October 16^th, 2019
Tuesday
Overcast

Morning

After breakfast, Starlight asked Ms. Tia if she could ride with her to school so they could talk about last night. Ms. Tia was more than okay with it, and they spoke the whole drive there.

“Hm, I can see why you’d be concerned,” Celestia said, eyes on the road, “This girl does seem a tad unbalanced.”

“I couldn’t say no to her,” Starlight looked down, sitting in the passenger seat beside Ms. Tia, “I was worried that, if I didn’t accept her help, she might have done something drastic.”

“I don’t think you made the wrong move,” Celestia assured Starlight, “From what I could gleam, she isn’t a bad person. She seemed to me more like she was searching for something.”

“Like, what?” Starlight asked her Homeroom Teacher.

“Validation, perhaps,” Celestia answered, “Proof that she shouldn't feel guilt for taking a man’s life.”

“That’s just it, Ms. Tia,” Starlight bit her lip, “I, don’t think she was guilty.”

Ms. Tia parked at the corner and slowly turned to Starlight, “What do you mean…?”

song: Xion theme - Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days

“When I feel someone’s emotions, I can usually feel multiple ones, with one being the most prominent,” Starlight looked at her hand, “When she hugged me, I just felt elation. If there was guilt, it wasn’t at taking her manager’s life.”

Celestia bit her thumb nail nervously, “Let’s, not judge just yet. He was her Dungeon Master, after all, and there’s no telling what the poor girl went through. What did her Witch Form look like?”

“She was wearing this super tight and sexy cocktail dress,” Starlight said, “It was purple, and came up super high on one side, showing her whole leg. She had a golden fur scarf hanging off her shoulders, purple high heels, and this spiked circlet in her hair.”

Celestia pursed her lips, and then turned the car off, “Your Witch Forms seem to reflect of what awakened your Personas, or in the case of those with Dungeons, the source of trauma, just in a more purified manner.

Like Trixie becoming a sexy magician, Rainbow Dash becoming a knight, and Pinkie Pie becoming a princess capable of fighting. Thinking about how sexy Adagio’s outfit was, and with her being clearly around Starlight’s age if not a bit younger…

If Starlight was right about what he probably did to Adagio, then she couldn’t in good conscious say that Adagio didn’t do the right thing.

“Ms. Tia, I’m scared,” Starlight said stepping out of her car.

“Of what, dear?” Celestia asked, also stepping out of the car and walking beside Starlight.

“The power of Persona, I was thinking at first that it was something that only affected the dream world,” Starlight said as they walked to school, “Sure I have my Empathic Touch, and Trixie has the same magical talent as her father, but it never really hit me just how powerful we are. Seeing Rainbow Dash use her technomancy to turn off a video game yesterday, and now realizing that Adagio killed someone with her Persona… Ms. Tia, what if this power, changes me…?”

“You’re worried you’ll do something you can’t take back?” Celestia asked softly.

Starlight nodded, now looking at her Channeling Ring, “When Rainbow Dash wanted to kill Fleur, I didn’t stop her, and these days, some sick part of me does wonder, maybe I should have just, killed Blueblood’s Shadow when I had the chance…!” she closed her eyes tightly, “The fact that I could have done so easily…! The fact I still want to…! What if having all of this power turns me into a monster…! What if one day, I actually do use my magic to hurt someone, or even…!”

Celestia hugged Starlight tightly, “That won’t happen. Know why?” Starlight shook her head, “For one, because of the fear. Because you’re self aware enough to know that it could happen. Also, don’t forget,” she looked at Starlight adoringly, “You’re not alone, my child. Keep your friends close, and you’ll be able to keep each other from falling. You’re a wonderful young woman, Starlight, and I know that your mother is proud of you, especially for how you’re handling your magic.”

“Miss Tia…” Starlight said, tearing up a bit. The way she said that, she almost sounded, certain.

“Speaking of Mothers,” Celestia said as they continued their walk to school, her arm wrapped around Starlight, “Have you decided on the Deities who’ll represent your Coven?”

“Well, I haven’t spoken to the others yet, but I did find a deity that, might be good for a Mother Goddess,” Starlight said, “I was thinking maybe, Eos.”

Celestia blinked, “Eos…? The, Goddess of Dawn? That’s, an obscure choice.”

“True, and that’s part of why I think she’d be perfect,” Starlight smiled softly, “Besides, we’re Witches who fight Shadows while our bodies sleep. By choosing Eos, every morning we know that her light will guide us back to the waking world safely.”

“I see,” Celestia said with a wistful smile, “I for one, think she’s a wonderful choice.”

“Miss Tia, are you alright?” Starlight said. She seemed like she was going to cry.

“I am,” Celestia assured, kissing Starlight on the forehead, “Don’t worry. I’m just, happy to see you embracing your magic. Even if you’re afraid, never stop embracing who you truly are.”

Starlight nodded with a smile, “I’ll remember that. Thank you.”

Celestia’s smile widened. When they turned to the school and looked up though, her smile faded, “Oh dear…”

song: Troubled - Persona 3

Starlight looked to see what had her so tense. There was a crowd of students and teachers forming in front of a wall at school, where Starlight and Celestia saw graffiti made in spray paint. It looked like a symbol of three indigo diamonds, with two wolf heads framing it on either side. One white on the left, and one black on the right. It looked like there was a message underneath it.

Starlight and Celestia pushed through the crowd best as they could, and saw Rarity looking at it intently, arms folded and breathing in and out heavily. Beside her, Applejack rubbed her back gently. Starlight couldn’t hear them, but it looked like Rarity was trying not to cry, and Applejack was comforting her.

“Alright, that’s enough!” the grating voice of Principal Cinch called out, rushing outside, “All of you, get to class, now!” the students muttered to themselves, but began to file into the building, “Not you, Rarity. I want to have a word with you.”

Rarity sucked in a breath, and turned to her, “Yes, Principal Cinch?”

“Do you know anything about this?” she asked sharply.

“Why would I know anything about this?” Rarity asked, narrowing her eyes, “Applejack and I just got here ourselves.”

“You tryin’ to insinuate somethin’ Cinch?” Applejack asked sharply.

“I’d watch that tone if I were you, Applejack,” Cinch turned her nose to the air, “I’m still the Principal.”

Applejack took a deep breath, “Right. I apologize.” it looked like the words were venom in her mouth.

Cinch turned to the graffiti with a scrutinizing gaze, “So those filthy dogs want to claim my school as their territory? They’re taking a one way trip to the pound if that’s the case.”

Starlight noticed Rarity scowl at Cinch.

“I’ll want to discuss this more after school, Rarity,” Cinch said, “Alone, please.”

Rarity tensed, and her breathing became heavier, but she bowed, “Understood, Principal Cinch.” she said in a quiet voice.

Cinch turned to leave, but noticed Celestia and Starlight standing there, “Did you not hear me? I said to get to class!”

“I was going to, but…” Starlight bit her lip and looked down. What did she say here?

“Starlight's a member of the Student Council now, remember?” Celestia spoke up, “As Rarity’s secretary, she’s just worried about the President.”

Cinch narrowed her eyes, “Indeed? Well just make sure she isn’t late for class, Celestia.” she stormed off back into the building. Starlight finally got a good look at the graffiti, and the message at the bottom.

Starlight’s eyes widened as she turned to Rarity and Applejack, the latter rubbing the former’s arm as she looked ready to explode.

“Um, is everything okay?” Starlight asked carefully, approaching the two of them.

“Not really,” Applejack sighed, “You know the Diamond Dogs, right? This is their symbol. Seems for some reason, they got the school in their sights.”

Starlight bit her lip, and then looked at Rarity, who was eyeing her right back. It looked like she was glaring at her a bit. Was she, angry at her for something?

“Any, idea why that is?” Starlight asked, trying not to lose her cool under Rarity’s sharp gaze.

“I have, one idea,” Rarity said softly, “Um, you have Pep Squad today but, could you come to Student Council tomorrow darling? I’d, like to talk to you about something.” Starlight nodded vigorously. She had the feeling if she didn’t comply, she’d be in even more trouble. Her smile, while gentle, did not put Starlight at ease, “Splendid. Try to enjoy the rest of your day,” she looked to Celestia, “You as well, Ms. Tia.”

“Yes, same to you. Both of you,” Celestia said softly, “Try not to let Cinch get to you too much, okay?”

Rarity chuckled, “Certainly. I’ll try. Applejack, let’s get to our homeroom.”

“Right. See ya Starlight, Miss Tia,” Applejack waved to them, and walked with Rarity into the school. Starlight looked back at the graffiti and groaned softly.

“I’m thinking you might be onto something,” Celestia said, “About Cinch being the Dungeon Master.”

Starlight nodded, worried about what this implied. The Diamond Dog leader mentioned someone named “Dirty Diamond”, and they’re saying “they want their bitch back”. Based on how Rarity was acting just now…

Starlight had a feeling she knew where Dirty Diamond was…

Lunch Time

song: School Days - Persona

Starlight exited the classroom at Lunch, but noticed Silver Spoon walking up to her.

“Hey Witch,” Silver Spoon said tersely, “Can we talk a bit about, well…” she pointed to Starlight’s ring. She nodded and led Silver into a walkway few entered into, “So? How close are you to saving her?”

“We’re practically there,” Starlight said softly, “I wanted to finish it last night but, the process led to us using a lot of Mana.”

Silver closed her eyes and sighed, “Right. Sorry, I’m just… anxious. She saw that thing the Diamond Dogs did at school and was nodding in approval. Starlight, I’m really afraid that she’ll try and join them.”

“My magic can at least stop her from dying from the Nightmare,” Starlight said, “Anything here, we’re going to have to talk to her ourselves, as her friends.”

“Then you better save her soon,” Silver Spoon said, “Once she stops having those strip club dreams, maybe she’ll see some sense.”

Starlight could only hope. She asked Silver Spoon if she was going to stick around for Pep Squad. For the first time, Starlight was happy that she nodded.

“Yes. I want to be close to Diamond as much as possible. You’re coming too, right?” Starlight nodded, “Okay. Thank you, Starlight.”

Starlight nodded smiling. The two of them walked to Lunch together, almost like friends.

end song

After School

For the most part, Starlight tried not to worry too much about Diamond during actual practice. The more sexual dancing made her feel a bit awkward, but she did feel very sexy while doing it. She became a bit more graceful by the end of things.

At the end of Pep Squad, Starlight and Silver Spoon watched as Diamond flirted with the boys from the football team. It looked so, wrong. Not only because far as she knew, Diamond wasn’t much for flirting, but the way she was going about it made her come off, well, easy.

Starlight and Silver were about to approach her, but stopped when they saw Suri storming over to Diamond, Coco right beside her. Suri didn’t look happy.

song: Troubled - Persona 3

“Hey Diamond,” Suri said folding her arms, “I heard from one of the girls you were getting touchy feely with my boyfriend.”

“Hm? Oh, Thunderlane? Nothing happened between us,” Diamond waved it off, “He and I were just talking. If anything, he was the one who couldn’t keep his hands off of me,” she ran her hands along her body, swaying her hips, “Not that I blame him~”

Suri saw red apparently, as she slapped Diamond on the cheek, “Watch it, bitch! You may be one of our top cheerleaders, but I’m the head of Pep Squad, so you best know your pla-”

SLAP!

There was a unified gasp, as Diamond slapped Suri!

“I should know my place?” Diamond seethed, “Like you said, I’m one of the best ones here. This entire routine, you said it yourself that I was the centerpiece of it. So if anything, you’re the one, who needs to know her place.”

“Starlight…!” Silver whispered. Starlight nodded and ran over.

“No one, is going to tell me what to do,” Diamond continued, getting in Suri’s face, “Not my Father, not Cinch, and certainly, not you! So don’t you ever lay a finger on me again, or next time, I’ll do more than just slap-”

“Diamond!” Starlight called out, pulling her away from Suri, “What are you doing?!”

“Making sure Suri knows who's on top, that’s what!” Diamond answered harshly, “I’m not letting anyone push me around anymore! Let alone this bi-”

“She’s still head of the Pep Squad!” Starlight reminded her, “Are you trying to gt kicked out?! You love it here, remember!” that seemed to get through to Diamond, who just looked away dejected. Starlight turned to Suri and apologized on Diamond’s behalf, spinning a story that she was just under a lot of stress at the moment.

“Like, whatever. Just know, if she does anything like this again, she is off the team. I don’t care how good she is,” and with that, Suri stormed off. Coco bowed to both of them and then ran off after Suri.

Starlight sighed in relief and turned to Diamond, “Are you okay?” she went to rub Diamond’s arm, only for Diamond to pull away.

“I didn’t ask you to butt in!” Diamond fussed at Starlight, who was wide eyed.

“Diamond!” Silver ran over to them, “Starlight was just trying to stop you from getting kicked off the squad!”

“She wasn’t going to kick me off!” Diamond sneered at them, "If she did, she’d be the one to pay the price! Cause I’m the hottest piece of ass here! The boys at the football team? They’re here to see me!"

“Diamond, what’s gotten into you?!” Silver cried, “You sound like a completely different person!”

“I’m just embracing myself to the fullest~” she gave Silver and Starlight a sexy pose, “Sexy, fun, and ready for action~ This is what the boys want, after all~”

“Stop it, please!” Silver Spoon cried, “Stop acting like this!”

“Acting like what?” Diamond asked, narrowing her eyes at Silver.

“Being completely honest,” Silver looked pained, “Like a slut.”

“That's what I am, remember?!” Diamond shouted, making both Starlight and Silver step back, “A cheap, easy, filthy slut!”

“That’s not true,” Starlight protested softly.

“Yes it is!” Diamond broke down, burying her face in her hands, “He said it himself! The only kinds of girls who enjoy wearing skimpy clothes all the time, dancing like a stripper, all of the things I enjoy are cheap, easy sluts! So if that’s what I am to him, fine! He’s never going to love me anyway, so fuck it! I don’t care anymore!”

“If that were true, then you wouldn’t be crying right now,” Starlight said, “Diamond, please talk to us. Tell us what’s going on.”

“Why?! So you can tell me my Dad’s right?!” Diamond asked harshly, tears streaming down her cheeks, “So you can tell me to stop! To go back to following his rules!”

“So we can help you!” Silver cried, “Diamond, Starlight and I are your friends! We just want what’s best for you!”

“No you don’t!” Diamond cried, holding her head and crying intensely, “You two are just like everyone else! Trying to make me follow your orders, do what you say, so you can take control of my life! I HATE YOU!!! I HATE ALL OF YOU!!!”

Silver’s eyes widened and she stepped back, “D-Diamond…! You don’t… really mean that…?”

“JUST LEAVE ME ALONE!!!” she pushed past them, shoving both Silver and Starlight aside.

I'm sorry...! I just... I don't want to lose myself...!

Starlight closed her eyes tightly, trying to contain the wave of sheer anguish and terror washing over her. She was terrified of something. Did she suspect she had it now? If so, then they might be running out of time.

song: Living with Determination - Persona 3

Starlight was brought out of her head by the sound of Silver collapsing to her knees, breaking down completely. Starlight knelt beside her and hugged her.

“She hates me…!” Silver sobbed, “She… she really said that she…”

“She didn’t mean it,” Starlight said softly.

“How do you know that…?” Silver asked.

“Because I know the real Diamond Tiara,” Starlight said, “She’s afraid, and she’s trying to push us away because of the Nightmare. I’ve seen this.”

“You, have?” Silver looked at Starlight, who nodded.

“The bad news is, she’s running out of time, fast,” she said honestly, “But the good news is, we can rescue her. And tonight, we will. I promise you, Silver Spoon.”

Silver Spoon broke down, falling into Starlight’s arms, “Save her! Please! I don’t care what you have to do! She’s the only friend I have left! Without her, I have no one!”

“I’ll save her, I promise,” Starlight said, “But you’re wrong about one thing,” she smiled, “You have two friends.”

“Two, friends…?” Silver asked, her eyes going wide at what Starlight meant.

Even after everything… she says that we’re… friends…?

Starlight just hugged Silver Spoon, who slowly returned the hug in kind. Though she wished it had happened under better circumstances, Starlight felt significantly closer to Silver Spoon.

Unfortunately though, until she saved Diamond Tiara, their bond was at a dead end…

Late Night

song: Qualia - Blue Reflection

Starlight arrived at around the same time as Trixie, with Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie soon following suit. After careful discussion in the waking world, they decided to work with Adagio on this. Which was good, since they arrived at the door only to find Adagio sitting at a nearby table reading.

When she saw them, she closed her book and got up, walking over to them, “I’m glad you all made it.”

“We didn’t keep you waiting long, did we?” Starlight asked Adagio, who shook her head.

“No. I arrived only about ten minutes ago,” she replied, “Are you all alright?”

“We’re fine,” Twilight chimed in, “According to Starlight though, Diamond might be running out of time.”

Adagio grimaced, but then took Starlight’s hand earnestly, “She’ll be alright. We’re going to rescue her, okay? So please don’t worry, Starlight.”

“T-thank you,” Starlight smiled. She appreciated how kind she was, even if she was a tad intense.

“Twilight, how’s Diamond’s Dungeon?” Pinkie Pie asked, “Is she still the same as last time?”

“It seems so, but it’s definitely rippling with energy,” Twilight said, “It might shift again soon.”

“We’re not letting that happen,” Trixie decided.

“Fuck no,” Dash agreed, “So let’s get moving.”

“Before we go,” Starlight turned to Adagio, “What’s your Persona’s abilities? That way we can coordinate our attacks properly.”

“My Persona? She specializes in Ice, status augmentation, and I think status effects,” Adagio answered, “I used something similar on the Shadow yesterday to make it terrified of you.”

“Alright, for now, you’re on support with Pinkie Pie, okay?” Starlight asked.

Adagio nodded, “Of course, Starlight. If it helps you, I’d do anything.”

Starlight was seriously concerned by how much this girl seemed strung out on her. She really hoped it wasn’t romantic love she felt. She and Trixie had spoken, and they were okay with their relationship being open so long as all parties were okay with it. Starlight had a sneaking suspicion that Adagio, might not be interested in sharing though…

That wasn’t scary in the slightest. Nope. Not at all. Shut up.

All of them summoned their weapons, Adagio’s being an odd staff that looks kind of like a microphone, and they all ran through the doors to Elysium.

Hod: Lvl 10

song: BREAKTHROUGH.EXE - Blue Reflection

They wasted no time running to the tenth floor. Rather than being greeted with a maze, this one was more of a hallway. Ahead of them, Starlight and co. saw what looked like a black doorway with a dark aura radiating off of it. With how church like and elegant Elysium looked as a whole, the door almost felt out of place here.

Made Starlight wonder just what this tower was actually made for.

“Hang on a second…” Twilight stopped them when they reached the door, “Confirmed. Diamond Tiara is right behind this door."

“So question,” Pinkie Pie asked, “Um, how are we going to get Diamond out?”

That, was a good question actually. Normally they dealt with Dungeons that were further along than this one. This one was less of a Dungeon and more of a Cell really.

“I just love how no one thought of this until we were RIGHT AT THE FRONT GATE,” Twilight groaned, “Well, we don’t know what the layout will be like, so let’s see that before we try and make any plans.”

Starlight nodded in approval of that plan. She then took a deep breath, and pushed the door open to see Diamond’s Dungeon.

song: Whims of Fate - Persona 5

The other side, was NOT what they expected.

They were suddenly in what could only be described as a bustling strip club. All around them, they saw patrons sitting at tables enjoying the various dancers on stage. Unlike the rest of Hod, the walls were dark, the entire club having a color scheme of red and purple, giving it a more sensual air to it. The stage in the front end was the biggest draw of the place, taking up a majority of the club. It wasn’t a realistic interpretation, but it definitely got the point across.

That was where the action happened.

There was a girl currently dancing on stage, but it wasn’t Diamond. Starlight did recognize her as one of the girls from Pep Squad though.

“Whoa whoa whoa!” Rainbow Dash cried, “I thought this was Diamond’s Dungeon!”

“Yeah, this is confusing. Wait a second,” Twilight trailed off, “Let me see what… okay. Now I get it. Don’t worry, that’s not really a student. That’s more a mirage of one.”

“A mirage?” Starlight asked as the girl finished her dance and returned back stage.

“Know how you’ll for example, have a dream where you’re being breast fed by Miss Tia or something?” Twilight asked, “It’s not REALLY her doing it. It’s just a projection of her. It’s the same idea here.”

“That’s, a very specific example you gave Twi-Twi~” Trixie smirked, “Anything you want to share~?”

“N-no! Not at all!” Twilight stammered, "I was just giving that example because I know you’re all bisexual pervs! In case you forgot, I’m straight!” she was silent for a beat, “Why are you looking at me like that, Ms. Tia?!”

“Oh, no reason~” they all just heard her say, making all of them laugh, even Adagio.

“Is it always like this with you?” Adagio asked Pinkie Pie.

“Oh yeah! It’s not all doom and gloom with our group. We try to have as much fun as possible while killing Shadows.” she answered with a smile.

Adagio smiled softly, looking down a bit. Her expression was a bit odd honestly.

Starlight looked up at the stage, and then her eyes went wide. She saw a representation of herself, She was in extreme gothic makeup, and her outfit was a super skimpy and sexy black lingerie piece, but it was clearly her.

“You know, we could always just, stick around a bit,” Trixie said with a smile, “Enjoy the show, get a lap dance or two. Just saying.”

Starlight’s eyes widened as she looked at Trixie, who just laughed out loud, “You’re getting a spanking for that later, just so you know.”

“Ooooh, really? Huh, was curious what that’d be like…” Trixie mused. Starlight just rubbed her eyes in aggravation.

“Much as I’d love to enjoy the show, we need to think of a plan,” Rainbow Dash said looking around, “I don’t see Diamond anywhere, and this is really the only place we can explore.”

“I, do see a golden door over there, though,” Adagio said, pointing to the back exit, “Think it’s the emergency exit?”

“Makes sense.” Twilight said, “It’d also make sense for that to be the way out of this Dungeon. You’d only use that exit if you had to get out now, so Diamond’s subconscious probably internalized that as the way out of the dream. A safety net of sorts.”

“So wait, she can just leave out of here anytime she wants?” Rainbow Dash asked, “That’s kinda anticlimactic, don’t ya think? The fuck are we doing here, then?”

“Just because she can doesn’t mean she wants to,” Twilight pointed out, “Remember what Starlight said. She’s having trouble feeling stifled at home, and right now this dream is more of an escape for her.”

Starlight looked at herself on stage, and her eyes slowly widened, “This, is how she’s interpreting the Pep Squad…!”

“That makes, too much sense,” Trixie agreed, “Especially with the new routine Suri’s got everyone doing.”

“Wait. Starlight, you said that Diamond called herself the hottest one in the Pep Squad, right?” Twilight asked. Starlight nodded, “I know when we’re going to see her, then.”

“When’s that?” Pinkie Pie asked Twilight.

“When the star of the club hits the stage.” Twilight said.

song: Rivers in the Desert - Persona 5

Sure enough, a bit after “Starlight” finished her dance (that was SO embarrassing…!) the lights dimmed, and the spotlight shined on the stage. The music became more intense, making Starlight’s heart race a bit.

When the lyrics hit, they saw Diamond strut out onto the stage. She was wearing a super skimpy purple tube top, a black micro skirt, fishnet stockings, and red high heels. For makeup, she wore red dark red lipstick, purple eye shadow, and dark mascara.

“That’s, not a mirage, is it…?” Adagio asked carefully.

“No, no it’s not…” Twilight said in a small voice, “I can tell from how fluid her moves are. That’s, really Diamond Tiara…”

They’d only seen a few dances, but Diamond’s was easily the raunchiest one. The way she gyrated her hips, spun around on the pole, felt herself up as she danced, it was almost like she was pleasuring herself on stage. Starlight didn’t have any issue with sexuality, but something about this felt wrong to her.

Made worse when she noticed the Shadows were giving her their undivided attention. This was the dance they were waiting for.

“She, has no idea…” Trixie said wide eyed, “She’s doing this, not realizing that this is real…”

“Look at her expression,” Twilight said, “She’s, enjoying herself.”

Starlight looked at her expression intently. She, did look like she was genuinely having fun. In fact, thinking back to when she first met Diamond Tiara, she was always the sort who enjoyed being openly sexual. Even before her Dungeon formed. Looking at her now, she looked almost euphoric. Free.

So, if that wasn’t related to the Dungeon, where did this come from…? Why was she doing this now…?

Diamond turned her back to the audience and looked back at them enticingly as she fiddled with the back of her tube top. She swayed her hips hypnotically to the music as she untied it, removing it entirely and swinging it above her as she slowly turned around, still swaying her hips to the music, revealing her surprisingly large and perky bare breasts to the audience, who gave a standing ovation.

Adagio blushed and covered her face with her hands, giving the most adorable whimper, “Someone, needs to get up there and stop her, before she goes all the way!”

“Looks like she’s already heading there,” Rainbow Dash said as Diamond began removing her skirt, revealing a black thong, “Yeah, this is going too far. Leader!”

Starlight nodded and ran up to the stage, the rest of her coven following her.

“Diamond!” Starlight called out. Diamond blinked and looked at Starlight with a confused frown.

“What are you doing?” she whispered, “You’re ruining my flow! Get backstage, please!”

“Diamond, I’m not a dancer here!” Starlight said, “I’m here to talk!”

“Well, it can wait,” she whispered again through a forced smile, continuing her dance, “I’m about to do my grand finish.”

“Alright that does it,” Rainbow Dash shook her head, “Pinkie Pie, we’re blowing the speakers!”

Pinkie Pie nodded, and both of them summoned their Personas, who rushed to the speakers projecting the music. Eclair sliced one in half, and Serenity ax kicked the other. Naturally there were boos and angry comments all around them, but Starlight ignored them as she jumped on stage.

end song

“Diamond, come on,” Starlight took her hand, “We’re going-”

Diamond yanked her hand away, “No! I’m not going anywhere with you!” she fussed, narrowing her eyes, “Wait, I get it. This is from that argument I had with Starlight when I was awake.”

“Wait, is she…?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight softly.

“Lucid? I think so, albeit partially,” Twilight said, “She doesn’t know we’re real though. She just thinks this is a reflection of her argument with Starlight earlier.”

“I’m, not leaving,” Diamond decided, “This place? This is heaven to me!” she spread her arms out, “I get to live out my fantasy, without worrying about “Daddy” breathing down my throat and trying to change who I am!”

“Is that what this is about?” Rainbow Dash asked folding her arms, “Daddy issues?”

song: Living with Determination - Persona 3

Diamond laughed ruefully, “Of course, you wouldn’t get it. No one gets it. All anyone says is, ‘you should be happy he’s there’, or ‘he’s only hard on you because he loves you’, or some other bullshit excuse for why he treats me like an unwanted stepchild!” she closed her eyes tightly, “Well if he loves me so much, why doesn’t he ever pay attention to me?! Why doesn’t he ever ask me what I think?! What I want to do?! Why doesn’t he ever ask me for my opinion on things! WHY DOESN’T HE EVER HUG ME, OR SAY THAT HE LOVES ME!!!”

Starlight’s eyes widened as Diamond fell to her knees and broke down in tears. That’s what this was about.

“All, he ever does is give me orders…!” Diamond sobbed, “It’s been like this, ever since he divorced my Mom…! He used to love me, but now…! Now he just… treats me like a coworker or something…! He only talks to me about business, my studies, or getting me to be set up for the future…!”

“Oh Diamond…” Starlight sighed, kneeling before her and putting a hand on her shoulder.

“If being, who I truly am is just a disappointment… then fine! I don’t care what he thinks…! I just… want to be myself! Why is that so hard?!” she looked at Starlight intensely, gripping her gown, “Why can’t I be myself like you?! Tell me! Tell me why I’m not allowed!”

Starlight closed her eyes, “I, can’t. Because honestly, you’re right. You should have the luxury to be yourself, even if it clashes with those around you. If you like wearing short skirts, high heels, being a cheerleader, and just, being a girl, you should be able to do that,” she hugged Diamond tightly, “But this, this isn’t the way to get there.”

“Then what is…” Diamond said weakly, “Because, he doesn’t get it… He doesn’t listen to me…”

“Then make him listen to you,” Starlight said firmly, “Say it as loudly as you can, where even if he tried to shut you out, he still hears everything you have to say.”

“What’s even the point now…?” Diamond asked, “I’ve tried hundreds of times before, and he still doesn’t listen. So… why should I keep trying…?”

“Because he does care about you,” Rainbow Dash said, looking away darkly, “He may be shitty at showing it, but he still cares whether or not you succeed. That’s more than some of us can say…”

Starlight looked briefly at Dash, noticing how Pinkie Pie hugged her from behind. She was really curious about that, but now wasn’t the time to go into it.

“Please, give it another try,” Starlight urged Diamond, “One more time, so you can get what you need the right way. So you can enjoy being who you are, without needing to go to extremes.”

“Not that there’s anything wrong with this kind of thing,” Trixie said, “So long as you’re doing it for the right reason. Do it because you genuinely want to do it, not because you’re trying to piss off Daddy.”

Diamond looked down thoughtfully, and then slowly nodded, “A-alright. I guess I can, give it another shot.”

“Atta girl,” Trixie smiled, “Now, what do you say we head out of this club.”

“Y-yeah. I think, I’m done being a dancer for now,” Diamond gave a small smile, “I’m ready to, face the real world again.”

Border of Insanity - Persona 4

“Um… about that…” Adagio said shakily, backing away from the audience, “I think, the Shadows are upset about something…”

Starlight looked, and saw all of the Shadows slowly rising from their seats, approaching the stage where all of them were gathered.

“Starlight, we need to get her out of here,” Twilight said. Starlight nodded and turned to the emergency exit, only for the door to lock itself with red chains.

Diamond shut her eyes tightly, and then opened them, “Huh…? Um, what’s going on…?” she tried again, “How come I’m… not waking up…?”

“Yeah… um, Diamond?” Pinkie Pie asked, getting in a fighting stance, “This isn’t a dream.”

Diamond’s eyes slowly widened in horror, “You mean… this is…” she then gasped covering her chest, “Oh my God! Where are my clothes?!”

“Hate to say it, but worry about that later!” Twilight said, “The Shadows are beginning to attack!”

All of the Shadows shed their assumed forms, turning into various Shadows that they’d previously faced. Poor Diamond screamed in terror.

“No no no no! This isn’t happening! I don’t want to die…! I DON’T WANT TO DIE!!!”

“You’re not dying!” Starlight said, getting Diamond’s attention, “I promise, you’re going to get out of here alive!”

“Starlight… You're really...” Diamond said softly, but then nodded, “Thank you!”

Starlight nodded, and summoned her scythe, along with all of her fellow witches summoning their weapons, “GO!!!”

song: DNF FW15C -ii- - Blue Reflection

The first wave of Shadows that faced them were a High Pixie along with two Makami. The Makami on the right launched a Frei on Rainbow Dash, who blocked before it had a chance to do any real damage to her. Before she could begin her assault, Adagio began singing a haunting but still empowering melody, her Persona Elsa appearing behind her and casting Rakukaja on Dash. Beside her, Pinkie Pie got in a prayer stance, summoning Serenity and having her cast Tarukaja on Rainbow Dash shortly after.

“Thanks!” Dash said, holding up her sword, “Come forth, my inner self!” she proclaimed, summoning Eclair Farron who raised her sword and fired Mazio on all three Shadows. Makami A and Makami B both fell to the ground, but High Pixie resisted and made a beeline for Diamond Tiara.

“NO!!!” she screamed, realizing she couldn’t escape. Before it could reach her though, Trixie threw a playing card right at High Pixie, stopping her in her tracks. She and Starlight stood in front of her with their weapons out, “W-what’s going on? Those weird ghosts you keep summoning, and those weapons!”

“We’ll explain later,” Trixie assured, giving Diamond a confident smile, “Just know that we’re not going to let anything happen to you.”

Starlight turned to Diamond and nodded as well. The way she smiled somewhat said she understood she was safe with them at least.

“Elenora, Sukukaja on Starlight!” Trixie commanded, summoning her Persona and casting the spell in question. This time when Starlight rushed at High Pixie, she managed to dodge her wind spell JUST in time thanks to her speed being increased. She then summoned Morgana, and the two of them worked together to tear apart High Pixie, ending with Morgana firing a Frei from her chest gun, knocking her back.

“I’m not going for any of these, so All Out Attack!” Starlight commanded.

Sensing her confusion, Pinkie Pie turned to Adagio, “Know when we all just wailed on the enemies when they were down? That.”

Adagio nodded, “I understand.”

Starlight, Rainbow Dash, and Trixie all got their weapons ready as usual. As Pinkie Pie pulled Diamond aside, Adagio took her place in the All Out Attack, holding her microphone staff almost lovingly as she glared at the Shadows. Her contribution to the All Out Attack was to sing a melody that seemed to go along with everyone else’s attacks, causing blades to shoot out of the ground and tear into the group of Shadows. They fell immediately.

Only to then be replaced immediately with two Onmoraki.

The Onmoraki on the right cast Ice Wall on his friend, who then followed up by doing the same for the one on the left.

“Adagio, don’t use your Ice Magic on them now,” Twilight explained, “They cast Ice Wall, so they’re immune to Ice Magic for a bit.”

Adagio nodded slowly, “Alright. I will remember that. Actually…” she looked within, and then gasped, “Starlight! I can undo that I think!”

Starlight turned to Adagio, “Wait, you can?” Starlight asked, Adagio nodding, “Alright. Go for it!”

Adagio stepped forward, holding out her Channeling Ring elegantly. She then summoned Elsa, who cast an odd spell on the Right Onmoraki, making its shield shatter.

The name that came to mind was “Ice Break”.

“JACK FROST!!!” Starlight shouted, shifting to her standard Ice Persona. She then cast Bufu on that Shadow, knocking it to the ground. Unfortunately, the other one shot an Agi right at Starlight, this time knocking her down due to Jack Frost’s weakness to fire.

“Starlight!” Pinkie cried. She then quickly got in front of Diamond and summoned Serenity before her, who held out her arms in defense as Eiha was fired in their direction. Pinkie Pie screamed in pain and fell to one knee.

“Pinkie Pie!” Diamond cried, kneeling beside her, “What happened?! Are you okay?!”

“Pinkie Pie’s Persona is weak to Cursed attacks, like what she just protected you from!” Twilight explained, “As for Starlight, when she shifts Personas, she gets their strengths and weaknesses!”

Diamond began looking around frantically, “I need to get out of here!”

“What are you-”

“They’re after me, right?!” Diamond fussed, “So if I’m out of the way, they’ll be able to fight easier!”

“Well, at least you trying to be a smart damsel in distress. Tell you what, I’ll see if I can find you a safe place to hide. Failing that, just stay close to whoever is not fighting actively.”

“Stay close to me!” Rainbow Dash said jumping on stage and holding her sword out.

Diamond nodded, getting behind Rainbow Dash, “Thanks Dash. The whole knight thing looks really cool on you.”

Rainbow Dash smirked, “Thanks, Princess.”

“Starlight, try Blessed skills!” Trixie said, firing cards from her sleeves to hold Onmoraki at bay, “Since it likes Cursed so much, it might be weak to that too!”

Starlight nodded, shifting Personas again, “ANGEL!!!” she then cast Kouha on Onmoraki, knocking him to the ground, “Dash, stay close to Diamond and Pinkie Pie! The rest of us, All Out Attack!”

Trixie and Adagio both nodded, once again brandishing their weapons and wailing on the fallen enemies. Again, they fell instantly, and were then quickly replaced. This time with a Mokoi and two Jack Frosts.

The two Jack Frosts shot icicles at Trixie, who jumped high into the air to dodge the attacks, landing a ways from them, “My turn to shine! Light ‘em up, Elenora!” her Persona appeared behind her, and threw two smaller fire balls at both of them. Not an Agilao, but apparently Maragi to save time, knocking both of them down.

Mokoi ran to another section of the club to get a vantage point and threw his boomerang at Rainbow Dash and Diamond Tiara. Dash managed to pulled Diamond away just in time, making her fall into her chest a bit. Considering her current lack of clothes, both were visibly embarrassed.

“Um, y-your girlfriend isn’t going to get weird about, um…” Diamond asked awkwardly.

“You kidding? Pretty sure she’s been checking you out any chance she can,” Rainbow Dash said somewhat awkwardly.

“I can confirm, yes. I have been staring at your tits and your butt anytime I get a free moment,” Pinkie Pie said without missing a beat, “Despite the nature of this, you’d make a great stripper.”

“Thank you…?” Diamond said/asked. Pinkie Pie just smiled sweetly. She then held her hands together in prayer, her Channeling Ring activating.

“Help is on the way!” she proclaimed, summoning Serenity and having her cast Media on everyone, healing them much as she could.

“Good call!” Starlight said to Pinkie Pie, “Adagio, I don’t want to take chances. Cast Tarukaja on me before my next strike!”

Adagio nodded, summoning her Persona while singing another empowering melody, increasing Starlight’s attack. Starlight ran over to Mokoi holding out her Channeling Ring.

“KOPPA TENGU!!!” she shouted, her newest Persona flying beside her. She mentally commanded it to cast Garu on Mokoi, and it shot a sharp gust of wind at the tiny doll Persona, knocking it to the ground.

Pinkie Pie had Serenity pick it up and punch it over to the Jack Frosts, making a pile, “Starlight, is it time?”

Starlight nodded, giving the command for an All Out Attack. Dash still sat this one out, so Starlight, Trixie, and Adagio were joined by Pinkie Pie. With her help, they were quickly able to take out all of the Shadows.

“Is that all of them?” Adagio asked the group, looking around.

“Don’t relax yet!” Twilight said suddenly, “I’m detecting a large Shadow signature manifesting in the room!”

The Shadow in question was huge. It was a red demon with white hair that shot straight up like a needle, sharp teeth, two small horns, and fancy earrings. It wore a purple and white tunic and matching pants, surprisingly nice looking purple and white shoes that matched the tunic, and in its hand was a large, scary looking sword.

“I was gonna get a lap dance from that whore!” he roared angrily, “I ain’t leavin’, until I get my goddamn lap dance!”

“I know which one that is,” Diamond said, shrinking a bit behind Rainbow Dash, “First time I ever went, well, all the way with my dancing, he was the one who got most excited. He began rallying all of the other monsters to convince me to go naked more often.”

“So that’s how you started losing control of the dream,” Rainbow said to Diamond, who bit her lip and began trembling.

“This place is real, right? That means, all of these monsters, I was dancing and showing my goodies to complete strangers, without even knowing it? Oh the thought makes me sick…”

The Shadow laughed, “Didn’t seem to mind before, little whore! In fact, if I remember correctly, you said you found the whole thing exciting!”

“That’s before I realized you were all sick pervs taking advantage of my ignorance!” Diamond shot back, “Besides, you were the one who made me go all the way in my dances in the first place!”

He wagged his finger, “Nope. All I did was say that I enjoyed it, and everyone else agreed and wanted to see it more often. This is still YOUR paradise little whore, so you could have said no. Yet ya didn’t.”

“That’s,” Diamond looked away in shame, “Shit… he’s right. One of the rules here, was that going all the way was, the choice of the dancer first, so…” she closed her eyes and whimpered.

“Nuh uh! You don’t get to guilt trip her!” Trixie shot suddenly, “Whether or not she had final say, you still took advantage of her consent!” the flames of her Persona rose around her, “You and Blueblood are exactly the same! Taking advantage of someone’s lack of knowledge, and using it to get yourself off!”

“I hate people like you…!” Adagio seethed, her own flame appearing around her, “My Manager… he pulled the same trick on me…! Time and time again, using the same words to make me feel like I had to keep coming back to him…!” she gripped her staff, “I'm going to enjoy singing your swan song!”

The red demon gave a hearty laugh, “In that case, come at me, but when I win, I’m taking the little whore someplace and having some REAL fun with her!”

“Girls, this ID on this one is Oni!” Twilight said, “He’s strong, and I’m not seeing a weak point on him! This will be a tough one!”

Oni rushed at the group of witches, slashing wildly at Starlight, Trixie, Pinkie Pie, and Adagio, somehow hitting all of them at once with his sword for massive damage if their screams were any indication.

“SHIT! That’s not good!” Twilight cried, “Someone, heal now!”

“Even if, Pinkie Pie uses Media,” Trixie panted, “I don’t know, if that’ll actually help here!”

Starlight had to think fast. She needed something! A way to speed up the healing. She then had an image come to her. One of her newer Personas, Ame no Uzume, she placed a hand over her heart and nodded.

She felt like she was saying, “Let me help”.

“I have an idea! It’s a risky one, but it should work!” Starlight hoped, dodging Oni’s blade as it came down, “Trixie, fall back to protect Diamond and offer support in the reserve line! Dash, take the front lines beside Adagio! Adagio, use your magic to augment Oni’s abilities. I don’t care what you do, but two spells HAVE to be Tarukaja on Dash, and Rakunda on Oni! I’ll work with Pinkie Pie as a second healer!”

“Mind if I use Sukukaja on you first, just in case?” Trixie asked Starlight, who shook her head, “Alright! Elenora, give Starlight another boost!”

Elenora cast Sukukaja on Starlight, increasing her speed and agility again before she flipped back to the stage. Immediately Dash charged forward, summoning Eclair Farron who pushed Oni’s blade back with her own.

“Get to healing!” Dash said strained, holding her sword in the same position as her Personas and pushing it back, “I got this guy!”

Starlight nodded, jumping back beside Pinkie Pie and holding out her Channeling Ring, “AME NO UZUME!!!” she shouted. The Dawn Goddess Persona appeared before Starlight, who then had her cast Media on everyone actively in the line of fire. It wasn’t as strong as Pinkie Pies, but with Serenity following up right afterward, she felt like she managed to heal everyone to close to full health.

Adagio summoned Elsa, casting Rakunda on Oni. Dash and Eclair pushed Oni back, and the followed with a series of strikes, making him fall into a table.

Oni and Eclair Farron/Rainbow Dash clashed blades actively, with Adagio, Pinkie Pie, and Starlight offering support. As the fight went on, Diamond buried her face in her hands and feel to her knees.

“I can’t believe it! I let that, that thing get into my head! Daddy was right, I really am like a cheap slut…!” she fussed.

“Stop that,” Trixie chided, getting on one knee before Diamond, “You made a mistake. Happens all the time. Besides, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying sex and sexuality,” Trixie took off her blazer, leaving her in just her leotard, stockings, and high heels as she wrapped it around Diamond Tiara, “Honestly, I admire you.”

“Admire me?” Diamond asked, the fight going on beside them, “Why?”

“Because, you’re not afraid to embrace that side of you,” Trixie looked away and rubbed her arm, “One of the reasons I like my more magician like style back in school, is it’s not revealing. After Blueblood, I kind of still have a hard time showing my body in public.”

“Really? But, your current outfit is, I mean, super sexy,” Diamond said, looking Trixie up and down.

“Mhm. And the only ones who usually get to see me like this are my closest friends, one of which being my girlfriend,” Trixie said, “Me being in the this other world, it helps me be my true self more, but back in the Real World, I’m still afraid. So when I look at you, strutting down the hall like a runway model, or see you shaking you body to the music while at Pep Squad, I find myself often wishing that, I had the courage to do the same,” she closed her eyes smiling, “Maybe, one day I will.”

Diamond smiled softly, and hugged Trixie best as she could while holding the blazer as closed as possible, “Well, if you ever want help getting there, I’m more than willing to do my part. Any friend of Starlight’s is a friend of mine.”

Trixie smiled and returned the hug, “Thanks Diamond.”

Meanwhile, the fight was more or less even, but Oni managed to get another wild swing out at everyone, this time knocking everyone away, including Dash. He then walked over to the fallen Starlight, sneering at her.

“Tryin’ to take away my favorite slut, huh?” he seethed, raising his blade, “For that, you’re gonna be the first one to die!”

"Damn it! Everyone's too injured to move!" Twilight fussed, "What are we going to do...?"

Diamond’s eyes widened, and she then looked at the stripper pole with narrowed eyes.

“What are you thinking?” Trixie asked with a frown.

“I may not have one of those Persona things, but this is still my dream,” she got up, “Meaning there’s one thing I can do to help with this!” she ran over to the pole, tossing Trixie’s jacket off, “Hey big boy~ Got a surprise for you~” she purred.

Oni looked up on stage, where he saw Diamond spinning and dancing on the pole, giving her best performance. With her state of undress, it came off both raunchy and somehow elegant, yet she didn’t look embarrassed in the slightest.

Adagio rose to her knees and covered her eyes with her hands blushing, “Mmmmm!”

“What is that girl-” Dash stopped and looked at the Shadow. He had hearts in his eyes, his tongue was hanging out, and he dropped his sword. She then looked at Diamond, who spun around on the poll and gave Dash a wink. Dash smirked, and rose to her feet, “I seriously wanna kiss that girl right now.”

“Please yes…!” Pinkie Pie moaned with a smile.

“Please no…!” Adagio whimpered.

“Yeah! That’s what I’m talkin’ about baby~!” Oni cheered, getting into the dancing and giving Diamond his undivided attention. Starlight rose to her feet and took a deep breath.

“Diamond, thank you,” she said softly, “APSARAS!!!” she shouted, shifting to her Priestess Persona. She then cast an odd spell on Dash, Rebellion. The impression she got for it was that it’d make it easier for her to get a critical hit.

With the way her eyes sharpened as she glared at Oni, seemed Dash got the idea.

“CHARGE ECLAIR!!!” Dash roared, summoning her Persona and having her raise her blade, casting a stronger looking Zio on the distracted Oni.

“WHAT THE?!!” he roared, falling to one knee.

“Everyone, All Out Attack!” Starlight commanded. Starlight, Adagio, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash all brought out their weapons and delivered their best smack down on the Shadow. Without his sword, he wasn’t able to defend himself at all, leading him to taking mortal damage.

“D-doesn’t matter…!” he groaned, “You’re still, a dirty little slut…!”

“Know what? Maybe I am,” Diamond said, spinning around triumphantly on the pole, “But that’s for me to decide, not some perverted demon!”

And with that, he fell to the ground and faded away into a black mist.

song: Daydream - Blue Reflection: Second Light

Diamond let go of the pole and hunched forward, panting heavily, “Shit. That, was terrifying,” Starlight walked over to Diamond and placed a hand on her shoulder, “Starlight? I think, I’ll stick to cheerleading for now.”

Starlight smiled in approval of that. Beside her, she noticed the emergency exit unlock itself, now glowing brightly with an inviting light.

“Guess that’s the way out,” Trixie said, “Ready to leave, Diamond?”

Diamond nodded, “Yeah. I’m ready.”

They all left through the door together. Once the last of them left, the entire club cracked, and shattered into a golden light, unable to maintain itself without Diamond or anyone to view it.

song: Qualia - Blue Reflection

Much to everyone’s surprise, they were now in the Akashic Records, but a section they didn’t recognize. There was a large comfy red chair in a corner, along with few nice looking tables and chairs scattered around. The books were really beautiful and expensive looking, like they cost a fortune.

“This is, the Library?” Adagio asked looking around, “Why are we here…?”

“Looking at some of the names of these books…” Twilight sucked in a breath, “These are Diamond’s Records! We’re in the section dedicated to her Akashic Records!”

“Whoa…!” Diamond said, catching everyone’s attention. She stepped forward looking around, one arm over her still exposed chest, “What, is this place…?”

“Um, should we be concerned that she’s still here?” Dash asked, “She didn’t get a Channeling Ring from any of that.”

“No, but I think it’s alright,” Twilight sighed, “Well, no it’s not, as I’m pretty sure I know what happened, but she’s no longer trapped.”

“So, what did happen?” Trixie asked Twilight.

“Simply put, that whole thing left such an impression on her, that she’s fully lucid now,” Twilight explained, “She’ll probably wake up with full memory of this.”

“Well, why don’t we just tell her what’s going on, then?” Pinkie Pie suggested.

Twilight sighed, “Seriously…?”

“Silver Spoon already knows about this somewhat, right?” Pinkie Pie asked, “Only fair that Diamond knows too. Besides, she’s Starlight’s friend. I don’t think she’ll spread any weird rumors or tell anyone.”

“Hate to say it, but we kinda have to tell her now,” Dash pointed out, “If she’s going to remember anyway, might as well give her the whole story.”

Twilight groaned, “Fair enough, I suppose. Not like we anticipated this happening.”

“Let me,” Starlight offered, “I kinda, wanted to talk to her solo anyway.”

“Alright,” Trixie said rubbing Starlight’s back, “We’ll be over there resting.”

Starlight thanked her friends and then walked over to Diamond, “Hey, how are ya holding up?”

“Well, I’m still naked, you’re still dressed as a witch, I’m still reeling from being held against my will by a bunch of horny demons, and now I’m in a super scary infinite library. All in all,” she turned to Starlight, “I’ve been better, yeah…”

Starlight sighed and rubbed Diamond’s arm, offering to talk to her about things.

“I’d, appreciate that, actually,” she said, “Not for nothing but, I feel like after what I saw, I need to know what’s going on.”

song: Smile - Persona 4

“Alright, let’s sit over there and I’ll explain everything,” Starlight offered. Starlight guided her to sit at a nearby table, where she explained to her the situation as best as she could. What the Nightmare Epidemic actually was, how she was here, what Personas were, and how Dungeons worked.

Surprisingly, though a bit confused in places, Diamond took all of it in pretty well.

“Oh my God…” Diamond said softly, no longer bothering to cover herself with her arm and instead using her hair to at least somewhat cover her nipples, “So… the people who die from the Nightmare Epidemic, they’re people who were killed by the Shadows in these, Dungeons you called them?”

Starlight nodded, “Yeah. In Dungeons, any pain inflicted on you follows you when you wake up. So if you were to get killed in the dream…”

“I'd die, in real life…” Diamond said, eyes closed and holding a hand to her chest, “So that’s what was happening to me.”

“What caused all this, if you know?” Starlight asked, “From what it sounded like, and from what I can gleam from you, you did seem to enjoy being a stripper, no offense.”

“None taken,” Diamond rubbed her arm and looked away, “I do really like that sort of thing. Truth is, I didn’t join the Pep Squad, to try and take down Suri. That’s one of my goals, but in truth,” she closed her eyes, “It’s an excuse for me to, indulge you could say.” Indulge? What did she mean by that? “See, I’ve always had a bit of a high libido. Not high enough where I want sex 24/7 or anything, but I enjoy being aroused. When I wear short skirts, tops that show off my cleavage, it excites me. In contrast, the life of the Upper Class is so, dull. Everyone puts on airs, acting phony all the damn time, holding themselves to this super high standard where they have to be perfect. Not a hair out of place. No slouching, no showing excessive skin, and you better not do anything to make people think you’re loose or anything. Do that, and you’re entire family is the target for rumors.”

“That, sounds terrible,” Starlight winced, “You essentially have to watch your every move, then?”

“Yeah,” she nodded, “Often, people will get close to you and try to be your friend, only to figure out your dirty little secrets and spread them. Why do you think I don’t make friends with fellow rich kids? I've dealt with that, too many times to count.”

“Well, what about Silver Spoon?” Starlight asked, “She’s rich, right?”

“Yeah, but she’s special,” Diamond looked up, “Yeah she’s a bitch, but at least she’s upfront about it. I didn’t want to worry you, but the day you met her, Silver told me up front that she hated your guts, and that I was too good to hang out with, how did she put it? “A stuck up, unbalanced goth bitch who acts all high and mighty”.”

Starlight sighed, “That, sounds just like her, actually,” she couldn’t help but laugh though.

“Like I said, she’s a bitch,” Diamond laughed a bit, “But she’s honest. She does take things too far at times, but that's when I just pull her aside and set her straight. She and I have been best friends since third grade, and I do enjoy spending time with her. She's a stuck up brat, but she's my stuck up brat.”

That was a long time. No wonder Silver Spoon was so loyal to Diamond. She was more or less, her Sunburst.

“So, what’s going on with your Dad then?” Starlight asked.

Diamond took a deep breath, “Okay, so remember how I said you have to be careful of rumors in the upper class?” Starlight nodded, “See, my Mom also had a huge libido, but she couldn’t control herself. She ended up cheating on my Dad, sleeping with his at the time best friend, who was also cheating on his wife. She caught them in the act, and not only told my Dad…”

“But, all of her friends, too…” Starlight realized. Diamond rubbed her eyes.

“It became, a huge scandal,” Diamond said, “When you wake up, look up the Barnyard Bargains Scandal of 2015, and you can learn about that train wreck,” she rolled her eyes, “Turned out she only married him for his money, which she revealed in a pretty bad fight. He divorced her, and took her to court to ensure that he got full custody of me, and that he could get by with giving her as little of his fortune as possible.”

“Your father sounds scary,” Starlight muttered.

“When it comes to all things business and money, he is,” Diamond nodded wide eyed, but then wilted, “But, after that, he changed. He got super strict with me, demanding that I be the perfect representative of the family. He constantly criticizes my choices in clothes, who my friends are, and yes, how I spend my time.”

“Meaning he, does want you to give up being a cheerleader,” Starlight said.

Diamond sighed and nodded, “He was fine at first. Said so long as I kept my grades up, it was okay. Then he saw me practicing a routine, and once he learned that it was how I danced in Pep Squad, he threw a fit, telling me that this was a bad look.”

“Sounds to me, like he’s worried you’ll end up just like your Mother,” Starlight said.

“Yeah… I think you’re right,” Diamond folded her arms, “I hate being rich, you know? Sure its nice to get what I want more times than not. I enjoy having my future secure, I like being able to just, buy what I want and know it’ll be fine,” she closed her eyes, “But if it means I have to give up being friends with you, stop being a cheerleader, or just, stop being true to myself… honestly THAT’S why I am considering joining the Diamond Dogs. Yeah they’re rough, they’re rebellious, kinda troublemakers…”

“Kinda?!” Starlight asked, “You saw what they did to the school the other day!”

Diamond sighed, “Yeah, okay fair! But, they’re free!” she said desperately, “If I were to join them, Starlight, I’d have a place where I can always be true to myself!”

“But is it worth giving up that security for the future?” Starlight asked, “Is it worth, giving up everything you enjoy about your life?”

“If it means I don’t lose ‘Diamond Tiara’ then yes!” she sobbed, “Starlight, I’m terrified of being who he wants me to be…! I’m terrified that, one day I’ll look in the mirror, and not recognize who’s looking back at me…!” she held Starlight’s hand earnestly, “I want to keep being your friend! I want to keep being a cheerleader! I want to keep wearing the clothes I like, and carrying myself in a way that feels natural to me! I know I’m different from other rich people, but I don’t care! It’s me! It’s who I am, and I don’t want to give that up!”

Starlight lightly shushed Diamond and brought her into a loving embrace, letting her cry in her arms. This really wasn’t fair. It seemed like due to her life being the way it way, she really couldn’t be true to herself. Not if she wanted to remain scandal free.

But the idea of Diamond needing to willingly cage herself, that just didn’t feel right to her.

“Diamond, I don’t know what the answer to this is,” Starlight admitted, “And sadly, my magic can’t fix this issue, much as I wish it could. But what I do know, is that the first step is to lean on your friends, meaning me, and Silver Spoon.”

“She probably hates me now…” Diamond whimpered.

“Actually, she’s worried you hate her,” Starlight said, explaining how worried Silver Spoon was for her, once she realized she had the Nightmare Epidemic.

“Spoony…!” Diamond’s eyes widened and filled with tears.

“She knows too, about me being a real witch,” Starlight said, “She doesn’t know all of this, but she does know that my coven and I can use our magic to help people with the Nightmare Epidemic. I was going to come anyway, but she sent me to rescue you.”

“She, really is a wonderful friend,” Diamond said softly, “When I wake up, I have to apologize to her.”

“I have to meet with the Student Council President after school,” Starlight said, “But maybe on Thursday, after Pep Squad, we could perhaps, talk about this with Silver Spoon?”

Diamond nodded, “Sure. I’m okay with that. I think I, need some time to think anyway,” Diamond looked around, “So, after this, what are you going to do?”

Starlight closed her eyes, “Me and my friends are, actually looking for another Dungeon, this one being fully fleshed out.”

“Who’s is it?” Diamond asked. Starlight hesitated, but decided to tell her the truth, making Diamond’s eyes widen, “Miss President?! She’s trapped here too?!”

Starlight nodded, “She is. But, hers isn’t connected to the Tower anymore. It’s in her section of the Akashic Records, and unless we can find that… we can’t save her.”

“And when you do, you’re going to have to fight those monsters again, right?” Diamond asked fearfully, Starlight nodding, “Oh my God, Starlight…!”

“It’s okay,” she assured, “My friends are with me. I’ll be fine, Diamond.”

“Still, you can’t expect to just let it go after learning my friend is fighting demons! I, I have to do something to help you!”

“Diamond-”

“You saved my life!” Diamond pressed, “Sure, I don’t have a Persona, but I can-” she then blinked and then looked around, “Right… this is still a dream like world. And you're a witch, so that means…” she nodded, “I know what I can do,” Starlight tilted her head curiously, “I can dance.”

“Wait, what?” Starlight asked.

“Yeah! Like what I did for that demon to distract it! I can just, do that to provide a temporary distraction to whatever you’re fighting!” Diamond beamed.

“That’s, cool but, how are you going to get to where we are?” Starlight asked, “I’m sorry but, without a Persona, I can’t let you come with us into the Dungeons. I don’t even know if you can go lucid on your own without a Channeling Ring.”

“Then…” she looked at Starlight’s ring, “I’ll use yours.”

Starlight blinked, confused by what she meant. Diamond then knelt before Starlight, and kissed her Channeling Ring. Suddenly, it began shine in a faint glow. At the same time, Diamond sucked in a breath, a faint glow over her heart.

“There,” she said panting a bit, “Now, we’re connected through your ring. So, if you wear that here, you can pull me out of whatever dream I’m having, and I’ll dance for the enemies as a distraction.”

“Diamond… it sounds like you, bound your soul to my ring…” Starlight asked wide eyed.

“Kinda, yeah,” Diamond shrugged, “I figured, with you being a witch, you could, I dunno, put me under a spell, make me a thrall or something. Yeah, that’s it! I’m a thrall now! So anytime you need me, just think of me, and I’ll come to your aid!”

“You’d, do that for me…?” Starlight asked.

“Yes I would,” Diamond held Starlight’s hand and looked into her eyes lovingly, “Because you’re my friend. You saved my life. With this, maybe one day, I can save yours.”

My heart and my soul are yours, Starlight.

Thank you, for being my friend.

Starlight closed her eyes tightly, hugging Diamond as she cried in gratitude. Somehow, she’d save Diamond Tiara. She’d make it so she could be true to herself, with or without magic. She felt significantly closer to Diamond Tiara.

Diamond Tiara’s soul was now bound to Starlight’s Channeling Ring. She was now her Thrall in the Phase.

song: Qualia - Blue Reflection

After making sure Diamond Tiara was okay, Starlight went back over to her friends. Diamond figured that she’d wake up once Starlight took off her ring, so she just sat down reading some of her akashic records till then. Starlight promised to not take her ring off without Diamond knowing.

She explained to everyone what happened, leaving all of them stunned.

“So, what? Diamond’s going to be fighting alongside us now?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“Something like that,” Starlight looked at her ring, “I don’t know how this will work, but I think she’ll become something of a spirit I can call on for aid in the Phase.”

Twilight gave her signature groan, “So now we’re getting civilians involved? Lovely…"

“All you ever do is complain, Twi-Twi,” Trixie sighed shrugging. Twilight’s wisp bounced.

“Well excuuuuuuse me for caring about protocol, and again, MY NAME IS TWILIGHT!” Twilight fussed.

Dash sighed shaking her head, “I think at this point, protocol’s gotta be yeeted out the window.”

Twilight gasped, “Blasphemy!”

“I dunno, Twilight,” Pinkie Pie rubbed the back of her head, “Kinda hard to keep protocol concerning the Phase since we don’t know the rules of the place.”

"And even if we kept this from Diamond, or anyone else we save from this place, not knowing's just going to give then more nightmares," Trixie added.

“I, don’t know if it’s my place to speak but,” Adagio said awkwardly, “I agree. None of us knew that Starlight’s friend would go lucid after rescuing her. If your rules are to not tell the public, then the only way to keep that…” she winced, “Might be to just, stop saving people…”

Twilight grimaced, “I hate that you have a point… fine. Just so long as we at least TRY to keep it in house much as possible.”

“I’ll make sure that Diamond knows not to tell anyone about this,” Starlight assured, “But, if she’s going to help us, I do think at some point, she should meet you Twilight, and know about Ms. Tia’s involvement.”

Starlight heard Celestia’s voice a bit beside Twilight, who then sighed, “Fine. Ms. Tia said it’s okay.”

“So, how much time till we gotta get ready for class?” Rainbow Dash asked with a stretch and yawn.

“Shockingly, it’s only 2:15 AM,” Twilight said, “We did this in record time, so you can relax for now.”

“In that case, I’m gonna do some exploring,” Trixie stretched, “See what books I can find here in this section, you know.”

“Mind if I join ya?” Rainbow Dash asked, “Maybe we can find a clue to Rarity’s Dungeon too.”

“Sure. What about everyone else?” Trixie said, turning to the rest of their group.

“I think, I’m just gonna go to sleep,” Pinkie Pie said after yawning, “That last fight took a lot out of me.”

“About the same, really,” Adagio looked away, “I have some thinking to do.”

“Thank you again for helping us, Adagio,” Starlight smiled, “You really made a difference.”

“I’ll say,” Rainbow Dash said, “Hey, if you wanna join us, I’d be alright with it if our Leader wanted it.”

“Much, as I’d love to, I already joined a coven,” Adagio closed her eyes somberly, “But, if we run into each other again, in this place, I’d like to be friends.”

“Well, I don’t agree with your more extreme methods,” Twilight admitted, “But that said, you don’t seem like a bad person, so if we run into each other again on the same battlefield, I’ll support you just like I support them.”

“Consider all of us besties from now on, okay Adagio?” Pinkie Pie took Adagio’s hands and smiled. Adagio looked at Pinkie Pie and smiled, nodding.

“Yes! I will! Thank you!” she turned to Starlight, “I, want to see you again. Alright?”

Starlight nodded, “I come here by myself often, so I’ll be on the lookout for you.”

Adagio beamed and once again hugged Starlight tightly, “Thank you, Starlight! I can’t wait to see you again!”

I love you so much…! Oh Starlight…!

“Me, neither,” Starlight said returning the hug. Oh God, she did have romantic feelings…

Adagio released Starlight, after hugging her for a second longer than she was comfortable with, and then removed her ring, vanishing from the Records.

“You gonna be okay, Starlight?” Trixie asked.

“Yeah, I’ll be alright,” Starlight assured Trixie, kissing her gently on the lips, “I’m going to stay with Diamond Tiara. Make sure I wake up when she’s ready too.”

“Alright,” Trixie said, “See you when we wake up, Mistress~”

Starlight seriously enjoyed being called that...

“As for me, I’m actually going to follow Trixie and Rainbow Dash,” Twilight said, “Like Dash said, we might get a clue about Rarity’s Dungeon.”

“Sweet.” Dash kissed Pinkie Pie deeply and passionately, “See you in the morning, Your Majesty.”

“See you in the morning, my beloved knight,” Pinkie Pie replied softly. Once she took off her Channeling Ring, Twilight, Trixie, and Dash said their good nights to Starlight and Diamond before heading off.

Starlight went back to join Diamond, who despite still being mostly naked, seemed more comfortable around Starlight. The two of them explored the records together, Starlight even helping Diamond find a book on Lucid Dreaming, so she could get back here herself when she wanted, even without Starlight needing to summon her.

There was still a ton of work to do. Sadly they didn’t find anything leading to Rarity’s Dungeon, and Diamond’s situation with her father was still what it was. That said, between making a new, albeit questionable friend in Adagio, and getting Diamond Tiara as a thrall…

Today, was a resounding success for Starlight’s coven!

This was my favorite chapter to write thus far, with Diamond Tiara now being my favorite non party member social link.

Priestess Thrall Ability: Striptease - Once summoned, Diamond Tiara will do a sexy pole dance to get the enemy's attention. Effected enemies will be charmed and unable to attack.

Fool – Seekers of Light: 5/10
Magician – Trixie Lulamoon: 8/10
Priestess – Diamond Tiara: 8/10 LEVEL UP!!!! Thrall
The Empress – Ms. Tia: 4/10
The Lovers - Pinkamena Diane Pie: 2/10
Chariot – Rainbow Dash: 3/10
Strength - Tokugawa Fluttershy: 1/5
The Devil – Silver Spoon: 4/10 LEVEL UP!!!!
Hermit – Sunburst: 2/10
Transformation - Ms. Luna: 1/10

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