In the large and giant world of Equestria, humans labeled ‘Tinies’ have been appearing in Equestria for who knows how long. Most humans are greeted with either a giant pony hunting them down, or a pony that is willing to listen to them and make them adjust to their new life before they are given the knowledge that they hold magic within them that can protect them while also tasting quite delicious if they are eaten. To think that one moment, you were the smartest and strongest race on the planet, to being nothing but a talking and walking snack for some four-legged magical beings.
Many of the new residents have tried to make a living, let it be their regular human jobs, being a helper for a different company, or even working at a restaurant just to be a meal for some fancy pony. Some humans have adjusted to their situation, either trying desperately to not be eaten frequently, or actually enjoying one of the more terrifying things that a good percentage of the humans hate and stand for.
But there are some people that this change in perspective isn’t as amazing or exciting as others might think.
One of them, being a guy named Clovis.
Clovis wasn’t any unique looking person. He had the common brown hair and hazel eyes. He didn’t dress fancy or made it so that he can be different or stand out. His life was… fine, on earth. He had a part-time job, was finishing his last year of high school as he had to get some missing credits that he didn’t get last year, and still had yet to decide on what he wanted to do with his life. But when he arrived at Equestria with the ‘Vanish’ epidemic, he wasn’t greeted in the kindest ways.
As soon as he realized that he wasn’t on the street to his high school, he was met with a white pegasus with a bright green and pink mane and tail, the pony hungry for a human and lucky enough to have one appear right in front of her. After that first introduction, he was very wary of ponies. But thankfully, the next one that found him explained what was going on exactly. Of course, some people may be happy that now they don’t have to work at their dead beat job anymore without quitting or being fired, but Clovis thought otherwise.
He didn’t have a pony to take care of, he being the adult age to do things on his own and still a little fearful of living under the same roof with a roommate that could eat him at any time. So he lived being a teenage hobo, having to stay under a garbage dump and eating fresh leftover food that ponies either forgot or just threw it away intentionally. He was fine with all of this, but soon, the simple fact that he was hiding from creatures resembling to horses that humanity used to use for pulling carts, started to take a toll on him.
With nothing to distract him, he constantly thought about how messed up this world was, and how weak, vulnerable, and insignificant he was, made him wonder if everything he was going through was worth it.
“Is there any point to this..?” He asked out loud. “Everyone who’s still on Earth might think that I’m dead, and I’m nothing but pony food now.” He shivered as he gripped the sleeves of his hoodie as he brought his legs close to him. “Why am I even doing this..?”
He laid down on the cold and dirty floor as he could hear the ponies walking by, sometimes hearing the sound of wheels on the street, them belonging to some wagons being pulled by the equine creatures. He kept on thinking how miserable and lonely he was that he didn't hear the faint clip clop of hooves on the dirty street, Clovis thinking it was just some snobby unicorn going to throw away more garbage.
But his assumption was thrown out the window as he couldn't help but peek out from under the dumpster and smell the faintest scent of baked goods. He looked to see a large bag, and exposed, like some sort of treasure, was a blueberry muffin.
His mouth started to water at both the smell and sight of the perfect treat. But he wasn't sure if it was even worth it with the chances of being seen and eaten. ‘But then again, maybe the smell of filth and garbage might make them think otherwise!’ He thought as in his mind he had a small smile as he felt that there might be hope on this plan of his.
He scouted the area, to see if there were any ponies nearby, mostly any unicorns or pegasus. He knew that he would be pony snack if one of those types saw him. Once he saw the cost was clear, he moved out from under the dumpster, only to hide behind some cardboard boxes meant to be thrown away as well. He looked around a second time before he ran to the bag and tried to see if he could make a hole in it. Of course, this was impossible with his size and strength.
With one last look around, he started to climb the small bag before he fell inside it and hit the styrofoam box. He was glad it was a simple box as it was easy to open it and get inside. But before he could even pray the gods for his stroke of luck, it backfired as everything went dark when the box closed with him inside. ‘Oh crud!’
‘Nothing beats the cold than coffee.’ Coco thought as she exited the cafe with her usual flavor: Mocha with a hint of whip cream. Ever since the Tinies have arrived, she had been busy with many new customers, each arriving at the second. With some help from her friend, the fashion designer herself, Rarity, she's been the go-to-pony for any tiny that requires clothes. She had heard about the strange benefits of the Tinies, but, as Rarity had told her, just because they're small doesn't mean they're any less from anypony else. The mare developed a mutual respect for each of her customers, many of whom shook at her presence, thinking that they were going to end up as yet another late snack. They were pleasantly surprised when she picked them up and snuggled with them as their payment.
Making clothes for ponies was one thing, but clothes for Tinies was another. For obvious reasons, and how hard it is, was the fact that Tinies were… well, tiny. With a pony, all the tools are there, and the measurements were relatively easy. A tiny’s, on the other hoof, was just time consuming as each measurement had to be precise, or else it won't be comfortable to be in, nor good looking. The other major thing was the scheduling: before, she allowed both ponies and Tinies to be together, but many of the ponies saw this as an opportunity for a quick snack, leading to many disappearing customers and broken equipment from chases. It's since been a pony for the first half, followed by by Tinies the next, but a few special days allowed a full business day for one of the two.
Coco picked up her bag with her late night snack, a gift from a wonky eyed pegasus. The mare in question accidentally broke through her window, leading to an earlier closing than usual. It's going to take all day tomorrow, so she might as well take that day off as well. Her apartment wasn't too far away from her workplace, a few blocks away at most. With a steady trot through the busy city, past it's residents, both old and new, and she near her apartment complex. During this, she didn't realize that there was a passenger with her.
Clovis was trying to lift the box open or even kick it hard enough to break, but it was easier opening it from the outside then it was in the inside. He was too tired and weak to make it move and surprisingly not make whoever was carrying the bag notice. It was hard to stand still when the slippery inside made him rock back and forth. It wasn't nauseating, but it did annoy him a little.
‘Can't get out of this darn thing!’ He thought, giving one last kick to try and open it before he fell back and leaned against the warm muffin. He sighed as he felt that god was just pulling his leg and just want to show that ‘stealing is wrong’. ‘Doesn't f-ing matter, I'm nothing but pony food now…I guess the only thing I can do is get what I came for.’ He smiled in his head again as he gripped a part of the muffin before he tore it off and could feel how much warmer it was on the inside. He nearly forgot his whole situation by merely enjoying the heat of the baked good.
After the piece got a bit colder, he took a bite out of it, the taste only making him close to tearing up. After that, he was just eating as much as he could at a calm pace to not get a stomach ache instead.
With a steady climb up a set of stairs, passing by the various other ponies and creatures living in the same building, she made it to her apartment door. She set the bag down momentarily, reaching for her keys, but stopped as she sniffed something in the air. It made her gag.
“Either Somepony brought something rotten in, or I have to do some fall cleaning.” She spoke to herself, opening the door and entering. It wasn't filthy by any means, but it has seen better days. The view of the city made up for many of the apartment's cons, especially at night, though she didn't want to complain and accept what she had. All except for the smell. It was crazy, but the smell got stronger in her room, and, it had to be crazy, but it came from her bag.
‘It has to be some prank.’ She internally glared, ready to grab whatever was inside and throw it outside. She squeaked as whatever was in her bag moved.
Well, the box more specifically. It bounced a little, first upwards, then to the side. Even through all the movement, the box stayed in the bag. She then heard a voice. “Come on. Stupid box.” The voice was male, as the tone was also low enough that she really had to listen to hear what they said. She already knew what it was.
‘Oh dear! A tiny.’ She opened her bag and looked inside, seeing Clovis inside, next to the muffin. “... Hello there.” Her nose tingled and she gagged. The smell was worse now. She held her breath and grabbed him, quickly taking Clovis to her bathroom.
Clovis didn't notice he was caught in the act until the box was open and he was greeted with an earth pony mare with an off-white coat and two-tone blue mane and tail. He heard the mare’s greeting before she gagged as the assumed garbage smell. He expected her to run off or even try and take him out of the room via front door or something, but he didn't expect to be picked up and taken to the bathroom. “H-hey! Let me go!” He shouted as he tried to get out of the mare’s grip.
Coco quickly clogged the sink with a rag and poured water as she grabbed some shampoo. During this, he struggled, and she was close to tossing her cookies.
“Sorry about this.” She stated, taking his shirt and pants off, leaving him in only his underwear. As quick as she can, she threw the trash clothes outside of the window before going back to her unexpected guest.
He saw what she did through the edge of the bathroom door and was rather shocked and angry as a result. “HEY! Those were my only clothes, you bitch!” He shouted as he was showing how ‘upset’ he was. Now he didn't want to stay with a horse that would throw his only belongings on earth out the window like that.
Coco was taken back by his words. “Such language! I'm sorry for that, but those clothes, and yourself for that matter, smell awful. I can't have that type of smell in my apartment, and as much as I would love to wash your clothes, laundry day is five days away and they'd be lost immediately.” She took a deep breath, calming herself. “Ok, we started on the wrong hoof. I'm Coco Pommel. What's your name, sir?”
“Nunya. As in none of your damn business.” He said as he crossed his arms and sat down, turning away from her. “And it's not like knowing the horse who threw out my clothes is gonna help me at all.”
“Pony. And I wasn't the one who was in my bag… nor smelled like… Dog droppings. What were you doing in there? Were you that hungry?”
“No.” He said sarcastically. “I just wanted to ruin your muffin and eat it cause I was bored. Of course you idiot. And I’m sorry if I can't have a decent meal or a good shower while I was living my life under a dumpster for who knows how long! Those clothes were the only thing I had to remind me of my home, but apparently this world just wants to take everything from me. So here! Why don't you just throw away my socks and shoes while you're at it!?” He said as he physically took off his shoes and socks and threw them out of frustration.
“Or maybe you can quit the acting and just eat me already!” He shouted before he turns away from her and sat down. “That's what I'm only good for in this hellhole.” He mumbled as he could feel a lump in his throats and his eyes began to water.
Coco’s ears drooped as well as her head. “Oh… I-I’m sorry for that, sir. I don't know what it's like to be in your shoes, but I want to help.” She lifted her right hoof and gently touched his face. “Would you like a new pair of clothes? Perhaps a decent meal? A place to stay until you can get back on your feet?”
He moved his head away from the white hoof as he even scooted away from the mare’s appendage. “Unless you're giving me my original clothes back, I don't want anything from you. And it's not like you can take me back home either, so why don't you toss me out like the garbage that I am?” He said as he now felt as if he had no reason to even accept her offer. He bit his lower lip as his vision got blurry from the tears forming in his eyes.
“... I can't send you home. I don't think anypony can, but you shouldn't think very little about yourself. I know it's tough, but don't lose hope, even if it does seem impossible…. Tell you what, I'll leave you alone in here to do your business, and by the time you're dry, I'll have a new set of your old clothes ready. Does that sound good? Perhaps you need a hug?”
He only stayed silent as he didn't bother answering. He kept looking down at the floor after he wiped the tears from his eyes. He didn't want to talk…he didn't want to complain or fight back…he didn't want to do anything now. Everything seemed pointless in his head now.
“... I'll leave you alone.” Coco spoke, getting up and closing the door behind her. She trotted to her room and pulled out her sewing kit; she had a good memory on what his clothes looked like, and, just by his looks alone, she already knew his size. With a flick of a lamp switch, and a human mannequin she received from Rarity, Coco began to make him a new set of clothes from scratch.
Clovis knew that he can't leave this room, and even if he did, she would know and just catch him. He sighed as he took the last of his clothes off before he went into the sink as tried to relax a little…though he didn't see how that would help him if he would only get angry or stressed out again. He also didn't know why he needed to wash himself, only to get dirty later in the future. ‘I guess I have to do this pointless stuff either way…’ He thought to himself as he dunked his head into the water.
After some time, he decided to start washing himself then just laying in the water. He got every part of himself and made sure that no dirt, grime, or bad smell of the trash was on him anymore. Though, he kinda like the vanilla soap that was close by that might've been why the mare’s coat smelled like the said fragrance. But he didn't waste any more time to get out, dry himself and then get to cleaning his boxers in the water. It took longer for them to dry, but once they were clean, he put them on and only waited for the mare to come back, not really remembering her name.
“And… done!” Coco said to herself. It was a near exact version of his clothes, but not only was it cleaner, but it was a bit brighter and softer to the touch. “He's going to love it!” She brought the small clothing with her, but knocked on the door first. “Are you done? You're not naked-naked, are you?” She learned awhile ago why Tinies wore clothes. It freaked her out, and she knocks before entering.
“No…I'm not.” He simply answered loud enough for her to hear. He was still sitting as he hugged his legs and looked at the ground.
Coco hid his new clothes in her mane and entered the bathroom, seeing the tiny, now cleaned up and in his underwear. “There you go. Fresh and cleaned up.” She stated before sniffing the air. “And better smelling.” She took him in with her hooves and walked into the kitchen, setting him down on the table before looking in her refrigerator. “What would you like for dinner? Salad? A sandwich? Pizza?”
The tiny human remained silent as he didn’t see on why he would eat anything if he was only going to get hungry again.
“... I guess pizza will do.” Coco broke the silence, taking a small box out, followed by it's contents (a veggie Supreme) and microwaving it for a minute. She turned back to the Tiny. “... I have a surprise for you, and I know you're going to love it.”
“…what's the surprise?” He asked as he glanced up at her, not showing that much excitement in his expression.
She took the clothes from her mane. “Ta-Da!” Coco cheered, handing him the clothes. “I made some minor changes, such as it's brightness and how comfortable it is, but other than that, it's the same. What do you think?” The microwave dinged. “Oh! Hold that thought.” She turned and took the leftover pizza out, setting a slice on a nearby, clean plate, and setting it near him.
He looked down at the new clothes, then over at the pizza slice. “Why are you doing this..? You know this is all pointless, right?” He asked as he put the clothes down beside him.
“I wanted to apologize for what happened earlier, but what do you mean by this being pointless? You must be hungry, what with you on the streets, away from family and friends. I just want to help you out.”
“But I'll get hungry again…and the clothes might be thrown away in the future, so why have any?” He asked. “All of this is rather meaningless. Especially for me.”
“Now what did I say about looking down at yourself? You should know better than to do that…. I think you need a hug.”
“There's no need for a hug. And you didn't say anything, I guess now I realized that I'm nothing more but a living and talking snack for you horses.”
She quickly grabbed him and gave him a large hug. He began flailing, and his screaming was muffled, though he could still breath. “It's okay, if you need to, let it all out; I won't judge you, and we're all alone.”
He couldn't exactly answer as he was trying to push away from her. But he couldn't help but feel his eyes begin to get moist and his movement started to get a little slow. He finally gave up as he only remained silent in her arms as he couldn't help but like how soft and vanilla scented her coat was.
She took him away from her coat, seeing the Tiny with tears coming down her eyes. Very carefully, she wiped the tears from his face, still holding him in her legs. “There, there… feel better? Still hungry? Or perhaps you want to get into your clothes?”
Before he could answer, his stomach lightly growled as he couldn't help but blush pink in slight embarrassment. “M-maybe we should put the clothes on first, I'm getting a little cold.” He looked away from her as he rubbed his arms a little to get some heat on his arms.
“Yeah… it's kinda weird seeing a tiny in their underwear for this long.” Coco replied, gently placing him on the table. She turned around. “I won't watch. I respect anypony, and anyone's, privacy.”
“Alright.” He simply said before he started getting dressed, feeling how soft and warm it really was as the inside had a different type of fabric then what was on the outside.
She turned back, seeing him in his new clothes. “Well aren't you adorable in that? You're so cute, I can…” She blushed as to what she was going to say. “Uh… never mind about that… let's eat! I still haven't gotten your name.”
‘Might as well tell her. She might bug me until I do.’ He thought. “…Clovis.” He simply said. “My names Clovis.”
Coco grabbed herself a slice and began to nom it. “Clovis?” She asked before swallowing “That's a strange name. But a name is a name, and you Tinies have really weird names.” She took another bite, enjoying it's flavor. “So what did you do before coming to Equestria? Had a family? Friends? Girlfriend?”
“…I was working part-time. I was preparing myself for college. I was fine where I was, but my parents wanted me to make a better living than a simple part-time job. I was on my way back to work when ‘The Vanish’ decided it was my time to disappear from my world.” He explained.
“I had very little friends and no girlfriend for that matter. I was eaten on my first day here, but on my second, a nice pony explained to me what was going on. And I was scared and nervous of every pony who came close to me. I could've gotten a job, but knowing that I would work with ponies who could eat me was out of the question. I was an adult now, so no ponies could ‘adopt’ me. Of course I knew they only adopt underage Tinies so they could eat them without trouble. So I was nothing but a hobo on the street: living under a garbage dump and eating thrown away food to keep myself alive. But now I don't see why I went through all that since I would soon get caught and eaten again. I am nothing but pony fodder after all.” He looked away as he looked down at his bare feet.
“It doesn't matter anymore. Before we humans were the top of the food chain. But now we're nothing but tasty toys for some colorful horses pleasure.” He started to tear up again, but wiped them off for himself this time.
Coco noticed him tearing a bit. “Hey, don't worry, I'm not like them. You said you were with a nice pony? What was their name? And why didn't you stick with them? They sound like somepony who'd be a good friend.”
“I didn’t stay with them, they only told me what was going on and why I was eaten when I came here. After that, I avoided every pony who came by me cause I didn’t want to get eaten again.” He said as he stayed looking away.
“But you didn't know if they did want to eat you. There are some ponies that eat your kind as a means to protect them and anyone attacking them. And there are some who haven't had a taste at all.”
“It still gives me the right to be wary of them. For all I know, I could be their favorite flavor or something.” He said as he looked down at the counter.
“Or they can be a great friend who can help you find your family and friends.”
“I’ve already given up on finding my family. I’m now a full fledged adult, so I can live on my own.”
“But surely you'd want to meet your friends. Or… perhaps make a new one?”
“Why would I try to make new ones? For all I know, something like this might happen again and I’ll be alone again.” He said. “And they could be into being eaten and might result in me being eaten alive with them.”
“... I'll be your friend, if that'll make you feel better.”
He stayed silent this time, not even sure what to feel. He sighed before he looked back up at her. “Is it cause of pity?”
“No, not really. I think we can arrange a deal that'll help us both; I let you live with me and work with me the day after tomorrow, and in return, you find some friends.” She picked him up, but turned her hoof upward, making it a seat for him to lay on. “And don't you worry a thing. I'm not going to eat you, and nopony will.”
“How many times have you said that to someone before they were eaten by your other customers?” He asked as he sat up from being picked up by the white mare. “And it’s not like I can run away either way.”
“Well, where I work at, I won't lie, but yes, some of my human customers were eaten by my pony customers. However, it's changed to half of a day with ponies, and the rest with Tinies. The day we'll be going to do together is all humans, a perfect time for you to get acquainted with someone else. But, if you want, I can let you go afterwards; The village is in the city park, right around the lake. They'll take you in as one of their own.”
He stayed silent once again as he was thinking of his options. He could stay, with the risk of being eaten, but being able to meet other humans that might know his pain as well. But if he was taken to the human village, he would be on his own, with no job, no home, and most likely no one to even help him as much as this mare was doing for him.
He sighed as he closed his eyes, only to open them again and look up at her. “Fine. I’ll stay.” He answered. “But if you even lick your lips at me, I’m going back to that trash dump no matter how many times you pull me back to this place.”
“Works with me.” She leaned forward and nuzzled him. “But I'm gonna snuggle until you smile for me.” And she began to snuggle with him, gently, but firmly holding him in her grasp.
“Ack!” He was now trying to pull himself out from the hug as he was now questioning how she could even keep a grip on him. “L-let me go!” He said, pushing away from her chest as he was met yet again with her soft and vanilla scented coat.
“Not until I see a smile.” She turned him around, letting him see but her fur, but laid back on her couch, still hugging him tightly.
“Come on! I’m not in the mood for this stupid stuff!” He said as he kept on trying to get out of her grip. But he stopped once his stomach started to growl again, now showing that he was too hungry to try anymore. “Ugh...”
“Still hungry? I'm sure a full stomach’s going to help you smile.” She reached out and returned with a single chocolate square. “There you go. Show me a genuine smile, and you can have it. Don't, and you get the feather.”
“The feather?” He questioned. “Are you seriously going to starve me to death if I don’t freaking smile!?”
“You already had a bit of pizza. Now smile, or the feather will strike.”
“I didn’t eat anything! You ate the pizza and I was busy putting the clothes on.” He explained as he didn’t recall even eating a small piece of the slice.
“... Huh… I was sure you did… oh well,” She plucked a feather from a nearby pillow “Here comes the feather!”
“You wouldn't dare.” He glared up at her as he knew that she wouldn't do a cheap tactic just to make him smile.
“Tickle, tickle!” Coco waved the feather’s fluffy end onto his exposed feet. She hated to admit it, but it was a cheap tactic, but it was an effective one.
He bit the inside of his cheek, making him not smile as he tried to move his feet away or even kick the feather off of his feet.
“Come on, smile!” She wriggled the feather faster.
He didn't respond as he was trying to get out again, squirming, pushing and pulling as his hair started to look more messy than before.
She held him tightly, wriggling the feather with all of her speed. “Come… on… smile!”
Clovis didn't want to smile, but an idea in his head caused him to smirk a little. He then turned his head to the balcony where Coco threw his dirty clothes away. “Hey! Is that Princess Celestia!?” He was able to loosen an arm out to point over at the balcony.
“PRINCESS CELESTIA!?!?!?” Coco shouted, holding onto Clovis and looking out of the window. Sitting on the balcony was a dove, cooing away. Coco let out a pout and turned to Clovis. “That's a dove.”
He winced at the tight hold before he saw his window of opportunity. “Yoink!” Clovis smiled as he grabbed the feather using his foot while she wasn't looking, passing it to his free hand before he showed a rather evil smile. He then reached his arm out with the feather and started tickling her neck.
“WHA-AH-AH-HA-HA-HA-HA!!!” Coco began to laugh, falling onto her back, kicking her back legs in the process. “NO!!! ST-AH-AH-P IT!!!”
He couldn't help but smile at her laughter and kept on tickling her neck, holding onto a tuft of her fur, for a little while longer before he stopped. “Now look who's smiling now.” He smirked.
She noticed him smiling. “Hmm… not what I planned, but I'll take it. You should keep that, it really suits you.” She picked him up and set him next to the chocolate square. “I think you should keep that feather with you. It'll make a very unassuming, but effective, weapon against the next pony.”
“Really? Cause ya know, I could always use this on you as well.” He smiled evilly again. “And who knows, I may have found the weakness to you ponies.” He looked down at the feather with a smile before he took the chocolate piece and started eating it, it being a bit hard with a tiny jaw like his.
“Oh, let me help.” She easily crunched the piece under her hoof, making it even smaller pieces. She took a couple herself, safely assuming Clovis won't eat it all. “And if that's our weakness, I don't think we'll be too angry at you for fighting back.” She giggled at the idea of Clovis leading an army of tiny humans, all armed with feathers, taking down both the entire Canterlot army and the princesses.
The tiny human also couldn't help but picture him and a large group of humans sitting in the throne room while some were tickling the guards and the princesses. ‘Yeah. A pony’s weakness.’ He thought as he nibbled on a piece of chocolate.
Night came upon the city, and Coco carried Clovis into her bedroom. The bed wasn't outstanding looking, but it was quite comfortable, good enough for her. “Unless you want to stay with me, or if you prefer hardwood, you'll be sleeping with me tonight. Don't worry, I don't drool.”
“I think the hardwood would be better than the cement floor alleyway that I had to sleep on.” He joked a little as he was placed on her chest before both her hooves wrapped around him. “Uhh, what are you doing?”
“Keeping you safe, silly.” Coco answered. “And, warm.” She got comfortable in her bed. “I never understood why ponies think you're all so tasty; you're great, albeit, small friends, who are also great ticklers and just plain adorable. It seems rather cruel for us to just grab and eat you little guys. Makes me wish for when you all arrived and we didn't even bother to taste you at all. Though, then again, I wouldn't have meet you. Oh, there I go again, rambling on. Sorry.”
“Heh, it’s okay, I guess. I honestly think people would be glad if you ponies just figured out a way to make that flavor magic thing come off of us if that was all they could do. Most people might be already used to being small… I still need to get used to it.” Clovis mumbled as he rested his head on her chest as he had a feeling he won’t be going anywhere while Coco had him in her grasp.
“Well, unless everyone stands in line to be tasted and have their individual taste be transferred, then that can work. And if I'm not mistaken, but your kind still weren't the biggest things to live, right? You had whales like us, right?”
“Not even, before we were even alive, there were aquatic dinosaurs that made whales look like goldfishes.” He said. “And thank god that they’re gone. If we were more focused on them, then we might’ve tried to bring one of them alive through some sciencey stuff.” He explained. “And at least whales don’t eat us.”
“Or they didn't get a good taste.” She joked with a noticeable chuckle, feeling like an earthquake to Clovis. “Well, tomorrow, I don't think you want to be locked up all day tomorrow, so I'll show you how to get to the village without anypony chasing you. Sound good?”
“How are you going to do that? Any unicorn or pegasus can snatch me from your hoof. I’m just an easy target for anyone.” He asked as he moved his head so he could look up at her.
“My mane, good sir.” She answered, pointing at her head. “And I'll be wearing one of my hats, both for extra protection, and to avoid most of the heat. I hear it's going to be sunny tomorrow.”
“And I’m guessing that I won’t have a say in this idea and you’ll take me either way.” He said with a deadpan expression.
“What do you suggest, then? I'm all ears… except if it involves you in my mouth or… you know.”
“Out of the question. And what if I don’t want to come along?” He asked as he crossed his arms.
“You miss out on knowing where the human village is, get a good meal later on, have the best tasting coffee, and, oh yes, if somepony robs me, you're their quick snack. But, it's your choice.”
“Being caught is what I’m afraid of. I’d rather just live in this room for the rest of my life then go outside.” He said as he turned away from her.
“... You know, I have a friend who visits here on a regular schedule. If you do want to stay here, you're going to have to follow what she says, even go into her gut. And she's a unicorn; you'll be in her grasp faster than me.”
“Then I guess that means I’ll be back in the dump. I’ll never go into another pony’s stomach.” He said as he looked down, hiding a rather scared look in his eyes as the thought of being eaten has traumatized him. “Even though that’s all I’m good for.” He mumbled as it seemed he was also creeping back to his depressed state.
Coco rubbed his head. “Shh… I don't want to be the bad pony, but you have to get out of your comfort zone. I know you have been out of it for who knows how long, but it's no excuse to stay away from social interactions. I'm your friend, and I'll always be; You're not just good for being a snack, you have potential. Know anything about sewing?”
He shook his head. “I don't want to leave my comfort zone…it's comfortable and safe.” He crossed his arms on her chest as he rested his head on his arms, his eyes shut as he could feel the soft fur on his face.
“... I'm sorry for this, but it's the only way.” Coco flipped herself over, putting Clovis below her. She didn't want to, but it was the next thing she could do to make him listen.
“Wh-what are you gonna d-do?” He asked, his voice showing fear as the perspective made her look quite intimidating.
She flopped onto him. All Coco could feel was slight movement and hear vague screaming.
He was more confused then terrified, but still, the fear of being suffocated by your only pony friend was still scary as he tried to push her up, giving enough room for him to breath a little. “Coco! Get off of me! You're going to suffocate me!” He shouted, but it only came out in muffled shouts.
A few seconds was enough. She rolled back, holding the deep breathing tiny. “Sorry about that. I hope I wasn't too rough.”
He was quick to back away to the edge of her hoof that was holding him as he was starting to get scared of her as well. “Please…don't do that again.” He covered his eyes, his voice wavering as it seemed that what she did was too far. “I…I thought I was gonna die.”
“You wouldn't, but I was representing your comfort zone: the more you stay with it, the more you get crushed by it.” She gently hugged him. “I'm sorry, but you can't let fear control your life. Yes, it can be frightening, and it can be tough. I learned that when I started to live on my own.”
He looked away from her as he tried to pull away from the hug. “You're not sorry. None of you ponies are sorry or don't even know what me or any other human has gone through. You've never been eaten alive, or crushed by a hoof or something. I thought that you'd might understand, but I was wrong. Just leave me alone. I'd rather sleep on the floor if I could get crushed by your fat ass!” He squirmed out of her grip before he fell onto the bedsheets.
She grabbed him and held him to her face. Now, she looked angered and broken at the same time. “I've just about had it with you! I'm trying to help you remake your life and THIS is how you repay me!? I thought you Tinies were lovable creatures, but you… You're something else!!! I admit, maybe I've gone too far, but I did it because I love you as a friend! Maybe I should just eat you! Eat you and keep you inside until I die! You like that, huh!? Do you!?!?!?”
He remained silent while she was yelling at him, seeing that she reached her breaking point, but once she finished, he saw that it was his turn to speak. “I am not a Tiny! I am a human being and you're just a fucking horse! So why don't you just go ahead and eat me already! That all I'm fucking good for now that I'm absolutely worthless here! I didn't ask for your help, and I never wanted to be here! So go ahead! Just eat me already! EAT ME AND LET ME DIE ALREADY!!!” He shouted, tears in his eyes as he secretly knew that he was going to get eaten in the first place. “…I don't even care anymore.” He whimpered as he looked down from her with his eyes closed.
She opened her mouth and brought his head in, but paused. Her self control came back and she realized what she was about to do. A waterfall of tears came down her eyes as she pulled him out. “Oh no… I-I'm so sorry… I… I…” She placed him on the end of her bed, grabbed her pillow, and slammed her face into it, muffling her crying. She momentarily turned to him “GO!!! GET OUT OF HERE!!!”
He didn't bother saying anything as he did as told. He slipped down the sheets of the bed before he left the room. He looked at the front door, seeing that the cracks under the door were too small for him to slip through. So, instead of finding another place out, he went under the couch the two were once laying on, leaning against one of the legs of the furniture as he huddled close to himself and started shedding his own tears.
But it wasn't out of fear of being almost eaten, but it was instead of how stupid he was to push away his only friend over his own fears and selfishness. Now, his depression was at an all time low. Now, feeling lower than the dust bunnies surrounding him. He felt that he didn't even deserve to even have a friend.
He hated himself, and he just wanted to end it…but was too afraid to even try.
A few minutes had passed. Coco sniffed. ‘Well… he's gone… back to the dumps… probably swallowed by another pony.’ She thought. Getting up from her bed. She walked to the kitchen. ‘You really blew it, Coco. You could've done anything else, and you were close to being everypony else… maybe he's right. Maybe we're nothing but giants who see nothing in them but a quick snack.’ She opened the door to the freezer and pulled out a tub of ice cream, Double Chocolate with Chips. ‘Mmm… ice cream… you never fail me.’ She pulled a spoon out, warming it up in the sink, then sat on the couch, opening the tub and momentarily solving her problems.
Throughout Coco’s appearance in the kitchen and the living room, Clovis stayed in his same position, almost as still as a statue as he was still shedding some stray tears. He wasn't sure if he was still upset or if the dust was getting into his eyes already. He looked down at the clothes he was wearing before he started taking them off and throwing them to the side, out from under the couch as he didn't even want to look at them. He didn't deserve clothes from her, he didn't deserve anything anymore. He sniffled a little before he wiped his nose and went back to his sulking position: arms hugging his folded legs as his head stayed in the small gap around his arms and legs.
‘Maybe being eaten and stuck in a pony’s stomach isn't even good enough for me…’ He thought. ‘I'm nothing but garbage…I deserve for living in that dump, since that's where all types of trash like me live.’
During Coco’s binge eating, she looked around her apartment, realizing the potential of having a roommate was now lost. She looked down, all for shame, but saw Clovis’ clothes. Coco picked up the clothes. “... Is he seriously naked?” She asked herself, but groaned. “Aw… Great… now he's going to freeze because of me.”
He didn't lift his head up when he heard Coco speaking to herself. ‘It's not your fault that I don't deserve clothes from you…’ He thought as he moved a little from his spot, facing away from where he saw Coco’s hoof for only a second.
‘Poor little guy… and to think a pony and a human can live together.’ She thought more about it. ‘... Is it possible for two species to have a child together?... Oh, you're just helpless, Polomare.’ She dropped her spoon. “Oops!” Grumbling, she reached for the silverware, not wanting any dust on it.
Clovis couldn't help but jump a little at the sound of the spoon hitting the floor as he looked back at the loud silverware. He saw her hoof reaching out for the spoon. Clovis didn't want to help, but he nudge the spoon closer with his foot to her so she could reach it.
“... Gotcha!” She spoke to no one in particular. It was followed by a grumble, seeing dust, but stopped as she saw something else. ‘Wait a minute… are those… tiny feet? Then… that could mean…’ She got up but stopped. Coco leaned down to see the back of a nearly naked tiny. “... Clovis!?”
The tiny humans tensed up in fear as he realized he was caught. He felt like he needed to run, to find another hiding spot. But he was at odds with himself if it was even worth it. And with a slight fear of being eaten, crushed, or even killed by an angry Coco drove him to quickly get up and start running.
“Hey! Come back!” She ran around her couch and stood in front of the door. With a swift grab, she got a hold on Clovis and brought him closer. Tears of joy ran down her face as he was still here and not outside.
For the small human, it was the exact opposite as he was easily caught and he was tearing up in fright. Coco could even feel him shaking in fear as he shielded his head, quietly apologizing, begging for forgiveness and to also not be eaten cause he didn't leave like she wanted him to.
“Whoa! Easy there,” She said, wiping his tears away gently. “Why are you here? I thought you wanted nothing to do with me anymore. Oh, I'm so sorry I snapped and tried to eat you. I-I should've respected your wishes.”
“The c-crack under the d-door was t-too small for m-me to f-fit…” He answered while stuttering in fear. “P-please don't h-hurt me. I-I’ll be a g-good Tiny, I swear! J-just don't kill me, please!” He covered his face again as it seems her small apology flew right over his head.
“What!? No! I'm supposed to be sorry! I was forcing you to do what you didn't want to do! I was basically making you like a pet. I'm sorry!”
“B-but it's not like I c-can defend myself or anything. I am like a pet! I need to be watched over, to be fed and clothed. The only difference is that you can actually eat me. Please…don't kick me out. I'll be a good Tiny. I won't go against you anymore.” He said with a small bow as if he was bowing to a goddess for forgiveness or respect towards her.
“No! You can defend yourself! You've survived the streets for a long time AND used my own tactic against me! And you're not a Tiny! You're a human being! You're nopony’s pet or snack; you are who you are, and I shouldn't have tried to change what you are! So please, just accept my apology and stop making me feel bad!”
“If you want me to accept your apology then I will! I won't go against you anymore. I treated you badly when you were only trying to help. I'm so sorry and I could never forgive myself. I deserve to be eaten. I deserve to be kick out of your home. I don't deserve to even look or talk to you anymore!” He said as he looked down and shut his eyes.
“... Other than how you treated me, you don't deserve any of that! You're free to stay here; what's mine is yours. Please, just…” She didn't know what controlled her, but she leaned her head forward and delivered a passionate kiss, tearing up in the act.
Clovis had to keep one eye shut as the other one was wide open in shock. He didn't know where this was coming from, but the loving action only brought him to tears. Once she pulled away, he was quick to grab her muzzle and start hugging it with more tears in his eyes. He wasn't even sure if they were happy or sad tears anymore. And for once, he didn't want to let go of her muzzle as he started to feel safe and comfortable feeling her soft vanilla scented fur.
“... I'm so sorry… I… I don't know if… Clovis… I'm not sure if it'll work… but… I think I love you…”
“What!? B-but we just met…I mean, I didn't even stay a full day here. Why would you fall in love with someone like me?” He asked as he started to climb onto her muzzle and sit down on it.
“I don't know… probably because every stallion I meet ignored me… you're the first human to ever be with me… or something else. Oh, I'm just a sad, lonely, helpless mare who'd take anything in just to not feel lonely. This probably won't even work.”
“I-I didn't say anything about it not working out.” He blushed pink as he looked away. “I mean, in the old newspapers I used to read, some ponies are dating humans. Some in Ponyville, Canterlot and even here in Manehattan.” He explained. “I'm just…confused on why you suddenly like me. I don't have any redeeming qualities…so would it be out of pity?”
“I don't know anymore. I'm… I'm just…” She yawned and fell to the floor, fast asleep, and snored away. All the drama took all the energy away from her, and it showed; she was drooling.
Clovis was lucky enough to be standing on her muzzle or else he would be crushed under her weight again. He wasn't sure what to do exactly, but he did see a loose sheet on the couch. With a rather long trip from the top of the couch, he pulled the quilt down and tried to cover the sleeping pony. Once he saw that she was mostly covered, he went under the sheets as well as he couldn't help but snuggle close to her, her body heat warming him up enough to start pulling him to sleep, her heartbeat also being the reason why he too fell asleep next to the mare.
‘Don't worry Coco, I'll make it up to you in some way.’ He thought, before his world faded to black.