A writer from 17th century England finds himself in Equestria. It's here that he learns the meaning of courage, becomes the hero Equestria needs, and ultimately finds true love.
What if you could go to another world?
I never thought that I would discover the answer to that question, yet here I am. This world seems to be like Earth, only the inhabitants are all multicolored ponies, the largest ones seeming to come up to my shoulders. These ponies are very intelligent, able to speak perfect English, handle businesses, and create entire societies. They're all so friendly, too. The one I'm staying with, Twilight Sparkle I believe her name is, shares many of my interests, and I feel a strong sense of camaraderie from her and her five friends.
One of these friends however, I can't seem to get out of my mind. She's the most lovely pegasus pony. Yellow coat, long pink mane and tail, big cyan colored eyes, and the softest voice... she's by far the most beautiful creature I've ever seen. Anytime I see her it brings light to my day...
Oh dear... have I fallen in love with her? I'm in love... with a talking horse?
I mean, she doesn't act like a horse. None of them do. Beyond the occasional foot stomping, they're all surprisingly human. But...they're not human. She's not human. Yet, whenever she's close to me, I find myself filled with desires... the kind that I had for Olivia at one time. She never let me indulge in these fantasies, but I can tell that Fluttershy has no problem being affectionate with me, and may even be interested in me.
But no matter how human she is... can I with a clear conscious fall in love with a pony?
A deconstruction of the Human in Equestria concept, trying to answer "what would REALLY happen to someone if they landed in Equestria, and how would they really feel if they fell in love with a pony?"
This is the first story I ever wrote that hit the popular list! I don't know if that's better that being featured or not, but I still love it! You guys are awesome!
I write this letter to explain my behavior as of late, and to let you know why I am absent from my house at this moment. For the last few months I have been silent, staying away from others, not contacting anyone. I haven't written anything in over a month, nor have I left the house. Many of you have been worried about me, and for that I apologize. The truth is, I have been sick. No, not ill with the plague, but something just as horrid, especially to an artistic soul such as I.
The illness known as writer's block.
The truth is, this world doesn't excite me anymore. The people all talk about the same things, the colors are just dull and gray to me now, even the sight of my dear sweet Olivia fails to ignite a spark within me. I find myself wondering if I am as in love with her as I was in the past. I believe that I was in love with the idea of her, but the reality, as sad as it is to say, was as dull as the world around me.
Needless to say, for now the wedding is postponed.
I write these feelings on paper as it is the best way for me to express myself. Also, I am ashamed to admit that I am a bloody coward and am unable to face the thought of telling all of you this to your face. Olivia, if you by any chance are the one reading this, then I apologize. The world you live in is not one that accepts my soul. I'm certain that you will find someone who will share your beliefs, but alas, that is not me.
I've decided to take a little trip around the world. I wish to see what is really out there, and whether or not there is more to this world than the gray I see before me. I do not know where I shall end up, nor when I shall return. Should years pass, remember me for my past writings, not for the cowardly fraction of a man I left as on this day.
Sincerely, Arthur Ravenot
After packing a bit of luggage and getting dressed, Arthur took one last look at the letter he had written. He knew that eventually someone would come by and see this. He imagined that it would be Olivia, as she always came to visit him when he “went dark” the term coined by Olivia to describe when he vanished from everyone's sight in an attempt to be alone.
Ahh, Olivia. He remembered a time long ago when the thought of being with her lit a fire in his heart. Her curly blond hair, her luscious curves, full lips, and the gowns she wore that were always the perfect color and seemed to bring out the most of her beauty.
It was a shame that although the world had moved into the later parts of the 17th century, Olivia seemed closer to the 15th. As such, though they had been engaged for the better part of a month, and had been together for almost two years, they hadn't once made love, nor had he ever seen her naked. He didn't even remember the last time they had kissed.
Okay, he understood her reasoning behind it before he asked for her hand in marriage, but most people didn't even believe that they were a couple anyway, so it wasn't like they'd get the church's attention. Maybe she might, but that assumed he was any good. Now they were getting ready to get married, and while he respected Olivia's desire to not consummate before marriage, he could at least hold her close, fondle her in the privacy of his or her home, or at the very least kiss her.
Shouldn't he be allowed to do that much?
After putting on his black pants, white shirt, matching black jacket, and brown shoes, he put on his circular glasses and examined himself in the mirror, wondering if he was just undesirable. He wasn't the strongest young man in the world, and his lack of muscle was apparent. Still, he thought that he was at least attractive. He always wore his long brown hair in a ponytail to keep it out of his face, and it was never messy.
He had the look of a scholar, and could have been a great one. But he was always more drawn to the arts.
Olivia had mentioned her distaste for his choice in career, insisting that he get a “normal” job. He wasn't good at anything else though, he didn't work well with others, and his stamina was lack luster. He knew that deep down Olivia wanted a “true” man. Rather than search for said man, she seemed intent on molding Arthur into that man.
“Well, I suppose I've stalled this long enough,” Arthur said picking up his luggage and walking to the door. He planned on leaving early as to avoid running into anyone, preferring to leave the explanation to his letter-
“Arthur?” Olivia asked as he opened the door, “Why do you have such a large bag with you?”
“Um... O-Olivia...” Arthur stuttered, “W-w-what are you doing here so early?”
“What do you think?” Olivia asked leaning forward, exposing her large bosom slightly due to the nature of her yellow and white gown, “You've spent the better part of the month lollygagging in your house, and it's high time for you to get some air. Although it looks like you finally came to your senses on your own.”
Arthur laughed awkwardly, “Looks like it,” he said, trying to hide how much he was sweating.
“But I still don't understand why you look like you're taking a trip? Especially now. Our wedding is in a few weeks,” Olivia said folding her arms under her bosom. She had to be trying to taunt him. At least, the growing bulge in his pants was thinking that.
“Well... about that...” Arthur said looking anywhere but Olivia's healthy chest.
“Arthur, what are you hiding?” Olivia pressed.
“Hiding? What? Do I look like I'm hiding something? I don't look like I'm hiding something,” Arthur said laughing.
“Actually you do,” Olivia said frankly.
“Ahh...” Arthur turned his head in the other direction away from Olivia.
“Arthur, look at me,” Olivia ordered.
“I... don't think you want me to do that,” Arthur said. God... she always smelled so nice...
“Arthur, I won't ask again,” Olivia leaned in again, “Look. At. Me.”
Arthur swallowed, and then slowly turned to look at Olivia. There it was, the forbidden fruit. Cursing men everywhere to admire from a distance, and only from a distance. Right now she was so close though. All he had to do was close the distance, and their lips would be toughing. Just another inch, and he would finally taste the forbidden fruit.
Olivia placed her finger on his forehead, “Arthur, you know the rules.”
“It's just a kiss though,” Arthur silently begged, “Surely the church won't burn us at the stakes for-”
“I want our first time to be special,” Olivia stated, “Not until our wedding.”
Arthur groaned in pain, taking a deep breath before backing away. He had the prettiest girl in all of England, and he wasn't even allowed to touch her. God must hate him.
“So, what are you hiding?” Olivia pressed, “Out with it.”
Arthur sighed. He didn't want to tell her anything. He had hoped that he could just leave that to his letter, and hopefully to whoever read it first that wasn't Olivia, even if he knew she'd be the first one to read it. Sadly, fate had other plans.
He ran back into his house, got the letter, and handed it to Olivia.
“What is-”
“Please read it,” Arthur begged. He may be face to face with her, but he'd be damned if he said it himself.
She read the letter, Arthur paying close attention to her reaction. She gasped in shock at one point, telling Arthur that she reached the part about her, and she did not look happy. This was why he wanted to be as far away from her as possible.
After she finished she looked up at Arthur, her expression unreadable, but it was clear that she was hurt.
“Do you fine me... boring Arthur?”
Oooh boy... he did not know how to answer that question. Truth was, the answer was a resounding yes, but he wasn't going to tell her that. He didn't want to hurt her feelings. Well, anymore than they already were hurt.
“Ahh... I wouldn't say... boring... but...”
“But...?”
Arthur sighed again, “Olivia, you're very kind, and absolutely lovely, but... I can't live the life you want me to lead.”
“This isn't because I haven't supported your writing hobby, is it?” Olivia asked.
“It's not a hobby Olivia,” Arthur said, “It's my life. My very soul.”
Olivia groaned, “Arthur, you can't make a living just writing poems. My father won't stand for it.”
“I don't just write poems Olivia,” Arthur stated, “I write books, and I don't care if your father doesn't support me. I had always thought that you would support me.”
“I told you before, my family will always come first,” Olivia said.
“I thought that at two years I would be family too,” Arthur said.
“That won't be valid until we're married.”
“Assuming there will be a marriage.”
Olivia held the letter up putting her other hand on her hip, “You're not taking this seriously, are you? We are getting married in a week.”
“Olivia... I can't even kiss you.”
“Kissing is a level of intimacy that I want to reserve for-”
“It's not sex, Olivia! Not that I would mind consummating with you, but a kiss! A simple show of affection so I can express my love! You won't even let me do that!”
“I want our relationship to be deeper than mere fornication!” Olivia argued, “What would my father think?”
“Your father! Your father! That's your excuse for everything! Sometimes I wonder who you love more: me or your father?”
“Arthur, I do love you! But I don't want my father to disown me like he did my sister! If that happened, I'd-”
“If that happened, I would look out for you!”
“Ha! With what? You're writing? That's not a job! Besides, you're not big and strong like normal men your age! You can't protect me! You can't protect anyone!”
That statement hurt, knowing that she really thought that. Sure, it was true, but it hurt nonetheless.
“My father means everything to me,” Olivia continued, “As is my position in the eyes of my peers! I thought you knew that!”
“I guess I believed that I was worth more,” Arthur grumbled.
“Well I'm sorry Arthur. I love you, but I can't compromise anything to appease you.”
Well, maybe this was why God had Olivia meet him right as he was leaving, because what he said next would have been harder to do earlier.
“Have a good day, Olivia,” Arthur said simply, walking past a shell shocked Olivia.
“Arthur! Where are you-”
“I'm not sure,” Arthur stopped and turned to her, “But I just need some time to explore, broaden my horizons.”
“What do you hope to discover out there?” Olivia asked accusingly.
“Something that this world has been lacking for a long time,” Arthur said walking to the harbor, “Magic.”
He was sure that Olivia was calling out to him as he walked off, but he didn't stop. It was made clear to him now that he was missing. Hopefully he could find that thing out there in this world. Hell, he'd travel to another world if he had the chance.
But what were the chances he'd ever get that chance?
Arthur decided to make his first stop on his leave to be France. He managed to catch the last ferry leaving Wales for France, where he planned to meet up with his brother Matthew. He had moved to France once before, and he told Arthur that he could show up anytime if he needed a change in his environment.
Hopefully he wouldn't mind it if Arthur showed up unannounced.
The ferry wouldn't arrive at France for a few days. Until then he tried to get some writing done. Hell, he'd just write in his journal if that was all he could manage. Sadly, once he sat down at his book, all he saw was a blank page.
“Argh! I can't create anything!” he shouted slamming his book closed. He sat back in his chair, allowing himself time to feel out his emotions. At the moment, all he felt was emptiness and frustration, none of which he could put to paper.
At the moment, all he could think about was the last conversation he had with Olivia. For a while he wondered if he had been too harsh on her. He knew that she was the apple of her father's eye. Her younger sister, Bianca, had married a man that her and Olivia's father didn't approve of, so she was disowned. Olivia had a great fear of that happening to her one day, so she walked on eggshells with him, ensuring that she did everything right.
But did that excuse the way she treated him? Arthur was always kept at arm's length, and he wasn't allowed to show any affection that would be deemed “unsightly”. Was he really in the wrong for wanted to hug and kiss his girlfriend, or was she in the wrong for keeping him at a distance and not giving him a full chance?
Maybe they just weren't compatible. But wouldn't he run into this problem no matter who he ended up with? For the longest time he thought that the world around him just had too many rules. He didn't think it was fair that the church controlled how it was acceptable to display love. What if he wanted to hug and kiss the woman he loved right out in the open? What business did the church have in his affairs?
Love wasn't something that was supposed to be controlled by those outside. It was too strong of an emotion to even imagine it being controlled. He wanted to freely express his love for someone. But as long as the world was the way it was, he was trapped.
Arthur needed to get some fresh air, so he left his cabin to walk on the deck of the ship. The moon was out, and the sky was clear, allowing him to see the stars perfectly. He walked to the side of the ship and looked up at the moon, imagining that it was alive.
“Perhaps I'm just not a good fit for this world,” Arthur said with a sigh, “But this is the only world that exists, right? No, that can't be. I refuse to believe that God would lack so much creativity that this world is the best he can do,” he closed his eyes, “If there is another world out there, another place that my heart and soul would be a better fit in, then please let me find it.”
After giving his wish to the moon, he looked down at the water, almost feeling like it would be better if he just jumped and drowned himself. It was clear that this world wasn't made for him. Maybe in the next world he'd find his place.
“I wouldn't do that if I were you,” a voice said from his immediate left. He turned and saw a man sitting on the side of the ship, not exactly dressed for a trip across the sea. He had short brown hair and a beard, and he wore a fancy black tuxedo with dress shoes.
“Um...”
“That water looks really cold, friend,” the man said, “You'd die if you fell in.”
“Well, that might not be such a bad idea,” Arthur said somberly, “It's clear that I don't belong in this world.”
“There are better ways to go to a new world you know,” the man continued, “You could travel on a boat like this, you could fly, or find the door and just walk through.”
“Fly?” Arthur asked the man, who looked dead serious. Who was this man, and why was he sitting so close to the edge of the ship?
“Oh you didn't know? Man wasn't meant to just walk, man was meant to soar through the sky,” the man got up and walked on the side of the ship, “There's an endless sky up there, yet here man is, stuck on the ground. That doesn't seem very fair, does it?”
He was walking perfectly on the edge of the ship! Was he insane?! No, he was fine. He didn't waver at all. Now Arthur wanted to know both who and what he was.
“Sir, that seems awfully dangerous,” Arthur said frantically.
“But danger makes life more fun,” the man said. He did a back flip perfectly on the edge, giving Arthur a mini heart attack.
“Oh God...” Arthur said once he realized the man was okay.
“What's life without a little danger and anarchy?” the man asked.
“Just who are you?” Arthur asked finally, “Are you right in the head?”
“Who, me? Well, a certain Sun Goddess might claim otherwise, but I assure you that I'm perfectly sane,” the man spun around on the edge of the ship, scaring the hell out of Arthur, and then did some fancy pose, “As for who I am, I'm simply an advocate of chaos, anarchy, and mayhem.
“You see,” the man explained, now doing an odd move where he walked forward, yet somehow was moving backwards, “Where I come from, I'm someone of great importance. It's my job to keep things... exciting... if you would. Mix it up, keep everyone on their toes,” he jumped to a sitting position looking right at Arthur, “It's a wonderful job. I'm proud to have it.”
“Well, I'm happy for you,” Arthur said, not understanding anything this guy was saying, “Truth is, I'm starting to hate my job. Rather, my life in general.”
“Oh? Is that why you were contemplating suicide?” the man asked. Arthur allowed his silence to speak for itself, “Tell me, friend, did you mean what you said before? About wanting to go to another world?”
“As if I ever could,” Arthur said.
“Mmm, imagine for a bit, that the way to another world was actually looking right at you. Tell me, what would that world be like?”
“Just imagine?” Arthur asked, the man nodding, “Well let's see. It would be colorful, every color of the rainbow would be present. The people living there would be more focused on freedom, and supporting one another. There wouldn't be silly rules dictating who and how you love. The air would be clean, disease wouldn't be a major issue, and everyone would be accepted. That's the world I would love to see.”
“And if you were looking at the door, all you had to do was go through, would you? Would you take the chance and go to that other world?”
“Yes, yes, YES!” Arthur said walking back the edge of the ship, “If I could... I'd go to that place in a heart beat.”
The man chuckled, “That's all I needed to hear,” he jumped down and walked over to Arthur, placing his hand on his back, “Next stop, Equestria.”
“Huh?” Arthur asked. For a split second, he saw the man's eyes turn yellow and red, almost like a demon's eyes. He then did something that was surprising. He pushed Arthur off the edge of the ship.
As Arthur screamed, he turned back around and saw the man looking down at him waving.
“See you on the other side!” he called out. Oddly, Arthur never hit the water. Instead, he seemed to fall into a black void. Soon, he found himself getting lost to the void and unconsciousness.
“Oh my, are you okay?!” a soft, melodious voice cried out.
“Hm... who's... there...?” Arthur asked, partially opening his eyes. His vision was blurry, but he could make out a yellow form with long pink hair. He could tell they were female, but they didn't look human.
“Hold on! I'll help you!” the voice said. Arthur felt like he was being moved onto someone's back, and in a few seconds he felt movement. Once again he was able to briefly open his eyes, and for a split second he saw that he was riding on the back of a yellow horse. It didn't seem very large, maybe the size of a fully grown pony. He didn't see a rider though.
In fact, he didn't even think there was enough room for a rider on this horse, and he didn't sense anyone walking next to him.
“You'll be okay,” the woman's voice was heard. It was the softest, sweetest voice he had ever heard, and his heart raced hearing it. But where was it coming from?
“Who... are you...?” Arthur asked.
“My name is Fluttershy,” the voice said, the horse turned its head slightly to look at him, “My friend Twilight will know what to do.”
He felt himself fall back unconsciousness, but he took note of what he saw, and it surprised him. That voice... the one that sent his heart a flutter...
“Yes. Apparently she found him in the outskirts of Ponyville.”
“What is he? Is he one of those 'humans' you mentioned before?”
“I believe so, but he seems different. I don't think he's from the same world Sunset Shimmer is in.”
“So he's not from the human version of Equestria.”
“No. I think he's from a completely different world. If he were from any form of Equestria, he'd turn into a pony, but he's still a human.”
“Twilight Sparkle, when he awakens and is settled in, send a letter to my sister and I.”
“I will. Thanks for showing up on such short notice, Luna.”
“If you call for me, I will be by your side always.”
Arthur was sure that he heard voices a little while ago. These weren't the same as the voice from before though. One was very authoritative and serious sounding, and the other one was slightly higher and analytical. He drifted off in the middle of their conversation, but he felt himself coming back to the land of the living. He was in a soft bed, the covers smelling very nice.
“Don't get up too fast,” someone said next to him. He recognized the voice as one of the women talking over him before.
“Am I alive?” Arthur asked, still not opening his eyes.
“Thankfully,” the woman said, “It looked like you fell from high up. I healed your wounds though, so you should be fine now.”
Arthur turned to face the person who saved him and slowly opened his eyes. His vision was blurry, but as it cleared up he saw a purple face staring back at him. He blinked a few times to get his sight focused, now clearly seeing his savior's face. Purple, and somewhat like a pony's face, but with softer, more human features. The creature also had a small horn on its forehead, and the oddest purple mane that looked like regular hair. The sight looked strangely natural.
He blinked a few more times, trying to process what he was seeing.
“Um...”
“Are you sore anywhere?” the purple pony said. This creature could talk?!
“Uh...” Arthur's eyes were wide. He just heard a pony talk. It spoke... perfect English...
“Mister, are you feeling okay?” the pony asked, placing a hoof on his forehead. It was a regular horse's hoof, but bigger and wider, and the pony was using it like a hand.
“I... I... I...” Arthur, unable to process what he was seeing, fainted right on the spot.
“Oh my God! Mister! Are you okay?!” the pony asked, “Mister! Hey!”
Laughter was heard, and there were three new voices this time. One was raspy and somewhat loud, one sounded more proper like he was used to, and another one was deeper and had the oddest accent.
“He fainted?! That's the funniest thing I ever heard!”
“Dash, the poor thing must have been terrified! Based off what Twilight said he's clearly not from around here.”
“You gotta admit, Rarity, it is kinda funny.”
“Any idea's where he's from, Twilight?”
“I'm still trying to figure that out. I was going to ask him, until...”
“Until he fainted like a pussy?”
“Rainbow Dash, it's like Rarity said, he was terrified. I'm just glad he didn't scream and run off.”
“If ya need anythin, ya'll let us know, right?”
“I will. Thanks Applejack.”
Arthur heard a series of clops exit out of the room. He soon faded back into unconsciousness.
“Twilight, how is he?”
That voice... it was her...
“Physically he's fine, but he's in shock. I think that's why he's still out. Don't worry, he'll be okay.”
“I hope so...”
Arthur felt someone approaching his bed, and his hand pressed under two hooves. It felt very pleasant.
“He's not from this world, that much I'm sure. There's no telling how he'll react the next time he wakes up.”
“He'll be fine. All he needs is reassurance that he's safe.”
“Fluttershy, what are you...”
“Where ever you came from, know that you're safe now. I know that you're afraid, but everything will be fine. Twilight will take care of you.”
She spoke directly into his ear, her voice soft like a whisper. He wanted to open his eyes and see the angel next to him, but instead he felt himself fall deeper into the abyss of his mind.
Arthur slowly opened his eyes again. This time he was alone in the room, which he finally got a good look at. It was very nice, sort of like a castle's bedroom. The bed he was in was large, with purple curtains and dark purple covers. The door was somewhat big and blue.
Realizing now that he wasn't wearing his jacket anymore, he looked around the room. He saw it hanging on a coat rack next to the door. He slowly stood up and put it on, deciding first to look out the window to take in his new surroundings.
It looked like the sun was rising, which meant he was at least out for a whole day. Where ever he was, it was very colorful. It looked like there was a small town in front of where he was currently, which did appear to be some sort of castle.
“My God...” Arthur said looking around, “Where in the world is this?”
After working up the courage to step out of the room, he walked down the hall. As he walked, he saw more ponies walking around, only these looked male and wore purple armor. They all came up to just a little under his shoulder in terms of height, and they all had features that were human, yet still pony like in the slightest.
Arthur would have screamed and run away, but somehow he felt calmer. Something told him that these creatures weren't going to hurt him. One of the armored ponies, this one being an orange one with wings, a blue mane and tail, walked up to him. This one was one of the taller ones coming close to his shoulder.
“Greetings,” the pony said with a salute. Rather then take in the pony's extremely human mannerisms, he simply nodded.
“G-greetings...” Arthur stuttered.
“Princess Twilight is waiting for you in her study,” the pony said.
“Princess... Twilight...?” Arthur asked, remembering that name from somewhere. Did he dream that name?”
“Follow me,” the armored pony said walking off. Arthur took a deep breath and followed his escort, still trying to wrap his mind around the odd sight.
This pony is acting like a human...
The knight lead Arthur to a large brown door. He knocked on it (Arthur still amazed at how he was able to move his foreleg like that so naturally) and waited for a response.
“Yes?” a voice Arthur recognized called out from inside.
“Twilight, it's me,” the stallion said, “I have the human with me. He seems calmer than before.”
“Excellent, bring him in Flash.”
The stallion, apparently named Flash, opened the door and ushered Arthur inside. When he walked in, he saw the purple pony from earlier sitting on a pillow with a book in front of her. She seemed smaller than the stallion, but not by much. Sure enough, when she stood up Arthur saw that she was only a few inches smaller than “Flash”.
Arthur also took note that she not only had a horn like he remembered before, but she had large wings too. She wore a golden crown, golden hoof guards on both her front and back feet, and a large golden necklace around her neck. Her tail was the same shade of purple as her mane, but both of them had a pink highlight in them. She seemed to be wearing dark purple eyeshadow. On her hip was a symbol that looked like a purple star with five white stars surrounding it.
“Um... h-hello...” Arthur said, slowly getting on one knee and awkwardly bowing. This whole thing was weird, but he knew royalty when he saw it, and he wasn't going to risk upsetting anyone.
The purple pony giggled, “Flash, please leave us for now. I'll ask for you later.”
“Of course, Twilight,” Flash said before trotting out of the door and closing it. Was Twilight this pony's name? If so, why did that guard call her by her first name and not “Your Majesty”?
“You can get up,” the princess said, shocking Arthur out of his thoughts.
“Um, yes!” Arthur immediately got up and stood straight. The princess rolled her eyes smiling.
“Relax, I'm not going to hurt you,” she said, “My name is Twilight Sparkle, Princess of the Stars and Friendship in Equestria.”
“It's a pleasure to m-meet you, Your Majesty,” Arthur said, his voice shaking, “Arthur R-Ravenot... madam.”
“It's nice to meet you, Arthur,” Twilight said, “And just Twilight is fine. I only have the guards and formal acquaintances use formalities.”
“Oh...” Arthur said, suddenly confused, “Then why was that one allowed to...”
“Oh, Flash? He's... a special case...”
The way she smiled told Arthur everything he needed to know. He guessed even a princess needed to have fun.
Twilight walked over to her pillow and sat down, “I know you're very confused right now.”
“Understatement of the year, yes,” Arthur said.
“So, do you have any questions?” Twilight asked. Arthur had a ton of questions, and he was trying to figure out how to answer them without offending the mare in front of him.
“First off, where am I?” Arthur asked.
“You mean where in this world, or what world?” Twilight asked.
“What... world?” Arthur asked.
“Arthur, I'm going to get the hardest part out of the way,” Twilight looked at him very seriously, “Where ever you came from, you aren't there anymore. This is not the Earth you know.”
“Not the Earth I know...” Arthur asked, “As in... I'm...”
“In another world, yes,” Twilight finished for him.
Arthur took a deep breath, trying to take that information in. Surely the couldn't be real. I mean, he was talking to a pony princess. This was something straight out of a fairy tail.
Did you mean what you said before? About wanting to go to another world?
“It's not possible...” Arthur said looking down.
“Arthur?”
“Please, Twilight, tell me exactly where I am,” Arthur requested.
“We call our world Earth, much like your world I imagine,” Twilight stated, “However, you're currently in the village of Ponyville, which is in the country of Equestria.”
Next stop, Equestria.
“My God...” Arthur said wide eyed, “He really did it...”
“Um, excuse me?”
“Can I sit down?” Arthur asked.
“Yeah, sure,” Twilight said. Her horn began glowing in a purple aura, and another pillow floated over to her. She placed it right next to her own and patted it with her hoof.
“Thank you,” Arthur said walking up to the pillow and sitting down. He was silent for a few moments, trying to process what he figured out. He was also attempting to wake up from this dream, which he still wasn't sure whether or not it was a nightmare.
“I understand this is a lot to take in,” Twilight said, “I promise you-”
“I'm in... another world...” Arthur said to himself.
“If you're afraid, or anything of the sort, I can-”
“Another... world...” he repeated, not sure if he was horrified or elated. Right now it was somewhere in between.
“Yes... we covered that already,” Twilight said apparently trying to move forward, “What I'd like to know now is how you're feeling about that.”
“That's what I'm trying to figure out myself...” Arthur said, beyond the fact that he was having an intelligent conversation with a horse.
“Do you need some time alone to process this?” Twilight asked.
“No,” Arthur said suddenly getting up, “What I need is to explore. Um, can that be arranged?”
“Certainly,” Twilight said getting up, “The ponies here are very easy going. Even if you get odd looks, they won't freak out or anything. I'll introduce you to my friends. They've all heard of humans before, and they even saw you while you were out.”
Did that include the one who rescued him? The one with the soft voice?
“Then let us depart immediately,” Arthur said.
“Hold on,” Twilight said with a laugh, “I need to let Spike know we're going out.”
“Spike? Who's Spike?” Arthur asked.
“He's my best friend and personal vassal,” Twilight said, “Wait here for me, okay?”
Twilight trotted away, leaving Arthur to take in his situation. He walked over to a book shelf and picked out a book, surprised that he could read what it said inside. They're language was exactly the same as human language, if not slightly more forward.
“Enjoying your first day?”
“Ahh!!!” Arthur screamed. He turned around and saw the man from before lying on Twilight's pillow as if he had always been there, “You're the one from before. The one who brought me here.”
“Very good,” the man said, “At least you're smart enough to connect the dots yourself.”
“Who are you?” Arthur asked, “And why did you bring me here?”
“As I said, I'm an advocate of chaos, anarchy, and mayhem,” the man said, “As for why you're here, isn't it enough for me to want to help out a friend?”
“You and I have never met before yesterday,” Arthur stated, “And you could have brought anyone here, but you chose me. Why?”
“My, you really are smart. You're just as smart as Princess Pride out there,” the man said pointing his thumb to the door, “You'll figure out exactly what your purpose here is eventually. When that time comes, you'll learn exactly who and what I am.”
The man disappeared in a white flash, confirming for Arthur that he wasn't human at all. However, he didn't think he was a pony either. Something about him seemed almost... godly.
A second later, Twilight walked back in, this time a purple dragon beside her. He was about Twilight's height walking on all fours, had large purple wings on his back, a pointed snout, and large green eyes. Arthur was frozen looking at the creature next to Twilight.
“H-h-hello,” Arthur stuttered, his voice cracking with fear.
“Arthur, this is my vassal, Spike. Spike, this is Arthur Ranvenot.”
“Right, this is the guy Rainbow Dash said fainted like a pussy, right?” Spike said, also sounding extremely human. His voice indicated that he and Arthur might be close to the same age.
“Fainted... like a... what?” Arthur asked, not sure what Spike had called him, but he was sure it wasn't a compliment, confirmed when Twilight whacked his arm.
“Spike, language!” Twilight scolded.
“Deny it,” Spike said frankly. Twilight just rolled her eyes and walked to the door.
“Let's go,” she said.
“He's... coming with us?” Arthur asked fearfully.
“Spike accompanies me all the time when I leave the castle,” Twilight said, “Don't worry, he doesn't bite. He's one of the few friendly breeds of dragons here in Equestria.”
As Twilight walked out of the room, Arthur slowly followed, wary of Spike's presence. Right when he got next to the dragon, Spike shot black smoke out of his nostrils, making Arthur scream and back away. Spike then burst out laughing.
“SPIKE!!!” Twilight shouted.
“Sorry Twilight, I couldn't resist,” Spike stated walking off after Twilight. Arthur caught his breath and walked after his two escorts, hoping that Spike would be the scariest thing he would see here in this world.
Ponies. Ponies everywhere. That's what Arthur saw as he and his two escorts walked through town. It was surprisingly larger than he had thought it was before, and it amazed him that these cute creatures had made all of these buildings themselves.
There were ponies of all kinds. Regular ponies that had no special features like horns or wings, ponies that had just wings, and ponies that had only horns, but there weren't that many of those types around. Actually, there were more ponies that had none of the two.
“So, you said that this town is called Ponyville?” Arthur asked Twilight.
“Yes. It was originally a settlement for earth ponies, but these days ponies of all types live here,” Twilight explained.
“Earth... ponies?” Arthur asked, confused by the term.
“Oh, sorry,” Twilight said sheepishly, “I forgot you're not familiar with the terms. You see, there are three main types of ponies. Pegasi, unicorns, and earth ponies. They're the ones that don't have horns or wings.”
So earth pony was the term used to describe what Arthur knew as “normal ponies”. He then took note of the princess walking next to him, “I'm curious though. You have both wings and a horn. Are you special or something?”
“Twilight here is extremely special,” Spike said, “She's an alicorn, which has the magic of all three types of ponies.”
“Magic? You have magic?” Arthur asked.
“You saw it when I moved the pillow for you to sit on,” Twilight explained, “That was basic unicorn magic though. Nowadays I can cast much stronger spells.”
He wanted to voice his disbelief in magic, but then he remembered two things. One, like she said, he saw her move a pillow without actually picking it up. Two, he was talking to a purple pony princess and her dragon vassal. The concept of magic was the most normal thing since waking up this morning.
The thing that really got to him was how pleasantly clean it was. He had been in a stable before, and while he had loved being around horses, the smells were too strong for his liking. He had expected a town filled with these creatures to be similar, but no. He smelled flowers, nature, and cooked bread.
Wait... bread? Why did he smell that?
He stopped walking and followed the scent, which lead him to an odd looking building. It was shaped like a giant cake, and actually looked edible. He half expected the smell to be coming from the building itself.
“Twilight? What is this building?” he said reading the sign, “Sugar Cube Corner?”
“Oh, that's my friend Pinkie Pie's shop,” Twilight said walking up to it, “She inherited it from the original owners when they moved to Fillydelphia.”
Fillydelphia? Arthur stilled his tongue before he said anything about the name and instead decided to walk in. It was really lively inside. Ponies sat down at tables talking about various things and eating an assortment of treats. Some of them looked up when Arthur walked in, but beyond a curious glance most of them smiled and greeted him positively.
“What, are you nervous or something?” Spike asked, now standing upright putting him and Arthur at close to the same height. Spike was a bit taller than him though.
“Well, I don't know the customs of this place, so...”
Spike used his tail to push Arthur forward, making him stumble a bit, “Just walk up to the counter. Pinkie Pie won't bite. Me on the other hand...”
“Spike, stop scaring him,” Twilight said walking past them to the counter.
“But it's fun teasing him. Come on Twilight,” Spike said walking after Twilight. Arthur walked up to the counter after them, where he saw a pink pony with a dark pink mane and tail talking to Twilight. Her mane and tail were really puffy, almost like a cloud. On her hips was a picture of three balloons. When she looked his way, she waved animatedly.
Arthur couldn't help but smile as he waved back.
“Hello Pinkie Pie,” Twilight said.
“Heya Twilight!” Pinkie Pie said brightly, her voice high and cheery, “Spike, did you grow again? You seem bigger.”
Spike groaned, “For the last time, Pinkie Pie, I won't have anymore growth spurts after that last one. This is as big as I'm gonna get.”
“Huh... okay then!” she then turned to Arthur, “You're a new face! In fact, you're completely new! I've never seen anything like you before in my life! Which is really saying something! I'm already twenty-two and I've seen a lot!”
“I see...” Arthur said smiling awkwardly. She didn't miss a single beat, and was clearly unfazed by Arthur's presence. Even less than the ponies in the shop.
“So! What brings you to Ponyville? Are you here to save the world from a great crisis that hasn't been revealed yet? Or are you visiting in order to rediscover your passion for life and love?”
“Um... definitely not the first one...” Arthur said, “But you're pretty good on the second one I think. I'm still trying to figure out how I got here, and whether or not this is a dream.”
“Well, duh! I can tell you for sure that this isn't a dream! I mean, I'm pretty sure I'd know if I were a dream! At least, I think I would. But if you're in someone else's dream, wouldn't you think that you're real in the dream? But then what if you actual are self aware in the dream?”
Arthur turned to Twilight and whispered in her ear, “Is she okay?”
“Trust me, this is her mellow,” Twilight whispered back to Arthur, “I'm showing Arthur around Ponyville and introducing him to everyone.”
“Great idea! That gives me time to plan a party for him!”
“A party...?” Arthur asked.
“Yeah! I throw parties for everyone when the first come to Ponyville! I also throw parties for birthdays, holidays, weddings, graduations, Cutie Marks, new jobs, anniversaries, and anything else that I feel like!” Pinkie Pie said with the biggest smile.
“That's... a lot...” Arthur said, “Well, it was very nice meeting you, Pinkie Pie,” Arthur said, “I look forward to getting to know all of Twilight's friends, and that includes you.”
“I'm looking forward to getting to know you too! I can just tell you and I are going to be best friends!”
Pinkie Pie walked out from behind the counter, got on her hind legs a bit, and actually hugged him. It was a tight hug, one that spoke of true friendship. He returned the hug with a smile, and then let her go.
“I better get back to work,” Pinkie Pie said, “Things are going to get really busy in a few seconds.”
“How do you know-” before Arthur could finish his sentence, the door burst open and a group of younger looking ponies walked into the shop.
“We'll see you later then, Pinkie Pie,” Twilight said Spike waved to Pinkie Pie as well and they walked out. Arthur was taken aback by how well she timed that, but she looked really busy now so he decided to let it go.
“Bye Arthur! Have fun on your great adventure!” Pinkie Pie called out, confusing him even more. What adventure was she talking about? And how did she know?
When he got outside, Twilight and Spike were waiting for him.
“Don't ask,” Twilight said suddenly.
“Excuse me?”
“We know,” Spike said, “Whatever questions you have, don't ask them. It'll save you a lot of grief later on. Just accept it and move on.”
“So... that's normal for Pinkie Pie?” Arthur asked.
“Very normal,” Twilight said, “She probably only contained herself because she was at work though.”
If that was her mellow, Arthur was afraid of what would happen if she was actually on a sugar rush. He wasn't sure he'd survive that. Hell, the entire town might not survive that ordeal.
The next stop on their trip turned out to be another oddly shaped building. Arthur didn't know how to describe its design, but he felt that the name “Carousel Boutique” was oddly appropriate. According to Twilight, another one of friends lived here, this one being a unicorn named Rarity.
When the reached the door, Arthur was aware that they were missing someone. He and Twilight turned around and saw Spike standing a bit away from the door.
“Is something wrong?” Arthur asked.
“Uh... how about I wait out here? You guys don't need me to go inside with you,” Spike said laughing nervously. Did Arthur miss something?
“We don't know how long we're going to be,” Twilight said, “It'll be weird having you wait outside while Arthur and I are in. Besides, I'm sure Rarity would love to see you.”
“Yeah, I bet she would...” Spike said to himself looking way. Arthur recognized those mannerisms, as he got the same way whenever Olivia was nearby during the later part of their liaison. Clearly there was something about the pony inside that had him nervous.
“Spike? Are you afraid of the pony who works here?” Arthur asked. He half expected Spike to deny it. Instead he looked at Arthur with a look of pure terror.
“You don't know, Arthur! The mare inside there is terrifying! She'll eat me alive if I go in there!”
“Spikey? Is that you out there?” a high, proper voice asked from inside. Arthur recognized it as one of the voices he dreamed about. It wasn't the one voice, but it was very pleasant.
Which made Spike's look of sheer terror that much odder.
Spike jumped behind a bush and hid right before the door opened, revealing a very fancy looking unicorn. If Arthur could describe her look in a word, he'd have to use desirable. She was close to Twilight's height, if not a bit taller, her coat was white as snow, she had a purple mane and tail that were both long and curly, and she wore a touch more make-up than Twilight, wearing light blue eyeshadow and mascara. Her figure was one Arthur could tell was very attractive in this world, and her hip had a symbol of three diamonds.
Why the hell were his pants getting tighter looking at this pony?
“Twilight, darling! It's always a pleasure,” the unicorn said hugging Twilight, who returned the hug with one foreleg and her wing.
“Likewise Rarity,” Twilight said smiling. Rarity looked up at Arthur with a look of recognition.
“He's finally up then?” Rarity asked.
“Yes, my name is Arthur Ravenot,” Arthur said bowing to the unicorn before him, elegantly taking her foreleg into his hand, “It's an honor to meet you, m'lady.”
As he kissed her foreleg, the white mare started giggling, “Oh, what a gentleman. Sadly, I'm accounted for, so if this is an attempt to court me, I'm afraid I must decline.”
Oh finally! Someone who actually spoke his language! He didn't say anything about it, but everyone's ways of speaking were so different he wasn't ready for it. Rarity here sounded almost like she came from his world.
“My apologies, Ma'am, I'm merely trying to be a gentleman,” Arthur said, thinking of how odd the prospect was of him attempting to court a talking horse. The idea was preposterous.
“Well, I appreciate it. Certain men could learn a thing or two from you. Speaking of which,” Rarity started looking around, “I could have sworn I heard my Spikey Wikey out here a little while ago.”
“Spikey... Wikey...?” Arthur asked turning to Twilight, who was suppressing a giggle.
“Spike! I know you're out here!” she called out, “You can't hide from me!”
Arthur saw a small white cat walk out of the shop into the bush that Spike was hiding in. A second later, there was an audible crunch and Spike rolled out of the bush, the white cat biting his tail.
“YEEEEOOOOOUUUCH!!!!!” Spike screamed rolling around.
“Good girl, Opal,” Rarity said sauntering over to Spike. The cat let go just as Rarity stood over him.
“Ugh... thanks for the heAAHHHH!!!” Spike cried out backing away from the white unicorn, who's demeanor completely changed to that of a predator eying her prey.
“Hiding, are we?” Rarity said, her voice much lower than before as she gave Spike the most dangerous smile.
“H-h-hey Rarity...” Spike said still backing away, “I was just... searching for something in the bushes. That's right. I uh... dropped some change back there... and I was trying to get it...”
“Mmmhmm,” Rarity nodded, clearly not convinced. Even Arthur had to admit, it was a pretty poor lie.
“Um, are they...?” Arthur asked Twilight.
“Spike used to have a major crush on Rarity when he was little. After his growth spurt, Rarity began pursuing him,” Twilight explained.
“That sounds like a dream come true for him though,” Arthur said confused.
“Well... Rarity is a little... pushy, if you get what I mean,” Twilight said. Arthur nodded in understanding and turned back to the spectacle before him. Now Rarity was on top of him practically straddling him out in public. He wasn't sure how he felt seeing that, as she seemed so ladylike earlier, but now she was almost too straightforward. Were things more relaxed over in this world.
Arthur was beginning to really like this place.
“You've been a very naughty boy, Spikey Wikey,” Rarity said seductively, “I may have to take you upstairs and punish you.”
As much as he was enjoying the sight of the big scary dragon cowering in fear of someone smaller than him, he had to bail him out.
“Um, Spike!” Arthur called out, “Weren't you going to show me your favorite spot next?”
It only took a second for Spike to realize what Arthur was doing, “Yep! That's right! We're on a tight schedule, so I gotta jet!”
Rarity pouted, “You're leaving me so soon? I'll miss you, Spikey Wikey.”
“I know... but you know how it is being the vassal of the Princess of Friendship.”
“That... has nothing to do with showing Arthur around,” Twilight said frankly.
“Well, I understand that you're a busy dragon,” Rarity said with a sigh, “I'll let it slide this time, but you're not going to keep running away from me Spike,” she got in real close to his ear, “You are mine Spike, never forget that.”
Spike just gulped instead of answering that. Rarity stood up and sauntered back to Arthur and Twilight.
“Do take care, Arthur,” Rarity said, “I look forward to getting to know you better.”
“Yes... I'm looking forward to getting to know you better as well,” Arthur said, suddenly understanding why Spike was so terrified of Rarity. She was the exact opposite of Olivia, which was terrifying in of itself.
“Twilight, do keep those two out of trouble,” Rarity said to Twilight.
“I will Rarity,” Twilight said with a giggle.
Rarity sauntered back to her front door, but she turned to Spike and blew him a kiss before going back inside. Spike shuddered as Arthur walked over to him and held out his hand.
“She is terrifying,” Arthur said as Spike took his hand and was pulled up.
“Tell me about it,” Spike said, “Absolutely stunning, but she's definitely a wolf in sheep's clothing,” Spike rubbed the back of his head, “You really bailed me out there, Arthur. You're an okay guy.”
“Sadly, that's not the first time I've dealt with that sort of woman,” Arthur explained, “I couldn't let you suffer through that pain.”
“Glad to see the two of you getting along now,” Twilight said walking up to them, “So Spike, wanna take Arthur to your special place so I'm not a liar?”
“Sure,” Spike said, “Follow me.”
As they walked off, Arthur gave one more glance at Carousel Boutique. He didn't know what disturbed him more. The shift in Rarity's demeanor when she was with Spike...
Or the bulge in his pants as she carried on like that...
Spike lead Arthur and Twilight to a large open field. This wasn't what Arthur had in mind for Spike's favorite spot. He was expecting a cave of some sort, probably with gemstones in the walls to add color. An open field like this though?
“My,” Arthur said looking around, “It's absolutely beautiful here.”
“This is where I come to clear my head,” Spike stated, “It's also where I spend most of my time with Applejack.”
“Who's Applejack?” Arthur asked.
“She's an earth pony that runs the nearby apple orchard,” Twilight answered, “She and I have been friends for years now, but lately she's really taken a shine to Spike here.”
“It's not like that,” Spike said blushing a bit, “Applejack and I just like spending time together is all,” he then turned to Arthur, “She's a breath of fresh air compared to how aggressive Rarity is.”
Arthur could only imagine how refreshing that was. Olivia was the only woman to have ever given him the time of day, so he wasn't ever lucky enough to spend time with another woman that wasn't Olivia. Maybe that was the reason why he tried so hard to make it work with her.
Maybe that was what he was searching for. A breath of fresh air.
“So, when can I meet this Applejack?” Arthur asked.
“Pretty soon actually,” Twilight said pointing outward, “That's her and Rainbow Dash over there.”
Arthur looked and saw probably one of the oddest things he had seen yet. Two ponies, both standing on their hind legs, punching and kicking one another as if they were training. The sight actually looked pretty natural for them, and they were moving in a way that a normal horse back home wouldn't be able to.
One of the ponies was a pegasus pony with a light blue coat and a multicolored mane and tail. On her hips Arthur saw a white cloud with a tri-colored thunderbolt coming down from it. Her style threw Arthur for a loop, as it wasn't very feminine in the slightest. She almost looked like a boy from this distance.
The other pony was an earth pony with an orange coat and a long blond mane and tail, both of which tied into a ponytail (or whatever you'd call that style over here). On her hips were three apples. Arthur figured that was Applejack.
The three of them approached the two ponies watching their training session. Arthur was amazed to see ponies move with such agility and grace. He had read books about Chinese Martial Arts, and it looked like that was what these two were doing, but they were ponies. At one point, Applejack even jumped into the air to fly kick the rainbow colored pony, who did a fancy back flip kick knocking Applejack back later on in the fight.
Watching them move was astounding. How they could balance on their hind legs like that, how they stood, posed, and bent, it was amazing.
The rainbow colored pony did a jumping spin kick, knocking Applejack off balance, and then threw her hoof forward to Applejack's face stopping short of hitting her. The earth pony was frozen in shock.
“Let's call it a day,” the rainbow colored pony said, “Sides, we attracted an audience.”
“Huh?” Applejack turned to look at Arthur, Twilight, and Spike. Immediately her face turned red, “S-Spike!”
“Looking good Applejack,” Spike said smiling. Applejack got back onto her forelegs and rubbed the back of her head.
“Aw, thanks Spike,” Applejack said smiling, her face still red. Arthur took note of her accent, which was nothing like he had ever heard before in his life. The rainbow colored pony walked up to Applejack placing an odd hat on her head, and then turned to look at Arthur.
“So, he finally woke up, eh?” she asked.
“Yep. Girls, this is Arthur Ravenot,” Twilight introduced, “Arthur, these are my friends Applejack and Rainbow Dash.”
“It's a pleasure to meet you both,” Arthur said, first elegantly taking Applejack's hoof and kissing it, getting a pleased giggle from her. When he went to Rainbow Dash though, she pulled away immediately, “Um... I'm sorry?”
“I... don't like ponies or... people in general I guess touching my hooves,” Rainbow Dash said, “Also, that elegant stuff ain't my thing, ya know?”
“I... see,” Arthur said feeling really awkward now. She was so up front he didn't know what to make of her.
“We were showing him around Ponyville,” Spike said, “I wanted to show him my favorite spot, which is why we came here.”
“Ah see,” Applejack said, “W-well, Dash an' Ah were plannin ta go back ta mah place for lunch.”
“I'm not-” Applejack hit Rainbow Dash in the side shutting her up.
“Maybe... y'all wouldn't mind joinin us?” Applejack continued, looking down a bit covering her eyes with her hat. It was clear to Arthur what was going on, even if she was trying her hardest not to show it.
“I don't mind at all,” Spike said, “But it's up to Twilight and Arthur here what they want.”
“We have been walking for a while,” Twilight said, “Taking a break sounds like a great idea.”
Before Arthur could say anything, his stomach growled, “Um... I think my stomach spoke for me...”
“Alright then,” Applejack perked up immediately, “Ah'll lead the way.”
Applejack walked up to Spike taking his hand/claw and galloping ahead.
“H-hey! I'm coming, I'm coming!” Spike said.
Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes, “So that's what's going on. She coulda just said something,” Rainbow Dash turned to Arthur, “So, you're a human, eh?”
“Yes,” Arthur said as they walked after Applejack and Spike, “Have you seen humans before?”
“Not personally,” Rainbow Dash said, “I've heard of 'em, but Twilight's the only one who's actually seen one. What about you? Have you seen a pony before?”
“Actually, yes I have,” Arthur stated, “However, the ponies in my world are... different than you.”
“Different? How so?” Twilight asked now walking next to Arthur.
“They're not... hm... how do I describe it? They're not as... smart... is what I want to say. They're just animals... if that makes any sense.”
Twilight nodded, “That goes with what I learned in the other world,” Twilight said to herself. Arthur was really curious as to what she was talking about, but he'd have to ask her about it later.
“So what you're saying is,” Rainbow Dash said to Arthur, “ponies in your world aren't as awesome as moi, right?”
“Um... I guess...?” Arthur had no idea what she was talking about, so he just smiled and nodded.
“See Twilight? Even ponies in his world can't compete with my overbearing awesomeness.” Rainbow Dash continued to brag, as Arthur realized exactly what she was doing. Twilight's eye roll may have also given that away.
“Why did you say that?” Twilight asked Arthur.
“I didn't know! She's using terms I'm unfamiliar with!” Arthur defended.
“Well, here we are,” Applejack said catching everyone's attention, “Everypony, welcome ta mah humble abode.”
Arthur looked up at the blue and white house. It was two, maybe three stories tall, simple, and very cozy looking. Much like Sugar Cube Corner, this place had a very pleasant scent coming from it.
“It's lovely,” Arthur stated, making Applejack giggle.
“Aw, it ain't nothin special,” she said, “Glad ya like it though.”
“Oh, Applejack,” a soft voice said to their side, one that made Arthur's heart leap out of his chest. He turned and saw the prettiest site he had ever seen walk up to them.
She was a pegasus like Rainbow Dash, but with a slightly thicker build. She had a yellow coat and the longest pink mane and tail Arthur had ever seen, and they looked thick too. On her hips were three butterflies, and her eyes were the most interesting color being almost blue and green.
Oh my... that's the one who found me...
“Fluttershy,” Applejack said, “Golly, Ah'm jus' runnin inta everyone today, huh?” Applejack said plesantly, “How 're ya doin?”
“Oh, I'm doing fine,” Fluttershy said, “Busy, but fine.”
Her voice is so soft...
And that name... Fluttershy...
She turned to Arthur, and her eyes went wide with shock, “Oh! You're awake!”
“Y-yes...” Arthur said, suddenly his heart racing for some reason, “Um, you were the one who found me, right?”
Fluttershy nodded, “I'm so happy you're okay,” Fluttershy said, “My name is-”
“Fluttershy,” Arthur said suddenly, surprising the yellow pegasus, “I'm sorry. You had introduced yourself when we met before, and Applejack here said your name, so...”
“Oh, I see,” Fluttershy said with a nod, “Not that I thought anything weird, but...”
“You were surprised, I know,” Arthur said, suddenly realizing how rude he was being, “Shoot! Uh... how rude of me. You don't even know my name. Um, I'm... Arthur Ravenot, ma'am.”
“Arthur...” Fluttershy said taking in his name. God it sounded so nice coming out of her mouth, “You have a very nice name.”
Now Arthur's face had turned red, “Thank you Miss...”
He was sure that he heard Rainbow Dash snicker next to him.
“So, what brings ya around here?” Applejack asked.
“That's right,” Fluttershy said turning back to Applejack, “I'm trying out a new recipe, but I need some more apples for it. Some of the animals ate the last ones, so...”
“Say no more,” Applejack said, “When do ya need em?”
“Oh, not until tonight,” Fluttershy said, “Think I could pick them up in a few hours or so?”
“That's fine. Ah'll have 'em ready by then.”
“So, in the meantime,” Rainbow Dash spoke up, “We were all about to go get some lunch. Did you want to join us?” she asked with a slight sly tone in her voice.
“I'd love to, really,” Fluttershy said, “Sadly I still have a lot of work to do, so I have to get going.”
“That's too bad,” Rainbow Dash said, “Isn't that too bad Arthur?”
“What?!” he hadn't even realized she was talking to him, as he just couldn't take his eyes off of Fluttershy, “Oh, um... yes. That is too bad,” Arthur took a deep breath, accidentally taking in the sweet yet natural scent of the pegasus in front of him, “Too... bad indeed...”
My God she smells so wonderful...
“Maybe some other time then,” Fluttershy said, “I would like to get to know you better. Would you like to come visit me later?”
“Yes!” Arthur said, suddenly calming himself down, “I mean, if you would have me that is.”
Now everyone was snickering at him.
“I'd love to have you over,” Fluttershy said, “My house is right down this road, next to the Everfree Forest. I'll see you later.”
“Yes...bye...” Arthur said. Fluttershy said her good byes to everyone there (but Arthur didn't pay them any attention) and then walked off. As she walked, Arthur found himself unable to take his eyes off her wings or tail, or the way she walked away. It was unlike anything he had ever seen.
He was snapped out of his daze when Rainbow Dash burst out laughing, “Oh man, you should have seen yourself!”
“Um... excuse me?” Arthur asked.
“Man, I thought Twilight was obvious with Flash!” Rainbow Dash continued, “I could actually see the hearts!”
“Hearts?!” Arthur stepped back, realizing what she was implying.
“It... was really cute,” Twilight said looking away smiling, before glaring at Rainbow Dash, “And I wasn't obvious!”
“Someone's got a crush,” Spike teased, making Arthur even more embarrassed.
“What?! Now look here, I don't...” he then thought back to Fluttershy, thinking about how saddened he was that her presence was gone, and how he reacted to her. It was almost like how he felt about Olivia before...
No way! He didn't have feelings for a pony. She was cute, the cutest thing he had ever seen, and he was reacting to that. That was all it was.
“Now come on y'all,” Applejack said, “Let's get inside so "Lover Boy" here can get some grub.”
Damn it, now even Applejack was making fun of me. As everyone walked inside, Arthur turned back to look at the path Fluttershy was walking down. He had to admit, he was looking forward to seeing her again.
Arthur was afraid of what lunch would be like with ponies, but he was pleasantly surprised that their food was in fact edible to him. He wouldn't be eating flower sandwiches anytime soon, but Applejack had made a number of apple themed treats that Arthur found absolutely delicious.
Yet, he was only paying partial attention to what everyone was saying around him. His thoughts were solely on Fluttershy. He didn't understand it, but he just couldn't get her out of his mind. She had saved his life, so maybe that was it. That had to be it.
“Hey, you gonna finish that?” Rainbow Dash asked next to Arthur.
“Huh? Um,” he looked down at his plate, and saw that he still had a slice of pie left, “I'm not too hungry at the moment. You can have it.”
Rainbow Dash pulled the plate in front of her and immediately dug in. Arthur was still getting used to her more brazen attitude.
“So, any idea where you'll be stayin?” Applejack asked Arthur, who was also still getting used to her odd manner of speaking.
“Well, for now I guess I'm staying at the castle with Twilight,” Arthur said, “I don't wish to impose though, so I might start looking for a place soon.”
“You wouldn't be imposing at all,” Twilight said, “My home is your home, Arthur.”
Arthur gave Twilight a kind smile, “Thank you. Your hospitality means a lot to me.”
Rainbow Dash snorted, “Would you listen to this guy talk? He sounds like a male Rarity almost.”
“That's not nice, Dash,” Applejack scolded her friend, “Ah bet ta him, we're the ones that 're speakin funny.”
Arthur felt a little better knowing that someone understood his plight. Though she spoke oddly, he had a feeling he and Applejack would get along just fine.
“It's funny you mention Rarity,” Arthur said, “Because I found her mannerisms quite familiar to what I'm used to back home.”
“You mean everyone talks like Rarity where you're from?” Rainbow Dash said, her face getting pale, “Ugh... I couldn't take it.”
“Believe me, even I find it unbearable at times, and I live there,” Arthur shuddered, thinking about how stiff everyone was back home.
“Is that why you came here?” Twilight asked.
“Ah was curious why ya even came ta Equestria,” Applejack added, “Not everyday we get visitors from other worlds.”
“That's a hard question to answer,” Arthur said, “But considering what I already know about my being sent here, I'd say I'm here to explore.”
“You're an explorer?” Spike asked, “Not what I thought a human explorer would look like.”
“Not... really...” Arthur said, “You see, where I'm from I felt like something was missing in the world. I'm a writer, you see, but lately I haven't been able to write anything.”
“Writer's block,” Twilight inquired, “I've dealt with that before. It's not fun at all. Sometimes a change in environment is just what you need.”
“Yeah, but you're talking about moving from Ponyville to Manehatten,” Rainbow Dash said, “Or at least Saddle Arabia. This guy jumped worlds. His world must suck.”
“There is a somewhat stifling feel to my world,” as he said that, his thoughts went to Olivia, “Its saddening when even your own girlfriend doesn't want you showing her affection.”
“Eh, you probably just weren't her type,” Rainbow Dash said bluntly, earning a slap upside the head from Applejack.
“Ya wanna stop talkin outta yer ass anytime soon?” Applejack asked. Arthur couldn't help it. He found himself laughing, both at what Applejack said, and Rainbow Dash's pain. Before long, everyone had joined him, something that wouldn't have happened back home.
He was really beginning to like this place.
“So, can Ah count on ya ta help me tomorrow?” Applejack asked Spike as they were all prepared to leave.
“Right, you needed help with the harvest,” Spike said thoughtfully, “Yeah. I'll be there.”
Applejack lit up and embraced Spike, “Ah can always depend on ya Spike.”
“Yeah, at least now you can,” Spike said jokingly. Apparently Applejack knew what he was talking about because they both laughed.
“So, you plan on going to see Fluttershy next?” Rainbow Dash asked Arthur.
“Um, well...”
“Come on, we all could tell you like her,” Rainbow Dash taunted, “You're way more obvious than Twilight.”
“For the last time I WASN'T OBVIOUS!” Twilight shouted, making Rainbow Dash laugh.
“She said that she was busy,” Arthur said, “I don't want to bother her or anything.”
“Well, I have just the solution to that,” Rainbow Dash turned to Applejack, “Hey AJ, Arthur volunteered to get those apples over to Fluttershy's place.”
“What?!” Arthur exclaimed. Twilight facehoofed.
“He planned on going there next anyway,” Rainbow Dash continued, “So we both figured he could bring her the apples, saving her the extra trip.”
“Well, that makes things easier,” Applejack said with a smile, “Ah'll be right back.”
“Um, wait! I didn't...” she was already gone. Arthur sighed, but Twilight glared at Rainbow Dash.
“Dash, really?” Twilight asked.
“What? I'm just giving my new friend here the push he needs, ya know?” Rainbow Dash said slapping Arthur on the back. With friends like this, who needs enemies, Arthur thought.
Applejack came back carrying a basket of apples in her mouth and set them down in front of Arthur, “Fluttershy's cottage is right down the road,” Applejack said pointing in the proper direction, “Once ya get outta town, it's the first house you'll see.”
“Um-”
“Yer a real pal,” Applejack said, “Fluttershy's gonna appreciate this.”
“I bet she is,” Rainbow Dash said picking up the basket with her foreleg and handing it to Arthur, “Better get going.”
“I hate you,” Arthur groaned giving Rainbow Dash a death glare.
“I love you too,” Rainbow Dash said arrogantly, “Spike, let's go give Twilight another flying lesson.”
“Yeah,” Spike said laughing, “Sounds like fun.”
“Ugh,” Twilight groaned turning to Arthur, “I'm so sorry about this. Think you can find the way back to the castle alone?”
Arthur sighed, “I'll manage. If I get lost, I'll just ask around.”
“Alright. We'll see you there.”
Twilight, Spike, and Rainbow Dash flew off and Applejack walked back into her house. Realizing that there was no way out of this, he decided to make his way to Fluttershy's cottage. He'd just give her the apples and then be on his way.
The walk to her cottage was really nice. Somehow, everything in his world seemed dirty of in a sense of disharmony, even nature. What he was seeing was something straight out of a fairy tale. Birds were chirping, squirrels were scampering around, he even saw butterflies fluttering by. Many of the creatures seemed to stop and look at him, almost as if taking him in.
He looked over to the side and saw a family of ducks walking over to a pond. One of the ducklings fell over, and on instinct he walked over to it and helped it up.
“There,” he said softly, “Hurry and catch up to your family, alright?”
The duckling, as odd as it was, seemed to understand him. It gave the most adorable quack as if thanking him and waddled after its family. Arthur watched the ducks, feeling an odd connection with the nature here.
“Funny,” Arthur said to himself, “I wouldn't have been able to do that at home. This place is amazing.”
He continued onward to Fluttershy's cottage, still thinking about the touching moment he had with that duckling.
He eventually heard another sweet sound in the distance. Someone was singing. There weren't any lyrics, just a melody, but god did they sound heavenly. It was as if an angel itself was nearby singing. He followed the sound all the way to the lovely muse.
He saw Fluttershy, tending to a bird's nest and lost in her own little world. She was the one singing. Arthur couldn't take his eyes off her. Somehow, she looked like she was glowing, and every motion she did was mesmerizing in some way. How her wings flapped keeping her in the air, how her hooves move so delicately to tend to the tiny creatures, the way her mane fell so perfectly over her shoulder and how her tail flowed lightly in the soft breeze.
By the Gods...
I have never seen anything so lovely in my entire life...
He had a lump in his throat looking at her. A being so radiant couldn't exist in his world. He had originally thought that Olivia was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, but Fluttershy here might have had her beat. She was already winning just in terms of obervation.
Fluttershy lightly landed, as if light as a feather. Arthur stepped forward on a twig by accident, startling Fluttershy, who gave the most adorable squeak.
“Sorry!” Arthur said quickly, catching her attention, “I didn't mean to scare you, Miss.”
“It's fine,” Fluttershy said softly, “I... tend to scare easily, so that would have happened no matter what.”
“Ahh... I see,” Arthur's heart skipped a beat as she looked down smiling.
“What brings you so far out of Ponyville?” Fluttershy asked trotting over to Arthur.
“Well...” technically it was Rainbow Dash's goading, but looking at Fluttershy, who was now so close to him, he found himself almost thanking the rainbow maned pony, “You had invited me to come see you personally,” Arthur said, “I brought the apples you requested.”
“Oh thank you,” Fluttershy said enthusiastically, “I was actually about to go see her.”
“So I saved you the trip then,” Arthur said smiling, his heart wouldn't stop racing looking at the yellow pony in front of him.
Why is she so beautiful?
Why won't my heart stop racing?
And why and I actually happy that Rainbow Dash pushed me to do this?
“Would you mind coming with me to my cottage?” Fluttershy asked.
“Not at all,” Arthur couldn't stop smiling for some reason, “I would love to join you,” he caught himself, “I mean, I don't mind.”
What the bloody hell was that? Now I sound too eager.
Wait, eager for what?
Fluttershy trotted ahead, and Arthur walked after her, every so often stealing a glance at the lovely mare next to him. She looked up at him, and Arthur turned away instinctively, feeling very flushed. Fluttershy gave the cutest giggle.
“I'm... sorry Miss Fluttershy,” Arthur said.
“There's no need to apologize,” Fluttershy stated, “And you can call me Fluttershy. I'm not that much older than you, I imagine.”
Arthur had a feeling that Fluttershy was probably close to his age. At least as old as Olivia. There was just something so mature about her that it felt disrespectful to refer her otherwise.
“I'm sorry, I'm just making an absolute fool of myself, and I apologized again, didn't I?” Fluttershy nodded, “I'm sorr-” he caught himself, and this time Fluttershy laughed out loud. Hearing that laugh made Arthur feel so odd, as it was such a pretty laugh.
Is there nothing about this pony that isn't beautiful?
“It's fine, really,” Fluttershy said through her laughter, “My friends all tell me that I do the same thing, so we're alike in that regard.”
“Funny, people get irritated with me when I apologize too much,” Arthur said.
“I'm the same way,” Fluttershy said happily, “It's nice to see someone just like me.”
“I was going to say the same thing,” Arthur said, happy to see a genuine smile on Fluttershy.
“I was curious,” Fluttershy started, “Um, if you don't mind me asking, why were you staring at me like that. It's okay if you don't want to tell me though...”
Oh my god that was the most adorable thing I've ever seen.
“Well, um... how can I put this and not come off horribly creepy?” Arthur said to himself, “I... can't stop looking at you because I've never in my life seen anything so pleasing on the eyes in my life, I think you are absolutely radiant both inside and out, and if I could look at you for the rest of my days I would be truly happy,” Arthur looked at Fluttershy, who was wide eyed and blushing, “I'm sorry, what that too much?”
Fluttershy shook her head, “I've just... never been complimented like that...” she smiled looking away, blushing even more, “You're really nice, Arthur.”
“Ahh, I try,” Arthur said, “I find that when you're with someone you're attracted to, its better to be incredibly honest and let them know just how beautiful they are to you,” he realized what he said, “Uh, did I just say that?”
“You... did...” Fluttershy said, slowly nodding. Now Arthur looked away blushing.
Oh dear... why did I say that? Now she probably thinks I'm attracted to her. She won't want anything to do with me.
Why do I even care about that? She's a pony, and I'm a human. The whole idea of her being attracted to me is preposterous. The idea of me being attracted to her is preposterous!
Damn it Arthur! Stop thinking things!
As Arthur slowly died of mortification due to something he wasn't even sure of, what Fluttershy said next changed things.
“I... don't mind you being attracted to me...”
“Excuse me?” Arthur asked suddenly turning to Fluttershy.
“You're not a pony, but its okay. I'm not creeped out or anything,” she admitted, “I deal with lots of other species of animals, so I've come to realize that we're all the same in that regard. Pony, bird, squirrel, and human, we're all animals, right?”
Arthur hadn't ever thought about it, but she was right. Humans were just animals with a bit of humanity, and even they seemed rather animal like at times. At least, the difference between humans and the ponies of this world was small.
“So... it wouldn't be weird over here if a human liked a pony?” Arthur asked.
“I don't think so,” Fluttershy admitted, “You're the first human to ever come to Equestria like this, so I can't really answer for sure, but I've seen tigers mate with lions, so its not too unheard of.”
“I see...” Arthur said, not sure how he felt about that. Part of him, as oddly as it was, felt relieved hearing that she wasn't turned off.
Shouldn't I be the one turned off?!
She's a horse! A talking horse!
A talking horse with the prettiest face and softest voice I've ever heard...
They reached her cottage, which was larger than Arthur thought it would be, and nicer looking.
“Well, this is my place,” Fluttershy said as they reached the front door.
“Very nice indeed,” Arthur said, “Well, you probably have more work to do, so I can leave these here if you-”
Fluttershy placed a hoof on Arthur's hand, “Uh... if you want... you can come in. My offer from earlier... was to...”
“Oh, you actually wanted me to...” Arthur said. Fluttershy nodded smiling at Arthur, “I don't mind at all.”
Fluttershy lit up and opened the door, ushering Arthur inside. The interior of her home was really well kept. Arthur smelled very nice incenses burning.
“You burn incenses?” Arthur asked.
“I have a lot of animals in my house at times, and they're not as clean as ponies, so...” Fluttershy explained.
“Makes sense,” Arthur said looking around, noticing the lack of animals at the moment, “The place is somewhat empty right now though...”
“Oh, they're all out for the day,” Fluttershy said, “Most of them won't show up until the morning for breakfast,” she turned to Arthur, “I can take those apples off your, uh... hands so you can make yourself at home.”
“Thank you,” Arthur said handing Fluttershy the basket. She took the basket into her mouth and trotted off to where he assumed was the kitchen. Arthur stood around awkwardly for a bit before walking over to the couch and sitting down. As he waited for his host to return, a white rabbit hopped in front of him and stared at him.
“Hello there little fella,” Arthur said, “What's your name, hm?”
The rabbit just stared at him blankly, tilting its head slowly. While this might have been normal where Arthur came from, somehow this seemed oddly creepy.
“Uh...” The rabbit wouldn't take its eyes off of him, something that was beginning to terrify Arthur a bit. He was beginning to wonder if he was looking at the face of his demise. Right when he was about to panic though...
“Angel!” Fluttershy called out, flying into the room carrying two cups of tea in her hooves. She set them down and then glared at the bunny, “You're disturbing out guest!”
The bunny, apparently named Angel, suddenly looked at Fluttershy and made odd sounds.
“Well, I don't think he thought it was very funny, now apologize,” Fluttershy scolded, surprising Arthur in two ways. First, seeing her so assertive threw him for a loop, and two, she looked like she was responding to the bunny?
Angel turned his head and was about to ho away, but Fluttershy flew right in front of Angel's way. What Arthur saw next was even more terrifying than Angel. Fluttershy glared deep into Angel's eyes with the scariest death glare he had ever seen. In hindsight it wasn't really that scary, but something about it was just... terrifying beyond all reason.
Is the bunny going to die?
Am I going to die?!
Angel's ears flopped back, and he hopped over to Arthur with the saddest look. Somehow Arthur could tell that he was trying to apologize.
“Aw, it's okay little guy,” Arthur said petting Angel's head, “I'm not upset at you.”
Angel smiled and then hopped away.
“I'm sorry about that,” Fluttershy said, “Angel is actually my personal pet, and the only one I have trouble with at times.”
“What on earth did you do to the poor thing?” Arthur asked, “You glared at him, and I thought you were going to kill him.”
“Oh, that,” Fluttershy looked away somberly, “My friends and I call it The Stare. I just look at someone like that while thinking... things... and then they listen to me.”
“What sort of things do you think about?” Arthur asked. Oddly Fluttershy had the saddest expression on her face, “If you don't want to tell me, that's fine.”
“I... appreciate that,” Fluttershy said, “It's not exactly something I like talking about. Not even my friends know exactly how it works.”
If she didn't tell her best friends then what chance did he have? Seeing that she was upset about something, he decided to change the subject.
“So, to change the subject, were you really able to understand what that bunny said?” Arthur asked. Fluttershy's mood changed immediately and she nodded.
“My special talent is being able to talk to animals,” Fluttershy explained.
“Special... talent? Is that something everyone here has?” Arthur asked sipping his tea.
Huh, lemon tea. My favorite.
“Yes,” Fluttershy took a sip of her tea before continuing, “Every pony has a special talent. Once you learn what it is at a young age, you get a Cutie Mark based on that talent.”
“Cutie mark? Wait, you mean that mark on your hips?” Arthur asked.
Fluttershy nodded and stood up, turning in a way to show him her Cutie Mark, “I got this when I was only eight years old, after I learned that I could talk to animals.”
Arthur got a good look at it, but then averted his eyes once he realized what he was essentially looking at. The way she presented herself was quite arousing, and almost naughty in a way. Somehow, it seemed so innocent here.
If a woman presented herself like that in his world, she'd be marked as a loose woman by the Catholic Church. If the Catholic Church knew the thoughts he was suddenly having about the pony in front of him, he'd be stoned for sure.
“That's... quite lovely,” Arthur said, “We don't have that sort of thing where I'm from?”
“You don't?” Fluttershy asked once again sitting down, this time right next to him, “How do you know what your special talent is in your world?”
Arthur laughed, “We don't,” Fluttershy was wide eyed when he said that, “Where I come from, chances are you won't end up doing what you love or are good at for the rest of your life. You'll probably be working for someone else, and what you'd like to do would be pushed back into the category of a 'hobby',” Arthur sighed, “Story of my life sadly.”
“Do you know what your special talent is?” Fluttershy asked.
“When I think about it, I'd say my special talent would probably be writing,” Arthur said, “I know it's what I want to do with my life.”
“Why can't you do that then?”
“It just doesn't work that way in my world, Fluttershy,” Arthur sipped his tea again, “People don't want writers, or scholars, or artists anymore. Maybe in some parts of the world they're appreciated, but in my section of the world, the ones that make it in the world are the carpenters, the soldiers, priests, you know, 'hard workers',” Arthur leaned forward resting his arms on his knees, “Sadly I'm not good at any of those things, so I'm basically doomed to fail in my world.”
“That's horrible!” Fluttershy exclaimed, “It's no wonder you came all the way here.”
“You know, it's funny. Before I didn't really know why I was in this world,” Arthur said turning to Fluttershy, “But now I think I've figured it out. I've only been here for a day, and I already like it better than my world.”
“I'm glad you came here,” Fluttershy said smiling at Arthur, “It's been a long time since I've found someone so much like me. One of the reasons why I live so far away from Ponyville is because I don't really fit with other ponies.”
“What? How could you not fit with others?”
“Well, as you saw earlier, I scare really easily,” Fluttershy looked away, “I'm really sensitive, shy, I'm not a strong flier at all, and I hate large crowds. Even my own parents were ashamed of me. I wasn't a good enough flier to go into the weather team, and I preferred to work with animals, so when I opted to move here in Ponyville, my parents had a fit. I haven't really talked to them since.”
“Marry me,” Arthur said quickly, immediately wishing he hadn't once he saw the look on Fluttershy's face.
“Um, what?” she asked blushing.
“What? I didn't say anything,” Arthur said looking around for anything to change the subject, suddenly picking up his tea cup, “Mmm, this is really good tea!”
He drank some more of his tea, and then gave Fluttershy the most innocent and clueless look he could, hoping that she wouldn't notice his slip of the tongue. Considering how Fluttershy started laughing uncontrollably, he did his job.
Smooth Arthur... real smooth...
Just because she's quite literally a female version of you doesn't mean you need to go blurting out ridiculous things like that!
She's still a pony, and you cannot fall in love with a highly intelligent, partially sapient pony!
Even with the mental battle in his head, seeing Fluttershy laughing like that made him really happy.
“Arthur, you're hilarious,” Fluttershy said wiping her eyes once she calmed enough to speak, “I can't remember the last time I enjoyed having someone over this much.”
“One thing I'm good at, is making people laugh,” Arthur said proudly.
“We have to do this again,” Fluttershy said.
“I agree completely,” Arthur said probably too eagerly, but he didn't care. She wanted to see him again, and that's what mattered.
After a magical day with Fluttershy, he began making his way back to the castle. It was pretty hard to miss, as it was the only castle in the vicinity. The sun was setting by the time he arrived back, but thankfully the guards knew to let him in when they saw him.
He approached the room he remembered was Twilight's office. Was she in there? He was about to know on the door asking if she was in there, but he got an unexpected answer before he could put his hand to the door.
“Oooh Flash!!!”
Suddenly Arthur heard a series of moans coming from Twilight. Were they... in her office?! She didn't really strike Arthur as the type, and he was blushing up a storm thinking about that.
“Ahem!” someone cleared their throat a bit behind Arthur. He turned around and saw Spike standing there, also looking rather embarrassed, “Best not to stand too close.”
“Ahh, right,” Arthur said quickly stepping away from the door. He and Spike started walking off together, “So... your Princess does that sort of thing in her office?”
“Only when she's really horny and can't wait,” Spike said, “I think she and Flash Sentry were going to have a date yesterday, but then you showed up and kind of put a stop to that.”
“I see,” Arthur said nodding.
“Ever since she became an alicorn, her libido has been crazy,” Spike laughed shaking her head, “Sometimes it seems like she and Flash are going at it everyday.”
“Geez, is everyone around here so open when it comes to... that subject?” Arthur asked, getting a little uncomfortable.
“What, sex? Kind of not that big of a deal, ya know?” Spike suddenly nodded in understanding, “Oh wait, where you come from, it's probably different, isn't it?”
“Yes, quite,” Arthur said nodding.
“Okay, that makes sense. Yeah, in this world, sex isn't really something that's... you know... taboo to talk about, or something to really be ashamed of.”
“Really?” Arthur asked, “Where I'm from, just the mention of it in public will get you dirty looks.”
Spike raised an eyebrow at that, “That... kind of stupid. No offense or anything, but I just feel it's a natural aspect of being alive, you know? Kind of like being ashamed of breathing.”
Arthur wanted to say something about that, but he had always thought that too deep down. It was kind of odd that something so natural and so beautiful as the unification of a man and a woman was also so taboo to mention that most people were afraid to even engage in it.
“Don't get me wrong,” Spike said, “Sex is still something special, so you won't have to worry about running into anyone having sexual intercourse in the streets.”
“Oh thank God.”
“The closest thing to that is maybe seeing two ponies making out in the park,” Spike said. Arthur was a little confused by what he meant by “making out” but he'd ask him about that later.
“Spike, you know a lot about this world,” Arthur stated.
“Yes, seeing as how I've lived here my entire life,” Spike said sarcastically.
“Well, I know nothing about this world. I was wondering, would you be willing to help me learn the rules of this world?”
“That way you don't make a complete ass of yourself and accidentally offend someone?” Spike finished for Arthur.
“Basically... yes.”
“Tell you what. Tomorrow, you come with me to Applejack's place, and I'll start teaching you the ins and outs of Equestria.”
“That would be fantastic,” Arthur said holding out his hand, “Thank you Spike.”
“Don't mention it,” Spike said taking Arthur hand and shaking it, “After you saved me from Rarity this morning, you and I are pals according to Dragon's Code.”
“Dragon's Code?” Arthur asked.
“To make a long story short, you looked out for me, so I'll look out for you in return.”
Arthur nodded smiling at that. It was nice that he and Spike had become friends now. It was still scary to know that he was suddenly friends with a fire breathing dragon, but he had an even weirder experience.
“Um, Spike, can I ask you something?”
“Yeah, what's up?”
“You're a dragon, but you're attracted to ponies. That... isn't odd to you?” Arthur asked.
“Nope, not at all,” Spike said, “Why? Think your crush on Fluttershy is odd?”
“Crush? I don't have a crush. What makes you think that?” Arthur asked laughing, trying to steer the conversation away from that. It worked on Fluttershy.
It didn't seem to work too well on Spike.
“Arthur, you're not fooling anyone,” Spike said, “I saw the way you were looking at Fluttershy. You like her, and I don't blame you. She's really beautiful, and sweet.”
“But she's a pony,” Arthur said, “Where I'm from, that's something called bestiality.”
“Oooh, I see,” Spike said, “It would be like a pony over here having sex with a bear or a cat.”
“Er... yes,” Arthur confirmed, “Something like that, and I'm very happy you understand my plight.”
“Oh yeah, bestiality is a term over here,” Spike said, “But hey, she's not a pony from your world. She's a pony from this world. Here, you're basically like me. Another sapient species that's met a pony you're attracted to. No big deal.”
“No big deal,” easy for you to say, Arthur thought. She still had hooves, and a tail, and an overall horse like build. She was a pony, and a part of him felt like he was going straight to hell for even having these thoughts.
Spike patted him on the back, “Tomorrow, I'll clear a few things up for you. For now, get some rest, alright?”
“Alright,” Arthur said with a sigh. Spike walked off, leaving Arthur by himself to his thoughts. Thoughts that he now had to face, even if he wasn't sure how he felt about them.
“Oh that little difference? I'm sure that once you try me out, you'll see I'm way more fun than any mere human woman.”
Arthur didn't know how it happened, but all of a sudden he was in Fluttershy's cottage lying on what he assumed was her bed. Fluttershy, for her part, was now crawling on the bed on top of Arthur, now straddling him. Her pink mane falling beautifully over her shoulders, and her cyan eyes half closed. Right now, she was absolutely stunning. It was how he had always imagined Olivia would look at him.
Yet here was Fluttershy, and right now his pants felt a lot tighter looking at the pegasus.
“Fluttershy, I-” she cut Arthur off by kissing him right on the mouth. It was deep, and her lips were so soft. He found himself deepening the kiss, forgetting for a second that he was kissing a pony. Fluttershy's fore hooves rested on his chest as they kissed. It was her that broke the kiss, and Arthur was unable to take his eyes off the pegasus, who was suddenly extremely sexy.
“Don't speak,” Fluttershy whispered, “Just let me take control.”
Arthur slowly nodded, watching as Fluttershy backed away to his pants. She used her mouth and tongue to undo his black trousers, using her hooves to pull them down along with his undergarmets, setting his now fully erect member free.
The look in Fluttershy's eyes changed to an almost predatory one, and she licked her lips before smiling at him lustfully.
“Looks like you don't mind be being a pony as much as you thought,” Fluttershy said, “At least, this big guy here is happy that I'm a pony.”
“Ahh...” Arthur breathed out, knowing that he was losing control, but unable to stop himself.
“I wonder what a human cock tastes like,” Fluttershy said lustfully, taking a long and deep lick of his member. He had always envisioned what this would feel like. It felt better than he ever imagined. Fluttershy then took his whole cock into her mouth, sucking and licking in a way that was driving Arthur crazy.
“F-Fluttershy...” Arthur stuttered, trying not to lose control, “This is wrong... I...”
She either wasn't listening, or she didn't care. With the light pleasurable moan she gave, he assumed it was the latter. God, this wasn't right. He shouldn't have been enjoying this so much. But sadly, against his better judgment, he was enjoying it.
I should tell her to stop, push her off of me, but...
This feels too good...
Soon he lost himself to the moment, falling back onto the bed as the mare before him continued to suck on his increasingly hard cock. He turned his head to the side, looking at the dark blue pony sitting on the floor watching him intently.
Wait, what?!
Arthur immediately came back into reality pushing Fluttershy off of him, and looked at the pony. Her coat was dark blue, her mane and tail were extremely long and almost looked like a starry night sky. She was wearing jewelry much like Twilight, but her hoof guards were silver and her crown and necklace were onyx black. On her flank was a crescent moon. Her eyes were light cyan, and she wore sapphire blue eye shadow. Even sitting down Arthur could tell she was somewhat larger than the other ponies.
“Um...” Arthur said looking at the large pony.
“Please,” the mare said with a knowing smile, “don't stop on my account.”
Arthur immediately woke up. He had half expected the odd world to be a dream, yet he was still in the room that Twilight had given him. He didn't know if he was happy of devastated knowing that, but at least that meant Fluttershy wasn't a dream.
Ack! Fluttershy! Dream! He had dreamed about Fluttershy, but in it she was... doing... things with him! Things that he enjoyed! What disturbed him more: that he even dreamed something like that, or that he enjoyed said dream immensely.
Also, what was with that pony at the end. She didn't fit the rest of the dream, and while most of it was beginning to fade, that part was vivid in his mind.
“God,” Arthur said putting his hand to his head, “I must be going mad,” someone knocked on his door, “Um, yes?”
“Oh, you're up?” Twilight asked from outside, “Great. The cook is making breakfast, so if you want to shower before you come down, you can.”
Shower? As he was somewhat well off he did have his own personal bath. As water was in scarce supply at times though, he couldn't always stay as clean as he liked. He looked over to the other side of the room and saw sure enough there was a private bathroom.
“You wouldn't mind if I showered here?” Arthur asked, earning a giggle from the princess outside.
“You don't have to ask to get clean, Arthur. I don't know how things work back where you're from, but over here there's enough for everyone.”
“Huh...” suddenly he was happy that he had opted to bathe before coming to this world, otherwise he would be horribly embarrassed. He had noticed a lack of foul smells when walking around and talking to others, and he was certain not everyone lived like the princess.
He walked over to the bathroom, shocked by what he had seen. It was the nicest bathroom he had ever seen. On the sink was a small brush next to a tube of something called “toothpaste”. He walked over to it and saw instructions on the tube of how to use it.
“Is this how they keep their teeth clean?” Arthur asked, opening up the tube and putting some of the paste on the brush like instructed. It smelled nice enough. He put the paste in his mouth, surprised by how nice it tasted.
If cleaning his teeth tasted this good, he'd be doing this every day, and night.
After getting cleaner than he had ever been, he stepped out of his room, wearing his oddly cleaned clothes, and stretched. Never in his life had he felt so light and clean.
When he made it to the dining hall, he sat down and rested his hands behind his back, unable to keep from smiling. Twilight looked at him and giggled.
“I take it you slept well,” she said.
“Where I come from, our methods of keeping clean are shabby at best,” Arthur admitted, “Your methods though, not only are they easier to do, but they work better,” he sighed, “I could do that every morning, twice a day at the least.”
“Gee, I'd hope so,” Spike said, “Don't want to walk around smelling like a Diamond Dog.”
Arthur had no idea what a Diamond Dog was, but he assumed that they smelled awful. Well, it confirmed his suspicion that his morning ritual would have to include brushing his teeth and showering every morning from now on, not that he'd mind that.
“By the way, did someone clean my clothes?” Arthur asked.
“Oh, I had one of the maids handle that while you slept,” Twilight said, “I was surprised by how dirty they were.”
“Like I said, my world, shabby at best,” Arthur said, now feeling rather embarrassed again.”
“Don't feel bad,” Twilight said, “Look at this as a chance to live more comfortably. Actually, since you and Spike are going out today, I sent a letter to Rarity asking her to create some more clothes for you while you're here.”
“You didn't have to do that,” Arthur said smiling.
“Spike, think you could take him to Carousel Boutique after helping Applejack?” Twilight asked. Spike choked on whatever he was eating and looked at Twilight somewhat panicked.
“He can find it on his own, right?” Spike asked, “He made it to Fluttershy's and back alone!”
“Yes, but he doesn't know too many Equestrian customs,” Twilight stated, “I'd feel better having you with him.”
Spike sighed, “No running away this time, huh?”
“I'll be with you,” Arthur said placing his hand on the dragon's back, “If it gets too dangerous, we can double team her.”
“Great,” Spike said, “Thanks.”
“Good luck, Harem King,” Twilight teased. Spike growled at Twilight in a way that would have scared Arthur, but Twilight was completely unfazed. Apparently they were just that close.
Still, Arthur didn't think he'd be that calm around a growling dragon.
“Wait, so I won't get stoned or ridiculed?” Arthur asked in shock as he and Spike walked through town.
“Ridiculed? Stoned? Good God, Arthur, what are your kind allowed to do?!” Spike asked looking at the human in shock.
“Clearly not much...” Arthur admitted, “Where I'm from, its a privilege to see a woman's body.”
“Well, seeing as how most of the mares here aren't wearing clothes, you don't have to worry about that.”
At first Arthur nodded in agreement, but then paled when he realized what Spike said, “So... ponies are supposed to wear clothes here?!”
Spike groaned rubbing the bridge of his snout, “No, idiot, they're not required. Clothes here aren't necessary. Mares and stallions can just use their tails to cover up their more private parts, and I have special scales for that myself,” Spike glared at Arthur, “That doesn't mean you get to prance around in your birthday suit.”
“Believe me, I have no intention of that,” Arthur said as two mares walked by him. He'd never look at ponies the same way again.
“As long as you aren't lewd with it, no one will be too offended if you look at them in a somewhat desirable way,” Spike explained, “Most mares will think its flattering. Now, if you're trying to take a peak behind the tail, then you're in trouble. If a mare is interested in you, she'll let you take a few peaks.”
“How?” Arthur asked.
“By flipping their tails around, just short of showing you their vagina,” Spike said. Arthur shuddered slightly at how open Spike was in saying that, making Spike laugh, “You know, you're going to have to get used to talking more openly about that stuff if you're going to be living here. Twilight doesn't know what world you're from, so we can't exactly send you back anytime soon.”
Arthur as so enamored by his surroundings that he hadn't even thought about what he would do if he didn't make it home. He'd never be around humans again, forever in this colorful world of lovely ponies, a world filled with magic and wonder.
…. Eh, humanity was overrated anyway.
“Out of curiosity,” Arthur asked, “Considering most ponies don't wear clothes, what are clothes for?”
“Well, some ponies actually aren't comfortable just using their tails to cover up,” Spike said, “Mostly the rich nobles who think they're too good to show off their bodies. Funny, because the princesses all show their bodies.”
Arthur thought back to his dream, and the mare he saw there. What she a princess? Why did he dream about a princess when he had never met her.
“In environments like here though,” Spike continued, “if you see any pony wearing anything beyond a tie or something like Applejack's hat, they're probably trying to call attention to themselves for courting someone they like.”
“So clothes are meant to cover up or accentuate over here?” Arthur asked.
“You're getting it,” Spike said smiling. Arthur returned the smile and then looked into the park as they passed it. Lying on the bench Arthur saw a shocking sight. Lying on a bench in the park were two ponies of teenage years. The one lying on her back was pink with a purple and white mane and tail, her Cutie Mark being a tiara. The pony lying on top of her was a yellow pony with a red mane and tail, wearing a hat similar to Applejack's, her Cutie Mark being a colorful shield with an apple in front of it.
What struck Arthur as odd was that they were kissing. Quite passionately too.
“Um, Spike...”
“Yeah? What's up?”
“Those two... they're...”
Spike looked at them and shook his head laughing, “Geez, sometimes I wonder if those two ever actually talk. It's like every time I see them they're sucking face.”
“But... they're both...”
A look of realization hit Spike before he turned to Arthur with a raised eyebrow, “They don't have same sex relationships over in your world?”
“Well, I'm sure some people do it in the privacy of their homes,” Arthur explained, “But to be so out in the open with it...”
“Is that a major problem in your world?” Spike asked.
“The church wouldn't stand for it,” Arthur said, “It's unnatural for a man to sleep with a man or a woman to sleep with a woman. That's what the church believes at least.”
Spike had a deadpanned expression on his face, “I know I was taught better than to criticize another culture, but that's just plan dumb.”
Arthur looked at Spike in surprise at his bluntness, “Um, excuse me?”
“You can't help what you like,” Spike said, “Some guys are only attracted to guys, and some girls are only attracted to girls. What happens to those types in your world?”
Arthur had to think about that, “Honestly, they either keep it to themselves, or their families force them to marry.”
“God, no wonder you ran away from home!” Spike said.
“Is it really that bad how my world goes about things?” Arthur asked.
“Is it that bad? Look at those two over there,” Spike said pointing back to the two teenagers, who looked into each others eyes lovingly before embracing one another, “See how close they are?”
“I do. They clearly love each other,” Arthur stated.
“Four years ago,” Spike put his arm around Arthur's shoulder, “They hated each other.”
Arthur looked up at the dragon next to him in shock, “What?!”
“I know right?” Spike laughed, “You see, the pink one, Diamond Tiara, used to make fun of Apple Bloom a lot when they were younger, and it was brutal.”
“Apple Bloom being the one on top,” Arthur asked.
Spike nodded, “When they started high school though, Diamond Tiara confessed that she actually had a massive crush on Apple Bloom, but just didn't know how to express it. Turned out, Apple Bloom felt the same way, so they started dating. They've been close ever since. They're already talking about one day getting married and moving in together.”
“So... Diamond Tiara's brutal teasing was because...?”
“Yep. She was frustrated with her crush on Apple Bloom, and took it out on her. Now, let's put your world's logic on that. What would the 'church' say about the rulings of that relationship?”
Arthur took a deep breath, “It couldn't happen. They'd have to keep it undercover or risk ridicule.”
“Well, Diamond Tiara is rich, so she'd have a harder time keeping secret,” Spike stated. Arthur whistled in shock before responding.
“Then she wouldn't even try, lest she lose the respect of her peers. She'd more than likely be brought up to think that there was something wrong with her.”
“So she'd never tell Apple Bloom about her feelings?” Spike asked.
“Never,” Arthur said.
“So, how would that affect Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara in the future?” Spike continued probing.
“Well, thinking about it logically,” Arthur said, “Diamond Tiara would spend her teenage years loathing herself, and do a number of things to get rid of her 'unnatural' feelings. She'd end up marrying someone that she hates, and live an unfulfilled life. Poor Apple Bloom would continue being ridiculed by Diamond Tiara, and suffer extreme self esteem issues for the rest of her life.”
Spike looked at Arthur with an expression of both sympathy and pain, “You said that the church in your world enforces those laws?”
“Yes,” Arthur said, “All so people can be right in the eyes of God.”
“So in order to be right in God's eyes, you have to live in misery, grow up hating yourself, deny what's natural to you, and make others feel bad for being themselves? Sorry Arthur, but I think I like my world's way of doing things a lot better.”
As Spike walked off, Arthur had to think about that. That very thing had happened to his aunt. She liked women, but was forced to marry a rich man in London in order to “force the devil out of her”. Last time he saw her, she looked absolutely miserable. Sad, because from what he heard, she was a happy child.
Would she thank God for making her live like that? Would those happy girls be better off if their families forced them apart, and made them live lives that weren't meant for them?
Arthur thought about that all while running after his friend. Spike gave him an entirely new perspective on not just this world, but his own as well.
While Spike helped Applejack, Arthur sat down under a tree thinking about everything that Spike told him. He had felt his world was too stifling, but hearing it from someone outside had put things in a new perspective. There were actually things that even Arthur wasn't comfortable with, such as same sex relationships. Yet his logic was sound. According to Spike, Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara were a loving couple. If they hadn't become lovers, who knew how they'd end up.
Still, there were things that Arthur still wasn't sure about.
“There ya are,” Applejack said walking up to Arthur.
“Hello, Applejack,” Arthur said, “If I'm in the way, I can-”
“Naw, yer fine,” Applejack waved it off, “Spike an' Ah 're takin a break. Ah jus' wanted ta see how you were doin. Ya seemed distracted.”
“Ahh, I have a lot on my mind is all,” Arthur said.
“Concernin yer feelins about Fluttershy?” Applejack asked, catching Arthur off guard with her bluntness.
“Geez, am I that obvious?” Arthur asked.
“Ah have a good eye fer these things,” Applejack said sitting down next to Arthur.
“I see. Well, that's part of it. Applejack, can I ask you a personal question?”
“Shoot,” Applejack said. It took a second for Arthur to realize what she meant by that.
“Your younger sister, Apple Bloom. She's in a relationship with another girl, right?”
“Diamond Tiara,” Applejack confirmed, “Who would've thought she was actually such a sweet filly.”
“It... doesn't bother you at all that your sister isn't courting a boy?” Arthur asked.
“Nope,” Applejack shook her head, “Ah ain't a lesbian or bi, but Ah accept Apple Bloom for who she is.”
“Lesbian... bi... what?” Arthur asked, unsure of those terms. Applejack laughed before continuing.
“A lesbian is a mare that only likes other mares, an' bi-sexual is a pony that's attracted ta both genders, usually with one preference. Apple Bloom an' Diamond Tiara 're both bi, but they prefer mares.”
Arthur was amazed by how open Applejack was with it, and the lack of shame in her voice. Arthur smiled and looked up at the sky.
“She's lucky to have you,” Arthur said, “Where I come from, Apple Bloom would be shunned and possibly even beaten for having relationships with another woman.”
Applejack was wide eyed, “That ain't right,” she said, “Apple Bloom's mah family, an' Ah want her ta be happy.”
“Even if that happiness were to put her against God?” Arthur asked, more so to see Applejack's reaction.
“Ah'd like ta think that God wants Apple Bloom ta be happy too,” Applejack said, “Mind ya, Ah'm mighty religious mahself, but over here we focus on happiness an' unity.”
“I think my world could learn a few things from you,” Arthur said honestly.
“Hey, maybe if ya ever get back, you can share what ya learned,” Applejack said getting up, “We're about ta make lunch. Did ya want ta come in an' eat?”
“Yes,” Arthur said getting up, “I'd like that.”
Arthur walked with Applejack back to her house. The atmosphere was so positive and free in the Apple Family's house. The more he stayed here, the less he wanted to go home. Besides, no one would listen to him anyway.
“Ohh Spikey!” Rarity called out as Arthur and Spike walked into Carousel Boutique. She ran into Spike embracing him and knocking him to the floor.
“Hey Rarity,” Spike said, his voice shaking a bit, “You seem happy.”
“Of course I'm happy,” Rarity said nuzzling him, “My Spikey Wikey came to visit me.”
“Ahem,” Arthur cleared his throat to get the mare's attention. She immediately got up and composed herself.
“Oh Arthur,” Rarity said smiling, “I... didn't see you there.”
“Clearly,” Arthur said, “Did Twilight tell you that we were coming?”
“Yes she did,” Rarity said walking over to her work desk, “In fact, I've already begun sketching a few ideas. All I need now is to take a few measurements. Could you come into the back with me?”
“Sure,” Arthur said looking at Spike, who just nodded letting him know it was okay. Apparently she was only vicious when it came to Spike. Arthur wondered just how vicious she could get. He had to admit, it would be nice if Olivia had been that open about her love for him.
When they got into the room, Rarity closed the door behind them, “Alright Arthur, strip.”
Arthur must have blacked out, because he was certain she hadn't just said what he thought she said.
“Hm?” Arthur asked after a second with a shocked and somewhat blank expression.
“I can't get accurate measurements with you wearing clothes, especially with you being a human. I wouldn't even know where to begin otherwise,” Rarity explained, “Now take it off. All of it.”
Arthur breathed out, but slowly started stripping down. Even though the mare in front of him was also naked, he was still feeling very vulnerable. In fact, that just made it worse. He hoped that he could get by with just going down to his underwear.
But once again, his erection was very hard to hide, even more so through his undergarments. Rarity noticed and gave him a coy smile.
“My, do I entice you that much?” Rarity asked.
“I am so sorry, Miss!” Arthur said, “I don't know what's come over me, and I am absolutely ashamed of myself for-”
“Shh...” Rarity got up to her hind legs and rubbed her hoof on his chest, “Relax, Arthur. It's fine. Where you're from, a certain level of modestly is required, I'm sure. You don't have anything to worry about. I'm not offended. Actually, I find it flattering, since I'm not exactly trying to impress anyone.”
As Rarity spoke into his ear, he found himself relaxing a bit, and he even found his erection going down a bit. At least, his shame in it was going away.
“Now, I'm going to have to ask that you briefly remove the rest of your clothes,” Rarity said, “I promise I'll be quick.”
Arthur sighed, closed his eyes, and lowered his underwear. He heard Rarity gasp in shock, but then she got to work just like she promised, measuring everything.
“Alright,” Rarity said, her voice slightly higher than before, “You can dress now.”
“Thank you!” Arthur said immediately getting dressed, his heart finally slowing down. He looked at Rarity, about to apologize, but he noticed that she was smiling.
“Now, that wasn't too bad, was it?” she asked.
“Do you want me to be honest?” Arthur asked, getting a nod from Rarity, “I found the experience absolutely mortifying.”
Rarity laughed out loud, “Well, I admit that even I found the experience somewhat embarrassing,” she admitted, “I've never seen a human's... penis before.”
“Yes well,” Arthur said clearing his throat, “I imagine it was absolutely hideous to your eyes, and for that-”
“Not at all,” Rarity said, shocking Arthur, “In fact, I found it quite appealing.”
Did this mare just call his lower member... appealing? Well, she was used to working with ponies, who were naked most of the time anyway, so she wouldn't be too turned off, but he had never been told that his penis was... appealing.
Was it supposed to be?
“From now on,” Rarity continued walking to the door, “You are to come to me for all of your clothing needs.”
“Um, why, might I ask?”
“I don't trust anyone else with designing outfits for you. Twilight shared with me a few pictures of what human clothing looks like, but no one would be able to control themselves around your more exotic aspects.”
Now he was exotic?! What kind of woman was this Rarity? One moment she was just like a woman from his world, and the next moment she was saying and doing things that his world would deem horribly inappropriate.
Arthur realized that he had no say in it. He silently agreed and walked with Rarity back to the lobby, where Spike was waiting for them (he had half expected Spike to run away).
“So, are we done?” Spike asked.
“Yes, I believe so,” Arthur said.
“Well, he's done,” Rarity said walking over to Spike, “You on the other hoof...”
“Uh,” Spike laughed awkwardly as Rarity sauntered over to him.
“You're mine for the rest of the day,” Rarity said grabbing Spike's tail with her magic.
“Augh!” Spike cried out falling over as Rarity pulled him into the back room.
“Spike will see you later,” Rarity said for Spike, “I assume by now you can find your way back on your own?”
“Well, I suppose,” Arthur said looking at Spike, who had a pleading expression on his face.
“It was nice seeing you again, Arthur,” Rarity said, “Tootles.”
With that she pulled Spike into the room and closed the door. Arthur placed a hand on his chest and lowered his head.
“You were good to me Spike,” Arthur said dramatically, “You shall be missed, my friend.”
With that Arthur walked out of Carousel Boutique, trying to not think too much about the slightly awkward moment he had with Rarity. He did know one thing though, he was beginning to really like this world.
However, his dream was still bothering him, along with the prospect of being attracted to a pony.
The day after they spoke, she couldn't get him out of her mind. He was so odd looking, nothing like Fluttershy had ever seen. He was tall, and even though he didn't have any fur, it didn't seem indecent. It almost seemed normal on him.
He was so nice too. Nothing like the other ponies she had met, who even though they were nice to her she could sort of tell that they just tolerated her. Arthur though, was genuinely nice to her. He listened to her, he didn't force her to open up more than she wanted, and he thought she was attractive.
He thought she was attractive.
Yeah, she had been called attractive before, but only for her physical appearance. Once the stallion found out how timid she was, they either tried to get her to come out of her shell or they decided she was too much work. Arthur though, he liked her for her. He was a little like her in a way.
This was the first time she had felt like this about anyone. Some ponies thought that she and Discord were involved, but that ended when he suddenly asked for Celestia's hoof in marriage, and she said yes. It had been rather quiet since Discord and Celestia married, and while she did enjoy the quiet, she was beginning to feel lonely.
Maybe that was why she was so eager to invite Arthur to her place.
She was pulled out of her mind by an urgent squeaking, “Huh?” she looked down and saw Angel pointing at the now waterlogged flower she was watering, “Good heavens!” Fluttershy panicked and flew the flower to the sink to drain it, “I don't know what happened. My head has been somewhere else all day.”
Angel rolled his eyes as if saying “tell me about it”.
Fluttershy sat down feeling odd, “I can't stop thinking about him,” she said, “I wonder, do you think that he...?” Angel shrugged, “Oh, I hope this is just a crush! He can't get involved with me! If he does, he might learn about...”
Angel turned his head in confusion, silently asking “isn't it a good thing that he's into you?”
“Well, yes, but if he is then...” she didn't want anyone to know the truth about her. That was a past that she wanted to remain buried.
Angel knew that at this point, they weren't going to get any housework done. He could, but her head wasn't anywhere it needed to be. As such, Angel proceeded to hop over to Fluttershy and pull her hoof.
“What is it Angel?” Fluttershy asked. Angel escorted her right to the door, pushed her outside, and then slammed the door shut, “Um, Angel honey? I haven't finished-” the click of the door locking cut her off, “Um... okay then. I'll just go for a walk or something...”
She hated when Angel did that, but he always meant well. Most ponies thought it was pathetic how her rabbit could lock her out like that, but they didn't really know what sort of relationship she and Angel had. At this point they were more like roommates, so that house was as much his as it was Fluttershy's.
As such, she wasn't allowed home until at least eight o'clock.
As she walked, her thoughts went back to Arthur. He was such a gentleman, considerate of her feelings, not trying to rush her to the bedroom, he was awkward, but really cute. Every time she thought about him her heart started racing.
Am I beginning to...
She couldn't help herself. She started giggling like a school girl, spinning around. Oh, if only her past wasn't a problem. Then maybe they could even-
Oh no! That could never happen! If he ever learned about what kind of pony she really was, he'd never want to be near her, and if she let him in that close he would learn. Now thinking about Arthur made her depressed.
He doesn't want me.
He thinks he does, but he'll learn soon.
She looked up, and quickly hid behind the corner of a building. There he was, stepping out of Carousel Boutique, alone. Why was he there? What reason did he have to visit Rarity? And what was this feeling in her chest? She felt a pressure in her chest, making her feel heavy.
He doesn't... like Rarity, does he?
She is really pretty. She has even more stallions lined up for her.
If Spike ends up with Applejack, maybe she and Arthur could...
She couldn't even finish the thought. Just imagining Rarity and Arthur spending time together made Fluttershy feel unpleasant. Was she... jealous?
Arthur stretched and began walking through town. He wasn't going to the castle. Maybe he wanted to explore the town a bit without an escort. This could be her chance to get to know more about him. Spying was wrong, but for some reason she couldn't help herself. Besides, it wasn't like she could just walk up to him. He saw her just yesterday. No way he would want to see her two times in a row.
Well, I suppose I could keep an eye on him.
Make sure he doesn't get into any trouble.
YES! That's right! He's new to Equestria, after all. He's my responsibility.
Fluttershy nodded in determination and trotted after Arthur. It wasn't spying if she was doing it for a noble cause. No way she was trying to make sure no one else was interested in him. They couldn't be together anyway.
She was just protecting him. That was it.
Fluttershy followed Arthur all the way to a nice restaurant. Twilight apparently gave him some bits to use while he was out, cause he was able to pay for his meal. He avoided ordering anything with flowers and hay, ordering a fancy cheesy pasta.
Fluttershy had a newspaper in front of her to hide with as she munched on a daffodil sandwich. From her point of view he seemed to be looking around at the various ponies as he ate.
Such wonder in his eyes...
Truly he's able to see the beauty of Equestria...
“Heya Fluttershy!”
Fluttershy screamed in shock, but saw Pinkie Pie standing next to her.
“Shh!!!” Fluttershy pulled Pinkie Pie close to her and hid behind her newspaper right before Arthur turned to them, “What are you doing here?!” Fluttershy whispered.
“I saw you spying on someone, and I wanted to know if I could join you,” Pinkie Pie said happily.
“I'm not spying on anyone,” Fluttershy said, “And could you please keep it down, Pinkie Pie?”
“Why would I need to keep it down if you're not spying on anyone?” Pinkie Pie asked innocently.
“I'm just... keeping an eye on someone,” Fluttershy said, “You see, Arthur is-”
“Arthur is here?” Pinkie Pie asked, looking over at Arthur's seat, “Hi Arth-” Pinkie Pie was cut off as Fluttershy covered her mouth and hid behind her paper again.
“Don't do that! I don't want him to know that I'm here!” Fluttershy whispered urgently.
“So you're spying on Arthur?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“I'm not spying!” Fluttershy cried, “I'm just-”
“Hey Pinkie Pie,” Rainbow Dash said walking over to their table, “Hey Fluttershy, what's with the newspaper?”
“Fluttershy is spying on Arthur!” Pinkie Pie said happily, and loudly.
“Wow Fluttershy, talk about freaky,” Rainbow Dash said rolling her eyes, “I know you're shy and all, bit this is just pathetic.”
“I'm not spying on him!” Fluttershy said, just a little too loudly, as Arthur turned to them. Fluttershy opened her newspaper to hide all three of them, as Arthur shrugged and went back to his meal.
“So why are you spying on Arthur, Fluttershy?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Isn't it obvious? She likes him, but she's too afraid to just go over there and talk to him,” Rainbow Dash said, “Like I said, kinda pathetic.”
“I'm not spying on him because I have a crush on him,” Fluttershy said, “He's new to Equestria, so I'm here to keep an eye on him.”
“So you are spying on him then?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“N-no! I'm not-”
“He's been here for at least three days now,” Rainbow Dash said, “I don't think he's really new anymore. If that were it, you wouldn't have to spy on him.”
“You know, spying is really creepy,” Pinkie Pie said.
“Why don't you just go over and talk to him?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“I-I can't!” Fluttershy said, “I could never...”
“So you're just going to stay here and spy on him?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“I'm not spying!” Fluttershy exclaimed, once again hiding behind her newspaper as Arthur turned to their direction.
“Well, if you're not spying on Arthur, I'm going to go over and say hi,” Pinkie Pie said walking over to Arthur's table. Fluttershy wanted to stop her, but she was already too far away. Instead she just let her face hit the table.
“Hey, you gonna finish that?” Rainbow Dash asked, referring to Fluttershy's sandwich. Fluttershy pushed her sandwich over to Rainbow Dash, not bothering to take her head off the table.
“Hey Arthur!” Pinkie Pie said, catching Arthur's attention.
“Oh, hello Pinkie Pie,” Arthur said setting his fork down and hugging the pink pony, “How are you doing this fine afternoon?”
“I'm doing great,” Pinkie Pie said, “Today's my day off, so I'm going around saying hi to all of my friends!”
Arthur couldn't help but laugh at how sweet and innocent Pinkie Pie was. Someone who spent their day off saying hi to their friends was unheard of back in his world.
“You're a very nice person, Pinkie Pie,” Arthur said smiling. This time it was Pinkie Pie who laughed.
“No I'm not, silly, I'm a pony,” Pinkie Pie said, completely oblivious to Arthur's previous statement.
“My... mistake...?” Arthur said. He was beginning to see that Pinkie Pie seriously saw the world in her own unique way, which was completely different then the rest of the world. As he went back to his food, that creepy feeling came back, something he had been feeling on and off.
“You okay Artie?” Pinkie Pie asked, confusing Arthur until he realized she just gave him a nickname.
“Well, ever since I left Rarity's place, I've had this feeling... like I'm being watched.”
“Oh, that's just Fluttershy.”
“Fluttershy? She's here?” Arthur asked, feeling somewhat flushed now.
“She's been over at that table the whole time,” Pinkie Pie said pointing to a table that kept catching his attention. This time, he actually saw Fluttershy right before she pulled the newspaper over her, Rainbow Dash rolling her eyes. Honestly, Arthur would have been a little creeped out if it wasn't so adorable.
“Fluttershy!” Pinkie Pie called out, “Come over and say hi to Arthur!”
Arthur saw Fluttershy hold her head in aggravation before she sighed and trotted over to them.
“Thank you Pinkie Pie,” Fluttershy groaned.
“You're welcome, Fluttershy,” Pinkie Pie said, oblivious to the obvious sarcasm, “Have fun you two.”
Pinkie Pie hopped away, bumping hooves with Rainbow Dash before they both trotted off. Did she have this planned or something.
“So... want to... have a seat?” Arthur asked after a second.
“Um... sure...” Fluttershy said sitting down in front of Arthur. Things were awkwardly silent for a few seconds before Fluttershy spoke up again, “Sorry...”
“Sorry? What for?” Arthur asked.
“W-well, you saw me yesterday, and we spent a lot of time together. I figured you probably wanted some time alone, yet I'm...”
“Oh no!” Arthur said quickly before catching himself, “Uh... actually, I'm really happy to see you again...”
“You... are?” Fluttershy asked, almost in disbelief.
“Well... I was wracking my brain trying to figure out something to do. I actually wanted to go visit you again, but...”
“But...?”
“I figured... as we saw each other yesterday... going to you again would be... pestering you...”
Fluttershy was silent for a few seconds, but eventually started laughing. After a second, Arthur started laughing as well, beginning to feel a little better.
Her laugh is so heavenly.
“Hey, while we're both here,” Arthur said after calming down, “Why don't we finish eating together?”
Fluttershy's expression became on of surprise, “You mean, like a date?” she asked almost expectantly.
“W-well, perhaps not quite... a date...” Arthur said looking away, “I mean, I suppose to anyone watching us it would look like a date. Also, as you're a woman, I'm a man, and we're at a really nice restaurant, it fits the requirements of date.”
“Uh huh...” Fluttershy nodded.
“So I suppose... as we're both consenting adults, if either of us wishes to consider this a date... we should... Why? Do you... want this too be a date?”
“Do I want this to be a date?” Fluttershy asked, her eyes wide, “Um... I mean... I wouldn't be... opposed to going on a date...”
Arthur's heart leaped out of his chest. Did she actually...
She likes me...
I think she actually likes me...
“I'm going to order something else,” Fluttershy said quickly picking up the menu and burying her face in it. Every so often, she'd look up at Arthur, but then quickly avert her eyes. Maybe she had the same fears as him.
Interesting, because the more he spent with Fluttershy, the less he seemed to care. That in of itself was starting to scare him.
After finishing their lunch, Fluttershy and Arthur went to the meadow where Arthur was apparently found. He had been meaning to come here for a while, just to see if there was any sign of how he arrived in this strange new world. Fluttershy was nice enough to escort him there and even take him to the exact spot where she spotted him.
“So, it was here?” Arthur asked when they stopped.
Fluttershy nodded, “I remember because far east is a weeping willow tree,” she said pointing to the tree in the distance.
“Huh, okay then,” Arthur walked forward and looked around. There wasn't anything that stood out or reminded him of home, and he didn't see anything like a portal. However he got here, the way had clearly closed as if it had never opened, “Have other creatures ever landed here?”
Fluttershy shook her head, “Not that I know of, and you're the first human to ever land in Equestria like this. Twilight has a portal she uses that goes to a human world.”
Arthur turned to Flutterhsy suddenly, “She does?”
“Yes, but... I don't think its the same as your world,” Fluttershy said sadly, “Twilight says that anyone who goes to that world from here becomes a human, and going from that world to this one turns you into a pony.”
“But I'm still a human...” Arthur reasoned, “I wonder... are those two worlds connected?”
“They are,” Fluttershy said, “Twilight calls the two worlds parallel dimensions, which basically means that they're right next to each other...”
“But never touch,” Arthur nodded taking that in, “Funny, I've always wondered if something like that could ever exist. I mean, I've always believed in other worlds, and clearly I'm in one, but the idea of two worlds moving right next to each other... Do you think Twilight would be opposed to taking me there?”
“You mean to the other Earth?” Fluttershy asked.
“I know that it might not be my world, but I have to at least take a look,” Arthur turned back to look at the sky, “I have to exhaust all options, and at least try and get home,” Arthur looked at Fluttershy, who actually looked down really sad, “Oh, don't think I'm not happy to be here, Fluttershy. I love your world, and the idea that I'm even given a chance to be a part of it is wonderful, but I need to at least try and see if I can get back to my world before I allow myself to become comfortable being a part of yours.”
“I understand,” Fluttershy sighed, “You're right. If I had ended up in your world, I'd want to try and get home too, I suppose. Especially if I were the only pony there.”
Arthur wanted to tell Fluttershy that she wouldn't be the only pony there technically, but he didn't feel like explaining things. Instead, she sat down on the grass and looked up at the sky. Fluttershy lied down right next to him, and Arthur found himself invaded by her wonderful scent.
“Truth is, I'm really happy that I met you, Fluttershy,” Arthur said.
“Are you?” Fluttershy asked softly.
“Back home, I'm always the odd one out. I didn't think there was anyone who would understand me, but you and I have so much in common. I haven't enjoyed anyone's company like yours in my life. Not even Olivia made me feel so at home.”
“Olivia? Who's... that?” Fluttershy asked. Arthur couldn't believe he hadn't told Fluttershy about her.
“Ahh, she's... well was my fiance back home,” Arthur said, his heart sinking a bit oddly, “She and I had a big fight before I came here, and I was actually... beginning to doubt whether or not she even loved me...”
“Why were you doubting that?” Fluttershy asked slowly.
“Well, we have been dating for nearly two years and she wouldn't even let me touch her.”
“As in... not at all?” Fluttershy asked.
“Nothing beyond a simple hug, and even that felt more like a friendly gesture as opposed to a loving embrace. We hadn't had intercourse once, nor had we even kissed. Also, she didn't support my dream of being a writer, instead wanting me to get what she called a 'real job'...”
“You said before that people in your world didn't support people with your special talent. Your fiance was one of them?”
Arthur nodded, “I was becoming bored with life, and I wanted more, so I decided to leave and search for something to spark my love for life again, maybe even get me interested in writing again.”
“Do you... still love her?” Fluttershy asked. Arthur thought about that, and actually wasn't sure. He hadn't really thought about Olivia since he got here, but now that he was he didn't know what he thought about her. But something else seemed odd. Why was Fluttershy suddenly so interested in Olivia?
“You seemed to want to know a lot about my relationship with Olivia,” Arthur stated, “Not that I mind, but I'm curious, is something wrong?”
“No!” Fluttershy said suddenly, “I was just... curious and,” Fluttershy looked down sadly, “I offended you. I'm sorry. I'll just...”
She was about to get up, but Arthur quickly grabbed her hoof.
“Please stay,” Arthur urged, “You didn't offend me. I'm sorry if it seemed like that. I was just curious, is all.”
Fluttershy looked like she was about to cry, so Arthur pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her. She gasped in shock, but quickly relaxed in his embrace.
“I'm so sorry,” Fluttershy said, “I do that all the time. Whenever I meet someone I really like, I get so...”
“Jealous?” Arthur asked. Fluttershy tensed up a bit.
“N-no,” Fluttershy said, “I'm not a jealous pony. I can't be that petty...”
“It's not petty,” Arthur said, “Everyone gets jealous every now and again. It's nothing to be ashamed of.”
“Arthur...” Fluttershy pushed Arthur to the ground and lied down right on top of him. It was so sudden, and it was almost like how she was lying on top of him in his dream. The only difference was that she wasn't kissing him, and he already had his arms wrapped around her.
Her weight on him, how wonderful she smelled, and the way he could feel her breathing on top of him, it was almost too much. While standing Fluttershy came up to only about four feet, but lying on top of him she was about as long as a human woman, and weighed about as much. He on instinct ran his arms on her back, hitting the base of her wings. When he made contact, Fluttershy took a deep breath in, as if hitting a sensitive spot. At the same time, her wings spread out a bit becoming slightly erect.
Just like his cock was doing in his pants.
Arthur was silently praying that he could relax his member before Fluttershy noticed, but when he felt his bulge hit Fluttershy's underside, he knew he was in trouble. Her sudden gasp confirmed it.
“Oh God!” Arthur said suddenly, lightly yet quickly pushing Fluttershy off him and sitting up, “Fluttershy, I am so sorry! It's just the way you were lying on top of me, and the fact that I haven't had intimate contact with a woman in who knows how long! I know that it was indecent of me, and if I upset you, I'm sorry!”
“I-it's okay...” Fluttershy said, blushing madly, “Um... it's getting late, so I should probably get going,” Fluttershy stood up and turned back to Ponyville, “I'll see you later, Arthur.”
Fluttershy galloped away, and then flew off. Arthur groaned and fell to the ground looking up at the sky.
“Well, you certainly made a mess of that, Arthur,” he berated himself, “She clearly sensitive about that sort of thing, and here you are making her think you want to rut her right out in the open.”
Yet as he lied on the ground, he thought about the idea of taking her right out in the meadow, and was repulsed to notice that he wasn't too against the idea. Yep, definitely going to hell...
She found the highest cloud she could reach and landed on it. Once she felt that she was alone, she found herself unable to hold in her tears. When he touched the base of her wings, she got so aroused. The way his hands felt on her back felt so good.
She accidentally led him on.
She wanted so badly to let him in closer, but she couldn't afford to. If she did, he'd learn about her past. She couldn't let anyone know about that part of her life. But she didn't know if she could control herself around him. She wanted him, badly.
But would he want her after he learned what she was?
Most, if not all of my Equestria Girls stories involve the characters having regular human colored skin. It's just a pet peeve of mine, as I hate the art style of Equestria Girls.
The Other Side
At some point in the day, Arthur caught up with Fluttershy. He didn't know exactly how it happened, but one thing led to another, and then they started kissing. First it was simple pecks on the lips, but soon he and Fluttershy were in each other's embrace, their tongues dancing together in a passionate dance. He didn't know when they arrived at her place, but now they could have some private time.
Good, because Arthur was done waiting.
“Are you sure you're okay with this?” Arthur asked before kissing her neck.
“Yes,” Fluttershy breathed out, “Please Arthur, take me.”
That was all he needed to hear. He undid his pants as quickly as possible, and Fluttershy helped him with his shirt. He didn't dive right in though. He pulled Fluttershy into another passionate kiss, rubbing her flank with one hand and caressing the base of her wings with the other. She let out a lustful moan confirming his thoughts from before. That was an erogenous zone for her type of pony.
Right when things were about to get serious, Arthur's eyes moved up to the chair next to the window, where that dark blue princess was sitting watching him. This time she had a red and white bag floating next to her filled with some sort of white snack.
Wait... didn't he see her...?
“Am I dreaming again?” he asked sadly.
“What do you think?” the princess asked throwing one of her snacks into the air and letting it fall into her mouth.
Arthur woke up in his bed, alone, and with the worst erection ever since being with Olivia. That meant he didn't actually catch up with Fluttershy last night.
Right, he remembered. After she ran off, he just walked back home and went right to his room. He joined Twilight and Spike for dinner, but he didn't really talk to either of them. He just felt horrible. Thing was, he didn't know what he felt horrible about. Scaring Fluttershy away, or the feelings he had for her to begin with.
“Ugh...” Arthur said falling back onto his bed, “What a mess this turned into. Why couldn't you end up in an alternate world with humans?”
“Because that wouldn't be as fun.”
“Ahh!!!” Arthur screamed, seeing the man with the nice suit sitting in a chair with a cup of tea, “How in the world did you get in here?”
“Oh, that was easy,” he said sipping his tea, “Waiting for you to wake up was the hard part. Must have been having some dream.”
“You could say that,” Arthur said looking down, “Things aren't exactly the best at the moment.”
“Why not? You're in another world, right? It can't be any worse than the hell you were living in before.”
“You're right about that,” Arthur said, “This world is great. The problem is that I'm making a mess of things. That, and I'm falling in love with a pony.”
The man looked confused, “And... what's wrong with that?”
“She's a pony, and I'm a human!” Arthur exclaimed, “Look at it from my point of view. I mean, she doesn't really act like a pony, not from my world at least. But she's still... you know...”
“Ahh, feel like you're falling in love with an animal? Like consummating with her would be akin to committing some felony?”
“Something like that...” Arthur sighed, “But that might not matter soon. Honestly, the more I learn about ponies in this world, and the closer I get to Fluttershy, the less control I have.”
The man nodded smirking, “You'll be fine,” he said patting Arthur on the back, “These things have a tendency to work themselves out.”
The man walked over to Arthur's closet, walked right in, and closed the door. Arthur ran up to the closet to ask what he was doing, but when he opened the door, the only thing he saw was an empty closet.
“How in the world...” Arthur asked looking deeper into the closet. He was beginning to wonder who that man was.
That was for another day. He needed to get cleaned up before speaking to Twilight. Oddly, he felt the need to take a colder shower than yesterday. Why, he didn't know, but it definitely had something to do with his dream.
He didn't see Twilight at breakfast, which at first had him worried. According to Spike though, she was probably in her study doing some research. He didn't want to bother her, but Spike pushed him to go to her study, saying that “she'd be up there all day otherwise”.
He just hoped she was decent.
Arthur stopped in front of the door and listened in. No weird sounds. Good. He then knocked on the door.
“Come in,” Twilight said distantly. Arthur walked in and saw the Princess of Friendship surrounded by books, five of them open at the same time. Was she reading all of them at once?
“Um, I'm afraid to ask but...” Arthur began.
“I'm looking to see if there have been instances of humans entering Equestria,” Twilight said, not looking up from her books, “Unfortunately it's just like I said, you're the first human to ever land in Equestria like this. At least, according to known history. I think I need to go to the restricted wing in Canterlot Castle.”
“Canterlot Castle?” Arthur asked.
“That's were my teacher and her sister rule,” Twilight stated, “You haven't met either of them yet. Their names are Celestia and Luna. I have a picture of them here.”
Twilight used her magic to float a picture over to Arthur. In the picture was Twilight and two other alicorns. One was a white one in the center, with a really long multicolored mane that covered her left eye. She was smiling brightly and had her hooves around Twilight and the other alicorn, who was looking at the white one with an irritated expression.
Arthur recognized her! That was the pony he kept seeing in his dreams!
“That was taken on Celestia's birthday,” Twilight continued, “It was before her wedding with Discord, and she was feeling depressed, so Luna and I arranged a get together. That was the first time I had ever seen Celestia smile so much.”
“I know this pony...” Arthur said, still looking at the picture.
“Huh?” Twilight walked over to Arthur.
“This midnight blue one,” Arthur pointed to the irritated one, “I've seen her twice already.”
“Luna? How do you know Luna?”
“I don't know how, but I've seen her in my dreams twice,” Arthur said, “Odd, because I've never met her before...”
“Oh, Luna is a Dream Weaver,” Twilight stated simply. Arthur looked at Twilight confused.
“Dream... Weaver?”
“Right, the human world doesn't have magic,” Twilight reasoned, “Luna is able to visit ponies in their dreams. She usually visits children, but every so often she'll visit a grown up who's having troubling dreams,” Twilight looked at Arthur concerned, “Arthur, are you having nightmares?”
As the thoughts of his dreams came back to him, he felt flushed, “Um... well... my dreams have been interesting... to say the least...”
“Are you homesick?” Twilight asked.
“Believe it or not, no,” Arthur said giving the picture back to Twilight, “My dreams are of a different nature.”
“If you don't want to talk about it, I understand,” Twilight said putting the picture back onto her desk.
“I appreciate it. Actually, I wanted to ask you about something,” Arthur said, eager to change the subject.
“Oh? What's up?” Twilight asked.
“I ran into Fluttershy yesterday, and she mentioned that you have a portal that takes you to another world?” Arthur asked, “One inhabited by humans?”
“Oh yeah! The other Equestria!” Twilight said.
“Other Equestria?” Arthur asked.
“Well, that's what I've been calling it, but I think its better to call it the other Earth now,” Twilight stated, “But I'm not sure that's your world.”
“I need to see for myself,” Arthur said, “If it isn't, that's fine, but if I don't at least see it then I won't be able to completely be comfortable staying here.”
“Arthur, you're not thinking about... staying in Equestria, are you?” Twilight asked.
“Well, I don't know,” Arthur crossed his arms thoughtfully, “Like you said, you don't know how to get me home, and I can honestly say that so far I like being here a lot better than my world. I need to know just how comfortable I can get here, and to do that, I need to see if the other world is my world.”
“I guess it would be nice if you were just a portal away,” Twilight said, “Okay, I'll contact my friend Sunset Shimmer and have her meet us on the other side.”
“You have a friend over there?” Arthur asked.
“She's my best friend,” Twilight stated, “She used to live on this side, but things happened and she ended up moving to the human world.”
“She turns into a human over there,” Arthur said, “That means you'll turn into a human?”
Twilight nodded before fluttering her eyelashes, “Curious to see what I look like as a human?”
Arthur blushed looking away, “Um, well maybe not for the reasons you're thinking, but...”
Twilight giggled, “Don't worry, I was kidding. Besides, I'm already accounted for,” Twilight walked over to a book and began writing in it, “When Sunset gets back to me, we'll start heading over to the other world.”
“How are you...” Arthur asked taking a good look at what Twilight was writing. It looked like a letter of some sort. Was she going to send it out to Sunset Shimmer?
No, she set her pen down and waited. What in the world was going on?
After a few seconds, the book vibrated, making a ringing sound. Arthur looked in awe as words started appearing on the blank page. It was another letter!
“My God...” Arthur said mesmerized. It was honest to God magic...
“Okay, she'll meet us there,” Twilight said, “Let's go.”
Arthur was about to call after her, but she had already galloped away. He shrugged and ran after her, deciding that all of his questions could wait for another time.
Twilight and Arthur went to a secret room in the castle, where Arthur saw a large mirror hooked up to some magical apparatus. Twilight walked up to the mirror, actually walking inside the mirror, which rippled like it was made of water. Realizing that it was safe, Arthur quickly followed after her.
It was an odd feeling, almost like flying. He saw Twilight ahead of him, and it looked like she was changing into something else. There was a white flash and Arthur felt himself fall onto something hard. He saw someone hold their hand out to help him up, and he looked up to see someone helping him up.
They were a young woman wearing a really nice purple and white dress and high heels. She had long purple hair with a pink highlight, and was wearing a familiar tiara in her hair. She wore purple eyeshadow and red lipstick, and was built sort of like Olivia. Was this Twilight?
“Twilight? Is that...”
“Yes Arthur, it's me,” Twilight said, “Like what you see?”
“Um...” he certainly didn't hate it, but he found himself wondering what Fluttershy would look like as a human.
“Twilight!” another voice called out. Arthur looked out and saw a young woman about Twilight's age with long red and orange hair, wearing a red top, black mini skirt, matching high heeled boots, and a leather jacket waving to them. Arthur almost had a heart attack looking at how short her skirt was. Her legs were completely showing.
“Sunset!” Twilight called out running up to the woman and hugging her. She then escorted her over to Arthur, who was still awestruck, “Sunset, this is the one I told you about, Arthur Ravenot. Arthur, this is Sunset Shimmer.”
“Hey,” Sunset said simply. Arthur caught himself and elegantly took her hand into his.
“It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Shimmer,” Arthur said kissing Sunset's hand. Sunset laughed awkwardly.
“Where'd you pick this guy up? The fifteenth century?” Sunset joked.
“Try... the seventeenth,” Arthur said. Sunset was wide eyed.
“Twilight? Care to explain?” Sunset asked.
“It's a long story,” Twilight said, “Can we head to your place?”
“Now that's a story,” Sunset said after Twilight and Arthur finished telling her what happened over the last week or so. Her place was simple, but it was well kept. It looked to Arthur that Sunset lived there with someone else.
“And you've never heard of something like this happening ever in our world?” Twilight asked.
“Afraid not,” Sunset said folding her arms and crossing her legs, “I always thought that this was the only other world next to Equestria.”
Twilight looked down thoughtfully, “What about you Arthur? Do you recognize anything here?”
“Not a thing,” Arthur said sadly, “Actually, between the strange chariots that move on their own-”
“Those are called cars,” Sunset said.
“The box that shows moving pictures-”
“That's a television,” Sunset added.
“And with how little to the imagination your clothes leave,” Arthur turned back to Sunset, “No offense.”
“None taken,” Sunset waved it off.
“This place shocks me even more than where we just came from,” Arthur continued, “and that place had talking horses.”
“Hm...” Sunset walked over to where Arthur was sitting and started examining him. Arthur accidentally looked down at her chest, and averted his eyes when he realized just how much he could see.
“If I were to make an assumption,” Sunset Shimmer stated, “I'd say that he's not just from another dimension, but another century all together.”
“Wait, so time travel?” Twilight asked.
“At least that's part of it,” Sunset said finally standing up (Arthur was relieved), “Either way, I think we're looking at a one way trip.”
Arthur took that in, surprised by how almost relieved he was hearing that. He had started to truly hate the human world he came from, and there weren't any people he sorely missed at the moment. Also, if this was a one way trip, then his presence wasn't hurting the world in any way. The more he thought about his situation, the better it seemed.
“Arthur,” Twilight said moving to sit down next to him, “If you want, I can keep looking for-”
“There's no need,” Arthur said standing up, “Honestly, I don't have anything waiting for me back home. My former love bores me to death and doesn't support me, the church doesn't own everything over here, and it certainly smells nicer.”
“I'm sure bathing every day and night is a nice addition,” Sunset added.
“Sunset, don't encourage this!” Twilight said, “This isn't Arthur's world. He has to go back to his.”
“Why does he?” Sunset leaned against the wall next to them, “The ponies over in Equestria accept him, right?”
“Yes, in Ponyville,” Twilight emphasized, “The ponies there have witnessed everything from an angry Goddess of the Night to the Equestrian Destroyer's resurrection. Other ponies aren't so open minded. They might think he's a freak or be afraid of him. What if somepony tries to capture him and turn him into a sideshow attraction?”
“Could that actually happen?” Arthur asked.
“Shush you,” Twilight said immediately, shutting Arthur up instantly.
“I think you're overreacting a bit,” Sunset said, “Besides, worse comes to worse, he has the Princess of Friendship protecting him, and that gives him automatic connections to both Princess Celestia and Princess Luna.”
“Well, yes we could protect him,” Twilight said, “But he'll need human contact. He's the only human in a world filled with ponies.”
“Which is why we have the portal to this world,” Sunset said waving her hands around the room, “If he's ever craving human contact then he can just hop over to this side. He can use the spare room here.”
“But with all due respect, I think I prefer it over on the other side,” Arthur said, happy to finally get his say in.
Before Twilight could say anything to that, the door opened and a woman with familiar pink hair rushed past them in a huff.
“Hi Sunset!” a familiar voice said, making Arthur's heart skip a beat, “I need to borrow a blouse from you, is that okay?”
“First of all, you know I dress sluttier than you, so why would you want to borrow one of my tops?” Sunset asked, “And second of all, Princess Twilight is here, and she has a friend with her.
“To your first statement, I have a date and I need something a little slutty to catch his attention,” the girl said from her room, “And to your second statement-” A human girl that looked an awful lot like Fluttershy ran out of the bedroom, “Twilight! It's so great to see you!”
“It's great to see you too...” Twilight said awkwardly, and for good reason. First of all, she was stunning, built like an angel, almost identical to what Arthur figured Olivia would have looked like naked, and that was the second thing that shocked Arthur. All she was wearing at the moment was a white bra and matching panties.
Arthur was frozen.
What is Fluttershy doing here?!
Why is she just as stunning on this side as she is on her side?!
And why is seeing human Fluttershy making me fantasize about pony Fluttershy?!
Sunset coughed to catch human Fluttershy's attention. She looked at Sunset, who pointed to Arthur. Human Fluttershy then looked at Arthur, and gasped loudly, her face turning cherry red.
“OH MY GOD!!!!” she screamed covering her well endowed breasts and running back into the bedroom, slamming the door shut. Arthur's brain had stalled, not even restarting when Twilight waved her hand in front of her face.
“I think he's gone,” Twilight said.
“Good job, Fluttershy,” Sunset called out, “You broke our guest.”
“I'm sorry!” Fluttershy called from the bedroom, “I'll be dressed in a second!”
“You can borrow my black dress if you want,” Sunset said, “I think that's slutty enough.”
“Thank you!”
Sunset rolled her eyes, “I better go check on her.”
“Got it, we'll wait here,” Twilight said. When Sunset walked into the room, Twilight shook Arthur to snap himself out of his daze.
“Augh!”
“You okay now?” Twilight asked.
“That was-”
“No, it wasn't,” Twilight cut him off.
“But she looked just like-”
“I know she did, and yes they have the same name, but that's not Fluttershy. At least, not our Fluttershy. This is why I was certain that this wasn't your world. This is literally an alternate version of Equestria, so there are doubles of all the ponies of Equestria.”
“So that's the Fluttershy of this world?” Arthur asked. Twilight nodded.
“As you can see, she's a little more absent minded than our Fluttershy,” Twilight said, “She's also a little more forward than our Fluttershy.”
“She doesn't seem as shy, I'll tell you that,” Arthur said. Twilight laughed as the door opened, and the two girls stepped out, Fluttershy now wearing a lacy black dress that was about as short as Sunset's skirt but showing a little more cleavage, black high heels, and dark red lipstick.
“Um, I'm really sorry about earlier,” human Fluttershy said, “Twilight is a good friend of mine, and I haven't seen her in a while, so...”
“It's fine,” Arthur said, now able to see the difference. Somehow she didn't seem as radiant as his Fluttershy, “My name is Arthur,” he said standing up.
“It's nice to meet you, Arthur. My name is Fluttershy,” human Fluttershy said.
Arthur took her hand and lightly kissed it, “It's truly an honor to meet you,” Arthur said, getting a giggle from the young lady before him.
“You're really sweet, Arthur,” human Fluttershy said, “I'd love to stay and get to know you, but-”
“Yes, you have a... date, was it?” Arthur asked.
“Yes! Thunderlane finally noticed me! I'm meeting him at Sugar Cube Corner at 2:00!”
“Then you better get going,” Sunset said looking at her watch, “It's 1:55 right now.”
Human Fluttershy screamed, “I can't be late on my first date with Thunderlane!” Fluttershy ran to the door, but stopped and ran back to Twilight, “It's great seeing you again, Twilight. Please come again soon.”
“I will,” Twilight said hugging her friend, “Tell me how your date went with Thunderlane, okay?”
Fluttershy nodded happily and ran to the door, but Sunset cleared her throat to catch her attention.
“Forget something?” Sunset asked. Human Fluttershy ran back to Sunset and hugged her tightly.
“Thanks again for letting me wear your favorite dress!”
“Just make sure you return it in one piece, okay?”
Fluttershy nodded and ran out the door. Arthur sat back down on the couch, his head spinning.
“I think I've had enough excitement for one day,” Arthur stated.
“I can escort you back to the statue,” Sunset Shimmer said, “You look like you could use some rest.”
“Yes, thank you,” Arthur said getting up again and walking with the two ladies back to the portal. At least he confirmed that the other world wasn't his, which meant that he might not get back to his world. He also got to see what Fluttershy looked like as a human. She was absolutely stunning, yet the human Fluttershy was missing something. She wasn't the same as his Fluttershy.
In fact, seeing her as a human just made him crave seeing his Fluttershy even more.
