//------------------------------//
// Chapter 3: Student 
// Story: The Tale of Flux 
// by MeteorManMike 
//------------------------------//


~~~CHAPTER 3: STUDENT~~~

As we grow old, we gain knowledge.
Our minds mature; our horizons expand.
And yet, the more we learn, the more we realize that we do not know.

For so long as there is wisdom to be gained, we shall forever be students of our world.
~~~


Flux gazed around in confusion and fear. He found himself in a void of swirling color, surrounded by lights and sounds and twisting, morphing objects, with absolutely no semblance of order whatsoever.
He reached out a cautious hoof in an attempt to find his bearings. Hoof... he was still a pony. That bit of strangeness had carried over into this bizarre realm, it seemed. But what was this place?
"Where am I...?" he mused aloud.
As if in response, there came a deep laugh that chilled him to the bone. Both miles away and right behind him, it dripped cruel amusement and malice.
Hello, Flux. Enjoying yourself?
"That voice..." He glared into the maelstrom of chaos. "Discord. What is this? Show yourself!"
In a brilliant flash, the draconequus appeared before him, laughing madly.
"Putting on a brave face? Excellent!" He bared his jagged fangs. "I like my pawns with a little fire."
"Pawns? What are you talking about?" Flux flailed about in the void, unable to get a solid footing. "I saw the Elements petrify you! You're still a statue in the Canterlot gardens!" He met Discord's insane gaze defiantly. "You're really as crazy as you look if you think I'd help you with anything."
The lord of chaos cackled maniacally, doubling over in uncontrolled mirth. "That's too rich!" He gasped, wiping away a tear of mirth. "You actually think you have a choice! Hate to tell you, pony boy, but I'm as much a part of you as those hooves of yours. It seems some exposition is in order."
Discord produced a thick stack of paper and a set of reading glasses, donning them as he flipped through the pages. "Let's see, where are we now... You arrived in Equestria and all the surrounding magic started flowing into you. And thanks to your wonderfully convenient placement, that included the seal placed on me, as well as my chaos magic." He snapped his fingers as if in recollection. "Ah yes, you have me to thank for that little gap in your memory. It wouldn't do to have you pining away for home the whole time you were here, now would it? No fun at all for either of us."
Flux's anger rose steadily. "What gave you the right..." he whispered dangerously. "Why?! For what purpose would you take my memories?!" He bellowed into the storm, Discord's face wearing a look of mock surprise. "My friends... my family... my own name!!"
"Indeed, and I feel ever so guilty about it." He produced a handkerchief and wiped absent tears from his eyes. "And that's why I would like to make a deal. You do not yet possess the power to perform the task that I require of you, but you will soon grow in strength. If you perform satisfactorily at that time, I will see to it that your memory is restored. Agreed?" He extended a claw as though it were nothing more than a friendly handshake.
Flux recoiled. "You really are insane! What could possibly make you think that I would help you, after what you did? After what I've seen you do?" He glared defiantly at the draconequus. "I'll find a way out of here. And then I'll tell Twilight, get her to send a letter to Princess Celestia telling her just what you're plotting. As long as I have anything to say about it, your crazy schemes will never get any further than your stony hide!"
"My poor little deluded human... resisting even as you float helplessly in my chaotic realm." Discord gazed menacingly at Flux. "I took your memories as easily as candy from a baby."
He vanished. Flux suddenly felt the chill of uncertainty. Where had he gone?
Do you honestly think I'd let you remember this?

~~~

Flux awoke with a gasp, shooting bolt upright in the guest bed. Gasping for breath and shivering in a cold sweat, he looked out the window.
It was still dark; the moon had only made it about a quarter through the sky. Flux estimated that he'd been asleep for only a few hours before the nightmare had taken him. He breathed deeply, calming his frazzled nerves as the bad dream faded into obscurity. Laying back down, he attempted to return to slumber, but to no avail.
Suddenly, there came a gentle knock on the door.
"...Flux? It's me, Twilight. Are you all right? I heard noises..."
He shifted and grumbled. "I'm fine. Just a nightmare, is all."
Silence. "You can't sleep, can you."
He sat back up. "Not really, no."
"...Can I come in?"
He left the bed and walked to the door, pulling the handle in his teeth. Twilight stood in the entryway, mane fluffed messily due to restless sleep. They shared tired smiles at each others' disheveled appearance.
Flux broke the silence. "Did you have a bad dream too?"
Twilight flushed ever so slightly. "Not really... so much has happened in the last few days, I just can't stop thinking about it." She looked up to indicate his translucent horn. "Your condition is so new, and I have so many theories, I had to do some research on it to see if there's ever been anything like this before." She lowered her head in shame. "But there's nothing. Other worlds are just myth, and there's no mention of hoomins anywhere."
"Humans," Flux gently corrected as Twilight fidgeted awkwardly. "And it's fine. We'll figure out what to make of this together, right?"
"Yeah... I just think too much, I guess." She looked up sheepishly at him. "What about you? You said you had a nightmare... Can you remember what it was?"
Flux silently cursed his faulty memory as he wracked his brains, turning up only fuzzy, blurred images. "Not really. I probably wouldn't want to remember anyway."
"...I can teach you a song I learned from the princess. It helps to keep nightmares away."
Flux blinked incredulously at her. "You mean like a lullaby?"
"Luna's Lullaby, to be precise. She used to sing it over Equestria as she rose the moon and stars. Now that I think of it, I'd bet she still does." She gazed out the window at the full moon. Even now, after using the Elements for the first time and healing Nightmare Moon's corruption, the lunar surface still looked strange without the image of the sorrowful alicorn. "There's a bit of magic in the lyrics. It always made me feel safe."
He gazed sleepily at the purple mare, now bathed in the silvery light of the moon. "...I'd like that, actually. I'm not much of a singer, though..."
"You don't have to be. It's been a while since I've done it out loud, myself." She closed her eyes and began to sing softly:

Hush now, quiet now
It's time to lay your sleepy head
Hush now, quiet now
It's time to go to bed

"I think I've heard this before..." Flux mumbled tiredly, eyes half lidded as sleep descended upon him. A comforting feeling came over him, almost as though he were once more under Celestia's wing...

Drifting off to sleep
The exciting day behind you
Drifting off to sleep
Let the joy of dream land find you

She was interrupted by a soft snore. She opened her eyes to find that Flux had already fallen asleep, curled up on the hardwood floor. She smiled gently as she lifted him back into the bed, tucking him in with a touch of magic.
She paused for a moment, as the moonlight shone on his sleeping form. His silvery mane, already so much like the moon itself, now gained an almost ethereal quality as it was bathed in Luna's pale glow.
He must be so lonely, Twilight thought as she took in the sight of her new, resting guest. Everything has been taken from him... To smile like he does is far braver than any of us. A smile of her own now crossed her tired face.
Sleep well, my friend.

~~~

A rooster crowed off in the distance as the morning sun shone through the wooden window, upon the sleeping grey pony. Slowly, Flux opened his eyes and took it in, reluctant to move lest the heavenly sensation of perfect rest be lost to morning aches. Surprisingly, there were none, even with his unfamiliar new body. He looked in the mirror opposite him and his smile broadened as a bedraggled, yet bright-eyed and cheerful pony looked back at him.
I don't remember feeling this refreshed in ages, Flux mused privately as he observed his reflection. This was only the second time he'd been able to see himself, and the first opportunity to get a really good look. Despite the inevitable bed-head, his silvery-white mane had an appealing chaotic-yet-contained look to it; he shook his head experimentally and the hair fell into roughly the same position as before.
He took note of the strange, translucent horn and wings in his possession. As he focused on each, one became solid while the other faded from view. He took in the new sensations associated with these as they manifested: a feeling of lightness as well as two extra limbs when the wings solidified, and a bizarre, otherworldly touch in his horn, but not unpleasant.
An idea came over him as he focused on a hoof. Sure enough, both horn and wings dissolved from existence. At the same time, he became aware of an increased weight, yet a surge of energy and strength flowed through him. Wow, Flux marveled as he flexed a foreleg at his reflection, power rippling through the limb. I used to feel bad for the earth ponies, but this... Is incredible! I like it!
He was suddenly snapped out of his self-admiring trance by an aroma. Sniffing curiously, he traced the source to the door. A delicious scent of fried eggs and fresh baked bread wafted between the cracks in the door frame, and as he quietly grasped the handle with his teeth and pulled it open, a welcome flood of breakfast smells washed over him.
The small purple dragon looked away from the stove, briefly adjusting his apron. "Good morning, your highness!" He greeted cheerfully, with a touch of sarcasm and an exaggerated bow.
"Your... highness?" Flux tilted his head quizzically as the dragon snorted.
"Well, seeing as you have wings and a horn, rumor started going around that you were a prince," Spike explained as Flux tried to recall the events of the evening prior. "Besides, you didn't seem to mind at the time. That was one heck of a party, huh?"
"I guess I should be flattered..." Flux smirked as he remembered the antics of the partygoers, thankful that he had heeded Applejack's warning about cider in excess. "But I'm no prince. Heck, I'm hardly even a proper pony. Just Flux will do."
"Eh, you're no fun, prince." Flux shot him a dark look, making him snicker again. "Most of the 'upperclass' ponies are so uptight--Oh, 'morning, Twilight!"
Flux followed Spike's eyes to the lavender mare descending the staircase into the kitchen. She, too, looked well-rested as she greeted them both with a bright, cheery smile.
"Good morning, Spike, Flux," she beamed as she approached the stove. "Mmm, just the way I like them! Thank you, Spike." She nuzzled his cheek affectionately as he playfully batted her away with his spare claw.
She turned to Flux, smiling contentedly. "Looks like you slept well, too. No more nightmares?"
"Yeah, it was great. That song did the trick, I went out like a light." Color rose unbidden to his face. "The last time someone sang me to sleep was way back when I was a kid. Thanks for that, by the way, it was really nice."
It was Twilight's turn to blush. "Oh, um, no problem. It's Spike's favorite, too, from back when he was a hatchling."
"Hey, hold off on the hatchling stories," Spike huffed as he returned to the stove, breathing a low green flame over the eggs as they sizzled away. A rising whistle briefly distracted him as the kettle next to the skillet began to steam. "Ah, the water's ready. I set up some teacups on the table, they've got that herbal mix from Zecora, like you asked."
"Thanks again, Spike." Twilight lifted the kettle from the stove and wafted it over to the table and the waiting teacups, pouring a carefully measured amount of boiling water into each. "Zecora's second to none when it comes to finding magical herbs in the Everfree Forest," she explained to Flux, who was considering the nearest cup as the rich, earthy fragrance rose into the air. "I've found that this mix helps to heighten my magical awareness. It should be useful in getting you acquainted with your magic sense." She turned her gaze upward and smiled approvingly. "I see you're already in unicorn form, that's a good start."
Flux had hardly noticed the shift as he was lost in the fragrance of the brew before him. His attention thus shifted to his horn, he became aware once more of the spectral sensations that he'd come to realize was the ever-present flow of external magic. As he focused further on the ethereal touch, he felt strong emanations coming from three sources: Twilight's horn, Spike's green flame, and strangely, the teacups containing the special herbal concoction.
"Very good! You're picking up on this quickly." Confused, he looked to Twilight, who indicated his horn. It was glowing with a pale, silver-platinum light as he sensed his surroundings. He smiled dumbly at his personal light show, a sense of great satisfaction and accomplishment coming over him.
"Here, the tea should be cool enough to drink now. I wouldn't recommend that," she added quickly as Flux, having seen her magically lift her cup, attempted to do the same. "We'll start small and work our way up, once you've mastered your magical sense. Trust me, I've destroyed enough dishware in my time." She giggled, thinking back to a panicked purple filly standing amid the ruins of a rather ornate tea set, the Sun Princess looking on with fondness and mild amusement.
Understanding her concerns, and not wanting to impede further on her hospitality, Flux leaned forward and gingerly sipped at his tea.
It was as if a curtain had been pulled from his awareness as the mystical mix took effect. He could feel... everything. His eyes widened as color and sound and touch came at him from all directions. He felt every living thing within the walls of the great tree, softly emitting the force of their being. He felt stray scraps of energy floating around strangely, the remnants of cast spells. He felt Twilight's fascination and satisfaction at seeing a unicorn's eyes being truly opened for the first time, as she shared a similar but less potent effect.
"Wow..." Flux breathed after an eternity, which had actually been about half a minute. "There's so... much. Everywhere, all the time... Did you feel that, too?"
"The effect becomes less pronounced as you get used to it," Twilight said as she lowered her own, half-empty teacup back onto its saucer. "Eventually you can control the effect so that it doesn't overwhelm you." She raised an eyebrow as he slugged down the rest of his cup messily. "You enjoy the tea, I take it?"
"Absolutely," he mumbled, his unfocused eyes gazing into infinity. Finally, the effect reduced, and his awareness descended once more to the mortal plane. The magical sensations remained sharp as ever, and he could much more easily associate the touches of magical energies with their respective sources.
"Maybe I should've given you a lighter concentration to start you off," Twilight mused as she finished her cup with a satisfied smile. Flux forced himself to snap back into focus with the current conversation. "Heh, sorry. That was awesome. I can feel magic way better now, just like you said."
Spike put out his flame, removing the eggs from the stove and placing them on fresh slices of toast. "Here you go! A breakfast fit for a king! Or a prince!"
"Enough with the royal stuff already..." Flux muttered, to the amusement of Spike and Twilight. "Am I going to have to deal with this from everyone?" Nevertheless, a low rumble resounded from his side of the table, and he dug in gratefully. There was no question: this was the best egg sandwich he'd ever had.
"Anyway, once we're done with breakfast, I'd like to get started on your magic training right away." Flux nodded in agreement, still munching on egg. "Once I get a proper assessment of your natural skill level, I can determine the most appropriate pacing for the rest of the day. Best case, you could complete the visual replacement portion of the training by this afternoon."
"You mean like seeing with magic?" Flux swallowed the rest of his sandwich. "Sounds interesting. I'm ready when you are."
They continued to talk for a time, Spike joining them after a while as his own meal finished cooking. It felt strangely familiar as she went on about topics that went way over his head, the dragon helping to clarify every so often. He'd taken an immediate liking to Twilight when he began watching the show. She reminded him so much of... someone. Someone he hadn't seen in a long time... someone important...
He shook his head, returning once more to the breakfast table. I'll figure this out eventually. Right now, I've got magic to learn.

~~~

"Most unicorns' magical sense becomes more heightened as they mature." Twilight's tone had shifted from 'friendly conversation' to 'scholarly lecture' as she led the way into the basement. "But in your case, your horn is fully developed, meaning that you can feel the magic around and inside you, but you don't know how to manipulate it yet."
Twilight lit a lantern on the basement wall with a pulse of violet energy. As the room filled with much more light than the humble candle should have been able to produce, Flux beheld all manner of strange and advanced-looking machinery. At the center of the room was an illuminated circle... No, it wasn't light, but magic that the circle shone with. The spectral sensations in his horn intensified as he followed the lavender mare's lead toward the mysterious etching on the floor.
"This is a runic retention circle," Twilight said fondly as she traced its curve with a hoof. "It remembers a spell that I cast on it, so that I can call it up at any time by standing inside it. We'll be using a spell that I trained with in preparation for advanced magical manipulation, but it should be perfect for getting you in touch with your magic sense."
Twilight touched her horn to the rim of the circle, and the whole room was bathed in deep violet as the circle took in her spell. Before his eyes (or horn, he thought,) there appeared strange, sprawling runes on the outer edge of the circle.
And yet, despite having never seen such intricate and bizarre runes before, Flux understood their meaning... rather, it was almost as though they were reaching out to him, as though they wanted to be read:

Encircled here, o shadow laid to rest
Awaken now, and rise at my behest
Obscure my eyes, let darkness take my sight
That in the blackness I may test my might

The spell complete, Twilight raised her head and smiled at her work, satisfied. The circle's glow had diminished somewhat, but still held the strange runes and feel of residual magic.
"Of the physical senses, magic is the most similar to vision," Twilight explained. "This spell allows for magic to take the place of your sight. It blocks light from entering your eyes, and at the same time enhances the magic flow within the circle."
"So... just making sure I have this straight," Flux said nervously, "You're gonna blind me?"
"...I suppose so. But there's nothing permanent about it," Twilight reassured, seeing his reluctant expression. "If you step outside the circle, the spell ends. Here, I'll show you."
She stepped to the center of the circle and closed her eyes. Her horn began to glow brightly along with the circle as it shone with life once more. Power seemed to be flowing into her from the edges of the circle as the spell was cast, at once mysterious and beautiful.
And then she opened her eyes.
Flux screamed. Where once were violet pools of serene intelligence, in their place were perfect twin mirrors, reflecting his horror back at him.
"It's alright! I'm fine! Don't worry, it's just the magic." Twilight attempted to calm him as he gasped for breath, reason taking hold once more. "I should've told you what to expect. The spell uses reflection, but I didn't think about how it would look... sorry for scaring you."
Flux swallowed the lump that had risen in his throat, and spoke shakily. "This spell... you said it's not permanent, so I guess it's all right, but... couldn't you just blindfold me or something?"
"Even the best blindfold still lets some light through," Twilight reassured. "Complete visual focus is required for this to work. Once you've sharpened your sense to the subconscious level, we'll be able to do without the circle, but for now, this really is the best way."
She stepped over the edge, and the mirror coating left her eyes once more. "It'll all be fine. Just reach out to the circle and the spell will cast itself through you. I'll be right here the whole time."
Flux stepped shakily to the center of the circle, mustering what courage he could. He closed his eyes, allowing the energies flowing around him to sharpen and solidify into the circle he stood within, 'seeing' the runes appear on the circumference again. They began to flow towards him, colliding with and being absorbed by his horn. He could feel an electrical pulse each time a rune came into contact with his horn, as the spell built to its completion. The entropic vortex of non-color began to solidify into solid textures, and he could make out the shapes of the odd machines he had seen just moments ago. Behind him, he saw a much more intense concentration of energy, which expanded as he turned to become the outline of an equine about his size.
He opened his eyes out of reflex, despite knowing that this would make no difference as the spell had taken effect. "Oh my," Twilight's voice said as he felt a touch of shock emanate from the equine figure before him. "I can see why you were startled, the effect is... somewhat unsettling. How are you feeling?"
"It's... like when I had that tea, earlier," Flux said as he felt around the basement with his new vision. "But more focused, I guess. It's like I can see all around me, not just in front of me. It's weird, but not a bad weird."
Twilight's figure emanated relief and... pride? "You're doing well. Time for the next step." Her horn radiated pure energy, and several spheres of light burst from it and into the circle. "These are fairy lights," Twilight explained. "They're invisible, but emit magic. Ancient unicorns used to use them as beacons to mark out hidden passages."
The orbs began to move randomly around the circle. "Try to avoid touching them for as long as you can. I'll keep moving them faster until you get hit." As she spoke, one of the spheres slowly wafted towards his head; he dodged to the side as it passed him by.
As he felt around the circle, he counted five lights, each seemingly with a mind of its own. He silently marveled at Twilight's ability to move so many of them as he sidestepped another, this one headed for his flank.
"So, what do you think of Ponyville so far?" The figure spoke suddenly. Flux, distracted, narrowly missed being grazed by a light that had moved to attack his right foreleg. "Is this really the time? I'm trying to concentrate," he muttered in mild annoyance as he regained his focus.
"Multitasking is an important part of magical manipulation; this is a good way to get you used to performing several tasks at once." The flow of magic from the figure increased slightly as she spoke, sending the orbs wheeling around the circle a little faster. "Just try to keep up with the conversation. Makes it more fun, don't you think?"
A touch of mischief and humor came from the figure. She was toying with him. A challenge, is it? He grinned in determination as he ducked another orb, this one passing harmlessly over his shoulders.
"From what I can remember of last night," Flux managed as he was forced to jump a light headed for his feet, "Everything is exactly like what I've seen in the show. It'd be fun to just take in the sights some time."
"That sounds good! We could do that this afternoon, once we're done training for the day." A feeling of pleasant anticipation emanated from the pony form next to him. "Where would you like to go first?"
Flux struggled to order his thoughts, still ducking and dodging the strange orbs as they fairly whizzed by, having greatly increased in speed. "I can't think of any particular place..." he grunted, now breaking a sweat as a sphere narrowly missed his tail. "You could show me your favorite spots around town, to get started."
"Something like a guided tour, then? Let's see..." The orbs' flight slowed noticeably as she thought. "We could have lunch at the Shamrock, that's the corner cafe just down the street from here."
"Is that the outdoor restaurant with the clover sign?" They had gone past the venue briefly during the welcoming party. A nod from Twilight confirmed the inquiry. "I have to ask, are those tables actual mushrooms?"
Twilight giggled. "Don't they ever grow that big in your world?" He shook his head, then quickly pulled it back as a light nearly clipped him from the side. "They take a fair amount of care to keep them healthy. That's one of the things that makes the Shamrock so popular, second only to their food. And don't tell anypony..." She leaned in conspiratorially, "There's a bit of magic involved in their upkeep, as well."
"Meals on magical mushrooms..." Flux smirked at his own alliteration, and felt a bit of amusement from Twilight as she continued to speed up the spheres' flight. He was snapped out of his humor as an orb nearly grazed his nose. This was getting difficult!
"After that, we could go see Sweet Apple Acres, and help out a little if they still need it. They're usually done with their work by then, so we'll see. Besides, you'll be spending tomorrow morning with Applejack, so there will be plenty of opportunity to help."
Flux blinked, almost getting hit in the side in his confusion. "I thought I was going to help Pinkie tomorrow. Applejack's on Friday, right?"
"Very sharp, I'm impressed!" Messing with my head now, are you? He felt himself grinning in determination, deftly sidestepping two orbs that assaulted him simultaneously from the front and the back. You won't get the best of me that easily...
"I'm not exactly sure what she wants to do with the rest of the day, but you'll be making cupcakes as an earth pony. Rainbow Dash usually helps her with the ingredients, but she'll be busy in the morning. She might swing by later, though."
He blanched. A hideous image rose unbidden to the forefront of his mind. NO! Don't even BEGIN to think about that! Flux bore down on the mental image, attempting to crush it into oblivion.
But it was too late. The distraction had cost him his focus, and he was hit.
A sudden jolt of pure electricity shot through his horn as the orb made contact, and he yelped in pain and surprise as he fell to the floor.
"Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry!" Twilight rushed forward, dispelling the blinding magic and remaining orbs. "Are you all right? I was trying not to hit your horn, what happened?"
Flux's vision returned slowly, revealing the purple mare's eyes awkwardly close to his own. "I'm fine..." he managed as the tingling jolts subsided, leaving a dull headache. Of all the things to remember, why THAT?!
"Did you remember something? What was it?" Twilight's voice was concerned, yet hopeful.
"Nothing that I'd care to remember..." He groaned, squashing back the image once more. "Let's just say that some people in my world are sick, twisted and wrong, and leave it at that. Trust me, you don't want to know."
Twilight's ears drooped slightly. "I understand... you don't have to tell me if you don't want to." Her expression perked back up. "But Flux, I'm really impressed! You lasted about five minutes, and I was moving the lights almost as fast as I could!" She smiled proudly. "You sure you've never used magic before? It took me weeks before I was that good!"
Flattered, Flux got to his feet, blushing slightly. "Thanks, I'm glad you think so. What's next?"
"At this point, I think you've progressed beyond the need for the visual replacement method." She lowered her horn to the edge of the circle, and the runes appeared to be drawn back into her horn. Wait a minute. Flux looked at the circle again, now dormant. I can still see the magic, just like I did with that spell. Twilight noticed his smile of accomplishment, and gave one of her own.
"We'll keep doing this until you can reach five minutes with your normal vision. Want to take a rest, or are you ready for another round?" Flux grinned confidently, getting back into his 'ready' stance.
"Let's do it."
They continued the exercise well into late morning. It was indeed much harder with the distraction of physical sight, but he was quickly improving. They conversed over all manner of topics as they practiced, Twilight every so often throwing a logical fallacy at him, which he corrected, all the while keeping his focus on the whirling, invisible balls of magic.
This is hardly study, Flux mused as he dodged. This is way too much fun.

~~~

"I know I've been saying this a lot... probably too much... but wow."
"It's just a sandwich," Spike scoffed as he munched his extra-crispy hay fries. "Maybe it's for the best that ponies can't eat gemstones, you'd never get enough of those."
Visions of a windswept plain beneath the noonday sun ran through Flux's head as he chewed his daffodil-and-daisy sandwich. He thought of how much more colorful his world would be if flowers had been this delicious. He'd taken some of the forget-me-not from the vase at the center of the mushroom as they waited, and the flavor was memorable, to say the least. It hadn't taken him long to realize that the vases were not just decoration, but appetizers. Nothing compared to the main course, of course, but delectable all the same.
"What can I say?" Flux mumbled through a mouthful of blossoms, eliciting a giggle from Twilight. "I've become something of a floral connoisseur." He raised a hoof as though to stroke a nonexistent beard, his tone sarcastically elegant. "Second only to the use of magic, and of course my presence in Equestria itself, such fine flora is the most favorable factor of this fantastical foray."
He thought for sure Spike was going to shoot a fry from his nose as he snorted, both he and Twilight caught completely off guard by his alliterative assault.
"You say you're not a prince," Spike gasped as he tried to regain his faculties, "But you've got one heck of a vocabulary. How much have you been talking to Twilight?"
"That just kinda came out of nowhere, actually." Flux smirked, satisfied at the reaction. Twilight's face bore an expression between impressed and laughing. "Spur-of-the-moment humor is often the best, in my opinion."
"Oh boy..." Twilight panted, still giggling. "I'm starting to question whether having you work with Pinkie tomorrow is such a good idea..."
"Geez, if tomorrow is anything like yesterday, you're gonna have to drag me back on a stretcher..." Flux rotated a hoof next to his head, getting another snort from Spike. "That was insane. I had about enough cake to last a year. She must be bigger on the inside, the way she tears through that stuff."
"That's just Pinkie," Twilight grinned fondly. "Just accept her for what she is, and it'll save you a lot of headache, believe me."
He had finished his sandwich and started on his fries. The mixture of familiar flavors was unusual, yet strangely good: they had the same texture and saltiness of common french fries, but a rich, grainy flavor, like oven-toasted bread. He smiled in satisfaction as he munched on a few more. The novelty of pony food would wear off soon, but for now he was enjoying it for everything it was worth.
They talked a while longer over the meal, Twilight pointing out the various establishments around the restaurants, as well as the various ponies that were going about their daily business. Flux had seen several of the more widely recognized extras from the show, and had been surprised that the fan names, and for the most part their personalities, had been accurate.
You're in a fantasy world, you've been turned into a magical pony, you're talking to a cartoon character, and THIS surprises you?? Get some perspective! He munched another fry.
Something orange in the corner of his vision caught his attention, and he turned to see Applejack trotting in the direction of the Library. She raised a hoof to knock, then lowered it, taking note of the 'out to lunch' sign. She turned and shuffled back, looking somewhat dejected.
"Applejack! Over here!" Her ears perked at the greeting, and her face brightened as she trotted toward the waving Twilight. "Thank goodness ah found ya, Twi! Oh... howdy, Flux. Sorry ta interrupt."
Flux raised an eyebrow, slightly concerned, as Twilight assured the farmer that there was no problem. Was she disappointed to see him here?
"Ah was gonna ask fer some help on the farm," the orange mare informed. "Mac busted his plow on a rock, and it'd be great if you could take a look at it. But if yer' still workin' with Flux, I can come back later. Maybe ah can get a start on movin' that rock outta the field."
"Actually, we were about to head over there after lunch," Flux interjected, seeing Applejack's mood lift almost instantly. "We finished the first part of his training early today," Twilight added, giving him a fond look. "I've never seen anypony take to magic so quickly. Flux is a natural."
Flux became conspicuously more interested in his remaining fries, attempting to hide yet another flush. All present company chuckled slightly at his awkwardness.
"Well shoot, that's just dandy!" Applejack beamed, trotting a little in place. "How about ah stick around till yer' finished, and we'll go there together?"
"That sounds like a great plan." Twilight sipped at her lemonade, having finished most of her meal. "This rock you mentioned... how big would you say it is?"
"'Bout as big as a healthy pumpkin. Shouldn't take too long to move."
Twilight's eyes glinted dangerously, a mischievous smile slowly coming across her face as she looked at flux, who was suddenly having difficulty with his own beverage. Spike bore a look of dawning comprehension. "Oh, right... this ought to be good!" He looked eagerly at Flux. Applejack seemed just as confused as he was.
"Um..." Flux gulped nervously.

~~~

"Are you sure this is a good idea?"
Flux stood within a translucent purple dome, along with Twilight, Applejack and Spike. He recognized the barrier spell as Shining Armor's specialty, concern rising as he thought of what could prompt the use of such a defense.
"Don't worry. Just do as I told you and everything should be fine. Besides, we're ready if anything goes wrong." Twilight's horn shone brightly as she spoke, adding an extra layer to the shimmering barricade.
Flux closed his eyes and focused on the large rock before them, feeling it out with his magic sense. It was unremarkable, except for a large chip that had broken off where Big Macintosh had hit it with the plow. It was about the size of a basketball, and had been half-excavated already.
He envisioned a shimmering ball of light encompassing the stone, as per Twilight's instruction. He felt power flowing from the tip of his horn to connect with the rock, enveloping it in his silver-platinum aura.
"Very good," came Twilight's voice from behind him. "You're ready to lift it. Nice and easy."
Flux screwed his eyes up, attempting to channel the Force as he willed the rock to rise from the earth.
The explosion could be heard all throughout Ponyville and beyond. Bits of shrapnel whizzed through the air, bouncing harmlessly off of Twilight's lavender shell.
Flux stood paralyzed, the detonation still ringing in his ears. He finally allowed himself to breathe, taking in the smoldering sight of his utter failure. Where once was a stone, there now was a large crater, the field ruined. Slowly, cautiously, he turned in shame to face his teacher.
Spike released his pent-up laughter, collapsing on the ground in a fit of mirth. "Just like Twilight!" He gasped, pounding the earth with a claw. "Oh man, your face! That brings back memories!"
The unicorn and the farmer, however, continued to stare at the crater, mouths agape. "That was... very impressive..." Twilight finally managed, once again gaining control of her senses. "The power's certainly there... we should probably use something smaller next time. Oh, sorry about the mess, I'll get right to it." She grinned apologetically at Applejack, her horn lighting up again.
Flux watched in wonderment as the barrier dissolved and the earth surrounding the crater shone violet. Like a liquid mass, the edges flowed inward on the hole, filling it up and smoothing it out. When she finished, no one would have guessed that previously it had been ground zero of a powerful blast.
"Sorry about that..." Flux muttered sheepishly, shuffling a hoof in the dirt. "Not sure what I did wrong..."
Twilight giggled. "You put too much effort into it. Don't try so hard to force it to move; instead, let your magic move it for you." She smiled reassuringly at Flux, who was still feeling a little dumb for making a giant crater in Applejack's field. "Admittedly, this was just to test your power. I expected it to crack or even crumble, but it takes a lot of power to blow it up like that. It wasn't a likely scenario, but I used the shield spell anyway. Good idea, wouldn't you say?"
"Uh... yeah, I suppose so..." Flux looked around for signs of damage from the far-flung shrapnel. They were far enough out in the field that there were no structures nearby, to his relief.
A flying shape caught his notice; he turned to get a better look, squinting into the sky. An unidentified pegasus, too high to tell who it was, had flown in to inspect the source of the blast. Twilight waved to it, and it flew back towards Ponyville, apparently satisfied that this was no cause for concern, considering the strangeness that seemed to follow the unicorn.
"Hoo-whee! That's one way to get rid of a rock," Applejack exclaimed, thumping Flux on the shoulder. "Thank ya kindly, Flux, even if ya did make a bit of a mess." She turned to Twilight, still grinning from the excitement. "There's still the matter of the plow, if it's not too much trouble."
"Not at all," Twilight reassured. "Let's have a look at it. I'll handle this one, Flux, but you're welcome to watch."
They made their way to the large barn at the center of the farm. Big Macintosh was attempting to hammer the bent plow blade back into shape; Flux winced at the sight of the farm horse holding the tool in his teeth as he swung powerfully at the tarnished metal.
"Y'all can take a break now, Mac," Applejack called as the three entered the barn. Mac placed the hammer on the ground, greeting them with a friendly nod.
"Oh my goodness," Twilight gasped as she got a good look at the mangled plow. The blade had bent off to the side at nearly a right angle, indicating that there was some serious force behind it when it struck the stone. She felt a new-found respect for the quiet strength of the red farm horse.
"This isn't going to be easy," Twilight diagnosed as she ran her hoof along the crumpled blade. "Manipulation of this level will require absolute focus. I can't have any distractions." All nodded in understanding.
"All right. I'm starting... now." Twilight closed her eyes as her horn shone even brighter than usual. The feeling of raw power was almost tangible as Flux looked on at the display of magical might, like an invisible pressure being emitted from Twilight's direction. An electric prickle ran through his spine, sending a chill of mixed respect and fear.
As he watched, the blade was enveloped in an intense violet light, and the metal began to creak and groan under the mystical force. Slowly, steadily, the blade began to bend back into shape as the three looked on in silence.
Twilight gritted her teeth, a bead of sweat forming on her brow as she channeled immense power through her horn. Invisible hooves pressed the blade, pushing with the force of ten stallions, the protesting metal bending to her will. Her hooves dug a little into the earthen floor of the barn as she braced against her inanimate opponent.
Finally, after what seemed to be several minutes, the lavender light surrounding the blade and illuminating the barn faded away. Twilight panted in exertion, opening her eyes to observe her handiwork. The plow's blade, straight as the day it was cast, gleamed in the center of the barn. She'd even gone ahead and polished off the rust that had been building on it for goodness knows how long.
"Yee-haw! Now that's a shine!" Cried Applejack as she and Mac approached the plow, admiring the finished product. "Eeyup," Mac stated approvingly.
Flux picked his jaw up off the floor. "That's... amazing. I'm never gonna be that good."
"Ya can't know until ya try, sugar," Applejack said as she rumpled his hair with a hoof. "And if anyone can whip ya into shape, it's Twilight. Now, how much do ah owe ya for the repairs?" She turned to Twilight, pulling a golden coin from under her stetson. Apparently she had a pouch on the inside for carrying small objects.
"Oh, that's fine. Don't worry about it." Twilight held up a hoof, refusing the offered bit. "I'm just here to help out a friend."
"If ya say so," Applejack tucked the bit back under her hat. "But yer next bushel of apples is on the house. Ah insist."
Satisfied, they took the plow back out to the fields, where Mac strapped it back onto his harness and resumed his plowing.

~~~

Not much else of note happened over the course of the day, Flux having completed Twilight's scheduled training much earlier than expected. He didn't mind the slower pace, as it gave him time to take in and appreciate the natural beauty of the countryside.
He, Twilight and Applejack spent the rest of the afternoon wandering Sweet Apple Acres, talking about life in general and getting him familiar with the farm. Applejack eventually talked them into staying for dinner, and Flux had to admit that Granny's cooking was some of the best he'd ever had. He found himself repeating a lot of what he'd said to Twilight and her friends about himself as the Apple family, especially Applebloom, questioned him eagerly.
They returned to the library as the sun set, both exhausted from the day's events. Twilight offered him several books on magic and Equestrian history, advising him not to practice his magic indoors yet. He needed no reminder, the image of the exploding rock was still fresh in his mind.
I still have a lot to learn, He mused sleepily to himself as he turned the page of 'Telekinesis and You: a Beginner's Guide to Magical Manipulation'. That's good, though. I might even learn more about myself along the way...
He could have sworn he heard a silvery voice as the moon rose slowly into the night sky. His tired mind registered the words of the Lullaby as sleep took him.
He fell into bed with a smile, dreaming of flowers, apples and magic.


~~~TO BE CONTINUED~~~



Author's note

Sorry for taking so long with this one. Third shift. I'll say no more.
I very much hope I did Twilight justice with this chapter. Twilight is best pony. I think it's interesting to see her in a student-turned-teacher role.
Magic is really difficult to describe. Some creative license was used, but I tried to keep within the boundaries defined by the show. Let me know how it was.
Pinkie Pie is next. I must channel my inner randomness...
If you're taking the time to read this, thanks for sticking with me so far. I'll see you next time.
-M3