November 9^th, 2019
Friday
Sunny

Morning

Living with Determination - Persona 3

She was still a bit queasy when she woke up the next morning. Starlight wanted to play it by ear though, see if she could still make it. She wasn’t going to push herself, but she needed to see what would happen today with her own eyes.

The idea that Cinch was now probably dead was just… she didn’t know.

Trixie was already up when she opened her eyes. She waited for her, and as soon as she was up, Trixie brought Starlight into a hug. There, Starlight just, cried. She wasn’t even sure why she was crying really. It certainly wasn’t because Cinch was dead. Also, they succeeded in saving Rarity, so she should have been happy.

And yet, here she was, bawling her eyes out, instead of congratulating herself and her coven for a job well done.

Trixie was wonderful. She didn’t say anything. She just held Starlight, and let her cry it out. Only once she was calmed did Trixie speak, and even then, she mostly focused on listening as Starlight told her what almost happened, and just, her general feelings on it.

“I see,” Trixie said once Starlight finished, “So when that woman with green hair said she took your kill…”

“She was right,” Starlight said weakly, “If that girl, Sunset hadn’t shot Cinch then…” she closed her eyes tightly, “I think, I would have killed Cinch myself…”

“Oh Starlight…”

“I’m turning into a monster…!” Starlight cried, holding her head tightly, “I still want to kill Blueblood's Shadow, when Rainbow Dash almost killed Fleur’s Shadow I didn’t stop her, and now with Cinch…!”

“You’re not a monster, and I can tell you exactly why,” Trixie turned Starlight to look at her, “You’re crying. You still care enough about just the idea to be emotional about it, to care that someone died. The way that Sunset bitch spoke, and how Chrysalis talked about killing to their heart’s content simply because they can’t get caught, they’re the monsters.”

“I, want to believe that, Trixie. I do, but…”

“But…?” Trixie urged.

“What if I told you, I’m not sorry that Cinch is dead…?”

Trixie pursed her lips and took a deep breath, “Honestly, I’d be relieved. Since I’m not either,” Starlight’s eyes widened, “Starlight, she didn’t do anyone any good. She made what was otherwise a pretty great school absolute hell for a number of students. She forced Rarity to make that announcement about the sexual harassment instead of letting Pinkie Pie leave school early, she didn’t take the fact I was abused seriously on the grounds of my sexual interests being leaked, and instead of talking with Rarity and possibly getting her professional help, she blackmailed her into being her personal attack dog, threatening to ruin not just her life, but Applejack and her family’s lives too,” Trixie closed her eyes, “Even when we defeated her Shadow and took back Rarity’s power, Cinch was still going to report Rarity simply out of spite. Starlight, you have nothing to feel guilty over.”

“But then, does that mean that, Chrysalis and Sunset were right to kill Cinch?” Starlight asked, a bit uncomfortably at whatever the answer was. Based on Trixie’s expression, she wasn’t comfortable with her answer either.

“I, I don’t know, Starlight,” Trixie looked down, “Because if they hadn’t, Rarity, Applejack, and the Scarlet's lives would have been ruined. I, I think I’m less sorry that she died, and more sorry that she had to die.”

Starlight agreed, but as she looked down at her lap, she realized something, “Rarity, probably feels terrible about this.”

Trixie closed her eyes, “Sad thing is, you’re probably right. She hated Cinch more than any of us did, but she was still killed in front of her.”

“And with Rarity’s guilt complex…” Starlight took a breath, and got up, “Alright. I’m going to school, after all.”

“You sure?” Trixie asked, “I mean, you were hit pretty bad with that poison, and we didn’t get to you till later.”

“True, but you did get to me,” Starlight said, grabbing her towel (still didn’t remember to buy a robe…) and heading toward the door in her nightgown, “After school, I want to try and catch up with Rarity.”

“I’ll see if we can get Ms. Tia to drive us,” Trixie said, “She knows where the Scarlets live. I think she and Granny Smith are good friends, even.”

That didn’t surprise Starlight at all.

“Thanks Trixie,” Starlight smiled, “For listening, and for helping me rescue Rarity. I know it looked rough there, but you never left my side.”

“I promised, right?” Trixie smiled lovingly, “No matter what, I’ll be with you till the bitter end.”

Trixie got up and went to kiss Starlight, a gesture she happily returned. She wasn’t going to let Cinch ruin this victory for her, and once she made sure Rarity was okay, she’d feel better about celebrating.

Lunch Time

Starlight opened her locker and sighed. Sure enough, neither Cinch nor Rarity were in today. Everyone was a bit on the somber side today, with many students worried about how Rarity was, and a few wondering where Cinch was, as she was never tardy, nor did she miss days. Still, in terms of Cinch, that was, pretty much it. No one really seemed to mind that she wasn't there, not even the faculty. In fact, despite the air being a bit down due to Rarity's absence, the day seemed to go by smoother without Cinch's watchful eye.

Starlight did feel a bit light headed still, and her stomach was a bit on the funny side, but she didn’t feel terrible. Still, she’d probably have to take it easy over the weekend. Which sucked, as she was hoping to catch up with some of her friends. Mainly Fluttershy, as she was still worried about their last encounter.

A Small Distance - Blue Reflection

“Starlight?” Starlight turned to see Sweetie Belle standing there with her lunch and her chess set.

“Hey Sweetie Belle,” Starlight closed her locker and smiled at her, “Is everything alright?”

Sweetie nodded, “I’m okay. I was wondering if you knew how Rarity was doing. She didn’t come to school today.”

“She’s, a little under the weather, but she’ll be okay,” Starlight assured her, “I’m actually planning to visit her after school.”

Sweetie nodded, and then looked down, “Um, can we sit together at lunch today? I, wanted to talk to you about something.”

“Is it about Rarity?” Starlight asked Sweetie Belle, who nodded, “Sure. I’ll answer what I can.”

“Thank you,” Sweetie Belle smiled a bit. Starlight walked with the young girl to her usual table, where she set down her chess set and lunch. Before diving into anything, she set up the chess board and the pieces.

“So, what did you want to talk about?” Starlight asked.

“Rarity is a part of that gang, isn’t she?” Sweetie asked, turning to Starlight, “The Diamond Dogs?”

Starlight’s heart leaped out of her chest, “Well… it’s a bit complicated, but well…” she sighed, “She used to be a member. She’s left them, and is trying to lead an honest life.”

Sweetie nodded, “That’s, sort of what I thought,” Starlight asked Sweetie why she was curious, “Some of my classmates are talking. They mentioned a rumor that Rarity was seen with the Diamond Dog leader, and that she has their tattoo somewhere on her body. It’s on her hip, right?”

“How, do you…?”

“When she came to see me at the National Chess Tournament, she was wearing a dress that was high cut and revealing. I caught a glimpse of it then. Normally it was covered, but the way she was sitting made it visible.”

Must have been before the Diamond Dogs made their return, before Rarity felt the need to hide the tattoo as much, “These rumors, they’re not serious, are they?”

Sweetie twirled her finger through her hair, “Define, serious.”

Oh that wasn’t good, “They’re not, doubting her integrity, are they?”

“Some, are,” Sweetie said, averting her eyes, “Some are just confused.”

“What about you?” Starlight asked, “Where do you fall in this?”

“The second camp,” Sweetie answered, “I didn’t want to confirm anything until I spoke to you. Besides Applejack and Apple Bloom, you’re her closest friend, and I doubt they’d tell me much.”

No, probably not. But, she had a feeling that whatever Sweetie Belle was going through, and whatever this odd air was between her and Rarity, she needed to know the truth of things in order for her to find peace.

“I promise, Rarity’s a good person,” Starlight assured Sweetie Belle, rubbing her back, “Regardless of her connections, and regardless of anything she’s done in the past. She’s a good person, and genuinely cares about the students.”

Sweetie nodded, pursing her lips in an expression similar to Rarity, “I knew it. I heard Snips and Snails saying things about Rarity that weren’t nice. They were saying she was secretly a thug, and was using the fact she was president for her own benefit," she looked away, a darkened look in her eyes, "I told them they were being mean, and they should stop it.”

“They, didn’t give you a hard time, did they?” Starlight asked carefully.

“They said I was biased,” Sweetie looked down, tearing up a bit and trembling, “Said I was just upset because I was in love with a delinquent. So I, screamed at them, and told them that I didn’t care what they thought. Rarity is a good person, and they shouldn’t say bad things about her.”

Sensing that Sweetie was getting really upset, Starlight brought her into a hug, “You’re absolutely right, Sweetie Belle. Rarity is a good person, despite where she came from. You did the right thing, standing up to your bullies.”

“Even, if they think, I’m in love with her?” she asked in between sobs.

“Screw what they think,” Starlight said, lifting Sweetie’s chin, “You know your true feelings, whatever they are. So what if others don’t understand. And most importantly, the people who are your closest friends, they’ll trust you.”

“Like… you?” Sweetie looked into Starlight’s eyes desperately, “You truly truly believe me, when I say I don’t have a crush on Rarity?”

“I do,” Starlight nodded, “I don’t know what this is, but if you say you’re not crushing on Rarity, then I believe it.”

Sweetie hugged Starlight tightly, “Thank you, Starlight! Thank you so much!”

She believes me! Maybe I…

Maybe I can trust her with my secret after all!

Taking note of Sweetie’s emotions, Starlight hugged her right back. She felt significantly closer to Sweetie Belle.

Starlight decided to stay by Sweetie Belle’s side and just enjoy lunch with her.

In the Devastated Town - Devil Survivor 2

“So, what do you think?” Scootaloo asked, watching Starlight and Sweetie Belle together, “Think she can be trusted?”

“Pretty sure of it, actually,” Apple Bloom said, leaning against a tree and narrowing her eyes at them subtly, “Even if there’s, somethin’ about her that ain’t entirely normal.”

“Gonna approach her?”

“Not yet,” Apple Bloom shook her head, taking a bite from her pretzel stick, “Gonna see what happens with Rarity first, then approach her. Still,” her eyes landed on the ring Starlight was wearing, “I am curious about what those rings mean…”

“Maybe they’re in a club or something?” Scootaloo shrugged, “I heard something about her and the other girls in that dorm being into witchcraft or something. Could just be their symbol.”

“See, I wanna say that’s all it is, except for one thing,” Apple Bloom showed Scootaloo something on her phone, “Rarity’s got one now.”

Scootaloo frowned at the picture, “When, did she get that…?”

“Far as I can tell,” Apple Bloom took another bite of her pretzel, “In her sleep.”

“Huh,” Scootaloo looked at Starlight, “And, she was snooping around a lot, trying to get info on the President.”

“Granny Smith said Miss Tia’s probably gonna be stoppin’ by today, an’ she might be bringin’ them along too,” Apple Bloom pursed her lips, “I don’t know what they did, but I’m bettin’ that eventually, Rarity’s gonna be spendin’ a lot more time with ‘em.”

“Keep me updated, Apple Bloom,” Scootaloo rested her bat on her shoulder, “Just in case.”

Apple Bloom smiled, “Always, Scootaloo.”

The two girls bumped fists, and then walked off together. That Ring, Cinch’s odd disappearance, and the mysterious transfer student. They were all connected, and depending on the end result of it, she had one of two options.

Either join the Company, or be dealt with by the Company…

end song

After School

Once everyone had left class and gotten their things, they began the ride to the Scarlet family’s farm. To give them more room, Pinkie Pie actually rode with Applejack in her car along with Apple Bloom. As they rode, Starlight looked out the window, taking in the sights as the rode through town. It didn’t take long for the town to give way to suburbs, and eventually more wooded areas.

“This place, is beautiful!” Starlight said as the car rode out into an open field where she could see the clear sky and setting sun clearly.

“I’ve always enjoyed the ride down here,” Celestia smiled.

“You and Granny Smith are good friends, right?” Rainbow Dash asked, “I think Lulamoon mentioned that.”

Celestia nodded, “She and I met when I first enrolled at Canterlot High as a History Teacher. She’s a lovely woman.”

“I met her once,” Trixie said, “It was actually when Blueblood and I were together. She looked at us together, and pursed her lips. She then pulled me aside and said that I could do way better. I sadly, didn’t really take her seriously then.”

“Granny Smith is very insightful,” Celestia said, “Word of advice, if she tells you something, it’d be best to listen.”

“Definitely gonna remember that,” Trixie muttered. Starlight couldn’t wait to meet her, with accolades like this.

Eventually, Applejack’s car stopped, signaling that they made it. Once they stopped, Starlight and co stepped out of the car and took in the sights. It was the most beautiful farm land she’d ever seen. The field was wide open and green, sectioned off into various crops. Off in the distance was a barn, and Starlight could see a number of animals roaming about in various pins, and on the other side she saw a number of trees that seemed strategically placed and bunched together.

Halcyon Days - 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim

Ahead of them was a nice, comfortably blue and white house, which Starlight assumed was their actual house. Seeing this, Starlight felt a lump in her throat. It was that beautiful to her.

“Well, welcome to Sweet Apple Acres,” Applejack said, presenting her home to those who were newcomers.

“No fucking way…” Rainbow Dash looked around, “You live here?”

“This place is beautiful…” Trixie said softly, Starlight nodding in agreement.

“It really is,” Pinkie Pie smiled, “I always love coming out here. The air is fresh, the animals are friendly, and Granny Smith is a fantastic cook.”

“Indeed she is,” Celestia confirmed, “I’ve actually gotten a number of recipes from her.”

“Seriously?” Trixie asked Celestia, “And just like that, I love it here.”

Applejack laughed, “They actually trade recipes, Granny Smith an’ Miss Tia.”

“Wait, so that lasagna recipe that Granny Smith made last week,” Apple Bloom turned to Celestia, “She said that came from a friend. Was that…?”

“Oh, she made it?” Celestia beamed, “How was it?”

“I, couldn’t stop eatin’ it,” Apple Bloom looked down, “Pretty sure I gained weight from that.”

“Ah, yer too young to be worryin’ ‘bout stuff like that,” Applejack beamed, “’Sides, I’ve had Miss Tia’s cookin’, an’ it’s legit the food of the Gods. It begs to be gorged.”

Apple Bloom gave her older sister a dry look, “Ya say that, an’ yet you were doin’ a jog ‘round the whole field the mornin’ after too.”

“Hey! I gotta look nice for-” she cut herself off and blushed, “For, reasons.”

“Mhm,” Apple Bloom narrowed her eyes, “Reasons. Right.”

As Applejack laughed it off, Starlight frowned a bit. She wondered what “reasons” Applejack felt the need to look good at all times.

As they walked toward the house, Starlight took note of the trees in the distance, “Are those, Apple Trees?”

“Scarlet Family’s specialty,” Applejack said, “We provide the apples for the whole town.”

“Your family must be extremely important,” Starlight said.

“Well, I don’t like to brag, but…” Applejack chuckled.

“Bull, fuckin’, shit,” Apple Bloom shot, “You brag ‘bout our family all the goddamn time.”

Applejack walked over to Apple Bloom and wrapped an arm around her, “Oh Apple Bloom, such a little prankster!” she was frowning despite her smile. Apple Bloom did not look amused.

“I ain’t Dash. You ain’t scarin’ me with that,” Apple Bloom said dryly.

“I’m not afraid of No Fun Jackie!” Rainbow Dash shouted, but then muttered, “It’s Miss President I’m afraid of now…”

Starlight, Trixie, and Pinkie Pie all nodded in agreement of that, blushing collectively. But, this brought up a question.

“Um, how is Rarity?” Trixie asked, “She didn’t come to school today.”

“That’s ‘cause she woke up with a fever,” Applejack explained, “Wasn’t too bad, but Granny Smith didn’t want her pushin’ herself.”

“I take it she’s in her room then?” Starlight asked.

“That, or restin’ near the apple trees,” Applejack said, “Warnin’ ya now, Rarity puts on airs in school a lot, so don’t be surprised if she ain’t as openly friendly as she is in school.”

“That’s alright,” Rainbow Dash said, “We, kinda know what she’s really like. Well, she does at least,” she pointed a hand to Starlight.

“Right. Y’all know ‘bout her past,” Applejack stopped and turned to Celestia, “I take it, you know too?”

“I know quite a bit, actually,” Celestia said, but smiled, “But I promise, unlike Cinch, my main concern is Rarity’s well being. I’m actually hear to discuss some things with Granny Smith concerning Rarity going forward.”

“So, ya know what she did then…?” Applejack asked softly. Seemed Rarity told the Scarlets about the gangbang after all, or told them something.

Celestia sighed and nodded, “I do. But I also know that she has a lot of issues she’s working through, mental and emotional, and I before we jump to disciplinary action, I’d like to try and get Rarity the help she needs to work through them. Like I said, I'm not Cinch.”

“Thank you,” Applejack looked down, “Rarity’s, complicated, but she ain’t a bad person.”

“I know she isn’t,” Celestia said, hugging Applejack, “I’ve seen just how good of a person she is, despite her past. I want to help her just as much as everyone here does. Will you trust me to do so?”

“I, will,” Applejack hugged Celestia back, “I can’t say Rarity will though. She don’t trust no one outside of this family really.”

“I think I can make a good case for her,” Celestia smiled, “But first, I’d like to speak with Granny Smith.”

Applejack nodded, and ushered everyone inside the small house. The interior was just as cozy as Starlight thought it’d be on the outside, but a lot bigger than she initially thought it’d be.

“Granny Smith, Miss Tia’s here, along with Pinkie Pie an’ the rest of the Starswirl Dorm!” Applejack called out. A few seconds after, an older woman with white hair tied in a bun stepped out, wearing a green dress and an apron. She was short, somewhat rounded, but Starlight could see a wise, elegant, beauty from her.

“Oh, hello Miss Tia! Always a pleasure to see ya!” she said, walking over to hug their homeroom teacher, who happily hugged her back.

“Likewise. How are you, Honey Crisp?” Celestia asked.

“Oh, I’m doin’ alright, dearie. How are you? Tired of teachin’ teenager’s yet?” Granny Smith joked, making Celestia laugh.

“Not at all. They’re the children who truly need the most guidance, such is my reason for existing,” Celestia said.

“Fair ‘nough. I take it these are the ones in that dorm ya managin’ now?” Granny Smith asked, turning to the group.

“Yes. I believe you already know Trixie, and I know you know Pinkie Pie. With her are Rainbow Dash, and Starlight Glimmer.”

“Hi Granny Smith,” Pinkie Pie said, going up to hug her, “I’ve missed you so much.”

“It’s always a pleasure to see ya, Pinkie Pie,” Granny Smith smiled, returning the hug, “A bit surprised to see ya dressed all sexy like. That manager ain’t forcin’ ya into this, is she?”

Pinkie Pie shook her head, “She did pick this outfit out for me, but these days, I wear it because I like it.”

“Alright. Long as yer okay with it,” Granny Smith said, now turning to Rainbow Dash, “Finally confessed then, I take it?”

“Wait, what?” Rainbow Dash asked, making Granny Smith laugh, “H-how’d you know Pinkie Pie and I were dating now?!”

“Honestly, I didn’t, but yer face was so priceless I had to!” Granny Smith said through her laughter, “Though y’all do look nice together.”

“T-thanks Granny Smith,” Rainbow Dash said blushing. The older woman then turned to Trixie and Starlight, and sighed in relief.

“Now this looks right,” Granny Smith said, holding Trixie’s hands, “Got away from what’s his name, didn’t ya?”

“More or less,” Trixie said, looking away with a sad smile, “It’s, a bit more complicated these days, but I am done with him. Now, I’m actually dating Starlight here, and I’m much happier.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Granny Smith,” Starlight said stepping forward.

“Nice to meet you too, sugarcube,” Granny Smith said, walking over to Starlight, “Rarity said she was expectin’ ya.”

“She, did?” Starlight asked, “H-how is she?”

“Physically she’s a lot better,” Granny Smith confirmed, “Though, ain’t so sure mentally or emotionally. She’s been through hell an’ back.”

“Indeed,” Celestia nodded, “How much did she tell you?”

“She told me ‘bout what she did to get in trouble,” Granny Smith confirmed, “Poor thing was so upset she started cryin’, worried that we’d toss her onto the streets. Seems she got it into her head somehow that she needed to change who she was, which led to a bunch of other issues, ultimately leadin’ into what happened in the locker room.”

“She wasn’t in trouble, was she?” Pinkie Pie asked, “She was really sorry, and Principal Cinch was already-”

“I know, Pinkie Pie, an’ trust me, she ain’t bein’ punished for what happened. I’m sure she’s learned her lesson,” Granny Smith confirmed, “But, she does need a bit more help movin’ forward.”

“So this is why my ears were burning,” Rarity said, coming from upstairs. Instead of her usual President’s attire, she was wearing a tight purple tank top and black shorts that hugged her curves tightly. She only had on light make-up, and her hair was tied in a ponytail, “Didn’t expect to see everyone.”

“I, hope you don’t mind me bringing my friends along,” Starlight asked, raising her Channeling Ring, “Figured it’d be better for all of us to talk at once.”

Rarity pursed her lips, nursing her new Channeling Ring with an unreadable expression, “Indeed,” she then walked over to Applejack, “And, how are you?”

Applejack smiled, “Rarity, I am rollin’.”

Rarity nodded, smiling a bit, “That’s, good. Um, I want to talk later, but right now, I need to discuss something with Starlight and her, friends.”

Applejack nodded, “Alright. Take yer time, Rarity.”

Rarity then turned to Celestia, “And um, I’d also like to talk to you about some things soon.”

“Of course. I expected as much,” Celestia hugged Rarity, whispering into her ear, “You did wonderfully last night.”

Rarity returned the hug, taking a deep breath. She then turned to Starlight, “Let’s talk in my room.”

Starlight nodded, letting Rarity guide them to her room upstairs. Due to how she wore her hair, Starlight caught a glimpse of an odd, dark mark on the back or Rarity’s neck, a bit off to the side. It was shaped roughly like a dog’s paw. Must have been a birthmark.

“So um, this is what you’re like when not trying to impress everyone at Canterlot High?” Rainbow Dash asked Rarity once they were upstairs.

“Basically,” Rarity sighed, going up to her room and opening the door, “Though right now, I guess I’m a bit, in between phases of myself.”

“I was the same afterward,” Trixie assured her, “It’s not uncommon to be kinda, unsure who you are after that wakes up.”

“Persona, right?” Rarity asked, Trixie nodding, “Let’s get inside first, then we can talk about it.”

end song

They all walked into Rarity’s room, and Starlight was a bit, surprised by how girly and frilly it looked. She expected it to be filled with heavy metal posters or something, but it was surprisingly dainty looking and fancy.

“You know, after seeing you kick so much ass in the Dungeon, I half expected your room to be more, heavy metal,” Rainbow Dash said.

“What can I say?” Rarity shrugged, “I am a girly girl. I just like to play rough, is all. Feel free to sit wherever. Bed, chair, the floor, I don’t care.”

Starlight and Trixie both chose to sit on the bed, with Pinkie Pie sitting on the floor, and Rainbow Dash taking a chair and sitting in it backwards. Rarity chose to take the bed too, bringing a knee to her chest.

“I take it Cinch didn’t show up?” Rarity asked.

“Nope,” Starlight shook her head, “She’s, actually gone I think.”

Rarity took a breath, “Shame I ain't torn up over that. How was the school?”

“Fine, for the most part,” Pinkie Pie averted her eyes, “But there are rumors of you being seen with the Diamond Dogs.”

“Reception’s kinda mixed on it,” Rainbow added, “Some don’t give a shit, but some…”

Rarity closed her eyes, “I fucked up.”

“Kinda yeah…” Trixie admitted, “But hey, not everyone’s thinking the worst of you. Apparently Sweetie Belle stood up for you pretty vocally.”

“She did,” Starlight confirmed, “Some of her classmates were gossiping about you, and she told them to shove it, even when they called out her supposed "crush" on you.”

Rarity blinked, “She, did that much for me?” Rarity pursed her lips, “Wish she hadn’t done that…”

Living with Determination - Persona 3

“Um, why?” Rainbow Dash asked, “She stood up for you. That’s good, isn’t it?”

“It just paints more of a target on her,” Rarity pointed out turning away, “She gets bullied enough as is.”

Rainbow sighed, “Bitch, you really need to stop acting so tough all the time,” Rainbow Dash said, surprising everyone.

Rarity raised an eyebrow, “Excuse me?”

“You heard me,” Rainbow closed her eyes, “Look, I get it. I’m a throwaway kid, more or less like you, and I get that the world probably kicked your teeth in a couple hundred times because you let your guard down. But believe me, when you have someone willing to stand up for you, and you know they legit give a damn, it’s better to just be happy and accept it. Having one person who loves you makes up for the hundreds of people who don’t.”

Rainbow Dash turned to Pinkie Pie and smiled. Pinkie Pie blushed and smiled back.

Rarity huffed, “You think I like this? I’m lonely, I’m on edge all the time, and I get it, I need to trust people more.”

“So why don’t you?” Trixie asked.

“Maybe because I don’t know how.”

“You trust Rover, don’t you?” Trixie asked.

“Yeah, I do. But I grew up with Rover,” Rarity said, “Even his Shadow, only wanted to protect me in his own way. That’s just like him”

“What about my cousin?” Pinkie Pie asked, “You, still trust her, right?”

“I, do,” Rarity said stiffly, “But my feelings for her are… complicated. Somehow, my heart just knows that, she won’t lead me astray. I know I can trust you girls, but at the same time I, I’d rather just, not get involved with people.”

“You’re afraid, aren’t you?” Starlight asked, “Afraid that, you’ll get involved with someone, and then they’ll get hurt?” the way Rarity closed her eyes and whimpered said it all.

“Rarity…” Pinkie Pie said sadly.

“I, still feel a bit like, I’d be better off dead…” Rarity admitted weakly, “Like, if I keep living, someone else is going to suffer.”

“Sadly, waking up to your Persona, doesn’t magically fix you,” Starlight said, reaching over to rub Rarity’s hand, “But if you let us, we’ll help you find the will to live.”

“Even if you don’t join our Coven,” Trixie added, “We just want to be your friend.”

“But, could you please not join those Neo Strega chicks?” Rainbow Dash begged, “They give me really bad vibes.”

“Don’t worry, I ain’t joinin’ them,” Rarity said to everyone’s relief, “Ain’t sure where I’m endin’ up ultimately. I’m still expectin’ the police to show up and take me to jail.”

“That won’t happen,” Starlight assured Rarity, “You’re free now.”

“I shouldn’t be free,” Rarity pointed out.

“Who says?” Trixie asked, “Cause if you ask me, you being free is a sign that you deserve it.”

“Either way, you need people in your life,” Starlight said, “People who will life you up, and who can help you find yourself.”

“Please Rarity,” Pinkie Pie urged, “Let us be your friends. You’re real friends.”

“We’ll start there,” Rainbow Dash suggested, “Just good friends, the five of us. No need to make any sudden moves or commitments. Just, hang with us.”

“Yeah! And as you get more comfortable, if you want to officially join our Coven, you can,” Pinkie Pie beamed, “But it’ll be when you want to.”

“You’re really trying to make this work for me, huh?” Rarity asked, “Even knowing what I really am? What I did?”

“Yep,” Starlight said with a king smile, “No one is expecting you to be perfect.”

“I mean, in terms of your hyper sexuality, we live with Pinkie Pie,” Trixie pointed out, “Pretty sure she’s horny all the time.”

“Am not,” Pinkie Pie protested, “Just 85% of it.”

That got Rarity to chuckle a bit.

Friends In My Heart - Kingdom Hearts 2

“So like, are you actually horny all the time?” Rainbow Dash asked.

“You mean with my nymphomania? Sorta. It’s like, imagine being hungry, okay?” Rarity began, “You eat, and eat and eat until you’re stomach is bloated. Yet for some reason, you’re still hungry. That’s, kinda how it gets for me at my worst.”

“Shit…” Rainbow Dash muttered, “Okay, that fucking sucks.”

“Normally, the worst I have to deal with are fantasies,” Rarity said, “Intrusive, violent fantasies.”

“Like what?” Starlight asked, surprising Rarity.

“You really wanna know?” Rarity asked.

“I do!” Pinkie Pie raised her hand.

“I’ll admit, I’m kinda curious too,” Trixie said.

“Especially after seeing what a hot mess your Dungeon was,” Rainbow Dash said, “No offense, Miss Presi-”

“Rarity,” she cut her off, “Please everyone. Just, call me Rarity.”

Rainbow Dash smiled, “Got it, Rarity.”

“As for my fantasies, let’s see,” Rarity folded her arms, “Well, I've had fantasies where I’m in class, and one of my classmates just randomly gets up, bends me over my desk, and just starts roughly pounding my pussy while the lecture goes on.”

“W-whoa,” Trixie muttered blushing, “Okay yeah, that’s pretty intense.”

“I’ve also had a fantasy where I’m tied up under my homeroom teacher’s desk, and while he’s holding class, I’m being forced to suck him off,” Rarity continued, “Oh, there’s also the one where I’m forced to go through the whole school day naked, and I’m constantly dragged off to be fucked by classmates and teachers…”

“Oh my God, that’s so hot…” Pinkie Pie said softly.

“How, often do you have these fantasies?” Trixie asked.

“How often do you breathe?” Rarity asked Trixie with a raised eyebrow.

“Well that’s an odd question. I breathe all the ti- oh…”

Rarity nodded, “Mhm. Every day, I have these fantasies. Even before it started getting bad, I had to go into the girls room frequently just to pleasure myself,” she got up and pulled out a small egg shaped device and a remote, “Eventually, I just invested in this, and sometimes I’d just go the whole day with it. Starlight knows of two times in particular.”

“That’s, your vibrator?” Starlight asked.

“Yep. I also have a dildo in my drawer, and a “magic wand” type vibrator. Need new batteries for that one…” Rarity sighed, “Being a slut is so expensive…”

“Sounds like it,” Rainbow Dash winced, “Sheesh.”

“So, concerning those fantasies, was that why you did the thing in the locker room?” Trixie asked. Rarity closed her eyes pained.

“Yeah, it is…” Rarity sighed, “It was a fantasy I had for a long while, of being taken in the boys’ locker room and just, absolutely disgraced. Everything was getting to me all at once, my nymphomania was flaring up so much, and I’ll admit, Rover’s words did get to me a bit.”

“When he said you were domesticated?” Starlight asked Rarity.

“I, wanted to prove that he was wrong. That I still had my edge, and that I could be as dirty and wild as I wanted,” she closed her eyes tightly and trembled, “So, I gathered as many boys as I could, used my position as President to keep 'em quiet, and then…” she hugged herself, crying softly, “I knew it was wrong when I did it, but the school should have been more or less empty. I didn’t know that Cinch stayed after so much later…”

And now, the only faculty member who had any knowledge of what happened save for Celestia was dead. She’d get off Scott free, but she’d have to live with the knowledge that she still did it. Everyone looked at each other pained. All of them were dealing with their own struggles, but Rarity was dealing with the aftermath of a mistake she made, that almost cost a good family everything.

“That’s why, I said I shouldn’t be free!” Rarity sobbed, “Because, that’s the sort of person I am! I’m okay now, but one day, my urges will get the better of me again, and I won’t be so lucky to have the Principal suddenly die before she can report me!”

Starlight looked down, thinking about her next words carefully before she spoke.

Lloyd - Tales of Symphonia

“You’re right,” Starlight got up, “One day, your urges probably will get the better of you, and it will be bad,” she hugged Rarity, “But next time, you won’t be dealing with it alone.”

Rarity slowly opened her eyes, “S-Starlight…”

“I’ll help you get control,” Starlight said, taking Rarity’s hand into hers, “Whatever that means in the moment.”

“If you’d like, I’ll help too,” Trixie said with a smile, “I mean, I kinda owe you for Blueblood.”

“But, I couldn’t get rid of him…” Rarity said weakly, “I failed as President, and I even… fucked him repeatedly to save my own ass…”

“Yeah, but I get it. That’s the sort of asshole Blueblood is. Besides, you did help me,” she smiled, “You gave me hope, that people do care.”

“As a fellow foster kid, I’d be real shitty if I didn’t try to help,” Rainbow Dash admitted, turning to Pinkie Pie, “And I know my Princess wants to help too, so where she goes, I’ll go.”

Pinkie Pie nodded, “Yep. We’re helping you Rarity. However we have to.”

“Everyone…” Rarity looked down smiling, “Even knowing what sort of person I really am, you’re still willing to help.”

“It’s because we see what sort of person you really are,” Starlight said, confusing Rarity a bit, “A flawed, ferocious, but undeniably noble wolf,” she nuzzled her, “And the best girl.”

Rarity moaned softly, nuzzling Starlight back.

Pinkie Pie went up and scratched behind her ear, “You’re really cute like this.”

“No one, thinks I’m strange?” Rarity asked.

“What, for the whole wolf thing?” Rainbow Dash asked, “I mean, it is kinda odd, not gonna lie, but I ain’t gonna judge. Especially seeing what you look like in the Dream World.”

“Thank you… everyone,” Rarity smiled gently, “I, still don’t know what I’m going to do ultimately, but I, I want to be friends, with all of you.”

“Then consider it done,” Starlight smiled, “And like Pinkie Pie said, if you decide you want to join our Coven, feel free to do so at your pace.”

“Yes. I’ll, remember that,” Rarity said, holding Starlight’s hand tighter, a new emotion hitting her.

I’m so happy, that I hired you as my Secretary.

Thank you Starlight, for being my friend.

Starlight hugged Rarity tighter. She could feel a faint bond forming between her and Rarity.

Power of the Heart - Persona 4: Golden

The five girls all enjoyed each other’s company, learning more about their new friend. She hadn’t joined their group yet, but Starlight felt like that’d happen eventually. Either way, now it felt like a celebration.

They did it.

Against all odds, they saved Rarity.

Evening

After spending some more time with them and seeing them off, Rarity returned to her room to just, think. According to Granny Smith, Celestia offered to help as well. Apparently she knew someone who Celestia said “would be a good person for Rarity to talk to”, but she knew what that meant.

She was offering a therapist for her.

Granny Smith said that the final decision would be Rarity’s, which Celestia seemed to accept. Honestly, Rarity had enough mind to say no on principle. She didn’t trust shrinks. They never really understood her issues. They said they did, but Rarity knew better.

But, she wasn’t getting anywhere on her own. She needed someone else to consult with. Besides, she had a feeling that whoever Celestia brought over, they’d know about “Personas” and such, and she did need someone to talk to about that.

As she laid in her bed, she looked at the Ring on her finger. The ring was mostly silver and fancy, with an indigo colored gem in the middle shaped like a diamond, similar to her tattoo. She wasn’t sure what to make of that dream or the fever she had at first, but once she realized she was wearing the same ring that appeared in her dream, she couldn’t doubt it.

The dream was real. All of it was real.

“So, what do you think?” she asked, imagining her Persona in the room with her. She could practically see the motorcycle sitting by her bed now.

“About Miss Sunshine in the kimono? I dunno. She seems fishy to me. She knows too much.”

“She does,” Rarity pursed her lips, “But, she seems nice. I don’t know, maybe she could help us get control.”

“Maybe. Or maybe she could be playin’ us like so many other adults.”

Rarity sighed. She hated that Riley was right.

“Look, whatever you decide to do, I’m with you. Just, make sure it’s the right call. I’m trustin’ you for the big decisions.”

“No pressure, right?” Rarity smiled a bit.

“Hey, you wanted the driver’s seat.”

True. She did think it was interesting that her Persona was a motorcycle while the others looked more like spirits. Was that because Riley, because her inner wolf was relenting full control to her?

A knock on her door, “Rarity? It’s me,” Applejack said from outside.

“I took my clothes off,” Rarity warned, “That alright?”

“Yeah, it’s fine,” Applejack said, opening the door, “Guess you were windin’ down?”

“Something, like that,” Rarity said stiffly, not meeting Applejack's eyes and using her bangs to cover her nipples a bit, “If you want, I can put a robe on.”

“No. I mean it, it’s fine,” Applejack assured her, “Pretty sure doin' stuff like that got ya in this mess in the first place,” she sat down on the bed in front of Rarity, “What you told Granny Smith an’ Macintosh this mornin’.”

“About the locker room?” Rarity asked shying back.

“Was, was that true?” Applejack asked, “Did you really, do that in the boys’ locker room?”

“You mean did I have a gangbang in the boys’ locker room?” Rarity asked, folding her arms under her breasts, “Yes. Yes I did.”

Applejack sighed, “Why’d ya do it, Rares?”

“Would tellin' you change anything?” Rarity asked, turning away and scowling.

“It’d help me understand,” Applejack said, “I ain’t mad at ya.”

“Bullshit.”

“I mean it. I ain’t upset. I’m jus’, Rarity I’m worried ‘bout ya!” Applejack said, surprising Rarity a bit, but she didn’t let it show, “Knowin’ ya tried to kill yerself, that gangbang, Cinch blackmailin’ ya, an’ you also havin’ the Nightma-”

“Not anymore,” Rarity said immediately, “Starlight, did a thing, and it, helped me.”

Applejack took a deep breath, “So… she wasn’t lyin’, when she said she could… cure that?”

“Nope,” Rarity shook her head, “It’s a bit complicated, and I’m not quite in the position to say how she did it, but she did. So, I won’t be dying anytime soo-” Applejack hugged Rarity tightly, “Apple, jack…?”

“Thank God…!” Applejack said, crying softly, “I, I was so scared that, I’d lose ya…!”

Rarity bit her lip, and then slowly returned the hug, “N-no. I’m not, going to die from that.”

“Good. But what I said still counts. I’m still worried ‘bout ya,” Applejack said, now looking into Rarity’s eyes, “Ya changed so drastically. All o fa sudden, ya started talkin’ differently, ya stopped dressin' in skimpy clothes, it was like ya became a completely different person. Whoever that person was, they weren’t Rarity. Not the Rarity I know, at least.”

Rarity averted her eyes, “I just, wanted you to be proud of me…!” she started crying, “I wanted to be someone, who could fit in your world…!”

“Why’d you feel like ya had to change so much of who ya were for that?”

“Because no one in your world got me!” Rarity cried, “No one gave me a fair shot! It was the same when I was with the Diamond Dogs, except now I was alone! I had to change, in order to fit in and be accepted!” she broke down completely, “I hated it! I felt like I was in a cage! But then my teachers were proud of me, students approached me, I even became Student Council President because of it!”

Applejack hugged Rarity again, rubbing her back as she cried, “I’m sorry. I’m sorry you felt like you had to change, an’ I’m sorry it lead to all this.”

“I can’t keep wearing this mask! I need to be myself! But, who I am, doesn’t fit in your world!” Rarity cried harder, “I feel like, my only two choices are, to spend the rest of my life in a cage, or be free but forever alone! I tried Applejack! I tried so hard!”

“An’ that’s what I don’t understand,” Applejack said softly, “Why did you try so hard? Ya said it was to make me proud, but why-”

“BECAUSE I LOVE YOU!”

I'll Face Myself: Another Version - Persona 4

Applejack froze, “You, love me…?”

“I, don’t understand it, okay?!” Rarity admitted, breaking out of the hug and pacing around the room, “But I loved you the second I laid eyes on you! I wanted to be someone worthy of being loved by you! So I changed! I changed to fit in your world, so that you’d love me back!”

“Oh Rarity,” Applejack got up and put her hands on her shoulders, “You didn’t have to change to make me love you.”

Rarity sucked in a breath.

“I, I felt the same way,” Applejack admitted, “Somethin’ about, seein’ ya with the Diamond Dogs, I felt a part of me reach out, like I needed to hold ya. I don’t know what this is, platonic love, romantic, or somethin’ else entirely, but I know that I need ya in my life.”

“It’s, the same with me,” Rarity said, her heart racing, “My world, it lit up when you entered it. I just, didn’t want you to leave me.”

“I’ll never leave you,” Applejack hugged Rarity tightly, “No matter how far apart we are, I’ll always be with you. Oh Rarity, I didn’t mean to make ya think ya needed to be someone different. You were always beautiful, jus’ the way ya are.”

Rarity whimpered, and nuzzled Applejack. She began rubbing her back, petting her side the way she liked to be petted.

“Applejack, I need help,” Rarity admitted, “What happened in the locker room, I lost control of myself.

“Yeah, I figured,” Applejack sighed.

“And, on top of that, I hate myself still,” Rarity continued, “Deep down, I still hate who I see in the mirror.”

“Then, we need to change that,” Applejack said firmly.

“I think, Miss Tia wants to help me, but to get that help, I might…”

“Have, to move into the Star Swirl Dorm…?”

“I, I’m torn,” Rarity pulled out a bit to look at Applejack, “Part of me wants to stay here, with you, with Macintosh, Apple Bloom, and Granny Smith. But, to get the proper help I need, I think I need to be there,” also, she couldn't shake the feeling that right now, she needed to be there. She needed to be where, she was.

Applejack looked down a bit, “Well, I’ll admit that, I’d rather you stay here with us. With, me,” she then smiled, “But, if Miss Tia says she can help you, then she ain’t lyin’. An’ if you think you need to be in that dorm to get the help ya need, then I say, go for it. Jus’, promise me that you’ll be yourself from now on. Even if it turns people off at first, give 'em a chance to know the real Rarity Stark.”

Rarity nodded smiling, “I, I promise,” she leaned in and nuzzled Applejack, “I do love you, but until I learn to love myself, I…”

“I know,” Applejack nuzzled Rarity back, “Take all the time ya need. I’ll be waitin’ for ya, when yer ready to make sense of, this.” Rarity sighed in relief, and pushed Applejack onto the bed underneath her, “Guess I’m sleepin’ here tonight, eh?” Applejack asked with a chuckle.

“You are,” Rarity decided, holding Applejack and snuggling into her “This will be our last night together for a long while.”

Applejack smiled peacefully and held onto Rarity, “Doesn’t get much better than this, honestly.”

Rarity closed her eyes, letting sleep claim her. She was worried, as she was more or less joining their group, but she needed this help. Also, she wanted to do what she could to stop this Nightmare Epidemic.

If nothing else, to protect Applejack, her human.

I won’t let anything happen to you, Applejack.

I’ll become a strong wolf, and protect you from the Nightmare.

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

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