//------------------------------// // Chapter 14 - To Build // Story: Finding a Place // by Battlecat //------------------------------// I sat in my chair and watched Spark soar in the sky over the Crystalline City. It was possible we could go elsewhere but there was something wonderful about spending time in a place no other human had ever seen. We each had a drink sitting on the coffee table that insisted on showing up. It was disconcerting watching Spark pick up a glass as if it was glued to his hoof. We hadn't figured out how that was even possible. We were chalking up to dream physics until we could get more information about real ponies. “You know we didn't even have time to ask what this place was called Spark.” He swooped down and landed neatly on the balcony next to me. “Whatever it’s called, it sure is gorgeous. Maybe Sunset knows.” “I'll be sure to ask her on Friday.” “Oh yes, our 'not a date' is coming up isn't it?” he asked while snickering. “Yes, Spark. That's right. Now stop with the snark or I'll wake us up.” “Fine. You need to learn to chill Silver.” “I'm working on it Spark. I just wish I could go explore those buildings down there. It sucks that they're all just facades.” “Yeah, I know. Same with most of the castle. I’m going to try some new tricks. Focus on keeping physics realistic this time. None of that reverse gravity mess from yesterday.” “I'll do my best to not think about elephants either Spark.” Spark laughed and soared off into the sky with a couple powerful flaps of his wings. I watched with a small amount of envy as he looped and spun through the air. The good news for me was, I would remember his experience once I woke up as if it had been me in the sky. It was more than a bit disconcerting but it implied we were one individual on a fundamental level. It was comforting and worrying since we still had no idea why. Even with the memories, there is a difference between remembering flying and actually flying. I knew that from that brief glorious experience in Equestria and so I still envied watching him soar. Still, this lucid dreaming and Spark's presence felt like a gift after the horror of the past year. I relaxed in my recliner and kept watching the show knowing I would be able to enjoy the memory when I woke up. Memory . . . “Spark! I have an idea.” Wednesday October 12, 2016 I was reading on the upper floor of the library for lunch today. The attitude of my fellow students hadn't improved substantially over the past few days and I was happy there was still a place to hide away from it all. Fortunately, there hadn't been any more physical incidents but Trixie's look of utter loathing as she passed me in the hallway was second only to Flash's. Needless to say, avoiding crowds was still high on my list. The girls were rehearsing in the music room and had invited me to watch but I had declined. They really needed some time without an audience. Sunset was working in the cafeteria, so it was a bit lonely. At least the library door would give me some warning if anybody came in. There wasn't going to be a repeat of the orange soda incident if I had any say in the matter. I was working on the sequel to the book I had been reading on Monday when I heard the library door open. I looked down to the entrance and shrank down a bit when I saw the three Diamond Dogs walk in. Rover spoke softly with Miss Cheerilee who pointed up in my direction and then asked a sharp question. Rover put his hands up and made some sort of vigorous negative gesture before leading his two friends over to the stairs. There was no doubt in my mind, they were looking for me. Brace yourself Spark. I am. We should hear them out. If you think so. I'm still going to get ready to run. I stood up as they walked towards me. They weren't making any aggressive moves or trying to surround me but I still was tensed to run. All three of them looked equally nervous but then Spot's eyes widened as he looked at the book in my hand. “That was a good book,” he said. “You've read the Mistborn novels?” “Yes. My favorite books. Rover has something to tell you.” Rover looked nervous as my focus turned to him. “Aunt Lilly was over for dinner last night. Said a student named Silver was going to help fix up her shelter. That you?” “Yes, that was me. She's your aunt?” “Yes. I help some but I no good with animals. She mention you need trailer for tools so you can fix shelter. My neighbor selling heavy work truck and trailer for good price.” Do you think he's serious? They haven't bothered us since we gave them the stuff from Sunset. It might be worth giving them a chance. “Seriously? It sounds exactly like what I’m looking for but why would you let me know about this?” “Neighbour is friend. He offers commission if I find buyer quickly. Also, you keep word. We leave you and Sunset alone, you left us alone. But most important, you want to help family, so I help you then you can help her.” “Well, then I really appreciate you bringing this to my attention. Would you mind if I brought a couple friends along?” Rover's nervousness turned into a smile as he held out his hand. “Yes, yes, is good. You and friends make sure truck is good before you buy.” I took his hand and shook it. Rover had a firm handshake and I felt no tension or threat in his behavior. “Thank you for bringing this to my attention. I'll meet you by the statue after school then.” Rover nodded and the three of them walked away. I put my book into my backpack and hoisted it up onto my back. I needed to get to the music room to talk with the girls. With any luck, one of them would know something or someone who could check the truck over. That was new. And a bit surreal. Yeah. I hope it's not a trap. We must have been an odd sight walking down the street after school. Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Sunset Shimmer and I were walking with Rover, Spot, and Fido over to their neighborhood which was just a couple of blocks from the school. A part of me was still worried this was a trap, and so were the girls. Rainbow Dash insisted on coming in case they started trouble. Applejack and surprisingly Sunset both said they knew enough about cars to help me decide if it was worth the price. It was a relief when we rounded a corner and saw a crew cab pickup truck and trailer with a "for sale" sign in the window. Rover introduced the four of us to his neighbor, Copper Sight, who was an older gentleman walking with a cane. He had purchased the work truck and the enclosed trailer used two years earlier but after he had a heart attack he had decided to retire fully and just enjoy life with his wife and family. There wasn't any equipment included but I had more than enough in storage to stock it up. The truck and trailer would meet my needs so all that was left were the opinion of my friends. Sunset closed the hood of the truck. “I've only worked on my motorcycle but as far as I can tell, this truck is in excellent condition. Same with the trailer.” “Ah agree,” said Applejack. “No problems that I can see and the price seems honest.” “Thank you, both for your help. Sir, I think we have a deal. I'll make a trip over to the bank and get a draft for the amount agreed on and insurance.” “Works for me young man,” said Copper Sight. “I'll have the paperwork ready to transfer ownership to you when you get back. Thanks for finding a buyer so quickly Rover.” Rover rubbed the back of his head as if embarrassed by the praise. “Was glad to help Mister Sight. See you later Silver, girls.” He turned and walked over to his house with Fido and Spot who both waved as we walked off. We waved back, feeling a bit disconcerted. We were all a bit stunned by the realization that the three diamond dogs actually had depth beyond digging holes and stealing lunches. “Ah' never would have guessed they were anything but troublemakers, to be honest,” said Applejack quietly as we walked. “That was mostly my fault,” replied Sunset sadly while watching the ground. “I blackmailed them into working for me.” That pretty much killed the rest of the conversation for the rest of the walk. Applejack and I parted ways with Sunset and Rainbow and took care of the errands necessary to purchase the truck and trailer. She drove my car back up to the farm while I drove my new truck and trailer. I was excited since it was the first step toward permanent work once I finished school. I just hope we can actually make money this way. Thanks for raining on the parade Spark. We aren't hurting by any stretch. I know. One of us has to worry though. Do you have any idea how weird your anxiety feels? Probably as weird as yours does to me. Fair point. Thursday October 13, 2016 Sunset, Rarity, Applejack and I were walking around to the front of the school from my car. The bell would ring in any minute. Applejack and I had driven in together to meet Rarity and Sunset at the Sweet Shoppe for a morning coffee and some pastries. It was a nice way to start the day and it made sure Sunset would be able to get to school safely. She was parking her motorcycle at Rarity's as insurance against vandalism lately. I was wearing my new clothes along with my combat gloves which I had started wearing to act as an extra way to hide my scars since they covered my wrist. Sunset seemed to be enjoying our company but she was a bit annoyed about the main reason we were with her. “While I appreciate your company, I don't need to be escorted everywhere,” said Sunset. “Sorry, not until I'm sure our classmates aren't going to attack you Sunset,” I replied. “We don't want to see you get hurt Sunset,” added Rarity. “Speakin' of which, ah don't like what I'm seeing up ahead," Applejack said with a tinge of worry in her voice. Lightning Dust, Gilda, and two members of the football team were waiting in front of the school. They walked out and stopped about ten paces away. Lightning Dust's hand was in a cast. “That's as far as you're going today. No demonic creatures allowed today,” said Gilda. The first bell rang. “How's the hand?” I asked. “You broke it you bastard,” growled Lightning. “You're going down this time.” I shook my head and shrugged off my backpack. “Way I remember it, you punched a locker. Fine, but Sunset will be walking into class right now. This is between me and you.” “Fine by me. We can exterminate the demon once you're in the hospital.” Rarity’s eyes opened wide. “Silver. You don't have to do this.” I handed my backpack to Rarity and got into a combat stance. “Trust me. Now get Sunset to the school, I'll see you soon Rarity.” Get ready. Clock is ticking. Class on the second floor. Four minutes until the bell. After so many nights together Spark and I were getting better at understanding each other. The plan came together in moments. I tensed my legs and didn't break eye contact with the four attackers while my three friends walk past the small gang and over to the school. Everything I could see was getting sharper as I watched. I saw my friends glance over their shoulders before running into the school. Gilda cracked her knuckles. “Time for a beating. Four against one creep, you’re not intimidating us this time.” “That's right. I'd be an idiot to stand around waiting wouldn't I?” So I took off in a dead sprint away from the four of them, along the sidewalk towards the nearby street intersection. The move caught them off guard so it was a moment before I heard the furious shout behind me. “HEY! GET BACK HERE YOU CHICKEN! RUN HIM DOWN!” Legs, don't fail us now. There was a chest high fence around the play area near the street corner. I veered to the right, planted my hands on the rail without slowing down and leaped over the fence. I landed without any loss of speed and turned right towards the parking lot. As I ran, it seemed to get easier to hear my pursuers behind me. I didn't slow down to look but I could tell they were over the fence and in pursuit. I felt as light as a feather as I ran; the days of running with an extra thirty pounds of weight were paying off. Second floor at the back corner by the fields. “Cut him off before he gets out of the parking area!” “On it!” I dodged between the vehicles and ran towards the back fence. I could hear Gilda closing in off to my right, coming in to intercept me. I angled toward the fence as if I was going to jump over it. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Gilda begin the same jump. I jumped at the fence feet first and I caught the rail sideways with my foot in a run allowing me to turn sharply away from Gilda. I could hear Gilda cursing as I began running towards the school again. Lightning Dust and one of the football players were running at me from over near the entrance. I somehow knew the last guy was coming at me between parked cars but I easily veered through a different route to avoid him. My eyes scanned the school as I ran. I could clearly see faces watching in every window but I didn’t have time to wonder why I could see them so easily. Their expressions were obviously conflicted about what they were seeing. "We've got him now Gilda!" I was running towards the back corner of the school nearest the sports field. I could see Lightning Dust getting closer as her superior speed came into play. I didn’t have much time left. I put every bit of energy into my final sprint. There was a waist-high fence that stuck out from the back corner of the school below my English classroom. One of the football players was aiming to catch me when I jumped over the fence. I would be cornered on this side of the fence or the other. The only way out was the third option but this was my plan right from the start. Instead of vaulting over the fence, I jumped and landed with one foot on the fence rail facing the wall. Lightning Dust was just a couple meters away from me. Without slowing down I sprang upwards off my left leg with all my strength. My right foot connected with the concrete about four feet further up to start my escape. I could hear Lightning Dust was almost beside me. We can do this! “YAAAHHH!” I screamed as I left the fence, propelled vertically by my first step on the wall. I raised my left foot and kicked in to take another step on the wall five feet further up again. I stretched my arms out and I caught the wide decorative stone ledge that ran around the entire second floor of the school. My arms were screaming with pain but I managed to pull myself up onto the ledge. I looked into the corner window of my classroom. Fluttershy and Rarity were right there opening the window for me. The expressions on both their faces were completely stunned. I rolled through the window and onto the floor just as the second bell rang. I laid on the floor gasping for breath. I couldn't hear anything through the pounding noise of my heartbeat. As my breathing calmed down, I heard quiet murmurs around me. “Well, that is a novel way of making it to class on time Mister Spark,” said Miss Harshwhinny from the front of the class. “I'll let it go today but don't make a habit of it. Two minutes to get it out of your systems and then we will begin!” I lay on the floor for a moment to catch my breath before getting up to my feet. I brushed the dust off my trench coat and looked around. The room was dead silent for a moment as my classmates stared at me. Then Vinyl Scratch gave me a thumbs up before she started clapping her hands. The clapping spread quickly through the entire classroom. I still saw worry and hostility in many faces but now I also saw a bit of respect that wasn't there before. Suddenly I was engulfed by a huge hug from Fluttershy. She was trembling as she held me tight. All I could do was rub her back and look sheepishly at Rarity who was staring at me with a mix of exasperation and relief. “Silver. Darling. Have I ever mentioned that you are completely INSANE!” “Sorry Rarity. There wasn't time to explain my plan. I needed you to get Sunset to safety.” “This is the SECOND FLOOR! Explain how you are standing here!” “Parkour training, strong arms and a bit of luck.” “Insane. You are completely crazy Silver. I don't know what I'm going to do with you,” Rarity continued. “At least you didn't ruin your coat by some miracle.” She walked over and sat down in her seat. The commotion in class was calming down and the other students were taking their seats. I turned my attention to the quivering bundle of nerves hugging me. “Are you alright?” “I don’t like seeing my friends hurt. I was scared you were going to be caught.” “I'll admit that was closer than I would have liked. I'm alright now Fluttershy.” She leaned in to whisper in my ear. “Silver, I only saw them for a moment when your head popped up. You had odd looking fur-tufted pony ears on the top of your head. They glowed green and faded away by the time you were through the window but they were there.” “Seriously?!” I whispered back incredulously. Fluttershy shrank in on herself. “Yes.” “Sorry,” I replied more gently. “It’s just, that’s what my Thestral ears looked like.” “I hope you’re ok Silver. I’m worried you didn’t notice.” “Let’s talk about it later. Could you keep it quiet for now?” Fluttershy smiled and nodded. Then she let me go and sat down in her seat. I also took my seat and let out a huge sigh of relief. Miss Harshwhinny began taking attendance. I answered automatically but I was deep in thought. You know our hearing did improve during our run Silver. It could be Spark. Could those eyes everyone saw be yours? The description matches, but it doesn't make any sense! No kidding. Why would we even have magic? All we did was nearly die twice. Yeah. On the bright side, that was the best wall run we've ever managed Silver. I know. It felt amazing Spark! I wonder if we could practice that in our sleep. Worth a try. It feels like it’s working for my flying. Not that you've had a chance to test it out in reality. Yeah. Someday maybe. At lunch break, the cafeteria was buzzing with excited whispers as I carried my lunch over to sit with the girls. I still felt incredibly self-conscious and worried about rumors but there was no indication anyone had been told about my scars. What little I overheard seemed to relate to my absurd escape this morning. It also seemed like Fluttershy was the only one who noticed my ears. If anyone else spotted them, they must be calling it a hallucination and not speaking about it. The girls' ability to become part ponies wasn’t well known yet either. The girls were all smiles when I sat down. “Ah wish I could have seen that move of yours Silver,” Applejack said. “Ah haven't heard from anyone who actually saw how you got away.” “My heart nearly stopped when I saw his face appear outside our classroom window,” said Rarity in a full dramatic tone. “A second-floor classroom no less! Madness!” I grinned at her. “It was effective madness though! Perfectly serviceable insanity combined with years of training.” “That’s the best kind of crazy!” Pinkie said, nodding in agreement. “So what happened to the meanie pants who tried to hurt you?” “Didn't you hear what their punishment is?” asked Dash. “Vice Principal Luna was waiting for them when they walked in the door after the second bell. Half the school saw you running including a few teachers. They're getting one month of detention for bullying, attempted assault and for being late for class. They're also on notice now. If they get caught acting up at school again this year they're suspended.” “I made sure of that,” said Sunset. “Applejack and I went straight to the office. I don't think Vice Principal Luna would have believed me if Applejack hadn't been along though.” I frowned at my meal. “I'm just glad I escaped. If it had come down to a fight there would have been some serious injuries.” “Four on one, yeah you'd be in the hospital for sure,” Dash retorted. “Maybe, but at least a couple of them would be joining me. I don't think they've realized I'm running away because I don't want to hurt them. They're still operating under the foolish impression I don't know how to defend myself.” “Ah hope they never find out,” replied Applejack. “Ah' don't think anybody would be happy with that outcome.” “Yeah, pretty much,” I replied. “So on a brighter note, how is the band coming along?” “Oh my band is going to be great,” said Rainbow Dash. “There's still a whole bunch of work for everyone to get there though.” Nobody said anything in response to Dash's statement. I did see Rarity roll her eyes and Applejack looked a bit irritated but I kept quiet. I was sure they'd talk things over later. Friday October 14, 2016 “SILVER SPARK! YOU STOP RIGHT THERE MISTER.” It was still about fifteen minutes until the first class. I was still a bit tense from yesterday's close call so I ducked instinctively. Raising my fists, I turned around to face the incoming attack. Instead, I saw Rarity storming towards me and her face looked like a thundercloud. Without another word, she hooked my arm and hauled me into the nearest empty classroom and slammed the door. I didn't know what to think or do about one of my friends acting like this. “W-w-what is it Rarity?” She glared at me with icy blue eyes. “When were you and Sunset going to inform the rest of us you were going on a date?! It’s one thing to hand me your backpack and run off to play the daredevil walking up walls, but not telling your friends about a DATE! That is NOT ACCEPTABLE.” My response was pretty much automatic. “It's not a date. I'm just taking her out as an apology for some boneheaded things I said last weekend.” The fire dropped right out of her as she eyed me with suspicion. “Are you quite certain that you speak the truth Sir Spark?” “Yes, Lady Belle! I didn't want to make a big deal about it. It’s just dinner.” She let out an angry huff and sighed dramatically. “Fine. If you two are absolutely certain then I won't push it. However, if either of you decides to go on a real date, you had better tell us! I hate finding these things out by accident.” I laughed. “Lady Belle, I promise you will be informed if such an improbable event ever comes to pass. It'll be a first if it does.” “Whaaat? A first? You've never been on a date?! Wait. That means this is your first date. This is not right, I cannot allow this.” I was about to remind her it wasn’t a real date again but I stopped short when that manic look came back into her eyes. Then she glared at me, making my hair stand on end. “You will report to my shop immediately after school. Sunset Shimmer will also be informed of the change in plans and will meet you at my shop as well. This may not be a real date, but you are going to look the part regardless. Understood?” There was something in her voice that told me this was not optional. “Yes, Milady!” I squeaked. “Good. I expect I will see you after school then Sir Spark.” She swayed out of the room humming cheerfully. I just stared at the empty space she left behind trying to process what had just happened. Sweet Luna, that was terrifying. I think I'd rather face another magical monster. Same. Rarity was practically dancing as she helped me into the outfit she had made. Her first attempt at semi-formal men's wear had turned out very nicely. She had created a light gray suit jacket and pants with a black dress shirt underneath. Fairly simple but it looked slick and unsurprisingly it fit beautifully. She stepped back and looked me over. “Very nice if I do say so myself. The light gray contrasts very nicely with your dark blue skin. I don't think I've mentioned this but it's an unusual skin tone. In fact, now that I think about it, Vice Principal Luna is the only one I've seen with a similar skin tone here.” “I know the Thestrals on the other side of the portal are reclusive and rare. I don't know enough of my family history to confirm if it's the same on this side. I wish I had asked them more before . . .” Her hand on my shoulder stopped me mid-sentence. “Put that thought out of your mind Silver. There are to be no regrets tonight. Relax and enjoy your dinner with Sunset. There she is now.” Sunset had apparently been upstairs in Rarity's apartment getting changed. She was wearing a short pale yellow dress with an orange belt, black leggings, and boots. The only thing that hadn't changed was her leather jacket. Her sun symbol was embroidered on the skirt part of the dress. Fluttershy and Pinkie were watching from the top of the stairs with grins on their faces. “Ready to go Sunset?” “I am Silver.” We walked out to my car that was parked out front. I held the door for her and got in the driver’s seat. I looked over at her with a neutral look on my face. “So how did they drag it out of you Sunset? I'm honestly not sure why we didn't tell our friends in the first place but Rarity’s reaction seemed a bit extreme.” “They've been pestering me all week about our conversation,” she grumbled. “I wasn't going to say anything but I accidentally let it slip this morning. You know they're going to follow us right?” “Seriously? Why would they do that?” “Probably to make sure the She-Demon or Evil Sunset doesn’t reappear and hurt their friend or something,” she replied. Her expression was one of defeat and exhaustion. “Does it bother you that much? It's not a date after all.” “I’d still rather they would leave us be. It would be nice to have a private evening. I always feel like I’m being watched and judged with people constantly looking over my shoulder. Sadly, I don’t think there’s anything we can do. Applejack and Rainbow Dash are ready and waiting for us to leave in a truck about four cars back.” I started to laugh as I quickly began to revise my plans for this evening. “They're going to try to tail someone who's been evading every student in the school for the past month? I think they may have underestimated how much my paranoia lead me to learn about the streets in this city. Buckle up Sunset.” Sunset looked worried and skeptical as she fumbled with her buckle. “You really think you can lose them? They've lived here longer than we have.” “Yup. I learned to drive in Manhattan. If Sunset Shimmer wants a private evening, then a private evening is what she will get. Hold tight.” I turned the wheel and accelerated quickly out into the quiet streets of Canterlot. I saw Applejack's truck start to pull out in my rear view mirror so I quickly took the first right turn and then a left, accelerating the whole way. I wasn't going to speed if I could avoid it so I had to count on Applejack being careful behind the wheel. I kept turning at every intersection, especially with traffic lights. It wasn't long before I lost sight of Applejack’s truck. “This is all well and good," said Sunset as she leaned into another sharp turn. “The problem is, Canterlot isn't a very large city Silver. Between the five of them, they won't have that much trouble tracking down which restaurant we went to.” “I know Sunset. That's why we're going to drive to Eugene.” “WHAT?” “Why not? It's only about forty-five minutes and by the time they realize we left town we’ll be well settled into a nice quiet meal.” Sunset looked petrified. “I . . . I've never left Canterlot. I was scared to get too far away from the portal.” “Seriously? How long have you been living on this side of the portal?” “Six years.” “Six years and you've never left this city? I doubt anything will happen with the portal in the next few days. “Well I suppose that's true,” she replied. The uncertainty was clear in her voice. “I haven't been outside Canterlot since I finished moving here. What do you think Sunset? Want to go on a little adventure?” She frowned and stared at the floor of the car. Then her face burst into a glorious smile, the biggest and most genuine I'd ever seen on her face. It was like she had suddenly realized she had something more to live for. She turned to face me with her eyes bright with excitement. “Yes. Absolutely. Let's go on an adventure Silver.” I smiled, turned on to the highway and stepped on the accelerator, taking us out of Canterlot. The conversation during the drive had become muted after our initial excitement had faded. I was focused on driving an unfamiliar road and Sunset just watched the scenery fly by with the occasional comment. We pulled into the Olive Garden in Eugene for dinner. There weren’t too many people waiting, so we were quickly seated in a booth in the back corner of the restaurant. We exchanged a couple of glances as we tried to figure out what to order and what to say to each other. Finally, Sunset sighed and broke the silence. “So how do you want to handle this Silver? I'm not as good at social stuff as my old standing would have implied.” “I'm probably not much better than you are Sunset. You and the other girls are the only real friends I've ever had. Honestly, they're pulling me out of my shell kicking and screaming a bit” Sunset sighed and took a sip of her water. “They’re nice enough to me I suppose, but if I keep hearing the phrase ‘no offense’, I'm going to lose my mind.” “I've heard that once or twice. Are they bringing up your incident frequently?” “Incident,” she spat bitterly. “That's a diplomatic way of putting it. Yes, they are. Some off-handed comment and then followed up by 'no offense' as if that will make it all better. The worst part is they probably shouldn't be apologizing. It's the truth after all.” “That's not true. We do need to be more tactful about what happened as a group.” “I don't see why. I feel like the six of you are only keeping me around because Twilight asked you to anyhow. Why worry about a charity case.” I thought for a moment about what had happened over the past week. “I won’t deny that Twilight’s request was the main reason we reached out to you. I'm sorry to admit I was reluctant to follow through on that request at the beginning. What you need to understand is all Twilight could do was encourage us to open the door for you and give you a chance. That's not the reason why you're our friend.” Sunset looked a bit annoyed at my cryptic response. “Is that so? Well, what magical force makes us friends then?” I smiled at her. “You. Nothing more, nothing less. You showed us who Sunset Shimmer really is. Twilight encouraged us to reach out but it is your actions since that day that makes you our friend. We aren't just humoring you or leading you on. I can honestly say, what I've found in you is a good person I enjoy spending time with. It's who you are that keeps you our friend.” Sunset’s eyes had grown misty as we spoke. “You really feel that way, even after what I did to you on the day of the Fall Formal?” “Sure. It's not going to happen again if you have any choice in the matter right?” “Not a chance. Turning into that demon was a horrible, painful experience. I was completely out of control even before that but ugh, that was awful.” “Exactly. So let's not dwell on the past for now and just enjoy our evening together.” “Thank you, Silver, I like that idea. So what do you want to do from here?” “I guess we should get to know each other. Why don't we take turns asking questions?" She smiled at the thought. "Would you like me to start?” “Fire away Sunset.” “Ok. What do you like to read Silver?” “I love science fiction and fantasy mostly, but I also have a weakness for Shakespeare. How about you, what do you read?” “I've had an unhealthy focus on psychology and other non-fiction since I moved here. I had to learn how a whole new society worked from nothing. Do you play a musical instrument Silver?” “No, I don't unless the anvil counts. I can barely carry a tune while singing but it’s not pretty. Oh, here’s our waiter.” “Good evening,” he said. “Are you ready to order?” When Sunset nodded, I gestured at her to go ahead. “I’ll have the Lasagna Classico with the house salad please.” I managed to put my surprise at her order aside for a moment. “Sausage Stuffed Giant Rigatoni for me, please. With the house salad as well.” “No problem,” our waiter replied. “Your breadsticks and salad will be out in a moment.” He walked off to put our order through. I looked over at Sunset. “I wasn’t actually expecting you to order that. So here’s my next question. Have you always eaten meat?” “I can see where that would be confusing given my background,” she said smiling. “The answer is both yes and no. Back in Equestria meat was a luxury item and usually only fish at that. When I came here I couldn’t afford to be picky with no home and no family. Once I discovered humans weren’t consuming sentient species it got much easier. It feels pretty normal now and I hate to admit I do enjoy the taste.” “Ok, can I follow that up with another question first?” “Sure,” she said with a smirk on her face. “And since I’m feeling particularly generous, you can even have the second one beyond that.” I stared for a moment trying to process what she had just said. Then I burst out laughing. “Very good Sunset, I walked into that one. How many species are sentient back home?” “Oh wow, that’s not an easy question. Sentience falls on a more blurry scale than it does here. Suffice to say just about everything has a spark. As far as actual conversation goes, large hoofed creatures such as ponies, zebras, caribou, buffalo and cows are all intelligent and contribute to society. Getting into creatures this world considers fantasy, diamond dogs, griffins, dragons and minotaurs all have complex societies as well.” “Wow. That must be very complicated. Wait, do you think the diamond dog gang's counterparts are actually diamond dogs?” She shrugged. “Could be. They certainly fit the stereotypes I'm aware of and their names certainly fit. I believe it is my turn now though.” “You are right of course my dear Sunset,” I replied. “Please, ask away milady.” “Do you drink coffee or tea?” she asked while smiling. “Both. It depends on the time of day. I could never give up my morning coffee but I prefer tea for relaxing later in the day. So are you a morning person or a night person?” “I do come by the name Sunset honestly,” she replied. “I prefer staying up late and sleeping in.” “I kind of balance the two off but I'm usually up by six in the morning. I'm always itching to get moving these days.” After we finished dinner we drove a short distance to the river and started to stroll along the path that followed the river. We were strolling side by side about a foot apart as we talked. It was relaxing being able to walk without any worry about running into anyone from school. Our conversation had become more animated as we both became more comfortable with each other. We had continued the question and answer game all the way through dinner. “So do you happen to know what the Crystal City on the other side of the portal is called Sunset?” “I think it’s called the Crystal Empire. It was lost for a thousand years and must have reappeared while I was here. I overheard the name when I was trying to track down the crown.” She frowned at the memory. “Thank goodness. I really regret not asking when I was there.” “I do have one question Silver but it's about your past.” “I think I could manage some tougher questions. What do you want to know?” “What happened to you in Equestria and what actually caused the curse you keep talking about?” I sighed and looked out over the dark waters of the river. “I think I told you once that I was stabbed at the same time I lost my parents. Actually, you probably saw the scar on my stomach when Rarity took my measurements the other day. The weapon was a dagger created by Princess Luna a thousand years ago that tore into my soul.” “What was it called?” “I don’t actually kn . . .” It’s called a Sakitan Dagger. How did you know that Spark? I think Luna was shouting while we were in that dreamscape. Seriously? Check your memory it’s all there. That is really weird. How did I miss that? Don't tell her about me. Really? Let’s not scare her off completely yet. “Are you alright there? You just trailed off and your face went blank.” I looked over at Sunset who was watching me with genuine concern. I realized Spark had actually interrupted me mid-sentence. I sighed and composed myself before answering. “I’m going to sound insane but I didn’t know this until you asked about it. I wasn't aware I actually knew. The weapon was called a Sakitan Dagger.” Sunset actually gasped and stopped in her tracks. Her face twisted with horror and she started shivering. “You were stabbed by one of those monstrosities? How?! All twelve are in the vaults in Canterlot.” “Apparently there were actually fifteen. Three are unaccounted for and at least one is in this world.” “Nopony has ever survived being stabbed by those things,” Sunset said with clear panic in her voice. “Princess Celestia said as much when I was her student. It infects the very soul and feeds off your essence. The more magic you have, the faster it kills you but it will kill you. How are you still alive? How long do you have left?” “Princess Luna was horrified when she heard I'd had it for nearly a year. She guessed that the absence of magic in this world prevented the curse from progressing. She thinks it siphoned ambient energy when the portal opened. Anyhow, it was quite literally rooted in the memory of the attack that created the curse. The resulting entity was masquerading as my own thoughts and forcing me to have recurring nightmares. Princess Luna fixed it by walking through my dreams into my memories with me and destroyed it from inside.” Sunset began to calm down as I explained what happened and was listening to my explanation with rapt interest. When I finished she tapped her chin thoughtfully and was quite for a time. She was in full scholar mode when she started speaking again. “Fascinating! There hasn’t been anypony capable of dream manipulation in Equestria since Luna was banished so there was no way to test or even identify such a cure. Since there is no magic in this world, it means the curse was actually anchored to your soul. If it was attacking your magic alone it never could have taken root in a human.” “It makes sense. Luna did say my soul was torn at some point. Is that dagger a potential threat to the girls now? They’re using Equestrian magic when they play music, right?” “I hadn’t considered that possibility,” she replied as a look of concern crossed her face. “I fear it would be extremely dangerous for them now. Twilight and I would be in serious danger even as humans since our magic is only dormant in this world. Even if they didn’t have magic, your experience indicates the weapon is still dangerous to a normal human and potentially fatal in the presence of ambient magic.” “That’s true. Kind of scary to think I moved to the one place on Earth where the curse could actually progress to kill me. Looking back over it, I don’t know why I choose to move to Canterlot. It’s not exactly an obvious choice for a kid from Manhattan.” Sunset was quiet for a minute as we continued walking along the river. Suddenly she shuddered. “I have a disquieting theory,” she whispered. “Equestrian Canterlot existed a thousand years ago. When you were looking for a place to live, the curse may have recognized the place and planted the idea in your mind. The curse might be self-aware and intelligent.” She might be right Silver. It could explain my existence as well. You’re nothing like the curse Spark. Thanks. Suddenly the night seemed extremely cold and oppressive. At an unspoken agreement, we both turned and started walking back along the trail to where we parked the car. She hooked her arm around mine and moved in right next to me as if she was looking for comfort and warmth. A new thought popped into my head as we walked side by side. “Do you think other people might have suffered the same fate? The weapon we know of is in the hands of a fairly nasty and violent gang leader in Manhattan. From what he said, he certainly didn’t intend for me to die quickly when he stabbed me.” “Maybe,” she responded after a moment. “If the other victims are lucky, your circumstances are unique because you wanted to move away. Still, we might want to do some research into unexplained deaths in Canterlot. Especially ones that match up with the portal opening.” “That’s a good idea Sunset. I just wish we had a photo of the weapon we could use for an image search on the internet. I doubt a drawing would be adequate to identify them.” “That's something to worry about another day Silver. This has been really nice Silver.” “I’m glad you’re having fun Sunset. Even if we were chatting about deadly artifacts.” “Even with talking about those,” she said sadly. "I haven't felt that enthusiastic about my past experiences in a long time. Talking with you about Equestria doesn't feel like a burden and I'm really glad to have a friend who knows what it means to be a pony.” Hah, if only she knew! Says the midget pony living in my brain. Exactly! “Any time Sunset. I'd love to learn more about magic and Equestria.” “Maybe someday,” she replied quietly. “Honestly, this would qualify as one of the nicest dates I’ve had if it was a real one.” I was a bit surprised at her statement. “Really? Didn’t you date Flash for a while? He’s one of the most popular guys in school. Surely he must have taken you out for better dates.” “He is popular; that’s the only reason I ever went out with him,” she replied. “He’s nice enough but he was clumsy and we never really connected on a personal level and we didn't really do dates. His interest in me was physical, pure and simple. He wanted me and I abused his desire without any mercy to get what I needed to control the school. It was almost a relief when he broke up with me although I was furious at the time.” “You didn't . . .” I trailed off, not really knowing how to ask how far they had gone physically. She let out a long sad sigh and let go of my arm. She put some distance between us and wrapped her arms around her body before continuing her explanation. “No. We never went further than kissing and some limited touching even though he wanted to go further. I wielded my appearance as a weapon and never gave him what he wanted. I guess I even tried to use it on you back when Twilight was here. Actually, you're one of the first guys who barely even reacted to my sexy bad girl act.” “Between the intimidation and the fact that my brain was melting under the influence of a magical entity, I'm not sure I was reacting normally to anything at that point. Sorry.” She winced and looked sad. “Don't apologize. I'm just glad to have a guy to talk to who doesn't see me as a sex object first. Just another price to pay for abusing my appearance at school. Rumors about me being a slut are pretty much the second most common after the whole she-demon thing.” “That's a horrible way to treat anyone. Our classmates really go out of our way to make us miserable. Don't let them get you down Sunset.” “I'll try Silver. It's hard though.” “I know how you feel. So back to nicer things, I don't think I've told you how nice you look yet. It's quite a striking change from your usual outfit.” She perked up and smiled. “Thanks, Silver. It was Rarity's idea. She wants me to try some new outfits to switch to if my reputation starts to improve.” “It looks good, though I think that's as much due to the wearer as the clothing.” “Flatterer,” she replied, punching me in the shoulder. “You're a sweet guy. I find it hard to believe you've never been on a date.” “I wasn't interested back in Manhattan and I doubt anyone here would consider dating me. It's one thing to be friends with a scarred mess like me, it's another thing to date them.” “I think you sell yourself short Silver. Looks aren't everything.” “If you say so. I’m certainly glad you’ve enjoyed my company tonight. Hopefully, we can do this again someday.” “I'd like that.” I dropped Sunset off in front of Rarity’s shop where she had parked her motorcycle at 10:30 in the evening. I hopped out and stood with her while she prepped her motorcycle to go. “You sure you don’t want a ride or escort home Sunset? I’d hate to see you get hurt.” Sunset’s expression was hidden by the shadows being cast by the streetlights. She hesitated for a moment and then she leaned in to give me a hug which I returned. “I’ll be fine Silver. Don’t you worry about me, just get home and get some rest. Thank you for the lovely night. It was nice to feel like a normal person, even when talking about magic and Equestria.” “Any time Sunset. It was enlightening. I’ll see you later.” She started her bike and then paused with a smile as she was about to pull on her helmet. “For the record, that was a pretty good first date. Later Silver.” She put her helmet on and accelerated away into the night. I watched her go and then trudged back to my car. I slid in and stared at the dashboard for a minute as weariness started to overtake me. All the distractions and excuses were gone. Tomorrow was the day I had been dreading. I fired up the car and drove back to my house to what was going to be a long night. Hopefully, my lucid dreaming would continue and we could try this insane idea of mine. One year ago tomorrow . . .