Scene 4.0: Ponyville, School of Friendship (Garden), 11:00 AM, Day 2 of 365
At the gardens of the school, Shadow and all of his friends are laughing it up as they remember all the good times they had, making Luster feel uncomfortable since she feels like she didn't belong. Shadow notices this and...
Shadow:
Anyhoo...enough about me guys! How about we shift focus on Luster?
Luster:
(Blushing, Nervous)
No, no! It's fine. Don't worry about it.
Shadow:
Come on, Luster. You feel left out. I'm sorry we made you feel like this. Tell you what. Let's make this into a Q&A. You ask the questions, we tell you a story.
Blaze:
You've changed, Shadow. It's not like you to worry yourself about others like this.
Shadow:
After finding out who my deadbeat father is, I refuse to become like him in anyway.
Slipstream:
So you found him? How did it go? Did you finally gave him what was coming to him?
Shadow:
He ran with his tail between his legs. No surprise there.
Blaze:
Who is he anyway? You must have at least found out that much.
Shadow:
Does Jack-Of-All-Trades Ring Any Bells?
Everyone:
(Shocked)
JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES IS YOUR DAD!?!?!?
Slipstream:
The Real Ruler Of Equestria, Jack?
Blaze:
The Master Of All Knowledge, Jack?
Krystal:
The Master Strategist, Jack?
Gatz:
The Ace of Aces, Jack?
Shadow:
How many titles can a creep like him has? And what do you mean by "The Real Ruler Of Equestria", Slipstream?
Slipstream:
There are so many rumors surrounding Jack, Shadow...I made an almanac of him. One of the many rumors is that The Council of Friendship were nothing but figureheads, while Jack rules Equestria as its true Sovereign from the shadows. It's all in my Almanac of Jack.
Shadow:
Knowing you, Slipstream, you didn't leave any stone unturned.
Slipstream:
Gossip like this are worth a lot of bits!
Luster:
(Annoyed)
How Dare You!
Shadow:
Calm down, Luster. Slipstream is the resident information broker. Can't blame her for looking into things like this. How about we start on how Slipstream and I met?
Luster:
(Distrusting Glare Towards Slipstream, Annoyed Sigh)
Alright. How was your life in Mount Aris, Slipstream?
Slipstream:
(Annoyed)
Actually I lived in Seaquestria all my life, but if you want to know: Lame! My Aunt: Too Strict! My Cousins: Too Childish, Too Naive and Too Annoying! It's always duties here, manners there, be an example to others by leading on example. It made me sick to my stomach that I wasn't allowed to have some semblance of fun; it was all but study, be proper and such. Then Tall, Dark and Handsome showed up while visiting my Aunt, Old Novo. At first sight I thought he was as crusty as a barnacle covered giant tortoise. Imagine my surprise that he proved me wrong. He wasn't as crusty a barnacle covered giant tortoise, but in reality he was actually as adrenaline fun-fulled Shark rushing down his prey.
(Excited Laughter)
The first thing we did when we met was Truth or Dare. Boy, were we ever reckless!
Shadow:
(Smiling)
My dares were on the level. But you really made your dares quite haphazardly. Good thing this body of mine can take the abuse, especially with this Chaos Veil surrounding my body protecting me from practically everything this world have to offer.
Slipstream:
(Warm Smile)
The Dares were fun...but it was the Truths that really made me enjoy your company, Shadow. Your travels...your stories...is what made me interested in the world beyond Mount Aris. After you left...my life went back to being dull and grey. So...in order to get any excitement out of life, I would sneak out of the castle and start talking with the tourists. I didn't care if they were lying or not...I wanted to experience the outside world in anyway I could...until my Aunt found me out! Old Novo was livid! But she understood why I was sneaking out, so she sent me here. My favorite teacher is Rockhoof, I'm the best flier in the school, best defensive player in both Buckball and Boffyball; and for my spare time, I sell data like my Jack Almanac.
Luster:
You sell gossip?
Slipstream:
Nope. I sell data. Premium Information any creature can use for either entertainment, travel or profit. For example...
(Pulls Map From Saddle Bag)
...Like this Map right here. I have ventured into the Everfree Forest every now and then and I take notes of all of the flora, fauna and minerals around the area. Luckily with the mentorship of Maud and Mudbriar and my cousin, Silverstream knowledge of the dangers of the Everfree Forest and assistance of her Cockatrice Friend, Edith, I was able to make all kinds of maps I wanted from the Everfree Forest. This map right here leads to Thicket, home of the Deer and their leader, King Bramble by telling you the safest and fastest route to get there.
Luster:
(Excited)
I know of it! Princess Twilight told me the story about her and her friends saving Equestria from the Everfree Forest's Revenge caused by the Crooked Minotaur, Well-To-Do trying to build a theme park by tearing the forest down. I would love to visit Thicket since it's pretty close to Ponyville.
Slipstream:
But...
(Evil Smile)
...I am selling it at 100 Bits.
Luster:
(Furious)
ONE HUNDRED BITS!?!?!? THAT'S HIGHWAY ROBBERY!!!
Slipstream:
(Evil Laughter)
I know it is! However I am willing to lower the price if you have something interesting to trade. Depending on how good the item is, there is an extremely slim chance I will lower the price up to 90%. Emphasis on the words "Extremely Slim Chance". Meaning that no creature has successfully managed to make me drop my prices that low. So...are you interested in buying this map, then you better cough up the bits. Or do you have something to trade?
Luster:
(Annoyed Sigh)
What are you looking for exactly?
Slipstream:
(Evil Smile)
Surprise Me!
Luster:
Why you greedy--
Shadow:
Luster.
Luster:
Come On, Shadow! She's nothing more than a thief!
Shadow:
Only on the surface. But if you pay close attention to Slipstream's personality, you will realize what she wants. I'll be brutally honest. Using my Aura Sight, I can tell what everyone want by seeing how their aura fluctuate. However, most creatures need to rely on judging one's character in order to figure out what is it that they want, a trait that takes forever to master. Even Discord isn't a good judge of character. If he was, he wouldn't have been manipulated by Tirek in order to steal all of the Magic in Equestria. Actually...anyone who trusted my deadbeat dad is an extremely horrendous judge of character of all time.
Blaze:
So technically every creature in Equestria and beyond which also includes us.
Shadow:
(Sighs)
The point is, if you pay really close attention to those around you, you will understand them a little better. How about this Luster? For your first assignment, you should spend some quality time Slipstream.
Luster:
And you will?
Shadow:
I'll be with Discord, continuing my training in Chaos Magic. There are certain Chaos Abilities I haven't managed to master under the guidance of my first teacher.
Luster:
Like sensing a creature's magical aura.
Shadow:
You remembered.
Luster:
Like a good friend told me, "My Mind Is Like A Steel Trap".
Shadow:
(Chuckles)
Anyways...while you are bonding with all of your new friends, I will be training with Discord. But before you start your bonding with everyone, you can ask me only 1 Question about them. Since today it's you and Slipstream, you can ask me one thing about her.
Luster:
(About To Speak)
Shadow:
(Annoyed)
Careful! If you ask a Cynical Question, you will get a Cynical Answer!
Luster:
How did you know I was going to be cynical just now?
Shadow:
Because that's something I'd do after getting such a first impression of her just now. I suggest you think carefully on your question, because I don't do "Do-Overs" nor "Take-Backs". I will not strike the question and let you ask something different. So be sure to make it count.
Luster:
Alright!
(Close Eyes And Takes A Deep Breath, Thinks For 2 Minutes)
What is her greatest interest?
Shadow:
In order to be vague about, all I will say is: Thrill.
Luster:
Thrill? That is very vague.
Shadow:
Think of it as a riddle. Trust me when I tell you that by the end of the day, you will be glad I was vague with my answer.
School PA (Starlight):
Platinum Shadow. Please Report at the Headmare's Office.
Shadow:
I wonder why is she calling me for.
Krystal:
(Worried)
Not to throw shade at her, but I think Ocellus is still a bit miffed about you.
Shadow:
(Sigh)
It can't be helped. Anyhoo, I see this as a positive since I have a very important question that has been gnawing me for a while now and only Starlight can answer it for me.
Krystal:
(Smiling)
How about I show you how to get to the Headmare's Office.
Shadow:
No need. I already know where it is. But thanks for offering, I really appreciate. Welp! See you all later. If things go well, we'll see each other after school.
Gatz:
You will not join us for the other classes?
Shadow:
I will, but not all of them. Some of these friendship lessons I already aced long ago and some of them were with you guys.
Blaze:
Having you as a friend Shadow is literally educational, even though you tend to be a tad reckless every now and then.
Shadow:
(Soft Chuckle)
But you have to admit that we had fun every single time in our reckless misadventures.
Blaze:
(Smiling)
Not going to lie, it's always a roller-coaster ride with you.
Shadow:
I love you too, Blaze.
Blaze:
Funny Guy! Now get out of here or you'll be late.
Shadow:
Later!
As Shadow leaves to the Headmare's Office and Luster gets to know her new friends a dark force...HEY!!! WHAT ARE YOU--!?
??? (Anthropomorphic Black Male Alicorn [Ancient Alicorn Of Chaos]):
HELLO, READERS! Sorry for this abrupt 4th Wall Break to announce a feature you will encounter in this Chapter of My Little Pony: Platinum Shadow. And that feature is the "Route" Feature. Shadow is not the only Main Character in this chapter. Twilight's Student, Luster Dawn is also the Main Character of this Chapter. Each Episode will delve into Shadow's and Luster's Progress. Shadow doesn't know this, but he won't be training with Discord every time we switch to his Route. NO! He will be doing different strokes like Fetch Quests or being eaten by a Hydra. Don't take that last part seriously. What are the chances he's going to get eaten by a Hydra? Zilch! Long story short: Shadow Route: Random Shenanigans and Luster Route: Bonding With One of Shadow's Friends. Got It? Okay? Tsa'right? Good! SeE yA lAtEr! What's That!? You Wanna Know Who I am!? I'm Platinum Shadow's Father's Nephew's Brother's Cousin's Former Roommate! What You Say!? Spaceballs [1987]!? Can't believe you are movie connoisseurs! I mean you have to be if you figured me out that easily! Okay, Okay! Fine. I am Platinum Shadow's #1 Teacher: Literally, Figuratively, Metaphorically and Whatever-Ly Else! Fear Me All For I Am An Ancient And My Name IS:...
(Dramatic And Overactive Pause For Over-saturated And Overblown Effects)
...Not Important!
(Evil Smile)
You Don't Like That I Am Leaving You All Hanging!? Okay, Okay! I'll throw in A Spoiler Your Way With A Fun Fact Attached. Spoiler: You Will All Know My Name In Chapter 180! Fun Fact: This Story Is 9 Chapters Long! See You All In Chapter 180 When You Find Out That My Name Is...Not Important! Now Back To Your Normally Scheduled Fanfiction!
Platinum Shadow Route:
Scene 4.1: Ponyville, School of Friendship (Starlight and Sunburst's Office), 11:32 AM
As Shadow opens the door, he notices that every teacher in the school is present there: Rockhoof, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Ocellus, Smolder, Silverstream, Fluttershy and Trixie.
Shadow:
(Sighs)
I'm guessing this isn't good news.
Starlight:
Why you think that?
Shadow:
Nothing special. Usually when I see a full room like this and I am the topic of discussion, I always assume the worst.
Starlight:
(Smiling, Chuckles)
Don't worry. It's nothing like that. Since you have been traveling the world all of your life, we believe that you know a great deal of friendship. We are going to evaluate you and depending on your scores, you don't have to attend certain classes.
Shadow:
Yeah, good thing you are doing that since I was planning on skipping some classes just to have Discord teach me some of his skills.
Starlight:
(Chuckles)
Actually I saw that coming a mile away. That's why we are doing this now.
Shadow:
Remind me never to play chess with you. Ever!
Starlight:
I'm more into Dragon Pit than chess.
Shadow:
(Interested)
Really? How many turns it takes you trap everyone's dragons?
Starlight:
(Bragging Smile)
4.
Shadow:
(Defeated Sigh)
...Crud. My best record is 6 turns.
Starlight:
Well I have been playing longer than you. It's all about how you roll the dice.
Shadow:
Which technique you use? Backhand, Stroke, Side-Tossing, High-Roller, Death-From-Above...?
Rainbow Dash:
Is that last one even a thing?
Shadow, Starlight:
Sure it is. It's a super complicated dice toss that requires timing and precision.
Applejack:
(Snickers)
Rainbow Dash:
(Annoyed)
Starlight:
We can talk Dice Tossing later. We will ask you a number of questions, Shadow in quickfire succession and you need to answer them as soon as you hear them.
Shadow:
Lunch Time starts at 11 and ends at noon. It's 11:40 right now and I have to answer a non-disclosed number of quickfire questions in a nonstop succession with the first thought that crosses my head and judging by the time, we need finish in less than 15 minutes.
(Sigh)
Starlight:
You've done this before, right?
Shadow:
Seriously, I Am Never Playing Poker With You.
Silverstream:
You mean Chess.
Shadow:
The point is no one has managed to predict me in a very long time.
Starlight:
We've interacted for a total of 3 days. That's more than enough time to get to know you.
Shadow:
That's it! I'm burning my diary as soon as I leave this office.
Smolder:
Shadow. You don't own a diary.
Shadow:
I'll buy one later then burn it as soon as I leave the book store.
Starlight, Trixie, Pinkie:
(Laughing Out Loud)
Pinkie:
I got to write that down. That's Comedy Gold!
Shadow:
(Thinking, Annoyed)
I was being serious...
Luster Dawn Route:
Scene 4.2: Ponyville, School of Friendship (Garden), 11:32 AM
Blaze:
(Surprised)
You and Shadow are living in the castle!?
Luster:
Umm...yes...
Blaze:
Crud! I wonder if I ask the Headmare if she can let me stay in the castle for now on, will she let me?
Luster:
I...don't think...she will...Why do you ask?
Blaze:
Have you eaten Shadow's cooking? I'm willing to throw away my Dragon Pride and beg to her to let stay at the castle just to eat his cooking.
Luster:
I'll admit it does taste good, but I wouldn't say that you need to throw away your pride just to--
Krystal:
Actually...Aniki's cooking is really out of this world.
Gatz:
Once I helped Shadow get acquitted, he really made a thank you banquet that...
(Clears Throat)
...that we all pigged out and even though we were full, we still craved for more.
Florid:
(Ashamed)
After a certain accident happened and I had to say a lot apologies, Shadow did replace...er...I mean, cooked an awesomely delicious full festival size banquet that actually got every Kirin to forget I ruined the Festival of Sound that day.
(Covers Mouth In Shame)
Yavish:
Shadow Food More Perfect Than Smashing!
Flurry:
(Giggles)
Actually Luster, Shadow's cooking is so good even made my dad cry.
Everyone:
(Looking At Slipstream)
Slipstream:
(Annoyed, Foul Attitude)
What!?
Luster:
(Offended, Trying To Stay Friendly)
Shadow's Cooking?
Slipstream:
(Offensive Scoff)
Sure, whatever. To be BRUTALLY honest, selling his junk food always turn up a massive profit for me when I find the biggest loser of an idiot that would be willing to live in the slums just for his cooking.
Luster:
(Highly Offended, Trying Even Harder To Stay Friendly)
Slipstream:
(Notices Luster's Frustration, Evil Smile)
What's wrong teacher's pet? Don't like me talking trash? Do me a favor and cry yourself to sleep. See if I care.
At that moment Slipstream walks out on everyone without a care as everyone sigh in worry.
Everyone:
There she goes again.
Luster:
Again!? You mean she has done this before!?
Blaze:
Slipstream has a pretty strong nickname even before she enrolled in this school.
Gatz:
Her title is "The Delinquent Hippogriff".
"??? (Ancient Alicorn Of Chaos):
ROLL CREDITS!!!!! SET UP THE '...TO BE CONTINUE' CARD AT THE END!!!!!"
Luster:
You mean...
Flurry:
She cuts classes, get into fights, gets money unconventionally--
Blaze:
Actually...Slipstream has so many strikes in her permanent record, Headmare Starlight warned her that if she get another one...
Luster:
We need to go after her.
Everyone:
(Hesitant)
Luster:
Aren't you coming!?
Blaze:
Last time I followed her, she dropped a bolder on me. I had to go to the Ponyville Spa and get the Extra Strength Hot Stone Deep Tissue Massage for a whole week just to get my scales back to their normal shine.
Krystal:
I spent the night in a dungeon for being an accessory for stealing a whole apple tree from Sweet Apple Acres.
Gatz:
(Ashamed)
I do not wish to speak of it. All I am allowed to say is there was blood.
Florid:
Captain Tempest said that we were disturbing the peace.
Yavish:
She made Yak smash something not meant for smash.
Flurry:
(Saddened)
She clipped my wing, we got lost in the Everfree Forest and we were chased by a pack of Timber wolves. Worst of all...my parents almost got me out of this school because of this incident.
Blaze:
Every Creature That Met Shadow Knows He's The Biggest Jerk There Is, But He Cares For Every Creature Around Him, Even If He's Cynical About It. But Slipstream's recklessness is why we all ended up in those predicaments. If you know what's good for you, Luster, you will let Slipstream get the fall she deserves.
Luster:
(Shocked)
I...don't believe you...You are supposed to be friends. How could you--
Before she could finish her sentence or get an answer out of them, the school bell rings thus ending the Lunch Period.
Blaze:
Sorry, Luster, but we're going to be late for class.
As everyone heads to their classroom, Luster just like Twilight before her, can't allow anyone get kicked out of school no matter how many strikes said student has on her personal record. And just like that, Luster decides to follow after Slipstream. However...hidden in the shadows, a suspicious figure cackles upon seeing Luster give chase.
Platinum Shadow Route:
Scene 4.3: Ponyville, School Of Friendship (Starlight and Sunburst's Office), 11:49 AM
Starlight:
(Warm Smile)
Well Done, Shadow. You are literally the first and only student to 'Almost' graduate this school in his first day. I have to say I'm very impressed.
Shadow:
(Chuckles)
Of Course. However...you don't need to lie to me about such a thing.
Starlight:
Why do you think I am lying to you?
Shadow:
Simple! There are 3 points where you ousted yourself before and after this quickfire questionnaire evaluation. Point 1: You said that I traveled around the world. Point 2: I know a Great Deal of Friendship. Point 3: I am the first and only student to Quote-On-Quote "Almost" Graduate this school in my first day. If you combine all 3 quotes, you can see the truth and the purpose of this test. I know I misspoke a few answers, but...Even if I have gotten a Perfect Score...I would still "Almost" Graduate.
Everyone:
(Surprised)
!!!
Shadow:
(Confident Smile)
Before anyone says anything, let me be the first to say...You Did The Right Thing And There Are 3 Facts to why that is. Fact #1: You are right: Even though I know a lot about friendship, there are certain aspects of it I not only need, but to put it bluntly I Must Rediscover while I live here in Ponyville. Fact #2: All Of The Question I Have Been Searching All My Life...Are All Here, In Ponyville. My Most Long Sought After Question And Greatest Desire Will Be Answered in 363 Days From Today.
Starlight:
363 Days? That's Jack's Deadline for the Challenge he made you accept.
Shadow:
Yep! That's right. Then the most important fact of them all, Fact #3: I...I want to reconnect with my friends: Blaze, Gatz, Florid Harvest, Slipstream, Yavish, Flurry Heart and Krystal.
Starlight:
Shadow...
Shadow:
Speaking of Krystal...can you ask you a very important question?
Starlight:
What is it?
Shadow:
(Extremely Furious, Grinding His Teeth, Remembering Kid Krystal, Saddened)
Why...? Why...!? Why Does Krystal...WHY DOES KRYSTAL LOOK LIKE THE ALICORN VERSION OF QUEEN CHRYSALIS!?!?!?
Everyone:
(Shocked, Speechless)
Starlight:
(Saddened)
Shadow:
(Evil Eyes, Furious, Crying)
The last time I saw Krystal was almost 3 years ago and she looked like a 9-Year-Old. So tell me...how is it possible for a 9-Year-Old Girl to become a fully matured adult in less than 3 Short Years!?
Everyone:
(Saddened)
At that moment, memories of Krystal as a happy little girl courses through Shadow's mind from the time he visited the Changeling Hive 3 years ago.
Shadow:
(Thinking)
When I first met Krystal...I noticed something that no Changeling have ever noticed about her. Her Aura...was as Deep and Dark as an Endless Abyss. My First Teacher warned me about creatures with Auras as Dark as hers. He Said...Anyone With An Aura Like That Wishes For Only One Thing Above All Else..."Their Own Death"! Maybe because she is a Changeling, she managed to masked her suffering even from her own family just as well as masking her true form. I also noticed her Aura getting darker and deeper by the second. It was only a matter of time for her to do the unthinkable to herself. It was then that I knew...I Had To Save Her! No Child Should Have a Soul In Such Suffering! And So...I pulled a lot of mean pranks on Krystal's Caretaker, Ocellus in order to ward off the darkness in her heart. Unfortunately there was also a Golden Rule When Dealing with Creatures with Auras as Dark as hers was: Never, Ever let it be known by anyone even to her of that type of Aura of said person or their fate will end abruptly and even more violent that originally was meant to be. Not long after that...I decided to become her big brother and help whenever she needed me. All she had to do was yell "Aniki" and I would rush to her. That is why...I need to know the truth of her sudden change.
Starlight:
(Saddened)
Shadow...I...I'm sorry. But...we can't...we don't--
Shadow:
(Crying, Furious)
Don't Lie To Me!!! Everyone of you knows the outgoings of each of my friends! Especially that each and every single one of them is destined to lead their own kingdom. There is no way in Tartarus None of You Don't know anything!
Ocellus:
(Shakes Her Head At Starlight Without Shadow Noticing)
Starlight:
Shadow...We...can't tell you. The reason for that is...Krystal's Secret Is So Powerful if any creature--
Shadow:
(Saddened Scoff)
I understand. Just One Last Question. After hearing what you have to say, I promise not to pursue this...for now.
Starlight:
What is it?
Shadow:
Was it Thorax who ask not to talk about this or was it Princess Twilight?
Starlight:
I...can't tell you...
Shadow:
(Notices Shift In Starlight's Aura)
I see. It makes sense.
(Defeated Sigh, Calms Down, Normal Eyes, Saddened)
I bet that deadbeat knows.
Starlight:
No. He doesn't.
Shadow:
(Surprised)
What!? What do you mean?
Starlight:
Your Father never interacted with the Changeling Kingdom for as long as we have known him; neither him nor his assistant, Jewel La Flaga ever made contact with Thorax or any of the Changelings. Every time Twilight had a special mission for them involving the Changelings, they would either disappear or made up an excuse just to avoid them.
Shadow:
(Confused, Curious)
I wonder...Excuse me, Ocellus. You don't have to answer me if you don't want to. But what do you think about that deadbeat father of mine?
Ocellus:
To be honest...every creature always spoke so highly of him, but every time we interacted...he would act coldly towards me and his assistant's glare would always terrify me.
Smolder:
(Shocked)
Ocellus!? Why!? Why didn't you tell me!?
Ocellus:
(Crying)
You would always say how much you admired him and when you talked about Jewel, you would-- I didn't want you to--
Smolder:
(Saddened, Angry)
Ocellus...You are my best friend. We did everything together ever since we graduated and became teachers in this school. If would have told me...I would have fought for you! I would have told both Jack and Jewel to show you the same respect they gave every creature.
Shadow:
(Ashamed)
Ocellus...I can...I can understand you not wanting to forgive for all the pranks I pulled on you 3 years ago and I know I...have no right in saying this...but...I am sorry...for what I have done to you...I'm sorry that deadbeat and his bimbo of an assistant of his treated you that way...
(Furious, Vim & Vigor Glowing In His Eyes)
...And...I swear...on my honor...on my life...I...I will beat that apology he owes you right out of him with my bare, razor-sharp claws!
Smolder:
(Proud Smile, Tear-Filled Eyes)
I will hold you to that, Shadow!
Shadow:
(Smiling)
I won't let you down, Sis!
Starlight:
(Thinking, Proud Smile)
Platinum Shadow. You Truly Are One Weird Colt. I guess living in the Dragon Lands really got to him. Ponies have hooves, not razor-sharp claws. But I really understand what he meant by that. After hearing Ocellus confess how Jack and Jewel have treated her, even I want some payback for that.
Platinum Shadow Route: COMPLETED!!!
Luster Dawn Route:
Scene 4.4: Ponyville, Marketplace, 12:21 PM
Trying to remain hidden from Slipstream, Luster discreetly follows her into the Ponyville Marketplace as she to the edge of town and arrives at a building that's in the middle of construction, but there are no construction workers nearby doing their job which raises a lot of questions in Luster. Slipstream arrives at what it appears to be a large steel door, she knock 5 times as a small window opens:
??? (Male):
What's the Password?
Slipstream:
Money Talks, Losers Walks.
The door opens and Slipstream enters, but unknown to her Luster noticed every detail that Slipstream did from hiding nearby. Luster approaches the door, knocks 5 times and the window opens:
??? (Male):
What's the Password?
Luster:
Money Talks, Losers Walks.
Luster enters through the door and much to her surprise the area she entered is an underground casino where many criminal activities takes place. The one tending the door is a Gruff Mahogany Earth Pony as big and muscular as Bulk Biceps with a scar across his face that instills worries into Luster on what is Slipstream doing in an illegal and dangerous place like this. Suddenly she notices who exactly owns this casino as she notices the statue bearing the owner's image: Gladmane, the pony who Applejack and Fluttershy ruined after exposing his machinations. Knowing the danger of this casino, Luster hurries to find Slipstream and try to get her out of there. Most of the females in the casino are wearing bunny suits, which Luster can't tell who is who among every creature around her. Desperation is starting to get to Luster that she accidentally bumps into a mouse twice her size.
??? (Male Mouse):
Watch Where You's Walkin'!
Luster:
(Scared)
S-s-sorry...
??? (Male):
You's Sorry!? You gonna be for bein' 'ere! This ain't a playground for li'le fillies 'ike you's!
Hench-Pony (Male):
How about we show you what happens to fillies around here.
As the Hench-Pony reaches for Luster, Slipstream, wearing a Red Bunny Suit and a small earpieces hidden in her left ear, grabs the Hench-Pony's arm, twist it slightly and holds as she glares at him.
Slipstream:
(Angry)
Watch It Creep! She's With Me!
??? (Male Mouse):
Slippy! We didn't know, 'kay? Is You's fault for not keepin' her on a leash.
Slipstream:
I told her to follow me closely. It's not my fault she's an airhead, Mouser.
Mouser:
A'ight, A'ight! Take 'er. Remember this, you's 'cause you's Gladmane's favorite girl, don't mean you's safe fo'ever! Let's go, boys!
As Mouser and his posse walk away, Slipstream forcefully grabs Luster and take her to her private dressing room and locks the door.
Slipstream:
Seriously, Teacher's Pet. Do you have a death wish or something?
Luster:
What about you!? Do you even know who Gladmane really is!?
Slipstream:
That's none of your business. Sadly you are behind enemy lines now and time is not on our side.
Luster:
What are you talking about?
Slipstream:
No time for chitchat, Teacher's Pet! All I'm going to ask is: how well can you dance?
Luster:
What!? Why are you--?
Slipstream:
Just answer the question!
Luster:
I can do the Pony Cotillion and Pony-Prance.
Slipstream:
(Facepalm, Furious)
Not what I wanted to hear, but it's better than nothing I guess.
(Takes Out Blue Bunny Suit From Dresser)
Put this on quick. And don't you dare give me any lip!
Luster:
(About To Speak)
Slipstream:
WHAT DID I JUST SAY!?!?!?
Luster:
(Groans)
After a quick costume change later, Slipstream drags Luster to behind the stage curtain with a pole in the middle with the Stage Manager(?) a pony with bat wings, golden irises and the pupils of a cat preparing everything for the next show.
??? (Stage Manager?):
Everything's ready, Slip. Who's this?
Slipstream:
Sorry, Jerry. Change in plans.
Jerry:
(Whispering To Slipstream)
The Commander's not going to like this one bit.
Slipstream:
(Whispering To Jerry)
Don't worry, Jere. I got this.
Jerry:
I should have never quit being a member of Princess Luna's royal guard...I really miss the graveyard shift. Better that than being that girl's keeper.
Jerry pulls three levers so that the stage have 2 poles side by side than only one in the middle.
Slipstream:
At least tell me you know how to pole dance.
Luster:
(Blushing)
That's a little too mature for me. But I have read about it.
Slipstream:
So you have read Smut Magazines. I almost have a shred of respect for you now. Almost!
Luster:
(Blushing Bright Red)
You're wrong. I--
Jerry:
Take your positions! You girls are up in 30 Seconds.
Slipstream:
Left or Right?
Luster:
(Blushing Tomato Red)
Wait! Why--?
Slipstream:
Time's up! I'm on the left pole, you take the right.
Luster:
(Worried)
Wait a minute! We don't--
Jerry:
10...9...8...7...6...5...4...3...2...1!!!
Luster:
(Thinking)
I hope the Princess doesn't find out about this!
Left with no choice or a way out, Luster is forced to do her first ever pole dance in front of crooked, dubious, corrupt and dangerous creatures. As the music starts both of them start dancing, with Luster being a complete nervous wreck and Slipstream discreetly watching Mouser as she dances, almost as she is waiting something to happen; same could be said of Jerry as he is at the top of the stage with a pair of binocular and a headset radio. At that moment a group of dragons sit at the table Mouser is with a large aluminum briefcase.
Hench-Dragon (Male):
You Mouser?
Mouser:
And You's must be Volcanus' Hench-Dragons. You got the goods?
Hench-Dragon (Male):
I won't show you the goods until you show us that you and your boss are serious about doing business with us. This product is pretty expensive to make. The Ancient who makes these is extremely picky on how to make them and who to give them.
Mouser Snaps his fingers and one of his Hench-Ponies places a large bag filled with gems and jewels of all shapes and sizes; one of the Hench-Dragons put on a pair of futuristic looking Shades as he confirms that all of the gems and jewels are high quality. He gives his boss a thumbs up, signaling him that the deal can proceed. The Lead Hench-Dragon places the briefcase on the table, opens it with a secret combination and inside are 3 Large Black Gems in the shape of hearts. Jerry and Slipstream manages to see that the deal is going through.
Jerry:
Attention: The Fiends are in the cave. I repeat: The Fiends Are In The Cave.
Radio (???[Female Voice]):
Slipstream. Did You Successfully Bugged Mouser?
Slipstream:
Yeah. I heard every word. Should I intercept?
Radio (???[Female Voice]):
All Agents Are In Position. The Show Is All Yours, Firecracker. Jerry. You and your team provide cover for her.
Jerry:
And the Unicorn with Slip?
Radio (???[Female Voice]):
I know who she is. She can handle herself. If she doesn't, then she doesn't deserve the right in being "Her" Student.
Slipstream:
(Evil Smile)
Showtime!
At that moment Slipstream grabs the pole with her claws, jumps, places her hind-legs besides her claws and jumps like Spider-Man from where she is to Mouser's table which located in the center of the casino theater.
Mouser:
(Shocked)
SLIPPY!? WHAT THE HAY!?
Slipstream Power-buck Mouser hard enough that sends him flying towards the exit, unknowingly that he had one of those Black Heart Gem in his hands.
Slipstream:
(Relaxed Sigh)
Finally! I was waiting forever to buck his head off even before we met!
(Takes Off Bunny Suit, Evil Smile, Cracks Knuckles & Neck)
Okay, Boys! The Jig Is Up And Blah-Blah- Blah! You Know The Rest! And We Are Doing This The Hard Way, Creeps!
Hench-Dragon:
Countermeasure Theta! NOW!
The Dragons grab all of the gems and discard the 2 remaining Black Heart Gem like the had no value as they make their escape from the Casino. As Slipstream tries to stop them, Mouser's Hench-Ponies gets in her way. With a Malicious Smile plastered across her face, Slipstream begins a Savage Beatdown on all of Mouser's Hench-Ponies. 2 of them try on the Black Heart Gem as Mouser re-enters the room and sees that the 2 Hench-Ponies undergoes a monstrous transformation. One Of Them takes a form that resembles a Nirik, but able to create controlled explosions from any distance as for his partner can shoot lasers from his eyes hooves and mouth as the Black Heart Gems fuses with their bodies pumping black magic through their vein that the arteries around the gem, above their eyebrows and different areas of their hooves and body. Mouser is excited thinking if those black gems gave those 2 Hench-Ponies that type of upgrade, he is more motivated to fuse the one he has into his body and without a second thought, he slaps it onto his chest and undergoes an even horrific transformation than his Hench-Ponies. Luster can believe her eyes seeing Slipstream battle 2 mutated ponies and be on par with them at the same time.
Luster:
No Way! How can she do this? I have never seen anything like this in my entire life! And yet...
(Notices Slipstream Smile)
She's enjoying this. What is going on!? I...I just can't--
Telepathy (??? [Female Voice]):
Are you really that oblivious?
Luster:
Who...? Where...?
Telepathy (??? [Female Voice]):
Don't bother. You can't see me where you are standing, but I can see you perfectly. You remind me of my best friend with how confused you look. Helpless, Hapless and Friendless in a world she never understood. Who would have though that it took her less than 2 days to become Reliable, Talented and Friends with those she never imagined. You have that potential too. But unfortunately where you are standing...you will never achieve what she has done.
Luster:
(Saddened)
Tell Me! What...What Should I do?
Telepathy (??? [Female Voice]):
That's not how life works. You can't expect some pony to give you the answer and think you have made any progress. But there is such a thing as Free Advice...but there is a catch.
Luster:
What...what you want from me? What is the catch?
Telepathy (??? [Female Voice]):
"Follow Your Heart"...What is it telling you now? Listen and you will understand everything.
Luster:
Follow...My Heart...?
At that moment, Luster remembers Shadow's words on how he live his life and on Slipstream's Greatest Interest...
***
Shadow:
No. I'm like the wind. I know where I am going, so long as I am Nimble and Quick, I will always reach my destination. If I made a list of everything I need to do, I'd feel constricted and unable to breath because I'm tied to a piece of paper.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shadow:
In order to be vague about, all I will say is: Thrill.
***
Luster:
Shadow...Is Like The Wind...Slipstream Greatest Desire...Is The Thrill...
Telepathy (??? [Female Voice]):
What Is It YOUR Heart Desire? Once You have answered that question, your path will become clear. Do not disappoint me...
At that moment without thinking Luster leaps from the stage and kicks the Laser-Happy Pony hard that he shoots an uncontrolled laser at both Slipstream and the Explosive Pony, but thanks to her quick reflexes, Slipstream does a sidestep-somersault and it hits the monster instead.
Slipstream:
(Whistles, Smiling)
That was awesome! Care to do it again?
Luster:
(Out Of Breath, Excited)
Sure...Give me a sec...
Slipstream:
Don't think these guys care for giving such Rowdy Beauties a break.
Luster:
(Chuckles)
Is this the norm for you?
Slipstream:
Yeah, pretty much.
As the Explosive Pony stands up, both Slipstream and Luster Notices that his gem is cracked and oozing it's dark magic that makes him go slightly dizzy.
Slipstream:
Did you see that?
Luster:
Their power source is also their weakness.
Slipstream:
Let's trade thugs. You fight Boom Boom here and I fight Close Call.
Luster:
(Annoyed)
Hah!? Did you came up with those names just now? Sweet Twilight! Your Naming Skills Are Worse Than Spike!
Slipstream:
(Annoyed)
That's It! I'm Going To Bop You One After We Are Done Here!
Slipstream and Luster trade opponents and the fight becomes a lot easier with Luster easily predicting where the next explosion "Boom Boom" was going to do by the way he moves his hooves and Slipstream dodges all of "Close Call"'s lasers like she was dancing in the air. They both dodges all of their attacks as they move towards them and as soon as they are in close range, Luster fires a powerful Magic Wave, blowing Boom Boom away and the force of the wave is so great, the gem shatters to pieces; as for Slipstream she clenches both of her claws hard, delivers a right uppercut followed by a Rising Dragon on the gem and shattering it as well. As both Boom Boom and Close Call lie on the floor, their bodies return to normal and as for the shards of the gems, they evaporate into thin air leaving no evidence that they even existed. Exhausted after the battle, Slipstream raises her Claw, Luster does the same and, Slipstream bops Luster on the head.
Luster:
(Furious)
WHAT WAS THAT FOR!?
Slipstream:
(Furious)
YOU SAID MY NAMING SKILLS ARE ATROCIOUS!!!
Luster:
THEY ARE!!! AND BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY I THOUGHT SPIKE WAS BAD BUT YOU TAKE THE CAKE!!!
Slipstream:
YOU TRY THINKING OF A NAME IN THE MIDDLE OF A LIFE AND DEATH BATTLE!!!
Luster:
OKAY, FINE!!! NEXT MONSTER, I'LL PICK A MORE FITTING NAME THAN BOOM BOOM AND CLOSE CALL!!!
At that moment the transformed Mouser shows up and his size quadrupled after fusing with the Black Heart Gem as his eyes has an evil piercing glow.
Slipstream:
(Annoyed Stare)
Okay Teacher's Pet! What do you call this thing?
Luster:
(Nervous)
Um...Rat King?
Slipstream:
(Facepalm, Annoyed Sigh)
You Are Pathetic!
"??? (Ancient Alicorn Of Chaos):
(Rolling On The Floor Laughing His Ancient Flank Off)
BY THE GODS! THESE 2 ARE A RIOT!!! IT'S AMAZING THEY NEVER MET UNTIL TODAY!!!!!"
Slipstream:
(Notices Who "Rat King" Is, Worried)
Oh, Crud...Mo...Mouser!? Is that you!?
Super Mouser:
Here's A Hint!
At that moment, Mouser slams a power stomp that blows both Slipstream and Luster back into the stage they were pole dancing, however the shock of that stomp was strong enough to drop one of the supports on the top of the stage and falls on top of Slipstream and pins her down. As she recovers from the shock, Luster notices Slipstream pinned down by the debris and rushes to help her. Luster tries her best, but can't move the the heavy steel that fell on top of Slipstream.
Slipstream:
(Weakened)
It's no use...I'm done...
Luster:
(Saddened, Angry)
DON'T SAY THAT!! WE CAN GET OUT OF THIS IF WE CAN--
Slipstream:
(Furious)
PUT A FORK IN IT! I'M DONE!! SAVE YOURSELF, LUSTER!!!
Luster:
(Crying)
I...I REFUSE...I WON'T ACCEPT IT!!! I...I finally have an idea of what kind of Hippogriff you are...While we were helping each other...I...I felt that...we CAN be friends...so...SO STOP WITH THE DOOM AND GLOOM AND FIGHT TO LIVE!!!
Slipstream:
(Surprised)
...
Luster:
So please...
Slipstream:
(Amused Scoff)
Hurry up and help me get this off me!!!
Super Mouser:
Not So Fast!
At that moment, Mouser jumps in front of both the weakened Luster and Slipstream and they are not scared; even though they are cornered with no way of escaping, they still stand up to him. As Mouser is about to deliver the deathblow on both of them, a sudden Magic Wave Blast 100 Times Smaller and more powerful than Luster's Magic Wave, instantly shatters Mouser's gem with no effort. Both Luster and Slipstream looks at the direction that green magic wave came from only to see glowing Aqua Green Eyes and Unicorn Horn Magic hiding in the shadows. The Unicorn uses her magic to remove the debris off of Slipstream and once that's done she makes her leave until...
Luster:
WAIT! Who are you?
Slipstream:
She's the Commander. One of the 3 Most Powerful Unicorns in Equestria. Her power even rival's that of Princess Twilight.
??? (Commander):
(Chuckles)
Starswirl and Starlight deserves that right more than me. I'm just a mare doing her job.
Luster:
(Surprised)
Your voice! You are the one who spoke in my head!
??? (Commander):
You were a big fat target standing there doing nothing. And since you are Twilight's student too, you really needed a little push to make a life changing choice. I'm glad you made the right decision.
Luster:
What's going on? Who really are you? How do those 3 become that--?
??? (Commander):
So many questions, So little time. Unfortunately not even us have the answers you seek.
Luster:
Well maybe you can't answer the complex questions, so I'll ask you an easy one? What are you a "Commander" of?
??? (Commander):
The Recently Reformed S.M.I.L.E. Agency.
Luster:
Recently!?
??? (Commander):
Sorry. The details of the reformation are "Need-To-Know" and you don't "Need-To-Know"...Yet. But I can tell you that Slipstream is one of our Top Agents. Her So-Called "Permanent Record"is just a Facade so she can do these missions. We also had planned in recruiting everyone connected to Platinum Shadow as they had the same potential as our dear "Firecracker" here. But unfortunately none of them made the cut. We also tried recruiting Shadow himself, but every single time we searched for him, he would shows up on the opposite side of Equestria. It was like pinning the tail on the pony. We are supposed to pin the tail on the flank, but instead we would end up pinning it on the pony's ear. Talk about elusive.
Luster:
Even if you did find him, there's just no way he'd join you.
??? (Commander):
How can you be so sure?
Luster:
Because Shadow...Is Like The Wind. He would feel constricted if he doesn't have his freedom. That's the kind of Pony he is.
??? (Commander):
(Chuckles)
You're right. That's the kind of guy he is. Always Has...Always Will. Be lucky that Jack Conned him into living in Ponyville. If he didn't, who knows where will Shadow be now.
(Whispering, Walking Away)
How...I envy you...
Luster:
Wait! Who are you!?
Slipstream:
(Annoyed)
Don't bother asking ever again, please. It's been almost 3 years, And I Have Yet To See Her Cutie Mark! Seriously! I have never seen any creature wear so much clothes in my whole life other than her! She even puts Rarity to shame! RARITY!!! The Most Ginormous Fashionista In Equestrian History!!! Even that quote of hers makes me gag! "There's No Such Thing As Overdressed"! HELLO!!!
Luster:
(Pondering)
You said she is one of the 3 Most Powerful "Unicorns". You Mentioned Starswirl and Starlight. I always thought that the 3rd would be Jack.
Slipstream:
From what I know, Jack turned down the title since he wanted to stay as low profile as possible. Even though he's the biggest mystery in Modern Equestria to date.
Luster:
Speaking of mystery...is it true what she said about recruiting your friends?
Slipstream:
Fun Fact: She never Joke, Jest, Quip, Gag, Crack, Josh, Pun, Jape, Ha-Ha and Nothing! Seriously! Mares like that are such a Bore to deal with at the mission briefings, luckily Jerry always handles all of my debriefings for me.
Jerry:
(Annoyed)
And I hate every single moment of it! I miss fighting Owlbears with Princess Luna! I rather do that than getting yelled at because you always go AWOL!
Slipstream:
(Teasing Smile)
Buck Up, Buddy!
Jerry:
I'M NOT YOUR BUDDY!!!
Luster:
With friends like you Slipstream, who needs enemies.
(Realization, Worried)
Oh...No...You...Didn't...Who Am I Kidding!? Of Course You Did! Dropping The Bolder on Blaze?
Slipstream:
I Was Undercover Looking For Volcanus' hideout. Unfortunately Blaze is one of Volcanus' targets. I drop the bolder on him to keep him safe.
Luster:
By putting him in even more danger.
Slipstream:
Better he gets his boo-boos from me than the dragon that wants him dead.
Luster:
(Annoyed Sigh)
I can't believe I am saying this but...I unfortunately agree. What about Krystal spending the night in a dungeon? For Stealing An Apple Tree?
Slipstream:
Actually we were returning the tree. There have been a strange number of thefts happening in Ponyville. S.M.I.L.E. labelled the case as FN-5 Case, the news called it "The Phantom Thefts". Most of our intelligence officers deduced that the one behind the crimes was either a Changeling or a small group of Changelings. They were not wrong.
Luster:
Puh-Lease, Slipstream! The Changelings are Reformed! They Would NEVER do what you say!
Slipstream:
You are right. Normal Changelings would never do what I say they were doing. But Renegade Changelings is something completely different.
Luster:
(Surprised)
Renegades!?
Slipstream:
I wish I could tell you more, but even I don't know anything about the Renegades and even if I did, I highly doubt the Commander would allow any creature in S.M.I.L.E. to speak any info on the Renegades. All we know and can share is that they were mostly stealing Gems and Jewels. For What Reason? Even we don't know that either. When Krystal found out she tried to reform them, but instead got way over her head. Their leader was wearing a cloaked hood, so I can't ID her. Her height and body type were similar to Queen Chrysalis, but we had to throw that idea in the trash since we all know Chrysalis is now a bird perching statue. Even Both Princess Twilight and Discord have confirmed that there are no changes on the statues of the Terrible Trio. So these Renegades are being lead by some creature. The body type is similar to Chrysalis so it's either a powerful Changeling or...Pony...
Luster:
Next thing you are going to say is Jack is involved somehow.
Slipstream:
No one is saying that...especially that we have no evidence to say that he is involved somehow. And even with evidence, Jack-Of-All-Trades is virtually untouchable on all the good he has done for Equestria and Beyond. Anyways The one thing they stole that stood out was an apple tree from Sweet Apple Acres and out of everything they stole, it was the only thing that we could return.
Luster:
How odd. Stealing gems and jewels and only 1 apple tree. I mean...don't you or any creature in S.M.I.L.E. know why that apple tree was stolen?
Slipstream:
That's the weirdest thing: It's not a very old tree or special tree like the Zap Apple Trees, it's just an average, normal everyday tree. Krystal was feeling down that none of the Renegades refused to join Thorax's leadership of the hive and I really couldn't return the tree on my own, so we worked together in returning it.
Luster:
You mean having Krystal transforming into some creature strong enough to carry it.
Slipstream:
Yeah, but I did made the effort to reach out and bond with her with some small talk. Somehow we ended up talking about Shadow. Even after we were thrown in the dungeon, all we ever talked about was Shadow. She really loves him. I used to love my cousin Terramar the same way. But that was a long time ago.
Luster:
You could have told the Apple Family about the Renegades.
Slipstream:
Couldn't. The Commander forbade any creature to talk about the Renegades. If news of Renegades Changelings still roam Equestria, it could create a panic that could endanger not only Equestria but the Changelings under King Thorax.
Luster:
I see your point. Let's talk about the others: Florid said that you were disturbing the peace.
Slipstream:
Well...All I'm going to say is that Florid is one Pinkie Pie's top 2 Students, the other being Yavish. I was going incognito following Mouser as he was going to meet Volcanus or the Leader of the Renegades. Every...Single...Twilight..Time...I got close...Florid would jump me screaming..."Happy Birthday!" SHE BLEW MY COVER SO HARD, IT WAS BY A SHEER MIRACLE THAT MOUSER DIDN'T RECOGNIZED ME AFTER THAT DAY!!! Luckily I was able to complete my mission...
(Facepalm)
...Even though it was a complete train-wreck. It was passed midnight and I thought I was safe since it was no longer my birthday. How wrong I was. She made a late night party and call it "Happy Birthday Plus 1 Day!" Of course she neglected to tell any creature about said party and we were thrown in a dungeon.
Luster:
From what I have heard, Pinkie Pie does have a bad habit of pulling something like that.
Slipstream:
Pinkie even gave Florid a Passing Grade of 86%. 14% were deducted because of 2 errors: 1: Not Informing every creature of the party and 2: breaking curfew.
Luster:
Sounds like you really--
Slipstream:
(Smiling)
Grateful to her. Ever since I became a S.M.I.L.E. Agent...I never got the type of Attention Florid gave me that day. Even my own family don't bother in doing what she had because I might have given them the idea I wasn't into this sort of festivities.
Luster:
You should be more open with your family.
Slipstream:
Can't. The Downsides of being a Secret Agent.
Luster:
Yavish said he smashed something he shouldn't have because of you. What happened?
Slipstream:
(Annoyed Sigh, Facepalm)
Here goes...have you ever heard of the Staff of Seasons?
Luster:
(Furious)
YOU MADE HIM SMASH THE STAFF THAT GUSTY THE GREAT USED TO BATTLE GROGAR!?!?!?
Slipstream:
Yeah. Remember that I say that the Renegades were stealing gems and jewels? Volcanus' dragons were also working with them and they were stealing treasures from every corner of Equestria including the Tenochtitlan Basin. Who would have thought Ahuizotl and the Guardian Creatures were Protecting relics from Gusty The Great and even prehistoric relics that no creature knows about. A S.M.I.L.E. Agent known only as the "Black Jetstream" helped Ahuizotl and the other Guardians protect most of the relics. Can you believe one of the Guardians turned Traitor and helped Volcanus and the Renegade Leader round up the relics? Even Ahuizotl couldn't believe it!
Luster:
Why betray the Guardians!?
Slipstream:
All that we know is that the Traitor said: "The True Ruler Of The World Has Come To Reclaim What Rightfully Belongs To Him". What she said was disturbing, but the way she said it...it sounded like "A Threat of War".
Luster:
(Worried)
...
Slipstream:
The Commander was on Edge after that she ordered all the top Agents to transport and safeguard a specific relic to its destination. Jack was supposed to receive the Staff of Seasons at the Princess Castle in Ponyville, but we encountered an assault from gargoyles and the "Traitor" during the transport I managed to reach Ponyville with the Staff, but I bumped into Yavish. I never liked the idea of taking advantage of him since he's the coolest Yak I have ever met, but I needed to complete my mission so...I indirectly told him I was in trouble.
Luster:
(Glaring At Slipstream)
Slipstream:
(Ashamed)
Yeah...I'm a Horrible Hippogriff for lying to that Sweet Little Yak. But I really deserve it...especially that in the middle of the fight I accidentally dropped the Staff and with Yavish all excited, he accidentally smashed the staff to bits. The Commander was really miffed about it I almost got a 2 month suspension and I had to spend it working at Fluttershy's Animal Sanctuary, but Jack convinced her to take it easy on me. Thanks to him, I got off easy with a 2 month school cleanup instead. Can't believe that also included the WCs. But that's better than dealing with those devilish bunnies!
Luster:
Devilish Bunnies?
Slipstream:
(Annoyed)
DON'T ASK!!!
(Clears Throat)
Who else is left?
Luster:
Flurry Heart and Gatz.
Slipstream:
(Blushing Uncontrollably, Playing With Her Fingers)
Can we leave Gatz for last and can we talk about him in a more private place, please!?
Luster:
(Thinking)
What Happened Between Them? I have never seen some creature blush this hard except for foals that wet the bed. Might as well cut her some slack and hear her reason for what she did to the Princess' Niece. From all the stories I have heard so far, She had perfectly good reasons for doing all of these questionable choices and both the Princess and Shadow have taught me to be more forgiving of others.
(Out Loud)
Flurry said that you clipped her wing, you got lost in the Everfree Forest and you were chased by a pack of Timber wolves. Worst of all...her parents almost got her out of the school because of it. But since you really aren't a bully I used to think you were, you must have had good reasons to do what you did.
Slipstream:
You give me too much credit. The truth is...I actually did all that to her because I hated her guts from the very get-go.
Luster:
(Surprised, Furious)
YOU FIEND!!! HOW COULD YOU!?!?!?
Slipstream:
Easy! Ever since I met her, she really rubbed me the wrong way. It all started in Rainbow Dash's loyalty class. We were paired up because they all noticed that me and that brat weren't getting along, so they pushed the idea of us doing some teamwork exercises. To our bad luck, we were flying over the Everfree Forest; since I rarely have a chance to fly over the forest at the time, I decided to fly closer to the ground. What I didn't expect was that brat following me as closely as a bee to honey. I can easily tell that she wasn't used to flying as well as a Pegasus. She was like a Seapony trying to live as a Hippogriff for the first time. I'll be honest: It took me a long time for me to get used to flying. But now I feel I could be the a Wonderbolt if I tried. But I am a S.M.I.L.E. Agent so that dream not possible. Anyways, I digress. She tried to keep up with me flying as low as I was, but in doing so, she clipped her wing and crashed near a Timber Wolf Den. Luckily I heard her crashing and burning, so I decided to fly back and get her. Before you say: "That's Noble Of You", The reason I went to get her was because I knew I'd get chewed out if I went back to school without her. When I Found her she was being chased by a Pack of Timber Wolves. I had to use some of my talents as an Agent to get her safe by using the surrounding environments in the area and no, Teacher's Pet, I don't carry Agency Gadgets with me. After getting her safe from the Timber Wolves, I helped her get back to the school. But we were chased by Timber Wolves as soon as we dropped our guards thinking we were out of Danger. Even though we were at each other's throats, we did in fact become friends. But...we still don't see eye to eye on some things.
Luster:
What happened when both Flurry Heart's Parents were going to take her out of the school?
Slipstream:
Yeah, when we came back we were covered in grime and mud and they did noticed the brat's wing being clipped the teachers demanded an explanation. Some creature told her parents and they were miffed on what they heard, they demanded that the brat out of the school. Luckily I did ask a favor from the Commander in order to help the brat out. But thanks to that, I'm now literally in the Commander's Pocket.
Luster:
I see. I wish to know more about this Commander.
Slipstream:
I already told you everything I know. If you want to know more, I suggest you become an Agent...but it looks like the Commander won't recruit you just yet. You did helped me take down those monsters, but when Mouser pinned us down, we couldn't fight back in our condition.
Luster:
You don't need to remind me. So...now I know everything on how you got close to every creature. The only one left is Gatz.
Slipstream:
(Blushing, Nervous)
Right! I'll tell you but not here. Hey, Jerry! Can we leave now?
Jerry:
Sure. We can clean up this place without you. But remember to file your report before 9:30.
Slipstream:
I will! Come one, Teacher's Pet! Let's get back to school.
Luster:
(Annoyed)
Okay, but can you stop calling me that?
Slipstream:
(Evil Smile)
Can't! I got used to calling you that. Calling you by something else would be out of character for me.
Luster:
(Annoyed Sigh)
Let me guess: Being A Delinquent Is Your Distinctive Character Trait.
Slipstream:
(Victorious Smile)
YEAH IT IS!!!
Luster:
(Face-Hoof)
Oh, boy...
As they walk back to school, Luster and Slipstream arrive at a secluded area in Ponyville where not many creatures are around them, but there are a few shops and restaurants around and it is past 2 o'clock and neither have had anything to eat since lunch. Slipstream stops Luster and leads her to a table at a restaurant with a 3-Leaf Clover Sign.
Luster:
Why are we stopping here?
Slipstream:
I worked out an appetite after that brawl. I really need to refuel.
Luster:
(Stomach Growls, Blushing, Ashamed)
Yeah...me too. I could go for a Daffodil-And-Daisy Sandwich.
Slipstream:
I could go for a Kelp-Burger with a side of Hay-Fries.
After eating their meals, they each pay their respective bill and continue their talk on how Slipstream and Gatz became friends.
Luster:
So...how did you and Gatz became friends?
Slipstream:
(Blushing)
What I am going to tell you, you don't ANY Creature! Understand?
Luster:
Okay, Okay. I promise not to tell any creature. So...how did it happened?
Slipstream:
I was called for an undercover mission into a certain area of Ponyville in order to find out of a Gem Smuggling Ring. My orders were to get any intel on the Smugglers. One of the Smugglers' Key Members were always in one specific area of Ponyville.
Luster:
And That Area Is?
(Sipping Her Tea)
Slipstream:
(Blushing Bright Red)
Ponyville's Red Light District...
Luster:
(Shocked, Spits Tea To Her Left)
RED LIGHT--
Slipstream:
(Blushing, Furious)
SHUT UP!!!
After calming themselves down after hearing those 4 words, they both regain their composure and continue talking.
Luster:
Slipstream...Did you--
Slipstream:
Let Me Talk Before You Ask The Wrong Questions And Get The Wrong Ideas. The Commander knew that this was too dangerous, so she set up a Backup Plan. The last thing we were expecting was Gatz following me.
Luster:
Why did he followed you?
Slipstream:
(Ashamed)
I...I...I...I was hitting on him ever since we met. I was being playful...being coy.
Luster:
From what I've seem, you are not the shy type.
Slipstream:
(Annoyed)
NOT THE ADJECTIVE COY, LAMEBRAIN!!! THE VERB COY!!!
Luster:
(Nervous Smile)
Oh, Sorry. Please, Continue.
Slipstream:
(Annoyed Sigh)
Well like I said, I have been coy with him. So I knew sooner or later he'd walk up to me and ask me out.
(Ashamed Sigh)
But I never expected him to do it that day. That night, I thought I left the Students' Quarters undetected, boy was I wrong. I got to my station and was ordered to wait for my target, but if the target was too dangerous for me, the Commander herself would takeover the mission. It looks like that was the case because the one I had to deal with was Gatz...
(Blushing Extremely Bright)
...he even saw me wearing a very loud outfit.
Luster:
(Shocked, Sweating Profusely)
You...didn't--
Slipstream:
(Furious, Blushing Profusely)
OF COURSE NOT!!! I Still Have My Innocence!!!
Luster:
But Gatz said that there was blood.
Slipstream:
Nosebleed.
Luster:
Sorry?
Slipstream:
When Gatz saw me, he was so shocked he literally fainted, but not before suffering a nosebleed. I never would have thought he could dish out that much blood from a nosebleed. I needed Gatz to be sleeping belly down so the blood doesn't go to his head and cause some serious damage. But it was my mistake in laying him south of the bed. When he woke up and saw the blood on the bed, he thought that we crossed the line. I tried to tell him nothing happened, but he didn't let me get a word out in edgewise. He even went as far as to say that in order to maintain peace between our kingdoms and to make up for what happened, he and me are now engaged to be wed. All that because he didn't let me tell him what really happen that night.
Luster:
Did you managed to clear it up with him?
Slipstream:
(Saddened)
Every single time I try, he would change the subject. But as a couple we are taking things slow so things work out in the end. I just hope it doesn't go sour because I screwed everything up.
Luster:
(Notices Somber Voice)
I can tell you really want things to work out. I can see how hard you are trying. But know that you are not alone. If you need to talk things out, you can always trust me. But remember that I am not the only one. There's Blaze, Krystal, Florid Harvest, Yavish, Flurry Heart, Gatz, Me and of course, Platinum Shadow.
Slipstream:
(Amused Scoff, Smiling)
Whatever you say, Teacher's Pet. I mean...Luster Dawn.
Luster:
(Smiling)
See? It's not that hard once you try.
Slipstream:
I still think you are a Teacher's Pet and I will still call you that.
Luster:
To be honest: You Are Not Wrong! I Am A Teacher's Pet!
They both laugh and pass the time in girl talk that they lose track of time they spend hours there.
Luster Dawn Route: COMPLETED!!!
Scene 4.5: Ponyville, Sugar Cube Corner, 4:07 PM
Inside the shop, Shadow is tending the counter while the Cakes and pinkie organize the store. Luster arrives at the store laughing along with Slipstream; Shadow smiles as he concludes that Luster and Slipstream have bonded as friends. But Pinkie and the Cakes are disappointed in Luster for arriving late at the job she and Shadow convinced the Cakes to have.
Mrs.Cake:
Luster Dawn. Where were you dearie?
Luster:
Sorry I'm--
Slipstream:
It's not her fault. All she have been doing all day was keeping me out of trouble.
Everyone:
(Doubtful Stare Due To Luster & Slip's Injuries)
Shadow:
(Chuckles)
Give them a break. They have a long day and Luster did try her best to keep Slipstream out of trouble. And judging by the cuts and bruises, they really had fun.
Slipstream:
(Laughs)
You and those keen eyes of yours. Is there nothing that you can't deduce?
Shadow:
Pinkamena.
Slipstream:
Pinkamena!? Whose that!?
Luster:
(Laughing)
Pinkie Pie! What is it about her that scares the Heebie-Jeebies out of you every time you mention her and act like a foal around her?
Shadow:
That is something I will never tell anyone. Not even my first teacher, Although I guess he know why I am scared of her. Anyways. You are leaving now, Slipstream. Unless you are buying something.
Slipstream:
(Smiling)
Nope, I'm leaving! But that doesn't mean I won't find out sooner or later. I always do. Today's been fun, Luster. We should hang out together sometime again.
Luster:
(Smiling)
Sure! I'm looking forward to it.
Shadow:
(Smiling)
Luster Dawn: Rule-Breaking Delinquent! Has a nice ring to it!
Everyone:
(Serious Stares At Shadow)
Shadow:
I'm Kidding! Some creatures can't take a joke.
2 Hours later, the Cakes finish their daily work and start closing the shop area of Sugar Cube Corner as Pinkie starts working in the kitchen to give her husband and daughter a nice home cooked meal. As they leave Mr. & Mrs. Cake thanks Shadow for a job well done, but since Luster arrived late for her job at the bakery, they scolded her for it and as Twilight's Student, she needs to be better in keeping her schedule. Noticing how down Luster is because of her scolding, Pound Cake walks up to her as Shadow notices what he wants to do so he starts walking ahead of Luster as Pound walks next to her. Shadow notices that Pound is cheering Luster up and he is succeeding as Luster laughs at Pounds jokes and remarks. A few minutes later, Pound and Luster part ways as he heads home and Luster follows Shadow back to the castle.
Shadow:
(Evil Smile)
So...how was your chat?
Luster:
(Annoyed)
What's with that smile?
Shadow:
(Amused Scoff)
Nothing. It just that you seem to be enjoying yourselves.
Luster:
It's nothing like that. We just met, remember? It was just a friendly chat between friends.
Shadow:
Speaking of friends...I noticed you and Slipstream bonded as friends. I'm curious how that happened, but I bet you don't want to talk about it yet.
Luster:
(Nervous Smile)
Something like that.
Shadow:
Don't worry. You really don't need to talk about it if you don't want to.
Luster:
(Surprised)
Really!?
Shadow:
Of course! Everyone is entitled to have secrets. You don't have to tell anyone about it if you don't want to and no one can force you to do it either. Not even family members.
Luster:
Shadow...Thank You!
Shadow:
You don't need to thank me. I just told you the truth about life.
Luster:
I'm just grateful that you respect my privacy. By the way...How was your meeting with Headmare Starlight?
Shadow:
I Graduated the School of Friendship in record time.
Luster:
(Shocked, Furious, Unknowingly Chocking Shadow)
YOU WHAT!?
Shadow:
(Choked Voice)
I can't breathe!
Luster:
(Surprised)
Oops! Sorry. Mind telling me the truth now?
Shadow:
(Normal Voice)
Phew! With a grip like that, I thought I was dealing with an Earth Pony, not a Unicorn. But I digress. I graduated the school unofficially because of my real experiences traveling around the world; officially I need to take remedial classes in order to officially graduate. My school schedule is normal from the first bell until lunch time. From Noon to 3 PM I will be studying Chaos Magic with Discord. My time in school will be bonding with my friends and my time with Discord will be for improving my Chaos Magic.
Luster:
I see. That is fair. I'm new to friendship, so I will not have the same advantages as you since you have real world experiences.
Shadow:
That's how life works. The more experiences you have, the higher the food chain you will be. But if you have no such experiences, you will start at the very bottom and work yourself up the latter of the food chain. That's a fact of life. Not even Princess Twilight started at the top even though she was Celestia's Student.
Luster:
Then I am looking forward of learning a lot from you from this point onward.
Shadow:
Not just from me, but with my friends and our teachers too.
Luster:
(Smiling)
You are right and I am looking forward to it.
Upon arriving at the castle, Shadow and Luster see at the entrance of the castle with all of Shadow's Friends and both Smolder and Ocellus arguing with Tempest.
Shadow:
(Face-Hoof)
Oy, Vey! Let me guess...you are all here because of me.
Blaze. Smolder:
(Drooling)
You bet we are!
Ocellus:
Smolder dragged me here with her. But something told me it was because you.
Tempest:
Explain.
Shadow:
You are here for my cooking, aren't you?
Everyone:
YEAH!!!
Shadow:
Figures. Captain? Could you please make an exception just for today? I promise to take full responsibility and talk with Starlight about this at the dinner table. You have my word.
Tempest:
(Defeated Sigh)
Just this once. Tomorrow I won't be so lenient.
Everyone:
(Overjoyed)
ALRIGHT!!!
Shadow:
(Face-Hoof)
Oh, Brother! Where art thou?
Scene 4.6 Final: Location: ???, Area: ??? (Cutie Map Room?), Time: ???
Located in an unknown location in a room that resembles extremely closely to Princess Twilight's Cutie Map Room in Ponyville, sitting in the largest throne in the room is a creature that closely resemble the Ancient Alicorn Of Chaos wearing a dark golden armor, with glowing golden eyes and sharp fangs and claws is talking with the Dragons that were dealing with Mouser. Standing by the left side of this creature is a Dragon that looks exactly like Spike but with a different color scheme of Red and Black and wearing war armor complete with cape as the creature is tapping the (Cutie?) Map table rhythmically with his fingers as he questions the dragons for their debriefing.
??? (War Armored Dragon):
(Furious)
You Imbeciles! How dare you return and losing the Black Heart Crystals In The Process!?
Dragon:
(Scared)
But General Volcanus, sir. We did return with the gems and jewels as Lord Blight Terror has ordered.
Volcanus:
Fools! Those Black Heart Crystals takes a lot of time and resources to create. They don't grow like the Tree of Harmony, you dolts!
Blight Terror (Anthropomorphic Alicorn):
Calm yourself, Generaaal. They succeeded in their mission in collecting our bounty. As for the Black Heart Crystals that were lost have served their purpose.
Blight snaps his fingers, the (Cutie?) Map starts to glow and projects images of both Slipstream and Luster fighting the monster ponies and Mouser and reveals all 3 Crystals being shattered with ease.
Blight:
Jack promised us great power emanating from an indestructible power source. Now I ask...has he produced such item?
Volcanus:
It seems he hasn't.
Blight:
That is why we need as many gems and jewels as we can get our claws on. Only through Trial and Error we will attain the ultimate power he has promised us. The Mother Crystal That I allowed him to study is the reason we are getting this power in the first place. Luckily the more gems and jewels we provide him, the more favorable our situation becomes.
Volcanus:
What about those S.M.I.L.E. Agents? They know about us. It won't be easy to move around with them sniffing out our trail.
Blight:
Nothing than a little discretion and deception can't fix. That's where the Renegades come in. Speaking of such...
At that moment, Blight snaps his fingers again and the images change into an image of a Renegade Changeling wearing navy blue armor from Chrysalis Rule before Throrax.
Communicating Image (Shell Shock):
This is Commander Shell Shock reporting from the Old Mansion at the Forest of Leota.
Blight:
Have you succeeded in claiming the magic from your former hideout/prison?
Communicating Image (Shell Shock):
Yes, My Lord. We are nearly finished. Once we are done, this mansion will be nothing more than a derelict and worthless building.
Blight:
Excellent! We need all the magic we can harvest from these locations in order to increase the power of the Mother Crystal. Once you complete this assignment, I have another one lined up for your squadron. If you don't mind of course.
Communicating Image (Shell Shock):
Anything for you, my lord. Shell Shock Out!
(Image Disappears)
Blight:
As for you, Dragons...you deserve a reward.
(Tosses Key At Dragons)
That key for a room with 5 chests filled with gems just for you. It is a fair reward, don't you agree?
Dragon:
Yes, My Lord! Thank you!
Blight:
Now all we need is for Jack to keep his end of the bargain.
Volcanus:
And how long will that take?
Blight:
He hopes to be done before his son, Platinum Shadow finish his little game in one year time. I have faith that he will finish before then.
Volcanus:
And if he doesn't?
Blight:
Then he won't live to see how much his son have grown because of him. Still we can't do anything but to wait and test his prototype crystals. But once we get the final form of his creations, This World...No...All Cosmos And Realities Will Know What Blight Terror Can Be!
(Evil Cackle)
To Be Continued...