[FR] Tough Love - 7 New Opportunities

A/N:  Fucking Pastebin deleting everything.  Also as of writing this, I'm still working on chapter 8 for those of you who for some reason still follow me despite my updates being damn-near inactive.  I better make use of the free time I have now before it's gone.

--
Location: Dean’s office in Canterlot University
Time:  18:00
--

“What do you mean I’m not accepted into your school!?”
>”I’m sorry, Mister Anon.  But, you’re just not what we’re looking for at the moment.”
“What do you mean I’m not ‘what you’re looking for at the moment!?’”
>”We’ve been reviewing your application and there were several things that caught our attention.”
“Like what!?”
>”On your application here, it says that you work as a…  A freelancer?”
“Yes, why?”
>”How much do you make?”
>On a good day, you were lucky if you were paid in fucking peanuts.
“Given my field of work I make…  a ‘substantial’ amount.”
>With the amount you make on average daily, you were pretty much 3 hairs away from being labeled as a slave.
>”Seeing as how we don’t see it as a ‘real’ profession, you do not currently qualify for financial aide.”
“But that’s what financial aide is for!  It’s supposed to help ME pay for shi-…  things… that I currently cannot afford so I can make more money to pay it back.”
>All while getting buttfucked 8 ways to Sunday with jacked up interest.
>”Your financial status is one of the things that currently hold you back.  If you can make more, it would certainly help in establishing your financial credibility.  Your profession doesn’t really bode well with us because there is a chance you might decide to default.”
“I’m good for it!  Honest!”
>“We’ll need more than just a ‘gut feeling’ to establish your financial credibility.  So in your case, we will require an upfront payment for admission.”
”How much?”
>The dean takes a piece of paper and starts scribbling on it.  She then hands it off to you.
>You take the paper and your eyes nearly popped out of your head.
>”And that’s only for the first half of the semester.”
“This is…  A lot.”
>Looks like you’re going to have to hit at least 80 hours of work a week.
 “What’s the other reason for my admission being on hold?”
>”Well, we’ve been going over your criminal record.”
>Oh…  Mother of Christ.  No.
>”Have you recently been accused of committing a crime?”
“I have come across a skirmish recently, yes.  But, it was ruled out as defense.  The victimizer brought harm upon a child and I had to act accordingly to protect the little one.”
>”Not that one, Mister Anon.  The other crime that’s currently active in your profile.”
“I thought I was clear of anything.”
>”Apparently not.  You’re currently being investigated for…  Attempted homicidal murder?  Would you care to elaborate upon that?”
“Oh…  Umm…  I haven’t had time to resolve that as of late.  And for that, I kinda got carried away, but I did what was necessary to protect the child.”
>You went completely apeshit and you just wanted Gilda motionless on your dinner table battered and deep fried.
>”I don’t know how things were done from where you’re from, but we require that our admits have a clean record upon admission.  So unless you can resolve these matters, we currently cannot accept you into our University.  You’re going to have to wait until next year for our summer courses or fall semester.”
>Nice.  Fucking beautiful.
“Is there ANYTHING that can be done to guarantee me a spot for the upcoming semester for the medical program or classes?  Can I get by with even a late admission into a class or program?  I’m willing to let my grade suffer for a bit if it means me getting into something!  Anything!”
>”I am sorry, Mister Anon.  But given your current situation, those are our terms.  If it makes you feel better, we will put your application on hold for now.  If Twilight Sparkle recommended you to us, it is something that is worth noting.  When you resolve these issues, we’ll reconsider your admission.”
“…Thank you for your time.”
>Okay…  Not a problem.  Just a few minor setbacks.   They can still be resolved.
>You walk out of the office with your head hanging low.
>”So, how did it go?”  Twilight said as she stood up from her seat.
“…”
>You walk past her without saying a word.
>”Anon?”
>Your hopes of making any decent money were dashed away before you even had a chance to pursue it.
>Sure, it would have to be at a later time, but you’re not getting any younger.
>Things could definitely be off to a better start.
>”You didn’t get in, did you?”  Twilight said while noticing the melancholy expression on your face.
“…”
>”Oh…   I’m so sorry, Anon.  I really knew how much this meant to yo-“
“Come on.”  You said dryly while interrupting her.  “Let’s just get out of here.”
>”Where do you want to go?  We can go anywhere you want to.”
“Let’s just get back to the palace.  I really don’t feel much like going out anymore.”
>It was kinda hard to enjoy the rest of your time here with a cloud of failure hanging over your head.
>”I understand.  I’ll hail us a cab.”
>During the ride home, you look out the window and see ponies in Canterlot with their noses high up in the air.
>So high in fact that you swear it wasn’t good for their spine or that they were going to suffer permanent neck damage.
>But you noticed something different about them from you.
>…Aside from the fact that you were a hairless, overgrown, overeducated, gluttonous monkey of a momma’s boy.
>They had the luxury of wondering what they should have for breakfast and complain if their food was riddled with too much or too little flavor.
>They weren’t held down with financial restrictions and they had a lot of financial freedom.  And with it, they were able to enjoy life a little more and the riches it offered.
>They probably didn’t need help or handouts because they were stable enough to “buy” their security and their future.
>They had money.  And with it, they had complete control over their lives.  They could give anyp0ny they wanted the life they desired while being able to share and enjoy it with them.
>Despite being here for a little over a year, you were suddenly starting to feel out of place in this world once again.  But it was certainly different this time from when you first arrived.
>You were once the bread winner for yourself and even your older brother in prison for paying all of his commissary snacks and other things.  You even picked up tabs for your friends when you hung out or dined with them.
>But, you didn’t make enough to bribe a congressman or the governor to let your brother out of prison back home.
>Look where you are now; you work for dirt, you certainly couldn’t retire anytime soon, your future wasn’t looking very bright, you weren’t living the somewhat high horse life you once had, and you live with your own mother.
>And worst of all, you can’t give Shy the life she deserves.
>”Hey Anon!”  Twilight said while nudging you as you continued staring out the window.  “How about you and I get something to eat?  I know another really good pastry shop from here and we can stop by there if you want.”
“I’m not really hungry right now.  Maybe later.”
>Twilight’s eyes widen as she gasps slightly.
>”You’re....  You’re not hungry!?  Anon, are you okay!?”
>You smirk as you continue looking out the window.
“I just need a little time to sort and figure things out.”
>”But hey, there is some good that came out of all of this, isn’t there?”
“Like what?”
>This ought to be good.
>”I thought about what you said earlier; about how we don’t see eye to eye on some things.  But after spending a bit of time and knowing the real you, it’s now different for me.”
“What do you mean ‘different?’”  You said while turning your attention to her.
>“At first, I thought you were just some roughneck no-brainer with no direction in his life.  To me at the time, I just saw you as some kind of wild and mindless ape with way too much energy.  Sometimes, you just drive me up the wall!”
>You narrow your eyes at her.
“Are you going somewhere with this?”
>“But after spending some time with you and getting to know you a little better, perhaps I was wrong about you.  And you know what?”
>She scoots closer to you.
>”I’m glad I was.  I didn’t know that you could be so ambitious and I didn’t know that you had direction in your life.  Underneath that roughneck image I’m always being forced to deal with, I see a fragile, vulnerable, and gentle giant whose heart is in the right place.”
>If you are interpreting this correctly, she is calling you a pussy.
>“You would go out of your way to see your friends and loved ones happy.  And deep down inside, you do care.  I find that to be a very admirable trait.”
>A pussy with a heart.
“Thanks, Twi.  To hear you say that almost makes this entire ordeal a little less disappointing.”
>”Oh.   So the time we spent together…  That wasn’t…  Good enough for you?”  She replied while sounding disappointed.
“Nonononono!  That’s not what I meant!  Sure, I didn’t get in, but I gained something even better!”
>”And what would that be?”
“The same thing you have: a newfound friendship.  Spending time with you has also been a treat for me as well.”
 >”Anon…  Thank you.”  She said with a warm smile.  ”Hey!  I know what would make you feel better!”
“Hm?”
>”Spike is still grounded, but how about you stop by and help him with his chores?  I’m sure he would like that.  In fact you can stop by when we get back home.”
>Your eyes lit up.
“For real!?  I can see my little bro again!?”
>She nods.
“Awesome!”
>”Just promise me one thing.”
“Name it.”
>”Be a little more mindful of what you do and say when you’re around, okay?  If he still looks up to you, he is still going to try to model himself after you.  And Celestia knows that the two of you are already enough…”
“Promise.”  You replied while chuckling.
>Guess it wasn’t all bad.
>You suppose things could always be worse, but let’s not tempt fate.  You already had much to deal with as it is.
>”Also, Anon…”  Twilight continued.  “Pack your bags up.  We’ll be leaving tomorrow morning bright and early, okay?”
“Got it…  And Twilight?
>”Yes, Anon?”
“Thank you.  It really means a lot to me that you went out of your way just to do this for me.  I still haven’t forgotten that I owe you big time.  Have you thought of what you wanted from me?”
>”…I’ll think of something.”

--
Location: The Palace Courtyard
Time: 0100
--

>Twilight’s asleep in your room while you’re out going for a walk.
>Walking is good; it always does wonders for your mood and really helps you think.
>That and well, Twilight snores like a chainsaw.
>As you walk through the courtyard, you come across several statues next to a large maze of shrubbery.
>You remember Twilight telling you about these historical figures and that they were once revered for their abilities to wield tremendous powers.
>But out of all of them, there was one that stood out and caught your eye.  And every time you spoke of it or inquired of it, other ponies would always try to change the subject or just tell you to “forget about it.”
>You stop before it.
>They treat it as though it was some kind of taboo subject or that the mere mention of his name was some sort of curse word.
>Either way, everyp0ny wanted very little of it to do with you.
>From the looks of it, it had the appearance of a chimera and it was as though several parts of animals were just glued together to form this odd looking creature.
>From the very limited information you were able to gather about this statue:  they referred to this particular statue as “Discord:  the God of Chaos” and was once considered a threat serious enough to where it almost led to the downfall of Equestria.
>”Ahem!”
>You turn around and see the night goddess walking towards you.
>”You are aware that you are not allowed to be anywhere near that particular statue, you know?”
“Forgive me, Princess Luna.”  You said while bowing your head.  “I guess I’m just a bit out of it at the moment.”
>“Tis’ okay, Anon.”  She said.  “What brings thou out so late at night?”
“Just having a bit of trouble sleeping tonight, is all.  How about you?  How’s Princess Luna doing?  I haven’t seen you since my arrival.”  You said while approaching her.
>She lets out a giggle followed by an exasperated sigh.
>“Things… have been rather stressful for us as of late.”
“Whyzaat?”
>“There has been a matter within the dragon and gryphon kingdom that of which requires my sister’s attention.  It’s something that she has more of…  how you say… a ‘knack’ for.  Negotiations aren’t really my specialty.”
>That seemed typical of Princess Luna.  She was still somewhat of a hermit crab.
>You learned from Twilight Sparkle of Princess Luna and how she was only recently introduced into society during Nightmare night, which is what you believed to be was the “Halloween” of Equestria.
>After being banished to the moon 1000 years ago, you were almost certain it wouldn’t do wonders for her social skills.
>She came back and resides within the castle with her elder Sister, but was still learning how to be a little more open.
>Aside from the Mane six and her sister, you were one of the few that she was comfortable talking to when Twilight introduced you to her.
“How long will she be gone?”
>”We are unsure.  She had only left the other day and that she has asked that we watch over Equestria in her absence.”
“All by yourself?”
>She nods.
>”Yes.  It has been quite exhausting for us these past few days, and honestly…  We are not sure if we are able to keep up.  It is rather difficult for us to keep a watchful eye over with my sister’s absence.”
>Even within the dark night, you could see the stress on her face and her fatigue from being a ruler to Equestria in her sister’s place.  After being reintroduced into society, there was still a lot for her to learn.
>She was still being overwhelmed by this strange new world before her and now suddenly, she’s already placed in charge of ruling and watching over it.
>Poor thing.  You couldn’t help but feel sorry for her.
“Hey, come on now!”  You said while slowly approaching her.  “If it were easy, then anyp0ny could do it!  But she has left you in charge for a reason, right?”
>”But why did it have to be me?”
“She’s made the right decision in placing her trust in you.  She knows that you are able to bear the weight on your shoulders as a ruler.  For you to do this tells me that only you have the strength to do so.”
>”Oh!  We suppose…”  She replied while sounding a little uplifted.
“Also, would you want any other p0ny to shoulder the burdens that you carry right now?  I mean, for you, it’s nothing but another day.“  You continued while trying to meet her eyes.  “But would you really wish this upon anyp0ny?”
>“No, we wouldn’t.”
”So do your best and be strong for your peo-  P0nies.  Okay?  Your best will be good enough, trust me.  Come on, let me see a smile!”
>She looks up to meet your eyes and manages to force a smile.
“Atta’ girl!”
>”Thank you, Anon.  We suppose we’re not always alone.  It’s nice to know that I have friends that…  How you say…  ‘have my backside.’  Yes?”
“Whatever.  Close enough.”
>”Oh, and Anon?”
“Yeah?”
>”If it is not too much trouble, may we ask that you accompany us this night for a stroll?  That is…  if you don’t mind.”
“Not at all!  I could use a little company myself.”
>As you the two of you walk alongside each other, you look over your shoulder to get another glance at Discord’s statue.
>Your curiosity seems to be getting the better of you, but you shake the thoughts out of your head.
>You have other things to worry about.
>At least the stroll around the courtyard was pleasant; the weather was just right, there were crickets chirping everywhere, and fireflies lighting the night.
>The two of you then decide to settle down in a gazebo located in the center of the courtyard.
>You take a seat on the stairway while Luna sits next to you.
>”Anon…  May we ask you something?”
“Hm?”
>”Are you happy here?”
“Yeah.  Unless you want to sit somewhere else, then-“
>”No, what we mean is; art thou happy here in Equestria?”
“I am.  I mean, things could be better, but I have what I need here.”
>”Do you ever think about your old world?”
“Sometimes.”
>And oddly enough, more than usual recently.
>”Do you ever wish you could go back?”
“When I first arrived, I did.  But…  She made me want to stay.”
>”’She?’”
“Mom.  And not just her, but the friends I made here and the ones I call my family.”
>”So…  You are happy here, then?”
“I am.  But…”  You turn to face her.  “There’s still no way for me to return to my old world, is there?”
>Luna pauses for a second.
>”We are sorry, but it is not possible.”
>You turn to face her.
“…Why not?”
>”We are unable to determine why still.  It is a mystery that still plagues both us and my sister and it has proved to have been beyond even both of our capability.”
“I see.  It’s just that sometimes…”  You bite your bottom lip.  “I think about my older brother I left behind.  I never got to say goodbye to him and he probably thinks I just abandoned him or he might think something happened to me.  Or maybe something bad happened to him!  I don’t know…   And for me to just suddenly leave him without saying anything…”
>You let out a sigh while pinching the bridge of your nose.
>But you suddenly start feeling a warm sensation on your shoulder.
>You turn to see that it was Luna nuzzling your shoulder in an attempt to comfort you like that of a mother nurturing their young.
>”We are sorry that it had to turn out that way, Anon.  We wish we could do more for you.”
>How the Hell could you ask more from her?  She’s already have enough to worry as it is.
>Goddamn, you were whining like a little bitch more than usual.
>If you want something do it yourself.
>You have to want it, because it’s never going to be given to you.
>So man the fuck up and fix it yourself.
“You know what?  It’s nothing.  I guess I’m just a little homesick is all, but this is my new home.  Isn’t it?
>”Yes, it is.  But-“
“Then so be it.  I’ll be alright, really!  Don’t you have enough to worry as it is?  Your kingdom needs you more than me.  This is my problem, and I’ll deal with it myself, okay?  I didn’t mean to talk your ear off, Princess Luna.”
>”Understand that you are not alone, Anon.”
>Mom will be there to make things right.  You just know it.
“Yeah.  I know.  Now if you’ll excuse me, I beg your leave and I’m going to turn in for the night.”
>”We understand, Anon.  We too should tend to our royal duties as well.  And thank you for keeping us company.  We would certainly appreciate it if we can do it again sometime.”
“Likewise, your majesty.”  You replied while bowing your head.
>You turn around and make your way back to the castle.
>”Oh, and Anon?”
>You stop and turn your head slightly.
>”Don’t work too hard.  Stay safe.  And also, my sister says ‘hi.’”
“Likewise.”

--
The next day in P0nyville
Location:  The road back home
Time:  Around 7 pm
--

>The train ride wasn’t too bad, but it seemed little shorter going back.
>The trek back home would’ve been perfect if P0nyville wasn’t under heavy rainfall while blocking the sun.
>Loud and almost deafening thunder fills the sky as you follow the road leading back to your Mom’s house.
“Goddamn weather patrol.”  You muttered under your breath.
>At least this time you didn’t cause any uproars, and behaved in front of Twilight to show her that you were willing to change just a little bit if it meant seeing your little bro again.
>You would’ve loved to see your little bro again, but there was p0ny you had to visit to make sure she was okay.
>Because you know…  She can’t function without you for some unexplainable reason.
>You make your way back home and open the door with your house key.
“Hey Mom!”  You said while walking in.  “I’m hom- OH GOD!  NOT AGAIN!”
>*THUD*
>A pink and yellow blur crashes into you and tackles you hard enough to tumble you to the ground.
>”SWWWWEEEETIIEEEE!  YOU’RE HOME!  OH, HAPPY DAYS!”  You mother screamed with joy while pinning you down.
>”Hey Ma.”  You greeted dryly.
>She seemed fine.  Nothing out of the ordinary here.
>You managed to make it on your feet with her still attached to you.
>”Oh no, Sweetie!  You’re soaking wet!  Come on; let’s get you changed out of those cold wet clo- EEEEEEPPPP!”
>*CRAAAACK*
>The thunder crackling in the sky startles the both of you causing your mother to re-grip you and bury her face in your chest.
>Her ears flatten as she starts shivering.
“Shy, please get off of me.”
>She shakes her head.
>You make your way to the couch and manage to squeeze your elbow in between you and her.  You also get your knee in as well.
>With all of your strength, you somehow managed to pry her off as she falls on the couch and pin her down with your hand on her chest.
“Stay.”  You said while pointing to her with your other hand.
>Much to your surprise, she submits while giggling.
>You re-emerge out of your room in dry clothes only to see Shy waiting outside of your room.
>She has puppy dog eyes with her bottom lip sticking out.
>You sigh as you open your arms and welcome her into your embrace.
>She accepts your “invitation” as she dives into your arms and she pushes you back up with your head slightly bouncing up against the wall.
>You make your way downstairs and sit in front of the fire place to warm up and dry off a bit.
>Your mother thankfully lets go of you and takes a seat next to you.
>As you stare at the crackling fire, your mother notices your somewhat melancholic expression which you were almost sure you were doing a good job hiding.
>”What’s wrong, Sweetie?”  She said while trying to meet your gaze.
>You let out a deep sigh.
“I didn’t get accepted.”
>”Y-YOU DIDN’T!?  YES!  THANK CELESTIA!”
>You turn to face her with a look of discontent.
>”OH!  Um…  Heh heh…  I mean…  Oh.  I’m so sorry, Anon.  I knew you were looking forward to it.”
“Yeah.  But, I’ll probably have to wait until next year.  I'm not sure I can make enough before the semester starts.”
>”So that means you’ll-“
“Yep.  I’ll still be stuck here for about another year before I decide to move to Canterlot.  Plus I probably need to keep working to save up for a place there.  The apartments and housing in Canterlot are highway robbery.”
>Well, it is for you given your line of work.
>“Well, you can stay as long as you want.  Just remember, Sweetie; how much you make doesn’t change how much I love you, understand?  And you not getting accepted into the school doesn’t change how I feel about you.”
>You give a slight nod.
“I know, Mom.  I know.”
>”But, do you know what would make me the happiest mother in Equestria?”
“Hm?”
>”Just stay safe and be healthy, okay?  You don’t have to get me ANYTHING.  Well…  Actually…”
“What?  What is it?  Name it!”
>She stands in front of you.
>“Look into my eyes…”
>You do as you’re told while curious of what she wants from you.
“Okay?  Now what?”
>Where was she going with this?
>She also leans in closer to you with her face pretty damn close to yours.
>”…And tell me that you love me and nop0ny else.”
“Umm…  Okay.  Love ya, Mom!  And only you!”  You said while rustling her mane playfully.
>But judging from her reaction, she wasn’t satisfied with your response.
>“No, Sweetie…  Look me in the eyes and say:  ‘I love you’ and I want you to mean it.”
“Shy, you know that I-“
>Please!  Do this for me!  I just want to hear you say it!”  She interrupted with a pleading look in her eyes.  “Please tell me that you love me!”
>Goddamn.  She must have really missed you from the time when you left.  She was already lost without you during the day when you went to work, but for a week?  Looks like you have some time to make up to her.  The least you could do is start by giving her what she wants.
“Okay.”  You said while looking into her eyes.
>You lean in a little closer.
“Mom…”
>She winces slightly with her ears flattening, but manages to redirect her focus on you.
“I love you.”
>”T-Thank you, Sweetie.”  She said moving in and giving you quick peck on your lips.  “That’s good enough for me…”
>You weren’t expecting that from her, and yet it doesn’t surprise you.  She was being her old and affectionate self again and it usually meant she was happy.
>She turns around to face the fire and takes a seat on your lap.
>As she settles in, you wrap your arms around her and rest your chin on the top of her head.
“You’re kind of cold.”
>”Keep me warm then, Sweetie.  Hold me.”
>As several moments pass, you start feeling something poking your midsection and chest.
>You back away slightly and your mother’s wings instantly flare out and you were almost certain that you heard an “EEP!” from her...
>Poor thing must be stressed out.  Again.
>Seriously, some sedatives might do her some good.
>Being the good son you are, you release your grip from her and yank her wings.  Mom always did like it rough when she was stressed.
>“OH!  MY! *UNF*  SWEETIE!”  She screamed with what sounded both like pain and pleasure.  “N-no, Sweetie.  No. N-not tonight…”
“Okay, Shy.”  You said while letting go.  “Are you sure?”
>She grabs your wrists and wraps herself in your arms while leaning back.
>”Mommy is very tired and needs her rest, okay?  Just… hold me for now.”
>You do as you’re told.
>”Sweetie?”
“Yes, Mom?”
>”Umm…  *mumble mumble*
“I didn’t quite catch that…”
>”…H-hold me tighter.”
“Okay.”  You whispered into her ear.
>Her ears flickered as she felt your warm and soft breath while shivering.
>You tighten your grip around her and hold onto her for dear life.
>She starts wriggling and lays back while letting more of her weight rest on you.
>She then tilts her head to the side and rests her face on your arm as slumber eventually claims her.
>She didn’t ask for much, nor did she ever demand too much from you.
>And yet, she’s done so much for you.  You always try your best to pay it back in tenfold, but you were lucky if you could even pay her back at all.
>Deep down inside, it kinda ate you up.
>She was easy to please and satisfy.
>You are still surprised that it takes very little to satisfy your mother.
>But you knew she deserved better.
>And Hell high water, you will give her the life she deserves and be there to enjoy it with her as her son.
"Sleep tight, Mom."  You whispered into her ear.
>She is such a wonderful Mother.

--
Location: Flithy Rich’s Mansion; backyard.
Time:  1500
--

“And I keep telling you, Mr. Rich; that it’s even!  This is like the seventh time I did it!  I know it’s even!  You know it’s even!  Your p0ny ears know it’s even!”
>”It doesn’t look even to me! Redo it again!”
>Today as a freelancer, you’re working as a landscaper.  Not exactly your cup of tea, but work is work.
>”Ugh, it’s like… so hard to find good help these days!  I told you we should’ve hired a professional, not some…  common laborer.”  Said a pink little filly wearing a diamond tiara.
“Why don’t you ‘help this,’ ya fuckin’ trust fund baby…”  You muttered under your breath while grabbing your inner thigh with your hand.
 >”I heard that, Anon!  That’s it!  No one talks to my daughter like that!  You’re done here!  Just take your pay and get out!”  Flithy Rich spat out while tossing a bag of bits at you.
>You ruffle through it only to see that it was WAY less than what he was offering to pay you.
“Dude, seriously!?  This isn’t what we agreed upon!  This doesn’t even cover the materials I used to buy for all of this!”
>”Be grateful that some cutie mark-less monkey like you even gets anything at all.  I could’ve found somep0ny else to do the job for me, an even better job, and for less.  It’s surprising how somep0ny like you ended up in your line of work or ANY work at all.”
>You started clenching your fists.
“You ungrateful-“
>”You should know your place in this world, Anon.”  He interrupted.  “I should know, because I make more money than you.  And I’ve established more in this world than you probably have.  You could definitely learn a thing or two from those who are superior to you.”
“…”
>”We’re done here, Anon.  Now leave or I’ll have security show you the way out.”
>Two burly looking colts appear behind you.
>Goddamn, was it ever tempting to just deck him between the eyes, but your record is saying otherwise.
>Plus, you had to stay out of jail unless you wanted your mother to have another nervous breakdown.
>And you promised Twilight to be a better role model to Spike.
>You were fuming as you exited the mansion, and you were really going to have to do a lot of walking to clear your head.
>Remember, keep cool.
>Keep a straight head.
>We can’t risk another strike on your record.
>Another strike means another hurdle for you to jump over when trying to get into Canterlot-U.
>You must…
>You…
>…
>Retribution must be delivered.
>Retribution WILL be delivered.
>R.I.P. rationality.
>A smile appeared on your face as you ruffled your hand through your meager bag of bits.
“Hmm…  This should be enough.”
>Judging from the amount you had, you had enough to grab a bite to eat and to “set things right.”
>By God, let’s hope nop0ny finds out that.
>As you head back into town, you stop by one of your more popular and most frequently visited places which was the hardware store.
>Being a freelancer, most of your duties consisted of construction and repairing.  Luckily for you, there was always somp0ny that had something that needed fixing or installing.
>As you walk in, you hear a bell chime and are greeted by the store clerk.
>”Howdy there, Pardner!”  Said a colt with a southern accent.  He wore a red shirt, blue overalls, goggles, and a yellow construction hat.  “What can I do for mah number one customer?”
 “Hey, Hardhat!”  You greeted.  “I’m just here to pick up some oil-based paint.  Where do you keep it again?”
>”Aisle five, like always!  Watcha’ workin on today, Anon?  Doin’ a little decoratin’ or paintin’?”
“Kinda.  Not my specialty, but I think I’ll wing it.”
>You pick up 3 buckets of oil-based paint and make bring them to the counter.
“What do I owe you?”
>”27 bits, but for my best customer, only 15!”
“Thanks, Hardhat!”  You said while laying a stack of bits on the counter.  “Also, what’s that you’re working on back there?”
>”Why it’s mah latest invention!  I call it…  ‘The Dispenser’ and it’s going to change all uh’ Equestria!”
“What does it do exactly?”
>Hardhat tilts his head to the side.
>”Ah haven’t figured that part out yet.  Still workin’ on it.  But ah did put a lot of work into it.”
>He holds a monkey wrench in his mouth and taps it.  As if almost on cue, it suddenly collapses into a pile of scrap metal.
“Back to the drawing board, eh Hardhat?”
>”Eeyup.”  He sighs while hanging his head.
“Keep at it and thanks again!  Later!”
>”Ya’ll come back now, ya hear?”
>That Hardhat and his crazy inventions.
>A little on the eccentric side, but a nice colt.
>You continue walking through Ponyviille and make your way to Sugarcube Corner.
>It was one of the few places that centered you and you needed your fix of sugar.
>Unfortunately, you see Lyra and Bon-Bon sitting at a table across from you.
>Shit.
>You made eye contact with them and they have you locked.
>You manage to force a smile and wave.
>But they don’t return your greeting with a simple wave; they return it with a greeting of their own.
>Bon-Bon forms the letter “O” with her forehooves and Lyra inserts her hoof in and out the “O”.
>A grin that stretched from ear to ear appears on their faces while they are nodding slowly at you.
>Your smile instantly turns into a frown as you slowly shake your head.
>And from an undisclosed location, Bon-Bon produces of what appeared to be a tube of cake frosting.
>Lyra opens her mouth while sticking her tongue out.  You also see that she has a look of hunger on her face.
>Is she really going to…  No.
>She licks the tip of the tube while running her forehooves around it as though she was trying to milk it.
>After several moments witnessing Lyra’s display of what you believed to be a reenactment of a blow-job, Bon-Bon starts squirting her face with white frosting.
>Good Lord, it’s everywhere.
>Bon-Bon then starts licking the tip of the tube and the frosting off her life partner’s face.
>They get up from their seat and slowly make their way towards you.
>”You still owe us, Anon.  We still haven’t forgotten.”  Lyra said while clicking her tongue at you.
>You narrow your eyes as you shake your head at them.
“Yeah.  Don’t remind me.”
>Thank Celestia they left and more importantly thank Celestia that little ones weren’t around to see it.
>Crazy-ass fucking ponies.
>”Hey Bro!  What’s up!?”
>You look up to the sky and see your rainbow-maned bro hovering above you.
“Dash-shay!  Sup’ bruh!?”
>Brohoof.jpg
>”You look like you’ve been through some stuff.  You okay?”  She said while taking a seat next to you.
“I’ve had better.  Hey listen, you busy later on tonight?  I may need some help with something.”
>”Watcha’ need?”
“Wanna help me play a prank later?”
>Her eyes widen as you see a gleam in her eye.
>”WOULD I!?”
>She grins while nodding frantically.
“Awesome!  Now here’s what we’re going to do….”
>You lean in while whispering into her ear your “brilliant” plan.

--
Time: 22:00
Location: In front of Filthy Rich’s mansion
--

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPAEFnVZVOs
>Both you and Dash continue creeping up to the backyard fence of this asshole’s mansion.
“You got the stuff?”
>”Got it all right here, Anon!”
“You really surprised me back there.  I wasn’t expecting you to say yes so quickly.  You don’t even know why I’m doing this, huh?”
>”Details details!  You know pranks are my thing!  Like I need a reason!”
>She was indeed worthy of the title: “The Element of Loyalty.”
“By the way, where did you get that sneaking suit?”
>”It was just something I had lying around.  What do you think?  You like?”
“Me…  Likey.”
>Goddamn!  That suit just seemed so tight on her skin.  Even in the dark, you could see her muscle tone protruding from her spandex.  You were almost the thing was really at least two sizes too tight and rubbing against her-
>HOLYFUCKNUGGETS!
>FOCUS!
>”What was that?”
“…Looks good on you.”
>Pokerface.jpg
“Anyways, come on.  Give me a boost.”
>All of the windows of the house seem dark and it was going to be a bit of time before one the security guards came by and made their rounds.
“Alright, this way.”
>You stop by his swimming pool and start opening the buckets.
“Here, dump this in the Jacuzzi while I dump this in the pool.”
>”Got it!”
>As you mix the paint and bucket into the pool, it starts turning into a fine mess and an ugly shade of green.
“Hahaha!  Oh man!  Filthy Rich is going to flip that grease sponge he calls his toupee when he sees this!”
>”Hey!  Who’s that out there!?”
>You turn your head to the side and see a bunch of flashlights being waved in the distance.
“CHEESE IT!”
>As you make your escape, you can hear a flurry of bad language being unleashed by Filthy Rich.
>You were tempted just to stick around and hear every word of it, but it was something you would have to sacrifice to ensure your getaway.
>But as both you and Brodash continue making your escape, more burly looking colts lie ahead, but it appears that they still haven’t found you.
>They are heading your direction, but you dive into some bushes.  Luckily they don’t see you.
“(Shit!  Where’s Brodash!?  Did she get cau—DDDDDOOOHHHHFF!)”
>As if on cue, she dives into the same hiding spot and oddly enough she lands on top of you and in a very compromising position.
“There you are.”  You whispered into her ear.
>”Oh, phew!  I thought you didn’t make it outta he- HRMPHPHP!”
“Stay low and keep quiet.  Don’t make any sudden movements.  If you do, do them slowly, got it?”  You said as you put a hand over her mouth.
>She nods.
>You hear many hoofsteps surrounding your location and see flashlights being waved around and light penetrating through the bushes.
>They were so close, yet they didn’t where you both were.
>”I thought I saw them come this way.  There are at least two of them around the premises.  Keep looking!”  One of them said.
>As Rainbow Dash continues to remain on top of you, you start feeling her shake and quiver.
>It was probably the thrill of getting caught and the adrenaline coursing through her veins.
>Each passing second felt like slow agonizing hours, but in a way the thrill felt good.
>You also feel her heartbeat pulsing through her chest, just as she felt yours.
>You chests are heaving against each other as you breathe heavily on each other’s faces.
>As she exhaled, you inhaled.  As you inhaled, she exhaled.
>She must be getting scared because she starts wrapping her fore hooves around your neck and slowly tightens her grip.
>Her face is…  getting rather close to yours and she was really starting to invade your personal space.
>She stares into your eyes just as you stare into her lavender eyes.
>”Anon…” She whispered into your mouth and you were almost certain you saw a tint of red on her face.
“Yeah, Bro-dash?”
>“I…  I just…  Anon, I just wanted to tell you that I-“
>”Daddy, I’m going for a swim!”  Said Diamond Tiara.
“SHH!  Hold that thought!”  You said as you put your finger on her lips.
>”PUMPKIN, NO!”  Yelled Filthy Rich.
>*splash*
>Followed by the splash was the sound of a little filly wailing and crying.
>”DADDY!  MY FUR!  MY BEAUTIFUL FUR!  WHY IS IT ALL GREEN AND BLACK!?”
>You resist with the intensities that of a thousand of Celestia’s exploding suns to not break out in laughter.
>You put a hand over your mouth as you grip a handful of dirt while trying to suppress your school girlish giggles.
>Yeah, sure.  It went against your principle of children being the most defenseless and vulnerable beings of the earth.
>And even for you, it seemed kinda fucked up.
>But you know what?
>Not all children were innocent and sometimes they needed to be taught a lesson in humility.
>Judging from how spoiled she was, it would seem that her father wasn’t going to take any action with tough love anytime soon.
>So what did you learn in all of this?
>Absolutely nothing.
>But hopefully she did.
>Besides, a little humility would do her some good.
>Serves her right for always picking on the CMC.  Maybe she should finally get a taste of her own medicine.
>You’re doing Celestia’s work.  You were almost certain of it.
>Filthy Rich’s cronies help Diamond Tiara out of the pool and into the house.
>”Watch it!  Don’t drape any on the carpet!  As for you two, keep searching the premises!”  He yelled as he went inside.
>Thankfully, the coast started looking clear and you don’t see any flashlights nor do you hear any hoofsteps nearby.
“Okay, I think we’re good.  Let’s move out.”
>She was still on top of you and it made getting up pretty hard.
>You also see that she appears to be in some sort of trance-like state while looking at you.
“Now would be good.”
>No response.
“DASH-SHAY!”
>”HUH!?”
“How about we get the buck out of here!?”
>”OH!  Um… Right!  Sorry!”
>She seems kind of out of it.  She must still be coming down from the rush.

--
Time 23:00
Town Hall
--

>You walk into town as your rainbow-maned bro hovers just above you.
>The town looked empty around this time and seemed a lot bigger without the stalls and kiosks set up.
>There was virtually n0pony on the street, except for a royal guard or two burning the midnight oil for their patrol.
>All the stores were closed and even at this early hour of the night, the bars in this small town were doing last their call.
>It was a damn shame that they closed early, you really wanted to go for a few drinks.
>”Hey yo!  Anon!”  Dash said as she landed next to you.
>You give her the Sup’ nod.
>”I had a lot of fun tonight.  I really did!  We should really do stuff like this more often!”
“Heh, same here.  I feel like a kid again!  But, if we keep pulling pranks like that, we’ll eventually get caught and be labeled ‘Equestria’s Most Wanted.’”
>”Yeah, but you know what?  It was good seeing you again!  We barely hang out anymore.”
“I’ve been busy as of late.”
>”TOO busy.  You work way too much.”
“And you don’t work enough.”  You enjoyed retorting back at her.
>”Hmph!  You’re missing out on the finer things in life!  You can’t always work all the time you know.”
“There’ll be time for that later on; work first, play later.”
>”Whatever you say, Bro.  Also…”  Rainbow dash stops in front of you.  “Can I ask you something?”
“Yeah?”
>She shuffles her hooves while looking away.
“What is it?  Come on, you can tell me!”
>”(Okay, here it goes…)”
>She takes in a deep breath and exhales.
>”Why don’t you have a special somep0ny in your life?”
>Because you ain’t no horsefucker.
“It’s complicated.”
>”Doesn’t it get lonely for you?”
>You pause for a second.
“Kinda.  But maybe that’s one of the reasons why I keep busy.  Besides, I’m too self-centered and obsessed with my own needs to care about others, heh.”
>”That’s not true! I know you and anyp0ny would be lucky to have you as their special ‘somebody!’  Why don’t you give yourself a chance and play the field?”
“I’m not into the whole interspecies thing.”
>”Others do it.  It’s common in certain parts of the world!  Especially in Manehattan!”
“Well, I guess I’m not like the ‘others.’”
>”(No…  You’re not.)  You worry me sometimes.”
“You shouldn’t have to.  I’m kinda hard to break, you know.”  You said with that as-a-matter-of-fact tone in your voice.
>”That’s not what I meant!  Are you really going to spend the rest of your life without a special somep0ny?  You’re the only kind of your species left and I can only imagine how lonely it is for you.”
“I can try.  I’m just not as interested in romance or anything long-term like that.  Or at least, not anymore.”
>”That’s really sad and cold, bro.”
“It’s just the way things are for me.”
>You’ve learned to accept that you might be the only human in Equestria, plus you weren’t willing to break your interspecies taboo anytime soon.
>Just as long as you have work to keep you busy and a NEEDY mother to take care of, it should be enough for you.
>If you ever did have a special somep0ny, she might even slow you down.
>First things first; watch out for yourself and then maybe, just maybe, it might be something worth considering.
>”You have us at least, right?”
“Yeah.  There’s always that.  By the way, what’s all this talk about lovey-dovey shit all of a sudden?  Where did that come from?”
>”It’s just that well…  I have a friend who might be interested in you.”
“Unless your friend is a human, tell her to stand in line.  I got an army of crazy-ass ponies trying to do... things… to me.”
>”But you do trust me, right?”
“Of course I trust my bro.”
>There is a long pause between the two of you.
>”…”
“…”
“So…  Who is this friend of yours?  Not that I’m interested, but I am curious to see if it’s anyp0ny I actually know.”
>”…”
“Dash?”
>”N-nevermind.  Just forget it.”
“You sure?”
>”Yeah, I’m sure.”
>She lets out a deep sigh with what sounded like a mix of disappointment and frustration.
“No, I’m actually curious of who this somep0ny is and-“
>”I said just forget it!”  She spat out.
>You pause for a second.
“Dash, are you feeling alright?”
>”OH!  Um…  Yeah.  I guess I’m just a little out of it at the moment.  Listen, I gotta turn in for the night.  I got weather patrol early in the morning.  I’ll see you around!”
“Sounds good.  I’m turning in for the night also.  I’ll see you later.  Get some rest, okay Girlie?”
>brohoof.jpg
>And with that, she takes off into the night sky.
>You start making your way back home and see the dirt road leading back.
>All in all, the night seemed to be just perfe-
>”Mr. Anon?”
>You stop in your tracks and turn your head to the side .
>You see two royal guards and they were the same ones that took you in several weeks ago after your skirmish with Gilda.
“Hello again, officers!  What can I do for you this fine evening?”
>”You’re coming with us.”
 “What seems to be the problem?”
>”We have reports that somp0ny’s property was vandalized.”
>Shit.
“So, why do you need me?”
>”You’re a suspect.  And you don’t have a choice.  I hope this time we can avoid physical confrontation.”
>Fan.  Fucking.  Tastic.
 “Yes, officer.”

--
P0nyville Police station
Time:  23:45
--

>Tonight certainly could’ve gone better.
>When you were brought in for questioning, they grilled you as though you made an attempt on some important political figure.
>It was only vandalism, but crimes were crimes.
>They knew you had an accomplice during your night out, but you knew better than to squeal on your bro.
>They didn’t take to kindly to your lack of co-operation, so your penalties were a little more than they should have been.
>You’d never rat out your bro.  It was you after all who invited her to play in your reindeer games so why should she have to have her future jeopardized?
>She’d probably never get into the Wonderbolts if this was on her record, so you decided to leave her out.
>You had to appear in court in about 30 days to resolve not only your little act of vandalism, but to finally resolve your homicidal investigation incident on your record.
>But goddamn, is it going to hit your savings and earnings hard.
>They were serious crimes and you were almost certain you didn’t have enough to pay them off yourself.
>Shit, even if Mom finds about all of this she may not also have enough even with your money combined.
>And if you don’t get that paid off, you may not be allowed to apply in Canterlot-U again or even worse, you’ll be sent to the big house.
>It was bad enough that you left her when you were taken in that one day with your fight, but if you get sent away for years your mother may not be able to take an emotional hit like that.
>Worst of all, you can’t tell her all this because it would just make her worry.
>She doesn’t deserve this, so she’s NEVER going to find out.
>You’re going to have to fix this yourself.
>But how?
“Shit.  I hate being an adult.”
>You walk around the empty streets of the town once again, but something catches your eye.
>More specifically, a bright building that lied ahead.
>You can hear the music just being pumped  out and it was one of the few places that was open past this time.
“Sorry, Mom.  I promised you I wouldn’t go in here, but I really need a few drinks to calm down for a bit. But then again, what you don’t know won’t hurt you, now will it?”
>Watchoutwegotabadassoverher.jpg
>Bars were closed early around this time of the night.
>You couldn’t really drink at home because your secret stash of booze would suddenly disappear every time you checked your stash.
>You love Shy to death, but even then you wish she wouldn’t stick her nose where it doesn’t belong.
>Plus, Mom tends to scold you when you drink in front of her.
>This night club you were approaching was called “Buck Wild.”
>Despite being a grown adult, it was one of the places you didn’t want your mother catching you.
>Maybe it’s because there were a lot of mares here that for some unexplainable reason had an interest in you?
>You thought about getting a job here, but Mom would kill you if you were anywhere near this place.
>Well, you can take care of yourself.  That umbilical cord of hers can’t reach you everywhere, you know.
>At the entrance, you see a line of mares lining up trying to get in.
>But as you approach the entrance, you come across a very familiar muscle bound colt holding a clipboard.
“Yo!  Roid-Rage!  Sup’, colt!?”
>”Anon!  Sup’ Bro!?”
>Brohoof.jpg.
“I didn’t know you work here!”
>”Yup!  I’m a bouncer here.  Tonight, I’m workin’ the door.”
“Cool, cool.  Hey, listen…  Can you hook me up tonight?  Let me in, brah!”
>”Sorry, Anon.  If you ain’t on the list, you ain’t getting’ in.  Rules are rules!  Plus you’re not even dressed up to get in!”
“I thought you was my bro, dude!  We gotta watch out for one another, right?”
>”Yeah, yeah.  I know.  But, maybe you can do me a favor?”
“Alright, shoot.”
>”Can you set me up on a date with your Mom?  Just one.  I promise I’ll treat her right.”
>You cock your eyebrow at him.
“I have a better idea…  How about I DON’T punch whatever’s left of your throat right off your freakin’ body!?  HUH!?  How about that!?”  You said while cracking your knuckles and grinding your teeth.
>He started sweating bullets while frantically scrolling through his clipboard.
>”W-well!  What do you know?  You’re on the list!  Right this way, Anon!”  He said as he quickly lifted the velvet rope.
“Thanks, double-R!  I knew it was just all a big misunderstanding.”
>Suddenly, 5 mares clamp on to each of your limbs and one behind your back.
>”We’re with him too!”  One of them said.
“Yeah, sure.  Why not?  The more, the merrier.”  You said while shrugging.
>Roid Rage lets out an exasperated sigh as he rolls his eyes back.
>”Alright, you’re all free to come in also.”
>As you walk into the club looking like some kind of bastardized version of a Megazord reject, you stop next to your tiny-winged bro.
“Seriously, Double-R…  I owe you one.  If you ever have time, drinks are on me, aight?”
>”Fair enough, bro.”
>Brohoof.jpg
>As the door opens, the music suddenly gets louder.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rkzYe5MoAt4
>At least it was catchy.
>A little loud in here though.  They should really turn it down.  Makes holding a conversation in here difficult.
>As you make your way inside, your little group decides to let you go and stop in front of you.
>”Hey!  Thanks for letting us in, Mister…”
“Anon.  And you’re welcome.”
>You sidestep them and start looking around for the bar.
>Where the Hell was it locat-
>”So, Anon!”  One of them said as they stopped in front of you and once again blocking your path.  “Never seen you in here before.”
>The rest of them follow behind who appeared to be their ring leader.
“Yeah, this sort of place isn’t my thing.  I’m just here for a drink.  Now if you’ll excuse me-”
>”That’s no fun!  You should get on the dance floor and hit it!  Then maybe after, we can get to know each other a little better!”
“Maybe some other time.”
>”Oh come on!  We won’t bite…”
>How hard is it to get some booze in this place!?
>You really wish the bar was open or wish that there was some 24/7 store that sold alcohol.
“I really don’t want to ‘hit’ anything right now except the bar.  Now let me ask you all something…  How old are all of YOU?”
>All of their eyes widen.
>Ha.  Looks like you got them cornered.
“Wouldn’t it be a damn shame if your perfect night out with the girls suddenly ended?  How about I call the bouncer and have him check your ID’s?”
>”NO!  ANYTHING BUT THAT!  There’s no need for that!  We’ll leave you alone!”
“Good.”
>”Buuuuuuuut…”  One of them said.  “If you ever decide change your mind…”
>Oh great.  Here it comes.
>“We have a table in the corner over there.  If you’d like some drinks, we’ll take REAL good care of you.”
“I’ll take it into consideration.”
>”Later, Anon.”  One of them said as they clicked their tongue at you.
“Much.”  You replied dryly.
>From atop the club in a booth, stood a white p0ny a short mane that had several shades of blue, white fur, glasses with a dark purple tint, and an eight-note as her cutie mark.
>This entire time from you entering the club, she’s been watching you and your little encounter with your underage fan club.
>She tilts her goggles to the side to get a better view of you and raises her eyebrow.
>”Hey, I’m taking my break.  Watch the fort while I’m gone.”
>You finally make to the bar and order a beer.
>”That’ll be 12 bits.”
“12 bits!?  That’s grand theft larceny!  The bar down the street from here only charges 4 bits!”
>”Well, sir, you’re not at ‘some bar.’  You’re at Buck Wild.  Now p0ny up the bits or you’re out.”
>P0ny up.  Ha.
>You sift through pockets and thankfully had enough.
“Let’s see…  10…  11…  12… and 13.  That should cover it.  Keep the change and don’t’ spend it all at one place.”
>”Thanks, ya lousy tipper.” He growled at you.
“Don’t mention it.”
>And now you’re flat broke.  Bank’s closed around this time, so no withdrawals for you to keep the night going.
>You let out a sigh while hoping to make this beer last as long as you can.

--
Less than a minute later…
--

>You take your final sip from the bottle and it started having that muggy taste when beer gets warm.
>Looks like the party’s over for you and time to head out.
>As you’re about to stand up, you feel a hoof on your shoulder stopping you.
>”Where you going?  The night’s still young and you just got here!”