(Jordanwolfboy9743: *walks into the studio with Shadow* *glares at him*)

(Shadowlight2784: What?)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: You know what, Shad.)

(Shadowlight2784: *sigh* Look, we needed a fourth wall. Those two can deal without one.)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: Stealing is wrong and you know it, dude. Now, because of you, the real Shadowlight2784 had to openly explain to my 2784 counterpart the truth about him.)

(Shadowlight9743: Oh he'll get over it.)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh really? Like how you "got over" your identity crisis when I told you the truth?)

(Shadowlight9743: Hey! I needed time to have a mental breakdown! That stuff isn't something you hear everyday!)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: *He pinches the bridge of his nose before sighing* But you didn't have to go crazy by shoving that plunger up Calvin's-)

(Shadowlight9743: Okay! Okay, I get it! *sigh* He wasn't exactly helping me feel better, you know.)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: He didn't need to have that happen to him, though. Anyways, enough with that for now. Let's just get back to it.)

(Shadowlight9743: *groans* Fine.)

(2 Minutes Earlier)

In the dark realm, Shallow Moonshine can be seen looking down with a scowl on his face.

Shallow Moonshine: You really thought that your magic could contain someone like me? Someone who's a literal embodiment of anger itself? I really don't know who's more retarded, you or that pretentious dick who claims to be a savior that you casted away.

He then materialized a sword and held it up to his face while looking at his reflection in the blade.

Shallow Moonshine: Well, I guess the both of you are equally mediocre as well as incompetent and ruthless. But it won't matter when I'm done with you.

He turned and glared at the camera.

Shallow Moonshine: But since you have done more damage to others than he did, I think you should get the honor of being the first to die.

He asked as the camera turned around to see that he was talking to a very beaten looking V/N who was held by his limbs by magic. He had cuts, bruises, and gashes all over his body as a result of Shallow's torture. His chest slowly rose and fell as he glared up at his adversary.

(V/N): *cough* You really *cough* you really think torturing me is gonna make me fear you? I've gone through worse beatings from Grogar than anything you've cooked up for me so far. *cough*

Shallow Moonshine: Whoever said I wanted you to fear me? God! You're such a retard! I've stated multiple times that I intend to KILL you, not make you scared of me! And yet, for some reason, you just can't seem to process it!

He sighed before continuing.

Shallow Moonshine: Well, I guess your IQ of a goldfish won't matter once you're dead. Not to worry though, I'm going after Y/N as well because I intend to erase any and every part of him from existence itself. You and him have ruined Shadow's life. He was far better off without that self-centered dickhead as well as you making his life a living hell! So, your desire to have him deceased will come to pass. You just won't get the chance to deliver the final blow.

(V/N): *cough* If you feel like such a big man then do it, Shallow! Finish me off! I'd rather be dead than live in a world that took away everything that mattered to me! You might as well pull my plug because I've got nothing else to live for!

Shallow raised an eyebrow at that before shaking his head.

Shallow Moonshine: *sigh* You're just like the rest of them. Always trying to weaken your foes with emotion because you can't fight with honor. You know I'll never pity you, not after everything you've done.

He brought the sword behind him as he was preparing a stab that was aimed directly for V/N's chest.

Shallow Moonshine: I hope your family sees all the crap you've done to people because of your idiotic hypocrisy. "Wanting world order?" Please. You don't give a crap about this world or anyone in it. You're not fooling anybody.

V/N closed his eyes as he prepared for the stab to arrive and cut his sad life short. However, several moments had passed and there was no plunging of a sword into his chest. His confusion of the situation was brought to a halt when he heard Shallow gasp prompting him to open his eyes and look at him. Shallow was revealed to be looking down at his hand that was slowly disappearing as it began to spread to the rest of his body. Shallow started to slightly panic as he dropped the sword which vanished into mist before glaring back up at V/N.

Shallow Moonshine: Thanos snap? Really?! *sarcasm* HOW FREAKING ORIGINAL!!

He angrily shouted as V/N was only able to give him a confused stare.

(V/N): I didn't do anything!

Shallow Moonshine: YOU EXPECT ME TO BELIEVE THAT?! THIS HAS YOU WRITTEN ALL OVER IT!

His arm had now fully vanished as it began to spread to the rest of his body. Soon, his arms, legs, and torso had vanished leaving only his head. Due to most of his body being missing, he couldn't maintain his magic anymore which allowed V/N to finally break free from his magical bonds. He rubbed one of his wrists before looking up at Shallow's head and chuckling sinisterly.

(V/N): I guess lady luck herself is smiling upon me today.

Shallow Moonshine: I hope Y/N tears you a new ass you motherfu-

He couldn't finish that curse as his head had now completely vanished leaving nothing of Shallow behind. And now V/N was completely alone within the shadow world as he thought over what just happened.

(V/N): That was... unusual. I wonder what could have happened to make him disappear the way he did. Did something happen to Shadow by any chance?

He shook his head before he suddenly felt something appear around his neck. He pulls it off of him only to find that the Infinity Amulet is intact and that there's only two Disharmony Stones missing.

(V/N): Well, I suppose the circumstances aren't relevant. After all, it's allowed me to get yet another chance to achieve my goal. I might not have the rest of my power that sleeps inside Y/N, but at least I won't have to deal with that angsty prick ever again. Now I can proceed unimpeded with my plan to bring order once and for all. Which reminds me, I haven't checked on my friends yet. Perhaps I should pay them a visit.

He laughed before slashing the space in front of him creating a rift as he stepped through it and disappeared. 

(Present Time)

At the Starswirled Music Festival, you were with the Rainbooms and your "best friend" Patriot walking around exploring as you were still questioning what was going on. Why was Patriot here and why is he acting like he's your best friend all of a sudden? You're certain he has something up his sleeve but from what you've been able to gather, he seemed pretty genuine. Of course that still didn't stop your suspicions. Regardless, you were really worried about what happened to Shadow.

You glanced back at Patriot and noticed that it wasn't just his personality that had a complete change, but also his clothing and appearance. Instead of the usual torn up pants and shirt that he usually wore, he was now wearing a clean looking button up shirt as well as a pair of khakis. He was also wearing a pair of black dress shoes instead of his sneakers. His hair was combed and face was clear of any and all blemishes that he had before. In short, he was pretty much the opposite of the Patriot you knew. That's when something else came to your mind. Could Shadow have done a role reversal with Patriot? Did you have to fight him for the Dark Amulet? This thought made you feel a little uneasy as the idea of having to fight Shadow didn't bode well in your mind.

Patriot: Something on your mind, Y/N?

He said, interrupting you from your current train of thought.

(Y/N): Huh? O-Oh, yeah, Patriot. I'm... fine.

Patriot: You sure?

(Y/N): Y-Yeah! I'm just...I'm just a little stunned from meeting PostCrush last night. Heheh.

Patriot: Heh. I'd assume so. Anyone would be feeling exactly what you're feeling after seeing an awesome band like PostCrush. Especially since you got to play alongside them! By the way, major props for that, man.

(Y/N): You mean we didn't play together?

Patriot: No, we didn't. You don't remember that? You were pretty much the center of attention up there.

(Y/N): *thinking* What did Shad do? Why is Patriot so different all of a sudden? Moreover, why is he even here?

Patriot: Anywho, let's go find the others. I'm sure they're looking for us.

(Y/N): Not all of them. The Dazzlings are looking for Shadow.

He stopped before looking back at you with a quizzical stare.

Patriot: Uhhh... who's Shadow? *thinking* He can't be talking about the one I know.

(Y/N): Uhh, Shadow? Shadow Moonlight? My best friend.

Patriot: Excuse me, whaaaaat? I'm your best friend, dude.

(Y/N): B-But, I-I'm pretty sure you're supposed to be...

Patriot: Wait, you said Shadow Moonlight, right?!

(Y/N): Uhhh... yeah?

Patriot: But... how do you even remember him?

(Y/N): Like I said, he's supposed to be my best friend.

Patriot: But...he told me that you needed one.

(Y/N): What do you mean?

You asked as Patriot sighed.

Patriot: Back before I first met you, I was being attacked by some bullies until that guy stepped in to save my life. He told me to go find a kid in the neighborhood by the name of Y/N L/N. Said that he would be able to protect me at all costs as long as I was a good friend to you. I'm not sure if I was any good but I did my best to be.

He explained which got you thinking. You tried to think about what he said until it finally hit you. You weren't sure how you remembered... but you remembered.

(Flashback)

Several years ago, in the city of Canterlot, it was a nice, sunny day. The camera zooms down on the playground as we see several kids playing on either the monkey bars, the slides, or the spring horses. We then pan over to the swingset where we see a young boy sitting on one of the swings by himself. This was revealed to be you. You were idly swinging slightly while staring down at the ground as you let out a small sigh. You see, you didn't have any friends at the time due to finding out about your magic, so you resorted to just sitting alone on the swingset while your dad sat by and watched you diligently. However, that was soon to change as somewhere nearby, a set of voices can be heard.

???: Is that him over there?

??? #2: Yeah, that's him, Patriot. Now, remember what I said. Be good to him and stay by his side. Be a good friend. *thinking* Be a better one to him than I was. 

Patriot: So... why him specifically?

???: I can't explain it in great detail, but much like you, he suffers from isolation or to put it in more simpler terms, a lack of friends. Since it's a problem you both have in common, I believe there's a solution you both can come up with together. And let's just say that... he'll have a pivotal role to play in the future. *whispering* Also, he's got some pretty amazing magic abilities.

Patriot: Wait, he has magic!? How?!

His voice was muffled when the figure put a hand over his mouth.

???: *whispering* Just keep it a secret between you and him, okay? He's got magical powers. I can't say how or why he has them, but he has them.

Patriot: Umm... okay.

He turned and started slowly walking over to where you were. Unbeknownst to you and him, the figure smiled as a single tear went down their cheek.

???: *to himself* Well... that's it then. Sorry for ruining your life, Y/N. But hey, now you'll not only have a new best friend, but more girls to love. And I get to have my parents in my life. It checks out for the both of us. You'll always be my brother, Y/N, but...like I said before, some of us don't get happy endings.

They thought before they slowly started to fade away into nothing. Patriot soon made his way over to you and stopped just in front of you.

Patriot: U-Umm... hi.

He greeted you which got your attention as you looked up at him slightly.

(Y/N): O-Oh... hi.

Patriot: Can... I take the seat next to you?

He asked, pointing to the seat to the right of you. You nodded before he went and sat down as he looked over at you.

Patriot: I'm Patriot. I haven't seen you around here before. Are you new to town?

He asked. You shook your head.

(Y/N): No, I've lived here my whole life. I just... don't get out very often.

Patriot: Oh...well, why not? You don't look like a criminal or anything.

(Y/N): *sigh* Well... because I... don't really have any friends.

Patriot: Really? Why not?

(Y/N): It's... it's complicated.

Patriot: Is... it because... you have magic?

You immediately shot up and stared at him wide eyed.

(Y/N): H-How did you guess that?!

Patriot: That guy over there just-

He looked over to see that the person he was referring to was nowhere to be seen.

Patriot: Huh? Where'd he go?

(Y/N): Where did who go?

Patriot: That...that guy. He was right over there. He told me to come over and see you.

(Y/N): You sure you aren't just seeing things?

Patriot: I swear, I didn't make this up. He was just there and now he's not anymore for some reason. He's the whole reason why I'm here in the first place.

(Y/N): Oh... so... I guess you were forced to come over here, weren't you?

You asked sadly as he put his hands up to stop you.

Patriot: Whoa, whoa, whoa! You're blowing this way out of proportion, dude. I never said anything about being forced to do this. I'd be more than happy to be friends with you! You look like a cool guy after all.

(Y/N): You... you really mean that?

Patriot: Absolutely! And plus, you got powers! You could do all sorts of amazing things!

(Y/N): W-Well... not really. All I can really do for now is make things levitate. But... even then... my parents told me to keep my powers hidden from the public.

Patriot: Yeah, that guy said something about that. That you didn't want to be seen as a freak to people or something. 

You started to grip the chains on your swings harder as a result of that before Patriot stood and walked in front of you before grabbing your shoulders.

Patriot: Whoa, calm down. I didn't mean anything by it. You shouldn't be afraid to be yourself, Y/N. You shouldn't hide your powers just because you think people would be scared of you. Everyone has a mind of their own, some of which would be fascinated by your abilities. I should know, I was one of them.

(Y/N): You... know who I am?

Patriot: No, that's what that guy told me to say if I mentioned that to you. He must've known you in a way.

(Y/N): So... you like me... despite having powers?

Patriot: Why would I despise you for having powers?

You looked away from him.

(Y/N): Because... because I don't know you all that much.

Patriot: Then why not get the chance to? Look, if it means that much to you, I won't tell anyone else about your powers. But... I think they should find out one day. Maybe not tomorrow or even next week, but someday, they should know the real you. So... will you let me be your friend?

He offered you a hand as you stared back at him curiously. You looked down at his outstretched hand while deep in thought.

(Y/N): *thinking* He... he seems nice. Maybe... maybe mom and dad were wrong about the WHOLE world hating me for having magic. Plus... maybe having a friend won't be so bad.

Once you were finished with that thought, you looked up at him and smiled before taking his hand and shaking it.

(Y/N): Okay. If you wanna be my friend, then I'll be yours.

Patriot: Awesome. Don't worry, Y/N. The world will come around eventually. I'm sure of it.

You smiled at each other as you continued to shake each others hands.

(Flashback Over)

You came back down to earth as you snapped to attention.

(Y/N): So... Shadow told you all that? About me having powers and such and who I was?

Patriot: Yeah, which brings back the question, how do you remember him? You never met him face to face as far as I'm concerned. Granted, he was wearing a hoodie, so I don't know what he looks like.

(Y/N): I'm... I'm not sure, exactly. I just... have this feeling that... that we were supposed to be best friends.

Patriot: That would explain how he knew you. Were you guys pen pals or something?

(Y/N): No. I don't think so. I... I think I...

You started to think about that some more as you tried your best to remember Shadow being in your life in some way. You dug down into your conscious thoughts in an attempt at figuring out... until it finally hit you. The memories of the two of you being best friends. The day you saved him from Patriot and Dink, when you and him reunited at the Friendship Games, and... yelling at him for messing up your chances to see PostCrush the first time. Your face then changed into that of horror.

(Y/N): I... I did this to him.

Patriot: Did what to who? What are you talking about?

He asked you concerningly, but you didn't listen as everything around you was swallowed in darkness as you mental capacity dwindled. You drove Shadow away, you made him go back in time to change his fate, YOU are the reason he's gone! Without warning, a flood of voices can be heard in your head calling you names such as "freak", "menace", or "dangerous." You were even able to distinguish some of them as they sounded like the voices of not just your girls, but everyone that you've met so far.

Sunset's voice: You're not meant to have the title of Savior!

Sci-Twi's voice: I never should have transferred to a school that had a narcissist like you!

Pinkie's voice: If you went to a party, you'd be an absolute buzzkill!

Applejack's voice: I never shoulda told you about how mah parents died!

Fluttershy's voice: Stay away from us, you monster!

Rarity's voice: How could I have ever let myself fall for someone like you?

Rainbow's voice: If I had to choose between abandoning you or my sports career, I'd rather abandon you!

Adagio's voice: It seems that despite the fact that you and V/N are separated, you are no better than he is!

Aria's voice: I'd like to see things from your point of view but, I can't seem to get my head that far up my ass.

Sonata's voice: How could you treat Shaddy so cruelly!?

Sour's voice: *sweetly* You're a person of rare intelligence. *sourly* It's rare when you show any!

Sunny's voice: You killed my Shadow, you murderer!

Indigo's voice: Shadow should have never let you into his life!

Sugarcoat's voice: You are the kind of man that you would use as a blueprint to build an idiot.

Lemon's voice: You are the definition of a living nightmare!

Wallflower's voice: I wish I erased my memory of you sooner!

Juniper's voice: All I wanted was for people to love me, but you had to take it from me!

Shadowlight's voice: I hope it was worth letting your best friend die just to see a concert!

Shallow's voice: IF I WANTED TO KILL MYSELF, I'D CLIMB YOUR EGO AND JUMP TO YOUR IQ!!

Patriot's voice: YOU'RE A PRIME CANDIDATE FOR NATURAL DE-SELECTION!!

The voices continued to scream into your head as you clenched it in a desperate attempt to silence them. Suddenly, V/N appeared in front of you and looked down at you with a smirk.

(V/N): You can deny it all you want, Y/N, but you're turning out just. Like. Me!

You fell backwards and tried to crawl away from him only for several black chains to come out of the ground and wrap themselves around your limbs holding you in place. V/N began to cackle as he stood up straight while staring down at you. A wall of dark (F/C) flames erupted from behind him as he continued to laugh maniacally. Little by little, your sanity started to dwindle as something was made apparent in your mind.

...

...

...

...

You were a danger.

...

...

...

Everyone was right about you.

...

...

...

...

You're just like him.

...

...

...

...

...

...

You shouldn't be trusted... this was your fate... this was... your destiny.

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

...

???: Come on, I think that's a little too harsh, guys.

A voice suddenly pops up somewhere behind V/N as he turns around to see who it was. Their eyes all widened before they started to disappear all of a sudden. Your depraved, lunacy filled eyes looked up and widened at seeing someone new standing where everyone else was.

(Y/N): S-S-S-Shadow?

Shadow Moonlight: Hey, buddy.

He walked closer and smiled down at you.

(Y/N): B-But... but...

Shadow Moonlight: How am I here? Well, I'm a part of your memories. I'm not the real Shadow, just a fragmentation of your mind to appear as him.

He walked over and sat down in front of your kneeled form.

Shadow Moonlight: Why the long face?

(Y/N): Because... I... I drove you away... I caused you to go back and change your fate.

Shadow Moonlight: Was it really? A little reminder, Y/N, I didn't exactly roll out the welcome wagon for you when I saw you at the Friendship Games. Nor have I really been all that nice in general. I've brought you down a lot with my self-deprecation, my arrogance, and overall, I just wasn't that pleasant to be around. At least Patriot's doing a far better job at being your friend that I was.

(Y/N): Shadow... you ARE my friend. I wanted to be your friend more than anyone else.

Shadow Moonlight: Y/N, put literally anybody else in my position when you first met me. You'd be saying the same exact thing.

(Y/N): You don't know that, Shadow!

Shadow Moonlight: *sigh* Yes, I do. Think about this, Y/N. Let's say me and Patriot switched roles, would you have stepped in then? If I took the Dark Amulet and destroyed your entire hometown instead of him, would you have still fought me?

(Y/N): I-I... I don't... I don't know.

Shadow Moonlight: Short answer, you would have because you wouldn't have known me that well. You'd only judge from what I would've been doing which was insulting or brutalizing Patriot any chance I got.

(Y/N): Shadow... no offense... but you need to stop acting like I'm the most perfect guy in the world. I'm far from perfect.

Shadow Moonlight: I know that.

(Y/N): Then why don't you ever give me a hard time for doing something stupid like destroying your pendant or yelling at you during Starswirled day one?!

Shadow Moonlight: ...

(Y/N): I know it's because you usually see the good in everything, but you've gotta stop with that, Shadow! If you feel the need to vent to me, then do it! Don't keep it to yourself and let it bottle up! I've screwed up with you so many times in the past that's done so much to hurt you, SO WHY AREN'T YOU MAD AT ME?!?!

Shadow Moonlight: Because it was my fault.

(Y/N): HOW?! I'M THE ONE WHO SHATTERED YOUR PENDANT, I'M THE ONE WHO DISMISSED YOUR WORRISOME FEELINGS ABOUT EDGE, I'M THE ONE WHO LET YOU DIE WHEN I SAW POSTCRUSH!!

Shadow Moonlight: Who was the one acting like a dick at the Friendship Games? Who was the one who wanted to have a trip without magic? Who was the one who screwed up the one chance his best friend had to see his idols? I'll give you a hint, only one of those questions is you.

You shook your head to those as tears filled your eyes.

(Y/N): Shadow... you were right to be mad at me at the Friendship Games because I left without saying goodbye. You only wanted to hang out with me during the festival and I was being selfish about it. I was the one who said that we should have a magic free vacation when I should have accepted the idea of magic following us no matter where we went. During all three of those events, I was being either an idiot or selfish.

Shadow Moonlight: One, it wasn't a big deal and I was being a whiny, edgy bitch about it at the games. Two, I should have considered more about what you wanted at the festival rather than mess it all up each time. And three, all you wanted was a break from dealing with magic situations which is understable since saving the day can be tiresome for anybody.

(Y/N): But... the worst thing I've done... is cause you to go back and change time itself.

Shadow Moonlight: To make us both happier.

(Y/N): Well, take a look at me, Shadow! Do I look happier to you?!

Shadow Moonlight: Perhaps you could if you give Patriot a chance.

(Y/N): But I don't want Patriot, I want you, Shadow!

Shadow Moonlight: *sigh* I told you this before, dude. Some people don't get happily ever afters. I'm one of the few.

(Y/N): That's not true and you know it, Shadow!

You sniffed while holding back the torrent of tears that threatened to stain your cheeks.

(Y/N): You can deny it, but I know the truth now. You didn't do it because you were mad at yourself. You did it... to get away from me... because I'm a freak.

Shadow Moonlight: *sad sigh* Okay, now you're just putting words into my mouth. I didn't do any of that. I had a lot of time to think on the hill before you came over. If I did what I did, you could have a new best friend who wouldn't steer you wrong the way I did, have the Shadowbolts and the Dazzlings in your harem because we both know how much the audience was craving for them, and I would be able to live my life with my parents. It works out for us both.

You shook your head slightly.

(Y/N): Shadow... you were one of the best things to ever happen to me. You were the first friend I ever had. The only one at the time who looked at me for me instead of seeing a monster.

Shadow Moonlight: Don't do that, Y/N. I'm what people call a ERP. Easily. Replaceable. Person.

(Y/N): Not to me, you weren't.

You turned away from him and stared down at your feet.

(Y/N): Shadow... maybe it was best that you changed your fate... but not for the reason you think.

Shadow Moonlight: Oh, no. Don't you start again with that dangerous crap! Dude, it's got nothing to do wi-

You put up a hand and stopped him.

(Y/N): I see it now. I... I never should have been given the luxury of coming to this world. I should have been killed back in Equestria alongside V/N. It's... it's what I deserve.

Shadow Moonlight: ... I feel like we're very far apart on this.

(Y/N): Shadow... your life... everyone's life... is better off without me, so... so I'm going to do the world a favor... by not being in society anymore.

Shadow Moonlight: And what do you hope to accomplish by doing that?

(Y/N): ...Keeping everyone else safe... from me.

Shadow Moonlight: I think you know that will only put them in more danger.

(Y/N): They... they hate me. They just... won't say it to my face.

Shadow Moonlight: No, dude. They hate ME.

(Y/N): But I didn't.

Shadow Moonlight: And like you said, they won't say it to my face.

(Y/N): Shadow... nothing you say will change my mind, for it's already made up.

Shadow Moonlight: So, this is what you're going to do? Just leave Canterlot after I gave you a better life?

(Y/N): A better life? Shadow... my life was already perfect with you in it... but now you're gone... because of me.

Shadow Moonlight: You know, if there's one thing we both have in common, it's being self-loathing. But, look, I left on my own terms. To give us both a life to enjoy. Look on the bright side, you have the Dazzlings, the Shadow Five, Moondancer, Sunlight, and since I'm not in the picture anymore, Juniper and Wallflower as well. See? More girls for you to love.

You looked forwards into the darkness until a thought came to mind as you turned back to him.

(Y/N): Shadow... I think there's a song that you need to hear to know just how I feel about you.

Shadow Moonlight: Whoa, whoa. Uhh, I...had no idea that you were bi, Y/N.

(Y/N): *sigh* Not like that, Shadow.

Shadow Moonlight: Oh... sorry. My bad.

You snapped your fingers and created several apparitions of the Rainbooms who all had their respectable instruments as you brought your hand up and summoned your double necked guitar and started playing a song while singing.

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

(Y/N) (Singing):

Shadow, now I know I was wrong

I messed up and now you're gone

Shadow, I'm sorry I neglected you, oh, I never expected you

To run away and leave me feeling this empty

Hearing you right now would sound like music to me

Please come home 'cause I miss you, buddy

Rainbooms (Singing):

"Shadow, come home"

(Y/N) (Singing):

Shadow, come home

Rainbooms (Singing):

"Shadow, come home"

(Y/N) (Singing):

Shadow, can't you see that I was blind?

I'll do anything to change your mind

More than a bro, you're my best friend

Too cool to forget, come back 'cause we are family

And forgive me for making you wanna roam

And now, my heart is beating like the saddest metronome

Somewhere I hope you're reading my latest three-word poem

"Shadow, Come Home"

Rainbooms (Singing):

"Shadow, come home"

(Y/N) (Singing):

Shadow, come home

Rainbooms (Singing):

"Shadow, come home"

(Y/N) (Singing):

Shadow, come home

Rainbooms (Singing):

"Shadow, come home"

(Y/N) (Singing):

Shadow, come home

Rainbooms (Singing):

"Shadow, come home"

(Y/N) (Singing):

Ah, Shadow, come home

Shadow, come home

Shadow, won't you come home?

[End Song]

The song finally came to an end as you made the Rainbooms' apparitions disappear along with your instruments.

(Y/N): Do you get it now, Shadow? I miss you. Not just as my friend, but as my brother too. I'm not complete without you in my life.

Shadow Moonlight: That... that was nice, Y/N. We had a good run but, it's time to let go. I'm just happy to have met you in the first place.

He then walked forwards and put his hands on your shoulders.

Shadow Moonlight: Please, promise me this. Just... live your life without me in it. It's better that way. As much as I appreciated the song, I... I can't come back. I've messed up too many times to warrant another chance. At least, you'll finally have the Shadowbolts and...Sunny to love. She deserves someone like you.

He let go of your shoulders before walking backwards.

(Y/N): I... I don't think I can do that, Shadow.

Shadow Moonlight: Because?

(Y/N): Because I'm not you.

Shadow Moonlight: You mean a guy that was never in her life? There's plenty of those, Y/N. You though, aren't one of them.

He then waved to you.

Shadow Moonlight: Take care... Y/N.

He smiled one final time before disappearing into the darkness as you finally snapped back to the real world. Patriot was looking at you with a concerned look on his face.

Patriot: Y/N, if something's bothering you, I wanna hear it.

Your eyes slowly drifted up to him before shaking your head.

(Y/N): It's nothing, Patriot. I... I think I forgot something at home. I'm gonna pop over there really quick.

Patriot: But, what about-

You quickly snapped your fingers and teleported away leaving him alone and very confused. You appeared back in your room back home and walked over to where your school backpack was. You picked it up and emptied its contents on the floor before you started filling it with clothes, energy bars, and a few water bottles. You then got out a pen and paper and started writing down onto it. As you did so, a few tears escaped your eyes and landed on the paper staining it with the sad liquid in a few areas. Once you were finally finished with the note, you set it down on your nightstand before snapping your fingers again and appearing on the same hilltop that you fought Patriot at. You looked back at Canterlot city for a second or two while having one last thought.

(Y/N): *thinking* I'm sorry, girls. I can't be around you anymore. Not when I've done the most unthinkable act possible. And I'm sorry to you, Shadow... for failing you as a friend.  I... I just can't anymore.

You sniffed before looking back at Canterlot one final time.

(Y/N): Goodbye... everyone.

With that, you turned and started your journey away from Canterlot. You weren't sure where you intended on going, but as long as it was far away from this city, you didn't care where you ended up.

Meanwhile, at the festival, the Rainbooms, Shadow Five, Gloriosa, Wallflower, Juniper, and the Dazzlings were around by the RV idly chatting with one another over various bits of gossip and generally having a great time while enjoying each other's company. However, the tranquil moment was shattered when Patriot came running by and got everyone's attention.

Patriot: Guys! Has Y/N come back to the RV yet?

He asked in a worried voice.

Sunny Flare: No, dearie. I thought he was with you.

Sunset Shimmer: What's wrong? Did something happen to him?

Patriot: I don't know. He said that he had forgotten something back home and just... teleported away.

Aria Blaze: Then he probably went home to get it.

She rolls her eyes.

Patriot: I... I don't think so. Something about his body language suggested that he may have been lying.

Rainbow Dash: Look, will it ease your mind if I quickly ran over to check on him?

Patriot: It would. Thanks Rainbow.

Rainbow Dash: No problem. Be back in a sec, guys.

She grabbed her geode and sped off towards Canterlot. She continued to run down the streets until your home finally came up as she went inside to look for you.

Rainbow Dash: Y/N! You here, babe?

She called out to you only to be met with silence. She then looked all around the house while calling your name only to be met with the same result. Her search lasted until she made it to your room. She looked inside and noticed the pile you made due to clearing out your backpack and she raised an eyebrow.

Rainbow Dash: That's... odd. Why would he come back just to empty his backpack?

She thought out loud as she looked around the room to see if there was any sign of you anywhere. Her eyes continued to search until they landed on the note you left on the nightstand. She walked over to it and picked it up before reading it. As she read, her face slowly grew into that of worry until it became a look of pure panic.

Rainbow Dash: No... no, he couldn't have!

She folded the note before zooming out of the house and back towards the festival. Within moments, she arrived back and stopped back at the RV where the others still were as they looked back at her in surprise.

Sunset Shimmer: That was quick. So, was he there?

She asked before seeing Rainbow's current expression. The normal egotistical look on her face was replaced with that of genuine worry which made Sunset stand up and walk over to her.

Rainbow Dash: You... you all need to read this.

She reached into her pocket and pulled out the note before presenting it to Sunset who proceeded to take it and open it on a nearby table. As she did, the others gathered around in order to see what the note said.

"Everyone...

I'm sorry... but I can't be around you all anymore. Thanks to reasons that I can't explain in great detail, I've lost something that was really precious to me. Something that I heavily took for granted more than anything. This past year has been good to me, but I'm afraid it has to come to an end now. Please, don't try to search for me, for I don't deserve that amount of care from any of you. To the Rainbooms, I love you girls more than anything in the world and that won't ever go away, but I'm too dangerous to be around any of you. I've tried my best to be a savior... but I failed. So... I'm doing what I should have done a long time ago; separating myself from the public. I plan to live by myself in the middle of nowhere where I can't hurt anyone whether it be physically or emotionally. Hopefully, you girls will move on from me eventually. I guess... this is my fate now. What's meant to happen. But know this. You all will always have a special place in my heart for as long as I live. The one good thing I can offer this world... is not being part of it.

Yours,

Y/N L/N"

They all finally finished reading the note as they all had a look of worry on their faces.

Rarity: He... he ran away?!

Fluttershy: But...but I don't understand? He never failed at being the savior, so why is he saying that he is?

Rainbow Dash: We're all just as confused as you are, Fluttershy.

Sunset, meanwhile, could only stare down at the paper with a look of worry/bafflement over your disappearance as she honestly, truly couldn't believe that this was happening.

Sunset Shimmer: Has... has he said anything lately? About failing at something or failing someone?

Patriot: Not that I know of.

He said while the other girls said the same thing. Sunset stared forwards into nothingness as tears started to fill her eyes.

Sunset Shimmer: *whisper* Y/N... where did you go?

Pinkie Pie: I-It'll be fine, guys! I-I'm sure h-he'll realize what he's doing and he'll come back!

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(Three Months Later)

A lot of time has passed and so far, you haven't returned from...wherever it was you went to. In between that time, your girls as well as all of CHS and your parents had searched far and wide all over the city in hopes of finding you. Several missing persons posters with your face on them were planted everywhere around the city in case anyone had found you and several search parties were organized, but you weren't turning up anywhere. They tried to call your phone, but you never answered and they couldn't track it either due to you shutting it off. Your parents were in an emotional rut since then. Your mom would always cry at the mere mention of you while your dad had almost lost his job several times due to being a little too angry and rough with some criminals due to taking his frustrations of not finding you out on them. As time progressed, the girls themselves were starting to lose hope of ever seeing you again and it was affecting them in different, terrible ways. The same went for CHS. Everyone there was either in a terrible mood, didn't feel like conversing amongst themselves, or was just downright unpleasant to each other. Suffice to say, things around CHS had gone downhill as of late.

Right now, the girls were all in your house's living room while discussing the situation.

Sunset Shimmer: We... we can't just give up, you guys. Y/N will come back. I'm sure of it.

Indigo Zap: Well, where else can we go that we haven't already? We've searched all of Canterlot. And we don't know if he went to another city, state, or even another country. He could literally be anywhere.

Wallflower Blush: I still don't understand why he left in the first place. He said that he had failed his job of being a savior, but where exactly did he fail at being one?

Rainbow Dash: *sigh* I'm not sure, but whatever it was apparently was bad enough to make him leave.

Sunny Flare: Why couldn't he just tell us?

Applejack: Beats me but, regardless of why he's gone, his disappearance has affected us all in different ways.

Lemon Zest: Yeah, and I think the one who bears the brunt of it all is Pinkie.

They looked to see Pinkie with a distraught look, a forced smile, and a crazed look in her eye.

Pinkie Pie: Y/N's missing?! Hah! What are you all talking about?! He's been right here the whole time! Right, actual Y/N?!

She reached off to the side only to bring over a crudely made mannequin lookalike of you that was cobbled together with various objects meshed together.

Pinkie Pie: *imitating Y/N* Right, Pinkie Pie! By the way, you're my favorite girlfriend ever! *speaking* *laughs* Aww, thanks, sweetie!

She hugged the mannequin tightly only for its head to fall off. Everyone else gazed back at her with concerned faces.

Patriot: Yeah, we uh... definitely see him, Pinkie.

He said as he rubbed the back of his head.

Sugarcoat: She's in denial. That's what this is.

Sunny Flare: Leave her alone, Sugarcoat. She's trying to find solace in anything she can.

Patriot: *sigh* I'm tired of this. I'm tired of all of us worrying about Y/N's whereabouts.  I don't know why he's gone, but I intend to get an answer.

Rarity: What's your plan, Patriot darling?

Patriot: Well, I may have a clue to why he's acting like this.

Fluttershy: What would that be?

Patriot: Okay, a long time ago, before I met Y/N, I was getting bullied a lot by others. Everyone saw me as a weak and frail jerk since I had no friends and my parents...weren't around anymore. One day, I was in the middle of getting picked on when this teenager came out of nowhere and defended me. I don't know what he looks like but, he said his name was Shadow Moonlight.

He said as they all got a look of confusion, especially the Shadowbolt girls.

Indigo Zap: Shadow... Moonlight?

Sunny Flare: I don't know why, but that name sounds... familiar for some reason.

Patriot: I guess a lot of people are familiar with him. Anyway, he helped me back onto my feet and took me to the playground where I met Y/N and encouraged me to go talk to him. After me and Y/N became friends, he disappeared. I never saw him again.

Lemon Zest: So, this "Shadow Moonlight" is the reason why you and Y/N are friends?

Patriot: Yeah, I don't know how he knew Y/N, but he did. Although, Y/N did say that this guy was supposedly his best friend which sounds kinda weird since me and him have been friends our entire lives.

Juniper Montage: He... claimed that they were friends? That's kinda weird.

Moondancer: And also a bit insulting to you since it sounds like he prefers this "Shadow" over you.

Patriot: Well... here's the weird thing, I wasn't all that offended by it. In fact, I was more confused rather than insulted. But anyways, my point is, Shadow might be the reason why he ran away because when I brought up the story to him, he suddenly went all quiet for several moments while just... staring off into space. When I asked him what was wrong, he finally turned back to me and dismissed me before coming up with that excuse that he left something back home and... that was the last time I saw him.

Gloriosa Daisy: Wait a minute...wait a minute!

She sprung up with a smile on her face gaining everyone's attention instantly.

Patriot: Did you have an epiphany of sorts, Glori?

Gloriosa Daisy: Yeah, I did! I recognize that name! He was a frequent visitor of Camp Everfree!

Fluttershy: Really? When was that?

Gloriosa Daisy: Well, up until Y/N and the rest of you came.

Applejack: Right before we had the trip?

Gloriosa nods.

Gloriosa Daisy: He used to visit the camp a lot back then, but lately, he hasn't come by for a visit.

Sunlight Shimmer: Do you know if he's still in Canterlot?

Gloriosa Daisy: I think so. I have seen him a few times around Canterlot.

Sunset Shimmer: Hey! Why don't we go see him?! He might know something about Y/N's whereabouts!

Patriot: Well, I wouldn't hold my breath with that last part, Sunset, but I agree that we should go see him.

Indigo Zap: Then what are we waiting for! Let's go!

Sci-Twi: Yeeeaaahhh, except we have absolutely no idea where he lives.

She pointed out resulting in everyone else sweat dropping.

Sunset Shimmer: U-Umm, right. We've... yet to figure that part out.

She sheepishly said before scratching the back of her head.

Patriot: Well, it shouldn't be that difficult. We can ask around and see if other people know where he lives.

Sunny Flare: A sound idea, dearie!

Sugarcoat: The most rational solution to help us track him down faster would be to split up.

Lemon Zest: Great thinking, Sugar! Come on, guys! Let's go ask some people in the town!

Everyone else voiced their agreement before heading out with the exception of Pinkie who was still hugging your mannequin lookalike.

Rainbow Dash: Uhhh... should we... bring her along with us?

Patriot: Probably the best idea. Though, the first question should be who's gonna pry her off of "Y/N"?

Applejack: *sigh* I'll handle it.

She grabbed her geode before walking over to Pinkie and pulled her away from the mannequin with a great deal of strength before grabbing her and hoisting the party girl over her shoulder much to her dismay.

Pinkie Pie: N-No! No, no, no! I wanna go back to Y/N! I wanna be with Y/N!

Applejack: *grunts* Pinkie! You'll be able to snuggle him later! *struggle* Right now, we've gotta go find Shadow!

She said while trying her best to keep Pinkie on her shoulder who was currently thrashing about wildly.

Pinkie Pie: No! Y/N needs more cuddles and snuggles! I need more cuddles and snuggles!

She shouted as Applejack hauled her out the front door as the others followed behind.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Miles away, we see the city of Trottingham which was very much like Canterlot in some ways. However, what set it apart was that it was much more of a city than Canterlot as there were a lot more skyscrapers and busy streets filled with cars that did their usual hustle and bustle.

We then pan out to the end of the city as it too was surrounded by a vast dense forest. The camera zooms in on a lone figure walking out of the forest while wearing a hoodie to conceal their features. They pulled up their hood as their face was exposed to the midday sun. This person... was you.

You see, you had spent the past few months hiding out in the wilderness of Trottingham in order to avoid being near society. In the time that you were by yourself, you had built a shelter in the middle of the woods. It was a bit crude, but it managed to shelter you from the elements as well as any animals that wanted to take a bite out of you. Your appearance has changed in a few areas. You now had some slight stubble on your face and you had slightly lost some of your muscle that you had built up throughout the years. You still maintained a good form, but it wasn't as built as it was before you had left Canterlot.

However, you couldn't strictly stick to being in the wilderness forever since you would have probably ended up as a savage at that point, so you resorted to heading into town a few times in order to get a few essentials you needed. And this is what you were doing now as you started walking into the city with your hood back up in order to conceal your identity. News of your disappearance from Canterlot had spread like wildfire, so you tried your best to conceal your identity as best as you could. Hence, another reason why you barely ventured into Trottingham in the first place.

Anyways, you were walking down the busy sidewalk with your hands in your coat pockets while staring ahead. However, someone reading the newspaper on a bench to the left of you caught your eye as you looked at the article he was reading. You sighed at seeing that it had a missing person's picture of you on it.

(Y/N): *thinking* Every day... it just gets harder and harder for me to not wanna go back... but I can't... not after screwing up not only as a savior, but as a friend too.

You looked to the ground before sighing again.

(Y/N): *thinking* I'm sorry girls... but I can't come back... I can't ever come back.

You looked back up and started heading to the right when you accidentally bumped into someone hard causing the both of you to fall to the floor. The shock of the hit dazed you for a second before you shook it away.

(Y/N): O-Oh! Sorry about that. I wasn't looking where I was going.

???: Hey, no worries. We all make mistakes.

They answered as your eyes widened upon realizing something... you recognized that voice. Your eyes quickly turned to see who you had bumped into you before freezing. The person you ran into was... you. Except, it wasn't V/N, but rather... another lookalike of you. That's when you realized something else... this must be your human self! The one that the human Dazzlings were talking about!

He rubbed his head a few times before glancing over at you and freezing as well when he saw your face underneath your hoodie.

Human (Y/N): W-Wha-Whaaaa?

He stuttered with his words as you put your hands up in a stopping motion.

(Y/N): *whisper* Okay... don't freak out... just... keep calm... alright?

Human (Y/N): I-I... uhhhh...

You sprung into action by grabbing him, activating your geode, and quickly taking him into an alleyway that was far away enough for nobody to listen in on you.

(Y/N): *whisper* Look, look, look! I know that this is probably very jarring for you right now. Trust me, I'd be acting the same way as you are, but do me the kindest favor and calm down, okay?

You asked him as he nodded his head with your hand still covering his mouth.

(Y/N): *whisper* Listen... I'm gonna take my hand... off of your mouth... and you will be quiet, alright?

You asked, garnering another nod from him.

(Y/N): *whisper* Okay.

You removed your hand from his mouth, but was immediately met with a loud scream from him causing you to slap your hand over his mouth once again.

(Y/N): *whisper* Would you just shut up!?

He shook his head and removed your hand allowing him to speak.

Human (Y/N): *whisper* How can I?! It's not every day you come across your doppelganger!

(Y/N): *whisper* Haven't you looked in a mirror before?

Human (Y/N): *whisper* *sigh* You know what I mean! What are you even doing here?

(Y/N): *whisper* *sigh* It's a long story. Let's go find somewhere else and talk it out.

Human (Y/N): *whisper* I know a good tavern we can go to.

(Y/N): *whisper* Uhh, bad idea. I'd rather not go anywhere public.

Human (Y/N): *whisper* Can't get any more public than out here. The only place I can think of that would be secretive would be my place.

(Y/N): *whisper* Then let's go there.

You said as he nodded before the both of you walked out of the alley and towards your human self's home. Once the both of you made it, he unlocked the front door before letting you inside. It was a regular two story building that was kind of like your house in a way aside from a few changes here and there. He led you upstairs and down a hallway before opening one particular door at the end and leading you into what looked like his room. He had a desk, posters from various franchises, and a queen size bed in the corner.

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

Human (Y/N): Okay, here's my pad. It's not much, but it's my space.

(Y/N): Huh. I'd say it's not too shabby.

Human (Y/N): Heh. Thanks "me."

He responded which got a small chuckle out of you. He sat down on the bed while you sat at his desk.

(Y/N): So, judging by your earlier reaction, I assume that it wasn't just because I was your lookalike, was it?

Human (Y/N): *sigh* You got me. Yeah. I know all about you, dude. Your girlfriend... Rainbow Dash was it? Well, she posted all those photos and videos of you on SnapGap and your kind of a big name on there now.

(Y/N): *sigh* Yeah. That's what I was afraid of.

Human (Y/N): A lot of people mistake me for you which makes sense since I technically AM you but, still.

(Y/N): Well... I guess that must be a pain for you, isn't it?

Human (Y/N): Eh, in some ways, it is. But, I don't hold it against you or anything like that. You want something from the kitchen? You look like you haven't eaten in months.

(Y/N): I'm... I'm fine, thank you.

Your stomach growled loudly as soon as you said that as your human self smirked back at you smugly.

Human (Y/N): It seems that your stomach disagrees. Wait here. I'll fix us something up.

He stood up before walking out of the room. Minutes passed before he came back with a few plates of (F/F) and he handed one to you.

(Y/N): Soooo...you know how to cook?

Human (Y/N): Yeah, sort of something I decided to teach myself. Since I don't really have anyone to look after me, I've been doing a lot of things on my own. School, part-time jobs, cooking, etc. Had to do it all myself.

(Y/N): You... live alone?

Human (Y/N): *sigh* Yep. I've been trying to develop a social circle but, nothing's really working out.

(Y/N): Is... that my doing?

Human (Y/N): What? No, of course not. I've just had a lot of trouble trying to get to know other people. You're me, so I don't really have that much trouble talking to you.

(Y/N): Heh, I guess that's another thing we have in common besides our looks. You're the first person I've had a long conversation with in a while.

Human (Y/N): I figured as much. How long have you been away from Canterlot?

(Y/N): About... three months I'd say.

Human (Y/N): Three months? How were you keeping track of that without a calendar? Cellular data plans are different up here than in Canterlot.

(Y/N): The newspaper. I pass by it sometimes which allows me to see the date it was printed on.

Human (Y/N): Makes sense.

You both then started eating your meals in relative silence for the next few moments before he decided to ask you something.

Human (Y/N): Why... did you leave Canterlot?

You stopped eating and peered up at him as a sad expression became apparent on your face.

(Y/N): I... I failed someone who was really close to me... and I couldn't live there while everything around me was a constant reminder of that someone.

Human (Y/N): So... you just left?

He asked as you nodded soon after.

Human (Y/N): You mean you left all your other friends, your parents, and your harem behind because of this one person? I get that they were most likely close to you but, you shouldn't have walked out on everyone else.

(Y/N): *sigh* It's not just about him. I'm... I'm dangerous to everyone around me. I nearly choked someone to death because I couldn't control my anger. I can't stay around them knowing that they're at risk 24/7 as long as I'm there... or anywhere for that matter.

Human (Y/N): Well, you seem to have no problem being around me.

(Y/N): Because we're literally the same guy.

Human (Y/N): That may be so, but even though we look the same, we're still technically different people. Look, all I'm saying is that you can't just give up on everything and everyone you've worked for for so long.

(Y/N): It's not that simple. Do you think I like doing this? Because I don't. It's for the safety of everybody that I remain out of society as much as I can. Unfortunately, that also means having to leave those that mattered to me more than anything.

Human (Y/N): Buddy, let me clue you in. Life isn't all about playing it safe. I mean, look at me. I've done a lot of reckless things throughout my experiences since I had nobody to guide me. You can't keep everyone safe but, you can ensure it by being there for them.

(Y/N): Even if there's the possibility that my anger could lead to them being killed?

Human (Y/N): Would you stop with that already? Geez, this is the guy I keep getting mistaken for? *sigh* Look, anger is a normal emotion as any other. If you're afraid of it getting out of control, then you need to find a way to moderate the buildup.

(Y/N): And how can I, human me? You're not aware of this, but V/N, my evil side, said that I was turning out just like him and due to an event that happened prior to that... I'm thinking that he might have been ri-

You were silenced by a slap across the face as your cheek started to sting. You rubbed it before looking back at your human self who was glaring back at you.

Human (Y/N): Don't. You. DARE. finish that sentence. First of all, I'd prefer not to be called "human me" since you're just as human as I am. Second, V/N can say that you're turning out like him all he wants but, at the end of the day, it's you who can determine if that's true or not. He may be part of you but, he's not you and he never will!

He then put a single hand on your shoulder.

Human (Y/N): Dude, you're the Savior of CHS. The one who managed to solve just about everyone's problems without ever asking for anything in return. So much so that you earned a harem of girls that truly loved you with all their heart and souls. Think about what you've got from being by yourself this whole time. By running away from that, you just took away every good thing that happened to you. Imagine how your friends must feel, how your parents must feel, how your girlfriends must feel. Do you think that by running away from the best thing that ever happened to you is doing any favors for them? Because I'll tell you for free right now that it isn't.

(Y/N): I'm a threat, dude. With these stupid magical powers, I've done nothing but put others in great danger.

Human (Y/N): You honestly think powers are the main problem here?

He asked as he held his hand out as a (F/C) ball of magic emits from it, much to your shock.

(Y/N): But... how?

Human (Y/N): I don't know how I have them but, I know that these aren't dangerous unless you use them the wrong way. Which, from the looks of things, it seems like you haven't.

(Y/N): But... but how do I know that I won't end up hurting someone in the future?

Human (Y/N): You don't, just go with the flow. You can't plan for every terrible outcome but you can do your best to make an effort. When it comes to those you care about, sometimes you've gotta cut a few corners. Look, you don't have to make a decision right now, but at least try to consider what I'm getting at, okay?

You looked away and thought over his words in your head. His words were meaningful, but you still were not entirely sure if you were ready to go back yet. Still, you gave your most honest answer despite what was going on in your head.

(Y/N): I'll... I'll try.

He nods with a smile.

Human (Y/N): Good. Like I said, you don't have to make a decision right away. I'm willing to let you stay here until you make up your mind.

(Y/N): O-Oh, I wouldn't wanna impose.

Human (Y/N): No, it's cool. It'd be nice to have some company for once. Especially if that company is me.

(Y/N): *jokingly* Heh. Bit of an ego, much?

You joked as he chuckled before punching your shoulder lightly.

Human (Y/N): Don't let it get to "my" head.

He joked as well.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back in Canterlot, Sunset, Patriot, and everyone else had finally figured out where Shadow's home was located thanks to asking people around the area. They followed the address they were given until it led them to a small house in the rich district of Canterlot.

Patriot: This must be the place.

Lemon Zest: I can't believe we've been living in the same neighborhood with this guy and didn't know it up until now.

Sunny Flare: Neither can any of us, Zesty. But that's not our main concern right now. Let's go see if he's home.

Sunset Shimmer: Right.

She nodded as did everyone else before they walked up to the front door before ringing the doorbell. They waited for a moment or two before the door opened as the person behind it was revealed to be Shadow Moonlight himself. He took one look at the crowd of high school students standing in his front yard before sighing as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

Shadow Moonlight: Is this another intervention? *groans* Alright, look, I stopped taking the Flintstone Vitamins a long time ago, okay? I even burned a few to make sure of it.

Sunset Shimmer: Ummm... we're not here for that.

Shadow Moonlight: Oh...then what are you here for? 

Rainbow Dash: Does Shadow Moonlight live here?

Shadow Moonlight: Um, yeah? What can I do for you?

Patriot: Oh... well... this might sound crazy but... you wouldn't happen to... remember me, right?

He asked. Shadow looked up and down at him for a few seconds while putting a hand on his chin.

Shadow Moonlight: Hmmm...I don't think so. 

Patriot: So... you don't remember meeting me as a kid?

Shadow Moonlight: Dude, I've never met anybody as a kid. I'm homeschooled.

Applejack: Homeschooled? But, does the name Y/N L/N ring a bell in any way because he seemed to believe that he knew you?

Shadow Moonlight: Uh, you talking about that Savior guy who goes around on countless magical adventures and came from another world? I mean, I don't know him personally but, I know of him.

Sunset then grabbed his wrist before looking into his memories. She soon snapped out of it a few seconds later.

Sunset Shimmer: You... really don't remember him.

Shadow Moonlight: Is...what is that supposed to mean? 

Patriot: Look, this is gonna sound nuts, but you saved me a long time ago when I was being bullied by some older kids, at least, I'm pretty sure it was you. He looked a lot like you.

Indigo Zap: I thought you said you didn't know what he looked like.

Patriot: Well, I didn't see his face, but I did hear his voice and it sounded a lot like yours, Shadow.

Shadow Moonlight: Uhh... you sure he sounded like me? You did say this was from a long time ago.

Patriot: I may not remember a lot of things, but I'm absolutely certain that the both of you sound alike.

Shadow Moonlight: If you say so. I don't remember him but even if I did, what exactly do you need me for?

Sunset sighed before stepping forwards.

Sunset Shimmer: Look, we're really sorry to have bothered you, but we're desperate right now. I don't know if you've heard anything from the past three months, but Y/N's gone missing.

Shadow Moonlight: Oh, I'm fully aware of that. My parents are trying to raise money to support his parents.

Fluttershy: *sigh* Yeah. His parents are so distraught by him being gone.

Shadow Moonlight: Okay, so he's missing but, what exactly does that have to do with me? I don't know much about him or any possible places where he could or could not have been.

Rainbow Dash: Well, it's like Applejack here said, Y/N claimed to have known you so we assumed that you had some possible leads for us.

Shadow Moonlight: Listen, he's got the wrong guy. I don't have any memory of him.

Patriot: I don't think so. He said your name specifically, dude, so he must have known you in some shape or form.

Shadow Moonlight: *sigh* Maybe he did, maybe he didn't but, standing here talking about this isn't gonna do you any good.

Sunset's eyes started to water.

Sunset Shimmer: S-So... you really don't know him or have seen him at least?

Shadow Moonlight: Well, not directly. Although, I—hold on a second. I completely forgot!

He shouted suddenly which made everyone jump.

Sunny Flare: Forgot what, dearie?

Shadow Moonlight: I've been chatting with a pen pal of mine who goes by that exact name. I forgot about it because I call him something completely different.

Gloriosa Daisy: Wait. What are you getting at?

Shadow Moonlight: If you're looking for him, he lives in Trottingham. Further north of Canterlot.

Dagi Dazzle: Trottingham? But...

She looked down upon realizing something.

Shadow Moonlight: But what?

Dagi Dazzle: But that's where... the human Y/N is said to live. The Y/N Ari, Sonny, and I knew about before coming to Canterlot.

Shadow Moonlight: Human Y/N? Aren't we all human?

Sunset Shimmer: It's... complicated, Shadow. The short answer is that the Y/N we're looking for is from a different world called Equestria, but the Y/N Dagi's referring to is the one you know of.

Shadow Moonlight: *sigh* Well, even if it's not him, perhaps he may have a lead on where this "other Y/N" may be.

Sunset Shimmer: Then... then we'll go and have a look.

She turned and walked past the crowd as Patriot called out to her.

Patriot: Sunset, hold on! We don't know if this is the Y/N we know of.

Sunset Shimmer: I don't care. I'm still gonna look anyways.

Shadow Moonlight: Well, can you do that after I call him? I don't want you to aimlessly wander into the middle of nowhere.

Applejack: He's got a point, sugarcube.

Sunset looked down at the floor before sighing.

Sunset Shimmer: Okay... make the call... please?

Shadow Moonlight: Of course. Just give me a moment.

He pulls out his phone and walks inside. He then stops for a second and turns back to the crowd.

Shadow Moonlight: You guys wanna come in?

Sunny Flare: We... we wouldn't wanna intrude, dearie.

Shadow Moonlight: It's fine. My parents don't mind and I wanna help you get your Y/N back.

He stepped aside and allowed everyone to come in as he dialed the human you's number. Meanwhile, back in Trottingham, the human you was playing on his game console while you were watching him.

(Y/N): So, I guess you've always been a fan of gaming?

Human (Y/N): Are you kidding? I was hooked the moment my tiny, stubby little baby fingers could hold a controller. Since then, I've mastered my skills.

(Y/N); Heh. Maybe you and I can battle each other to see who's the best.

Human (Y/N): Heh. Challenge accepted, my friend.

He said as the both of you chuckled. Suddenly, his phone which was sitting on his nightstand started ringing which got both your attention.

Human (Y/N): I'll get it.

He paused the game before walking over, picking up his phone, and answering the call.

Human (Y/N): Hello?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Hey, Slick.

Human (Y/N): Shad? Hey, man. What can I do for you?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): I don't mean to interrupt you but, there's like this whole horde of teens that are looking for you. Or rather this quote unquote "other Y/N". Just wanted to ask if you've seen anybody around that's a spitting image of you. 

Your human self's eyes widened before glancing over at you. He then stood and walked into the bathroom in order to get more privacy.

Human (Y/N): *whispering* Actually, he's in my home right now.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): He is? Oh, good. That's a relief. I'll be helping these teens get to Trottingham, you think you can keep him occupied until then?

Human (Y/N): *whispering* Actually... I think I can get him to come to you guys.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Like, with an uber or something?

Human (Y/N): *whispering* Not exactly. I had a little talk with him about coming back home and I think I may have gotten through to him. Look, do you think you can give me a moment?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Sure.

He put down the phone before walking back into his bedroom to see you still sitting on his bed while looking at his posters.

Human (Y/N): Dude, I think you may want to consider making that decision a little sooner now.

You looked back at him curiously.

(Y/N): Why's that?

Human (Y/N): My buddy, Shadow Moonlight called and—

(Y/N): Wait, SHADOW MOONLIGHT?!?!

You screamed causing him to be pushed back slightly by the sheer volume of your voice as his ears rang a little.

Human (Y/N): OW?!

(Y/N): S-Sorry! But... did you just say, Shadow Moonlight?

Human (Y/N): Yeah, he's my pen pal from Canterlot.

(Y/N): So... he's still around?

Human (Y/N): Ummm... yeah? Look, he wanted to know if you were here and I told him that you were. It turns out that those friends of yours are looking for you.

Your face of excitement started to slowly drift into that of sadness upon hearing that.

(Y/N): Oh... but, I-

Human (Y/N): Dude, remember what we talked about. Don't let your fear of being dangerous get in the way of your loved ones.

He put a hand on your shoulder.

Human (Y/N): You can do this. I know you can.

(Y/N): *sigh* ...Hopefully.

He nodded before walking back into the bathroom and coming back into the room as he put his phone on speaker.

Human (Y/N): Hey, Shad, do you mind putting those friends of his on speaker for me?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Uh, yeah, sure.

The two of you heard him speak.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): *distantly* Good news, guys. Your Y/N's with him.

Everyone (Over Phone): *distantly* HE IS?!?!

You both heard them shout with glee in their voices.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): *distantly* Can we please speak to him?!

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): *distantly* Yeah, go ahead.

You then heard him pass the phone to them as Sunset's voice was now a lot more clearer.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): Y/N? Is... is this really you? Please tell me it is!

She asked in a pleading voice as the human you offered his phone to you.

Human (Y/N): *whispering* You're up.

You looked down at his phone hesitantly before grabbing it slowly and holding it in front of you.

(Y/N): S-S-Sunset?

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): Y/N!! IT IS YOU!!

She shouted as you heard everyone else cheer with happiness.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): Y/N please come back home! We miss you! I miss you!

Rainbow Dash (Over Phone): Yeah, babe! Whatever's bothering you, we wanna help you!

Applejack (Over Phone): You've gotta come back, hon! We're incomplete without you in our lives!

Lemon Zest (Over Phone): Yeah, dude! We need you back!

Fluttershy (Over Phone): We're so worried about you, Y/N!

Sunny Flare (Over Phone): Y/N...we love you, I love you and we need you to come back. Please... 

She pleaded as you can tell in all their voices that they were crying right now.

(Y/N): *thinking* I... I guess since Shadow altered the past, that I'm now dating the Shadowbolt girls. That explains that part.

Pinkie Pie (Over Phone): *distantly* Is... is that really him?

Applejack (Over Phone): It's really him, Pinkie and not some crudely made mannequin.

You heard some scuffling.

Pinkie Pie (Over Phone): S-S-Sweetie?

(Y/N): *sigh* Yeah... it's me, Pinks.

There was a moment of silence before Pinkie blew out yours and your human self's ears with her booming voice.

Pinkie Pie (Over Phone): Oh, Y/N...I MISS YOU! I LOVE YOU SO, SO MUCH!!  PLEASE COME BACK TO ME, MY HANDSOME CUPCAKE!!

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): O-kay... I... think I'm gonna hold the phone now, Pinkie.

You heard the phone being passed to Sunset.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): Look Y/N, whatever it is you're going through, we want to help.

Indigo Zap (Over Phone): Yeah, man. We don't want to see you suffering like this.

Sugarcoat (Over Phone): Although, we can't do that if you're all the way in Trottingham.

Dagi Dazzle (Over Phone): She's right, dear.

Adagio Dazzle (Over Phone): Running away from your problems won't help you, dear. Take it from us.

(Y/N): Are... are you on our side now?

Adagio Dazzle (Over Phone): *sigh* I... I'd like to, but I can't. We made a deal with V/N a long time ago and now... now our pendants are tied to his power.

Aria Blaze (Over Phone): Patriot had us come here.

Sonata Dusk (Over Phone): Look, we might not be on the same side, but we wanna help in any way we can too.

Wallflower Blush (Over Phone): All we want is our savior back.

(Y/N): *thinking* Wallflower?! She wasn't part of Shadow's harem! Although...there were some signs that she may have liked him.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): Y/N... we just want you home. You've been gone for the past three months and everything has gotten worse ever since you left. V/N might attack at any moment and we can't defend Canterlot without you to lead us. Please...please come back to us...to me....I love you.  

You heard her voice break at the end there as you heard her start to sniffle a few times. You glanced back up at your human self as he gave you a nod. You sighed internally to yourself.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): Y/N? Are... you still there?

(Y/N): ...Yeah... I'm still here. I'll... I'll come back... to all of you.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): You... you will?

She asked hopefully.

(Y/N): Yeah... I will. Meet me by CHS in about three hours. That... should give Pinkie enough time to... do what she does best.

You said with a bit of a smirk as you heard the party girl gasp.

Pinkie Pie (Over Phone): ABSOLUTELY, SWEETIE!!! I'LL THROW YOU THE BEST WELCOME HOME PARTY EVER!!! I'LL EVEN INVITE EVERYONE AT CHS!!

(Y/N): Heh... you go ahead and do that, Pinks.

You heard her run off before the phone was passed to Sunset once again.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): We'll... we'll be waiting, baby. Just... come back to us in one piece.

(Y/N): I will. I... I love you, Sunshine.

Sunset Shimmer (Over Phone): I love you too, my Savior.

Rainbow Dash (Over Phone): Hey! What about the rest of us?

(Y/N): *sigh* I love you girls, too. You all know I do.

You then hear the phone get passed back to Patriot as his voice was now a lot more clearer.

Patriot (Over Phone): So, are you gonna come back, dude?

(Y/N): Well...I guess so but, can I speak to Shadow?

Patriot (Over Phone): Y/N...he doesn't remember you.

(Y/N): I know but I just wanna talk to him.

Patriot (Over Phone): *sigh* Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you.

You hear the crumbling sounds of the phone being handed to someone once again, presumably to Shadow as you soon heard his voice.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Uh, hi...other Slick.

(Y/N): Shadow... it... it really is you.

You said with a slight smile on your face.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Uh, Slick? How does this other guy know me?

Human (Y/N): Beats the heck outta me, Shade, but he was absolutely certain that he somehow knew you.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Okay, well listen, Slick—er Y/N, I'm pretty sure you got the wrong guy.

(Y/N): *sigh* Look, I know that it sounds impossible, but you and I are friends... or... at least we used to be.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): I mean, I'm technically friends with you. Just not you you. *sigh* Look, I don't know what's going on but, can you just come back here and sort out whatever it is that made you wanna leave? I don't mind your friends' company but, they really do miss you.

(Y/N): I'm... I'm sorry to be forcing all of this on you all of a sudden.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Eh, I've been in worse situations before. Besides, nothing pleases me more than witnessing others' content.

(Y/N) & Human (Y/N): Heh, don't I know it.

Human (Y/N): Jinx!

(Y/N): Aww, man! I was just about to say that too!

You heard everyone chuckle on the other line to that.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): *sigh* Twins... Anyway, just come back to Canterlot and explain what's on your mind. I'm actually quite curious to know too now that I'm involved.

(Y/N): Well... I hope you're the type that enjoys long storytelling. *thinking* At least, I hope you're the Shadow that did enjoy it.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): I had to sit through my parents explaining to me how the nature of childbirth works for about four hours. I think I can handle this.

(Y/N): In that case, I'll meet you all at CHS. You know where that is, right?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Oh, yeah. I'm quite familiar with Canterlot High.

(Y/N): Alright, I'll be there in three hours then. Take care, Shadow, and to my girls... I love you all to death.

Your Harem (Over Phone): We love you too, Y/N!

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Wait, wait, wait, wait, wait. You...have a harem?!

You facepalmed.

(Y/N): *thinking* Not this again. *speaking* I'll... I'll explain that when I get there, okay?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): *snorts* Slick hasn't even made it to first base with a girl yet! You got outmatched by yourself, dude!

Human (Y/N): Hey! I've been having trouble making friends in public places, alright?!

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): *laughs* Oh, don't pull that crap again, dude. You haven't even tried!

Human (Y/N): *sigh* Okay, we'll see you in three hours, dude. Dress nice and such, bye!

He hung up as you looked up at him with a raised eyebrow.

(Y/N): You told him about your problem with making friends publicly?

Human (Y/N): *groans* Yeah. Probably the worst decision of my life..

(Y/N): Heh. I believe you. Wait... you said "we" earlier, didn't you?

Human (Y/N): Sure did! I'm coming with you.

(Y/N): You wanna come with?

Human (Y/N): Yeah. I've pretty much got nothing going on here, so this'll be a nice change of pace. Besides, I haven't seen Shad in awhile and I kinda wanna punch him for embarrassing me like that.

(Y/N): Well, I guess it wouldn't hurt to bring you along, although, we'd have to distinguish you from me somehow.

Human (Y/N): You sure your current bonelike physic isn't distinguishable enough?

He asked with a smirk as you gave him a punch to the shoulder.

(Y/N): Screw "me".

Human (Y/N): Aw, come on, dude! That was funny and "I" know it.

(Y/N): *chuckles* I guess so. But for real though, we actually got to distinguish you somehow. Any ideas on how?

Human (Y/N): That's easy. Just call me O/N.

(A/N: Just to be clear, folks, O/N in this context is short for Other Name.)

(Y/N): Huh, okay. Anywho, we've got three hours for Pinkie to set everything up. What should we do until then?

(O/N): Hmm, I could show you around Trottingham if you'd like.

(Y/N): Weeeeell, I kind of already did that during the past three months.

You thought for another few seconds until you perked up upon getting an idea before smirking at O/N.

(Y/N): I think it's time to see which of us is the best at gaming.

(O/N): Oh, really? You think you could take on yourself? We'll be evenly matched; it'll go on indefinitely.

(Y/N): We won't know for sure unless we test it out.

(O/N): Fine. Don't say I didn't warn you.

You and him fistbumped each other before walking over to play on his console.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Three Hours Later)

You and O/N spent the last three hours duking it out on his gaming console and suffice to say... it was rather tied unsurprisingly. It turned out that O/N was right about the both of you being equal when it comes to skills at gaming. Although, it still managed to surprise you in a way.

Anyways, after that was settled, you and him started getting ready to head back to Canterlot. Speaking of said city, we cut to Canterlot itself until the camera pans down to reveal CHS as the whole front courtyard was decorated head to toe in decorations including balloons, tables with snacks and drinks, and a huge banner that hung over the front doors which read "Welcome Home, Y/N!" in big blocky letters. It didn't take a genius to figure out who was responsible for the whole thing.

We then see Sunset, Patriot, Shadow, the others, your parents, and the rest of the CHS students marveling over the whole thing.

Patriot: Wow, Pinkie. You've... really outdone yourself this time.

Pinkie Pie: Aww! Thanks, Patry! Only the best for my returning sweetie!

Patriot: *thinking* Who you literally can't live without.

Rainbow Dash: Man, I've gotta tell you, it's gonna be awesome to see Y/N again.

Sunset Shimmer: I totally agree, Rainbow.

(M/N): Not to sound rude or anything, but this isn't some elaborate prank, right? Y/N's actually coming back, right?

She asked hopefully as Patriot turned to her.

Patriot: *sigh* No offense Mrs. L/N, but Pinkie wouldn't have set all of this up if it was a prank. Also, with everything that's been going on, do you really think we'd joke about something like that?

(M/N): I... I guess not... I just... I just want my baby boy back.

She said while tearing up a bit as your dad wrapped an arm around her shoulders and pulled her close.

(F/N): We will, hon. We've just gotta hold onto that hope.

He said while rubbing her shoulder which made her smile up at him slightly. The moment was ruined however by Snails' next words.

Snails: Whoo! Y/N's gonna be so surprised when comes by and sees us totally naked!

Patriot: *facepalm* It's not that kind of party, Snails.

Snails: Awww. Umm... turn away for a moment.

He rushed off as everyone else grimaced.

Sunset Shimmer: Did he... seriously come to school naked? What could have compelled him to do that?

Patriot: That's a question we probably shouldn't be asking, Sunset.

Nolan North: He probably thought it was Nude Friday.

Normal Norman: But... it's Wednesday.

Nolan North: You know Snails ain't the sharpest tool in the shed.

Normal Norman: Touche.

Shadow Moonlight: *sigh* For once, I'm actually relieved to be homeschooled.

Meanwhile, a few blocks away, you and O/N popped into existence on the sidewalk thanks to your teleportation magic as O/N's eyes rolled in their sockets.

(O/N): T-That's... gonna take some getting used to.

He followed that with a gag as you let out a chortle.

(Y/N): Heh, no worries though, it took me a short while to adapt to it.

(O/N): Well, since it's coming from me, I'm convinced.

You looked around at your current surroundings while walking ahead a few feet.

(Y/N): *sigh* Oh Canterlot... how I missed you.

You continued to look all around you as O/N watched.

(O/N): You... you need a moment, dude?

He asked before you turned back to him.

(Y/N): I'm... I'm fine. Let's go.

You said as the two of you headed down the sidewalk. After a few minutes, you finally reached your destination; Canterlot High. Your home, your sanctuary, was back within your vision once again. You quickly noticed Pinkie's decorations and the abundance of people there which brought a small smile to your lips. However, it soon turned into a frown.

(Y/N): I... I don't know if I can do this.

(O/N): No! No, no, no! Don't you DARE hesitate right here, my friend. You've come this far already so it's much too late to back out now. You are not a threat to them and you never will be, Y/N. Don't make me slap me again, pal.

You glanced over at him for another second or so before taking a deep breath and throwing on a determined look.

(Y/N): You're... you're right. I've come too far now, so I might as well finish it.

O/N nodded before smiling.

(O/N): That's the spirit. Also, I think I should hang back here for a moment just so they don't mistake me for you.

(Y/N): Nah, you should come along. It'd be better to have everyone meet you. We'll just say you're my long lost twin or something.

(O/N): Well, based on how there's this other Sunset Shimmer, I don't think that may be necessary.

(Y/N): Eh, they're teens. They'll believe anything.

(O/N): That's... kinda stereotypical, isn't it?

(Y/N): True but, I'm also a teen so...

(O/N): *sigh* Look, just go and have your little moment with your friends. Just signal for me to come over and I will, but first, you've got a reunion to settle.

(Y/N): Well, if you insist.

You took another deep breath before looking forwards at CHS and taking slow and steady steps. Inch by inch, each step you took felt like you were traveling for miles and miles due to just how slow you were going. Thankfully for you, no cars were coming up and down the street at the time, so you didn't have to worry about that at the moment. As the girls were all chatting and conversing, Fluttershy's eyes just so happened to have looked your way for a second before they widened and turned her attention to you fully as her eyes started to tear up. The other's soon noticed her reaction and looked over before all of their eyes widened and started tearing up as well at seeing you again.

Fluttershy: He... He's here! IT'S REALLY HIM!!

Sci-Twi: Sweetheart!

Rainbow Dash: Babe!

Rarity: Darling!

Applejack: Hon!

Dagi Dazzle: Dear!

Gloriosa Daisy: Y/N!

Trixie Lulamoon: Y/N, love!

Ari Blaze: Y/N!

Sonny Dusk: N/N!

Moondancer: Y/N!

Juniper Montage: Y/N!

Sour Sweet: *sweetly* It really is you! *sourly* You worried us all half to death, you jerk!

Sunny Flare: Dearie!

Indigo Zap: N/N!

Lemon Zest: Dude!

Sugarcoat: You're late...by three months.

(M/N): Y/N honey!

(F/N): Y/N, my boy!

Sunset Shimmer: My love!

Each of them shouted happily with the exception of Sugarcoat as you slowly walked over and stood in front of everyone. You stared for a second before sniffing as tears filled your eyes.

(Y/N): I'm... I'm so sorry, you guys. I... I never should have left. I... I just wanted to protect you all.

Sugarcoat: How could you protect us if you were in the middle of nowhere for months?

(Y/N): You didn't let me finish. I wanted to protect you all... from me.

This surprised everyone of them greatly.

Your Harem: WHAT?!

Sunset Shimmer: But...but why?

(Y/N): *sigh* Girls... everyone, I... I've hurt so many people. I released V/N into the world and he's now threatening to destroy free will itself. I nearly choked Adagio to death during the Starswirled Festival, but worst of all... I failed... as both a savior and a friend.

Patriot: Care to go into detail about the latter?

(Y/N): You all wanna know why I somehow know about Shadow? Well, in another timeline, he and I were best friends. I'm not sure how I know that since my memories should have been erased, but... I do. During our time at the Starswirled Festival, I put my selfish feelings of wanting to see PostCrush above hanging out with him. This cascaded into him believing that it was somehow his fault for causing all the mishaps that made me miss my chances of seeing them when really... it was mine. I drove him into changing his fate so that he and I weren't friends. I'm the one who made him think that it was his fault. I'm the one who... who lost someone due to my selfish needs. V/N once told me that I was turning out just like him...

You looked down at the ground and started to tear up again as your voice broke in between words.

(Y/N): ...A-A-And... I-I'm starting to believe... that he's right.

Everyone took a moment to process your words until Shadow spoke up.

Shadow Moonlight: Wow... I guess I must've really screwed up as a friend, huh?

(Y/N): *sigh* No... No, you didn't, Shadow. All you wanted was to just have fun with your friend. I, on the other hand, let my own desires take bigger precedence.

Shadow stared at you for a moment before walking forwards and putting a hand on your shoulder prompting you to look up at him.

Shadow Moonlight: Dude, while I may not know you all that well, I'll still say that it wasn't your fault. You can hang out with your friends anytime. That was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

(Y/N): It still doesn't excuse my behavior though! I called you an idiot straight to your face, Shadow! What kind of friend does that? I'll tell you what! The kind that thinks that a concert is more important than his own friends, that's who!

You took a moment to recompose yourself before continuing.

(Y/N): That's one of the reasons why I left. I thought that you were gone forever and that I failed you as a friend.

Shadow Moonlight: Eh. Couldn't have failed any worse than I would have. I probably would've acted all moody and stuck-up if I ever reunited with you or something.

You looked down at the ground at that as he let out another sigh.

Shadow Moonlight: Y/N, I'm sure whatever it was you did to this alternate me, there was probably a reason for doing so. I'm not exactly the most pleasant of people, you know. Now, admittedly, some of, if not little to none of it, was probably your fault. I'm sure about ninety percent of it was because of my screw-ups. But listen, all of those things you said, doesn't mean that you'll turn out like... V/N, was it?

He asked before you confirmed it with a nod.

Shadow Moonlight: So, a bit of an off topic question but,  was there anything this other me had that was different from what I have now?

(Y/N): Well, you didn't have your parents up until recently, you had a harem like me with the Shadow Five, and you also had magical powers.

Shadow Moonlight: Then maybe...it was all for the best. I mean, you got more girls in this harem of yours, a new best friend who doesn't treat you like crap, and I get my parents throughout my whole life. Seems like a win-win situation to me.

(Y/N): *sigh* Maybe to you, but to me... I pretty much lost a best friend.

Shadow Moonlight: True, but you also gained one and he's right here.

He pointed at Patriot.

Shadow Moonlight: I don't really know what you've been through but, I don't think there's a lot to complain about. At least I'm not dead, so you can cross that off your list of anxiety. And hey, even though I don't know you all that much, I suppose I could make you a friendly acquaintance. Does that sound good?

Your eyes slowly drifted up to him before a grin slowly stretched across your lips.

(Y/N): I... I guess it's better than nothing... although, I might not be used to having more girls in my harem for a while.

Sunny then walked up to you.

Sunny Flare: If... if it's too much for you then... I'd understand if you want some time off from my friends and I. After all, you did say we were with him.

Shadow Moonlight: Except that you're not and that's probably for the best.

Sugarcoat: What makes you say that?

Shadow Moonlight: Let's see, I am a complete stranger to literally everyone here except for Y/N, I'm also a dick, lack a lot of self-esteem, and I'm a mama's boy. Trust me, I'm the last guy you'd ever wanna be in a relationship with. It doesn't mean I won't ever be in one only that it'd take a while. Besides, don't you love them, Y/N?

He asked which made you blush somewhat.

(Y/N): W-Well... maybe a little bit, but they were with you at the time so I never really acted on those feelings.

Shadow Moonlight: Well, what's stopping you now?

(Y/N): I... I guess nothing.

Shadow Moonlight: You know, that brings up another point. I get in people's way a lot. I have a feeling that may have been why I've altered the past.

Sunny Flare: Possibly, dearie. So... what do you say, Y/N?

She asked as she and the other Shadowbolt girls looked at you anxiously. You stared back at them in silence until sighing sadly.

(Y/N): I... I may not agree with Shadow's actions, but it's not like I can do much about it. Not without the Time Stone...

You then had a moment of realization.

(Y/N): Wait... the Time Stone, of course!

You shouted which startled everyone else.

(Y/N): I'll just find it, go back in time, and convince my Shadow to not go through with his plan!

Shadow Moonlight: Oh, no, no, no, no! I'm not gonna let you do that!

(Y/N): But it's the only way to get the old you back, Shadow!

Shadow Moonlight: Would you stop, already?! Look, he made this whole new timeline specifically for you where both of us get to be happy and you still get to be friends with me! Now, you wanna go back there and stop him from making things better?!

(Y/N): B-But, I want the old you, Shadow. The Shadow I used to have as my best friend.

Shadow Moonlight: FORGET ABOUT THE OLD SHADOW! HE'S GONE!

He shouted in your face startling you.

Shadow Moonlight: Why?! Why can't you just accept the gift he gave you and appreciate it?! He did all of this for your sake and you won't even accept it!

(Y/N): Because he wasn't just my best friend! He was my brother in arms!

Shadow Moonlight: So what?! He did what he could to make both our lives better and now you're just going to mess it all up by going back there! *sigh* Just... Just why? Why can't you be happy with what you have instead of begging for what you used to have? Your harem's expanded, you got a new best friend, and we still become friends regardless. So why give it up for an asshole like me?

(Y/N): Because... because you meant so much to me, Shadow. You... you gave up your own happiness just to change your fate.

Shadow Moonlight: And clearly, I was happy to do it, so why ruin that?

You tried to come up with a reason only to come up with answers that you already gave which only led to you being silent.

Shadow Moonlight: Y/N... this is for the best. I understand that you want your old friend back and it's great that you care so much about how I feel, but things have changed. My life improves, your life improves. We both win, so stop complaining and start making the most of it.

He holds his hand out for you to grab. You took a moment to think about if this was really how you wanted your life to go. Did you want to live an improved life with more girls, a new best friend who was once an enemy, and become friendly with your former best friend? Or ruin all of that just to be back with your real best friend again? Your mind races as you remember what the fragmentation of Shadow from your head comes to mind.

Shadow Moonlight: *flashback* I've messed up too many times to warrant another chance. At least, you'll finally have the Shadowbolts and...Sunny to love. She deserves someone like you.

That comment made you look at Sunny who stared back at you still.

(Y/N): *thinking* I... can't just take everything Shadow worked for away from him... but then again... I can't ruin Patriot or everyone else's lives just because I want my old friend back... but... *sigh* it's not like I can do much without the Time Stone. I... I guess... I have no other choice.

With your decision made, you looked back up at Shadow.

(Y/N): Shadow... I might not agree with how the old you viewed himself or that I also agree with his actions, but... I can also see that there's nothing I can do about it.

Shadow Moonlight: Good, at least now you're thinking with your head and not your heart. And hey, you get to be friends with me again, so it's not like all hope is lost or anything. I may not be much like he was but, that won't stop me from trying to be a good friend. Now, I do believe that you and your girls should have a moment.

He stepped aside allowing you to fully look at each of your girls who have been waiting patiently from behind Shadow the whole time. You looked to each of them with a look of uncertainty before opening your arms out wide for them to come and hug you to which they happily did as they all ran over and crushed you with a massive group hug.

Sunset Shimmer: We missed you so much, Y/N.

(Y/N): And I missed you all so much too.

You said as the embrace continued for several minutes. Suddenly, you looked amongst the girls and realized that you were short one party girl. You looked and noticed her in the back with her eyes glued on you and with a shocked expression. You ended the group hug and walked a little closer to her. You scratched the back of your head anxiously before saying something.

(Y/N): U-Uh... hey, Pinks. It's been a whi-

Pinkie Pie: WELL?!

Her sudden outburst made you flinch and back an inch away. Pinkie continued talking as you listened.

Pinkie Pie:  What took you so long? I was worried. I wondered... if you were ever going to come back.

She then started to tear up as her voice broke a little.

Pinkie Pie: It scared me to think that... I was never gonna see you again.

You stayed silent the whole time and listened.

Pinkie Pie: Day after day I waited for you to come, but you never did. I didn't know where you were. I couldn't stand not knowing. I told myself... I should give up hoping. I was convinced that you'd forgotten all about me... I thought you were gone forever. *sniff* But then I realized... that you would never abandon me, and I decided... that I would wait for you. Even if it took the rest of my life to see you again.

Right when she was done with that sentence, her iconic smile slowly appeared on her tear ridden face.

Pinkie Pie: ...Now you're here.

She dropped to her hands and knees while unleashing a tidal wave of tears.

Pinkie Pie: I'm so glad to have you finally back, Y/N! It's such a wonderful feeling! I don't think I've ever been as happy as I am right now!

She cried her eyes out as you took this moment to slowly approach her.

Pinkie Pie: Don't you ever leave me again, Y/N L/N!

When you finally reached her, you knelt down in front of her and produced a cupcake from seemingly nowhere. She slowly peers up at you through her tears to see you smiling back at her with tears of your own.

(Y/N): Don't you worry, Pinkie. I don't plan on doing that ever again.

The party girl chokes on her breath for a few seconds before throwing her arms around you and crying onto your chest. You happily returned the hug as everyone else smiled at the heartwarming moment. As yours and Pinkie's hug persevered, O/N came walking over and smiling at the sight.

(O/N): Aww... that's actually really sweet!

His voice made you and Pinkie end the hug before turning to look at him as the girls' jaws dropped to the floor.

Sunset Shimmer: Y-Y/N?

(O/N): Ummmm... yes and no. I'm the Y/N that Shadow mentioned to you all. But, just so you don't get us mixed up, just call me O/N.

Shadow Moonlight: Oh, Slick! Where were you?

(O/N): I wanted to give you guys and Y/N a moment, so I hung back until I decided to come over.

Fluttershy: Are... are you the human Y/N?

(O/N): That I am. I'm pretty much identical to your Y/N in every way.

Rarity: We can see that, darling.

(O/N): Anyways, I decided to tag along with your Y/N here so that's why I'm here instead of being all the way in Trottingham.

Dagi Dazzle: Y-Y/N?!

Her voice got O/N's attention as he looked and gasped at seeing her along with Ari and Sonny.

(O/N): A-Adagio? Aria? Sonata? What... what are you three doing here? I thought you left to pursue your musical career.

Ari Blaze: We did but...we ran into this bozo and well, we thought he was you.

(Y/N): Which I technically am by the way.

(O/N): And... I guess this'll lead into a long explanation, won't it?

Shadow Moonlight: *sigh* I'll go grab the popcorn.

He walked off causing you all to laugh.

(Y/N): Heh. I also like what you did with the place, Pinks. Easily your best work yet.

Pinkie Pie: Awww, thanks sweetie! It was only fitting that I set up the absolute best welcome home party for the sweetest, most amazing boyfriend ever!

(Y/N): Well, you never cease to impress me, Pinkie, so you've got nothing to worry about there.

(O/N): Homina homina homina...

You looked over at your human self to see that he was drooling while staring at your girls which prompted you to walk over and you gave him a light jab in the ribs.

(Y/N): Don't get any funny ideas, O/N.

(O/N): What? Can't a guy admire his self's girls?

(Y/N): *sigh* We've gotta make you more social, I swear.

Shadow Moonlight: Yeah, for real, dude. At least I have some decency.

He came back with a bowl of popcorn kernels.

(O/N): W-What are you talking about?! I have loads of decency!

Shadow Moonlight: *sarcasm* Right...and I'm a Colombian drug lord.

You all started to laugh again as the camera panned up to the sky.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Meanwhile, in Equestria)

We fade in on the glorious kingdom of Hippogriffs, otherwise known as Mt. Aris.

A large mountain domain that was once dormant for many years due to the tyrannical Storm King obliterating the hippogriffs' home and driving them into the sea. However, thanks to the magic of Queen Novo's pearl, they were allowed to survive by changing their anatomy into sea ponies. From there, they survived in their then home that was called Seaquestria. But thanks to the efforts of Twilight Sparkle and her friends, the hippogriffs reclaimed their home and transformed back into their original forms. From then on, they were allowed to live in peace as they did so long ago.

However, the home of the hippogriffs didn't look as peaceful today as evidenced by the massive explosions and rising smoke due to fires. The camera cuts to the village itself to show several hippogriffs on the ground beaten and battered; clear signs of fighting. Some tried to stand back up only to fall back to the ground due to exhaustion and pain. Then, someone trots by them with a happy grin on their tiny face. It was revealed to be Cozy Glow who stopped in the middle of them while looking at each beaten hippogriff.

Cozy Glow: If you know what's good for you, I suggest you all stay down. Unless you want Lord V/N to teach you another lesson, that is.

She insinuated with squinted eyes. None of them responded as they either looked down in defeat or were too beaten to move a muscle.

Cozy Glow: That's what I thought.

She hovered up a few feet before flying up to the inner district of the village. There, we see several more beaten hippogriffs along with a few familiar faces. They, of course, belonged to Demon Shimmer, Midnight Sparkle, Gaea Everfree, Juniper Monstar, and their creator V/N who was standing a bit of a ways from the rest and was currently looking amongst the newly created ruins of the Hippogriffs' home. That is until a certain centaur came walking in while holding someone. They were a tall female hippogriff with a mane that was a gradient of brilliant fuchsia to strong mulberry, a light fuchsiaish gray colored coat, and strong magenta colored eyes. This was Queen Novo, ruler of the hippogriffs and ambassador for the entire hippogriff race.

Much like with her loyal subjects, she too looked like she had gotten into a rough fight as she was being held by the neck by Tirek who walked towards V/N which got his attention.

Tirek: I found her, Lord V/N.

He threw the hippogriff queen in front of V/N as she turned her head up slowly and painfully. V/N, meanwhile, smiled sadistically down at her.

(V/N): It's nice to finally meet face to face, Queen Novo. Quite a lovely little home you've made for yourself as well as your subjects.

She glared at him.

Queen Novo: *cough* You DARE compliment on my home after you've destroyed it?!

Cozy Glow: Hey! I'd watch your tone of voice around Lord V/N if I were you, lady!

(V/N): It's fine, Cozy.

Queen Novo: Wait... V/N? As in... the Scourge of Equestria? B-But... I thought you were nothing more than a legend.

(V/N): Well, legends tend to falsify themselves in order to seem more hopeful or tragic.

Cozy Glow: Uhhh...what?

Tirek: *sigh* He means that some legends tend to lie a lot, Cozy.

Cozy Glow: So...are they called legends because they're legendary for lying?

Tirek facepalmed at that as V/N shook his head unamused.

(V/N): Can someone teach her how it works while I take care of things here?

Midnight Sparkle: I'll do it.

She offered as she walked away with Cozy Glow as V/N turned back to Queen Novo.

(V/N): Anyways, I'm here because I want something from you. Something small, round, and... magical.

He said that last word with a smirk as Queen Novo quickly caught on.

Queen Novo: No! You will not take our pearl!

(V/N): Oh, I don't intend on taking the entire pearl. I intend to take a small piece of it.

Queen Novo: I'm not giving you any of it!

V/N narrowed his eyes at her.

(V/N): That's how it's gonna be, huh? Well... I didn't want to resort to this, but it seems that you leave me no other choice.

He stomped his hoof on the ground causing a large dark (F/C) orb to appear above him before it disappeared and dropped something next to him. It was revealed to be a younger hippogriff with a light arctic blue mane, a light gambogeish gray coat, and brilliant cyan eyes. This was Princess Skystar, Queen Novo's daughter.

Queen Novo: S-Skystar?

Princess Skystar: M-Mom!

She tried to move to her mother only to be stopped by the black chains holding her body in place.

(V/N): Let me ask one question from you, my queen. What matters most to you? Your pearl? Or your precious daughter's life? What's it going to be?

Queen Novo: Y-You... you monster!

(V/N): *sarcasm* Ow, my feelings.

He then walked over and stomped a hoof on Skystar's head, pinning it to the ground as she quivered in fear as V/N glared daggers at Queen Novo.

(V/N): What will it be, Novo? I don't have all day for you to make a decision. Or do I have to introduce the contents of your daughter's head to the ground to speed things up for you?

Princess Skystar: M-M-Mom! D-Don't give our pearl to him!

(V/N): SILENCE!!

He boomed which silenced Skystar indefinitely.

(V/N): I have had it up to here with things not going my way due to those beneath me being stubborn! Make your choice right now, Novo! Your pearl or your daughter! Which. Is. It?!

Queen Novo: I-I-I...

She couldn't come up with an answer to his proposal which only made V/N's patience dwindle.

(V/N): So... I guess I'll take your silence as you choosing the pearl... fine then.

He lifted his hoof and made it glow while preparing to send it flying towards Princess Skystar's head which was still pinned down to the ground. When Queen Novo still didn't respond, V/N glared and sent his hoof hurtling towards Princess Skystar's head which was on the verge of being smashed to smithereens until...

Queen Novo: WAIT! PLEASE!

V/N stopped his hoof just before it touched Skystar's head and he looked up at Queen Novo to see her reaching out a claw towards the both of them as tears filled her eyes. She then reached underneath her wing and pulled something out. It was a small, multi colored pearl that was large enough to fit in your palm.

Queen Novo: *whisper* You... you can take it... just... please let my daughter go.

She offered V/N the pearl as he grinned.

(V/N): Well, nice to see you coming to your senses.

He uses his magic to grab the pearl from her and his smirk widens.

(V/N): Pleasure doing business with you.

He looked down at Princess Skystar.

(V/N): Go to your mom before she has a nervous breakdown.

He took his hoof off of her head and made the chains around her limbs disappear allowing her to finally stand as she ran over and embraced her mom tightly. V/N then focused on the pearl in front of him before it started to shake erratically until it exploded in a cloud of smoke. When the dust cleared, all that remained of the pearl was a small pink colored stone; the Mind Stone.

(V/N): This will do.

He brought the stone closer to the Infinity Amulet as it automatically started magnetizing towards it. It finally snapped into place as the power once again surged through V/N's body as he let out a loud scream due to the sheer power. Once it finally subsided, the pain wore off and he stared down at his new prize with pride.

(V/N): That only leaves one more stone.

Juniper Monstar: And that is?

(V/N): The Time Stone. However, we won't find it in Equestria. It is somewhere in the other world.

Tirek: Other world? You mean the world where we became those tall fleshy creatures that walked on two limbs instead of four?

(V/N): Precisely. But first, I'd say that we need some more help with collecting this one. Which is why I require the help of two more individuals that aren't in our party yet.

Gaea Everfree: And who would they be?

(V/N): Queen Chrysalis and my old rival, King Sombra.

Demon Shimmer: Old rival?

(V/N): Yes. Before Shadowlight, Sombra was my only other equal at the time. However, he tried to foolishly take on the Crystal Empire all by himself which led to his banishment. Luckily, I know just the spell that can revive him.

Midnight Sparkle: And that is?

(V/N): You'll just have to wait and see, Midnight Sparkle.

Gaea Everfree: What if he's not as willing to join?

(V/N): He won't have a choice in the matter. You see, now that we have this...

He points to the Mind Stone.

(V/N): Convincing him won't be an issue.

Demon Shimmer: *sigh* Subtly...

(V/N): Oh, that reminds me.

He turned back to Queen Novo and Princess Skystar who were still hugging each other as he activated the Mind Stone and his horn glowed.

(V/N): Let's test this out, shall we?

The two hippogriffs noticed what he was about to do as they tried to put their arms up to shield themselves only for it to not work as V/N blasted a dark (F/C) beam of energy at them which caused a flash of light to occur. When the light faded away, both the Queen and Princess were revealed to be standing up, but their eyes were now glowing a dark (F/C) color. It didn't take a genius for any of them to figure out what he had just done to them.

(V/N): They won't be needing their free will anymore.

He said with a chuckle before turning back to the others.

(V/N): Let's go. We have what we need.

He slashed the space in front of him with his horn, creating a dark (F/C) rift before stepping through it. His colleagues soon followed close behind as they stepped through and the portal closed itself.

(Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh dear... looks like things aren't going well in Equestria. But anywho, another chapter finished!)

(Shadowlight9743: Well, at least that's done and over with.)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: For now at least. So, what's next on the list, Shad?)

(Shadowlight9743: I have a feeling you know, Jordan. *He responded with a smirk as Jordan gave him one in return*)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: Oh yeah! Now I remember. *turns to audience* It's finally here, folks! The next chapter will be the official start of the final arc of this story! We like to call this one: Scourge Vs. Savior! And I've gotta tell you folks, I've been excited to do this one for quite a while! What about you, Shad?)

(Shadowlight9743: I've been hyped up about this since October! Glad we've finally reached it!)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: And we hope that you all are excited for it too! This has been a long time coming, people, and now it's here!)

(Shadowlight9743: Prepare yourselves for a proper finale we should've gotten for EG!)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: We hope you enjoyed this chapter and we also hope that you'll enjoy this final arc! Until then, this is Jordanwolfboy9743...)

(Shadowlight9743: And Shadowlight9743...)

(Jordanwolfboy9743 & Shadowlight9743: Signing out! See ya in the finale! *walks away*)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: *distantly* Man, a whole year in the making!)

(Shadowlight9743: *distantly* Well, since we're doing a Infinity War sort of thing with this book and 2784's, we'll surely have a lot more to work on.)

(Jordanwolfboy9743: *distantly* True that. Let's end this book with a bang, shall we?)

(Shadowlight9743: *distantly* Hell yeah!)

(*A high five can be heard in the distance before silence overtakes the room*)