When an attack leaves the kingdom of Equestria in a state of shock, Twilight and her friends try to search for answers but nothing they find nor what the royal guard find can help them. All their explanations do is lead to void answers. Thankfully a pony named Sherlock might have all the answers the help they require.
“ Oh no you don't” Yelled the masked marauder as he swung a blunt shining silver sword towards the head of Sherlock Holmes. Sherlock ducked and grabbed the hand of the man and kicked him in the chest. After, Sherlock quickly twisted the sword and span in around and pulled it out of the masked man's hand before throwing it to one side. He let the man go who span round and looked directly at him. The small slit in his mask showing his eyes were blazing. “ So you've disarmed me. Its not like i'm going to stop!”
“ Obviously. Might as well paint the walls red with the way you're going.” Replied Sherlock, boringly. The masked man lunged towards Sherlock and grabbed him by the neck. Sherlock used one hand and smacked the underside of the man's elbow before using the other to come down hard on the top side. The man's elbow collapsed and his hand released Sherlock's neck. “ Simple trauma to the elbow, makes it useless when trying to lock it. In your case, keeping hold of my neck.” Said Sherlock. The masked man picked up a plant pot sitting on a table opposite him and held it above his head. “ Oh. Using an instrument, blunt instrument at that. How predictable.”
“ Shut up!” Shrieked the man and he threw the plant pot. Sherlock ducked again and it hit the mirror behind him causing it to smash into tiny peace’s.
“ That's seven years bad luck on top of your life sentence and braking and entering.”
The man tilted his head and if his face were visible, would probably have a confused look upon him. “ What-”
“ You're right i'm not one for superstitions. Drop the seven years but judging by your stance, id say you wont even get passed your life sentence anyway. Pity.” Said Sherlock while putting on a mock sympathetic face. The masked man yelled and dove to Sherlock, raising both hands to connect with his head. Sherlock blocked one but the other broke through his defence. Luckily Sherlock had planned for this to happen and closed his crossed arms on the hand and elbow coming through. The same elbow which he had previously hit. Sherlock applied pressure and the man yelled before Sherlock dropped his arm.
“ Elbow having previously inflicted trauma having a second round of pressure on key points, rendering the socket in which your bones join very close do dislocating. Completely useless now.” Said Sherlock. He walked round the man and kicked his leg, making him trip and fall. Sherlock was quickly on top of him, pinning him down. “ Now lets see who is behind the mask.” He pulled it off to reveal a relativity young man with a scarred face. The man let out a psychotic cackle and smiled at him.
“ James Moriarty. Pleasure.”
“ Oh hilarious. Jim Moriarty is long dead and I know for certain that he was the end of his line with no siblings what so ever. Besides I can see that you couldn't be more distant from being related to him. Small ring tattoo on your right shoulder, dark clothing and wearing a mask to conceal your identity. Very clever but not well executed.”
“ What are you saying?” The man asked.
“ Oh do keep up. No! You're not the brother of Moriarty for over one hundred reasons.”
“ I don't think-”
“ Ah yes you wouldn't be able to keep up how stupid of me to forget you have a simple mind. How about I shorten the list to three reasons then hmm. One, That tattoo on your right shoulder signifies the rebel movement. You must be high up in their ranks to have that sort of tattoo as well. Their gang operates mostly in the west side of London. Hence where you picked up this jacket, mask and antique sword which I happened to notice sitting in Oliver Rundle's charity shop for the homeless children. Then you have your ring on your left hand which I know is only given out to members of the Jonathan family. And who was the member of that family to recently go missing. Wayne Jonathan. Such a pleasure.” Said Sherlock. Wayne looked up at him and smiled slightly.
“ Oh no Mr. Holmes. The pleasure was all mine.”
“ Hmm, indeed.” Said Sherlock before knocking Wayne out with a single clean punch. Sherlock sat for a moment pondering on something before quickly dragging to body to the sofa and putting his head on a pillow. He then sat down and picked up his violin just as the front door opened. Sherlock immediately started playing his own melody as John Watson climbed the stairs and entered through the door.
“ Sherlock I really think you should give the violin a rest but … Sherlock there's a man on our sofa.”
“ It would seem so.”
John walked up to the sofa and turned Wayne's face slightly. “ And how did you find Wayne-”
“ He just came in for some tea and a chat before he decided to have a nap there after I bored him to death with my antics. Honestly I don't know how one can be bored of how many variations of human nails there is in the world.”
“ … Sherlock … Did, did you notice the tattoo on his shoulder.”
“ Yes could you please phone Lestrade and tell him to come here.”
“ Why and ... couldn't you do that?.”
“ That tattoo is the same one on all three of the murder victims. That man there is Wayne Jonathan. The missing member of the Jonathan family. That and I'm busy."
“ And what this has to do with the red lock murders?”
“ Its are next lead.” Said Sherlock before turning to the window. “ Now about getting Lestrade.” He said before he continued playing his violin.
****************
Sherlock and John walked through the gates of Wayne Jonathan's home. Sherlock had a bored look about him while John was slightly worried.
“ There isn't anyone here is -”
“ John we just handed over the owner of this house to the police.”
“ So no one's here then?”
“ Obviously.” Both John and Sherlock entered the old Victorian mansion slowly and looked around. John started towards the left while Sherlock proceeded straight for the stairs. He looked at the ground constantly. “ Dust sitting on all corners of the floor except for this small trail which is clean leading up the stairs. Suggestions, walking over would clean and keep dust from settling. Conclusion, wherever Wayne was operating in the house is up here somewhere”Thought Sherlock as he turned and headed down one of the halls of the house. Sherlock let his eyes flash to every part of the hall before finding that the dust settled in the threshold of every door except for one. Sherlock tentatively pushed the door open and found the room to be completely empty except for a small case sitting in the middle. He walked up to it and after thinking it over slightly. Opened it.
“ Pink.” He said to himself. One small plasticine bag filled with a pink powdery substance sat in it. Sherlock picked it up and opened it before putting a the contents into his hand. His mind power housed through all contenders of drugs and substances this could be but could not find any. “ A powdery substance which suggests its either meant to be dissolved in liquid or inhaled. The later looking more realistic.”
“ You talking to yourself again Sherlock!?” Shouted John from down the hall. Sherlock rolled his eyes and continued.
“ Colour is of a bright pink. Artificial colouring. Plausible. No scent coming from it. What are you?” Said Sherlock before having a small idea. He brought the small amount of powder to is noes and inhaled deeply. Taking it all in. For a moment, nothing occurred. “ Oh well that was eventful-” Sherlock stopped as a shooting pain coursed through his whole body. “ John!” He managed to yell.
“ Sherlock! What's wrong!” He could hear John yell. Sherlock tried to keep himself awake but found his arms, legs and his waist all but silent to his commands of movement. Sherlock then felt a feeling he thought he never would feel. There was only one word for it. Death. Slowly creeping up his body. Sherlock managed only to witness John burst into the room before he closed his eyes.
********************
Sherlock thought that death would be cruel. In fact he was rather tempted to find out what would happen just to prove if science or religion was correct. He felt as if he were in limbo. Not floating nor laying on something. But Sherlock suddenly got the urge to do only one thing.
“ Bright sunshine. Enhanced colours. Change of scenery. Possibly some sort of visual enhancer. No mood changes. Emotions still basic. Location might be different. A garden, not a used room.”
“ John. John come here!”
“ Different scent. Could be a result in nerve changes due to the powder. Very realistic representation of grass and sunlight."
“ Its not often I need your assistance but now is a good time.” Yelled Sherlock again. But no one came to him. Sherlock thought for a moment and considered exploring but thought better of it. He knew now that the pink powder was a hallucinogenic substance and by the looks of things, produces a powerful hallucination. “ By the realism of this powder, should only last more than twenty four.” Sherlock then tried to stand up but found himself falling over immediately. He snapped his eyes down to himself and found nothing but white fur and hooves. He couldn't help but chuckle a little.
“ You have to be joking. Alright then, white fur, hooves, relativity small, mane similar to my own hair. Judging by hight and measurements id say a pony of some sort.” Sherlock then proceeded to rise of the ground and onto all fours and found himself walking. “ Simple imitation of the anatomy of the ponies walk motion.” He thought. He looked round the garden he was in. Firstly he noticed the large castle sitting behind him. More like a palace than anything else. “ Canterlot.” He thought while catching a sign with said name. He spotted several entrances and exits and was able to deduce that the first exit would lead him to some sort of life. Sherlock slowly started heading towards the door, keeping his eyes flicking everywhere. He entered the dark corridor and came into a large hall. Sherlock stopped in his tracks when he caught sight of another pony. This one was a little larger than him and adorned golden armour. “ Armour, golden. Head held high, standing next to the door. Small scuffs on his hooves. Suggests fights. Small scar on the left cheek. Rough fights then. Small insignia on chest plate. Signifying whatever military or guard he works for. Obviously a foot soldier if he's only guarding a gate so will be fairly easy to confuse.” Thought Sherlock. He took a step back into the hall and took a quick glance around. He spotted a saucer plate sitting on a small desk not far from him. Struggling to start of with, he picked it up and without a moments hesitation threw it down the corridor in the opposite direction.
“ Hey! This is a secure location. No one in or out without the princesses orders.” The guard said before rushing down the hallway. Sherlock watched from the shadows as the pony darted past him and into the distance, giving him the perfect opportunity to escape. Sherlock dashed to the door and opened it slightly. Peaking through, he saw nopony standing or patrolling the other side so he pushed through. “ Large hall, similar to the last. Drapes on either side. Possibly a royal hall or rather an entrance hall done up to look its best with the intent of dazzling visitors on first sight. The later seaming more so. Windows on either side of the door. Figures.” Sherlock thought. He walked up to the doors and saw that it was indeed the exit and entrance doors. Which meant that this was the palace entrance hall. Sherlock thought no more as he pushed the doors open and dashed out the palace. He instantly found himself surrounded by ponies of all different colours. What astonished him the most was the horns and wings on some of them. This wasn't just filled with ponies, it was filled with unicorns and pegasi.
“ Oh hello there chap. You seam lost, have you just came out the castle?” Asked a pony wearing a suit and having blue hair. Sherlock looked at him carefully. “ Expensive material suit. Combed curtain blue hair. Accent suggest either an upper class citizen or rather he attained it from his parents. No scuffs on his hooves, rather they look perfect. Brushed and evenly cut fur on his hooves suggest enough money to order others. Horn on his head. Unicorn. Soft smile on his face, monocle. Slightly deficient right eye maybe … no, the monocle's plane glass. An act of fashion no doubt. Eyes, seam keen and warm, suggest a warm and kind upbringing. Finely tuned and prepared shirt at the collar. This pony wanted to look its best before leaving. Hmm, all eyes are on him or at least glancing which conveys high status. This pony therefore is one of high class and is most likely the centre of attention to draw eyes to him. Money? Must have excessive amounts to the point where its redundant to him. Pink hair on his shoulders. Must be that of a mare or a pink haired stallion. Green parcel in his pocket. Rapped in red, suggests present and possibly to the owner of the pink hair, why would the hair be on his suit if he wanted to look so perfect.”
“ Clearly.” Spoke Sherlock. He stared at the pony in front of him not moving his gaze. The blue haired pony laughed a little.
“ Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Fancy Pants-”
“ Hold on. Is that a figure of speech or just a bad joke – Wait, no. You said that with enough confidence to the point where if it were a joke, and a poor one at that, it would be very well pulled of and judging by your accent and what I guess your self esteem will be to accompany it. That must actually be your name. Fascinating.”
“ Oh uh, well yes. I say, would you care for me to accompany you wherever you are headed too? It would be my pleasure.”
“ Still can't get over you and the other pony speaking English. Although you differ from the other one by speaking in an old Victorian dialect of English. How very interesting.”
“ Well I don't-”
“ Yes!”
“ Yes?”
“ Yes, I would love for you to show me to – ' Think think. Canterlot. Houses a royal palace which means capital. Oh but not necessary capital, could be a historic city with a landmark but who would guard an old historic castle and keep it furnished and clean. Capital is more likely. No where for me to be as of now. Come on think think think. Housing, restaurants, shops, tourism … train station. A map.' – The train station. If you’d be so kind.” Said Sherlock. Fancy pants stared for a moment before smiling.
“ I dare say you are quite something. Oh well then, off we go.” He said. Fancy Pants turned and headed down the street they were on. Sherlock followed suit, now mastering the walk of a pony. He looked around everywhere at everything and everypony. He still felt it absurd that this was all fake but he new he only had at least twenty four hours to go before the effect would wear off. That and it must have knocked him out due to Sherlock walking distances which would make him hit the wall back in the room if this were only a hallucinogenic. Sherlock watched and clocked everything as he walked, from small titles of dress designers to the names of big branded jewellery. Small restaurants, to large restaurants. Sherlock was deep in thought when Fancy Pants spoke up.
“ Ah, here we are. Canterlot train station. Oh I say, where might you be going. If you'll pardon my curiosity?”
Sherlock roused out his musings and launched into action. “ Going somewhere. Going somewhere. Somewhere inconspicuous. Somewhere with a low mark of notoriety. Where where, city? No to big. Town, no still to big. Village. A small settlement. Map! Las pegasus … Figures. To big and if anything like the real world version then too much commotion. Cloudsdale?” Sherlock looked at a small sign on the walls of the train station quickly. “ 'Wonderbolts.' Residents at Cloudsdale. Judging by the popularity of that place and the fact that its all pegasi there, no. Ponyvile? Too small. Somewhere a little bigger.”
“ Um Sir-”
“ Not now.” Said Sherlock Sternly. “ Oh to hell with it, Ponyvile. Yes, small, inconspicuous, hasn't got a large population. More or less everybody knows each other so I'll be able to play the helpless new pony and due to everybody knowing each other I’ll be able to fit right in but then they might get suspicious of me. Well isn’t everybody suspicious of me. Accommodation and money? Will be taken care of upon arrival.” Sherlock turned to Fancy Pants and smiled.
“ I'll be off to Ponyvile it seams.”
“ Ah, a fine place indeed. I dare say I didn't catch your name. I'm sorry but I find it rather rude not to give a parting farewell without using a name.”
Sherlock looked at the pony and stared for a moment. “ Sherlock Holmes.” He said Finally.
“ It was a pleasure and might I add, a thrill to meet someone so different. All the best on your journey.” Said Fancy Pants. Sherlock only looked at him before turning and heading into the train. But he stopped jut before entering and turned.
“ Oh and Fancy Pants.”
“ Yes?”
“ You should rap the present in pink. Would suit her pink mane better.” Said Sherlock before turning round, leaving a stunned Fancy Pants. He walked and found himself an empty carriage that he could get some peace and retreat to his mind. Sitting down, he let loose his mind on all possibilities.
****************************
Sherlock was sitting for at least six hours before he finally opened his eyes. “ Must have thought through the night. Hmm.” He said casually while looking at the rising sun. Sherlock didn't notice until then that the carriage was now full of ponies. The only tabled seat empty was his own. Sherlock couldn't help but role his eyes.
“ And I said to him, why don't you ask some otherpony to do the work for you. I mean it was not like I had to do it for him.”
“ You know you're right. Photo Finish should learn to do her own work sometimes.”
“ I know! I thought....” Sherlock tuned out of their feeble squabble and turned to another couple. He only listened for a moment before looking the other way. But this time he looked at a pony sitting on the train talking to one other at the end of the carriage.
“ You know the drill. You mustn’t get caught or we'll both have them to speak to.”
“ You worry too much. I have the presents for her. She'll love them.”
“ I hope so.”
Sherlock looked at both ponies and sighed. “ Normal, dull, inferior minds.” He said annoyed. He knew that this must be part of his subconscious producing such people, or rather ponies that would infuriate him. “ I thought I tamed you long ago.” Said Sherlock, brining a hoof up and tapping his head.
“ Sir. Next stop is Ponyvile.” Said a pony. Sherlock lazily tipped his head round and looked at her. A yellow pony with a brown mane. She smiled at him. Sherlock's mind automatically started getting to work on figuring her out but he forced himself to look the other way.
“ Of coarse.” He said in a monotone. The pony nodded to herself and carried on down the carriage. Sherlock stared out the window as they passed country side and couldn't figure out just how the mind. His own mind. Could produce such a diverse reality with the help of what Sherlock presumed to be a prototype and weak drug. “ I'll figure it out sooner or later.” He thought while glancing at his internal clock. He only had at least eighteen hours left. The train tumbled along the tracks until Sherlock noticed the momentum slowing slightly. Soon after the train braked and it rapidly slowed and Sherlock watched as a station came by the windows and settled in front of it.
“ Ponyvile.” The same yellow pony said in a high voice to the carriage. Sherlock rose from his seat and headed to the doors. “ I think you'll have fun in this small place. I could show you.” The mare said. Sherlock paused and looked at her again. He knew exactly what she was doing.
“ I think you should turn around and go and try and seduce that pony over there. The one with the brown fur you like. Perhaps you would also like some real money to buy some real perfume or clothing to impress ponies a bit more.”
“ But … but how.” The pony said stunned.
“ Small traces of brown fur all over your right leg tells me you were leaning against him.”
“ But that doesn't tell you I was with that pony.”
“ Clearly. But the fact that you left and returned wearing the exact same type of perfume, or at least as close to the real product as possible, which I heard the brown pony say he liked. Further more you left and returned with your clothing pressed and by the looks of it repressed again and the fact your hair was combed. Strands of hair falling out your mane tells me a quick brush which suggests you want to be out here talking to the brown pony more than being anywhere else which tells me you want only to impress. I see a mare who wants a boyfriend … no, wait … coltfriend and will go to any lengths to do so and even ask complete strangers, or even hint to strangers of you underlying intent.”
“ You-”
“ And yes, I will have a fun time indeed. … good day miss.” Said Sherlock putting a smile on before leaving the train. The mare stood stunned still but came to once the doors closed. Sherlock didn't glance at the train leaving the station but instead stared at the sign above him. “ Ponyvile.”
A/U: So I used this chapter to basically show off Sherlock a little bit. Hope I'm doing good and you like it!!
Sherlock walked out the train station and was met with a small street with no tarmac or cobblestoned road. Just grass. “ Housing. Thatched roofs, olden day style or maybe perhaps not. Canterlot held a castle and all its citizens lived in what I presume is an olden Victorian style. No electricity. But then the lights and trains wouldn't necessarily work without it. Rules out no electricity. Bakery, Shops, Library, farm, Stationary, Boutique … some market carts also. Ponies, as of now numbering in the forties. Closely held society. Just as predicted.....” Sherlock stopped in his tracks when noticing one pony walking slowly past him. An average cream mane pony but what Sherlock could tell about this pony was that she worked with the news paper printing line in Ponyvile.
“ But that's absurd.” Hissed Sherlock. He looked again at the hooves of said pony and at the small smudge of ink which he could tell was oil based, used mostly in news printing. Then there was the pen slightly hanging out her pocket along with the tell tale signs of wear at the top of her right shoulder. Suggests right hoofed and copious amounts of note taking. But all this meant what Sherlock thought wouldn't has in fact indeed happened. On principle he thought ponies would be different and he would be at a loss to try and fully decipher them. With the exception of class and possible attributes but anything else was void. This one thing made so much more doors open up. Sherlock smiled as he took a step back and took in all the ponies in view and let his mind rampage through them all. “ Normal pony, earth maybe. Pegasi. Double species village … no, unicorn. Treble split society. All three races. One Librarian, one fashion designer, two confectionery, two bakery … partnered bakery. Bakery assistant, suggests family business. Four … ponies … farmers. Crops perhaps, no judging by the small pictures – tattoos perhaps – upon them, apple farmers. Definite family business. Age range from elderly to todle- young child. Three waiters, average chef, sous chef and various other attributes to the kitchen, ten kitchen staff. Two stationary shop owners. Three Journalists. Others either unemployed, financially trying to keep themselves hidden perhaps. No, just unemployed. Forty three in total as of no.”
“ Hmm, best not attract attention at the moment. Now where to work, that's the question. Wh-” Sherlock stopped himself, almost laughing as he thought about John telling him about speaking to himself. “ Well its not like you're here in the vicinity. Not like you can stop me. Quite the opposite.” Sherlock contemplated upon his next move. Wondering how and when to get money, or if they even had money. That and where to try and stay. Before long he grew bored and decided he had, had enough of it. He glanced at a dark pink pony walking his direction “ Chalk on hooves, Chalk Eraser dust embedded into fur around hooves. Faint smile constantly. Small creases beside eyes suggest strain. High end job. Business or teacher. Teacher more likely with the evident smile.”
“ You!” Barked Sherlock suddenly and quite loudly to said pony. The pony stopped and looked at him startled.
“ Me?”
“ I need to know exactly where I can stay and also where to get some money.”
“ I … You can probably stay with some pony who's nice enough to let you. They all have at least one spare room-”
“ That's all I need.” Said Sherlock before he started walking. He was glad about that. That meant he need not get a job. Sherlock stopped suddenly and turned with a slight hint of guilt back to the pony who was still there. “ Sorry for the shout. Just wanted you to be quick and to the point. Are we done? Good.” And with that, Sherlock headed down what must have been the main street of Ponyvile. “ Now to find a willing participant.”
Sherlock walked and re-gauged all the ponies he had seen. Judging from his past experiences, he had a choice of three types. He had the librarian, the farmers or a complete stranger of his choosing. Personally Sherlock leaned towards the latter for obvious reasons. Apparently he didn't have to wait long because a purple pony walked towards him with a smile.“ Oh no! Not a library, I wanted a stranger. Well library could be good but that means she'll be one of those types.” Thought Sherlock as the mare stopped in front of him. Sherlock gave her half his attention. He thought it a treat to be giving someone normal at least half.
“ Hello there. I don't recall seeing you around here. Are you new?”
“ Obviously. I need to find somewhere to live for the moment.” Asked Sherlock curtly, wanting to get a straight answer.
“ Well an introduction would be nice to start of with don't you think.” Replied the mare. Sherlock frowned.
“ Sherlock Holmes, so glad we met. Now a place to live?”
“ Okay then. My names Twilight Sparkle …” Sherlock tuned out after hearing her name. He new these types. Rambling on about their status or whatever they have achieved in their boring arduous life. He rolled his eyes a few times. “ … and this is Ponyvile. So where are you from Sherlock.”
“ Canterlot.” Sherlock replied casually. Twilights eyes lit up immediately.
“ Really! I'm originally from there. Tell me how are things there. And why did you come here can I ask then.”
“ Things are splendid. No developments, changes or disturbances.” Said Sherlock. While saying this however his mind rattled out jobs for him to have occupied. “ Job, job, job. Police. No they have guards. Inspector? Detective? Inspector would be to suspicious. Detective is more inconspicuous.” Sherlock then smiled. “ Detective Miss Sparkle. Routine check up.” At this Twilight tilted her head confused.
“ I don't remember there ever being any detective branches in the royal guard. Well at least my brother never told me. Or Celestia for that matter-”
“ Recent addition to the guard. And in these times kept thoroughly restricted. You understand.”
“ Hmm. Well I guess I could right to the princess later about this. But until then, you said you were homeless?” Asked Twilight. At this Sherlock's ears picked up.
“ Clearly. I require at least one night somewhere.”
“ If its only one night then I have a spare room-”
“ Lovely. Shall we be off, I do like to be indoors at this time and I feel a chill coming on.” Said Sherlock. Saying anything to get this mare to hurry up.
“ I guess so. I'll show you to the library.”
“ Don't worry already know.” Replied Sherlock starting towards the gargantuan tree. Twilight did a double take before catching up to Sherlock.
“ So how long has this detective escapade been carrying on for?”
“ Two weeks.” Said Sherlock. This was the only real gamble he had taken since arriving. He truly did not know the history, be it recent or dated. And he didn't know if anything big enough to involve his made up branch of the 'royal guard' had occurred.
“ Not long after the changeling’s. Only another two weeks. Seems fitting to start this branch up. I'm glad we have ponies like you now.”
“ Indeed.” dead panned Sherlock.
“ You're not good with emotions are you?”
“ And how did you, deduce that finality?” Asked Sherlock. Twilight shrugged.
“ You haven't really smiled or done anything other than say things in the same tone. That tells me you're either unhappy or just hide everything. So which one is it?”
“ Use your mind and think. I train to go undercover so....”
“ You hide it all. Alright I can see why. Now I don't want you to start questioning any of my friends or anypony in the town for that matter. We've been through allot already. Is that clear.” Twilight suddenly said. Sherlock detected many flickers of emotion running through Twilight and many theories accumulated in Sherlock's mind to retaliate. But he thought better of it. He knew he didn't even have to utter a single question to know half the life of somepony.
“ Transparently.” Replied Sherlock. Twilight nodded with a friendly smile. They had reached the house by then and Twilight opened the door first, allowing Sherlock into its depths. He smiled before getting to work. “ Librarian obviously. Books listed by A to Z. Chairs set exactly parallel and perfect. No dust, no misplaced papers. This pony either has symptoms of some sort of cleanliness disorder or she uses this place far to often and has every use for its hygiene. Probably the latter. Amount of stationary and used quills in the bin suggests a very studious pony and keen to learn. Result, knowledgeable pony with perhaps a mild disorder in OCD but very enthusiastic and well willed judging by her conversation.” And with that. Sherlock turned to Twilight with a smile.
“ Very well kept library Miss Sparkle. Where's the other resident, Spike may I ask. And why does he write to Celestia for you so often? And while we're on the subject of my asking you. Is Spike you're brother because he's certainly younger than you?
Twilight stood staring dumbfounded at Sherlock. “ How could you know this. Of all the things, I haven't even told you I write to her or Spike staying here. How!?”
Sherlock rolled its eyes. “ Its clearly obvious … No?” From the look he got he rolled his eyes and sighed as if it were so easy to see. “ Fine. The chairs. Two of them are being used. You can see the slight dips in each of them. Could be just one pony using both? No, one chair has had slightly more use and a heavier pony using it while the other has had less. Look at the table. One edge of it has some scratch marks on it suggesting that the pony is younger than you due to not handling cutlery correctly and that the marks come down to the parallel side of the table suggest that his height is not adequate to properly reach the topside. The name? The small notes on the desk have all been addressed to Celestia and are all signed by you. One note has been signed specifically by Spike on the far right. How is he a male? Could just be a weird choice of name? Unlikely. Look at the words. Comparing both words, one has slightly, not much but a subtle change in writing. Yours have a more elegant line to it while the other is just the slightest but rougher. The style more commonly seen in males. Most of the letters have been written by Spike while a minority are by your own accord. Honestly these things are obvious.”
Again for a second time. Twilight stood speechless. Figuratively speaking, her jaw was hitting the floor. “ But that's … amazing?”
“ Oh don't do that. I already have another person already running thin on words in the dictionary to use to adequately describe this.”
“ But, it is. How could you know that.”
“ I suppose I'm very good.” Said Sherlock casually.
Twilight composed herself and tried to speak only to close her mouth. A full minute passed by before she finally spoke. “ Spike isn't here at the moment. And no he isn't my biological brother. More like a step brother. But I see him as a real brother in my eyes.”
“ Evidently so.” Replied Sherlock. He stood there watching Twilight for a moment and she bagan to feel unnerved. “ Perhaps I should show you your room for tonight?”
“ Splendid idea. Lead on Miss Sparkle.” Twilight led Sherlock into another part of the library. This part was clearly a bedroom. Small and comfortable. Sherlock nodded in approval. He walked around the bed admiring the blue bed sheets with golden stars on them and chuckled. Twilight's ears perked up.
“ Did you just laugh?”
“ I'm not emotionless Miss Sparkle. I just choose to use them when I want. I find the merely get in the way. Clouding judgement and thought process. You should try relieving yourself of them. You'll find the speed you can think and acquire knowledge will rise exponentially.”
“ Thanks but I think I'll pass on that one. I rather like emotions.” Replied Twilight with a smile. Sherlock shrugged and laid down on the bed.
“ Goodnight Miss Sparkle.” He said.
“ Goodnight Sherlock.” Said Twilight with a smile before leaving the room. Sherlock found himself smiling. He knew this was coming to an end. Two hours left and by the time he slept an average of eight hours, he'd wake up back in the real world. He knew he'd be in hospital so he mentally prepared himself to wake up there and prepare for what he knew would be an onslaught of 'why did you do that' and 'were you insane'. Most likely from John. He laughed again as he slowly but surely let sleep take over him.
Knock Knock! Sherlock roused from sleep but kept his eyes shut. Knock Knock again! This time Sherlock thought. There was no way someone would knock on the door if he were in hospital. They’d just wake him. “ Knocking seams hesitant. A door. Wooden oak. Suggests nervousness or anxiety.” Thought Sherlock. “ John wouldn't do that. Lestrade? I doubt it.” At this he heard the door open. Sherlock now thought it best to open his eyes slowly. He was met with the same room, same bedding and same brighter and more colourful sunlight from the window. That and the same mare from last night standing in the door way watching him as if he were insane. Perhaps he was. If he were still seeing this.
“ Sherlock-”
“ Shush.” Snapped Sherlock pointing a hoof at her. “ The powder is this strong so shouldn't last more than twenty four hours. Judging by my surrounding. It would seem not. Colours, smell,” Sherlock took a large sniff “ Still more vibrant and sweet than reality. Talking mare still seeming to be acting completely on own accord. Computer software wouldn't be able to come up with so many distinct different emotions. AI? Well AI doesn't exist as far as the world knows. Well except from Area 51 but that's irrelevant. But... that's amazingly impossible. Absurd. Insane. Ludicrous.” Sherlock gazed in and out of focus at Twilight. His mind working on overdrive as it sorted out just how it was possible for him to be, dare he think it. In another world.
“ Um, Sherlock I need to ask you-”
“ Be quite!” Said Sherlock shakily. Twilight frowned slightly and ignored him.
“ I was just going to ask if you wanted some breakfast. And that Spike is in the library and that you should introduce yourself.” Replied Twilight with some annoyance. Sherlock looked at her with an emotionless face.
“ Yes.” He said simply.
Twilight shook her head. “ Yes as in you would like breakfast and that you will meet Spike. Or yes, you've just triumphed in something?”
“ Both.”
“ Hmm, alright then. Come out when you're ready.” Said Twilight before she left. Flicking the door shut with her tail. Sherlock ground his teeth together while hobbling out of bed and only just remembering how to stand on all four legs. He scanned the landscape outside the window.
“ Just how is this possible?” He asked himself. The concept of parallel and different universes was all deeply embedded in theory. As of now there haven't been any revaluations or discoveries of others outside his own. He shook his head and proceeded out the door. Struggling to open it with his hooves. He met Twilight in the living quarters of the library and gave her just a slight tilt of his head in acknowledgement. Twilight smiled back before returning to her book. Sherlock stood for a moment not knowing what to do.
“ Twilight! Does this new pony take-” Said a new comer to the room. Sherlock gazed and hid his astonishment well. He was looking at what appeared to be a small dragon. Purple in colour. He would have been more shocked if it weren't for the talking ponies in the first place. He laughed.
“ How quaint. A talking dragon. You must be Spike if i'm correct?”
“ Uh yeah. You're Sherlock?”
“ Hmm, not very bright if you can't tell that the only other pony in the house has the name Twilight here must have mentioned.”
“ Hey!”
“ Just stating the obvious.” Sherlock looked at Twilight for confirmation but received a frown. “ What, everybody was thinking it … oh … only me then.”
“ Twilight, why d'you have to pick this pony up?” Spike groaned.
“ Because he's part of the new detective branch of the royal guard. Detective Sherlock here is doing a routine check up on Ponyvile. Isn't this exciting! Our first real inspection.” Twilight beamed for a moment but saw the look Spike gave her and smiled sheepishly.
“ There's no getting around this is there.... Alright then.” Groaned Spike.
“ Good. Now can you get some more quills from the shops? I'll need a dozen more.” Asked Twilight. Spike nodded and left without another word. Sherlock watched the whole interaction with Twilight and the dragon with some mild amusement. Here were two different species, one presumably meant to hunt and kill the other as prey, chatting and conversing as normal. It was then that Sherlock suddenly witnessed a small tea cup moving on its own accord in a purple aura.
“ What the!” Exclaimed Sherlock while taking cover behind the nearest object which happened to be a sofa.
“ Um what's wrong?” Asked Twilight, very amused at his antics.
“ That cup. Its hovering and there's nothing that can hold it up so...”
“ Magic?”
“ That's absurd. Magic doesn't exist. Its a mere concept to describe tricks. Illusions if you will. How could you possibly stoop low enough to think that an excuse-” Said Sherlock but stopped dead. “ Talking ponies, talking dragon, a whole world populated with ponies. This has to be some sort of trick. No other way. But everything’s screaming otherwise. This can't be real! … Unicorns. Perhaps there was some truth in the myths.” Sherlock stopped his thinking and masked his internal explosion of worry.
“ You've been in Equestria for how long. Twenty six, maybe twenty seven years since your birth i'm guessing, and you don't know what magic is.” Asked Twilight in astonishment. Sherlock – In the process of trying to figure out just what he was witnessing – flat lined his thoughts. How could he possible get around not having saw magic. How could he brush off what must be a daily phenomenon in this world.
“ Sorry, I just forgot that different auras signify different ponies. I'm used to seeing only white. That and I'm an earth pony as you can see.” Replied Sherlock, hesitantly. For a second time within a week, Sherlock found himself shooting blindly into the dark. How could he know that there was possibly more than one colour in this world to show magic. Simple. He didn't. He hadn't witnessed any magic of the sort as of yet. Only ponies awkwardly handling objects that looked like they were sculpted for human hands. He looked back at Twilight who now wore a knowing look.
“ Hmm, I presume that's with working in the royal guard yes. But wait …a certain few don't have white auras for magic. And its a general knowledge that’s so widely known. How could you forget that. Its like forgetting grass is green. Its insane-”
“ The same way that you've just forgotten that or rather haven't noticed Spike walking out the door.” Said Sherlock. Twilight whipped her head around and saw no sign of her assistant. “ And the same way you've just forgotten that you told him to get more quills.” He added. Twilight stared at the door for a moment before chuckling.
“ You know, for a detective. You really don't have that much of a good memory huh?” Said Twilight. Sherlock snorted unamused.
“ No miss Sparkle. I just don't see reason to fill my cranium with useless knowledge.”
“ You call knowing the basics of Equestria useless knowledge?”
“ No, I'm calling knowledge that fills my head and doesn't let me think, useless knowledge.” Replied Sherlock with a sigh. “ Honestly its the easiest thing. You just pick out the rubbish and through it away.” He mimicked taking something out and throwing it away. Twilight stood regarding Sherlock for a moment wondering. Perhaps he was right. Perhaps he was just dedicated to his job so much so that he forgets everything besides the skills needed. She nodded, refusing to carry on the dispute.
“ Well perhaps I should take you on a trip around Ponyville. Get you to meet some of my friends?”
“ As absolutely wonderful as that sounds, “ Said Sherlock. His voiced laced with sarcasm. “ I'll have to decline. I see no reason-”
“ Oh come on.” Huffed Twilight as she physically pushed him towards the door. Sherlock fought to regain balance and pushed himself off Twilight.
“ Alright alright then.”
“ Excellent.” Said Twilight with genuine glee. She pranced out the door with Sherlock in tow. His head was only just getting over the fact that Unicorns grasped real magic here. Sure he had seen unicorns. Many in fact but he had yet to see actual magic. That is until Twilight performed it so fluently. He mentally slapped himself for his stupidity in his outburst. If he were to reside here in secret until he found a way back, he would have to find a way to use the knowledge this world had as if he had been here the whole time.
Once again Sherlock found himself in the open air astride the first real mare he could categorise as an acquaintance. Sherlock looked at Twilight for a moment, mapping out her horn and how it could fit in with her bone structure. He was stupefied at the concept of that great big behemoth of an extension sat upon her head. He studied at for a moment more before his eyes where dragged away by building they had stopped at.
“ This here is the boutique. My friend Rarity works and owns this place. Be a little cautions, she has an eye for fashion.” Said Twilight glancing at the white stallion.
Sherlock blinked once and nodded. “ I'll be on my best guard then shall I?”
“ I guess. She has something to say all the time.”
“ Something about every peace of clothing?” Sherlock said with some skepticism.
“ No not every peace. But any peace of clothing.” She chuckled. Sherlock gave her a flat stare.
“ Alright then. You've more than made your point.” He said while taking a step forward. Twilight smiled and rapped on the door. They found themselves waiting for a few moments before suddenly the door was yanked open in a flash of blue magic and there stood none other than Rarity. Proud owner of the Ponyville Boutique. She smiled when she saw Twilight.
“ Hello there Twilight! Absolutely wondrous to see you as per usual. And my, who is this then?” She asked pointing a hoof to Sherlock. Twilight grinned and glanced at the stallion.
“ This here is Sherlock. He's been sent here to do a routine check up. You know, with the changeling’s and all.”
“ Filthy nasty things if you ask me.” Commented Rarity. Twilight agreed in silence before continuing.
“ Sherlock here is part of the new detective branch -”
“ Detective!”
“ … Of the Royal Guard.” Twilight finished. She wanted to stop her. She wanted to stop Rarity going overboard and swooning more than anything over Sherlock but as she turned to him, all thoughts of having to intervene left her. Sherlock had watched the interaction and had already clocked every aspect of her.
“ Miss Rarity. Please don't mistake my being here as choice. I was simply compelled to come along by Twilight here. Thought it best I get that out the way so you're not swooning over me ... what?”
Twilight didn't dare speak a word with the complete and utter transformation Rarity had gone through. She had changed in a fraction of a second from absolute joy to one of disgust.
“ Well I was about to invite you both in but after that claim I think-”
“ It wasn't a claim miss Rarity. An observation more like. Quite simple to figure out really.” Replied Sherlock. Rarity was about to reply before Twilight stepped in.
“ He's like that. And I'm pretty sure he can't help it.” She said glaring at him while saying the last part. Rarity gave a huff of annoyance before turning around.
“ I suppose if he can't help it then who am I to judge.” She said before entering the house. Twilight made a quick mental note that she didn't deny Sherlock's claim and chuckled. Sherlock glanced at Twilight before walking in. His nose was suddenly bombarded with all different kinds of scents. Sherlock, after a small moment knew exactly what it was. He made other notes to himself as Twilight finally came to.
“ So Rarity. I was wondering if you could give me a hoof with introducing Sherlock here to the others.”
Rarity, who was pouring herself some warm tea looked up. “ Well I can't see why the girls would warm up to him. Tea?” “ Not for me thanks. Strict enamel enhancing diet I read in this years Dental Care update.” She paused for a moment before smiling. “ As for your question, I think its best we let the girls know we have a detective in our town. Our first one at that!” She exclaimed. Rarity thought for a moment before nodding. She looked over to where Sherlock currently stood, looking out the window.
“ Sherlock, do you perhaps know a Captain named Shining Armour?” She asked. Sherlock wasn't paying attention to the two ponies' chatter but was brought out by Rarity's question. Normally he would just answer truthfully and say he doesn't but knowing the fake rank of detective he gave himself. Technically he should know who this captain was. Sherlock buzzed around his mind for an answer but stopped when he thought of a way.
“ Let me answer your question with another question Rarity. Did you enjoy your visit to the Day Spa today?” He asked. Rarity didn't know what to say. She stared at the stallion with a small amount of fear.
“ How do you know I visited the Day Spa today!?”
Sherlock mentally smiled at his successful bullet dodge. He caught Twilight giving him a slight glare but he could see she wanted to know just as much as Rarity.
“ The scents surrounding us. They're coming from the bottled solutions from that room if I'm correct. I recognised the scent from when I travelled past the Day Spa. That one should have been obvious. And as for knowing you travelled there today. Well you confirmed that for me just there.” He said with a smile. Twilight rolled her eyes at his antics.
“ Well he certainly is something dear.” Said Rarity. She sipped the last drop of her tea before getting up and walking to the door. “ Well Applejack is meant to be coming round here soon anyway. Pinkie will be here because Sherlock's here no doubt. I asked Applejack to give me a hoof with moving things about you see.”
Twilight thought for a moment. “ Well that just leaves Rainbow and Fluttershy-”
“ Who appear to be coming as we speak.” Said Sherlock looking out the window. Sherlock, thanks to pictures and references in both Twilight's and Rarity's house, had gained a little knowledge on her friends. Mostly just names and pictures. Nothing more. Sherlock watched as the two came towards the Boutique but was suddenly startled when his view was blocked by nothing but pink.
Sherlock didn't know what to think at this point. Here he was on an unfamiliar planet with talking ponies and now this! Something blatantly covering his sight and not letting go. A strong scent of cakes accompanied the hooves. Sherlock didn't know whether to forcefully rip the hooves of whoever they belonged to off or wait until they themselves did it. Thankfully though, his silent calls were answered.
“ Pinkie Pie get off him.” sighed Twilight. Sherlock knew instantly with the tone of her voice that this was something Pinkie Pie usually would do. And that should have comforted him. But the fact remained that they could have possibly let a mentally insane pony in the house who just so happened to miss his neck trying to choke him. But that was all just a big guess. Sherlock waited for a moment longer before the hooves were removed and standing directly in front of him was a pink pony with extremely curly pink hair. Pinkie Pie stood not half a foot from him.
“ Could you please step back miss.” Asked Sherlock. Pinkie didn't move but her smile increase. “ Twilight can I ask you move this pony away from me before I do it myself. Where I come from, personal space is a given.” Said Sherlock while glancing at her. Twilight just shook her head and pointed back to where Pinkie was. Sherlock turned around and saw that she wasn't there. How! Thought Sherlock. He whipped his head around and finally found her standing next to Fluttershy. “Pink. Both mane and coat. Party balloons as her signature. Constant smile. Eyes wide and aware. Muscles just slightly tensed and ready to act. Gleaming face dictates of a picture of happiness. Eyes wide and alert. Moving only to glance at the others. Such wide and quick burst of movement only occurs when high amounts of sugar are consumed. Hmm, but wait, slight crease at the eyes. Very small. Small enough that it could only form when one was a child. A child who hasn't had the best of upbringings. This pony has had most abysmal past. Hair is straight at the root and continues for some time before curling into oblivion. Other single strands of hair are straight. Two hair styles perhaps? One straight. One curly .No physical sign of wear and tear. But however, a small amount of lighter coloured coating around the mouth. Suggests eating is more on this ponies agenda. The smell.” Sherlock thought to what he first smelled when the hooves were around him. “The bakers. Sugersquare, Sugerduke. No. Sugercube. Obviously works at the only bakers located in this village. Wait. Small amount of fine dark powder at the base of her right hoof. Too fine to by gun powder but easily in the same class. Such a fine grade of powder is only used in party poppers. Not only a baker then but either a party enthusiast or a party planner … or both. Conclusion. A pony whom works at the bakers as both a baker herself and a pony heavily involved in party planning or related. Suffering from a hyperactive disorder, possibly due to her childhood.”
“ Hello there miss Pie. A pleasure.” Said Sherlock. Pinkie visibly swelled with joy and grinned wider.
“ Hellooo there mister! Hey are you a friends of Twilight's? I saw you-”
“ Pinkies usually a little too chatty.” Said Twilight, while holding a hoof over said ponies mouth. Sherlock nodded in response and Twilight turned to the pink pony and smiled. “ Pinkie … don't you now have a party to plan?”
“ Oh silly me. Almost forgot. Almost. Bye, bye, bye, bye.” Pinkie said. Saying bye every time she bounced while leaving the room. Sherlock stared.
“ But that height shouldn't be obtainable...”
“ That's Pinkie for yah. We usually just let her be-”
“ Miss Applejack. Everything must have a way to be described but unfortunately for me, that mare just defied a law that everything has no choice to follow. Can you explain how she did that?” Asked Sherlock.
“ Magic ah suppose.” Applejack said with a slight tug of a smile. Sherlock looked like he had just been hit by a bullet.
“ Clearly.” He said, resorting to just a one word answer for now.
“ Anyway, girls. This here is Sherlock. He's new here and is a detective from Canterlot.”
“ The Royal Guard have detectives?” Asked Applejack.
“ I know I thought the same but yes they do. New branch that's been introduced after the Changeling’s.” Said Twilight. Applejack nodded and went back to sizing up this new pony in front of her. Rainbow Dash, ever the enthusiast, blurred to a hover in front of him.
“ So! You saw any action lately. Oh and I'm Rainbow Dash. Fastest flier in all of Equestria.” Said the rainbow manned pegasus. Sherlock gave her one look and came to one conclusion. Egotistical. Nevertheless, he thought he'd have some fun.
“ Rainbow Dash. Are we finished, good. Next.”
“ Wow wow wait.” Rainbow barked. Sherlock just smiled. Here's the bait. And you took it. “ You're not gonna tell my how you have like a whole wall dedicated to keeping an eye on-”
“ No miss Dash we don't keep and eye on you because there's no need to. And aside from that fact we don't need to worry about catching you if you were to break the law because we have several other pegasus who are most likely faster.” You could practically here the boding tone under Sherlock's voice. Truth be told he had no clue but every now and again he saw it fit to have a little comedy. Rainbow looked like she was about to explode but Twilight came to the rescue.
“ He has a point. There's probably at least one pegasus out there who's just as fast as you.”
“ Oh yeah! Well I bet I'm still twice as fast as this pegasus. You just tell'em were to come and I'll show you!” Yelled Rainbow.
“ You do know we have absolutely no idea if there is a faster pegasus deary. Twilight was just using facts as she normally does.” Rarity said. Chuckling at the last part.Rainbow turned a little red sheepishly looked away.
“ Yeah well … whatever.” She said.
Sherlock found himself introduced to another pony he knew as Fluttershy. Her name was by no means just for show. She looked like she was afraid of anything that moved. This was later confirmed by Rainbow who told him she wasn't afraid, just shy. Fear came after shyness so it seemed plausible. They talked for the rest of the coming day and found out about some of Sherlock's past charades. True, he had to change the names slightly of his friends and tell it as if he were still a pony but they liked the stories nonetheless. Time crept onwards until the moon was high in the sky.
“ Well then everypony, I think its time we hit the hay.” Said Twilight with a yawn.
“ Yeah I have some serious weather patrolling to do tomorrow. So I don't think I'll see you all that much. But hey, we need to hear more of this guys stories!” Rainbow said before flying through the door. She was closely followed by Fluttershy and Applejack who both said goodbye respectively and oddly enough, they hadn't seen any sign of Pinkie Pie after she left to prepare Sherlock a welcoming party. “ She might have everypony in the library for all you know.” Rarity joked as Sherlock and Twilight exited.
“ Yeah that would be something Pinkie would do.”
“ I rather hope that's not the case.” Commented Sherlock. Twilight rolled her eyes.
“ Well bye for now Rare!”
“ You too deary. I'll be seeing you both soon I suspect.” She smiled before letting the door close on them. Twilight turned and saw that Sherlock was already on his way home.
“ Hey, you didn't wait on me.” Twilight growled after catching up. Sherlock carried on while looking forward.
“ I asked you to hurry up but you never listened so I assumed you wanted to talk more.” Came his reply. Twilight bit her tongue and walked aside him. Yes, she knew what he was like more than the others. But none more so than the person Sherlock actually missed at this point. He didn't think it would be possible for it to happen but he actually missed his friend. His one friend.
“ Well I'll see you tomorrow.” Twilight said, smiling as she climbed the stairs. Sherlock didn't reply. Too caught up in the fact that it was only just hitting him that he won't see his accomplices nor his only friend.
“ I wonder.” Sherlock mused to himself, amused at the thought of John trying to cover for his disappearance … or death.
