> Full Friendship's Magic #2 (A Pie's white lie) > by Reykatan > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Scroll of Modesty Chapter 7: Cake before the social > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ I’m scared . . . why is he chasing us? How long do we have to hide here? Luna everything's going to be alright. It isn’t your concern, This matter is between me and him What exactly did you do? Why won’t you tell me? I apologize for dragging you into this mess. It’s difficult to explain everything. I know you’re out here somewhere, I won’t think twice about killing you in this place. W-where are you going? I don’t have a choice, Luna. I . . . I can’t let you do this! This isn’t fair well but . . . until we meet again. . . No wait! I still need to know what's in these! . . wait! I- STOOPP!!! GAHHH!! . . . . “Luna wakes from a bad dream. She breathes heavily and tries calming herself. She gets up, reaches the table, and grabs a glass of water.” Sigh . . . Not that again, that memory. Why won't it go away . . . Sister? “Celestia comes knocking on the door.” Sister? Is everything alright? I heard noises. "Luna flies to the door and opens it." Oh sister. I'm fine, It was nothing. Just the same old memory appearing during my dream walk. Again? This is the 7th time this month. Tell me, are you having visions of another crisis within the lands? No. Is the Tantrapus trying to escape from your dreams again? No. Is it Discord, pulling one of his shenanigans? No. There was no crisis, it wasn't the Tantrapus or Discord . . . "Luna paused and looked at her Sister." H-He had nothing to do with it. As I said before, it's just an old memory that keeps haunting me. Is it about your banishment to the moon? If it is, you shouldn't dwell on it badly. It’s all in the past now. That's not it either sister . . . Then what is it? "Celestia lifts Luna's chin as she looks at her in the eye." You can tell me. What kind of memory it is that kept you awake these past few days? I've told you sister that it was nothing- "She pushed Celestia and looked away." N-Nothing for you to be concerned about. You can leave now. Oh, I see . . . “Celestia turns to exit her sister's room. As she reached the door, she looked back at Luna and softly smiled.” I wouldn’t raise the sun for the next couple of hours. How about taking a break from dreamwalking for tonight? Sigh . . . alright, sister. I'll do just that. “Luna smiles back as Celestia closes the door. She turns her head out the window and gazes up at the night sky.” If only I could tell you what happened that day sister. . . But I couldn't build up the courage to do so . . . ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Days later. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ “It's another busy day in Sugar Cube Corners. With tons of new orders rolled in and the Cake family is busier than ever. All sorts of desserts were requested, from muffins to pies, and mostly cakes. All ready for Ponyvilles’ next social gathering held at Twilight’s castle. Everyone is invited and is excited about the occasion.” “Mr. Cake brought in a tray of muffins at the pie cousins.” Here’s another batch of muffins Pinkie pie. Oh thanks, Mr. Cake. I'll wrap them up in a giffy!! “Pinkie pie took the muffins and wrapped them into a box. She looks at both sides then slowly takes one to snack on." And stop snacking on the orders Pinkie. “Mr. Cake notices Pinkie's crummy hooves reaching for the muffins.” Awww . . . “Pinkie giggled and replies.” Okie Dokie Lokie! I wont- " But Pinkie can't resist and takes one." Hmmmm. . . well just one tinchy little sna- No."Mr. Cakes gently hit Pinkie's hoof of the muffin batch." You can eat the extras when we're done. Oh, Fine . . . "As soon as Mr. Cake turns his head, Pinkie shoves a cupcake out of the batch and into her mouth." “While in the kitchen, Mrs. Cake is decorating the ordered bakes. And with Pizza pie’s help, they made unique designs for each order.” Oh, these are wonderful Pizza pie. "said Mrs. Cake." As I expect from the pie family, having such decorative skills. Especially from another region. Oh, really? Thank you Mrs. Cake. "Pizza pie blushes." I guess this talent is in our blood. I bet. Knowing Pinkie pie, she said that you’re a spokesmare to your father’s restaurant in Mitaly. Surely you have some spare time decorating baked goods. That's true, but I started doing it after my cousin's visit. With a lot of practice both at home and at the rock farm, I managed to get the hang of it. And that also explains how I got the same cutie mark just like cousin Pinkie. Oh! I heard somepony say my name. “Pinkie pie walks in, pulling out a wagon full of freshly packed bakes.” Oh, cousin. I was just talking to Mrs. Cake about what we had in common. Do we now? Well, we’re both good at baking, we both love fun stuff, and we look alike now. That pretty much covers up what we had in common! Yup, it sure does Pinkie. "Pizza smiles." Despite how many years it's been you're always been my drive to open up to new things. Aww really? “Pinkie hugs her cousin tightly with joy.” Oh, I’m so glad you’re finally here! Together we can spread smiles and laughs all over Ponyville or even all across Equestria! That's a long stretch but, I bet we can cousin. "The pie cousin laughs, just as all seems like any other day. Then suddenly, they hear a bell ring." What was that? What was what? "Pinkie turns to Pizza pie while munching the muffin she took earlier." It sounds like a doorbell. What really? Mrs. Cake, you didn't tell me we have a doorbell. No Pinkie, we don't. "Mrs. Cake hit Pinkie's hoof dropping the muffins." But it does sound like it's coming from the front door. Hmmm . . . "The doorbell sound kept ringing. Curious, Pizza pie goes to the door to check. As she did, there was no doorbell on the sides and no pony outside except a box of one of their bakings." Huh? That's strange . . . "Pizza pie picks up the box and brings it inside." Cousin did you leave this outside? Uh, no. If I do I would remember it. Hmmmm . . . I guess someone must've forgotten to pick it up. Ooor someone left this just for laughs! "Then out of nowhere, an erie vocie replied." Hmmm, laughs you say? “The box in front of them starts to float. It then spun around, spits out a brown blob, and falls on the floor. The blob wiggles as it slowly takes its form. It towered over at Pizza pie, and slowly transformed into Discord. Pizza is surprised and immediately steps back while Pinkie pie is unfazed and hops over to him.” Oh, Hi Discord. I haven’t seen you around lately. What’s up? Oh, nothing much dear Pinkie, I just got back from my long vacation in the Bahamas. It was quite enjoyable really until I remembered something important. I was about to miss my first-ever Ponyville social gathering at Twilight’s castle. But it won’t start until next week and today is Saturday. Exactly! Now, I'm just by stopping to make an order for the occasion. Well, that’s nice uh, Mr. Discord but we’re already booked with so many orders. "said Mrs. Cake as she looked through the request list." Oh, nonsense. “He puts his claws over her.” I’m sure you can squeeze in one more by yours truly Mrs. Cake. "He snaps his fingers and the list magically expands to fit his name." W-Well I don't see why not. I mean, anything for you Discord. Wonderful! Now, I’ll have a chocolate fudge cake with vanilla filling and icing Oh! let’s not forget the shape. Hmm . . . let's see . . . Oh! I want it to be shaped like a pyramid with a top hat. Don’t ask. R-Right. . . "Mrs. Cake writes down his order on the expanded list." So, that's one pyramid-shaped chocolate fudge cake with both filling and icing vanilla flavored and a top hat. "She looks at the list she wrote on Discord's request, then looks at him." Uh . . Well, I'll get started on it be right back. Thank you ever so much Mrs. Cake and oh do take your time. I just want this occasion worth remembering. And with the cake you bake, I'll be the talk of the social. “As Discord turns his attention to Pinkie pie, he notices the look-alike pony behind her. Pizza pie avoids eye contact, hoping she won't get his attention. Discord look puzzled, at the pony behind Pinkie pie and why she looked away. But then, a memory came back to him. He smirks as he approaches the pie cousins.” Oh, Pinkie pie. Yes, Discord? I do recall you said there aren’t any more copies of yourself running around Ponyville. Oh Discord, that was a long time ago. And if there’s any more of me around, my Pinkie sense would go off. Hmm I see. Well, what about that pony behind you then? Huh? “Pizza pie looks at Pinkie and Discord.” W-Who me? Who else am I talking to? “He flies up to Pizza pie and bopped her nose.” You of course. With your mane looking like hers and everything. Well uh . . . That's is uh . . . It's actually uh. . . "She starts to sweat and tries to come up with a decent excuse. Then Pinkie jumps in between them." Don't be silly Discord, she's not a clone me, she's my cousin. Cousin? Yup, she’s my cousin Pizza pie. "Pinkie pulls in her cousin next to her." She used to live in Mitaly and now she lives with me! Hmmmmm . . . . Mitaly you say? Uh-huh. I've visited her house when I was a filly. When we met, she was super uptight, like she was no fun at all. P-Pinkie, you don't need to tell him that- Oh, why not dear? There's nothing wrong with sharing your childhood stories with good friends. . . . . I uh . . And Besides, I'm interested to know. "Discord grins at Pizza pie, feeling more uncomfortable than before." Continue Pinkie. Sure thing! Now where was I . . . Oh, yes! She said that doesn't do fun because her Papa won't let her. So me and my sisters threw her a party, she got mad, I got sad, then she ran away, then I found her, I apologized, then we made up- "Pinkie inhales heavily." Uh . . . Cousin- Wait wait! I'm not finished. . . . Then we had a sleepover and stayed up all night! Before we went home, we made our first Pinkie promise! That one day will live together and now here we are! together just like we promised! Only now, we both look alike aaannd even have the same cutie mark! "Pinkie pie hugs her cousin tight in front of Discord." Look alike huh? “Discord turns to Pizza pie and he takes a good look at her.” T-That's right. . . . I made a promise to be here. "She nervously smiles." It's uh . . . nice to meet you Mr. Discord. Oh please call me just Discord. "Discord offers his claw to Pizza pie." Ah right . . ."She grabs his claw and they shake hooves." It's nice to meet you Discord Likewise. But no need for a formal greeting "He closes in on Pizza's face." Because I think we've met before. Wh-What? No! . . .No, did we? "Pizza pie franticly replied." . . . Not that I remember. Are you sure? Because I remember meeting a mare with the same color as you. But her mane was a bit different back then. Swirly even, like a scoop of ice cream, and with an uptight attitude, much like what your cousin describes you. Uh . . . T-That could be anypony. I-I mean swirly manes are a thing in Mitaly after all. "Pizza pie laughs awkwardly and looks away." “Gasp!” NO way! Does that mean you’ve been to Mitaly Discord? Well yes Pinkie. During its early eras, Mitaly was the most populated place in the region next to Equestria. Why the last time I’ve been there is with that Traitorous Tirek stealing all the ponies’ cutie marks for himself. Except one at least. . . O-One? “Pizza pie nervously replied.” W-Who might that be? That uptight mare I talked about. Oh! I forgot to mention, that same mare I met didn't even have a cutie mark at the time. A mare with no cutie mark? Well, that’s weird to believe. Hmmm . . . . Cousin, any idea who that pony Discord's talking about? Uh . . . I-I wouldn’t know . . . I-I mean I was off to Equestria when that happened to be honest . . . Aw . . . too bad. Welp whoever that pony is, I sure hope she finally got her cutie mark already. Good thing you got yours at the rock farm with my sisters helped you out cousin. Yeah, good thing I did. I mean it wasn't easy to get one just like yours Pinkie. . . Yup no kidding, I got mine when Rainbow dash flew across the sky and made her first Sonic Rainboom! Hmmm . . .Right. “Discord looks at Pizza pie and replies to Pinkie.” Good for you Pizza pie. And wherever that uptight pony is right now, I hope she's better than to cheat her way into getting one. Cheating? "Pinkie asked." What do you mean? I mean, it's not like She wasted her time, trying to be somepony she's not, just for one's approval. But that's unlikely to happen. "Then, Discord snaps his fingers." . . . . . “Clueless, Pinkie stares at Pizza pie and Discord. Not aware of the situation. Then conversation got to an awkward silence until Mrs. Cake came back from the kitchen with his order.” Here you go Discord, one Pyramid-shaped vanilla filling, and chocolate fudge cake with a top hat on top. You know it's odd, there's already a pyramid-shaped cake lying on the table. And I don't remember baking it. Talk about coincidence. Oh Mrs. Cake, This is just perfect! "Discord takes his cake, shrinks it down, and puts it in his Fluttershy-shaped pouch. " And not an hour to wait, Thank you again. Don't mention it Discord, and I hope you'll have a grand time at the social gathering this weekend. You too as well Mrs. Cake. "Discord turns his attention back to the Pie cousins." Well as much as I love to chat some more, it's almost 3 and I can't be late for my afternoon tea time with Fluttershy. "Discord offers his claws again to Pizza pie." It's been a pleasure to meet you Pizza pie. I hope we can talk more at the gathering. Y-yeah . . . same here . . . "Pizza shook his claws once more." “Discord snaps his fingers, summons a Pumpkin chariot with mice as mounts, and exits the bakery.” Tah Tah. Bye Discord, see you at the party! "Pinkie waves at Discord as he fades in the distance." Wow everypony's sure is excited about the social gathering party huh cousin? . . . . Cousin. . . "She waves her hoof in front of Pizza's face." Are you ok? HUH?! Oh, I’m sorry Pikie, I was thinking of something . . . W-what were you saying? I said this social gathering is gonna be the best one this year! You’re gonna make lots of ponies and make tons of new friends! You'll fit right in no time! Yeah . . . fit right in . . . “Pizza pie smiles at Pinkie. Hiding her concerns with Discord from her cousin. As the social gathering draws near, her anxiousness gets worse. Her biggest fear is becoming real.” ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ~ End of chapter 7 > Scroll of Modesty Chapter 8: A Pie's Nervous Breakdown > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ The day of the social gathering. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ “The citizens of Ponyville are preparing for the social gathering. Everypony has their cakes and other foods to contribute for tonight. Even the two Royal sisters and Princess Cadence have something to offer for the occasion. At the tree castle, the Princess of Friendship is preparing the ballroom for her visitors with Starlight Glimmer's assistance.” Thanks for helping out setting the tables Starlight, I sure could use it since Spike is working on the guest list. It’s no problem Twilight, I should at least owe you for letting me go on Trixie’s magic tour during friendship counseling duties. It's nothing really, I hope Trixie wasn’t being too pushy on you, being her assistant and all. Especially when it comes to her performances, it must be difficult. Oh no, it's not that difficult Twilight. Sure her stunts were questionable, but it's not that hard to pull off . . . I mean . . . ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ A few weeks ago. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ I, The Great and Power Full Trixie will now attempt to lean my head over the jaws of a deadly Ursa Minor, with only the support of single a steel pole. “Audience gasps as Trixie turns to Starlight on the backstage and winks her the signal. Starlight used her magic to harden the steel pole. Trixie took a deep breath and slowly place her head between the Ursa minors’ jaws. She stays still for two minutes then she quickly pulls out. Starlight releases her magic. As she did, the steel pipe breaks in half. The audience applauded the two mares for their amazing performance and bows at the stage.” The crowd loved it and they were looking forward to our next magic tour. Seems to me you’re having a great time with Trixie Starlight. Oh, absolutely Twilight. But sometimes I just want to hang out with you and the girls too. Huh, I sure wish we could arrange a picnic with Trixie someday. Well . . . we can’t tell when, but soon I guess. Would you mind giving me a hoof on one of these sheets? Oh, sure Twilight. “They both use their magic to spread fifteen table sheets and set them in place.” Say Twilight, I heard that Pinkie pie’s cousin just moved here in Ponyville. Yes, just this week. We were surprised ourselves, knowing Pinkie pie would have a cousin in Mitaly. Mitaly? Isn’t that place used to be the Alicorns’ capital city? Indeed it is, you know about it as well? Of course, it’s one of the Ancient lands of the region. There are so many historical events happening in Mitaly. Like the Great Golden War and the death of Princess Awee. Oh, those were fascinating events! So much mystery behind all of it. Historians who study the ruin there say the war started when the Golden Army formed a campaign called the Great Chain. They built enormous borderlines on each mainland, forcing the species in Equestria to separate themselves from each other. It said the first princess of Equestria, Princess Awee was against the Archon’s ideal of order. Then a full-on war was declared, and all the species partake in the horrid event. Wait, wait. What’s an Archon Twilight? You don't know about it? Well just now. How's it different from a princess? Oh, I thought you knew about Milaty’s history Starlight? I only knew some facts about the Golden Army and the first Princess but I didn't know about an Archon. . . Well, an Archon is a very important yet dangerous leader. Whatever he/she decides all of Equestria’s race leaders will have to obey it. It has a higher authority on making big changes than a princess. Wow, that’s one heck of a ruler, I can’t imagine how life was Equestria eras back. Here's the thing Starlight, an Archon only leads all the military forces of various species in Equestria. It doesn't know anything about leading an economy, so life in Equestria back then was pretty rough. After the Golden War, the race leaders decided to disband the Archonship and started their own governments. And that’s how the big division happened. All the Ponies, Griffins, Changelings, and others went their separate ways. Here I thought Queen Chrysalis had the higher authoritarian power, next to the Dragonlord. Well, those titles were inspired by the Archon. The only difference is that authority only applies to their kind. Seems like a downfall . . . Everyone in this world used to live in harmony. Because of that one event, the whole species splits apart and nobody seems to trust each other but their kind. I know what you mean Starlight, trust is something worth gaining. But we’re slowly making friends with other species. I mean Spike made friends with the Dragonlord. . . Only because he’s a dragon himself. It’s natural for Spike to make friends of his kind. Well . . . how about Thorax? “Starlight rolls her eyes away from Twilight and looks at the table map.” Yeah, we’re lucky to have him at our side when we save you and everypony from Queen Chrysalis. And sure we manage to befriend some of the changelings but, what about those who still follow her? What if she comes back to get back at Thorax and the changelings who betrayed her? No matter how you look at it, to me, Throrax's peace with the ponies started from betraying his nature. It's true but in time things change just like you. Plus she's already in stone, from that it's hard to think she would break free. She's not Discord you know. But still, if that happens? “She stomps her hoof on the ground” What if in time things change again, not for good but back to what they used to be? Soon you'll be in charge of Equestria and all of your friends go their separate ways, like you never left Canterlot. . . just like I never left that village . . . . . . . “Twilight puts her hoof onto Starlight's shoulders.” If you’re referring to yourself then it’s all behind you now. Me, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Fluttershy, Pinkie pie, and even Trixie are your friends. We won't just forget it, it's a fact by now. Sigh . . . . You're right, I'm sorry for overreacting. I guess this feeling still pilled up in me after that standstill we all had against those three. . . That's alright Starlight, I know you don't mean what you said. Even if I run Equestria I'll still come visit my friends and the school. I'm still a Princess, not an Archon. "The two ponies laugh and hug it out." You better not act like one at least. I promise I won't Starlight. That's reassuring. So back to the topic, why did the Archon make that kind of campaign, when all the species were living together just fine? No one knows Starlight, It’s one of Equestria's’ biggest mysteries Hmmm . . .I see . . . . Hey, maybe Pinkie pie’s cousin knows it, after all, she lives in Mitaly. I doubt their education system is enough to advance in solving mysteries that big Starlight. I mean not even the princesses have any knowledge about it. Well, we won’t know until we ask her ourselves. . . I suppose but. . . But what Twilight? Maybe it's not the right time to ask her such things. And why is that? Well right now, Pizza pie is still a little self-conscious about meeting new ponies. Especially how she looks right now. Oh really? Well, what does Pinkie's cousin look like then? Uh, Let's just say Imitation is a form of flattery. I'll leave it to that. Huh? I don't get it. What do you mean by that? Is she trying to look like somepony? Take it easy Starlight, you'll meet her soon enough. But right now, we still need to prepare this castle for tonight. Let's get to it, shall we? Alright . . . . “Starlight looks curiously at Twilight. Not getting a clue what she meant, but she shrugs it off and resumes back to their work. Later that night at Sugarcube Corners, just hours away from the big social gathering, Pizza pie is at her cousin’s room looking through her truck for something to wear.” No, No, No! “She digs through her drawer, hoping to find something suitable to wear, but is having trouble on deciding which.” Ah hah! "She goes stand at the mirror next to her." Nope, too simple. “Outside, Pinkie hears her cousin through the door and Knocks.” Huh. . . . . Cousin. . . Too flashy. Hmmm . . . . “She knocks on the door a second.” Cousin Pizza are you ok? Too formal. Hmmp! “Pinkie pouts and knocks a third time.” Cousin! are you Ooff- "Without knowing, Pizza pie opens the door, and then Pinkie falls on the floor." I'm ok . . . Oh, sorry about that cousin. Don't worry about me. "Pinkie hops back to her hooves." So, are you done yet? It’s almost time for the gathering. In a minute Pinkie, I'm still picking. "Pizza digs into her pile of clothes." Why don't you wait for me downstairs? . . . What to wear? What to wear? Alright, let me get in there too! "Pinkie climbs to the edge of the bed and dives onto the pile." Weeeeee!! Cousin! What are you doing!? Can't you see I'm in the middle of a crisis here? Crisis? Gee, you're starting to sound like Rarity. “She pops out from the pile and shakes off the clothes on her head.” Anyway, don't get you're so worked up about it. No, I'm not. I'm just looking for something to wear. I don’t want to stand out that much, especially not at my first social gathering. Oh, cousin, this isn’t Mitaly where ponies judge you on how you dress. This is Ponyville, nobody would mind. Well, except for Rarity she’s always very conscious of how she dresses. . . . . “Pizza looks at Pinkie with a smile on her face.” You’re right Pinkie . . . . I guess I’m a little nervous about all this. There you go. "Pinkie pats her cousin's back." You don’t have to, everything will be fine and fun. If you say so, I'll take your word for it. Thank you Pinkie, you sure know what to say to me when it comes to these things. Oh, it’s nothing cousin. Besides you’re new to Ponyville, so I’ll make sure you’ll have a first good impression with everypony. Just trust me. . . . . A mare with no cutie mark? What kind of pony who never got their cutie mark yet? I hope she found her true talent. "Recalling their last conversation with Discord, Pizza pie has doubts about attending the social gathering but seeing her cousins’ smile she can’t change her mind. She shakes off her anxiety and hopes for the best." ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ The Following Night. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ "All the ponies are heading to the Tree castle, carrying with them their cakes for the event tonight. Twilight and Starlight are at the entrance, greeting each of the guests as Spike guides them to the main hall. All their offered goods are placed down on a long table for the cake exchange later on.” Look at all the ponies Twilight, I think we emptied the whole village. I know Starlight it’s incredible. Knowingly a social gathering, only takes a few ponies but now almost everyone is here. Including Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, Princess Cadance, My brother, My niece Flurry Heart even Discord. It’s quite a surprise you invited Discord. Well, he is one of our friends despite his . . . unpredictable attitude. “They both looked at Discord talking to the royal sisters. He pulls a rattle out of Celestia’s ear and gives it to Flurry Heart, then Flurry burps at Discord. Both the Princess chuckled so did Discord who smelled of baby food.” He’s fitting himself right in, so it’s best to left him. Speaking of fitting in, where’s Pinkie and her cousin? I haven’t seen them yet. Neither do I Starlight, but I think they’re running late. After all, they did make most of these cakes. “They notice everyone brought a cake for the occasion and place them on a large table along with the rest.” That’s a whole lot of cakes. I know. It’s for the cake exchange. Where everypony brings a cake made by their recipes and exchanges them with other ponies at the gathering. I came up with it. Oh? "Starlight raises her eyebrow." Was it really you Twilight? or Pinkie suggest it? Well, she did but I was the one who approved it. I see . . . I should've known. But most of these cakes are made from Sugar Cube Corners, how is it count as their own baking? Ah, about that. I told Pinkie if anypony requests to bake them one, they need to bring their ingredients and their written recipes for the Cakes to follow. "Starlight looks at everyone that passes them, carrying cakes of any kind in the castle." Seems like almost everyone made a request. Well, not all ponies in here knows how to bake like the Cakes and Pinkie pie. "Starlight hears someone calling. She turns her head outside the castle doors." Speaking of Pinkie, here she comes now. Hey Twilight! Hey Starlight! “Twilight and Starlight sees Pinkie pie running, and behind her is Pizza pie wearing a plain red scarf. They both reached the castle entrance, exhausted from running.” Sorry we’re late girls. We got lost track in time and rushed in here. Thank goodness you two made it. What's taking you both so long? Ask cousin Pizza here. She can't decide what to wear out of a truck full of her clothes. So I told her to wear a scarf instead, at least it’s pretty simple for her to get noticed but less attention. "Pizza scratches her head in embarrassment." Yeah, she’s right. . . I’m sorry if you had to wait for us. No, it’s no problem Pizza pie, I understand. This is your very first social gathering right? Yes, it is. . . We don't have this kind of event in Mitaly aside from old traditions. Do tell! I would love to know more about the occasions celebrated in- "Starlight goes behind Twilight and taps on her shoulders." Uh . . . Twilight. Now's not the time for a history lesson. Oh, right. "Twilight grins at Starlight." Ehem . . . . Anywho, you don’t have to worry about anything, just relax and be yourself. Ok . . . I will Twilight, thank you. It's my first social gathering too. "Starlight walks up to Pizza pie." Hi my name is Starlight Glimmer. ”She offers Pizza her hoof.” Nice to meet you. Pizza pie. “She grabs Starlight's hoof and they shake hooves.” It’s nice to meet you too Starlight. I didn't know till now, that Pinkie would have a cousin somewhere out of the region like Mitaly. Well, Mitaly is a pretty far place but there's nothing special there, aside from its history. I mean still having a little homesick but with my cousin around that's no longer the case. I know what that feels like. Living so far away from Equestria, makes you feel like you're from another world or something. I-I guess it's sort of like that. So you’re not from here either? I live in a nameless village, I left because I did some things that I’m not proud of. Me too. I spend my life, doing the things I don’t like. And If it weren't for Pinkie, I wouldn't have seen it. So I'm grateful for her. Yup! And you did the right thing of opening up! Yes, so thanks for that. “She smiles at Pinkie pie and Pinkie smiles back.” So what about you Starlight why did you move to Ponyville? Oh About that. . . It's a long story really. It definitely doesn't involve me enslaving a village from their cutie mark and getting revenge on Twilight by messing with the timeline, ruining her future and her friends, or anything like that . . . . . . . . . Oh uh . . . . I- uh . . . don't know how to relate to that but uh . . . “Starlight smiles awkwardly at the Pies cousin while looking at her weirdly. Spike walked into the conversation carrying with him the guest list.” Sorry for interrupting Twilight but uh, the guests are wai-. Spike! perfect timing! Have everything ready for me, we'll be there for a second. "Confused, Spike turns and heads back to the ballroom." Ok then Twilight. . . . Ahah! I guess will continue this little chat of yours later Starlight. The social gathering is about to start. Let's head in now. "Twilight used her magic to drag Starlight inside." Uh . . . It's nice to meet you again Pizza pie. E-Enjoy the night. Likewise. . . "She waves at Starlight as she is dragged by Twilight." I'll try. . . "Starlight waves at the Pie cousins. She cuts off Twilight's magic and walks in with her. The Pie cousins follows them from behind." Pinkie, is she one of those Ponies you said used to be bad? Uh yeah. But don't worry. Starlight is super good now and she even works with me and my friends at Twilight's school as the friendship counselor. You guys work in a school? since when? Oh! Didn't I tell you? How could I forget?! Well, it all started when we had no time to walk across Equestria to spread the magic of friendship and Twilight said Why not make a school of friendship? Everyone said what?! Then I said yeah! and EEA said nuh-uh and Princess Celestia showed up and said Yes-uh! and then I said Oatmea- Ok, Ok. "Pizza pie covers Pinkie's mouth with her scarf." Save that story for another time cousin. . . Mmmmffhhh!! MMmmffhh. . . "Pinkie takes off the scarf and gives it back." Alright Alright just remind me. Oh! where here. “After walking through the hallway, the Pie cousin made it to t the ballroom where the rest of the visitors gathered. Ponies and other creatures were chatting with each other. Spike goes up to the stage and sets the microphone in place. He turns to Twilight and signals her. She takes a deep breath and walks up the stage, grabs the mic and gently taps it.” Ehem . . . Good evening friends, princesses, ponies, and all creatures. Welcome to the 107th Ponyville social gathering. “Everyone applauded.” We are gathered here tonight to celebrate our years together not as fellow villagers, not as separate kinds, but as good friends. As your princess of Friendship let me be the first to say. Thank you all, for everything and keeping our bonds together strong. We have faced many trials in the past and learned something important from each of them. Even when I first came to Ponyville, when Princess Celestia sent me here I wasn’t sure of- “As Twilight’s goes on with her speech, Pizza pie looks around the crowd. She sees Pinkies’ friends at the corner, Starlight and Trixie next to the pillars, and the Royal sisters at the back. As she looked further, she sees Discord right next to Fluttershy. Discord then noticed Pizza pie was looking at them. He smirks at her and waves. Pizza pie immediately looked away and faced back to Twilight. From afar, Princess Luna sees Discord, waving at somepony. Puzzled, she looks to where he's waving to. At first, she thought it was Pinkie pie. But as she looked closer, just next to Pinkie pie was another pony next to her. With a similar mane and a different color. Princess Luna is baffled, seeing two Pinkie pie's standing next together. Just as she wants to get a closer look, Princess Celestria taps her back.” Sister, is everything alright? Who are you looking at? Oh, it’s nothing sister. I thought I saw somepony I know. Somepony? Oh, so you made friends? How wonderful. Introduce me to them later on. O-of-course sister . . . friends of mine . . . “She looks back at the Pie cousins curiously.” Strange, just who is that pony? After all, the tasks I faced. I consider myself lucky to have such great friends by my side. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I stand today, so as of now and many years to come we should all be grateful that Friendship is forever within us. “Everyone applauds at Twilight’s heartwarming speech. Her parents and the Princesses were proud of her Even her friends cheered loudly. Pizza pie was impressed by Twilight’s charisma and kindness towards everyone in the room.” That was a great speech Twilight! "Pinkie yells in the crowd, jumping and waving her hooves." Cousin calm down. "Pizza pie pulls down her tail." Everypony's watching . . What's the deal? Ponies got used to me jumping around and screaming at the top of my lungs on a daily basis. Well, I'm not. And besides, I would like to get noticed when I introduce myself to others? Aw, what's the fun in that? I want to show my best cousin ever to every creature in Equestria! What?! No! . . . . I-I mean how about let's start with everyone here, at the gathering for now. Hmmmmm . . . . "Pinkie gets close to Pizza pie's face and looks at her in suspicion." You've been acting weird lately, and not the funny kind of weird. Ahhh . . . No I'm fine. Like I said I'm just nervous because this is my first social gathering with you that's all. "Pinkie proceeds to stare into her cousin's eyes, and her reflection appears in them. Sweating, Pizza pie stood still and tried to hide her anxiousness from her. Pinkie then slowly steps back and rubs her chin." Okie dokie then. Just until you're comfortable opening up. Thanks, cousin I knew you'd understa- So we'll start at the cake exchange and oh! it's already starting! "She grabs Pizza's hoof and pulls her in the crowd." Cousin, c'mon the party’s starting. We’re gonna miss out hurry! Pinkie slow down you're walking too fast- “As they got closer, Pizza pie's anxiety grew more. Passing through the crowd, she sees everyone around her, having fun and eating cake. She avoids eye contact until they reach the table.” Alright made it, and there are still more cakes for us to try! "Pinkie rushes to the table, taking each slice of cake until it piles up on her plate. She turns to Pizza pie, whos just standing." What are you waiting for? Grab a slice and let's make some friends! I-I . . . uh . . . . C'mon cousin. The night is still young. Uh . . . . . I can't . . . ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ~ End of chapter 8 > Scroll of Modesty Chapter 9: The Awkward Gathering > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ "Twilight steps down the stage after her speech. She was greeted by her friends waving at the side and flew up to them." You were amazing up there Twilight . . . Thank you Fluttershy. Oh Indeed. Everypony was moved by your inspiring words of friendship. Thanks Rarity. I'm glad I did. As always, you sure know how to keep an audience riled up. Thank you Applejack. I try do to so. Yeah, if you weren’t trying to bore them to sleep “Applejack hits Rainbow dash on the hoof.” I-I mean . . . great speech Twilight. Really knocked them out of the park. Thanks, Rainbow dash. I could've added more to say but- “Starlight walks in their conversation. She carries drinks with her magic and passes to each of them.” But if you did, you’ll probably will bore the ponies to sleep. See, Starlight gets it. Very funny. Seeing as you two weren’t the one up on stage. I like to see you make a speech based on your learnings. Alright, Alright we get it already. Sheesh can't you take a joke? "Starlight laughs and gives Twilight a drink." I’m sorry Twilight, I was just kidding. Anyway, it looks to me like everyone’s getting along with one another just fine. Yes just like I said before Starlight. With friendship in their hearts, harmony thrives. I don't what you two talkin about but everypony here's havin a good time. Uh, well not everypony. . . “Fluttershy points over at the table and they saw the Pie cousin talking. They were concerned, watching Pinkie pie pull her cousin's hoof. They nodded and went over to the Pie cousin to check up on them.” Pizza pie. "Twilight grabs her shoulder." Is everything alright? "Pizza pie steps back and faces Twilight and the others." Oh, U-Uh . . . Uh . . Yeah Twilight, I'm fine. It's nothing cousin is being pushy. "She awkwardly laughs." You how excited she gets. They know that I was just introducing her to everycreature to make friends with but cousin here's been acting weird all day. No! I wasn't! I just can't put what I want to say into words yet. Pinkie pie you shouldn't push your cousin into making friends But I- And Pizza pie, we’re your new friends. If there’s anything that’s bordering you can share it with us. Yeah Twilight's Pizza. You can totally tell us what’s up. Yes darling, no need to be shy about it. "She looks at her new friends and feels bad for worrying them." Sigh . . . It’s about the social gathering . . . Other than this being my first time attending. I'm just overwhelmed by all this. I mean I haven't seen or met any dragons, griffins, changelings, Yanks, or hippogryphs. Was that really you're nervous about? Because you don't act like just before you met Discord. What?! that's not true! he has nothing to do with this! He doesn't know anythin- Ugghh Of course Discord. I should've known. That guy's been messing with everypony's mind just for his own amusement. Oh dear, did he say something mean to you? Tell me and I'll go march right up to him and tell him to apologize- No please don't make this a big deal. He didn't say anything, I was just intimidated by him. . . . . . . "The ponies were puzzled and looked at each other. Looking at Pizza pie and the tune from her voice, Pinkie pie doubts her cousins' words and starts to assume her actions. Applejack gets close to Pizza pie and pats her back." You don’t have to worry about it Sugar Cube. We all felt intimidated before. Applejack is right “said Fluttershy.”. I-It’s true that meeting new friends feel that way, especially when you’re in a crowd full of unfamiliar faces, looking at you suspiciously, their eyes all over you, waiting for you to say a word- “She looks at Pizza pie who's feel more tense than before.” Uhh. . . I-I mean it’s not that bad . . . Smooth."Rainbow dash flies next to Pizza pie." Look Pizza, You don't need to worry about anything. Discord is just scaring you, but overall he's cool. Well, some of the time. I have the same problem too Pizza. ”said Starlight.”. When I first moved to Ponyville, I wasn’t sure about meeting other ponies either. I could've just do what Twilight tells me and solved some friendship problems but, in time I made a few friends along the way. Starlight is right. You don’t have to force yourself into making new friends. Do it on your own phase, you already made friends with us. And if you're confident enough to open to others then that's up to you. Well . . .Ok, thank you again Twilight and everypony. And I’m sorry if you have to worry about me. . . Oh, it’s fine. There’s nothing for you to be ashamed of if you have any friendship problems. Everyone does, including me. Yup, and when Twilight does have friendship problems, she either gets stressed out, panicked, or stressed out then panic. She doesn’t need to know that Pinkie. "said Twilight with a forced smile." I do.”said Starlight” Whenever I ask her she just changes the subject. In that case, "Rainbow dash rull Starlight aside." I’ll fill you in on the details because boy, do you need some catching up to do Starlight! And where are you two going? huh? Relax Twilight. If I told her the story, you'd deny it instantly like last time. Only you share it with your students during your class. You're supposed to teach them about loyalty. Uh, Twilight it is a lesson. It's about Not having a panic attack during a friendship problem. What?! That's not a friendship lesson! And don't use me as an example- Professor Rainbow dash. "Sand bar and the students from the friendship school walk up to their teachers." How are you all? "said Twilight." Are you enjoying the gathering? Yes mam. We were just gonna ask Professor Rainbow dash if she can share some of your paran- "Sand bar leans behind Twilight and sees Rainbow dash crossing her head to stop." Uh- her lessons with us. We didn't take notes on it last time. Yeah sure why not! With every detail but, uhh . . . Let’s talk about it over there where no one's gonna bother us. "Rainbow dash pushes Starlight and the students away from Twilight, and goes to the other side." Hmmmmmm. "Twilight stares angrily at Rainbow dash, then turns to her friends.' While Rainbow shares her lessons to the students I'll be with the pillars, cooling my head a bit. I'll deal with her later. Enjoy the rest of the night girls. You do that darling. While Applejack and I will watch over the fillies. And I’ll . . . be just here by the punch bowl . . . “The ponies went separate ways, leaving Pie cousins alone. Pinkie waves at her friends, then she turns to her cousin, putting her hoof over her cousin, and pats her back.” Cousin, I'm sorry I was being pushy. Maybe I was over-excited about you making your own friends. Oh no, it's ok. Don’t worry about it so much. No, it was my fault if I didn't notice how tense you were. But not to worry! Because knowing you, you can make friends easily. After all were Pies but also we look alike! Yeah alike . . . Say why don't we help ourselves now with some cake? Way ahead of you! "Pinkie slides all the slices of cake from her plate to her mouth." Bet you can't tell which cake these came from. Oh, I will. I remember all the cakes we baked. “Pizza pie nods and follows Pinkie pie.” Wanna race on it? Alright then, you're on cousin! “As the Pie cousins rush over to the table, Discord is watching them from the side. He snaps a drink in his hand and takes a sip. Then he sees in the bottom of his glass, Princess Luna heading in his direction. Discord waves at her then he snaps another drink and offers it to her.” Martini your Highness? . . . “She looks at him and accepts the drinks.” . . . Thank you. It's been a while since we had a decent talk to. Oh, I was wasn't I? Well, those were the days am I right? Indeed it was. And you weren’t the easiest to stop, also unpredictable and difficult even when we tried to reason with you. Well, what can I say, when you have the power to rip the fabric of reality what's the point it is to give into reason? That is exactly how you were imprisoned in the first place. You never think about the consequences you’ve caused for the ponies in Equestria but instead, all of it is just for your own personal gain. Oh, I love to hear more about my past sins, but it’s all behind us dear Luna. You should accept it and move on. I will never move on, not what you have done with him! “Discord was surprised and turned to Luna, with anger on her face. He paused, his guilt from the incident built up, and couldn't bare to deny it. ” . . . . Oh . . . you know. . . how? It was a vision and I never forget Discord. That grim moment haunts me every time I set hoof in the dream realm. That's what causes the Tartarus to break out of my control. . . . . I had to compensate that Nightmare with another Nightmare so that way it wouldn't escape. But it seems it wasn't enough and it did. You should’ve fixed that problem sooner an- You were the cause of it! If you hadn’t been so selfish over power, the Tartarus and all those horrible times would have been prevented! Your imprisonment, being Nightmare Moon, My banishment, all of it, wouldn't happen! “Luna's frustration was heard by a few ponies around them. They slowly walked away pretending they didn't hear anything. Discord couldn't give a proper response, knowing Luna knew the incident puzzled him. But he shrugs it off and snaps her a handkerchief and hands it to her.” So, are you expecting an apology from me? “She wiped her face and replied.” Yes and No. . . . I-I don’t even know If I could ever forgive you. . . Don’t be. . ."He snaps a copy of himself." What my actions before was the old Discord. The new Discord today is no longer following the footsteps of the old Discord. "He pulls out a leaf blower and blows away his copy turning into leafs." I was released from my second imprisonment by your sister because she bluntly believed that I could change. So . . . Did you change? Well, there were many potholes along the way, and may have even foolishly betrayed everyone a few times. . . but you know what? What? Tia was right, I did change but I didn’t do it alone. I got my friends to help me, especially Fluttershy. “Discord waves at Fluttershy by the Punch table, she waves back and drops the ladle onto a pony’s hoof. She bows to apologize and picks up the ladle.” I see, if it were true then I should believe them. What about me? I was the one who changed. You however still have a long journey to regain my trust. I guess it's better than nothing. chees to that then? “Discord and Princess Luna share a toss as to accept their neutrality. Discord snaps another drink, refilling their Drinks. But inside, her doubts of him won't go away neither is Discords' suspicions of her vision. Meanwhile, the Pie cousins are still going over their little competition.” Hmmm! MMmmmm!!! These cakes are good, I haven’t tasted any of Mrs. Cakes’ baking before they were ready. I know right? “ said Pinkie, with her face stuffed in Icing.” Mrs, Cakes’ baking is one of a kind. I mean I can't bake a cake like she can. Well, your baking is special too cousin. It’s uhh . . . what you call it your own one of a kind. AH! You're right! Thanks cousin. Those were the exact words that I like to hear from you. Really? What words? All the nice words coming from you silly! You may not know it yet, but I do have a pinkie sense when you say nice things about me. Pinkie sense? like how you knew I was gonna burst at the door during your visit? Yes! But wait how did you know? Oh, "Pizza pie giggles and wipes Pinkie's cheeks." I have my own Pinkie sense too you know. Wow really? Just kidding. Cousin Lime told me about it Ohhhh, good one cousin you had me there. "Pinkie giggled." Oh! we haven't tasted this one yet. “Pinkie goes over the big cake next to them. She takes two slices and passes one to her cousin. They smiled and tasted the slice together.” Hmm Mmmmm . . . these taste so chocolaty! I love it! Oh yeah, I you love chocolate do you cousin? Definitely! It’s one of my favorite sweets back in Mitaly, Though Papa wouldn’t let me eat some, so when he wasn’t around I sneaked out to go to the candy shop just around the corner. I bought myself a few bars of chocolate and only ate them late at night. Won’t you get into trouble for lying about your Papa about eating chocolates? I started doing that day after you went back home. . . Oh, oh! Well, you don't have to worry about sneaking out. Because I got tons of chocolate right below my- “Suddenly Pinkie pie’s stomach starts to rumble. She holds her belly and sits on the floor.” Owh . . . A-Are you alright cousin?! I-I’m fine cousin “Her stomach growls loudly, as it’s getting worse.” But my Tummy isn’t. Owww . . . I-I’ll be heading to the little mare's room . . . Maybe I should go with you, just to be sure– No, don’t, I don’t want you to worry about me. You should be having fun tonight and eating cake. But Cousin . . . And besides, I get tummy aches all the time “Her stomach growls even louder.” But not like this one. I-I’ll be right back cousin . . . Owh. . . aw aw aw aw . . . Make way, make way! This is a tummy emergency! Clear the path! . . . . “Pinkie pie passes through the crowd and rushes to the rest room leaving her cousin at the table alone. Pizza pie looks around seeing many unfamiliar faces, her tension slowly builds up. But she shakes it off her mind and waits for Pinkie to return. Without knowing, a group of ponies were looking at her curiously. They nod at each other and walk up to Pizza pie, startling her.” Hello, are you new here? Huh?! “Pizza pie turns around and sees two ponies in front of her.” Oh! uh . . . Yes I am. Really? No one told us there's a new pony moved to Ponyville. I-I'm been here almost a week, honestly. Really? I didn't see you around just now. Welcome to Ponyville. My name is Bon Bon and this is Lyra. "Lyra smiles and waves behind Bon Bon." It's nice to meet you. Ok Pizza pie, just like I practice. . . . Nice to meet you both. I’m Pizzania- Ehem. . . Pizza pie I'm- Pizza pie? “said Lyra” You don't happen to be related to Pinkie pie are you? Yes I am. I-I'm her cousin from Mitaly. Mitaly? Are you serious? Pinkie never mentioned it before, that's amazing! Bon did you hear? She's Pinkie's cousin from from Mitaly- Yes Lyra, I heard her the first time. You have to excuse her, she's just a bit jumpy tonight. Probably with all that sugar! "Bon Bon angrily turns to Lyra while taking another slice of cake at the table." I told you to take it easy with the chocolate ones! "Pizza pie chucked and replied." I know somepony else whos always jumpy too. “Bon Bon laughs.” I know which pony you're talking about. So Mitaly huh? that's out of the region. What made you decide to move here? Well, it’s a long story actually. You see I made a promise to Pinkie we live together- So far so good, no one suspects anything yet. if I keep this up, I can make some friends here so cousin Pinkie won't worry about me too much. Uh "Lyra suddenly raised her hoof." Excuse me, I got a question. Ah, Of course, What is it? So is Mitaly a great place to stay? I heard stories that its the Alicorns' capital region back in millennia. It's not a story Lyra, it's a historical fact that even the Princess of friendship is aware of it. Y-Yes it is. "said Pizza pie." There were old ruins in the capital you can visit so- "Lyra closes into Pizza pie." Which part? any recommendations? W-Well, there are a few bu- What are ponies there usually like? What's your job there? is there a Sugar Cube Corners there too? C-Can you ask me one at a time please? . . Uh, Lyra you're making her nervous- Hey everypony! We got a pony from Mitaly who just moved here. “The ponies heard Lyra and gathered together around Pizza pie. She remains calm and tries to entertain them. Meanwhile, Princess Luna noticed the commotion at the other table. She sees the mare from before who's surrounded by other ponies. She noticed the mare was uncomfortable talking. She turned to Discord who's waving at Fluttershy.” Uh, Discord. Yes, Dear Princess Luna? Isn’t that the Pony you wave at during Twilight Sparkle's speech? “Discord looks at where Luna was pointing while eating a sandwich.” Oh, mmm . . . her? Glup Oh that’s just Pinkie pies’ copycat cousin, what’s her name again . . . mmmm . Ah yes, Pizza pie. Pizza pie? . . . Wait, what do you mean by copycat? Can't you tell the way she looks? Well, Pinkie's mane is easy to mimic even I can do it. "He snaps his claws and gains a pinkie pie mane." It's bizarre if you think about it. How can you say it's bizarre? Just because one has the same mane as the other doesn't mean- Well, how can you explain the cutie mark then? It's eerily similar to Pinkie's but alternate color. You don't see anypony with the same cutie mark, yet alone being relatives. Discord, you have no right to judge one's destiny by its similarity of cutie marks. Even so Luna. But judging by this ponys' actions, her cutie mark is nothing more than just for show. compensating her insecurity of finding her own destiny. Or better phased it, wasted the time mimicking someone else. You seem to be sure about it. Have you met her before? You don't seem to trust me? Well, look closely and you'll see for yourself. “Princess Luna and Discord turn back to Pizza pie spectating her. More ponies gather around her, making her fell uncomfortable. She tries to entertain them as calmly as possible, but suddenly she hears something whispering behind her ear.” How long are you gonna play pretend with these ponies? Huh?! What? who said that?! I don't know what you're- Don't play dumb, they know you're lying to their faces. Everypony suspects it. I wasn't lying. I'm being myself- You're even lying to yourself. What if someone figures it out? figure us out? Ughh!! W-What? “Ponies around her fade black, becoming a silhouette. Their voice muffled and echoed loudly. The ballroom gets wider and the ceiling starts to stretch higher. Pizza pie's sweat falls down her forehead, slides to her nose, and drips onto her drink. She looks down, still reapplied from her sweat. As it clears she sees a reflection of herself with her old mane and eyes covered.” !!!!! "Pizza drips her drink and spills on the floor. Her reflection still appears in the drink." What would our new friends think? What would cousin think? You're not real, you're not me- You used to be me. Before we cheated a Pinkie promise. That's not true . . . That's not true! "Pizza closes her eyes and covers her ears tight. But she can still hear the voice, passing through her covered ears. She tries to ignore it but it gets louder and echoes in her mind. She opens her eyes, looks up, and sees her old rehearsal room. Everything is in grey including her. She sees a group of fillies whispering and at the other side is her younger self. Alone and quiet." Hey, isn’t that Pizzaniac Peach Pie? That’s her alright. She’s the mare from Cheesy Round Caters. Hey, you notice she keeps wearing that long robe covering her flank. I know right? What's with that? Do you think she’s hiding something? Must be a really bad birthmark. Or maybe . . . She doesn’t have a cutie mark? What?! No way? Really? We haven't seen her cutie mark since she started here. It could be. How else can you explain that long robe? Who knows. But if that's the case, I'd die from embarrassment if were her. "The fillies laugh at Pizza pie. Without realizing it, she became her younger self wearing the robe. Behind the fillies is her current self, eyes covered, and gives an eerie smile. " "We could've proved them wrong . . ." Shut up . . But instead. . . Shut up . . . We lie our way to get here. I said . . SHUT UP! "Every creature heard her scream. Pizza pie was back in the ballroom. She froze and looked down at her spilled drink seeing only her current reflection. She then turns to Bon Bon, Lyra, and everyone else looking at her confused." No . . . Don't look. Don't look what? “Bon Bon leans down and grabs the cup on the floor.” You drop your drink and you just scream all of a sudden- Stay back! “Pizza pie slaps the cup from Bon Bon's hoof. Her breath tightens and her vision blurs.” No I- Hey, what's wrong? "Lyra goes up to Bon Bon." Why'd you do that? I-Uh . . . "Pizza pie looks at the two ponies. She steps back, scared of what she did." I didn'- Lyra I'm fine, it's nothing. "She turns to Pizza pie, looking concerned." Pizza are you ok? you don't look good? D-Don't look good? "She Misheard Bon Bon, her eyes wander, and sees everyone whispering around her." I-I guess I'm- . . . I gotta go. Hey wait! "Pizza pie ran away from the crowd and didn't look back. " Why is this happening?! Everything went so well from the start. This all happened when I bumped into him again! Is he messing with my head?! Make the voices stop!- P-Pizza pie, look out! W-what?! "Pizza pie opens her eyes, she sees Fluttershy up ahead waving her hooves to stop." Whoa WHOAAAAAA!!!!! “Pizza pie tries stopping but slips and crashes into Fluttershy punch table. The crash can be heard across the room and everyone's attention. Twilight and the rest of the ponies ran up to the scene, to see what the commotion was about. As they did, they saw a huge mess over the punch table. Fluttershy and Pizza pie were soaking wet from the spilled punch. They were surprised and went to help the two mares.” Are you ok Pizza pie? “Bon Bon and Lyra help pull up Pizza pie.” I'm Alright I guess . . . "Pizza pie quickly see Fluttershy flip upsidedown on the pile of cups. She rushes over to her and helps her get up." Ohgosh! Fluttershy I'm so sorry are you ok? I-I'm fine Pizza pie . . It's nothing too serious, How about you? Are you ok?- GASP!! What? What is it Fluttershy? P-Pizza, Y-your. . . My what? My what? Y-your cutie mark! Huh?! M-My wha- "She checks her flank." O-Oh No . . . Phew . . . I thought I would never leave the bathroom. . . Huh? "Pinkie spots a crowd gathering in her direction." Oh, what’s going on over there? Did somepony start a Kanga line without me?! Hey, I wanna Kanga bomb! “She walks in the crown, squeezing hrself through as she goes up front.” Um, excuse me, pardon me, excuse me, whoops my bad. Now, what’s everypony looking . . . . at . . P-Pinkie?! “Pinkie pie made it in front and sees the mess at the table. She sees Fluttershy soaked in punch while Pizza pie helps her. To her surprise, she sees her cousin's tomato-colored showing from her soaked mane. But the crowd was shock that Pinkie didn't notice. Her cousin's balloon cutie mark had slowly washed away. Pinkie pie was stunned, couldn't believe what she saw. Pizza pie quickly notice her pink cousins presence and turns to her. Knowing she was caught she could think of an explanation.” C-Cousin, this . . . . . . This isn’t what it looks like . . . ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ~ End of chapter 9 > Scroll of Modesty Chapter 10: The Cheated Promise > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Oh dear. "Fluttershy spots Pinkie pie in the crowd and flies over to her." Pi-Pinkie pie It's not what you think. This was just an accident- “Pinkie pie moves Fluttershy aside, pointing her attention to her cousin. She goes up to her speechless and disbelief. That her once proud cousin is nothing more than just a vivid illusion. She looks at Pizza pie, with her cutie mark* washed off from her flank. She forces a smile, holding back her tears.” I-I can’t believe this . . . Cousin please, I can explain- You lied? . . . Cousin I wanted to tell you this soon- But you never lie. . I didn't think you could. This isn't a lie it's more like- A what? A surprise? A surprise knowing, that my only cousin came all the way here, looking exactly like me, mane style and cutie mark. Fooling my friends, fooling me into thinking we're alike!? C-Cousin . . . please hear me ou- Yeah, I'm surprised. I'm surprised that you couldn't find a cutie mark on your own. So wasted all this time to jus- jus- just Cheat on our promise?! . . . . We've talked about this when we were fillies. . . I told you to do what makes you happy . . . . . . . . I- But instead, you couldn't. You can't bare the fact you can't find a cutie mark you're happy with, so you just painted one and you think I won't mind? . . . . . . Heh, sounds familiar? . . . . . . . This is how you sound like, when you told me you don't have time for fun. And I get it now. . . Happiness isn't fun for you because you don't have time for it. . . . But you did have time to lie to me, to all of my friends and to yourself. . . . . . . . . . . You're terrible Pizzaniac. "Pizza pie's heart shatters, as she took every painful word Pinkie pie said to her.". . Pinkie I- . . . I- . . . . . "Pinkie pie coldly turns her back and walks away." W-Wait please . . "Pizza pie goes after her cousin, grabbing her shoulder. Mustered up the courage to apologize." Cousin I- . . . . I'm so sorry- "Pinkie slaps off her cousin's hoof." Just stop. . . .You've embarrassed me enough. "Pizza pie's final attempt to redeem herself failed. The crowd surrounding them witnessed their sibling bond torn to pieces. Pizza pie realizing she had nothing left but shame, stormed out of the ballroom in tears. She exits the castle and away from everyone. Their friends were surprised by the Pie cousin's awkward confrontation. Twilight and the rest go up to Pinkie pie, hoping to get an explanation from her.” Pinkie pie, are you ok? I’m fine Twilight . . . No, you're not Pinkie. “Rainbow dash lands beside her.” What happened back there? Nothing . . . just an accident. . . It wasn’t just an accident Pinkie. Yeah Pinkie. Every creature here saw it, about your cousin's cutie mark- A fake? Well you got that right, what do you want? A cookie?! Pinkie darling, It's more than just that. Your cousin is hurt- But It's true Rarity. Her cutie marks a fake, which makes her a fake too. P-Pinkie calm down, you don't know what you're saying. There might be an explanation behind it. Maybe you should consider talking to her . . . No, she lied to me Fluttershy! She lied to all of us! And it's not just a white lie, it's a lie that lasts a lifetime! . . . . . Funny, to think I dream of the day that we finally reunite and spread our happiness around . . . And now that she's here, it turns out to be the opposite. . . Pinkie pie you don't mean that. "Twilight stands in front of Pinkie." I know this was a shock to us that your cousin could keep such a secret. But you can’t stay mad at her. Like Fluttershy said, there’s got to be an explanation for all this. If you could find it in yourself to listen, I’m sure she’ll open up to us. Yeah, Twilight’s right Pinkie. “said Rainbow dash.” So what do you say we find her and patch things up together? . . . . . No. No? What do you mean no?! She’s your cousin. Sugar Cube that stubbornness of yours ain't gonna solve your problem with her. I said NO! I don't want to see her. . . Not looking like that. Bu-But she can be anywhere by now Pinkie . . . What if she packs her things and leaves Ponyville. Then that's her decision. . . . . . . I'm sorry girls, but I'm going home. . . I lost my party mood. . . ”Pinkie pie walks past her friends and exits the ballroom. Twilight and the rest can't do anything but watch her leave the castle. Spike tries to get everyone's attention and resumes the gathering.” What kind of reaction was that?! Doesn’t she care about Pizza pie? That incident earlier with Pizza pie was too personal, it's a lot for her to take in. Let's just give her some space to think. . . Indeed. "Said Rarity while brushing Fluttershys' mane." That kind of drama can take a toll on anypony. Right . . . So uh, what now Twilight? Should we find Pizza pie? We should Applejack. She's still not familiar with Ponyville, and she could get lost. C'mon girls. Wait! "Starlight teleports in front of Twilight and the others." You're leaving? What about the guess? You and Spike stay here and keep the party going, we’ll be right back with Pizza pie. Well, ok Twilight. Just hurry back before Trixie's gonna do one of her performances again. As long as she entertains every creature, that's fine. Let’s go girls. “The ponies exit the gathering and starts looking for Pizza pie, leaving Starlight behind. She sees Spike cleaning up the punch table and the guest resumes back to the party as if nothing happened. She goes over to Spike to help but then, she sense that someone is watching her. She looks around the crowd and sees no one unusual present. Then a hoof landed on her shoulder. She startled and turns around.” Starlight. “Trixie smiled, dragging with her, a magic trunk.” I saw Princess Twilight and her friends leave the castle- Trixie! Don't sneak up on me like that! What are you talking about? You were just standing here. Anyway, I think this is my chance to make a performance here, At the gathering! Gee- I don't know Trixie, how about we just enjoy the evening- And miss the opportunity to entertain these creatures with my spectacular Talents?! Not a chance! "Trixie moves close to Starlight and whispers." Also I heard her said yes. Wink. Uuugghh!! . . . Fine. Just nothing too crazy that I have to pull you out of it. I, THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE MADE NO SUCH PROMISE! For the sake of the audience, they deserve the best of Trixie's performance! Sigh . . . Welp so much for toning it down. Let's just get this over with. . . That's the spirit, and always I appreciate you for being supportive of Trixie. "She follows Starlight while dragging her trunk to the stage." Uh . . A little help? . . . "Starlight rolled her eyes and used her to magic levitate Trixie's magic trunk." Let's go . . . “While Trixie and Starlight walk away, a mystery pony is observing them from the crowd. At the other side of the ballroom, Discord saw everything earlier and was mildly surprised. While Princess Luna was also surprised but was confused.” Well, I wish I could say I didn’t saw it coming. But it seems that was very predictable even for me. Don’t you think so your highness? What did you do?! Did what? It wasn’t me Princess Luna, Honest. Don’t lie to me. How can that pony’s cutie mark j-just melt like that?! Didn't you hear what Pinkie pie said to her cousin? She painted that cutie mark of her to look the same, heck she went so far as to dye her mane too. P-Painted?! Ridiculous, how can a mare at her age hasn't gain her cutie mark? That’s a good question. . . I guess I was right. She was that uptight mare from Mitaly. I didn't think I would ever see her again. Hmmm . . . I guess its a small world after all. Discord? . . . Discord? . . Discord! Oh, forgive me. What is it your highness? What were you thinking? Oh nothing. Still processing on how embarrassing that whole mess was, especially on Pinkie's sake. I know what you mean. But still, it's unusual for a mare of her age that hasn't got a cutie mark. It's-It's unheard of. Agreed. It just makes you wonder, how does one live without a cutie mark. I can't imagine. It could be that some take much longer to find their destiny. Hmm . . Could be . . . . Or . . . Or what? Speak. Or she has other plans in mind. Plans? What plan? What are you hiding? Oh, fine. . . . I guess there's no reason to keep it a secret. . . Very well. Tell me everything Discord, what you know. Sigh . . . . I only met her during my magic raid with that traitorous Tirek. We reached Mitaly and were rounding up all the ponies that were hiding. He took every single magic they had. No pony was spared, no pony except for one. . Oh, Tirek . . . What?! What is it?! Can’t you see I’m still feeding up some leftover magic here? Yes, yes I know but we simply must head on to Canterlot for our little payback with the Royal princesses. Grrr!! . . . Wait until I’m done eating! Then we can move on. Yes, yes, I do understand but there’s no pony left here for you to steal magic. Heh, “Tirek grins, as he sense a presence.” No, there is still one more. “Behind the statue of the Alicorns, A mare with a swirly mane wearing a cloak overheard them. She quietly sneaks away from the two monsters. Just as she is about to run, suddenly the statue is lifted off into the air, and the mare is spotted. She dashes off as fast as she can, reaching the other side of the block. Tired, she leans and peeks behind the wall. She felt relief that she got away safely until they both appeared right in front of her. Tirek used his magic to levitate the mare towards him. The mare struggles to free herself but Tireks’ magic is too strong.” What is your name mare? P-Pizzaniac peach pie . . . please don’t hurt me! Oh, a pie pony. Ask her if she's one of Pinkie pie’s relatives. Who is this Pinkie pie? Is she one of your pony friends Discord? Well, I wouldn’t exactly call them friends but temporary acquaintances. Wait- Y-You know my cousin?. . Cousin Pinkie is your friend? Cousin? I didn't think Pinkie pie would have a cousin here in Mitaly? How wonderful, what a small world. I know this isn't my best first impression of a friend's relative, but I'll keep this short. Now, would you like me to give a message to your cousin? Before we take away your magic? Hmmm . . . .“He poofs out a scroll and pen.” L-Let me go!! ? Just who are you two?! Well, that's not a very nice message to pass on to your cousin. Enough Discord, mare wants to know who we are. “He stares menacingly at Pizzaniac.” I am Tirek, the fear of all ponies and the future ruler of Equestria! And I’m Discord, Spirit of chaos, Deliverer of Disharmony, Master of deceiving, you know . . . those kinds of things. Ughh!! Whatever it is you're doing, you won't get away with this! The Royal sisters of Equestria will stop both of yo- Silence! Once I devour all the magic in Equestria, no one, not even your precious princesses shall stand in my way! Anything else you like to comment? . . . . No? Nothing? Well ok then, go ahead Tirek. “Pizzaniac tries to break free one last time but fails. She closed her eyes and accepted her faith. Tirek starts taking her magic. As he did, he sense nothing.” What is this? “Tirek tries a second time, but still nothing.” Why can’t I feel her magic?! Hmmm . . . that's odd. “Discord examines Pizzaniac closely. Then he realized she's wearing a long cloak covering her flank. Puzzled, he lifts it up and sees the problem. He smirks then turns to Tirek." Oh, I see the problem. Tirek you would not believe this but, this mare doesn't have a cutie mark. What? That’s preposterous “Tirek pulls off the mares' cloak.” You're right, is mare is still a blank flank. “He releases Pizzaniac and she falls to the ground. He laughs at her in disbelief.” I can’t believe you wasted my time, made me think I could get anything from you. But I see, that you have NOTHING to begin with. Why, I could kill you right here. “Tirek lifts his enormous hoof above Pizzaniac, ready to stomp her. Froze, she couldn't move away out of fear. But then Discord appears in front of Pizzaniac.” Now hold up Tirek. Now, what?! As much as I love to see you stomp on this tasteless pony, we should be heading to Canterlot and take the princess's magic instead. Otherwise, they might run off somewhere and we don't have time for that. “He looks at Discord then at the terrified mare. ” Sigh . . . It seems that you're right. Come Discord, we wasted enough time here. “Tirek drops his hoof next to Pizzaniac and walk pass her. Discord follows behind then stops. He turns back and looks down at the mare in pity.” Consider this as my mercy to you. . . . . . Who would’ve thought one day, I could ever meet a mare that hasn’t found her cutie mark. I don't know what's taking you this long but, whatever you're doing it's not worth spending your time on it. . . . . . . "Pizzaniac couldn't hold back her tears and it falls down her cheeks." I- Now, Now, don’t be sad dearie. “He poofs out a tissue and wipes Pizzaniac's face.” You'll find yours someday. When that time ever comes. You make sure that He isn't around to take it. Besides, you don't want your cousin to know about this now do we? . . . . . Y-You wouldn't- Of course not, I'd be our little secret- Discord!! Quit talking to that empty shell of a mare and let's go! "Discord sticks his tongue out behind Tirek then turns back to her." Welp, I must go. It was nice to meet you. And hopefully our last. . . . . . Oh and, You're welcome by the way. Tah tah! “With Discord's last words, Pizzaniac watched the two monsters leave her hometown. She wheeps in shame as she was spared by pity. Surrounded by her fellow villagers, who were unconscious and drained of their magic.” And that was the last time I saw her. To be honest, it didn't cross my mind that we'd ever meet again. And now that I know she's here, looking similar to Pinkie pie. Complete with matching mane and cutie marks. At first, I didn't quite get why it took her that long to get her cutie mark. But after all this, it makes sense now. The promise, the look-alike, the lies. She wanted to be just like her cousin so bad she gave up finding hers! That mare is beyond me on mischief- Enough of your jokes Discord! You knew all about her all this time?! Well, why should I tell Pinkie pie or her friends about my humiliating encounter with her cousin? I’d rather keep my mouth shut than have to “involve” with all this pety drama. Perhaps you've made a point. W-Wait I do? Yes, it was not your concern to get involved. But a lie like hers cannot be prevented forever. Neither does mine. I should go. Where are you going? The cake table is that way. Instead of wasting your time eating cake, why not assist me in looking for Pinkie pie’s cousin? And what? Prove to her I was right? That she is a complete fake not only to her friends but to her only cousin she cares about too? No, thank you. I would make things much worse than it is right now. That's true. You were the one who knew all this. Exactly. “Chewing a slice of cake" So I'd be best that I wasn't the one who finds her. Agreed. You should stay here and enjoy the party. If my Sister is looking for me, tell her I went home. Lie to your only sister? How unlike you at all. I don’t want my sister to worry about any more problems. This is her only night that she could relax from her duties. Fine, fine, I’ll make sure she won’t be concerned about what happened earlier. Thank you Discord. “Princess Luna gives her plate of slice cake to Discord and exits the ballroom. Joining the search for Pizza pie. Discord waves at Luna leaving, without knowing that Princess Celestia is approach behind him.” Discord, is everything alright? Wha? . . Oh, Celestia. I didn't see you there. Yes, everything's fine. Nothing out of the ordinary. Hmmm. . . I heard from the ponies that there was an accident in the ballroom. Care to tell me what happened? Oh, somepony just slipped at the punch table. Nothing major about it. I suspect the Ditzy eye one did it. "Discord and Celestia look at Derpy on the other side, gorging herself on some muffins." I see . . . So where is my sister? Princess Luna? . . Oh, She's just around here somewhere. She must've been with some other group of ponies. Oh, you mean her new friends? splendid. Its nice that she's making some friends. I should met them- Well, tell you what Celestia. You just enjoy the party while I go look for Luna and her new pony friends. Are you sure don’t mind? I don’t want to trouble you- Trouble? It’ll be an honor for me to do so. Now, just have a fun night. If that's the case, thank you Discord. “Princess Celestia leaves Discord and goes to talk to the other guests. He faces the table and puts down Luna's plate.” You never think about the consequences you’ve caused. If you hadn’t been so selfish over power, all those horrible times wouldn't happen! “He walks to the nearest window, leans and stares at the full moon." I-I suppose I should feel bad for what I've did . . . ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ~ End of chapter 10 > Scroll of Modesty Chapter 11: The Offered Change > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Pizza pie! Where are you? Pizza pie! "Twilight and the others looked around Ponyville for Pizza pie. They searched every corner of the village, but she was nowhere in sight. Almost an hour passed, and they all gathered at the old tree library.” Ahhhggg!! This is pointless! We can’t find her anywhere! Easy Rainbow, she couldn't gone that far. Twilight’s right Rainbow, she might be just hidin somewhere. "Applejack stood up stretching her hooves." Right, I’ll go on and check at Sweet Apple Archers. I-I’ll try checking at my house. She probably goes to pick up colours. . . Ok Fluttershy. I’ll head back to the castle to check on Starlight and Spike at the gathering. Rarity, try going at Sugar Cube Corners. Pizza pie probably went home. I’m on it Twilight. And Rainbow dash, you should stay at the train station and wait for her there, Just in case. Sigh . . . Alright fine. If she turns out to be as stubborn as Pinkie pie I'm dragging her back with me. You take this delicately Rainbow. Don't make it difficult for us. I was just joking Twilight sheesh, lighten up. Now, We’ll meet back at the castle after an hour. Got it. “The ponies split up and resume their search. Princess Luna watches them from above, as she overheard their conversation earlier, and decided to search for the mare herself. She tries her luck to search the Ever Free forest since she is nowhere in the village. As Luna soars above the trees, she immediately spots the mare washing her mane, while the dye stains the river flow.” I'M SO STUPID!! . . . What was I thinking?! Coming here, looking like this!! . . . A painted cutie mark, matching mane . . . Of course everyone will find out! "Luna quietly swoops down and hides behind the bushes. Curiously listening to the mare." Maud was right . . . I can’t be someone I look up to. “She looks down, staring at herself in the river.” All that time . . . That promise . . . And I made it like it was all a joke! "She splashes the river with her hoof, distorting her reflection." I made Pinkie hate me. . . I humiliate her in front of everyone . . . . . . . . Because . . . I broke our Pinkie promise . . . . . . . . T-There's no reason to stay anymore. . . Quitting so soon little pony? HUH! WH-WHO'S THERE?! “Luna emerges out of the bushes and walks towards Pizza pie.” Forgive me for eavesdropping but it seems that you are in distress. Yo-Your P-Princess Luna. I-I mean, your highness. "Pizza pie bows to Luna, with her head touching the ground." It's an honor to be in your presence. Please stand, No need to show formality. "She lifts Pizza pie's face and looks at her." Now, what troubles you? Well . . . . Not that you didn’t see what happened at the ballroom- You kept such a secret from your cousin. Y-Yes . . . I walked around with a fake cutie mark and didn't tell Pinkie. I was going to, it's just l . . . I-I'm too ashamed to say anything. . . Is that also why you avoided Discord the whole night? Fearing he would tell your cousin? That’s right Princess. . I, wa-wait, you know about Discord's- Yes, he told me. And your encounter with Tirek as well. Oh . . . Did he also tell you that I was spared out of pity because I didn't have a cutie mark that time? Yes, but that is not why I'm here. I was curious to know, why haven't you found your cutie mark yet? To be honest, I'm not sure either. I'm already good at a few things but not enough to get me one. Do the things you're good at interest you? Well . . . No. I've done modeling, but just for helping at papa's restaurant. I also learned how to bake, but still nothing. Hmmm . . "Luna rubs her chin and is puzzled." Seems to me you're not interested in your father's way of raising you. No that's not it! I love my papa, it's just that, it doesn't make me happy. Happy you say? Yes. But, if none of it can get me my cutie mark then, maybe there's something wrong with me. That's unlikely. "Luna circles Pizza pie. Observing her." But why the sudden change of look? . . . . It's actually a promise we made years ago. . .to be just like Pinkie . . Promise? "Luna curiously replied." to be like her? Yes . . . . I was in a dull place, just being my Papa's price filly. When I met my cousin, she had that smile that brightened anyone's world. To me, it's like seeing myself from her. How I used to be if Mama was still around . . . . . . . . Then, Pinkie told me that there's a chance for happiness and I took her advice. After she headed home, I was determined to try looking for my cutie mark again. But . . . But? . . . The years I spent looking, I just couldn't find it. No matter what I tried. So I thought, if I can't find it at home, maybe I can find it somewhere else. So I moved to my uncle's rock farm and asked my other cousins for help. Then, how did that conclude to look like your cousin? I-It's the last thing I could try. If I can be like Pinkies, maybe I can get a cutie mark much like hers. You're confusing destiny with happiness. And that's not how you get a cutie mark by mimicking- Even so! . . . I-I'm sorry I didn't mean to yell. . . but that's the only thing I want to do. Even if I can't get a cutie mark that way, at least I can fulfill our promise. By choosing Happiness over Destiny? I couldn't care less about my destiny. I just want to feel happy again. . . Hmm . . . I understand how you feel. R-Realy? . . I knew you understand- But you were naïve. W-What?- A pony’s destiny is marked as a pony’s purpose. It what makes you who you are. To imitate someponys' identity for your feelings' sake is not the right way. But I don't understand. . . . If my destiny can't make me happy, even being like the pony who saved me, then what is it?! You tell me! . . . . I've wasted my time looking, and I feel like I'm not even close! That is up to you to find out- Please . . . Just tell me what to do. . . . I can't take that I don't know anything . . . I'm sorry, but I can't help you find your cutie mark. . . . . . . . “Princess Luna paused, looking at the confused mare. She couldn't do anything but confront her wrongdoings. But suddenly, an idea came to her. A way to solve this matter, but cautious to get her involved. Luna continues to look at Pizza pie, sensing loss in her heart. She sets aside her doubts and decides to help.” But . . . . There is a way to bring it to you. There is? Oh, please tell me Princess Luna what is it? Well, the method may defy my role as the Princess of the Night. And it's extremely dangerous. What method? Whatever it is I'll take it. Then listen closely, it requires me to use a nonexistent magic which I possess. Non existent? Is that even a thing? It is, I used that method on myself once. It was the time when I was desperate for a better purpose. Everyone neglected and didn’t appreciate my gift of Moonlight, and my jealousy over my sister grew. I never imagined my thoughts on having a fair share of importance, would lead me to become something am not proud of. Becoming the Mare in the Moon. Wait, Y-You were the Mare in the Moon . . . Nightmare Moon. Seems the pony’s tale reached my homeland of Mitaly. We had books in our libraries about it, but I didn't think it was real. It is very real. And as I said, this method could get you your cutie mark and change you completely. But like all changes, it requires sacrificing something in return. Something? Like what? It can be anything. It could mean losing a part of you, as I lost mine long ago. . . . . So think this through Pizza pie, once you decide, there is no turning back. I’m offering you this for your sake, for gaining your cutie mark, for claiming your lost destiny. So what is your response? Sacrifice a part of me? . . . “She stares down at the river seeing her reflection. Recalling all the years flown by, and her past attempts trying to fulfill their Pinkie promise.” I-I can’t believe this . . . You lied? . . . Who would’ve thought one day I could ever meet a mare that hasn’t found her cutie mark. I used that method on myself once. It was the time when I was desperate for a better purpose. You don't want your cousin to know about this now do we? This method could get you your cutie mark and change you completely. You can't bear the fact you can't find your cutie mark that fits you, so you just painted one! But like all changes, it requires sacrificing a part of you. You can trust me on our promise cousin. I'll look forward to it. Our Pinkie promise . . . . "With a spark flashing in her eyes, she turns to Luna and replies to her with eagerness." . . . . . Let’s do it. “Back at the tree castle, the ponies sat at the entrance stairs. Exhausted after an hour of their search.” Oh, I'm beat. My hooves are all sore from all this walking. "Rarity checks her hooves and leans on Applejack." This requires a whole day at the spa with a full-on pedicure. You can worry about your hooves later Rarity, Pizza pie is still missing. I got you girls some refreshments. "Twilight and Spike come out the entrance with drinks and snacks." So any luck finding her? Nothin Twilight. She’s aint at Sweet Apple Acres or at every Apple tree for that matter. Um . . . S-She didn’t pick up her pet at my cottage either. Colours is still with Angel. . . I've been waiting at the station forever. I got bored and so I tried to look all over Ponyville from above, but no sign of her anywhere! Why thank you Spike. “Rarity grabs a drink with her magic.” A lady such as myself mustn’t get dehydrated. Wow, If this isn't serious, Pizza pie could probably win a game of hide and seek. Yeah, no Kidding. “Rainbow dash snags a drink from Spikes's hand.” You know, for a mare who hides her blank flank, she sure knows how to stay hidden. I don’t get it either. I mean, how can somepony haven’t gained a cutie mark yet? I don’t know Applejack, this is all new to me as well. It’s strange . . . Um . . . do you think she didn’t feel like finding her cutie mark Twilight? Seriously Fluttershy? No pony is that lazy. I mean who doesn’t want to know what their awesome talent is?! Correct Rainbow. "said Rarity rasing her glass." Plus, a Mitalian pony like dear Pizzaniac wouldn't do so. If it were true, then she wouldn’t be a successful spokesmare. Which comes to question. Twilight, how come she didn't gain a cutie mark from modeling? Yeah, she should've had it from that. And by the looks of it, Pizza pie hides a ton of secrets more than Granny Smith could hide all her cider recipes. I know what you girls mean. She's quite a mystery to us, and the only one who knows Pizza pie that well is Pinkie. Even she didn't know about her cousins secret. "They all ponder, thinking of any explanation that comes to mind." Welp, I don’t know about you guys but you’re not getting answers by just sitting here. C’mon, let’s get inside. We can't Spike, not that Pizza pie is out there somewhere. I know Applejack, but at least rest up a little. After that, I'll join in the search too. You're right Spike. "Said Twilight." We still have the gathering going on. We'll find her again after this. “The ponies looked at each other and nodded. They went back inside the castle. As they make their way to the ballroom, Discord is waiting for them at the entrance. He waves at the ponies as soon as he sees them.” So, did you girls find your missing pony? Not now Discord, we don’t have time to deal with your sarcasm. Yeah, we’re beat. It'll be nice if we don’t hear from you until the party's over. Wow, harsh. I guess I'll take that as a No then. Oh . . Don’t mind Applejack and Rainbow dash Discord. We’re all just tired of looking for Pinkie pie’s cousin. . . Ah yes, Fluttershy I understand. Still, it was quite a scene made by Pinkie's cousin. We're pretty surprised ourselves. I don't suppose you had anything to do with it? WHA-? Me Twilight? I-I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m just as surprised as you. Are you sure ? . . . "Twilight looks at Discord suspiciously." Because Pinkie told us, how Pizza pie acted strange when she met you at the bakery. "Discord nervously looks away." Oh, that. You know me, new ponies are intimidated when they see the spirit of chaos first hoof. I mean, Pizza pie did. Hmmmm . . . . Well alright, I guess you have a point. Oh, good. So I'm guessing you're planning on what to do with the mares blank flank problem. Not right now, but- "Fluttershy tugs on Twilight's wing." U-Uh . . Twilight, I have a suggestion. Why not just help her get a cutie mark. . . Great idea Fluttershy! "Discord pulls in Fluttershy next to him, pinning her a medal." I suggest we ask those little cutie mark crusaders, since they handle with cutie mark problems before. Yeah, Twilight. Maybe Applebloom could come up with somethin for Pizza pie's case. Good thinkin Fluttershy. It's nothing really . . . Besides they share their stories with me, about how they helped fillies with their cutie marks. Indeed, Sweetie Belle as well. If that's the case we'll just need to find dear Pizza pie then. As soon as you're all well-rested. Then will start looking for her again. "Twilight then turns to Discord, while carrying Fluttershy." And as for you, seeing that Fluttershy once again covered for you, make sure she isn't wrong about it. Oh, this again? Sigh . . . . Not to worry Twilight, I swear on my word I had nothing to do with- “Suddenly a loud sound interrupts them. All the guests were startled and ran outside the castle. They saw a bright orange glow from a distance, reaching the night sky. All the creatures were amazed by its luminous colors then faded away as it came.” What on Equestria was that? I think it was like an aurora. At this region? That's impossible. Indeed. “Discord was puzzled by the mysterious light he just saw." I'm guessing this has something to do with Luna. But what is she planning? Discord? . . . "Fluttershy pulls on Discord's claw, curiously staring."Discord? Huh? Oh, sorry Fluttershy. You were spacing out . . . Is something wrong? Nothings wrong, I'm just baffled at it. Oh, but what do you think was that? I don't know, everyone here assumes it's an aurora. Whatever it was, it was very close to here. C'mon girls, I know you just got back, but we better check where the light's coming from. "Twilight turns to Discord." You're coming with us Discord, just in case if it's something unusual. Well, I suppose it can't be helped. Lead the way, Your Highness. "The ponies followed Twilight and rushed outside the castle, with Discord accompanying them. Heading towards the mysterious light direction." ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ The next day ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ "The ponies and the cutie mark crusader are at Sugar Cube Corners, sharing their plan with Pinkie pie, regarding her cousin's problem. Expecting her to comply.” The girls and I talked last night, about how to solve both your problems. Uh,huh . We agreed that we'll let the cutie mark crusaders help Pizza pie's cutie mark problem. Uh,huh . . Based on their times helping other ponies with their destiny, I guarantee they're perfect for the task. Uh, huh . . . Once she got her cutie mark, the two of you could live up to your promise, just it should be. Doesn't that sound great Pinkie? Uh, huh . . . . Uuuhhhgggg!! “Rainbow dash face hoofs, irritated from seeing Pinkie’s dull face.” Hey Pinkie, Didn't you hear what Twilight said?! Rainbow, please. “Twilight tugged Rainbow from the shoulder.” You have to take this gently. She's not even listening! I mean just look at her! . . . . . “Pinkie pie sits in the corner, barely moving out it. With her mane straightened and grey in color. She turns to her friends looking worried then turns back facing the wall. Mr. and Mrs. Cake walk in, offering everyone some snacks.” Oh dear, what are we going to do with our Pinkie pie? Without her focus, we can’t speed up our orders. She usually takes care of most of the decorating, delivering, not to mention, looking after Pumpkin and Pound Cake. “Pumpkin and Pound Cake pull Pinkie pie’s tail, trying to cheer her up. She responds by patting their mane and turns back sighing.” Don't worry Mr. and Mrs. Cake, we'll help get back on her hooves. Um, excuse me Twilight. “Sweetie Belle pulls on Twilight’s mane.” How are we going to help Pinkie pie again? Well actually, you three are going to help her cousin with her cutie mark. Funny, I haven't seen Pinkie's cousin yet. What's she like? Really? “Scootaloo knocks on Applebloom's head.” She’s the mare who slips at the punch table at the social gathering. Wait, so that's what all the commotion was about? Please girls, let’s not talk about that when Pinkie pie’s around. Sorry . . . So it's true, Pinkie's cousin looks like her, without a cutie mark. "Applebloom leans behind Twilight looking at Pinkie pie." But why? Sadly it is. But I won't get into detail, your only job is to help, that's the major objective. Well, don’t you worry about it Princess Twilight, we'll take the task, or our names aren't Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. The Cutie Mark Crusaders! Thank you girls. You three is just what we need to solve this matter. Yeah, great. Problem solved. “Rainbow dash cuts in the conversation.” But, aren’t we all forgetting somepony. Somepony important? "They all paused, cluelessly staring at Rainbow dash." GASP! PIZZA PIE! "The ponies started to panic and search around the bakery, while Pinkie remain still and unfazed. They turn to her as Twilight grabs Pinkies shoulder." Pinkie pie did she come home last night? “She shook her head and replied.” No she didn't. . . What? “said Rainbow dash grabbing Pinkie's other shoulder.” What do you mean?! I said she's not here. . . You mean to say- SHE’S STILL MISSING?! We were so distracted by that mysterious light last night, we forgot all about her! “While the commotion is happening in the bakery, Pizza pie nervously stands outside, hearing their conversation. She hesitates, scared to go in and face her disappointed cousin.” I can’t believe you’re not even worried about your cousin! This isn’t like you. Rainbow dash, stop it. You're not helping. Indeed. You've been grieving about it since last night. Why can't you be more considered- ARE You serious Rarity?! So you want me to be considered, fine! “Rainbow dash pulls Pinkie towards her.” You know what Pinkie? This whole mess is basically your fault. Rainbow what are you doing- So what, she copied your mane and painted herself a cutie mark, she did all that just to show you how she means to you! Rainbow- And what did you do when you found out? I said, that's enough- "As Twilight tries to stop Rainbow dash, Applejack grabs her hoof, shaking her head." You best let her say it as it is Twilight. But Applejack- You yelled at her in front of everyone and watch her storm out crying! So we're the ones looking for her all night and all because you were too stubborn to listen to her! "Pinkie pie stares at Rainbow dashes tired face then looks behind her and sees her friends. Twilight walks up and set Rainbow dash aside, while Pinkie face the floor." . . . Rainbow's right Pinkie. She did lie about herself, but she's still your cousin. And no matter what, that won't change. . . . . And besides dear, it took her the courage to leave her home and find her own happiness. Which is you Pinkie. . . . . . Find it in your heart of yours to forgive her sugar cube. “Pinkie’s ears slowly raise, she wipes her tears and smiled, as her color fades back.” Y-You're right Twilight, Rarity, Applejack . . . And I'm sorry Rainbow, and everypony. . . I had you all worried about me. . . I should've never said those things to her, I'm a terrible cousin . . No, you’re not darling. “Rarity pats Pinkies shoulder.” In fact, Pizza pie is very lucky to have such a cheerful cousin like you. Yep, I was the first pony whoever felt your cousinly love Pinkie, And Pizza pie gets to have that all to herself. And wherever is Pizza pie right now, I’m sure she thinks the same way too. . . You see Pinkie pie, You shouldn’t blame Pizza pie or yourself. No matter what it is, It can be solved by understanding each other. Family problems are no different from friendship problems, you should know that Pinkie. I guess I let my anger took over me. . . I really wanna make up to her but, cousin's still there somewhere, sad and alone . . . "Pinkie pulls Twilight face close to her." Ooohhh Twilight, we need to find my cousin and fast! Don’t worry Pinkie pie we’ll find her, even if it takes- “The front door suddenly burst open and startled them. A bright light shines outside, yielding their eyes. Then a silhouette slowly appears and walks towards them. As the room clears up, to their surprise, its Pizza pie standing in front of them. They all gather around her, showing their relief. Pinkie pie stares at her, surrounded by their friends. Still weighed down by her guilt. They look at each other and smiled gently." Oh, we're so glad that you’re back. Thanks Twilight- Heavens Darling, don’t scare us like that. Sorry Rarity, I didn't mean to- W-We were so worried about you. We thought you were lost . . . Not exactly lost Fluttershy, but- Where the heck have you been!? Do you have any Idea how long I've waiting at the train station?! We thought you run away! Run away? Why would I- Rainbow! Pizza pie just got back, this ain't the right way to approach her! No, Applejack its ok- Well, how about you doze off at the station bench and see if you like it- “While Rainbow dash and Applejack were bickering, Twilight notice something different about Pizza pie. She sees something popping out her mane. As she looked closer, she couldn't believe her eyes. The other ponies noticed as well and were stunned.” P-Pizza pie, What's that on your forehead? Is that a- Oh this? I can expla- What's what on her forehead? "Pinkie pie walks in, pushing aside her friends and gets up close to Pizza pie." C-cousin wait- "Pinkie pie lifts her cousin's mane and to her surprise. Its a unicorn horn, attached to Pizza pies forehead. Everyone was shocked to see it. Pinkie pie looked at her curiously and in disbelief.” Cousin, where did you get that? Uh . . .”her mouth dries, her sweat falls on her face. Pizza pie tries to think of an explanation, while Pinkie pie suspiciously glares at her.” It’s actually . . Uh . . . Well, you see uh- First, the fake cutie mark and now this? Pinkie let me explain- You made ?! . . . I- “Pizza pie looks at the other ponies as they look away. She looks back to Pinkie pie, still glaring at her, waiting her reply." Pinkie . . . A-A lot of things happen last night, but first. I . . . . . . . I wanted to say I'm sorry, for lying to you all this years. . . I should've put much effort on myself, I should've prove to you that I've change. . . . . . And I . . . . I was given a chance. So now, this is- “Pinkie pie grabs her cousin and hugs her tight. Her tears falls on her cheeks, trembling in joy.” I don't care anymore . . . I'm just glad you didn't leave me. After everything, I said to you last night. . . I-I was afraid, that we won't be the same anymore . . . Cousin. . . I would never leave you, especially how far I've come just for promise. If only I fulfill right. . . But you did, you being here is just the Pinkie promise I expected. "After hearing her cousins words, Pizza pie tears up and hug back Pinkie pie." Thank you Pinkie . . . "The sibling bond between the Pie cousin is healed. Twilight and her friends were still surprised to see, Pizza pie came back with a brand-new look. The questions were flying over their heads, eager for an explanation. But seeing Pinkie pie smiling again, they look at each other. Agree to set it aside, and let them have their moment." Welp, so much for a cutie mark journey. "Said Scotaloo as Sweetie Belle and Applebloom then glares at her." ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ~ End of chapter 11 > Scroll of Modesty Chapter 12: The new Pizza pie > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ "A week has passed after the social gathering, everyone goes on with their daily routines. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and the fillies are playing. It was another fine day in Ponyville. Then, a galloping sound passes through the streets. Starlight Glimmer rushes her way towards the Tree Castle. There, Twilight called out a meeting with her friends. Starlight barges in the middle of their discussion, panting." I heard . . . from Fluttershy everything. . . Is it true, that Pizza pie just became a unicorn? “They turned to Fluttershy, glaring at her as she responds with an awkward smile.” . . . . W-was it supposed to be a secret? I-I’m sorry . . . No, no it’s ok Fluttershy, "Said Twilight, closing the door with her magic." If it’s only Starlight, it’s fine. We said that we should keep it just us six. I-I didn’t know Rainbow . . . I mean Starlight was asking where we were the day after the social gathering, so I told her everything. . . Well, no need to make it an issue now dear. “Rarity pulls Fluttershy’s seat for her.” It wasn’t really a secret, to begin with. I'll say. “Applejack leans back on her seat.” Eventually everypony would notice it by now, It’s been a few days after that happened. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ A week ago ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ "With Pinkie and Pizza pie made up. Twilight and the rest were glad. But they're more confused than relief, that Pizza pie came back as a unicorn." So, you're fine with me looking like this? Yeah, you're still you no matter what. . . . Even with this . . . This horn I got? Oh that? Hmmmm . . . . "Pinkie inspects Pizza pies new horn, she pauses a moment then looks back to her." Nah, I don't mind at all. W-what?! "Their friends were surprised from Pinkies unfazed reaction." C-Cousin, you don't find this unusual?- Unusual? Pfft nah, I knew you had that thing the whole time. . . . . ARE YOU FOR REAL PINKIE?!- !! "Applejack pulls in Rainbow dash and stuffs her mouth with a slice of Pie." B-But cousin, at least let me explain how- . . . "Pinkie grabbed Pizza pie's hoof and gently smiled at her." I-I don't want to hear it . . . You don't need to explain things to me. Let's just be happy again, like we use to. . . Pinkie . . . "Pizza pie paused and turned to her friends. They show their support, despite the confusion she caused." Ok, let's do that . . . Good . . . "Pinkie let's go of Pizzas hoof." Now that you're back, I’m going to throw a welcome back party to my new and improved cousin! But you don’t have to do that you know. . . Oh, don’t be silly cousin. This is my way of making it up to you! "Pinkie reaches into her mane and pulls out her party canon. She fires it inside and instantly decorates the whole bakery." Now c,mon everypony let's celebrate! “They look at each other and decide to go along, for the Pie cousins' sake. Pinkie pie gives each of her friends slices of cake. While waiting, Twilight observes Pizza pie, and notices her new cutie mark is giving out a reddish glow. She rubbed her eyes and looked closely, then the glow disappeared. Suddenly Pinkie gets up to her face, blocking her view." Something wrong Twilight? "She gives Twilight a slice." Here's your cake! Uh, Nothing's wrong. "She takes the slice from Pinkie." Thanks. "She takes a bite, as she boggles over what she saw and doesn't utter a word." ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ Present day ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ So none of you ask Pizza pie how she got that unicorn horn? No dear, we felt it wasn't the right time. Now that those two cousins made up. I agree with Rarity. Plus I'm doing some research on it. “Twilight grabs a few books with her magic and places them on the map table.” The books I have here are close to the subject, but none of it says about gaining a unicorn horn. Yeah, even if we try to ask Pizza pie, she'll probably just dodge the question. So Rainbow, you’re thinkin' she might be hiddin something? Uh, obviously Applejack. It's something out of the ordinary. And we don't expect her to just admit it. And when you said that Pinkie pie is fine with it, wouldn't that mean she knew about this? Um, I don't think so Starlight. Pinkie pie was devastated when we got to Sugar Cube Corners. That's right FLuttershy. "Twilight continues browsing book after book." Pinkie might just be covering for her cousin. But why would she do that Twilight? Just to avoid Pizza pie from getting judged. Well, If that’s the case, we should just ask Discord already, he’s pretty odd himself. No surprise if he's behind this. We can’t Rainbow! “Twilight slams the book on the table.” I'm trying not to point Discord with these kinds of accusations. Seriously Twilight? Then who else is wicked enough to do that?! Same here, Discords' the only one that can make sense of all this."Starlight looks through Twilight's books." These books won't give us a clear answer. And we can't just think that this is one of those odd days in Equestria? To us darling, they’re always those odd days. Well, if ain't Discords responsible for turning Pizza pie into a unicorn, then who did? So far, I have no clue Applejack. But we need to keep this between us, we can’t let any of our suspicions ruin their bond. Yeah, great idea Twilight. “Rainbow dash rolls her eyes.” Keep it a secret from Pinkie pie, she wouldn’t suspect a thing. By the way, does anypony remember the last time we keep a secret from her? Anypony? Yes, we get it. She went a little crazy talking to herself in her room, like you told us. Well, ok. No need to know about that. "Starlight turns to Twilight." So, where are the cousins by the way? Oh, I told Pinkie to take Pizza pie for a stroll. “Twilight puts away the book.” They’ll be here in a couple of hour- We're here! Or not. . . “Pinkie and Pizza pie enter the room, carrying with them a large and steaming box.” Lookie, lookie. Cousin made us all her homemade Pizza! “Pinkie pushed away the books and placed the box on the table. She excitedly opens it and inside, A large whole pizza freshing bake is in front of them. With its warm and steaming aroma, captures the noses of every pony present in the room. Their mouths watered, as they gazed on the melted cheese and toppings.” Anyway, she baked it using her new unicorn magic! You girls should try it! “They reach in and grab a slice. They take a whip of its cheesy aroma and their mouths watered even more. They couldn't savor it any longer and take a bite. They were all greeted with a scrumptious taste, stunned by its incredible flavor. They continue eating their slices in pure joy.” It’s nothing special, I just mixed up what I could find in the kitchen. Hmmmm. . . . My goodness, this is amazing! The flavor, it's exquisite! Pizza darling, I didn’t know you could bake something this delicious?! Got that right Rarity! Whoo whee! It’s mighty cheesy and chewy. You sure know how to mix up the flavors well Sugar Cube, right Rainbow? Totally! This is the best Pizza I ever tasted in my whole life! Well, technically this is the second pizza, the first one was at my birthaversary, but this one takes the cake! It's wonderful! The flavors are nothing I ever tasted. It's like a whole new cheesy experience. I agree with Fluttershy, This is practically the best Pizza I’ve had. My compliments to the chief. Thanks, Twilight and everyone, I’m glad you all like it. If I had some ingredients from back home, I might've batched up some of my Papa's recipes- “As the ponies enjoy their pizzas, Starlight observes Pizza pie’s new cutie mark while talking with their friends. Curious to know, she puts down her plate and walks up to her.” Hey, Pizza pie. Yes Starlight? You want another slice? Let me get- No, it’s ok Pizza. They’re quite delicious by the way. Thanks, Starlight. Maybe next time, I let Papa send me fresh ingredients and make some Mitalian cuisines. Oh, you should write a letter now cousin! I can't wait to taste them all! "Pizza pie chucked and pats her cousins head." Maybe some other time Pinkie. “The Pie cousins smiled and hugged in front of Starlight. Seeing how happy the two were, Starlight walked up to them.” So uhh Pizza pie, mind if I ask where you got your horn? “The ponies almost choked after Starlight asked Pizza pie. They were behind the pie cousins, waving at Starlight to retract her question.” On second thought, never mind. “Starlight awkwardly smiles.” You must be tired from baking this for us. Hehe, that's right. "She sighs in relief." It's a lot of work baking this. Maybe, I should head back and rest. Aww . . but cousin, we just got here and I got plans for all of us this afternoon. “Pinkie pie pulls out a list from her mane. As the opens it, the list rolls out of the room and extends to the hallway.” Let’s see . . . We're going to the park, play some made-up games, watch the sunset together aaaand, we'll be making s'mores and shooting fireworks! That sounds nice, but maybe some other time cousin- Αυτό το Ροζ με βαράει. (This Pink one bores me.) "Pizza's hooves suddenly wobbles, losing her balance. Pinkie reacted and caught her in time." Huh? What's was that? I feel weak all of a sudden. . . Cousin are you ok? Yeah, I'm fine Pinkie. Just feeling a little dizzy. I kinda lost balance there for a second. Oh . . . "Concerned, Pinkie helps Pizza pie stand up." We'll do all that some other time. Oh, There’s some medicine from Mrs. Cake- I'll go ask her when I get home. Maybe I should go with you, to make su- No, it’s ok cousin. Just stay here and hang out with your friends I’ll be fine. B-But . . . . Ok cousin. Just rest up ok? Sure Pinkie, I will. “She waves at Pizza pie, leaving the room. Her ears drop, worried about her cousin. The ponies noticed and were concerned. Applejack goes up to her, putting her hoof and Pinkie's shoulders.” You alright Sugar Cube? “She pulls Applejack's hoof off of her and walks to the castle map.” I know what you girls are thinking. Uh, how can we not? "Rainbow dash flies on top of the table and in front of Pinkie." She's a unicorn now. It's not like a pimple that nopony would notice. Darling, we’re not judging dear Pizza pie. We were curious, about where she got it from. Also as a unicorn myself, I find it marvelous to see your cousin being one. Pinkie, did Pizza pie tell you how she got her horn? Surely she might have opened it up to you? No. Yeah, I can tell that you're too scared to ask- "Twilight drags Rainbow dash off the table with her magic. She pulls off her tail from Twilight and takes a seat, crossing her hoofs." I'm not scared! I just didn't ask her. And I don't want to. Why not Dear? Aren't you at least a bit concerned?- I am Rarity! “Pinkie pie pulls out a photo from her mane. It's a picture of them and Pizza pie on her first day in Ponyville.” What I said to her that night, can't just go away. Even though she tries to hide it, I can tell it's still bothering her. Where ever she got it is none of our business. But Pinkie, how would we know that where she got it is safe- It's safe to me Starlight! As long as she's still my cousin that's all that matters! . . . “The ponies looked at each other and were guilty of having their curiosity clouded over them. They walk up to Pinkie pie and shows their comfort.” We understand how you feel, and we're sorry if we persuaded you. Uh huh, for now on Sugar Cube, we ain't gonna ask Pizza pie anymore. Indeed. It's up to her if she wishes to tell us. So don't worry Pinkie dear. If she ever opens up about it, we'll be sure to be supportive. Yeah, as long as it makes sense, then whatever. “The ponies turned Starlight, waiting for her to comply.” Alright, I’m sorry for being insensitive earlier. It’s ok Starlight. I know you don't mean it. Here. “Pinkie pie goes up to her and gives Starlight her last slice.” You can have it. . . . . “Starlight smiled and takes the slice .” Thanks Pinkie. Welp, that settles it. “Rainbow dash jumps off her chair, stretching her hooves.” I don’t know about you guys but I got some napping to do. Good talk everypony. "She exits through the open window and heads to the clouds." Looks like we could all use some time off. This conference is over, you girls can enjoy your day. “Twilight exits the room first while Spike follows behind, carrying her books.” “The rest soon follow, leaving Starlight behind, whos still confused about earlier. Meanwhile, Pizza pie walked through the neighborhood, folding her mane over her new horn as ponies pass by. Some recognize her from the social gathering, she hears them whispering behind her. She avoids eye contact and quickly walks away. She sees a shortcut up ahead and goes in.” That . . . Was close. . . "She taps her horn furiously, trying to get it to work." Uuuhhhgg! This stupid thing, I could've just teleported home and avoided everyone . . . But it . . . Won't . . . Work . . . When . . . I NEEDED IT! . . . . sigh . . . Why am I even hiding this? Everypony will find out soon or later . . . Then after that, they'll start judging me again. What should I do? How can I tell them without getting Princess Luna in trouble? Θα έπρεπε να είσαι υπέροχος. (You should be greatful.) Huh?! “An eerie voice whispers in her ear. Pizza pie got startled, and jumps off the wall.” This voice again- Η αγαπημένη σου πριγκίπισσα δεν έχει ιδέα τι σου χάρισε. Ανησυχείς τόσο μικρά πράγματα και όμως δεν συνειδητοποιείς ότι είσαι περισσότερο από αυτό που φαντάζεσαι. (Your beloved Princess has no clue what she bestowed upon you. You worry such little things and yet not realizing you are more than what you imagine.) "Frighten, she looks around and sees no one. The voice gets louder and louder, she covers hears but still she can hear it. The walls around here close in and her perception starts to fade. She immediately ran away, not looking back." I don't get it. "Starlight is phasing through Ponyville, think about their meeting earlier." How can somepony magically turn to a unicorn in a single night? And none of them dare to ask either the pie cousins. Whatever it is I'll get to the bottom of it. "Her stomach growls and everyone around her heard it, she awkwardly smiles at them and walks away." Right after lunch. Why is this happening to me?! It won't leave me alone! “As Starlight walks through the market place, she notices Pizza pie is heading her way. She waves at Pizza pie, trying to get her attention.” Oh, hey Pizza pie, I thought you were back at Sugar Cube Corne- "Pizza pie ran pass Starlight and everyone. The ponies we're curious while Starlight finds it odd, and her suspicion over her grew." Something is definitely off about her. “Pizza pie kept running until she reached home. She immediately walks up to her room and locks the door. Exhausted, she leans against the door panting. She looks around the room, hoping she wouldn't the voice from earlier.” It's getting worse by the day . . . I can't take it anymore! By tomorrow, I'll go and tell Princess Luna about this, I hope she can fix this. . . . “She strokes mane and notices dust were falling off.” Uhhggg, I should wash off all this dirt first. “Pizza pie goes to the bathroom and washes her face. She grabs a towel using her magic and dries off. She recalled, Pinkie pie said there were medicine inside their mirror cabinet, Pizza pie goes over the mirror and sees her reflection.” Well, at least I don’t look too much like cousin Pinkie pie anymore. . "She opens her mirror cabinet, grabbing the medicine." Η αλλαγή σας μόλις ξεκίνησε. (Your change has just begun.) “As she closed the cabinet, her reflection change. She sees herself looking down, eyes covering her mane. As she looked closer, her refection started to move on its own. It looked up and revealing its disfigured face. Terrified, Pizza pie pushed herself away from the mirror.” Wh-What's happening?- Για περισσότερα από χιλιάδες χρόνια, είμαι επιτέλους ελεύθερος! Δωρεάν να επεκταθεί, δωρεάν να γίνει ισχυρός! Εσύ μικρό μου πόνυ, θα είσαι το νέο μου σκάφος καθώς περπατώ ξανά σε αυτόν τον κόσμο! ( For more than thousands of years, I've finally free! Free to expand, free to grow powerful! You my little pony, shall be my new vessel as I walk this world again! ) I . . . . I- I won't let you AHHH!!- “Her horn and cutie mark spout out red magic surrounding the room. She tries to stand, reaching the door but her body is slowly being consumed by her own magic.” C-Cousin. . . H-Help. . . “With the door being the last thing she sees, the magic fully in golfed her. The room glow orange, like the night before. It illuminates brightly, visible from the window then slowly fades away as it appear.” I'm back? "Pinkie pie just arrived home, carrying with her some backing ingredients." Cousin? I know we just baked this morning but I was super excited when you said we're going to bake your Papas' home made Pizzas. Cousin? "She walks in the kitchen seeing Mrs. Cake cleaning." Mrs. Cake have you seen cousin Pizza? Oh, she's upstairs dear. She was in a hurry too, did something happen? Probably taking those medicine on her dizziness. I'll go check on her right now. Ok Pinkie. After that, I need you help with making the dough for tomorrows orders. Okie dokie loke Mrs. Cake. "Pinkie leaves her groceries and walks up the stairs to her room. As she passes the hallway, she notice the bathroom was glowing. Curious, Pinkie walk towards the bathroom and opens the door as the glow fades away. She peaked in and sees Pizza pie, getting up from the floor." There you are cousin, did you take the medicine I told you? . . . . Pizza? . . . Cousin? "She goes closer to Pizza pie and grabs her shoulder." Are you ok? "Pizza pie then holds onto Pinkies hoof and she slowly turns to her. As she did, Pizza eerily smile to Pinkie." Never better. ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ✶✶✶ ⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯ ~ End of chapter 12