> Taciturn Carrots
>  by Aura Zero
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Unvoiced Interaction
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Come on Hark! You just gotta come! Everyone wants you to!" Whines a masculine voice.

Hark, hard at work reading a book about components on electronic appliances, places the book down and looks at his friend, James. He has a short afro with a white t-shirt and long basketball shorts. He sports a frown on his face but is quite determined to get through to him.

Hark merely sighs and shakes his head no before turning back to his studies.

James doesn't like that answer. "Aww come on man! You've been cooped up studying for this whole week! You deserve a break!"

Hark merely continues to read his book, a specific section catching his interest and he delves more into it.

James groans loudly. "Ugh fine! But seriously man, you need to lay off the studying sometime. Get out and do more things like party and meet girls.... shoot maybe even watch TV! I haven't seen you do that in years!"

Hark turned and looked at James with a bemused look. He then pointed at the tv nearby. James looked at it for a moment before remembering something.

"Oh, right, broken..... well get another one! I know you got the money. You've been saving for forever."

Hark merely shook his head no before continuing his reading.

He sighed. "Whatever. If you change your mind, you know where to find me." James said before heading out the room.

As soon as the door closed, Hark put the book down and looked towards the door and frowned. In all honesty, he did think of maybe going out and mingling a bit but that thought was shut down almost immediately for obvious reasons. He sighed before tagging his book and closing it. He decided maybe it would be best to take a break once in a while. He opened the door to his room and went out. There was a long hallway that led to multiple rooms. He took the second door to the left that went to the bathroom. He turned the water on and splashed it on his face getting him more alert than usual. He then looked at himself. 

His outfit comprised of a simple black t-shirt and some dark grey jeans. He was a lighter skin tone than his friend, but not much, and had curls in his hair with no facial hair, unfortunately. Most mistake him as younger than he really is and it annoys him. He thought he was average in the looks department, however it wasn't that hard for him to earn attention if he wanted to. He ignored that thought and looked at the time. 11:42. An hour and some change before work starts.

Hark sighed before drying his face and then heading to the living room. It had two comfy couches with an entertainment center and a pretty large flat screen. He sat on the couch comfortably and saw the tv controller. He merely stared at the key to the world of television from a distance. Maybe James was right; It wouldn't hurt to see how the world is progressing on his big shiny box. He slammed his foot on the table, sending the remote up and he easily reached his hand out, grabbing it. He then pressed the power button.

The tv made a blue background and said 'King' in bold and fancy wording, before producing an image. It was ch 11 news. It talked about how a woman that had a drug problem was about to jump off a bridge but was saved by an eleven year old telling her not to do it.

"I just thought that if she was sad, then I should help her out. And now we are great friends." The little girl said with a smile on the tv. 

Hark smiled at that. He enjoyed helping others and he surmised he would have probably done the same thing if he could. He changed the channel and it showed some foreign channel. He didn't understand a word that they were saying but they were fighting and it seemed interesting. However after a short while, he opened the guide and looked at all the shows available. He scrolled absent mindedly and saw something of interest when he was younger: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. He smiled at that show but before he clicked it, he saw another show. It was under a network called the Hub: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic.

Now Hark had a few thoughts about seeing this. The first one was wondering why in the world someone would write or illustrate a show about ponies. Another is the second part of the title: Friendship is Magic. That sounded so corny that he cringed slightly upon reading it. His last and most confusing thought though was actually considering watching to see what this show is about. Without completely thinking about it, he clicked the remote, turning it to that show. As soon as it showed the channel, he was greeted by an pink horse bouncing around with a rainbow umbrella on its head talking to other technicolor horses.

There was one with a horn and there seemed to be an aura around it that made things float... like magic.

Then the weirdest thing he ever saw happened.... there was a horse, but it wasn't a normal horse, no far from it. No this horse had wings! Hark couldn't do anything but stare dumbfounded at the screen. There was this blue coated pony (that's what these colorful horses call themselves) with a mane that had every color in the rainbow in it. She also seemed to have a tattoo near her butt or flank for horses.... well, ponies.

Hark clicked the remote, turning the tv off. He merely sat and pondered about what he saw. It sure was unexpected, especially the flying ones, but there was one feeling that he would dare not admit to anyone.

It was rather intriguing...

Hark quickly shook his head, thinking that was plenty enough of a break, before heading to his room to study some more.






Hark yawned as he turned to head for his bed for the night. He learned quite a bit more after work and figured it was time to rest. He closed his book, got up and crawled into bed. He was too lazy to undress so he slept in his clothes. As he lay there, getting pretty close to sleep, his right ear registers something. Now Hark's hearing is very good and he has even found himself hearing the bugs crawling in the walls before, so hearing a bush rustle outside was quite easy for him to detect. However, this wasn't the sound of the wind pushing against it; it was more of something disturbing it.

Hark groaned internally knowing exactly who it was. He turned and opened his window and looked straight at his visitor; the same as earlier.

"Oh hey Hark, didn't wake ya did I? I see your hearing is still as good as ever. I barely touched the bush before you opened the window."

Hark merely stared at him with a 'what are you doing here?' look.

James caught it. "Just wanna see if you might have changed your mind about the party going on right now."

Hark shook his head no.

"Aww come on.... Lyra will be there."

Hark froze at the name he just heard. That name, that wonderful angelic name that makes him smile whenever he hears it. That name that belonged to the woman that really stood out the most for Hark. He's known this girl for most his life and has loved her just as long.

James noticed the goofy smile on Hark's face. "She would really like it if you came. She said she hasn't hung out with you much lately and I tried to tell her I would bring you."

Hark thought about it a moment. He did notice that he hasn't seen her in a week or two, so it would be really great to see her again. Plus, he didn't have work tomorrow so he could sleep in a little later. Plus, this could be an opportunity to do something or experience something new, which Hark was all about.

After a moment, Hark looked at his friend and nodded with a smile. James smiled wide at this. "You'll come? Awesome! I swear man, you will have a great time. I'll let ya get dressed. I'll be out here waiting."

Hark nodded before going to his closet. He picked out a decent outfit: Dark blue jeans with a white t-shirt underneath a button up, unbuttoned. He then took the clothes, along with a towel and washcloth to the bathroom to take a shower.

After cleaning himself off and getting dressed, he grabbed his keys, went to the front door and opened it. He saw James smiling at him.

"This is gonna be so awesome! They are gonna have drinks there man! I'm gonna get wasted!"

Hark frowned at him and James noticed that look. "Aww come on man, 21 is still a year away and I don't wanna wait. You shouldn't either. Just relax and have some fun."

Hark sighed before turning around and locking the door. Once done, him and James walked to his car and got inside.

"Man you need to get a fast car like a Mustang instead of this Camaro. You'll get plenty of females that way."

Hark ignored that statement and started his car. He pulled out and headed where James told him the party was. It wasn't too far it seemed; just a few miles away. 

When they got there, They parked a bit away and walked over. It was an indoor and outdoor house party. There were people spread out on the front lawn, as well as lots inside once they entered. It reeked of perfume, cigarettes, alcohol, and stupidity.

Hark was having second thoughts about coming here and was thinking of leaving before its too late. However, once he turned to the right and saw three women, he already knew it was too late.

"James! Hark! Glad you two could make it!" One of the women said as she rushed over.

Carrie was the most upbeat of the three. She was 5'7 with long hair that was a mix of curly and poofy brown hair. She also had pretty large C-cup breasts, but very little going for her in the rear section. She was wearing a white low cut shirt to expose her gifts and black jeans. She wasn't shy about anything at all, She enjoyed joking around and being loud. James has a crush on her but he is too shy or chicken to admit it to her, and since she is quite dense in the matters of love, she doesn't notice any subtle hints he gives her.

"H-Hey Carrie! Told you three I'd bring him!" James said proudly.

"Hey Hark! I've missed you. I'm glad you came. Now get drunk so I can have my way with you." The shortest girl said. Her name is Taylor. Her height is 5'5 and she is close to the same skin color but is mixed with other races. However, they rarely show in Hark's opinion. She has semi-long straight dark brown and with a small tint of red hair. Plus, the whole package when it came to her body. She was wearing a nice long black dress that hugged her C-cup breasts and fit her curves perfectly with black heels to make her match Carrie's height. She is a major flirt and guys, as well as a few girls, want to get with her but she pays no attention to them. However, she seems to have some sort of attraction to Hark, but she mostly just talks about going to bed with him and such even though she's a virgin. 

Hark rolled his eyes at her comment but still gave her a hug. However, he didn't expect her to start feeling him up, making him jump away quickly.

"Aww, no need to be shy Hark, I don't bite... much." Taylor teased.

James cut in at that point. "Sorry Taylor but you know he belongs to Lyra."

Hark coughed loudly before smacking James lightly on the head. "Ow! It's true!"

Hark shook his head before turning and seeing the last woman of the group. 

Lyra, the cutest girl of the three by far in Hark's opinion. She stood at 5'6 and a half (don't forget it) and was a tinge darker than Carrie, also being mixed. She was also the thinnest but still had some weight on her and her body was nothing to downplay either. She may have had small B-cups, but her behind definitely made up for it. She had curly brown hair and was wearing tight black booty shorts, showing off her nice legs and a tight white t-shirt under a small jacket.

She walked over to him with a small smile and immediately pulled him into a hug. "It's nice to see you Hark. Haven't seen you in a while. What's up with that?" 

Hark rubbed his face in her hair for a moment as a reply. Lyra giggled. "Hey you, stop that! You'll mess up my hair."

Hark pulled away with a smile on his face and turned to the other three. James had a look that said 'get that already!', while Carrie was sitting there obliviously looking around for others or to plan where to go for the party. Taylor was staring intently at Hark, not even caring if anyone noticed.

"So, now that everyone is here, lets party!" Carrie cheered and everyone left to party, Hark getting pushed towards the table with the snacks and drinks. Lyra followed while Carrie and Taylor went off somewhere quick. James set him right by the drinks.

"Aww sweet! Peach Ciroc! Time to get wasted buddy! You with me?" James said as he grabbed the bottle and poured him some.

Hark wasn't having it though. He knew there would need to be at least one sober person in the group to take the drunkies home. 

Lyra pulled a cup over to herself as well. She was a year older so it was okay for her. She downed the first one like a pro and poured another. She turned and pushed it towards Hark. "Live a little Hark. I know you've been stuffed inside studying all the time so take a break every once in a while, please?"

Hark hesitated over that please at the end. She was acting too cute and made that look that always got him. He sighed and took the drink. He looked at it for a moment and then her.

"Oh and don't worry, Carrie said she wouldn't drink and be our dd. So go all out." Lyra said happily.

Somehow Hark doubted that would be true but decided to go against that doubt for once, hoping not to regret it later. He took a large swig and immediately felt the burn of alcohol mixed with cranberry and peach. Pretty good in his opinion. He looked over in time to see James downing his greedily.

"Woo, my third one! I'm feeling it already!" James said looking totally inebriated so fast for no reason.

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After 3 or so more cups, they went dancing and met other friends like Marcus, this gay guy that's pretty chill and can make outfits with ease. Only annoying thing is at times he would say "darling" when making jokes. Another was a good friend of Hark's: Serah. She was a timid girl that had caramel skin. She was quite smart and they became friends after meeting in the library. She seemed quite interested in him knowing his condition.

When Hark and the others saw Carrie again, her and Taylor were dancing on some guys, James not liking it so much. Hark could tell they both were drunk and that made him frown. He guessed if he stopped drinking now that he'd be tolerant enough to drive safely. 

He then noticed Taylor whisper something into Carrie's ear. She smiled wide before looking at the three; mostly Hark. Before he knew it, he was pulled to the dance floor by her and Taylor before they sandwiched him and started to grind on him.

Taylor was grinding on his back and whispered in his ear. "I've wanted to do this for a while, especially with no clothes on."

Hark shivered slightly at her tone and how her breath tickled his ear. With that, compiled with the alcohol in his system and Carrie rubbing her small ass on him, Hark merely gave in to the moment and danced as well, making both girls smile wide and continue more forcefully.

Then everyone separated: Carrie got pulled off by James saying they need to talk. Hark guessed he was finally gonna tell her outright. Must have been jealous of what he was doing and decided to speak his feelings. About time.

Two guys came over and chatted with Taylor trying to flirt with her and from how she is, she happily indulged in the game. She did however, give Hark a small wink before she went off with them. That just left him and Lyra. Hark noticed while he was dancing with them, she was frowning at it, like she didn't like it. However, once they left, she seemed more upbeat.

"So, now that we are alone, we can catch up on the time we lost. I know I cant ask ya to tell me how you've been, so I'll tell you how things have been going for me. You up to listen cause its alot."

Hark smiled and nodded while pulling her to a more spacial and quiet area which was the front yard, a small ways away from the house. The yard was large by the way. They sat in the grass and Hark merely waited for her to start.

She then began to talk about how she was doing good in school but some classes like Calculus were annoying and hard. He always knew she hated math. He would always try to help her with it, but ended up doing it for her. She returned the favor of course, because he sucked bad at cooking. He got better over time, but she never got much smarter in math.

"Oh, me and Brock broke up. For good this time."

Hark's eyes grew wide at that and he was genuinely surprised. However, the more he thought on it, the more he suspected it would happen. No woman wants to be treated less than some friends. 

"I was tired of his bull. I don't want to be treated second to some friends you have. I want a guy that will treat me right and above others, as I would do for him. Someone that would care about me and show it at least daily. Someone eager to spend time with me ya know?"

She then turned and looked Hark in his eyes. "Someone like you."

She closed in immediately after that and kissed him hard. It surprised Hark but that surprise melted into pure joy as he happily returned the kiss. This was the first time this has happened with her and he had to admit, it was better than he had hoped. Her lips were soft and her kissing smooth. She soon parted her lips to tease his with her tongue and he responded briskly by extending his to meet hers, before moving into her mouth as she moaned lightly. The kiss ended and they looked at each other.

"I've been wanting to do that for a while." Lyra said half dazed. 

"What the fuck!?"

Hark and Lyra were surprised at that shout and turned to see where it came from. They then saw Brock In some jeans and a wife beater standing there seething in anger.

"The hell are you doing touching my girl!?"

"I'm not your girl! I ended that crappy relationship." Lyra shouted back.

"It's over when I say its over!" Brock yelled as he stomped over. He then tried to grab Hark's shirt and pull Hark towards him, but Hark merely slapped his hand away. 

Brock got angrier at this. "You think you can just kiss my girl and have nothing happen to you? Well think again disabled fucker!"

He then without hesitation, swung at Harks face. However, Hark knew it was coming and dodged it easily before getting up and putting his hands up, meaning no harm. He didn't want to fight anyone.

Brock wasn't having it though. He stepped forward but was blocked by Lyra.

"Stop it now Brock! I left you and I'm not coming back. I like Hark and we're dating now, so leave us alone."

Hearing that surprised both Brock and Hark. Hark was overjoyed, finally able to be with her after all this time. Brock however, didn't like what she said and got even angrier. Out of anger, he backhanded Lyra hard, sending her to the ground and began yelling. "That's how it is then?! You're gonna leave me for this damn loser?! Alright! But don't think I'll let you off that easily."

Brock then lifted his hand, ready to deliver another blow, however, he didn't get a chance before he got punched clean in his face, knocking him back. 

Hark, after seeing him hit Lyra, got enraged. He didn't care about not fighting, now that his new girlfriend just got hit. He helped her up and she smiled at him. He smiled back but moved her behind him as he heard a loud yell.

"I'll fuckin kill you!" Brock yelled as he rushed at Hark.

Now Hark wasn't a pushover by anyone's standards. He's taken classes in self defense at a younger age for.... reasons and could handle himself easily in a fight. So when Brock came close and tried to swing at him, Hark merely evaded it with ease.

Most of Hark's anger was vented after that first punch so he figured it was pointless to fight now. So, instead of fighting him, he evaded all his attacks, which were sloppy and uncoordinated. While the fight was going on, many came out to see what's up, hearing Brock scream and all. James, Carrie, Serah, and Taylor came out too. Carrie and Taylor were cheering him on while James adorned a serious expression and looked around. He knew that Brock had lots of friends and they love to work together in fights.

Then, right on cue, James saw a guy closing in behind Hark. James cracked his knuckles and smiled deviously. "Was hoping one of you idiots might jump in. Now its my turn."

Meanwhile, Hark was still dodging his attacks until his ears picked up on a noise coming towards him from behind. He turned just in time to swivel to the right of that swing that came his way from another guy. 

Hark then realized that not fighting was no longer an option and prepared to hit this new guy. However, someone beat him to it.

Before the new guy could even catch himself after his failed attack, he was hit hard in the face by James, knocking him down. 

"I got your back bud." James said with a nod before facing the guy getting up. Another two guys walked forward as well, making it four on two.

"I wish you could talk right now man, I'd know you would have something to say to this." James said, making Hark make a quiet chuckle.

"Hey! That's not fair! Isn't someone gonna help them out?" Carrie complained.

James smirked. "Don't worry about us babe. We got this."

Hark took notice of him calling her babe and the shy way she reacted. He figured they probably finally go out. He'll have to congratulate him later. For now though, he has to tag team four guys. They've been in worse.

One guy immediately rushed at James and swung at him. James dodged it with ease and swung low at him, hitting him in the gut. The guy grabbed his stomach in pain, leaving him open for two quick hard hits to the face before he went face first into the ground. The other guy was surprised but he stood his ground and came after James too, however he kept his guard up.

Meanwhile, Brock and one guy rushed Hark from both sides. Hark calmed himself and studied them both and determined which would reach him first with the help of his hearing. He noticed that Brock was much faster and was coming way faster so he focused on him as he got close. When Brock came close, he swung at Hark's face, but Hark dodged it again and grabbed his extended left hand with his right and pulled, sending Brock forward while Hark spun to the left of his arm and connected a solid elbow to the side of Brock's face hard. Brock was sent to the ground holding his face in pain.

Hark then noticed the other guy's slight hesitation and took the opportunity to rush him. He bashed the guy with his shoulder, but then grabbed one of the guy's hands so he won't go anywhere and moved swiftly behind him with the arm. He then shoved him forward onto the ground, still holding his hand in an uncomfortable and painful position.

At about the same time, James tripped the guy trying to fight him by sliding his foot fast, taking one of the guys legs. While out of balance, he delivered a solid blow to his face, knocking him to the floor and upon impact, the guy held his head in pain and merely laid there.

"Try to jump my friend again and I'll end ya punk." James said at him but then something happened.

BANG! BANG!

James immediately, along with everyone else, dropped to the floor or scattered at that sound. It was gunfire. After James dropped low, he heard a voice.

"Hark!!"

James turned and looked where Hark was last at and he froze. Hark was on the ground not moving, while Lyra ran to him.

"Hark! Hark! Please open your eyes!"

At that moment, James fumed and saw who did this to him. Brock was standing there with a gun pointed right where Hark was standing before he fell. He was also facing away from James. James wasted no time and rushed him. Before Brock knew it, James knocked the gun out of his hand before smashing his fist as hard as he could right into the bridge of his nose, shattering it and getting a loud yell from Brock as he dropped on the ground and writhed in pain.

James then ran straight over to his friend. He took in his condition and felt his heart stop for a moment. Hark was laying there with his eyes clenched shut from pain and he had a hole right near his stomach and one on his right arm.. He couldn't tell if it hit vital spots or not, but it was too close to matter. He knew his friend is in great danger right now. He turned and saw Carrie already on the phone calling the ambulance while Taylor came out with some towels. Her and James quickly got to work trying to keep their friend alive until the medics came, while Lyra was sitting there trying to get him to respond. Taylor covered the wound on his stomach with a towel to prevent him from bleeding out, while James tied a towel tight to make a makeshift tourniquet for him.

He then saw Hark cough out blood and open his eyes slightly.

"Hark! Stay with us man! We'll get you some help!" He said with panic in his voice.

Hark could feel himself getting close to passing out. He was in more pain than he could describe and every movement made it worse. He was slightly surprised he didn't go into shock after getting shot twice. He checked it off as perhaps the adrenaline he had during the fight. He then turned and saw the others looking at him. 

Carrie was looking down at him with a sad expression, occasionally taking a glimpse at his wounds and cringing. Taylor was trying to keep pressure on his stomach. Serah was nearby too, watching and trying to see if she could help in some way. Lyra was right next to him, tears streaming down her face as she cried. Hark felt his eyelids get heavier and James noticed it.

"Don't you close your eyes man! We need you awake til the meds come!"

Hark merely shook his head weakly, surprising them. Hark then moved his uninjured hand from the ground and pointed near where James was kneeling beside him.

"Huh? what's.... No...."

James merely looked in horror at where he was pointing. It was the ground, but it was covered in blood and still getting slightly bigger even though both wounds were covered. Then James realized it. He had an exit wound. 

"Quick! Lift him so we can get the exit wound!" James said as he started to lift him but Hark stopped him, surprising him again.

"Dude I gotta stop the bleeding! There's still time!" James said almost pleadingly.

Hark frowned and slowly shook his head, letting them know that it was too late. Hark knew for some reason that he isn't going to make it out of this. He was already seeing black spots in his vision and his eyes getting heavier. He chanced another look and lifted both of his hands; the injured one more slowly. He then locked eyes with Carrie and started making gestures with his hands.

Carrie immediately noticed what he was doing; Sign language. She learned it a long time ago and could tell what he was saying, but what he said make her eyes water even more.

"W-What did he just say?" Taylor asked, seeing it as well.

She looked at Hark again and he gave her a small nod. She sniffed lightly and spoke. "He says that he is sorry and that he will miss us all."

Hark then continued and Carrie started to interpret. "He said that he's glad to have had friends like us. Even when he's gone, he wants us to stay strong... And he doesn't blame anyone for this so don't think that at all. Also... he... he said..." Carrie stopped there as she started sobbing. "Come on Hark, please don't make me continue... I can't bear it..."

Hark stopped and laid his hands down. This was one instance in a long time that he wished he could speak, if only for a short while. He merely tried to put on a smile regardless of the pain.

James spoke as tears were in his eyes too. "Man Hark, I can't believe this is happening right now. I've know you since kindergarten man! We became good friends immediately after we teamed up on dodgeball. We've been inseparable since. We had each others back for years man. I can't believe its about to come to an end....." He said as he looked to the ground.

"Hark, I know I've teased you a lot and stuff...but I just wanted to let you know that I've cared for you...and loved you, for a long time. I wanted to be with you too, but I knew how you felt. I just tried to stay as close to you as I can since then. I just wanted you to know that." Taylor said with her head down and tears running down her face.

Hark wasn't completely surprised at the information, more surprised she said it. He always wondered why he never actually gave her a chance. She was far from unattractive and she didn't do anything really all that bad. He actually secretly enjoyed her teasing sometimes. He figured its because of his feelings for someone else.

There are siren sounds in the distance.

"Pace.... You can't be dying on us... please...." Carrie said, now down close and holding one of his hands. Hers were trembling. "You can't die... not yet... There are still things we have to do....Things I need to tell you... Please, don't leave me..."

Hark was crushed seeing her like that. Hark knew it would be tough on her. Out of all his friends, he was the closest with her and knew her the longest. He really wished he could get up and assure her, but every movement brought too much pain. He also wondered what all she wanted to do and what she wanted to say.

The sirens grew louder.

"Hark no.... I... this cant be happening! I finally made things right! I.. we just got together.... I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you...." 

Hark turned to see Lyra breaking down as much, if not more than Carrie. He was feeling mad that he got shot because now he cant experience a life with her. He lifted his injured hand and placed it softly on her hand. She looked at him and he gave her a small smile trying to stop her crying. It seemed to work as the tears stopped and she tried to return it, albeit shakily.

Hark's eyes started to slowly close. This is one crazy way to go. I tried something new and this is how it ends. I do wonder what would have happened if I stayed home and maybe watched TV...like that pony show. What was its name...Friendship is Magic. Bad...name.....

Then Hark stopped moving and the last thing he heard was a siren and Lyra yelling his name.
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"So who shall we test the spell out on then sister?"

"Hmmm, I'm thinking. It has to be someone that won't be missed and no one would really notice that one is gone. Also it has to be smart. That way it can help us."

"There are so many of them to choose from. How art thou going to choose?"

"I'll just pick randomly hehe."

"Sister! Tis not a laughing matter! This is merely our first time with this spell and it's not even foalproof!"

"I know, I was just kidding... Oh! How about that one?"

"Him? Why him?" 

"Well, he won't have any strings attached if he were to leave now seeing how he is... well, incapacitated at the moment. He would be the perfect test subject. And as for the colors... mmm lets go with a dark purple, cream and yellow."

"Very well, the spell seems to be working fine since it got us thus far. Let us hope it stays that way."

"You worry too much. What's the worse that could happen?"
> Silent Encounters
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Darkness. That's all Hark could see... Til he realized that his eyes were merely closed. However, at the moment, he couldn't open them. It felt like something was holding him back from doing so. He figured it must be the routine or something when someone dies; he didn't know, he never died before.

So, rather than fight it, he merely relaxed and enjoyed the soft grass on his back and the calm wind brushing up against him.... 

Wait.....

"Hey there! Having a nice nap?" 

Hark jumped slightly at the random voice. He wondered if this person, sounding female, was the owner of all dead people. Only one way to find out and with that thought, he opened his eyes which were more willing to oblige. However, what he saw wasn't what he was expecting.

What he saw was he was on a hill overlooking a town, with a few trees around him, but that's not what confused him. What did was their colors. They were much brighter... like in a cartoon or something. His eyes scanned the area and he was wondering why heaven looked this way. That is, until he heard the voice again.

"Over here buddy."

Hark turned towards the direction of where he heard the voice. He noticed an oddly bright olive coat and orange maned colored horse looking at him, but didn't see the owner of the voice. He kept looking in that direction, until his eyes were forcibly pulled to the location of where the voice came from this time.

"Hi there. You seem new around here. You just get here?" 

Hark froze. He merely stared at the horse dumbfounded. He could not believe right now that a horse is talking to him. If this is heaven, then they seriously need to make some adjustments. 

"Quiet type eh? You'd be good friends with Big Mac then. He doesn't talk much either. Anyways, my names Carrot Top. What's yours?" The horse named Carrot Top said.

Hark was confused but responded in his mind unconsciously. "My name is Pace. My friends call me Hark."

Carrot Top seemed to be confused by this. "Well, nice to meet you Pace but I'm curious; how'd you talk without moving your lips?"

Now that confused and surprised Hark greatly. "Did this horse just read my mind?"

Carrot Top frowned at that. "I would prefer if you called me a pony instead of a horse. That's kinda rude ya know. Also, I didn't read your mind. I'm guessing you're speaking in my mind telepathically. That makes sense since you're a unicorn and all."

Hark blinked. "A unicorn?" Hark looked down and his eyes grew wide.

Instead of where his hands and feet are supposed to be, were dark purple coated hooves. He hesitated before looking at the rest of himself. His body was the same color as his hooves. He also noticed he had a tail that was cream colored and only guessed that his hair, or mane for ponies, was the same color.

All rational thought went out the window when he realized what he was. "I'm a pony?! What kind of twisted holy place is this?!" After he thought that, he remembered something. When he took a break, he remembered watching a show on TV: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. This looked just like it.

"Of course! I must be dreaming! I must have never went to the party and fell asleep after work! Phew, and here I thought- ow!"

Hark recoiled as he was hit. He turned and saw the pony known as Carrot Top looking at him with a small smile.

"Well you can't be dreaming if that hurt, although I am curious as to why you would be dreaming of little ol' me." He noticed that she blushed when she said that which he found surprisingly adorable.

He shook his head upon realizing it. "The hell am I thinking? I'm in a world of colorful ho- err ponies and I am one now too! What kind of screwed up punishment is this?"

"Sorry to interrupt your rant..." Carrot Top said interrupting him. "But I can't help but notice that you seem troubled by something."

"Ya think?" Hark thought but then remembered she can read his mind for some reason. "Oh, sorry... Wait how can you even read my mind?"

Carrot Top shook her head. "Like I said, I can't. You're talking to me through telepathy. Shouldn't you know this? Since you're ya know, doing it?"

"I didn't even know I was! Not to mention the fact that I could even do something like this!" Hark thought frantically.

"Wow, doing telepathy without even realizing it. You must be pretty good at magic then." Carrot Top said with a smile.

"Magic?" Hark thought confused.

Carrot Top's smile faltered. "Yea, you know, that stuff that lets unicorns do impossible things with their horns...."

"Horns...?" Hark suddenly lifted a hoof towards his head where indeed there was something protruding out of it. "What the?!"

Before Hark could panic, Carrot Top spoke up. "Are you sure you don't want to talk about what's wrong? I can tell you're stressed."

Hark took a moment to merely calm down. He knew the situation he was in was crazy but he had to become steady and try to assess the situation calmly. After taking a few deep breaths, he opened his eyes and saw Carrot Top smiling at him. He decided she was his chance to get info at this moment so he thought of something. "Where are we exactly?"

Carrot Top seemed confused by this question. "Um, we're at the outskirts of Ponyville...didn't you know this when you took a nap here?"

Hark chuckled lightly despite the situation. "Ponyville huh? That's funny."

Carrot Top smiled at that. "There you go! First time I've seen you smile since I spoke to you."

Hark took another deep breath and relaxed. At the moment, his best bet would be to look around for answers. Since he isn't dreaming, proof of that was the punch he received from Carrot Top, and he wasn't dead...

"I'm not by chance dead am I?" 

Carrot Top was surprised at that question. "If that was true then I would be too and seeing that I'm still healthy as ever, I don't think so."

Alright since he isn't dead either, there must be a reason why he ended up here. Hark figured his first option is the town nearby. He turned from the town and looked at Carrot Top.

"Um, Carrot Top?" Hark thought hesitantly.

"Yes?" Carrot Top said eagerly.

"I'm kinda new here and I was wondering...perhaps you can show me around?" Hark thought sheepishly as he rubbed his short mane.

Carrot Top smiled. "Of course! And let me be the first to say welcome to Ponyville!"

Hark cracked a small smile at this. At least the talking pony was friendly. That makes things a little easier. He got up to stand on two legs but fell immediately, hitting his face on the ground. He groaned as he spit a bit of dirt out his mouth. He heard giggling and turned to see Carrot Top looking at him.

"A little weary after laying down so long huh? I get that feeling sometimes too."

Hark then tried to get up again but this time he got on all fours. It felt alien to him but at the same time it felt normal. Hark decided not to delve too deep into it and merely started to walk, albeit a little shakily. Carrot Top joined him by his side still smiling.

As they were walking towards town, Hark decided to look around the area. Everything was colorful yes, but it also looked more lively and quite beautiful. The area looked much more peaceful and serene than the places he remembers back home. Even if he turns out to be stuck here, at least he can come and relax here. He turned and look at his companion for the time being. He noticed that Carrot Top kept looking his direction before looking away again. He was confused slightly til she spoke up.

"So why don't you speak normally through your mouth? Did you lose your voice from yelling or something?" Carrot Top asked.

Hark merely shook his head. He then spoke in his mind. I'm mute. I cant speak.

"Oh, well then why not?" Carrot Top asked confused.

Hark looked at her. Uh, it's cause I am mute, you know, can't speak cause vocal chords were damaged...

Carrot Top merely looked at him. "You gonna answer?"

Hark stopped moving and looked at her confused. I am answering. Wait, can she not hear me now?

Hark decided to test that theory. He pointed at her and then at his head.

She seemed to have got it. "Nope, I don't hear anything. I think its cause you're not using your magic."

Hark stared at her dumbfounded. I have no idea how to use magic! I didn't even know I could use it! He groaned as he thought, a small cream colored aura starting to appear on his horn. "Well that's just great. Sometimes it sucks not being able to speak..."

"You're not able to speak?" 

Hearing that surprised Hark. He turned to her. "You can hear me now?" 

Carrot Top nodded. "Sure can. So you say you can't talk?"

Hark sighed in relief before he nodded. "Yeah, my vocal chords are pretty shot so I cant really make any words when I speak."

"Oh...." Carrot Top seemed down about that which confused him. He then realized it must be because of his condition since others did the same before.

"Don't worry, I wasn't much of a speaker anyways when I could talk. This suits me, honest." Hark thought politely.

Carrot Top looked at him for a moment and Hark couldn't help but get lost a little in her large forest green eyes. He couldn't understand why her eyes were so big, but he had to admit it was rather cute in some weird way.

After a moment, she merely smiled. "Okay if you say so. Anything else I should know before we continue on?" Carrot Top asked openly.

Besides the fact that I'm a human and not a pony? Not much... Hark though but when he noticed that her expression didn't change, he realized she didn't hear him. He sighed before shaking his head no. He was good at not talking anyways so it will be better to just reply like he normally does. At least til he figures things out.

"Alright then! Let's get started with the tour! I'll show you around and if you have any questions, feel free to express them or use telepathy. whatever works for you." Carrot Top said excitedly.

Hark was slightly confused at her upbeat personality. "Are all ponies like this?"

"Not really. I'm like this because I've met a new friend." Carrot Top said with a smile.

Hark really needed to find out this magic business cause he really didn't like the idea of random thoughts he has being known by others. However, after thinking this, he noticed something she said. "Wait, we're friends?"

She nodded with a giddy smile. "If you want to be. I'd like to have you as a friend. You look nice and are quite funny."

Hark rolled his eyes but not out of annoyance. "Glad you think I'm funny..."

Carrot Top panicked, thinking she insulted him. "Oh! I didn't mean it like that! It's just-"

"It's fine really, I'm not mad or anything Carrot Top." Hark cut her off with a wave of his hoof.

Carrot Top blushed at that. "Oh, okay.....well you ready to head out?"

Hark merely nodded as they resumed their trek towards the town, Hark wondering what other crazy things he might have in store for him. But he knew one thing for sure.

Silent Encounters are crazy ones....



> Hushed Conversation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"This was a huge mistake!" Luna said as she paced around the room.

Celestia was reading through a book before she turned to her panicked sister. "Calm down Luna. We can figure this out."

Luna stopped and rushed over to her sister. "But what exactly went wrong? We performed the spell effectively and it still didn't yield results!"

Celestia shook her head. "Do not worry, the spell was successful. I can guarantee that."

Luna raised a brow. "It was? Then pray tell why isn't he here?"

Celestia frowned. "That, I don't know. I do know that he was transported here, as well as the transformation being completed. However, I don't know his location."

Luna frowned. "Well this is just great! Now we have one strange pony somewhere out in Equestria?"

Celestia smiled. "Oh, come on Lulu. It can't be all that bad."

Luna huffed. "Easy for you to say. So what shall we do to retrieve him?"

Celestia smiled as she turned back to the book. "Oh there's no need to worry about that. We will meet him soon enough."






"Alright! Lets get your little tour started then." 

Hark looked at the giddy pony in front of him. For the whole walk she has been nothing but excited, ready to show him the town. Hark had no idea why someone would be this excited to show another around. Well, at least at his home, world, universe....whatever. She did say because they are friends but even friends don't get that excited.

Well, it's not really all that bad. Happy is always a good thing. Lets see what this town has in store then. Hark thought as he followed the cheery mare into the town.

Upon entering Hark found out immediately the dominating race, or mammal, of this world. He looked surprisingly as he saw multiple technicolor ponies walking around and having conversations just like its normal. 

Well, it would be normal for them... Hark thought as he heard Carrot Top speak up.

"So this right here is the market. This is where we sell all our goods. I sell my Carrots here too." Carrot Top looked around and frowned. "Huh, nothing else more to say than that."

Hark merely nodded as he looked at some of the wares and curiously, the ponies tending to each. He noticed that each pony looked different and also acted differently. They seem to be like us but pony version. So this must be another world. Question is, how did I get here... Hark thought as he kept scanning the stands. After a moment, he noticed something quickly. They don't have meat? Well, hor- err, ponies don't eat meat so that does make sense...well, guess I'm vegetarian now.

Hark sighed and shook his head, getting the attention of Carrot Top. "Something wrong Pace?"

Hark shook his head again. "Call me Hark. And no, nothing really."

Carrot Top looked at him for a moment longer before turning away. "Alright then. Are you ready to move on?"

"Hi Carrot Top!"

Hark turned and saw another pony walking over. This one was all pink but her mane was a darker shade. 

"Hey Pinkie. Saying your daily 'hi' for the day?" Carrot Top said with a smile.

"Sure am! I have to make sure I say hi to everypony!" The pink pony said happily.

She then turned towards Hark. "Hi...uh...wait..." All of a sudden, she gasped, surprising Hark. "Oh my gosh! I don't know your name! That means you must be new! I love meeting new ponies! Whats your name? Where did you come from? Is it nice there? What do you like to eat?"

Hark merely stared at the pony as she rambled off at high speeds with questions, getting closer with every one. Carrot Top saw his expression and giggled. Before she could talk his ears off though, she stepped in.

"Pinkie he can't answer your questions if you don't give him time to." Carrot Top said after giggling at Hark's stunned face. 

Pinkie was nearly right in Hark's face before she stopped and turned to Carrot Top with a guilty smile. "Hehe yeah, you're right." She then backed up an acceptable distance and smiled at Hark. "Hi! I'm Pinkie Pie. What's your name?"

Hark merely stared at the hyperactive pony. She merely stared back with a smile. They did that for a long moment. Carrot Top then remembered something and rushed up.

"Oh! I'm so sorry Pinkie! I forgot to tell you something about him."

Pinkie turned and looked at her curiously. "What is it? Does he have a purple tongue?"

Carrot Top paused at that. "Uh, no. You see, he can't really talk..."

Pinkie Pie furrowed her bows in confusion at her. "Can't talk?" She then looked at Hark, and back to Carrot Top. "Of course he can talk silly! He has a mouth." Pinkie said pointing to him.

Carrot Top shook her head. "No, I mean he can't speak. His vocal chords are shot so he can't talk."

Pinkie Pie's eyes grew wide and she snapped towards Hark. "Oh my gosh! You can't talk? That must be horrible! I remember when I couldn't talk because I touched the poison joke in the Everfree. It was so horrible!" She then hopped up to his face. "So, when ya getting your voice back huh? I can't wait to talk to you about so many things!"

Pinkie was about to name off things again but Carrot Top caught her. "Um, Pinkie? That's not what I meant."

Pinkie looked at her confused. "What do you mean?"

Carrot Top frowned. "Well, he can't ever get his voice back. He can never speak."

Pinkie's face make a complete one-eighty once she realized what she meant. She turned to Hark. "Is that really true?"

Hark by this time was calm enough that he could respond and he did the same way he always had: with a nod and a small smile. After doing that, she seemed sad and backed up a bit. 

"Oh, I'm sorry! I didn't know it was permanent. I was just so excited to make a new friend and-"

This time, it was Hark who stopped her by lifting a hoof and shaking his head with a smile. Pinkie seemed to calm down after that and a smile appeared on her face again. However, it turned to a confused frown as she turned to Carrot Top. 

"Wait if he can't talk, how did you get his name?"

"Oh, he told me telepathically." Carrot Top answered simply.

At hearing this, her head snapped towards Hark. "Oh! So you can talk, just not with your mouth! That's so cool! Can you try now?" Pinkie said as she went back to being cheery. 

Hark shrugged. He still had no idea how to use 'magic', so he couldn't really give an answer. Pinkie didn't understand, but Carrot Top caught it.

"I think he is saying he doesn't know. I guess he isn't all that great with using it yet." Carrot Top explained.

"Aww. That stinks." Pinkie pouted before turning to him. "Make sure to practice so we can talk okay?"

Hark couldn't help but smile at her. For some reason, seeing how this pony acted gave him a warm and familiar feeling. He nodded while thinking, a cream colored aura engulfing his horn..

"I'll try, Pinkie Pie."

Pinkie's eyes grew wide and she gasped loudly. "Oh my gosh! You did it! I heard you in my mind! That is sooo cool!" Pinkie said as she jumped around him. After making a full circle she stopped in front of him. She stared at him with half-lidded eyes. "I like how you sound." She said lowly before hopping past him to Carrot Top.

Hark was confused and slightly off put by what she just said, along with how she said it. He didn't want to get into it though and merely decided to try and continue the tour and perhaps get more answers. He then turned to them and saw Pinkie giggling and Carrot Top facing away. He decided to try to see if he can talk to them.

"Uh, Carrot Top? Pinkie Pie?" He thought as his horn started to glow again.

Both ponies turned to him and Hark noticed a bit of flush in Carrot Top's face. 

"Yes?" Pinkie said excitedly.

Hark continued, realizing that they heard him. "My name is Pace but just call me Hark."

"Can I call you Pace?" Pinkie asked.

Hark looked at her. She was smiling wide. He sighed. "If you want, sure."

"Yay!" Pinkie cheered as she clapped her forehooves happily.

Hark turned to Carrot Top. "I thought you said not everyone is as cheerful."

Carrot Top smiled. "Well, that's just Pinkie. She's the most hyperactive pony you will ever meet here."

Pinkie jumped in at this. "You said my name! That means Pace was talking about me! What he say?"

Hark shook his head at her actions. I know this one will be a handful. I can get used to her though. She kinda reminds me of...

"Hark?"

Hark was pulled from his thoughts as he looked at the two mares.

"You kinda zoned out there. I was asking if you wanted to continue the tour with Pinkie?" Carrot Top asked.

Hark merely nodded with a smile. All of a sudden there was a rush of the color pink in his vision.

"Awesome! I can show you everything there is to know about this town! I have a license in tour guiding ya know!" Pinkie said before removing a plastic card from her hair and showing him.

Hark looked at the card. It had a photo of her with a large smile and above it said 'Licensed Tour Guide'. Wow, she wasn't kidding. He then looked up to see the pony with the same smile on her face.

"I know all the in's and out's of Ponyville! Come on! You can make some new friends too!" Pinkie said as she hopped away. 

Hark started to follow but noticed that he didn't hear steps behind him. He turned and saw Carrot Top with a small frown and looking down. I wonder what's wrong with her... Hark thought. He then proceeded over to her and tried to speak to her. 

"Carrot? You okay?" 

Carrot Top jumped slightly but turned to Hark. "Oh! No, nothing's wrong!" Carrot Top said rather hurriedly, but then turned and looked at the side. "It's just that... well, Pinkie is a experienced tour guide."

Hark nodded. "Yeah. Never really knew you could get a license for that. But, what does that have to do with anything?"

Carrot Top frowned and looked down. "Well you don't really need me to come along right?"

Hark immediately understood what was wrong. She thinks she wouldn't be helpful anymore...I guess they really are just like us. Hark thought. He then had an idea and his horn started to glow again.

"Well, it is true that she may be a good tour guide but you're kinda my only friend right now here." After saying that, Carrot Top looked up quickly at him. He began to rub his mane. "It would be great if you could stay and still give the tour with Pinkie Pie, if that's okay with you."

Carrot Top smiled wide and walked to him. She then proceeded to rub her face affectionately on his, surprising him before she spoke up.

"I'd love to." She said happily before trotting past him.

Hark was still slightly surprised. What was that all about? He thought questioningly. However, he decided to come back to it later. He turned and saw Pinkie Pie waving at him and Carrot Top next to her with her face flushed again.

"Come on slowpoke! Celestia's sun won't be up forever!" Pinkie said as she turned and started walking, Carrot Top joining her.

Celestia's sun? Hark thought as he looked up at the sky confused. He saw the sun and it shined brightly and emitted warmth on his 'new' body. He smiled slightly and started trotting ahead, catching up to the others.

I'll find out soon enough. After all, this probably won't be my last hushed conversation.




> Inaudible Appearance
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hark was walking around the town with quite a bit of intrigue as he was shown the various locations and places that it consisted of. Every location that his 'tour guide' has shown him was also described in great detail.

"And this is the Golden Oaks Library-slash-Castle!" Pinkie said happily as they came across a large crystal with what seemed to be a house infused with it. Hark stared at the large structure in slight awe.

Wow, that's actually pretty cool. Never thought in my life would I see something like this... nor anything else I've seen today...  Hark then returned his attention back to Pinkie whom was still rambling off.

"Also, my best friend, and newly crowned princess, Twilight lives here with her assistant Spike." Pinkie said in the midst of her explanation. Hark caught that and laid a hoof on her shoulder. She stopped talking and turned to him. "Yes?" 

Hark tried to focus and use the telepathy again. "You have a princess?"

Pinkie merely giggled. "Well duh! Of course we do! Didn't you go to the ceremony in Canterlot? It was only the biggest party-slash-best-friend-becoming-an-alicorn gathering ever!"

Hark merely shook his head. Since he only got here, of course he had no idea what she would be referring to. The two mares on the other hand, were shocked.

"You didn't go? Why not? Were you busy?" Carrot Top asked.

"Lets just say I was somewhere else at the time." Hark said vaguely. 

Hark decided it was best that he not reveal who, or what, he was at the moment. Honestly, if they are more like humans, they wouldn't believe what he said anyway. He was still however, figuring out what he could do until he heard what Pinkie just informed him of. 

Maybe the princess here might be able to help. Since they have magic here, maybe they can teleport me back or something. Hark thought. It was the best idea he had at the time so he decided to go for it. 

"Is she available right now?"  Hark decided to ask. 

"Who, Twilight? Nah, she went on some important princess business today. She won't be back for a week."

So much for that Idea... Hark sighed at that. Guess I'm here for at least a week. It might not be so bad...

All of a sudden there was a strong breeze that passed them and Hark felt a chill go down his spine. Because of that chill however, he remembered something. 

"Hey girls?"

The two mares turned to him. "What’s up Pace?" Pinkie said with a smile.

"Do they possibly have a clothing store around?" Hark asked looking around. Ever since he came here he has been a bit subconscious about the fact that he had no clothing on. Even though he figured that ponies wouldn't wear clothes, he still hoped that they had that option.

"Oh that was our next stop! Welcome to Carousel Boutique!" Pinkie said as she waved at a building nearby. Hark didn't even notice it, but now that he has, he couldn't figure out why he didn't earlier; It stuck out just like the castle/library.

"Whenever you need a good outfit, with good material, and want it done quickly, you should always come to Rarity's Boutique.... except right now. She left with Twilight on that business trip."

Hark frowned at that. "Wait, so I can't get any?"

"Well you can by her new assistant. Her name is Coco Pommel. She very good at making dresses too!"

Hark sighed in relief. He proceeded to the door and opened it, a bell ringing as he did. 

"Oh! Hello! Welcome to Carousel Boutique."

Hark turned and saw another pony mare walk out. She had an offset white coat with a two-toned blue mane and tail. He noticed a hat on her bottom, or flank for ponies which confused him. She also had a purple sailor collar on with a tie, but no shirt connected to it, confusing him even more.

They only wear half of the clothes? That's so pointless... Hark then noticed to the right a few full body outfits. Oh.... never mind then. Wait, why does she have a tattoo of a hat on her butt? Hark then turned back to the girls in time to see Pinkie trot up to the mare. He noticed now that Pinkie had a tattoo of balloons in the same place. Curiously, he turned and noticed that he had one too, however, his looked like more of a scar than a tattoo; It was merely three wavy lines. 

"Hiya Coco!" Pinkie said happily as she greeted the mare.

"Oh, hello Pinkie. Hello Carrot Top." Coco said with a smile. Hark automatically could tell that she was a soft-spoken pony. It was confirmed once she noticed him. "W-who's your friend?" 

Pinkie smiled before hopping in between Carrot Top and Hark, grabbing him. "This is Pace! He says everypony calls him Hark, but I call him Pace. He's new in Town!"

Hark stared at her. She just said everypony....

Coco smiled as she introduced herself. "Hello Hark, I'm Coco Pommel. It's nice to meet you."

Hark shook his head before turning to Coco. He merely smiled and nodded at her. Carrot Top realized that Pinkie didn't tell her about his condition and was about to, however she stopped when she felt a hoof on her shoulder. She turned to him and he shook his head. 

"Don't worry I got it." Hark said to her. He then noticed she had a tattoo as well: a few carrots. He chuckled slightly at it, confusing Carrot Top before he turned to Coco. He could automatically tell he could be friends with this mare by the smile she wore. At least, for the short time he hopes to be here. 

Hark's horn started to glow as he started to think. "Nice to meet you too."

Coco jumped once she heard a voice in her head. She started to look around for its source before it spoke again.

"It's me, Hark." After hearing that, she turned to him, seeing him nod at her. She then noticed his horn was glowing and smiled as well.

"Oh, that surprised me. I assume you are using telepathy? That's quite the difficult spell I've heard." Coco said.

Hark shrugged. "I guess. I'm still kinda new to it so I'm not all that great with it." Carrot Top looked at him confused after he finished.

"I see. So, is there anything I can do for you three?" Coco asked, deciding to get to the point.

Pinkie took this opportunity to jump in. "Pace wants to get some clothes! I'm sure Rarity's best assistant can help him with that can't she?"

Coco smiled and nodded. "Of course! Is there anything in particular that you are looking for?"

Hark merely shook his head and Coco nodded after he was done. "Okay. Well, we do have quite a few outfits to choose from if you want something simple." She turned and started to head towards another room. Hark took this cue to follow behind, looking at the outfits as he walked. They came across some simple outfits that looked very nicely made.

These ponies sure are talented too. These are actually nice looking. Hark thought as he skimmed the clothing. Coco was watching and noticed how interested he seemed in the clothing.

"Would you like to try any on?" Coco offered. Hark nodded to her, glad that they still have fitting rooms before he searched for a good outfit. 

As he was looking, he noticed that they didn't have that many things for the lower half of males. Most were just tops and other accessories that go with one. He frowned, thinking he wouldn't be able to get a whole fit but then noticed a very nice looking shirt. It was cream colored like his mane. It also had a golden tie around the collar. He thought it looked rather nice and decided to try it on.  He took it and proceeded towards the fitting rooms nearby. 

As Hark went inside, Pinkie hopped right by the door and sat there, waiting for him. Carrot Top raised a brow at her actions but merely joined in and sat beside the giddy mare.

Hark noticed that there was a mirror in the dressing room. He was finally able to see what he fully looked like. He was a pony just like the others but thicker and more rigid, compared to the other two males he has seen. He also noticed two things about his pony body that stuck out. There was a small cut mark on his right cheek and a hole in both his ears. It proved that he wasn't just in a pony’s body, but instead turned into one. 

I never noticed anyone else have holes in their ears. Guess this proves that this is me now. I just hope that I can change myself back somehow. I’m not into being a cartoon pony for the rest of my life. He looked at the outfit. Well, might as well try this on...as soon as I figure out how to use hooves...

They didn’t have to wait long before Hark walked out the dressing room with the outfit on. He was slightly surprised to see the two mares sitting right by the door.

“So, how do I look?” Hark decided to ask.

The two mares smiled at him. “I like it. You look very nice.” Carrot Top commented.

Hark smiled at her before noticing Pinkie getting closer to him.

“Looking good there stud. Might have to fight to keep the mares off you.” She said as she came mighty close to him.

Hark felt his face heat up as she said that. “Uh, thanks Pinkie, I guess.”

“No problemo Pace.” She said happily before she hopped over to Coco. “So how much he owes ya?”

Coco smiled. “Oh, no. This purchase is on the house. Its Rarity’s policy to all new customers to have their first outfit free.”

Hark looked at her in surprise; he was not expecting that. If he were to ask for his first purchase to be free back at home in any store, the store clerk would have probably laughed in his face. Wow, these ponies are much nicer than humans that’s for sure. 

“Wow, Isn’t that great! You got a free outfit!” Pinkie said to Hark, snapping him from his thoughts. He merely nodded with a small smile.

Pinkie then turned back to Coco. “Well, we’re gonna head out now. We have a few more places to show him before Pinkie’s Tantalizing Tour is officially over.” Hark stared at her in confusion after she said that.

Coco nodded. “Of course. Well, It was nice meeting you Hark. I hope we may see each other again.”

Hark smiled as his horn glowed softly. “It was nice meeting you too Coco. I’ll make sure to come by again.”

She merely smiled warmly at him, which kept him there for a moment. He couldn’t help but get stuck on her soft smile. He then realized he was staring. His face burned at the embarrassment before he turned and walked quickly towards the door. 

Carrot Top looked at Pinkie confused, but Pinkie merely shrugged and hopped happily after him. Carrot Top sighed before saying farewell and following the two for the rest of the tour.



> Quiet Curiosity
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hark walked out of the store feeling a bit better than entering, now that he had some sort of clothing on his new body. He watched as Pinkie strolled ahead and spoke up.

"Hmm, where should I take you next..." The pink mare said as she looked around.

Hark smiled slightly at her. Seeing her look around gave him a familiar warm feeling. He now realized where. "She does remind me a little of Carrie, doesn't she?"

"I don't know who this Carrie is, but it's a surprise to know that there is somepony out there like Pinkie Pie." Carrot Top said to him with a surprised look. 

Hark wasn't expecting anyone to hear that and he frowned slightly at that. "I really have to get the hang of this magic stuff..."

"You're doing great so far. I can hear everything." Carrot Top said with a smile.

Hark merely rolled his eyes not wanting to risk having his thoughts read again and looked towards Pinkie, whom was strangely waving while looking in the air.

"Hey Rainbow! I see you up there!" She yelled to the sky.

Hark looked up and noticed a lone cloud hovering above. Upon closer inspection, he saw what seemed like a piece of Rainbow hanging off of it.

Hark merely looked at it in confusion. That is, until it disappeared.

"Nopony's up here Pinkie! Just a stray cloud floating by." The cloud said.

Hark blinked. "Okay, I wasn't expecting that."

"Oh that's just Rainbow Dash hiding up there." Carrot Top said beside him, making him facehoof. However, he did look curiously as Pinkie pulled a trampoline out of a nearby bush.

"Was that always there?" He thought and saw Carrot Top shrug. He merely looked back just in time to see the mare bounce a few times before launching straight up and through the cloud. 

Before Hark knew it the mare came back through the cloud, but was pulling on the Rainbow that turned out to be a tail connected to a cyan pony. This pony mare also had a mane to match her tail, as it was rainbow as well.

"Pinkie! What are you doing? Let go!" The mare yelled as she was being pulled through the cloud like it was a solid object, making Hark even more confused.

"But Rainbow Dash I want you to come meet the new pony in town! You'll like what you see!" Pinkie said before she pulled the mare completely through and down with her towards the trampoline below. 

However the blue pony had other plans in mind and spread her wings and flew away as Pinkie bounced on the trampoline.

"I already saw the guy as soon as that mare came into town with him." She said as she floated near Pinkie.

Pinkie stopped bouncing instantly. "Oh, well now you can meet him up close!" She said and hopped off the trampoline.

Meanwhile Hark looked at the new pony. Seeing the rest of that pony and her flying surprised him. Also, Pinkie stopping so quickly made him realize that any logic should just be thrown out the window with her.

Pinkie hopped back over to Hark and Carrot Top while the mare flew beside her. "Pace, this is one of my bestest friends ever and the coolest, Rainbow Dash. Dash, this is Pace, or he would prefer if you call him Hark."

"You forgot to mention that I'm also the fastest and most famous pony in Ponyville." She said smugly as she landed in front of Pinkie and walked towards him. "I'll call ya Hark. That cool?" 

Hark merely smiled and nodded, returning to his old habits. However, his gesture didn't fly.

"What, no response? Just a nod?" She said, sounding slightly bothered.

The two mares snapped to attention noting that they forgot to mention his condition. But before they could, someone spoke up.

"Well I'm not exactly used to this type, but it's all I have left. And Hark is cool." 

Dash's eyes grew wide. "What the? Did you just speak in my mind?"

Hark nodded once more and Carrot Top spoke up.

"Yeah, he can't speak so instead he's using telepathy." She explained.

Whenever it decides to work... Hark thought before Dash spoke up.

"Telepathy huh? I feel like I've heard that... Wait, isn't that the magic Twilight’s working on? It's supposed to be like super hard!"

"Oh yeah! Thats where I remember hearing that word from!" Pinkie said happily. "Man, was that lecture boooring!"

Rainbow nodded. "It was." She then looked at Hark. "You must be pretty good at magic to learn that hard spell if Twi couldn't."

Hark shrugged. "Trust me, I am not as good as you think.”

“Then I’ll take your word for it.” She said with a small smirk before turning to Pinkie. “So ya giving him one of your famous tours around Ponyville?”

“U-huh! You should join us instead of floating behind us in that cloud like a stalker.” Pinkie said with a smile.

Hark noticed Rainbow Dash blushed hard in embarrassment at that and repond quickly. “I wasn’t stalking you guys! I just happened to float by after taking a nap by my house.”

“But your house is on the other side of town and the wind is blowing so that if you fell asleep, the cloud would have went farther out of town.” Pinkie said matter-of-factly, smile still on her face.

Rainbow’s blush deepened and she glared at Pinkie. “I hate you so much right now.”

“Aww! I love ya too Dashie!” She said while giggling.

Hark merely chuckled quietly at that. Carrot Top spoke up. “So, are we going to finish the tour, or are we going to stand here and talk about Rainbow’s stalker habits?”

“I said I wasn’t-” Rainbow started, only to be cut off. 

“Yeah! Come on Pace! There is still much more to see!” Pinkie said before grabbing his hoof and pulling him onward.

Hark nodded as he started to follow, however, he noticed that the new mare wasn’t following. He focused as he thought. 

“Hey Rainbow, you coming?”

She jumped at that and turned to him. He smiled at her and she returned it with a small one before taking flight and following overhead.

“So, Hark, what’s your cutie mark supposed to be?” Hark heard from above him.

My what? He thought confused.

“Ooh! I wanna know too!” 

Hark turned and saw Pinkie right next to him making him jump. He thought she was up ahead with Carrot Top. He looked forward and noticed Carrot Top looking around before noticing as well.

"How did you get over here so fast?" Hark thought confused as he looked at her.

"I was always here silly. So anyways, what is it supposed to be?" Pinkie said as she pointed at his rear.

Hark looked back and remembered that he had three wavy lines on his flank. Guess that must be the cute mark or whatever Rainbow Dash said...

Hark examined it closely for a moment. Then he shrugged. "I got nothing."

The two mares looked at him in confusion as Carrot Top walked over. "What's going on?"

"Uh, I think the new guy doesn't know what his cutie mark is..." Dash said slowly.

Carrot Top was surprised to hear that. "You don't?"

Hark merely shook his head.

"That makes no sense. Don't you know what your special talent is?" She asked.

"Special talent?" Hark thought confused.

"Yeah! Mines is throwing the funnest and most awesome parties ever!" Pinkie said as she pointed to her flank with three balloons.

"And mine shows that I'm the fastest pegasus around." Rainbow said as she flaunts hers which was a cloud with a rainbow lightning bolt. Somehow Hark doubted it meant that, but who was he to know? He only been introduced to the idea just now.

He looked at Carrot Top, waiting for her to say hers. She noticed him and frowned slightly.

"Mines not all that great like theirs. I'm just good at harvesting carrots..." 

Hark shrugged. "Well if it's any consolation, I like carrots."

Hearing that made her smile widely at him. "You do?"

Hark closed his eyes and nodded with a smile. When he opened them, he was surprised. Carrot Top walked to him and proceeded to nuzzle him.

"I'm glad we met Hark." She said happily as she moved away.

As for Hark, he was a little stunned at the contact. What was that about? Although, it did kinda feel nice...

As Hark was lost in his thoughts, Dash spoke up.

"Sooo...ya don't know what your cutie mark is huh?"

Hark snapped from his thoughts and shook his head no at her.

"Don't you remember getting it?" Dash pressed.

Hark frowned. I got it the same time I got the rest of this strange body and ended up in this strange place.

He hoped they didn't hear that. Luckily, none of them seemed to react to it and he seemed to realize a pattern with his telepathy. He gave his theory a try, his horn starting to glow slightly.

"Not really, it just popped up one day..." Hark replied, not exactly lying. 

"Oh my Gosh! That sounds horrible! We need to find out what your cutie mark is!" Pinkie said worried. But then she smiled. "But first, let's show you the rest of the town! Come on! That means you too Dashie!"

"Don't call me that!" Rainbow Dash said as she followed, looking at Hark as she passed him with quiet curiosity.

Hark merely smiled at her as he followed them to see the rest of the town.

I wonder what my cutie mark is....

> Soundless Troubles
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As Hark continued to follow Pinkie, his stomach suddenly growled. Everyone present turned to him and he blushed slightly in embarrassment.

Pinkie surprisingly hopped in front of him and smiled. "Hey! How did you know where we were going next?"

Hark blinked. But then he noticed her gesture to a building. "Welcome to Sugarcube Corner! Home of the best sweets you'll get this side of Equestria! I haven't been to the other side so I can't say we beat them yet. But here it's no contest!"

Hark noticed the building itself looked eatable. It kinda reminded him of an old childhood story about a gingerbread house. However, he didn't get to think on it before Pinkie grabbed him.

"Come on! You gotta try our sweets! You'll be hooked!" She said as she pulled him towards the store. Hark looked back and saw Rainbow Dash laughing while Carrot Top shrugged and followed them inside.

Once Pinkie let go of Hark, she hopped over the counter and disappeared into the back room. Hark took this time to relax as her antics seemed to drain him quite a bit. Dash took notice and snorted.

"Pinkie got ya all worn out huh? Happens to the best of us." She said and Hark nodded, assuming she's had her fair share of the pink ball of energy.

"I remember my first time meeting Pinkie. Still don't think I will have the same interest in carrots like I did." Carrot Top said shaking her head with a small smile.

Hark looked at her in confusion. "She made you dislike them?"

Carrot Top became surprised. "What? Oh no, she just made something that I enjoy much more than carrots. And that very thing is-"

"One Carrot cupcake!" 

Everypony jumped seeing Pinkie pop up from behind the counter. She gave Hark the cupcake and then she placed a bit in the register as she smiled at the group. 

"Pinkie, when did you get there?" Rainbow Dash asked with a serious look.

"I was here for a while, silly. And, I found a bit to pay for the cupcake so it's on the house, Hark. Enjoy!"

Hark looked at the colorful treat in front of him. He wasn't gonna lie, cartoon food always seemed to look tastier than real food and this was no exception. Well, at least now I can actually try it.

And with that thought, Hark proceeded to shove the colorful treat right in his mouth and promptly chomped on the fluffy dough. Immediately after doing so, one thing became blatantly obvious. So obvious, that Hark stopped chewing.

Seeing him freeze like that was unexpected and Pinkie grew slightly worried. "What's wrong? Is there something wrong with it?"

Hark shook his head as he devoured the rest of the amazing treat. "Nothing is wrong! This is absolutely delicious! How...how is it possible to make something this good? It was like it was made out of...rainbows and unicorns or something!" He though incredulously.

She giggled at his words. "Well, I will admit I add a dash of Rainbow, but too much and it would be spicy. So I add sugar instead! And I'm an Earth pony silly, not a Unicorn. That's what you are." She said as she laid her head on both hooves. 

Hark just merely enjoyed the aftertaste from the sweet treat he just finished. Man, if everything tastes as great as that did, I wouldn't mind staying here for a little while. At least I will have some amazing food. 

He looked and saw Carrot Top eating a cupcake. He blinked, but then became surprised. "Where did that come from?"

"Huh? Oh, I ordered one and Pinkie made it for me. She is really fast at making these. I can't figure out for the life of me; does she just has them in the back, or is she cooking them at supersonic speeds..." She said as stared at the aforementioned pony giving a chocolate muffin to Rainbow Dash.

Hark just watched her as Pinkie spoke to Rainbow Dash. "I know you are gonna like this one Dash. The chips have caramel in them!"

"What? How did you get caramel in these tiny things?" She said surprised after biting into the treat, said treat also coming out her mouth a little as she spoke. 

"Oh that was easy. The hard part was not eating them myself. I love caramel!" Pinkie said as she stared at the treat hungrily. Rainbow then took this time to eat the rest quickly, eliciting a pout from Pinkie. "Aww."

Rainbow smirked and spoke up. "Get me two more of those Pinkie. Those were really good!" 

Pinkie saluted. "Aye-Aye Dashie! Two more coming right up!" She then dashed into the back door. 

Hark barely had time to blink before she came right back out with two more on a plate and gave it to Rainbow. "Here ya go! Two more chocolate muffins! But why two? Normally you get one more since you watch your figure and all."

She smirked before grabbing a muffin. "You're right. This one is for you Pinks. And don't call me Dashie in front of others!" She said angrily before Pinkie smiled wide and grabbed the treat.

"Oh wow! Thanks Dashi- err Dash! He he, sorry." Pinkie said before eating the muffin happily.

Rainbow just shook her head before taking a bite out of her muffin. She looked over and noticed Hark watching them and spoke. "Now ya know what we have to deal with. It's not bad, just..."

"Silly?" Pinkie suggested, muffin bits coming out her mouth as well.

She just laughed and nodded. "Yeah, that."

Hark smiled at the whole situation. These two definitely seem like good friends. I wonder if... He saw that Carrot Top was watching as well, but with an expression Hark couldn't figure out. He decided to get her attention and tapped her on the side.

The touch surprised her and she jumped before turning to him. "Y-yes? What's up Hark?"

Hark said nothing and merely looked at her in worry. Carrot Top just smiled slightly. "Uh, if you think there is something wrong, there's not. I'm fine. You don't have to worry."

Hark didn't believe that. A cream colored glow appeared on his horn as he thought. "Then why did you look like you did? You seemed sad."

Carrot Top's eyes grew wide before she looked away. "I'd...rather not talk about that, sorry."

Hark frowned at that. Seems like they have personal problems too. Well of course they would. They are normal people- err ponies. I guess I'll leave it at that.

Hark nodded and smiled at her. She smiled back and nuzzled him, surprising him again. "Thanks for caring though. I really appreciate it."

Hark blushed at the contact, as well as what she said, but he shook his head quickly and looked away. What was that about? It's like she is thanking me when she does that. Though I'll admit, it does feel kinda nice...

"Hark, are you okay?"

Hark turned and saw Carrot Top mimicking his earlier expression as she looked at him in worry. He rubbed his head uncomfortably and nodded with a smile.

Carrot Top smiled as well. "I'll take that as a yes. Well, Pinkie has shown you basically all of the town except Sweet Apple Acres..."

"Which is in construction right now, so we can't go today! But you can go visit in a few days when they are allowing visitors again!" Pinkie chimed in with a smile before going back to Dash. "And don't forget about the balloons! There has to be lots!"

Hark and Carrot Top blinked at the pony before Carrot Top responded, "yeah, that. So, what are you gonna do now?"

Hark paused as he looked outside and saw the sun slowly dipping down. He soon realized something major. Oh crud, that's right. I don't have anywhere to sleep. And unless ponies have hidden pockets, I doubt I have my money from back home on me.

Hark sighed and looked away. I'm so not looking forward to sleeping on a bench tonight...

"Well, if you're not busy...I was hoping you can come over and hang out?"

Hearing that dragged Hark from his thoughts and he looked to Carrot Top in surprise. He nodded happily, thinking he might have gotten a place to stay for now, instead of running around aimlessly.

Carrot Top herself was excited. "Really? That's great!"

Hark smiled as he thought. If her house is normal and not a stable or something, I'll ask to see if she has a spare room. That way I can wait a week until the princess gets back.. Hark nodded to himself. He looked over and saw Carrot Top smiling at him. 

"Well!" Pinkie said popping up across the counter, making the two jump. "That just about wraps it up for Pinkie's Exquisite Expedition! Now I need you two to vacate the premises! We are closing!"

Carrot Top was surprised as she hopped out her seat. "Wait, what? Why? You guys never close this early." She said as Hark hopped out of his as well.

"We have some things to take care of here so Sugarcube Corner is temporarily closed!" She said before hopping over the counter and pushing the two towards the door. 

"Things to take care of? Like what?" Carrot Top asked as she was pushed out the door with Hark.

"Sorry, top secret! Can't tell ya. But if ya wanna find out, come back by nine. We'll be open again!" Pinkie said with a smile and closed the doors, as well as locking them.

Carrot Top frowned. "Nine? It's already seven! Why would you close for two...oh." Carrot Top immediately got quiet after that. 

Hark tapped her in confusion. However, she spun around and smiled. "How about we hang out at my place till nine? I'm kinda curious on what Pinkie was talking about." 

Hark merely nodded at that. I kinda wanna know too. Besides, until I find some other way home, I'm basically stuck here for a week. Might as well enjoy it... although living as a pony is something I definitely don't want to get used to...

Hark looked and saw Carrot Top walked ahead. "Alright, follow me. It not far. I'm actually kinda glad I'm so close to Sugarcube corner."

Hark smiled. "I'd be happy to live close by too. That cupcake was too good. Puts even my moms carrot cake to shame."

Carrot Top suddenly laughed loudly, surprising him, but he soon realized she heard him and frowned. Not again...

"Oh wow, that's so funny. I said the same thing about my homemade carrot cake once I tasted her cupcakes." Carrot Top said as she giggled and wiped tears from both eyes. She looked at him and smiled. "You really are a funny stallion in your mind huh?"

Hark smiled slightly and rubbed his head. "Uh, I guess so?"

"Well I know so. We are definitely gonna have fun when we get there. I can't wait!" Carrot Top said as she trotted a little faster to her home. Hark was surprised and had to try his best to keep from tripping over himself as he tried to catch up to the giddy mare...

Didn't work though...