> Sour Sweet on the Inside
>  by DarkMaster0224
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Returning Home
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Attention passengers, we are now arriving at Canterlot station. Those planning to exit the train please gather your belongings and exit through the door.” The train conductor said over the intercom. 

As soon as that was said, a young man stood up and grabbed a large suitcase. He had peach skin, piercing dark blue eyes, blue and black striped hair. He was wearing a black leather jacket, a white t-shirt, blue jeans, black shoes and a blue ring on his right hand. He had a symbol of a dark blue gem with a cursive D on his shirt.

“Finally, home sweet home.” He said in a low tone. He then walked over to the train doors and waited for them to open. “Hmmm, I wonder how much has changed since I’ve been away?” He asked himself. Soon the train doors opened and he began to walk off the train. 

“Oh Dark, over here!!” The boy now known as Dark turned to see Dean Cadance waving at him. Dark gave her a small smile and walked over to her. 

“Hey Cady, how are you doing?” Dark asked. 

“I’m doing fine, how have you been?” She asked. 

“Same as always.” He said. 

Cadance smiled at him and gave him a hug, “Welcome home, Dark.” She said. 

“Come on Cady, we’re in public.” Dark said trying to push her away. 

“What you’re not happy to see your old babysitter?” Cadance asked giving Dark a sad look. 

“Cady I just got here, don’t start guilt tripping me until I’ve settled in.” Dark said walking past her, “Besides, that was years ago.”

Cadance pouted for a bit before putting a smile on her face, “Ok ok, I’ll leave you alone. Come on, Shining Armor is waiting for us out front.” Cadance said. 

Dark nodded and began to follow Cadance.

“How’s Midnight and Lilac doing?” Cadance asked as they walked.

“Mom’s doing ok. And so’s Lilac.” Dark said.

“Where are they anyways?” Cadance asked.

“They’re back at home finishing unpacking at home.” Dark explained, “They sent me instead.”

“Oh ok. How was Saddle Arabia, I bet you had a great time.” Cadance said. 

“Eh, it was... alright.” Dark said shrugging his shoulders. 

“What no details?” Cadance asked. 

“Nothing to tell, I moved, I went to school there for two years, and now I'm back.” Dark said. 

“You haven't changed one bit, you always got to keep to yourself.” Cadance said rolling her eyes. 

“That's just how I am Cady.” Dark said, “So how's Twily doing these days?” Dark asked. 

“She doing quite well actually, still a bit of a shut it though.” Cadance said. 

“Really now, I fully expected her to crack under the pressure of being around so many strict stiffs in that prep school of hers.” Dark said with a chuckle. 

“Well you know Twilight, she likes to keep to herself. Not only that she's thinking of going to college early.” Cadance said. 

“Why?” Dark asked curiously. 

“She….feel that Crystal Prep doesn't have anything else to offer her.” Cadance said looking down 

Dark raised an eyebrow at this, “Did you talk to her about this?” he asked. 

“Um..well-” Cadance started

“Dark, Cadance over here.” Someone called. 

Dark and Cadance looked to see Shining Armor waving at the two from his car. 

“Hey Shining! Look we can talk about this later. Right now, let’s just take you home so you can get settled in.” Cadance said with a smile. 

Dark wanted to to press the subject, but decided not to, “Whatever, let’s just go.” He said walking to car. 

“Hey Dark, long time no see.” Shining said as Dark got into the back seat of the car. 

“Good to see you to Shining, how have you been?” Dark asked putting his seatbelt on. 

“I’m doing good, Welcome home buddy.” Shining said with a smile. 

“Thanks.” Dark said looking out the window. Cadance got into the front seat of the car and put on her seatbelt. 

“Alright next stop Crystal Prep.” Cadance said. 

“Mhmm.” Dark said still looking out the window. 

“You could at least sound more enthusiastic Dark.” Shining said starting the car. 

“Whoo hoo, extra hoo.” Dark said boringly. Shining rolled his eyes and started the car. 

“You haven’t changed one bit.” Shining said. 

“Nope.” Dark said with a smirk. Cadance smiled at the two. 

“Just like old times.” She said to herself.

Timeskip

“Alright we’re here.” Shining said parking his car. Dark looked out the window to see Crystal Prep Academy in all its arrogant glory. 

“Alright let’s go.” Dark said getting out of the car. Cadance and Shining did the same and they all walked to the school doors.

“You ready to see Principal Cinch again Dark?” Cadance asked. 

“Oh yea, seeing Ms. Reputation again will surely brighten up my day.” Dark said sarcastically. 

“Dark I know you and Principal Cinch didn’t see eye to eye during your freshman year.” Cadance said putting her hand on his shoulder. 

“That’s putting it mildly.” Dark growled. 

“But you need to be the better person and not let her get to you, believe me I know how irritating she can be.” Cadance sain with a smile. 

Dark just took a deep breath and shrugged his shoulders, “Fine whatever.” He said. 

“Good now come on, Shining we’ll see you later ok.” Cadance said opening the door. 

“Alright good luck Dark, you’re going to need it.” Shining said. 

“Gee thanks.” Dark said following Cadance. As they were walking, Dark looked around the school and saw so many prim and proper students walking around. 

“Ugh I hate this place.” Dark said to himself. The two soon found themselves in front on Principal Cinch’s office. 

“Ready?” Cadance asked. 

“Let’s just get this over with.” Dark said. 

Cadance nodded and knocked on the door. 

“Enter.” A voice on the other side said. 

Cadance opened the door and walked in with Dark right behind her. After they entered the office and Dark closed the door behind him, Cadence gave him a sign to take a seat in front of the desk of Principal Cinch. Dark nodded and went over to the seat. 

“I know you’re trying to intimidating with the whole ‘Dark Office’ thing, but it’s just coming off lame.” Dark said as he sat down. 

The chair turned around, revealing the Principal with her arms crossed. She had light blue skin, her hair has many different purple streaks all tied up in a bun, except for one curl in the front, fuchsia eyes and red glasses. She also wears pearl earrings, a necklace around her neck, a dark blue blazer including a dark blue skirt with long dark pink stockings and dark blue high heels. 

“Mr. Steele.” Principal Cinch said. 

“Abacus.” Dark said crossing his arms. 

“Dark behave.” Cadance said. 

Dark rolled his eyes, “It’s good to see you again, Principal Cinch.” he growled. 

“Yes I’m sure, now then on to business. Do you know why you have returned to Crystal Prep?” Cinch said. 

“I’m guessing because your school’s precious reputation is at stake.” Dark said. 

“You could say that, you see the Friendship Games are coming up and we need someone on your….. Caliber to compete.” Cinch said. 

Dark knew this was coming and took a deep breath, “Let me get this straight, you kick me out of here during my Freshman year, force me, my mother, and sister to move to Saddle Arabia, and now you want, no expect me to compete in some stupid game?” Dark asked angrily.

“In a word, yes.” Cinch said. Dark then got up and walked over to her desk. 

“Well I got three words for you, GO TO HELL!” Dark yelled. 

“Dark!” Cadance said going over to him only to have Cinch stop her. 

“If that’s how you feel then Mr.Steele then I won’t stop you, but tell me how was your time in Saddle Arabia?” Cinch asked. 

“Like you give a damn.” Dark growled. 

“Oh but I do, that’s why I’m offering you a choice. If you join the Friendship Games I will give your mother back her job at the school and you can move back to the city. But if you don’t I have to use a few of my connections to move your family to another place hmm….how’s Vanhoover sound Mr. Steele?” Cinch asked with a smirk. Dark was about to lose it not only did she threaten him, but now his family too. 

“Principal Cinch, that’s taking things too far.” Cadance said angrily. 

“I’m only doing what is right for this school Dean Cadance. Now Mr. Steele make your choice, I know your mother can’t handle another move much less find a new job.” Cinch said. 

Dark was completely snagged, he couldn’t risk his mother moving again. 

“Fine, I’ll join your little game.” Dark growled in defeat. 

“Excellent, Dean Cadance please give Mr. Steele new uniforms for him and his sister. And contact his mother. She may return to working here again.” Cinch said as she pulled out some papers from her desk. 

“Yes Principal Cinch, come on Dark.” Cadance said. 

Dark gave Cinch on final glare before leaving with Cadance. As they left Cinch’s office, Dark and Cadance both walked in silence for a bit. 

“Are you alright?” Cadance asked. 

All Dark did was shake his head and cross his arms. 

“Look I know you're angry but-” Cadance was saying, but was quickly cut off. 

“Oh I am beyond angry Cady, I am borderlined pissed right now!” Dark growled, “She knows I put my family before myself! She’s using my family against me!” He punched a locker, causing a loud bang.

“Calm down, Dark.” Cadance said putting a hand on his shoulder, only to have Dark smack it away. 

“Screw that! As soon as these stupid games are over i’m-” Dark began.

“DARK! Tone and language!” Cadance yelled cutting him off.

Dark only growled.

“Look I know you hate this I really do, but you have to do what I told you and not let her get to you. She knows you care for your mother more than yourself so she’s using that against you, remember what happened the last time you let her get to you?” Cadance asked. Dark glared at Cadance for a few seconds before taking a deep breath. 

“Yea I do...sorry.” Dark said looking down. Cadance then gave him a small hug. 

“It’s ok, come on let’s go to my office and eat something.” Cadance said. Dark raised an eyebrow at what she said. 

“Don’t you mean let’s get something to eat then go to your office?” Dark asked. 

“Nope. One of the perks of being the Dean, I get my own personal refrigerator.” Cadance said with a smile. 

Dark looked at Cadance for a few seconds before giving her a small smile, “I’m not even going to ask why you would even want a fridge in your office.”

Cadance giggled and the two proceeded to her office.
> In Trouble Already
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dark groaned as he sat in the car. He and his family were on their way to Crystal Prep, “I hate school.” He had changed into his Crystal Prep uniform, but had decided to keep his jacket unbuttoned.

In the front of the car, a woman sat in the driver’s seat. Her eyes were the color of the morning sky. Her blue hair reached down to the shoulders of her peach white skin. She wore a blue vest over a white long sleeve shirt, a long midnight blue skirt, white leggings, and a pair of black shoes. She had a pair of star shaped earrings with the colors of the midnight sky.

“Oh relax honey.” Midnight Steele said looking at her son, “At least you’ll get to see your old friends again.”

A younger teen girl sat next to Dark. She was wearing a Crystal Prep uniform. Her eyes were a relaxing color of lilac purple. She had long vibrant purple and black striped hair, that traveled down to the middle of her back. Her skin matched her mother’s peach white color. She also wore blue boots with black flame designs.

“What friends? Dark never had any friends in school.” Lilac Steele said from the back of the car, “Well besides Twilight. But she was never around much.”

“Oh shut it you.” Dark said looking back at his sister, “You’re not so perfect either.”

“I had friends at least.” Lilac responded, “You know, I could give you some tips on how to make some friends.” Then she smirked, “Maybe even a lady friend.”

“Oh please. The last thing I need is a ‘lady friend’, nevermind friends period.” Dark groaned rolling his eyes.

The car pulled up to the parking lot beside Crystal Prep, “We’re here.” Midnight said turning the car off.

“Great, I wonder if my friends are still here.” Lilac said getting out of the car.

“You mean that Thunderlane dude that you’ve liked since Freshman year?” Dark said teasing his sister.

“W-What are you talking about?” Lilac asked, her cheeks flaring up a shade of pink.

“I don’t like that guy.” Dark said, “I don’t think he’s the guy for you.”

“We all know this Dark. You beat on him when he just wrapped his arm around me.” Lilac said groaning, “Over protective much?”

“If he had stayed away from my sister he wouldn’t have ended up in the nurse’s office.” Dark said.

“And you wouldn’t have gotten detention.” Midnight said glaring at her son.

Dark only rolled his eyes.

“Alright you two, go on. Classes don’t start for another thirty minutes.” Midnight said to her kids, “Go mingle with the other students.”

“Where are you going?” Lilac asked.

“I have to go see Principal Cinch, since I’m getting my job back here.” Midnight said grabbing her stuff. Then she turned to Dark, “Try to stay out of trouble. First day back.”

“Hey. It wasn’t my fault.” Dark said crossing his arms, “Dude was asking for that fight.”

“You could have just walked away.” Lilac said turning around and walking towards the school, “Instead of making a fool of yourself.”

Dark growled at his sister, “As much as I love and care for you, you really piss me off sometimes.”

“Be nice to your sister, Dark.” Midnight said, “And stop annoying your brother, Lilac.”

“Yes mom.” Lilac said walking off towards the group of students in the front school yard.

Dark walked over to a tree and sat underneath it, looking at the group of students.

And the first thing he saw was Lilac with a group of teens, including the one guy he did not like; Thunderlane.

Dark saw he went to put his arm on Lilac, ‘Oh no you don’t.’ He picked up a pebble and threw it towards Thunderlane, hitting him square in the head.

“Ow. What the?” Thunderlane said looking around, then he saw Dark and his eyes shrunk.

Dark glared at him with his piercing blue eyes.

Thunderlane instantly pulled his arm away from Lilac, and stepped a few feet away from her.

Dark continued to glare at the boy, but nodded.

Ten minutes later the bell rang, signalling first period was in session.

“Time to enter hell.” Dark groaned following the many students into the school.

Timeskip

It was quiet in the class rooms of Crystal Prep during study hour. No one talked, mingled, or made any sound. Just the way Dark liked it.

‘One thing I did miss about this place. The lack of talking.’ Dark said as he continued to do his Algebra.

But just then, he heard little whispers.

Dark looked up and saw Lilac talking with another student.

“Typical Lilac, breaking the nice silence.” Dark grumbled. He tore out a piece of paper, wrote a message on it, and crumbled it into a ball. He threw it at Lilac, hitting her in the back of the head.

Lilac grabbed the paper and opened it.

Shut up and study

She turned back and looked at Dark dully. Then she wrote her own message on it. Throwing it at her brother.

He opened it.

And you wonder why you have no friends, and no one likes you.

Dark growled and was going to throw the paper back.

“Mr. Steele.” The teacher called out.

Dark looked at the teacher, “Yes?”

“What do you think you are doing?” She asked.

“What does it look like I’m doing?” Dark said holding the paper in his hand.

“Passing notes are we?” The teacher said looking at Lilac also, “Ms. Lilac?”

Lilac was about to say something.

“Lilac had nothing to do with it. I was going to throw the paper at her to get her attention.” Dark said lying.

“Well then, Mr. Steele, because this is your first day back, I will let this one slide.” The teacher said, “But next time, it will cost you.”

“Understood.” Dark said nodding.

“Return to your work, please.” The teacher said sitting back down in her seat.

Lilac looked back at her brother with a face of dismay.

Dark only smiled slightly at his sister, then went back to his work.

End of Class

The bell rang and students began to file out into the halls.

Lilac walked out and looked for her brother, “Where are you?”

“Looking for someone?” A voice asked.

Lilac turned and saw Thunderlane smiling at her, “Oh, hey Thunderlane.”

“Who you looking for? Me perhaps?” Thunderlane asked.

“No, I’m looking for my brother.” Lilac said looking around.

“Why not stop looking for him, and stick with me?” Thunderlane said.

“Because she knows what I’ll do to you if I see you two together alone.” A dark toned voice said behind Thunderlane.

Thunderlane turned quickly and saw Dark, glaring at him, “Uh h-hey Dark.”

“Thunderlane.” Dark said, still glaring at him.

A few seconds of silence passed.

“Dark, let’s go before you hurt someone.” Lilac said pulling her brother away from Thunderlane.

The two walked down the hall, passing many students.

“Must you always strike fear into others?” Lilac groaned.

“Nope. Just him.” Dark said.

“Well anyways, what was that?” Lilac asked.

“What was what?” Dark said.

“Back in the classroom. You lied to the teacher. I was ok with taking punishment.” Lilac said.

“Because I didn’t want you in trouble on your first day back.” Dark said, “You know me. I do anything for my family. Even if it means my own discomfort.”

Lilac rolled her eyes and smiled, “You need to stop doing that so much.”

“Nah. I love you guys too much.” Dark said nudging Lilac’s arm. 

“Yea I know, but seriously lay off him bro, he’s a good guy.” Lilac said.

“Fine, but if he tries anything-”

“You won’t do anything because I wear the pants in this relationship.” Lilac said with a smile.

“That’s so s-oof!” Dark was cut off when someone walked into him. 

“Oh crap it’s a battle for top dog.” One of the students said.

“I know it’s Dark the Delinquent and the Bi-polar Queen Sour Sweet.” Another student said.

“Wait what now?” Dark said before he looked to see the person he bumped into. She had yellow skin, Cranberry hair with a turquoise highlight and purple eyes. She was wearing well obviously the Crystal Prep female uniform. 

“Um miss, you ok?” Lilac asked. 

“Oh I’m just fine, I only just walked into an idiot!” The girl said. 

Dark didn’t take to kindly to that, “Excuse me?! I was walking here. You bumped into me!”

“Oh sure! Maybe you should look where you’re walking!” The girl said pointing at Dark’s face.

Students were surrounding the two arguing, watching the fight unfold.

“What part of you bumped into me don’t you understand?” Dark asked angrily.

“I’m sorry, I don’t speak moron!” The girl said crossing her arms.

“Oh she is so lucky Dark doesn’t hit girls.” Lilac thought to herself

“You know what, I don’t have time for a Bi-polar freak right now. So step aside now!” Dark said glaring at the girl.

Everyone in the hallway just stared in shock at what he said and they all backed away slowly.

The girl’s eyes were now hiding behind her hair and a creepy smile formed on her face, “I’m sorry what did you call me?” The girl said in a cheery tone

“You heard me, now get out of my way!” Dark said about to walk past her, but as her did…

BOP!!

“Ooooh.” Students gasped.

The girl punched Dark straight in his jaw, causing him to stumble a bit. “You must have a death wish buddy!”

Dark felt where the girl had punched him, “Well, you have a nice punch. That actually almost hurt.”

“Oh that didn’t hurt, I’ll try harder this time then!” The girl said walking up to Dark.

“Hold on you two, just calm down.” Lilac said trying to stop the fight.

“SHE/HE STARTED IT!” Dark and the girl said simultaneously. 

“I don’t care who started it, you both need to stop.” Lilac said.

Dark and the girl both glared at each other. “Ok I’ll stop, But if he crosses me he’s dead!” The girl said before walking past him.

“Stay out of my way and you won’t have to worry about it!” Dark shouted.

The girl glared at Dark one last time before continuing to walk and as soon as she was out of sight. 

Lilac hit Dark in the back of the head, “You idiot!” She said.

“What!? Why am I the idiot? She started it!” Dark said.

“Yeah, and what if this gets out to mom? Or even Principal Cinch?” Lilac said, “Then what? You’re in trouble then.”

“Oh well, she’d get into trouble as well.” Dark said. He saw all the students looking at him, “What are all you looking at!?”

Everyone quickly scattered and ran off.

“There you go again.” Lilac said, “You need to learn to control your temper, mouth, and learn when to just WALK AWAY!”

“Yeah, well back before I was transferred, no one dared to speak to me that way.” Dark said walking down the hall.

Lilac followed him, “And clearly things have changed since you were last here.”

“Whatever, can we go to lunch already?” Dark asked, “I’ve just wasted my free period arguing with that bi-”

“I dare you to finish that sentence!” Lilac threatened stepping in front of him, pointing her finger at his face.

Dark knew better than to disobey his sister, so he just walked away from her.

“I thought so.” Lilac said following him.

Unbeknownst to the siblings, a boy with dark blue skin, white hair and yellow eyes was watching them. “Ha, I like that guy.” He said before walking to his next class.

Time Skip

Dark and Lilac walked out of the lunch line and proceeded to an empty table. “The nerve of that girl seriously!” Dark said angrily. 

“Will you let it go, it’s not a big deal and besides you wouldn’t hit her anyway.” Lilac said taking a bite out of her salad

“You don’t know that.” Dark said picking up his apple

“Dark you’ve never hit a girl in your life, and I doubt that will ever change.” Lilac said taking a sip of her water bottle.

Dark just grumbled something under his breath and took a bite out of his apple. 

“You guys mind if we join you?” Dark and Lilac looked up to see the two dark blue skinned boys one with white hair and the other with orange hair, another boy with light brown skin and blond, a girl with light violet colored skin and dark purple hair, and finally another boy with peach skin and brown hair. 

“Yes we do mind.” Dark said looking back down.

Lilac then hit him in the back of the head again, “Don’t mind my brother he can be a major grump, of course you can join us.” Lilac said with a smile. 

The four teens in front of them all smiled and sat down

“Thanks, names Lone by the way, Lone Wolf.” The first boy now known as Lone said with a smile.

“Cool name I’m Lilac, Lilac Steele.” Lilac said smiling.

“And I thought I had a cool name. And you are?” Lone said looking at Dark.

“Dark. Dark Steele.” Dark replied with a growl.

“Well aren’t you a ray of sunshine, anyway, names Solar Eclipse.” The brown haired boy said.

“Watch it buddy.” Dark growled

“Whatever.” Eclipse said rolling his eyes

“Sorry about him, and who are you three?” Lilac said.

“I’m Suri, pleasure to meet you.” The purple haired girl said.

“You too.” Lilac said with a smile. 

“Hmm.” Dark said.

“I’m Rapid Shadow, Nice to meet you both.” The orange haired boy said. 

“Well aren’t you polite.” Lilac said.

“I try.” Rapid said smiling.

“And last but not least, I’m Trenderhoof.” The blond haired boy said.

“Well I’d say it’s nice to meet you all, but it isn’t.” Dark said.

Lilac hit his head again, “Would you lighten up already? They’re only trying to be nice, and you’re shutting them down”

“Would you stop hitting me?!” Dark shouted.

“Only when you stop being a grouch.” Lilac said.

“Ok i’m curious, who’s the older sibling?” Lone asked.

“I am.” Dark said.

“Well it most certainly seems like your sister is.” Eclipse said with a smirk

“You have no idea pal.” Lilac said smiling

“Why you little!” Dark yelled, getting up turning towards Lilac, but she raised an eyebrow. Dark wouldn’t dare raise a hand against his sister, so he sat back down and crossed his arms

“That’s what I thought.” Lilac said. Everyone just watched the siblings either in shock or in amusement. 

“So you guys enjoying your first day so far.” Rapid asked. 

“Well I would have if this idiot didn’t get into a fight.” Lilac said glaring at her brother.

“It was her fault!” Dark growled.

“Hold on you fought a girl!” Eclipse said shocked.

“No it was just a argument and Dark got punched in the face.” Lilac said.

“Oh my gosh, are you alright dear?” Suri asked.

“I’m fine, the girl didn’t even hit me that hard.” Dark said rubbing his jaw.

“Any idea who she was?” Eclipse asked.

“All I know is she’s a Bi-polar freak show.” Dark growled.

Everyone stopped eating and looked at Dark.

“Did you say, Bi-polar?” Trenderhoof asked.

“Yeah so what?” Dark said.

“Any chance this girl happens to be…” Rapid began.

“It was Sour Sweet you guys.” Lone said, “I saw the whole thing.”

The group went silent, staring at Dark.

“You fought with Sour Sweet!?” Eclipse shouted, “Are you nuts!?”

“What? She started it.” Dark said.

“It doesn’t matter who started it, you never get into a fight with Sour Sweet.” Eclipse said as he took a seat, “You might as well be fighting Chun Li with the Satsui no Hadō.”

“Excuse me, but what the hell did you just say?” Dark asked.

Lilac hit Dark again, “Language.”

“You sound like mom and Cady.” Dark said.

“Oh.” Eclipse exclaimed, “You mean Aunt Cadance?”

“Aunt Cadance?” Lilac asked, “Don’t you mean Dean Cadance?”

“She’s my Aunt, so she’s just Aunt Cadance to me.” Eclipse said as he pulled out a new 3DS XL.

“Um, aren’t electronics banned from school?” Lilac said looking at the gamer.

Eclipse simply smirked, “Not as long as long as they don’t disturb the classroom. If kept in the cafeteria or during breaks in class, they are permitted.”

“Ok then. Anyways, so Dean Cadance is your aunt?” Lilac asked.

“That’s right.” Eclipse nodded, “My mother is Vice Principal Luna, or as everyone here would say, the vice principal of Canterlot High.”

“Cadance was our babysitter when we were younger.” Dark said in a low grumble.

“I have heard her mention babysitting a few kids before she became the Dean here.” Eclipse thought for a second. “I never realized you two were some of those kids.”

Dark rolled his eyes, “Whatever.”

Eclipse looked at Dark, “Did Cadance do something to you guys? Why do you sound angry when I mention her?”

“Dark is always angry.” Lilac said, “It has nothing to do with Cadance. She is actually one of the few that can get him to smile every once in awhile.”

Eclipse nods, “I see. Well, if you two need me, I’ll be on my DS.” Eclipse turns around and starts playing a game.

“Don’t mind him. So how did you end up in a fight with Sour Sweet?” Rapid asked.

Dark was about to explain, but was cut off.

“I’ll tell you, the idiot here walked straight into me, not paying any attention to where he was going!” A familiar voice yelled from behind Dark.

Everyone at the table went silent and only looked behind Dark.

“Well well, if it isn’t the Bi-Polar Queen herself.” Dark said spinning around to see the girl he had fought with earlier.

Sour Sweet only glared at the teen. Behind her were four other girls. The first was a girl with light amber skin, dark cornflower hair  cerulean and arctic blue streaks in her hair, with gamboge eyes. Standing next to her was a girl with pinkish skin, and bright green and yellow hair. On the other side of Sour Sweet was a girl with turquoise-gray skin, cerise eyes and short mulberry hair with raspberry streaks, and beside her was a girl with light purple skin, magenta eyes, orange glasses and two white pigtails with light blue streaks.

“Who’re your friends?” Dark asked pointing at the others.

“None of your business.” Sour Sweet said. She then looked at the others sitting at Dark’s table, “If you all want to know what really happened, don’t believe anything this dolt says to you!”

“Oh cause what you say is so truthful.” Dark said crossing his arms.

Sour Sweet growled, crushing her cup in her fist.

The others began to get worried.

“Dark, why don’t you just turn around and stop talking to her.” Lilac said.

“Yes, why don’t you listen to your little sister. Or are you the younger one?” Sour Sweet taunted.

Dark growled balling his fists, “How about you shut that mouth of yours before I make you.”

“I’d love to see you try.” Sour Sweet said smirking.

“Fine by me!” Dark said getting up.

Lilac and Lone grabbed Dark and held him back.

“No Dark, stop it.” Lilac said.

“It’s not worth it, man.” Lone said.

Dark stopped pushing against them, “Fine.”

Sour Sweet smirked, “Knew you couldn’t do it.”

“No. But I’m not afraid to do this.” Dark said smirking. He placed his finger on the bottom side of her lunch tray and flicked it up.

Students gasped loudly.

Sour Sweet’s lunch was splotched all over her clothes, dripping down onto the floor.

Dark smirked and turned back around.

However, shortly after Dark felt someone hit the back of his head, “Ouch.”

He turned and saw the girl with turquoise-gray skin, “Leave Sour Sweet alone.”

“She’s the one who won’t leave me alone.” Dark said rubbing the back of his head. He looked at Sour Sweet’s clothes and chuckled, “It’s missing something. Aha.” He quickly snatched Lilac’s water bottle and sprayed it at her, soaking her.

Sour squealed, “What the hell!”

“That’s better.” Dark said handing Lilac her water bottle.

“What did you do that for?” Lilac asked taking the water bottle back.

“Because she looked dirty. So I washed her off.” Dark chuckled, “Did her a favor.”

“Alright, that’s enough!” Eclipse said as he got between Sour and Dark.

“Stay out of this, you.” Sour said pushing Eclipse out of the way.

Eclipse just got back in front of them, “No! This fighting is pointless. The only result of this conflict is getting in trouble with Cinch, and the last thing we need is for you two to be in detention.”

“Pah. Cinch? I could care less for her.” Dark spat.

“Dark, knock it off.” Lilac said getting up.

“And yet here you are, in this school.” Eclipse pointed out. “She has you here for a reason, all of us. Either she wants us in the Friendship Games, or she wants our intellect for her school’s reputation. She will continue to blackmail us until we all comply to her dirty wishes.”

“Intellect you say? I don’t think this one has any in that thick skull of his.” Sour said pointing at Dark’s head.

“At least I have enough to know you’re a narcissistic bitch.” Dark replied.

“I SAID THAT’S ENOUGH!!!!” Eclipse shouted, trying to keep the two at bay.

“What is going on in here!?” Someone shouted from the other side of the cafeteria.

Everyone stopped and looked up.

Cadance was standing in the entrance, and she did not look too pleased.

Once Eclipse saw Candance, he decided to step back. “You heard her. Explain what’s going on.”

Cadance saw Dark and Sour, and she instantly knew the problem, “Dark and Sour Sweet, to my office. Now.”

“But Dean Cadance…” Sour began.

“No. My office.” Cadance said, then she looked at Sour’s attire, “Well, go get a clean uniform first at least.”

Dark growled and stuffed his hands in his pockets. He walked past Sour, shoving her in the shoulder.

Time Skip

Dark entered Cadance’s office. Unlike Cinch’s, Cadance’s was lit up with lights. Many pictures were lined up along the wall, including pictures of students here at Crystal Prep.

Dark saw a few pictures he saw interesting. A picture of a younger looking Eclipse with an older woman who Dark could only assume was Luna. Another picture of Shining Armor and Cadance together. And the last one, was a picture of young Lilac and Dark back when Cadance was babysitting them.

The door opened and then slammed shut, causing the pictures to shake a little.

Dark whipped his head around and saw Sour Sweet sit down in a chair, “Do you mind being careful? You could have broken something!”

“Why do you care? They aren’t yours.” Sour said.

“What is your issue with me?” Dark asked.

“My issue!? What about yours!?” Sour yelled, “You’re always pissed off at someone or something!”

“And I have good reasons for that.” Dark said.

“At least I show a little bit a happiness.” Sour said turning away from Dark.

Dark was about to explode, but he turned away, crossing his arms.

A few minutes passed and Cadance walked into the room, “Sorry for the wait, I had to speak with Cinch.”

“Oh good, am I expelled from the school?” Dark said not turning.

“No you are not, Dark.” Cadance said, “However, you both are still in trouble.”

“He star…” Sour began.

“It doesn’t matter who started it, what matters is that neither of you two were mature enough to stop fighting in the first place.” Cadance said sharply, “Perhaps you should have listened to Eclipse. Had you, you wouldn’t be here.”

“He flipped my food on me! I hadn’t done anything to him!” Sour yelled pointing at Dark.

“You had it coming to you! You provoked me!” Dark shouted.

“Oh boo hoo. Did the wittle Darky miss his nappy?” Sour said imitating a crying baby.

“Why you little!” Dark growled raising a fist. But he couldn’t do it. He put his fist down.

“Control your temper, Dark.” Cadance said.

Sour laughed a little.

“And you missy.” Cadance said looking at the girl, “Stop trying to make Dark mad.”

The two looked at each other, then away.

“Now then, as for your punishment for your actions.” Cadance said.

“Punishment!?” Sour asked.

“Yes, did you think you were going to get a free pass after that event in the cafeteria?” Cadance asked.

Dark only rolled his eyes, ‘Even the stupidest person could have seen that coming.’

“You two have after school detention. If even one of you does not show up, you will spend another until you both show up.” Cadance said.

“What!?” Dark and Sour shouted.

“You mean if she doesn’t show up, I have to spend another detention!?” Dark said pointing at Sour.

“Me?! I’m more concerned you won’t show up.” Sour protested.

“Oh I’ll be there.” Dark said, then he pointed at Sour, “And you better show up.”

Sour only turned around in a huff.

“So after your last class, you two are to report back to my office. Study, do your homework, or maybe even try to amend the friction between the two of you.” Cadance said, “You will be here for an extra hour.”

“An hour!?” Sour yelled, “With him!?” She jabbed her finger at Dark.

Dark only growled, “I have a name you know.”

“Yes, one hour.” Cadance said, “Now then, lunch period is over now, so you are to report to your next class.”

Sour got up quickly and stormed out of the room in a huff.

Dark was about to leave, but he was stopped when Cadance placed her hand on his shoulder, “Dark.”

“Yes I know, I need to control my anger and what not. I get it, but it isn’t easy for me.” Dark said.

“Yes, but that isn’t what I originally wanted to speak to you about.” Cadance said.

“Then what?” Dark asked.

“When I spoke to Principal Cinch, she told me to warn you. If you can not keep this anger issue of yours under control, she will have you and your family transferred again.” Cadance said with a worried tone.

“She would threaten me and my family again.” Dark growled, “I’m trying my best, Cady. But students, like that Sour Sweet, make it very difficult.”

“I know kiddo, but you have to try your best. Please for me, Lilac, Midnight and for her.” Cadance said. 

Dark raised an eyebrow at what she said, but before he could ask a knock came at the door. “Come on in.” Cadance said with a smile. The door opened and saw someone he hadn’t seen in a long time. “Twily?” Dark asked.

“You wanted to see me, Dean Ca- Dark!” Sci-Twi said before running up to Dark and hugging him.

Dark was a bit shocked at first, but he returned the hug. “Finally someone in this school I’m happy to see.” Dark said with a small smile
> Detention
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Location: Crystal Prep, Dean Cadance’s office

“What are you doing here? No better question, how come you never called me?” Twilight asked letting go of him. 

“I tried, but you changed your cell number.” Dark said. 

Twilight’s eyes widened and she smiled sheepishly. “Oh yea sorry, when I transferred into Crystal Prep my parents made us move so we would be close to it.” Twilight said. 

“Your parents still worry about you walking far distances, huh?” Dark asked.

“Yea you know how overprotective they are of me, anyway what are you doing here?” Twilight asked

“Apparently Abacus wants me to take part in her stupid little game.” Dark said crossing his arms.

Twilight raised an eyebrow at this. “Game...oh the Friendship Games?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah. By agreeing to participate, my family was allowed to move back into the city, and mum got her job back here.” Dark said.

“That’s great news.” Twilight said smiling.

“Yeah, except that it gives Cinch leverage over me.” Dark growled.

“Oh right.” Twilight responded, the smile disappearing from her face.

There was a bit of silence between the two, but was shortly broken by Cadance.

“Look at the time. You two need to get to your next class. And I’ll see you later in detention, Dark.” She said.

“You got in trouble already, Dark are you serious?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah. No thanks to this Sour Sweet girl.” Dark growled.

“Sour Sweet, what does one of the Shadow 5 have to do with this?” Twilight asked confused.

“Well, the Bipolar queen decided to flip out when she bumped into me.” Dark said, “I try to explain what happened to some other students, and know what happens? She shows up and we end up fighting again.”

“Excuse me, what do you mean again, Dark?” Cadance asked crossing her arms. Dark facepalmed, completely forgetting that Cadance was right behind him.

“Sour Sweet and I had fought earlier today. Kind of caused a scene.” Dark explained. “She landed a punch to my face in the end though.”

“Wait, Sour hit you? For no reason?” Twilight asked.

“Well… I wouldn’t say for no reason.” Dark said putting his hands behind his head.

Both Twilight and Cadance looked at Dark with concern.

“I may have called her a Bipolar freak.” Dark said. Twilight and Cadance both looked at Dark in shock.

“Dark, what is wrong with you!?” Cadance said angrily. Dark flinched a bit and took a step back. 

“Seriously, Dark!? That’s not ok.” Twilight said, “I know you weren’t the nicest person ever, but you weren’t this mean before you were transferred.”

“Exactly. I’ve changed since then.” Dark said with a bit of an attitude.

“Dark I don’t care if you’ve ‘changed’ or not, that was taking things too far and Sour Sweet doesn’t need that.” Cadance said. 

“Oh please, she deserved every last word I said.” Dark said crossing his arms. 

“Dark! No one deserves that kind of treatment, especially Sour Sweet!” Twilight said.

“What makes her so special anyways? Her attitude is almost as bad as mine, but I have a reason for it.” Dark said, “I doubt she has a good reason for it, compared to me.” He said.

“Dark, Sour Sweet has more problems than you could ever know. Now you’re going to apologize to her.” Cadance said.

“WHAT!?” Dark yelled, “What about me! She frickin punched me in the face!” He said.

“And all for good reason, now either you apologize to her or do you want me to do what I use to do to you whenever you acted up.” Cadance said. Dark immediately got a chill up his spine and looked to the ground. 

“No… Fine. I’ll apologize.” Dark groaned, “What is it with people threatening me?”

“Good now both of you get to class.” Cadance said. Dark and Twilight nodded and walked out of Cadance’s office. 

“What the hell, Cady?” Dark said to himself, but was loud enough for Twilight to hear. 

“You deserve it, you know that right?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah right, maybe in a different world.” Dark said.

“Dark I’m serious, Cadance hasn’t given me any specifics, but she said that Sour Sweet is very sensitive about the way she is.” Twilight said, “Apparently it’s a personal matter, so she couldn’t say too much.” She said.

“Hpmh. I still don’t see why she gets a free pass for clubbing my face.” Dark said.

Twilight looked at him and saw a bruise. “I get that you’re mad Dark, but try to understand.” Twilight said. Dark just rolled his eyes.

“Fine, but after me and her serve our detention, we will go our separate ways and I do not want to see her ever again.” Dark said angrily.

“As long as you apologize to her, you can do whatever you want” Twilight said. Dark just growled and crossed his arm. The pair walked in silence for a few seconds before Twilight spoke up.

“Hey look, sorry for going off on you like that.” She said looking down. 

“It’s fine, I was being a jerk and I was kinda asking for it.” Dark said. 

“So we good?” Twilight asked.

“I can’t stay mad at you, Lilac on the other hand is a different story.” Dark said with a small smile. Twilight giggled a bit.

“So how is the bane of your existence?” Twilight asked.

“She’s fine, still a major pain though. How’s Uncle Night and Aunt Velvet?” Dark asked.

“Same old, same old. Mom is still writing and Dad’s an astronomy teacher at Everton. I bet they’d be thrilled to see you and Lilac again.” Twilight said.

Dark chuckled, “They’d be more happy to see Lilac. She’s the nicer one, remember? She also didn’t punch holes in their walls out of anger.”

“Dark they know you had an anger issue, but they didn’t care. How about after your detention you and Lilac head over to my house? Like I said Mom and Dad would love to see you both.” Twilight said with a smile.

“I’ll talk to Lilac about it.” Dark said. 

“Great. See you two after school… Erm you after your detention.” Twilight said.

Dark rolled his eyes and smiled. “Alright, wish me luck.” Dark said walking away. 

“Good luck.” Twilight said waving to him. Twilight watched as Dark turned the corner and she sighed. “He says he’s changed, but I know he’s still the same teddy bear I’ve always known.” Twilight said before walking into her classroom.

With Dark

“Everyone seems to be against me today. Although I can’t really blame them, I mean I did pick a fight and with a girl no less.” Dark thought to himself, “I really need to control my temper. Stop letting people get into my head.” He thought.

Just before he got to his next class he heard something coming from the room across from it, “What is that?” Dark said walking over to the door. The door was slightly cracked allowing him to see inside and what he saw shocked him.

“I’m not a bi-polar freak, I’m not a freak, I’m not, I’m not.” Dark watched with wide eyes as he saw Sour Sweet sitting in a corner, crying. 

“What the, what’s wrong with her?” Dark asked himself. 

“What’s his problem, he didn’t have to say something like that. UGH STOP IT!! I can’t let that jerk get to me, I don’t know what his problem is, but he didn’t need to take it out on me like that.” Sour said hugging her knees, “He doesn’t know what I’ve been through, or what I’m going through.” 

“What is she talking about?” Dark asked himself.

“What could he possibly compare to what has happened to me in my life? What makes his life so much worse than mine?” Sour asked.

Dark really couldn’t believe what he was hearing, ‘Is she serious? I didn’t think she was capable of crying.’

Sour Sweet sniffled one last time before wiping her eyes, “I better get to class before I get in trouble.” She got up and walked towards the door.

Dark doubled back and reached the classroom door, just as Sour Sweet opened the door to the room she was in.

The two saw each other, then glared.

“Oh, its you.” Sour Sweet said.

“Good to see you too.” Dark said sarcastically.

“No its not.” Sour Sweet said, “I don’t like you. Because of you, I have to explain to my parents why I was home late!”

“And so do I.” Dark said, “Oh wait, she probably already knows. She works here after all.”

Sour Sweet rolled her eyes, “I could care less.”

“Typical for a Bipolar F…” Dark stopped himself, remembering what Cadance and Twilight told him. He only grumbled and entered the classroom.

Sour Sweet followed him.

“Well its nice of you two to join us.” Midnight said looking at the two teens walking in.

Dark looked up at his mother, ‘Shit. Forgot mom was the English teacher.’

“Sorry Mrs… Um.... I’ve never seen you here.” Sour Sweet said looking at the new teacher.

“Oh, you must be Sour Sweet.” Midnight said, “I’m Midnight Steele. Mrs. Steele.”

“Wait, Steele? As in Dark Steele?” Sour Sweet said pointing at Dark.

“Yes. I’m his mother.” Midnight said.

“Not here you’re not.” Dark growled, “You’re my teacher here.” He then walked to the desk next to Lilac and sat down.

“Hey, that’s our mom.” Lilac said, “Show her a little respect and love.”

“I am. I’m not giving her as much attitude as the other teachers.” Dark said pulling out his English journal

Sour Sweet looked for an open desk, except the only one was next to Dark, “Great I get to sit next to King of the Morons.”

“Excuse me Miss Sweet, but while in my classes, we do not call others names, or show disrespect towards anyone.” Midnight said, “That goes for everyone.” She said looking at more towards Dark.

Dark flung his arms up in accusation, ‘Why me!?’

Sour Sweet walked to her desk and sat down, not even looking at Dark.

“Ok then. Now I would like you all to open your textbooks to page 48 and silently read up to page 54.” Midnight said as she took a seat at her desk. 

Dark was about to open his book and begin reading, but a certain girl next to him was digging through her bag and being quite loud about it. “Will you keep it down, I’m trying to read here.” Dark said.

“I would, But I can’t find my stupid book!” Sour Sweet growled at Dark, continuing to rummage through her bag.

“What are you looking for anyway?” Dark asked. 

“Like you care.” Sour Sweet said.

“You’re right I don’t, but I’m curious.” Dark said with a smirk. 

Sour just rolled her eyes. “Well if you must know, I’m looking for my textbook.” She said still rummaging through her bag.

“Do you have to look for it so loudly?!” Dark hissed.

“Do you have to be so annoying all the time, or am I just special case?” Sour replied.

“Oh you’re special alright.” Dark said turning back to his book.

“Excuse me? And what is that suppose to mean?!” Sour asked.

“Well-” “Dark, is there something you’d like to share with the class?” Midnight said as she glared at Dark.

“Uh..no ma’am.” Dark said looking down. A few snickers could be heard around the classroom mostly coming from Lilac and Sour. “Oh screw you all!” Dark whispered. 

“Hey you started it.” Sour said with a smirk. 

“Oh just go back to finding your book!” Dark growled.

“I don’t have it, I think it’s at my house.” Sour said.

“Well I guess you’re shit out of luck.” Dark said with a small smile.

Sour was really getting sick of this guy's attitude. “Piss off jerk!” Sour growled. 

“Ms. Sweet, do you have something you wish to say?” Midnight asked. 

“No Ma’am!” Sour said looking down. 

Dark couldn’t help but snicker. “Doesn’t feel good does it?” Dark asked with a smirk.

“Oh Screw you.” Sour said glaring at Dark. 

After a few minutes passed, Midnight decided to walk around and see if everyone was doing what they were supposed to do. She soon came to Sour Sweet who was sitting there without a book in front of her. “Ms. Sweet, do you have better things to do then do your work?” Midnight asked with a serious look on her face.

“I...I...I-” “Apparently she thinks she’s too cool for school.” Dark said with a smile. Sour glared at the boy, but kept her mouth shut. 

Midnight could see Sour didn’t actually have book and she also saw that her son was going to keep being a smartass. So she decided to kill two birds with one stone. “Dark since you’re so worried about education, I want you and Ms. Sour to share a textbook until she gets her’s back.” Midnight said with a smirk. 

Dark and Sour both gave Midnight shocked expressions. “Not in this lifetime.” Dark said. 

“Finally we agree on something.” Sour said.

“Alright you both don’t have to share.” Midnight said.

“Good.” Dark and Sour said at the same time.

“I’ll just cut both of your final grades for this semester in half.” Midnight said still smiling. 

Dark and Sour were now wide eyed. “You can’t do that!” They both yelled. 

Midnight then put a hand on the desk and looked at the two. “Wanna bet?” She asked. 

Dark and Sour looked at each other, then back at Midnight.

“Well?” She asked.

Dark growled and slammed his book on Sour’s desk.

“Ow. What the heck?” Sour said.

“Oh I’m sorry, did I hurt you?” Dark asked.

“Dark, apologise.” Midnight said.

“And if I don’t want to?” Dark asked.

Midnight only glared at her son.

Dark growled, “I’m sorry.”

“Thank you.” Midnight said. She walked back to her desk.

Sour opened the book and began flipping through pages, “Um, which pages were we supposed to read?”

“Pages 48 - 54.” Dark said in a calm voice.

“I… Thank you.” Sour said in a calm voice.

“You’re… Welcome.” Dark replied.

The rest of class was pretty calm, Dark and Sour didn’t argue and managed to get their work done before class ended. 

“Alright we’re done.” Sour said closing the textbook. 

“Good, now we can relax.” Dark said.

“Yeah.” Sour said putting her head down. 

Dark looked at the girl for a minute and sighed. “I can’t believe we went that long without an argument, guess she knows when to swallow her pride.” Dark thought. 

Sour also took a quick glance at Dark before looking away. “Well I guess he’s not a total jerk, he put up with me for this long and didn’t argue with me. Guess even a stubborn guy like him can swallow his pride in a hopeless situation.” Sour thought.

Midnight looked up at the two teens with a smile.

Timeskip to Detention…

Dark and Sour Sweet both walked into Cadance’s office, but Cadance wasn’t in the room.

“Where is Dean Cadance?” Sour asked.

“I don’t know.” Dark said, “But something tells me that doesn’t mean that we’re free to go either.”

“You’re right, let’s just wait her out.” Sour said taking a seat. Dark nodded and did the same. 

It had been twenty minutes since Dark and Sour sat down and Dean Cadance still hadn’t shown up. “Ok, what the hell Cady?” Dark cursed. 

“I know right, talk about irresponsible.” Sour said crossing her arms. 

Both of them were pissed off and sitting down doing nothing.

After another ten minutes of nothing, Sour Sweet was done, “Alight I’m not doing nothing for any longer.” She pulled out her phone and headphones.

“What are you doing?” Dark asked.

“What does it look like I’m doing?” Sour said waving her phone. She scrolled through her music and selected a song.

“I’m not sure that’s a good idea.” Dark said, “Last I knew, electronics were banned from school grounds, nevermind during detention.”

“As long as no one finds out, I don’t think it matters.” Sour said turning the volume up.

“And I don’t want to risk us getting into more trouble.” Dark said.

“Sorry, can’t hear you.” Sour said turning the volume up even more.

Dark groaned in annoyance, “Really? You’re gonna play that card?”

Sour only closed her eyes and hummed to the music.

“C’mon! I’m trying to help keep you out of more trouble, and you are throwing my advice away!” Dark yelled getting up.

Sour continued to ignore him.

Dark growled and pulled out her earphones.

“What the hell!” Sour yelled standing up.

“I’m talking to you! When I speak to you, I suggest you listen.” Dark said.

“And when I don’t respond to you, that clearly means I want to be left alone!” Sour yelled.

“And when I don’t want to get in trouble because of someone else’s actions, I want them to know!” Dark yelled back.

“I don’t know how we managed to deal with each other this long, but clearly it wasn’t going to last!” Sour yelled.

“Obviously we’re too different in too many ways.” Dark growled.

“Obviously.” Sour said sitting back down. She turned her chair away from Dark. He did the same.

Outside Cadance’s Office

Cadance heard all the fighting from outside her door and sighed, “Well so much for mending their friction.”

“You really thought you could get those two students to be friends with each other? That my dear is a lost cause.” A voice asked behind Cadance.

Cadance gasped and quickly turned to see Principal Cinch, “Principal Cinch, I uh.”

“The boy is too stubborn and irritable.” Cinch said, “And Sour Sweet is, well, not exactly the sweetest of people here.”

“I know. I was just trying to get them to get along so they could um…” Cadance said trying to think quickly. Then something snapped into her mind, “Work well together in the Friendship Games!” She cupped her hands over her mouth realizing what she just said.

“Oh? You think these two should be partners in the Friendship Games?” Cinch asked smiling.

Cadance swallowed, and nodded with regret.

“Well then. if you think that is what we should do, then Mr. Steele and Miss Sweet will have to learn to tolerate each other.” Cinch said smiling, “Continue with whatever it is you are doing. If they cannot work with each other, then they will most likely lose the Games for us.”

“But shouldn’t we find them different partners if they can’t work together?” Cadance asked, hoping Cinch would reconsider.

Cinch only turned around, but she looked back at Cadance, “Those two are going to be working together one way, or another.” And with that said, Cinch left.

“Dark’s gonna hate me forever.” Cadance said with complete worry.

She turned back around and took a deep breath and put on a (fake) smile. She opened the door, and saw Dark and Sour Sweet sitting down, looking opposite directions.

The two saw Cadance, “Where have you been, Cady?” Dark asked.

“I um… Had to um…” Cadance said thinking, “File some papers! Ehehehe sorry it took so long.” She quickly said nervously.

Dark quickly caught on that Cadance wasn’t being honest, “Right. Ok then.”

“Whatever. We’ve only got ten minutes left.” Sour said, “Can I go home early?”

“Sure go ahead, Sour.” Cadance said.

“What?” Dark said, “But Cady, you never…”

“Yes! Home free!” Sour said jumping up. She then looked at Dark, “I’d say it was nice spending time with you, but it wasn’t.”

Dark growled at her, “Oh yeah? How about I make it worth the while.”

“Sour, please go home now.” Cadance said, “Dark you stay here with me. I need to discuss something with you.”

“Buh bye.” Sour said leaving the room.

After a few seconds passed, Dark spoke up, “Alright what were you really doing that whole time you were gone?”

“I really was filing some papers, but not the entire time.” Cadance said, “For the last fifteen minutes, I was out the door listening to you two fight. I was hoping you two would have bonded and become friends.”

“Me? Be friends, with her?” Dark asked, then laughed, “Yeah right. Maybe in a different world.”

“Well you two might need to become friends soon.” Cadance said fiddling with her fingers.

Dark saw that and knew something happened, “Cady? What happened?”

“Well… Cinch may have snuck up on me and asked why I had bothered to give you two detention together.” Cadance said, “And I was too startled to think straight…”

“What did you tell her?” Dark asked crossing his arms.

Cadance shut her eyes tightly, “I accidentally told her that I did it so you two could be partners in the Friendship Games, and she took it seriously!”

Dark’s eyes widened, “Oh god please tell me that doesn’t mean…”

Cadance nodded, “Cinch says you two are partners in the Games.”
> Rekindling
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Location: Crystal Prep, Dean Cadance’s Office

“Cinch says you two are partners in the Games.” Cadance said nervously.

Dark only stared at Cadance.

“I swear Dark, I didn’t mean to say that to her. It was the first thing that popped into my head, and I regret it all the way.” Cadance said worried.

“How could you Cady!?” Dark yelled.

“I’m sorry, Dark.” Cadance said stepping back in shock.

“You could have thought of anything. Anything!” Dark yelled, “And the first thing you think is us working together in the Friendship Games!”

“Dark please just calm down.” Cadance said to the raging teenager.

“How can I? I’ve just been partnered with the worst person in the entire world, to compete in the Friendship Games.” Dark said, “I don’t do friends, and I so don’t do well with Sour Sweet.”

“Maybe you two will work it out together.” Cadance said.

“Yeah right. Like that girl’s ever doing to work with me.” Dark growled crossing his arms, “And just how do you expect to explain this to Sour?”

“I’m not entirely sure.” Cadance said, “But I’ll figure it out before things get crazy.”

“Things already are.” Dark growled.

Cadance just sighed, “Well that now means you two will have more classes together, some collaborative assignments, and Cinch expects you two to behave together during the year and Games.”

“Well that just great! Not only am I partnered with her for the Games, but I have to do classes with her!” Dark yelled. He turned and opened the door, storming out.

“Dark, wait!” Cadance called.

Dark slammed the door shut behind him, causing the room to shake a little. Cadance heard a small smash and turned around to see a photo had fallen off the wall.

She picked it up and sighed sadly. The picture was of her babysitting Lilac and Dark. A crack had split across the photo, separating Dark from the other two.

With Dark

Dark was on his way to Twilight’s house, still fuming with anger, “I can’t believe I have to be partners with the one student I hate the most!”

It wasn’t fair. He shouldn’t even have to compete in the games, nevermind work with Sour Bill.

“Hey, Dark!” A voice called.

Dark looked up and saw Twilight standing out her door, waving to him.

A small smile formed on his face, “Well, at least the whole day isn’t a total disaster.”

In Twilight’s House

Dark, Lilac, and Twilight were all sitting in the living room chatting amongst each other.

“So Twilight, how have you been lately?” Lilac asked.

“Eh, same as ever. Acing my classes above everyone else.” Twilight said.

“Still a shut in I’ve heard.” Dark said chuckling.

Twilight’s cheeks flared up a little, “Hey, I am not a shut in.”

“Yeah, that’s why you don’t study with anyone in the entire school.” Dark said, “And Spike doesn’t count.”

Twilight puffed up her cheeks, fuming.

“Dark, stop it. We don’t need two forever pissy people in this world.” Lilac said.

“Hey, I am not…” Dark began, but was cut off.

“So how was detention?” Lilac asked.

“Oh god it was horrible!” Dark groaned.

“Why? What did you two do?” Twilight asked.

“Nothing. We did nothing for the first half an hour. Literally nothing.” Dark explained.

“So I still don’t understand how that is horrible.” Lilac said.

“Well, Sour Bill had gotten so bored, that she decided she was going to play with her music.” Dark explained, “I told her that we shouldn’t be using electronics during detention. However, being the bitch she is.” 

Lilac hit Dark’s head, “You need to knock it off.”

“Then you need to stop being a jerk to everyone.” Lilac said.

“Sigh, the two of you.” Twilight said to the siblings.

“As I was saying, she decided to ignore me. So I kept trying to get her to listen, but she wouldn’t have it. So I pulled her headphones out so she would listen.” Dark said, “And that’s when everything went south and back to normal.”

“So essentially what you’re telling us is, you were the one who started it.” Lilac said.

“What!? No! She wouldn’t listen to me! Its her fault.” Dark said.

“Actually, had you left her alone, none of it would have gone south.” Twilight said, “You struck first, pulling her earphones out, and she retaliated.”

Dark only looked at the two in disbelief, “Seriously! Why is everyone against me all the time!?”

“Well either way, what’s done is done.” Lilac said, “At least it didn’t get worse.”

“Actually it got by far worse.” Dark said.

“What? How?” Twilight asked.

“Well, it turns out Sour Bill and I are now partners in the Friendship Games, according to Cinch.” Dark said, “And guess who’s fault it is?”

Lilac and Twilight only shrugged.

“Cadance is the reason we are partners!” Dark yelled, “She was snooping on what was supposed to be me and Sour bonding and being friends, when Cinch sneaks up on her. Cinch asks why she bothered, and she freaks out and tells her because she wanted us to be partners in the Games!”

Lilac looks at her brother worried, “Please tell me you didn’t flip out on Cady.”

Dark paused, “Well… I may have flipped a little. Storming out of the room.”

“And did you accept her apology?” Twilight asked.

“Well… I wasn’t listening to her during the times I was yelling. I just stormed out of the room after.” Dark said, “And I think I knocked a picture off her wall, cause I heard a small smash.”

Lilac and Twilight only stared at the boy.

“You DUMBASS!” Lilac shouted smacking Dark across his head.

“Ow! What the f…” Dark shouted.

“No you deserved that!” Lilac shout pointing at his face, “You know that Cady has made plenty mistakes, and you forgave her for them. But this time, you flipped out on her because you have to work with someone you don’t like.”

“Yeah so what? She’s a grown adult, she can handle kids yelling at her.” Dark said.

“Yes, but don’t forget, she used to babysit you. She cares deeply for you, and you yelling at her like that probably scared her, and might have even hurt her.” Twilight explained.

Dark was about to say something, but then realized the girls had a point, “I’m an asshole.”

“That you are.” Lilac said crossing her arms.

“Next time you see her, you need to apologize. Before my brother finds out.” Twilight said, “Shining Armour doesn’t like seeing Cadance hurt or sad.”

A couple minutes of silence passed.

“I’ll talk to her tomorrow morning, but what do I do about this Sour Sweet thing?” Dark asked

“You just have to man up and deal with it, maybe this will help you both hate each other less.” Lilac said.

“Lilac’s right, maybe you both can find some common ground.” Twilight said. Dark just shrugged his shoulders.

“Ugh fine, but if she steps out of line-” “You’ll endure it and won’t say a word of response.” Lilac said cutting Dark.

“She’s right Dark, it won’t help either of you if you both just argue all the time.” Twilight said.

“Fine, I’ll be nice...or at least try.” Dark said crossing his arms.

“That’s all we ask.” Twilight said smiling.

“Alright, now that that’s out of the way, time for more important matters.” Lilac said in a serious tone.

“And what would that be?” Dark asked looking at his sister. Twilight also looked at Lilac with a worried look. Lilac then took out her phone and began dialing a number.

“Hello Dominos, I’d like to order 2 large half bacon half pepperoni pizzas, 3 orders of cheese fries and 3 bottles of sprite please.” Lilac said with a smile on her face. Dark and Twilight looked at her for a few seconds before facepalming, “What? I’m hungry.”

“You’re always hungry!” Twilight and Dark said simultaneously 

Location: ???

A boy with dark blue skin, silver hair and blue eyes was happily eating his dinner with his sister and mother, but soon stopped and began staring into space. 

“Arrow, you ok?” His sister asked. 

“I’m not sure, I feel like someone just stole my ‘I’m Hungry’ line and was told the ‘You’re always hungry!’ line by their friends.” The boy known as Arrow said. 

“I don’t think you should worry about it too much sweetie. Besides who can best you appetite besides Pinkie. ” The mother said.

“Yea I guess you’re right.” Arrow said going back to his food.

Location: Twilight’s house

“Putting Lilac’s stomach aside, you think you can try and get Sour Sweet to be nice too?” 

“No promises.but I’ll try.” Dark said.

“Good.” Twilight said smiling.

“30 minutes right, thank you.” Lilac hung up her phone. “Food’s on the way.” Lilac said smiling

“Good for you.” Dark said rolling his eyes.

“Killjoy.” Lilac said sticking her tongue out at her brother. 

“That’s me.” Dark said with a smirk. Twilight giggled at the two.

“It’s good to have to two back.” She said smiling.

“Good to be back.” Lilac said. Twilight then looked to Dark who gave her a small smile.

“Yea, I guess it is.” He said.

“So how was Saddle Arabia?” Twilight asked the two siblings.

“It was rather fun and ok.” Lilac said, “Well… Most of it. Minus when someone would get in trouble.” She said looking at her brother.

“Hey! If the students there left me alone, all would be fine.” Dark said.

“More than half those people were just trying to make friends with you.” Lilac said.

“And I don’t need friends.” Dark said.

Twilight gasped slightly, “So you don’t need me?” She put on a fake pout.

“Yeah I don’t need you, Twilight.” Dark said crossing his arms and frowning.

Twilight and Lilac both gasped.

The frown quickly turned into a smirk, “Just kidding.”

Twilight turned around and crossed her arms.

“Oh stop it, Sparky.” Dark said.

Twilight didn’t answer.

Dark sighed and got up behind her, “Well you leave me no choice.”

Lilac backed up slightly and smirked, “Dark, you wouldn’t.”

Dark’s hands quickly dashed around Twilight’s waist and instantly began tickling her, “AHH! HAHAHAHA! Dark stop it!” She squealed while squirming in the boy’s arms.

“Ticklish as ever, Sparky.” Dark said as he went for her pits.

“No sto-AHAHAHAHA! I’m beg-HAHAHAHAA-ing you!” Twilight laughed.

Lilac smiled at the two as they flailed around. “Ah just like old times.” she said. 

“Lilac help-AHAHAHAHAHAHAH, please!” Twilight said struggling to talk. 

“Um let me think about his for a minute.” Lilac said with a smirk.

“AHAHAHAHA, Lilac please!” Twilight begged. 

“Eh sure, you’re not the only ticklish one here Sparky.” Lilac said heading over to Dark.

“Lili don’t you da- AHAHAHAHAH!” Dark said before being attacked by his sister. 

“Oh man thanks Lilac I- AHAHAHAHAHAHAH!” Twilight said before getting attacked by Lilac as well.

“You both are so easy.” Lilac said with a smirk. Dark and Twilight were both at Lilac’s mercy and she’s had no intention of stopping. 

“HAHAHAH, you’re so gonn-HAHAHAHAH, get it!” Dark said through his laughs

“Oh Faust-HAHAHAHAH, make it stop!” Twilight said. 

“Not gonna- AHAHAHAHAHA!” Lilac said before getting attacked by an unknown challenger. 

“Aw, you three haven’t changed one bit ?” Twilight and Dark were able to catch their breath and saw who their savior was.

“Mom!?” Twilight said in shock.

“Just in time Aunt Velvet.” Dark said in relief. 

“Yea well I didn’t expect you and Twilight to be at the mercy of your sister, Dark.” Velvet said still tickling Lilac.

“Stop it! HAHAHAHAHAHA!” Lilac said trying to get out of Velvet’s grip. 

“Oh no sweetie, I think it’s payback time. Dark, Twily you both want a crack at her?” Velvet asked with a smirk.

“Yes please.” Dark and Twilight said with devious smiles on their faces. 

“Oh come on, HAHAHAHA, you guy-HAHAHAHA, can’t be serious.” Lilac said.

“I’ve got her waist!” Twilight said.

“I’ve got the feet!” Dark said.

“I’ll just hold her down.” Velvet said still smirking. 

“You people are evil!” Lilac said. 

Timeskip

“I….hate….you….all.” Lilac said as she was on the floor catching her breath.

“No you don’t.” Twilight said with a smirk.

“I don’t know Sparky she seems pretty serious to me.” Dark said also smirking.

“Oh stop it you two, can’t you see the poor girl’s tuckered out? Give her a break.” Velvet said.

“Oh...now you...want to...defend...me?” Lilac said. Twilight and Dark both snickered.

“I’m sorry Lili. I just haven’t seen you and Dark for so long.” Velvet said, “And seeing my daughter having fun is also something I haven’t seen in awhile.”

“Mom!” Twilight said.

“What? It’s true. For the past couple years you kept doing the same thing. Go to school, come home, go to your room to study, eat every now and then, rinse and repeat.” Velvet said.

“MOM!” Twilight said blushing bright red.

“HA! Told you, you’re still a shut in !” Dark said pointing at Twilight.

“SHUT UP!” Twilight said still blushing.

“Dark that was mean.” Lilac said kicking her brother.

“What she just practically admit-OW!” Dark was suddenly hit from behind the head. He turned to see Twilight glaring at him.

“What the hell Twilight!? It just was a joke!” Dark yelled.

“And that wasn’t a funny joke.” Twilight said.

Dark then saw small tears in Twilight’s eyes. “Twi?” He asked reaching out to her only to have her slap his hand away and run up to her room.

“Way to go. Not only did you yell at Cady, but you made Twilight cry. Anything else you’d like to check off your list today?” Lilac asked glaring at her brother. Dark didn’t respond and buried his face in his hands.

“Why?” Dark asked himself before feeling a hand on his shoulder.

“I think you should go talk to her.” Velvet said. Dark didn’t even hesitate and began walking to Twilight’s room.

Dark could hear soft sniffles and crying from the other side of the door, ‘Great. I’m a true asshole now.’ He stepped up to the door and took a deep breath, “Twilight?” He opened the door and saw Twilight sitting on her bed, tears still rolling down her cheeks.

“Leave me alone!” Twilight shouted. Dark felt a small pang of guilt. 

“Twilight please, can we talk?” Dark asked. 

“Why do you want to talk to a shut in?” Twilight asked him harshly. Dark felt another pang of guilt. 

“I’m sorry, I was just kidding.” Dark said looking down.

“Well it wasn’t funny, I don’t hide myself away on accident!” Twilight said before covering her mouth. Dark’s eyes widened.

“What do you meant by that?” He asked. 

“Nothing.” Twilight said. Dark then went over to her bed and sat down. 

“Twilight I know when you’re hiding something, what is it?” Dark said putting a hand on Twilight’s shoulder. Twilight was silent for a few seconds before speaking up. 

“Some of the Shadow Bolts at the school have been torturing me these past 2 years.” Twilight said in a sad tone. Dark’s normal angry face returned.

“Who are they and when do I kill them?” Dark asked in a...Dark tone. Twilight quickly turned to Dark. 

“No don’t, I don’t want you to-” “Sparky you’re like family, I’m not letting anyone hurt you.” Dark said. 

“You hurt me a few minutes ago.” Twilight said looking down. 

“I know and I’m sorry. You know how I can be when I’m not thinking straight.” Dark said. Twilight then chuckles a bit.

“Yea I do and it’s ok. But it when you are like this, this is why you always get in trouble.” Twilight said sniffling, wiping away her tears.

“I know I know, but people irritate me so easily.” Dark said, “And it’s hard to trust anyone now.”

“I know you have a hard time trusting anyone, but you trust Lilac, Cady, and me, right?” Twilight asked.

“Yeah. But that’s because I’ve known you for almost my entire life.” Dark said.

“Then trust me when I say this, not everyone is evil.” Twilight said putting her hand on Dark’s shoulder.

“I believe you, Twi.” Dark said closing his eyes and looking down.

Twilight’s hopes went up.

“But other people are making it harder and harder to believe.” Dark sighed.

And the hopes shattered as quickly as they formed.

The two just sat there for a few minutes, when a knock on the door broke the silence, “Hey, are you two done you’re heart to heart chit chat yet?” Lilac called from the other side.

“Lilac, knock it off. You know nothing is happening.” Dark growled.

“Yeah whatever. Pizza’s here.” Lilac said, “Hurry up before I eat it all.”

Twilight rolled her eyes, “Sigh, typical Lili.” She got up and walked towards the door, “You coming, Dark?”

“Yeah, I’ll be down in a min.” Dark said waving Twilight off.

Twilight was about to question but decided to brush it off, and went down stairs.

Dark was looking at the pictures on Twilight’s wall. Several of them were of her and her family. A couple of them were of her with Cadance. He could even see a young Eclipse in the background playing with a 3DS.

Then he found a picture on her bedside table. It was of young Twilight, Lilac, and Dark when they were still being babysat by Cadance.

Dark picked up the picture. This was one of the few pictures he was in where he actually smiled happily, “What happened to this me?” He placed the picture back on the table and walked out of the room.
> The First Step
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bright and early in the morning, Dark, Lilac, and Twilight were on their way to Crystal Prep. Velvet was bring them to the school.

Dark was looking out the window staying silent, thinking about last night, ‘I hurt Twilight. What is going on with me? I’m lashing out at the ones I love.’

“Uhg, I think I ate too much pizza.” Lilac groaned clutching her stomach.

Twilight giggled at the girl, “Told you not to eat so much.”

“You try living with a high metabolism. My hunger never ends.” Lilac replied, “People wonder why I’m not fatter than anyone in my family. I eat more than anyone!”

“Its cause you’re too beautiful and pretty, Lili dear.” Velvet said smiling.

“Yeah ha ha ha. You’re very funny Aunt Velvet.” Lilac said.

“She’s not lying.” Twilight said looking back at the girl.

“Hey, stop ogling at me. You’re making me uncomfortable.” Lilac teased.

Twilight’s cheeks instantly lit up, “I-I’m not…”

“I’m kidding Twi.” Lilac laughed, “I know i’m not your type.”

Velvet and Lilac laughed, while Twilight’s cheeks continued to glow red.

She noticed Dark was being silent the whole ride, “Dark? Are you ok?” Twilight asked her friend.

Dark remained silent and continued looking out the window. Lilac snapped her fingers in his face, snapping him back into reality, “W-What?”

“Snap out of dream world and pay attention.” Lilac said to her brother, “Twilight was talking to you.”

“What is it Sparky?” Dark asked looking at the purple girl.

“Are you ok? You’ve been quiet the whole ride.” She asked.

Dark sighed, “I’m fine. Just been thinking.”

“Mind sharing on what?” Twilight asked.

“Not really.” Dark said.

“He’s probably thinking about his girlfriend, Sour Sweet.” Lilac smirked.

Dark’s eyes grew with anger upon the name, “SHE IS NOT MY GIRLFRIEND! NEVER WILL BE EITHER!”

Lilac only smiled, “We’ll see. By the end of the year, you two will either have killed one another, or gotten together hand in hand.”

“Most likely kill each other.” Dark growled.

“Alright you three, that’s quite enough.” Velvet said sternly.

The car pulled into the school parking lot and the three teens got out.

“Have a nice day.” Velvet said, “Lilac, keep your brother out of trouble.”

“Yes ma’am.” Lilac said smiling and walking towards the school.

“Hey! I don’t need anyone keeping me out of trouble.” Dark said following his sister.

“Bye mom. Love you.” Twilight said waving to her mother.

“Love you too.” Velvet said as she pulled out of the parking lot.

Twilight turned and saw Dark and Lilac both arguing with each other yet again, “Sigh, those two.”

Time Skip

Dark waved to the two girls as they left for their classes, he had a free period. A free period of nothing to do, “And now I wait for an hour.” Just then, his phone started vibrating in his pocket. He pulled it out and unlocked it.

Lilac had sent him a message, “Aren’t you forgetting about something?”

“Huh? What are you talking about?” Dark sent back.

“REALLY?! Cadance! Apology! NOW!” Lilac sent back angrily.

Dark flinched at what he read and he sighed. “Alright, I’ll go.” He sent back before walking to Cadance’s office. 

Once he reached the office, he was about to knock, but he hesitated. “Ugh, she probably doesn’t want to see me.” He said before turning away from the door. He then felt his phone vibrate again in his pocket.

“Don’t chicken out, just talk to her.” Twilight texted. 

“But-” “And don’t send me a ‘but’. Talk to her Dark, and don’t mess it up. That last part was Lilac.” Twilight texted before he could send something back. 

Dark sighed again and turned back to the door, but as he did, he bumped into someone. “Agh, Watch it!.” Dark said rubbing his head. 

“Hey it was an acci- Oh why does the world hate me?!” Dark looked up to see Sour Sweet also rubbing her head.

“Oh great, I was already having a bad enough day and you’re the last thing I need to deal with right now.” Dark said glaring at Sour.

“Aww poor Dark, You’re not the only one having a bad day!” Sour said glaring back at Dark. 

“I’m guessing you’ve heard about the news?” Dark growled.

“You mean me being partnered with the WORST GUY IN THE ENTIRE SCHOOL!?” Sour shouted, “Then yes.”

“Oh puhlease. Think you’ve got it bad? Cinch is threatening my family once again!” Dark yelled, “What’s your excuse!?”

Before Sour could answer, “What is going on out here?” Dean Cadance walked out of her office and looked at the two.

“He started it Dean Cadance!” Sour said quickly pointing at Dark, “I was minding my own business, when he came up and shoved me.”

“W-What? I did not you lying bi-” Dark began yelling back.

“Enough you two!” Cadance said stepping between the two of them.

“But-” “NO BUTS! Now I know you two are angry about being partnered together, but you’re going to have to deal with it!” Cadance said in a serious tone. Dark and Sour both looked at Cadance with wide eyes, neither had ever seen her like that before. “Now get to class!” Cadance said before going back into her office. 

Dark and Sour were still wide eyed. “I...I-” “Yea I know.” Dark said cutting Sour off. 

“Did we-” “Yeah we did.” Dark said looking down. Sour also looked down in shame.

“AGH, WHAT’S WRONG WITH ME!?” Dark and Sour yelled at the same time and once they did they looked at each other. 

“Why are you so mad?” Sour said with a confused look on her face.

“Why are you?” Dark asked back.

“I asked first.” She answered. Dark didn’t really have a comeback for that and he sighed.

“Not that it’s any of your business, but i’ve known Cady for a long time now and seeing her act like that because of me just makes me feel….horrible.” Dark said crossing his arms with a disappointed look on his face.

Sour was shocked by what he said, she didn’t think Dark was even capable of caring about other people. 

“You actually care about Dean Cadance?” Sour asked.

“Yes, I do. That lady took care of me and my sister back when we were little and she’s done so much for us.” Dark said. 

Sour was shocked once again. “Well….it’s nice I’m not the only one who cares about her.” She said. Dark turned to Sour and glared at her.

“Yea right, you don’t care about-” “Yes I do!” Sour said cutting Dark off.

“That woman has done many things for me in my life. And I am unable to repay her for those things!” Sour said, “You know why?”

“Should I care?” Dark asked.

“I was working on controlling my outbursts, and I was doing a good job.” Sour said, “Until you showed up!” She jabbed Dark with her finger.

“Until I showed up? What did I even do to you!?” Dark asked, “Last time I checked, we first met, by bumping into each other on accident.” He pushed Sour’s hand aside and glared down upon her, “So tell me; What did I do to you?”

“You...you...you-” “That’s right, I didn’t do anything! You started all of this, you're just looking for someone to blame.” Dark said cutting her off.

“No I’m not!” Sour said angrily.

“Then tell me, What did I do to you!” Dark asked crossing his arms. Sour looked down and gritted her teeth.

“Y….you...you’re right.” Sour said with a sigh. Dark’s eyes widened in shock.

“Excuse me, what did you say?” Dark asked. Sour looked up to him with a small smile.

“You’re right, I started all of this and I’m sorry.” Sour said still smiling. 

Dark just stared at Sour and saw the smile on her face trying to waver. He composed himself and spoke up. “You’re not serious are you? You’re apologising… to me?”

“Well, you’re right. I did start this. I wrongly accused you of being a jerk to me.” Sour said, “When I was the one being a jerk.”

Dark officially couldn’t stop staring at her, he was in too much shock to do so. “Who are you and where is the ‘Bi-Polar Queen’?” Dark asked unconsciously.

Sour’s eye twitched and her smile turned into a frown. “Don’t call me that!” She said angrily.

“Ah there you are, I knew that had to be an-”

BOP!

Dark was cut off by a punch to the nose, “AHG!” he cried out holding his nose.

“That’s what you get!” Sour said before turning to leave. Dark kept holding his nose and watched as the girl left.

“You’re going to regret doing that!” He shouted to her.

She didn’t respond.

“Ahg. That actually hurt.” Dark said seeing a bit of blood on his hands, “Great, now I’m bleeding.”

Dark was going to head to the nurse’s office, when Cadance’s door opened, “What did I tell you two? Go to…” Then she saw Dark clutching in bloody nose, “Oh my god, Dark what happened to you!?”

“Sour Bill happened.” Dark growled.

Cadance pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. “Just come in.” She said walking Dark into her office.

She sat Dark down in front of her desk and went to look for the first aid kit, “So, what did you do this time?”

“Nothing to deserve this.” Dark said pointing at his face.

Cadance rolled her eyes, “What did you do?” She asked pulling out the kit.

“I called her the Bi-Polar Queen.” Dark said.

SLAM

Dark jumped at the sound of the cabinet slamming shut.

“Why would you do that!? What did I tell you about calling her that!?” Cadance said sternly.

“Because she was acting… strange.” Dark said with a short pause.

“What do you mean ‘strange’?” Cadance asked.

“She was being nice to me.” Dark said, “Agreeing with me. Like she was being friendly.”

Cadance froze in place, “Sour Sweet was being nice to you?”

“Yes. But it was making me uncomfortable.” Dark said.

Cadance only stared at the boy.

“What?” Dark asked.

“She was being nice to you, and you called her Bipolar Queen!?” Cadance asked. She sighed walked over to the boy and began cleaning the blood off his face, “The whole point of you two being partnered is so you can bond and become friendlier to each other!”

“And how do you expect me to get along with her?” Dark asked.

“One word: TRY!” Cadance yelled as she glared at Dark. Dark couldn’t reply to that answer because Cadance was right, he never really tried to be nice.

“Once again, I’m an ass.” Dark said putting a hand on his head. 

“I wouldn’t be so crude about it, but yes.” Cadance said in a serious tone, “And the worst part, you’re acting like a child.”

“I know and that’s not fair to Sour…..or you.” Dark said in a sad tone. 

Cadance’s face softened after what she heard. She began to realize she wasn’t setting the best example. She sighed, “I’m sorry, Dark. It's just that-” “No It’s not your fault, it’s mine and don’t pretend it isn’t.” Dark said cutting her off. 

Cadance couldn’t help but frown at Dark’s word, she then walked over to him and put a hand on his head. “Look, I know you don’t like being forced into things like this, and I also know how short your temper is.” Cadance said with a smirk.

“Are you trying to make me feel better or insult me.” Dark said with a small smile. Cadance giggled.

“All I’m trying to say is make the most out of a bad situation. I saw you and Lilac talking with a few of the kids during lunch, it’s nice to see you both making friends.” She said. 

“I wouldn’t call them friends….well maybe that Loner guy, he seems… ok… I guess.” Dark said shrugging his shoulders. 

“That’s progress.” Cadance said with a smile. Dark smiled back before speaking up again.

“I guess it is….look I'm sorry about yesterday, I had no reason to yell at you.” He said looking down. Cadance looked at him for a few seconds before shaking her head.

“Yes you did, I panicked when Cinch showed up and I knew you would react like that. I should have been more careful of what I said when Cinch showed up.” Cadance said in guilt.

“Cinch is always causing trouble. But no one can do anything about it.” Dark said clenching his fists. His nose began to bleed again from the pressure.

“Hey hey hey, easy on the pressure.” Cadance said grabbing tissues and covering Dark’s nose.

Dark sighed and loosened up, “Sorry, but just even mentioning her name pisses me off.”

“I know, but like I said you have to endure it just until the games are over.” Cadance said. 

Dark sighed, “Yea alright, but that doesn’t mean I have to enjoy it.” He said.

“You don’t have to enjoy it, but I expect you to apologize and make nice with Ms.Sweet.” Cadance said. 

Dark sighed again, but this time he emphasized how much he didn’t want to do it, “Fine, I’ll find her later and apologize.” He said with a small growl.

Cadance smiled, “Good, now don’t you have a class to get to? Your free period is almost over.” She asked going over to her personal fridge. 

Dark raised an eyebrow and took out his phone to check the time, “It’s been an hour already?” He asked in shock. 

“Time really does fly when you’re having fun.” Cadance said still smiling. 

“What fun, all I did was get punched in the face and yelled at by you.” Dark said rubbing his nose. 

Cadance laughed a little, “All for good reason, now hurry up before you’re late.” She said. 

Dark nodded and got up from his seat. Before he could reach for the door though, he felt a warm hand on his head. “Listen Dark, you know the reason I’m asking you to do this is because I care about you. I know the last few years haven’t been the best for you and your family, but that doesn’t mean you have to shut us all out. You have to learn to open up again and you have to at least smile every now and then. We don’t want to lose you.” Cadance said in a sad tone.

Dark let Cadance’s words sink in before turning around and hugging her. “How’s this for a start?”

Cadance smiled and hugged him back, “See? Underneath the ‘tough guy’, you’re still the same lovable boy I babysat when he was younger.”

Dark rolled his eyes and gave Cadance a small smile. “I guess maybe there's hope for me yet.”
> Changes
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cafeteria

RIIING

The bell rang, signalling lunch break. Students began walking out of their classrooms and headed for the cafeteria.

Dark sat down at his table alone, and began thinking about his discussion with Dean Cadance, “How the hell am I supposed to apologize to someone who doesn’t even like my presence?”

“So, how did your apology go?” Lilac asked sitting down next to her brother.

“How do you think it went?” Dark said bluntly, not even bothering to look at his sister.

“But did you at least apologize?” She asked biting into an apple. 

“Yes.” Dark said.

“And?” Lilac asked pursuing the subject.

“It went fine.” Dark said with a low growl.

“Hey guys.” A voice called.

Dark looked out of the corner of his eye and saw Lone and Eclipse sitting down at the table.

“Hey you two.” Lilac said cheery.

Dark only grumbled and waved.

“Still Mr. Crabby pants eh.” Lone said.

“Oh shut it.” Dark said.

“Yeup. Still Mr. Grumpy.” Eclipse chuckled rolling his eyes.

“And I can see you guys are as annoying as ever.” Dark growled.

“Will you be nice!” Lilac said whacking his head, “The least you could do is look at them when you’re talking to them.”

Dark rubbed the back of his head, “The least you could do is stop hitting me.” He turned around.

“Dude, what happened to your face?!” Lone said seeing Dark’s bruised nose.

“What do you think happened?” Dark asked bluntly.

“Let me guess… hmm… You got into another fight with Sour Sweet.” Eclipse said.

“How’d you guess?” Dark asked rolling his eyes.

“What did you do to deserve getting punched in the face?” Lilac said looking at the injury.

“I called her Bipolar again.” Dark said.

“And why did you do that?” Eclipse said crossing his arms.

“She was acting strange… different.” Dark said.

“Different? How so?” Lilac asked taking a drink of water.

“She was being… nice to me.” Dark explained.

PFFFFTTTT!

Lilac spit out her water, spraying it all over the place.

“Wait, what did you say?” Lone asked.

“Did you say Sour Sweet was being nice, to you!?” Eclipse asked.

“What is with everyone freaking out about her being nice to me?” Dark asked with annoyance.

“Because Sour Sweet isn’t nice to anyone!” Lone and Eclipse yelled.

“Well, minus the other Shadow 5, but even still.” Lone said.

“And why would she be nice to the one person she hates the most!?” Lilac asked.

“Well she’s not likely to be nice to me now.” Dark said, then smirked, “And I’m ok with that.”

“What is wrong with you?” Lone asked the grouchy teen.

“Nothing. It just means I can continue being mad at her.” Dark said.

“Seriously you need to stop being rotten to everyone.” Lilac said to her brother.

“And you need to learn to mind your own business.” Dark growled.

“Do you two ever stop fighting?” Eclipse asked.

“Only when I’m in a good mood.” Dark said.

“And when is that?” Lone asked.

“Never.” Dark and Lilac said in union.

“Go figure.” Eclipse said rolling his eyes.

As lunch went on, Dark looked around the room. Then he saw her.

Sour Sweet was sitting with the other Shadow 5… But she looked rather sad than pissed.

‘What’s up with her?’ Dark asked himself.

“Whatcha looking at?” Lilac asked.

“N-Nothing.” Dark quickly stammered, “Hey does anyone know what’s up with Sour Sweet? She doesn’t look like herself.”

“What you didn’t know?” Lone asked, “she misses the only guy she liked at this school: Sparkjump.”

“Who?” Dark asked.

“Sparkjump, he was the only guy Sour really liked.” Eclipse said, “However, he just recently left to join a school where he could become a professional wrestler.”

“Wait wait, back up a sec.” Dark said cutting off Eclipse, “Sour Sweet, cared for someone else? And they cared back?” He looked over at Sour once more, confused, “How could someone like her, like someone? Does that even make sense?”

“Actually yes, it does make sense.” Lone replied. “Sparkjump and Sour have much in common. They both are bipolar and they love arguing, which mostly ended up in a lot of make outs.” Lone snickered at that last part, only to be elbowed by Eclipse.

“And Sour mostly watched him training after school. She also a good coach, if you get what I mean.” Eclipse added.

Dark crossed his arms, “How do I know this isn’t some kind of prank?”

Lilac kicked her brother, “Knock it off.”

“Well? Sour Sweet caring for someone?” Dark said, “And I have a better question. If she was happy, then why does she target me!? Its not like I’m the reason this Sparkjump guy left.”

“You’re right about that, you’re not the reason that our friend Sparkjump left.” Lone admitted. “But you’re the reason that she’s being angrier then ever before.” 

Dark jumped up, “Why you!”

Lilac quickly pulled her brother back down, “Dark, calm down.”

Lone raised his left hand, meaning that he didn’t want to start a fight. “I’m sorry Dark, but it’s the hard truth. The way she snaps at others, not only you, it is pretty clear that she is like this because you are at each other's throats.” 

“Yeah well she is the one who…” Dark began.

“It doesn’t matter who started it. You two need to stop it.” Eclipse said, “Otherwise Cinch is likely to cause some trouble.”

“Yeah tell me about it!” Lone agreed, looking away.

“Oh pulease. Like you have a reason to be mad at her.” Dark said crossing his arms, “Cinch doesn’t blackmail anyone but people who have potential.”

Lone looked back at Dark with a firm expression on his face. He stood up with his tray and left. 

“You shouldn’t have said that Dark.” Eclipse said, calmly. 

Lilac glared at her brother.

“Oh go ahead and hit me. It isn’t gonna make a difference.” Dark growled.

But Lilac didn’t hit him. Instead she got up and grabbed her tray, leaving the table.

“Just as a suggestion, I would change your attitude when trying to make friends.” Eclipse said getting up and following his friend.

Dark waited until he was out of earshot, “I don’t need friends. They’re just more leverage for the manipulative people. Like Cinch.”

Speaking of which, “Can I have the following students report to the gymnasium.” Cinch’s voice called over the intercom, “Heavenly Quill, Rapid Shadow, Lone Wolf, Dark Steele, Fleur Dis Lee, Fancy Pants, Ginger Owlseye, Orange Sherbette and Peacock Plume.”

“What could she possibly need with that many students?” Dark asked as he dumped his tray, “Probably nothing good.”

At the other table taken by the Shadow 5, Sour watched Dark leaving the cafeteria. She still was mad at him from their previous conflict, but she was also sad because she missed Sparkjump.

“Good to see him leave, that guy gives me the creeps sometimes.” Indigo said, watching Dark leave. 

“He’s just annoying. Just like Lone. No wonder he hangs around him.” Sunny said.

“Well like him or not, Cinch said that they both are in the second team for the Friendship games.” Sugarcoat added, making her friends groan in disapproval.

“Really? Lone, I have no problem with. But Dark? No, with him Sour will be more distracted by him.” Lemon commented.

“I’m still here you know!” Sour said out loud. “Thank you for ignoring me Lemon.”

“Sorry Sour, but it’s the truth. You and him are like fire and ice.” Lemon said. 

“You both are literally at each other’s throats everyday and it’s getting annoying.” Sugarcoat said bluntly. 

“He’s the one who-” “Who cares, what matters is that you stay focused on the Friendship games. That means you have to swallow your pride and make nice with tall, dark and grouchy.” Sunny said cutting Sour off.

“You’re one to talk Sunny, you won’t even give Lone the time of day anymore!” Sour said crossing her arms. Sunny glared at Sour. 

“Don’t you dare try to turn this around on me, we all agreed to outcast him and his little group! So don’t wanna hear any of that garbage especially from you!” Sunny seethed. Sour just rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

“Well someone had to say something, You aren’t exactly the nicest person in this group and quite frankly you’re pretty hard headed.” Sour said. Sunny then stood up and slammed her fist on the table. 

“I’m hard headed…..I’M HARD HEADED! WHAT ABOUT YOU MS. BI-POLAR QUEEN!” Sunny yelled. Everyone at the table as well as the students around them all gasped at Sunny’s words. 

It took a few seconds, but Sunny finally realized what she said and quickly covered her mouth. Sour just stared at Sunny with wide eyes.

“S...Sour...I’m-” Sunny didn’t get a chance to finish her sentence, Sour quickly got out of her seat and ran out of the cafeteria. 

“SOUR!” Sunny yelled running after her with the rest of the Shadow 5 right behind her. 

Sour continued to run until she made it to the janitor's closet, she then locked the door and leaned against the wall with tears in her eyes. 

“dammit….Dammit….DAMMIT!” Sour screamed as she punched the wall. “Why! Can’t! I! Keep! My! Mouth! SHUT!?”

Sour down looked at her fists and saw they were all bruised, but she didn’t care. Her hands wouldn’t make a difference in her mouth. 

“I had no right to say that to her, I call other people on their BS, but when it comes to my BS I just pass it off.” Sour said before taking a seat on the ground. “Dammit Spark, why did you have to leave?” She asked before burying her face in her hands. 

“You were the only one who made me happy. Why did you have to leave me?” Sour cried into her hands.

Location: Gymnasium

Students were gathering together in the gymnasium for an announcement.

Principal Cinch walked up to the microphone and tapped it to grab everyone’s attention, “If I could have your attention please.”

Everyone quickly reacted to the feedback from the microphone.

“I would like to thank you all for coming here. As you all know, it has been four years since we won the last Friendship Games against Canterlot High.” Cinch began.

Students clapped enthusiastically.

“However!” Cinch said abruptly, “It would seem Canterlot High has become more of a… Challenge… since our last competition.”

Students whispered amongst one another. Canterlot High was getting better?

“But not to worry!” Cinch assured them. “I have picked the best of the best for our team in the Friendship games this year.” She signaled Dean Cadence to open the curtains revealing the Shadow 5, Suri, Trenderhoof, Jet Set, Upper Crust, Royal Pin and Neon Lights, standing proudly on the stage.

A few students cheered, but soon quieted down from the majority of students who weren’t.

“I have been in contact with Principal Celestia. The past two years both of our schools had a lot of new students. So we came to an agreement that there will be the second team in the games from each school.”

Dean Cadance opened a second set of curtains revealing Heavenly Quill, Rapid Shadow, Lone Wolf, Dark Steele, Fleur Dis Lee, Fancy Pants, Ginger Owlseye, Orange Sherbette and Peacock Plume.

“I present to you, the second team who will be representing Crystal Prep in the Friendship Games.” Cinch announced.

More students cheered more louder than the last group.

Dark looked over at the first team and saw Sour Sweet, who also saw him. Both glared at each other and looked in opposite directions.

“Great. Not only do I have to work with her, now I have to deal with twice as many ‘teammates’.” Dark growled.

After a long and boring speech from Cinch, the students left the gym, leaving the two teams with Dean Cadance and Principal Cinch.

“First of all congratulations to you all for making it into the Friendship Games.” Dean Cadance began. “Now, for tomorrow the posters will be ready for our teams so that every one of our school can support you. But of course, we need to take some pictures first.”

‘Great. Photos. I hate getting my picture taken.’ Dark thought to himself.

“A professional photographer will be arriving here in the afternoon.” Dean Cadance said, “He will be taking photos of the two teams. The best photos will be used in the posters.”

‘Well, at least the teams are separate.’ Dark thought looking at Sour Sweet.

“However.” Cinch said.

‘Uh oh.’ Dark thought knowing Cinch was about to cause trouble.

“Certain students will be taking ‘paired’ photos.” Cinch said smiling.

“Say what now?!” Dark asked out loud.

“I have personally hand picked pairs of you to take photos together, as some of you are to be partners in the games.” Cinch said.

Dark and Sour’s expressions went to shocked, as they looked back at each other.

“Now then, if your name is not called upon, you may leave.” Cinch said, then looked at Cadance, “Dean Cadance, if you please.”

“Trenderhoof and Suri Polomare.” Candace called.

As more names were called, more students left the room.

So far, the photo pairings went; Trenderhoof and Suri, Fancy Pants and Fleur Dis Lee, Heavenly Quill and Lemon Zest, and Royal Pinn and Neon Lights.

The only students left were Dark, Lone, Sour, and Sunny.

Dark and Sour were both worried they knew what was about to happen.

“Lone Wolf and Sunny Flare.” Cadance called.

“Oh great.” Lone mumbled and pinched the bridge of his nose. He pretended that he didn’t want to be paired with her since Sunny exiled him from the group. But on the inside he was actually happy to be paired with his crush.

“Seriously?!” Sunny shouted, clearly disapproving of the choice. 

The two stood next to each other, both looking like they were unhappy.

“And lastly, Dark Steele and Sour Sweet.” Cadance called.

“NOOOOO!” Dark and Sour shouted in unison.

Everyone just stared at the two.

“This is a joke right? RIGHT!?” Sour yelled.

“No Miss Sweet. This is not a joke.” Cinch said, “You and Mr. Steele will be paired for a photo shoot after the group photo.”

“So what you’re saying is that you expect us not only to work together in the Friendship Games, but take a picture with each other?!” Dark asked in rage.

“Dark and Sour, watch your attitudes.” Cadance said.

Both Dark and Sour quickly shut their mouths, “Yes Dean Cadance.”

“Now then. The photographer will arrive later this afternoon.” Cinch explained, “I will call upon the two teams when it is time. Until then, you will attend your normal classes.”

“And don’t forget, you are representing Crystal Prep, so look your best in these pictures.” Cadance said as the two teams began walking towards the doors.

Dark was was about ready to punch something, but then he saw Suri attempting to talk to Lone, who looked like he was interested in talking to her, ‘Perhaps this might be a good time to make amends.’

“Do you-” Suri began.

“Suri don’t bother. Clearly he’s not in the mood to talk.” Dark rudely interrupted, “Just leave him be.”

Suri glared at Dark, but she knew he was right and walked away.

“Thanks.” Lone said.

“Don’t mention it.” Dark shrugged, “Hey, I just wanted to say sorry. For what I said in the cafeteria.”

Lone stayed silent.

“Look I know I was a Jerk and everything and I shouldn't have said that to you. I don't know that much about you and your friends so I have no right.” Dark said, “So what I’m trying to say is…..sorry.”

Lone looked at Dark with a stern face, then smiled, “Apology accepted.” He held out his hand to shake.

Dark reluctantly took his hand and shook it.

“Well, now you have at least one friend here at Crystal Prep.” Lone said.

“Actually, you’re number two.” Dark said.

“Really? Who’s number one?” Lone asked in question.

“You probably won’t know her, so there’s no point.” Dark said shrugging.

With Sour

“Someone please kill me!” Sour said banging her head on a wall. She then felt herself getting a headache and decided to stop. “Ouch, that was stupid.” She said rubbing her head. 

“You ok?” Sour turned around to see Sunny Flare standing behind her. Sour turned back around.

“I’m fine, thanks.” She said as she began to walk away. Sunny then grabbed Sour’s shoulder.

“Sour Dear, please listen to me. I know what I said was out of line and completely-” “It’s fine.” Sour said cutting Sunny off.

“What?” Sunny asked with a confused look on her face. Sour then turned around.

“I said it’s fine, I had no right to talk to you like that. If anything I’m all the thing I said you were, I’m mean, thick headed, temperamental and above all, I am the Bipolar Queen and  nothing is going to change that.” Sour said looking down. 

Sunny looked at Sour with shock. “Sour I-” “You don’t need apologize either, it’s my fault anyway and beside I should be the one apologizing to you. So I’m sorry I offended you and I’m sorry for having such a big mouth.” Sour said. 

Sunny just continued to look at Sour with her shocked expression. “But I-” “I told you, it’s fine.” Sour said before walking away again. Sunny just watched as Sour left, she had so many questions running through her head.

“What just...happened?” She asked herself.

Time Skip

Dark and Lilac were sitting in the library.

Lilac was writing one of her many novels, while Dark was working on his History assignments.

“Writing one of your many fanfiction again I see?” Dark joked looking over at Lilac’s story.

“Do you mind?” Lilac said pulling her book against her chest, “You know I like to write. And its not fanfiction.”

“Whatever. I’m guessing it has has romance in it?” Dark asked.

“Hmpf.” Lilac turned away, but not before Dark saw her cheeks light up.

“Bleck.” Dark gagged.

“Well I think her stories are great.” A familiar voice said. Said voice instantly annoyed Dark.

He turned and saw Thunderlane walking towards them.

Dark glared at the boy, “Thunderlane.” He got up and stood between Thunderlane and Lilac.

“Dark stop it.” Lilac said.

Dark held up his hand, signalling her to wait. He look back at Thunderlane, “I’ve got a message for you.”

“O-oh?” Thunderlane swallowed shaking.

Dark moved closer to the boy, “Hurt her in any way, and I will kill you, personally. Understand?”

Lilac and Thunderlane gasped.

“Have a nice day you two.” Dark said grabbing his things and leaving the library, but not before seeing Lilac hugging Thunderlane, ‘I do this for you and Cady.’

Dark walked out of the library and made his Cadance’s office. “Hey Cady, open up.” Dark said knocking of Cadance’s office door.

“Come on in.” Cadance said on the other side of the door. Dark then made his way inside and closed the door behind him. “How are you doing?” Cadance asked with a smile.

“Good I guess and you?” Dark asked back. 

“Not to great actually, Paperwork for the friendship games is no fun and Cinch is pushing it all on me while she get’s the photo shoots ready for later.” Cadance said with a small pout. 

“Let me guess. Is she blackmailing you as well? Just like everyone in the school?” Dark asked rolling his eyes.

“No if that were the case I would have quit by now.” Cadance said with a confident smile. 

“Wish it was that simple for me. But if I was to, mom would lose her job again.” Dark said, then he thought of something that would cheer Cady up, “And Lilac would have to leave her boyfriend.”

Cadance raised an eyebrow, “Last time I checked, you didn’t approve of Lilac having a boyfriend.” Dark then turned away smirking, and Cadance finally put two and two together. “I can’t believe it you’re actually ok with him dating Lilac.” Cadance said with wide eyes. Dark nodded. 

“Perhaps I’ve changed.” Dark said pulling out his phone and showing Cadance a picture of Lilac and Thunderlane hugging, “I may have said I’m ok with it, but I warned him.”

“Still being overprotective of your little sister aren’t you?” Cadance said with a smirk.

“You know me. My family is the most important thing to me.” Dark said.

“And one day she’s gonna be a grown woman. What are you going to do then?” Cadance asked.

“Not thinking about it until then.” Dark said.

Cadance sighed and laughed at the boy. She looked at the time and gasped, “Oh look at the time. The photographer will be here soon. You better head to the auditorium.”

Dark groaned, “Do I really have to take pictures with her?”

“Come on, Dark. Maybe if you gave Sour a chance, you two could get along.” Cadance said.

Dark scoffed, “I already tried that once, and I ended up with bloody noses and screaming headaches.” He walked to the door.

Cadance quickly placed her hand on Dark’s shoulder, “Can’t you give her at least one more chance? For me, your mom, your sister, and even Twilight?”

Dark sighed, “I’ll try, but she needs to put an effort into it as well.”

Cadance smiled and hugged the boy, “Thank you.”

“Ok ok stop getting all sappy.” Dark said pulling out of the hug.

“Oh wait a minute.” Cadance said as she turned Dark around. She straightened his hair out and fixed his collar up, “I know you don’t like pictures, but the least you can do is look decent.”

“Oh come on. You’re worse than mom.” Dark complained as Cadance fixed up his look.

“Alright now go on. I’ll see you in a few minutes.” Cadance said pushing Dark out of the room.

Dark waved and walked off towards the auditorium.

Location: Auditorium

Dark entered the auditorium and saw a bunch of camera equipment set up, but there was no photographer, “Ok doesn’t the photo shoot need a photographer to take the photos?”

“He’ll be here shortly,” Dean Cadance replied behind Dark. 

“I just hope he makes these pictures fast.” Dark groaned crossing his arms, “I don’t want to be here forever.”

“Chill Dark, it will only take a few minutes.” Cadance said putting a hand on his shoulder. Cadance then saw Lone enter to room, “Ah, Lone there you are!” She walked over to him.

Dark walked over towards his team and sat down in a chair away from the others.

Lone sat down on the bleachers, smiling at Dean Cadance. Dark noticed it and was curious to why Lone was so happy. 

“What’s got you so happy?” Dark asked. 

“Nothing special really.” Lone assured. “Just Dean Cadance is always there for me and well, she reminds me of someone back home.” 

Dark looked at Cadance and smiled, “That’s Cady for ya. She’ll be there for almost anyone. She’s there for me and my family.”

“Your family seems really important to you.” Lone noticed how Dark opened more up to him. 

“My family is the most important thing in my life.” Dark said pulling out a photo, “Ever since my dad passed, I’ve been the man of the house. I have to look out for them.”

Lone looked at the picture, seeing Dark, Lilac, Midnight Steele, and one man he didn’t recognize, “I’m assuming that’s your dad?”

Dark nodded, “Shadow Steele. Last time we saw him, he being deployed back into the army. A few years ago, we were informed that he had been caught in a bomb explosion. He didn’t make it back.”

“I’m sorry Dark,” Lone apologized and placed his hand on Dark’s shoulder. “At least you knew him. I even didn’t know my father at all.”

Dark was about to ask something, but was quickly cut off by the doors slamming open. The man had white short hair, light blue skin and a pair of sunglasses covering his eyes.

“That must be the photographer.” Dark said getting up.

“Alright, everyone! Let's make tha magziks!” The photographer called Photo Flash said and was setting up his camera, “Let's begin with the first group. I want the girls calling themselves the Shadow 5 on the front line. While the rest of the group stands behind them.” 

With that said, Suri, Trenderhoof, Jet Set, Upper Crust, Royal Pin and Neon Lights went in the back row, while the Shadow 5 stood in front of them.

“Good, good.” Photo Flash said. “Now I want you all to take a pose that represents victory! Raise your fist in the air or a big smirk on your face. It can be anything, show the camera that your school is the champion!”  Photo Flash gestured with his arms..

Neon and Trenderhoof got and idea and picked up Suri, carrying her on their shoulders, together the two raised their fists in the air with Suri sitting on their shoulders, raising both her hands. With confident smirks, they all looked at the camera.  Ready for the shoot. The Shadow 5 took own preferable poses and were also ready to begin.

Seeing that everybody took their preferable poses, Photo Flash started with the shoot.

“Yes! No. Nooo! Yes. YES!” Photo Flash kept repeating while taking picture after picture.

“Uhg. This is going to get annoying very fast.” Dark groaned listening to Photo Flash repeating the same thing over and over.

After about 10 minutes, Photo Flash stopped taking pictures, “Enough!” He shouted.

Dark quickly woke up from a short nap, “Huh? What?”

“Come on Dark, now its our turn.” Lone said walking towards the stage.

“Uhg, wish I had stayed asleep.” Dark said getting up and heading towards the stage.

“You four!” Photo Flash said pointing at Lone, Rapid, Quill and Dark, “You will stand in front row!”

Listening to his order, the four boys stood in front row. Lone stood on the right, Quill next to him, then Rapid and lastly Dark. each with their own pose.

Lone held the tip of his hat and raised his fist in the air with a confident smirk. 

Rapid took one step forward with his right foot and held his fist up with the lack of motivation on his face.

Quill placed both his feet firm on the ground and with his hands on his hips, he tried to look confident but his blush on his cheeks said otherwise, showing a little uncertainty. 

Dark stood a little sideways, with folded arms and an angry smirk. “Let's get this over with,” he muttered under his breath.

“Perfect!” Photo Flash complimented as he stood back behind the camera. "Get ready! Here we go!"

The shoot began once more. Many pictures and many different poses with Photo Flash saying “Yes!  Yes!! No!! Noo!!”

After 10 minutes Photo Flash had more than enough picture for the posters. “Good enough.”

“Good. Done with pictures, now I can go.” Dark said as he began to walk towards the exit.

“Now I need the doubles to pair up with their partners.” Photo Flash said, “First pair, Trenderhoof and Suri.”

“Oh come on.” Dark groaned as he turned back around, looking for Sour Sweet. She was still with her friends. While he was looking away, Sour looked at him for a few seconds without a trace of anger on her.

Sugarcoat took notice of this. “Why are you staring at him?” She said in a quick, boring tone.

“Because I want to Sugarcoat!” Sour retorted, while looking back at her friend. “If I’m going to be paired with him, I better learn how to control my anger.” Sour didn’t like the idea but she had no choice in this. Principal Cinch was forcing her and Dark to be partners.

Sugarcoat wasn’t interested in the subject any longer and looked back at the photoshoot. Pairs after pairs, it was time for Lone and Sunny. 

Lone sighed and stood up from his seat, dusting his uniform  real quick so that it is looks trim. “Well, here I go.” Leaving his friends for the shoot. 

On the other side, Sunny reluctantly stood up and checked her face real quick in her hand mirror. Indigo gave her a push forward to get a move on, getting a slight glare from Sunny.

“Come on Sunny! You’re always checking yourself in the mirror, you look perfect! Just go and pretend that Lone is Royal instead.” Indigo said.

Seeing that Indigo had a point, Sunny relaxed, puts her mirror away and walked to Photo Flash. 

“Ah there you two are. Excellent, excellent.” Photo Flash said, scratching his chin. He was thinking which pose the two should take for the shoot. “I got it! I want you two standing against each other, back to back.” Photo began, “You look at the camera with a confident expression on your face like a smirk or something that show’s self confidence. Now get to your place.” He ordered them.

Lone and Sunny did what was asked and they stood back against back, while Photo Flash was adjusting his camera. 

“Just so you know dearie, I don’t like doing this shoot with you.” Sunny said in disgust at Lone, who smirked at her.

“You know, you’re pretty cute when you’re mad at someone.” His response made Sunny gasp softly at him. 

“I- I’m not cute when I’m mad.” She retorted with a small blush on her face and her face was a little huffy. “And you better stop flirting with me, or Royal will give you a hard time later on.” she reminded him.

“Fair enough Sunny, I was only joking by the way.” Lone said in his defense.

“I don’t care.” Sunny replied rudely.

Meanwhile, Photo Flash adjusted his camera for the shoot. The sharpness of the camera was set correctly and the spotlights were also in the right place. “Ready? Here we GO!” And Photo Flash once again clicked with Lone and Sunny taking many different poses as he instructed them. 

After about five minutes of photo shooting, Photo Flash was done with Sunny and Lone, “Enough! you two, GO!”

“Good, glad that’s over.” Sunny said walking off the stage.

“As am I.” Lone said half lying.

“Alright now, I need the last pairing. Sour Sweet and Dark Steele.” Photo Flash called.

Dark groaned, “Let’s get this over with.”

Sour and Dark walked up to Photo Flash, while he examined them, “Aha! I’ve got it.”

“If you expect us to act all happy doey and what not, then…” Dark began.

“We will cooperate.” Sour said with a smile on her face.

“Excuse me? What did you say?” Dark asked.

“We will happily act nicely to each other for the photo.” Sour said.

“Ahahaha, you’re very funny. What is this a joke?” Dark asked, “Cause I’m not amused.”

Sour’s smiled began to fade off her face, “We will do what the photographer wants us to do.”

“I will do what I need to do. Not what some bipolar girl wants me to do.” Dark growled.

“And I will not be made a fool by a delinquent boy who can’t be nice to anyone!” Sour yelled.

“Yes, yes, YES!” Photo Flash said snapping photos, “You’re fury with each other shows your competitive spirit! More more!”

“What?” Dark and Sour asked looking at Photo Flash.

“No no no. More anger.” Photo Flash said, then he gasped, “Wait wait.” He ran over and moved the two into a different pose.

Dark and Sour were back to back, arms crossed and both with angered expressions.

“Yes. Yes! YES!” Photo Flash said snapping photos.

After a few more shots, Photo Flash stopped, “Enough! You all go.”

Dark and Sour shot each other one last glare before walking off in separate directions.

“Never again.” Dark and Sour mumbled under their breath.

With Dark

It was the end of the day and Dark and Lilac were waiting for their mom to come out.

“So how did the-” “It went fine.” Dark said cutting his sister off.

“You didn’t even let me finish my question.” Lilac said putting her hands on her hips.

“Cause I knew what you were going to ask.” Dark said.

A minute of silence passed by, before Lilac spoke up.

“Thunderlane and I just wanted to say thank you.” Lilac said, “But out of curiousity, why the sudden change of mind?”

“I came to realize that I was indeed being overprotective of you.” Dark said, “I need to let you go sometimes, other wise you’ll never get to live a happy life. And besides, I won’t always be around to protect you.”

Lilac laughed, “Sometimes I think it’s you that needs saving.”

“You’re so funny.” Dark chuckled.

“What are you two laughing about?” Midnight said seeing her children laughing.

“Nothing.” Lilac said smiling.

Midnight only smiled and shook her head, then she looked at her son, “Is what I heard true? You’ve given Thunderlane your blessing to date your sister.”

“Yes and no.” Dark said, “I have given him permission, but should he hurt her in any form or way, he will die.”

“Dark.” Midnight glared.

“Ok ok. He won’t die…” Dark said, “Just end up in the hospital for a long time.”

“Young man. Your sister is perfectly capable of handling things on her own.” Midnight said as the three got into the car.

“And besides, Thunderlane wouldn’t hurt me in any ways, anyways.” Lilac said.

“If you say so.” Dark said looking back at Crystal Prep shrinking in the distance.
> Acquaintances
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Location: Dark’s House

Dark woke to broad daylight leaking through his blue curtains, “Really? Do I have to tape these damn curtains shut?”

Looking at his clock, he saw it was about 7:00 am.

“Well, at least there’s no school today.” Dark said standing up and stretching.

He walked downstairs and saw Lilac was laying on the couch, passed out with her journal on her face.

“Typical Lili.” Dark said chuckling at his sister, “You stay up too late writing, pass out on the couch, and…” He lifted the book off her face, and peeled the last page off her face, “Yeah. Page stuck to your face.”

“Dark? Is that you, honey?” Midnight called from the kitchen.

“Morning, mom.” Dark called back placing Lilac’s journal on the tableside.

“Can you come here please?” Midnight asked.

Dark walked into the kitchen and opened the fridge, “What is it?” He asked as he grabbed the milk.

“I’d like to talk to you about your behavior at school.” Midnight said looking at her son with a stern face.

Dark rolled his eyes as he sat down, “Uhg. Really? You know I never act as good as Lilac in school.”

“That’s not it.” Midnight said.

“If that’s not what you’re talking about, then what is it?” Dark asked confused.

“I’ve been hearing from Cadance and a few whispering students that you have been having problems with a certain girl.” Midnight said crossing her arms.

Dark’s eye twitched at the mention, “It’s not my fault. She won’t leave me be.”

“What about during my class when I forced you two to share your textbook? You two were perfectly nice to each other then.” Midnight said, “Sure you two fought in the beginning, but you two stopped fighting in the end.”

“Only cause you threatened to cut our grades in half at the end of the semester.” Dark said crossing his arms.

“It was the only way to get you two to work together.” Midnight said as she walked over to the stove, turning it on.

“I just want this year to be over with already so I can forget all about her.” Dark said.

“You do realize that you both are still Juniors.” Midnight said cracking an egg on the frying pan, “You two still have one more year together.”

“Only if I don’t get expelled or transferred again.” Dark said.

“And what can you do to prevent that?” Midnight asked.

“Maybe I don’t want to.” Dark said.

“Ok. Say you are expelled or transferred. That would mean that I would have to go with you and find a new job.” Midnight said.

“Oh c’mon. Don’t pull that card.” Dark groaned.

“And from what I understand now, Lilac would have to leave Thunderlane.” Midnight said, “Now how do you think that would make her feel. Having to leave the boy of her heart, after finally being allowed to date him without you scaring him off.” She said crossing her arms. 

Dark couldn’t deny that Lilac wouldn’t forgive him if that ever happened and the fact that he promised Cadance that he would try to keep his anger under control. “Ok ok, I get it. No need to keep guilt tripping me, I’ll behave and I’ll try not to argue with Sweet.” Dark said holding up his hands

“That’s all I ask, now go get dressed I need you to run some errands for me.” Midnight said. 

“It’s almost seven-thirty in the morning, what could you need?” Dark asked.

“You and your sister out of the house for the day, I had a long week and I need some time to myself.” Midnight said with a small smile.

“Really? Cause I haven’t had a long week.” Dark said.

“And because I’m your mother and I said so.” Midnight said smiling.

Dark groaned and walked out of the kitchen. He saw Lilac was still asleep on the couch, “So innocent and peaceful.” Then a devious smile formed on his face, “I think it’s time to wake the beast.”

Lilac shuffled a little and mumbled in her sleep.

Dark’s hand dashed forward and he began tickling Lilac’s belly.

“AHHH! HAHAHAHAHAHAAAA! Dark! What did I-ahahahaha-tell you about-ahhhh-tickling me!” Lilac squealed.

“I don’t know. To do it as much as possible.” Dark said as he moved to her armpits.

“Ahahaha! Please stop. Have mercy!” Lilac yelled.

Dark laughed and stopped tickling his sister, “Sleep well?”

Lilac put on a pouty face, “I was having a nice dream.”

“Let me guess. You and Thunderlane were going out on a date?” Dark asked joking.

“It's weird, but it was about this guy and girl one had silver hair and the other had twintails and for some strange reason they were at what looked like the City Archery Range. The girl had star barrettes in her hair and the boy had a black jacket with a crescent moon on the back.” Lilac said scratching the back of her head.

“Your dreams are way too descriptive. Anyway mom wants us out of the house.” Dark said.

“Why?” Lilac asked in confusion. 

“Because she told us to.” Dark said.

“Uhg. Where are we going?” Lilac said slipping her boots on.

“Well, mom said she needed us to run a few errands for her.” Dark said putting a dark blue jacket.

“Where’s your black jacket?” Lilac asked.

“It had blood stains on it from my bloody nose, so I asked mom to clean it for me.” Dark said, “No thanks to Sour Sweet.”

“Its just as much your fault, as it is hers.” Lilac said putting her jacket on. 

“Oh, now you’re against me.” Dark said crossing his arms. 

“I’m not against anyone, I’m just stating the facts.” Lilac said as she walked to the front door. 

Dark just rolled his eyes and followed his sister. “See ya mom.” He and Lilac said as they walked out the door.

“Um aren’t you two forgetting something.” Midnight said holding up a small piece of paper. 

“Oh right.” Dark said as he grabbed the paper from his mother. “Later.” He said.

“Be back by five you two.” Midnight said.

“No promises.” The two siblings said.

Timeskip

Dark and Lilac walked out of the store carrying a few bags of groceries.

“Anything else?” Lilac asked.

Dark looked at the list and checked off the last item, “Nope.” He looked at his phone’s clock, “And we still have hours to kill.”

Just then, both the sibling’s stomachs began growling. “Ok, let’s get some food I’m starving.” Lilac said rubbing her stomach. 

“You’re always starving.” Dark said with a smirk.

“Yea, what’s your point?” Lilac said. 

“Let’s just go, I heard there’s a cafe somewhere around here.” Dark said walking away. 

“Cafe? Oh, you mean Sugarcube Corner. Thunderlane told me about that place, he says that his friend Applejack and her friend Pinkie Pie work there sometimes.” Lilac said. 

“Thunderlane has a lot of female friends doesn’t he?” Dark said crossing his arms. 

“Chill, Applejack is an old friend of his from Canterlot high. He told me they went out once before we got together, but it didn’t work out between them. They’re still good friends though, I’ve met her and she’s pretty cool.” Lilac said with a smile.

“Uhuh. Well I guess we might as well try it.” Dark said shrugging.

The two walked by many of the stores throughout the city, before finally coming to SugarCube Corner.

Dark looked at the place, “Uhg. This looks like one of those happy cheery people kind of places.”

“Oh pull the stick out of your butt.” Lilac said walking inside.

Dark followed her inside and was instantly greeted by a pink girl zipping in front of him. “Hi, I’m Pinkie Pie and Welcome to Sugarcube Corner!” The girl said with a wark smile on her face.

Lilac smiled back at the girl. “Nice to meet you Pinkie, I’m Lilac and this grump over here is my brother Dark.” She said pointing at her brother.

Dark rolled his eyes, “Can we just get something to eat? I’m hungry.”

“No problem grumpy pants, what can i get for you?” Pinkie said with an innocent smile. 

Dark really wanted to say something, but seeing that girl’s smile made him keep his mouth shut. “Just get me a stack of blueberry pancakes and a glass of strawberry milk please.” He said crossing his arms.

“Alright and for you missy?” Pinkie asked after writing down Darks order.

“I’ll take scrambled eggs with cheese, 4 strips of bacon, 2 pieces of french toast with lots of powdered sugar and a glass of OJ.” Lilac said with a smile.

“No problem, I’ll be right back with your drinks.” Pinkie said as she skipped away.

“That girl seems like a lot of fun.” Lilac said.

“More like a lot of annoying.” Dark said, only to receive a kick from Lilac.

“If she’s so annoying, why did you stop yourself from saying something mean?” Lilac said.

“Because I’m making an effort to keep my temper under control.” Dark said, “For Mom and Cady.”

Lilac put on a pout, “Not me too?”

Dark chuckled and ruffled her hair, “You know I love you too, little sis.”

Just then Pinkie Pie came back with their food, “Here you go. Enjoy.”

“Thank you, Pinkie.” Lilac said smiling.

Dark didn’t say anything.

Lilac growled and kicked her brother.

“Thanks kid.” Dark said.

“No problem Darky.” Pinkie said as she bounced away. 

“She’s adorable and you better not deny it.” Lilac said.

Dark’s eye twitched, “Did she call me, Darky?”

“Yes, yes she did.” Lilac said with a smirk.

Dark remained silent, clenching his fists tightly, then he sighed, “She’s annoying.” Lilac was about to kick him, “But she’s ok.”

Lilac smiled, “See you’re coming around, now if you could only smile a bit more instead of scowling all the time you might actually make a few more friends and don’t say you don’t need any Dark because you do.”

“You know who else is annoying? You are.” Dark said taking a bite of his pancakes.

“Yes, but you love me anyway and you know I’m right.” Lilac said smiling.

Dark couldn’t help but smile a little.

The two finished their food, satisfying up their hunger.

“Ah that was yummy.” Lilac said wiping her mouth off, “Burp, Oh… Excuse me.”

“What should we do now?” Dark asked as he pulled out his wallet, leaving the money on the table.

“Let's walk around town and see what we can find.” Lilac said getting up.

“Agreed.” Dark said getting up.

“Wait!” Pinkie said causing Dark and Lilac to jump. 

“What is is Pinkie-” 

FLASH!

“Gah!” Dark and Lilac yelled in shock.

“Oooh. That’s a keeper.” Pinkie said looking at the photo she took.

“Seriously? The least she could do is warn us.” Dark said watching the girl bounce off.

“And what would you say if she asked to take our picture?” Lilac asked already knowing the answer.

“I would have told her, ‘No thanks.’” Dark said, “I don’t like my picture taken.”

“Yeah just as I…” Lilac began, but then realized something he had said, “Wait, No thanks? You were going to be nice?”

“What? Is something wrong with me saying ‘No Thanks’?” Dark asked.

“No. It's just I didn’t expect that from you.” Lilac said surprised, “Usually you’ll say something rotten like, ‘Go away’ or ‘Would you not?’.”

“I told you, I’m making an effort to change.” Dark said walking out the door.

Lilac smiled and followed. “He’s trying and that’s all that matter. There’s hope for him yet.” She thought. 

As the two walked through the city they saw many sights. Recollecting many memories from when they first lived here.

Lilac gasped, “Oh my god!” She squealed pointing in a direction.

“What is it?” Dark asked looking in the direction she was pointing.

Lilac was pointing at an arcade, “Its the arcade we used to go to when we were younger.”

Dark quickly remembered the arcade, “Huh, I’m surprised the place is still here. After all these years.”

Lilac stood in front of her brother and put on a puppy face.

“Really? The Puppy dog face?” Dark said unamused, “You know that I’m not fooled by that.”

Lilac leaned her head on Dark’s shoulder, and fake tears appeared in her eyes.

“Oh come on. Really?” Dark said, “I don’t want to waste our money on old arcade games.”

“Please.” Lilac whined.

“No.” Dark groaned.

“Please!” Lilac persisted.

“No.” Dark said getting annoyed.

“Please please please please please…” Lilac whined.

“OK FINE!” Dark yelled giving up.

Lilac’s expression instantly lit up and she hugged her brother, “Thank you thank you thank you.”

“Lilac stop. We’re in public.” Dark groaned seeing people stare.

“What? Does it embarrass you to have your little sister hug you?” Lilac laughed pulling Dark into the arcade.

Time Skip Backwards
With Sour Sweet

Sour groaned as she woke up to the bright daylight across her eyes, “Uhg. Morning already?”

She climbed out of bed and looked at herself in the mirror, “God I’m a mess.” She said grabbing a hairbrush, straightening her hair out, “At least it’s the weekend. Don’t have to deal with anyone bugging me.”

Sour got dressed. She wore a long sleeve cranberry shirt with a matching skirt, white shorts underneath and matching heeled boots. 

“Well, I don’t look horrible.” She said as she walked out of her room. She walked downstairs and could smell someone cooking something.

“Mmm, something smells good.” Sour said with a small smile.

She walked into the kitchen and saw her mother cooking pancakes, “Morning Mom.”

“Oh, good morning sweet heart.” Sweet Tart said smiling.

“Did dad go to work?” Sour asked.

“Yes, he got called in early today.” Sweet Tart explained.

“Ok. What are you cooking?” Sour asked smelling the air.

“You can’t tell? It’s your favorite breakfast.” Sweet Tart bringing over a plate with strawberry pancakes. Then she placed a container of blueberry syrup next to her plate.

“Yes. Your famous strawberry pancakes and blueberry syrup.” Sour said sitting down, “At least one good thing came out of this week.”

“Oh? Surely your week hasn’t been that bad.” Sweet Tart said.

“Really? Didn’t I tell you about my week?” Sour said dully while stuffing a pancake in her mouth. 

“Not really, ever since monday you would just come home and go up to your room with a scowl on your face.” Sweet Tart said.

Sour knew what her mother said was true, she didn’t really talk to her mom and dad this week. “Sorry mom, I’ve just been really angry this week and my jerk of a partner is just making things worse.” Sour said crossing her arms. 

Sweet Tart knew that tone and she didn’t like it. “Ok, who’s got you all ‘sour’ sweetie.” Sweet Tart asked.

“You know the more you make those jokes, the more I think you just named me just to make fun of me.” Sour said.

“Whatever gave you that idea.” Sweet Tart said with a smile. “Now, tell me what’s wrong?” She said as she sat next to her daughter. 

Sour just rolled her eyes and giggled at her mom's antics. “Ok, you know how the Friendship games are coming up?” Sweet Tart nodded. “Well, apparently we need to be in partners for the event and I’m partnered with the biggest jerk in the school.” Sour said.

“Who Ledger?” Sweet Tart asked.

“No not him, at least he knows not to mess with me. His name is Dark Steele and he’s possibly worse than Ledger.” Sour said.

“How so, what has he done to you?” Sweet Tart asked.

“Ever since the guy got here, he’s been nothing but a pain in my A-” “Language young lady!” Sweet Tart said sternly. 

Sour cleared her throat and sighed. “Pain in the neck.” She said. 

“That’s better.” Sweet Tart said with a smile, “Now what could this boy be doing that makes him so bad?”

“Everything! He won’t leave me alone, and he’s constantly being a jerk to me.” Sour said throwing her hands up.

“Pot meet kettle, I'm sure you two have met before.” Sweet Tart joked.

Sour only growled at her mother as she ate her pancakes.

“Anyways, what are you planning to do today?” Sweet Tart asked her daughter.

“I don’t know. Go for a run, maybe hit the range.” Sour said putting her plate in the sink.

“Well feel free to do what you wish, I just want you back by five tonight.” Sweet Tart said.

“No promises.” Sour said walking towards the door.

“If you’re looking for your bow and quiver, they’re in the closet.” Sweet Tart said as she cleaned up the kitchen.

“Thanks mom.” Sour said as she went into the closet and grabbed her bow.

“Be careful my ‘Sour Sweetie’.” Sweet Tart said with a smirk. 

Sour just groaned and left the house without a word.

With Dark

Dark and Lilac were on their way back home to drop off the groceries that their mom had asked for.

Lilac was carrying a purple cat plushie Dark had won for her at the arcade, “Thank you for winning this for me.”

“Only reason I did it was because you wouldn’t stop asking me to win it for you.” Dark said.

“Oh sure. You didn’t do it because you love me?” Lilac said putting on a pout.

“Nope. Only cause you annoyed me.” Dark said. Then he smirked and put his arm around his sister, “You know I love you more than anything.”

“Yea I know, but you know if you showed this kind of kindness to other people, you might actually be liked a little more.” Lilac said as she hugged her plushie. 

Dark just rolled his eyes. “Yeah whatever you say.” He said.

The two siblings continued to walk around the city until something caught Lilac’s eye. “Oh Dark-” “We aren’t going back to the arcade.” Dark said cutting his sister off. 

Lilac then hit him in the head. “Will you let me finish? Look at the flier.” She said pointing at a piece of paper pinned to a telephone pole. 

Dark rubbed his head and looked at the flier. “Canterlot Archery Range, ages 15 and older welcome. That actually sounds cool.”

“Hmm… It has been awhile since I used a bow and arrow.” Dark said, “And something tells me Cinch will want me at my top skills.”

“Since when do you care about what Cinch wants from you?” Lilac asked. 

“Since she blackmailed me with my family’s sake.” Dark said clenching his fist tightly.

“Chill, I know why and it doesn’t sound like a bad idea. I can finally shoot something and not worry about consequences.” Lilac said with a smile.

Dark stopped walking and looked at his sister with wide eyes. “What did you-” “It was a joke, stop taking things so seriously! I don’t even know how to use a bow.” Lilac said cutting her brother off.

Dark growled and rolled his eyes, “I’m guessing you want to go there after we drop off the groceries?”

“Well I don’t want to carry them all day, what do you think?” Lilac said with a smirk

Dark sighed, “Alright fine.”

“Yay!” Lilac cheered.

Timeskip
Location: Canterlot Archery Range

Dark and Lilac walked into the archery range and up to the registration desk.

“Two bows, quivers, and arms guards.” Dark said to the man behind the desk.

“Scratch that. One, please.” Lilac said quickly.

“Um, I thought you wanted to shoot?” Dark said grabbing his arm guard and putting it on.

“Hahaha. You’re funny.” Lilac laughed, “I don’t even know how to use a bow. Nevermind like the idea.”

“Then why are you here?” Dark groaned, grabbing a bow from the rack.

“A, mom wants us both out of the house. B, someone needs to make sure you don’t shoot a person.” Lilac said sitting down.

Dark rolled his eyes, “Whatever.” He walked up to firing line and looked at his target.

The red and white patterned target stood about 70m away from Dark. Placing his arrow on his bow, he aimed for the center, then he aimed a little higher. Taking a breath, he let the arrow go.

Pheeeew

The arrow hit the five ring.

Lilac clapped for her brother, “That’s not too bad.”

“She’s right not bad man.” Dark and Lilac look over to see a boy about Dark’s age with dark blue skin, silver hair with blue highlights and blue eyes. He was wearing a black t-shirt with a white star in the middle of it, gray pants and black sneakers. There was also a girl next to him with with light violet skin, purple hair with teal highlights and purple eyes. She was wearing a dark blue tank top with a white star in the middle, black jeans and black boots.

Lilac’s eyes widened and she pulled Dark close. “Dark, my dream has come true.” She said.

“What are you talking about?” Dark asked.

“The boy with silver hair and the girl with twintails, it’s them.” Lilac said shaking her brother.

Dark pried his sister’s arms off him, “Wait a minute. You’re trying to tell me that these two?” He said pointing at the boy and girl, “Are the same two from your dream?”

“And we’re in an archery range, isn’t that weird?” Lilac asked.

“I’m sure its just a coincidence.” Dark said turning away from the two teens.

“Hey, he just complimented your shot.” Lilac said turning her brother back around, “The least you can do is say thanks.”

Dark glared at his sister, “I don’t even know this person.”

“And your point?” Lilac asked.

“Um excuse me, if you and your girlfriend are done silent fighting.” The girl said.

“Excuse me!?” Dark and Lilac shouted in unison.

“Ari, you can’t just assume something like that.” The boy said

“What? They're arguing like an old married couple. Figured they were together.” The girl said crossing her arms.

The boy pinched the bridge of his nose and turned to Dark and Lilac. “Please forgive my girlfriend, she’s still learning how to be nice.” The boy said.

“Huh. That sounds just like someone I know.” Lilac said looking at Dark.

“Oh shut it you.” Dark growled.

Lilac only rolled her eyes and turned back to the couple, “I’m Lilac Steele, and this is my brother, Dark.”

“Nice to meet you. I’m Artemis, but you can just call me Arrow. And this lovely girl next to me is Aria Blaze.” The boy now known as Artemis said.

“Sup.” Aria said with a small wave.

“What lovely names you two have.” Lilac said smiling.

Dark rolled his eyes, “Do you two need something?”

Lilac stepped on her brother’s foot, while still smiling at Artemis and Aria.

“Ow, what the hell?” Dark growled.

“Be nice.” Lilac said.

Aria smiled at Lilac. “I like her.” She said.

“Be nice Ari.” Artemis said.

“You three would make great friends.” Dark said looking between Lilac and the two teens.

“Oh, and you wouldn’t?” Lilac asked.

“No, I wouldn’t.” Dark said.

“Wow Aria, he acts just like you.” Artemis said with a smile.

“Only difference is he seems to be more like the old me.” Aria said.

Dark growled, “I’ll ask again. Did you two need something?” He put his hand up and caught Lilac’s wrist before she could hit him.

“Not really, just a compliment.” Artemis said with a smile.

“Yea, take it or leave it pal.” Aria said also smiling.

Dark rolled his eyes and turned back towards his target. Drawing his arrow, he took aim at the target. Taking another deep breath, he let the arrow go.

Pheeew

This time, the arrow hit the 2 ring on the outer edge.

“Dammit.” Dark said looking at his second shot.

“It’s ok, Dark. You’re just out of practice.” Lilac said, “You haven’t shot a bow for two years.”

“Two years and you can still shoot like that, nice man.” Artemis said.

“Oh please, Arrow show him how a real Archer does it.” Aria said.

“No thanks, I’m not Rainbow.” Artemis said putting up his hands. 

“Who now?” Lilac asked. 

“A friend of ours, she has a pretty big ego, but she has a very big heart” Aria said.

“Sounds like you, Dark.” Lilac said nudging her brother, “With your whole tough guy act, but your love for your family stands out.”

“Family is the most important thing to me. I’d give anything for you guys.” Dark said drawing another arrow.

“How about a change in your attitude towards others?” Lilac asked.

“Nope. That I cannot provide.” Dark said releasing the arrow, hitting the inner 5 ring.

“Ok that was painful, Artemis show him why your last name is Arrow.” Aria said shaking her head.

“I told you Ari, I don’t like showing off. Besides, he’s doing a good job.” Artemis said to his girlfriend.

“I’m with Aria, I want to see this skill of yours.” Lilac said.

“Um..well..aw what the heck.” Artemis said as he readied an arrow. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “Allons-y!” Artemis said as he let go of the arrow.

Pheeew

The arrow went flying and hit the bullseye.

Lilac’s mouth hung open in awe.

Dark snickered, “Big deal. You hit the bullseye.”

Aria looked at Artemis and nodded to him. Artemis nodded as well and readied another arrow only this time he fired it right away.

Pheeew

The arrow hit the bullseye again and it split the first.

Lilac’s jaw hit the floor.

Dark only crossed his arms, “Am I supposed to be impressed? Cause you’re failing miserably.”

Aria stepped forward, but Artemis put a hand in front of her and smiled. “I don’t need to impress anyone, I’m just being me.” 

“In other words, you’re being a showoff prick.” Dark scowled.

“Well that was uncalled for.” Artemis said scratching the back of his head.

“Seriously dude, you need to chill. He was just kidding, you don’t need to bite his head off.” Aria said glaring at Dark.

“Don’t bother with that boy. He likes to bite off everyone’s head.” A voice all too familiar called from behind Dark.

Dark’s eye twitched upon hearing the voice, “You’ve got to be kidding me.” He turned and saw Sour Sweet standing a couple stations away.

“What are you doing here?” Dark asked.

“It’s a free country and a free range.” Sour said firing her arrow.

“Ok smart ass.” Dark growled crossing his arms, “Why are you really here?”

“Dean Cadance suggested I work on my archery over the weekend.” Sour said drawing another arrow, “It's been a few years, and I needed to get my game back.”

“You had game?” Dark asked with a smirk.

Sour glared at him and fired another arrow without looking and she hit the bullseye. Artemis, Aria and Lilac looked at her with wide eyes and slacked jaws.

“That was awesome.” everyone but Dark said. 

“Big deal.” Dark said.

“Said ‘Mister 5 point circle’.” Sour said with a smirk. “Even..um… Hey, what’s your name?” She asked looking at Artemis.

“Artemis miss.” Artemis said with a smile.

“Right, even Artemis did better than you and I could tell he didn’t even try.” Sour said still smirking.

Dark just growled. “He's nothing more than a showoff.” Dark said.

Sour then smiled. “Really because I overheard your sister asking him to show his skills to you both and he did just that. I wouldn't call that showing off.” She said.

“Thank you!” Aria said with a smirk.

“She is right and he doesn't seem like the kind of guy to show up others just to spite them.” Lilac said.

Dark growled again and turned to Sour. “You’re really making an effort to turn everyone against me.” He said.

“You do a pretty good job of that yourself, you don't need my help.” Sour said crossing her arms.

Dark glared at the girl and she did the same to him. Artemis and Aria then walked over to Lilac. 

“I'm sensing a but of tension between those two.” Artemis said. 

“You have no idea, this is a regular thing between those two. They're always at each other's throats and it's been getting worse.” Lilac said looking at her brother and Sour.

“Really, is it that bad?” Aria asked.

“Yea, it's been like this ever since me and Dark transferred back to Crystal Prep.” Lilac said. 

Artemis looked at Lilac and smiled. “He maybe a little rough, but he seems like a cool guy to me.” He said.

Lilac and Aria both looked at him with confused looks on their faces.  “Arrow, that guy did nothing but insult you and you think he's cool?” Aria asked.

Artemis then looked to Aria. “I seem to remember a certain Twin-Tailed girl who use to treat me the same way and she ended up being my girlfriend in the span of a few months.” He said with a smirk.

Aria looked away with a blush on her face. “Ok, I see your point.” she said.

“Good, now back to what I was saying. Lilac, i can tell you care about your brother a lot and want nothing more than to see him lighten up.” Artemis said.

“You got that right.” Lilac said with a smile.

“Well, why don't me and Ari help with that.” Artemis said smiling back at her. 

Lilac’s eyes lit up once she heard that. “Are you serious?” She asked.

“Sure, we'll help in anyway we can, right Ari?” Artemis asked the Twin-Tailed girl.

Aria rolled her eyes and sighed. “Eh why not, could be fun.” She said.

Lilac smiled at the two, but the smiled then vanished and was replaced by a look of confusion. “Wait...we just met and yet you’re offering to help my brother? What’s the catch?” She asked crossing her arms.

Aria smiled and put a hand on the girl's shoulder. “If you should no anything about Artemis it’s that he doesn’t need a reason to help someone. Trust me, I should know.” She said. 

Lilac looked at Artemis and Aria with wide eyes. “You’re serious?” She asked.

“Of course we are, your brother needs someone who won’t quit on him and believe me if I can handle this one I can deal with your brother.” Artemis said pointing at Aria.

“Hey!” Aria said with a small pout.

“I’m kidding.” Artemis said with a chuckle.

Aria pouted again, but she had a small smile on her face. 

“Now the first thing to do is to get those two to stop arguing.” Artemis said as he, Aria and Lilac looked at Dark and Sour who were still arguing.

“And how are we going to do that?” Lilac asked. Artemis didn’t answer and he walked over to Sour and Dark.

Lilac went to stop him, but Aria held her back.

“Ok, you two need to cool down and take a deep breath. All this arguing isn’t good for anyone.” Artemis and getting in between the two.

“You stay out of this!” Dark shouted, “This is none of your concern.”

“That may be, but you two need to stop this. I may not know why you two are fighting and I might not know what you’ve been through since you met, but if you keep this up it’s not just going to affect you but the people around you as well.  Don’t you two have people you care about, how would they feel if they saw you both arguing and about to rip the person you’re arguing with apart?” Artemis asked in a serious tone.

Dark and Sour both stopped at this, they took Artemis’s words for a minute and both of them thought what would happen if their loved ones saw them like this. 

“Aw dammit, why is some random guy making sense about my life. I promised Cady and mom I’d make an effort with this girl, and here we are fighting again straight off the bat. Twilight wouldn’t approve either and I already made her cry once, I don’t want that to happen again.” Dark thought to himself.

“What am I doing? I’m suppose to be controlling my anger, not fighting with him again. Dean Cadance told me to keep myself in check even when things get tough, and Mom would put me six feet under if she found out about this. Not only that she would be pretty disappointed with me and the way I’ve been acting lately.” Sour thought.  

Lilac just blinked, shocked at Artemis’ words, “And he’s your boyfriend?” She asked Aria.

“Oh yea, that’s my guy and this isn’t even his tough love.” Aria said with a smile

“You’re so lucky to have such a nice boyfriend.” Lilac said.

“Thanks, I don’t know where I’d be today if it wasn’t for him.” Aria said.

Dark and Sour both stayed silent after what Artemis had told them. They knew he was right.

“I’m hoping the silence means you two are thinking about what I just said because if it is good.” Artemis then turned to Lilac. “Lilac tell me, was there a big reason these two were fighting?” Artemis asked.

“Well, I guess when they met each other, they bumped into each other, causing the other to fall down.” Lilac said recalling the events, “And as if that wasn’t enough, Principal Cinch partners them together for the Friendship Games. That so far has been a disaster.”

“That stupid rivalry between the schools, for an event called the Friendship Games it sure has it’s way of ripping apart two schools.” Aria said crossing her arms. 

Sour’s eyes widen and she looks at Artemis and Aria. “Wait, you know about the game, that means you’re-” “Wondercolts yes and don’t get your panties in a twist, me and Artemis could care less about the games and the school’s rivalry.” Aria said cutting Sour off.

“She’s right if anything both schools should be ‘Getting Along’ and not ‘At Each Other’s Throats’.” Artemis said putting emphasis on certain words.

Dark and Sour looked at each other, but neither showed anger to the other.

“I know this isn’t my business, but maybe you two should try getting to know one another and seeing if you can find some common ground. I know it won’t happen overnight, but you both can take baby steps to achieve a better relationship with each other. I’m not saying you both have to be friends, I say you can think of each other as respected acquaintances.” Artemis said with a smile.  

“I guess we can try.” Sour said holding out her hand to Dark.

Dark was taken aback by this gesture… But he reluctantly took her hand and shook it.

“For now anyway.” He said. 

Lilac looked at her brother and smiled a bit. “Well, that’s progress.” She said.

“Yeah now we just need to make sure that it goes this smoothly before, during and after the games.” Aria said.

GROWL!!

Dark and Aria both knew that sound and they turned to their respective partners. “Lilac/Artemis we just ate, give it a rest.” They said both said.

Artemis and Lilac were both holding their stomachs with a sheepish smiles on their faces. “Sorry, I’m starving.” Artemis and Lilac said.

“You are a bottomless pit!” Aria and Dark  said shaking their heads.

Sour just watched the scene unfold with confused look on her face. “Did you all rehearse this or what?” She asked.

The four just looked at each other, dumbfounded… Then they laughed.

“I’m sorry, but has anyone noticed how much we’re all alike?” Lilac asked.

“I did and it’s freaking hilarious.” Artemis said.

Sour saw Dark was even laughing a little, ‘He’s laughing?’

“How about this. We can all go out for something to eat?” Lilac said looking at the other teens.

“It’s Eatin Time!” Artemis proclaimed with a bright smile.

“I hear that brother.” Lilac said in agreement.

Dark and Aria rolled their eyes, “The two of you.” The four teens began laughing at each other.

Sour began walking away, but a hand stopped her. She turned and saw Lilac behind her, “You’re invited too, Sour.”

“W-Wait what? You’re inviting m-me?” Sour stuttered.

Dark looked at his sister with concern, but didn’t say anything.

“Well duh. Can’t invite all but one of us. That’d be very rude to a friend.” Lilac said smiling.

Sour thought about it it for a minute, but she shook her head. “Sorry, but I have to fix things with my current friends before I can start making others. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate it, but right now I need to...better myself first.” Sour said looking down.

Lilac was about to say something, but Aria walked up to Sour first. “I know where you’re coming from really, but just know this kid you have people willing to help you out with your problems. You don’t need to handle everything on your own. Someone close to me told me those exact words and I don’t regret taking their advice.” She said with a smile.

Sour looked at Aria and she nodded before she started to walk away.

Dark only watched as the girl walked to the exit. Lilac nudged him and motioned towards Sour.

Dark grumbled and looked back towards Sour, “Will you at least join us to dinner?”

Sour stopped dead in her tracks, 'Wait. Did he just ask me to join them for dinner?'
> Common Ground
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Location: Canterlot Archery Range

“Will you at least join us for dinner?” Dark asked reluctantly.

Sour stopped in her tracks, ‘Did he just ask me to have dinner with them?’

“Well? Yes or no?” Dark asked after a few seconds of silence.

“Y-you want me to join you for dinner?” Sour asked.

Dark was going to say what he really wanted to say, but Lilac beat him, “Yes, we’d would love it if you could join us.” She said with a smile on her face.

“I-I uhhh…” Sour stuttered, ‘What should I do?’

“If you have more important things to do then you should definitely do those first.” Dark said trying to drive her mind away from the question.

“Well, I guess I could. I don’t have anything big planned for tonight.” Sour said, ‘Wait what did I just say?!’

‘Wait she agreed!?’ Dark thought shocked. He was so sure she would have made any excuse to not go.

“Awesome!” Artemis and Lilac cheered.

“Only one problem guys, it’s only three.” Aria said pulling out her phone to show everyone the time.

Lilac and Artemis immediately whimpered. “Why must you crush my food dreams?” They both asked the twin-tailed girl. 

“Because it’s fun.” Aria said with a smirk. 

Lilac and Artemis gave her a small glare and crossed their arms. “Fine, what should we do for the next three hours?” Lilac asked.

Everyone thought about this for a minute before Artemis spoke up. “Oh, Laser tag!” He suggested. 

“I’m in!” Lilac said cheerfully.

“I’m all set. I hate the whole flashing lights, gives me a headache.” Dark said remembering all the headaches and migraines he’d gotten.

“Same here, I haven’t been to the laser dome for that very reason.” Sour replied.

“Hey, you guys agreed on something. That’s progress...I think.” Lilac said putting her hand on her chin.

Dark and Sour looked away in realization, both slightly embarrassed.

‘This isn’t right. We never agree on anything. And usually we’ve broken out into a fight by now. What’s going on?’ Dark thought to himself.

‘What the hell, first I agree to go to dinner with them and now I’m agreeing with the that Bas-guy. What’s going on?’ Sour thought to herself at the same time.

“You two ok?” Artemis asked slightly worried. 

Sour and Dark both snapped out of their thoughts and shook their heads. “I’m fine!” Dark and Sour said looking away.

Lilac, Artemis and Aria looked at one another and shrugged. “Alright since you two don’t want to go, how about you two hang out for a bit and we all can meet at Hayburger at 6.” Lilac said. 

“WHAT!?” Dark and Sour yelled. 

Artemis then stepped forward. “Chill, this will be a good chance for you both to get to know each other better. Like I said earlier, try and find some common ground.” He said with a smile.

Dark and Sour both looked at one another and were about to speak, but Lilac spoke up first.

“That and you both already shook hands.” She said.

Dark and Sour both flinched at that. ‘Dammit, she’s right!' Dark and Sour thought.

After a few seconds of silence, Sour and Dark both sighed. “Fine.” They said. 

“Great, let’s get going.” Lilac said to Artemis and Aria.

“In a hurry to lose Steele?” Aria said with a smirk.

“Oh it’s on.” Lilac said as she and Aria ran out on the range. 

Artemis just shook his head and smiled. “Wish us luck, have fun you two.” He said before running after Lilac and Aria.

Once Lilac, Artemis and Aria were out of site, Dark and Sour looked at one another. “Well we did promise.” Sour said. 

“That we did, so what now?” Dark asked.

“Well, if we are spending the day...together, I’ll have to drop off my bow at home.” Sour said.

“You don’t happen to have a car yet, do you?” Dark asked.

Sour shook her head, “No. Just barely finished Driver’s Ed.”

“Great. I just have to get a car, but haven’t been able to save up.” Dark said, “Looks like we’re walking.”

“Duh.” Sour said as she began walking.

Dark growled, but took a deep breath and followed her.

They walked in silence for a few minutes before Dark spoke up. “Please tell me you think this is a stupid idea too?” He asked

“Oh good I’m not the only one.” Sour said not facing Dark. “I blame silver hair back there.” She said crossing her arms.

“Same here, he had no right to get involved.” Dark said.

“Exactly………although he is right.” Sour said looking down.

Dark wanted to deny it, but for some reason he couldn’t because he knew he was right.

“Yea he was, arguing all the time isn’t helping anyone and maybe...we should take his advice.” Dark said. 

Sour finally looked at him with wide eyes. “You mean that?” She asked.

“Yes… Arguing isn’t going to help anyone, only cause more trouble.” Dark said.

The two stayed quiet again for a bit, then Sour spoke, “So what does Cinch threaten you with to keep you in the games.”

Dark was taken aback by the question, “If you must know, she’s blackmailing to send me to a different school again, forcing my mother and sister to move again.” Dark said clenching his fists, “Mom can’t afford for us to move again, nevermind find a new job. And Lilac is finally happy with the boy she is with, I can’t separate her away like that. She’d never forgive me. And I’d never forgive myself.”

Sour had a genuine look of shock and worry on her face. “Ok I knew she was mean, but I didn’t think she was that cruel.” She said. 

“Then clearly you don’t know her as well as you thought you did.” Dark said crossing his arms.

“I don’t interact with Cinch unless I have too, you’re not the only one who hates her.” Sour said. 

Dark looked at Sour with surprise, “And here I thought I was the only person you hated.”

“You are a close second, Cinch tops that list. My dad’s in Manehattan because of her and I barely get to see him!” Sour said angrily.

“Cinch ruins everyone’s lives. I swear, she likes seeing others suffer as long as she benefits from it.” Dark growled.

“Thank you, someone get’s it! That lady is basically why I’ve been seeing Dean Cadance since Freshman year started...not that that’s a bad thing, Dean Cadance is the only one I can tolerate at the school.” Sour with a small smile.

“Cady is one of the only people keeping this school from falling apart further.” Dark said, “She’s always there for those who need her, no matter what the reason.”

“I know what you mean, she’s easy to talk too and she doesn’t pressure others like a certain someone.” Sour said.

Before Dark spoke up, he quickly realized something. “Oh my Faust, he was right.” He said pinching the bridge of his nose.

Sour them looked at him with a confused look on her face. “What do you mean?” She asked. 

“Haven’t you noticed that during this whole time we’ve actually had a civil conversation and haven’t threatened to kill each other.” Dark said.

Sour’s eyes widened a bit. “You’re right and not only that we found the one thing we can both agree on.” She said.

Dark and Sour both looked at each other. “Neither of us can stand Cinch.” They both said. After a second, they both laughed a bit.

“I guess Artemis was right, we just had to find some common ground.” Sour said.

“But who would have guessed that it would be our hatred for someone else.” Dark said.

“And people say hatred tears people apart.” Sour joked.

Dark and Sour chuckled a bit, realizing they both were actually enjoying the others company, they blushed slightly.

‘What is going on? Are we laughing together? Nevermind laughing period?’ Dark thought to himself seeing Sour laugh.

'Am I actually laughing….with him? What the hell is going on, the only time I actually felt like this was with...Sparkjump.' Sour thought looking down a bit.

Dark noticed her shift in mood. “Are you ok? Did I say something to offend you...again?”

Sour snapped out of her thought and shook her head. “No not this time, just thinking of someone. Believe it or not I’ve only had normal conversations like this with my old boyfriend.” She said in a sad tone.

“You mean Sparkjump?” Dark asked.

Sour looked up at Dark in shock, “H-How did you know?”

“Lone and Eclipse told me a while back. He went to New Mexico, right?” Dark asked.

“Yea, he wants to be a wrestler and he got accepted to a school that will allow him to do that.” Sour said.

“And he was the only one who could tolerate you, and vice versa.” Dark said.

“Yeah.” Sour said, “I miss him.”

“And I’m sure he misses you as well.” Dark said. 

“Thanks, oh we’re almost at my house.” Sour said 

Dark nodded and the two continued to walk on.

As they walked up to the house, Sour turned to Dark. “You can come in if you want.” She said.

Dark shrugged and followed her.

Sour opened the door and walked in, “Mom! I’m home!”

“Hi sweetie!” Sweet Tart called from a different room, “I wasn’t expecting you to be back for a lot longer.”

“I’m just dropping off my stuff and going to change. Then I’m heading back out.” Sour said putting her bow and quiver back in the closet.

Sweet Tart walked over and saw Dark standing in the doorway. “Sour, is he a friend of yours?” She asked.

“In a manner of speaking.” Sour said with a smirk.

“You’re hilarious, I’m Dark Steele. Nice to meet you.” Dark said trying to be as polite as he could be. 

Sweet Tart’s eyes widened. “Wait, isn’t this the boy you said you couldn’t stand?” She asked her daughter.

“Uhh……” Sour replied, not knowing how to respond, ‘Crap. Should have had him stay outside.’

Dark just shook his head and looked to Sour. “Don’t feel too bad, My mom knows my problem with you too.” He said with a small smile.

“But now I’m wondering, if you couldn’t stand him, why is he here with you, at your house?” Sweet Tart asked smirking.

Dark and Sour both looked at each other before looking back at Sweet Tart. “Let’s just say, we had a slight wake up call.” Sour said shrugging her shoulders.

Sweet Tart looked at the two teens for a moment before a sinister smile appeared on her face. Sour saw the smile and she didn’t like it. “Mom don’t you dare start.” Sour said.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about, what you and your new man do is not my business.” She said snickering. 

Both Sour and Dark’s faces light up like a christmas tree.

“Mom!” Sour shouted in embarrassment, “There is nothing going on between us!”

Sweet Tart smiled, “Not yet anyways.” She began walking towards Dark and leaned into his ear, “I know she can be a bit rough, but she's a teddy bear. Take care of her ok, sweetie.” She whispered.

Dark’s cheeks flared up, “Uh…”

Sweet Tart giggled and walked past the boy, “I have some errands to run, enjoy your date you two.”

“MOM!” Sour yelled.

Sweet Tart began laughing and the two teens were as red as tomatoes. They stood in silence for a few seconds, before Sour quietly spoke up. “Um….sorry about her….my mom loves messing with me.” She said still blushing. 

“It’s fine, look you get changed and I’ll wait outside.” Dark said walking out the door.

“Ok.” She said walking upstairs to her room.

Dark sat on the front steps and shook his head. 'That….was something I was not expecting.' He thought. He then pulled out his phone and began listening to some music while waiting for Sour.

With Sour

Sour walked into her room and she quickly laid on her bed. “Well that was a disaster. Why must you embarrass me mom?” She said before getting up and walking to her closet. “I’m only going out to dinner, so I shouldn’t go all out.” Sour said opening the doors.

She looked around until she found a Seafoam green t-shirt with a pink skirt with blue trimming and matching seafoam green boots. “This should work.” She said as she walked into her bathroom with her clothes. “I wonder what he’ll think of it?” Her face lit up after realizing what she had just said, “Wait, what did I just say?!” She shook it off and got changed into her outfit.

When she came out of the bathroom, she was greeted to a bright flash from a camera, “Ah!”

“Aww, you look so cute.” Sweet Tart said looking at her daughter.

“Mom! Stop it and when did you get back?.” Sour asked as her face turned red.

“A few minutes ago and did you really think I wasn’t going to take a picture of you before you go on a date?” Sweet Tart said holding the photo up.

“It's not a date! They just invited me to dinner with them so Dark and I learn to tolerate each other better for the Friendship Games.” Sour said crossing her arms.

“Call it what you want.” Sweet Tart said. She looked at the outfit once more, “It's still missing something… Hmm… AHA!” Sweet Tart quickly ran out of the room.

“Mom? What are you doing?” Sour asked hearing her mom rummaging through several drawers.

Sweet Tart came back with something in her hands, “Completing your outfit.” She said as she put something around Sour’s neck.

Sour looked down and saw a silver locket shaped like a heart, a dark blue sapphire as the centerpiece, “What’s this?”

“This is the necklace I wore to my first date with your father.” Sweet Tart said, “I was hoping I could give it to you for yours.”

Sour looked at the necklace, “It’s beautiful… I TOLD YOU IT’S NOT A DATE!”

Sweet Tart laughed at her daughter’s fit, “Go on. Don’t keep him waiting.” She said pushing her daughter out of her room and out the door.

With Dark

Dark was still listening to music, but he still couldn’t get over what happened earlier. 'What the hell man, get over it! Her mom was just teasing….hopefully anyway.' Dark thought. 

'Take care of her sweetie.' Sweet Tart’s words echoed in his head and it was making him both flustered and angry.

'Ugh this is ridiculous.' Dark thought holding his head. After a few seconds, Dark heard the door open behind him and he saw Sweet Tart pushing Sour out the door.

“Don’t keep him waiting.” Sweet Tart said shutting the door.

“Ah!” Sour yelled as she fell forward.

“Whoa whoa whoa!” Dark shouted as Sour fell down.

The two landed on the ground, Sour on top of Dark, both their faces red as tomatoes. The two stared at each other for a few seconds before coming to their senses. 

“WHAT THE HELL!” They both said as they got up and looked away from one another. 

“What did you do that for?!” Dark growled.

“Don’t blame me, my mom pushed me out of the house!” Sour said. 

“For what reason?” Dark asked.

“So I would keep you waiting for our da-” Sour quickly covered her mouth.

Dark eyes widened and he looked back at Sour. “What were you about to say?” He asked calmly.

Sour’s face lit up again. “Nothing it’s not important.”

Dark shrugged it off, “We better get going if we’re going to meet the others in time.” He said getting up. He held a hand out to help Sour up.

She took his hand and he pulled her up. Dark then got a good look at what Sour and what she was wearing.  'Wow she looks….great.' He thought unconsciously. 

Sour then noticed him staring at her. “What are you starting at?” She asked.

Dark’s face lit up again and he turned away. “ Um...nothing, let's just go.” Dark said 

Sour nodded and the two began walking back to the city to meet up with the others.

Sweet Tart watched as the two teens walked off, “Stay with him sweetie, he’s got a good heart.”

Location: Hayburger

“Uhg, c’mon where are those two?” Lilac whined looking for her brother and Sour, “I’m getting hungrier by the second.”

“Relax, Lilac. I’m sure they’ll be here soon.” Artemis said to the hungry girl.

“You’d think they’d have been here before us. You know since they probably wouldn’t do anything together.” Lilac said.

“Now you can’t just assume that’s true, Lilac.” Aria said, “Clearly they went somewhere, because they weren’t where we left them.”

“They could have went home for all we know.” Lilac said. 

“Or they could be walking here right now.” Aria said pointing at Sour and Dark. Everyone looked to see Sour and Dark walking up and looking away from each other.

“At least they’re still together.” Artemis said.

“I’m shocked they haven’t killed each other yet.” Lilac said crossing her arms. Sour and Dark both stopped in front of the group and Lilac noticed that something was off.

“Are you two ok?” She asked.

“Fine!” Dark and sour said simultaneously. Lilac Artemis and Aria raised an eyebrow at this. 

“Are you sure about that?” Aria asked. 

“We’re fine!” Dark growled.

“Yea, can we go eat now?” Sour asked wanting to end the conversation. Lilac knew something was going on and she was going to find out what.

The group walked in and grabbed a table in the back corner of the room.

The waitress walk up to the teens and pulled out a pen and pad, “Hello my name is Sugar Belle, and I will be helping you tonight. Can I get you something to drink?”

“I’d like a strawberry Milkshake please.” Aria said.

“Make that two.” Artemis said with a smile.

“Three!” Lilac said.

“Alright and for you two?” Sugar Belle asked Dark and Sour.

“Lemonade.” Dark and Sour said. The two looked at each other for a few seconds before looking away again. 

“Alrighty then, I’ll be back with your drinks in a few.” Sugar Belle said walking away. Once she was gone, Aria, Artemis, and Lilac looked at Dark and Sour.

“Ok, what’s wrong with you two, you both are acting weird.” Lilac said.

“I told you, we’re fine.” Dark growled. Sour didn’t say anything. Aria and Lilac weren’t buying this. 

“What happened in the last 3 hours?” Aria asked crossing her arms.

“NOTHING!” Dark and Sour yelled. This caused everyone in the restaurant to look over at the group.

“Cool down you two, no need to cause a scene.” Artemis said. Dark and Sour both growled and crossed their arms. 

Sugar Belle came back with their drinks and pulled out her pad again, “Are we all set to order food? Or do we need a few minutes?”

“I’m all set and ready. How about you guys?” Lilac said.

“I’m ready.” Artemis said.

“Same.” Aria said.

“Yea.” Dark said

“I’m good.” Sour said.

“Ok what will you all have?” Sugar Belle asked. 

“I’ll take a triple bacon Hayburger with large fries and a 10 piece nugget.” Lilac said.

“I’ll take the same, but add on i’ll have it times three.” Artemis said with a smile. Everyone even Lilac looked at Artemis as if he was crazy. “What?” Artemis asked.

“You know what? I want mine tripled as well.” Lilac said.

“Ohho, is this going to be a challenge, Miss Steele?” Artemis asked.

“I bet I can devour mine before you finish yours.” Lilac said smirking.

“It's so on.” Artemis said.

“You bottomless pits.” Aria said shaking her head. Artemis stuck his tongue out at his girlfriend and she just rolled her eyes. “I’ll have a chicken salad please.” Aria said. 

“Alright and would you two like to like to order at the same time again?” Sugar Belle asked with a smile. Dark and Sour both growled.

“Just give me a Hayburger with mashed potatoes! Stop that! No you stop that!” Dark and Sour said in perfect sync.

The others just watched as the two shouted at each other in sync.

Sugar Belle wrote down everyone’s orders and left for the kitchen.

Dark and Sour both stopped and looked away, faces red.

The other three suddenly burst into fits of laughter.

“H-Hey, stop that. It's not funny.” Sour said.

“Not funny? Hahahaha I haven’t seen anything funnier in forever.” Lilac laughed.

“She’s right, That was better than Pinkie and Swift’s usual antics.” Aria said.

“I know right, did you two practice this before we got here?” Artemis asked.

“NO!” Dark and Sour yelled.

The three laughed even more.

“Sure seems like you did. HAHA!” Lilac laughed.

Both Dark and Sour growled and slammed their fists on the table, “Shut it!”

All three instantly stopped laughing. “Will you two chill, we’re just messing with you. No need to get bent out of shape.” Aria said crossing her arms.

“What did you expect? Laughing at us is only going to piss us off.” Dark growled.

“You said ‘us’.” Lilac pointed out, “You’re talking about you two together! Aww.”

“Lilac, shut your mouth before I shut it myself.” Dark said.

Lilac gave him the ‘Really’ look again. “Hey, that’s the look I give Artemis.” Aria said with a smirk.

“Oh be quiet you.” Artemis said with a pout.

“That look you give them when they say they’ll do something, but you know they could never.” Lilac snickered.

“Yes, but Artemis is a special case when I give him that look.” Aria said.

“Here we go.” Artemis said.

“Here you go, your dinner is served.” Sugar Belle said bring the group’s food out.

“Eatin’ time!” Artemis and Lilac cheered.

Upon their plates touching the table, Lilac and Artemis dived straight into their food.

Dark rolled his eyes and smiled at his sister, “Food frantic as always. Worried it's going to grow legs and run off your plate.”

“No, just really hungry.” Lilac said stuffing her face with burger.

“I’m with you sister.” Artemis said stuffing his face as well.

“I think the only ones who found common ground today is you and Lilac.” Aria said taking a bite out of her salad.

The teens laughed as they ate. Dark and Sour remained silent for most of the dinner, they glanced at each other a few times but they both quickly turned away and blushed. Lilac noticed this a few times and whispered to Aria. 

“Hey have you noticed-” “That your brother and Sweet have had red faces most of the night, yea I’ve noticed.” Aria said. 

“I’ve noticed it too, you don’t think-” “Yea right, I know I tease him to hell about this but my brother is the last person I’d expect to get a girlfriend.” Lilac said cutting Artemis off.

“Then how do you explain this?” Aria said motioning to Sour and Dark. Lilac couldn’t really think of a good explanation other than the two...crushing on each other. 

“I...I...I don’t know.” Lilac said scratching her head.

“Should we ask?” Artemis asked. Lilac and Aria both gave him the ‘Really’ look. “Ok yea, bad idea.” He said.

“Obviously, I say we just leave this alone at least for now. Let them figure out their problems on their own and hopefully they won’t try to kill each other.” Aria said. Lilac and Artemis nodded and they all turned back Dark and Sour were glaring at them. 

“Something you’d like to share with us?” Dark asked. 

“Not really, just….girl talk.” Lilac said sweating a bit.

“That’s funny because as far as I know Artemis is a boy not a girl.” Sour said crossing her arms.

“Well he does has girl’s name.” Aria said.

“HEY!” Artemis yelled.

“While that may be true, that’s not the point. What were you all whispering about?” Dark asked crossing his arms.

“Not any of your concern.” Aria said.

“It is if it's about me or Sour.” Dark growled.

“Oh? You and Sour? Since when did you refer to you two together?” Lilac asked.

Dark’s face lit up and he growled, “Not the point!”

“Well actually it is.” Lilac said before covering her mouth.

Sour and Dark raised an eyebrow at this. “What do you mean by that?” Sour asked.

“Uh...uh…” Lilac was trying her best to think of something to say, but she just couldn’t.

“You might as well tell us, lying is only going to make it worse, sis.” Dark said. 

Lilac looked to Artemis and Aria who looked just as clueless at she did. “Well...um...we’re all just...worried about you two is all.” Lilac said.

“Why?” Sour asked.

“Well, you two haven’t been yourselves since dinner started.” Aria stated.

“And not only that, you both aren’t even looking at each other.” Artemis further explained.

“He’s right and even when you do look at each other, you both quickly turn away and your faces get red.” Lilac said finishing their explanation.

Sour and Dark’s faces lit up again.

“So, mind sharing what happened within those three hours we were gone?” Lilac asked.

The two stayed quiet for awhile, then Sour spoke up, “We walked back to my house so I could drop off my stuff, and turns out, my mom was home.”

“And? Keep going.” Lilac said persisting.

“No no don’t keep- mphf!” Dark said as Lilac stuffed a handful of her fries in his mouth.

“Well, being my mother she um… Likes to embarrass me.” Sour said looking down.

“Isn’t that every mom?” Artemis asked.

“Yes, but still.” Sour said.

“Well don’t stop now, keep going.” Aria said.

“Well, she kept trying to get me and Dark into awkward situations, and succeeded most of the time.” Sour said, “At one point, she pushed me out the door and Dark was sitting on the bottom of the stairs.”

The three gasped, “Don’t tell me.”

“I may have fallen on top of Dark.” Sour said her face lighting up bright red.

“Did you two kiss?” Lilac asked. Artemis and Aria face palmed while Dark and Sour were fuming and blushing at the same time. 

They wanted to yell, but surprisingly they both took a deep breath. “No we didn’t.” Dark said calmly.

“It was an accident and nothing more.” Sour said calmly as well. Lilac, Artemis and Aria were shocked that Dark and Sour didn’t rip into them.

“Oh well, I guess that’s understandable.” Artemis said.

“I guess so, now can we enjoy our meal?” Sour asked.

“I’m with Sour, I have a contest to win.” Lilac saia smirking at Artemis.

“Bring it.” Artemis said as he and Lilac dived back into their food.

Dark rolled his eyes as he watched the two devour their food, “Don’t choke on your food. Try to enjoy it at least.”

“I am enjoying my food.” Lilac said with her mouth full, “But I’m not losing a bet either.”

“We didn’t bet on anything.” Artemis said with his mouth full.

“No, but I’m not losing my title as fastest eater either.” Lilac said stuffing her mouth.

“Then get ready to lose.” Artemis said. Aria just shook her head.

“Great another one.” She said.

“I know right.” Dark said taking a bite out of his burger.

The teens stayed quiet for a few minutes, then Sour spoke, “So, how was laser tag?”

“It was actually pretty fun.” Aria said with a smile.

“Fun for you!” Artemis and Lilac said snarfing down the last of their food, “I WIN! No I did!”

“What do you mean?” Dark asked.

“She won every game.” Lilac said with a pout.

“It’s true.” Artemis said also pouting.

“Artemis and I even tried teaming up against her and lost.”  Lilac said.

“Yea, good try you two.” Aria said with a chuckle.

“Sounds like you had fun.” Dark said.

“Yea, loss or not it was fun.” Lilac said with a smile.

“Agreed.” Artemis said.

“So what are we going to do after this?” Lilac asked, “Can’t have a date with just eating dinner.”

“This is not a date!” Dark and Sour both said at the same time, causing them to blush.

“Why did you have to say that?” Aria asked.

“I’m his sister remember.” Lilac said with a smirk.

“You sure like to annoy me like a little sister does.” Dark growled.

“Hmm… Why don’t we all go see a movie after this?” Aria suggested.

“Oh good idea, I wanna see Logan.” Artemis said. Lilac perked up and looked at Artemis.

“I’ve been wanting to see that movie ever since it came out. Dark Please!?” Lilac asked with her puppy dog look.

Dark gave her the ‘really’ face, “You know that face doesn’t work on me.”

Lilac put on an angry pout. “C’mon. Please. I’ve wanted to see this movie since I heard about it!”

“Ugh fine.” Dark said, “It’s not like we have anything else to do, other than go home.”

“YAY! Sour you wanna come?” Lilac asked.

“Uh, sure, I guess.” Sour said.

“Great, now finish up your food so we can move this date forward!” Lilac said with a wide smile.

“It’s not a date!” Dark and Sour yelled at the girl.

Lilac giggled at the two yelling at her.

Artemis and Aria just shook their heads. “This is going to be a long night.” Aria said.

“Oh yes.” Artemis said. 

Timeskip, Location: Theater

“Finally, I’ve been waiting for this for a long time!” Lilac said in excitement.

“I know, it’s going to be awesome!” Artemis said with a smile on his face. 

“Chill you two, it’s just another Wolverine movie.” Aria said crossing her arms.

“They need to stop, their are more members of the X-Men than him.” Sour said in an irritated tone.

“At least someone said it.” Dark said. The group walked over to the ticket man. 

“How can I help you all today?” He asked.

“Five tickets for Logan please.” Lilac said. 

“Sorry kid, we’re all sold out.” The ticket man said.

“NOOOOOOOO!” Lilac and Artemis screamed. The two fell to the ground with tears in their eyes.

“Why does the world hate us!” They both said.

“Well now what are we going to do?” Aria asked.

“I don’t know. I personally think we should just head home. Its getting late anyways.” Dark said.

“But I’m not tired enough to go home!” Lilac whined, “And I wanted to see a movie!”

“It’s not all about you, ya know.” Sour said to the crying girl.

“She's right you know, think about the others.” Dark said.

“You’re one to talk. Pot, kettle, black.” Lilac said. Sour, Artemis and Aria snickered at Lilac comeback. 

“Can you three!” Dark Growled. 

“Chill, let’s just see another movie.” Aria suggested.

“But we wanted to see this movie!” Lilac and Artemis whined.

Dark, Sour and Aria rolled their eyes. “Too bad!” They all said. Artemis and Lilac both looked down and pouted.

“I swear sometimes I feel like I’m dating a kid.” Aria said shaking her head. 

“Try having a sister who cries and hits you in the back of the head all the time.” Dark said.

“My mother gave me my name just so she could tease me.” Sour said. Dark heard this and smirked.

“Maybe because she knew you were a ‘Sour Sweet’ baby.” He said. Everyone looked at Dark for a second. 

“Did he just-” “Yea he did.” Aria said cutting Lilac off. Sour’s look of shock was the replaced with a frown. 

“I get that enough from my mom, I don’t need it from you two either.” Sour said crossing her arm. 

Dark realized what he had said, “Oh woah woah, no no no. Don’t any of you go getting the wrong idea!”

“Too late for that!” Lilac giggled. Dark just rolled his eyes.

“So what movie are we going to see instead?” Artemis asked. Everyone looked at the listed movies and something caught Aria’s eyes.

“What about Yu-Gi-Oh: The Dark Side of Dimensions?” She asked. Dark and Sour’s Eyes lit up. 

“YES!” The both yelled. Lilac, Aria and Artemis looked at the two in confusion. Dark and Sour soon realized what they did and quickly composed themselves. 

“Um...sorry, I’ve been into Yu-Gi-Oh for a while now. It’s the only anime Lemon Zest has shown me that wasn’t stupid.” Sour said looking away.

“I used to like the show and the card game, I haven’t picked up my deck in years.” Dark said. 

“More Common ground, you two are progressing more and more.” Artemis said with a smile. Dark and Sour just rolled their eyes.

“Can we just go and watch the movie now?” Sour asked. Everyone nodded and proceeded to buy their tickets.

TimeSkip

The five teens walked out of the theater.

“That movie was really good. Seeing Yami Yugi being a badass again, so awesome.” Sour said.

“I liked it, but I would have liked to see the duel with Kaiba and Yami Yugi at the end.” Dark said with a small smile.

“I know right.” Sour agreed.

The other three smirked at the two teens. They saw this and glared at them.

“What time is it?” Dark asked.

Aria opened her phone and saw it was 10:30, “It's half past ten.”

“Wow. Well we all ought to head home.” Dark said seeing his sister was starting to droop off into sleep.

“Yeah, my mom will eventually start worrying for me.” Sour said.

“Same here, come on sis.” Dark said. 

“Ok let’s..gooo..” Just then Lilac collapsed in her brother arms. Dark just shook his head and put Lilac on his back.

“I knew she would pass out.” He said.

“Get her home pal, she’s had a long day.” Artemis said with a smile. 

“Yea she did, see you guys.” Dark said as he walked away. Sour watched as Dark walked away. 

'I guess he’s not that bad.' She thought. Sour then felt a tap on her shoulder.

“You ok?” Aria asked. 

“Yea I’m fine, also can I ask you both to-” “Don’t worry we won’t say anything about you hanging with us today.” Artemis said cutting Sour off.

“Yea we know the CP students don’t like their own kind hanging out with the CHS students.” Aria said.

“Sorry.” Sour said looking down.

“Don’t worry about it, we understand. We’re still friends, school rivalry or not.” Artemis said.

“He’s right.” Aria said.

“Thanks it was nice meeting you guys, hope to see you both again.” Sour said before walking away.

“Nice girl.” Artemis said.

“Yea, come on let’s go.” Aria said as she began walking

“Yes dear.” Artemis said following her.

With Dark

Dark opened the door to his house and walked inside. “Do you have any idea what time it is you two? Midnight said walking up to her kids, “I was about ready to send a search party for you two.”

“Shhhh, she’s sleeping.” Dark said walking past his mother and up the stairs.

Dark brought Lilac into her room and carefully laid her on her bed, and covered her with her blankets.

He was about to leave, when he heard Lilac mumble something, “He’s smiling...again.”

Dark smiled at his sister and flicked the light off before shutting the door, “Goodnight Lilac. Love you little sis.”

He walked back downstairs, only to be greeted by an irritated mother, “Well? Are you going to explain why you two were out so late?”

Dark rolled his eyes, “We went to the archery range, went out for dinner, and saw a movie.”

“Just the two of you?” Midnight asked, “You two don’t usually hang out until 10:45 at night.”

“No, we were with three other teens we met at the range.” Dark said.

“Oh? And who might they be?” Midnight asked her son.

“A couple named Artemis Arrow and Aria Blaze. And then we also ran into Sour Sweet.” Dark said.

“Wait a minute, you had dinner and saw a movie… With Sour Sweet?” Midnight asked.

Dark knew what she was thinking, “Mom don’t even start.”

“Ahh! My son went on his first date!” Midnight squealed.

Dark growled irritated, “It wasn’t a date!”

“Oh why didn’t you tell me about it. I could have helped prepare you better for it.” Midnight said not even seeing Dark walk up the stairs to his room.

“UGH!” Dark didn’t even bother and he headed to his room. 

“We’re not done, we’re talking about this tomorrow!” Midnight said. Dark ignored her and dropped onto his bed. 

“It wasn’t a-” Dark then thought back to when Sour fell on him, but he quickly shook his head. “NO! Stop thinking about it!” Dark said putting his pillow over his head.

With Sour

Sour opened the door to her house and walked inside. “Wow coming home late on your first date with Dark, I didn’t think you both were that far along.” Sweet Tart teased. 

Sour blushed and glared at her mother. “Not now mom, i’m tired.” She said. 

“Oh my, my little ‘Sour Sweety’ is growing up too fast” Sweet Tart said. 

Sour grumbled, “Stop making those lame jokes with my name.”

“Never.” Sweet Tart said with a smile. “Did you enjoy yourself?” She asked.

Sour hesitated but answered. “It wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.” She said with a small smile.

“Aww, I can hear the wedding bells already.” Sweet Tart teased.

“UGH!” Sour said before running upstairs. 

“Goodnight!” Sweet Tart said.

Sour didn’t answer back and laid down on her bed. 'Wedding bells...yeah right.' Sour thought. She then thought back to when she fell onto Dark, but she quickly shook her head. 'NO NO NO! It’s not happening, I refuse to let it happen!' Sour thought as she put her pillow over her head.
> Making an Effort
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Location: Dark’s home

“Why does school have to start so early in the morning?” Dark groaned, being tired from last night, he didn’t want to go to school.

Lilac smiled brightly, “I don’t know about you, but I slept like a baby.”

“Yeah because you fell asleep before we even got home. I had to carry you back home.” Dark said, “You may look it, but you aren’t the lightest.”

“Hey.” Lilac said with a glare.

Dark chuckled and ruffled her hair, “You know I’m messing with you.”

“Hey hey, not my hair.” Lilac said straightening it out again.

Dark rolled his eyes and walked into the living room. “Morning mom.” Dark said with a small wave.

“Hey kiddo, you mind doing me a favor?” Midnight asked.

“Sure what is it?” Dark replied.

“I’m going to a small luncheon tomorrow and I need to pick up a dress I ordered at the Carousel Boutique.” Midnight said, “I would, but there is a teachers’ conference that I have to attend.”

“No problem, I’ll pick it up after school.” Dark said grabbing his bag.

“And I’ll make sure he doesn’t destroy it on the way home.” Lilac said with a smile. Dark glared at his sister who in turn playfully stuck her tongue out at him.

“Thanks dear. C'mon you two. let’s get going.” Midnight said grabbing her keys and walking to the door. Dark and Lilac nodded and followed her.

“So who’s the lucky guy?” Lilac asked her mother.

Midnight stopped shortly and looked back at Lilac, “What are talking about?”

“Well since when do you ever get dressed up for anything? I’m guessing that this is for a date with someone.” Lilac said.

“Lilac, stop it. Leave mom alone.” Dark said.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Midnight said, “I haven’t gone on a date with anyone since… Your father.”

The three stayed silent for a bit.

“I-I’m sorry mom. I didn’t mean for that to come up.” Lilac said.

“It’s alright dear.” Midnight said. She looked at the time and gasped, “We need to get going now! Otherwise we’re going to be late.”

The three got into the car and drove off to Crystal Prep.

Timeskip, Location: Crystal Prep
English Homeroom

As Dark walked into homeroom and saw Lone and Eclipse.

“Morning Mr.Grumpy, how was your weekend?” Eclipse asked with a smile. Dark just rolled his eyes and sat in a seat.

“It was fine I guess.” Dark said shrugging his shoulders.

“Wow a straight response, you're getting better pal.” Lone said with a chuckle.

“Whatever.” Dark said rolling his eyes taking his textbook out his bag.

“Ok was doing better.” Eclipse said.

Sour Sweet walked in and saw Dark, who saw her as well. Both blushed and look away from each other again.

Lone and Eclipse saw this and turned to Lilac, “What’s up with them? Did something happen that we don’t know about?”

Lilac was about to answer, but then she saw Dark shoot her a glare. She knew this wasn’t something he wanted broadcasted across the campus, “Not that I’m aware of. They’ve been arguing more and more each day.”

Lone and Eclipse looked at Lilac with disbelief.

“If you want real information, maybe you should try asking them yourself.” Lilac said opening her journal and began writing.

Lone and Eclipse looked at Dark who just put his head down in his arms folded on his desk. “You ok man?” Lone asked.

“I’m fine.” Dark mumbled through his arms not looking up.

“What’s with the sour puss?” Eclipse asked.

Dark looked up and glared at the boy, “When do I not have a sour puss?”

“He’s got a point.” Lone said shrugging his shoulders.

Dark rolled his eyes and planted his face back in his arms.

“Just leave him be boy’s.” Lilac said as she continued writing. Solar and lone looked at one another and shrugged their shoulders as they went to their seats.

Dark stayed faced down with a small blush still on his face. “Dammit, what’s wrong with me?”

With Sour

After Sour Sweet made her way to her desk on the other side of the room, she put her bag on the floor and put her head on her desk. “Ugh, my head hurts.” She thought. She then felt a tap on her shoulder.

“Hey Sour.” Sour looked up to see Indigo smiling at her.

“Oh hey.” She said putting her head back down.

“Are you ok, Sour?” Indigo asked her friend.

“I don’t know. My head just hurts for some reason.” Sour said dully.

“Anything I can do to help?” Indigo asked.

“ I doubt it, I just need to clear my head of a few things.” Sour said. Indigo looked at her with a raised eyebrow.

“What could possibly be on your mind that’s bothering you so-” Indigo stopped herself and looked to the other side of the room. Her eyes stopped at Dark how also had his head down as well. “Is that Dark creep still messing with you?” She asked.

Lucky for Sour her head was down or else Indigo would see the massive blush on her face. “N..No, now can you leave me alone?” She said trying to avoid the subject.

“Sour if this guy is still giving you a hard time I can kick his ass for you.” Indigo said with a confident smile.

Sour just shook her head. ‘I told you it’s not him, now go away.” She said.

“If it's not him, then what is it? I want to help you Sour.” Indigo said putting a hand on Sour’s shoulder.

“Yeah well I didn’t ask for your help! If you really want to help, then leave me be!” Sour yelled.

Everyone turned in shock, hearing Sour yell. But no one was as shocked as Indigo. Dark also looked up from his desk and looked over at Indigo and Sour.

“It’s too early for this, Sour.” He said to himself but loud enough for Lone to hear him.

“Well it is Sour Sweet, she loses her temper worse than you.” Lone said with a small smile. Dark really wanted to argue back, but Lone had a very good point.

Indigo wanted to say more, but she turned and walked away.

On her way past Dark, she stopped behind him, “This is all your fault. She was never like this… Until you showed up.”

Dark looked back at the girl.

Indigo then continued to walk back to her desk.

Dark looked back at Sour and saw she had buried her face back in her arms again. He turned to Lone, “Is she telling the truth?”

“What? That Sour never acted this way before you showed up?” Lone asked, “Well she has always been one to yell at everyone, but she never did yell at her friends this much.”

Dark sighed and put his head back in his arms, ‘So it is my fault. Go figure.’

Sour Sweet

While Sour had her head down in her arms, she thought to herself, “What is going on with me? Why did I lash out like that at Indigo?”

She look out of her arms and over at her friends, who were conversing between each other. Then her eyes glanced towards Dark.

She then thought of when she fell on top of Dark.

“Gah!” She yelled quickly shaking the thought out of her head.

Everyone looked at her in confusion.

She really didn’t care about the stares she was getting, she just wanted to get these thoughts of Dark out of her head. “Stop it! Stopt it! Stop it!” Sour thought to herself.

Thoughts of last night’s dinner kept popping into her head, ‘Why won’t you get out of my head! I DON’T LIKE YOU! I HATE YOU…..don’t I?’

She began to think to herself, if she really did hate Dark… Then why did she go to that dinner with him last night? Why did she go to the movies with him? Why does she keep thinking about him constantly?

Dark looked up again and saw Sour shaking her head. “Hey Sweet!” He called out. Sour literally froze and slowly turned her head to the last person she wanted to see. “I don’t know what’s wrong with you, but I suggest you stop yelling like a crazy person.” Dark said before yawning.

Sour’s thoughts of that night were slightly gone and she glared at Dark. “I’m not crazy” She said sternly.

“Could have fooled me.” Dark said smirking.

“Don’t you dare start with me today Steele!” Sour seethed.

“I didn’t say anything.” Lilac said with a frown.

“Not you Lilac, I’m talking about your circus clown of a brother.” Sour said.

Dark glared at the girl and got up. “Circus Clown, well that’s a new one.” He said.

“I call’em as I see them.” Sour said with a smirk.

“I do the same and all I see in front of me is someone who is a complete waste of my time.” Dark said.

Sour gritted her teeth and stepped forward. Dark did the same and Indigo and Lone both stood up and got in front of their respective friends.

“Dark chill, like you said it’s too early for this.” Lone said.

“Sour calm down, the dudes not worth it.” Indigo said.

Dark and Sour both pushed their friends out of the way and stopped in front of each other, glaring face to face.

“You got a big mouth.” Dark said calmly.

“Look who’s talking.” Sour said calmly as well. The students all watched and waited for the inevitable fight.

“We both knew that we would end up arguing again no matter what, right?” Dark asked.

“I had no doubt in my mind.” Sour answered. Just then Dark did something unexpected…..he smiled.

“Well, I’m keeping my end of our deal. So I’m going to cut you a break from time to time, just know I won’t let you have every argument.” With that, Dark walked back to his seat and pulled out his text book.

Sour, as well as the rest of the class, had looks of confusion and shock on their faces.

The door opened and Midnight walked in, “Good morning class.” She said, but saw the shocked faces staring at Dark, “Um… What is going on here?”

No one answered her.

“Lilac. Please come here.” Midnight said looking at her daughter.

Lilac got up and walked to her mother.

“Mind explaining what your brother did this time?” Midnight asked.

“Um… well… he uh…” Lilac began, “He didn’t fight.”

“Excuse me?” Midnight asked.

“He and Sour were going at each other’s throats again.” Lilac said, “And just when everyone thought they were going to explode, Dark smiled and stopped arguing with her.”

Midnight looked at her son, who looked back and smiled slightly, before looking back into his textbook.

Her face turned from surprised, to happy, “So there is hope for you once again.”

Sour continued to stand frozen for a few seconds before going back to her seat. “W...what just happened, that’s not how we end our arguments. We’re supposed to end it with insults or me hitting him, but he just let’s go.” Sour thought. Her mind was filled with questions and she had no answers. She then thought about last night and she blushed again. “And now I’m back to this question, do I really hate him?” She asked herself.

While Sour was thinking to herself, Dark was doing the same.

“Why did I do that?” Dark asked himself, “Any other day I would have kept yelling at her, but why didn't I this time? Perhaps because I didn't want to deal with the headache I'd get after?”

Thoughts of when he and Sour were at dinner last night kept popping into his head.

He shook his head, “No, No, NO! Stop it! I don't care about what happened that night! It was just because… Because…” But he didn't know why he did it.

“Why did I invite her to that dinner? To hang out with us… Why did I do any of it?” Dark asked himself.

“Hey, you ok buddy?” Lone asked tapping his shoulder.

“What?” Dark quickly asked snapping back into reality.

“You began to space out, just staring into your book for about three minutes.” Lilac said with concern in her voice.

“I'm fine, just thinking about somethings.” Dark said

Lone and Lilac looked at each other and went back to their books.

“What is going on?” Dark asked himself one last time.

Time skip: lunch

Dark sat down at his table with Lilac and sighed.

“Well that sounded like the weight of the world.” Lilac joked.

“Not now Lili.” Dark groaned.

“So.” Lilac said moving closer to her brother, “Wanna fill me in on what you were thinking about during class?”

“No.” Dark said biting into his apple.

“Aw come on. Not even a little?” Lilac asked.

“No.” Dark said, “Why should I tell you?”

“Because I'm your little sister and you love me?” Lilac asked.

“Yeah not gonna work.” Dark said

“Because siblings don't keep secrets from each other?” Lilac asked.

“Then tell me what you're writing in that journal of yours.” Dark said reaching for Lilac’s book bag.

Lilac quickly swept his hand away from her bag, “Uh that's a secret not meant for your head.”

“That's what I thought.” Dark said taking a bite out of his salad.

“What are you two fighting about now?” Lone asked sitting down across from the two siblings. Solar sat next to him.

“Nothing of your…” Dark began only to receive a kick in the shin.

“I'm trying to get Mr. Grouchy to spill the beans on what he was thinking about when he spaced out.” Lilac said, “But with him being him, I've had zero luck.”

“Cmon Dark, what could be so bad that you can't tell us?” Lone asked, “Cmon we're buds.”

“Ok one: what goes on in my head is my business. Two: don't go around telling people we're buds. There is only one person who is actually a true friend to me here. And Three: Stop persisting what isn't your concern.” Dark said sternly.

Lone looked at Lilac, “I told you. Stubborn.” Lilac said pulling out her journal.

“Do you ever go anywhere without that?” Eclipse asked, “Every time we see you, you've always got your face buried in that book.”

“It's her journal. She A: writes whenever she can. And B: Is afraid if she leaves it somewhere out of sight, someone will read what's she written.” Dark explained.

“Ok I think we're getting off track.” Lilac said, “Why won't you spill the beans? You know I'm not going to stop asking.”

“Cmon there has to be some way you'll tell us.” Eclipse said.

“We're just trying to help you out.” Lone said.

Dark began to get annoyed, “If I say yes will you all stop?”

“Yes.” The three said.

Dark growled, “Yes. There is one way you can help.”

“And?” Lilac asked.

“You can leave me alone and mind your own business.” Dark said.

The three teens looked at Dark with annoyed expressions on their faces.

“C’mon now. That tells us nothing.” Lone said.

“Exactly. There is nothing wrong. I’m fine.” Dark said, “Now if you don’t mind, I’d like to eat before lunch is over.” He turned his head back to his tray, and away from the other three teens.

With Sour

Sour was sitting alone on the other side of the Cafeteria with her head down. “Ugh I still can’t get over this.” Sour thought as she kept thinking back to class this morning. She felt as if she was in another world the whole day and she really didn’t like it one bit.

“Hey Sour.” A voice called.

She looked up and saw Sunny walking over to her table, “Hey Sunny.”

Sunny then sat next to Sour and gave her a somewhat worried look. “Indigo told me what happened this morning, are you ok?”

“I’m fine, Sunny. Nothing important.” Sour said. But really, she was in confusion, “Why did he stop? We should have kept fighting.”

Sunny knew something was wrong and she also knew Sour very well. She knew Sour was both a bad liar and very stubborn, so getting anything out of Sour was going to be difficult.

“Sour, something’s bothering you and I want to know what. You know you can tell me anything dear.” Sunny said putting a hand on Sour’s shoulder.

“Right, if I told you everything, i’m sure i’d have to stop being your friend.” Sour snarked.

Sunny gave her friend a slight glare. “Sour.” Sunny said in a stern tone.

Sour growled in annoyance and sighed, “Fine. It’s… Dark.”

Sunny’s eyes widened for a few seconds before she narrowed them. “I knew it! I knew that creep had something to do with this! Tell me what he did so I can kill him for it.” Sunny said angrily.

Sour shot Sunny a glare, “He didn’t do anything!” She said slamming her hands on the table.

“Then what does he have to do with anything?” Sunny asked in a confused tone.

“He just… just… ARG!” Sour screamed in anger clutching her head.

“That only makes me think he did something stupid...which wouldn’t surprise me.” Sunny said.

“Would you just leave him be! He doesn’t do everything bad!” Sour yelled directly at the girl.

Sunny was taken aback by what Sour said. “Since when did you care what we said about him?” Sunny asked even more confused now.

Sour realized what she had said and her face turned bright red.

Sunny saw this and she raised an eyebrow. “You ok dear?”

Sour put both her hands on her head and she shook her head. “No...no I’m not.” She said.

Now Sunny was even more worried. “Sour please, just tell me what’s wrong.” She pleaded.

“I...I don’t know.” Sour said looking down.

“What do you mean you don’t know?” Sunny asked.

Sour looked at Sunny and took a deep breath. “Look I’m going to tell you what happened to me over the weekend and you are not allowed to tell anyone. Promise me you won’t tell anyone.” Sour said giving her friend a serious look.

“You have my word.” Sunny said.

“Alright.” Sour then took another deep breath and began talking about her eventful weekend with Dark, but she made sure to keep out things such as her mother teasing her and Dark and the two falling on top of each other. Sunny listen intentivly and a few of the things Sour had told her were….surprising to say the least.

“You hanging out with Wondercolts!? You know that's forbidden right?” Sunny said sternly.

“Yes, and I don’t know why I did it.” Sour said, “You can’t tell anyone.”

“I told you, you have my word that I won’t say anything.” Sunny said putting a hand on Sour’s shoulder.

“Thanks Sunny. I knew I could trust you.” Sour said smiling at her friend.

“I know what we can do to cheer you up.” Sunny said.

“Oh? And what might that be?” Sour asked.

“Shopping after school. I’ve been meaning to go clothes shopping for a while.” Sunny said, “It’ll be fun.”

Sour smiled and rolled her eyes, “Sigh, alright might as well. Don’t have anything else to do.”

“Great. I’ll see you after school.” Sunny said, “Meet me in the front by the gates.”

“Kay, see you later.” Sour said waving as her friend walked off.

After School with Dark

Dark opened the doors and walked out into the front court of Crystal Prep, “Thank Faust I’m out of that hell hole.” He said before looking around for Lilac. “She must be with Thunderlane.” He said taking out his phone and headphones.

“I guess I’ll wait for her here.” Dark said putting his headphones in and putting one of his favorite song on ‘Escape from the City’ from Sonic Adventure 2. He walked over to a nearby tree and sat down underneath it.

As Dark is listening to his music, the doors open from behind him and Sour walks out. She pulls out her headphones and was about to plug them in, when she hears one of her favorite songs already playing, “Huh? Who’s playing ‘Escape from the City’?”

“Must keep on movin' ahead. No time for guessin', follow my plan instead. Trusting in what you can't see. Take my lead, I'll set you free.”

Sour looked around for a bit and saw the source of the music was coming from once again the last person she wanted to see. “HIM!?” She screamed in her head. Sour saw Dark sitting under a tree with his eyes closed and his arms crossed.

“H-He’s a Sonic fan?” Sour thought as she looked at Dark in shock, “How much in common do we have?” She asked herself looking at her phone, seeing the playlist titled Sonic.

Before she could ask any other questions, the doors to the school opened revealing Lilac and Thunderlane. “You sure you don’t wanna come to the arcade with me, Lone and Eclipse?” Thunderlane asked.

“Sorry, I promised my mom and it very beneficial to my health that I keep that promise.” Lilac said. Thunderlan raised an eyebrow.

“What do you mean?” He asked.

“I mean my mom will literally kill me if I ever broke a promise I made to her. I did once and...and-” “She’s being over dramatic, mom only took away her writing journal for a month.” Thunderlane and Lilac looked to see Dark walking over while putting his headphones away.

“I’m not being dramatic, that was the worst month of my life.” Lilac said pouting. Dark just rolled his eyes, but as he did he caught the sight of Sour Sweet.

“Huh? What are you doing here?” Dark asked crossing his arms, “Having you been snooping on me?”

“What!? I would never do such a thing.” Sour said glaring at the boy’s accusation.

“Then what were you doing standing there?” Dark asked.

“I… I heard your music.” Sour said.

“So? You heard my music and just decided to stand there?” Dark asked getting annoyed by the girl.

“I just didn’t think you listened to Sonic music… Like me.” Sour said showing her playlist.

“Aw how cute. You two have even more in common.” Lilac said smirking.

“Shut up!” Dark and Sour shouted.

“I hear wedding bells!” Lilac said still teasing the two.

“Stop it!” Sour said fuming, “I’ve had enough of my mother teasing me! I don’t need you helping her!”

“Wait what? Your mother teases you too?” Dark asked.

“Oh god don’t tell me…” Sour said, her eyes worried.

“Our mom teases him a bit. But I’m the one who does it the most.” Lilac said smiling.

“And I’m gonna take your journal if you don’t stop.” Dark said looking at his sister’s bag.

“I know who can be the flower girl!” Lilac said turning around and running out the courtyard.

“I said stop! Get back here!” Dark said running after her.

As the two ran out the gates, they ran right past Sunny Flare. “Whoa. Seriously! I’m walking here.” Sunny shouted at the siblings.

“Sorry! But I need to get ready for my brother’s big day!” Lilac shouted back.

“Lilac!” Dark yelled chasing after his sister.

Sunny looked at the two as they ran off, “I still don't see how they’re siblings.”

“Really because I see it everyday.” Sunny turned to see Thunderlane with a smile on his face and Sour standing next to him.

“Who asked you?” Sunny asked giving Thunderlane an annoyed expression.

“Um…No one did. I just thought…” Thunderlane began.

“Well you thought wrong.” Sunny said. She looked over at Sour and saw her face was slightly red, “Sour, are you ok? Your face is all red.”

“W-What? I don't know what you’re talking about.” Sour quickly said turning her face away from Sunny.

“Meh, whatever. C’mon, I want to get to our shopping right away.” Sunny said grabbing Sour’s hand and pulling her along.

“Whoa, easy Sunny.” Sour said standing upright and regaining her balance, “We have all day you know, no need to rush.”

“I know, but who wants to wait? I want to spend some quality time with my friend.” Sunny said looking back at her friend smiling, “Now come on.” She said pulling Sour.

“Alright alright, I’m coming.” Sour said following behind Sunny.

With Dark and Lilac

“Give me back my book, Dark!” Lilac said as she tried reaching for her journal in Dark’s hand. He had the book in one hand, while his other hand was on Lilac’s face, keeping her away from it.

“Only when you stop teasing me and start minding your own business.” Dark said, “You’re starting to get on my nerve.”

“But I’m your little sister, I supposed to be annoying to you.” Lilac said making a swipe for her journal, only to miss.

“How about I read what you have written in here, out loud for the whole street to read?” Dark said, “How would that make you feel?”

Lilac’s eyes widened, “No no no, don’t do that! I only do it cause I’m trying to have fun with you.”

“Well its not funny! Start leaving me alone!” Dark yelled in an angered tone, “I have enough problems in my life! I don’t need you adding to it!”

Lilac gasped and stepped back in shock.

Dark realised what he said and stopped in place, “What is going on with me? Why am I lashing out at my family like this?” He looked back at Lilac and held out her journal, “I-I’m sorry Lilac. I didn’t mean to…” But he was cut off when Lilac hugged him.

“Its ok, I understand.” Lilac said calmly, “You been having a rough day.”

Dark hugged his little sister and smiled, “I’m one of the luckiest brothers on the planet. I couldn’t ask for a better sister than you.”

“I know, I’m the best around.” Lilac said smiling brightly.

Dark smirked and ruffled Lilac’s hair, “You’re not too bad. Now come on, we need to get mom’s dress.”

“How many times do I have to tell you not to mess up my hair.” Lilac said straightening her hair out.

Dark chuckled, “You can tell me a million times, and I won’t remember anyways.”

“I know.” Lilac said punching her brother in the shoulder.

Location: Carousel Boutique
With Sour and Sunny

Sour and Sunny were both walking up to the clothing store and Sour was surprisingly quiet. “Are you alright dear?” Sunny asked.

Sour snapped back into reality and looked at her friend with a faint smile, “Uh yeah. I-I’m fine.”

“You’ve been awfully very quiet since we left the school.” Sunny said, “Is something bothering you dear? Or rather someone?”

Sour cheeks burned a small bit, but she quickly shook her head, “No. No one and nothing is bothering me. I’m fine.”

Sunny wasn’t convinced, but she knew not to press things with Sour. “Alright, but if you need to talk-” “I know, thanks Sunny.” Sour said looking down.

The two walked into the store, the door hitting a bell upon opening.

“I’ll be right with you in a second.” A voice called from the back room. After a few seconds, a girl with violet hair walked out of the back room. “Hello dearies, welcome to the Carousel Boutique. My name is Rarity, how may I help you?” The girl now know as Rarity asked.

“We’re just looking for now.” Sunny said waving Rarity off.

“Ok then, just let me know if you need anything.” Rarity said as she was stitching another dress up, walking back into the back rooms, “Clyde, where are you? I need you to help me put these dresses on the racks.”

The two girls went off to look at the dresses, neither noticing two people walking into the store.

Dark and Lilac walked up to the front counter.

As they were waiting for Rarity, Lilac couldn’t help but marvel at the dresses on the store, “Wow, I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many beautiful dresses in all my life.” She stopped at a mannequin with a violet sundress with white trimming and a white sunhat on its head, “Oh wow. Dark what do you think of this one?”

Dark turned and saw the dress, “Hmm… I don't know. Depends on the occasion.”

“Let’s say, a date with someone.” Lilac said putting her hands behind her back, swaying back and forth.

“Let me guess. You’ve got a date with Thunderlane?” Dark asked crossing his arms.

“Maybe, maybe not.” Lilac said smiling.

Dark raised an eyebrow.

“Ok fine. Yes I’ve got a date with Thunderlane coming soon, and I want to look nice.” Lilac said standing right next to the mannequin, posing the same way, “So, what do you think? Would it look nice?”

“Hmm… I say the dress would make you look cute.” Dark said, “But you honestly don’t need a dress to look nice. My little sister is perfect the way she is.”

“Aw, how sweet of you.” Lilac said walking over to her brother and giving him a hug.

Dark smiled and patted her head.

“Good afternoon darlings. Welcome to Carousel Boutique. My name is Rarity.” Rarity said, “Is there something I can help you with?”

“Hi Rarity, I’m Lilac, and this is my brother Dark. We’re here to pick up a dress for our mother.” Lilac said, “Its probably under the name, Midnight or Steele.”

“I’ll check in the back for it, feel free to look around the store while you wait.” Rarity said walking to the back rooms.

Dark reached into his pocket and was about to plug his headphones in, when Lilac pulled him off further into the store, “What are you doing?” He groaned slightly annoyed.

“I want to try on some dresses.” Lilac said, “And I want your opinion.”

“You know you’re just going to get the same answer as the last dress, right?” Dark said as Lilac stopped him in front of the changing rooms.

“Oh well, maybe I could change your mind.” Lilac said as she walked off to pick some dresses.

“Highly unlikely.” Dark said crossing his arms and plugging his headphones in.

On the other side of the store, Sunny and Sour were looking at the various dresses that were on display.

Sunny stopped and saw mannequin with a particular dress, “Oh my gosh, Sour come look at this dress.”

Sour walked over and looked at the dress. It looked like a disco outfit made for the modern day, it had a golden top with a pink corset at the waist and a silver skirt that looked like a discoball. “Hmm… Its a rather nice looking dress.”

“It would look perfect on you! You should try it on.” Sunny said pulling a copy of the dress on the racks and handing it to Sour, “Now go try it on.” She said pushing her towards into one of the changing rooms.

“Ok ok I’m going.” Sour said walking into the changing room.

“Come find me once you’ve got it on.” Sunny said, “I’m gonna go look at some other dresses.”

“Wait, Sunny, don’t leave me here.” Sour said through the door. Too late though. Sunny was already gone. She turned to the mirror and held the dress up to her, “Hmm… It doesn’t look to bad actually.”

She changed into the dress, leaving her other clothes hanging in the changing room. She put on the earrings and looked in the mirror one last time.

She opened the door and walked out, “Sunny? Where are you?”

Sunny didn’t respond back.

“Oh come on. Seriously?” Sour said as she walked around the store looking for her friend.

While Sour was walking around the store, Dark was giving his opinion on the dresses Lilac tried on.

Lilac walked out wearing a red knee high long sleeve dress with golden marks and lines along the chest area and both the sleeves. “Well? What do you think?” She asked striking a pose.

Unknown to the two, a boy with darkish grey skin and spiky black hair saw the siblings. He saw Lilac and his jaw hit the floor, ‘Whoa, she’s beautiful.’

Rarity saw him staring at Lilac and walked over to him, standing between him and the girl, "Ahem. What are you staring at, Clyde sweetie?" She asked with a smile on her face.

Clyde quickly snapped back into reality and shook his head, "Uh nothing, boo, nothing at all. Ehehe."

Dark looked at the dress and sighed, “It looks nice.” he said with a bland look on his face.

Lilac sighed, “Is that all you’re going to say about each of these dresses?”

“I told you I would most likely give you the same reason every time.” Dark said, “You don’t need a dress to look pretty. If you just be you, you’re the prettiest you can be.”

Lilac smiled as her cheeks burned red, “People are wrong about you, you know. You’re not a bad kind of person, you’re a kind heart kind of person.”

“I try my best.” Dark said smiling, “Now hurry up, mom’s dress will probably be ready for us to pick up by now.”

Lilac walked back into the changing room, closing the door behind her.

Dark turned around to head towards the front counter, when he bumped into someone, “Whoa.” He reached forward and caught the person.

“Would you watch where you’re…” A familiar voice spoke.

Dark had caught Sour Sweet in his arms, both their faces had turned bright red.

“D-Dark?” Sour stuttered, “W-what are you doing here?”

“I could ask you the same thing.” Dark asked.

“I asked first!” Sour said glaring at the boy.

“Ladies first!” Dark said glaring back at the girl. Sour opened her mouth, but this time she didn’t have a comeback. Dark saw this and smirked.

“I win.” He said. Sour growled and looked away. Rarity then came out of the back with a white sundress with a single black stripe around the waist.“Mr. Dark I have your mother’s...oh.” She said looking at a Sour and Dark who were still holding onto one another.

Dark and Sour looked over to her and saw the surprised look on her face. “What’s wrong?” Sour asked.

“Oh nothing dear, I just hope I wasn’t interrupting a moment.” Rarity said looking away with a smile. Dark and Sour raised an eyebrow at that.

“What do you-” Dark stopped himself and looked back to Sour, who he was still holding onto. Sour then looked back to Dark and she also noticed that his arms were still wrapped around her. The two began blushing again and they pushed themselves away from each other.

“There is nothing going on between us.” Dark said to Rarity, “You got that?”

“If you say so, dearie, if you say so.” Rarity said, she held out a bag and put Midnight’s dress in it, “Here’s your mother’s dress. I hope its just what she was looking for. Hand stitched it myself.”

“Thank you.” Dark said taking the bag, “C’mon Lilac, I’ve got mom’s dress.”

“No, I’m still trying on a few more dresses.” Lilac called from the changing room.

Dark growled and was about to yell at her, when he stopped himself. He took a deep breath in and out, “Fine. Just hurry up.”

Dark and Sour stood on the spot and were both very silent, until Sour broke the silence.

“Is that dress for your mom?” Sour asked pointing at the bag Dark was holding.

“Yes. Why do you ask?” Dark asked.

“Just a simple question, jeez.” Sour said, “I was just going to say it was a nice dress.”

Dark looked at the dress that Sour was wearing, seeing it actually looked nice on her, “That’s a nice dress you’re wearing.”

“Huh, what this dress?” Sour said looking at her dress. Her cheeks lit up a little, “T-Thanks. My friend wanted me to try it on. She thought it’d look nice on me.”

“Well… she wasn’t wrong.” Dark said, then he realised what he was saying, ‘What the hell am I saying? Am I… complimenting her?’

‘Is he complimenting me? Usually he’d insult me by now.’ Sour thought to herself, “T-Thanks.”

The two just stood there until someone spoke up, “Adorable.”

Rarity and Lilac had been watching the two the entire time.

“Lilac!” Dark yelled, “How long have you been standing there?”

“Long enough.” Lilac said giggling.

“You two would make an adorable couple.” Rarity said.

Both Dark and Sour’s faces lit up bright red, “Shut up!” They both screamed.

“And there’s a better reason, you two think the same way.” Lilac said laughing.

Sour was about ready to beat on the girl, when she heard someone call her name, “Sour? Where are you?”

Sunny came around the corner and saw Sour in the dress, “Oh my gosh, dearie, you look fabulous.” Then she walked around the full corner and saw Dark and Lilac. Stopping in her tracks, she looked at Dark, “You!”

“Me?” Dark asked looking around, only to see Sunny pointing directly at him.

“Yes you! What are you doing here!?” Sunny said walking up to the boy.

“I’m just here to…” Dark began, but was cut off.

“Where you following us?” Sunny asked.

“No, I-” “I knew you were a creep, but this is way beyond what I thought of you.” Sunny said cutting off Dark again.

“If you would just let me-” “Sour’s already got enough on her mind and the last thing she needs is a stalk-”

SMACK!!

“OW!” Sunny yelled holding her head. She then looked over at Sour who was glaring at her.

“Ok three things, One: I don’t need you to speak for me, Two: He and his sister were picking up a dress for their mom and Three: I don’t need you to speak for me!” Sour said.

“Umm, you said the last one twice.” Sunny said taking a step back from her friend.

“I know, I was making myself clear. Am I?” She said in a cold tone.

“Crystal.” Sunny said with a nod.

Dark grabbed Lilac’s hand and started to walk towards the door, “Come on. We should leave.”

“Uh…” Lilac just followed as she was pulled along. She looked back at Rarity and mouthed, ‘Sorry.’

Rarity just nodded and walked into the back rooms of the store.

Dark’s House

Dark was in his room, laying quietly on his bed thinking about what happened at the boutique.

“She had no right. No right, to yell at me like that. Nevermind start pointing her fingers and making accusations like that.” Dark said bawling his fists up.

Then he thought about when Sour stopped Sunny. Why did she stop her though? She could have just let Sunny keep yelling at her until he finally snapped and caused a scene. But she stopped her. Even defended Dark.

…

But why?
> What are these Feelings
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dark and Lilac were on their way to Crystal Prep, however they had to walk this time due to their mom having to leave early. It had become Fall and the weather had drastically become colder.

“Oh, why d-does it always have to be so c-cold in Fall?” Lilac asked, shivering as the cold wind blew across her face.

“Oh stop your whining and get over here.” Dark said holding up his arm. Lilac quickly moved under her brother’s arm, and he wrapped around her to keep her warm.

“So, you excited for the Friendship Games next week?” Lilac asked.

Dark only rolled his eyes, “Oh yeah, I’m so excited to be doing an event that I got forced into doing. Nevermind with someone I don’t want to work with.”

“Oh relax would you. It’s not like you’re going to have to do it again next year.” Lilac said, “You can forget all about these games after they're over, and you and Sour Sweet can forget about each other.”

“Even after the games, I still have one more year to deal with Cinch and Sour.” Dark said, “And if Cinch thinks she can threaten me with my family again, someone is going to get hurt.”

“You are not going to hurt anyone.” Lilac said nudging her brother’s rib.

“If you’re going to be doing that, you can freeze in the cold.” Dark said lifting his arm off Lilac.

“No!” Lilac squealed upon feeling the cold wind blow down her neck. She quickly grabbed his arm and wrapped it back around her.

As the two were walking they spotted two familiar teens, Lone and Eclipse. Lone was the first one to greet them. “Morning you two.”

“Morning, Lone. You’re awfully full of energy this morning.” Lilac said noticing enthusiasm in Lone’s voice.

“That’s because we start the real training for the Friendship Games, since they’re only about a week away.” He said getting pumped.

“Oh yeah I’m so ready.” Dark said sarcastically, “That’s why I’ve been pissed since I’ve come back to this school.”

Eclipse raised an eyebrow at this. “Aren’t you always pissed everytime we see you?”

Dark glared at the boy, “You really just love to push my buttons, don’t you?”

The boy chuckled at him. “Sorry, I sometimes just can’t help it.” Seeing Dark’s glare at him, Eclipse raised his hands a bit. “Ok, I’ll stop.”

“You better boy, or you’ll be in for a world of hurt.” Dark said sternly.

“Let’s not fight, boys.” Lilac said trying to cool the heat between the two.

Lone sighed and placed his hand on Eclipse’s shoulder. “You know, I’m beginning to understand why Dark wants to kick your ass sometimes Eclipse. You’re a nuisance sometimes.”

“Am not!” Eclipse retorted.

“Your record says different.” Dark said smirking.

“Look who’s pushing button now.” Lilac said looking at her brother.

Rubbing his forehead, Lone just shook his head and didn’t say another word. The other three teens continued arguing until they got to the school.

The four had gotten to the school a little early, seeing several students just hanging out on the front lawn.

“I’m gonna go find Thunderlane, I’ll talk to you guys later.” Lilac said running off towards the bunches of students.

“I still don't like that guy.” Dark said watching his sister disappear in the crowd.

“Well clearly you’re ok with him, since you let him date your sister.” Eclipse said. He then saw Dark shoot him a quick annoyed glance, and threw his hands up, “But doesn’t mean you have to like it.”

“Whatever.” Dark said turning around, but was stopped short when he saw two people he was least expecting to see, Sunny Flare and Sour Sweet, both standing in front of him. He was about to let loose on Sunny, but then he noticed she had a small frown on her face, while Sour was standing behind her with her arms crossed, “Uh, can I help you?” He asked.

Sunny stayed quiet, until Sour pushed her shoulder a bit, “I-I would like to apologize… For my behavior during  yesterday’s incident at the boutique.”

“What?” Dark asked in confusion. Since when did any Shadowbolt want to apologize, nevermind to him.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have lashed out at you like that yesterday.” Sunny said, “I had no right to yelled at you and assume all those negative things about you.”

“Uh…” Dark looked back at Lone and Eclipse, who both shook their heads not knowing what he should do, “It’s ok. You were just trying to protect your friend. I happen to know exactly what that’s like.” Dark put his hand on Sunny’s shoulder, “Just try not to take it as far as me. I don’t think Sour could handle two of me.”

“Oh shut up. The only reason I’m doing this is because Sunny stepped out of line, and she needed to correct her mistake.” Sour said giving the boy an annoyed look.

“Uhuh. Well I only hope we can keep it mutual between us during the Games.” Dark said crossing his arms, “Otherwise, we are bound to lose for sure, and we’ll never hear the end of it from Cinch.”

“Oh stop being so negative, Dark. Think positive for once.” Lone said patting him on the back.

“This is me being positive. And I’m positive I’m going to hate these games.” Dark said in an annoyed tone.

“You and me both” Sour said agreeing with the boy.

“C’mon stop being such a stick in the mud you two.” Eclipse said, “Once the games are over, you can forget all about this ever happening.”

“Tch, if only it was that easy.” Dark and Sour said together. Both looked at each other and quickly turned away, faces turning red.

“Its kind of funny how you two say the same things together a lot.” Lone said seeing their faces.

“Oh shut up. You’re starting to sound like this nuisance over here.” Dark said pointing at Eclipse.

“Hey.” Eclipse replied, “I am not a nuisance.”

“You kind of are sometimes.” Sunny said looking up at the sky.

“You’re not helping, Sunny.” Eclipse said.

“Never said I was here to be helpful.” Sunny said smirking.

“Uhg, enough with the arguing! My head is going to explode if I hear anymore arguments.” Dark yelled.

“I think your head will explode from your yelling.” Sour said unplugging her ears, “You can be really annoying when you’re loud.”

“Oh look who’s talking.” Dark said looking at Sour, “You’re the one who likes to yell at anyone who dissatisfies you.”

“Stop stop stop. Nope. We are NOT having you two fighting this early in the morning.” Lone said stepping between the two, “You can fight all you want later today, but for now lets not fight. Ok?”

Dark and Sour glared at each other, then their anger settled down a bit. Both sighed and calmed down, “Fine” They said before separating.

“Those two are hopeless.” Sunny said before walking after Sour.

“She’s right, those two are impossible. I’ll be surprised if they don’t kill each other before the games end.” Eclipse said shaking his head.

“I don’t know why, but I feel like they’ll be alright.” Lone said with a small smile.

Eclipse raised an eyebrow at this. “What do you mean?” He asked. Lone didn’t say anything, he just walked into the school still smiling. Eclipse was even more confused now, but he quickly shrugged it off and followed his friend.

Dark walked through the quiet halls of the school with his hands in his pockets and his usual scowl on his face. “Seriously, why does that girl always feel the need to make me mad.” he said to himself.

“Dark, wait up.” Dark turned around to see Cadance walking up behind him.

“Hey Cady, what’s up?’ He asked.

“Have you see Twilight, Cinch would like to talk to her.” Cadance said rolling her eyes when she said the principal's name.

“What does that witch want with Sparky?” Dark said narrowing his eyes.

Cadance was reluctant, but she told the boy what she knew. “I believe she want Twilight to participate in the friendship games.” She said not looking at Dark.

Dark took a second to register what Cadance just said. Then his eyes widened, “Wait what!? She wants Twilight to compete in the Friendship Games!” Suddenly Dark anger began to boil, “How many more students is she going to drag into this mess of a game!”

“Dark, calm down now.” Cadance said trying to get the boy to tone down.

“Calm down!? How the hell can I calm down, when one of my best friends is about to be put in the Friendship Games!?” Dark said, “And how much do you want to bet that she’s going to use same sort of blackmail just to get her to agree into the games?”

“I don’t doubt it, but Cinch says she could use Twilight’s skills in the Games.” Cadance said. Dark looked at her slightly confused. “As you know, Twilight if a very gifted girl. Her intellect is the reason she wants to go to college early, she feels she’s too smart for high school.” Cadance explained.

Dark balled up his fists and was about ready to punch something, but quickly stopped himself, “I swear if that woman does anything, and I mean anything, that I think goes too far with Twilight, I will destroy her.”

“Don’t worry Dark, I’m sure Cinch won't go too far.” Cadance said trying to reassure the angered boy.

Dark sighed, “Fine. I’ll trust you on this one, Cady. If you’re looking for her, she’s most likely in her private study room. That’s where she is most of her time here.”

“Thank you, Dark.” Cadance said smiling at him. Then she remembered something, “I heard you and Sour Sweet have been getting along better than the beginning of your year. Is this true?”

“Uh… Well… We aren’t fighting as much...But I still don’t think it's a good idea to be partnering us up for the Friendship Games.” Dark said putting his hands in his pockets.

“Well that’s good news to hear.” Cadance said, “But as far as your partnership goes, that’s something I have no control of. Sorry, Dark.”

Dark groaned, “Can’t always have the best of worlds now can we?”

“Unfortunately no.” Cadance said with a frown. She sighed and looked at the clock, “Well, I better go get Twilight, otherwise I’ll hear it from Cinch.”

“Mind if I tag along?” Dark asked. Cadance thought for a minute and sighed.

“Sure, but you have to promise me you’ll keep your temper in check.” She said putting a hand on the young boys shoulder. Dark took a deep breath and nodded. “Good, come on kiddo.” She said with a smile.

“So college early, huh?” Dark asked. Cadance looked to Dark and saw him looking at the ground.

“Yes, she’s very serious about this.” She said. Dark remained quiet and kept walking. Cadance could tell he didn’t want Twilight to leave. “Hey, you act as if she’s moving to the other end on the earth.” She said.

“She might as well be.” Dark said softly.

“Look, I know you care about Twilight like your sister, but just like you did for Lilac you need to let her go at some point.” Cadance said putting her hand on his shoulder.

“What’d you expect Cady? I haven’t seen Twilight for a couple years, and now that I’ve gotten to see her again, she’s moving away again.” Dark said looking at the ground, “One of the few people I can call friend.”

Cadance took a look around and saw that no one was around. She then stopped walking and hugged Dark. “Listen I know things haven’t gone the way you wanted these past few years, but you need to understand that things change and people change. Twilight’s a perfect example of that, she wants to broaden her horizons and she feels can’t do that here.” Cadance explains.

Dark took a deep breath and nodded. “I guess I am being a bit selfish, she’s always been a smarty and wanting to excel in her studies.”

“I know you want her to stay, but this is about what she wants and if you really care about her then you’ll support her in whatever she chooses to do.” Cadance said with a small smile.

Dark sighed, “I suppose you’re right. Besides, once Sparky’s mind is set on something, its usually hard to make her change it.”

Cadance giggled as the two continued walking down the hall. Eventually the two reached the end of the hall, and stood in front of a maintenance closet door.

“Forgot that Twily picked a maintenance closet as her study room.” Dark said looking at the door, “Although I don’t recall why she picked it.”

“Why don’t you ask her?” Cadance said reaching for the doorknob and turning it.

Upon opening the door, a purple and green blur flew through the air and knocked Dark to the ground, “Gah!” He was instantly greeted by a slobbery attack of licks to his face, “Come on, Spike, stop it.”

Cadance giggled at what she was seeing. “And her I thought he was only that affectionate with Twilight.” She said.

Dark picked up the small dog and looked at him. “You’re a pain, you know that?” Dark asked the puppy who answered by licking Dark’s face again.

“Yup he knows.” Cadance said.

“Spike, what are you doing? You know not to- Oh hi.” Twilight said coming out of her room with a weird purple device in her hands.

“Hey Sparky.” Dark said standing up, still hold Spike in his hands, “I see you still can't go anywhere without this little guy.”

Twilight giggled a bit, “Spike hates being left home by himself.”

“Are you sure it's him who hates being by themselves?” Cadance asked.

Twilight turned her head. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.” She said

“Sure you don’t, what are you doing in there anyway?” Dark asked.

“Just working on a special project, what are you both doing here?” Twilight asked before putting the device around her neck.

Candace then stepped forward. “Principal Cinch would like to see you in her office, it’s very important.” She said.

Spike growled hearing the principal's name and Dark smiled. “I feel the exact same way little buddy.” He said.

“Why does Principal Cinch want to see me?” Twilight asked slightly confused.

“Nothing good. As usual.” Dark said crossing his arms.

“Oooh maybe she’s got back about my application to Everton.” Twilight said smiling.

“Everton?” Dark said raising an eyebrow.

“Its an independent study program where I can focus my studies on whatever I want!” Twilight said smiling brightly.

“So its college… by yourself.” Dark said, a frown formed on his face.

“Yes!” Twilight said turning around. Then she saw Dark’s expression, “Is something wrong?”

Dark shook his head and wiped the frown off his face, “No no. I’m proud of you, Sparks. Focusing on what you want is what's important, right?”

“Right!” Twilight said with a smile. Though she knew Dark wasn’t speaking his true thoughts, but decided to let it slide for now.

“Come on Twilight, Principal Cinch is waiting for you in her office.” Cadance said.

“Ok just let me grab a few things.” Twilight said placing a small stack of papers on her desk. She hung the strange device on a hook above her desk.

The three walked out the door, only to see Spike try to follow behind, “Uh uh, Spike, you know Principal Cinch is highly allergic to dog hair. Plus you’re technically not supposed to be on the school grounds.”

Spike stopped and began to whine.

“I know, I wish I could take you out of the closet, but unless we’re leaving the school, you need to stay hidden.” Twilight said patting the purple dog’s head.

“If it was me, I’d bring you along every time I went to that office.” Dark said, “Maybe Cinch would learn something then.”

“And you’d probably get yourself expelled, again.” Twilight said frowning at the idea of using her dog as a tool against Cinch.

“C’mon now, in you go.” Twilight put Spike back in the office and shut the door, but not before letting Spike give her a lick on the cheek. “Love you too.” She said before closing the door.

“I still think we should bring him with us.” Dark said with a small smirk.

“NO!” Cadance and Twilight yelled. Dark flinched and put his hands up defensively.

“Ok, ok!” He said, ‘Maybe I should get myself a dog and bring it into her office.’

“Alright, come on now, we’ve kept Cinch waiting long enough.” Cadance said. “Dark you should get going, classes start soon.” She said.

“Dark just rolled his eyes and nodded. “Fine.” Dark then whispers to Twilight. “If She does anything to you, tell me.” “ He said.

Twilight nodded and she and Cadance began walking to Cinch’s office. Dark then heard Spike whimpering before the door.

“Yea, I don't like this either, little guy.” He said before walking off to his class, “Not one bit.”

Time Skip: Lunch

As usual, the cafeteria was one of the loudest rooms in the entire school. Students wouldn’t stop talking back and forth.

And it was starting to annoy Dark to crazy, “Gah sometimes I wish people would just eat their food instead of talk.”

Today Dark was sitting by himself. He could only assume Lilac was with Thunderlane and her friends. Lone and Eclipse were nowhere to be seen.

He sighed and stood up, picking up his tray, walking over to the trash and dumped the food, “I’m not hungry anyways.” He walked out the cafeteria and proceeded to walk down the halls.

He was about to plug in his headphones, when he heard loud grunts of frustration. Curious, he followed the sound to its source, leading to an open set of doors leading to the track field outside.

Dark stepped outside and was standing on the top bleachers. Looking around he saw someone down on the field. He walked down to the bottom of the bleachers for a better view.

Sour Sweet was practicing her archery… However, when Dark looked at the target, he only saw three arrows on the board, none of which were bullseyes. Several other arrows were scattered around the field.

Sour readied an arrow onto her bow, pulling back. But when she let go, instead of going straight, the arrow went at an upward angle, flying past the target.

“ARHG! What gives!” Sour yelled in pure anger. She threw her bow into the air in a fit a rage and as it was descending it landed on her head. “OUCH!” She said holding the top of her head.

Dark watched as Sour fumed with anger, as she kicked her bow off to the side. The bow landed at his feet, “Hmm…”

Sour rubbed her head, “I don't get it. I used to be able to hit that bullseye with three arrows at once. Now I can’t even hit one bullseye.”

“You’re arms are too relaxed.” Sour turned to see Dark walking over to her with her bow in his hand. “You’re also too angry, you need to keep a cool head...well as cool as can get.” He said.

Sour didn’t know if the boy was trying to help her or get her angry. “What do you want Steele?” She asked.

Dark walked over to her put the bow back into her hand and began positioning her arms. Sour began to blush a bit.

“What the hell, let go of-” “I’m trying to help you, don't make me regret it.” Dark said in a neutral tone.

Sour notice the tone in his voice and for once she listened to the boy. “Ok look, you have to stay focused. Take a deep breath and drown out all distractions.” Dark said still holding her arms.

Sour nodded and took a deep breath. “Ok I’m calm.” She said.

Dark nodded and took an arrow from Sour’s quiver. “Now take the arrow and pull it back, don’t let it go yet.” He said.

Sour nodded and did as she was told. Dark took a step back and looked at how she was positioned.

“You're legs are a bit far apart, move your front foot back a bit.” He said. Sour moved her foot back and kept her eyes on the target.

“Good, only one thing left to do” Dark said.

“And what’s that’s?” Sour asked.

“RELEASE!” Dark yelled.

Sour’s instincts kicked in when she heard that word and she fired the arrow. “DON'T SCARE ME LIKE THAT YOU JERK!” Sour yelled turning toward the boy.

“Sour I-”

“SERIOUSLY, I KNEW THIS WAS SOME STUPID PRANK!”

“Sour-”

“I SHOULD HAVE NEVER-” Sour was then cut off by Dark forcibly turning her around and showing her the target that her arrow hit. Sour saw the arrow was right in the middle of the bullseye and her eyes widened.

“I said to keep a cool head Sweet, not go off on me.” Dark said with a smirk.

Sour mumbled something under her breath.

“Sorry, did you say something?” Dark asked.

“T-Thank you.” Sour stuttered, her cheeks flaring up.

Dark was surprised at this, not once did he expect to hear Sour ever thank him for anything, “Um… You’re welcome. I figured I might as well help, since we’re partners in the Games, might wanna get used to it.”

“Y-Yeah. We should probably start getting along better.” Sour said.

The two stood there silently for a few seconds, before Dark spoke up, “How often are you out here practicing?”

“What?” Sour asked confused.

“How often are you out here practicing your archery?” Dark asked the girl.

“Um… Once before school starts, and once after school. Every now and then I come during lunch.” Sour said, “Why do you ask?”

“So I know when I need to head back here so we can practice together.” Dark said, “You don’t mind that I practice too, right?”

“Uh sure.” Sour said.

Just then the bell rang, signalling lunch hour was over.

“Crap, we need to get back to class.” Dark said.

“Right.” Sour said running towards the bleachers.

However, while running up the steps, she miss-steps on one and slips, “Ah!”

“Sour!” Dark shouted running towards the falling girl.

CRASH

“Ow.” The two teens groaned. They opened their eyes, only to see them staring at one another, their faces inches away from each other.

Sour had fallen on top of Dark… Again. Both their faces had turned bright shades of red as they just stared at each other.

“Not again.” Sour said. But when she looked at Dark’s eyes, something strange happened. Her stomach all of a sudden felt lighter, her heart rate began to rise, ‘What is going on? What is this strange feeling?’ She asked herself.

“Uh, Sour? Are you going to get off me by any chance?” Dark said seeing the girl just staring at him.

Sour shook her head and gasped, “I’m so sorry. Are you ok?” She said getting up off the boy.

Dark got up and swept the dust off his pants, “I’m fine, how about you?”

“I am thanks to you.” Sour said. Her face burned red the moment the words left her mouth, ‘What am I saying? I’m not even thinking before I speak!’

“Good. Now come on, we’re going to be late for class.” Dark said walking up the bleacher steps. He stopped when he noticed Sour was still at the bottom of the bleachers, “Are you ok? Did you hit your head or something?”

“N-No its nothing. I’ll be in in a few minutes, I just need to get my gear put away.” Sour said.

“Alright, but I don’t wanna hear it when Mrs. Steele yells at you.” Dark said, then he thought about his words, “Sorry, that just sounds too weird, since she’s my mother.”

Sour giggled a little, shocking herself, ‘Why am I giggling at him?’

“Whatever, just hurry up.” Dark said jogging up the steps.

Sour began picking up her gear, when she thought she heard a small thud come from behind the bleachers. She walked over to see what caused the sound, only to find nothing. She shrugged it off and went back to putting her gear away.

She failed to notice a figure hiding in the shadowed areas of the bleachers, smiling wickedly at the pictures they managed to capture.
> Rumors
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sour’s Dream
Crystal Prep Archery Range

“Focus on the target and stay relaxed.” Dark said watching Sour prepare to fire her arrow.

“I-I know what I’m doing.” Sour stuttered, her arms were quivering. But then she felt a warm touch on her arms, easing them from shaking.

Sour looked behind her and saw Dark was hold her hands, keeping her arms steady, “Just breath.”

They pulled the arrow back, aimed for the target, and let the arrow fly.

Sour watched as the arrow struck the bullseye, “Yes! We did it!” She said turning towards the boy. She then realised they were still holding hands. Her cheeks flared up bright red. The two of them just stared at each other. Until Dark began to slowly move forward.

Their faces were just inches apart, Sour’s heart was racing as her eyes slowly closed.

This is my escape
I'm running through this world
And I'm not looking back

Real World

Sour woke with a start, her heart was beating heavily, sweat dripping down her forehead.

'Cause I know I can go
Where no one's ever gone
And I'm not looking back

Sour looked over at her bedside table and saw her phone. Sunny was calling her, “What could she possibly be calling me this early in the morning for?” She picked up her phone and answered, turning it to speaker, “Hey Sunny, whats up?”

“Where are you? Do you realize what time it is!?” Sunny called from the other end of the line.

Sour looked at her clock and saw it was 7:50 am.

“Shoot! I’m gonna be late for school!” Sour yelled jumping out of bed and running to the bathroom. “MOM!” She yelled.

Sweet Tart was down stairs reading a book and she heard her daughter calling her. “Yes Sweetie!” she answered.

“Why didn’t you wake me up, I have nine minutes to get to school!” Sour said. Sweet Tart looked at the clock and saw that she was right.

“Aren't you old enough to get yourself out of bed, young lady?” She asked.

“MOM!” Sour yelled. Sweet Tart chuckled a bit and stood up.

“Just throw some clothes on and meet me in the car.” She said grabbing her keys.

“I don’t have time for breakfast either!” Sour yelled down the stairs.

“Next time, set an alarm. I’m not always going to be there for you.” Sweet Tart called back.

Sour only growled and opened her closet, grabbing her Crystal Prep uniform. After throwing her outfit on, she quickly ran into the bathroom and grabbed a hairbrush to straighten out her hair, “Gosh this is so going to affect my attendance record poorly.”

She ran out the door, seeing the clock say 7:57, and got into her mom’s car, “C’mon let’s go.”

“I’m not going to speed because you weren’t able to get out of bed on time.” Sweet Tart said.

Sour growled, but so did her stomach. Today was going to be a long day.

Crystal Prep
Time Skip: Beginning of Class

Sweet Tart pulled into the parking lot of CPA. Sour instantly bursts out of the car, running at full sprint, not even saying goodbye to her mother.

“Have a nice day, sweetie.” Sweet Tart called, only to see her daughter disappear into the building. A frown formed on her face, “Your welcome.”

With Sour

Sour looked at the clock and saw she was already five minutes late, “No no no.”

She saw the door to the English room and reached for the handle. But the door opened right before she could grab it and she smashed into the person behind the door, “Gah!”

Sour groaned and shook her head, “Hey, do you mind watching where you’re goi…” But she instantly stopped the moment she realized who she ran into.

“Seriously, are we going through the first day of school again?” Dark said staring at Sour. Sour didn't say anything and kept looking at Dark with a slight blush on her face.

Dark wondered why she wasn’t arguing back. “Hey, you ok?” He asked. Before she could answer, Sour's stomach growls loudly and she blushed even harder. “Skipped Breakfast?” Dark asked.

“I...uh..yes.” Sour said looking down. Dark rolled his eyes and pulled a granola bar out of his pocket.

“Here it’s strawberry. Eat fast, my mom’s starting class soon.” Dark said walking back into the classroom.

Sour took the food and unwrapped it, “T-Thanks.”

“Are you going to continue to sit on the floor, or are you coming in.” Dark said walking into the classroom.

Sour got up and walked into the classroom, eating the granola bar Dark had given her.

Midnight saw Sour walk in, “Ah, Miss Sweet, how nice of you to join us. Please take your seat.”

Sour sat down at her desk and looked up at the clock. 8:15 ‘Damnit. Fifteen minutes late.’

“What kept you?” Sunny asked, leaning over to Sour while Midnight had her back to the class.

“I overslept.” Sour said trying to be as little descriptive as possible.

“You overslept? That's all you’ve got for an excuse?” Sunny asked, “There’s more to it than just that.”

“It’s none of your concern.” Sour said.

“What? Did you stay up all night or something?” Sunny asked.

“I said it was…” Sour began, “You know what, yes, I stayed up all night. End of story.”

Sunny frowned, unconvinced, but decided to drop it when Midnight turned back around. Sour took a deep breath and began reading her text book. She couldn’t really focus on what she was reading though, she just kept thinking about the dream she had.

“What is wrong with me, having a dream like that and about him! Either I’m going crazy or I’m in l-NO! NO! NO! NO! Do not say that word, I already have enough problems and I don’t need some crazy dream making more for me!” Sour thought shaking her head with a huge blush on her face. Sunny looked over and saw that Sour was struggling with something. Sunny wasn’t the only one to notice, Dark also saw Sour shaking her head and was wondering what was wrong with her.

“Hey Sweet, what’s the matter with you?” Dark whispered. Sour looked over to him slightly.

“Nothing...just...nothing.” Sour said looking back at her text book. Now Dark knew something was wrong, he use to pull the same thing with Lilac and his mom.

“I thought we agreed to help each other, just tell me what’s wrong.” Dark said. Sour really didn’t want to explain anything to Dark much less look at him right now. So, she took a deep breath and  did the one thing she could do.

“I SAID IT’S NOTHING, LEAVE ME ALONE!” Sour yelled causing Midnight and the whole class to look at her. Dark continued to look at the girl, but before he could say anything, Midnight stepped in. “Miss Sweet, is there a particular reason for your outburst?”

“Yes, your son won’t leave me alone. I asked him to leave me be, but he keeps pestering me!” Sour said pointing her finger at Dark.

Dark’s face turned shocked, “I was only trying to…” But he was cut off by his mom.

Midnight sighed, “It seems you two need to go see Dean Cadance again.”

“What?! No!” Dark said standing up, “I didn’t do anything wrong this time, I swear.”

“Office, now, Dark!” Midnight said with a stern look, “You too, Miss Sweet.”

Sour quickly realized what she had just done, and looked at Dark, only to get shot a nasty glare.

Suddenly she felt her stomach churn and her chest tighten. She didn’t want Dark to get in trouble, she just wanted to be sent out alone, ‘What have I done?’

Dean Cadance’s Office

Dark and Sour sat in Cadance’s off, neither one talking to the other.

Dark had his arms crossed and a pissed look on his face, while Sour was looking down at her feet with a saddened expression.

The two sat there in silence for a couple minutes, before Sour decided to break the silence, “I’m sorry. I didn’t want you to get into trouble.” She said not looking at him. Dark didn’t bother looking at her and he kept silent.

The silence she was getting from him hurt, but she knew she deserved it. “Dark look I-” “DON’T! Just don’t.” He said cutting her off. Sour flinched a bit and looked down.

“Idiot, Idiot, IDIOT! Why did I do that!?” Sour thought before holding her head.

“I don’t get you. All I was trying to do was figure out what was wrong, so I could help.” Dark said, “And the next thing I know, your back to blaming and pointing fingers at me.”

“I… I…” Sour was lost for words.

“All I wanted to know was what was up with you. You looked like you were troubled.” Dark explained.

She couldn’t tell him about that she had that dream she had, “I wasn’t in the right mindset because I… I had a nightmare last night.” She lied.

Dark gave her a confused look, “So you’re trying to tell me that whole scene, was because of a nightmare you had last night?”

Sour nodded, guilt building up for lying to him.

Dark didn’t believe it for a second, but decided to go with it, “Fine. If you say it was because of a nightmare, then it was because it was a nightmare.”

The door opened and Cadance walked into the room. She saw the two teens and sighed, “You two at it again? I thought we had gotten through all the fighting.”Cadance said before sitting down at her desk.

“We had, but we aren't perfect you know.” Dark said, “Fighting is going to happen a lot.”

“True, but it hasn’t happened in a while and I got worried when you mother called me. Now tell me what happened.” Cadance said.

Sour explained what had happened in the class, while Dark only sat quietly.

“So you had an outburst on Dark because he was bugging you, when you were having a hard time focusing.” Cadance said.

Sour nodded lightly.

“Sounds like Dark was just trying to figure out what was wrong, so he could help you.” Cadance said.

Sour nodded, “I realized that a little too late after my outburst.”

“And have you tried apologizing?” Cadance asked the girl, looking sternly at Dark.

“I did.” Sour said.

“And how did you take it, Dark?” Cadance asked the boy.

Dark tensed up a bit, and looked off to the side of the room.

“Dark?” Cadance called.

“I… Didn’t take it.” Dark said, “I may have just upright shot her down.”

Cadance facepalmed, “Of course you did.” Dark really wanted to say something, but he couldn’t find the words and he looked down. Sour saw this and for some reason she felt even worse. “I..it’s not his fault, I deserved it. I blamed him for something that had nothing to do with him.” Sour said looking down. Cadance and Dark both looked at her in shock.

“Is she sick or something?” Dark thought to himself. Cadance got over her shock and she nodded.

“That maybe so, but-” “But nothing! He didn’t do anything, so if you’re going to punish someone then punish me!” Sour said in a stern tone. Cadance was once again shocked by Sour’s words, as was Dark.

Cadance began to notice something, but wasn’t 100% sure yet, “Well, since you both were honest, I’ll let you two go without penalty.”

“Seriously?” Dark questioned.

“Next time though, you won't be so lucky.” Cadance said pointing between the two of them, “Now off you go, lunch is about to start.”

“Thanks you, Dean Cadance.” Sour said getting up and walking to the door. Dark was about to follow, when Cadance stopped him.

“I need to talk to you about something, Dark.” Cadance said putting a hand on his shoulder.

Dark looked confused but walked back into the office, closing the door behind him.

“What is it Cady?” Dark asked crossing his arms, “Did Lilac or Twilight tell you something they shouldn’t have?”

“What, no.” Cadance said, “Why what do they know, that I do not?”

“Nothing important.” Dark quickly said, “What is it you needed to tell me?”

“Well… I wanted to tell Twilight first, but since you’re here I might as well tell you now.” Cadance said with a smile.

“What is is?” Dark asked. Cadance thought of the best way to say this.

“Let’s just say, you’re going to be an uncle soon.” She said. Dark raised an eyebrow at this for a few seconds until a lightbulb went off in his head.

“Wait Cady….are you-” Cadance nodded at the boy, patting her belly.

Dark just stood there for a few seconds, silently. Then he snapped back into reality, “HOLY SHIT! You’re pregnant!?”

Cadance giggled a bit, “Shhh… Only a few weeks, but yes.”

Dark’s expression quickly turned stern, “Who’s the dad?”

“Shining Armor.” Cadance said.

“You’re kidding me. Him? Of all people, him?” Dark questioned.

“Dark.” Cadance said disapprovingly.

“Just kidding.” Dark said throwing up his hands, “I’m proud for you, Cady.”

Cadance smiled brightly.

With Sour
A Couple Minutes Ago

Sour saw Dark walk back into Dean Cadance’s office, “Wonder what she needs to tell him.” She shrugged it off and continued to walk towards the cafeteria.

As she was walking through the halls, she saw groups of students looking at her, giving her funny looks and occasionally laughing.

‘What’s gotten into everyone?’ Sour asked herself seeing groups of teens snickering at her.

Sour got to her locker and opened it. But when she opened it, she gasped at what she saw. Plastered Stuck to the inside of the door, was a picture of when Dark and Sour had fallen on top of each other yesterday, “W-W-Where did this come from!?” She stammered pulling the picture off her door. She then turned around and saw the students staring or snickering at her. Sours face went completely red, but not from embarrassment. “Who! Took! This! Picture!” Sour screamed.

The students quickly scattered upon her outburst, a few laughing at her as they ran.

“I’m going to destroy whoever took this picture!” Sour screamed slamming her lock shut. She stared at the picture and suddenly remembered the first the accident had happened. During their date… “What!? That wasn’t a date!” She shook her head and crumbled the picture into a ball. She then realized something, “How did those students know about the picture, if it was in her locker the entire time, how did they see it? And how did it get into her locker in the first place?”

Better fear me better run away
Cause this battle's just begun
Enchanted whisper in your evil ear
Can you hear the words I've won... I've won, I've won

Sour looked down and saw her phone ringing, playing Through the Fire, which meant Indigo was calling her. She opened her phone and answered, “What is it Indigo, I’m a little busy at the moment.”

“Come to your homeroom. You might want to come see this.” Indigo said, her voice hinting a small bit of worry.

“Why, what’s wrong?”Sour asked.

“Just...just get over here and make it fast.” Indigo then hung up leaving Sour with a very confused look on her face.

“This can not be good.” Sour said as she began to walk to her homeroom class

English Classroom

Sour entered Midnight’s classroom and she saw her friends standing in front of the chalkboard. “Um..is something wrong?” She asked. Sunny then walked up to her.

“Sour dear, I need you to be honest with us. Are you and that...that rapscallion a… a thing?” She asked in a serious tone. Sour was confused for a minute before realizing what this was about.

“NO! NO! NO! You all saw that stupid picture, didn’t you?” Sour asked.  Indigo then spoke up.

“That and we saw this.” The girls then moved away from the board and Sour saw something that both horrified her and embarrassed her. The board had both hers and Dark’s names in the middle of a big heart. Sour was as red as a tomatoes and this time from embarrassment.

Who….what….why!” Sour had no words for what she was looking at.

“We have no idea who did it, honest Sour.” Lemon said.

Sour remained silent as she continued to stare at the board.

“Dearie, are you ok? You seem awfully calm about this.” Sunny asked with concern.

“You guys said you already knew about the picture, yes?” Sour asked

“Yeah, someone posted it on the school blog.” Sugarcoat said opening up the school’s blog site on her phone. She showed Sour the picture of her and Dark on the ground together.

Her face was now red as a cherry. But no one could tell if it was from embarrassment, or anger towards the blog, “Who posted this picture?”

“We don’t know, the person goes by the username BattleAxe34.” Indigo said looking at the blogger.

“If I find out who this BattleAxe34 is,I’m going to pound him into hell!” Sour said balling her hands into fists.

“But this leads to a bigger question.” Sugarcoat said as the other Shadow Five stood next to her staring at Sour.

“What? What bigger question?” Sour asked in confusion.

“What were you doing with him in the first place?” Sunny asked. Sour then unballed her fist and she looked down.

“Ummm...well...uh...you know how it goes between me and Steele, we were arguing and I fell down the stairs. He tried to stop me from falling, but he ended up falling down with me.” Sour explained hoping that they bought what she was saying.

“Really now? Is that so?” Sunny asked looking at her phone and scrolling through something.

“Yes?” Sour said seeing Sunny scrolling on her phone.

“Thats funny because these other pictures say different, plus what BattleAxe tells.” Sunny said showing a picture of Dark helping Sour aim her bow.

Sour face flared up bright red, ‘How many pictures did this guy get of us?’ She thought to herself, getting worried.

“The post reads and I quote “Two people who supposedly hated one another, come together for this sweet moment. After this young boy helped this ‘Sour’ girl with her Archery, she decided to return the favor, but I didn’t expect her to actually be all over him.” Sunny finished reading the blog and Sour’s face was dark red.

“Its not like that.” Sour said, “The fall was an accident, I swear!”

“That still doesn’t explain what you two were doing together.” Indigo said crossing her arms.

“He just showed up when I was practicing my archery.” Sour said, “He helped me because he saw my aim was very off. And he thought we should start working together since the Games are next week.”

“And what did you think of this idea?” Sunny asked.

“I… Agreed to the idea.” Sour said looking back at the ground.

“What!?” The other Shadow Five shouted in confusion.

“What is wrong with you!? You and the boy working together is next to impossible!” Sunny said, “What did he do to you to make you think that that idea would be a good one?”

“Dark didn’t do anything.” Sour said, “I agreed to this on my own free will.” She then went to a desk to sit down. “We’re both tired of arguing with each other and we decided that enough was enough.” She explained.

“So that’s it, you both are just going to start being nice to each other?” Indigo asked.

“I never said I’d be nice to him, I said I wouldn’t argue with him anymore.” Sour said getting up, “Now if we’re done here, I’m getting hungry and want to get some lunch.”

The other Shadowbolts said nothing as they watched Sour leave the room.

“What happened to our Sour Sweet?” Lemon asked.

With Dark

Dark had just left Cadance’s office and was going to see Twilight to tell her the big news, “Twilight’s gonna be so shocked when she finds out she’s going to be an aunt.”

Dark turned around a corner, when he bumped into someone, knocking them down, “Hey, watch where you’re going.” He said looking at the person he bumped into. It was Lone.

“Easy there, Dark, it’s just me.” Lone said raising his hand in defence.

“Oh, sorry about that Lone, I didn’t see you coming around the corner.” Dark said holding his hand out for Lone.

“It’s fine, it’s not like you can see through walls right?” Lone said as Dark helped him up, “Where are you off to?”

“I’m heading over to Twilight’s office. There’s something important I need to talk to her about.” Dark said.

Lone raised a brow at this, ‘Is he referring to that blog post about him and Sour? Does he know about it and is completely chill?’

Dark noticed this, “Is there something on your mind, Lone?”

Lone quickly snapped back into reality, “What? Oh no, it's nothing important.” ‘I don’t think I want to be on the receiving end when he finds out about the blog.’

Dark wasn’t buying it, “Lone? What are you keeping from me?” He asked crossing his arms.

“N-Nothing.” Lone said, ‘I ain't getting out of this one without a miracle.’

Dark glared at the boy. He was about to persist, when he was interrupted by someone wrapping their arms around him. He looked behind him and saw Twilight was hugging him, “Twilight?”

“Oh I’m so happy for you!” Twilight said, “I knew it would work out between you two!”

Dark was confused, “What are you talking about?”

Twilight let go of Dark and gave him a weird look, “You and Sour. You two are finally getting along together.”

“What!? W-What are you talking about?” Dark asked both confused and worried.

Lone facepalmed, ‘He doesn’t know. Well at least it wasn’t me who told him.’

“Didn’t you see the blog post on the school’s website?” Twilight asked as she pulled up the blog.

“No, I don’t use the school website.” Dark said looking at the post. He read it and instantly froze.

The other two teens just looked at Dark’s blank expression.

“Dark? Are you ok?” Lone asked reaching out to tap his shoulder.

Dark’s hand quickly snatched Lone’s wrist, squeezing tightly.

“Ow, ow ow ow!” Lone gasped trying to get Dark to get go, “Why me?”

“Who is the blogger that posted this?” Dark asked.

Twilight looked at Dark and saw pure anger in his eyes, “Uh it was a user named BattleAxe34. But I don’t know anyone in the school who goes by that username.”

“When I find out who did this, I am going to pound him into hell!” Dark said squeezing Lone’s wrist even harder.

“Gah, can you please stop trying to break my wrist.” Lone whined, “I kinda need it for the games.”

Twilight reached over and placed her hand on Dark’s, causing him to loosen up. “Calm down Dark, why are you mad that people know you and Sour are-” “WE’RE NOT!” Dark screamed. Twilight flinched a bit and took her hand off Dark. Dark noticed what he had done and let go of Lone.

“I...sorry, but me and Sweet are not together and that picture was nothing more than bad timing.” Dark explained calming down a bit.

“Then what about the picture?” Lone asked while nursing his wrist.

“I don't know how, but the person who took that picture was at the right place at the wrong time. Sour fell down some stairs and I cushioned her fall, nothing more nothing less.” Dark explained.

Twilight and Lone looked at one another and then back to Dark. “Well I won't call you a liar, but seeing you with Sour Sweet is a bit strange.” Twilight said.

“True, just good luck trying to get the rest of the school to believe that story.” Lone said.

“Screw the rest of the school, let them believe whatever the hell they want.” Dark said rolling his eyes.

“If that's your plan, then don't go around hurting people because they laugh at you or give you funny looks.” Twilight said.

“Hmph. No guarantees.” Dark said crossing his arms. He turned and walked away from the two teens.

Twilight and Lone shook their heads. “This is going to be a long day.” Lone said.

“When is it not?” Twilight asked watching Dark walk off down the halls.

TimeSkip

To say that the rest of Dark’s day was infuriating would be an understatement. People would either say congratulations, ‘when did you get together?’ or worst of all ‘I saw this coming a mile away’. Dark then outstretched his arms“UGH! Thank Faust the day is over and done with!” Dark quickly noticed that someone else had said those exact same words right next to him. He turned to see Sour Sweet also with her arms stretched out. The pair stared at each other for a minute before pointing at one another.

“THIS IS YOUR FAULT!” They said simultaneously.

“My fault? You’re the one who fell on the stairs, landing on me!” Dark yelled.

“This wouldn’t have happened if you had never showed up in the first place!” Sour screamed in Dark’s face.

As the two were screaming and yelling at each other, other students began to notice them. A couple of them pulled out their phones to take pictures and videos.

“Ever since you came here, my life has been nothing but chaos!” Sour shouted.

“My life was just fine until the day I met you!” Dark yelled poking a finger to Sour’s head.

The two then saw the other students with their phones and instantly shot devilish glares at them, “GET LOST!!!!”

The students instantly gasped and disappeared, leaving dust clouds where they stood.

“Why did you have to ruin my life!?” Sour yelled pushing Dark, causing him to stagger.

“Ruin your life? How about you ruining the lives of other people around you!?” Dark said standing up and pointing at Sour, “You practically yell at everyone, even those who show you any form of kindness!”

“Look who’s talking mister ‘I’ll hurt you if you talk back to me’! You’re just as bad so don’t push this on me!” Sour said pointing back at Dark.

“I’m not pushing this on anyone, I’m just stating the facts.” Dark said crossing his arms.

“Except for the fact that you’re a jerk with anger issues!” Sour said Also crossing their arms.

“You want to talk about issues? Where do I begin with yours?” Dark asked.

“I’m looking at one of them right now and bad enough that I see it not only when I’m awake but when I’m sleeping too! Why do you haunt me wherever I go!?” Sour said Angrily...but she also sounded genuinely confused. Dark eyes widened a bit at her words.

“What are you talking about?” Dark asked. Sour quickly realized what she had said and covered her mouth.

“I...I….I…” Sour knew she couldn’t save herself from this, she wanted to run, but her legs wouldn’t move.

“Hey you two lovebirds. What are you doing?” A voice called.

Dark and Sour turned and saw Lilac walking towards them.

“WE ARE NOT LOVEBIRDS!” They shouted, their cheeks flustering up.

“I told you not to say that Lilac.” Sunny said walking behind Lilac.

“What? I thought it’d be funny.” Lilac said smirking.

“It wasn’t funny.” Dark said, “Whoever posted that blog was lying.”

“So you’re saying they photoshopped that picture?” Lilac asked.

“Well… Um… No. The picture was real.” Dark said in a low grumble.

“Then how do you explain this?” Sunny said taking out her phone and pulling up the picture. Dark and Sour both saw the picture again and Sour spoke up.

“I fell down down stairs and he cushioned my fall, nothing else happened!” Sour said. Lilac and Sunny weren’t buying this for a minute.

“My question is what were you two doing together in the first place?” Sunny asked.

Sour was going to speak up, but Dark beat her to it, “I was helping Sour with her archery. Decided I wasn’t hungry and went for a walk. I saw she was having trouble and I helped her.”

“You helping someone, that’s a first.” Sunny said crossing her arms. Sour didn’t know why, but she felt a pain in her heart after hearing Sunny’s comment and she glared at her.

“Leave him alone Sunny, he may be a jerk at times but that doesn’t mean he’s one all the time!” Sour said defending Dark.

Time seemed to have stopped for a bit as everyone, including Dark, was looking at Sour with wide eyes.

She noticed everyone staring at her, “What? Why are you all staring at me like that?”

“Why are you defending him?” Sunny asked pointing at Dark.

“You two were just bickering back and forth like an old married couple a few minutes ago.” Lilac said, smirking slightly, “Now you’re defending him?”

“I um… I uh.” Sour stammered.

“She doesn’t need to explain.” Dark said, “Her reasons are her own. She doesn’t need to share anything.”

“Now you’re doing it!” Lilac said, “You two are perfect for each other! Fighting each other one second, then the next your defending each other! The perfect couple!”

Dark growled, “Let’s go Lilac. You and I have to have a chat.” He said grabbing Lilac by her collar and dragging her behind him.

“You know I’m right!” Lilac said crossing her arms and puffing up her cheeks.

Sunny and Sour watched as the siblings walked off.

“You know, she’s kind of right.” Sunny teased with a small smirk.

“Shut! Up!” Sour said with a growl. But as she watched them walk away, her chest began to feel light again, "What is going on?'
> The Start Of Something New
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Location: Crystal Prep

Today marked the day everyone had been waiting for: The Friendship Games. The one day Dark was the least excited for.

“Who’s ready for this day to be over?” Dark asked, walking out of the school with Eclipse, Lilac, and Twilight. 

“Are you gonna mope all day?” Lilac asked.

“What did you expect?” Dark asked back. Lilac couldn’t answer because she knew her brother and wouldn’t expect any less or more of him by this point. 

“I'm actually with Dark on this one, I just want to go to the games, see my mom and my sister and go home.” Eclipse said shrugging his shoulders. 

“Oh quit your whining. It’ll be over quicker than you know it.” Lilac said giving her brother a slap on the back.

“Now that you’ve said that, it’ll be even longer.” Dark groaned.

“Who knows, maybe you’ll actually enjoy these games,” Twilight said.

Everyone stopped and looked back at Twilight with the same ‘really’ face.

“What? Anything is possible.” Twilight said, shrugging her shoulders.

“The only thing possible about these games is that they’re going to be boring,” Dark said annoyed

“Agreed.” Eclipse said with a nod. Lilac and Twilight shook their head at their friends.

Dark looked around and quickly realized something, “Hey, how come Lone isn't here?”

“I think he said he was sick or something.” Eclipse said, “I don't think he’ll be coming to the games today.”

“Aw, what a shame,” Lilac said with a small frown.

“Yeah, I heard Sunny Flare wasn't too happy about it either.” Eclipse said.

As the teens were walking towards the buses, Twilight pulled out a strange purple device on a chain and put it around her neck. Lilac saw it and she looked at it in curiosity, “Hey Twi, what's that you’ve got?”

“What this thing? It's just a little device I made last night.” Twilight said showing it to them.

“What’s it for?” Eclipse asked.

“Uh, it's for uh…” Twilight stuttered. Knowing it was really to measure the strange energy reading coming from Canterlot High, she didn’t want to tell anyone else.

“Knowing Twilight, it's probably a device to gather some kind of data during the friendship games.” Dark said walking towards the busses, “I’d have it track how lame and pointless these games are.”

The others just shook their heads and followed Dark onto the bus. Everything seemed fine and dandy until...

“ARE WE GONNA WIN!?” Dark and the others jumped as they saw Indigo Zap chanting the same words over and over again. 

“Who cares!” Dark said harshly. 

“Wrong answer, try again!” Indigo said getting min Dark’s face, “Are, we, gonna, WIN!?”

“You’re about to win a fist to the face if you don't get out of mine!” Dark said pushing Indigo back down into her seat.

“Hey hey, whoa, no need to get violent, Dark.” Eclipse said pulling him back.

“Geez man, all I asked was-” Indigo began.

“And does that require you to yell in my face!?” Dark asked sticking his face into Indigo’s.

Indigo’s expression went from excitement to irritated. She was about to lash back at Dark but was cut off before she could say anything.

“Just because you're not excited for the games, doesn't mean you have to be a jerk about it to everyone else,” Sour said standing up.

Dark was about to argue, but as he balled up his fists, he felt a hand grab his wrist. He looked down and saw Twilight looking up at him and shake her head. He sighed and loosened up.

Everyone went and took a seat on the bus with Dark and Lilac sitting more in the back. Dark looked behind him and saw Twilight sitting down next to Lemon Zest, who was blasting her music through her headphones.

“Dude! You have gotta hear this!” Lemon said pulling her headphones off and putting them on Twilight’s head, causing her to cringe as the music blasted into her ears.

Dark only chuckled as he turned back around. Today was going to be a very interesting day. Very interesting.

Canterlot High School

“Hey wake up sleepy head.” Lilac said shaking her brother.

“Hhng? Wha? What happened?” Dark mumbled half asleep.

“We’re here,” Lilac said pointing out the window.

Dark turned around to see what she was pointing at. He could see a school with a large horse statue. They had arrived at Canterlot High School. He looked at the statue and smirked, “I remember dressing that horse as a clown.”

“Sigh, you always were a troublemaker,” Lilac said shaking her head.

The busses came to a halt and opened the doors. Lilac instantly got up and headed for the front. Dark waited for all the others to pass him before he got up. He was about to get off his seat, but as he got up, he bumped into someone. Something clicked in his head and he reached out and grabbed the person.

“Hey, get your hands… off… me.” Sour said as Dark’s arm wrapped around behind her, catching her fall.

Both Dark and Sour’s faces lit up bright red.

“Uh… Sorry.” Dark said as he stood Sour up right.

“I-It’s ok... I wasn't paying attention.” Sour said. Her stomach was suddenly feeling light as she looked at the boy.

‘Why am I apologizing!?’ Dark thought to himself.

The two of them just stood there, staring at each other, both faces bright red.

“Hey what's taking you so long!?” Lilac called walking back up the bus stairs.

Dark snapped back into reality and quickly turned around, “I’m coming, relax.” He grabbed his bag and moved quickly towards the front, leaving Sour by herself on the bus staring into the empty space where Dark was standing.

‘Why does this always happen when I see him?’ Sour asked herself.

Time Skip, Canterlot High Halls

Eclipse, Lilac and Dark entered the halls of Canterlot High School and were on their way to the gymnasium. As they were walking, Dark had noticed Twilight wasn’t with them, “Hey, where did Twilight go?”

“Oh, she said she had something she needed to check on.” Eclipse said, “Although, it was weird because I thought I saw her staring at that necklace thing of hers.”

“Anyways, what were you doing on the bus with Sour?” Lilac asked.

“Nothing. Absolutely nothing. She stepped in my way, causing me to be held up.” Dark said with a pissed look on his face.

“Your face sure tells that.” Eclipse said smirking at the boy.

“Oh shut up. My face is like this because of them.” Dark said as they turned the corner and saw several CHS students. 

As they walked past them, Dark could hear a few of them whispering.

‘Hey, isn’t that the delinquent student?’ ‘I thought he got transferred to a different school.’ ‘I’ve got a bad feeling about that guy.’ ‘That girl’s kinda cute.’

Dark’s fists balled up as he continued to listen to students whisper about him, but a familiar hand grabbed his. He looked to his left and saw Lilac had a semi-serious look on her face, ‘Where did this side of Lilac come from?’

They continued to walk through the halls until they reached the gymnasium. Upon entering the gym, Dark noticed Lilac was still holding his hand, “Uh… Lilac. Do you mind letting go of my hand?”

“Huh? What?” Lilac said looking down at her hand. She quickly pulled her hand off, “Oh I’m so sorry. I don’t know what came over me.”

“It’s fine,” Dark said, still slightly confused.

“Wow… This sure is a lively bunch of people.” Eclipse said looking at the mass of students within the gym.

Both Crystal Prep and Canterlot High students were standing on separate sides of the gym, neither interacting with the other.

“What were you expecting? A party?” Dark said crossing his arms.

Lilac rolled her eyes and sighed at her brother. She then noticed Twilight and a girl with pink poofy hair pushing two giant gift boxes into the gym, “What the heck?” She said watching the pink girl disappear behind the bleachers and reappeared behind the food table, “How the?” She pulled the sheet and wrapped up the food, pulling it off the table and then replacing it with a large display of cupcakes.

Suddenly the lights went off and a disco ball lit up the room and the music had changed to a more techno-dance type.

“What just happened?” Dark asked confused.

“Uh, I think you just got your party,” Lilac said looking around.

POOF

Suddenly, there was confetti and streamers falling from the ceiling. As the three looked around, they saw students from both schools beginning to dance around and interact with each other.

“Whoa! Whoever threw this party is a genius. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Crystal Prep students interacting with CHS this much.” Eclipse said seeing a few students dancing with each other.

“Well how about we join them?” Lilac said as she started dancing.

“Sorry but I don't- GAH!” Dark began but was quickly cut off by feedback sound of a mic being tapped and the lights flashing back on.

Everyone stopped their dancing and looked up at the stage. Principal Cinch was standing there with her finger tapping on the mic.

“Oh great. This is going to be good.” Dark said sarcastically, glaring at the principal.

“I'd like to thank Principal Celestia for her unconventional welcome. It's been four years since the last Friendship Games, but it feels as though nothing has changed.” Cinch said looking at the two schools separate back to their respective sides, “Canterlot High continues to pick its competitors in a popularity contest, while Crystal Prep continues to field its top students. It is a comfort to know that even after so many years of losses, your school remains committed to its ideals, however misguided they may be. I wish you all the best of luck, regardless of the inevitable outcome.”

“Geez, way to kill the mood. My ears are still ringing.” Lilac said as they walked to the right side of the gym.

With both schools separated to opposite sides of the gym again, various students glaring at the other team. Dark watched as Cinch smiled as she walked off the stage, seeing the negativity between schools, “She’s nothing but a cold-hearted woman. She’ll do anything to see others suffer.”

Time Skip, Parking Lot

After the announcements were finished, the Crystal Prep students left the gym and went back out to the parking lot near their busses, since the games didn’t start for another couple of hours.

Eclipse had disappeared off to somewhere, saying something about seeing his mom and sister; while Lilac had gone off to find Thunderlane. Both of them leaving Dark by himself. He tried looking around for Twilight, but she was nowhere to be found, “Damn… Now, what the heck am I supposed to do?”

Dark decided he was going to go for a walk around the school, “I’ve got nothing better to do.” He said pulling out his headphones and plugging them into his ears.

As Dark was walking alongside the school, he thought back to when he had caught Sour on the bus. Why did he do that? Normally he would have just let her fall to the ground, just like any other person. But something in him had told him he had to catch her. Why though?

He continued to walk and ponder this thought, he looked across the street and saw a couple walking on the sidewalk. They were both smiling at each other and laughing with one another. But the part Dark was looking more at, was the couple holding their hands. He looked down at his own hand and began to wonder, ‘What was it like to hold someone else’s hand like that?’ Something he would probably experience.

He continued to look at his hand, until something behind him tapped his shoulder, “HA!” He yelled quickly turning around and raising a fist. However, he put his fist down upon seeing what had tapped his shoulder. Sour Sweet had a shocked look on her face upon Dark yelling.

“Uh… Hi. Do you always yell and raise a fist when someone tries to get your attention?” Sour asked.

“Only when they come up behind me without saying anything,” Dark said pulling out his earbuds and crossing his arms.

“I tried calling your name, however, you seemed lost in thought staring at your hand and didn’t hear me.” Sour said frowning, “Why were you staring at your hand anyways? Did you cut yourself or something?”

Dark’s face turned a little red, “It was nothing. What do you want? Or are you here to tell me you were stalking me?”

“Hey, I wasn’t stalking you. I just came over to… To say thank you, and I’m sorry for bumping into you on the bus.” Sour said, her face turning a shade of red, “I imagine it was irritating that you had caught me. I was surprised you didn’t just drop me, but I’m grateful you didn’t.”

“Um… you're welcome. And it’s ok, you don't need to apologize, I didn’t mind. As long as you weren’t hurt, is what matters.” Dark said.

“I’m ok thanks to you,” Sour said smiling a bit.

“That’s good to know,” Dark replied.

The two of them just stood there for a few minutes.

“Well, I think I’m going to continue with my walk. See ya.” Dark said turning around and walking away.

“Y-yeah, see ya,” Sour said. Her voice sounded half sad for some reason as she didn’t want him to leave.

Walking back to the parking lot, Sour noticed something sparkling on the ground. She bent down and picked it up. Looking closely, she saw it was a dark blue ring with a cursive D inscribed into it, “This must be Dark’s.” She looked back at the boy and began running over to him, “Hey, I think you dropped th- AHH!” Sour had accidentally tripped and began falling forward.

“What did you…” Dark said turning around only to see Sour fall onto him.

“MHPH!”

Dark and Sour opened their eyes and they were horrified at what they had done.

Their lips were pressed against each other.
> The Friendship Games
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

With Sour and Dark

“MHPH!”

Dark and Sour opened their eyes and they were horrified at what they had done. Their lips were pressed against each other.

It was a solid fifteen seconds and they were still kissing, but suddenly something happened. 

“Mmmmhmmm…” Sour muttered unconsciously closing her eyes and deeping in the kiss. 

Dark’s heart was racing faster and faster as he watched Sour’s eyes closing. “What is she….doing…?” Dark’s mind slowly went blank and he did the same as Sour Sweet and closed his eyes melting into the kiss. However, he quickly snapped back into reality, “WAIT WHAT AM I DOING?!”

Dark quickly shut his eyes and put his hands between his and Sour’s bodies, pushing her off of him, “What the hell do you think… you’re.... Doing?” Dark felt something very soft in his hands, “What is this?” He asked himself while squeezing the object. Upon him squeezing, he heard Sour whimpering. He then realized what his hands were on. Opening his eyes, he saw he had his hands on her chest.

Sour’s eyes were staring at Dark’s hands in both embarrassment and anger, “Ky… KYAAAAA!”

‘Oh shit.’ Dark thought to himself.

SLAP

Sour had slapped Dark across the face, and then quickly jumped off him and covering her chest with her arms, “P-Perv!”

“Ow! That hurt!” Dark said feeling the area that Sour had slapped.

“I hope it did, you just groped me you jerk!” Sour yelled holding her chest.

“I was trying to push you off me, Sweet! Need I remind you that you kissed me and didn’t stop!” Dark yelled back.

“I didn’t see you reject it at first!” She yelled back.

“Because I didn’t want-” Dark stopped himself super quick. Sour’s eyes widened at what he was about to say, he didn’t finish but the sentence he was about to say was clear.

The two of them just stood there in silence, staring at one another.

Dark finally broke the silence, “Why did it look like you were… um… how do I put this… enjoying kissing me?”

Sour’s face light up like a tomato upon him asking the question… but if she was going to be honest.., “It’s because it reminded me of Sparkjump. You kinda reminded me of him and I don't know it just felt right. Not in the way you think though, I mean kissing you felt right- I MEAN No…..I...I..” Sour wanted to be honest but it that honest. She knew she had dug her own grave with that statement.

Dark just blinked and was still trying to process what Sour had just told him, “So wait a second… You kissed me like that… because it made you think of your old boyfriend? And it just… felt right? What does that even mean? You’re not making much sense, Sweet.”

“No I mean you’re different from him but the same, I just felt good kissing you….Wait I didn’t mean for that to come off weird. I just...just...I don’t know!” Sour said holding her head. 

Dark could see that a lot of stress was going through her head. Even though he was confused as all hell… He felt he should do something to help her.

As Sour continued to hold her head, shaking back and forth, she felt a hand touch the top of her head. She opened her eyes and saw Dark rubbing the top of her head, “Why don’t you calm down first?” He said.

Sour took in his words and obeyed. She took a deep breath and looked at the boy in front of her again. “Ok and sorry.” She said. 

“Now then, why don't you start from the beginning.” Dark said. 

“Look I just miss him ok, when he left I felt lonely. Sure I had Sunny and the others, but it still felt lonely. Then you came along and man did you come at bad time. I was already in a bad mood and us bumping into each other didn’t help matters.” Sour explained. 

“I still don’t quite understand though. Surely you kept in contact with Sparkjump? You’re feelings for him never changed… right?” Dark asked.

“It’s not that simple….actually it is. When he left we both decided to...end things. We both knew long distance never really ends well so we both decided it was for the best. That didn't stop me from hurting.” Sour said in a sad tone. Tears formed in her eyes.

Dark began to understand what Sour was going through, and he began to feel bad for her. He looked around to see if anyone was watching. After seeing no one, he took a deep breath and pulled Sour into a hug.

This shocked the bipolar child, but she eventually sniffled and the tears began to run down her cheeks, ‘What’s going on? Have I… Have I actually fallen for him?’ 

Snap

Dark stood up immediately and looked in the direction of the sound, which happened to be a bush. He glared at the bush and saw it rustle a bit. He walked over to the bush and reached in, grabbing hold of someone’s collar, “Well well, who do we have here?” Dark said pulling up the person he grabbed.

“Gah! Easy on the collar dude!” Neon Lights said as Dark hoisted him up.

Sour quickly rubbed away the tears, “Neon Lights? W-What were you doing in that bush?”

“Uh… Nothing, ehehehe.” Neon said chuckling nervously as Dark glared at him.

“Why do I not believe you?” Dark said putting his face up to Neon’s.

Neon face began sweating, “H-Hey now come on. Take it easy man.” Neon said putting his hands up. Then Dark noticed Neon had a camera hanging from his neck. He grabbed it and threw Neon to the ground, “W-Wait! Don’t look at those pictures!”

Dark turned the camera on and looked at the latest picture taken. It was a picture of him hugging a crying Sour Sweet. Anger began to boil within him. He then looked at previous photos, and found a lot of pictures of him and Sour during embarrassing moments, “So, let me guess. You’re BattleAxe34?”

“Wait what? You’re the guy who’s been posting those photos on us?!” Sour said, her anger fuming up. Her fists balled up as she stormed over to the two boys, “You’ve got some nerve, YOU SICK MOTHER…” Sour went to throw a punch, but someone caught her fist just before it connected with Neon’s face.

“Sour, don’t do something you’re going to regret.” Dark said, one hand holding back Sour’s fist.

“Why are YOU of all people stopping me?” Sour said glaring at Dark, “He humiliated the both of us!”

“That is true. But if you follow through with beating him, you’re no better than he is.” Dark said.

Sour was going to protest, but she realized he was right. She lowered her fist and backed off. She then walked off around the corner of the school in a huff.

Dark gently put Neon down on the ground, “Whew for a second there I thought you were going to let her- gack!” Dark pushed Neon again the wall with his arm against his throat, “Dude what gives?!”

“If I ever see or hear of you doing something like that ever again…” Dark put his mouth close to Neon’s ear and whispered, “I’ll end you. Do you get me?”

Neon quickly nodded. Dark released him from against the wall and watched as the boy scrambled to get away. He looked at the camera and threw it at the wall, shattering it to pieces. After standing there for a few minutes, Dark walked back inside.

Time Skip
Event 1: Academic Decathlon
(Play - Sonic Unleashed: Spagonia - Rooftop Run Day)

“All students competing in the Friendship Games please report to main lobby, the first event is about to begin.”

“Oh great, here we go.” Dark groaned as students began walking through the halls towards the school entrance.

“Oh relax, this is the easiest part of the Games.” Lilac said patting Dark on the back.

“Easy for you to say, you’re not competing.” Eclipse said.

As students gathered in the main lobby, the two schools’ representatives walked up and stood on opposite sides of the room. Lilac walked off with the students who weren’t competing, “Good luck.”

“Welcome to the first event, the Academic Decathlon!” Cadance said with a bright smile, “In this event, your teams will be scored on Chemistry, Science, Home Ec, and everything in between.”

“Lovely, some of my least favorite subjects.” Dark groaned. He felt a hand on his shoulder and looked behind him to see Twilight smile at him.

“But remember, only the top six students will move onto the next event.” Cadance announced, “And without further ado, let the Friendship Games BEGIN!”

Decathlon Event: Carpentry

Everyone was gathered outside where several building supplies were set up, ranging from several wood planks, to power tools laid out on benches.

Principal Cinch stood between the two teams and cleared her throat, “Ahem, you’re first task is to build three objects. A simple bird house that will be judged on structure and strength. A functioning bow and arrow that will be tested. And lastly, a wooden statue of your group’s choosing.”

“You have two hours to construct these these tasks. You may only use the tools and supplies that we have provided you with.” Principal Celestia said pointing at the supplies that was laid out.

“If both teams are ready.” Cadance said holding up an air horn and blaring it.

“No!” Dark said.

“Dark!” Twilight and Cadance said with a small glare.

“Fine!” The boy said crossing his arms.

“You may begin!” Cadance said sounding the horn.

“Alright let’s get this over with.” Dark said putting on a pair of goggles.

“At least it’s something you know.” Twilight said doing the same.

“He does?” Sunny asked in small surprise. 

“It may not be his profession, but he’s actually a good Archer. I mean, he’s not on my cousin’s level but-”

“Can we just work please?’ Dark asked cutting Twilight off.

“Well someone’s in a hurry.” Sunny said putting on a pair of Gloves. 

“I just want to get this day over with and the faster we finish, the faster Cinch gets her stupid award.” Dark said as he began working on the bow. 

“Fine then, Twilight help me make the arrows, Sour help the grump.” Twilight nodded and followed Sunny leaving Dark and Sour alone.

Both of them just stared at each other for a minute, then quickly snapped back into reality, “We should probably get started.”

“Yeah we should.” Sour said walking over to the wood piles. She picked up one of the longer planks and brought it over to the work bench.

As the two continued working on the bow in silence, Sour looked around and saw Sunny and Twilight were still making the arrows. She decided to start up a conversation, “So Dark… Did you notice that Neon… I mean BattleAxe took down his blog post from the school’s web page? He even told everyone that the photos were fake.”

“Really now? Is that so?” Dark said smirking proudly, “That's good to hear

“You wouldn’t have to do anything with that would you?” Sour asked as she snipped off a length of string.

“Maybe. I mean I may have made the guy wet his pants a bit.” Dark said chuckling, “Oh and I destroyed his camera. So none of his recent pictures ever made it onto the blog.”

“You don’t suppose he saw us… um…” Sour struggled to say it, “K-Kiss?”

Snap

“OW!” Dark yelled, causing Sour to squeal and snap the string she was strength testing. She looked back and saw the bow frame had snapped, and Dark was holding his hand, “Are you ok?”

“Gah, yeah I’m fine. Just get back to work.” Dark said looking down at his hand. A nice big gash had been cut across the palm of his hand.

“Dark you’re not ok! Your hand has been cut open.” Sour said dropping her equipment and rushing over to him.

“Sour it’s fine, seriously nothing to worry about. We need to get this bow done now.” Dark said trying to grab another piece of wood. But Sour stopped him, “No we need to get that cut patched up. Otherwise we’ll get nothing done.”

“Sour seriously I’m fi…” “Stop arguing with me and move!” Sour yelled pulling the stubborn boy with her. From there Dark just shut his mouth.

Sunny watched as her friend pulled Dark with her off to the side, “Strange, since when did Sour care when someone else got injured?” She got up and started to follow the two.

“Sunny, where are you going?” Twilight asked.

“Even a lady like me needs to use the bathroom, deary. I’ll be right back.” Sunny said leaving the girl without another word.

“Well that was weird.” Twilight said in confusion.

Sour pulled Dark all the way around the building to the busses, “Do you mind telling me what it is you’re doing?”

“You’ve cut your hand. It needs to be cleaned and wrapped up. I have peroxide, a clean rag, and medical tape in my bag.” Sour said as they walked to the busses. When they got to the busses, Sour stopped Dark in front of the bus and had him sit down on the curb. Sour ran onto the bus.

As Dark sat down waiting for Sour, he began pondering his thoughts, “Why is she doing this for me? Since when has anyone, aside from mom and Lilac, ever cared about me?” 

Sour came off the bus carrying a small bottle peroxide in one hand, a dry clean rag in the other, and a roll of medical tape dangling from between her teeth. Dark’s eyes widened at the girl’s efforts to get his wound patched up.

As she was running over, her foot got caught on something and she began to fall over, “Ah!” She closed her eyes and prepared to hit the assfault. But she never hit anything. Instead she felt someone’s hands catch her. She opened her eyes and saw Dark holding her with his good hand. Her cheeks flared up red, “Th-Thanks.”

“You can thank me by standing up. Can’t exactly hold you with one hand, and I don't want to bloody up your shirt.” Dark said struggling to keep the girl from falling.

Sour stood herself up and picked up her stuff, “Come on now, sit down and let me see your hand.”

Dark sighed and sat down reluctantly. He gave his hand to Sour. When she grabbed his hand he was surprised when her hands felt very soft.

“This is probably going to sting.” Sour said holding the peroxide bottle over his wound. She tipped the bottle and liquid trickled out of the bottle and onto Dark’s wound. 

Dark winced in pain as the liquid cleaned out his wound, “Ow!”

“Oh, don’t be such a baby.” Sour said as she put down the bottle and grabbed her rag. She dabbed at the wound gently so not to put too much pressure on the injury. After the injury was dried, she grabbed the medical tape and began wrapping it around his hand.

“Thanks Sweet.” Dark said as she wrapped his hand.

Upon him calling her Sweet, Sour’s heart skipped a beat and her stomach got light all of a sudden, ‘What the heck? Why did I just feel weird for a second there?’

“Uh, no problem, how’s it feel?” She asked as she putting slight pressure on his hand. 

“A bit sore but it feels…..better.” He said truthfully.

“That’s good, I’m glad.” Sour said with a genuine smile on her face. Dark thought he was seeing things, sure Sour smiled before but they seemed more fake if anything. This smile was real, it was bright, it was….

“Cute.” Dark said unconsciously. Sour’s eyes widened a bit and her smile got brighter. The two were looking at each other for a whole and some strange thoughts began to fill their heads.

“What is with this girl, why is she so….cute. NO NO She’s not cute, this is Sour Sweet! She’s mean, she’s cruel, she wicked, she’s…..fragile, kind when she wants to be and she is….”

“Please no, please no! Stop smiling you idiot, it’ll only be a matter of time before he insults you again. ‘Why are smiling like an idiot for.’ ‘What’s with that stupid look’ UGH! It would be just like him to...to…...oh my god! I am falling for him, I don’t know why but I am.” 

Sour and Dark didn’t realize it, but they were still holding hands only now they had a tighter grip on one another. With warning the two began closing the distance between one another, it seemed what happened earlier was about to happen again only on purpose this time. Their lips were only couple of inches away from meeting...but….

“Sour!?”

Both Sour and Dark’s eyes widened as they snapped back into reality. They looked over to the voice and saw Sunny Flare staring at them, her expression showing both shock and confusion.

“Sunny! I-It’s not what it looks like!” Sour said in a panic.

Sunny didn’t reply, she just stared at the two.

Dark shook his head and took a deep breath. He put on his normal scowl face and looked at Sour, “Thanks for patching up my hand, but I think we should get back to the games.” He then walked off back to the main competition area.

Sour just watched in disbelief as he walked off, like as if nothing happened.

Sunny ran over to her friend and was about to say something, but she stopped herself when she saw something she wasn’t expecting. Tears streaming down Sour’s face, “Sour?”

Sour wiped her eyes and got up, “Come on. We’ve got a competition to win.” She then walked back around the building and back to the main area.

“What’s happening to you, Sour Sweet?” Sunny asked as she watched her best friend walk away.

Time Skip

As the decathlon came to an end, the Principals looked at the scores of each student.

“And now, the students that will be moving on to the semi-finals of the Friendship Games: Canterlot High students are Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Sunset Shimmer.” Vice Principal Luna announced.

Canterlot High students cheered loudly as the six girls waved.

“And representing Crystal Prep Academy; Sunny Flare, Sugarcoat, Lemon Zest, Indigo Zap, Sour Sweet, and Twilight Sparkle.” Cadance said extending her arm out to the six students.

Crystal Prep students just clapped quietly, minus one person, “Yeah go Twilight!” Lilac cheered.

“Lilac, cut it out. You’re causing attention to yourself.” Dark grumbled. He had been eliminated from the games when his chemistry set managed to cause a fire in the room and set off the fire alarm system.

“What’s got your grouchiness in a tizzy?” Lilac asked noticing a little more irritation in Dark’s tone of voice.

“It’s nothing.” Dark said crossing his arms. He decided to leave the gymnasium to go for a walk before the semifinals.

Sour saw Dark leave and it caused her heart to sink, ‘Why do I feel so down?’

Sunny noticed this and glared at the boy as he left the room, “I’ve got to set this right.”

With Dark

Dark sighed as he leaned against the wall. He looked down at the hand Sour had wrapped up. The softness of her hands on his. He shook his head, “No, you can’t get close to anyone but my family. Family is the only one you can trust.” Then he began thinking of Sour’s smile. It made him feel… safe and … happy… feelings he hardly ever experienced. He shook his head again, “Stop letting her mess with your head.”

“You bastard!”

“OOF!” Dark groaned as he received a punch straight to the gut. He clutched his stomach as he fell to his knees, “What the?” He looked up and saw Sunny Flare looking down upon him with a pissed face, “What was that for?”

“What have you done to Sour?!” Sunny asked as Dark attempted to stand.

“What do you mean? I didn’t do anything to her.” Dark said looking at the girl with confusion.

“Don’t lie to me!” Sunny yelled, “Ever since she met you, she’s been acting strange. The Sour Sweet I grew up with would never have fallen for a boy like you!”

“Fallen for? What do you mean? There’s no way she has fallen for me. She hates my guts.” Dark said catching his breath.

“You’re such an idiot! How can you be so blind!” Sunny yelled at him, pushing him back down to the ground.

“Would you stop…” Sunny’s face all of a sudden got really close to Dark’s, “You either fix this problem, or stay away from Sour.” And with that, Sunny left the boy sitting there confused.