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Description

  The lingering light of day shimmered and danced off the water’s surface, like diamonds and precious gems. From his hotel room, a tired and worn down pegasus watched the sun set on another busy, uneventful day. Despite having a perfect view of the popular tourist site, the beach of Capricorn Reef was almost completely barren. The stillness and ever growing silence was unnerving and sent a chill down his spine. Even the warm glow of the setting sun seemed cold and distant.

  But the pegasus didn’t have much time to reflect, when he saw something shift and move in the reflection of the window. He turned to see the silhouette of a mare in his doorway. Long curly hair with only a halo of backlight to illuminate the blue curls surrounding a face shrouded in shadow. Even though he knew who this unicorn was, Sunstreak still approached her with an outstretched hand. He reached to move the mane for the mare’s face, only to be stopped suddenly by a loud screech.

???: Leave her alone!!!

  Before he could turn to see where the sound originated from, Sunstreak felt a sharp pain in his back before being pinned down on the ground with large, dagger-like claws. Letting out a squawk and screaming in pain, Sunstreak looked back in terror at a bright, glowing blue eyed demon hissed back at him, the right side of it’s face pitch black. Snarling long fangs and claws dark and long drip with his blood as they grip and tear into his wings.

Sunstreak: *tries to crawl away* I-I didn’t do anything to her..! Get away from me!

??? : You can not lie to me!!! *digs claws into Sunstreak’s ankles and pulls him back* I know all you have done!!!

Sunstreak: I didn’t do anything wrong! This isn’t my fault! Ack! G-get off of me! *kicking at the demon’s hands and rolling over to get away*

??? : I will never let you leave… I will never let you rest, until you pay for what you did!!! *lunges and grips Sunstreak’s face tight* You will never escape me, and not even death can save you now!

  The demon’s face was disfigured, horrifically stitched together down the middle if it’s face. It’s hands and lower arms stung hot, almost burning Sunstreak alive as they appeared to be covered in hot tar, the pain increasing as the claws pierced his skin. A long black tongue hung out as the demon hissed, it’s piercing blue eyes staring through him as if looking at it’s next meal.

??? : There is no one who can save you.. I will keep you here for as long as I wish..! We shall see how you feel, being toyed with!

Sunstreak: S-stop! Stop, no, I… I never wanted to hurt her..! Stop it-- Augh! *wincing as the tar burned his flesh, the feeling of his old scars becoming inflamed*

??? : More lies from your mouth! *chuckles bitterly* Don’t be afraid…. Let’s put a smile on that face of yours..!~ *grabs onto Sunstreak’s muzzle* I will make it quick…

Sunstreak: MMph! Mmm! Daniel, no!! *grabbing at it’s wrist*

Daniel: Repent for your sins, monster! And for all the pain you have caused!!! *claws at Sunstreak’s mouth*

  With a sudden jolt, Sunstreak lurched in his bed and swiped at the demon.. But there was no one there. Fumbling at his end table, the breathless pegasus quickly turned on the light, illuminating the moderately decorated bedroom. It was just a dream. Another night terror. Sunstreak wasn’t back in Capricorn Reef, there was no Bubble Lee. There was no Daniel there to enact his twisted sense of divine judgement. He was alone.

  It had been a few months since Sunstreak was released from the Equestria Central Detention Center for his sentence. Since then, his parents did their best to make his homecoming as welcoming but as inconspicuous as possible. Sunstreak’s father gave him a very long, drawn out lecture about how disappointed he was with his son’s actions and in a very round about way, expressed how until this whole fiasco is brushed under the rug, he didn’t feel having Sunstreak as the face of the company would be good for business. Fortunately, within the last year, a brand new factory had been built in the secluded countryside of Appleloosa. With his head held high and a stone cold, emotionless face, Sunstreak took the hint and packed his bags, becoming the lead project manager of the new plant.. And the slue of problems it faced. The hours were long and grueling and the townsfolk of Appleloosa were being less than cooperative with the company’s effort to produce clean, solar-powered energy for Equestria, stating that the panels and the facility itself is an eyesore and an invasion of their rights and privacy. While Sunstreak would rather sit on a cactus then work in this redneck town, he knew that the only way he could gain his father’s trust and approval was to make sure that this location succeeded.

  Aside from work, much of Sunstreak’s spare time is spent with his numerous doctor’s visits for physical therapy as well as his frequent mandatory psychiatrist appointments. The rest of the time, he spent in his new house, working on renovations and making it more modern and up to his standards of living. Why everything has to have wood panel walls and ceiling in this southern trash town, he will never understand. He could easily hire someone to come in and do it in the span of a few weeks but, what else is the pegasus going to do in his spare time. Certainly not go back to sleep after that night terror.

  After spending hours sanding the walls down of the living room, Sunstreak barely even noticed that the sun had risen. While sitting down and resting with a cup of coffee, the sleep deprived pegasus heard a distant ringing. After searching for his cellphone, he saw a familiar number on the screen. With a loud, annoyed sigh he answered the phone.

Sunstreak: …. Hello?

???: Good moooorning~ It’s Rosie!

  Ever since Sunstreak was released, his younger cousin, Rosie Quartz, took it upon herself to call Sunstreak at least once a week to check up on Sunstreak and talk off his ears for an hour or two. At first it was tedious and rather obnoxious but Sunstreak found himself looking forward to the weekly chats.

Sunstreak: I am aware, Rose. You are one of my contacts after all..

Rosie: Hehehe, you are up early! Well, so am I. I’m going out with a few friends to get coffee and bagels before heading to the movies. Did you know that the new live action Daring Do remake is coming out this weekend? I remember reading those books as a filly, hehehe.

Sunstreak: Is that so? Seems like they will remake any movies to make a profit.. Nostalgia is a good way to sucker in our generation..

Rosie: Snrk! Well, I’m looking forward to it.. Oh, one sec.. *as she covers the phone with her hand* One venti soy latte. Hot, two sugars and extra foam… Oh, and a bagel with cream cheese… toasted, yes. *followed by the sound of clinking change*

Sunstreak: *sips his coffee and waits* ….

Rosie: Thank you~ *talks back into the phone* Okay, I’m back. What were we talking about? Oh, right! You should go see the movie, it will be fuuuun! It’s an action flick, what is not to like?

Sunstreak: Everything. Movie theatres, stale popcorn, loud noisy children… And the movie is likely going to be horrible CGI and bad voice acting..

Rosie: *pouts* Wow, you must be fun at parties.. Come oooon, where is your sense of optimism! It could be a good movie-- ACK! Hey! No, bad bat! Don’t eat my bagel! *smacking noise*

??? : OW! Well you’re not eatin’ it! It’s bad enough you starve yourself on eating air and grass clippings, now you’re not even eating the bagel!

Rosie: I’m on the phone! How am I going to eat it if it's in your big fat mouth!

??? : Better the bagel goes in my mouth than your fat ass…

Rosie: *more loud smacking noises* Jerk..!

Sunstreak: *raise an eyebrow* … I can go, if you are busy..

Rosie: Ah! No no, it’s fine…. Bloody mooch. Fine, eat the bagel! *siiiiips her coffee* Ugh.. what were we talking about again? I forgot..

Sunstreak: How your friends steal your food and how I hate going to movie theatres…

Rosie: Ah, right. I’m only suggesting it because when was the last time you got out of the house?

Sunstreak: I was just out of the house yesterday..

Rosie: Not for work?

Sunstreak: Yes!

Rosie: And not grocery shopping or running errands?

Sunstreak: ……………….. Maybe.

Rosie: Uh huh! That’s what I thought. Sunny, you need to go out and have fun! Maybe meet someone--

Sunstreak: I am not taking dating advice from you of all people, Rose.

Rosie: I’m not even saying date someone! Make a bloody friend or something. Like me, I’m not going on a date, it’s just me and a few friends from work hanging out.

Sunstreak: Are these the same friends you yelled at and threatened to kick their asses?

Rosie: Yes and I did kick one of their asses, thank you very much! Hehehe~

Sunstreak: *grimaces* Then why are you spending time with them if you despise them so much. That seems like you are just torturing yourself.

Rosie: I don’t hate them, it's just the dynamic of the relationship. Victor pisses me off, so I beat him up. Saanvi and Damion usually get bopped in the back of the head or sat on, depending on how I feel. But at the end of the day, we are still friends.

Damion: *in the background* Who are you telling all this?

Victor: And I clearly whooped your ass harder! Very literally after the fact too, hmhm.~

Rosie: It’s Sunstreak and I got you back ten-fold during training the whole next week, so shut your bagel stealing face!

Victor: I spared you, that bagel tasted stale anyways…

Sunstreak: … Again, I say: With friends like this, who needs enemies?

Rosie: I’d rather have friends like this then enemies any day, hmhmhm. They are idiots, but they are my idiots~

Sunstreak: *sips his coffee* So, you are telling me I need to go find my own idiot?

Rosie: Eh, they don’t have to be an idiot. That’s just what I’m stuck with..

Saanvi: And you are biggest idiot! Heehee!

Rosie: Awww, you just say the sweetest things~ *as she pinches Saanvi’s cheek*

Sunstreak: *grimace* I don’t know how I feel about having our conversations monitored by your… idiots.

Rosie: They can’t hear-- I take that back, Damion is definitely listening in, but they won’t tell anyone, hehehe~

Damion: It’s not my fault my ears can pick up the conversation.

Victor: You’re angling them specifically to Rose..

Damion: Details- But I agree, you need to get out more and make some friends, man..

Sunstreak: Again.. I’m not taking dating OR friendship advice from a couple of eavesdropping bats..

Rosie: Wow, someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed… Alright, I’ll go outside. I’ll be back when I’m done on the phone, guys.

Damion: Okaaaay, we’ll be waiting. *mumbles* Big grouch..

Rosie: ….. Okay, is this better? I’m now outside in the hot sun..

Sunstreak: Again, I can just leave if you wish to spend time with your friends… Frankly, I’m not in a very conversational mood to begin with..

Rosie: *ears perk* Oh? What’s up? You sound really groggy. Not get any sleep again?

Sunstreak: No no, I actually did manage to get a few hours of sleep. Every so often, the exhaustion overpowers the insomnia..

Rosie: Okay? That should be a good thing. Why does it sound like it isn’t?

Sunstreak: *grimaces and looks to the side* … It is nothing…

Rosie: *ears spring up* Oh no no, you aren’t pulling that bullshit on me, Sunny. It obviously isn’t nothing. Tell me what’s up.

Sunstreak: *grumbles* You are obnoxiously persistent..

Rosie: Only because I care…

Sunstreak: *ears fold back* I.. had a dream. A nightmare. About the Reef.

Rosie: …. Oh. That’s.. It must have been pretty bad.. Want to talk it out?

Sunstreak: There isn’t really anything to talk about. It’s the same dream I’ve been having ever since I went to that curse island..!

Rosie: Wait, so you’ve been having night terrors?! Have you talked to your shrink about this? Maybe he could--

Sunstreak: Obviously. He tells me the same thing about working through traumatic events and the guilt of what happened. What utter bull shit..

Rosie: …. If the doctor is saying that’s what is, shouldn’t you at least consider it? I mean, that’s kinda why you are going to him.

Sunstreak: I’m going to my psychiatrist because I’m mandated by law… But, I will admit that it has been helping to talk to him about my.. frustrations. But I don’t think talking about my feelings is going to help me. I need results.

Rosie: Okaay.. I’m not a doctor, I just have combat medical training.. But don’t they make some kind of sleeping medication that could help?

Sunstreak: I’ve been on it before. Unfortunately, most sleeping medication is highly addictive and too much of it just makes me grow an immunity. Besides, every time I fall asleep, I have these night terrors and wake up even more exhausted then if I just didn’t sleep..

Rosie: … Have you thought of using alternative medicines? Like relaxing herbal teas or meditation? I’m sure Saanvi could teach you some kind of meditation or breathing techniques.

Sunstreak: *snorts* No thank you.. I’d rather deal with the terrors then take advice from a dirty Saddle Arabian..

Rosie: *grumps* Oye..! You know, you could at least pretend to be civil with my friends..! They are trying their best to do the same with you.

Sunstreak: It’s not like I said it to her face… recently. Besides, I don’t understand why I have to censor myself when they can be just as rash and judgmental..

Rosie: Ugh..! I’m not getting into this argument with you again..! They are my friends, so cut it out with the racist crap for like.. 5 minutes.

Sunstreak: Hrmm.. If I am such a hindrance and annoyance to you, why do you even bother calling me?

Rosie: *grumbles* Because… I don’t know sometimes. Maybe because I hope…

Sunstreak: Hope for what?

Rosie: … I hope that maybe someday, you’ll change. That maybe after hearing about how amazing these bat ponies and this Saddle Arabian mare is, you’ll be a little more open minded and see why I love them so much..

Sunstreak: ….. You can’t push your views on me, Rosie.

Rosie: … I know. But you can’t stop me from having hope..

Sunstreak: Hrmm.. If it matters, I’ve already tried the herbal tea and breathing techniques, as recommended by my physical therapist.

Rosie: Well.. that’s something at least… What about a potion? I know when I was in college, I would go to this potion shop in town when I needed a pick-me-up during finals week. I’m sure they would have a sleeping draft for you.

Sunstreak: *sighs* Again, that doesn’t fix the night terrors..

Rosie: Then ask for a dreamless sleeping potion. I’m sure they make one that is custom to your needs, right?

Sunstreak: ……. I suppose that’s not a horrible idea. I have not tried a potion yet.

Rosie: *ears perk* I can give you the address to the place I went too! I promise, it’s the best place around.

Sunstreak: *snorts* I’ll be the judge of that…

  After exchanging the address and phone number of the potion shop, Sunstreak and Rosie said their goodbyes so that Rosie could go see her movie. After taking a quick shower, Sunstreak got on the train. It wasn’t a very long ride, he assumed that he could at least check out the shop before they close and be back to Appleloosa by that evening. Upon first glance, the shop didn’t look like much from the outside. It was small like your average hole-in-the-wall places that you only hear from by others. If it weren’t for the sign above the door, Sunstreak wouldn’t have guessed that the shop was only a small fraction of a large chain business for alternative medicine.

  The inside looked larger, but still felt mildly small from the large amounts of jars and bottles containing premade concoctions and singular ingredients. Every label on the jars had a name that made some of the contents hard to recognize, and some plants hung to dry along the walls for later use. Well sorted, traditionally decorated, not too shabby… if only it weren’t for the odd scent in the air from the latest mixtures created that day. A small silver bell sat on the counter top in front of some equipment, all set out and ready for the next order request. It appears they did craft things custom to every pony’s need. Now if only they could deliver perfect service.

Sunstreak: *looks around before ringing the bell* … Hello?

??? : Ah! *in the back room* Coming, coming!

An older stallion, possibly in his 60’s came to the front desk. His mane greyed and a unicorn horn that looked a bit cracked at the end.

Shopkeeper: Hello sir, what may I do for you today? *smiles*

Sunstreak: Greetings. I was in the market for a particular potion and I was recommended to this shop from a prior customer. She spoke nothing but praise so I hope you do not disappoint..

Shopkeeper: Oh we never do, heheh. I’m sure I can help you out, uh.. What exactly are you looking for?

Sunstreak: A sleeping draft. I am afraid I am plagued with a horrible case of Insomnia and nothing else seems to work…

Shopkeeper: Ah, I see.. No worries, I have just the recipe to help you as it has done for others, hmhmhm. Unfortunately, I’m afraid I must step out to handle a family issue. But my employee should be here soon and they can set you up just fine. *looks at the clock* As soon as they get here…

Sunstreak: *ears twitch* I don’t think a pre-prescribed recipe will do. I need something a bit more tailored.

Shopkeeper. Any alterations to the set recipe should be able to help. A little something extra usually sets a customer right, and--

??? : I’M HERE! Sorry Mister Aster, I didn’t mean to-- AACK! *falls on the floor*

Mr. Aster: ….. *sighs* Late again this week I see..

??? : I’m so sorry, I was cramming for a test and--

Mr. Aster: I know I know, just please manage your study time better..! I accepted you to be here because I spotted your potential. Don’t waste your chance.

??? : Yes sir.. *ears droop*

Sunstreak: *grimaces* … Sir, with all due respect, I do not think something as.. delicate as my order should be assigned to a simple minded student. Please reconsider..

Mr. Aster: It is quite alright, you can trust her. While clumsy and a bit tardy, she is one of the finest potion brewers I’ve met as of late. A bit young and little experience, but that leaves room for improvement.

??? : Hrmmmm….. *gets off the floor to go into the back room and put on an apron*

Sunstreak: ….. And leaves more room for error. I do not wish to experience any ill side effects. Perhaps you are unaware, but I have a very important job with much at stake and work with large machinery.. You can see why I am.. Hesitant..

Mr. Aster: *ears fold back a little* I-I am sorry, but I really must go.. I promise you, you are in capable hands. She has made this brew many times already and has not made a mistake. You will be taken care of perfectly.

Sunstreak: Excuse me? I already said, I need more than your cookie-cutter recipe.

Mr. Aster: Sir please, this sleeping potion can--

???: Just go Mr. Aster, I can handle this. *steps out* A few simple modifications upon request and description of your problem is all I need and I can pick and choose from the shop without even leaving the counter. *uses magic from her horn to float a notepad and a quil to her hands* So, Sir, how may I help you..?~

Sunstreak: *ears fold back* You aren’t listening to me.. Ah! *watches at Mr. Aster leaves* ….. Hrmmm..! The nerve, why I never… to leave me alone with an incompetent apprentice at most… I should just leave.

??? : *raises an eyebrow* Look, as far as I can tell you’re not getting enough sleep, and for whatever reason, I’m confident that I can help you. But if you’re going to pout like this and walk out, I dunno what your chances are going to be of finding help anywhere else… I can only assume the alterior choices you have don’t work already, otherwise you wouldn’t be here..

Sunstreak: *ears spring up* Pout?! Young lady, I don’t know who you think you are but that is not how one should speak to a customer.. And with how you speak of your own shop with such lack of respect and integrity. At least pretend that you aren’t some hole in the wall shop..

??? : Oh I can do that. If you can pretend to be a liiiiittle bit nicer..? I don’t hate my job here, and I can tell you’re having a bad day…. Or week…. But I’m trying to help here..

Suntreak: Try year. It’s been a bad year for me… but I digress. I suppose I will give you a chance, given that.. you are correct and I am limited on my options. And your employer holds you in such high regards despite your complete lack of work ethic..

??? : *ears perk* I have an excellent work ethic, thank you! I’m just trying to balance this job with piles of assignments on the side. *opens a book and starts flipping through pages*

Sunstreak: You also seem to struggle balancing on your hooves…. You have some dirt on your nose by the way, it’s quite distracting.. *pointing at his own face*

??? : ……… *uses the apron to wipe it off* Ahem! Now then… You said you had specific needs for this, so tell me what exactly your problem is.. The better details I have the more accurate I can fix the brew. *grabs the quil and notepad she grabbed before*

Sunstreak: *lifts his head slightly* I need a fast-acting, dreamless sleeping potion that will keep me asleep for about.. Oh.. roughly 6 hours at the very least. No more than 9 hours. And I need it to be non-drowsy when I awake the next morning. I can’t go to work with a foggy haze nor do I want to take other medication to counter any side effects so keep that to a minimum…. Are you getting all of this?

??? : I’m not that slow, Sir… But I got all of it. I will work around the set formula and have it ready for you in no time at all.~ You can have a seat right over there and wait if you wish.

Sunstreak: *glances at the chair* … Is this going to take very long? I need to know if I can still catch the train or if I have to get a hotel..

??? : Not really no. It’s a quick brew to make and I have the whole thing memorized by now, heheh.~ *horn glows and multiple jars of ingredients float from the shelves and onto the counter*

Sunstreak: *watches the jars float around* Memorized, hmm? Is it a common order? I doubt their cases or at all the same..

??? : Mmmm they’re all different in a way, but you’d be surprised how common sleep deprivation can be nowadays. Everypony has different reasons, but it’s not nothing that can’t be helped. *starts crushing leaves in a grinding bowl*

Sunstreak: Hmph.. I only ask because, if I do decide to come back here for a refill, I don't want you to forget what you changed to my potion.. Or heaven forbid you aren’t working the day I come in…

??? : Oh that won’t be a problem, I can write up a card and it’ll have all your specifications.~ I just need to confirm your name? *holds up the quil*

Sunstreak: Quartz. Sunstreak Quartz..

??? : I thought so. *writes it down before getting back to work*

Sunstreak: *ear twitches as his eyes weasel his eyes down* …. Pardon?

??? : So, are you new to town or something? I haven’t seen you around here before, and it’s not a very big place, heheh.~

Sunstreak: *staring at her, trying to figure out if they have met* … No, I am not. I’m from Vanhoover…. Though I did move to Appleloosa recently.

??? : Oh yeah? How’re you liking it over there? I hear the locals are very eager and friendly.

Sunstreak: If that were true, I wouldn’t have as many issues with my job as I do..

??? : Oh? What do you mean? *giggles a bit* I’m sorry for prying.. Just making conversation..

Sunstreak: ………… Yes.. My apologies, I don’t believe I caught your name? *extending a hand to shake hers*

??? : *ears perk* Aw I’m sorry, heheh! How rude of me. *grabs onto his hand, her nails a bit sharp* My name is Annie… Annie Belle..? Heheheh, but I don’t expect you to remember that name…… *looks up, her eyes tiny slits with black sclera* But maybe you’d remember my brother Daniel Dasher more…
------------------------------------------
An unlikely meeting between two people! Buckle up and get ready for a new arc! This is going to be good~

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Description

  The lingering light of day shimmered and danced off the water’s surface, like diamonds and precious gems. From his hotel room, a tired and worn down pegasus watched the sun set on another busy, uneventful day. Despite having a perfect view of the popular tourist site, the beach of Capricorn Reef was almost completely barren. The stillness and ever growing silence was unnerving and sent a chill down his spine. Even the warm glow of the setting sun seemed cold and distant.

  But the pegasus didn’t have much time to reflect, when he saw something shift and move in the reflection of the window. He turned to see the silhouette of a mare in his doorway. Long curly hair with only a halo of backlight to illuminate the blue curls surrounding a face shrouded in shadow. Even though he knew who this unicorn was, Sunstreak still approached her with an outstretched hand. He reached to move the mane for the mare’s face, only to be stopped suddenly by a loud screech.

???: Leave her alone!!!

  Before he could turn to see where the sound originated from, Sunstreak felt a sharp pain in his back before being pinned down on the ground with large, dagger-like claws. Letting out a squawk and screaming in pain, Sunstreak looked back in terror at a bright, glowing blue eyed demon hissed back at him, the right side of it’s face pitch black. Snarling long fangs and claws dark and long drip with his blood as they grip and tear into his wings.

Sunstreak: *tries to crawl away* I-I didn’t do anything to her..! Get away from me!

??? : You can not lie to me!!! *digs claws into Sunstreak’s ankles and pulls him back* I know all you have done!!!

Sunstreak: I didn’t do anything wrong! This isn’t my fault! Ack! G-get off of me! *kicking at the demon’s hands and rolling over to get away*

??? : I will never let you leave… I will never let you rest, until you pay for what you did!!! *lunges and grips Sunstreak’s face tight* You will never escape me, and not even death can save you now!

  The demon’s face was disfigured, horrifically stitched together down the middle if it’s face. It’s hands and lower arms stung hot, almost burning Sunstreak alive as they appeared to be covered in hot tar, the pain increasing as the claws pierced his skin. A long black tongue hung out as the demon hissed, it’s piercing blue eyes staring through him as if looking at it’s next meal.

??? : There is no one who can save you.. I will keep you here for as long as I wish..! We shall see how you feel, being toyed with!

Sunstreak: S-stop! Stop, no, I… I never wanted to hurt her..! Stop it-- Augh! *wincing as the tar burned his flesh, the feeling of his old scars becoming inflamed*

??? : More lies from your mouth! *chuckles bitterly* Don’t be afraid…. Let’s put a smile on that face of yours..!~ *grabs onto Sunstreak’s muzzle* I will make it quick…

Sunstreak: MMph! Mmm! Daniel, no!! *grabbing at it’s wrist*

Daniel: Repent for your sins, monster! And for all the pain you have caused!!! *claws at Sunstreak’s mouth*

  With a sudden jolt, Sunstreak lurched in his bed and swiped at the demon.. But there was no one there. Fumbling at his end table, the breathless pegasus quickly turned on the light, illuminating the moderately decorated bedroom. It was just a dream. Another night terror. Sunstreak wasn’t back in Capricorn Reef, there was no Bubble Lee. There was no Daniel there to enact his twisted sense of divine judgement. He was alone.

  It had been a few months since Sunstreak was released from the Equestria Central Detention Center for his sentence. Since then, his parents did their best to make his homecoming as welcoming but as inconspicuous as possible. Sunstreak’s father gave him a very long, drawn out lecture about how disappointed he was with his son’s actions and in a very round about way, expressed how until this whole fiasco is brushed under the rug, he didn’t feel having Sunstreak as the face of the company would be good for business. Fortunately, within the last year, a brand new factory had been built in the secluded countryside of Appleloosa. With his head held high and a stone cold, emotionless face, Sunstreak took the hint and packed his bags, becoming the lead project manager of the new plant.. And the slue of problems it faced. The hours were long and grueling and the townsfolk of Appleloosa were being less than cooperative with the company’s effort to produce clean, solar-powered energy for Equestria, stating that the panels and the facility itself is an eyesore and an invasion of their rights and privacy. While Sunstreak would rather sit on a cactus then work in this redneck town, he knew that the only way he could gain his father’s trust and approval was to make sure that this location succeeded.

  Aside from work, much of Sunstreak’s spare time is spent with his numerous doctor’s visits for physical therapy as well as his frequent mandatory psychiatrist appointments. The rest of the time, he spent in his new house, working on renovations and making it more modern and up to his standards of living. Why everything has to have wood panel walls and ceiling in this southern trash town, he will never understand. He could easily hire someone to come in and do it in the span of a few weeks but, what else is the pegasus going to do in his spare time. Certainly not go back to sleep after that night terror.

  After spending hours sanding the walls down of the living room, Sunstreak barely even noticed that the sun had risen. While sitting down and resting with a cup of coffee, the sleep deprived pegasus heard a distant ringing. After searching for his cellphone, he saw a familiar number on the screen. With a loud, annoyed sigh he answered the phone.

Sunstreak: …. Hello?

???: Good moooorning~ It’s Rosie!

  Ever since Sunstreak was released, his younger cousin, Rosie Quartz, took it upon herself to call Sunstreak at least once a week to check up on Sunstreak and talk off his ears for an hour or two. At first it was tedious and rather obnoxious but Sunstreak found himself looking forward to the weekly chats.

Sunstreak: I am aware, Rose. You are one of my contacts after all..

Rosie: Hehehe, you are up early! Well, so am I. I’m going out with a few friends to get coffee and bagels before heading to the movies. Did you know that the new live action Daring Do remake is coming out this weekend? I remember reading those books as a filly, hehehe.

Sunstreak: Is that so? Seems like they will remake any movies to make a profit.. Nostalgia is a good way to sucker in our generation..

Rosie: Snrk! Well, I’m looking forward to it.. Oh, one sec.. *as she covers the phone with her hand* One venti soy latte. Hot, two sugars and extra foam… Oh, and a bagel with cream cheese… toasted, yes. *followed by the sound of clinking change*

Sunstreak: *sips his coffee and waits* ….

Rosie: Thank you~ *talks back into the phone* Okay, I’m back. What were we talking about? Oh, right! You should go see the movie, it will be fuuuun! It’s an action flick, what is not to like?

Sunstreak: Everything. Movie theatres, stale popcorn, loud noisy children… And the movie is likely going to be horrible CGI and bad voice acting..

Rosie: *pouts* Wow, you must be fun at parties.. Come oooon, where is your sense of optimism! It could be a good movie-- ACK! Hey! No, bad bat! Don’t eat my bagel! *smacking noise*

??? : OW! Well you’re not eatin’ it! It’s bad enough you starve yourself on eating air and grass clippings, now you’re not even eating the bagel!

Rosie: I’m on the phone! How am I going to eat it if it's in your big fat mouth!

??? : Better the bagel goes in my mouth than your fat ass…

Rosie: *more loud smacking noises* Jerk..!

Sunstreak: *raise an eyebrow* … I can go, if you are busy..

Rosie: Ah! No no, it’s fine…. Bloody mooch. Fine, eat the bagel! *siiiiips her coffee* Ugh.. what were we talking about again? I forgot..

Sunstreak: How your friends steal your food and how I hate going to movie theatres…

Rosie: Ah, right. I’m only suggesting it because when was the last time you got out of the house?

Sunstreak: I was just out of the house yesterday..

Rosie: Not for work?

Sunstreak: Yes!

Rosie: And not grocery shopping or running errands?

Sunstreak: ……………….. Maybe.

Rosie: Uh huh! That’s what I thought. Sunny, you need to go out and have fun! Maybe meet someone--

Sunstreak: I am not taking dating advice from you of all people, Rose.

Rosie: I’m not even saying date someone! Make a bloody friend or something. Like me, I’m not going on a date, it’s just me and a few friends from work hanging out.

Sunstreak: Are these the same friends you yelled at and threatened to kick their asses?

Rosie: Yes and I did kick one of their asses, thank you very much! Hehehe~

Sunstreak: *grimaces* Then why are you spending time with them if you despise them so much. That seems like you are just torturing yourself.

Rosie: I don’t hate them, it's just the dynamic of the relationship. Victor pisses me off, so I beat him up. Saanvi and Damion usually get bopped in the back of the head or sat on, depending on how I feel. But at the end of the day, we are still friends.

Damion: *in the background* Who are you telling all this?

Victor: And I clearly whooped your ass harder! Very literally after the fact too, hmhm.~

Rosie: It’s Sunstreak and I got you back ten-fold during training the whole next week, so shut your bagel stealing face!

Victor: I spared you, that bagel tasted stale anyways…

Sunstreak: … Again, I say: With friends like this, who needs enemies?

Rosie: I’d rather have friends like this then enemies any day, hmhmhm. They are idiots, but they are my idiots~

Sunstreak: *sips his coffee* So, you are telling me I need to go find my own idiot?

Rosie: Eh, they don’t have to be an idiot. That’s just what I’m stuck with..

Saanvi: And you are biggest idiot! Heehee!

Rosie: Awww, you just say the sweetest things~ *as she pinches Saanvi’s cheek*

Sunstreak: *grimace* I don’t know how I feel about having our conversations monitored by your… idiots.

Rosie: They can’t hear-- I take that back, Damion is definitely listening in, but they won’t tell anyone, hehehe~

Damion: It’s not my fault my ears can pick up the conversation.

Victor: You’re angling them specifically to Rose..

Damion: Details- But I agree, you need to get out more and make some friends, man..

Sunstreak: Again.. I’m not taking dating OR friendship advice from a couple of eavesdropping bats..

Rosie: Wow, someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed… Alright, I’ll go outside. I’ll be back when I’m done on the phone, guys.

Damion: Okaaaay, we’ll be waiting. *mumbles* Big grouch..

Rosie: ….. Okay, is this better? I’m now outside in the hot sun..

Sunstreak: Again, I can just leave if you wish to spend time with your friends… Frankly, I’m not in a very conversational mood to begin with..

Rosie: *ears perk* Oh? What’s up? You sound really groggy. Not get any sleep again?

Sunstreak: No no, I actually did manage to get a few hours of sleep. Every so often, the exhaustion overpowers the insomnia..

Rosie: Okay? That should be a good thing. Why does it sound like it isn’t?

Sunstreak: *grimaces and looks to the side* … It is nothing…

Rosie: *ears spring up* Oh no no, you aren’t pulling that bullshit on me, Sunny. It obviously isn’t nothing. Tell me what’s up.

Sunstreak: *grumbles* You are obnoxiously persistent..

Rosie: Only because I care…

Sunstreak: *ears fold back* I.. had a dream. A nightmare. About the Reef.

Rosie: …. Oh. That’s.. It must have been pretty bad.. Want to talk it out?

Sunstreak: There isn’t really anything to talk about. It’s the same dream I’ve been having ever since I went to that curse island..!

Rosie: Wait, so you’ve been having night terrors?! Have you talked to your shrink about this? Maybe he could--

Sunstreak: Obviously. He tells me the same thing about working through traumatic events and the guilt of what happened. What utter bull shit..

Rosie: …. If the doctor is saying that’s what is, shouldn’t you at least consider it? I mean, that’s kinda why you are going to him.

Sunstreak: I’m going to my psychiatrist because I’m mandated by law… But, I will admit that it has been helping to talk to him about my.. frustrations. But I don’t think talking about my feelings is going to help me. I need results.

Rosie: Okaay.. I’m not a doctor, I just have combat medical training.. But don’t they make some kind of sleeping medication that could help?

Sunstreak: I’ve been on it before. Unfortunately, most sleeping medication is highly addictive and too much of it just makes me grow an immunity. Besides, every time I fall asleep, I have these night terrors and wake up even more exhausted then if I just didn’t sleep..

Rosie: … Have you thought of using alternative medicines? Like relaxing herbal teas or meditation? I’m sure Saanvi could teach you some kind of meditation or breathing techniques.

Sunstreak: *snorts* No thank you.. I’d rather deal with the terrors then take advice from a dirty Saddle Arabian..

Rosie: *grumps* Oye..! You know, you could at least pretend to be civil with my friends..! They are trying their best to do the same with you.

Sunstreak: It’s not like I said it to her face… recently. Besides, I don’t understand why I have to censor myself when they can be just as rash and judgmental..

Rosie: Ugh..! I’m not getting into this argument with you again..! They are my friends, so cut it out with the racist crap for like.. 5 minutes.

Sunstreak: Hrmm.. If I am such a hindrance and annoyance to you, why do you even bother calling me?

Rosie: *grumbles* Because… I don’t know sometimes. Maybe because I hope…

Sunstreak: Hope for what?

Rosie: … I hope that maybe someday, you’ll change. That maybe after hearing about how amazing these bat ponies and this Saddle Arabian mare is, you’ll be a little more open minded and see why I love them so much..

Sunstreak: ….. You can’t push your views on me, Rosie.

Rosie: … I know. But you can’t stop me from having hope..

Sunstreak: Hrmm.. If it matters, I’ve already tried the herbal tea and breathing techniques, as recommended by my physical therapist.

Rosie: Well.. that’s something at least… What about a potion? I know when I was in college, I would go to this potion shop in town when I needed a pick-me-up during finals week. I’m sure they would have a sleeping draft for you.

Sunstreak: *sighs* Again, that doesn’t fix the night terrors..

Rosie: Then ask for a dreamless sleeping potion. I’m sure they make one that is custom to your needs, right?

Sunstreak: ……. I suppose that’s not a horrible idea. I have not tried a potion yet.

Rosie: *ears perk* I can give you the address to the place I went too! I promise, it’s the best place around.

Sunstreak: *snorts* I’ll be the judge of that…

  After exchanging the address and phone number of the potion shop, Sunstreak and Rosie said their goodbyes so that Rosie could go see her movie. After taking a quick shower, Sunstreak got on the train. It wasn’t a very long ride, he assumed that he could at least check out the shop before they close and be back to Appleloosa by that evening. Upon first glance, the shop didn’t look like much from the outside. It was small like your average hole-in-the-wall places that you only hear from by others. If it weren’t for the sign above the door, Sunstreak wouldn’t have guessed that the shop was only a small fraction of a large chain business for alternative medicine.

  The inside looked larger, but still felt mildly small from the large amounts of jars and bottles containing premade concoctions and singular ingredients. Every label on the jars had a name that made some of the contents hard to recognize, and some plants hung to dry along the walls for later use. Well sorted, traditionally decorated, not too shabby… if only it weren’t for the odd scent in the air from the latest mixtures created that day. A small silver bell sat on the counter top in front of some equipment, all set out and ready for the next order request. It appears they did craft things custom to every pony’s need. Now if only they could deliver perfect service.

Sunstreak: *looks around before ringing the bell* … Hello?

??? : Ah! *in the back room* Coming, coming!

An older stallion, possibly in his 60’s came to the front desk. His mane greyed and a unicorn horn that looked a bit cracked at the end.

Shopkeeper: Hello sir, what may I do for you today? *smiles*

Sunstreak: Greetings. I was in the market for a particular potion and I was recommended to this shop from a prior customer. She spoke nothing but praise so I hope you do not disappoint..

Shopkeeper: Oh we never do, heheh. I’m sure I can help you out, uh.. What exactly are you looking for?

Sunstreak: A sleeping draft. I am afraid I am plagued with a horrible case of Insomnia and nothing else seems to work…

Shopkeeper: Ah, I see.. No worries, I have just the recipe to help you as it has done for others, hmhmhm. Unfortunately, I’m afraid I must step out to handle a family issue. But my employee should be here soon and they can set you up just fine. *looks at the clock* As soon as they get here…

Sunstreak: *ears twitch* I don’t think a pre-prescribed recipe will do. I need something a bit more tailored.

Shopkeeper. Any alterations to the set recipe should be able to help. A little something extra usually sets a customer right, and--

??? : I’M HERE! Sorry Mister Aster, I didn’t mean to-- AACK! *falls on the floor*

Mr. Aster: ….. *sighs* Late again this week I see..

??? : I’m so sorry, I was cramming for a test and--

Mr. Aster: I know I know, just please manage your study time better..! I accepted you to be here because I spotted your potential. Don’t waste your chance.

??? : Yes sir.. *ears droop*

Sunstreak: *grimaces* … Sir, with all due respect, I do not think something as.. delicate as my order should be assigned to a simple minded student. Please reconsider..

Mr. Aster: It is quite alright, you can trust her. While clumsy and a bit tardy, she is one of the finest potion brewers I’ve met as of late. A bit young and little experience, but that leaves room for improvement.

??? : Hrmmmm….. *gets off the floor to go into the back room and put on an apron*

Sunstreak: ….. And leaves more room for error. I do not wish to experience any ill side effects. Perhaps you are unaware, but I have a very important job with much at stake and work with large machinery.. You can see why I am.. Hesitant..

Mr. Aster: *ears fold back a little* I-I am sorry, but I really must go.. I promise you, you are in capable hands. She has made this brew many times already and has not made a mistake. You will be taken care of perfectly.

Sunstreak: Excuse me? I already said, I need more than your cookie-cutter recipe.

Mr. Aster: Sir please, this sleeping potion can--

???: Just go Mr. Aster, I can handle this. *steps out* A few simple modifications upon request and description of your problem is all I need and I can pick and choose from the shop without even leaving the counter. *uses magic from her horn to float a notepad and a quil to her hands* So, Sir, how may I help you..?~

Sunstreak: *ears fold back* You aren’t listening to me.. Ah! *watches at Mr. Aster leaves* ….. Hrmmm..! The nerve, why I never… to leave me alone with an incompetent apprentice at most… I should just leave.

??? : *raises an eyebrow* Look, as far as I can tell you’re not getting enough sleep, and for whatever reason, I’m confident that I can help you. But if you’re going to pout like this and walk out, I dunno what your chances are going to be of finding help anywhere else… I can only assume the alterior choices you have don’t work already, otherwise you wouldn’t be here..

Sunstreak: *ears spring up* Pout?! Young lady, I don’t know who you think you are but that is not how one should speak to a customer.. And with how you speak of your own shop with such lack of respect and integrity. At least pretend that you aren’t some hole in the wall shop..

??? : Oh I can do that. If you can pretend to be a liiiiittle bit nicer..? I don’t hate my job here, and I can tell you’re having a bad day…. Or week…. But I’m trying to help here..

Suntreak: Try year. It’s been a bad year for me… but I digress. I suppose I will give you a chance, given that.. you are correct and I am limited on my options. And your employer holds you in such high regards despite your complete lack of work ethic..

??? : *ears perk* I have an excellent work ethic, thank you! I’m just trying to balance this job with piles of assignments on the side. *opens a book and starts flipping through pages*

Sunstreak: You also seem to struggle balancing on your hooves…. You have some dirt on your nose by the way, it’s quite distracting.. *pointing at his own face*

??? : ……… *uses the apron to wipe it off* Ahem! Now then… You said you had specific needs for this, so tell me what exactly your problem is.. The better details I have the more accurate I can fix the brew. *grabs the quil and notepad she grabbed before*

Sunstreak: *lifts his head slightly* I need a fast-acting, dreamless sleeping potion that will keep me asleep for about.. Oh.. roughly 6 hours at the very least. No more than 9 hours. And I need it to be non-drowsy when I awake the next morning. I can’t go to work with a foggy haze nor do I want to take other medication to counter any side effects so keep that to a minimum…. Are you getting all of this?

??? : I’m not that slow, Sir… But I got all of it. I will work around the set formula and have it ready for you in no time at all.~ You can have a seat right over there and wait if you wish.

Sunstreak: *glances at the chair* … Is this going to take very long? I need to know if I can still catch the train or if I have to get a hotel..

??? : Not really no. It’s a quick brew to make and I have the whole thing memorized by now, heheh.~ *horn glows and multiple jars of ingredients float from the shelves and onto the counter*

Sunstreak: *watches the jars float around* Memorized, hmm? Is it a common order? I doubt their cases or at all the same..

??? : Mmmm they’re all different in a way, but you’d be surprised how common sleep deprivation can be nowadays. Everypony has different reasons, but it’s not nothing that can’t be helped. *starts crushing leaves in a grinding bowl*

Sunstreak: Hmph.. I only ask because, if I do decide to come back here for a refill, I don't want you to forget what you changed to my potion.. Or heaven forbid you aren’t working the day I come in…

??? : Oh that won’t be a problem, I can write up a card and it’ll have all your specifications.~ I just need to confirm your name? *holds up the quil*

Sunstreak: Quartz. Sunstreak Quartz..

??? : I thought so. *writes it down before getting back to work*

Sunstreak: *ear twitches as his eyes weasel his eyes down* …. Pardon?

??? : So, are you new to town or something? I haven’t seen you around here before, and it’s not a very big place, heheh.~

Sunstreak: *staring at her, trying to figure out if they have met* … No, I am not. I’m from Vanhoover…. Though I did move to Appleloosa recently.

??? : Oh yeah? How’re you liking it over there? I hear the locals are very eager and friendly.

Sunstreak: If that were true, I wouldn’t have as many issues with my job as I do..

??? : Oh? What do you mean? *giggles a bit* I’m sorry for prying.. Just making conversation..

Sunstreak: ………… Yes.. My apologies, I don’t believe I caught your name? *extending a hand to shake hers*

??? : *ears perk* Aw I’m sorry, heheh! How rude of me. *grabs onto his hand, her nails a bit sharp* My name is Annie… Annie Belle..? Heheheh, but I don’t expect you to remember that name…… *looks up, her eyes tiny slits with black sclera* But maybe you’d remember my brother Daniel Dasher more…
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An unlikely meeting between two people! Buckle up and get ready for a new arc! This is going to be good~

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