What happens when a new transfer student arrives after the fall formal? I don't know I just got here!
After transferring to CHS the Monday after a certain Fall Formal incident. Silent Nova will attempt to settle into his new surroundings. Although he finds the treatment of a certain fiery haired girl to be frankly...idiotic.
This story so far is going to be a short prologue story about Nova settling in and once its done the next stories will branch out more. Hope ya'll enjoy and hope to see ya'll there!
New day, new school and a giant hole in the ground...wait what?
Well here I am standing just outside of...a school right? It looks like a school but last I checked they don't usually look like they have been bombed. The whole entrance was just...gone...and there was a crater big enough to bury two buses at least. Yellow tape all over the place along with many tools and supplies ready for use. We're not at war with anyone are we? I know I can be pretty oblivious but I'm pretty sure I would catch that...I hope.
I feel as though I'm out of the loop on something as the students arriving seem to not take much more than a few glances at the scene. Most seem to have an air of anger around them. What could've happened to make this place feel so...dense?
"I still can't believe what she did to the front of the school." I overheard a female student say to her group as they made their way to a side entrance with the rest of the students.
"Yeah they're totally gonna expel her. Hopefully throw her in jail." My eyes widened after hearing that.
So a student did this? Na there's no way. I've heard of people doin some dumb stuff but...Whatever this is?
I looked over the damage again and my face went back to my neutral expression. Wait...no...I take it back. The I Q points of the average person seem to be dropping so this ain't a stretch. I turned to follow the other students inside as I remember the videos of people dropping firecrackers down their pants as well as other various forms of stupidity. Just please don't blow anything up while I nap. I happen to look down the rode and slowly making her way to the school was a fiery haired girl lookin like she was exhausted. I guess I'm not the only one tired of school.
I make my way to where the principal's office is and brace myself as I enter. "Good morning, you must be Silent Nova?" I tense up at the question directed at me as I acknowledge my mortal enemy...human contact.
"Yes ma'am." I said in a soft tone. Hoping to get this over quickly so I can establish my corners to occupy for the year.
"Well my name is Celestia and I'm the principal here at CHS." The woman says in a soothing tone.
Wait...Your not the janitor?! I sarcastically remarked. In my head of course I'm not stupid.
"I look forward to seeing how far you will go here at my school." She gives me a warm smile.
Now there's a safer one. "Well it probably won't be very far...the school ain't that big." I then return her smile.
Celestia gave a small chuckle at that. "That may be but I hope that ACADEMICALLY...you will go far. I believe I have a good grasp of the students with the brightest minds." She gave me a warm smile and I immediately conjure a image of two moles popping out of their holes with mallets attempting to hit each other...complete with squeaky noises.
I had to bite my cheek to keep from laughing at the randomness of my own mind. "I'm sure you've seen my grades before I got here. More like someone forgot to pay the light bill."
Celestia's face turned to a slight frown. "Now why would you think that?"
I shrugged giving a small sigh. "I don't know, it's just how I've felt." She smiles again luckily picking up that I'm not much of a talker.
She returns to her warm smile understanding what I'm doing. "Well I hope your time here changes your mind."
I smiled back. "Who knows...we did land on the moon...eventually."
She chuckles "And with comebacks like that I know you have a sharp mind."
I give a big smile. "Bout as sharp as a bowlin ball."
Celestia jokingly sighed and rolled her eyes and after a brief conversation about school specifics she hands me some paperwork. "Well here is the schedule for your classes. You better get going, first period just started."
I give a short wave as I laugh a little but just before I open the door I turn back to face Celestia. "Oh before I go I was wonderin. What happened outside?"
Celestia tensed up at my question as she seemed to debate on her response. She then cleared her throat and gave me a serious look. "I'm sure you will find out from your classmates but suffice to say that one of our students made an error in judgement. I only ask that when you learn the specifics that you don't spread it outside the school. We are trying to keep it under wraps as much as possible. We have already taken the necessary steps but I still must ask for your discretion."
My face had slowly morphed into one of confusion as she spoke. "Uh....ok...I um...." I give a nervous smile. "I guess it's a good thing I don't pay attention to much."
Celestia deadpanned. "Not really the kind of response I was looking for but I guess it will do for the moment." Celestia then returned to her warm smile. "I hope you have a pleasant day today and if you need anything my door is always open." I go back to the door confused as to what kind of response that was when the door suddenly started to open.
On instinct I quickly grabbed the handle to open it fully for whoever was coming in. I saw it was the same fiery haired girl from before lookin surprised to see me there holding the door. I just smile and gesture for her to go ahead as she lowers her head covering half her face with her hair. A quiet "thanks" was all I heard as she quickly entered then sat down in one of the chairs facing the desk, head hung low.
Ah I guess she must be the one the principal was talking about I thought. I start heading to my first class wondering just what could she have done to destroy the front of the school? The way she moved seemed to me like she was possibly hurt but it was probably just my imagination. I shouldn't stick my nose where it don't belong but why this tightness in my chest? Why does it feel like the halls are angry? As I walk to class I failed to notice a certain locker with the words "She-Demon" in black and red wrote upon it. Just need to get to my corner desk and not get in the way.
As I walk down the halls of CHS to my first class my pace slows. Looking around I let a small sad sigh escape me as my thoughts churn. Just gotta get to class and stay out of the way I thought. I pull the door back as quietly as possible. Just let me in my corner and I'll be fine.
I...was not expecting this. As I walked in the class was very quiet. All eyes turned to look at me including the teacher and most had some form of smirk on their face. I immediately felt a wave of nervousness hit me as I tried to process if I did something wrong or if there was something weird on me.
"You must be Silent Nova...we have been...hmm... expecting you." The teacher seems to be holding back a laugh as she speaks. "Please have a seat and we will continue the lesson."
I look to the available seating and realise something that makes my nerves sore. There is only one open seat...and it's smack dab in the center. As I slowly make my way over and take a seat I notice the girl to my left has a massive smile on her face.
"Ain't cha going to put your stuff in your desk?" The pink girl asked.
I address her cautiously as she stares at me with such intensity. "Um...not really? I usually just keep my stuff in my bag." I look around as everyone just continues to stare.
The teacher gives a small chuckle. "Well we need to hurry this along as we have plenty of work ahead. I'm sure you know already but I am Miss Cheerilee. If you would go ahead and open your desk? Pinkie won't be able to focus otherwise." The class gives off a few chuckles as the girl who I assume is Pinkie gives a pouty face.
"Miss Cheerilee it's supposed to be a surprise!" The pink girl whined though it was said in a playful manner.
"And we can't wait all day Miss Pie. I'm sure it will be surprise enough." As she finishes with a chuckle I then turn to the lid and slowly start to raise it. The pink girl starts to lean toward me with her eyes as big as could be and a smile that didn't seem to stop.....then.........POOF!
"Welcome to CHS!" I hear the class cheer and laugh. As I blink away they few dozen bits of confetti in my eyes I see a small cake with a light blue frosting base and dark blue accents. There were also what appeared to be lighter blue stars with a larger one just off center. The cake also read Welcome to CHS in purple.
Wh-where did all that confetti come from? I thought to myself as I began scanning the interior of the desk, not finding any explanation for the...explosion.
"So did that surprise you Huh Did it did it I was hoping it would be a surprise because I love surprises as long as they're happy ones and make others happy did it make you happy I just found out this morning that we were getting a new student so I asked Miss Cheerilee if we could have a surprise party but she said no we have class so I said just a small one and she finally said yes so I made you a cake put it in your desk then you walked in all confused but then Miss Cheerilee told you to open your desk and I thought the surprise might be ruined but you opened it and still looked surprised so were you surprised?.......I'm Pinkie by the way!" After the long stream that I assume was speech the pink girl offered a hand shake as she smiled with an audible sqee.
I slowly take her hand. "Uh...Silent Nova and yes this was...surprising." I said silently as I still feel all eyes on me.
After we shake hands the pink girl exclaims "Oh your quiet just like my friend Fluttershy. I'll introduce you sometime. Maybe you'll become good friends!"
"Yeah...maybe?" I give her a unsure shrug.
Clap,clap "OK it's time that we move on to today's lesson. I'm sure you'll have plenty of time to get to know Silent Nova later Pinkie."
"Okie Dokie!" The pink girl exclaims as we turn to face Miss Cheerilee.
I try to forget that I'm in the center of class and eventually I find my favorite position for school...head down and eyes closed.
After English class where I assume the teacher talked about English things. I head to my locker so I can switch my books and drop off the cake. Then I make my way towards my next class. All the while some students snicker at me and call me "the new guy."
"Howdy there big fella. Hows yah first day treating yah so far?" I look to the girl with the stetson hat and her rainbow haired friend as they seem to be holding back some chuckles.
"OK how dose everyone know I'm new here? We're not even to second period yet." I respond with confusion written on my face.
The rainbow haired girl chuckled "No one is spying on you if thats whatcha think." The rainbow haired girl then reaches behind my head and when she moves back she holds up a piece of string confetti. "Let me guess. Have you met a girl named Pinkie Pie recently?" The cowgirl chuckles at that.
"Oh." I run my fingers through my hair feeling a few more bits of confetti. "I... completely forgot about that."
"Yah that's kinda Pinkie's thang. We don't get many new transfers here but when we do everyone at least knows about it after they meet her. She loves making new folks feel welcome." She then extends her hand as I slowly take it. "The names Applejack and this here is one of my best buds Rainbow Dash."
I then take Rainbow's hand and she gives me a smile "Sup. Your a pretty built guy huh?"
"I gue-" I'm cut off.
"I bet you do a lot of sports too. Well of you every need advice just ask me. I'm CHS's number one athlete so I can teach you...hey what gives AJ?"
Applejack began to pull Rainbow away and as they walked past me. "We don't have time for one of your speeches Dash. The bells about to ring." She tips her hat to me. "Was nice meetin ya. We'll see ya around."
"Yeah see ya." The girls walk on down the hall until they turn a corner.
With my hand still in front from the hand shake I mutter to myself. "I'm...Silent Nova. Nice to meet you I guess." A few seconds later I hear the bell ring. "Well I'm already late. Might as well head to the restroom and see how much confetti is still on me.
As I walk into the men's room and look in the mirror I see that theres quite a few bits of confetti still stuck on me. I let my hair out of the ponytail and it falls to my shoulders.
While I start running my fingers through my hair to get the confetti out I notice something. "The confetti, and now that I think about it even the cake, has the same colors as me. The light blue skin, dark blue hair and even the lighter blue highlights of my hair. The only thing she didn't get was my purple eyes...no wait she used purple for the words." I sigh "Well as far as I can tell people like her so...she shouldn't be dangerous? I guess I'll just wait and see." As I finish and put my hair back up I head to my next class. "So far this has been the weirdest morning of school ever."
My next class was at least normal. I found a spot in the back and the students didn't seem to even notice me. The teacher did however as I was a little late but Mrs Mayor Mare let it slide since it was my first day. History was always one of my favorite classes. It was easier to keep up even when I napped and we sometimes studied something I was actually interested in.
Art was fairly interesting as well. Miss Tree Hugger is very...chilled out. I'm just glad she ain't my math teacher. I doubt I'd get to my seat before I fell asleep.
"That is a very... interesting choice for your painting darling." I look to my right and see a girl with alabaster skin and royal purple hair giving me an unsure smile.
I look to my painting of a gorgeous looking tornado dancing across a plain with a happy little lightning bolt giving it a hug. At least that's what I see.
I look back to the girl with a deadpanned face and spoke in a monotone voice. "It reflects the chaotic nature in my soul and the darkness of my mind."
She tries to maintain her smile but is looking more nervous and perhaps a bit worried. "Oh that is...fascinating darling. I hope you...uh...enjoy yourself." She then quickly turns back to her painting as I can't hold back and begin to laugh. She gives me a worried look.
"W-was I really...that convincing?" I say between chuckles.
After a moment she lets out a small gasp. As I look at her she looks like she might cry then says "I...I can't believe you would...trick me like that!" She looks almost on the verge of tears as she turns her head away from me.
I fully turn toward her as I try to salvage this somehow. "I-im really sorry. I was...just messing around. I didn't mean anything by it." My chest begins to hurt as I lean toward her.
I then hear her start to...chuckle? As she then turns to face me with a smirk on her face. "And now...I...got...you." As she then boops me on the nose.
After a few seconds to process my cheeks decide to catch fire. I sat back up a gave a few nervous chuckles. "I...uh...guess you did. I thought I did something to upset you." I then give an awkward smile as my chest does summersaults.
"Oh don't worry yourself about it darling. I could tell you were just messing around with your first statement so I decided to play along." She then gives a few more chuckles. "My name is Rarity by the way. Its a pleasure to make your acquaintance." She does a slight bow in her seat.
I take a breathe as I try and calm my nerves. "Nice to meet you too. I'm Silent Nova." I give her my own slight bow.
"Now I am still curious about your painting darling. What made you decide on that for your piece?" She says as she leans to inspect it.
I just shrug looking at my painting. "Eh...I just like storms I guess. I understand they can be destructive. If I could I'd keep them in fields like this but I still find them amazing to watch." I chuckle "Give me a dark overcast day over a bright sunny one and I'm happy."
Rarity looks thoughtfully. "Well that is an interesting view point. I can see how someone can see storms in that way."
I then glance over to Rarity's painting though it looks more like a clothing design. "So you design clothes I take it?"
"What? Ah..." She chuckles. "Yes I design clothes for the boutique I part time for. At least I hope to soon. It is a process but when we have a free period to draw in art I work on my designs."
I look over her work of....clothing things that I can't make heads or tails of. "Well as far as I can tell you're gonna do great."
Rarity smiles sweetly. "Thank you for saying so darling." And with that the bell rings for forth period.
After gathering our stuff Rarity walks out with me. "Well I do hope you enjoy your time here Silent Nova. It was a pleasure speaking with you."
I give a smile of my own. "Likewise. I'll...see ya next time." She elegantly waves as we part ways to our next classes.
As I leave the men's locker room in my gym clothes. "Hey dude, are you ready for some dodge ball?" I hear the familiar raspy voice and sure enough it's Rainbow Dash.
I give her a shrug. "Sure I guess."
"Cool, you're gonna be on my team. Let's kick some butt!" She exclaims as she takes off to the base line and I slowly join the line.
I look around wondering where the coach is but once everyone is in place I hear Rainbow yell "Go!" Everyone then runs to the center to attempt to get a ball. All except me and a girl with pale yellow skin and light pink hair. She seems very nervous, like she is in a dangerous situation. As we stand there a few balls fly past us and the girl seems to regard them as grenades. I give a slight chuckle at her reactions as she then takes notice of me.
"I-I'm sorry...I'm not...really good at...sports." she hangs her head and hides a little behind her hair.
I wave my hand in front of me to try and reassure her. "Oh no...its fine. I...completely understand. I don't really care much for sports myself. If...you don't mind me asking. Why don't you just sit out if you don't like it?" I then catch a ball that arced toward me.
She looks over to where Rainbow Dash is taunting the other guys to try and knock her out. "Because...Dash wants me to try and get past some of my fears and...I want to as well...I just....."
"Don't know how?" I finish for her as she lowers her head and nods. "I understand. You want to change and be better so you don't disappoint or...hurt anyone around you."
"How did you know?" She looks up with a questioning look on her face.
"Well...I guess I'm in the same boat. I feel like if I do something I'll do it wrong and it could hurt someone or get in the way somehow. So I usually do nothing. I still ain't gotta clue what I'm doing but...its always easier to give advice than to implement it." I then catch another ball. "Sometimes you just gotta push. Even if its the smallest thing you can think of and eventually you'll get where you want to be." I sigh as I remember some things from the past.
She looks around the gym as she thinks then back to me with a small smile. "Thank you...for saying that. I...do want to get better at it but...I know I need to take baby steps."
Well I've been interacting more in one day than I usually do. Might as well keep going. I extend my hand for a handshake. "I'm...Silent Nova."
She then gently takes my hand. "I-I'm...Fluttershy."
"Oh yeah...Pinkie Pie mentioned you this morning. Its nice to meet you. Um...If you'd like I'll just stay here and try and catch what comes this way." I say as I look to see the battle still rages with almost half the class out by now.
"Are...you sure you don't want to play with the rest of the class? I'm sure you'd get bored just sitting back here with me." She looks at me with a bit of worry on her face.
I chuckle a little. "You don't have to worry about that. I'm usually out by now anyway."
Fluttershy seems slightly confused at my remark but quietly says "Ok...thank you." I smile as I face what's left of the students.
After about fifteen minutes. I should've seen this coming. There are four students left on the other team as its just me and Fluttershy left on ours. Rainbow got a little to cocky there at the half way point and the rest of our team are between sulking and cheering on the "new guy."
A random student yells out. "Come on dude you can do it!"
Another. "At least try to get a hit!"
"Try doing something for a change man!" That one erked me but I stay calm.
I know that a rush is about to be called as we are nearing the end of the period. I then hear a whistle chirp out as I see a woman going through papers at the bleachers who I believe is Coach Spitfire. "Rush!" I look at Fluttershy who is hiding behind the basket ball pole. I then face the rushing students.
Before they get closer to throw their balls I hold my hands out. "STOP!" They all come to a screeching hault as they look confused. I try to keep my nerves in check as everyone just stares at me now. "I'd like to...try something first." I turn to Fluttershy. "Could you come here a sec Fluttershy." Hearing my request She peeks her head from behind the pole and slowly walks out and stands next to me. "Ok...now you." I point to one of the students. "I want you to throw that ball in a nice soft arc to Fluttershy and I'd like you to try and catch it. Ok?" As I turn and give her a encouraging smile.
"I-I'll...try." She nods as she faces the boy I pointed out and I give him a nod. Still confused the boy then lazily tosses the ball to Fluttershy. She tries to catch the ball but it bounces out of her fingers. I hear some snickers come from the students on the court and I give them a death glare which shuts them up quick.
I can see she is unsettled by the brief chuckles. "Hey...its ok Fluttershy. Remember what we talked about with taking baby steps. This is a good one. Just keep this up and I'm sure you'll be catching dodge balls left and right."
"Ha like that will ever happen." I hear one of the boys say to his buddy as I slowly turn and stare them down. "Ah...SORRY! I was just joking!" As he shrinks behind his buddy who has gone stiff.
I turn back to Fluttershy. "Now go on over to the bleachers."
Fluttershy nods and walks past me as I hear her quietly say "Thank you."
After that I turn to the four students in front of me and say "Ok...time in." I then stretch my arms outward. They seem a little nervous as three of the balls completely miss me but one does manage to hit my leg...and they are only about twenty feet from me. "Well...at least one of you can hit a stationary target." I give a little chuckle as I walk to the bleachers where my team is.
After Coach Spitfire dismisses us to get changed Rainbow Dash walks up to me with Fluttershy in tow. "Heya dude. That was pretty cool what you did for Flutters back there." She then scratches behind her head and gives a sheepish grin. "I...usually try to keep an eye out for her but I...sometimes get a little to focused on the game." Fluttershy gives Rainbow a look from behind her that tells me the word sometimes should not be apart of that sentence.
I just give them a smile "It was nothing. Well...we better get ready for next class." I give them a wave as I turn to head to the locker room.
Rainbow then yells out to me in a joking tone. "Cool...maybe next time we'll get to see you actually play!"
I just sigh knowing I caught at least a few balls. As I enter the locker room all the guys in there seem to shrink away slightly with no one making eye contact. I let out another small sigh as I go to get changed. Well...at least I helped Fluttershy a bit...I think.
After getting my things for the most dreaded class of all...math. I at least can first head to the greatest class of all...lunch. I make my way there hoping this place will have something good today. I walk through the doors to the usual rambunctious sounds of a school cafeteria. As I walk by the tables to the line I hear a familiar hyper voice.
"Oo oo there he is! Heya Nova!" I look over to see Pinkie happily waving to me as I give her my own less enthusiastic wave.
I don't want to seem unfriendly but why does she act like she's on an all sugar diet? I stop at the table and notice that all the girls I've met this morning are here and seem to be good friends. Ok...weird. It's almost like someone planned this out. I shake my head of my thoughts. "H-hey there Pinkie, everyone. Its...been forever since we last met." I try making a joke to try and calm my nerves.
The girls give a few chuckles as Pinkie then exclaims. "I know right?! I mean, that was way back in first period for me, thats like...forever!" The girls then start laughing as I can't help but join as Pinkie maintains her joyful smile.
Once I'm done laughing. "Well it was nice meetin ya'll..." I decide to see if I can make a few pokes at a certain duo. "...especially you two. Applejack. Rainbow Dash." I give a slight emphasis to their names. The others seem a little confused as they look between me and the two girls I named. They on the other hand just gave sheepish smiles as they chuckle a bit feeling embarrassed.
Rarity gives a quizzical look as she turns to them. "What does he mean by that darlings?"
"well...ah suppose we may have...kinda forgot about the...second part of...introductions." Applejack chuckles a bit.
"It was AJ's fault. We would have gotten to that part if you didn't drag me away." Rainbow says defensively.
"Ah wouldn't of had ta if you weren't goin into one of your little speeches. The bell was about to ring!" Applejack shoots back.
"Well...blame the bell. It's not my fault they go so quick." Rainbow sounds exasperated as she grasps at straws.
"The bells are that way for a reason darling. It's not a free period." Rarity retorts being used to her friends antics. I, unfortunately, am not.
"I-I'm sorry...I didn't mean to get ya'll upset. I was just joking around with ya'll." I awkwardly say hoping to defuse the problem I caused.
Applejack quickly waves her hands in front of her. "Ah na...you ain't done nothing to upset us. Dash here just dosn't take embarrassment well."
"Hey!" Rainbow says indignantly. The others give her knowing looks as she sighs "Ok...Fair."
I still feel as though I've overstayed my welcome. I give an awkward chuckle. "Well...I'll see ya'll around." I then turn as I wave to go grab some food as I leave the girls in peace.
"Well howdy there. Ain't seen ya around fella. Ya new here?" The lunch lady says.
"Yes ma'am." I give her a short nod.
"Well in that case...have yer self an extra helpin." As she puts the extra food on my tray I can't help but feel...these "helpings" are kinda on the small side.
I give her a smile. "Thank you very much." I then move on to find a place to sit. As I look around I see lunch really is the best class. There is a convenient table with no one at it that seems to have been moved slightly away from the others in the back corner, jackpot. I take a seat at my new lunch table and begin to dig in, completely oblivious to the strange looks and murmurs around me.
After a few minutes I feel a shift in the atmosphere as everyone's mood seems to sour. As I look around I see a number of students with angry glares looking at the entrance. I turn to see the flame haired girl slowly walking in for lunch as she keeps her head down, not making eye contact with anyone. I keep an eye on her as she makes her way through the cafeteria walking by students who seem to say some things to her that I can't make out from here. She seems to be on auto pilot as she get her food. Even the lunch lady seems alerted, not so much angry but...watchful. I watch her as she gets closer and sets her tray down.............at my table.
My heart immediately slams into the back of my throat as I wonder why she would be sitting with me. She pulls the chair back to sit in it but then seems to notice she is not alone. She freezes. I give her an awkward smile and wave. "Um...hey there."
She seems to be fighting her own nerves. "I...I'm sorry. I didn't realize...you were sitting here. I'll...find somewhere else."
I try and reassure her. "No...it's fine. I don't mind if you want to sit here." I look around. "There...doesn't seem to really be any other open tables anyway." She looks around which looked like a mistake as she met the gaze of the other students. Her head quickly moves down as she takes her seat and begins to pick at her food.
It's so much easier when I'm the first one to a table but why this time does it have to be like this? She seems so...broken. I clear my throat. "Um...by the way...I'm...Silent Nova." I introduce myself. She just gives a small nod in acknowledgement. "And...you are?"
She barley looks up and makes eye contact with a slightly puzzled look. "Don't you know who I am?"
I shake my head "No...I just transferred here today."
She sighs looking at her tray and quietly responds. "Sunset Shimmer."
That's a nice name. I wish I knew what was goin on...but she doesn't seem like she is in the talking mood. "If...I mean...I don't know what you're going through Sunset but...If you need to talk about anything...I'm a good listener." I say trying to assure her if only a little.
It doesn't seem to help at all but she does manage a small "thanks." We then finish our lunch period in silence all the while other students continued to glare and whisper.
After lunch I said bye to Sunset who simply nodded. I noticed her down the hall get shoulder checked by...someone...I couldn't quite tell who exactly through the crowd but I felt my blood begin to boil. Seriously! What could she have done for people to act this way! I begin feeling a strong urge to find out. Maybe even find out what it feels like to deck someone. I make my way to the next class, math. I notice Applejack is there as well. "Hey Applejack."
She gives a smile. "Howdy, fancy meetin you here."
"Yeah...good seeing you too." My own smile slips as I get a little serious. "Applejack, I have a question."
Without missing a beet but with a slight concern on her face. "Shoot."
"Well...do you know whats goin on with that Sunset girl. It seems like the whole school just...hates her." I finish my question seeing Applejack tense up...much like the Principal.
"Um...that is kinda a long story but...short answer...she was the schools biggest bully a few years and...she was...caught recently." Applejack finished clearly not sure how to talk about this. "It...may be best if we meet with the girls after school...there's...obviously more to it than that."
"Like the giant hole in the ground?" I ask knowing the answer already.
If she was surprised I already knew that much she didn't show it. "Lemme get your number an I'll text ya where we can all meet." We exchange numbers as the teacher Cranky Doodle walks in and quickly gets everyone in line. I sit there going over things in my mind. After a few minutes my breathing nearly stops...I begin to sweat...and my chest begins to hurt as a sudden realization slams into me. I HAVE A GIRLS NUMBER!!!
The rest of the day went by without much issue but...I did notice at least a few students gave me slightly confused looks. Maybe even a glare or two as they whisper to each other. I however am mostly oblivious to all that as I am currently debating on whether or not I should panic as I head to my truck.
"OK... somehow...on my first day at this school...I wind up with a girls number." I climb into my truck and continue with my rant. "On top of that. I'm now waiting to hear from her where we will meet to talk about Sunset...with her four friends...who are girls as well!" I take a deep breathe. "How did I get into this? I'm used to just being alone at school." I let a tired sigh escape as I stare at the roof of my truck. "It's...kinda similar to last time." I close my eyes. "Why is it so hard for me to just...interact with people."
The tone for my phone goes off which is some kind of Japanese song. "We're all meetin at Sugar Cube Corner in 30 min. The new number is Nova so ya girls know." I deadpan as I read the text. The song I usually like then acts like a record stuck at the start.
"HIYA NOVA! It's Pinkie. See you guys there!"
"RD, I'll see ya guys there."
"Rarity here, I'll see you there darlings."
"Fluttershy. See you girls there." "Oh and you too Silent Nova."
As I stare at my phone I then smack my head on my steering wheel causing the horn to blast as I mumble. "Now I have all their numbers."
I pull into the Sugar Cube Corner parking lot and head inside to get a table where I nervously wait. This quaint little pastry shop seems to be fairly popular with students as there are a few other groups here. After some time I see the girls arrive at the shop.
As they approach I stand with a nervous smile on my face. "Uh...hey there." I gesture to allow them to pick there seats.
They all give their greetings as they take their spots. As Rarity moves by me she gives a sweet smile before she sits. "My you're such a gentleman darling."
I awkwardly chuckle as I pull a stool up to sit at the end. "I try to be." Not sure how the conversation should go I wait for them to start. After they get settled the girls begin talking about...everything. Pinkie excitedly remarked about a new pastry here. Rainbow was talking about her practice. Rarity talked about a new dress she had been working on. The only ones not talking was Fluttershy who seemed to just happily listen to her friends and Applejack who gave me a slightly concerned smile as I just watch the conversations flow.
"Ahem...girls...ah don't think Nova came out just to hear us gab away." Applejack then gives a light chuckle as the girls pause.
Rarity awkwardly chuckles as she realizes what was happening. "Oh...sorry about that darling. It's just been so long since we've met up like this. I guess we just got a little carried away."
I wave my hands in front of me nervously. "Na it's fine. Ya'll keep goin if ya want. I can wait." The girls exchange a few concerned looks as I then become a little confused. "You said that its been a long time since yall've gotten together. Yall seem like good friends so...why is that?"
They seem to focus on my question so we can get back on track as Rarity responds. "Well darling, that is actually part of what we need to discuss."
What followed was a lengthy explanation of what happened at the school from when Sunset first showed up to her rise as Queen B. How she would act friendly just to sabotage Pinkie's bake sale. How she humiliated Rarity at a pageant thing. How she is from another world of magic ponies where she stole a magic crown of a pony priccess and became a demon when she put it on and mind controlled the students and through a fireball at them but the pony princess and them saved the day by blasting her with a rainbow laser.................wait.
"So ya thats why folks are pretty peeved with Sunset and how the school was damaged." Applejack finished up their story as the girls all looked at me like...yes this is normal.
I just stare at the girls with a bit of disappointment on my face. Fluttershy seemed to try and hide behind her hair while Pinkie and Rainbow Dash just watch me waiting for my response to this normal conversation. Rarity and Applejack however seem to have realized how this must look as Rarity begins to fidget.
I take a deep breathe and close my eyes. My nerves mostly gone as I try and process this. "And here I thought ya'll seemed like nice girls." I open my eyes and give them a hard stare. "So...what is it? Revenge for what she did before?"
Rainbow is the first to react as she looks confused. "What are ya talkin about dude? We didn't do anything to Sunset. She brought all this on herself."
Applejack pinches the bridge of her nose. "Hold up there Dash. Ah think we got a little ahead of ourselves here." Rainbow folds her arms up looking a bit offended at my remark. Applejack then looks up at me. "Ah understand how this can sound Nova but I swear its the honest truth. You can ask Sunset about it yourself tomorrow and heck even the principals." The girls, aside from Rainbow, look at me with various degrees of worry as I take a moment to think.
I message the back of my neck. "I would say then ya'll probably just put Sunset in her place if she agrees with this but...if even the principals agree. That would only mean that either this school is just trash or...your tellin the truth." Not really believing what they said I stand to take my leave. "I guess I'll just...see what I can find out."
"Well...I do hope you figure things out darling. I'd hate for our relationship to end on this note." Rarity gives me a genuine but awkward smile. The rest of the girls seem to not know what they can say as Rainbow just sits with her arms still folded not looking at me.
I doubt there was a relationship there to begin with but I give them a small smile. "Yeah...we'll see." I then give them a small wave as I leave them in peace and head to the counter to get me a vanilla shake. I know this isn't any kind of date thing but it still feels weird not to. "Excuse me miss. Go ahead and put that tables orders on as well." The lady gives me a kind smile as she rings me up. I then leave the shop to head on to my new home.
Dad said I'd be staying with my cousins but he never said who they were. Just sent me here with an address and said they are expecting me. I guess he got tired of me "cramping his style" as he'd say. As far as I know he was always a gambling nut though. I guess he has done alright with it but all he ever does is party and gamble. I pull up to a nice little house in the suburbs. I take my few things out, head to the door and knock. After a few moments the door swings open revealing a familiar aurora haired woman who stands with an awkward smile on her face.
Here I am sitting in the living room of my cousins... Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna. We sit for a few moments before Celestia breaks the silence.
"Ahem.... Well this is certainly.... surprising. I never would've guessed that the young man I spoke to this morning would be the one staying with us."
Luna appears to be floating somewhere between confusion and histerical laughter but isn't sure which to go with. "Indeed... Tia and I...thought you would've been... at least a little older then us."
Celestia gives Luna a small jab with her elbow. "Don't be so rude Lulu."
Luna nudge back playfully. "Oh come on sister. It isn't everyday something like this happens. I can tell you're about to crack as well." She finishes with a few sharp chuckles.
"Only because you insist on making a big deal out of this." Celestia retorts back finishing with a few of her own chuckles.
I thought these two were the school principals but...they are acting like middle schoolers. I give my own half chuckle as I shake my head. "I know it's kinda funny that I wind up going to school where I'm cousins with the principals but is it really that big of a deal?" I say with a half smile.
Celestia's eyes widen as they both just stare. "Wait a moment. Your father said we are cousins?"
Luna takes that as her que to let out a roar of laughter. "I...can't believe...he didn't tell you!"
I look a little worried as I look to Celestia. "OK...what did my dad do now?"
Celestia is a bit more composed than her sister but still seems to be fighting off the infectiousness of Luna's laughter. "Well...as it turns out...Ethyl Aquila isn't just our uncle...he is our...great uncle...making you our uncle...and us your nieces."
I stare at Celestia a moment attempting to process. I take a deep breath as my body goes rigid and my hair attempts to stand on end. I then stand and slowly make my way to the door. "I...suddenly have a urge to see what dad is up to."
Celestia nods as she places her hand over her mouth trying to contain her chuckles. Luna on the other hand is pacing around laughing like a loon as I close the front door behind me.
I whip my phone out and select the only contact I have. Well had at least till today. As the last ring was about to end he finally picks up and my ear is assaulted by bells, whistles and loud cheers in the background. "Heh! Ain't no stoppin this train! Set er up again! Hey there bud hows it hanging!? You enjoy your first day of... Uh...the teaching building!?" I just barely hear someone whisper to dad. "Huh? That's what I said...school. Hey everyone my son had his first day of school at Canterlot!"
I hear a mass of cheers from a number of girls. "Shool ish so hot."
"Have fun sweety!"
"I could've gone to school if I wanted."
"Ha I got kicked out of my school!"
"You do plan on schooling us later dont you Ethyl?"
"Hah!...don't you worry lady's. I've got some special extra kirknickilums planned for tonight heh heh!"
My dad and them would continue on like this forever if I let them. "DAD!"
"Hmmmm...ah right. I was wondering why I was waving my phone in the air. So how are things son?"
"Seriously old man what the hell is wrong with you?" I ask tiredly as I rub my left temple. This...unfortunately...is pretty much the norm for me.
"Now boy I've told you you're gonna have to be more specified in your meanings. Heh I still haven't found the end of that list myself!"
I take a deep breath. " OK...why the hell didn't you tell me the people I was staying with are my nieces and on top of that they are my principals too."
"Wait they are the principals?Huh...well I guess that explains why the names and voice were the same. Well good on ole Cely and Loons. I knew they'd be smart. So what are they studyin?"
"Prin-ci-pals dad...meaning they are running the school." I try and speak slowly as that is his preferred...well only speed.
Dad is silent for a few moments. I can almost hear the gears grinding from here. "So...they're like royalty now?" I'm not sure if I should laugh, cry or scream at this point...so I settle with banging my head against the wall.
"Sure dad they're royalty...and I'm learning to be king of the wigglers." I immediately regret my choice of words.
"Ha you ain't takin my throne until I'm dead n buried!" Dad then takes a slightly more calm voice. "Besides boy I've told you before. If you ever have questions about life just do the opposite of me."
I let out a tired sigh. "Yeah I know dad."
"So how are the girls? They doin alright?" Dad seems to get this way every now and then where he just...chills. Almost acts..normal. I hear the noises die down as it seems dad moved to someplace quieter.
"Well I've only just got here but they seem alright." I sit down on the bench that's on the porch.
"Hmm...that's good to hear. Tell'em I'm proud of them for what they've done in their lives. You listen to them Nova. I knew they'd turn out good since they were little."
"I will dad."
"And try and make some friends as well. I know after what happened it'll be difficult but I know you can."
I lean my head back against the wall. "I guess. I have talked to some people today but...it's complicated. Anyway I better go so I can get settled. Tell everyone I said hi and I'll call you later."
"Aight son we'll talk later. Now then I must go and...prepare the school room HEH!"
"Yeah I'm sure dad. Bye." I shake my head as I pocket my phone. I pinch the bridge of my nose as I head for the door. "Is this day ever going to end?"
I walk back inside to find Luna sprawled out on the couch recovering from her laughing fit and Celestia in the kitchen preparing dinner.
She looks up from the counter with a smile on her face. "So did you get a hold of your father?"
I shake my head. "No...otherwise the cops would be after me. I did get him on the phone though. He did ask how y'all were doin and says he's proud of y'all being royalty." At Celestia's questioning gaze I wave it off. "Just go with it. Trust me its easier." I then walk over and rest my folded arms on the counter and bury my face.
Celestia seems confused but continues on. "Well that's... interesting to hear. He was always a...unique individual. Some of the stories grandfather would tell us were always outrageous." Celestia then looks thoughtfully. "We haven't heard from Uncle Ethyl in...well...I guess it was one of our birthdays when we were in highschool ourselves."
We hear Luna begin to snicker in the living room. "That would be yours dear sister...during sophomore year. Heheheh he brought over some girls in those bunny outfits and some kind of portable casino in a trailer and tried to get everyone to play for money...hehehe even the other kids."
Celestia dryly chuckles. "Ah yes...the worst birthday of my life. Grandfather was so mad he actually chased Uncle Ethyl around the house with a pellet gun. My friends didn't stop talking about it for months afterwards." Celestia takes a breath then sighs. "He then calls us out of the blue after no contact in years and practically begs for his son to stay with us. I was quite surprised at the fact that he had a son at all but he sounded so desperate I couldn't say no...or maybe the sounds of him losing at the slots was the reason for his tone? I'm not even sure how he found our number." Celestia let's out a few chuckles. "He however failed to give me a name...or really anything else of importance before he hung up. Only said thanks and that you'll be here today after I gave our address."
I raise my head to look at Celestia. "I'm sorry about this. I didn't know he just dumped this on you too."
Celestia gives me a warm smile. "You have nothing to apologize for. We're happy to have you." She then chuckles a bit. "As long as you don't bring home any bunny girls or casinos everything will be fine."
I can't help but smile as I try and relax. "Oh don't worry about that. I'm about as far as you can get from my dad."
Celestia sets up the table as she finishes making dinner. "Well we'll just have to take things a step at a time. It has only been me and Luna for a good while now so this will be new for all of us. Lulu, dinners ready. I hope you like spaghetti Silent Nova."
I nod as I take my seat. Luna gets up after a few deep breaths and joins us at the table. "So...UNCLE Nova." Of course she puts emphasis on the uncle. "What have you and Uncle Ethyl been up to?"
My hair attempts to stand on end as a chill runs up my spine. I've thought about what it would be like to have kids of my own or if I ever had nieces or nephews and it always made me happy. Even though I knew either was highly unlikely. I still like the idea but...this specific situation just feels...off. "Um...you don't have to call me that. Nova is fine."
Luna adopts a mischievous grin briefly before it changes into sad puppy eyes and a stuck out lower lip. "You mean...I can't caw you Uncle?"
I know what she's doing. She's messing with me...and it's working. I just don't know how to feel about this whole thing. I suppress the chills I got and with a half smile. "OK fine....you...can call me uncle."
"Yaaay!" Luna squeals like a school girl as she gives me a huge hug at the table as my face burns in embarrassment.
Celestia smiles while shaking her head. "If you are quite done goofing off Lulu....."
Luna shoots a challenging grin. "Never."
Celestia sighs in fake annoyance. "....Let us get back to what you and your father have been up to these past years Nova." Luna returns to her meal.
I take a moment to think. "Well...there's not much to tell. I'm sure you can guess what dad has been up to. Just from what y'all said there doesn't seem to be much change there. As for me I've just been going to school and playing video games."
Celestia seems to hesitate as she asks. "What about your mother?"
I chuckle and shrug. "Which one? My dad has a small group of girls that have stayed with him for a long time. He never told me which is my mom but says to think of them all like my mom. The ones that have been with him the longest are: Candy Crush, Coco Doll, Rosey Fields, Ginger Snaps, Sunrise Blossom and Martini Daiquiri."
Luna tilts her head. "What kind of name is Martin-"
"Wait! Rosey is with him!?" Celestia suddenly blurts out.
I lean back a bit. "Uh...yes?"
Celestia pinches the bridge of her nose. "I see...so that's what happened." At our questioning looks she continues. "That party I just told you about. Well...a few days later one of my friends said their parents divorced. She said it was going to happen anyway but...her mom suddenly got into a huge rush and after a quick goodbye just left and finalized the papers by mail. I guess I know what happened now." She finishes with a few dry chuckles.
After a few moments of silence Luna asks with a cheeky grin. "What are the chances of her being your mom?"
I just give her a dead pan look. "Please don't. I don't need to find out how screwed the family tree is now."
Celestia chuckles a bit. "Well aside from the number of women Uncle Ethyl is with, us being your nieces isn't that strange. Our family has always been very steady so it seems odd but I'm sure there are other families like this." She chuckles a bit. "I remember an old song about a man who was his own grandfather."
I sigh playfully. "If you two keep this up you're going to be grounded." The two women begin to laugh at that as I just chuckle and shake my head.
Once they are done we continue to eat. Luna then asks. "So why did you decide to come to our school?"
I freeze a moment. "Uh...well...I didn't decide. I didn't even know of any other family I had. My dad just said he found the perfect place for me to stay with relatives. At first he said you were my sisters but then he settled on cousins. I'm never sure if he is just goofin off when he does that or if he is really forgetting."
The women give each other worried looks as Celestia asks. "He just...shipped you off? No explanation or anything?"
I shake my head. "It wasn't like that. We did talk about the idea before but...I didn't think there was anywhere else to go. He said I needed a fresh start around good people for once so...I guess that's y'all." I finish with a shrug and half smile.
Luna leans a little closer with some worry in her voice. "Did something happen?"
I just hang my head a little. "I...don't really wanna talk about it."
Celestia puts her hand on my shoulder. "That's fine...but we'll be here for you should you ever need to." I nod as we finish up eating and begin cleaning up.
I then realized something I almost forgot about due to this whole mess. "Uh...Celestia? I almost forgot with all that's happened but I wanted to ask about what happened at the school."
Celestia sighs as they finish cleaning up the table. "I knew this would come up sooner or later." She then gives a slight chuckle. "I expected to have this conversation in my office instead of our home but still." We head to the living room where I take a seat in the lounge chair and Celestia and Luna take the couch. "So where should we start?"
"Well...could y'all just tell me what happened so I can compare things I've heard?" I ask not wanting to potentially influence anything.
They nod as they begin telling me the story of Sunset's arrival, how sneaky and manipulative she was and then...the magic rainbow laser. It was the same. All of it was from their perspective but...it was the same.
I just stare at them in thought with my legs crossed and right hand to my chin and after a moment. "I...don't know what to think of this. Those five girls told me the exact same thing. I was thinking maybe they were just making up weird stories as some kind of revenge but...if y'all say the same thing. I still can't just believe this but...I can at least give it about a 60% that it's true."
They nod as Luna says. "That's pretty good odds. I'd give it closer to 20% if I didn't see it myself."
"Yes we wouldn't expect you to just take our word for it. Speak to Sunset as well about this." Celestia then gives a warm smile.
On the other hand Luna's mischievous grin returns. "We heard how you sat with her at lunch today."
Oh my poor heart. I don't know how much of this it can take. It lurches as my face glows red. "Ok to be fair she sat with me! I just picked the empty table in the back corner!" I lower my voice as my head slumps a little. "I don't know...she just looked so...broken. I'd like to help her somehow but...I'd probably just make things worse somehow."
Celestia leans in and smiles warmly at me. "I highly doubt that would happen. Right now I think she just needs someone to be there."
I take a deep breath. "I'll...see what happens."
Celestia nods. "That's really all we can do at this point in time but right now..." Celestia stands and gestures to the stairs. "Let me show you to your room. I'm sure your exhausted after today."
I chuckle a bit as I stand to follow. "Yeah today was definitely...hectic."
Later that night I lay in bed after getting the tour and moving my few things in. After that me and...my niece Luna...played games for a while on her console. I've never played a game with someone...or at least not in person before. It was fun but now my thoughts drift to tomorrow. My mind starts to race as something clicks. "If all this is actually true then...that means I was sitting with a magical talking unicorn from another world!"
The next day begins as I groggily stretch. It's kinda nice to wake up for once without one of my "moms" snuggled next to me cause she got booted off dads bed in the night. I've gotten so used to them doing that, that now I wake up to any little bump or movement around me. This time I finally got a mostly restful sleep. A bit lonely I guess but...mostly restful. I get myself ready for the day and head down to see Celestia collecting her things to head out.
"Well good morning...Uncle Nova." Celestia smiles warmly.
Well I'm awake now as that chill runs through me again. "So you too huh?" I ask jokingly.
Celestia briefly chuckles. "Well of course. You didn't think I'd let my sister have all the fun did you?" Once she finishes she gives me a caring look. "If you really don't want us to call you that just tell us. We don't want to make you uncomfortable."
I then lazily wave my hand in front of me. "No it's fine. I'll get used to it. Technically I've been in weirder situations living with my dad."
Celestia chuckles. "I can imagine. Well since you look ready would you like to go with me to the school?"
"No thanks. I'll just drive there myself. I like having my truck with me just in case."
Celestia nods. "Very well. I'll see you later on then." We give each other a wave as she leaves.
I then spend some time to lounge around as time passes and I watch the clock till its time to go...ish. "Well it takes about 15 minutes to drive there and it's 6:40 now. Eh I can wait a bit more."
After a quick snack and some more lounging I finally get myself outside. I fight the urge to hiss at the sun as my apparent vampire half shirks away. Another bright and sunny day....oh joy. I crank up my truck and I'm off for school...more joy.
I'm about halfway there when I check the clock. I might actually make it...maybe. When I look up I happen to notice a firey haired girl trying to...climb a tree? I think of minding my own business as I pass by but...Aghh that's definitely her. I make a U-turn and pull into the closest drive. She doesn't seem to notice me as I step out of my truck. "Sunset?"
Once my presence is known she jumps and spins to face me looking almost scared. I hold my hands up to reassure her. "It's just me Sunset. From lunch yesterday. Remember?"
She takes a few calming breaths as I can tell she has been trying to get up the tree. She is sweating a lot and her arms and legs are scuffed up from the bark. "Ahh...yes I...remember. What are you...doing here?"
Her voice is so quiet. Like shes scared to speak to loud. I walk up to her and notice a backpack that I assume is hers hanging from one of the branches. "How...did your bag get stuck up there?" She just hangs her head and says nothing. Well I'm already gonna be late. What's the harm in making it even later? I move toward the tree. "I'll get it."
Sunset head shoots up as she spins toward me. "No! You don't have to do that. This is my fault."
I look back at her with a smile. "Regardless of fault. I doubt you'd even make it up there before school ends. I'm pretty sure skirts weren't made for climbing in." She seems like she wants to argue this but either she was just to tired or she knows I'm right.
I turn to face my foe. The tree's branches viciously mock me from twenty feet above the ground as the tree devilishly smirks while swinging the lady's bag. Commence climbing vectors! A torrent of steam shoots out of my shoulders as my massive arms form a death grip on the trunk quickly followed by my legs. I get to about the half way point as the tree lord begins to worry and starts thrashing about not wanting to give up its prize. With the first branches in reach my first strike is nigh as...........ok...where the heck is my mind going with this?
I shake my head as I climb the rest of the way and retrieve her bag. Once I have it I turn back and make a mighty jump down...causing rock and fire to erupt from my crater...STOP It! I take a breath and hand Sunset her bag. Hopefully she didn't notice me being...weird.
She takes her bag from me as I begin brushing myself off. "Thanks...again." She says quietly as she then turns to walk to school.
"Uh...hold on. If you want...I can give you a ride to school." Seeing her...I just offered her a ride without thinking as my nerves make a return.
Sunset shakes her head. "No...thank you but... I'll just walk."
I hear the sadness in her voice. "You'll be even later if you walk."
She turns her head and looks at me. Tears threatening to spill. "It doesn't matter. It's what I deserve." She gives a slight smile. "Thanks again for the help but...it's probably best if you just avoid me. I don't want others assuming the worst of you."
I give a half chuckle. "Ha most people get around to that anyways so I ain't worried. Just get in. I'm sure you could use a breather."
Sunset hesitates a moment, seeming unsure before she reluctantly accepts. Once we're in I pull out of the drive and resume the trip to school...all while trying to remember to breathe.
There's a person in my truck. I've never been in a vehicle with someone like this before. Sure there's been field trips or with a friend of dads or something but...I guess I'd call those more...forced events. I just went with the flow or had to for whatever reason.
I try and think of something to talk about but my mind keeps jumping to one thing. "So...you're a unicorn?"
Sunset snaps her head toward me. When I look I see the tears that were in her eyes being forced out as she bites her lower lip. The corners of her mouth creeping upward. To my surprise she begins laughing. Though...it sounds like there's some sadness mixed in as her tears fall.
After a moment she begins to calm as she wipes at her tears. "I'm...sorry about that. It just...sounds so absurd when it's just blurted out like that."
I hope this isn't going the direction I think it is...i think. "So...it's not true?" I guess I'm hoping it's true. That way the girls and...my nieces...aren't jerks but what does that mean for Sunset?
Sunset takes a breath and returns to that...resigned expression. "No...it's true. I'm guessing you were told what I did?" Her voice becomes barely a whisper. "And what I turned into?" I give her a sympathetic nod as she looks over to me. "Then...why are you helping me? Why are you being nice to me? I know you weren't here at the time but... shouldn't you at least want to avoid..." She lowers her gaze to her lap. "...something like me?"
It has to be true. There's no way someone would just accept a story like this if it wasn't true. Even if someone told her to go along with it.
I give a little shrug. "Honestly...I don't know. You don't seem like the person I've been told about and I don't judge people on what they've done or could do." I pause a moment as I don't want to push her into talking about it. "Just...remember what I told you yesterday. If you need to talk just let me know."
Sunset is quiet for a minute until she looks out her window. "I was...just so angry. I thought I deserved that power. I wanted it so bad but...I really was never good enough." Sunset leans her head against the window and shuts her eyes as a few more tears break free.
I wish I knew what to say but I'm still the outsider. I don't know her. She don't know me. Hell I don't know anyone. We traveled the rest of the way in silence.
I threw my truck into park at the school. As I hop out I look over to Sunset as she seems to... struggle. Wincing slightly as she moves. Maybe she hurt herself earlier.
I walk up next to her as we head to the building. "Are you ok? Did you hurt yourself trying to get up that tree?" She just looks down and says nothing. "You should go to the nurse and get checked out."
She just nods slightly. "I will." Which means she won't. I've been through this with dad countless times. Guess I'll tell Celestia about this. We walk the rest of the way to the school but unknown to me there are a few windows glaring our way.
Called it. As soon as we entered the building Sunset went the opposite way than the principal's office or nurse. Guess I'll do it. I take another look as Sunset turns the corner. I still can't believe this is happening. I want to ask her about where she is from and magic but...I don't want to pressure her just for my curiosity. I turn and make my way down the hall toward the principal's office.
Once I'm there I walk up to the front desk where the secretary is busy. "Hi Miss Inkwell. Can I talk to principal Celestia? It's important."
She stands and turns to file some papers away. When she faces me she has a clearly exaggerated worried look. "Oh my, what did Celestia do? Is she in trouble?"
I give a little sigh then smile. "So I assume you know I'm their uncle?"
Raven chuckles a bit. "Yes she told me this morning. I'd say the two of them are pretty excited about it. I'm sure it helps them deal with...current situations."
I give a light shrug. "Well...glad I can be a distraction." I pause for a moment. "So...can I go in?"
She nods. "Yes go on in."
I thank her as I head into Celestia's office. She is also sitting at her desk going through papers. Shocking I know.
As she sees me enter she pauses a moment with a slight frown. "Silent Nova, I do hope you don't think you can skip classes due to being I and Luna's uncle."
Well that's a shift. Guess she keeps work and personal life pretty separate. I wave a hand in front of me. "No that never crossed my mind. I fully intend to take the write ups when I skip."
Celestia pinches the bridge of her nose. "I do hope you don't plan on skipping at all." She sighs. "So how can I help you?"
She seems stressed. Maybe I should've just waited. Well I'm here already so might as well just hurry. "Well...I wanted to tell you about Sunset this morning."
Celestia puts her papers down as she gives me her full attention. "Oh? Did something happen?"
I nod. "Yeah. I saw her trying to climb a tree to retrieve her bag. I think someone threw it up there."
Celestia clasps her hands together as her eyes narrowed slightly. "Did she say who did it?"
I shake my head. "No...and I didn't want to force her. The main thing I wanted to tell you is I think she hurt herself while trying to climb. She seemed to be in some pain when she got out of my truck. She said she'll see the nurse but I know the tone she used means she won't. I don't want to force her so-"
"So you want me to instead?" She says with a slight smirk.
I scratch the back of my head. "Well I wouldn't say it like that. I just don't know how to say it so...sure...if you think you need to force her."
Celestia sighs as she warmly smiles. "Very well Nova. I'll see what I can do. I'll write you and Sunset a pass for this morning and let me know if anything else comes up."
I give my hand a wave. "Nah I'll take my tardy. I was probably gonna be late anyway."
Celestia gives me a questioning look. "You do know that five unexcused tardies in two months will become an absence right? If you get to many of those I'll have to write you up as a truant."
I give Celestia a big smile. "Which is why I only plan on getting four in two months...mostly."
Celestia rolls her eyes and jokingly sighs. "I'm still going to give you a pass since you were helping Miss Shimmer." She hands me a slip. "Now if that will be all you should get to class."
Now it's my turn. "You mean I can't visit with my favorite niece?"
Celestia chuckles. "We'll have plenty of time to visit at home. Now move along before I have all your teachers assign you extra work." The door slams shut as Celestia is left in her office. "I knew that would get him moving."
On the other side Raven is giving me a concerned look. "Is everything alright?"
I nod as I try shaking those horrors from my mind. "Yes Miss Inkwell. Just avoiding extra homework."
Raven nods jokingly. "Ah yes...we wouldn't want that now would we? Also feel free to call me Raven. I've been good friends with Celestia's family for years so that includes you as well."
I nod as I head for the door. "Ok I guess I'll see you later then Raven."
We wave as I leave. "Have a nice day Silent Nova."
Well that's done. I pocket the slip as I head down the hall to class.
Classes this morning actually went by like normal...mostly. Pinkie was still Pinkie of course but a number of other students just seem to avoid me. I did however have a small run in with some guys in the hall who called me the Demon Ursa. I'm used to people calling me things like that. The demon part is new but Ursa is a usual go to. They say it's cause of my size and how I look like an angry bear I guess...but my skin and hair is close to some monsters called Ursa's from a video game. I just ignore them as they don't usually try anything. The rest of the morning was pretty uneventful though.
I get to the cafeteria and look around. Ok I don't see Sunset so I can get that table again and have HER join ME. I see the girls seated where they were yesterday. As I approach they all give various forms of hesitant smiles and waves. All except Rainbow who looks at me with a slight glare. "Uh...hey girls...how are y'all?"
Rarity is the first to respond. "We're doing well darling. Just discussing some things. You?"
I shrug. "Just...thinking about things. I talked with...the principals...and Sunset. I guess I'll just have to believe all that really happened. At least until I see proof either way." The girls give understanding nods. Again except Rainbow who just idly eats her lunch.
"We understand. It'd be a hard pill ta swallow if ya hadn't seen it fer yourself." Applejack turns to face Rainbow. "Right Dash?"
Rainbow looks to Applejack with a bit of annoyance. "Yeah yeah I get it AJ." Rainbow then looks to her plate, tapping it with her fork as she mumbles something to herself.
I don't know why but these "good friends" seem to get agitated when I come around. I better make this quick. "So yeah...with that. I was going to ask if y'all are still planin to help Sunset?"
After they seem to think it over Rarity responds. "Well that's part of what we've been going over and to be frank...we don't want to." The girls seem to slump a bit at that admission. "We promised Twilight we would but it was more...um..."
Applejack cuts in. "Spur of the moment. We don't wanna JUST do it cause Twi asked but...ah guess we're just unsure how ta go about it."
I nod trying to think of something myself. "Well...would y'all allow her to sit with you at lunch? That could be a good start."
Rarity nods. "Yes we were thinking that as well darling. This is just a... delicate matter. If we are to help Sunset we can't just rush it."
"Well I think it would be best if y'all invited her to sit here." I chuckle a bit. "It's a lot better than being stuck in the corner with me."
Pinkie gets a big smile on her face. "Why don't both of you join us? We can get a bigger table!"
I wave Pinkie's idea off. "Thanks but no Pinkie. Maybe some other time but I think it would be best if you guys just focus on helping Sunset."
Rarity gives me a worried look. "Very well darling. We will do what we can."
I nod as I turn to go. "Alright I'll go get seated. Yall decide how y'all want to do this and I'll try talking with her a bit about it." They give a few waves as I head to the lunch line.
Once I'm set I start heading to the table as before. There seem to be a few more glares sent my way but I don't notice. I'm more worried about how things will go with Sunset. As I sit and begin eating I keep my eye on the entry way for her.
Same as yesterday the cafeteria seems to shift as I see Sunset enter the room. She goes through the same motions as before as various students glare and taunt her. After getting her lunch she heads this way until she notices me sitting there again. She pauses as she looks around seemingly unsure where to go. I give her a smile and wave her over till she finally comes and takes a seat.
Afterwards we sat in silence for a few moments until Sunset looks up to me from her food. "I...told you. You shouldn't be around me. I'll just cause you trouble."
I let out a small sigh. "And I told you trouble finds me regardless so it don't matter." I then give her a reassuring smile. "You don't need to worry about me alright?"
Sunset gives a small nod. I then look to the table with the girls as they seem to be in a deep discussion. I look back to Sunset. "So...uh...what is it like to use magic?"
Sunset pauses a moment seemingly caught off guard by my question and keeps focus on the table. "It's...wonderful. I don't really know how else to say it. Back in Equestria magic is...just a part of life."
I lean a little closer over the table listening intently. "So what is Equestria like? You're...actually a unicorn so...what else is there?"
Sunset looked at me with a sad smile. I feel like I may have been to eager but she continues. What follows is a basic description to Sunsets home. The different races. Their culture and economy and of course...magic. I'd like to get more details but we'd probably be here all day.
I then asked the one question I found I shouldn't have. "So why'd you decide to come to our world?"
Sunsets stares at me a moment. I can just barely see the tears in her eyes. She lets out a breath and looks back at the table. "Because... I'm a spoiled little brat who thought I deserved something I could never have."
My heart lurches. I'm really not good at this. "I'm...sorry Sunset. You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to."
Sunset continues. "I mean...I could've just stayed where I was. I would've still had magic. I would still have my studies."
I give her a sympathetic look. I hope I don't say anything else wrong. As Sunset looks down to the table I notice a few escaping tears. "Sunset...I know I don't know much of what happened but I'm sure things will work-"
Sunset shoots her head up as her tears flow more freely. "I could've killed someone! I never meant for any of that to happen."
Ahhh why me? Why am I here? I want to help but I know I'm not good at it. "And...mistakes like that happen all the time. It doesn't matter what you did...or almost did. What matters is what you do after that." I look over to the girls table and see Rarity and Applejack looking this way. I put on my best HELP ME face. I see them begin to head this way as I turn back to Sunset.
Sunset sighs sadly. "It doesn't matter what I do. No one's going to forgive me anyways...and I deserve it."
I smile as I look to the girls walking up. "I wouldn't say no one Sunset." Sunset looks up to see Rarity and Applejack standing there as she shrinks in her chair slightly with pained guilt on her face.
The two girls have awkward smiles on their faces. "Um...hello there darlings."
"Yeah...uh...heya we wanted ta see if ya would like ta sit with us Sunset." Applejack blurts out. Tactful Applejack...very tactful.
Rarity seems to think the same as she gives Applejack a disapproving look. "Yes...that IS why we are here." She then looks to Sunset with a caring smile. "We would like it if you would join us darling."
Sunset with a tint of confusion in her voice. "Why would you want somthing like me at your table...after everything I did?"
Rarity maintains a caring tone. "Well darling. Things may have been...rough...since you first came here. But now that everything is in the open. We were hoping to get to know you and...maybe start over and become friends?" Applejack just nods along as Rarity speaks.
Sunset seems unsure as she looks between the two girls and finally glances toward me. I give her a reassuring smile. "See? You should go for it. I know it won't change things over night but I'm sure you can come back from this...and be better." I then stupidly try making a joke. "Or I can just carry you to the table if you need a push." I give a little smirk as I begin screaming at myself. Ah crap please don't call my bluff don't call my bluff don't call my bluff...
Sunset blinks at me a few times and then...chuckles. "O-ok...I'll go." She then looks to the other two. "If you're sure you want me there?"
Rarity smiles as Applejack for Sunset to follow. "Sure we do sugarcube. We wouldn't ask if we didn't want ya there." She turns and makes her way back to their table. She seems to favor a more...get it done quick approach.
Rarity gives a slight roll of her eyes before looking back to Sunset. "Yes...what she said. We know there will need to be an adjustment given all we've been through but we want to give you that chance darling."
Sunset takes a moment to compose herself as she grabs her tray and stands to go with Rarity. She turns to me before she leaves. "Nova...thanks for talking with me. I guess...I'll see you later."
I give a nod as I smile. "Sure. Good luck and let me know if you need anything."
Sunset and Rarity make their way back to the table as I notice Sunset seems to slow as she gets closer till she finally makes it. Pinkie of course is nearly bouncing as she directs Sunset to sit between her and Rarity. As I watch them they seem hesitant, Pinkie excluded, but they seem to find a rhythm and begin talking a bit. I can see Rainbow still seems irritated but hopefully things work out. I give a sad sigh as I look to where Sunset was sitting and mumble. "Back to just me."
A little later as lunch is about to end. I'm fixing to stand to leave when a few students approach me. Oh come on. One of them is a tough looking girl with tan skin, white feathery hair and a brown bomber jacket. She spins a chair and sits backwards in it. "So...I hear you're the demons new muscle huh?" Oh joy now I gotta deal with these idiots. A few more stop when they hear what the girl said.
I guess now I get to do what I'm best at...playing dumb. "What demon?"
The girl arches a brow. "The one you were sitting with."
I tilt my head. "There was a demon here?"
The girl seems to growl a bit. "Yes. The flame haired girl that was here. Ring any bells."
I put on one of my favorite faces I call the questioning idiot. "I didn't see any flaming demons. Those are scawy."
A few of the students begin snickering as bomber girl slams her fist on the table. "It's Sunset you dweeb. Are you really this stupid?"
I express mock realization. "Ooooh...yeah Sunset was here. Why didn't you say her name before hand? Would've saved some time." I then give her a smirk.
With annoyance dripping through her voice. "Stop trying to be some smart ass."
And checkmate. I love using this comeback. I shrug. "Better than being a dumb ass."
The girl quickly gets up, moves close to me and grabs the collar of my shirt. "Call me that again dweeb and I'll have to rearrange your face a little."
I'm glad I look the way I do...mostly I guess. I've been told I look menacing just by existing so...it's at least good for these situations. I sigh as I slowly move to a standing position like a battle mech. At least I think so. I look towards the girl who still has a grip on me but is about a foot shorter them I am and with a neutral expression. "Well...go ahead. I'll follow your lead."
Understanding what I'm getting at the girl's eyes flinch slightly. After a few moments she relents angrily. "I just felt I should warn you. If you're goin to help...Sunset. then you better watch your back. Shimmer ain't gonna be on the top again."
I glance around the dozen or so students that are gathered. I notice most others had left for the next period but these idiots wanna hang back I guess. "Why are you people so mad at Sunset?"
One of the female students in the back speaks up. "Cause she turned into a demon and ruined the Fall Formal...duh."
Don't tell me these idiots don't realize. "So...how'd she turn into a demon?"
Some of the students seem unsure but one speaks up. "Well I heard she brought some magic from another world or something." The rest of the students seem to agree to that.
I just burst out laughing as bomber girl crosses her arms. "What's so funny dweeb?"
Once I'm done I address her. "Oh nothing much. Just trying to process how a high school can have so many idiots in it." The students seem to take acception to that as they begin to shout angrily. I hold my hand up to them. "Let me put it this way. How many of you grew up wishing magic was real? Playing games about it or even still do?"
The student calm down as a few slowly raise their hands. I then make an exaggerated gesture toward the exit. "Well hello! There's someone here who can use the real thing and...one more little tidbit. I was told she is a frickin unicorn...and y'all decide to focus on the Formal being ruined?" They seem to pause a bit at that. "I'm not saying forget what she did or don't keep an eye on her...but I would think the idea of magic would win out over some school party."
After a few moments of silence the door to the cafeteria opens as Luna steps in. When she sees us she just crosses her arms with a disapproving look on her face. The other students don't even hesitate as they scramble to leave and in just a few moments it's just me and Luna. I walk up to her and chuckle a bit. "Seems like you've got them whipped."
She gives me a smirk. "Nova, I do hope I don't have to show you why they react that way."
I wave my hand in front of me. "No I was just leaving. They wanted to discuss some things."
I turn to leave and as I do Luna puts a hand on my shoulder. "If you have any issues just let me or Tia know...ok?"
"Will do." I nod as I continue on to get to my next class. On my way there I can't help but wonder. With all that is going on now. I feel this ain't gonna be a normal school year.