Chapter 4
The days turned into weeks, and Amelia found herself adjusting to life in Fluttershy's household. However, the stark contrast between her previous world and the serene environment of Ponyville weighed heavily on her. The absence of the bustling streets, cars, and the vibrant energy of human society left a void in Amelia's heart.
She missed her brother the most, longing for the competitive spirit and camaraderie they shared. The friendly rivalry between them had always pushed Amelia to strive for greatness, to outdo her older sibling. Here in Ponyville, there was no place for such competition, and the absence of that drive left her feeling unfulfilled.
Nevertheless, Amelia found solace in the company of Fluttershy's animal friends. She recognized them as familiar beings, reminiscent of the pets she had known in her own world. Their presence brought her a sense of comfort and familiarity, providing a small sense of normalcy amidst the unfamiliar surroundings.
Amelia's days were filled with exploring the natural beauty of Ponyville, spending time with the animals, and attempting to understand the intricacies of this new world. While she still yearned for the excitement and liveliness of her previous life, she tried to appreciate the simplicity and tranquility that Ponyville offered.
As time passed, Amelia's heart began to soften, finding a newfound appreciation for the beauty of nature and the gentle companionship of Fluttershy and her animal friends. Though her journey was far from over, she was slowly discovering a sense of belonging and purpose in this enchanting, yet seemingly mundane world.
Amelia's feelings of intimidation towards Fluttershy's kindness were understandable. Despite Fluttershy's genuine care and willingness to help, Amelia's shyness and discomfort around new people, especially ponies, kept her at a distance. Wanting to maintain her independence, Amelia preferred to do her own thing, finding solace in solitude rather than being in the presence of others who made her feel uneasy.
Despite this, Amelia recognized the value of Fluttershy's offer to let her stay. She knew that without Fluttershy's hospitality, she would have been lost and unsure of where to turn. It was a difficult balance for Amelia to strike, wanting to keep her distance while also feeling grateful for Fluttershy's support.
Amelia's trust in Fluttershy slowly grew over time. The genuine care and concern Fluttershy showed, coupled with her patient and understanding nature, began to break down the walls of Amelia's discomfort. She began to see Fluttershy as someone she could rely on, someone who had her best interests at heart.
While Amelia still desired her independence and cherished her solitude, she also recognized the importance of having a safe haven in this unfamiliar world. Fluttershy's home provided that for her, a place where she could find temporary refuge and a sense of stability.
Amelia's love for football burned within her, even in this new world where the familiar game seemed out of reach. The absence of a ball and the inability to engage in her favorite sport left a void in her heart. The longing for that special bond between a player and a ball intensified with each passing day.
The feeling of restlessness grew within Amelia, her desire to break free from the confines of the cottage and quench her boredom becoming overwhelming. She needed an outlet for her energy and a way to satisfy her football cravings.
"Amelia!" Fluttershy's voice chimed, breaking the silence in the house. "I'm just about to head out! Um, I was wondering if you'd like to come with me to Ponyville? You know, to help me with the groceries. Of course, only if you're interested."
Amelia was taken aback by the sudden call from Fluttershy. It was rare for her to extend an invitation to Ponyville, and Amelia had always declined in the past. But today was different. Boredom had consumed her, leaving her yearning for a change of scenery.
With a flicker of excitement, Amelia placed her book about Timber Wolves on the side of the bed. Its pages were filled with captivating tales of these majestic creatures, but now they paled in comparison to the prospect of adventure. She leaped off the bed, her anticipation bouncing within her like a spring.
"I'll come!" Amelia's voice rang out, filled with eagerness, as she dashed down the stairs, wearing the new clothes that Fluttershy had kindly gotten for her. A smile formed on her face, thrilled at the chance to experience something different.
Fluttershy couldn't help but be taken aback by the sudden surge of energy from Amelia. She had anticipated a polite decline, which was why she had asked in the first place, so as not to appear pushy. It wasn't a bad thing, though. Amelia had always been independent, taking responsibility into her own hands. But this morning seemed to be an exception.
Amelia swiftly moved around the ground floor, preparing herself for the harsh cold and wind outside. She grabbed her grey hoodie from the hanger, then layered it with a black and white plaid jacket, allowing the hood of the hoodie to hang out casually. The two garments complemented each other perfectly. She already had her black baggy jeans on, and she sat on the couch to put on her black trainers, each adorned with three white stripes running horizontally on the sides. This was Amelia's usual outfit, one that she felt comfortable and confident in.
With a cheerful whistle, Amelia called out, "C'mon, Pooch! Time to go!" The sound of pitter-pattering feet echoed from the next room as a small Timber Wolf pup hurriedly entered, leaping onto Amelia's lap and wagging its wooden tail with excitement. Fluttershy couldn't help but smile at the sight of the two of them together, reminiscing about how they had instantly bonded a few days prior. It was clear that they had become nearly inseparable since then.
As their eyes briefly met, there was a moment of awkwardness between Amelia and Fluttershy. Amelia quickly redirected her gaze to Pooch, avoiding any further eye contact with Fluttershy. It saddened Fluttershy to see this reaction from Amelia. She had been trying all week to break through the sky-blue pegasus's shell, attempting to engage her in conversation. But Amelia had been resistant, unwilling to even look at Fluttershy, let alone speak to her. It made Fluttershy feel like she was an inconvenience, unwanted and in the way. The grown mare couldn't help but feel hurt, but she also understood the hesitation and apprehension Amelia was experiencing. After all, Fluttershy had once been a young filly herself, struggling to open up to others. All Fluttershy could do now was hope to gradually, over time, help Amelia come out of her shell, little by little.
Ponyville was a sight that Amelia had never laid her eyes upon before. The village exuded a nostalgic charm, as if it had been plucked straight from the pages of history when wood was the primary material for constructing buildings. Cats and dogs roamed about, their noses eagerly sniffing the air, catching scents that piqued their curiosity. The buildings stood taller and more substantial than Amelia had initially anticipated. Each structure consisted of two stories, with the wooden beams proudly visible on the exteriors, adding to the overall vintage appeal.
Thanks to Fluttershy, Amelia had learned that the enchanting creatures walking the streets of Ponyville were called ponies. It fascinated her to see the variety among them. Some had elegant horns adorning their heads, while others sported delicate wings, just like Fluttershy and Amelia themselves. There were also ponies without any of these distinct features. What truly caught Amelia's attention, however, was the vibrant array of colours that adorned the ponies' coats. Their hues were so vivid and lively, making them stand out even more. In contrast, Amelia couldn't help but feel a tad silly for wearing her dark-coloured clothing amidst such a vibrant crowd.
"Welcome to Ponyville," Fluttershy suddenly spoke up, attempting to initiate a conversation. Amelia's attention had been captivated by the bustling scene around her, and she almost didn't hear Fluttershy's words. Turning her gaze towards Fluttershy, she noticed that Pooch was being cradled in her arms.
"It may not be the most visually stunning place," Fluttershy continued, "but it has its own charm. Ponyville may not compare to the grandeur of Canterlot or the bustling streets of Manehattan, but it holds a rich history."
"Don't be daft," Amelia interjected, a genuine smile gracing her face. It was a refreshing change from the forced smiles Fluttershy had observed over the past week. "I actually really like this place. It's unlike anything I've ever seen before, you know?"
Fluttershy couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. On one hand, it was heartwarming to see Amelia genuinely enjoying Ponyville. But on the other hand, Fluttershy couldn't help but feel a bit perplexed by Amelia's comment. After all, Ponyville was primarily a working-class town, where its residents spent most of their time providing for themselves, their animal companions, and now, Amelia. Fluttershy felt exhausted just thinking about the demands of her daily life, working at the pet store and tending to the needs of animals around the clock. It was rewarding, but undeniably taxing on her health.
However, Fluttershy understood that Amelia was still a young filly, and it made sense that she didn't see things through the same lens. Besides, Amelia didn't know much about Ponyville yet, and Fluttershy couldn't fault her for that. She hoped that as they spent more time together, Amelia would gradually learn about the realities of life in Ponyville.
"Ponyville, huh? It sounds like quite the charming village," Amelia remarked, her curiosity piqued. "You mentioned that Ponyville has a history. I'd love to hear more about it."
Fluttershy was taken aback by Amelia's sudden interest and initiative in starting a conversation. It was usually Fluttershy who had to make the effort. Could this be Amelia slowly chipping away at her shell? Fluttershy couldn't help but feel a glimmer of hope and excitement at the thought. Maybe, just maybe, their time together in Ponyville would help Amelia open up and discover new experiences. With a smile, Fluttershy began to share tales of Ponyville's past, eager to see Amelia's reaction and continue their newfound conversation.
"Oh... Okay," Fluttershy began, clearing her throat to share what she knew about Ponyville's history. "Well, originally, Ponyville wasn't meant to be a village. It actually started as an outpost during the war against the changelings. It was famously known as 'The Dozen' because there were twelve changelings that had infiltrated and were discovered during the conflict."
“Noooo, tell me something fun about Ponyville. What can we do for fun? Surely there’s something to do.” Amelia interrupted, looking around to spy something.
Fluttershy paused, momentarily taken aback by Amelia's interruption. She smiled, realising that Amelia was eager to discover the fun side of Ponyville.
"Oh, of course!" Fluttershy exclaimed, her voice brightening. "There are plenty of fun activities to do in Ponyville. We can visit the local park and have a picnic, or perhaps go for a relaxing stroll through the beautiful meadows. There's also the annual Ponyville Carnival, where we can enjoy games, rides, and delicious treats. And if you're interested in animals, we can even spend some time at my animal sanctuary, where you can meet all sorts of adorable creatures!"
"I dunno, your cottage is already like a zoo as it is, if I see any more, I might go off me 'ead." Amelia said, rolling her eyes as she looked elsewhere. Amelia's words stung Fluttershy's heart. She couldn't help but feel hurt by the dismissive comment about her cottage being like a zoo. It was clear that Amelia didn't understand or appreciate the special bond she had with her animal friends. Fluttershy took a deep breath, trying to remain calm despite the disappointment she felt. She realized that Amelia's perspective was different, and she needed to find a way to bridge the gap and help Amelia see the beauty in their unique living arrangement.
The walk to the market was filled with a quiet atmosphere, as both Fluttershy and Amelia seemed lost in their own thoughts. Fluttershy couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that Amelia wasn't truly enjoying her time with her and the animal friends. She wondered if Amelia longed for more excitement and lively company rather than the peaceful cottage and the company of animals that Fluttershy provided. It troubled Fluttershy, making her question if she was truly the right fit for Amelia.
Lost in her troubling thoughts, Fluttershy was suddenly brought back to the present moment by a wet sensation on her chin. She instinctively wiped it away, only to discover that sap had dripped onto her. Looking down, she saw Pooch, the wooden pup, gazing up at her with his tongue hanging out and panting happily. Fluttershy couldn't help but smile at the adorable sight, feeling a sense of comfort and warmth. She gently rubbed the top of Pooch's head, grateful for the small moments of joy and connection that her animal friends brought into her life.
Amelia, on the other hand, was completely engrossed in exploring the market. Her eyes darted from stall to stall, filled with curiosity and excitement. There was so much to see and discover. From fresh crops and vibrant vegetables to beautifully crafted bracelets and necklaces, the market offered a wide variety of goods. Amelia's attention was also caught by a stall dedicated to a particular brand or crest. Shirts, scarfs, and mugs adorned with a lime green pony caught her eye. The pony had bleach white hair tied up in a bun, with one eye closed and a gentle smile on its face. Amelia squinted, tilting her head to get a closer look. The crest seemed oddly familiar, resembling someone she had seen before, but she couldn't quite put her finger on it.
"Amelia! It's time to go!" Fluttershy's voice broke through Amelia's fascination with the bustling market. She noticed Fluttershy holding a basket filled with fresh vegetables and fruits, with Pooch by her side, barking to get Amelia's attention. Amelia frowned, disappointed that her exploration of Ponyville would have to come to an end so soon. She sighed and reluctantly followed Fluttershy, her eyes scanning the passing ponies as they walked. Something seemed off. Many of the ponies were wearing lime green jerseys. Amelia couldn't help but wonder where they were all going and what was happening. Curiosity began to fill her mind as she pondered the mysterious sight.
"Fluttershy? Where are they all headed? It seems like something exciting is happening," Amelia pondered aloud, her gaze lingering on the crowd of ponies. As her curiosity grew, Fluttershy couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement too. She followed Amelia's gaze and finally noticed the shirts that everypony was wearing. Recognition dawned upon her, and her eyes lit up with realisation. How could she have forgotten?
“Hey! I know what we can do!”
Amelia's excitement bubbled within her as she eagerly followed the crowd of ponies, with Pooch nestled in her arms and Fluttershy by her side. Although she didn't know the exact destination, Amelia could sense that something special was unfolding. The atmosphere was filled with singing, enthusiasm, and a sense of anticipation, reminiscent of a thrilling sporting event. As she considered the possibilities, a thought sparked in her mind—could it be a rugby match? Or perhaps a basketball game? Maybe even a thrilling race? But then it hit her, like a lightning bolt of excitement—football! The idea of witnessing a football game filled her with joy, and she couldn't help but imagine herself joining in on the action.
"This is absolutely thrilling! I can't believe how many people have gathered in one place!" Amelia exclaimed, her voice barely audible over the clamour of the crowd. Her face lit up with an enormous smile, clearly relishing the excitement that surrounded them. Fluttershy, on the other hand, felt a wave of nervousness wash over her amidst the chaos of the bustling streets. However, she kept her composure, knowing that Amelia was enjoying every moment of this energetic atmosphere. Fluttershy didn't respond to Amelia's comment, as the synchronised chanting from the crowd drowned out her words. The streets of Ponyville had transformed into a scene of joyful chaos.
The atmosphere in Ponyville was electrifying as green and white flags swayed in the wind and scarves adorned the crowd. Ponies from all walks of life joined in, their voices blending together in a chorus of passion and unity. The infectious energy was palpable, reaching even the rooftops where fans stood proudly. Pegasus soared above, adding to the spectacle. It truly was a sea of green and white, engulfing the streets of Ponyville. The exhilaration coursing through Amelia's veins was overwhelming. Her heart raced with anticipation, her body vibrating with excitement. She couldn't contain her enthusiasm any longer, feeling the urge to join in the chants and become one with the passionate crowd.
Amelia felt a sense of familiarity wash over her as she soaked in the electrifying atmosphere of Ponyville. It reminded her of the vibrant energy she experienced at Goodison Park, the stadium of Everton Football Club, before a match. The passionate fans, their unwavering support for the club, and their love for the sport created a unique ambiance that couldn't be replicated elsewhere. Amelia was certain that this was indeed a football game, as no other sport, not even on a different planet, could emulate the awe-inspiring atmosphere that football had. Her anticipation grew even stronger, and she could hardly wait to witness the excitement and thrill of the game unfold before her eyes.