“I won’t let you…” Smokestack raised the blade, shaking in his hand.

“Smokestack! What are you doing?!”

Smokestack's tear stained face turned to see Coppermane.

“Don’t get any closer,” Smokestack said.

“Smokie, put the knife down,” Coppermane said, slowly approaching Smoke.

“She still lives...”

“What are you talking about?” Coppermane beckoned. “Who still lives?”

“Don’t worry, Coppermane,” Smokestack said. “Soon, you won’t have anything to worry about.”

“Smokie, listen to me,” Coppermane pleaded. “Just tell me what’s going on. I don’t know what you’re thinking, but this isn’t the solution.”

“There’s no other way. I have to do this.” He lifted his hand, taking a deep breath. But before he could finish the job, Coppermane lunged forward and pushed his hand up.

“Smokestack stop!”’ Coppermane yelled. “Just talk to me!”

“There’s nothing to tell!”

“I won’t let you do this to yourself,” Coppermane said, struggling against Smokestack. “You have to open up to me. I can help you.”

“I’m doing this to keep everyone safe!” Smokestack yelled. “Why can’t you understand that?!”

“Because you’re my friend, and we need you!” Coppermane shouted. Smokestack didn’t budge, continuing to fight against him. Seeing no other way, he kicked Smokestack's leg, knocking him to the ground and loosening his grip on the knife, dropping it from his hand. Smokestack fell to the ground with a thud, along with the knife, and Coppermane snatched it before Smokestack could.

Smokestack looked up at Coppermane, whom held the knife in his hand.

“I’m sorry, Smoke, but I had no choice,” Coppermane said. “It’s for your own good.”

Smokestack balled his fists in rage as he slowly stood up. Coppermane didn’t seem fazed at all, looking at him sternly. He must’ve learned how to stare like that from Fluttershy.

“Fine…” Smokestack snarled. “You really want to know what’s going on?”

Coppermane nodded. Smokestack stayed silent for a moment, feeling tears welling up in his eyes.

“She’s in me,” Smokestack mumbled.

“What?”

“Chrysalis." Smokestack said. “I don’t know how, but... I think she's inside me. She haunted me in my nightmares the minute I try to sleep, and they’re just getting worse. As long as I’m alive, so is she. I can’t escape her. I keep thinking she's inside my head, and I don't know if she is! I don’t know if she’s growing stronger with time, but I can’t let her kill you all. Not to mention Jet Set has probably told everyone that I’m alive, and now they’ll be hunting me down. I’m only bringing more harm to you all, and I don’t want to be a burden.”

“But I thought you said you killed her?” Coppermane asked. “Once you’re dead, you’re dead, right?”

“I thought so, Coppermane. But she’s still alive. I can feel her,” Smokestack said. “She keeps taunting me in my sleep, saying she’s going to awaken soon. God... why is she doing this to me? I've already had to deal with dead parents, depression, and now sociopathic bullies! I can’t let her take the only friends I have in the world away from me. I don’t know what to do,” he felt his hands shaking and his working eye tearing up, “… I… I…”

“Hey, it’s alright,” Coppermane said, rubbing Smokestack's shoulder. “No wonder you couldn’t sleep.”

“I’m only bringing danger by living,” Smokestack said. “I shouldn't even be here, I... I shouldn’t be alive…”

“Don’t say that,” Coppermane said. “Think about how happy Rarity and Rainbow Dash were to see you. Remember?”

Smokestack sighed. “I suppose…”

“And what about Sunset?” Coppermane asked. “I thought you were excited to see her.”

“I am, but what does someone like Sunset even see in me? I’m just a one-eyed walking danger beacon. How can I even call myself a friend when just my mere existence brings danger to you guys around? Sunset deserves better than this...”

“Smokestack, stop. I know what Sunset sees in you. She wouldn’t stop talking about you for the longest time. In her eyes, you’re a hero. You were willing to sacrifice yourself to save the world. That takes a lot of guts. Besides, I know you’re not totally disabled. You're able to adapt to your one eye, right?”

Smokestack rubbed his hand over the fake eye and felt the little bit of skin that was torn from his face, feeling the appendages.

“I guess…” Smokestack mumbled. “I’m sure she wouldn’t want someone with so much emotional baggage, though.”

“I have a lot of baggage too,” Coppermane said. “It doesn’t make you weak. Sunset likes you because you’re you.”

Smokestack didn’t budge, deep in his own thoughts.

“I know this is hard,” Coppermane said, “But I’m sure the others will help you if you tell them what’s going on.”

“No!” Smokestack flinched

Coppermane flinched. “But, why not? They need to know.”

“It’s only going to raise more problems! Just stay quiet, please? We don’t need any more problems as it is.”

Coppermane shook his head. “This is too important, Smoke. Besides, you’re going to have to tell them at some point. You can’t keep hiding.”

“Coppermane, I’ll figure something out,” Smokestack said sternly. “I don’t want to make them worry right when I see them again, especially Sunset. I just want to enjoy some time with my friends with no worries for a little while. Please?”

Coppermane sighed. “Fine. If that’s what you really want, as selfish as it is, then I guess I won’t make you. I’m just saying that it would benefit us all if you came clean.”

Smokestack sighed. “I know. I just don’t want to create more problems.”

“I understand,” Coppermane said. “I don’t want to be the bad guy Smoke, but I have to be upfront as well, y’know?”

“I get it."

“Your friends are here for you, Smoke,” Coppermane said. “But we can’t help you if you don’t let us. We’ll help you all the way, and we won’t let anything bad happen to you.” Coppermane gave him a pat on the shoulder. “You get me?”

Smokestack looked up at Coppermane and gave him a nod. “Sure.”

“Good,” Coppermane said. “I’m gonna head back to bed, and I suggest you do too. Promise me that I’ll see you in the morning?”

Smokestack sighed and nodded. “I promise.”

“Perfect,” Coppermane said. “And hey, if you need something happy to think about, just try to imagine how big Sunset’s smile will be when you give her that stuffed animal.”

Smokestack pondered, and the thought of Sunset’s smile managed to bring some light to his heart.

“Thanks, Coppermane. You’re right,” Smokestack said. Coppermane stepped up the stairs and didn’t look back to see the look on Smokestack's face.

Smoke's face went from a hopeful smile to a malicious grin along with his eyes both real and fake illuminating with a green highlight.

"Everything will be just fine...”

---

Smokestack's eyes opened to the bright morning sun. He let out a mighty yawn and stretched his limbs before sitting up to get out of bed. After a quick pit-stop at the bathroom, he walked downstairs, and his mouth began to water when he was greeted with the smell of pancakes.

He reached the bottom of the stairs, and looked to the kitchen to see Coppermane cooking breakfast.

“Morning,” Smokestack called out.

Coppermane turned around and smiled. “Morning, buddy. Sleep alright?”

Smokestack shrugged. “I didn’t have another nightmare, so I suppose I did.” He started walking to the table, and was surprised to see there were more than two people in the house.

“Rarity? Rainbow Dash?” Smokestack asked.

“There’s our favorite retro man,” Rainbow said.

“Um… morning,” Smokestack said. “When did you get here?”

“About fifteen minutes ago,” Rarity said. “Coppermane invited us.”

“Why?” Smokestack asked.

“I thought it might be good to have some more… protection for you on your first day back. Things at Crystal Prep have gotten bad, so I figured it couldn’t hurt,” Coppermane replied.

“Don’t you think this might be overkill?”

“Nonsense, darling,” Rarity said. “The more the merrier. Besides, I finished the necklace you requested for Sunset.”

Rarity handed the necklace to Smokestack, who grinned. “Wow, nice work. I knew I could count on you. Thank you so much. Seriously, thank you, I don't even know how to repay you.”

“I’m always happy to help,” Rarity said. “I know Sunset will just love it!”

Smokestack smiled and took a seat with everyone else. He had a big day to look forward to. Seeing his friends again, and more importantly, seeing his Shimmercakes again.

---

The group of four all stood at the front entrance of the school and were standing by in preparation.

"Okay bud, you think you're ready yet?"

"I think so. I'm calm, cool, collective... I think I can do this. But why a grand opening like an opening of a game show?"

"Well, I think it'd make your revelation more grand! Why not surprise Sunset with a big entrance?" Rarity smiled.

Smokestack scratched his chin. "I'm not sure. And I'll say the same thing I said this morning; Doesn't this seem a bit of an overkill?"

"Absolutely not. Look, we'll go find the rest of our friends, and then we'll make your big entrance! Come Rainbow, we must find the others!"

"No, Rarity, wait I..."

Rarity and Rainbow were gone before Smokestack could protest any further, making him groan.

"You know... is there anything wrong with just a simple walk in?" Smokestack asked with a hint of whine.

But something in his peripheral vision caught his eye. He looked outside the main entrance, the front stairs and concrete that led to the inside of the school, and his heart dropped. “No... no no no, why now? Of all times, it has to be now?”

“What?” Coppermane asked.

“Neon Lights is packing. And he brought company.”

Coppermane took a look for himself.

“You’ve gotta be kidding me,” Coppermane groaned. “What do we do now?”

Smokestack was in a fit of panic. He didn't make any backup plans in an event like this. But wait... the ventilation shafts. The air ducts above. They'd be right above the lockers, and they'd get a good look at them from above without being caught. Maybe...

Smokestack leaned into Coppermane’s ear, and whispered what he had in mind. “You follow me?”

“I think so,” Coppermane said. “But we have to hurry.”

Smokestack guided Coppermane to a nearby ventilation shaft. He managed to get it open and crawled inside.

"Never let it be said I ripped a piece off of the school out of my own desires." Smokestack said as he gestured Coppermane to crawl inside.

Once inside, Coppermane closed the vent and they watched closely. Smokestack's heart skipped a beat when familiar heeled boots and blue jeans walked on by.

“I’m so sorry, Smokie... I lost it. I’ve failed you…” Sunset cooed as tears fell down her cheek.

She sighed heavily as she turned the combination lock on her locker. She reached into the side of her pants and pulled out the tape player that was clipped to her, allowing her to look at it.

“What are you doing with his tape player, bitch?”

Sunset froze, and slowly turned her head. The second she noticed something amiss, she was pinned against the locker, and was face to face with Neon Lights. A knife punctured her jacket above her shoulder as Neon stared right into her eyes. Behind him was the rest of his posse. And as she was pinned, Neon clutched the tape player out of her hands.

“You,” Sunset growled. “What do you want?”

“Information,” Neon sneered. “Where’s your boyfriend?”

“S-Smokie?”

“Who else?!” Neon shouted.

“He's dead! What else do you want!?"

Royal and Jet Set interrupted her by whipping out small light cannons and pointed them at her head.

“Tell us now!” Neon shouted.

Sunset backed away from the gun as best as she could, but she couldn't go far. “I-I don’t know!”

“Hey!”

Neon and his gang turned around to see Sunset’s friends standing firm.

“You’ve got a lot of nerve showing your faces here,” Flash growled.

“Get your filthy hands off our friend,” Rarity sneered.

“Or what?” Neon sneered.

“Or we’ll have to use force,” Rainbow snarled, cracking her knuckles. Applejack and Pinkie Pie cracked their knuckles as well, and moved their necks around which made cracking noises too.

Upper Crust and Suri Polomare drew light cannons from their backs. Fleur did as well, pointing hers at Sunset, making her yelp.

“Come any closer, and the bitch gets it,” Neon growled. “I don't care who answers me, but my patience is running thin. Where is Smokestack?!”

Nobody said a word. Sunset shed a tear as she looked at her friends. Neon glared back at Sunset's quivering lips.

"Why the hell do you have his cassette player?"

"That was a gift to her! And it doesn't belong to you!" Applejack snapped.

"Exactly, it belongs to Smoke. And if any of you cared to respect him enough, you'd leave it where it was."

Pinkie Pie popped up from a locker and she gave a questioning look.

"Wait... hold on a second. You were completely against Smokie-wokie, all willing to attack us, but suddenly now you're suggesting we move his stuff back?" Pinkie asked with her usual pitched voice.

Neon blinked. "Yes."

Pinkie pointed one finger at Neon with a blunt look. "You make no sense."

Pinkie swooped back down on the floor and she popped right back up with the rest of the girls standing with a fighting pose once again.

Neon chuckled as he looked at Sunset's crying eyes. “You fell for Smokestack. I don’t know why. A girl like you deserves someone who can actually defend you. Not some geek with a single eye.” He turned to look at her friends. “I don’t know what any of you saw in that freak. But our Sunset has opened our eyes. You’re all pathetic. I know for a fact ladies don’t like pathetic people.”

“Ladies don’t like you either,” a voice said.

Neon flinched, as did everyone else. They panned around to discern where the sound came from, and jumped when someone jumped down from the ceiling vent. He stood up, and Neon’s eyes filled with rage.

"And Pinkie's right. Your plan makes no sense, and you've got serious issues."

“Coppermane?!” Neon sneered. He was about to walk towards him, but didn’t want Sunset to get away. “Royal, watch the bimbo.” Royal nodded and took Sunset from Neon. He walked towards Coppermane, balling his fists. "You've got it coming now!"

Coppermane smirked and crossed his arms. And just above--

“You insulting, patronizing... asshole!”

The voice came from the vent again. Neon looked up, and in the darkness he saw a pair of ominous glowing green eyes looking at him.

“What the…”

Out of nowhere, Neon was grabbed by two odd hands from up above, hauling him up into the vent, making his friends freak out. Coppermane moved under the vent and stared back up, flinching a bit from the screams and the violence within.

"Coppermane! Catch this!"

Coppermane braced himself, and the tape player fell down the vent and he grabbed it just in time, catching it without dropping it. He looked back up with eyes wide as he realized what was about to happen. He quickly jumped back from the vent.

Silence blanketed the hall before Neon fell back out of the vent, covered in sticky residue, and missing his sunglasses.

“What the hell was that!?” Neon shouted.

“My new friend, Neon.” Coppermane replied, looking smug.

Coppermane looked back up towards the ceiling vent. Two arms were sticking out of the vent holding onto the sides. Smokestack umped out and landed on the ground. He slowly raised his head, icily staring down the Crystal Prep students.

“What the…” Neon asked.

Smokestack growled as he stared at Neon Lights. He ripped the cloth mask off and the bandanna, along with the glasses, making them gasp. “Long time no see, Neon.”

“No! No! That’s impossible!” Neon said.

“I told you he was alive!” Jet yelled.

Neon turned his head back to Smokestack and quivered in fear. He could only imagine how much anger flowed through his veins.

“Uh... Hey, Smoke, old buddy.” Neon nervously said. “It's...been awhile, hasn’t it?”

“Did you miss me?” Smokestack sneered.

“Oh, uh, yes, of course buddy. I’ve missed you. I-I thought you died.”

“Do I look like someone who died, you idiot?” Smokestack replied with his eyes illuminating devilishly. His teeth were daggers and his head was in flames.

Neon could feel the sweat running down his head. “Well, it's great to see you’re back, again. And you’ve...got a new scar, th-that’s, that’s cool. Makes you look like--”

“Like what?”

“Like an action hero!” Neon quickly said.

The halls went dead silent. And no one said anything else. Until Neon spoke up again.

“So, uh, Coppermane said you were his friend, is... is that right?”

Smokestack snarled some more. “Yes.”

“Well..w-why would you make friends with that loser? Why not just come back with us again… b-buddy?” Neon nervously asked.

Smokestack looked back at the rest of Neon’s posse all looking scared out of their minds, and slowly backing away. They knew they were in big trouble. His eyes kept moving side to side, observing their emotions, and then leaned down to Neon.

“Because Coppermane is something you aren’t. Loyal, honest, brave, intelligent, kind… a best friend. A real friend. Something you never were. Real friends don’t go stabbing each other in the back. They give them the support they need. He helped me when I needed it, he saved my own life, he kept me alive from the monsters that you’ve all become. And I’ve heard about everything that you put him through. But as for what you’ve done to me? Well... I think a bigger punishment is in store for what I’ve got planned for you.” Smokestack finished with his eyes slowly becoming empty voids.

Smokestack's eyes just stared down into Neon’s soul. With a quick grab, he pulled him up by the tie and collar, and stared into the pits of his eyes. His right hand quickly rose up close and clamped around his throat, pulling him closer to stare eye to eyes. Neon felt his other hand grabbing onto his other arm and from what he could see, he began loosening the straps that were holding the light cannon onto his arm. Once the final strap was loosened, it fell and hit the ground with a hard metallic bang, splitting into several pieces.

“Not fun when you’re the one getting hurt, is it Neon?”

Neon just shook his head, afraid of what he was going to do.

“You burned my house down, you drilled my eye, you steal my property, beat me up, attempt to assault and kidnap my friends, attacked my girl, steal my technology, and you betrayed me… WHAT DID YOU HAVE TO GAIN BY HURTING ME!?” Smokestack screamed at the top of his lungs.

“You know what we had to do!” Royal yelled back.

“We couldn’t let you make that choice!” Trenderhoof retorted.

"If you cared, you would have let me decide where I'd want to go!" Smokestack snapped.

Coppermane and the others except for Sunset all looked at each other with questionable faces. What is it that they were talking about? What choice did he make? Everyone was left with nothing but confusion.

Smokestack looked back to see Sunset crying, and he felt a tear go down his own face. He couldn’t stand the sight alone of his girl in pain. It was bad enough he left her with a dead friend, but now he had left her with a bunch of pyschopaths who were going to hurt her. And now, he had the head of the attackers in his clutches.

Smokestack slowly turned his eyes back to Neon and snarled.

“You hurt my girl… and now, you’re going to die. Slowly…swiftly….painfully... And trust me Neon, its going to hurt me a lot more than it'll hurt you.”

Neon struggled to get himself freed, and stared at Smokestack's eyes, seeing the fury flowing.

“No… please! Grant me mercy, I beg of you!” Neon pleaded.

“I begged for mercy from you when you assaulted me, but you responded by shoving a spinning drill into my face! It's too late for it now, Neon. Way too late...” Smokestack said with an evil tone, removing his right hand and exchanging it for the other one and readying his left hand.

“You were afraid of Midnight Sparkle, was it? Well how about dealing with someone who's actually Equestrian..."

“Smokestack!” Coppermane shouted.

Smoke's attention turned to Coppermane looking at him sternly.

“You’ve made your point. I think it's time that they just leave.” Coppermane said.

Smokestack then looked back to see the rest of his posse terrified beyond all belief, and then see his own friends scared. The thought of scaring them just hurt inside. Coppermane was right. He couldn’t just kill someone in front of them, not when he made it this far to get back with them.

“Fine. But I’m only letting you go because you said so.”

Smokestack looked back at Neon’s quivering face.

“If I catch you stepping on our school’s property again, I will find you. And unlike this time, I will actually finish what you started… Understand!?” Smokestack said.

Neon nodded quickly, and Smokestack pushed him away from his face, making Neon fall to the floor. He could feel the anger that was growing inside.

“Neon…” Royal said.

“I know,” Neon said. “Let’s get out of here!”

The Crystal Prep students bolted out of the school at the speed of sound, not letting another second pass.

“And stay out!” Smokestack shouted at the top of his lungs.

“Ugh! They got away again!” Rainbow groaned.

“I think that can wait…” Applejack replied, pointing at Smokestack.

Smokestack turned around and collected Neon’s shades, then slowly walked towards Sunset. She was still pinned to the lockers, her face buried in her hands as she cried.

"Is... is it really..." Fluttershy stammered.

"It is." Coppermane smiled, giving Fluttershy a peck on her cheek.

"He's... alive?" Twilight blinked.

"How is that even possible?" Flash asked.

Smokestack slowly approached Sunset, removing the knives from her jacket to free her.

“Shimmercakes?”

Sunset only recoiled more, trembling harder.

“Shimmercakes, I-I got this for you.”

Sunset slowly opened her eyes, and lit up when she saw a beautiful necklace being presented to her. A pendant of bright aquamarine, cut in the shape of her cutie mark. She looked up, and gasped when she saw who it was. Her eyes began to water again, but out of joy instead of fear.

“S-Smokie?”

“Hi, Shimmercakes. Sorry I took so long.”

Silence blanketed the halls again. Were Sunset’s eyes deceiving her? Was this just a dream? No. It wasn’t. Shimmercakes… she’s never heard such music in a long time. A smile graced her face as pure joy took control of her. She cried out as she began bawling, and immediately lunged into Smokestack's arms. He held her tight, never letting go.

"S-Smokie… it… it’s really you…” Sunset whimpered.

“Shh… it’s okay... I’m back, and I’m here for you,” Smokestack said, rubbing her back as she continued to bawl on his shoulder. He couldn’t stop a tear from falling from his own eye too. And even more so started to fall as he held her tight, and resting his head on his shoulder.

“Smokie? Wh-Why are you crying?” Sunset cooed.

“Sunset, I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.” Smoke bawled. “I can’t believe I let them hurt you, and… I hurt you…”

“No, Smokie…” Sunset cleared a tear coming down his face. “It's okay… You’re back. You’re home.”

Sunset’s eyes were so inviting and sweet, and when his eyes panned down to her lips, he couldn’t help himself. He cupped Sunset’s face and surprised her with a passionate kiss. Sunset was stiff for only a split-second before relaxing in Smokestack's embrace, wrapping her arms around his neck. It’s been too long since their first kiss. Smokestack almost forgot how sweet her lips were.

They pulled away, and Smokestack gave Sunset a smirk.

“I’ve wanted to do that for such a long time." Smokestack said.

Sunset blushed. “I guess this means we’re together now?” she said with a smirk.

“I guess so,” Smokestack remarked.

Sunset giggled and leaned in to kiss him again, all while their friends smiled.

“Well I’ll be. It's really him.” Applejack smiled.

“I never thought I’d be glad to see him again.” Flash said.

“But... how!?" Twilight flailed her arms around. "Reanimating from the dead's impossible, unless maybe you were under mad science, but how is--"

“Twilight.” Coppermane interrupted. “I'll explain everything I know. But there's nothing to be worried about. As far as I know, that's our guy.”

Twilight took a moment to study Smokestack from afar now that everything was calm, and he didn’t look off at all. He looked… normal.

“Are you sure?”

“I’m positive Twilight.” Coppermane replied.

“Wait, hold on. If you knew he was alive, how come you didn’t tell any of us?” Flash asked.

“He asked me to keep it a secret until today because he wanted to surprise you guys.” Coppermane replied.

“Actually, I kind of knew too.” Rainbow said.

“Me too. We promised we’d keep our lips sealed until today.” Rarity replied.

Everyone gave a simple nod in response, still trying to take everything in.

“Well I’ll admit, you did surprise us.” Applejack replied.

“Is this why you said you were busy yesterday?” Flash asked.

“Yeah. I was helping Smokie here get back in his normal state. Well, mostly normal. He’s got different colored eyes, but really that's all that's different.”

Coppermane’s head turned back to Smokestack whom observed Neon’s sunglasses.

“I may not have gotten back at Neon the way I had wanted... but at least I got my hands on a trophy,” Smokestack said, placing Neon’s shades atop his face. “What do you think?”

Sunset giggled. “I love it. Welcome home, Smokie.”

Smokestack smiled and gave Sunset a big hug. A really big one. He nuzzled her cheek and just held her so close, making Sunset giggle.

“I missed you so much, Shimmercakes.”

“Me too…” Sunset said.

“Group hug!” Pinkie squealed, everyone gathering around in a huge hug around the new couple.

“Great to have you back, bud.” Flash said.

“Welcome home, sugarcube.” Applejack smiled.

“We’ve missed you so much!” Fluttershy cooed.

“We’ve got so much to catch up on!” Pinkie squeed.

“I missed you guys too. It's great to be back again.” Smokestack smiled.

---

In the Rainbooms’ practice room, everyone was gathered around while Coppermane and Smokestack filled them all in on what they remembered. Smokestack explained his return to the world they're living in, and Coppermane helped fill in the rest of the missing pieces of the puzzle. Including Smokestack being kidnapped, their world's Sunset experimenting on him, and Smokestack's return to reality the night Jet Set attacked. And Smokestack dropped the bomb about his house burned down and now is Coppermane's roommate.

“So… aside from all of that, what else has happened?” Smokestack asked. "Is there anything else I need to know?"

"Well we know from Indigo Zap and Lemon Zest that there was some floating magic held in a collection tank at this world's Sunset's. I'm afraid that the other Sunset may have your magic." Rarity replied.

Smokestack's heart dropped. “You’re kidding.” Everyone shook their heads, making him sigh. “Well, do any of you at least know why she’s doing this?” Everyone shook their heads again, eliciting another groan and Smokestack scrunching his head. “Great. Just great. Magic's gone, my house is burned down... my girlfriend almost dies by a sociopathic guy who should be in jail, just... wonderful."

“Is there anything going on with you that we should know about?” Applejack asked.

Smokestack thought for a brief second, and then nodded.

“There is. That artifact that I used back in Equestria against Chrysalis? That's now staying out of my hands, and it should go back to Equestria where it belongs. Safer in the hooves of somepony there than it is here. As much as I would love to use it against the Crystal Prep students, I don’t want to… um… repeat history, if you know what I mean," Smokestack chuckled nervously, remembering being overtook by the power.

Sunset gave a nod. “I’ll be sure to let Princess Twilight know. Anything else?”

“Um… n-not that I know of. Except… I’ve slowly become weaker and now I’ve just endangered your lives by even showing up.”

Everyone stayed silent for a bit, just thinking of what to do now. What could they do now? Coppermane however, looked at Smokestack with a questioning face.

“Uh, shouldn’t we tell everyone here that he’s not actually dead?” Applejack asked. “I’m sure everyone would be thrilled.”

At that moment the bell rang.

“Oh, sweet! Lunch break. It's the perfect time!” Rainbow said.

“You want to tell everyone you’re back? They’re gonna find out eventually.” Sunset asked.

Smokestack sighed. “I guess. Neon and his friends already know I’m alive, so there’s no point in hiding anymore. Besides, I'll have to catch up with everything at school now that I'm back.”

“Actually, can I talk with you privately first?” Coppermane asked.

“Huh?” Smokestack grunted.

“I just want to talk to you about something real fast,” Coppermane said.

“Uh, okay. I guess that’s fine…” Smokestack said quietly. “You guys okay with that?”

Everyone nodded and stepped outside. Once the door closed, Coppermane spoke up.

“Smoke, you need to tell them what you told me.”

“What? I’m not saying anything!”

“That kind of information is vital to our cause. If you want to help us, tell them what you told me,” Coppermane said.

“We’ve got enough problems as it is. I don’t think panic attacks in my sleep are worth it!” Smoke said.

“This problem is as real as our other issues,” Coppermane said. “You can’t hide it forever.”

“Okay, fine! I will, just… give me some time to think, okay?” Smokestack said. “We have enough to worry about already. Besides… I just got together with Sunset.”

“I know, but I just don’t want it to get out of hand,” Coppermane said.

“I’ll come clean when it feels right." Smokestack said.

Coppermane sighed. “If you say so. C’mon, we shouldn’t keep the others waiting.”

---

The group arrived at the cafeteria, but were surprised to find some unsettling sounds coming from the doors. They opened the doors, and saw everyone arranged in a circular formation around the middle.

“What the hell is going on in here?” Coppermane asked.

“Oh, thank goodness you all are here,” said a voice. The group looked to see Octavia Melody approaching them, looking worried. “I don’t suppose you could intervene and stop the fighting at all?”

“What?” Fluttershy sputtered. “Who’s fighting?”

“It’s Hoops and Score. They’re fighting our new classmates.” Octavia replied.

“What?!” Coppermane growled.

“Hoops and Score? Who are they?” Smokestack asked.

“They’re the brutes who bullied Coppermane when we met him,” Rarity said.

“Looks like they’ve found some new prey,” Applejack sneered.

“Not on my watch,” Coppermane sneered, stomping over to the commotion. He shoved his way through the crowd to get to the middle, revealing Hoops and Score in a heated fight with Indigo, Lemon, Sunny, Sour, and Sugarcoat; the Crystal Prep transfers.

“We helped save our planet from world domination!” Indigo insulted.

“Go back to Crystal Prep!” Hoops retorted.

Indigo’s fists clenched tightly and tried swinging another punch, but she was quickly blocked and punched back by Score. She winced, tumbling to the floor, hacking up some blood.

“Get up and fight!” Score shouted.

“I think you’ve done enough!” Sunny snarled.

“Go back where you came from!” Hoops remarked.

“Hey!” A voice called out.

The crowd parted to make way for a very angry-looking Coppermane.

“Leave them alone,” Coppermane growled.

“Coppermane, no!” Sunny cried. “Don’t get into this!”

“You five don’t belong here,” Score said.

“You five are the reason Coppermane and Smokestack suffered!”

“YEAH!” Everyone yelled.

“And now because of you five, Smokestack is dead!”

“Stop!” Coppermane shouted, silencing everyone. “Now, leave these girls alone.”

Score chuckled. “Or what?”

“You beat us once, but that was just dumb luck,” Hoops smirked. “We won’t hesitate to kick your ass again.”

“Maybe I can’t… but perhaps my new friend can,” Coppermane said.

Score stifled a laugh. “Yeah, right! I’d like to see what kind of wimp you’ve paid to--”

“He said leave them alone.”

Coppermane smirked and turned around, and so did everyone else. A collective gasp filled the cafeteria as they began backing away. Parting the crowd was a gray-skinned boy with messy hair and a trophy from his last skirmish in the form of shades.

“No… no. No you can’t be!” Indigo cried.

He removed his shades, two purple eyes that clearly didn't match, looking as devious as a cat's eye. It was enough to send shivers down the spines of every CHS student nearby.

“Did you miss me?” Smokestack smirked.

The former Shadowbolts backed away.

“H-How?!” Lemon beckoned. “How is that possible?!”

“No…” Hoops stammered. “Y-You’re dead. Th-There was a funeral and everything!”

“Do I look dead to you?” Smokestack remarked raising a brow. “Hoops and Score… from what I understand, you two are the ones who assaulted Coppermane...”

“You’re friends with that loser?” Score cried.

“You bet I am,” Smokestack said. “And he’s a better person than either of you could ever hope to be. Now, you leave those girls alone, or I’ll have to remind you of what I’m capable of. You heard about the stuff I did back at CPA? I wouldn't want to have to inflict anything on you two...”

“I’d like to see you try you worthless piece of junk,” Score retorted. He threw a punch but Smokestack moved in time and grabbed his incoming fist with his right hand.

“Wha--? Let go!”

“Don’t test me, Score." Smokestack snarled.

But despite his warning, Score delivered a strong blow to Smokestack's cheek with his other hand, forcing him to let go. Everyone went dead silent as Smokestack rubbed his cheek, painting his hand with trace amounts of blood. He looked at Score's hand, and noticed a sharp ring was the source of the blood spill.

“Guess we’ll have to do this the old-fashioned way... again..."

In the blink of an eye, Smokestack grabbed Score’s arm and threw him down on the ground like a wet towel. He let go and put his food on Score’s chest.

“Believe me, I could go on,” Smokestack smirked.

“No, please! I’m sorry! I’ll stop!” Score pleaded.

“Wise decision,” Smokestack said. “Now you listen. These girls have changed, more than you know. If I ever catch you bullying them again, you’ll get a better taste of what I can do. Whether you like it or not. Understand?”

Score nodded, his eyes saturated with fear. Smokestack lifted his foot and allowed Score to get up. He and Hoops wasted no time in getting out of there.

He walked over to Lemon Zest to help her get Indigo back on her feet, and then sneered at everyone around the room.

“Now… it’s obviously true. I’m still alive, thanks to Coppermane's efforts. But that’s trivial compared to how you’re treating these five girls. I understand your anger, believe me. But we’ve put all grudges behind us, and you should too. The hate ends now.”

“They kept attacking CHS!”

“Endless years of pranks and threats!”

“Non-stop gloating!”

“Enough!” Smokestack shouted, the entire room going dead silent. “What is the matter with you people?! Y’know, I loved this school because everyone was treated like family, no matter who you were. It didn’t matter if you had different skin, a different nationality, sexuality, interests or disinterests, you were treated like a family member. Compared to that, Crystal Prep is a nightmare. If you stand out even the tiniest amount, you’ll be ridiculed for the rest of your high school life. These girls are on our side now. They’ve changed. Why can’t you all see that? What happened to CHS while I was gone?”

“Smokestack, stop,” Coppermane said. “They’re not the enemy. It’s Neon and his gang. After all, they’re the ones who blackmailed those five girls into hurting you.”

Everyone gasped.

“Yeah… they were blackmailed,” Coppermane said. “Neon sabotaged their friendship. They never wanted to hurt him, but they didn’t have a choice. It’s over now, though. Don’t take your anger out on them, Smoke. It’s not worth it.”

Smokestack sighed. “Fine. But I’m still disappointed in all of you. Bottom line… don’t let me catch you hurting these five again. Get me?”

The look in his eyes were cold… and dead serious. Everyone nodded, not wanting to taste his wrath.

Smokestack suddenly grasped his temples as if he had a headache.

“Whoa…” Smokestack groaned. “Wh-What just happened?” He looked around and noticed some concerned and/or confused looks from everyone around him. “Um... well... g-go back to whatever you were doing... I guess...”

Everyone shrugged and resumed what they were doing before, mostly going back to eating food and talking.

“Smokie… y-you okay?” Indigo asked.

“Um… yeah, I am.”

Indigo gave a friendly smile along with the other girls.

“Well, now that that’s over… you’re alive!” Sunny exclaimed, giving him a big hug. The rest of her friends quickly joined in.

"Aww, come here!" Smokestack grinned as he hugged them.

“Great to see you again, dude,” Lemon said.

“Welcome back. Surprised you aren’t dead yet.” Sour said.

“Welcome home, Smokestack.” Indigo replied.

Smoke looked at some of the bruises on Indigo and winced in concern. “You should probably go to the nurse's office.”

“I’ll get her over there.” Sugarcoat said.

Sugarcoat and the rest of her friends walked off to get Indigo over to the nurse’s office, leaving Smokestack alone with his friends.

“Listen… I’m sorry for getting into another fight. I don’t like doing it, but I had to take action, y’know?”

“We understand, darling,” Rarity said.

“So… what do we do now?” Applejack asked.

“We should probably contact Princess Twilight about the artifact that I've got. I think it’s time I lived without omnipotence. Something like this is just too dangerous in this world. But first… let’s get something to eat."

“We should visit the nurse’s office at some point too,” Sunset said. “Just in case, y’know?”

Smokestack shuddered when he examined the semi-dried blood on it.

“Good idea."

“I agree!” Pinkie blurted out. “We want to make sure you’re good and healthy for the party on Friday!”

“Wait, what?” Smokestack asked. “A party?”

“Of course!” Pinkie said. “How else are we going to celebrate you cheating death???”

Their friends just chuckled.

“Well... I could definitely use something to unwind for a little bit." Smokestack replied.

“Yes! Welcome back party!” Pinkie squealed.

The group clamored as they went to go get some food. Smokestack offered his hand to Sunset, whom gladly took it. She surprised him with a kiss on the cheek and a side-hug.

“I’m so happy you’re back,” Sunset said.

He felt himself blush. He gave her a peck and squeezed her hand.

“And I’m so happy you’re finally mine,” he said, making Sunset’s face go as red as her fiery hair.

---

“Is the coast clear?” Hoops asked.

“I think so,” Score said. “But just to be safe, let’s stay how we are.”

“Good point,” Hoops said. “But the gray one has what we need. We have to get it!”

“We have to strike when the time’s right,” Score said. “Not when all his friends are around him.”

“I’m aware of that,” Hoops growled. “But once we have it, we’ll be unstoppable, and she will certainly be pleased.”

Score snickered, his eyes glowing slightly green. “Yes… and soon the rising tide of time shall take him.”

Hoops’ eyes shimmered with a similar green color. “Soon, my friend. Soon…”

Next Chapter: Chapter 13: Rethinking The Past Estimated time remaining: 35 Minutes