something important has come up.” Fluttershy sighed, looking down at the candle lightly flickering between the two. “Welcome to the Black Rose, may I offer you a drink or something to eat?” A waitress asked, getting Fluttershy to look up. A dark skinned woman with light blue hair pulled back in a ponytail stood there, looking every bit the stereotypical goth, dark makeup, ripped stockings and all. Fluttershy knew exactly what she was, something that was unnatural. A species that was made through a combination of magic and science messing around with a were’s DNA. The ones responsible were quickly executed almost three hundred years ago, but Celestia had stood up for the results of the experiment which gave the changelings a chance at life. “Do you have any blood on hand?” Fluttershy asked, making the woman pale slightly. Only one species would ask for blood, and that was the species that hated the changelings the most except for a very few such as Celestia herself. There was only maybe a few dozen in existence, and all of them lived here in Canterlot. “Yes, my Lady.” The woman managed to say through her fear. “Please don’t fear me, I promise I won’t hurt you.” Fluttershy said making the woman smile a bit. “What kind do you have?” “At the moment we only have some O-negative, not many of you come in here seeking it.” The woman explained, though Fluttershy already knew that not many drank it. It wasn’t as effective as if it was when taken straight from the vein. It was also thought to be taboo for many of Fluttershy’s kind, thought to be dirty or disgusting. Fluttershy however preferred it this way than taking it from a person, though she did. She may have needed regular food, but it was an absolute necessity to get plenty of blood unless she wanted to go into a bloodrage. “That would be great, thank you. I’m not really hungry for food.” Fluttershy replied to the woman, smiling as she bowed her head before hurrying off to get the teen’s drink. “So, what’s up, you hardly ever come this side.” Maud asked, completely right in her statement. Fluttershy preferred to avoid this side of town since she was considered a freak and weak among her kind. While many may respect and fear her family, some of the lamia saw Fluttershy as an affront to their kind seeing how she was too soft in their opinion. Even softer than Celestia herself. “Actually, I needed to ask you a question.” Fluttershy said, shifting her seat as she looked across the table at the witch. “Is there any spells that can cure cancer?” “I love you like a sister, Fluttershy, so I’m going to give you a piece of advice. Don’t bother.” Maud sighed, “I may not report you, but any other sane person would.” “What are you talking about?” Fluttershy squeaked out nervously. “I’m not stupid, you are in love. You come in here with a determination I barely ever see in you. You aren’t acting like the shy, scared little lamia you are. Whatever this is, it is serious and I know for a fact your kind doesn’t get cancer. The only night person who can are witches, and we know our bodies so well we can feel it before it ever starts and get rid of it.” Maud explained, “The only reason you have to ask is if one of your little friends has cancer, one that you care for much more than just a friend. Tell me the most important laws of the Night World.” “Don’t tell a human about the Night World.” Fluttershy sighed, “And don’t fall in love with a human.” “Correct, and from what I see you have most likely already broke one law. Don’t break the other; I don’t want to see you get hurt.” Maud said as she drained the rest of her drink. Pulling out a few bills she dropped them on the table as she stood up. “Blessed be, Fluttershy.” “Blessed be, Maud Pie.” Fluttershy mumbled as she watched her fiend walk towards the exit. It looked like there wasn’t an easy way to do what she needed, but could she do the only thing she knew of to save Sunset? It was risky on so many levels and the girl may end up hating Fluttershy. Being a lamia, Fluttershy could age as much as she wanted and could have children. She was actually pretty much human in that respect. If she turned Sunset though, the girl wouldn’t be like Fluttershy. Sunset would be trapped at the age she is now, unable to have children in the future if she wanted. It was more of a curse than a blessing for those that were turned, but would dying painfully be any better? Fluttershy wasn’t sure, but she was sure she wouldn’t be able to live easily without Sunset being in her life in one form or another. > Chapter 5 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Screw school, Sunset no longer cared about spending the day there when her so called friends seemed intent about talking about her behind her back. Only one who really seemed to stick up for her was Fluttershy, and a part of her couldn’t help asking why. Even after the experience in the bathroom, she was still at a loss for words. Just what in the hell happened? Why did Fluttershy kiss her? And why did the two of them get sucked into that void, which she had figured must have been a shared mindscape of sorts. She could feel Fluttershy’s emotions, though Sunset wanted to deny them. Storming out of the building, Sunset stomped down the street ignoring the strange looks being shot her way. She didn’t give a damn though, all of these people could go to fell for all she cared. A place she had a feeling she would be seeing very soon, of that she had little doubt. She knew in her world that Tartarus was real, and had little doubt hat Hell was real in this world. After everything she had done the past couple of years, she knew it was what she deserved. She didn’t know how long she walked, just letting her feet take her wherever they wanted. When she did start to pay attention to where she was going though, worry started to fill her. She had somehow managed to wander into the really bad part of town, the part where not even the worse of the school dared to enter. It was hard to believe that a place like this existed in Canterlot, but it was there. As she looked around, trying to get her bearings, she noticed Fluttershy leaving some old building that probably needed to be torn down. Wandering just what he girl was doing here, much less when school was probably still finishing up. Sticking to the shadows and hiding behind what cover she could find, Sunset decided to trail the girl until they ended up leaving the area and finally reached a more familiar area. It didn’t take long until she realized that they were in front of her apartment complex. “So, you going to invite me in?” Fluttershy asked softly, surprising Sunset as the girl giggled at her. “Did you know I was following you the whole time?” Sunset asked incredulously. “Of course, I love the scent of your hair, smells like strawberries.” Fluttershy grinned, it almost reminded Sunset of her own. In fact, Sunset was sure it was the same. Could Fluttershy have somehow gotten a shot of confidence when they were in that void, or did she just feel comfortable with Sunset to the point she didn’t have to be scared? “I don’t like the icky smell, I thought it was from, you know, you being a pony in that other world or something.” “Icky smell?” Sunset asked as she pulled a key out and opened her apartment door. Now Fluttershy seemed to become a little nervous, making Sunset realize that Fluttershy seemed more comfortable around Sunset after what happened. After all they both felt each other’s deepest feelings and saw some of each others memories. Still, Sunset could feel that Fluttershy had managed to hide some things from her. “It’s something that smells unnatural, but I kind of thought, well, it was leftover from whatever magic that changed you.” Fluttershy explained as she walked into the apartment while Sunset held the door open for her. It was actually pretty clean, almost spotless, even if a bit spartan. The only furniture was a couch and coffee table, as well a small fridge with a microwave bolted on top. There was also a single door that either led to a bedroom or bathroom. “You are the third person to have mentioned that to me. First that rude cabbie, then Principal Celestia, and now you saying that I stink!” Sunset cried out in exasperation, while shutting and locking the door. She never left the door unlocked; she just didn’t feel safe doing so. “I didn’t say you stink, I said there is a smell that is kind of icky. I’ve never smelled anything like it before, but now, I guess I know what it is.” Fluttershy sighed, sitting down on the couch as Sunset sat on the opposite end. “Please don’t tell anyone, too many people already know as it is.” Sunset sighed, almost jumping up when Fluttershy scooted down the length of the couch until their legs were touching. “Please don’t be scared, Sunset. I know it might be hard to accept, but I do care for you, and if earlier is any indication, I think you care for me.” Fluttershy explained, softly making Sunset fidget as Fluttershy’s hand took her own. “So what, you want to take pity on the dying girl?” Sunset asked, tears filling her eyes as she looked away. “No, I want to save the girl I love.” Fluttershy said squeezing Sunset’s hand. “There is no cure.” Sunset choked out, burying her face in her free hand since Fluttershy refused to let go of the other. “None known to humans.” Fluttershy said softly, “I can heal you though, but I don’t know if-if you would hate me when you realized what I did to you.” “You know a spell or something?” Sunset gasped out, a little hope filling her for the first time since she was told that she was dying. She wasn’t sure, magic shouldn’t really be possible in this world, yet she always had a feeling that there was more there than she was seeing. “Or something. What if I told you that I could make it so that you would never age, that you could practically live for ever as long as you don’t do anything stupid.” Fluttershy said, sounding a little scared, but hopeful. “It would heal me?” Sunset asked softly, looking directly into Fluttershy’s nervous expression. “Y-Yeah, but, there would be side effects.” Fluttershy almost whispered in fear of Sunset’s response. “So, I’d like live forever?” Sunset asked, a little skeptical, but Princess Celestia was immortal, surely there was some kind of power in this world that could do the same. “You also wouldn’t be able to have children either.” Fluttershy whispered. “You wouldn’t get sick either, like ever.” “Okay, while I always thought I’d have a family someday, I can’t do that if I’m dead. I can always adopt.” Sunset said, feeling a bit of a loss for losing her ability to have children someday, something she secretly truly wanted someday. It was true though, she could adopt, and if she did end up having some kind of relationship with Fluttershy then she would have to anyways. “There’s one more thing, you would have to d-drink blood.” Fluttershy said as she looked into Sunset’s eyes, willing the girl to believe her. “Blood?” Sunset asked, anger filling her despite the look of seriousness in Fluttershy. “I’m a lamia, Sunset, a vampire.” Fluttershy explained, making Sunset struggle to pull her hand free. How dare Fluttershy play games like this when Sunset was dying? The look of anger drained away though to be replaced with fear, only for the fear to be replaced with curiosity as Fluttershy opened her mouth and her canines elongated into fangs and her eyes glowed green. “Oh shit.” Sunset mouthed, staring at the very sharp looking points that were poking Fluttershy’s bottom lip. “I’m serious, Sunset. I’m a part of the Night World, a secret society of vampires, witches and lycanthropes that hide under humans’ noses. We hide our identity, but we are out there. We have two laws that are the most important to all of us, no matter where or who we are. One, Never tell a human about the Night World. And second, never fall in love with a human.” Fluttershy explained, giving Sunset the most loving look she could muster. “Sunset, I broke both laws. I don’t care though as long as I have you.” “I don’t know if I can say that I love you, Fluttershy. I don’t even know what love really is.” Sunset said, denying her own feelings despite knowing what they were. “If you accept my offer, we can have plenty of time to explore your feelings. I just don’t want to curse you, which is what I’ll be doing. Cursing you to an eternal life of drinking blood and never aging past what you are.” Fluttershy whimpered out, letting go of Sunset’s hand finally. “Do it.” Sunset said, her voice softening, “Please.” “Are you sure?” Fluttershy asked through her tears, looking up into the confident grin f Sunset. “How much of a curse can it be to remain eternally drop dead sexy?” Sunset giggled, making Fluttershy giggle as well. “Please, do it, I don’t want to die.” “O-Okay.” Fluttershy whispered leaning towards Sunset, her warm breath flowing across the girl’s throat. She didn’t have a lot of experience taking blood straight from a person before. “What are you doing?” Sunset asked softly, afraid to move. The way Fluttershy was pushing into her seemed far too intimate for simply turning her into a vampire. Oh shit, Fluttershy was going to make her a vampire! For just a moment she was going to tell Fluttershy to stop, but twin pinpricks into her neck stopped her. At first it felt like a beesting, and then everything changed. Never in her life had Sunset felt so, so euphoric. It was like a natural high, while at the same time making every single pleasure receptor in her brain light up like a Christmas Tree. No matter how she tried to fight it, she couldn’t hold back a stifled moan. ‘Just relax, it will be over soon.’ Echoed Fluttershy’s voice in Sunset’s head. ‘How, how are you doing this?’ Sunset thought, unsure if Fluttershy would hear her. ‘From what I understand about soulmates, first contact is the most intense contact. Even as the intensity and effectiveness wears off over each contact, the bond will always be there as strong as ever pulling us back to each other.’ Fluttershy explained, pulling back from Sunset making her whimper. “Please don’t stop.” Sunset whimpered as she reached out for Fluttershy in hopes of pulling her back. “No, you need to drink now.” Fluttershy said pulling up her sleeve, looking at Sunset over her arm. With a quick jerk, Fluttershy tore a gash in her wrist before holding it up to Sunset. At first, Sunset tried to pull away, but she was feeling light headed and couldn’t fight Fluttershy’s guiding hand. As the first drop of blood hit Sunset’s tongue, she realized it wasn’t a nasty, iron laden taste. It was in fact more like vanilla, like eating a piece of vanilla cake. It was weird. After a few minutes of greedy suckling, Fluttershy’s wrist began to close up making. One time down, two more to go. Soon enough Sunset would be…why was she screaming and writhing around on the floor? When the hell did she roll off the couch onto the floor? “Sunset!” Fluttershy sobbed as she dove down beside the girl trying to help her, having no idea what to do. > Chapter 6 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fluttershy whimpered as she kneeled on the floor, Sunset’s head cradled in her lap. She had never seen a reaction like this, not that she ever turned anyone before. From what she understood, it took three exchanges of blood to finish the transformation. Well, three exchanges and the one being changed technically dying before being reborn. Yet Sunset had reacted very badly, and Fluttershy had no idea what to do, other than call in the only person she could think of. “Are you insane?” Celestia demanded as she barged in the door making Fluttershy jump a little. The fuming look on the principal’s face made Fluttershy shrink back a little. Celestia was the only lamia with the experience to help, and possibly the only one that might be convinced to do so. “What was I supposed to do?” Fluttershy sobbed out, looking up forlornly at the elder whose face slowly melted into a softer expression. “She’s my soulmate!” “Soulmate?” Celestia asked, shocked by the claim. Surely Fluttershy was just exaggerating. Then again, the girl was usually scared of just about anyone despite who and what she was. The strength she seemed to exhibit around Sunset, especially now, made Celestia wonder if there was something to it. It wasn’t that she didn’t believe in soulmates, it was just that it was very rare to finds one soulmate. “Please, you have to help her.” Fluttershy cried, brushing her fingers through the flame colored hair. “Don’t you think I want to help her?” Celestia asked sadly as she kneeled down next to Sunset’s body that stopped spasming finally, but was covered in sweat. “She isn’t human though, there is no way of knowing how it might react with our toxins.” “She’ll be okay though, won’t she?” Fluttershy asked fearfully as Celestia felt Sunset’s forehead, then forced one of the girl’s eyes open to look at it. “I really can’t say, but it might be easier to just let her die.” Celestia sighed, not wanting to say it. She really did care for Sunset, the girl had so much potential, but she had learned of some very bad news just an hour ago. One of her contacts in the Redfern household had called her to warn her about Hunter’s plans. Hunter Redfern was a right bastard, going being the lamia councils wishes more than once. He was also the biggest opponent to what Celestia was trying to do here. If Hunter got word of turning a human without good reason, he could take it to the council and use it as leverage against her. As much as she wanted Sunset to live, all of the people in the region were her responsibility and their very lives may depend on what happens here. “I won’t let her die!” Fluttershy hissed out angrily, making Celestia wince. “Fluttershy, do you even realize what you did?” Celestia asked, trying her best to remain calm. “You broke at least one of the laws, maybe both. I should be killing Sunset and you both for this.” “I won’t let you kill her!” Fluttershy snapped. “Do you think I want to? I love her! She’s, she’s like a daughter to me! Why the hell do you think I put up with all the shit that she has done? I tried to offer her a place in my home, but she refused. I pay for a large chunk of her rent at this dump!” Celestia growled out angrily, “I don’t want to see her die, but Hunter is sending an enforcer to investigate the Fall Formal incident as well as make sure everything is being ran smoothly here.” “Fuck!” Fluttershy swore angrily, and for once Celestia didn’t admonish the girl. If Celestia disliked the Redferns, Fluttershy and her entire family hated them. Fluttershy was one of the ones with the most reason to hate them as well as it was their fault that her family was so harsh on her. “Don’t you see what’s going to happen?” Celestia asked softly, tears leaking from her eyes. “What do you want me to do, Fluttershy?” “Help her.” Fluttershy said weakly, “You said it yourself, she isn’t human. The laws shouldn’t apply to her.” “You, I can’t believe this, if I wasn’t so pissed off with you then I would hug you.” Celestia sighed happily as she pulled out her own phone from her purse. After a few moments of sending a text message she put her phone back and checked Sunset’s pulse. It was growing weaker, but that could be from any number of factors from the girl dying of cancer to her body making the change. There was one last option that it could be to, one Celestia didn’t want to think about. If the change didn’t take hold, Sunset could become a ghoul, a mindless immortal creature with a powerful craving for blood. Almost like a zombie from those ridiculous movies. “What are you talking about?” Fluttershy demanded, glaring at the older woman as Celestia got to her feet. “You just pointed it out. Sunset isn’t human, and if you ask me she should be classified as a shapeshifter.” Celestia explained, moving towards the door to open it. Luna pushed her way past her older sister, an annoyed look on her face as she carried a small lunchbox cooler in her hands. “Are you insane? Approving a conversion without a council meeting and with that annoying Redfern coming?” Luna asked, her eyes trailing across the room to settle on Sunset. “Hell no! You did not approve that little piece of shit to become one of us!” “It’s too late to do anything about it now!” Celestia snapped, grabbing the cooler and stomping over to the microwave. Tossing a couple pouches of blood she pulled out of the cooler, Celestia turned back to Luna with an apologetic expression. “I’m sorry for yelling, sister.” “It’s okay.” Luna sighed, “I know you are just stressed out over the Redferns. I really don’t understand this, I know you cared for the human, but enough to break the laws and tell her without a good reason?” “She was dying! I didn’t have a choice!” Fluttershy cried out, getting Luna’s attention. After staring down at Fluttershy for a few moments, a sad realization flashed across the older woman’s face. “She’ll be okay.” Luna sighed, kneeling next to Fluttershy and hugged her. It was something that often confused the girl as Luna was more like a Redfern than Celestia or Fluttershy. Luna seemed to actually detest humans, unlike Celestia and Fluttershy who believed humans had a lot of potential if given a chance. It was part of the reason Luna and Celestia supposedly didn’t talk to one another for a thousand days a few centuries ago. Fluttershy wasn’t sure though, she was really the age she looked. “Here, help poor this into her mouth.” Celestia said, handing the warmed bag over to Fluttershy. “They will help her finish the conversion, but there won’t be enough to satisfy her for long. She will need to hunt soon.” “No! No hunting! We’re figure something else out.” Fluttershy cried out, almost dropping the bag of blood. Slowly she tore a corner off with her teeth and held the hole over Sunset’s mouth. Blood slowly seeped out of the hole, into the fire haired girl’s mouth. “Fluttershy, while even I don’t really like the thought of drinking from animals, I do understand your aversion to harming a human. Sunset is a strong girl, I’m sure that she is strong enough know when to stop so she won’t hurt anyone.” Celestia said as she kneeled on the other side of Fluttershy, brushing the hair back from Sunset’s face as the girl started drinking the blood on her own. Celestia almost jumped back when Sunset sat up straight, actually sucking on the bag of blood now as her eyes glowed red for a few moments. Celestia couldn’t help staring at the girl, it was impossible. A lamia, the true vampire was a lot like some of the vampires in books. Well, somewhat, they couldn’t turn into bats or fly. They could also go out in the sun, the only effect the solar orb having on them was that it made them physically weaker, almost to the point of physically being human. They also didn’t need to kill to feed, and the act of feeding could be very intimate if done right, but the toxins in their fangs always made it pleasurable. Their saliva even healed the wounds so a person didn’t know what really happened. Then there were the green eyes, the ability that let a vampire either insert suggestions or erase short term memories. All of these abilities were shared with a made vampire, yet there was also differences. For one, a made vampire could not have children while a lamia could. A lamia could also stop and start their aging at will, though they couldn’t reverse aging, while a made vampire couldn’t. Then, there was the difference that was bothering Celestia. An explanation was never found, but while drinking blood a lamia’s eyes almost always turned red. It didn’t always happen, and an experienced lamia could prevent it from happening. No matter how much they tried though, a made vampire’s eyes could never glow red, only green. Celestia couldn’t help wondering just what was going on, if somehow Sunset had become a lamia, a true vampire. “Sunset!” Fluttershy cried out throwing her arms around the girl, knocking both girls over. DUSK Several miles on the outskirts of Canterlot, a figure sat perched on his motorcycle on a small hill overlooking the city. He wore a black leather jacket, jeans, a loose white shirt that hung loosely around him, and black biker boots with a silver chain on each. He ran a hand through his short ash blonde hair, his dark sunglasses hiding his eyes as he puffed on a cigarette. He was here on business for his family, a family he really didn’t care for. He didn’t care for many people really, only a select few earning either his respect or love. He would have honestly preferred to have stayed home and try going after that new transfer girl at his school. She was hot, and he was sure they could have some fun before he had his fill of her and wiped her memories. When Hunter Redfern came knocking though, a Redfern did not turn him away if they valued their well being. Looking down a side road that lead to the next city over, just a short ten miles, Dusk wondered if maybe he should take a detour and visit his cousin. He actually did love his cousin, feeling rather protective of her, though some of his family wasn’t happy with her choices. Dating a witch, even royalty, was looked down upon by their kind. The Redferns believed that the lamia was the superior race, not even really accepting made vampires. He had protected her, deflected some of the power plays to try and make her return just so the old bastards can force her to have more lamia children. The rat bastards that made up the elders preferred the old ways, including making women nothing more than second class citizens. Hell, even second class citizens had it better than women if the elders had their way. It was something that really pissed him off. True he was a womanizer to some degree, they had the sweetest blood after all, but even he wasn’t a monster who wanted women to be less than slaves. He may have held pretty much all creatures in contempt, but they were all equals in his eyes. “Fuck, I better just get this over with. Time to visit little Firefly later.” Dusk grumbled, flicking his cigarette onto the gravels below him. Starting the bike, he revved it a few times before kicking up rocks as he tore down the path and back onto the main road heading into Hell. > Chapter 7 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Friday, a day that he should have been planning a date with one of the new hot transfer students. Instead he was standing in front of Canterlot High School, looking over the obviously newly finished front entrance that still had some tools lying around. All in all, it didn’t really look as horrible as he thought it was. Not that he should be here anyways seeing as he graduated two years early. Just because he was the baddest of the bad didn’t mean he was stupid. Even if his cousin sometimes said different. While here, he was to attend the school as a student to get a front row seat of Celestia’s total screw ups. The woman was just as pathetic as the Redferns, if not more so. There was no wonder Hunter wanted her dead, something Dusk didn’t know if he cared about. Then again, for his little Firefly’s sake, he really didn’t think it would be good to fuel the fire Hunter was building for Celestia. No, it wouldn’t be good at all. With a smirk, Dusk decided that a few weeks of school where he could kick back, relax, and tell the rest of the world to fuck off would be a nice vacation. After all, the two hot girls that just walked into the entrance, looking back at him before entering, made this job seem a little less troublesome all of a sudden. Taking a cigarette out of the pack in his jacket pocket, he was about to light it when a hand smacked him in the back of the head. The cigarette fell out from between his lips and into a woman’s well manicured hand. Following the hand, trailing up arm slowly to the shoulder, enjoying the swell of the curve of her bust before realizing it was an expensive blazer. Jerking his eyes up quickly he came eye to eye with someone he wasn’t sure he wanted to deal with, Luna. Unlike her sister, Luna seemed to bounce back and forth in her beliefs of her Sister and the Redferns. Sometimes it seemed the woman had wanted to just kill all humans except for enough to keep in pens as livestock as most Redferns wanted. Other times it seemed she was ready to stick up for them just as her sister did. Dusk was sure that if Luna really didn’t love her sister then the woman would have defected to the Redferns long ago. “Don’t think I don’t recognize you, you little bastard.” Luna hissed quietly, smashing the cigarette in her fist. “If you do one thing to hurt my sister while you are here, not even that bastard of an uncle will save you.” Oh ho, could the rumors be true? Was it possible that Luna and Hunter was once a couple? It was almost too good to be true, so much blackmail material that could be used. That would have to wait for later though, as he needed to get settled in and meet a few girls. After all, a guy needed to eat didn’t he? “Don’t worry, I’m only here because my dear uncle wants me gone. Said I’ve been causing too much trouble hopping around one school after another.” Dusk smirked. “Why the hell are you even in school, you graduated?” Luna asked, glaring at him. “Let’s see, I get bored and don’t feel like college. Add into all the cute little nibblets running around that is my age, why not spend some time bouncing from one loser school to another?” Dusk asked, his smirk growing as Luna glared at him. “Okay, I can understand that, but if you hurt or kill anyone while here, I will personally come after you myself.” Luna snarled, pointing toward the school. “My sister is waiting in the office. Keep your nose clean and follow the rules while here, which means none of those death sticks on campus!” “Serious? Death sticks? You do know what I am, right?” Dusk asked, arching an eyebrow at the woman in disbelief. “Just go!” Luna hissed out, feeling a migraine coming on. Just because she was a lamia, it didn’t mean she couldn’t get migraines. And yet she couldn’t get pass out drunk like she wanted to. Life was so unfair sometimes. Dusk almost skipped into the school, but reminded himself to stay cool and collected. He wanted to maintain his attitude of badassery, even if he felt such a high after so easily getting under Luna’s skin so easily. Oh it had been so sweet! The inside of the school wasn’t as new as the entrance, yet it was kept immaculately clean, much to the surprise of the young lamia. Most schools that he had been to were actually kind of dirty, at least to some degree, as the students really did not usually have respect for the school. Yet, there really wasn’t any trash on the floor, nor were there and dirt stuck in the corners. Whoever cleaned the school did an excellent job. As he walked down the hallway though he started to slow down as he came to a case holding different trophies and accomplishments of the students over the last decade. The older stuff he didn’t really care about, but the last couple of years had pictures of Sunset Shimmer winning Princess to all of the Formals, except what most likely was the recent one. The newest addition to the section was a picture of Twilight Sparkle. “What the hell?” Dusk growled out, yanking the phone from his jacket and dialing a number on it. “What the hell do you want? I’m busy!” An aggravated voice came over the device after redialing the number three times. “What the hell are you doing going to Celestia’s School for the criminally stupid?” Dusk growled into the phone, his anger rising. “I thought I told you to lay off the blondes, your taking on their qualities.” The voice asked in a teasing manner, irking Dusk a little. He knew she was joking, he was blonde himself, but she always pulled this in an attempt to bait him. Not this time though. “Yeah, and I thought you would be smart enough to actually attend school like you should be doing instead of skipping to make out with your girlfriend.” Dusk snarked back at the girl over the phone. “How did you know?” A second voice said, an obviously false cheeriness in it as the owner acted ditzy at times just to irritate Dusk. “Shush, my mom will kill me if she finds out.” The first voice hissed, her voice muffled. “And mine won’t?” The second voice giggled. “Your pictures are all over Celestia’s school from all of your victories for Princess of the Formals over the last couple years.” Dusk said, almost hearing the girl’s brain working on a comeback. “And your girlfriend won the newest. So, care to tell me what the hell you two were doing playing around here? You are supposed to be staying at your girlfriend’s home attending the Academy there, not coming to this hellhole of a school.” “Hellhole of a school. Huh?” A voice asked. Making Dusk turn to see a pissed off looking Celestia glaring at him. “Got to go, Firefly.” Dusk said ending the call, taking a deep breath before throwing on his best smug grin. “So, hellhole? You aren’t off to a very good start, Redfern.” Celestia nearly snarled towards Dusk making him sweat a little, but pushed the nervousness she was causing off. He wouldn’t be intimidated by this soft hearted bitch. “Don’t ever call me that!” Dusk snapped out. “I despise them just as much as I despise you.” “Fair enough, but I will not tolerate you acting like the little prick you are in my school.” Celestia said, glaring at the boy in annoyance. “Come on, the office is this way.” “Whatever.” Dusk groaned, falling in step behind the woman. He didn’t really like her, but the power coming from her was something he could respect. He honestly did not think she could be this powerful, but she had lived for centuries, and if the rumors were correct, she may even be as old, or older than Hunter himself. > Chapter 8 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Friendship, a concept that wasn’t going over well with Dusk as he stomped down the hall, avoiding all the curious glances being sent his way. He wasn’t interested in the fools’ gossip though, he was interested in making it through the day. So far he had several classes which were incredibly dull, several girls making it clear that they wouldn’t mind spending time with him. For once that wasn’t on his mind at the moment, he was wondering just what was going on with his cousin. For the last few hours, the only gossip as bad as what was centered around him was centered around his cousin. It was taking every ounce of self restrain to not go on a killing spree. How dare these filthy pigs even dare suggest anything bad about the girl who he viewed more of a sister than cousin. Hell, even that egghead girlfriend of hers was a sister to him, despite being what she was. And for these fools to suggest that those two did any of what they claimed was preposterous! Walking into the cafeteria, Dusk looked around at the myriad of students filling the place. It wasn’t like any other schools that he had been to before as didn’t seem to be any rhyme or reason behind the groups seated at the table. Jocks, cheerleaders, nerds, Goths; they were all sitting together and having fun. They weren’t fighting among themselves or shunning each other. It was a little surprising to say the least. He hated to admit it, but it looked like Celestia may have actually accomplished something here that he hadn’t seen in any of the other schools that he had been to. After getting his food, he spotted a table surrounded by all girls with two empty seats. Strutting up to the table he dropped his tray at one of the seats while putting on his most dashing smile, “Mind if I sit here?” “Go ahead, darling, it would be nice to get to know you.” The prim and proper looking one said, batting her eyelashes at him. She would be an easy target, he was sure of it. He just wasn’t too sure if she was his type. Sure the girl was hot, all of them were, but he preferred a girl he can actually have some fun with when looking for someone to keep around for awhile. Maybe a one nighter though, he’d just have to wait and see. “There’s something off about you.” The pink haired girl said, looking at him through narrowed eyes before the one wearing the Stetson hat smacked her upside the head. “Pinkie!” The blonde cried out aghast. “Well there is! For all we know he could be a blood sucking monster looking for someone to have fun with and bite. Not that he would kill someone like that, vampires really don’t need to kill to survive you know.” The pink haired girl said, nodding sagely while the others just looked at her as if she lost her head. Dusk stared at her in shock with three words going through his mind, ‘What. The. HELL?’ “Pinkie, no more vampire movies for you.” The rainbow haired girl laughed, shaking her head. She looked athletic, yet easy on the eyes as Dusk looked her up and down taking in every bit of her image. There was something about her that called out to him, yet if her hair was any indication, she was most likely playing for the other team. Not that he cared about that, a couple of bi-sexual girls he knew was very fun to be with. Of course they were also witches and knew all about him, and still enjoyed being with him. If only they were vampires, he could see making something more permanent with them if they were. Unlike his cousin, he was more into his own species like most lamia he knew. “Sorry about that, darling. My name is Rarity, and these are my friends Rainbow Dash, Applejack, and Pinkie Pie.” Rarity said, introducing each of her friends who nodded at their names. He was a little surprised to see Rainbow Dash wink at him, making him think that she was flirting. Could the girl actually be bi at the least, if not straight? “My name is Dusk, I hope that we can become good friends.” Dusk said, staring straight at Rainbow Dash who blushed a little at the attention. ‘YES!’ Dusk cheered mentally seeing the girl’s reaction. He had a chance with her, and she looked like she could be fun. He could sense that the girl was athletic, and remembered seeing her picture with some of the sporting trophies in the hall display case. “Ahm sure we will. Our other friend is out today, her name is Fluttershy.” Applejack said. “She’s probably out with Sunset, Fluttershy seemed really worried about her.” Rainbow Dash said, “Though I have no idea why, I know Twilight asked us to keep an eye on her, but come on!” “You know Sunset Shimmer?” Dusk asked with an arched eyebrow, “My cousin Sunset Shimmer with red hair and blonde streaks?” “Your cousin?” Rarity asked surprised. “Wait, so you come from that other world to? Are you a pony also?” Pinkie Pie asked as she leaned forward, whispering. “I knew there was something off about you!” “Are you girls on crack?” Dusk growled out, clenching his fist. He couldn’t keep his glare in check as it swept from girl to girl. He should have known better than to actually think about these girls being possible candidates for his attention. Sure he enjoyed a good cigarette and beer, his body didn’t really suffer from them being what he was, but he hated drugs. He hated the way it made humans blood taste, and he hated the way some humans used it to take advantage of other’s lives while destroying those lives in the process. “How dare you?” Rainbow yelled out as she slammed her open palms on the table and stood up to glare at him. “I dare because I’m not going to sit here and listen to some crackwhores badmouth my cousin!” Dusk growled out, glaring at the girls before leaving his food as he stomped away from the girls angrily. Screw this, he needed some fresh air. He decided skipping the rest of the day was in order. Spending the rest of the day just walking around town as he memorized all of the places of interest to him, he came to regret abandoning his lunch and ended up buying a cheeseburger and fries. True he could survive off blood for awhile, he still needed nourishment unlike made vampires. Speaking of blood, he decided that hunting would be a good idea. He needed a pick me up, and what better than the blood of some piece of crap that preyed on others. He may not exactly love humans, but he despised those who preyed on others and with the sun now down, creeps were sure to come out of the woodwork. Especially in the part of town he was at where the building looked run down and there were plenty of alleyways with closed businesses around them. “Is she mental?” Dusk asked himself as he watched a very beautiful looking girl with long pink hair look back and forth as if frightened. He noticed an older man stalking her, following her into the alley. It was an alley that he had been down maybe an hour ago, and he knew there was no other way out of it being a dead end. Deciding to be chivalrous, and maybe get a few brownie points with her for coming to her rescue, Dusk followed behind them. “What are you?” A scared voice screamed form the alleyway making Dusk run to see what was going on. There was the pink haired girl standing behind the man holding his hands while…his little Firefly was latched onto his neck, suckling blood from him. “Who are you?” Dusk growled out, knowing that while the girl looked like his cousin, the smell was slightly different. She still smelled of lamia, as did the pink haired girl now that he was closer, but he could tell it wasn’t her. If this was a damned changeling, he swore to rip the disgusting little freak a part.